Returning this summer, Peter Quince Presents: Shakespeare’s Best Bits is taking the Bard off the school syllabus and letting his funniest characters run loose in the Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Gardens from 20 December 2025 – 17 January 2026.
Reviewed as “better than ice-cream” by an anonymous 10-year-old, this Green Room Award nominated production, led by the revered thespian Peter Quince (the carpenter), sees the Athenaeum Players – Athens’ premium troupe at the time (1595) unleash their highly polished zingers as they embark on a frantic quest to earn their right to perform at the duke’s wedding.
Joining Quince are his mischievous “Mechanicals” – Snug, Nick Bottom, Francis Flute, Tom Snout and Robin Starveling. Their inspiration? None other than William Shakespeare himself – and his collection of classic plays.
From star-crossed lovers and shipwrecks to swordfights and soliloquies, this production pulls together highlights from half a dozen of the Elizabethan master’s most famous works in a fast-paced, inventive montage of mistaken identities, slapstick and theatrical mayhem.
Along the way, audiences will encounter Hamlet as the MasterChef of Denmark, the Much Ado About Nothing boot scoot, King Lear in a hip-hop battle, an interpretive ballet rendition of Romeo & Juliet, and a musical version of Antony and Cleopatra – featuring Johnny Cash and an inflatable snake.
“Peter Quince Presents: Shakespeare’s Best Bits is Shakespeare unshackled – fast, funny and full of surprises. If you loved The Mechanicals in A Midsummer Night’s Dream, this production is perfect for anyone who enjoys very funny theatre – whether a seasoned theatregoer or a first-time visitor,” said Artistic Director Glenn Elston OAM.
“Pantaloon-meets-Python slapstick, song, dance and parodies. This dream analysis is loads of fun.” – The Age
Peter Quince Presents: Shakespeare’s Best Bits
Royal Botanic Gardens, Southern Cross Lawn (enter through Observatory Gate on Birdwood Avenue)
Season: 20 December 2025 – 17 January 2026
Information and Bookings: www.shakespeareaustralia.com.au
Image: The Cast of Peter Quince Presents: Shakespeare’s Best Bits (supplied)