York Theatre Royal

“We are such stuff as dreams are made on, and our little life Is rounded with sleep” – The Tempest

The Royal Shakespeare Company will be bringing the magic of Shakespeare to young people in York this month with RSC First Encounters – The Tempest. This 80-minute edited version makes Shakespeare’s play about families, magic and forgiveness relevant for a new generation of theatregoers.

The perfect introduction to the wonders and delights of Shakespeare for young people aged 7-13 and their families, this is a fresh, abridged take on Shakespeare’s original text. The creative team includes Aaron Parsons (Director and Movement), Aldo Vázquez (Set and Costume Designer) and Jack Drewry (Composer and Sound Designer).

When Prospero escaped Milan with his daughter years ago, the chance to return didn’t ever seem possible. Now ruler of a magical island, Prospero has his chance; as the King of Naples and Prospero’s estranged sibling Antonio sail close to the island. Will Prospero take revenge, or will all be forgiven and forgotten?

RSC Director of Creative Learning and Engagement, Jacqui O’Hanlon said:

“Access to the arts in schools is at a crossroads after being eroded over many years with thousands of young people denied the sorts of experiences that we know positively impact on life chances and learning outcomes.
Taking our work directly into schools and communities we see the very real difference that 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 RSC’s tour of First Encounters: The Tempest is supported using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England, which makes it possible for the RSC to expand its tour to work in partnership with more places across England.

First Encounters: The Tempest is at York Theatre Royal from Mon 24 Feb – Tue 25 Feb.

Find out more information and book your tickets here.

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