Local people warmly invited to be first to see 'Young Will'

Stratford-on-Avon District Council is urging local people to come along to the unveiling of the new, life-size statue of Shakespeare in his younger years when it is officially presented to the town by its sculptor, Lawrence Holofcener.  

The unveiling will take place on Tuesday 23^rd February 2016, at 2pm, at Bancroft Gardens, Waterside, Stratford-upon-Avon, CV37 6BB.

The sculpture depicts the Bard in his prime, one foot on a bench and his arm outstretched in welcome – an invitation to take a seat or pose for a picture with Stratford-upon-Avon's most famous son.  

The statue, which kicks-off the District Council's celebrations of Shakespeare's 400-year legacy, is a generous gift from a talented benefactor in the world of creative arts.

Acclaimed sculptor Lawrence Holofcener's life-size, bronze figure of a young William Shakespeare looks set to attract residents and visitors alike.

Mr Holofcener has chosen his 90^th birthday on 23^rd February to present his statue officially to senior representatives of Stratford-on-Avon District Council.   The unveiling will take place in Bancroft Gardens where it is installed, with the River Avon and the Royal Shakespeare Theatre as backdrop.

Cllr Mike Gittus, Chairman of Stratford-on-Avon District Council, said: “We are thrilled with this eye-catching and memorable sculpture and we are sure it will be enjoyed by young and old for many years to come. The unveiling of the statue, generously given by Mr Holofcener, is an excellent way to start the celebrations for this year, bearing in mind the 400-year legacy. We would like to welcome everyone throughout the district to join us for the official presentation, and then to be one of the first to take a photo with the 'Young Will'."

Lawrence Holofcener, sculptor and donor, will formally present 'Young Will' to senior representatives of Stratford-on-Avon District Council at an unveiling ceremony at 2pm on Tuesday 23 February 2016, at the Bancroft Gardens, Waterside, Stratford–upon-Avon. 

'Young Will' is the first casting of a series of fifteen (1/15).  For more information about Lawrence Holofcener visit his website: www.holofcener.com

Stratford-on-Avon District Council and Stratford-upon-Avon Town Council jointly lead Shakespeare's Celebrations, a local initiative which exists to ensure the Annual Birthday Celebrations continue for future generations. It is working with other key organisations in the town to organise a wide range of events and exhibitions in 2016, celebrating the 400-year legacy of William Shakespeare.  Visit www.shakespearescelebrations.com