Shakespeare in the Squares returns with The Tempest to celebrate fifth anniversary

Shakespeare in the Squares returns with The Tempest this summer to celebrate their fifth anniversary.

After two years away due the pandemic, Shakespeare in the Squares will present their most ambitious season to date for 2022.

With venues now reaching north to Camden Square, east to Charterhouse Square, and south to Wandsworth, the production tours 18 squares across London, opening on 21 June at Arundel and Ladbroke Gardens at 7PM, with previews from 15 June, and runs until 8 July.

Sioned Jones directs Mark Carlisle, Laura Gomez Garcia, Indigo Griffiths, Phyllis Ho, Ellis Kerkhoven, William Shackleton, Wilf Walsworth and Sasha Wilson.

Design comes from Emily Stuart with music direction by Tom Attwood and movement direction by Yarit Dor.

From 9 performances in the first year to 22 scheduled for 2022, Shakespeare in the Squares is now a central fixture in the calendar of Summer outdoor theatre, with each production tailored to the individual garden squares. The company works with the garden committees and other local organisations to create a unique community celebration around the play.

Founders of Shakespeare in the Squares, Sue Fletcher and Martin Neild, said: “After two years’ of Covid-enforced absence, Shakespeare in the Squares is thrilled to be returning with our joyful production of The Tempest.

“We are so grateful to the garden squares and parks that have kept the faith, and we look forward to bringing them our best show yet.”

Patron of Shakespeare in the Squares, Dame Judi Dench added: “When I first heard about Shakespeare in the Squares, my instant reaction was, ‘That is a marvellous idea; why hasn’t anyone done it before?’

“To take William Shakespeare, whose timeless plays always have something important to say about the human condition, into idyllic gardens and other iconic spaces, offers a great opportunity to engage new and non-traditional audiences of all ages.”

For dates, venues and tickets visit shakespeareinthesquares.co.uk