The Castle Players invite you to experience the heartwarming tale of love, theatre, and passion in Shakespeare in Love! Join us from July 1st to July 5th, 2025, as we perform in five stunning open-air venues across County Durham, including the majestic Raby Castle.

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Based on the Oscar®-winning film, Shakespeare in Love follows young Will Shakespeare, a penniless playwright struggling with writer’s block. In debt to theatre owner Philip Henslowe, Will must produce a new comedy, “Romeo and Ethel the Pirate’s Daughter.” But everything changes when he meets the daring Viola de Lesseps, a noblewoman with a secret passion for acting. Disguised as a man, Viola auditions for Will’s play, and what follows is a whirlwind romance that inspires the legendary love story, Romeo and Juliet.

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Expect sword fights, mistaken identities, forbidden love, and plenty of laughs in this enchanting celebration of theatre. Our outdoor performances provide the perfect backdrop to bring Shakespeare’s world to life, blending historical accuracy with imaginative flair. Don’t miss this chance to see one of the greatest romantic comedies ever staged!

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