Open-air theatre makes its return to Lydiard Park

Lydiard Park will kick-start a national tour of Shakespeare’s most magical and romantic comedy of them all, A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

Immersion Theatre, who have been described as one of London’s most exciting and innovative theatre companies, will perform A Midsummer Night’s Dream in the historic setting of the Swindon Borough Council-owned park on Friday, 12 July.

Set in Great Britain just before the start of the Great War, this hilarious and highly accessible adaptation sees Shakespeare’s fantastical characters transported to a time of unparalleled peace and prosperity.

Four young lovers, a band of hapless actors, and a magical realm populated by enchanting spirits set on causing mischief and mayhem at every turn culminate in an unparalleled open-air experience of beauty and hilarity.

The gates for the performance open at 5pm, and the performance starts at 6pm. Theatre goers are encouraged to pack a picnic and enjoy one of Shakespeare’s most popular works.
The performance will last approximately 100 minutes and will include a 20-minute interval.
Councillor Keith Williams, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member responsible for Lydiard Park, said: “The open-air theatre performances at Lydiard have been a popular part of our summer programme for a number of years and are the perfect way to spend a summer’s evening.

“It is also a great way to introduce the whole family to live theatre by bringing along a picnic and enjoying a play packed with fun in an atmospheric setting.”

Tickets are now on sale via the website www.lydiardpark.org.uk or by calling 01793 465270. Adult tickets are priced at £14, while a child ticket (three to 15 year old) cost £10. A family ticket (two adults and two children) is priced at £42. A 10 per cent discount is available for parties of 10 or more.

Car parking is available at Hay Lane and Hook Street entrances, but parking charges apply.
A Midsummer Night’s Dream is the first in two open-air theatre productions at Lydiard this summer. Immersion Theatre will also present Alice in Wonderland on Friday, 2 August.