Shakespeare’s Women Tour
What happens when Shakespeare’s most iconic female characters meet in a world beyond their plays? That’s the question at the heart of Shakespeare’s Women, a witty, thought-provoking production that we at Commedia of Errors are so excited to bring to the stage for a second run!
Written by Commedia of Error’s own Co-Creative Clare McMahon and directed by our Artistic Director Benjamin Gould, this play blends modern comedy with classical verse, offering a fresh perspective on characters like Ophelia, Juliet, Cleopatra, and Portia. Trapped in purgatory, these women find themselves stuck, endlessly repeating the roles Shakespeare created for them. But when Juliet (Jules) and Ophelia (Fee) start questioning their fates, they set off on a journey of self-discovery—reenacting other Shakespearean women like Goneril and the shrew Katherina along the way. What follows is an exploration of love, power, and identity, with plenty of humour and heart.
We first staged Shakespeare’s Women with Clare McMahon as Juliet and Siobhan Kelly as Ophelia, and we’re thrilled to bring it back with a brand-new cast. This time, Calla Hughes takes on Juliet, bringing her signature energy and modern sensibilities, while Catherine Rees portrays Ophelia with wisdom and depth. Under the direction of Benjamin Gould, and with a fantastic creative team working behind the scenes, this production breathes new life into these beloved characters in a way that feels both fresh and timeless.
We can’t wait to open at the Grand Opera House Belfast before taking the show on tour across Ireland. Shakespeare’s Women is a celebration of storytelling, creativity, and the power of reimagining the past with fresh eyes. As a company, we’re passionate about creating bold, engaging theatre that challenges, entertains, and connects with audiences in new ways.
We’d love for you to join us on this journey! Come experience Shakespeare’s Women and see these timeless characters like never before. For show dates and tickets, follow us on social media.