With a whimsical fusion of history and merriment, Tauranga Historic Village is being transformed into a lively tapestry of medieval splendour during the enchanting ‘Shakespeare in the Village’ event on Sunday, April 21.
Against the backdrop of the paved streets and turn-of-the-century buildings that give an age-old air, expect to be transported back in time to an era of chivalry, poetry and pageantry.
From the spirited clash of medieval sportsmanship to the delicate twirls of the maypole, the village will be resonating with the spirit of Elizabethan England.
Be prepared to engage in axe throwing, archery, and enjoy enthralling duelling and combat demonstrations, curated by Alex Holloway of NZ Screen and Stage Combat School.
The festival’s director Harry Oram says they recognised a chance to reinvigorate the community’s connection with classical literature and live theatre through a new festival.
“It was also a great opportunity to introduce fresh faces and innovative approaches to Shakespearean storytelling.”
The day-long ‘Shakespeare in the Village’ celebration, now in its second year, begins at 10am with an opening ceremony will be a rich Shakespearean cultural experience.
The Shakespeare Unplugged Exhibition, organised by Ann Dugmore in The Peoples Gallery - Toi Ka Rere, showcases local artists’ own unique interpretation of the bard, his plays, sonnets and the Elizabethan age.
Ann and the Lightfoot Dance Troupe will also be demonstrating maypole and medieval Elizabethan dancing, alongside a children’s dress-up booth offering a delightful array of Elizabethan costumes. Lively performances will bring the works of Shakespeare to life.
Highlights include artisan stalls, and a medieval market commencing at 11am. The poetry and performance workshops include a love sonnet poetry workshop led by Jenny Argante from Tauranga Writers, and a special screening of ‘Shakespeare in Love’.
Adding to the festival’s competitive spirit, a monologue and a scene competition will be held, with prizes of $500 and $1000 respectively. Open to all ages, this features both junior and senior categories, encouraging widespread community involvement.
This year’s festival also includes a partnership with 16th Avenue Theatre, presenting ‘Macbeth’ at the theatre from April 15 to 23.
‘Shakespeare in the Village’ is being held from 10am - 6.30pm, on Sunday, April 21, at Tauranga Historic Village.
Shama Watene, Tesia Dhall, Eliza Pattison and Leah Swindells. Photo: John Borren.
Festival Details:
Tauranga Shakespeare Festival, Sunday April 21 at The Historic Village, 159 17th Avenue West.
Timetable
10am Opening Ceremony with Maypole Dancing Art Gallery Opens with “Shakespeare Unplugged” (Open all day)
10.30am Stalls and market opens includes variety of Shakespearean and medieval stalls, activities, riddles, food and drinks, and a kids’ costume corner
11am Games on the green (skittles and hobby horse) New Zealand Stage and Screen Combat School – archery and axe throwing (additional fee) New Zealand Stage and Screen Combat School medieval combat demonstration
12pm Midday poetry workshop with Jenny Argante at the Village Cinema (Additional fee) Elizabeth bring-your-own picnic at The Incubator Creative Hub
2.30pm Screening of “Shakespeare in Love” at the Village Cinema
3.30pm Monologue competition at the amphitheatre (Cash Prize)
4.30pm – 6.30pm Various performances of dance, theatre and music at the amphitheatre