Bell Shakespeare presents the first performance in new theatre space at Pier 2/3 at Walsh Bay Arts Precinct

Bell Shakespeare will present the first performance in their new theatre space The Neilson Nutshell at the newly redeveloped Pier 2/3 at Walsh Bay Arts Precinct from 22 – 24 April. Titled In A Nutshell, the acclaimed cast from the recently staged Hamlet will perform scenes and speeches from some of Bell Shakespeare Artistic Director Peter Evans’ favourite plays.

Offering a look into Peter Evans’ personal thoughts on Shakespeare as he offers his own commentary, the production features scenes showcasing the imagination and linguistic magic of Shakespeare. Evans will explore key themes from power to love and forgiveness across some of Shakespeare’s best-known plays, ultimately giving an intimate and inspiring look at humanity.

Peter Evans, Artistic Director of Bell Shakespeare:

More than 30 years after John Bell founded Bell Shakespeare, it is an incredible feeling to finally be in our permanent home and welcome the public into our brand-new theatre space, The Neilson Nutshell. This opening production is a perfect way to showcase how this space is ushering in a new era for us as a company, with the ability to stage new work and continue to explore Shakespeare’s enduring relevance.

The ensemble cast will skillfully switch between characters and scenes from a variety of plays, including Romeo and Juliet, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Twelfth Night, Macbeth, King Lear and As You Like It, bringing to life Shakespeare’s words. The cast includes Lucy Bell, Jeremi Campese, Eleni Cassimatis, Ray Chong Nee, Jack Crumlin, James Evans, Harriet Gordon-Anderson, Jane Mahady, Robert Menzies, Rose Riley and Jacob Warner.

A special performance will be staged on 21 April for Bell Shakespeare’s Hearts In A Row program, inviting volunteers and members from charity organisations to a free performance. For this production, Bell Shakespeare has invited frontline workers including NSW Nurses in appreciation of their work for the past two years of the pandemic, as well as organisations dealing with mental health, unemployment and poverty.

Season Details

Venue: The Neilson Nutshell
Date: 22 – 24 April 2022