Dubai’s theatre lovers are in for a fast-paced, comedic twist on classic literature this May. The Complete Works of William Shakespeare – Abridged Version is returning to the city for a limited run, bringing all 37 of the Bard’s plays to life in just 97 minutes — but not as you remember them.

Performed at Zabeel Theatre, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, from May 21 to 24, 2025, this parody performance delivers Shakespeare with an irreverent edge. Expect Othello as a rap, Titus Andronicus reimagined as a cooking show, and The Histories condensed into a chaotic American football match. Even Hamlet, Shakespeare’s most famous tragedy, is performed in under a minute — and then repeated backwards.

 

Back in Dubai by popular demand, this production has been well received in the past for its playful yet clever approach. It takes the weighty legacy of Shakespeare and transforms it into a lighthearted spectacle — without losing sight of the storytelling power that made these plays endure.

The format is quick, sharp, and packed with humour, making it accessible whether you’re a fan of Shakespeare or simply in the mood for something entertaining. For those looking to rediscover the classical stories in an entirely new format — or just spend an evening with clever comedy — this show makes a strong case for both.