02/06/2023 - Permalink

Outdoor performances take centre stage for Theatre Severn at Shrewsbury Castle

Related topics: Leisure, culture and heritage
Shewsbury Castle with a crowd of people observing outdoor theatre

Theatre Severn is bringing outdoor performances to Shrewsbury Castle this summer

Two Shropshire Council venues are teaming up to bring outdoor theatre shows to the public this summer.

Theatre Severn has announced a programme of open-air shows as it teams up with Shrewsbury Castle for another summer of alfresco fun.

Audiences can expect Shakespeare classics, princess picnics, family favourites and more, from some of the UK’s best touring theatre companies.

Set against the beautiful backdrop of Shrewsbury Castle, audiences are encouraged to bring blankets, cushions, camping chairs and a picnic, whilst being entertained by a wonderful line-up of live performances this July and August.

Robert Macey, Shropshire Council Cabinet member for culture and digital, said:-

“Our Theatre Severn has an impressive record for attracting top name shows and performances to out county and by teaming up with Shrewsbury Castle to stage performances against that stunning backdrop audiences are guaranteed a show to remember.

“There is truly something for all the family with this exciting programme of events and I am sure it will be a box office success.”

On Sunday 23 July, Once Upon a Party present Princess Picnic in the Castle. Children are invited to join Princess Beauty, The Snow Queen and The Tower Princess for songs, dances, and plenty of photo opportunities in the beautiful surroundings of Shrewsbury Castle grounds.

Get ready for ultimate British theatrical experience as The Three Inch Fools return with legendary folktale Robin Hood on Thursday 27 July. Expect plenty of music, comedy and many a quick costume change in a summer production fit for all the family.

On Tuesday 1 and Wednesday 2 August, The Lord Chamberlain’s Men invite you to join them for Romeo and Juliet. With a history stretching back to William Shakespeare himself, they present this great play as he first saw it, in the open air, with an all-male cast, music and dance.

Immersion Theatre return with a brand-new adaptation of The Wizard of Oz and Twelfth Night. The Wizard of Oz takes place on Thursday 10 August, and promises a magical performance with audience participation and dazzling costumes. Twelfth Night follows on Sunday 13 August where audiences can expect a laugh-a-minute adaptation of Shakespeare’s riotous comedy.

On Thursday 17 August Quantum Theatre perform Kenneth Grahame’s family favourite The Wind in the Willows. Join Mole, Ratty and Badger on their mad-cap adventures in this heart-warming tale of friendship, mishap, and mayhem.

To round off the summer programme, founder member of Fairport Convention, Iain Matthews performs a special open-air gig on Sunday 20 August, playing songs from across his career to enthral fans of contemporary singer/songwriter and folk styles.

Tickets for open-air theatre events at Shrewsbury Castle are on sale now and can be booked online at theatresevern.co.uk or by  calling 01743 281281.