Shakespeare monologues appear on signs to highlight historical links to Sandwich by Charlotte and Amanda Churm
15:30, 10 May 2021
updated: 16:59, 10 May 2021
Eighteen Shakespearian monologues have appeared around Sandwich on special signs with a rose to draw in attention.
The script excerpts were printed out and displayed by Charlotte Churm to mark the birthday of The Bard on April 23 and they remained up for visitors and townsfolk to enjoy around the Bank Holiday.
Ms Churm said: "The project was in carefully chosen locations that reflect the history of Sandwich with Shakespeare’s words.
"For example we had some speeches from Henry V along the Butts where Henry V trained his archers before the Battle of Agincourt, and a speech from King Lear near where a 18th century theatre is thought to have stood and where it is documented a group of travelling players performed King Lear there."
Each monologue was marked by a red rose to catch peoples' eyes as they walk around the town. They were accompanied by a descriptive poster that tells the reader why the monologue has been placed in that location.
Ms Churm added: "It's already been hugely popular with residents, receiving huge amount of positive feedback. It's been something resident have been able enjoy at their own leisure and pace whilst also respecting Covid restrictions.
"What’s been particularly special about this project is that it has been a collaboration between myself and my mum, Amanda Churm.
"We are both incredibly passionate about theatre, Shakespeare and local history and decided to work together.
"My mum came up with the initial idea to do something Shakespeare themed around the town, to help us feel a bit more in touch with theatre over lockdown. I then used by producing skills to bring the project to life. We both worked together on choosing the monologues and the dramaturgy/research into where to place them.
"I then worked to get the necessary permissions to make the project happen.
"We have both massively missed theatre over lockdown and wanted to bring something creative to the residents of Sandwich.
"We also knew with Shakespeare’s birthday on the horizon, it made sense just to give it a go and see what happens. We never expected the huge positive response to the project that we have received."
Her background includes the National Theatre and Bristol Old Vic, and Mrs Churm senior volunteers as a Steward at the Globe Theatre.
The project has been so popular, mother and daughter have received lots of requests to digitalise it, a project that's now being looked into.
