Join the chief mischief makers from Four Forty Theatre for a lively pre-show family workshop – a chance to discover the enchantingly silly world of A Midsummer Night’s Dream through theatre games and crafts!

Whether you are a keen fan of the Bard or you are dipping your toe into his work for the first time, this family workshop offers the chance to dive in and explore one of Shakespeare’s most beloved works together, all through the mischievously witty lens of Four Forty Theatre. 

Throughout this relaxed and playful outdoor workshop, members of Four Forty Theatre will be your guides as they introduce you to the variety of different characters you will encounter through the show, from the beloved Rude Mechanicals to Titania and Oberon’s fairy crew.

Through drama games and activities, you’ll get the chance to learn about how to bring characters alive on stage through characterisation, experimenting with physicality and movement. You’ll also get creative as you dig deeper into the characters, choosing your “own tribe” as you make your own headpiece, and explore the importance of a character’s costume.

The workshop is open to all ages, but recommended for those 7+ in line with the show’s age recommendation. We encourage everyone in your group to get involved with all aspects of the workshops – that’s right, big kids you can join in too! However, we know that not everyone loves the spotlight, so there will be no pressure to have to get involved with every activity and at any point throughout the workshop. You are welcome to sit back and watch as a cheering audience for those taking part. Children must have a responsible adult with them throughout the workshop, and we hope that if you give it a go, you’ll love exploring the magically chaotic world of A Midsummer Night’s Dream together! 

Please Note:

• Children (16 and under) are the responsibility of the adults in their group, and must be accompanied at all times whilst on site. One adult can accompany up to a maximum of 4 children. 
• This is a family-specific workshop, and so adults must be accompanying a child to attend.
• This workshop takes place outdoors across our Colonnades and Queen Mary Courtyard. Please ensure to dress suitably according to the weather. In case of hot weather, please be advised to bring sun cream, hats and water bottles. In case of wet weather, the workshop will be relocated to an indoor space on site.
• Please come dressed in clothes that you can move in comfortably. Please be aware that the paving can be uneven and is pebbled in some areas, so please ensure to wear appropriate footwear as you will be on your feet and moving around for portions of the workshop.
• There is no cloakroom or specific buggy park. You are welcome to bring your buggy and park it in the corner of the courtyard out of the way of the activities, but please know that this is at the owner’s risk.
• There is no outdoor seating provided, but you are welcome to bring picnic blankets and outdoor chairs to sit around the courtyard.
• Family ticket bundles and workshop only tickets are available.
• Please ensure to let us know about any access requirements before your visit via events@ornc.organd boxoffice@ornc.org.