Shakespeare’s First Folio returns to the Globe Theatre
The Globe Theatre announces the return of the priceless Shakespeare First Folio, recently found in France, and a brand new library to commemorate 400 years since Shakespeare’s death.
The Hidden Gem of Saint-Omer: Shakespeare's First Folio
Rémy Cordonnier, Saint-Omer library archivist, was preparing for an exhibition when he made a momentous discovery: many miles from Stratford-upon-Avon was one of Shakespeare's First Folios. Found in the French Saint-Omer library over 400 years after it was written, this rare antiquarian book had been misclassified, and for centuries had gathered dust on a shelf in the 18th Century literature section.
As one of only 230 copies of the first imprint of Shakespeare's plays, this discovery was a landmark find for historians, thespians and bibliophiles. This particular copy of the First Folio is more than an artefact; the scribbled stage directions give an unparalleled insight into Elizabethan performance and authentically Shakespearean staging.
Shakespeare's First Folio found in France, displayed in England
After its intriguing voyage to France, the recently discovered Saint-Omer First Folio will return to England for two months in July 2016 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s death. A Memorandum of Understanding has been signed by Patrick Spottiswoode, Director, Globe Education and François Decoster, Mayor of Saint-Omer in February to confirm the return of the First Folio to England.
New Library at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre
Following the news of the return of the First Folio and the success of the recently opened Sam Wanamaker Playhouse, Shakespeare’s Globe is also actively planning its very own library and archive on site on London’s Bankside. Once the library is complete, it will be gifted an important collection of rare and valuable volumes, including its own First Folio and Quarto editions. Academics and lovers of Shakespeare will be welcome to sit and study: a move that the Globe hopes will cement its reputation as the first point of reference for teaching, research and interpretation of Shakespeare in performance.