Yes, Ontario has its own Stratford on Avon, complete with a Festival Theatre featuring Shakespearean works. I’ve been coming here to see plays since 1967, so it holds a special place in my heart.
Along the Avon River, in the theatre district, is parkland. Quaint bridges link small islands, and allow tourists to stroll or picnic beneath the beautiful trees.
Part of the romance of Stratford is its resident swans. I spotted pairs swimming, nest building, and even one female sitting on the nest while her mate stood watch. The groundskeepers had fenced off this area to protect the couple so I didn’t disturb them with my camera.
There is something so dreamy about the swans. Perhaps it is this magical place, where other worlds come alive. Maybe it is the softness of the day – mid May.
Most likely, it is 9-year-old me, recalling “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” – the first performance I attended here. Such good memories.
One Woman's Quest II 
I just have to pun, that I see you’re just swanning around 🙂 but apart from that I love those photos, they give a sense of natural peace and beauty. Love Shakespeare, and I did know you had a centre for his work and I believe it is quite a renowned one.
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Highly renowned – Christopher Plummer himself has played here, as well as Maggie Smith, and countless others.
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Stellar place, what a gift.
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Gorgeous opening image … and the swans, such graceful creatures!
I think you’ve given us yet another reason to get across the border into Canada. Is this open year round?
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Plays typically run from Spring through fall. The swans are taken elsewhere for the winter months.
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I have never made it there!! I’ve always wanted to go, and now you have stirred my longing once again!
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I’ve been to the original and I’d say ours is more aesthetically beautiful (without the history, of course). Definitely worth visiting.
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I’ve got it on my to do list!
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