Every Summer, over the course of two exhilarating weeks, we bring the action, drama, suspense, humour and beauty of Shakespeare to Palmerston North.
Manawatū Summer Shakespeare is a cherished cultural event that has been captivating audiences since its inception in 2003. Attracting over 3400 enthusiastic attendees, our productions are presented for Koha or pay what you can entry, because Shakespeare is for everyone!
Our cast and crew hail from the local community, providing emerging and practicing artists with invaluable opportunities to hone their skills and engage in a vibrant creative environment.
For many, attending Manawatū Summer Shakespeare is a delightful introduction to Shakespearean works; for others, it’s a beloved summer tradition. Our team, composed of industry-leading professionals and award -winning talent, ensures that each production is a remarkable experience for performers and audiences alike.
Join us in celebrating the magic of Shakespeare!
Keep an eye on our Facebook and Instagram pages for news and updates.
SEASON ANNOUNCEMENT
Coming in with “wonderful, wonderful, and most wonderful wonderful, and yet again wonderful” news, we are thrilled to announce our 2027 Season of As You Like It, directed by Rhian Firmin.
This romantic comedy has it all, plucky witty women, family feuds, exile, hapless romantics, ride or die friendships, mistaken identities, misplaced affections, and love flourishing in all its (dis)guises.
The production is set to be an energetic, riot of colour, a living dream, set (mostly) in a fantastical utopia where we might find true love, but more importantly, we might just find our true selves.
Throw off the shackles of convention and oligarchy to join the vibrant euphoria in the Forest of Arden this summer.
All the world may be a stage, but we can’t wait to make an actual stage for you, in the Esplanade this coming February.
Keep an eye on our pages for updates and ways you can support the production, coming soon!
CASTING CALL!
OPEN AUDITIONS FOR AS YOU LIKE IT 2027 Directed by Rhian Firmin
We are seeking actors ages 16+ of all genders, ethnicities and level of performance experience for our 2027 season, register by filling in the form below! Experience in performing Shakespeare is not required to audition!
https://forms.gle/QUzLCvW8U4YTjbvX7
Details:
Audition Dates: Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th October
Call Backs on request: Tuesday 20th and Wednesday 21st October
Season Dates: 25 Feb-6 March (Palmy) and 9-11 April (Stratford Shakespeare festival)
Rehearsal commitment: Up to three rehearsal calls per week November-December break, lead roles may be requested for up to 4
Up to 4 rehearsal calls per week January- role dependent
Up to 5 rehearsal calls per week February
All performance roles are unpaid, a small koha will be provided for out of town shows and all tour expenses paid.
What you need for your Audition:
Please prepare 1 minute of text from a Shakespearean monologue of your choice. There is no expectation for you to be lines down and we are happy for you to hold your script, however, please familiarise yourself with the content, context and character. You may be asked to perform this in an outdoor setting.
Comfortable clothing that allows easy movement is essential.
A Water bottle.
A collaborative yes and attitude!
The production is set to be an energetic, riot of colour, a living dream, set (mostly) in a fantastical utopia where we might find true love, but more importantly, we might just find our true selves.
Throw off the shackles of convention and oligarchy to join the vibrant euphoria in the Forest of Arden this summer.
Any questions or accessibility requests, flick us an email at manawatu.summer.shakespeare@gmail.com
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