Shakespeare North is a project of international significance that is firmly embedded in the local community. Performance, storytelling, learning, having a go and hanging out is stimulated and inspired by a recreated historic theatre which can transform to a contemporary space. The main auditorium is supported by a studio theatre, dramatic performance garden, public piazza, learning space and foyers with café and bar.

The theatre takes its place on the international stage alongside other replica Shakespearian theatres including The Globe and Sam Wanamaker in London, and the Gdansk Shakespeare Theatre.

Located within the Conservation Area, at the heart of the town centre in Prescot, it celebrates a unique late sixteenth century theatre that once stood in the town, and theatre patronage by the Earls of Derby of Knowsley Hall during Shakespeare’s lifetime, in particular by Lord Strange.

The new theatre recreates over 100 years of very early theatre building history, beginning with Henry VIII’s Cockpit in London of 1529-32 and culminating in the conversion to the Cockpit in Court theatre designed by Inigo Jones for Whitehall Palace, completed in 1629.

…the playhouse takes your breath away as you enter… Richard Morrison – The Times

…there’s something powerful about the wooden O at the centre, with the intimacy and intensity of the galleries looking down on the stage… Rowan Moore – The Observer

I am proud to lead this Council in bringing such rich cultural and educational experiences to our residents and the wider community. It is a really exciting time for Prescot, Knowsley and the Liverpool City Region. Cllr Andy Moorhead – Leader of Knowsley Council