What are we looking for? 

There are five performance slots available from 1-5pm. These will be allocated during the selection process to give a variety of scenes throughout the afternoon.  

We are looking for an extract from or inspired by Shakespeare’s plays that:

• is suitable for a family audience. 
• is a maximum of 30 minutes. 
• is suitable for an outdoor space. 
• is fun, celebratory and inclusive.
• is performed by a group from within an hour’s drive time of Stratford-upon-Avon town centre.  

About the Space: 

• Shows are free for audiences to watch, with no booking required.
• The activity must be suitable for all ages to attend. 
• Dimensions of the performance space will be confirmed shortly. The area will be accessible and on level ground on grass, not on a ‘stage’. 
• No technical support available including amplification or lighting. 
• A Bluetooth speaker is available but must be operated by your group and kept within an ‘acoustic’ instrument volume. 
• Handheld props only, no set or large props.
• The performance is outside with no cover, a space will be provided for groups to leave belongings, but groups should arrive in costume/ ready to perform. 

The Programme:

The programme will open with aerial puppets, flown by members of Stratford Youth Theatre in the town parade and into the gardens. The first performance will be Seasons of Shakespeare, a piece created by four primary schools from Stratford-upon-Avon, featuring scenes depicted in colourful banners they have created for the town’s parade. These will serve as the backdrop for the performances, in the gardens. There will be no ‘stage’, but a clearly marked out area for you to perform, with blankets and cushions provided for the audience.  

12pm - A short performance of aerial puppets by Stratford Youth Theatre 

12.15pm – Seasons of Shakespeare:  

Spring: As You Like It by Bridgetown Primary School 

Summer: A Midsummer Night’s Dream by Shottery Primary School 

Autumn: Much Ado About Nothing by Bishopton Primary School 

Winter: The Winter’s Tale by Stratford Primary School 

Further Information:

The RSC will promote the community stage as part of the overall Shakespeare Birthday Celebrations taking place on 26 April 2025. Performing groups will be required to have their own Safeguarding Policies and will also be required to agree to the RSC Safeguarding Policy. Groups must provide a full risk assessment for their activity/ event. While we will do our best to ensure all activity/ events will take place, the space is outdoors and therefore could be cancelled due to in-climate weather. Unfortunately, no alternative venue is available. This is a voluntary opportunity, and therefore there is no fee or expenses paid to take part. However, if this presents a significant barrier to attend, please contact learning@rsc.org.uk 

Application Process:

To apply, please complete the online application form, using the link below. We want to know what makes this opportunity exciting for you and your group, what are your group’s aim by taking part and what do you want your audience to take away with them. 

Applications close on Friday 14 March at 9am. 
Successful applicants will be notified by Friday 21 March.