Royal & Derngate plans tree planting in Abington Park to mark Shakespeare anniversary

The tree planting is being organised by Royal & Derngate and takes place on Saturday April 23 at 6.15pm.

A spokeswoman for the theatre said: “Since 1778 there has been a mulberry tree present in Abington Park, connected to William Shakespeare himself, and we wish to honour the bard again on the 400th anniversary of his death.

“One of the greatest Shakespearean actors of all time, Michael Pennington, will be joined by local school children and the Mayor of Northampton to plant the new tree by the peacock aviary in Abington Park.

There will also be a performance at The Church of Saint Peter & Saint Paul’s of a new composition created by period musician, Richard York, as a well as the history of the trees presented by storyteller Jo Blake-Cave and a performance by Royal & Derngate Community Choir, singing period songs conducted by James Clements.

Tickets for the event are free, and available by calling the box office on 01604 624811.