Cupid have Mercy

Shakespeare’s birthday is celebrated every year by the Royal Shakespeare Company and the town of Stratford-upon-Avon. This year I will be joining the celebrations, performing some ancient Greek myths. Shakespeare refers to Greek and Roman gods, goddesses, myths and legends throughout many of his plays. I will bring to life the story of Perseus, Medusa, and Pegasus for family audiences. Then before the evening performance of As You Like It, I will tell some of the seductive tales of Venus  for an adult audience.

 I have also been commissioned by Geraldine Collinge, Director of Events and Exhibitions at the RSC, to write some of the myths hidden in Shakespeare’s text. I searched As You Like It for classical references, and expanded brief lines and phrases into my own versions of three myths that I found buried there. I have given my myths the title ‘Cupid have Mercy’ which is what Celia says to Rosalind.  Cupid runs through the myths, mercilessly making everyone fall in love. My stories have been beautifully edited by Nicky Cox, and published as an elegant booklet. The booklet will be given away free to audiences on the day. So if you want a copy then you have to come to the theatre!

Saturday 20 April 2013 Shakespeare’s Birthday Celebrations

Greek Myths: Stories of Sun, Stone and Sea
for family audiences with children aged 5 and over.
11.45am – 12.25pm
1.45  – 2.25pm

Tales of Venus
for anyone aged 14 and over.
6 – 6.30p

Performances are at the RSC, in The  Swan Reading Room. Sessions are free, tickets available on the door 15 mins before start time, on a first come, first served basis.