STUNNING overhead pictures show the emerging Shakespeare North Playhouse which is just two months away from opening in Prescot.

Tickets are already on sale for the stunning new theatre, home to the only 17th-century style timber theatre outside London and anticipated to attract 140,000 visitors a year.

It will open its doors to the public with a weekend of free festivities from July 15 to 17.

The venue also offers a fully accessible outdoor performance garden, exhibition gallery, 60-seater studio theatre, learning centre, exhibition and events spaces, and a café and bar with outdoor piazza.

As the clock ticks down to the opening of one of a major new UK cultural asset – in the heart of Prescot and on the doorstep of the St Helens borough – we look at why the £30m venue is coming here and what it will offer.

So why Prescot?

The Shakespeare North Playhouse is inspired by Prescot’s historic connections to William Shakespeare and a love of storytelling.

It will aim to offer a world class attraction, be a resource for the whole North West and nurturing creativity and talent through an inclusive education programme, as a catalyst for transforming lives.

What’s going to be on there?

A spectacular opening programme, with A Midsummer Night’s Dream, A Christmas Carol, Johnny Vegas, and Jimmy McGovern among the season highlights. To check out the full programme visit shakespearenorthplayhouse.co.uk

When does it open?

It will open over the weekend of July 15 to 17 – with a host of free festivities at its address of Prospero Place, Prescot.

How do I get tickets?

Tickets are on sale via www.ShakespeareNorthPlayhouse.co.uk. Prices will range from £3 to £35 with discounts for families, schools, groups, and other concessions throughout the season.

In support of the Playhouse’s commitment to the local community and access to the arts, a proportion of tickets will be available on a ‘Pay What You Decide’ basis.

Audiences are advised to check the venue holding website www.shakespearenorthplayhouse.co.uk and social media channels for details. A supporters’ scheme has also launched giving people the opportunity to get priority booking, an invitation to an opening welcome event and more.