Theatregoing in Shakespeare’s time recreated in immersive virtual event
Hattie Fisk
Monday, October 25, 2021
A Day Out At Shakespeare’s Theatre will take place on 15 January 2022, and is aimed at those 14 and up.
David Surman
Run by digital learning platform A Bit Lit, A Day Out At Shakespeare’s Theatre is a new interactive online experience designed to give students an idea of what a trip to the theatre was like in the 1600s.
The two-hour experience will take place over Zoom, and will cover the sights, sounds and smells of a day in a theatre in Shakespeare’s time.
All those aged 14 and above are invited to attend the event; there will be actors using sign language for D/deaf participants, as well as other features to ensure inclusivity.
The event signifies the launch of a new online education platform for A Bit Lit, who have previously only released pre-recorded videos. The group was created by theatre historian Andy Kesson, who co-founded it with Jimmy Tucker.
The founding duo said: ‘We are really excited to launch this new venture, creating a new space for learning together and connecting a wide audience to the latest ideas and creative work. A Day Out at Shakespeare’s Theatre will launch our new platform perfectly with its blend of archaeological, archival and performance-based discoveries and a real sense of anarchic fun.
‘The theatres of Shakespeare’s time were experiments in public entertainment and the communication of innovative ideas, and we hope to create something similar online.’
The event will feature Simon Ruddell Beale, Emma Smith, and an improv troupe who will perform the play participants produce.
Beale said: ‘I’ve known the team behind A Bit Lit for a few years, having worked with Jimmy at the Royal Shakespeare Company. I know they’re as passionate as I am about opening up the plays of Shakespeare’s era to people everywhere so I’m delighted to be able to be a part of their first event.’
Tickets are £15 and are available here.
