The National Trust has the recipe for a perfect summer’s evening – take a picnic full of tantalising treats, a glass of something chilled and a restful place to sit whilst the beautiful words of Shakespeare drift overhead.
But there’s more - if you decide to sit back and enjoy one of the National Trust’s summer outdoor productions this year, you will have the added bonus of watching the curtain rise against a stunning backdrop of magnificent landscapes and glorious summer gardens in full bloom.
With several performances taking place in our region, there are heroes and villains ready to entertain the whole family. So why not bring a picnic and a comfy cushion, then sit back and enjoy a magical and unforgettable experience.
Below are just a handful of the exciting productions on offer at our North East properties this summer.
Souter Lighthouse, Wednesday 16 July, 7.30pm & Nostell Priory & Parkland, Saturday 16 August, 7.30pm
Merry Wives of Windsor
Falstaff, the fat old knight, sends identical love-letters to Mrs Page and Mrs Ford, so the women, recognising that his intentions are not entirely honourable, set about to humiliate him in the most extravagant ways they can devise. Full marks to Falstaff for perseverance though: he doesn’t give up despite being alternately tipped into the river, dressed up as a witch, beaten with cudgels and set on fire… Multiple international award-winning Illyria return to their home turf.
- Tickets: Adult £15, Child £7.50.
Gibside, Sunday 17 August, 7.30pm
The Hound of the Baskervilles
Who killed Sir Charles Baskerville? Can anyone prevent the same fate befalling the young Sir Henry Baskerville? Is a monstrous hound really roaming Dartmoor? Why is someone systematically stealing Sir Henry’s shoes? And how does a ghostly hound manage to leave vast paw-prints and other unwelcome evidence of its existence?
The original and greatest literary detective of them all, Sherlock Holmes, and his assistant Doctor Watson face the most baffling case of their careers. Performed by Illyria.
- Tickets: Adult £15, Child £7.50.
Wallington, Sunday 24 August, 7.30pm
Pinocchio
Geppetto the carpenter carves a puppet called Pinocchio from a block of wood, but Pinocchio cunningly throws a wild tantrum and gets Geppetto sent to prison for cruelty. Free to do what he likes, Pinocchio’s adventures begin…This magical new production features a leading actor whose nose really does grow, a 25-foot shark, and is suitable for smart grown-ups and brave children aged 5 and over.
- Tickets: Adult £15, Child £7.50
Beningbrough Hall, Wednesday 25 June 7.30pm
A Midsummer Night’s Dream
Frolicking fairies, raucous workmen, young lovers and magical verse combine to create what promises to be one of the most beautiful and enchanting evenings of the summer. A wonderful night of theatre under the stars for family and friends alike. Performed by Chapterhouse. Cost:
Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal Water Garden, North Yorkshire 30 July, 6.30pm
Peter Pan at The Abbey
An enchanting production of this magical children’s classic. Follow the tale of Peter, Wendy and the lost boys as they take on the menacing Captain Cook. Performed by Illyria. It is advisable to book tickets for this event. For more information or to book please call 01670 773 939
- Cost – Adult £12, Child £10
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