Such stuff as dreams are made on can be seen next week in a new adaptation of one of the Bard's most popular plays, A Midsummer Night's Dream.

Swindon's Gatecrash Theatre is presenting its annual Yearn and Learn production at the Arts Centre under the direction of Anna Friend.

The story is based around four lovers, a wedding and whole gang of fairies who cavort with mischief and magic in the woods.

The lovers are thwarted by parental control and unrequited love until the mischievous Puck takes a hand at his master, the king of the fairies', bidding.

Love potions administered willy nilly cause chaos until the morning throws light on their revels and order is restored.

Gatehouse Theatre offers both training and professional openings for actors, writers and directors. Gatecrash is the resident company at New College so also offers courses for performing arts students.

Anna is well known around Swindon for her involvement in productions such as the Wroughton Passion Play, and she is artistic director of Quirky Bird Theatre.

She has also worked on music videos for artist such as Eric Clapton and All Saints.

Laura James from the theatre said: "Gatecrash will bring the usual blend of grit and wonder to the Arts Centre giving Shakespeare like you have never seen it.''

The Saturday matinee is family friendly and aimed at bringing Shakespeare to young ones of all ages. "Children are welcome to wriggle and roam as needed,'' said Laura.

A Midsummer Night's Dream, runs from Thursday, July 27 to Sunday July 30 and tickets are £12 from 01793 524481 or visit www.swindontheatres.co.uk - Flicky Harrison