His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Edward, has today visited Prescot to formally open Shakespeare North Playhouse and take a tour of this new multi-million pound arts venue.
The Duke was welcomed to Shakespeare North Playhouse by Max Steinberg CBE DL, the Chair of the Shakespeare North Trust and playhouse Chief Executive, Melanie Lewis.
He also met local MP Marie Rimmer; Knowsley Council Leader, Cllr Graham Morgan; Chief Executive, Mike Harden; the Mayor and Mayoress of Knowsley; the High Sherriff of Merseyside, Dr Ruth Hussey; Lord and Lady Derby and Lady Anne Dodd.
The Duke chatted to some of the people who have been instrumental in the creation of this new cultural venue including members of the construction team, architects and project managers. He also met key members of the Shakespeare North Playhouse team and some of the creative professionals involved in the opening programme. A key highlight of his visit was meeting children from Alt Bridge School who are engaged in the educational offer available at theatre.
After his tour of the new building and cockpit theatre, HRH unveiled a commemorative plaque to mark the visit and the building’s official opening.
See their website here for show listings.