Directly opposite Vintry and Dowgate, south of Southwark Bridge, the modern reconstruction of the theatre, named “Shakespeare’s Globe“, opened in 1997, with a production of Henry V. It is an academic approximation of the original design, based on available evidence of the 1599 and 1614 buildings, and is located approximately 750 feet (230 m) from the site of the original theatre.
It took approximately three years for its construction and in 1995, whilst I was Chairman of the Wards’ Club, I was able to organise a visit to the site and view the progress in its construction. We were lucky to have a guide and, despite no cafe or restaurant facilities on site, there was a decent room available and we were allowed to bring all the food and drink for a wonderful buffet reception. All members contributed food and drink and we had a very interesting and enjoyable visit.
During our buffet we were told by our guide that they were still fundraising and individuals and groups were welcome to contribute and could even have a slab engraved and laid at the Theatre itself. Within ten minutes we had raised the amount needed and the rest is history. The Vintry and Dowgate Wards’ Club name is there for the world to see, adjacent to others, including dear Maureen Lipman.
Suzy P. Webb
Vintry and Dowgate Wards’ Club Chairman 1994-1996
