November marks a significant milestone for literature enthusiasts around the world as it commemorates 400 years since the publication of the ‘First Folio’, arguably the greatest work of English literature. Published seven years after the death of William Shakespeare, this collection of his plays ensured that much of his work would be preserved for future generations to enjoy.
To celebrate this extraordinary anniversary, the BBC has curated an ambitious season of content across various platforms including TV, Radio, BBC iPlayer, and BBC Sounds. The season aims to explore why Shakespeare’s relevance and influence remain as strong as ever, even after four centuries. The programming lineup includes a diverse range of offerings such as new documentaries, performances, music, drama, comedy, news coverage, and highlights from the BBC archive.
One of the highlights of the season is a major three-part boxset titled ‘Shakespeare: Rise of a Genius’ which will air on BBC Two and iPlayer. This series features an A-list cast of actors including Dame Judi Dench, Dame Helen Mirren, Brian Cox, Adrian Lester, Lolita Chakrabarti, Martin Freeman, and Jessie Buckley. Accompanied by leading experts and writers such as James Shapiro and Jeanette Winterson, the series aims to provide fresh insights into the life and work of the legendary playwright. The narration is done by Juliet Stevenson.
BBC Four will also contribute to the celebration by showcasing a star-studded selection of archive performances throughout October. These performances will be accompanied by specially filmed introductions from renowned figures such as David Tennant, Sir Richard Eyre, Sir Simon Russell Beale, Sir Ian McKellen, Dame Janet Suzman, Gregory Doran, Russell T Davies, Dame Helen Mirren, Steven Berkoff, and Hugh Quarshie. Additionally, a brand new performance of Hamlet from the Bristol Old Vic, featuring rising star Billy Howle in the title role, will be aired. Another exciting offering is ‘Shakespeare’s Sonnets: A Modern Love Story’ which presents innovative performances of the poet’s sonnets by actors Rose Ayling Ellis, Eben Figueiredo, Eloka Ivo, and Ioanna Kimbook.
The celebration of Shakespeare’s legacy extends to flagship BBC shows as well, with Shakespeare content being featured on shows like Bargain Hunt, EastEnders, and The One Show. BBC Radio 4 will also contribute to the festivities with new comedy drama titled ‘First Folio’, where the story of the creation of Shakespeare’s plays is explored. Dame Judi Dench will also be a guest on the show ‘This Cultural Life’, hosted by John Wilson. In addition, Greg Jenner will present a special edition of the hit podcast ‘You’re Dead to Me’ dedicated to Shakespeare.
BBC Radio 3 will dedicate a day exclusively to music inspired by Shakespeare, featuring new dramas based on Hamlet and exploring the work of Shakespeare’s contemporary critic, Robert Crowe. BBC Teach has also created a brand new animation of Romeo and Juliet specifically for primary schools.
Suzy Klein, Head of BBC Arts and Classical TV, emphasises the significance of Shakespeare’s survival and the impact of his work on various aspects of human culture. She states that Shakespeare’s influence can be seen in the way we talk, the words we use, our films, books, catchphrases, memes, and even the way we think. This major season aims to uncover the driving forces behind the genius of Shakespeare and shed light on the man who became the greatest writer in history.
Charlotte Moore, BBC Chief Content Officer, highlights the BBC’s commitment to showcasing Shakespeare’s works and ensuring that audiences have access to unique programming they wouldn’t find anywhere else. The season is a testament to the BBC’s dedication to celebrating the genius of Shakespeare and continuing his legacy for future generations.
As the world celebrates 400 years since the publication of the ‘First Folio’, this BBC season promises to be a treat for literature lovers and Shakespeare enthusiasts. From renowned actors and experts sharing their insights to archive performances and innovative adaptations, the season offers a diverse range of content that showcases the enduring relevance of Shakespeare’s work.
