One of London’s most historic theatrical quarters has announced plans to mark the 400th anniversary of William Shakespeare’s death.
A number of events, walks and performances have been announced along the Bankside, in association with The Rose Playhouse (TRP) and Better Bankside.
Bankside is home to TRP and Shakespeare’s Globe, and today remains intrinsically linked with the Bard’s legacy.
Pepe Pryke, the artistic associate at The Rose Playhouse, said: “Shakespeare is an internationally recognised phenomenon.
“His writing transcends the stage for which it was intended. So much of our language today is reflected in the work of Shakespeare, we quote him and his contemporaries daily often without knowing.
“By marking the 400th anniversary of his death we celebrate the relevance of his writings to us now and to communities worldwide.
“His plays are one of our greatest exports and draw tourists in their thousands to visit the areas where he lived and worked.”
The Rose Playhouse will host Much Ado About Nothing on April 22, and Measure for Measure from May 10.
The famous Tudor theatre hosted the first ever performances of Henry VI part 1, and Titus Andronicus.
The Complete Walk will take place on April 23 and 24, which invites people to walk a 2.5 mile route along Bankside, where 37 screens will show a number of short Shakespearean films.
These will star Simon Russell Beale, Peter Capaldi, Dominic West, Hayley Atwell and Zawe Ashton.
Pryke added: “Shakespeare remains important because his work is a mirror reflecting the humanity of society; they are stories that question our strengths and weaknesses, dealing with such universal themes as love, hatred, greed, jealousy, honour, authority, birth and death.
“He brings history to life before our eyes and we empathise with his characters. Hearing a play can make a positive influence on our lives, encouraging a better understanding of each other’s wants and needs.
“The regular updates, new interpretations and modernisation of his work show how relevant his writings are to today’s society.”
William Shakespeare died on April 23, 1616.
The Bankside are marking the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s death with a number of events and performances. For more information, click here.