As part of Knowsley’s year as Borough of Culture, where ‘Every Town and Village Tells Their Story’, Prescot residents are invited to enjoy a glorious ceremony to celebrate Shakespeare North Playhouse’s much-anticipated opening and the community they are a part of.
A team of local heroes will create “All The Joy That You Can Wish” on the evening of Friday 15 July – a ceremony and performance to fill the air and the new theatre with joy and promise.
There will be noise, glamour, silliness and magic to celebrate both the opening of Shakespeare North Playhouse and the vibrant history and heritage of Prescot.
Prescot has a fascinating past and the town’s historic connections to William Shakespeare and his love of storytelling have inspired the performance.
Cllr Shelley Powell, Knowsley’s Cabinet Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods said: “I am really looking forward to this performance, it’s going to be really special. Not only are we telling the story of Prescot and its intriguing history, this jubilant event will also mark the opening of Shakespeare North Playhouse.
“It’s going to be a real celebration and it’s what our year of Borough of Culture is all about – the people of Knowsley telling their stories and getting involved in these wonderfully, creative experiences.
“I would encourage the people of Prescot to come along and support their community, enjoy the show and have the first glimpse of their new theatre.”
You may spot some familiar faces during the performance as members of local community groups creating the spectacle. Taking part will be
Act For Action, Al’s Activity and Respite Centre, Bryer Road Coffee Group, Imaginarium Theatre, KIER, The Lee Cooper Foundation, Merseyside Black Lives Matter Alliance, Prescot Cables F.C, SHARe Knowsley – Support & Help for Asylum seekers and Refugee, VIBE Knowsley and Shakespeare North Community Curators.
The performance on Friday 15 July marks the start of a weekend of celebrations where the Playhouse will ‘Open Up’ – giving people the chance to explore the wonderful new venue, take part in free workshops and activities and enjoy free performances.
All the Joy that You Can Wish is a FREE outdoor event and there is no need to book. Meet on Prospero Place outside Shakespeare North Playhouse from 5pm for a 6pm start. The performance will last approximately 1 hour.
All The Joy That You Can Wish has been produced and directed by Slung Low as part of Knowsley’s year as Liverpool City Region Brough of Culture.
It has been supported by Arts Council England and Prescot Hight Street Heritage Action Zone and The Duchy of Lancaster Benevolent Fund.
Accessibility
A viewing platform with access needs is available and a member of the team will be able to help. There will be a BSL interpreter on stage during the performance. There is a Changing Places toilet and multiple disabled toilets located within Shakespeare North Playhouse.
FAQs
What time should I arrive?
The performance starts at 6pm on Prospero Place. You can arrive from 5pm to grab a good spot to view the performance.
Is the performance taking place inside the theatre?
No, the performance is taking place outside Shakespeare North Playhouse on Prospero Place. There will be no performances taking place inside the theatre on Friday 15 July.
Will Shakespeare North Playhouse be open on Friday 15 July?
Yes, Shakespeare North Playhouse will be open from 11am on Friday 15 July. You can call in and have a look around your new venue.
The venue may be busy following the performance at 7pm. If you would like to explore the venue at your own pace and in your own time, you may like to visit before 5pm on Friday 15 July or across the opening weekend on Saturday6 and Sunday 17 July.
