Every year at the Globe Theatre in London June 9th is Sam's Day. The Sam in question is Sam Wanamaker, the man who masterminded the building of "Shakespeare's Globe on the banks of the Thames. For anyone lucky enough to get to experience the theatre its combination of historical reconstruction and vibrant modernity is wonderful.
When actor Sam Wanamaker first came to Britain to make a film (and to avoid Senator McCarthy's list) he went to Southwark to see what was left of Shakespeare's theatre. He was shocked that all he could eventually find was a small blue plaque on the wall of a deserted brewery. Years later he was bemoaning this fact yet again to his brother who told him to stop talking and do something. So he found the site, raised the money and now we have the Globe Theatre a modern replica built near the original site.
Mr John Sheppard, who spoke at the Historical Association in Bolton Parish Church Hall last night, is one of The Globe's most erudite guides. His knowledge is wide and his stories fascinating. He told how the original was burnt down when the thatched roof set alight by a spark from the cannon. He also related the struggle Sam Wannamaker had when trying to galvanise some action in post war London. He was told by a councillor for Southwark the "Shakespeare is tosh."
We can be thankful for both W.S and S.W. and for the wonderful Globe Theatre which you can visit at 21, New Globe Walk, Bankside, London SE1 9DT.
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