Royal Shakespeare Company to perform The Tempest in Barrow

The 80-minute show, part of the First Encounters with Shakespeare series, is an abridged version of the original text, aimed at introducing younger audiences, aged seven to 13, to the Bard’s work.

The production is set to be staged at Barrow Town Hall on Saturday, May 3, at 2pm.

The 80-minute show is part of the First Encounters with Shakespeare series (Image: Topher McGillis/RSC) The show is open to families and individuals who have never experienced Shakespeare or any theatre before.

Daniel Tyler-McTighe, artistic director of BarrowFull, said: “The first time going to the theatre can be an extremely special moment and lasting memory, and we’re glad that many people will be able to create special memories with their families, with friends or solo, at The Tempest, whether this is their first time seeing Shakespeare – or not.

“Having listened to local people wanting high quality artistic work for families on their doorstep, and being asked by the Royal Shakespeare Company if BarrowFull would be interested in hosting The Tempest, we knew it would be a good fit.”

The show is open to families and individuals  (Image: Topher McGillis/RSC) The Tempest’s creative team includes Aaron Parsons as director and movement director, and Aldo Vázquez as set and costume designer. 

Jack Drewry is the composer and sound designer, Tom Jordan is the fight director, and Matthew Dewsbury CDG is the casting director.

A team of RSC creative associates will also be working with young people in schools in the area in preparation for the production.

The production is set to be staged at Barrow Town Hall next month (Image: Topher McGillis/RSC) Jacqui O’Hanlon, RSC director of creative learning and engagement, said: “First Encounter productions are made with and for young people in partner schools and communities across England.

“Alongside teachers and theatre partners, we see the very real difference that Shakespeare’s work, theatre and expressive arts subjects and experiences make to children’s lives.

“We believe that the very best way for Shakespeare’s work to be experienced by young people is through performance; and we believe that live theatre and an arts-rich education are the right of every child.”

The tour of First Encounters with Shakespeare: The Tempest is supported with taxpayer and National Lottery funding through Arts Council England.

The Barrow production of The Tempest is hosted by BarrowFull and supported by Barrow Town Council and Westmorland and Furness Council.

Tickets for the Barrow performance can be purchased online at TheTempestRSC.eventbrite.co.uk.