THE magic and mayhem of A Midsummer Night’s Dream is perfect for casting a spell on young imaginations.

And now children grab their first taste of Shakespeare thanks to an interactive adventure called The Dream Space at Northampton’s Royal & Derngate.

Ideal for ages five and up, the show has run twice a day for the last week and runs until Saturday (June 23).

Following the huge success of Flathampton, The Dream Space is directed by Royal & Derngate’s Associate Director Dani Parr, who has also been responsible for many of the theatre’s well-loved children’s shows including The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe, 101 Dalmatians, Wish Wash and Minibreak. War Horse puppeteer Finn Caldwell is the puppetry consultant for the show.

Designed for children and their families or school groups to enjoy, The Dream Space brings the illusion, magic and mystery of one of Shakespeare’s best loved and funniest plays to life.

With five actors, outstanding puppets, live music, a magical forest installation to explore and fairies to be found, this fun-filled performance plunges participants into an exciting and mystical world.

Royal & Derngate has teamed up with the internationally renowned Shakespeare’s Globe for the project.

The internationally acclaimed Globe says the session is a perfect introduction to the magic of Shakespeare for children, and performances have been specifically created for school audiences in the week and families at the weekend.

Rave reviews include the following from one parent: “”Having experienced Dream Space on Easter Monday with my children – what an outstanding and original way to bring Shakespeare to life for children.

“From start to finish the children and adults were completely transfixed by the interactive activities and the cast were brilliant at both acting out the story whilst also remaining flexible enough to involve the audience. Totally mind-blowing!

Taking place within Royal & Derngate’s Underground space, these performances run at 10am and 1pm on weekdays and 11am and 2pm on Saturdays.

Tickets are just £7.50, with a schools rate of £6.50 for weekday performances. Call the box office on 01604 624811 or visit www. royalandderngate.co.uk to book.