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.
NEW OPPORTUNITY!
Join us for our new project: ‘WiSha’ (Winter Shakespeare). Now you don’t have to wait until summer to get your Shakespeare on. For the first time ever we are putting on Winter Shakespeare and we want YOU to be a part of it!
CASTING CALL: OPEN CALL FOR AUDITIONS!
We are in search of actors ages 16+, from all genders, cultures, ethnicities and experience levels for our 2026 winter production: Sex and Scandal; A Shakespeare Scene Showcase
We have around 6 scenes to cast and roles to fill both large and small for over 30 performers!
Love performing but scared of Shakespeare? We got you! Shakespeare is for everyone. It’s our job to make it accessible, easy and enjoyable, and this is a perfect low stakes opportunity to have a taste. Our scenes have opportunities for people at all levels of Shakespeare, from the nerds to the novices!
All roles are unpaid.
Auditions will be held on 7th June at Centrepoint Theatre. You will attend ONE session of approximately 90 minutes (details in the form attached).
The performance is ONE NIGHT ONLY 1st August at the Globe theatre.
To register: fill in the form LINKED HERE and we will confirm your audition slot by the 4th of June: https://tinyurl.com/wisha-auditions
FAQ’s!
What you need for your audition:
– Comfortable clothing that allows easy movement is essential, a water bottle, and a collaborative ‘yes, and’ attitude!
– Familiarity with the Audition sides provided in the registration form.
What can you Expect at the Audition?
– There will be some group intros and warm-ups, some workshop and movement exercises, and a chance to hear from and be led by each of our 4 directors.
– Audition sides can be found on the registration sheet, you may be asked to read in pairs from these. There is no expectation to be off book for this (If this creates an accessibility barrier for you please reach out as soon as possible and we will accommodate you).
– The audition process will take 90 minutes
What are the expectations for the process?
– Each Scene is approximately 10-15 minutes in total. Scenes will rehearse from the 27th of June for 1-2 rehearsals per week, with the addition of up to 2 extra full company rehearsals on the week of 27 July.
When will you hear from us?
– Your audition time will be confirmed by us once registration closes on Thursday 4th June. You will receive notice of casting decisions by Sunday 14 June at the latest.
Questions or enquires email manawatu.summer.shakespeare@gmail.com
Mā te wā!
Keep an eye on our Facebook and Instagram pages for news and updates regarding auditions.
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