Earlier this month, Contact was delighted to welcome back Coram Shakespeare Schools as they marked an incredible 25 years of inspiring young people through the power of theatre. This cultural education charity has long championed creativity and confidence in young people, helping them develop empathy, teamwork and self-expression through the works of Shakespeare. 

Originating in 2000 from the BBC’s beloved Shakespeare: The Animated Tales, the programme has since grown into the world’s largest youth Shakespeare festival, bringing together thousands of students from primary, secondary, and SEND schools across the UK. Each year, the Festival culminates in dynamic performances on professional stages (including ours) which are transformative experiences that raise aspirations and reveal the inspiring potential of young performers and their teachers. 

This year’s celebration at Contact included a speech from Beth, our Head of Engagement, which reflected on the lasting partnership between our organisations and the profound impact of Coram Shakespeare Schools’ work over the past quarter century. 

"I’m Beth, and as Head of Engagement at Contact, I basically oversee everything to do with young people coming into our building, as well as our community partnerships. Corum Shakespeare Schools Foundation and Contact have been working together for many years now and it is such a pleasure to host the festival again this year.