A Midsummer Night’s Dream
It’s back!!!!
Following a hugely successful run at Eastbourne’s prestigious Birley Centre Theatre, Printers Playhouse's acclaimed production of A Midsummer Night's Dream is back for two special performances at the iconic Eastbourne Bandstand. Audiences will once again be transported into a world of romance, mischief and magic, where Shakespeare's beloved comedy is reimagined through a vibrant festival-inspired setting filled with colourful characters, enchanting music and plenty of laughter.
Don't miss this chance to experience one of Printers Playhouse's most inventive and entertaining productions in one of Eastbourne's most unique outdoor venues.
Read a full review below.
Tickets: £10 Adult £5 Child (Plus booking fee).
Start: Wednesday 23 September 2026 - 19:30
End: Wednesday 23 September 2026 - 21:30
Eastbourne Bandstand
Start: Thursday 24 September 2026 - 19:30
End: Thursday 24 September 2026 - 21:30
Eastbourne Bandstand
Review: A Midsummer Night’s Dream
Printers Playhouse's latest production of Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream proved that even a 400-year-old play can feel fresh, vibrant and thoroughly entertaining. In an inventive reimagining, the production transported the audience into a world where Glastonbury-style hippies clashed with punk fairies, creating a visual and dramatic feast that was both playful and engaging.
Directors John and Viv Berry approached the familiar tale with confidence, making bold creative choices while remaining faithful to the spirit of Shakespeare's comedy. Perhaps the most striking adaptation was the reversal of lines between Oberon and Titania, a decision that gave Titania greater prominence and allowed for a wonderfully commanding performance. Viv Berry's Titania was mischievous, manipulative and completely captivating, while Andy Wyllie's Oberon provided an excellent counterpoint.
The ensemble cast embraced the production's youthful energy and sense of fun. Hannah Attfield's Puck was a particular standout, bringing boundless enthusiasm, comic timing and just the right amount of magical chaos to the role. The confused lovers provided plenty of laughter, with Joshua Ion and Leon Casini delivering memorable performances as Demetrius and Lysander. One slow-motion confrontation between the enchanted rivals was especially hilarious and demonstrated the company's flair for physical comedy.
Visually, the production made excellent use of its festival-inspired setting, with tents, flags and colourful costumes creating a distinctive atmosphere. Combined with a well-chosen soundtrack, the result was a dreamlike world that felt contemporary without losing the essence of Shakespeare's original story.
What impressed most was the sense of community and ensemble spirit that has become a hallmark of Printers Playhouse productions. Every cast member contributed to a lively, entertaining evening that balanced comedy, romance and magic with confidence and charm. The audience was treated not just to a performance of A Midsummer Night's Dream, but to an imaginative reinterpretation full of personality and heart.
Printers Playhouse continues to demonstrate why it is such an important part of Eastbourne's cultural life. This production was inventive, energetic and great fun—a dream worth sharing.