A Midsummer Night’s Dream
06 September 2025
Southwark Playhouse Borough
5.0 out of 5.0 stars
A very clever reimagining of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, adapted and directed by Toby Hulse, is running at the Southwark Playhouse Borough until 27 September, and it’s more than worth a visit! Specially rewritten to appeal to younger audiences, this production is a brilliant introduction to the world of Shakespeare, for children and adults alike.
While following the well known plot of Midsummer Night’s Dream and retaining much of the original language, there is an additional framing device of a group of children putting on a play for their nanny. In a gorgeous set of an early 1900s attic bedroom, the siblings and cousins squabble over the narrative, but work together to create the story. This device allows the production to give a short summary and explanation of the following events within the framework of the story, making it easily accessible for young people and those just getting into Shakespeare.
Some delightful audience interaction, cheekily integrated into the story, adds to the playful edge of the show, while the enthusiastic cast wonderfully transitions between their childhood and Shakespearean characters. With just a few little stage-magic effects, this 90 minute production without an interval is an absolute joy!
Combining physical comedy and silly playfulness with one of Shakespeare’s funniest plays, this brand new Southwark Playhouse production enchants the audience, bringing children and adults alike to fit of laughter. Entertaining and utterly adorable, it’s an energetic hour and a half that will stay in hearts and minds for a long time. Whether you want to introduce children to Shakespeare, or are a seasoned Bard-enthusiast, this play is for you! The cutest and most delightful production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream I’ve encountered so far, and definitely the most brilliantly mischievous Puck!
