A WARRINGTON-based theatre company is to open the North West’s first-ever dedicated Shakespeare Theatre.
Not Too Tame’s anarchic and raucous production of “Midsummer Night’s Dream” will be staged at the Cockpit Theatre at the Shakespeare North Playhouse at Prescot from September 22 to October 22.
Starring the voice of Bafta nominated David Morrissey in the role of Oberon and Mercury nominated singer-songwriter Nadine Shah making her theatre debut in the role of Titania, the show will defy what you think you know about Shakespeare.
Directed by Olivier nominated Matthew Dunster, and featuring two local Warrington figures – Jimmy Fairhurst, from Burtonwood and Andrew Butler, from Cinnamon Brow.
Not Too Tame have already made a name for themselves, creating exhilarating gig theatre that breaks the boundaries of the tame and polite.
The creators of this riotous production promise a show that’s to be experienced, not just watched.
Early research and development stages were supported by Warrington Borough Council and hosted at Pyramid, Warrington.
Not Too Tame, have built an identity on “theatre for all” – working to engage audiences who, in the past, have felt that theatre – particularly Shakespeare – isn’t for them.
Artistic director, Jimmy Fairhurst – son of the former Warrington Wolves’ skipper of the same name – 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.
“It’s anarchic, raucous, great night out theatre and we can’t wait to welcome audiences into our world.”
An open call for auditions received an overwhelming 2000-plus responses, leading to more than 200 auditions taking place across Warrington, Newcastle and London. The final cast boasts a diverse mix of emerging and experienced talent, with several members making their professional debuts.
The full cast is as follows: Jimmy Fairhurst, Andrew Butler, Louise Haggerty, David Morrissey, Nadine Shah, Rebecca Hesketh Smith, William Grint, Kate James, Tyler Dobbs, David Nellist, Yazmin Kayan, Tia Easton and Kelise Gordon.
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.
Matthew Dunster said: “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.”
Tickets and more information can be found here: https://www.nottootame.com/a-midsummer-nights-dream
