London’s Anglo Pacific took on the job of moving costumes and props for the stripped-down Hamlet visit to the USA at the end of last year.

Not a dagger or skull was out of place during the three month tour that took in seven states across North America from Washington to Boston, Santa Barbara to Santa Monica.

“I have worked with Anglo Pacific for many years, stretching back to the days when I organised international tours for the Young Vic in London Waterloo,” said Paul Russell, Production Manager for Shakespeare’s Globe.  “Unlike many other industries, our deadlines are immovable and logistics is crucial.  When touring overseas in particular, the margins are very fine financially and the penalties for cancelling a performance are incredibly severe.  We rely on expert guidance from Anglo Pacific to avoid glitches and hitches.”

Paul continued, “I would highly recommend Anglo Pacific’s sea and air freight services, not only for the efficient shipping they do but also for invaluable advice when they won’t.  On this latest Hamlet tour the producers added in a week in Mexico City with just three weeks’ notice.  Anglo Pacific gave an unequivocal “don’t even try” saying they couldn’t guarantee getting the stuff in or out.  This is the kind of direction I need sometimes so Mexico went ahead with locally-sourced props and no scenery - the most sensible option.”

To find out more about the Globe’s schedule for 2013 including treats such as King Lear and The Taming of the Shrew visit:  www.shakespearesglobe.com/theatre/on-tour.