A B O U T U S
Founded in 1989 by a group of experienced amateur actors, Shakespeare Live is a theatre company which raises funds for charity by producing open air performances of Shakespeare plays.
'Quality acting, sumptuous costumes, a grand spectacle supported by superb technical and special effects, and as the evening draws on the unique magic that grows while the darkness gathers around the pool of light in which the actors weave their spell'
These are the hallmarks by which our many regular audience members have come to know Shakespeare Live, and the unexpected delights that so often win high praise from newcomers.
All this is enjoyed by our audiences from the weatherproof comfort of tiered seating in a covered stand. While the actors may occasionally find themselves battling the elements, the spectators stay dry – although a warm wrap is always to be recommended! Creature comforts are well provided for during your visit, with indoor bars, picnic spaces and toilets as well as outdoor stalls selling food, drink and merchandise – and of course those splendid lawns to enjoy your picnic on a balmy summer evening. Come on our Gala Night and you will be entertained by musicians and dancers while you soak up the atmosphere before the show.
You may rest assured also that once the costs of staging and production have been covered any surplus from the price you pay for your ticket will go to charitable causes. In our 29 years to date we are pleased and proud to have been able to donate over £50,000 to a wide range of charities, the majority of them with local connections. We aim to contribute to the community life of North Wiltshire: to that end we have formed, and will continue to develop, artistic and educational links with a variety of local schools and youth groups, links which are central to our status, from early 2014, as a registered charity.
The creation of the company was only made possible through the generous support of the founding member companies and individuals.
O U R A I M S
Our aims are to promote the dramatic arts for the public benefit by producing high quality productions of plays from the Elizabethan and Jacobean period; and to advance education in all aspects of the performing arts, in particular but not exclusively for young people.
O U R T R U S T E E S
The company is administered by a Board of Trustees elected by the membership at the annual general meeting. Each Trustee is a volunteer and also takes an active part in the production whether that's auditioning, directing, Box Office or backstage.