At Soulton Hall, we are always particularly thrilled when Shakespeare’s “As You Like It” is performed nearby.
There is an upcoming performances by Sun and Moon Theatre at the beautiful Willow Globe in Llanwrthwl, Powys – a pleasant drive from us.
This play holds a special place in the heart of Soulton Hall due to its profound and tangible links to this place.
Performance Dates for “As You Like It” at the Willow Globe:
- Saturday, August 9, at 7pm
- Sunday, August 10, at 3pm
The Sun and Moon Theatre’s interpretation is particularly intriguing, as they frame the play around an escape from a “bleak, tech-obsessed world of the Court.” This fresh take on the classic story emphasizes the themes of rejuvenation, love, and empowerment found in the bohemian Forest of Arden, making the journey of Rosalind and Celia feel incredibly relevant to modern audiences seeking an escape from their own bustling, digitally-driven lives. This jubilant ensemble production, fueled by live music and wit, truly celebrates doing what you love and remembering how to live.
This is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy live theatre, steeped in history that connects directly to Soulton Hall. For more information and to book tickets for the performance, please visit www.shakespearelink.org.uk, email info@shakespearelink.org.uk, or call 01597 811487.
Soulton Hall’s Links to “As You Like It”
Did you know that Soulton Hall stands at the heart of compelling evidence suggesting a profound link to the play’s very genesis?
Thomas Lodge Jr., whose 1590 prose romance, Rosalynde, Euphues Golden Legacie, was Shakespeare’s primary source for “As You Like It,” had his family own the manor of Soulton during his formative boyhood years. Scholars contend that Lodge drew heavily from his intimate knowledge of the Shropshire landscape surrounding Soulton Hall to craft the descriptive passages of Rosalynde’s pastoral setting – the very landscape that Shakespeare later transformed into the iconic Forest of Arden.
Furthermore, “Old Sir Rowland,” the virtuous father of Orlando and a key figure in the play, is widely believed to be inspired by the real Sir Rowland Hill. Sir Rowland Hill, a prominent Tudor statesman and renowned philanthropist, owned Soulton Hall and was, crucially, a cousin to Shakespeare’s own mother, Mary Arden. The argument is that Shakespeare consciously chose to immortalize his kinsman by naming a character who embodies integrity and a noble spirit after him.
There is a unique ‘dancing pavement’ at Soulton Hall that some link to the “Dance of Harmony” that concludes the play.
This deep literary heritage is a significant aspect of Soulton Hall’s identity, and we are always delighted to see the magic of this play brought to life, especially when it resonates so deeply with our own story.
