How can I run a static constructor?

I'd like to execute the static constructor of a class (i.e. I want to "load" the class) without creating an instance. How do I do that?

Bonus question: Are there any differences between .NET 4 and older versions?

Edit:

• The class is not static.
• I want to run it before creating instances because it takes a while to run, and I'd like to avoid this delay at first access.
• The static ctor initializes private static readonly fields thus cannot be run in a method instead.