Bringing Shakespeare to schools
573. Jo Del Mar
Jo Del Mar has been instrumental in getting small rural schools involved in the ground-breaking work of the Shakespeare Schools Festival.
She has worked tirelessly to secure funding to involve children who wouldn’t otherwise be able to take part in the festival which sees young people and their teachers trained to perform Shakespeare in professional theatres. Jo has raised thousands of pounds to cover hard to reach schools’ registration fees and costs such as transport. As a result of her efforts hundreds of young people from rural schools have taken part in the festival, introducing them to the country’s greatest playwright, raising aspirations and encouraging lifelong participation in the arts. Jo was presented with her award by the Prime Minister at a special Shakespeare Schools Festival performance in Downing Street in partnership with the Royal Shakespeare Company.
Prime Minister David Cameron said:
“Jo has been instrumental in bringing the fantastic work of the Shakespeare Schools Festival to children in small rural schools, who wouldn’t otherwise have the opportunity to unlock the magic of Shakespeare and perform his words in a professional venue. I’m delighted to be recognising her service with this Point of Light award.”
Claire Perry said:
“It is so wonderful that Jo is being recognised for all of her work with a Point of Light award. Jo’s ongoing work with the Shakespeare Schools Festival (as well as all the local work with Operaluna) is so inspiring and the award is really well deserved.”