Out in the wood Oberon and Tytania, the powerful Fairy King and Queen, are locked in a dispute so fierce it’s causing climate catastrophe.

In nearby Athens live two young women, best friends, one loved by two men, the other by none. When these four escape the harsh restrictions of the city for the freedom of the wood it’s their relationships that hurtle towards catastrophe. By contrast, Bottom the weaver – keenest of amateur actors – is always sure of himself, even when he’s been made an ass of.

Britten found themes close to his heart in Shakespeare’s beloved comedy – night, dreams, the supernatural – inspiring music that is tuneful, witty and utterly beguiling. Martin Duncan’s production is joyously theatrical, conjuring a heady, intoxicated atmosphere where love is definitely the drug.

“How exhilarating to hear an audience convulsed with laughter in an opera house”
★★★★ — The Times

“Wonderfully funny… about as good as it gets”
★★★★ — The Guardian

“Full of wit and wonder”
★★★★★ — The Arts Desk