FROM THE BARN THEATRE ARCHIVE

Shakespeare In Love

By Lee Hall
|
Based on the screenplay by Marc Norman and Tom Stoppard
Directed by Laura Eddy
Singing Director Rachel Thomas
8th – 16th November 2024 at 8:00pm
Matinee on 16th at 2:30pm

The film, as Shakespeare intended it seen.

This amateur production is presented by arrangement with Faber and Faber.

Shakespeare in Love enchants audiences with a captivating tale set in the bustling world of Elizabethan England. Amidst the vibrant backdrop of London’s theatre scene, we meet the charismatic yet struggling playwright, William Shakespeare. Plagued by writer’s block and personal turmoil, he finds unexpected inspiration in the radiant Viola de Lesseps, a spirited woman whose heart beats for the stage.

Their clandestine romance ignites a whirlwind of passion, defying the rigid social norms of their time. As Shakespeare and Viola’s love deepens, it inspires the creation of his most beloved masterpiece, Romeo and Juliet. But their journey is not without obstacles, as their love faces opposition from society, jealous rivals, and the ever-present spectre of duty and censorship.

Filled with wit, humour and Shakespearean flair, this enchanting tale explores the transformative power of love and art. Through laughter and tears, triumphs and tragedies, Shakespeare in Love reminds us that the greatest stories are often born from the deepest wells of the human heart. In a world where passion knows no bounds and creativity knows no limits, this timeless romance will leave audiences spellbound, celebrating the enduring legacy of love and literature.

CAST & CREATIVE TEAM

Directed by
Laura Eddy
Singing Director
Rachel Thomas

CAST

Will Shakespeare
Kit Marlowe
Ralph, an actor who plays Nurse and Petruchio
Nol, an actor who plays Benvolio and Samson
Robin, an actor who plays Lady Capulet
Adam, an actor who plays Gregory, Benvolio, and serving man
John Webster
Wabash / Peter tailor and actor who plays Tybalt and prologue
Ned Alleyn
Sam, an actor who plays Juliet
Mistress Quickly
Edmund Tilney
Queen Elizabeth I
Viola de Lesseps
Sir Robert de Lesseps

CREATIVE TEAM

We thank our canine friends Nelly Eddy, Halle Berry Francis and Geri Halliwell Francis, for agreeing to appear in our production.

MEDIA & REVIEWS​

A heady celebration of the act of theatre.
The Guardian
Riotously enjoyable. You will fall in love.
The Sunday Times

DON'T FORGET, COMING UP AT THE BARN SOON

Yours Ever Jane by Sarah Finch production graphic.
Opening 13th April
By Sarah Finch

 

WE'RE Here To HELP

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Feel free to contact us and we’ll be more than happy to answer your questions.

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Diversity, Equality & Inclusion Statement

At the Barn we are committed to promoting equality and challenging discrimination in all its forms. We strive to create a safe and inclusive environment for all members of the cast and creative team, regardless of their race, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or gender identity and will work to prevent any form of discrimination or harassment within our organisation.

Shakespeare In Love

At the heart of casting for Shakespeare in Love lies a commitment to celebrating diversity and inclusivity on the stage. We believe that Shakespeare’s timeless tales transcend boundaries of race, gender and background, and we embrace the opportunity to reflect the rich tapestry of humanity in our production. In casting our performers, we prioritise talent, passion and the ability to breathe life into the characters, regardless of their ethnicity, gender identity or cultural background.

By embracing diversity in our casting, we aim to create a more authentic and inclusive portrayal of Shakespeare’s world, one that resonates with audiences from all backgrounds. We believe that diversity enriches our storytelling, deepens our understanding of the human experience and celebrates the vibrant mosaic of humanity that makes our world so beautifully complex and endlessly fascinating.

Charity Preview Night
6th February at 8.00pm

CEDAR Trust Tickets

All Other Performances
7th – 15th February at 8.00pm
Matinee on 15th at 2.00pm