A Midwinter Night's Dream at Westacre Theatre

Over many years Westacre Theatre has earned an enviable reputation of celebrating Christmas with its own specially written plays.

Building on that tradition, one of Shakespeare’s best-loved comedies has sustained a seismic seasonal shift from the original story with resident dramatist Andy Naylor directing his own adaptation of A Midwinter Night’s Dream.

This year’s delightful show retains many of the Bard’s beautifully descriptive passages although some simplification of the story-line really makes it entirely suitable as a festive treat for the whole family where it can be enjoyed on a variety of levels.

Servants from the big house are planning to perform a Christmas play composed by the Duchess’ daughter.

They meet secretly at night in the Westacre woods to rehearse before presenting it to the Duchess.

In the cast of actors is Mr Bumble, the beekeeper, would you believe, Mr Flower the gardener, of course and Mrs Starch the housekeeper.

They are joined by Miss Sprout, the kitchen maid and Miss Snuggles, the parlour maid.

Trying to direct them and generally maintain order is Miss Print the secretary.

However, their promising performances are severely jeopardised by a mischievous spirit called Jac Frost.

He inhabits the woods in winter along with estranged sisters Ice Queen and Snow Queen.

Consequently, rehearsals are severely compromised particularly by the arrival of a talking donkey.

Despite everything, the show goes ahead in the Great Hall but, predictably, not quite as the Duchess’ daughter expected.

If you are curious to follow this enchanting and captivating tale, see some unusual costumes, and discover how the servants’ drama turns out then you simply need to join the fun on the Westacre stage from Saturday, December 18 to Christmas Eve.

Booking is online here or by phone 01760 755800.