A Midsummer return: Shakespeare comes back to Cambridge Riverside in 2027

If you were part of the magic of Twelfth Night in 2024, you’ll remember just how special those summer afternoons were. Thanks to the vision of our neighbour Gill Gallant and director/honorary Riversider Michael Dray, Midsummer Theatre Company transformed our amphitheatre into a place of laughter, music and community, creating memories that many of us still treasure today.

Now, we’re thrilled to share some exciting news: Midsummer Theatre Company is planning a return to Cambridge Riverside in 2027 with a brand-new adaptation of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet.

The Company is proposing two performances in our Midsummer Lawn amphitheatre over the weekend of 3–4 July 2027, and once again this promises to be far more than simply a play. As with Twelfth Night, the production will be a true community effort, with opportunities for residents to get involved in everything from costume-making, stage management and publicity to fundraising and children participating in the musical and dramatic elements of the performances.

There are also exciting conversations under way with Nicky Shepard and Abbey People, exploring ways to bring the production beyond Riverside and into the wider Barnwell community. Nicky joined our recent A Million Acts of Hope event, and we’re continuing to explore ways to support Abbey People’s fantastic work. Ideas include a special charity performance of the play at their new community space, The Nest, on 2 July 2027 and opportunities for young people from local youth groups to take part.

For many of us, Twelfth Night brought neighbours together in unexpected and wonderful ways. We have every reason to believe that Romeo and Juliet can do the same—and we hope as many people as possible will be part of making it happen.

Join us this Saturday for a sneak preview

Want to hear more?

We’re delighted that Michael Dray will be joining us at the conclusion of our Summer Jazz Afternoon on Saturday 27 June to share a preview of the Company’s plans. He’ll be talking about his vision for Romeo and Juliet, giving us a taste of what’s to come and inviting residents and friends to lend their support to what promises to be another unforgettable community production.

Whether you dream of helping backstage or simply enjoying the performances from the audience, this is a wonderful opportunity to find out more and become part of the journey from the very beginning.

Come along at 4 pm to enjoy the music (4.30 pm to 5.30 pm) and stay for a glimpse of the magic that could be returning to Riverside in 2027. We can’t wait to see what unfolds.

If you would like to register your interest or find out more, please get in touch with Gill and Simon Gallant at sigal2012@gmail.com.