A new production of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream is set to open in York.
The reinvented play, featuring panto star Suzy Cooper and RSC actor Mark Holgate, will be performed at the Grand Opera House.
The production offers a “bold new aesthetic” for Shakespeare’s play, where Athens is replaced with a northern council estate called Athens Court and the soundtrack features club classics.
The play will nevertheless retain Shakespeare’s original dialogue.
Nik Briggs, director and producer at York Stage, said: “I very much believe Shakespeare, and the brilliant stories he created, are totally accessible to everyone when told in the right way.
“We aren’t making theatre for academics and upper classes – everyone should feel at home watching theatre.”
Cooper, who will play Hippolyta, said: “I’m thrilled to be returning to the Grand Opera House for a play I love and a part I’ve always wanted to play.
“This production of A Midsummer Nights Dream is deliciously re-imagined and I’m delighted to be part of it.”
The cast also includes Yorkshire performer May Tether, whose vocal talents will shine during the show as she sings hits including Free From Desire and Show Me Love.
Tether said: “I am so excited to be returning to perform at the Grand Opera House York – it’s always felt like home for me.”
The show will run from May 6 to May 11 on select dates and at select times.
For more information, please visit https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/a-midsummer-nights-dream/grand-opera-house-york/
