Herstmonceux Castle
Hailsham Rd
Herstmonceux
Hailsham
BN27
Hot on the heels of the sell-out success of The Comedy of Errors at Brighton Festival in May, Shakespeare’s Globe return to Sussex once again to bring a brand new production of the ever popular A Midsummer Night’s Dream to Herstmonceux Castle on 13 and 14 July.
A troupe of eight ‘travelling players’ will present a stripped down version of his most sparkling comedy in these beautiful, open air Elizabethan settings, reviving the old Globe principle of outdoor playing. Shakespeare put some of his most dazzling dramatic poetry at the service of this very funny and amazingly inventive play, whose seriousness is fleetingly glimpsed beneath its dreamlike surface.
This new production will be directed by Raz Shaw, whose credits include Torn (Arcola Theatre) and Othello (Salisbury Playhouse). Hermia loves Lysander and Helena loves Demetrius – but Demetrius is supposed to be marrying Hermia. When the Duke of Athens tries to enforce the marriage, the lovers take refuge in the woods outside the city, and walk into the midst of a dispute between the king and queen of the fairies. So, too, does a group of amateur actors rehearsing a play. Between the angry fairies, the bumbling players and the dazed lovers, flies Puck armed with a love juice capable of making anyone fall for the first person they set eyes upon – no matter how unsuitable.
Under the leadership of Artistic Director Dominic Dromgoole, Shakespeare’s Globe theatre season plays in repertory from April to October annually, and has gained an international reputation for performance excellence. Over the past two years the Globe has extended its work to reach audiences around the country, with great success.
Dominic Dromgoole explains; “The Globe was born out of a touring company culture, and that culture remained vital to it while it flourished. We are delighted to be exploring again the tradition of taking Shakespeare into non-theatrical spaces.”
While near Hailsham, why not try these?
Listings provided by Visit Sussex
Pekes
In the grounds of a Tudor Manor House, up a drive of 350 yards with unspoilt views of the Sussex countryside, Pekes offers a unique self-catering holiday.
Sandhurst
Quiet countryside location close to castle. 8 mile from sea and easy access to restaurants and local shops.
Longleys Farm Cottage
Situated in quiet no-through lane one mile from Hailsham, surrounded by open countryside. Informal, friendly atmosphere.
The Olde Forge Restaurant
This restaurant, with its timber beams and log fires, once the home of an original 16th century forge, is renowned for its high standard of cuisine and service.
Prezzo
Prezzo is about providing great quality Italian food in a friendly and relaxed environment at reasonable prices.
