Dreaming of Shakespeare

We're absolutely delighted to announce that the Shakespeare Globe Centre New Zealand (SGCNZ) will be gracing the Botanic Garden ki Paekākā with their presence as roaming performers for this year's Te Wā o te Kōanga - Spring Festival 2023.

As part of its Shake Alive programme for this year, SGCNZ, along with some Alumni, is thrilled to present "Dreaming of Shakespeare." Get ready to spot the intriguing trio of Oberon, Titania, and Puck as they come to life within the Botanic Gardens starting at 10am on Saturday, 9th September. These characters will mesmerize unsuspecting passersby with excerpts from arguably Shakespeare's favorite play, "A Midsummer Night's Dream."

At 11.30am and 2:30pm, they'll come together with the public, inviting those who wish to take on roles from an extended section of the play. Participants will be provided with cue-scripts to read or simply enjoy the performance as part of the audience. Head over to Puriri Lawn near the Duck Pond and get involved.

For those who want to add an extra touch of magic, there's the chance to take part in the Best and Most Imaginative Fairy Competition. Keep an eye out for the delightful Fairy Teardrop, fluttering around and inviting fairies to have their faces painted. She'll also guide everyone to the designated lawn for the performance.

Commenting on the significance of the event, SGCNZ CEO, Dawn Sanders, shared, "This year marks the 400th anniversary of the publication of the First Folio of Shakespeare's plays, which includes the collated cue-scripts that Shakespeare provided his actors. This makes it even more fitting to offer this chance to experience firsthand what it was like to perform in that style as actors."
So mark your calendars and join us for a day brimming with Shakespearean magic!

Photo credit: Memory of Light Photography