The Dream is over

Eagerly-anticipated Shakespeare adaptation cancelled due to 'technical difficulties' following host of meetings on the theatre's production

- STEPHEN TOPPING

IT was billed as an 'electrifying adaptation' of a William Shakespeare classic. The Royal Exchange Theatre's production of A Midsummer Night's Dream was set in modern Manchester to a drum 'n' bass soundtrack.

Its director, award-winning Stef O'Driscoll, intended to celebrate the city's 'vibrant spirit' and rave scene through the production. But a string of problems meant audiences missed out on the first scheduled shows.

And following a turbulent time behind the scenes, the entire run of A Midsummer Night's Dream was dramatically axed yesterday, with ticketholders all set to be refunded. It had been one of the most eagerly anticipated shows in the city's autumn calendar.

Having been due to start last Friday, September 6, the production had been expected to run until Saturday, October 12. Yet there were problems from the beginning of that scheduled run.

The Manchester Evening News understands those who had tickets to the September 6 preview performance were told it had been cancelled hours before it was due to take place. The Royal Exchange Theatre confirmed the cancellation followed an injury suffered by a cast member, with no understudies available.

Manchester City Council, which is responsible for health and safety at theatres across the borough, has been approached for comment. Ticketholders were again left disappointed on Tuesday (September 10), when another email was sent hours before the performance was due to begin.