AN INNOVATIVE new partnership has been announced to help ‘open the door’ to ambitious and inclusive theatre experiences at the Shakespeare North.

The Prescot-based Playhouse and Not Too Tame, an independent theatre company based in Warrington, are partnering with Warrington Borough Council to help reach diverse audiences and communities who may otherwise not be able to afford theatre tickets.

The collaboration aims to achieve this through a programme of audience development, events and workshops that will take place across Warrington in May.

A number of spoken word events and workshops across the town next month, including Warrington Museum and Art Gallery, and Pyramid Arts Centre.

Special pop-up performances will also be taking place next month, offering a sneak peak of Shakespeare North Playhouse and Not Too Tame’s latest production, Twelfth Night.

These pop-ups will take place on Friday, May 24 at Warrington Market, and Thursday, May 30 at the Irish Club – both at 7pm.

“Not Too Tame and Shakespeare North Playhouse have an excellent track record of creating innovative, high quality theatre experiences,” said Eleanor Blackburn, Warrington Borough Council’s head of inclusive economy, leisure and culture.

“We’re incredibly excited about this new collaboration, which will bring a fresh and inclusive take on Twelfth Night to audiences this June.

“It’s also great news that, in the run-up to June, people in Warrington will be able to enjoy a range of performances, events and workshops.

“It’s a great way of connecting with people of all ages and bringing the magic of theatre direct to our communities.”

Open auditions were held for the show, which was supported by Warrington Borough Council through the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

Les Dennis will perform in the show alongside a number of Warrington-born artists and musicians between June 7 to June 29 Shakespeare North Playhouse, in Prescot.

More information about the show can be found here.

“We are delighted to partner with Warrington Council to bring this ground-breaking production to fruition,” said Claire Will, director of marketing and commercial at Shakespeare North Playhouse.

“Together, we are not only reimagining Shakespeare for contemporary audiences, but also empowering diverse voices and communities.”