Christchurch councillors have backed the Shakespeare Shout’s return to Christchurch, with plans to involve schools, youth groups and heritage organisations after national recognition for its setting. The Shakespeare Shout is set to return to Christchurch after councillors supported future events. Christchurch Town Council’s Community and Engagement committee approved the principle of continuing the event, after the town joined the national Shakespeare Shout for the first time at Christchurch Quay this year. The annual event is held on St George’s Day, 23 April, and brings communities togeth
The Shakespeare Shout is set to return to Christchurch after councillors supported future events.
Christchurch Town Council’s Community and Engagement committee approved the principle of continuing the event, after the town joined the national Shakespeare Shout for the first time at Christchurch Quay this year.
The annual event is held on St George’s Day, 23 April, and brings communities together through a shared reading from Shakespeare’s Henry V, with people taking part across England at the same time.
Residents and visitors gathered at the Bandstand on Christchurch Quay, and the event later received a national location award for its setting by the waterfront, the Grade II listed Bandstand and the Priory.
Mayor of Christchurch Councillor Maggie Fidler said the setting meant the town could create “something much bigger than a single Shakespeare reading” and celebrate the “rich history of our town” by using the Quomps, the Bandstand, the Priory and the Quay.
Plans for 2027 include involving schools, Scouts, Guides, youth organisations, community groups and heritage groups in performances, artwork, storytelling, music and creative activities linked to Shakespeare and St George and the Dragon.
