I have been waiting this whole trip for Westminster Abbey. I might not know a lot about architecture, but boy do I love me a dramatic gothic structure. I was under the impression we were not allowed to take pictures in most of the locations, but found that photography was allowed as long as there was no flash. So, there will be lots of photos throughout my blog, just know that these do not do this beautiful space justice!
One of the most interesting aspects about Westminster for me is the fact that so people individuals were laid to rest here. Yes, Saint Pauls Cathedral is the resting space for many, but Westminster has over 3,000 people in their crypt. Why do so many of these churches have crypts full of dead people? I thought it was weird but it is very normal here. Cool…
Not only are there religiously relevant people buried here, there are also actors and writers laid to rest and/or honored via statue erection! Does the name Laurence Olivier ring a bell? Born May 22nd 1907 in England and died July 11th 1989, Laurence was an incredible actor and director. His major roles include: Brutus in Julius Caesar, Kate in Taming of The Shrew, and Hamlet in Hamlet. He was such a talent and force that the Society of West End Theatre Awards was renamed to The Olivia Awards to honor him. These awards honor great theatre on The West End in London. Olivier’s ashes are laid to rest in Westminster Abbey in Poet’s Corner. Poet’s Corner is a section in Westminster Abbey where playwrights, poets, actors, and writers are buried and/or have a statue erected.
Another stand out is Peggy Ashcroft, a West End actor whose work spanned over 50 years! She was born December 22nd 1907 (we share our birthdate!) and passed away June 14th 1991. She grew up in London and attended Royal Central School of Speech and Drama. She loved to work for the Old Vic, but did work with The Royal Shakespeare Company and National Theatre as well. She was a Shakespeare focused artist, but enjoyed modern theatre and did work in these productions. She had several awards including three BAFTAS, a Golden Globe, and an Academy Award. She has a statue commemorating her at Westminster and there was a memorial service held to honor her when she had passed away. To have a career like Ashcroft would be an absolute dream!
Anne Oldfield is another actor of interest that was buried in Westminster. She was born in London in 1683 and passed away in 1730. She was first a seamstress who adored theatre. When she was visiting a family owned tavern, she recited lines from The Scornful Lady. George Farquhar, a dramatist, happened to be in the crowd and enjoyed her performance. He ended up casting her in several of his comedies, giving her the much needed kick start to her career. She worked at Drury Lane often in both tragedies and comedies. She was loved by many and her fans mourned her death.
Many artists are laid to rest here at Westminster Abbey. It seems to be where the greatest and some of the most famous individuals have found their final resting ground. I think about whether there will be anyone we know of today whose remains will eventually make their way here, or if they are no longer allowing for more to join the massive list. The most recent being Stephen Hawking in 2018, maybe he was the final to join!
I am sure you will be hearing from me again soon. I am off to battle technology and to hopefully get some rest.
Ta ta for now!
Theatre in London U of A 