400 YEARS OF SHAKESPEARE
The British High Commission and British Council are pleased to announce 'Shakespeare Lives', a major global programme celebrating Shakespeare’s works and his influence on culture, education and society on the 400th anniversary of his death. An extensive programme of activities is planned to mark this global event in Mauritius, throughout 2016.
Shakespeare is one of the UK's greatest icons - 400 years after his death, his works continue to thrill audiences of all ages right across the world, and are a source of inspiration for film directors, writers, artists and more. He is one of the most enduring examples of cultural impact and relations. His works have not only inspired the broadest range of artistic endeavour and motivated political change but also given people from all walks of life a platform for self-expression through the genius of his language. 'Shakespeare Lives' will not only explore his global legacy but also continue to demonstrate how his stories, themes and language are relevant in the modern world and must remain central to the lives of future generations.
Shakespeare Lives is possible due to the unprecedented number of partnerships and collaborations between the British Council, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, the GREAT Britain campaign partners and organisations including the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), the British Film Institute (BFI), the National Theatre, the Royal Shakespeare Company, the Shakespeare 400 consortium, the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust and Shakespeare’s Globe.
From a unique online collaboration to performances on stage and film, exhibitions, public readings, conversations and debates and educational resources for classrooms and English language learners, people around the world in over 140 countries and of all ages will have the chance to actively participate and get involved throughout the year.
Shakespeare is a catalyst to inspire others to more and greater creativity, building the collective creative genius in all of us. With 'Shakespeare Lives' in 2016 he will also help us to support, encourage and fund education, literacy and learning worldwide.
Working with a range of partners, the British High Commission and the British Council are inviting Mauritius to rediscover and celebrate the extent of his global impact through 'Shakespeare Lives in Mauritius'. The programme includes:
• The launch event on Wednesday 18 November 2016 at 18.30 at the British High Commissioner’s residence, Westminster House, Floreal
• Two performances of Hamlet by the UK's Globe Theatre on 25 January 2016 at 11.30 and 20.00 at MGI, Moka
• The Film Festival at Star Cinemas in February/March 2016
• A Photo Competition running until 31 March 2016 for children and teenagers up to 18 years
• 'Play Your Part', a global digital initiative inviting people to submit a creative piece illustrating their favourite Shakespeare quote
• The ale. A specially prepared ‘Shakesbeer’ by the Flying Dodo Brewing Company during the launch event
British High Commissioner Johnathan Drew, and Mr Tris Bartlett, Country Director, British Council, Mauritius jointly said: ‘‘it is with pleasure that we launch ‘Shakespeare Lives in Mauritius’. This is a great opportunity to showcase the work from one of the world’s greatest writer and to engage creatively with Mauritians to celebrate the Bard’s life and works. It is our sincere hope that ‘Shakespeare Lives in Mauritius’ will inspire many Mauritians in their own creative activities and will enrich the cultural relationship between the UK and Mauritius.’’