The Trial Of Shakespeare

We know he can do romance, tragedy and political intrigue — but is he funny? Join us for a one-off, star-studded evening as the Bard himself is put on trial… Comedian Will Kemp has walked out of Shakespeare’s acting company. Now the nation’s favourite clown is dragging the playwright to court — claiming he was forced out by having to perform Shakespeare’s terrible jokes, night after night. The Bard bites back, accusing Kemp of vulgar improv - why can’t he just stick to the script? This playful, fast-moving, irreverent night of razor-sharp repartee is part-scripted, part-improvised — and played for real under the eyes of a High Court judge. Top barristers cross-examine expert scholars and world-class comedians, while stars take to the witness box to defend — or condemn — our national poet: genius wit or unfunny hack? Expect a nail-biting verdict you won’t forget… Marking Coram Shakespeare Schools Foundation’s 25th anniversary, this special fundraising event at the iconic Criterion Theatre is the latest in our celebrated celebrity courtroom showdowns. Proceeds will help thousands of young people perform Shakespeare, build confidence, and take their chance to shine.