Stratford upon Avon poster, See Britain by Rail – Gordon Nicoll 1952
Here we present a superb reproduction print of a classic British Railways Stratford upon Avon poster. This exceptional Stratford upon Avon poster showcases a captivating scene crafted by the talented artist Gordon William Nicoll.
Viewers are treated to a delightful depiction of William Shakespeare’s renowned play “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” as it unfolds on the make-shift stage of the historic Old “Falcon” Inn. This striking visual narrative not only captures the essence of the play but also immerses the audience in the enchanting world of Shakespeare.
The performance is vividly portrayed taking place in the open-air courtyard of the famous public house. Members of the public gather around, forming a circular ‘stage’ on the cobbled stones, their faces alight with anticipation. Others view the play from the lofty heights of the building’s second-story windows, leaning out to catch every moment of the drama. The design’s meticulous detail brings the scene to life, from the individual expressions of the onlookers to the textures of the historic architecture.
The cast emerges from behind verdant green curtains, their costumes rich with period detail, as the play unfolds. Robin Goodfellow, perhaps better known as Puck, notorious for his mischievous deeds and witty, fanciful asides, narrates the action, expertly guiding the play and its outrageous plot twists. Standing just behind him is Nick Bottom, famously depicted with his head transformed into that of a donkey by the elusive Puck.
The small but captivating cast is followed onto the courtyard by Titania, the Queen of the Fairies, her regal presence adding to the enchantment. The overall colour palette is rich and earthy, with vibrant greens and reds that draw the eye, all contributing to the lively atmosphere of the depicted scene.
Creating an impressive and historically resonant backdrop is the Guild Chapel of the Holy Cross, prominently located on Church Street, directly opposite the site of William Shakespeare’s final home, New Place. This iconic landmark grounds the fantastical play in the very real, historic heart of Stratford-upon-Avon.
This particular Stratford upon Avon poster was originally produced by British Railways to promote rail travel to the charming town of Stratford-upon-Avon. As the text clearly shows, this vintage railway poster formed an integral part of British Railways’ ongoing “See Britain By Rail” marketing campaign. The additional text on the original poster reads “Shakespearian Comedy performed at the Old “Falcon”. Stratford-upon-Avon,” and it is completed with the famous red British Railways lozenge logo.
The Enduring Legacy of The Old Falcon Inn
The Falcon Inn, nestled in the picturesque village of Bidford-on-Avon near Stratford upon Avon, is a charming and historic establishment steeped in both local tradition and a notable, albeit legendary, connection to William Shakespeare.
Located just a short distance from the renowned town of Stratford-upon-Avon, where Shakespeare was born and spent a significant portion of his life, the Falcon Inn offers a tranquil escape into the heart of rural England. This quaint and welcoming inn has been a fixture in Bidford-on-Avon for centuries, with its origins dating back to the 16th century.
The Falcon Inn’s connection to William Shakespeare lies in its historical context and local folklore. While there’s no concrete evidence to suggest that Shakespeare frequented this specific inn, the village of Bidford-on-Avon was undeniably part of the playwright’s sphere of influence. In Shakespeare’s time, the village was a vibrant and bustling place, and it’s entirely plausible that he may have visited the area or interacted with locals from Bidford.
Rumours still abound that Shakespeare was a frequent visitor, joining the ‘deep drinkers and merry fellows’ who caroused at the Old Falcon Inn. There is a well-spoken folk story that also connects The Old Falcon to William Shakespeare. While there is no concrete historical evidence to confirm this story, it has become a cherished part of local folklore and significantly adds to the inn’s charm and mystique.
The story revolves around a friendly competition between Shakespeare and a group of friends or fellow playwrights. According to the legend, the group gathered at the Old Falcon Inn and decided to have a contest to determine who could write the best epitaph in verse.
Each participant was tasked with composing a witty and memorable epitaph to be inscribed on a tombstone in the local churchyard. As the story goes, Shakespeare, renowned for his poetic brilliance, composed the following epitaph: “Good friend, for Jesus’ sake forbeare To dig the dust enclosed here. Blest be the man that spares these stones, And curst be he that moves my bones.”
Shakespeare’s epitaph was regarded as the most clever and humorous of them all. It is said that his verse won the competition, and it remains one of the most well-known inscriptions associated with the Old Falcon Inn.
The inn was originally built around 1500 as a half-timbered, single-story house. A second floor was added around 1645, boasting classic Tudor architecture, complete with exposed wooden beams, red-tiled roofs, and leaded windows. It was first recorded as an inn between 1655-61, making the Old Falcon the oldest continuously licensed premises in Stratford.
Whether the legendary stories about the Old Falcon and William Shakespeare are true or not, it is indisputable that from 1834, The Royal Shakespeare Club held its annual dinner there. The building gained a Grade II listing in 1951, cementing its historical significance.
Delving into “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”
“A Midsummer Night’s Dream” is one of William Shakespeare’s most beloved and enduring comedies. Written in the late 16th century, it is a whimsical and fantastical play that explores the timeless themes of love, magic, and the captivatingly blurred lines between reality and illusion. The play’s inclusion on this Stratford upon Avon poster perfectly captures the town’s theatrical heritage.
Set primarily in the mystical and enchanted Athenian forest, as well as the city of Athens, the play masterfully weaves together the stories of four young lovers and a group of endearingly amateur actors who find themselves caught up in a world brimming with magic and mischief.
The central plot revolves around the romantic entanglements of Hermia, Lysander, Demetrius, and Helena. Hermia and Lysander are deeply in love, but Hermia’s father insists that she marry Demetrius. Fleeing to the forest to escape their predicament, they encounter Oberon, the mischievous king of the fairies, and his quick-witted servant Puck.
Oberon uses a magical potion to manipulate the romantic affections of the young lovers, leading to a series of comical and bewildering mix-ups. This Stratford upon Avon poster beautifully hints at this enchanting chaos.
Meanwhile, a group of bumbling amateur actors, led by the comically inept Bottom, also ventures into the forest to rehearse a play. Through a series of magical interventions by Puck, they too become entangled in the world of the fairies, resulting in hilariously absurd and whimsical interactions that are a hallmark of the play.
As the play unfolds, the boundaries between reality and dreams wonderfully blur, and the characters find themselves experiencing a surreal and enchanting night in the forest. Themes of love, desire, jealousy, and transformation are explored with both humour and sensitivity, making it a truly timeless production.
“A Midsummer Night’s Dream” is celebrated for its sparkling and poetic language, as well as its richly drawn characters, including the famously mischievous Puck, the proud and feuding fairy king and queen (Oberon and Titania), and the lovable and clueless Bottom. The play also profoundly explores the power of imagination and the compelling idea that love is unpredictable, capricious, and ultimately transcendent.
The Value of an Original Gordon Nicoll Stratford upon Avon Poster
Original lithographed prints of Gordon Nicoll’s 1952 Stratford upon Avon poster hold significant value for several compelling reasons. The poster represents a tangible piece of railway history, created during a particular era when travel, art, and advertising brilliantly converged. It provides a fascinating glimpse into the past, offering a unique perspective on how British Railways promoted iconic destinations like Stratford-upon-Avon in the mid-20th century.
Collectors of railway memorabilia hold a strong interest in items that showcase the golden age of train travel. This Stratford upon Avon poster, commissioned by British Railways, not only promotes an extremely popular destination but also exquisitely embodies the aesthetics and style of railway advertising of its time. It serves as a captivating artifact from an era when rail travel was the predominant and most glamorous mode of transportation.
The poster’s central theme, featuring a performance of William Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” taps into the enduring allure of Shakespearean literature. Shakespeare is one of the most celebrated playwrights in history, and his profound connection to Stratford-upon-Avon adds a layer of immense cultural and literary significance to this Stratford upon Avon poster. It serves as a powerful testament to the enduring legacy of the Bard.
Gordon Nicoll’s artwork adds another layer of immense value to the poster. His skillful illustration captures the essence of the play and the romanticised atmosphere of the Old “Falcon” theatre, making it a true piece of art in its own right. Collectors highly appreciate the craftsmanship and creativity that went into its design and execution.
The poster’s role in promoting Stratford-upon-Avon, a charming English town steeped in history and culture, is another significant factor contributing to its worth. For those interested in travel memorabilia, or simply a timely reminder of a visit to Stratford or the town’s rich heritage, this Stratford upon Avon poster serves as both a window into the past and a visual invitation to explore the town’s many charms.
In combination, these elements create a perfect storm of desirability for collectors and enthusiasts. The poster not only captures the romance of rail travel but also intertwines it with the profound cultural significance of Shakespeare and the irresistible allure of a picturesque destination like Stratford-upon-Avon.
This blend of history, art, literature, and travel makes an original Gordon Nicoll Stratford upon Avon poster a highly sought-after and valuable piece of memorabilia, easily justifying its £2,000+ price tag to discerning collectors and enthusiasts alike.
As Shakespeare himself might have said: “Hark, fair denizens of this realm! Be it known to all that there is no dispute in our words. If thou, by fortune’s grace, dost procure an original tome and possess the means to make such an acquisition, thou art indeed in a most advantageous position. For, in truth, naught can rival the ownership of a vintage scroll, and these relics oftentimes prove to be sound investments.
Aye, it is within the realm of possibility that in but a mere handful of years, thou shalt find thyself able to part with it for a sum greater than thou didst bestow upon its acquisition. Yet, alas, for many amongst us, such an investment, even at the humblest prices of collectable parchments, remains a distant dream, a prize forever beyond reach. Thus, here doth our splendid reproductions shine with a radiant light.
They bear a cost but a fraction of the original, and when displayed within a noble frame upon thy living room’s wall, they reveal a splendour that knows no equal. In the absence of the original, these recreations stand as a testament to craftsmanship, offering thee an opportunity to bask in their resplendence and to adorn thy dwelling with their exquisite visage.”
