Note to readers: this is being written with tears in my eyes
Stratford-upon-Avon was the final stop of my super fun and cool theatre in London extravaganza. I am distraught, to say the least. However, I do think, as sad as I am, Stratford is the perfect place to end this study abroad.
I am a certified Shakespeare freak. I was always the one kid that was actually excited when our teachers forced us to read his plays. I am nothing if not dramatic, so I have always appreciated Shakespeare’s dramatic flare. I am honestly kind of surprised Merritt and I were able to make it through the stay without combusting from excitement. Not only did we get to stay in the place he lived, minus the time he left (but we do not talk about that) we also got to literally walk in his footsteps. All of the buildings and artifacts from the Shakespeare estates truly made me feel like I had been teleported back into time. It was also a nice change of pace and scenery (and I enjoyed blowing my nose without it being black from pollution). Stratford allowed me a chance to slow down after such consistent activity. Finally, I know I already wrote a blog post about it, but Hamlet: Hail to the Thief was such an incredible play. It was so incredible to see the legacy of Shakespeare’s work in real time.
Now, a little spew about the trip as a whole. Thank you so much Shawn and Susan for allowing me to be a participant of this incredible program. I have truly had some of the greatest and happiest moments of my life on this trip. I have gotten to meet so many incredible theatre nerds that have allowed my ascend to my true form. Jk. On a more serious note, I have met some of the most amazing people, and had the opportunity to bond with them in a way that I never would have otherwise. London is such a beautiful city with excellent food, theatre, culture, buildings, museums, etc. I wish I never have to leave, but alas…. So long, London. I will yearn for you for the rest of my life.
This is me signing off!
Theatre in London U of A 