The RSC has been working with partners across Stratford-upon-Avon to create a new Arts & Culture Strategy that supports artists, reflects communities and celebrates the enduring influence of Shakespeare.
We are delighted to join fellow partners in Stratford-upon-Avon to launch a new 10-year Arts & Culture Strategy for the town.
The strategy celebrates the town’s unique spirit and creative energy, and shares an ambition for a Stratford where Shakespeare’s enduring influence fuels connection, innovation and opportunity for everyone.
It lays out the enormous social, health and economic benefits of supporting arts and culture in the town, as well as identifying short term 'quick wins', mid-term infrastructure priorities and long-term cultural transformation which will roll out through a phased 10-year delivery plan.
The core vision is for everyone who lives, works, and creates in Stratford upon-Avon to see themselves reflected in the town’s cultural future.
The strategy's proposed action points include:
- Improving accessibility to artistic and cultural events by lowering cost barriers, and investing in transport links, wider communication and venue access
- Supporting under-represented voices, broadening the town's cultural offer, making space for experimentation and including local communities
- Creating more youth-led opportunities and strengthening school engagement
- Building a more connected local creative network and widening access to support and guidance
- Championing environmental sustainability and keeping culture relevant by thinking long term
- Celebrating Shakespeare's creative spirit, encouraging innovation alongside tradition, and using his work as a springboard for new stories, fresh perspectives and innovative artistic expression.
Download the strategy
The Stratford-upon-Avon Arts & Culture Strategy 2026 - 2036 has been sponsored by the Stratford-upon-Avon Town Centre Strategic Partnership: a collaborative group made up of key local organisations.
These include: Stratford Business Improvement District (BID), the Royal Shakespeare Company, the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust, Stratford Town Trust, the Stratford Society, Accessible Stratford, and representatives from local councils including Stratford on-Avon District Council, Stratford-upon-Avon Town Council, Warwickshire County Council, and the Town Transport Group, as well as Escape Arts, Stratford Library and Stratford Youth Collective.
Download the full strategy
