Infinite Variety: Shakespeare's female characters in objects and words
The Shakespeare Birthplace Trust has announced that its latest exhibition, exploring some of Shakespeare’s most fascinating female characters, will open on Saturday 26 April at the playwright’s final home in Stratford-upon-Avon.
The new exhibition, Infinite Variety: Shakespeare's female characters in objects and words, at Shakespeare’s New Place is part of the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust's multi-year project, The Women Who Made Shakespeare. This exhibition showcases Titania, Cleopatra, Lady Macbeth and Beatrice, as unique representations of Shakespeare’s creative craft.
‘’The female characters in William Shakespeare’s plays are some of the most fascinating and enduring parts he wrote. This exhibition explores what it means to ‘play a woman’s part’, within the contexts of Shakespeare’s imagination and the conventions of the stage.”
Commented Professor Charlotte Scott, academic advisor at the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust who curated the exhibition.
Opening on Saturday 26 April, during the Shakespeare Birthday celebrations, visitors are invited to a joyous exploration of the words and worlds of these characters, supported through costumes from the Royal Shakespeare Company, scents and carefully selected objects from the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust’s world-class collection.
Audiences will have the opportunity to consider what makes these female characters continue to resonate with people today.
“We are thankful to our friends at the Royal Shakespeare Company for the loan of these costumes and the life that they give to these characters in performance.”
Supported by items from our collections, we are excited for audiences to explore some of the informing contexts in which Shakespeare lived and worked.
Added Rachael North, CEO of the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust.
The exhibition has been designed by award-winning creative agency Vertigo Creative.
Infinite Variety: Shakespeare's female characters in objects and words is open from Saturday 26 April until Sunday 2 November 2025 at Shakespeare’s New Place and is included in the Shakespeare’s Story or Shakespeare New Place admission ticket.
For more information visit shakespeare.org.uk/.
Learn more about The Women Who Made Shakespeare shakespeare.org.uk/explore-
The Female Characters Explored in the Exhibition and the Costumes on Display:
- Titania, the Fairy Queen – RSC’s 2016 production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, costume worn by Ayesha Dharker
- Cleopatra, Queen of the Nile – RSC’s 2017 production of Anthony and Cleopatra, costume worn by Josette Simon
- The imposing Lady Macbeth – RSC’s 2018 production of Macbeth, costume worn by Niamh Cusack
- The Lady of Distain, Beatrice – RSC’s 2022 production of Much Ado About Nothing, costume worn by Akiya Henry
Canal Basin
Stratford Canal Basin is a bustling environment centrally located between the world famous Royal Shakespeare Theatre and main shopping areas.
The Bear Pit Theatre
100 seat theatre in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon
RSC Clore Learning Centre
Working as actors, students will explore the plays practically unlocking language and characters as we do in RSC rehearsal rooms. Workshops start with a warm up which encourages teamwork and introduces them to key themes of the play.
Stratford Town Walk
Join the DAILY, award-winning Stratford Town Walk (established 2002) for an entertaining guided walk through the charming streets of Stratford-upon-Avon.
Infinite Variety: Shakespeare's female characters in objects and words
The new exhibition, Infinite Variety: Shakespeare's female characters in objects and words, at Shakespeare’s New Place is part of the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust's multi-year project, The Women Who Made Shakespeare.
The Haunted Ghost Tour by Lantern Light!
The tour takes place with the historic Shrieves House in Sheep Street, an Elizabethan building on a site dating back to the start of the town in 1196. Is said to be one of the most haunted buildings in the country.
Stratford Play House
Situated in the centre of Stratford the Stratford Play House hosts a variety of concerts, performances and events.
Anne Hathaways Cottage
Visit Anne Hathaway Cottage, the beautiful 500 year old cottage where Shakespeare courted his bride to be. See original furniture including the Hathaway bed and uncover five centuries of stories and 13 generations of the family who lived there.
Boat Trips on the River
Choose to take a boat trip on the river with Avon Boating, Bancroft Cruisers and the Countess of Evesham...
Compton Verney Art Gallery and Park
Discover the unique delights of Compton Verney, where there is something for everyone to enjoy. 120 acres of stunning parkland and lake surround an award winning art gallery and gift shop.
Royal Shakespeare Company & Theatres
One of the world's best-known theatre ensembles, the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) performs at its home in Stratford-upon-Avon.
The company focuses on works by Shakespeare, other renaissance dramatists and contemporary writers.
Stratford-on-Avon Tennis Club
SOATC is a section of the Stratford Sports Club, tucked away in an idyllic location by the side of the river Avon, in the heart of Shakespeare's birthplace. Featuring a free online Court Booking system for all members.