Knowsley’s historic connection to William Shakespeare, through the support he received from the Earls of Derby, sets the scene for the Shakespeare North Playhouse in Prescot.
The undeniably enchanting connections between Knowsley, Shakespeare and Elizabethan theatre provide an appealing historical connection to what will be a truly modern cultural and educational asset for the north of England.
At its core is a 350-seat theatre, modelled on the cockpit-in-court design popular during the Elizabethan era. Alongside the theatre will be an outdoor performance garden, exhibition and visitor centre and educational facilities.
The Playhouse will complete the UK’s Shakespearean triangle – London – Stratford-upon-Avon – Prescot – the project will harness the inexhaustible appeal of Shakespeare and his work, whilst providing an inclusive and high quality cultural, performance and educational facility.
This is a unique and distinctive project with the potential to transform the fortunes of a somewhat sleepy former market town and create a positive ripple effect that will stretch way beyond the immediate locality.
The Shakespeare North Playhouse will have the power to attract visitors from across the globe and present remarkable cultural programmes to new audiences and generations.