Snippets of Shakespeare performed by men and directed by a woman will be presented in Lancaster next month.
All the World’s A Stage will feature an all male cast taking on all the roles, just as Shakespeare’s plays were originally performed, but this selection of Shakespeare scenes with a modern narrative is being directed by freelance theatre practitioner Emma Rucastle who has set up her own company, Elart Productions.
Based in Lancaster, Emma has previously directed a promenade production to mark Lancaster Cathedral’s 150th anniversary and has run workshops at Leighton Moss RSPB reserve.
“I’m passionate about Shakespeare,” says Emma, “and the reason for doing lots of excerpts rather than one straight play is to give a snapshot of the range of stories Shakespeare tells.
“There will be a bit of tragedy, some history and lots of comedy.”
The former head of drama at Lancaster Royal Grammar School says she is enjoying working with the all male cast which includes three professional actors Nick Camm, Paul Slater and David Varga in the lead roles and introduces Ruaidhri Johnston as the boy actor.
• All The World’s A Stage will be performed at DT3 in Moor Lane on November 11 at 2pm and 7.30pm and November 12 at 3pm and 7.30pm. It is recommended for anyone aged 11 plus. For tickets priced £9 for adults and £7.50 concessions, call The Dukes box office on 01524 598500 or www.dukes-lancaster.org.