The celebrated playwright Sir Tom Stoppard made a remarkable and enduring contribution to arts education in the UK, creating a special abridged version of Shakespeare's The Merchant of Venice for schoolchildren entirely free of charge. This act of generosity, sparked over two decades ago, continues to enrich the theatrical experiences of young students across the country.
A Request from Downing Street
The story begins in 2012, following a charity presentation of Shakespeare performed by schoolchildren at No. 10 Downing Street. Deeply moved by the performance, Stoppard approached the organisers with a simple yet powerful question: “How can I contribute?”
When informed that schools were repeatedly requesting a version of The Merchant of Venice—a play not yet in their catalogue of twelve abridged works—Stoppard's response was immediate and generous. After a thoughtful pause, he committed to the task, stating, “Give me a year and I will do that. There will be no fee.”
The Creative Process in France
True to his word, Stoppard delivered the finished manuscript a year later. He presented the organisers with what he described as a “seamless” 40-minute abridgement of the classic play, perfectly tailored for young performers. When asked about his creative method, the playwright offered a characteristically succinct insight: “Over a week in France; I went down to the bottom and then came back up again.”
A Lasting Legacy for Education
Now, more than twenty years after that initial promise, the impact of Stoppard's work is profound. His specially crafted version of The Merchant of Venice has been performed by many hundreds of schools, involving thousands upon thousands of children. It remains a vital and actively used resource in drama departments, introducing new generations to the complexities and joys of Shakespearean theatre.
This quiet act of philanthropy underscores the importance of supporting arts in the national curriculum. By removing financial barriers and dedicating his expertise, Sir Tom Stoppard has ensured that a classic of English literature remains accessible and engaging for young minds across the United Kingdom, creating a legacy that continues to inspire on school stages every year.
