FORGET sitting quietly in a theatre seat as audiences at Salisbury Playhouse are about to step right into the middle of Romeo and Juliet.

The Playhouse is being transformed into the Capulet Mansion for an ambitious new take on Shakespeare’s tragic love story as part of Salisbury International Arts Festival 2026.

Directed by Wiltshire Creative artistic director Gareth Machin, the immersive production opens on Sunday, May 24, and runs until June 7, marking 50 years of Salisbury Playhouse.

Wiltshire Creative Romeo and Juliet initial foyer design by Zoe Squire.

This is not a traditional Shakespeare production.

Audience members will wear headphones and move through the Playhouse building and surrounding spaces as the story unfolds around them.

The theatre’s balcony will become Juliet’s famous balcony, backstage areas will be opened to the public, and Salisbury’s central car park will be transformed into a youth hangout inspired by Verona’s rival gangs.

The large-scale production will feature a professional cast of ten, alongside Stage 65 Youth Theatre and 100 community performers from across Salisbury.

Wiltshire Creative Romeo and Juliet cast from left Will Fletcher (Romeo), Benjamin Lafayette (Benvolio) and Will Jennings (Mercutio). (Picture: Rudy Visuals)

Parkour sequences, vehicles and a specially commissioned soundtrack are also set to ramp up the drama.

“We want to create work for Salisbury International Arts Festival that connects directly with our city, and that can only be seen here in Salisbury,” said Gareth.

“Part of that uniqueness is our local community and the distinctive voice they bring to the offer.”

For many involved, the production is a chance to step into a professional theatre environment.

Community cast member Isabel said: “I can’t wait… it’s amazing that we have this opportunity to participate, to get this exposure to a professional theatre environment.”

The show also marks a homecoming for Emilia Williams, a former Stage 65 Youth Theatre member, who returns to the Playhouse to take on the role of Lady Capulet.

The production forms part of Salisbury International Arts Festival, which runs until June 27.