THE surroundings of The Bishop’s Palace in Wells will play host to a full programme of outdoor performances again this summer.
Held on the South Lawn, with a backdrop of the 13th century ruins of the Great Hall, the Palace’s outdoor productions are renowned for offering the perfect combination of spectacular backdrop and great quality entertainment.
This year’s programme kicks off on Saturday 11th June with Metamorphosis; Tales of Transformation. Inspired by the poetry of Ovid the tales will be brought dramatically to life by Beth Webb with the musical virtuoso, Jenny Bliss Bennett.
On Thursday 7th July Palace favourites The Pantaloons will invade the stage in a funny yet faithful open-air adaptation of War of the Worlds. Using musical instruments, puppetry and enthusiasm to recreate deadly heat-rays, giant fighting-machines, squidgy tentacled Martians and interplanetary warfare on an epic scale.
On 14th and 15th July Opera Brava will perform two operas: Tosca (14 July) and The Barber of Seville (15 July).
The Lord Chamberlain’s Men return on Sunday 24th July for the sparkling comedy, ‘As You Like It’.
Later in the month, on Sunday 31st July, The British Touring Shakespeare Company present Abraham Van Helsing’s most terrifying case - ‘Dracula’.
On Thursday 11th August, Heartbreak Productions bring their jaw-dropping version of ‘Jane Eyre’ to the 13th century Palace complete with astounding acrobats, jugglers, and our very special guest – the death-defying escape artist Jane Eyre.
And to finish the season, join Heartbreak Productions on Thursday 18th August for an adaptation of David Walliams’ ‘Awful Auntie’. Owls, ghosts, chases, escapes, motorcycle rides, and tiddlywinks all fill Stella’s days as she evades her menacing Aunt and saves the family home. So, join us at the dedication of the new playground at Saxby Hall and hear how it all came about.
Audiences are invited to bring a picnic blanket or low-backed seating along with their own picnic and drinks and, as performances take place regardless of the weather, appropriate dress is recommended.
Further details, prices and booking for all productions at www.bishopspalace.org.uk
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