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BBC LEARNING ENGLISH
SHAKESPEARE SPEAKS

To produce a series of animations marking the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s death.

To mark the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s death, the BBC World Service has conceived a unique project, bringing the rich language of Shakespeare to life. Turning to Genium for their creative talents in visualisation – a funny, enchanting and engaging animation was born. Using BBC audio and scripts, and incorporating iconic phrases like ‘dead as a doornail’ and ‘in a pickle’, Genium was tasked with delivering The Bard’s voice to a new generation, and to those for whom English is not their first language.

Working with BBC Learning English, Genium’s animators brought historic characters to life with meticulous hand-drawing; shaping the spirit and quirks of each personality to create a dazzling animation. Using multi-faceted design techniques, the team created a stunning visualisation of the humour, nuances and tricks of the tongue employed by The Bard. Genium also devised a series of highly visual social media campaign templates, engaging an online community through quizzes and other interactive components.

BBC Learning English has been teaching English to global audiences since 1943. Coupled with Genium’s passion for education, the result is a vivid animation that delights, informs and inspires. Stylish in its execution and design, these 20 episodes are the only BBC animation project marking the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s death. The social media campaigns are continually building an interactive community, united by a newfound familiarity with the greatest wordsmith in history.

#ShakespeareSpeaks

Awards

ELTons Innovations Awards Finalist.