The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh are scheduled to visit Prescot on Monday, 6 October 2025, to attend a performance at the Shakespeare North Playhouse. The royal couple will watch a production of *The Tempest* in the venue's Cockpit Theatre.
This visit follows the Duke of Edinburgh's formal opening of the playhouse in May 2023. This time, he will be accompanied by the Duchess for their first joint visit to the Knowsley-based cultural centre to experience a live performance.
Key Takeaways
- The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh will visit the Shakespeare North Playhouse on October 6, 2025.
- They will attend a performance of *The Tempest*, a co-production with The HandleBards.
- The visit marks a return for the Duke, who officially opened the venue in May 2023.
- Local leaders have expressed their honour and delight at hosting the royal couple.
Royal Couple to Attend 'The Tempest' Performance
The upcoming visit will see Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh take their seats in the Cockpit Theatre for a Shakespeare North-produced performance. The play, *The Tempest*, is a significant production for the venue, marking its first co-production with the acclaimed theatre company, The HandleBards.
The choice of performance highlights the playhouse's commitment to innovative and accessible theatre. The event will provide the royal couple with a direct experience of the unique atmosphere within the intimate, 470-seat timber-framed auditorium, which is modelled on the cockpit-in-court theatres of the Elizabethan era.
A Return to Knowsley
The Duke of Edinburgh's connection to the Shakespeare North Playhouse was established in May 2023. During his initial visit, His Royal Highness formally opened the building, toured its facilities, and met with key figures involved in its creation and operation. This included representatives from Knowsley Council and children participating in the theatre's educational programmes.
The return of the Duke, this time with the Duchess, is seen by organisers as a significant endorsement of the theatre's progress and its growing importance as a cultural hub for the region. The visit allows them to see the venue in full operation, fulfilling its mission to bring world-class theatre to the community.
Local Leaders Welcome Royal Support
Civic and cultural leaders in Knowsley have expressed their enthusiasm for the forthcoming royal visit, viewing it as a major honour for the borough and a testament to the success of the Shakespeare North Playhouse.
Knowsley Council Leader's Perspective
Cllr Graham Morgan, Leader of Knowsley Council, shared his positive outlook on the event. He recalled the Duke's previous visit and highlighted the significance of the couple experiencing a performance together.
"I was delighted that The Duke of Edinburgh was able to officially open the Playhouse back in 2023 and that he will be returning once more. This time His Royal Highness will be accompanied by The Duchess of Edinburgh and will have the opportunity to experience a performance here – which will be wonderful."
Cllr Morgan also emphasised the unique environment of the theatre, stating, "There is such a unique atmosphere in the cockpit and it will be an honour to share that experience with The Duke and Duchess and other invited guests. It is particularly special for Knowsley to host such a visit and for us to be able to highlight this wonderful community asset."
Shakespeare North Trust Comments
The chair of the trust that oversees the venue echoed these sentiments. Max Steinberg CBE DL, Chair of the Shakespeare North Trust, focused on the impact the playhouse has had since its opening.
"We are honoured to welcome Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh to Shakespeare North Playhouse. We are thrilled that Their Royal Highnesses will once again see the extraordinary impact this venue is having on our communities."
Mr. Steinberg's comments underscore the theatre's role not just as an entertainment venue, but as a vital part of the local community infrastructure, a point reinforced by the royal attention it has garnered.
About Shakespeare North Playhouse
- Opened: July 2022
- Location: Prescot, Knowsley
- Capacity: Up to 470 seats in the main Cockpit Theatre.
- Unique Feature: The only 17th-century style, timber-built 'cockpit' theatre outside of London.
- Inspiration: Based on the design of the Cockpit-in-Court theatre built in Whitehall in 1629.
A Showcase of Creative and Sustainable Theatre
The performance of *The Tempest* is more than just a show; it represents a key strategic partnership for the playhouse. Lisa Allen, the Chief Executive and Creative Director, explained the importance of the production and the royal visit.
"We are delighted that The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh can return to experience a performance first-hand, following The Duke’s previous visit where His Royal Highness learned about our work," she said. This visit allows the venue to demonstrate its artistic vision in practice.
An Innovative Co-Production
Ms. Allen provided further details on the collaboration behind the chosen play. The partnership with The HandleBards is a deliberate move to align with companies that share a similar ethos.
"This co-production of The Tempest with The HandleBards exemplifies our commitment to bold, imaginative, and sustainable theatre-making. Their Royal Highnesses will witness the exceptional work of our creative teams, including local artists, and see the enjoyment of audiences both young and old."
The focus on sustainability and community involvement is a core part of the playhouse's mission. The visit provides a high-profile platform to showcase these values. Ms. Allen added, "It is particularly fitting that they will see future generations inspired by the magic of live performance."
The event on October 6 is expected to draw significant attention to Prescot and the wider Knowsley area, reinforcing the Shakespeare North Playhouse's position as a landmark cultural institution in the North West of England.