Anniversaries view William Shakespeare's anniversary
A region of great minds that shaped the World. Find out more.
Meet the Lunartiks view the Lunartiks video
The Lunartiks, as they became known, were a society formed by talented individuals from the West Midlands that are today regarded as some of the world's most inspiring and innovative men.
Watch how they shaped the World we live in.
Events view the Lunartiks video
Join in the celebrations by visiting special events and exhibitions throughout 2009.
William Shakespeare
William Shakespeare - The Swan of Avon
Perhaps one of the greatest playwrights and poets of all time, William Shakespeare was born and died in the Heart of England, in Stratford-Upon-Avon.
Centuries later his plays are still performed, and his words (he invented nearly 3,000 new ones) still spoken.
His poems are still read too, and this year sees the 400th anniversary of the publication of his famous Sonnets.
You may know some lines from these 154 poems without even knowing it. They have appeared everywhere from the title of a novel and TV series (Summer's Lease by John Mortimer) to the name of a rock album (Nothing like the sun by Sting).
Shakespeare made his name in London, but never forgot the Heart of England. His wife and family lived in Stratford, and Shakespeare eventually retired, lived and died there. The house where he was born still stands, and so does the church where he was buried in 1616.
Join in the Celebrations
Throughout 2009 there are great events for you to visit. Check out our Event Diary for something inspired to do this year.
If you can't make one of the special events then visit Shakespeare's birthplace where you can step into the house where William Shakespeare was born and re-enter the Tudor world throughout. Open all year (please check seasonal opening times).
