First Encounters with Shakespeare

The Tempest

William Shakespeare

This 80-minute version of The Tempest uses an edited version of the original play to create the perfect introduction for young people aged 7-13 and their families.

  • Running time:

    To be confirmed

A perfect storm brings a feuding family and a king together on a magical island.

When Prospero escaped Milan with his daughter years ago, the chance to return didn’t ever seem possible. Now ruler of a magical island, Prospero has his chance; as the King of Naples and Prospero’s estranged sibling Antonio sail close to the island. Will Prospero take revenge, or will all be forgiven and forgotten?

Following the success of last year’s Romeo and Juliet, the latest in our series of First Encounters with Shakespeare productions makes Shakespeare’s play about families, magic and forgiveness relevant for a new generation of theatregoers.

This 80-minute version of The Tempest uses an edited version of the original play to create the perfect introduction for young people aged 7-13 and their families.

The Tempest will tour theatres, schools and community venues from February to May 2025, and comes to The Other Place from 25-29 March. 

Creative Team

Director Aaron Parsons | Set and Costume Designer Aldo Vázquez | Composer and Sound Designer Jack Drewy | Dramaturg Olivia Poglio-Nwabali


Lottery Funded Arts Council England

The work of the RSC Creative, Learning and Engagement department is generously supported by Paul Hamlyn Foundation, Esmée Fairbairn Foundation, The Clore Duffield Foundation, Foyle Foundation, GRoW @ Annenberg, The Polonsky Foundation, The Thompson Family Charitable Trust, Halabi Thomaz Foundation, Stratford Town Trust, John S Cohen Foundation, HDH Wills 1965 Charitable Trust, Noël Coward Foundation, Teale Charitable Trust, The Grimmitt Trust, Sir James Knott Trust, The Oakley Charitable Trust and Misses Barrie Charitable Trust