Internationally acclaimed theatre icon Balwant Thakur was accorded a rare honour when the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) invited him as a special guest to witness their much-celebrated production Fat Ham at Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, England the birthplace of William Shakespeare.

 

This recognition comes at a time when Thakur has been in England for the past month on an exploration spree of world theatre—watching performances, visiting top theatre destinations, and engaging with leading creative spaces. Aimed at expanding the international theatre network of Natrang Jammu he has so far visited birthplace of Shakespeare, National Theatre London, Lyceum Theatre, Tara Theatre, The Rep, Hippodrome, The Bear Pit Theatre, Globe Theatre and Royal Shakespeare Theatre . His journey has been driven by a deep passion to connect Indian theatre with the global stage, while also exploring new ideas and inspirations for the future.

 

Fat Ham, a Pulitzer Prize-winning contemporary adaptation of Hamlet, has been hailed for its bold storytelling and reimagining of Shakespeare’s timeless themes. Balwant Thakur’s invitation to witness the play as a special guest reflects the international appreciation for his lifelong contribution to theatre and cultural exchange.

 

Expressing his joy, Thakur said,

“It was overwhelming to be at Stratford-upon-Avon and to experience such a powerful adaptation at the home of Shakespeare. My time in England has been a journey of discovery, and this invitation by the Royal Shakespeare Company has been one of its most inspiring highlights.”

 

Thakur’s presence at the RSC marks yet another proud moment in his illustrious career, celebrating his stature as one of India’s foremost cultural leaders who continues to inspire and build bridges between traditions and nations through the medium of theatre.