ABSTRACT
In 1996 the United Nations proclaimed 21 November “World Television Day,” as a symbol for “communication and globalisation in the contemporary world.” Britain’s hosting of the 2012 Olympic Games focused a televisual spotlight squarely on Shakespeare, employed both as national and world icon. Not only did The Tempest provide the theme for the global broadcast of the “Isles of Wonder” opening ceremony, celebrating British history and culture, but the equivalent ceremony for the Paralympic Games also portrayed the “brave new world” brought about by Enlightenment ideas of human rights and scientific progress, as Prospero (Ian McKellen) sent Miranda, played by a disabled actress, on a voyage of discovery. The accompanying BBC2 Shakespeare Unlocked season also presented his works as both national and international property through documentaries which included scholarly historical examinations; colourful travelogues about Shakespeare in India or Italy; and explorations of the discoveries to be made through professional and amateur performance.
