My time at the Shakespeare Institute was transformative for me. As a student in 2008, studying at Mason Croft in Stratford-upon-Avon enriched my life in so many ways, igniting a passion for Shakespearean that has stayed with. The unique setting, steeped in the life and history of Shakespeare himself, provided an unparalleled educational experience. The thought that future students might be deprived of this privilege saddens me deeply.

It is with this in mind that I plead with the University of Birmingham to reconsider its decision to close the Mason Croft campus. The plan to relocate the Institute’s courses to the University’s Edgbaston campus by September 2027 disregards the immense historical and cultural value that Stratford-upon-Avon brings to the Shakespeare Institute.

For over six decades, the Shakespeare Institute has been a beacon of Shakespearean scholarship. Nestled in the heart of Shakespeare’s birth town, it enriches its scholarly pursuits with an authentic connection to the town’s rich cultural heritage. To move the Institute removes an essential pillar of its identity, potentially eroding the quality and unique appeal of its programmes.

The Institute's current setting allows students to engage deeply with both the textual and performative aspects of Shakespeare’s works in a way that simply cannot be replicated elsewhere. Being in Stratford-upon-Avon offers exposure to world-class theatre productions, world class education, and a vibrant community of Shakespearean enthusiasts. It is a cultural and educational ecosystem that fosters creativity and scholarly excellence.

We understand the financial and logistical challenges universities face; however, the potential loss of Mason Croft as the Institute's home would be a disservice to future students and scholars. Investing in its current location can further enhance the Institute’s global reputation while maintaining its existing cultural and educational importance.

We urge the University of Birmingham to engage with staff, students, alumni, and Stratford residents to explore viable alternatives that preserve the Institute's residence in Stratford-upon-Avon.

Please sign this petition to support the efforts in keeping the Shakespeare Institute at its rightful home in Mason Croft, Stratford-upon-Avon. Let us preserve this vital link to our cultural heritage and ensure that the magic of studying Shakespeare in his own hometown continues for years to come.