Congratulations to all 65 groups who took part in Shakespeare 24 on April 23rd 2008!
'We have been so impressed by the enthusiasm of the international groups taking part in Shakespeare 24. They have given our first international festival huge impact and help illustrate how successfully Shakespeare's work communicates internationally.' Chris Grace, Festival Director
About the projectShakespeare 24 (S24) was an exciting worldwide Shakespeare performance event beginning in New Zealand and ending 24 hours later in Hawaii on April 23rd 2008. 65 youth groups from 35 countries staged 30 and 45 minute adaptations of Shakespeare's plays at 7pm, local time on Shakespeare’s 444th birthday.
Young people from around the world were invited to participate in this 24-hour performance event celebrating their youth, culture and creativity - and Shakespeare.
International youth groups took creative ownership of their productions to produce meaningful interpretations of some of Shakespeare's most famous plays using local language and involving the use of dance, music and local performance art forms.
What we provided
We provided 30 and 45 minute abridged scripts (in english) of 15 of Shakespeare's most famous plays, a production handbook, tailored online resources and support. We also liaised with the participants to encourage links between groups nationally and internationally.
What groups provided
Groups were responsible for all elements of staging their productions: casting, performance venue, rehearsals, marketing, funding; with support from Visiting Arts and British Council where appropriate.
Partners
Shakespeare 24 is an event partner with Liverpool City of Culture ’08 and Liverpool is the host city for UK groups taking part.
"The Culture Company is delighted to have SSF as an event partner for the Liverpool, European City of Culture celebrations. Shakespeare 24 is a key project to achieving our theme of the 'The World in One City' for young people." Gaynor Wright, Education Director
Supported by the Liverpool Culture Company Limited as part of the 2008 Liverpool European Capital of Culture
Check out the video messages of good luck groups made for each other.
