Blending many influences, The Shakespeare Heptet’s distinct sound is alluring and wholly contemporary - providing a stunning soundtrack to the sonnets. Beautiful vocal harmonies, compelling rhythms and the sounds of 12 and 6 string guitars underscore Shakespeare’s exquisite poetry.

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Seventeen years ago, guitarist and vocalist Richard Gibson set out to compose contemporary music for all of Shakespeare’s 154 sonnets – and that’s how The Shakespeare Heptet was formed. They play folk sonnets, blues sonnets, punk sonnets, tango sonnets, bossanova sonnets, rock sonnets, calypso sonnets, and more.

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The sonnets are not as well known as the plays – partly due to Victorian prudery - yet this treasury of poetry is amongst the most emotionally direct of Shakespeare’s work, exquisitely wrought with both imagery and sharp wit.

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The band in its current form, including vocalists Silvana Montoya and Rebecca MacMillan, and Aaron Power on percussion, have played at Madhurst Arts Festival, Oxfest, the Chilled Cider Festival & Live At The Tower of London.

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“Beautiful folk-blues music and Shakespeare scholarship on the side. Shake me sideways; this was a good show!” ★★★★ Broadway Baby

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“A joy to behold.” ★★★★ The Latest

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www.theshakespeareheptet.com

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Duration: 60 mins

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