Doing Shakespeare

Q: I will be in London for the first three weeks of January 2009 and would like to visit Stratford-Upon-Avon. However, I have been told that the Royal Shakespeare Company theatre there is closed for renovation. If so, is there anywhere else in Stratford where one can see performances of a Shakespeare play? I would be grateful if you could inform me of any productions being staged in Stratford over this period and offer advice on accommodation for a night or two. - Jennifer King

A: The famous Royal Shakespeare Theatre at Stratford-Upon -Avon is closed for rebuilding until 2010. However, the RSC is still staging major productions at the 1000-seater Courtyard Theatre in the town. Over the first weeks of 2009, it is home to Shakespeare's enchanting romantic drama, Romeo and Juliet. This production runs until January 25. You can also view a repertory production of Don John, by Kneehigh Theatre in conjunction with the RSC. To book tickets, check out the www.rsc.org.uk website.
When it comes to accommodation, the place worth booking for its name alone is the Shakespeare Hotel. This charming 74-room hotel, with its Tudor facade, is a landmark in the very heart of historic Stratford. Book through the Mercure hotel group or telephone: (+44)1789/294997. Another hotel with loads of Tudor charm is the Legacy Falcon Hotel, which is also located in the centre of town. Book through Legacy Hotels (Tel: +44 (0) 1564 797 430). Located directly across the river from the RSC Theatre is the Melita Private Hotel, which operates as a bed and breakfast. It offers comfortable rooms in a quaint Victorian building only five minutes walk from the town centre (Tel: +44 (0)1789 292432). If you prefer a country estate, try Fulready Manor. This guest house offers luxurious rooms in a beautiful location overlooking a lake (Tel: +44 (0) 1789 740152).