The Masque of Oberon and Titania: Shakespeare in the Papple Wood
On Saturday 15 August, Papple Steading welcomed the Highland Shakespeare Company for a truly magical performance of The Masque of Oberon & Titania.
Set against the backdrop of Traprain Law, the production saw the audience promenade through the ancient woodlands and grounds of Papple, following the cast as the natural landscape transformed into an open-air theatrical stage. Written and directed after William Shakespeare by Sunny Moodie and Suraiya Haddad, the performance resurrected the historical masque tradition with striking masks, evocative costumes, and live music composed and performed by Siannie Moodie and Nick Jenkins.
The production was inspired by Highland Shakespeare Company President, Richard Demarco CBE, who praised the performance:
“It was an illuminating and enchanting performance, a masque, the resurrection of an art form that had almost vanished from these lands… It was beauty, a moment of truth, that will always be remembered. The acting, costumes, masks, singing, and music were all sincerely sublime. A first class experience in kinship with all that the original Edinburgh Festival stands for.”
Author and journalist Roddy Martine echoed the sentiment, noting:
“A truly magical performance at lovely Papple Steading in the shadow of Traprain Law. The action took place with the audience promenading through the enchanted woodland of Papple. Oh, that performances on the Edinburgh Fringe in the nearby City could live up to such a romantic setting.”
Watch the Highlights
Experience the atmosphere of the evening in this short retrospective film, featuring production photography by Conor McKeown and music by musical director Siannie Moodie.
Guests also enjoyed drinks and light refreshments from Eve’s Court, which remains open across our cultural calendar for event dining and gatherings.
Cast and Creative Team
- Titania: Suraiya Haddad
- Oberon: Sunny Moodie
- Puck: Sacha Marner
- Ariel: Susanna Orr Holland
- Prospero: Christopher Cannell
- Peaseblossom: Eveliina Kuitunen
- Faerie Tumbler: William Leckie
- Musical Directors: Siannie Moodie (Moth) & Nick Jenkins (Cobweb)
- Art Director: Lizzie McDougall (Mustardseed)
- Written & Directed by: Sunny Moodie & Suraiya Haddad (after William Shakespeare)
- Photography & Videography: Conor McKeown
- Host: George Mackintosh at Papple Steading