Stafford Festival Shakespeare announces 2019 show and director

Oliver O'Shea will direct the bard's classic show The Merchant of Venice for the festival that comes to Stafford Castle from June 27 to July 13.

Oliver is a freelance theatre director based in Yorkshire, who has worked across the country on a range of projects, including outdoor performances.

Speaking about the appointment, Oliver said he is delighted to be joining Stafford Festival Shakespeare/

"Performed in the grounds of the atmospheric Stafford Castle, this annual event is a wonderful opportunity to experience Shakespeare in the open-air and the perfect way to begin enjoying the summer," he adds.

"Preparation is already well under way, and I have been working closely with Stafford's experienced team to bring this epic production to life."

In this new interpretation, Shakespeare's masterpiece is transported to 1950s New York, a city where communities are divided by wealth and religion. Featuring the iconic figure of Shylock, one of Shakespeare's most complex characters, The Merchant of Venice is a story of money, love, and prejudice.

Richard Goodman, producer and production manager, said, "This is the first time The Merchant of Venice has been presented here during the festival's 29 year history, giving the local community a chance to experience this play in Stafford.

"We are also improving the overall offer by investing in better facilities for our audiences upon arrival and during the interval."

"Although we are hoping for glorious sunshine like last summer, the audience will be sheltered under cover as usual, to protect them from any unseasonal weather."

Tickets are available now via the Stafford Gatehouse Theatre Box Office. Tickets can be booked by calling the Box Office on 01785 619080 or by visiting www.staffordgatehousetheatre.co.uk