SALISBURY Playhouse is turning 50 and it is marking the milestone in unforgettable style, transforming the entire building into the world of Romeo and Juliet.
As part of Salisbury International Festival 2026, the theatre will become the Capulet mansion in a bold, immersive reimagining of Shakespeare’s classic.
This isn’t a sit-back-and-watch production – audiences will move through the Playhouse itself, from backstage corridors to outdoor spaces, stepping directly into the drama.
Opening on the night of the Capulet ball, the promenade performance invites theatregoers to don headphones and follow the action as it unfolds around them.
The foyer becomes a lavish ballroom, the city’s central car park is reimagined as a gritty youth hangout, and even the theatre balcony plays its part in bringing Verona to life.
Directed by Wiltshire Creative’s artistic director Gareth Machin, the production blends a professional cast with local talent, including Stage 65 Youth Theatre and around 100 community participants.
Up to 70 young people will take centre stage as the rival Montague and Capulet factions, placing youth voices firmly at the heart of the story.
Gareth said: “Working with the Young Ambassadors, we became acutely aware that they are living in a time where young people’s lives, across the world, are being impacted by conflict, which is at the heart of this story.
“Young people reclaiming spaces within the city is an important story because Salisbury is a city that is often perceived to have very little for young people and a place where older people’s needs are prioritised.
“A story about generational conflict feels pertinent, and our version of Romeo and Juliet reflects this, with the actions of the young people within the play offering some form of hope for the future and challenging the inevitability of situations.
“Hopefully, this production will both create opportunities for young people and also inspire future possibilities – we know how transformative these experiences can be for local people.”
Designer Zoe Squires’ initial staging mock-up for the foyer. (Picture: Wiltshire Creative)
The production, running from 24 to headlines a festival that will span venues across the city, showcasing more than 20 artists and companies.
Gareth added: “We want to create work for Salisbury International Festival that connects directly with our city, and that can only be seen here in Salisbury.
“Part of that uniqueness is our local community and the distinctive voice they bring to the offer. Creating world-class participatory opportunities is also part of our wider mission, enabled by our year-round offer and strong community links. Local ownership of flagship projects like this is vital.”
Important information: the production is suitable for age 12+, lasts approx. 2.5 hours, including an interval and involves around eight locations inside and outside of the Playhouse building, with some shorter scenes and some longer ones.
For more information and to book, visit https://www.wiltshirecreative.co.uk/events/romeo-and-juliet
When is this taking place please?