Artwork inspired by Shakespeare play in Stafford
More than 100 people have helped design artwork inspired by a Shakespeare play being performed at Stafford Castle.
Students from schools across the county and women from Staffordshire Women's Refuge created pieces for the Stafford Festival Shakespeare's The Merchant of Venice.
The production, produced by Stafford Gatehouse Theatre, sees people transported to New York in the 1950s – rather than the traditional Venice setting.
And now artwork based on the twist, measuring six foot high by 16 foot wide, will be showcased at the castle for the duration of the play.
It comes as part of the community engagement outreach programme funded by the theatre and Stafford District Arts Council.
Artists Helen Wilson and Mark Uttley, from the Independent Community Arts Partnership, looked at American designs from the decade and helped people to design their work – before choosing which drawings should be used in the piece.
Helen said “All of the participants worked hard, enjoyed being creative and showed staff from the organisations that art is a great vehicle to discover the bard."
Pupils from John Wheeldon Primary Academy, Walton Hall Academy and JP Alternative Education all joined in by painting onto the mdf panels.
JP Alternative Education director Julian Porter said “It has been refreshing to have practitioners come and work with our young people.
"These young people have really engaged with the workshop.
"They are all proud of their achievements and we are all looking forward to seeing the final work at the castle and to have the opportunity to go and watch the play."
Kit Henson delivered drama sessions to the schools, allowing pupils to understand the play before visiting the castle.
The Merchant of Venice opened on June 27 runs until Saturday.
For tickets, visit www.staffordfestivalshakespeare.com or call the box office on 01785 619080
