tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6577107148099477542010-03-30T08:57:05.703+01:00Shakespeare's StratfordBenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02092642976228414099noreply@blogger.comBlogger43125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657710714809947754.post-13972799189531228242010-03-30T08:57:00.001+01:002010-03-30T08:57:05.846+01:00This blog has moved<br /> This blog is now located at http://blog.shakespeares-stratford.com/.<br /> You will be automatically redirected in 30 seconds or you may click <a href='http://blog.shakespeares-stratford.com/'>here</a>.<br /><br /> For feed subscribers, please update your feed subscriptions to<br /> http://blog.shakespeares-stratford.com/feeds/posts/default.<br /> <div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/657710714809947754-1397279918953122824?l=www.shakespeares-stratford.com%2Fblog%2Findex.htm' alt='' /></div>Aaronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06140672889062253944noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657710714809947754.post-58079020248500794962010-03-26T16:34:00.006Z2010-03-26T17:14:17.698ZEaster Egg and Spoon RaceThe Easter Egg and Spoon Race takes place on Wednesday March 31st 2010.<br /><br />The Aga Shop on Meer Street have organised the Egg and Spoon race in support of The Shakespeare Hospice. <br /><br />Local businesses are encouraged to join in the fun and celebration of Easter.<br />If you would like to join in please meet the Aga team at 10.45am and don't forget to bring your wooden spoon!<br /><br /><img src="http://shakespeares-stratford.com/blog/images/egg-spoon-race.jpg" alt="Easter Egg and Spoon Race" title="Easter Egg and Spoon Race" height="563" width="417" /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/657710714809947754-5807902024850079496?l=www.shakespeares-stratford.com%2Fblog%2Findex.htm' alt='' /></div>Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03628675273770029441noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657710714809947754.post-75459230599509062592010-03-24T15:55:00.009Z2010-03-24T16:46:10.281ZEnjoy a day out this springAt last the weather is improving and we can begin to think about venturing out into the spring sunshine. Here in Stratford upon Avon we are so lucky to have an array of places to visit to while away a few hours with the children or the special person in our lives.<br /><br />Below are our favourite hotspots for March, not too far from town:<br /><br /><span style="font-size:16px; font-weight: bold;">Hatton Country World</span><br /><a href="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/surrounding-attractions/hatton-country-world.html"><img src="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/images/surrounding-attractions/hatton-country-park-banner.jpg" alt="Hatton Country World" title="Hatton Country World" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Top of our list, especially if you have young children, has got to be Hatton Farm Village to see the newborn spring lambs, which this year number around fifty. There’s much to see and do at Hatton, and not just for youngsters – browse the Shopping Village, enjoy a lovely lunch in the Restaurant and mooch around the Antiques Centre. <br /><a class="blue" href="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/surrounding-attractions/hatton-country-world.html" >Find out more ></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:16px; font-weight: bold;">Stratford Armouries</span><br /><a href="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/familly-attractions/stratford-armouries.html"><img src="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/images/familly-attractions/stratford-amouries-banner.jpg" alt="Stratford Armouries" title="Stratford Armouries" border="0" /></a><br />Something a little bit different – a really unique museum and visitor centre set in 86 acres of beautiful rolling Warwickshire countryside. The museum features world-class exhibits to amaze the entire family, including a life-size armoured Indian elephant, the oldest canon in the world, a giant crossbow that once belonged to Leonardo Di Vinci and Lawrence of Arabia’s stunning jade dagger. There’s a play barn for the children and a fabulous restaurant offering mouth-watering food including a carvery on Sundays. <br /><a class="blue" href="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/familly-attractions/stratford-armouries.html" >Find out more ></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:16px; font-weight: bold;">Harvard House</span><br /><a href="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/familly-attractions/harvard-house.html"><img src="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/images/familly-attractions/harvards-house-banner.jpg" alt="Harvard House" title="Harvard House" border="0" /></a><br /><br />An absolute must for any American visitors to the town, Harvard House was the childhood home of Katherine Rogers, mother of John Harvard who went on to found the famous university that bears his name. It is a stunning example of Elizabethan architecture and well worth a visit. <br /><a class="blue" href="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/familly-attractions/harvard-house.html" >Find out more ></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:16px; font-weight: bold;">Thomas Oken Tea Rooms</span><br />We’ve gone off track a bit here, as the Thomas Oken Tea Rooms are in Warwick, but they are well worth a visit for a delicious cuppa! The building was formerly the home of Thomas Oken, in the early sixteenth century, making it around 500 years old. Oken was a great benefactor of the town and was believed to be the richest man in Warwick of his time. When he died in 1573 he left a fortune to aid the poor and to fund education and housing in the county town. The property has been a venue for events including Warwick Words and the Warwick Folk Festival.<br />Find out more by going to <a class="blue" href="http://www.thomasokentearooms.com">www.thomasokentearooms.com</a> <br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:16px; font-weight: bold;">Charlecote Park</span><br />Just a short drive out of Stratford, is the fantastic Charlecote Park. Now a National Trust property, is welcomes some 87,000 visitors each year to its Tudor house and deer park. Build by Sir Thomas Lucy, whose family came to England with William the Conqueror, its most famous guest was Elizabeth I who stayed in the room that is now the drawing room. The grounds cover 185 acres down to the River Avon and it is rumoured that Shakespeare himself poached deer in the park.<br />Further information can be found at <a class="blue" href="http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-charlecotepark">www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-charlecotepark</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/657710714809947754-7545923059950906259?l=www.shakespeares-stratford.com%2Fblog%2Findex.htm' alt='' /></div>Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02092642976228414099noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657710714809947754.post-84063749000656290372010-03-02T14:08:00.006Z2010-03-02T14:19:56.133ZShakespeare's Birthplace Celebrates 25,000,000 Visitors<a href="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/attractions/shakespeares-birthplace.html"><img src="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/images/attractions/shakespeares-birthplace.jpg" alt="Shakespeare's Birthplace Celebrates 25,000,000 Visitors" title="Shakespeare's Birthplace Celebrates 25,000,000 Visitors" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Since <a href="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/attractions/shakespeares-birthplace.html">William Shakespeare’s birthplace</a> became a national memorial to our local lad back in 1847, huge numbers of people have visited his first home, which recently welcomed its twenty-five millionth visitor!<br /><br />Now owned and cared for by the S<a href="http://www.shakespeare.org.uk/">hakespeare Birthplace Trust</a>, the house has been seen by interested parties from all over the world and from all walks of life. Back in the 1800s fellow writers such as Charles Dickens and Thomas Hardy were among those wanting to see where it all began for the Bard.<br /><br />An unsuspecting visitor from Sligo, Ireland had no idea what awaited her as she queued with her family for a ticket to the attraction. Alison Smith, the lucky recipient of the twenty-five millionth entry ticket, was treated to a warm welcome with her family by staff from the Trust. The family were given a very special visit, including a Lifetime Friend’s membership giving them free access to all the Shakespeare properties in the town, as well as a special performance from the Shakespeare Aloud acting company, gifts and flowers galore and to top it all off, a First Folio collectable facsimile.<br /><br />The Shakespeare properties still hold as much interest for the public as ever and his popularity continues to soar across the globe (no pun intended!). The rebuilding of the <a href="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/attractions/shakespeare-theatres.html">Royal Shakespeare Theatre</a> has drawn renewed attention to the town and when it is completed we can expected a flurry of incoming visitors to see how we are continuing to pay tribute to our most famous son of Stratford.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/657710714809947754-8406374900065629037?l=www.shakespeares-stratford.com%2Fblog%2Findex.htm' alt='' /></div>Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02092642976228414099noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657710714809947754.post-44773408567080435492010-02-15T13:57:00.009Z2010-02-15T15:27:50.394ZPancake Day Race for Air AmbulanceIn aid of the local air ambulance the Stratford AGA shop is holding a pancake race!<br /><br /><img src="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/blog/images/pancake-race.jpg" alt="Pancake Day Race for Air Ambulance" title="Pancake Day Race for Air Ambulance" height="200" width="316" /><br /><br />The AGA Shop Stratford will be hosting a charity pancake race on Shrove Tuesday at 11am. It will be raising funds for the <a class="blue" href="http://www.wnaa.co.uk/">Warwickshire and Northamptonshire air ambulance</a>, a very worthy cause.<br /><br />For those wishing to compete there will be a £1 donation in exchange for a pancake. If you are up for the challenge please remember to bring your own pan!<br /><br />This has all been organised by the the Stratford AGA shop, which can be found at <span style="font-weight:bold;">7 Meer Street, Stratford upon Avon, Warwickshire, CV37 6QB.</span><br /><br />After the race The AGA Shop welcomes you to taste homemade pancakes from the AGA. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Date: 16th February<br />Time: 11am<span style="font-weight:bold;"></span><br />Place: The event takes place outside the Stratford library.</span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/657710714809947754-4477340856708043549?l=www.shakespeares-stratford.com%2Fblog%2Findex.htm' alt='' /></div>Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03628675273770029441noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657710714809947754.post-17273588278597584972010-01-25T09:52:00.012Z2010-01-25T13:51:36.051ZOrchestra of the Swan present Space Odyssey - an Intergalactic OperaA very special project is due to take place over the forthcoming Shakespeare Birthday weekend. On Friday 23 and Sat 24 April the Civic Hall will be transformed into a distant Galaxy for <a class="blue" a href="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/familly-attractions/orchestra-swan.html">Orchestra of the Swan</a> world premiere commission ‘A Space Odyssey’.<br /> <br />OOTS and the Welcombe Hills Special school have enjoyed a close partnership for several years and this new work has been commissioned to celebrate this relationship between one of the UK’s most innovative chamber orchestras and a school that is indeed Special in every respect.<br /> <br />OOTS are joined by David Bradley (Harry Potter’s ‘Filch’), leading singers from Opera North and Glyndebourne Matt Sharpe and Georgia Ginsberg, children from Welcombe Hills, Thomas Jollyffe and Wilmcote, please join us to make this a memorable event for all involved.<br /><br /><img src="http://shakespeares-stratford.com/blog/images/space-odyssey.jpg" alt="Orchestra of the Swan present Space Odyssey - an Intergalactic Opera" title="Orchestra of the Swan present Space Odyssey - an Intergalactic Opera" height="203" width="600" /><br /> <br />Where: <a class="blue" a href="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/familly-attractions/stratford-civic-hall.html">Stratford Civic Hall</a>, Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 6LU<br />When: Friday 23rd April at 4.30pm<br />Saturday 24th April at 4.00pm<br /><br />The performance lasts one hour and is suitable for all ages.<br /><br />Moonwalker Ticket: Adult - £5.00 Child - £2.50<br />Flight Lieutenant’s Ticket: (supports the creation of this<br />production and includes pre-performance drink) - £12.00<br /><br />Box Office: <span style="font-weight:bold;">01789 207100</span> <br /><br />Book Online at: <a class="blue" href="http://www.civivhall.co.uk">www.civichall.co.uk</a><br /><br />If you would be interested in supporting this fantastic project please contact the orchestra office on <span style="font-weight:bold;">01789 267567</span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/657710714809947754-1727358827859758497?l=www.shakespeares-stratford.com%2Fblog%2Findex.htm' alt='' /></div>Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03628675273770029441noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657710714809947754.post-18801465287092050522010-01-20T14:50:00.015Z2010-01-21T12:21:21.732ZWI Lite Stratford Pin-up Calendar supporting The Shakespeare Hospice<span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Please support both WI Lite Stratford and The Shakespeare Hospice by buying a calendar, for the discounted price of just £3.00!</span></span><br /><br />We are proud to sponsor the Womens Institute Lite Stratford 2010 Pin-up Calendar!<br />This charming wall calendar features stunning colour photographs of members of the WI Lite. The daring WI Lite ladies pose with grace, sophistication and beauty - all in the name of charity!<br /><br />The project gained a fantastic amount of support from a variety of local companies from the Stratford upon Avon area and continues the important tradition of charity fundraising within the Women's Institute. Proceeds from the sale of the WILS 2010 Pin-Up Calendars will go towards the continuous running of the WI Lite Stratford with <span style="font-weight: bold;">£1</span> for every calendar sold being donated to <a class="blue" href="http://www.theshakespearehospice.org.uk/">The Shakespeare Hospice</a>.<br /><br />There is still time to get your hands on one of these glamorous 1940's style calendars. Please support both WILS and The Shakespeare Hospice by buying a calendar, for the reduced price of just <span style="font-weight: bold;">£3.00! </span><br /><br /><img src="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/blog/images/wilite-calendar.jpg" alt="WI Lite Stratford Pin-up Calendar supporting The Shakespeare Hospice" title="WI Lite Stratford Pin-up Calendar supporting The Shakespeare Hospice" height="423" width="600" /><br /><br />WILS 2010 Pin-Up Calendars are on sale now in many local retailers, or are available to order through WI members.<br /><br />For details of how to buy via mail order, please email Anne Marcantonio at <a class="blue"href="mailto:stratfordwilite@hotmail.com?subject=Enquiry%20from%20Shakespeares%20Stratford%20">stratfordwilite@hotmail.com</a> (postage and packing costs apply).<br /><br />The WI Lite meets every second Tuesday of the month, with a whole host of activities on offer from Belle Dancing to Book Club, Jewellery Making to Theatre Trips. To find out more about becoming a member please visit <a class="blue" href="http://www.wilite.co.uk/">www.wilite.co.uk</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/657710714809947754-1880146528709205052?l=www.shakespeares-stratford.com%2Fblog%2Findex.htm' alt='' /></div>Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03628675273770029441noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657710714809947754.post-15530315546580272062010-01-15T10:39:00.005Z2010-01-15T11:06:04.095ZLloyd Webber Comes to Stratford upon Avon College<img src="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/blog/images/variations-alw.jpg" alt="Lloyd Webber Comes to Stratford upon Avon College" title="Lloyd Webber Comes to Stratford upon Avon College" height="350" width="600" /><br /><br />Students on the BTEC National Diploma Music course will be unveiling an ambitious and exciting concert of ‘crossover’ music at the end of January.<br /><br />‘Variations’ will feature a rock ensemble of 19 musicians playing alongside Nick Stringfellow, lead cellist from Stratford’s <a class="blue" href="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/familly-attractions/orchestra-swan.html/">Orchestra of the Swan</a>, in a performance of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s ‘Variations (on a Theme of Paganini)’. This rarely performed work was released as an album in 1978 and featured Julian Lloyd Webber on cello, Gary Moore on guitar and various other luminaries from the rock scene at that time. The music is now best known as the theme tune of ‘The South Bank Show’.<br /><br />The 45 minute piece features a wide range of styles and is a real showcase for Lloyd Webber’s melody writing and incentive arrangements as well as some blistering playing from the talented National Diploma Music students. If you love classical motifs and the energy of ‘rock and roll’, then you will find the performance exhilarating!<br /><br />The show will also include duet performances by Nick Stringfellow, accompanied by Chris Long, project director, and arrangements for a vocal septet of music from Saint-Saens, Sting and Imogen Heap.<br />Performances are in the New Theatre at Stratford upon Avon College at 7:30pm on Thursday 28th and Friday 29th January. Tickets are available from the college box office on 01789 266245.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/657710714809947754-1553031554658027206?l=www.shakespeares-stratford.com%2Fblog%2Findex.htm' alt='' /></div>Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03628675273770029441noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657710714809947754.post-86671139847901038312010-01-05T16:02:00.009Z2010-01-05T16:34:17.316ZStratford upon Avon in 2010In 2010 Stratford upon Avon mark's the start of a new decade, a newly refurbished RSC and plans of an exciting archaeological dig at New Place.<br /><br /><h3 style="font-size:14px; font-weight:bold;">New Place Archaeological Dig Planned</h3><br /><br /><img src="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/images/attractions/nashs-house-2.jpg" alt="New Place Archaeological Dig Planned" title="New Place Archaeological Dig Planned" height="449" width="600" /><br /><br />It is hoped that during 2010 a full-scale archaeological excavation will uncover the remains of Shakespeare's final family home – 'New Place'.<br /><br />Initial work to test the feasibility of an excavation project took place on Tuesday December 1st 2009. Experts from Birmingham Archaeology in the UK took part in a search for clues that may reveal more about his everyday life.<br /><br />Dr. Diana Owen, Director of the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust said,<br />“Plans for a ‘dig’ are still at a conceptual stage. However our purpose would be to create a modern record of New Place, providing us with a better understanding of the site, and potentially revealing new information about the house in which Shakespeare died and the way in which the family lived there. We hope that a project of this kind would present a unique opportunity for our visitors to watch – even join in - an excavation as it unfolds and ultimately advance our learning and thinking about Shakespeare”.<br />The Shakespearian Birthplace Trust are expected to provide information for a large archaeological project in 2010.<br /><br />Find out more on <a class="blue" a="" href="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/attractions/nashs-house.html">Nash's House</a>.<br /><br /><h3 style="font-size:14px; font-weight:bold;">Transforming The RSC, Stratford upon Avon</h3><br /><br /><img src="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/images/attractions/shakespeare-theatres-1.jpg" alt="Transforming The RSC, Stratford upon Avon" title="Transforming The RSC, Stratford upon Avon" height="376" width="600" /><br /><br />The birthplace of the Bard is home to the Royal Shakespeare Company. The RSC was founded by Peter Hall in 1960 and in 1961 the Memorial Theatre was renamed the Royal Shakespeare Theatre.<br />Fifty years on and the RSC has built a solid reputation as one of the best known theatre companies in the world and the company has continued to expand under a succession of visionary and creative Artistic Directors.<br /><br />The RSC is currently in a state of change, now well into it's last year of construction and refurbishment 2010 will see the highly anticipated completion of the fully refurbished RSC.<br /><br />During the refurbishment the company's work has continued across at over at the Courtyard Theatre where visitors can enjoy Shakespeare's Plays, touring theatre and the works of contemporary playwrights.<br /><br />Find out more on the <a class="blue" a="" href="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/attractions/shakespeare-theatres.html">Shakespeare Theatre</a>.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/657710714809947754-8667113984790103831?l=www.shakespeares-stratford.com%2Fblog%2Findex.htm' alt='' /></div>Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02092642976228414099noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657710714809947754.post-1992597363948044762009-12-07T15:08:00.004Z2009-12-07T16:06:22.504ZCollections and Displays Weekend at Stratford Armouries 12th and 13th of DecemberAs part of our series of Christmas Shows running on weekends all throughout December <a class="blue" a="" href="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/familly-attractions/stratford-armouries.html">Stratford Armouries</a> is pleased to announce our Collections and Displays Weekend. This indoor show at the Museum has exhibitors coming from far and wide displaying a wide range of items including a spoon and treen collection with over 200 pieces, with one collection being 122 years old! Other collections include a writing ephmera collection gathered from the last 200 years.<br /><br />There will be an old time fun fair at the Armouries featuring a Haunted House, and a set of 'Swinging Gyms'.<br /><br />Also on Sunday 13th Father Christmas will also be at the Armouries.<br /><br />So come and enjoy a fantastic family day out at the Armouries this weekend! For more information please contact <span style="font-weight: bold;">Keith Shakespeare on 07808173400</span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/657710714809947754-199259736394804476?l=www.shakespeares-stratford.com%2Fblog%2Findex.htm' alt='' /></div>Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03628675273770029441noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657710714809947754.post-368257738034531742009-12-04T14:41:00.009Z2009-12-04T16:10:14.443ZChristmas in Stratford upon Avon 2009Escape for a winter weekend break or have some festive fun in Shakespeare’s Stratford this Christmas! Winter is such a wonderful time to visit Stratford upon Avon; it is really beautiful at this time of year.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br />Stratford upon Avon Festive Market</span><br /><br />Visitors and locals alike will be able to enjoy the unique atmosphere of the Christmas Market, underneath the spectacular Christmas light displays.<br />You will be able to find both traditional and continental stalls filled with all kinds of inspiring, tasteful and gorgeous gifts to please even the most discerning shopper.<br />The Christmas market hosts all kinds of delicious and interesting food and drink.<br />If that’s not enough - the shops on Bridge Street will also stay open late until 9pm on these dates!<br /><br />There is free parking available on Arden Street, Church Street, Windsor Street as well as Riverside car parks.<br />(<a href="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Stratford upon Avon</span></a> Christmas Market will take place on Bridge Street every Thursday until December 17th).<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Stratford upon Avon Christmas Lights</span><br /><br />This year marks the 25th anniversary of the founding of Stratford Christmas Lights. Stagecoach will operate their double-decker City Sightseeing Bus tour on the Late-night shopping evenings of the 3rd, 10th and 17th December.<br /><br /><img src="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/blog/images/stratford-upon-avon-christmas-lights-1.jpg" alt="Stratford upon Avon Christmas Lights" title="Stratford upon Avon Christmas Lights" border="0" /><br /><br />Perfect for friends and family to enjoy the Christmas lights from a different angle and take some magical photographs. The FREE City Sightseeing Bus tour runs from the High Street (next to Debenhams) and is available at 17.00, 18.00 or 19.00 hrs www.citysightseeing-stratford.com<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Stratford upon Avon Christmas Spirit</span><br /><br />Visit <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/attractions/index.htm">Shakespeare’s Houses</a>; <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://shakespeares-stratford.com/attractions/nashs-house.html">Nash’s House</a>, <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://shakespeares-stratford.com/attractions/anne-hathaways-cottage.html">Anne Hathaway’s Cottage</a> and <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/attractions/halls-croft.html">Hall’s Croft</a> as they show us how Christmas was in Tudor Times. With a wide range of activities commencing on the 12rd December until 3rd January they are sure to get you in the seasonal spirit. Great fun for all the family with traditional Tudor games, mince pies, mulled wine, music, carols and storytelling there is something for everyone.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Shakespeare’s Birthplace</span><br /><br />Dressed for a Tudor Christmas and lit by candlelight on the 3rd and 10th and 17th of December. The Tudor household comes to life with festive music and garden entertainment from Shakespeare Aloud! For more details visit <a href="http://www.shakespeare.org.uk/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">www.shakespeare.org.uk</span></a><br />Santa, or 'Father Christmas' as he is often known, is always delighted to see you and your children in his beautiful Christmas grotto. Come and visit Santa's Grotto and Elve's Workshop in the run up to Christmas. Admission: £4 per child.<br /><br />- Thursday 3rd December – Sunday 6th December<br />- Thursday 10th December – Sunday 13th December<br />- Thursday 17th – Wednesday 23rd December<br /><br />(25 percent of all proceeds will be donated to The Stratford Christmas Lights, 25 percent to the Voluntary Association for <a href="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/">Stratford-upon-Avon</a> the and 50 percent towards Stratforward for organising the event)<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/657710714809947754-36825773803453174?l=www.shakespeares-stratford.com%2Fblog%2Findex.htm' alt='' /></div>Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02092642976228414099noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657710714809947754.post-47383021807919335762009-11-05T15:43:00.005Z2009-11-05T15:56:03.777ZStratford Armouries Christmas Fayre 13th November 2009Come and enjoy an authentic Christmas Fayre at <a class="blue" a href="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/familly-attractions/stratford-armouries.html">Stratford Armouries</a> on Friday 13th November. Avoid the Christmas rush and purchase gifts to delight the whole family from a range of fantastic stalls including KB Bespoke Jewellery and Judibox Gift Boxes. <br /> <br />Enjoy a coffee or a lunch in our fantastic restaurant afterwards. All in aid of the the Theo Monk Gift of Hope Fund and the British Heart Foundation.<br /> <br />For further details please contact <a class="blue" a href="mailto:anna@theo-monk.co.uk?subject=Christmas Fayre 13th November 2009">anna@theo-monk.co.uk</a> or visit <a class="blue" a href="http://www.theo-monk.co.uk/events.htm ">http://www.theo-monk.co.uk/events.htm </a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/657710714809947754-4738302180791933576?l=www.shakespeares-stratford.com%2Fblog%2Findex.htm' alt='' /></div>Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03628675273770029441noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657710714809947754.post-49919229056678206712009-10-30T16:55:00.000Z2009-10-30T16:57:03.438ZWorld-Renowned Record Producer Opens New Music Production SuiteRobin Millar, one of Britain’s most successful record producers, is coming to Stratford upon Avon College to open a new music production suite. <br />On November 2nd 2009, Robin Millar will be officially opening the digital and analogue recording studios and a suite of music practice rooms at the college. <br /><br />Robin Millar’s productions have sold over 55 million copies and have won most of the major global music awards including Brit and Grammy Awards. He has over 40 numbers 1s to his credit, produced Sade’s iconic ‘Diamond Life’ album and is the only British person to have produced an Olympic Games ceremony. Robin was awarded an Honorary Professor in 2007 at Thames Valley University and for the last 15 years has been a visiting lecturer and professor at The Royal Academy of Music, London College of Music, Surrey University and The University of Modena in Italy. <a href="http://www.robinmillar.org.uk">www.robinmillar.org.uk</a><br /><br />James Maiden, music lecturer at the college, commented, “The music department is thriving like never before and have recently introduced new Music Technology and Higher National Diploma courses. With growing student numbers and their success rates higher every year, these fantastic new facilities give us the opportunity to provide a higher level of teaching that gives our students the chance to really shine. We are all very proud to work as part of Stratford upon Avon College’s music team and to have such a highly respected and successful musical figure as Robin Millar coming in to open the new rooms and interact with our students. It is an honour and a great opportunity that both staff and students are all incredibly excited about.’ <br /><br />The ceremony will take place at Stratford-upon-Avon College on Monday 2nd November at midday.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/657710714809947754-4991922905667820671?l=www.shakespeares-stratford.com%2Fblog%2Findex.htm' alt='' /></div>Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03628675273770029441noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657710714809947754.post-68152306005317184432009-10-26T14:28:00.004Z2009-10-26T17:07:54.926ZIf We Save One Life, It Will Be Worth It<img src = "http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/blog/images/warwickshire-fire-and-rescue.jpg" height="403" width="580" alt="If We Save One Life, It Will Be Worth It" title="If We Save One Life, It Will Be Worth It" /><br />Last week Stratford upon Avon College held its annual week-long programme of events to emphasise the dangers of driving to young people. This was a hard-hitting campaign to encourage young people to take greater care on the roads.<br /><br />The college's road safety awareness week ran from the 19th – 23rd October and included a variety of films, lectures and discussions in partnership with Warwickshire County Council, Warwickshire Police and Warwickshire Fire & Rescue Service. <br /><br />This year, a daily presentation was given covering issues such as: distraction, defensive driving, drinking and illegal substance use, general safety and speed. Undoubtedly the most powerful and influential element of the presentation was when relatives of young people (killed in a traffic incident) spoke of how the lives of the families and friends had been affected. On Thursday 22nd, Warwickshire Fire & Rescue Service demonstrated how they would cut a victim from a crashed vehicle.<br /><br />Road accidents in this country account for over 3,000 deaths per year – a third of these from the 17 – 25 age group. This group is at the greatest risk due to lack of experience, as well as other factors such as speeding, intoxication through drink or drugs, or recklessness. Becoming a good driver is not just a matter of learning how to control a car and pass a driving test, but about driving with the right attitude, gaining experience and recognising possible hazards or dangerous situations on the road.<br /><br />Leading the campaign, Ian Lumley, Duty Officer at the College, said: “Isn’t it about time that the government introduced life-saving legislation? We are sadly lacking behind many other countries in this respect. There is no justification for the number of deaths and serious injuries that occur relentlessly, on our roads.”<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/657710714809947754-6815230600531718443?l=www.shakespeares-stratford.com%2Fblog%2Findex.htm' alt='' /></div>Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03628675273770029441noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657710714809947754.post-84480469594191928182009-10-22T09:26:00.005+01:002009-10-23T15:16:02.845+01:00Stratford upon Avon College Joins Studley High School TrustStratford upon Avon College is proud to announce it is a member of the newly formed Studley High School Trust. <br /><br />The Trust is a collaborative partnership between the college, Studley High School, the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, New Century Theatre and Arrow Valley Brass Band. These links will provide tangible and exciting vocational career opportunities for the school’s students in the future, offering them ‘real world’ experiences and widening their awareness of further and higher education. <br /><br />Ceri Cunningham, Head of Drama at the school said, “The rationale for acquiring the Trust is to create opportunities to maximise personal learning to enhance the experience and aspirations of learners, the expertise of teachers and thus raise standards and achievement. We also aim to strengthen the school’s specialisms, Humanities (English and Drama) and Music through formal links with a wide range of partners and positively develop the impact with all stakeholders.” <br /><br />Martin Penny, Stratford upon Avon College Principal and Chair to the Trust commented, “We are proud to be working closely with Studley High School and the other Trust members. The Trust will enable us to work more closely with the local community and businesses to provide a unique opportunity of bringing together a variety of different organisations in the shared goal of creating a better future for our learners. In particular, students from the school will have access to the wealth of facilities here at the college for their performances and can tap in to the independent advice and guidance from college staff.” <br /><br />The Trust will be launched on 21st October at Studley High School at the production, “Night at the Musicals” which is an evening of dance, drama and music, inspired by a range of musicals from different eras; musicals as diverse as the ever popular “My Fair Lady” and “Newsies” based on the strike by New York’s paper boys in the 1890s. Over 40 pupils from Years 7 to 11 are involved in the performance which will be preceded by a reception to launch the Studley High School Trust. <br /><br />Studley High School, based in Studley, Warwickshire, is a Humanities (English and Drama) and Music Specialist School offering education for 11 to 16 year olds.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/657710714809947754-8448046959419192818?l=www.shakespeares-stratford.com%2Fblog%2Findex.htm' alt='' /></div>Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03628675273770029441noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657710714809947754.post-80331623467259063092009-09-28T11:42:00.012+01:002009-10-22T12:47:44.719+01:00Royal Marines put Stratford upon Avon College Students through their Paces!<img src = "http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/blog/images/public-services-students.jpg" height="223" width="665" alt="Public Services students put through their paces at Stratford-upon-Avon College" title="Public Services students put through their paces at Stratford-upon-Avon College" /><br /><br />Stratford upon Avon College’s Public Services students were recently visited by the Royal Marines Visibility Team. <br /><br />Over 60 students on the BTEC First Diploma Public Services, National Certificate Public Services and National Diploma Public Services took part in the recent visit by the Royal Marines. The Royal Marine Visibility Team gave a presentation, explaining who the Royal Marines are, what they do and how rewarding being a Royal Marine can be. The day continued with a question and answer session allowing the students to gain as much information as they could from the serving marines. A variety of team-building and training sessions followed giving the students some physical exercise! <br /><br />Andy Crossley, Public Services Lecturer, said, “I would like to thank the Visibility Team for taking time to visit us at Stratford upon Avon College. The students thoroughly enjoyed the experience and the Royal Marines were very impressed with the calibre of our students. This event enhanced their learning experience and provided a unique opportunity for them to learn more about what the Royal Marines do.” <br /><br />For more information visit the website: <a class="blue" href="http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk">http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/657710714809947754-8033162346725906309?l=www.shakespeares-stratford.com%2Fblog%2Findex.htm' alt='' /></div>Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03628675273770029441noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657710714809947754.post-2215569549784769312009-09-28T10:50:00.010+01:002009-10-06T12:22:48.646+01:00Stratford upon Avon Gains Transition Status<img src="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/blog/images/river.jpg" alt="Stratford upon Avon Gains Transition Status" title="Stratford upon Avon Gains Transition Status" height="165" width="655" /><br /><br />Joining major cities like Los Angeles, Berlin and Sydney, Stratford upon Avon has recently become a <a class="blue" href="http://www.transitiontowns.org/">Transition Town</a>, only the 210th to do so in the entire world!<br /><br />This accolade is granted to communities who have actively demonstrated their commitment to reducing oil dependency and fighting man-made climate change. Here in Stratford we have made a huge step forward in efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the town.<br /><br /><a class="blue" href="http://transitionstratford.blogspot.com/">Transition Stratford's</a> first meeting was held just eight months ago, and the whole team has worked tremendously hard in a very short space of time. Their achievement was applauded by <a class="blue" href="http://www.transitiontowns.org/">Transition Network</a> last week, in an email confirming that the town has met its strict criteria for official status.<br /><br />So far, projects have focused on local food production, but the group will now review energy needs and the town’s economy. An energy ‘Open Space’ meeting at the Town Hall on 3rd October invites residents to take part in discussions on future energy needs. The meeting starts at 10am.<br /><br />What are you doing to reduce your carbon footprint?<br />Tell us about your personal endeavours to fight global warming and boost the local economy!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/657710714809947754-221556954978476931?l=www.shakespeares-stratford.com%2Fblog%2Findex.htm' alt='' /></div>Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03628675273770029441noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657710714809947754.post-80369456517963226092009-09-28T09:24:00.003+01:002009-09-28T10:47:05.098+01:00Stratford upon Avon College - Sports and Freshers Fayre<img src="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/blog/images/stratford-upon-avon-college-2.jpg" alt="Students receiving massages from complementary therapy students at the Sports Fayre" title="Students receiving massages from complementary therapy students at the Sports Fayre" height="165" width="655" /><br /><br />Stratford upon Avon College recently held two fayres welcoming new and returning students to the college.<br /><br />The annual Freshers’ Fayre was held on Wednesday 16th September. Local organisations, businesses and charities from Stratford-upon-Avon and the surrounding area attended the event to welcome in new students. Organisations included Waterstones, <a class="blue" href="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/familly-attractions/stratford-picture-house.html">Stratford Picture House</a>, <a class="blue" href="http://www.myscr.co.uk/">Stratford Community Radio</a>, Aston Villa Football Club, People and Planet, Amnesty International, the National Trust and many more. Oxfam also attended and encouraged students to set up their own campaign group within the college.<br /><br />“This year’s event was our biggest and busiest yet,” commented Holly Rawlings, the college’s student liaison officer. “There was a constant flow of visitors to the Fayre throughout the day. We received very positive feedback from all those who attended and we look forward to repeating the event next year.”<br /><br />Following the Freshers’ Fayre, a Sports Fayre was held on 17th September. This was a new event for the college and provided staff and students with information on the many ways that they can get involved in sport within their local community. Organisations included Stratford Leisure and Visitor Centre, Stratford Hockey, the Duke of Edinburgh Award, Wildmoor Spa and Adventure Sports from Warwick.<br /><br />Commenting on the Sports Fayre, Helen Finlay, sports co-ordinator at the college said, “Feedback from the sports bodies involved, as well as staff and students who attended, shows that this was a successful and useful event. Many took the opportunity to kick start their physical activity through the rowing challenge and table tennis that was available on the day. I am looking forward to building on its success in future sports fayres.”<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/657710714809947754-8036945651796322609?l=www.shakespeares-stratford.com%2Fblog%2Findex.htm' alt='' /></div>Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03628675273770029441noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657710714809947754.post-84372198596729564452009-09-24T14:10:00.002+01:002009-09-24T14:19:52.843+01:00Money for NothingA number of local organisations have been helped by grants handed out by <a class="blue" href="http://www.stratfordtowntrust.co.uk/">Stratford Town Trust</a> in the second round of payouts for 2009. More than £170,000 has been allocated to thirty community groups, where the priority has been to support projects improving the quality of life for local people.<br /><br />Among those benefitting from the awards are the Stratford Stroke Support Group, who receives £2,500 to help fund their fortnightly meetings and Forum for sufferers and their families and friends.<br /><br />A helpful £10,000 has gone to the Stratford Mediation Service, an organisation which helps local people resolve disputes. It also demonstrates to school children how to manage conflicts in a non-violent or abusive way.<br /><br />The largest payout is given to the RSC; a £50,000 second instalment for the Transformation Project, the progress of which we can all see for ourselves as we pass by the ongoing work on Waterside. <br /><br />Smaller grants include £1,500 to the 1st Annual Falstaff International Film Festival and £500 for Stratford-upon-Avon Cycling which encourages leisure, pleasure and utility cycling.<br /><br />For a full list of recipients, <a class="blue" href ="http://www.stratfordtowntrust.co.uk/images/comprofiler/directory/grants_round_2_2009_final.pdf">please click here</a>.<br /><br />Has your organisation had an injection of funds from the Town Trust? <br /><br />If so, please let us know what the grant will be used for and how people can get involved. <br /><br />We’re waiting to hear from you….<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/657710714809947754-8437219859672956445?l=www.shakespeares-stratford.com%2Fblog%2Findex.htm' alt='' /></div>Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03628675273770029441noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657710714809947754.post-50512236594161602842009-09-14T13:00:00.006+01:002009-09-14T13:16:38.707+01:00The New Diploma at Stratford upon Avon College<span style="font-weight: bold;">For the first time Stratford upon Avon College is running The Diploma in Society, Health and Development. </span><br /><br /><img style="display:block; width: 655px; height: 165px;" src="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/blog/images/stratford-upon-avon-college.jpg" border="0" alt="Stratford upon Avon College" title="Stratford upon Avon College"/><br /><br />This week 16 students have enrolled on the Society, Health and Development Level 2 course. This will give them the opportunity to develop their skills and attitudes to enable them to successfully work with, and for, others in the community and society in general. The course, which is delivered in partnership with local schools, is designed to introduce young people to the society, health and development sector. This includes the NHS, one of the world’s largest employers, the children’s workforce, the community justice sector and adult social care.<br /><br />Diplomas are designed to provide new and innovative qualifications for 14 to 19 year old students. They have been developed to support progression to further study, training and employment. Students will spend some time in the classroom but will also benefit from hands-on, practical experience in the world of work. <br /><br />“While studying one of the new Diplomas, students have the opportunity to develop and practise work-related skills within their chosen employment sector,” commented Charles Anderson, Deputy Principal at Stratford upon Avon College. “Diplomas give students a comprehensive qualification that includes theoretical as well as practical skills including functional English, Mathematics and ICT.”<br /><br />From 2010/2011 Stratford upon Avon College will be offering a wider range of Diplomas in a number of subject areas including Hospitality and Creative and Media. The Diplomas are available at Level 2 which is the equivalent of 7 GCSEs grade A*-C and at Level 3 which is the equivalent to 3 ½ A Levels.<br /><br />Diplomas started this month in the South Warwickshire area and by 2013 all young people between the ages of 14 and 19 will be entitled to choose this exciting qualification as a route to success.<br /><br />For more information please contact Stratford upon Avon College on:<br /><br />Tel: 01789 266 245<br />Email: <a href="mailto:marketing@stratford.ac.uk">marketing@stratford.ac.uk</a><br />Website: <a href="http://www.stratford.ac.uk/Home.aspx">www.stratford.ac.uk</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/657710714809947754-5051223659416160284?l=www.shakespeares-stratford.com%2Fblog%2Findex.htm' alt='' /></div>Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03628675273770029441noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657710714809947754.post-46159589210876182052009-09-02T14:04:00.004+01:002009-09-02T14:20:12.322+01:00Stratford upon Avon Food Festival<img src="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/blog/images/stratford-food-festival.jpg" height="125" width="425" alt="Stratford upon Avon Food Festival" title="Stratford upon Avon Food Festival" /><br /><br />I was very pleased to read about the forthcoming Stratford Food Festival, which takes place in the town from Friday 25th September to Sunday 27th September. The event will be preceded by a celebration of international food and drink, called Taste 09 starting on 21st September, and will involve themed streets in the town centre, featuring Americano, Indian, Italian, Chinese and British food, music and dance. There will be free food-tasting to whet the appetites of visitors and revellers.<br /><br />On Monday 21st September, Sheep Street will become Little India, with Indian and Asian themed performances on the Corn Market, Bhangra dancers by the Swan fountain and free taste sessions from the Indian restaurants. Many bars, pubs and restaurants will be joining in the festivities with an Indian style theme to support the event.<br /><br />On Tuesday, 22nd September, <a class="blue" href="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/familly-attractions/farmers-market.html">Rother Market</a> and Greenhill Street will be turned into Chinatown, with Chinese and Asian themed performances, free taste sessions from Chinese & Asian restaurants, dragons and lanterns and a Loi Krathong type lantern launch.<br /><br />Wednesday, 23rd September sees the High Street with an Americano theme. There will be wandering Western style dance, stretch limos, American Football, Elvis and ticker tape, all finished off with jazz, hot dogs, salsa and jive.<br /><br />On Thursday, 24th September, Wood Street becomes Little Italy, with Italian style wandering serenaders and restaurant based free food tasters. Enjoy pizzas, pasta, violins and wine. Mama Mia!<br /><br />And on Saturday, 25th September, as the Food Festival gets underway on the Recreation Ground, Henley Street re-lives Olde England. Step back in time to the Tudors with costumed knights and maidens, galliards, jigs and Morris dancing, Mary Arden’s Mummers, roast beef and ale.<br /><br />Among other things taking place is the Taste Trail which promises to be very popular and an array of buskers across the town throughout the week.<br /><br />For further information about the event, visit <a class="blue" href="http://www.stratfordfoodfestival.co.uk">www.stratfordfoodfestival.co.uk</a> – it’s likely to one of the high-spots of Stratford’s social calendar this year, so don’t miss it.<br /><br />And don’t forget to come back and tell us what you thought about the Festival. What was your favourite bit? Has it increased your interest in food? Did you try anything to eat that you hadn’t tried before? Do write in and let us know.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/657710714809947754-4615958921087618205?l=www.shakespeares-stratford.com%2Fblog%2Findex.htm' alt='' /></div>Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03628675273770029441noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657710714809947754.post-5581774741260195672009-09-01T10:49:00.004+01:002009-09-01T11:20:04.062+01:00Stratford upon Avon Community Radio StationWhen was the last time you listened to <a class="blue" href="http://www.myscr.co.uk/">Stratford Community Radio</a>?<br /><br />The online radio station, which was officially launched in January 2009, is based in the heart of Stratford and exists for the benefit of the local community.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.myscr.co.uk"><img src="http://www.myscr.co.uk/images/volunteers-banner.jpg" alt="Stratford upon Avon Community Radio" title="Stratford upon Avon Community Radio" border="0" width="698" height="186"></a><br /><br />There has recently been a bit of a re-shuffle as the programme schedule is refined and improved, and Station Manager Adrian Styles also has plans to extend broadcasting from the current three days every week to four. At the moment listeners can enjoy live broadcasts on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, but there are plans underway to transmit a full day of cultural shows on Thursdays.<br /><br />Watch this space for details of when Thursdays’ Culture Day will begin.<br /><br />Meanwhile, The Alternative Show continues to go from strength to strength on Fridays and can now be heard from 2-4pm, with Val Rainbow and Peter Keynton-Hook bringing you a variety of interesting guests and great music. Check out the blog for details of forthcoming guests, and add your comments.<br /><br />Following on at 4pm every Friday is a new one-hour show called Happily Ever After, hosted by local writer Jacqui Alexander. The show has a literary feel and Jacqui is currently working to link up with local reading groups and writers’ groups, so that she can showcase local writing talent and review fiction as well as playing her favourite tunes.<br /><br />And listen out for a brand new show that will become part of the schedule soon, featuring politics student and local resident, Sarah Brindle, who will be interviewing and probing our local councillors and politicians about the things that matter to the people of Stratford. More details about this very soon.<br /><br />Don’t forget Stratford Community Radio is for you! To get involved or to contact any of the broadcasters at the station drop them an email via the <a class="blue" href="http://www.myscr.co.uk/contact-us/index.htm">MYSCR contact page</a> - help to make this radio station what you want it to be!<br /><br />The team look forward to hearing from you – <a class="blue" href="http://www.myscr.co.uk/">www.myscr.co.uk</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/657710714809947754-558177474126019567?l=www.shakespeares-stratford.com%2Fblog%2Findex.htm' alt='' /></div>Emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03628675273770029441noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657710714809947754.post-5954828248084303472009-08-24T09:30:00.003+01:002009-08-24T09:46:20.227+01:00Gadzooks, who holdeth the quill?There was a story in one of the free papers last week which caught my eye. It was about calls for the exhumation of a tomb in Warwick, which is purported to contain manuscripts that can prove a link between <a class href="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/shakespeare/index.htm">William Shakespeare</a> and the resident of the tomb, Fulke Greville, his 17th century contemporary – and that <a class="blue" href="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/shakespeare/index.htm">the Bard</a> didn’t write all of the works which have been attributed to him!<br /><br /><img src="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/blog/images/william-shakespeare.jpg" alt="William Shakespeare" title="William Shakespeare" border="0" width="341" height="250"/><br /><br />Apparently there has been speculation for years that ancient manuscripts were buried with Greville, and recently scholars have been calling for the grave to be opened to answer the question once and for all. Claims have been made that the evidence could show that Greville wrote some of the work or parts of the work currently attributed to our town’s most famous son.<br /><br />However, the tomb won’t be opened any time soon, as the Diocesan Advisory Committee has stated that there isn’t enough evidence to warrant disturbing Greville’s final resting place.<br /><br />Of course, if the tomb was exhumed and these documents were discovered, it could raise the profile of the Church, which would benefit financially. But Canon Roberts from St Mary’s commented that they didn’t need to “resort to Da Vinci Code practices to bump up visitor numbers”, a reference to the recent film starring Tom Hanks which was based on Tom Brown’s best-selling novel. <br /><br />Fulkes Greville was a well-known figure in the 17th century. He represented Warwickshire in parliament for four years and enjoyed a distinguished career under both Queen Elizabeth I and King James I. Knighted in 1597, he served as Treasurer of the Navy and was also Chancellor of the Exchequer. In 1621 he was created Baron Brooke, by King James and was bestowed with Knowle Park and Warwick Castle. His glittering life has a sad ending though, as in 1628 he was murdered by a servant who stabbed him and then turned the knife on himself.<br /><br />What do you think? If Greville really did write some of Shakespeare’s work, would he really want to take all the evidence to his grave?<br /><br />Interesting……<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/657710714809947754-595482824808430347?l=www.shakespeares-stratford.com%2Fblog%2Findex.htm' alt='' /></div>Jacquihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06312461088611302421noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657710714809947754.post-67330473682285417242009-08-20T12:23:00.009+01:002009-08-24T09:47:09.401+01:00Stratford upon Avon Park and RideEarlier this week I did something I haven’t done for a very long time – in fact I’ve only done it once before and that was several years ago! For at least the last nine years I have driven blindly past the signs for <a class="blue" href="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/park-and-ride/index.htm">Stratford’s Park and Ride</a>. From way back in time, when it was located at the <a class="blue" href="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/shopping/maybird-shopping-park.html">Maybird Centre</a>, but possibly even more so since it moved to Bishopton Road. Onward I would drive, only to get caught in traffic, then struggle to find a parking space and, nowadays, to be charged a ridiculous amount in parking charges to nip to the bank to pay in a cheque.<br /><br />But no more! After months and months of resentment about the parking charges in the town, I finally decided to try the <a class="blue" href="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/park-and-ride/index.htm">Park and Ride</a> for a second time.<br /><br /><br /><img src="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/blog/images/stratford-park-and-ride.jpg" alt="Stratford upon Avon Park and Ride" title="Stratford upon Avon Park and Ride" border="0" width="338" height="243"/><br /><br />Don’t get me wrong – the one and only time I have used this service before wasn’t a disaster, I think I’d just picked the wrong day as I had too many bags of shopping and it was raining. But this time – what a treat! I had no problem parking in the free car park, which was only a quarter full. The bus arrived only a minute or two after I got to the stop, which was clearly marked – there’s one stop for getting on and another just around the corner for getting off. A mere £1.50 return fare was paid, and the journey to Wood Street took just a few minutes. I had a comfortable seat on a clean vehicle, and my fellow passengers and the driver were all very polite and friendly. Of course, I’m sure it helped that the sun was shining and it was a lovely warm day.<br /><br />When it was time to come home, several hours later, I made my way to the return stop near to the Oxfam shop. As I crossed the road, the bus came into view and on I hopped. Not so good this time, as I had to stand on the way back! However, the trip only took a matter of minutes, and before I knew it I was back in my car and on my way home. Total saving on parking costs was £2.50 for a four hour visit. Excellent, I love saving money!<br /><br />As a local, I have always disregarded the <a class="blue" href="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/park-and-ride/index.htm">Park and Ride</a>, believing it was meant for visitors to the town - after all, I know all the best streets to park in! But I think the introduction of parking charges has changed my perception, and I recommend that other locals should make better use of this service.<br /><br />Like so many other things about Stratford, we sometimes don’t see what great things are just under our noses! So why not save money and hassle by traveling into the town centre on the bus? There is a range of tickets available and concessionary pass holders travel free. For regular users of the service, season tickets can be purchased weekly, monthly or annually.<br /><br />I look forward to meeting you on the <a class="blue" href="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/park-and-ride/index.htm">Park and Ride</a> bus very soon… go on, give it a try.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/657710714809947754-6733047368228541724?l=www.shakespeares-stratford.com%2Fblog%2Findex.htm' alt='' /></div>Jacquihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06312461088611302421noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-657710714809947754.post-80575753556106975082009-08-19T15:54:00.008+01:002009-08-27T08:58:24.556+01:00Stratford upon Avon Town Hosts - Making Your Visit to Stratford Perfect!The introduction of <a href="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com">Stratford upon Avon's</a> Town Hosts represents the first major investment by the Stratfordward Business Improvement District. There are five of us (you'll see us around the Town Centre between 9am and 7pm, seven days a week) - all working to make <a href="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/">Stratford upon Avon</a> the UK's friendliest town!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.stratforward.co.uk/"><img src="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/blog/images/stratforward.jpg" alt="Stratford upon Avon Town Hosts" title="Stratford upon Avon Town Hosts" border="0" width="300" height="432" /></a><br /><br />Our main duties are to:<br /><ul><li>Act as friendly, reliable information guides.</li><li>Provide a link between shops, businesses and public services.</li><li>Offer extra support for the security and emergency services.</li></ul>So whether you work in <a href="http://www.shakespeares-stratford.com/">Stratford upon Avon</a> or just visiting, we're here to help. If you're having trouble finding your way around. If you need a taxi. Or even if you can't remember where you parked your car! Just ask a Town Host.<br /><br />If you run a business within the Business Improvement District, you'll be pleased to know that we'll be popping in regularly for a chat and to get your feedback on how you think we can help you with some of the issues your business faces.<br /><br />You can contact the Town Hosts at:<br /><br />Town Host HQ<br />Unit 16<br />Town Square<br />Stratford upon Avon<br />CV37 6JW<br /><br />Tel: 01789 298 291<br />email: <a href="mailto:townhosts@stratford.co.uk">townhosts@stratford.co.uk</a><br /><a href="http://www.stratfordward.co.uk/">www.stratfordward.co.uk</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/657710714809947754-8057575355610697508?l=www.shakespeares-stratford.com%2Fblog%2Findex.htm' alt='' /></div>Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02092642976228414099noreply@blogger.com0