The Dream Laboratory

Essential Theatre’s latest work The Dream Laboratory is a re-imagination of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream that imagines new ways of delivering immersive theatre experiences to audiences of reduced sizes.

In order to sustain our company it is imperative we imagine new ways of engaging an audience and delivering our work. We now consider what theatre will look like with 10, 20 or 50 audience.

The Dream Laboratory is a reimagining of A Midsummer Night's Dream. This wonderful tale from Shakespeare will be our inspiration as we create an immersive theatrical experience exploring the blurred lines between fantasy and reality, between waking and dreaming.

Our audiences will be invited into three worlds each promising a unique theatrical adventure.

About Essential Theatre

Essential Theatre is run by dynamic duo, Amanda LaBonte and Sophie Lampel.

They met at drama school many moons ago and are thrilled to see Essential Theatre grow from strength to strength.

With experience panning over two decades they are now considered leaders within the theatrical landscape.

The company is best known for Shakespeare in the Vines, a national tour of Shakespeare’s classics to wineries and gardens across Australia. This outdoor theatre event continues to grow each year, reaching regions from The Clare Valley to Margaret River and as far north as Palmerston, Northern Territory.

Essential Theatre re-interpret the classic texts for modern audiences delivering vibrant and engaging productions.

Creative Team

Co-artistic Director Amanda LaBonte

Co-artistic Director Sophie Lampel

Creative Collaborator Mark Wilson

Creative Collaborator Alexandra Aldrich