THE Wells Theatre Festival will be back next summer (June 19-22, 2025), with the organisers promising another programme of inspirational performing arts.
Following on from their sell-out production of Macbeth in the Bishop’s Barn last year, the Festival has announced that the 2025 community production will be The Taming of the Shrew by William Shakespeare. Auditions will be held on February 16, 2025, and the organisers are calling for local theatre enthusiasts who would like to get involved to get in touch.
The Taming of the Shrew is one of Shakespeare’s most famous comedies, featuring the fiery Katherina and the boastful and selfish Petruchio in a battle of wits, wills, and unexpected love. While celebrated for its humour and characters, the play also invites reflection on societal expectations and relationships, making it a fascinating piece for modern reinterpretation.
Ros Johnson, Artistic Director of the Wells Theatre Festival, said: “We are looking for participants aged 16+ to join us as part of the cast or backstage crew. Whether you’re interested in a main role, chorus, or helping behind the scenes, we’d love to hear from you. We would also love to hear from people interested in theatre design.”
She added: “The Taming of the Shrew is a riotous comedy, but it is also a controversial play in the 21st century, and we are excited to explore themes in the play through a modern lens, bringing fresh perspectives to this classic work.”
Shakespeare Workshop, January 26, 2025
This year in the lead up to the Festival, the organisers are offering a series of workshops. The first of these will be a Shakespeare Workshop on January 26. Those taking part will have the opportunity to dive into the world of one of the world’s greatest playwrights and explore the life and times of William Shakespeare. Participants will get a glimpse into the era he lived in and some of his most famous plays. The workshop is open to everyone whether they are a theatre enthusiast or simply curious about Shakespeare. The cost is £5 per person.
Ros Johnson says: “We are very excited to be offering workshops in the lead up to the Festival. Since we started the Festival in 2018, we have built up a wonderful community of theatre enthusiasts and we would like to welcome more through these workshops but book early. Place are limited.”
For more information or to sign up for the workshop or auditions, contact Ros@wellstheatrefestival.org