Swindon Theatres is set to offer an exciting opportunity for aspiring performers this autumn with the launch of a brand new project, ‘Play in a Week’. The initiative invites anyone aged 16 and over to take part in a whirlwind theatrical experience, culminating in a performance of Shakespeare’s beloved comedy A Midsummer Night’s Dream.
Guided by a professional director, participants will rehearse and perform the entire play in just one week, gaining hands-on experience in every aspect of theatre production. From acting and stagecraft to rehearsal processes and performance techniques, this unique project provides an all-encompassing insight into the magic of theatre.
Oli Webb, Creative Learning Manager at Swindon Theatres, shared his excitement about the project: “We’re thrilled to bring the magic of Shakespeare to life in just seven days with A Midsummer Night’s Dream. A new project like this is always great to start, and following the success of the Summer Youth Project, we want to continue offering excellent experiences for performers of all ages in Swindon. This project is a celebration of creativity, collaboration, and community spirit. Audiences can expect a fresh, fast-paced take on a timeless classic, with live music and plenty of laughter—proof that a lot can happen in a midsummer week!”
Auditions for the project will take place on Sunday 25th May at Swindon Arts Centre, with rehearsals running from Sunday 26th October to Saturday 1st November. The project will culminate in three live performances at the Arts Centre, where participants will showcase their hard work and creativity.
Whether you’re a seasoned performer or new to the stage, this is an ideal chance to immerse yourself in the world of theatre and be part of an unforgettable production. Applications are now open, and those interested can apply via the Swindon Theatres website here.














