IF you go down to the Dixon Studio, London Road,Westcliff, on Thursday you will be in for a surprise of Shakespearean proportions.

Southend Shakespeare Company are performing A Midsummer Night’s Dream, one of the bard’s best-known romantic comedies. The Duke has just fought and captured a woman, but now expects to marry her.

A young woman’s father wants her put to death, unless she marries the man of his choice, and to cap it all, Oberon, King of the Fairies, casts a spell to make his loved one, Titania, fall in love with a wild beast.

Bumbling, noisy Bottom, a weaver who has his head changed for a donkey’s, is the only character who crosses over between the human and fairy worlds. This production promises to be a feast for the ear as well as the eye, thanks to live singing performed by Southend Girl’s Choir.

The play is on until November 29 at 7.45pm. Saturday matinees are at 3pm.Ticket prices begin at £8.50, with discounts available for groups.