The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh are scheduled to visit the Shakespeare North Playhouse in Prescot on Monday, October 6. The Royal couple will attend a performance of 'The Tempest', marking a return visit for the Duke who officially opened the venue in May 2023.
Key Takeaways
- Royal Visit Confirmed: The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh will visit the Shakespeare North Playhouse.
- Date of Visit: The engagement is scheduled for Monday, October 6.
- Event: Their Royal Highnesses will watch a performance of 'The Tempest' in the Cockpit Theatre.
- Location: The visit will take place in Prescot, Knowsley.
- Previous Engagement: The Duke of Edinburgh previously visited in May 2023 to formally open the theatre.
Royal Couple to Attend 'The Tempest' Performance
The leadership of the Shakespeare North Playhouse has confirmed that Their Royal Highnesses, The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, will be in attendance for a special performance next month. The visit is set to highlight the work of the theatre and its local artists.
During their time in Prescot, the royal couple will experience a Shakespeare North-produced performance of 'The Tempest'. The play will be staged in the venue's unique Cockpit Theatre, an intimate setting designed to replicate the style of 17th-century playhouses.
A Follow-Up Royal Visit
This engagement marks the second time the Duke of Edinburgh has visited the Prescot theatre. His Royal Highness first visited in May 2023, when he conducted the official opening ceremony, toured the facilities, and met with members of the local community involved in the project.
For this upcoming visit, the Duke will be accompanied by The Duchess of Edinburgh. It provides an opportunity for both to see a full production and witness the theatre in action, showcasing its artistic and community impact since its launch.
Local Leaders Welcome the Upcoming Visit
The news of the royal visit has been met with enthusiasm from local leaders, who see it as a significant recognition of the theatre's success and its importance to the borough of Knowsley.
Knowsley Council Leader's Comments
Cllr Graham Morgan, Leader of Knowsley Council, expressed his satisfaction with the planned engagement. He noted the significance of the Duke's return and the Duchess's first visit to the venue.
“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 highlighted the unique environment of the theatre, adding, “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.”
Playhouse Director on Artistic Showcase
Lisa Allen, the Chief Executive and Creative Director of Shakespeare North Playhouse, also shared her thoughts on the visit. She emphasised that it allows the royal couple to see the theatre's creative output firsthand.
“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.”
Allen explained that the chosen performance, a co-production of 'The Tempest' with theatre company The HandleBards, reflects the playhouse's core values. She described it as an example of their “commitment to bold, imaginative, and sustainable theatre-making.”
She concluded, “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. It is particularly fitting that they will see future generations inspired by the magic of live performance.”
About The HandleBards
The HandleBards are a touring theatre company known for performing Shakespeare's plays in a sustainable and energetic manner. They often travel between venues by bicycle, carrying all their sets, props, and costumes with them, which aligns with the playhouse's focus on sustainable theatre.
The Impact of Shakespeare North Playhouse
Since opening its doors to the public in July 2022, the Shakespeare North Playhouse has become a major cultural institution in Merseyside. It serves as both an arts venue and an educational hub, with a strong focus on community engagement.
The theatre's design is inspired by the 17th-century 'cockpit-in-court' style, making it a unique performance space in the UK. Its construction in Prescot is historically significant, as the town was home to the only purpose-built Elizabethan theatre outside of London in the 1590s.
In its relatively short time of operation, the playhouse has received significant acclaim. One of its most notable achievements includes being named Theatre Building of the Year, a prestigious award that recognises its architectural and cultural contribution.
- Opened: July 2022
- Location: Prescot, Knowsley
- Focus: Theatre, education, and community engagement
- Key Award: Theatre Building of the Year
The upcoming royal visit is seen as another milestone for the venue, further cementing its status as a key cultural asset for the North West and a beacon for arts and heritage in the region.