A modern version of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, which was to be shown at the Royal Exchange in Manchester, was cancelled after director Stef O’Driscoll feuded with theatre bosses over references to Palestine and trans rights.
While theatre bosses said the first few performances were cancelled due to a cast injury and a ‘technical issue’, the real reason for the cancellation was that theatre bosses objected to a song in the production which referred to trans rights and the phrase ‘Free Palestine’.
It has been reported that theatre management wanted the section to be removed, but O’Driscoll reportedly insisted it remain, an opinion that was supported by her cast.
A source said: ‘They did the first preview, at which point the theatre said they are going to have to cut the reference to trans rights and free Palestine.
‘The director said – no, this is my direction, it’s what it’s always been, we’ve had weeks and months and you are now trying to change it after the first preview. The company were very solid and unified.’
A source close to the production added: ‘This is a big deal for them. They’ve been through the wars financially, through Covid. I know people that are directly involved. They are really devastated about it.’
Stars who were due to perform in the five-week run have since taken to social media to express their grief at the cancellation.
BBC star Alicia Forde, who was set to play Lysander, said in an Instagram story: ‘Much love for the messages about the cancellation of our show A Midsummer Night’s Dream at the Royal Exchange.
‘Not ignoring you I promise, just taking some time… big love to the cast and crew, it was a special one x.’
