Historic Bristol Lido transformed into Theatre Space for a Magical Summer Season

Launching in midsummer this June for an eight-week run, Insane Root Theatre announces its summer 2022 show - Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream set in the unique location of Eastville Park Lido, Bristol.

After the hugely popular Hansel and Gretel at Arnos Cemetery in December 2021, the Insane Root team returns to the location of its award-winning run of Romeo and Juliet in 2018.

The vibrant open-air performance will present a magical retelling of the Bard’s work by transporting audiences into a world of mischief, mistaken identity and mayhem: adapted to a 1hr 40 minute running time and featuring an ensemble of nine professional performers playing multiple roles.

The production will be tailored to the site’s blend of Victorian crumbling lido, modern graffiti, and community spirit, reflecting themes of love, loss of identity, culture clash, rebirth, and reunion. Action will take place all around and amongst the audience, with integrated acapella harmonies, electronic sound, and dynamic, site-responsive design.

Eastville Park Swimming Pool was originally built as a Victorian lido that was damaged in World War Two and subsequently turned into a community garden. Layers of history, and tension between the natural and human worlds, provide the perfect landscape for the play.

Commenting on the forthcoming show Justin Palmer, Insane Root Co-Founder and Producer said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to be bringing this timeless and universally entertaining production to Eastville Lido. Having worked in this venue before we are very excited to create an enchanting space and transport audiences throughout the summer into Shakespeare’s charming forest fairy world.”

The well-known Shakespearean comedy will appeal to all ages. Tickets are on sale now: group and community offers are available as part of Insane Root’s commitment to making theatre inclusive and accessible for everyone. Access tickets can be purchased directly through the company.