A Midsummer Night's Dream is one of Shakespeare's most magical – not to mention funniest – stories. Performed countless times since its inception, you might think you know everything there is about the tale of tangled lovers, fairies and magic, but the Royal Shakespeare Company (in addition to Manchester International
Festival, Marshmallow Laser Feast and Philharmonia Orchestra) has found a novel way of transforming the story for modern times.
Dream is an online, live performance in which the audience can directly influence the story. Inspired by A Midsummer Night's Dream, the show uses cutting-edge technology in both the gaming and theatre industries to allow viewers to affect the performance from wherever they might be (Dream can be watched all around the world so long as you've got an internet connection).
The performance is set in a virtual magical forest where you'll find the mischievous Puck, who serves as your guide. As you (virtually) wander through the forest as a firefly, you'll encounter familiar characters like Cobweb, Mustardseed, Peaseblossom and Moth as you try and restore the forest before dawn. It's part theatre, part game and takes 50 minutes in total.
Dream is free to watch if you just want to watch the performance unfold without interacting, but if you do want to get involved you'll need to purchase a ticket. Sales start March 8, with performances scheduled at various times to account for global viewers.
