CULTURE lovers are to get the opportunity to experience one of Shakespeare’s greatest plays in what has been described as ‘possibily the most exclusive theatre in England’.

For the first time part of Lancaster Prison will be the setting for a theatrical show when Demi-Paradise Productions stages Othello from Thursday, February 27 until Saturday, March 22.

Only 60 tickets per show will be available for the production which will also be staged in the historic Shire Hall.

The prison side of the city’s landmark building was opened to the public in May last year after 800 years of continuous use as a jail.

Stephen Tomlin, founder of Demi-Paradise Productions, said: “Spaces not previously used are being freed by the castle’s new status. Our creative departments are working in a fully integrated way to reflect the many moods and emotions that haunt the action.”

Othello will be directed by Louie Ingham who has previously worked with the the Dukes Theatre.

The production has a strong contemporary treatment and physical flavour, enhanced with both live and recorded music and song.

This will be the ninth work Stephen has produced at the castle. He said: “I am very proud of what we have achieved as an ensemble since I started the Demi-Paradise project back in 2000 and am determined to keep that spirit alive by injecting radical younger generation theatre practice into our tried and tested model.

“That’s why I’m thrilled to have Louie Ingham in place as artistic director for Othello.

“Through intensive workshop auditions we’ve hand picked a fantastic company of performers dedicated to creating exciting immersive theatre. Ours will be a no-holds-barred engagement — physical, mental and spiritual — with one of the most powerful and moving domestic tragedies in the classical repertoire.

“This show is going to be one of the greatest, and most distinctive, ever experienced at the castle.”

Tickets go on sale on Monday from Lancaster Castle on 01524 64998.