How does Scrambled Sonnets work?

It takes existing lines from Shakespeare's poetry and puts them back together in a new order to create computer-generated sonnets like the one above.

Can I create a new sonnet?

Of course. Just hit the refresh/reload button in your browser and a new sonnet will be created.

Why have you made this?

Because it's Shakespeare's birthday and we wanted to make something fun to celebrate his work. And because sometimes looking at familiar things like the works of Shakespeare from an unexpected angle can make you think about them in an entirely new way, which is why we're so excited about our upcoming production of Forests.

The REP joins forces with internationally renowned director Calixto Bieito, Barcelona Internacional Teatre and the RSC to present an original play inspired by Shakespeare's references to forests throughout his work, in a Dante-esque journey through life, paradise, hell, truth and lie.

With a cast of English and Catalan actors led by the great Catalan actor Josep Maria Pou, Calixto Bieito will show, through plays such as Timon Of Athens, A Midsummer Night's Dream, King Lear, Macbeth and As You Like It, a "forest" which represents a place for the getaway, a punishment or sentence, and, sometimes, a place for shelter and redemption.

Calixto Bieito is no stranger to Birmingham audiences, having previously directed Hamlet and Celestina at The REP, both of which stimulated controversy and earned critical acclaim. One of the most prominent and sought after directors in Europe, Calixto's re-workings of the classics test boundaries and provoke reaction with their spellbinding and passionate vitality.

In addition to the performances in Birmingham, Forests will tour to London, Barcelona and other European venues.

Performed in Catalan and English with surtitles

Part of the World Shakespeare Festival, which is produced by the Royal Shakespeare Company for London 2012 Festival. Supported by the Insitut Ramon Llull.

More Shakespeare from The REP...