The Duke of Edinburgh returned to Prescot earlier this week (Monday 6 October 2025) to attend a performance of Shakespeare’s The Tempest at the Shakespeare North Playhouse.
The visit comes a year and a half after the Duke formally opened the cultural landmark in May 2023. During that initial visit, His Royal Highness toured the building and met with local dignitaries, representatives from Knowsley Council, and children involved in the theatre’s learning programme.
This time, His Royal Highness experienced the Cockpit Theatre as an audience member, watching a Shakespeare North-produced performance of The Tempest. Following the show, The Duke met with the production’s cast and creative team.
The innovative staging of The Tempest is notable as the first co-production between the Shakespeare North Playhouse and The HandleBards. The collaboration has been highlighted for its commitment to “bold storytelling and sustainable practice.”
Cllr Graham Morgan, Leader of Knowsley Council commented: “I was delighted that The Duke of Edinburgh was able to officially open the Playhouse back in 2023 and that we could welcome him back to visit the theatre and enjoy a performance. Having the opportunity to experience a Shakespeare North-produced performance, like The Tempest, in the Cockpit Theatre is a true privilege.”
“It is particularly special for Knowsley to host such a visit and for us to be able to highlight this wonderful community asset and the transformative role the arts are playing in our borough.”
Max Steinberg CBE DL, Chair of Shakespeare North Trust added: “We were truly honoured to welcome His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh back to Shakespeare North Playhouse. To have him experience a performance in our Cockpit Theatre and witness the extraordinary talent of the cast of The Tempest, was a fantastic moment.”
“We are thrilled that His Royal Highness has now seen first-hand the continuing impact this venue is having on our communities and the thriving cultural life here in Prescot.”
His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh attended a performance of Shakespeare’s The Tempest at Shakespeare North Playhouse, Prescot. Picture with Lisa Allen, Chief Executive and Creative Director of Shakespeare North Playhouse.
His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh met the cast of The Tempest at Shakespeare North Playhouse, Prescot. L-R: Ross Foley, Princess Khumalo, Scott Brooks, Meredith Lewis, Lucy Green.
His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh meets guests at Shakespeare North Playhouse, Prescot
The critically-acclaimed production of The Tempest will continue its run at the Shakespeare North Playhouse until Saturday 25 October and you can book tickets on the Shakespeare North Playhouse website.