Happy Birthday William Shakespeare!
William Shakespeare was born in Stratford-upon-Avon in April 1564.
He died in Stratford-upon-Avon on 23 April 1616, at the age of 52.
23rd April 2016 was the 400th anniversary of his death.
His actual birth date is not known, but he was baptised on 26th April 1564. In those days babies were usually baptised very soon after being born, so it’s safe to say that William Shakespeare was born close to 26th April.
*to baptise / to christen
In Christianity there is an event called a ‘baptism’ or a ‘christening’ where a person is given a name. The event takes place in a church.
Shakespeare’s birthday is celebrated in Stratford-upon-Avon every April. In April, the streets of Shakespeare’s home town host many special events to celebrate his life and works.
There are many attractions including street theatre performances, country dancing, marching bands, ghost walks, and Stratford Town walks. There are also arts and crafts, cakes, lectures, and concerts.
Professional and amateur actors take park in poetry recitals, readings, and short plays.
There are many shows at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon.
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- The Royal Shakespeare Theatre
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- During a performance
The highlight of the birthday celebrations is usually a parade and flowers are placed at Holy Trinity Church in Stratford-upon-Avon.
The Holy Trinity Church is the location of Shakespeare’s grave, and the same church where he was christened in April 1564.
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- A parade through Stratford-upon-Avon
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- William Shakespeare and his wife Anne Hathaway join the parade!
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- Holy Trinity Church, Stratford-upon-Avon
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- Shakespeare’s grave inside the church
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- Shakespeare’s grave
If you are ever in England around the 23rd-26th April, why not try and visit Stratford-upon-Avon and join in the fun!
