A Midsummer Night's Dream

William Shakespeare

8 – 29 August 2025
Bath Abbey, Bath

When a handful of humans stumble into the magical realm of the fairies, the stage is set for a night of comical confusion in the moonlit woods. Can true love – and a little bit of magic – conjure up a happy ending before sunrise?

This summer, step into the enchanting world of A Midsummer Night’s Dream as Bath Abbey transforms into a mystical woodland for a breathtaking promenade production.

Following last year’s acclaimed Romeo and Juliet, Antic Disposition returns to bring Shakespeare’s most magical comedy to life in this awe-inspiring setting.

Wander beneath the Abbey’s soaring arches, reimagined as a shimmering forest canopy, and journey through its hidden corners as fairies scheme, lovers quarrel and mischief unfolds in an unforgettable theatrical experience.

Directed by Peter Brook Award-winning Ben Horslen and John Risebero, the production marks Antic Disposition’s 20th anniversary, celebrating two decades of bold, immersive storytelling in extraordinary spaces.

This is a promenade production, during which you remain standing and follow the action around the building. Find out more below in our Frequently Asked Questions.

Interior of Bath Abbey
Interior of Bath Abbey
The company of Antic Disposition's A Christmas Carol, Middle Temple HallThe company of Antic Disposition's A Christmas Carol, Middle Temple HallDavid Burt (Scrooge) in Antic Disposition's A Christmas Carol, Middle Temple HallChris Courtenay (Jacob Marley) in Antic Disposition's A Christmas Carol, Middle Temple HallKatie Lovell and David Burt in Antic Disposition's A Christmas Carol, Middle Temple HallThe company of Antic Disposition's A Christmas Carol, Middle Temple HallThe company of Antic Disposition's A Christmas Carol, Middle Temple HallNigel Richards (Ghost of Christmas Present) in Antic Disposition's A Christmas Carol, Middle Temple HallThe company of Antic Disposition's A Christmas Carol, Middle Temple HallGeri Allen and Nigel Richards in Antic Disposition's A Christmas Carol, Middle Temple HallThe company of Antic Disposition's A Christmas Carol, Middle Temple HallDavid Burt (Scrooge) and Matt Whipps in Antic Disposition's A Christmas Carol, Middle Temple Hall
★★★★★
“A magical show. Unmissable!”
★★★★★
“A theatrical festive treat”
★★★★★
“A night of perfect Christmas entertainment”
★★★★★
“Captivating”
★★★★★
“A treat to watch”
★★★★★
“An unforgettable experience”
Performances

Friday 8 – Friday 29 August 2025

Monday to Saturday at 7.45pm
No performances on Sundays

Running time
About 2 hours including one interval


Ticket Prices
EARLY BIRD – Book by 31 March
Standard
£40
Under 18
£30
ADVANCE – Book by 31 July
Standard
£45
Under 18
£35
STANDARD – From 1 August
Standard
£50
Under 18
£40
Age Suitability
The production is suitable for children aged 10+


Groups

10% discount  for groups of 10+
20% discount for groups of 20+
To book, email groups@anticdisposition.co.uk


Access

For access bookings, email info@anticdisposition.co.uk

Book Tickets

Tuesday 11 March at 9am
‍Tickets on sale to AD Friends
Join the AD Friends

Saturday 15 March
at 9am
‍Tickets on general sale



Box Office
No booking fee

0333 666 3366
TicketSource
Mon-Fri 9am-7pm / Sat 9am-5pm

Venue

Bath Abbey
Abbey Churchyard
Bath
BA1 1LT

Doors and Refreshments
Doors, the box office and the bar – serving a selection of wines, beers, soft drinks and snacks – will open 30 minutes before each performance.
Frequently Asked Questions

What is a promenade performance?

A promenade performance means you'll be on your feet, moving through the space as the action unfolds around you. Our friendly ushers will guide you, making sure you don’t miss a thing. The show is in two halves, each about 50 minutes long, with a 20-minute interval where you can take a break and grab a seat.

Will there be any seating during the show?

For the most part, you'll need to stay on your feet to fully experience the performance. However, there are some stone benches along the walls of the Abbey where you’re welcome to rest if needed – just keep in mind that you might not always have a clear view or be able to hear everything from there.

Can I bring my own folding chair?

Sorry, no folding chairs – but shooting sticks are allowed if you need a little extra support!

Is the show suitable for children?

We recommend it for ages 10 and up. Anyone under 18 must be accompanied and supervised by an adult throughout the performance.

Is the Abbey wheelchair accessible?

Yes! The entire performance takes place on one level, and there’s an accessible toilet available. We can accommodate one wheelchair user per show – you can book this ticket online with a special code. Please email us at info@anticdisposition.co.uk for more information.

How long is the show?

The total running time is about 2 hours, including a 20-minute interval.

Is there any audience participation?

Nope! There’s no audience participation – so you can just relax and enjoy the experience.

Book Tickets

Tuesday 11 March at 9am
‍Tickets on sale to AD Friends
Join the AD Friends

Saturday 15 March
at 9am
‍Tickets on general sale



Box Office
No booking fee

0333 666 3366
TicketSource
Mon-Fri 9am-7pm / Sat 9am-5pm

Cast and Creatives
Isabella Ainslie – JulietEd Browning – Friar LaurenceBen Callon – Mercutio / ParisClare Corbett – Prince / Lady CapuletJanet Cost-Chretien – NurseGlyn Dilley – Montague / ApothecaryJesse Dunbar – BenvolioStanley Kayley – RomeoTheo Spofforth – Tybalt / Friar JohnTim Wells – Capulet
Directors
Ben Horslen
John Risebero

Designer
John Risebero
Associate Costume Designer
Hanna Wilkinson
Composer
James Burrows
Fight Director
Maisie Carter
Technical Stage Manager
Lenny Colton