REVIEW: A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM @ SOUTHWARK PLAYHOUSE BOROUGH

🎭 A Midsummer Night's Dream

📍  The Large, Southwark Playhouse , 77-85 Newington Causeway, London, SE1 6BD

🗓 Thursday 11th September 2025

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FAMILY FRIENDLY SHAKESPEARE

Forget everything you thought you knew about Shakespeare on stage! This production of A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM at Southwark Playhouse Borough is an exciting, new and fresh take on a beloved classic which can be enjoyed by the whole family.

In 1905 a group of cousins are gather in their playroom and devise a play that they can put on to entertain their grandmother and ensure that they will recieve their favourite treat of iced buns! This is a great interpretation where A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM is born out of childhood imagination. The way the plot switched between the children's reality and the Shakespearian text was done seemlessly and was actually fantastic. As the children argued about what roles they wanted to play, the key thing to remember was that "everything in theatre is pretend".

Adapted and directed by Toby Hulse, this production takes away all the elements that audience members often struggle with when it comes to Shakespeare. This is an abridged version of the story, but all the key plot points are accurately covered. With a run time of 80 minutes its fast paced and never dull, and the wonderful reimagining alongside Georgie White's whimsical set and costume design, keeps the audience actively engaged throughout.

Will Monks has done wonders with the lighting, ensuring that it elevates each scene but doesn't overpower it and Fraser Owen's sound design adds depth to the story.

Daisy Ann Fletcher ruled the roost as Nancy, the leader of the pack. She was fantastic as she paraded around the stage, almost becoming the director of the play within a play.... within a play! She is a credible and believable talent who completely embodied her characters.

The multi-roling by the entire company was incredible and is to be celebrated. Dewi Wykes shone throughout giving a sensational portrayal of Puck, and his portrayal of a lion, which his child character of Cecil had wanted from the start, was pure comedy gold.

This is definitely a strong cast and Martin Bassindale, Lara Grace Ilori and Andy Umerah all giving flawless performances.

The standout performance from me though came from Fintan Haycock as Robert. His comic timing and characterisations were absolutely impeccable. Indeed he reminded me of some of the finest comedy actors such as Robin Williams and Jim Carrey. His drawn out death scene was so funny and was the biggest laugh out loud moment of the evening. I can see a big future for this talented young performer.

Whether you are a hard core fan of Shakespeare or a newcomer, this production has everything you could want. It's highly engaging, will have you rolling in the aisles with laughter and is full of energy. The concept is a work of genius, and has obviously been aimed at both kids and adults meaning that it is a real treat for the entire family and a great gateway into the works of Shakespeare.

This production is not to be missed and if you think you're not a fan of Shakespeare then think again! In fact I wished the show had been longer, and that's something you don't often hear from someone that has just watched a Shakespeare play!

A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM continues performances at Southwark Playhouse Borough until Saturday 27th September. Click here to check avaliability and book tickets.

Neill Kovacic-Clarke

All views are my own and I pride myself on being honest, fair and free from influence. Theatre is subjective and it is important to remember that all views expressed are just those of one reviewer.  

My ticket for this performance of A Midsummer Night's Dream was gifted by Southwark Playhouse who invited me to watch the show in exchange for my honest review. The fact that my ticket was gifted played no part in the content of my review or the star rating given. 

CAST LIST:

Martin Bassindale as Arthur; Daisy Ann Fletcher as Nancy; Fintan Hayeck as Robert; Lara Grace Ilori as Joan; Andy Umerah as Eric; Dewi Wykes as Cecil

RUNNING TIME (approx):

1 hour 20 minutes, with no interval