As part of our celebrations for Shakespeare’s 461st Birthday, we awarded two prizes that recognise individual brilliance in creative and educational approaches to Shakespeare.
The annual Pragnell Shakespeare Birthday Award, which celebrate people working in the arts who have had a significant impact on the appreciation and enjoyment of Shakespeare, was presented to Declan Donnellan and Nick Ormerod, the visionary founders of Cheek by Jowl.
For over 40 years, they have reimagined Shakespeare’s works for audiences across the globe, and their legacy includes iconic productions such as The School for Scandal and King Lear.
Accepting the award, Declan and Nick talked about the timelessness of Shakespeare and how they still always begin rehearsals with one particular scene (namely, Macbeth Act 1, Scene 7: "Screw your courage to the sticking place").
They said that they continue to find new meaning, new interpretations and fresh insights in Shakespeare's works, and spoke of the importance of keeping opportunities open for future artists, to ensure Shakespeare’s legacy evolves and thrives for generations to come.
The Pragnell Prize was introduced in 1990 and celebrates those who have significantly increased society’s understanding, appreciation and enjoyment of the Shakespeare's work. Previous Pragnell Award winners include Sir Ian McKellen, Dame Judi Dench and Sir Simon Russell Beale.
We also presented the inaugural John Jennings Award for Services to Education, which was created in memory of John Jennings, an RSC supporter who was passionate about bringing Shakespeare to young people.
John was a beloved loyal patron and audience member for decades, and held many close friendships inside of the RSC’s community of supporters. Not only did John love Shakespeare, but he was particularly inspired by the work we do in connecting young people to his work.
The award was proudly presented to Brian and Jan Anderson, Headteacher and Deputy Headteacher of Springhead Primary School, one of our brilliant Associate Schools in Talke Pits, Staffordshire. The award recognises more than a decade of their work dedicated to inspiring the next generation through Shakespeare in the classroom and beyond.
Daniel and Tamara presented the award alongside two members of our Youth Advisory Board, Saanvi and Alex, highlighting the vital connection between young people and the arts.
