An amateur group with professional standardS
Welcome to Derby Shakespeare Theatre Company. Established in 1908 we are one of the oldest amateur theatre companies in the UK, proudly producing the works of William Shakespeare for our Derby audience. Amongst our backcatalogue you’ll find all of the Bard’s great works which we have interpreted in many different ways, both modern and traditional. Occasionally we also produce plays by other writers, you’ll see that our repetoire has also included plays by Christopher Marlowe, Alan Bennett and Oscar Wilde as well as less classical works such as Shakers:Restirred and ‘Allo, ‘Allo. We are a fun and welcoming group who are always looking for new members. If you fancy getting involved, acting or in a backstage role, or if you’d like to come and watch a rehearsal to see what it’s all about, please get in touch. We’re sure have the kettle on!
COMING SOON
LOVE’S LABOUR’S LOST
Directed by Leni Robson
Set in the vibrant world of a music conservatory, Love's Labour's Lost tells the story of youthful ambition, romantic misadventures, and the irresistible pull of music and love. The King of Navarre and his three closest friends, idealistic and driven students at a prestigious music college, make a pact to dedicate themselves entirely to their art. For three years, they vow to shun distractions—including women—in pursuit of musical greatness.
Their resolve is soon tested when the Princess of France arrives with her band, an effortlessly cool and dynamic group of performers. Each member of the Princess's entourage captivates one of the King’s friends, sparking a series of flirtations, misunderstandings, and witty banter.
Love’s Labour’s Lost will be performed at Elvaston Castle from 16th – 19th July 2025
‘Seasons Change’ by Princess And Her Train.
Music by B. Haynes, lyrics by Haynes, Robson and Shakespeare. Click the button to download the song!
PRESENT LAUGHTER
Directed by James Dean
Garry Essendine is the star of the London theatrical scene at the height of his fame and adored by legions of admirers--perhaps a little too much. Fans regularly throw themselves at Garry’s feet, drawn in by his charm and charisma, throwing his household into chaos. In the week before Garry is set to embark on an African tour, he is forced to juggle a besotted young woman with stars in her eyes, an unhinged young playwright obsessed with being in Garry’s presence, his best friend’s wife who is determined to seduce him, his manager, his producer, his secretary, his estranged ex-wife, and an impending mid-life crisis as his 40th birthday looms ever closer.
Present Laughter will be performed at Repton 400 Hall Theatre from 29th October 2025 - 1st November 2025
Auditions will take place on Saturday 17th May from 2:30pm, Tuesday 20th May from 7:30pm and Thursday 22nd May from 7:30pm at Shakespeare House. Audition pieces will be provided at the auditions and the house will be open an hour before to allow time to look over them, or feel free to prepare your own audition pieces from the play.
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We're always looking for new members so whether you'd like to perform with us, help out behind the scenes or support us as a Friend or Sponsor we'd love to hear from you.