The Merry Wives of Windsor

Summer Shakespeare Returns to the St Kilda Botanical Gardens

Melbourne Shakespeare Company proudly returned to the St Kilda Botanical Gardens on December 2nd with their brand new hilarious musical adaptation of Shakespeare’s The Merry Wives of Windsor.

If the backdrop of the setting sun and a delicious home-packed picnic amongst the beautiful surroundings of the Rose Garden are not enough, audiences are also treated to a truly unique theatre experience to kick-off their Melbourne summer.

“There is nothing more idyllic than getting your summer Shakespeare fix whilst sitting amongst the roses at the St Kilda Botanical Gardens,” explained Artistic Director, Jennifer Sarah Dean (Moulin Rouge! The Musical). “By setting The Merry Wives of Windsor there, we are allowing audiences to be completely immersed in the world of the play whilst celebrating the natural beauty all around us. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience!”

The perfectly plotted farcical masterpiece is filled with boundless energy, slapstick comedy, beautiful choreography, and contemporary live musical medleys, suitable for people of all ages. It is testament to the exceptional quality of work produced by the young, independent, Melbourne Shakespeare Company. Directed by Emma Austin (Telling Tales) and Kate Weston (Heathers), it features some of Australia’s finest actors including Elle Sejean-Allen (The Mikado), Ellis Dolan (School of Rock), and Chris Broadstock (Hamlet).

Emma and Kate’s love for telling stories and empowering people shines through as The Merry Wives of Windsor addresses some of Shakespeare’s more challenging ideas. This dynamic new reimagining of the classic play looks at gender politics in suburbia, celebrates the wisdom and strength of women and pokes fun at the men who think they know better. Reading the play, the two directors were struck by the thought, “gee whizz, this is all sounding a little too familiar,” and knew that 2022 would be a perfect time to tell this story.

The 90-minute musical adventure of The Merry Wives of Windsor will take you on a whirlwind journey of chaos, confusion and above all, comedy. It runs until December 24th and shouldn’t be missed.

The Merry Wives of Windsor
St Kilda Botanical Gardens
December 2 – 24th
Tickets available now