from the editor
marcela topor. mtopor@cataloniatoday.cat
Join us in celebrating Shakespeare
Anniversaries are always a good excuse to remember historical events and figures that we rarely think of day-to-day. April in Catalonia is traditionally a month of literary celebration, with the festival of Sant Jordi, but this month is also a time to celebrate two great names in literature: Shakespeare and Cervantes, on the 400th anniversary of their deaths. That is why this month's issue is dedicated to Shakespeare Year, with an overview of the most influential English writer of all time, some background, his most famous quotes, and a run-down of activities organised this year. Meanwhile, our cover features an image from the latest production of Hamlet in Catalonia, a modern adaptation by Pau Carrió, who we interview in the magazine. We also spoke to Joan Sallent, a key translator of the Bard's work into Catalan.
Catalonia Today also wants to celebrate the anniversary in a special way, by inviting all readers, subscribers, and English Culture Club members to join us on a trip to Shakespeare's birthplace, Stratford-upon-Avon. Why not spend a few day with us in England, from May 14-16, when we will visit Stratford, Oxford and London? Read all about this chance to celebrate the Bard in good company on pages 54-55. Yet, anniversary or not, Shakespeare is likely to remain a constant in our lives like no author has ever managed to equal.