Theatre Dates for Your Diary
OUTDOOR THEATRE BY ILLYRIA THEATRE COMPANY – Get ready for an enchanting summer filled with captivating performances against the backdrop of Brantwood’s picturesque lakeside meadow. Illyria are back for a world of classic literature and timeless tales brought to life by this esteemed theatre troupe.
Tuesday 21st July 2026
As You Like It by William Shakespeare
In this play Shakespeare explores Love in all its guises. Four pairs of soulmates meet in the mysterious Forest of Arden. One pair leap straight into bed. Another pair are instantaneously dumbstruck by each other’s beauty and pledge their undying troth. The third pair torment each other: he showers chaste love upon her which she haughtily rejects – yet secretly she enjoys the flattery. The fourth pair go further still, playfully blurring their roles and identities to such an extent that flirting becomes more pain than pleasure, and Love itself is pushed to the limit of its endurance – and beyond.
Throughout the summer Shakespeare’s iconic comedy will be performed where its action is set – in the great outdoors, by a 5-strong cast of classically trained professional actors.
Multi international award-winning Illyria has an unmatched reputation for excellence, forged over three decades, that dominates the outdoor touring theatre sector. Join them this summer for a memorable night of laughter and romance under the stars.
Running time (approx): 140-minutes (inc 20 minute interval)
Recommended for all ages.
Wednesday 5th August 2026
The Three Musketeers by Alexandre Dumas
All for One – and One for All! Alexandre Dumas wrote five Musketeers novels, the first appearing in 1844. They have enjoyed enormous popularity worldwide and are not just textbook examples of the Historical Romance but also hilarious pastiches of that genre. This one, the first, remains the greatest. Young D’Artagnan is desperate to join Athos, Porthos and Aramis as an elite Musketeer of the King’s Guard. To prove himself he plunges headlong into a thrilling adventure to retrieve the Queen’s jewels, race the clock to restore Her Majesty’s honour, survive the machinations of scheming Cardinal Richelieu, and cross swords with the deadly Milady de Winter. Set against a sweeping panorama of 17th century France at war, it’s a whirlwind of excitement, comedy and ingenious storytelling. Romance! Intrigue! Murder! Betrayal! Revenge…! It’s got the lot!
With a reputation for staging some of the finest swordplay in the business Illyria’s The Three Musketeers promises to be more dazzling than ever!
Running time (approx): 135-minutes (inc 20 minute interval)
Recommended for ages 8+. Play contains scenes of peril, politics and passion! Younger children welcome, if they’re brave enough…
Performances start at 6.00pm. Adults: £18.00, Stu/child £10 (4-16 yrs, under 4 free). (Booking fees apply). Held in Brantwood’s lakeside meadow. Bring a picnic, low backed seating and insect repellent!