In just two weeks’ time, the most magical of comedies A Midsummer Night’s Dream will be brought to life on the Epstein Theatre stage by Daniel Taylor Productions Ltd. from Tuesday 25th to Saturday 29th April.
It will be the first time Shakespeare’s work has ever been performed at The Epstein and the director Daniel Taylor is planning to make his production as immersive as possible, using every inch of the historical theatre and ensuring the audience are involved as much as possible.
The Blood Brothers and Lennon: Through A Glass Onion star is planning to make the play accessible to people of all ages, whether you’re a keen Shakespeare fan or have never before encountered the work of the Bard.
Daniel explained: “Our production will appeal to schools and colleges who are currently studying Shakespeare. We have produced a shorter version which is approximately 55 minutes each act, without losing any of the comedy or magic.
We’re hoping to engage students as much as possible,” explained Danny, “And we will be running a series of workshops at the theatre, as well as going into schools. As well as engaging them in the work of Shakespeare, we’re hoping to give them confidence through drama.”
One of The Bard’s funniest and most popular plays, this version of A Midsummer Night’s Dream is a timeless classic. Adapted by Helen Jeffery, this hilarious comedy promises to dazzle audiences with an unforgettable tale of love and adventure.
On a midsummer night, four young lovers find themselves wrapped in the dream-like arms of an enchanted forest where sprites lurk and fairies rule.
While a feuding Fairy King and Queen are at war, their paths are crossed by Bottom, Quince and their friends presenting a play within a play. Chief mischief-maker Puck is on hand to ensure that the course of true love is anything but smooth, and games of fantasy, love and dreams ensue in Shakespeare’s most beguiling comedy.
Danny has sourced an amazing cast to perform his version of the play. He said: “I am so pleased with the cast which is 90% Scouse. Most of them have either trained here or are from the city and they have all done amazing work.”
Sharon Byatt (Mrs. Johnston, Blood Brothers, Coronation Street and Bread) plays Titania, Chloe Taylor (Wicked) is Helena, Johnny Schumacher
(Royal Shakespeare Company) is Oberon, James Templeton (Jesus Christ Superstar) plays Puck, Tim Lucas (Legally Blonde) is Flute and Sam Donovan (‘Erics,’ Liverpool Everyman) plays Lysander.
Daniel himself plays the character of Bottom. He said: “Bottom is great fun to play, one of Shakespeare’s most likeable characters, he’s a fantastic show off and is the butt of the play’s jokes.
He added: “The strength of our production will be in the storytelling brought to life by an incredible cast. This play will appeal to all ages and is full of magic, merriment and mischief which makes this play so special.”
Theatre manager, Rebekah Pichilingi, said, “With only a couple of weeks now until the launch of our first ever Shakespearian production, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, we cannot wait to welcome one of Shakespeare’s finest works to The Epstein stage.”
“Daniel Taylor is a fantastic actor who wowed the crowds with his performance as John Lennon here last year so I’m sure Danny and his all-Scouse cast (well 90%) will do Shakespeare proud with his version of this hilarious love story!”
Performance Details
A Midsummer Night’s Dream
Dates: Tuesday 25th – Saturday 29th April
Times: 11am, 1.30pm and 7.30pm
Tickets: From £13 – £20
*All Prices Include A £1 Per Ticket Venue Restoration Levy.
To book tickets call the Box office on 0844 888 4411, call in person at the Epstein Theatre or book on line at www.epsteinliverpool.co.uk.