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.
The fun doesn't stop when the play ends! Our DJ Plucky ‘Boo-Bastic’ takes over after the performance, so stay on, hit the dance floor, and keep the festival party going.
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.
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Tickets: £10 Adult £5 Child (Plus booking fee).
FAQs
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Shakespeare, but not as you know it. Glastonbury-style vibes, punk fairies, big laughs and a 400-year-old comedy given a proper shake-up.
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The iconic Eastbourne Bandstand, right on the seafront, with the sea as your backdrop and the whole show unfolding under the lights.
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Two punchy 45-minute halves, with an interval in between. Plenty of Shakespeare, no marathon sitting.
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When the play finishes, stick around and party under the stars with the cast and crew as DJ Plucky ‘Boo-Bastic’ Bottom takes over the Bandstand.
Proudly Sponsored by
These Eastbourne Bandstand performances of A Midsummer Night's Dream are made possible through the generous support of our main sponsor Lightning Fibre, alongside our valued partners Girly Gig Army and Eastbourne LitFest.
Their commitment to supporting arts, culture and community projects helps Printers Playhouse bring ambitious and accessible theatre experiences to audiences across Eastbourne.
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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.