Prime Theatre Brings Shakespeare to Swindon.
Prime Youth Theatre will stage a fresh adaptation of Shakespeare’s The Tempest. They’re bringing a new spin to one of the playwright’s most captivating stories.
Thursday 21 – Saturday 23 January 2027, all performances 7pm
Adapted and directed by Marnie Forbes Eldridge, the production will bring one of Shakespeare’s best-known plays to life through an imaginative version. One that explores magic, nature, reconciliation, and hope.
The setting
Set on an enchanted island, The Tempest tells the story of Prospero, whose desire for revenge leads to unexpected encounters and the possibility of forgiveness. The production will combine Shakespeare’s storytelling with the energy and creativity of Prime Youth Theatre’s performers. Thus offering audiences of all ages the opportunity to experience the play in a new way.
While The Tempest is often studied in schools, experiencing the story on stage offers a unique way to connect with its characters, language, and themes. Through this hour-long adaptation, Prime will bring Shakespeare’s work to life. Thus showing that his stories remain relevant, entertaining, and full of imagination.
Marnie Forbes Eldridge, director of The Tempest, said:
‘Shakespeare can sometimes feel inaccessible. But this production is a wonderful opportunity to bring his words to life in an exciting and accessible way that audiences of all ages can enjoy. Our version of The Tempest celebrates the magic of the British Isles, with an enchanted island, the forces of nature and themes of reconciliation and hope at its heart. We want audiences to experience the beauty and fun of Shakespeare’s storytelling, and to see that his work is for everyone.
‘It’s also a fantastic opportunity for our Prime Youth Theatre members to get involved in every aspect of the production. Alongside performing on stage, our young people will be taking on backstage roles, including lighting and sound. They’ll develop their creative and technical skills as part of a shared theatrical experience.’
Zach, 11, who plays Sebastian in the production, said:
‘I’m enjoying being a part of The Tempest. It’s my first production outside of school and it’s exciting to be performing in a proper theatre space to an audience. It’s a dramatic play with really such interesting characters that I’m sure people will enjoy.’
Prime Theatre has been creating theatre with and for young people in Swindon and beyond since 1986. Through Prime Youth Theatre, young people aged 11–18 can:
- develop their performance skills
- explore their creativity
- and gain experience of the many different roles involved in producing theatre, both on stage and behind the scenes.
When and where
Prime Theatre invites audiences to join them at MECA in January 2027 for an hour of Shakespearean storytelling, magic, and theatrical adventure, celebrating the talents of Swindon’s young performers.
MECA, Regent Circus, Swindon SN1 1PR
Booking Link: https://www.primetheatre.co.uk/productions/4620-2/
About Prime Theatre
Prime Theatre is Swindon’s only professional theatre company for young people, founded in 1986. It has toured theatre productions for children, families and young adults across the UK. It’s supported by Arts Council England as a National Portfolio Organisation, as well as Swindon Borough Council to deliver opportunities for young people.
Prime Theatre is also the organiser of Signal Festival, now in its third year. It’s based at the Wyvern Theatre in Swindon
About Prime Youth Theatre
Prime Youth Theatre allows young people to explore and develop their creative talent, with weekly, professionally-led acting workshops. And the opportunity to take part in theatre productions, radio plays and other activities.
Professionally led, fun-filled workshops include all levels of drama exercises and theatre training and take place in the Wyvern Theatre’s professional studio. Prime Youth Theatre members:
- make friends
- build confidence
- nurture their imagination and develop performance skills.
Instagram: @primetheatre
Twitter @PrimeTheatreUK
Facebook @primetheatre – https://www.facebook.com/primetheatre
Prime Theatre Brings Shakespeare to Swindon
