THE wit and wisdom of two of Shakespeare’s masterpieces will be brought to new audiences this summer, thanks in part to a funding scheme run by East Hampshire District Council.

The Petersfield Shakespeare Festival will be performing Henry V and the Taming of the Shrew in July as it strives to bring the Bard’s genius to more people.

The festival has been supported with a £200 grant from East Hampshire district councillor Nick Drew. Each district councillor has £4,500 at their disposal to award to worthy projects.

Clare Glancy, of Petersfield Shakespeare Festival, said: “The festival is really for all ages and gives people a new, modern way to get into Shakespeare.

“We try to engage the whole community, including holding workshops to introduce local primary school children to his work.

“We even enlist local volunteers to help out with front of house work and admin and even accommodate some of the fantastic actors who come to take part.

“We are so grateful for Mr Drew’s grant which we put toward promotional fliers and posters to get the word out as much as possible and give everyone the chance to enjoy this wonderful event.”

Mr Drew said: “I have attended the festival many times in the past and have always been amazed by the quality of the productions. I’m also really impressed with the work they do to pull in the whole community.

“They have shown that Shakespeare is something that can be enjoyed by everyone, young and old, and I am delighted to be able to help them do that with my councillor grant.”

The festival, which started in 2012, is held at Bedales School in Steep and will run from July 18-29.