A five-week run of A Midsummer Night’s Dream at a major Manchester theatre was cancelled after the director bitterly feuded with theatre bosses over references to Palestine and trans rights.
The Royal Exchange Theatre, which sits in the heart of the city, was due to run a modern version of the Shakespeare classic set in contemporary Manchester with a drum and bass soundtrack. It was directed by Stef O’Driscoll, known for her work in London’s Royal Court Theatre.
Theatre bosses cancelled the first few performances, which were due to start on September 6, citing a cast injury and a ‘technical issue.’
But the real reason for the cancellation was that theatre bosses objected to a song in the production which referred to trans rights and the phrase ‘Free Palestine’, Manchester Evening News revealed.
The outlet reported that theatre management wanted the section to be removed, but O’Driscoll reportedly insisted it remain, an opinion that was supported by her cast.
The Royal Exchange Theatre (pictured) was due to run a modern version of the Shakespeare classic set in contemporary Manchester
The version of the classic Shakespeare play was directed by Stef O’Driscoll, known for her work in London ‘s Royal Court Theatre
A source told MEN: ‘They did the first preview, at which point the theatre said they are going to have to cut the reference to trans rights and free Palestine.
‘The director said – no, this is my direction, it’s what it’s always been, we’ve had weeks and months and you are now trying to change it after the first preview. The company were very solid and unified.’
A meeting between the cast, director and upper management took place last Wednesday, where disagreements were supposed to be worked through.
But a source told the paper that the row could not be resolved.
‘Wednesday was meant to be press night, by which point you would expect enthusiasm from people on social media – nothing at all. On Wednesday the cast were called in for a meeting at 11am to resolve it, they couldn’t’, they said.
‘At the weekend they couldn’t agree, the director had walked, so they cancelled it.’
A source close to the production added: ‘This is a big deal for them. They’ve been through the wars financially, through Covid. I know people that are directly involved. They are really devastated about it.’
Ticketholders were told on Saturday that the entire run was cancelled, and that they would be refunded.
Stars who were due to perform in the five-week run have since taken to social media to express their grief at the cancellation.
BBC star Alicia Forde, who was set to play Lysander, said in an Instagram story: ‘Much love for the messages about the cancellation of our show A Midsummer Night’s Dream at the Royal Exchange.
‘Not ignoring you I promise, just taking some time… big love to the cast and crew, it was a special one x.’
Manchester musician Salo, who was set to play the Moon in the production, said on Instagram: ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream has been cancelled. Apologies to everyone that was so excited to see this theatre production.
‘The work I put into this was huge and I’m f****** gutted for myself and everyone involved. Don’t wanna talk about it too much as I’m emotionally drained but will answer any questions about it at a later date. Just need some time to process.’
Equity, the acting union, said that the cast and crew were still being paid for the full run.
A spokesperson told MEN: ‘ We are supporting members in dealing with the impact of this cancellation on their wellbeing and future relationships with the venue.
‘Whilst we’re pleased that the workforce will not be out of pocket, the issues that have led to the cancellation of the production require further discussion with Manchester Royal Exchange.
‘Equity has today contacted the theatre requesting an urgent meeting to discuss the reasons for cancellation, the impact on our members and the steps being taken now. We remain very concerned about this situation and its impact on our members.’
MailOnline has contacted the Royal Exchange Theatre and representatives for Stef O’Driscoll for comment.
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