Witches, blood and a ghost by candlelight ... perfect ingredients for a Halloween evening!  Macbeth , Shakespeare's gothic masterpiece, will be matched by the subterranean splendour of Poole's Cavern between Wednesday 31 October and Saturday 3 November.

Family events on 31 October will include pre-show spooky storytelling and a post-show Halloween costume competition, judged by the witches.  A post-show talk with the company will takeplace on 3 November.

Alan Walker, manager of Poole's Cavern, explained, " I am delighted to invite the 1623 Theatre back to Poole's Cavern. Their performance of "Shakespeare in the Underworld" was a highlight of the Buxton Festival. There can be no finer backdrop for Shakespeares most gruesome of plays amongst the cavernous passages and ancient rock formations. Truly a most atmospheric halloween experience.

All performances will begin at 7.30pm, end at approximately 9.30pm and take place on promenade through the cavern; audience members are advised to wear warm clothing.  Call Poole's Cavern on 01298 73563 for tickets.  Booking is essential.

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Notes for editors

• Derby-based 1623 performs Shakespeare in non-traditional theatre spaces and heads Shakespeare learning projects
• Past events have included the Glastonbury Festival, the Royal Shakespeare Company Fringe and BBC Gardeners' World Live
• "Uplifting ... unusual and entertaining" - British Theatre Guide
• A publicity image for Macbeth is available on request
• Contact Ben Spiller on 07726 739284 or at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it to arrange press tickets
• For more information on 1623, contact Ben or visit www.1623theatre.co.uk