FLICKY HARRISON previews an event marking 400 years since The Bard’s death 

THE Royal Wootton Bassett Arts Festival will be marking the 400th anniversary of The Bard’s death with various events, kicking off with a workshop for young people.

Bringing Shakespeare To Life is being run by Quirky Bird Theatre on April 6 in the Methodist Church, High Street, from 10am to 5.30pm.

The annual arts festival incorporates concerts, adjudicated classes and workshops in both music and drama in various venues throughout Royal Wootton Bassett.

Bringing Shakespeare To Life workshop is open to all youngsters aged seven to 16. It is being run by Quirky Bird Theatre director Anna Friend and Lisa Williams, the musical director of local choir Cantanti.

Anna said: “During the course of the day each age group will learn about speaking Shakespearean text and exploring ways of bringing this to life in performance. They will also rehearse music with Lisa and her team of musicians.’’ The whole day will be rounded off with a performance, open to friends and family, showcasing the work achieved in the three groups.

Anna said: “The youngest group (7-10) will delve into the opening scene of The Tempest, creating the stormy seas and sense of foreboding, while the Intermediates (10-13) bring to life sections from A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

“The seniors (13-16) will work on the most challenging material, famous duologues from Hamlet and Romeo and Juliet.’’ The arts festival is affiliated to the British and International Federation of Festivals.

The syllabus is on the website and can be found at Brian Taylor Music, John Holmes Music and the Swindon Music Festival which is running at the Arts Centre this week.

The closing date for the June events of the RWBAF is Saturday, April 23.

Last year Sasha Fernandez was one of the winners scooping the Pat Davies Memorial Cup. She achieved the highest mark by a nine-year-old across all the music classes.

Sasha received her trophy from Town Crier Owen Collier. Pat Davies was a teacher at Blunsdon and Owen was in her class years ago.