Our Centenary
In 2008 the Derby Shakespeare Theatre Company celebrated its glorious centennial year - one hundred years of bringing the works of the world's greatest playwright to the stage!
Starting the Year
The centenary got well and truly underway with the publication of both 'Brief Chronicles', a book telling the history of the first hundred years of the Derby Shakespeare Theatre Company, and a documentary called 'Derby Shakespeare: 100 Dramatic Years' featuring performance footage and interviews with members past and present. The company also launched a new website.
February
A production of 'King Lear' at The Guildhall Theatre in Derby ran from 26th February to 1st March. Accompanied by an exhibition chronicling the history of the company, put together by longtime member Pat Laurie. This was on display in the foyer of The Guildhall Theatre to coincide with 'King Lear'.
March
An article in was published in Derbyshire Life magazine about the production of 'King Lear'.
On the 8th March a centenary dinner was attended by members and patrons. Guests of honour were the Mayor of Derby, councillor Pauline Latham OBE and David Edwards, former chief executive of the Derby Playhouse Theatre.
April
Another feature in Derbyshire Life magazine, this time about the history of the company.
On the 20th April a commemorative stained glass window was unveiled at Shakespeare House.
On the 23d April a civic reception for the company was held at Derby Council House, hosted by the Mayor of Derby councillor Pauline Latham OBE.
Summer
On the 8th July a champagne centenary annual general meeting was held at Shakespeare House.
Throughout August an outdoor production of 'Henry V' was presented at Derby Grammar school and then taken to the Minack Theatre, on the cliffs at Porthcurno, Cornwall.
December
A centenary revue was performed in-house at Shakespeare House.
From the archives
