THE first Shakespearean inspired production is set to take to the stage at Shakespeare North’s cockpit theatre.
The theatre opened last month with a host of performances, however A Midsummer Night’s Dream will be the first Shakespeare performance at the playhouse in Prescot.
The show will feature the voice of BAFTA nominated actor David Morrissey as Oberon, and Mercury nominated singer-songwriter Nadine Shah making her theatre debut as Titania.
This anarchic production of one of Shakespeare’s best loved plays is the first collaboration between Shakespeare North Playhouse, Not Too Tame and Northern Stage, and the creators promise a show that’s to be experienced, not just watched.
Not Too Tame Artistic Director Jimmy Fairhurst said: "Most people have seen a version of A Midsummer Night’s Dream but this is a refresh of the real bones, the warts and all of the play. It really speaks to me as a working class person - a full-tilt, full-on night out.
“We want to see how dark we can go, like Nick Cave dark - imagine a music festival at Banksy’s Dismaland bemusement park - and still maintain all the playfulness and celebration, that sense of fun, excitement and entertainment.
“It’s anarchic, raucous, great night out theatre and we can’t wait to welcome audiences into our world.”
An open call for auditions across Newcastle, Warrington and London received an overwhelming 2,000 responses, leading to more than 200 auditions taking place.
The final cast boasts a diverse mix of emerging and experienced talent, with several members of the cast making their professional debuts.
In addition, to ensure the casting process and overall performance was as accessible as possible, this unique production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream integrates the use of British Sign Language throughout.
Director Matthew Dunster added: “Do I want to direct a show at a brand new Shakespeare theatre in the North West with Not Too Tame and a load of other working class heroes. OF COURSE I DO.
“And do I want to collaborate with Shakespeare and challenge him and be challenged by him and his brilliance. YES. YES I DO.
“He’s the best and we are going to do everything to bring a brilliant first major Shakespeare to Shakespeare North Playhouse and then take it on to one of my favourite theatrical homes at Northern Stage. What a privilege this gig is.”
Shakespeare North Playhouses Creative Director Laura Collier said: “As the first ever Shakespeare production to take place in our Cockpit Theatre, we can’t wait for audiences to experience this bold version of A Midsummer Night’s Dream in Prescot before it travels to our friends at Northern Stage.
“We are firm believers in making theatre that is for everyone, and Not Too Tame are the ultimate company in celebrating this ethos.”
A Midsummer Night’s Dream will premiere at Shakespeare North Playhouse on Thursday, September 22 until Saturday, October 22 October before transferring to Northern Stage from October 29 to November 12.
For more information or to book tickets visit shakespearenorthplayhouse.co.uk
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