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The
Shakespeare Connection
It is now believed
that William Shakespeare spent a crucial period of his youth at Hoghton
Tower. A substantial body of distinguished national and international
historians and literary academics are now convinced that the Bard came
to Lancashire as a young man, living with and protected by several prominent
Catholic families. Almost certainly he spent his time at Hoghton Tower
as a tutor and player, educating the children and providing entertainment
for the whole family.
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The
Venue
Ancestral home of the de Hoghton family since the Norman conquest, Hoghton
Tower, a fortified hilltop manor house is one of the most dramatic looking
stately homes in the North of England.
Set in dramatic Pennine landscape in an area already associated with Wordsworth,
Ruskin and the Brontes and built in the year of Shakespeare's birth, Hoghton
Tower is a magnificent example of Elizabethan architecture. One of the
finest Renaissance buildings in England, it's Great Hall - where Shakespeare's
first experiments in theatre may have taken place - survives at the heart
of the fortified house.
The performances will take place in the open air within the dramatic setting
of the Tower's courtyards and then to it’s gardens adjacent to the
main house, a perfect and authentic setting for the staging of Shakespeare's
works.
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The Tower
Experience
‘The Tower experience’
gives you access to an idyll made live.
Make it your own! Arrive early with picnic, family, friends and a comfy
situpon (no, not grandma!). Take in the breathtaking panorama the venue
provides. Take in the Towerscape, its courtyard, the gardens, lawns,
the Tudor shadows. Expect musicians, a juggler(?), was that a fire-eating
swordswallower? Perhaps. . . .
And then the play: 'AS YOU LIKE IT', Shakespeare’s most endearing
comedy. Performed for you en promenade by an acting company of first
class, experienced professionals, directed for you by Dean Taylor and
his production team. Meet the players aftershow - or arrange a workshop
before the play if bringing a party of children or students.
Food and drink (bar available) is on sale, on site and parking is easy.
Make this your own, make yours the experience of Summer
(and yes - bring Grandma! ).
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How
to get there
By Road, situated midway between Preston and Blackburn on the A675 or
using the motorway it can be reached via M65 Jct 3 (Blackburn West). Hoghton
Tower is clearly signposted.
By Rail, Preston Station (25 minutes) has frequent services linking Scotland
and London, Blackpool and Scarbrough.
By Air, Manchester Airport is within easy reach.
To view a larger map, click here.
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