An Unforgettable Summer Shakespeare Experience in South West France Featuring a new production of Twelfth Night
After a triumphant, sold out inaugural year, Monsieur Shakespeare returns in 2026 with a brand new production: a specially edited open air staging of Twelfth Night. Hosted in the heart of the Occitanie countryside, this two week residential course blends high level actor training, ensemble creativity, and the joy of performing Shakespeare under the stars.
“An incredible challenge, an incredible achievement.”
2025 Midsummer Nights Dream participant
What is Monsieur Shakespeare?
Whether you are a passionate amateur, a seasoned performer, a teacher, or a curious newcomer, this course offers an extraordinary opportunity to:
Rehearse and perform in a professionally directed Shakespeare production
Train and perform alongside experienced professional actors and teachers
Receive one to one coaching and personalised feedback
Share your work in stunning public outdoor performances
Set at the beautiful Mas d’Arjac, you will live, work, and create in a supportive artistic community, with time to rest, explore, and grow.
What Makes It Special?
Training That Transforms
Led by director Peter Bramley and a team of professional actors and teachers, the course offers expert training in text, voice and movement, through focused workshops tailored to the needs of the production. Techniques include Meisner, Lecoq ensemble practice, and classical text work. One-to-one coaching helps you develop personally and artistically, wherever you are starting from.
“Peter set high standards while creating a supportive environment for everyone to thrive. The professionals raised the bar, and we were inspired to meet it.”
2025 Midsummer Nights Dream participant
A Creative Retreat
Stay in beautifully restored eighteenth century cottages, share evening meals and wine under the stars, and enjoy access to a private swimming pool. Structured training is balanced with relaxed social time, local excursions, and space for reflection.
Performance With Purpose
Your two weeks culminate in Twelfth Night performed outdoors in three spectacular historic venues. In 2025, our Midsummer Night’s Dream drew large, enthusiastic audiences and was described as “magical,” “ambitious,” and “astonishingly polished.”
“We achieved so much more than I thought possible in such a short time. I left feeling proud, stretched, and inspired.”
2025 Midsummer Nights Dream participant
Cost
£1,575 per person (shared room)
£300 single room supplement
Dates
Thursday 4th June: Arrivals in Toulouse
Friday 5th - Thursday 18th June: Rehearsals and workshop
Friday 19th, Saturday 20th & Sunday 21st June: Performances
Monday 22nd June: Return travel
What is Included:
16 nights’ accommodation (shared or single with supplement)
Half board: breakfast and dinner (including wine and beer)
Professional workshops and rehearsals with full artistic direction
Three public performances in historic outdoor venues
One-to-one coaching with professional performers/tutors (meet the artistic team here)
Airport and rail transfers from Toulouse or Caussade
Excursions to local towns and markets
Use of pool, Wi Fi, linens and towels
“The food was fantastic, the setting stunning, and the company unforgettable.
It was theatre heaven.”
2025 Midsummer Nights Dream participant
What You Will Need?
To learn your lines well in advance (you will receive the script in good time!)
Basic performance clothing and appropriate footwear, according to a given design brief
Your own travel to Toulouse or Caussade
Curiosity, energy, and a willingness to dive in
Who Can Apply?
Open to anyone over 18 with a love of performing and a collaborative spirit. Whether you have performed Shakespeare before or are discovering him for the first time, this course invites you to grow, take risks, and be part of something unforgettable!
“It does not matter if you are a pro or have not acted in years … you will be challenged and supported in equal measure.”
2025 Midsummer Nights Dream participant
To enquire about booking a space or to sign up and pay your deposit, please e-mail heather@pantsonfirethatre.com
Have more questions? Sure, feel free to ask or alternatively - read our FAQ’s!
Not a performer? But still want to get involved? Check out our non-performing options below!
Stage Management and Observer Role (£1200 shared room)
Not everyone wants to perform, but you can still be part of the production. For those who prefer to contribute offstage, we offer a dedicated Stage Management and Observer role. You will:
Shadow rehearsals and gain insight into professional directing and training methods
Assist with costumes, props, and backstage management during performances
Take part in the community while enjoying the creative process from behind the scenes
This unique role offers a way to learn, observe, and participate in the creative journey without stepping on stage.
Bring a Guest
We also warmly welcome non participant guests -partners, friends, or family members. For a reduced fee of £800, they can:
Share your beautiful accommodation
Enjoy the pool, countryside, and excursions
Join us for all meals, drinks, and social events
Some guests choose to lend a hand behind the scenes, while others simply relax and soak up the atmosphere!
To enquire about these non-performing options, please email heather@pantsonfiretheatre.com