What better way to spend a summer’s evening than in the idyllic setting of a National Trust property, enjoying a picnic full of tasty delights, watching an outdoor theatre performance.
From the Shakespeare classic ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’, to the children’s favourite ‘Treasure Island’ and the outrageously funny ‘Mad and Merry Monarchs’, there is something for everyone this summer.
Whether an adult with fond memories, or a child waiting to be enthralled, there are a whole host of great outdoor performances to enjoy, brought to you by a hand picked selection of touring theatre companies.
Using unforgettable venues as natural backdrops, all of which are inspiring in their own right, from the idyllic grounds and gardens of historic houses, to a rare medieval hunting forest, an ancient burial site and a tranquil coastal location, you’re sure to soak up the atmosphere in what will be an evening to remember.
So, bring your friends and family and a hearty picnic supper to one of these magical National Trust properties and let us entertain you, in an evening of literary genius.
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Here are some of the exciting productions on offer this summer;
Tess of the d’Urbervilles, Ickworth House
Friday 18 July, from 7pm
Theatre Works has gained a national reputation for transferring some of our best loved novels successfully to the stage. This year they present this beautifully fresh and exciting adaptation of one of Hardy’s most enduring novels.
- Picnic baskets can be ordered for this event (Please call 01284 735 957 and state dietary requirements).
Hound of the Baskervilles, Hatfield Forest
Wednesday 23 July, 7.30pm
A night of chills and chuckles are promised when Illyria return with their highly acclaimed portrayal of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s classic. The original and greatest literary detective of them all, Sherlock Holmes and his assistant Dr. Watson, tackle the most baffling case of their careers.
The Millionnairess, Shaw’s Corner
Friday 25 to Sunday 27 July, 6.30pm
Where better to see a George Bernard Shaw play, than in the garden of his former home, Shaw’s Corner. The story of a wealthy young woman who learns a few lessons about money-making, is set in the 1930s, but with a modern moral to the story.
Mad and Merry Monarchs, Dunwich Heath
Saturday 2 August, 7.30pm
Join local favourites Mad Dogs & Englishmen, as they bring you the superbly silly saga of the Kings and Queens of England – meet Richard III and his right royal hump and see King Charles II wrestle with his wig! 1,000 years of England’s history in100 minutes of music, poetry, songs and silliness.
The Pied Piper, Oxburgh Hall
Friday 22 August, 6pm
Openwide Theatre Company performs a new play, from an old tale in rumbustious verse – blending medieval Hamelin with 90’s techno! A high energy production, with original music, humour and lots of participation by little rodents in the audience!
A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Wimpole Hall
Saturday 23 August, 7.30pm
This magical, enigmatic and hilarious production of Shakespeare’s outstanding comedy is brought to you by Heartbreak Productions and promises to enchant audiences of all ages. Set on the estate of a stately home, it will be filled with the Heartbreak hallmarks of live music, masks, magic tricks and a heart-stopping rendition of the tango!
Peter Pan, Blickling Hall
Thursday 28 August, 7.30pm
The famous story of the little boy who never grew up is brought to life by Heartbreak Productions, as they venture to ‘Neverland’ with this fun-filled fantasy adventure for all the family. All aboard the Jolly Roger and fasten your belts for a fast and furious journey back to your childhood.
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