Story perspectives

Unicorn Theatre's Playful A Midsummer Night's Dream for Kids

4/2/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Unicorn Theatre and the Royal Shakespeare Company co-produced a 90-minute adaptation of A Midsummer Night’s Dream aimed at young audiences.
Co-directors Rachel Bagshaw and Robin Belfield retain the original language while adding playful elements.
Lily Arnold designed the set, featuring colorful costumes and captioning to aid understanding.
The run continues until May 10 at the Unicorn Theatre and then moves to The Other Place in Stratford-upon-Avon.

History

Historical Context

"A Midsummer Night's Dream," attributed to William Shakespeare, premiered around 1595, showcasing a blend of fantasy and comedy. The play's first recorded performance occurred in 1605, while the Royal Shakespeare Company, founded in 1961, has since performed over 1,000 adaptations, reflecting a modern effort to engage younger audiences and sustain Shakespeare's cultural relevance.

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Story summary

The Unicorn Theatre and the Royal Shakespeare Company co-produced a 90-minute adaptation of A Midsummer Night’s Dream aimed at young audiences.
Co-directors Rachel Bagshaw and Robin Belfield retain the original language while adding playful elements.
Lily Arnold designed the set, featuring colorful costumes and captioning to aid understanding.
The run continues until May 10 at the Unicorn Theatre and then moves to The Other Place in Stratford-upon-Avon.

1 / 2