Garden backdrops for summer of New Forest theatre at Exbury Gardens and Beaulieu
ALICE in Wonderland, Shakespeare and ABBA will take be taking centre stage this summer at outdoor performances at Exbury Gardens and Beaulieu.
The fun will begin at the National Motor Museum today (Friday) with a 70-minute family-friendly production of Alice in Wonderland created by James and Abigail Franklin of Boxtree Productions, with music and lyrics by Milly Finch.
Spokesperson James Franklin said: “Join Alice as she tries to navigate this curious world of curious places and curious creatures, but don’t lose your head!
“We can promise you a wonderful experience of original toe-tapping songs, colourful characters, costumes and hilarious comedy.”
A second adaptation of the classic Lewis Carroll novel, by Chapterhouse Theatre Company, will be at Exbury Gardens on Thursday 29th July.
Producer Richard Main said: “Chapterhouse have been touring open-air theatre since 2000, meaning this is our 21st anniversary tour, and for this year we have concentrated on productions that the whole family can enjoy, laugh at and join in with.
“We are thrilled to be touring at some wonderful venues after a year of quiet and hibernation.”
The team will then be back at Exbury on Saturday 14th August with the 21st Century ABBA, performed by one of the UK’s top ABBA tribute acts.
Richard said: “This is an evening of hit after hit – Waterloo, Mamma Mia, Take a Chance on Me, Super Trouper and many more.
“21st Century ABBA faithfully recreates all the greatest hits of one of the world’s most famous groups, combining stunning vocals, live musicians, and glittering costumes.
“Come along with family and friends, picnic in these beautiful gardens and enjoy a wonderful performance.”
The summer of outdoor theatre will conclude on Wednesday 25th August when Chapterhouse returns to Exbury for a magical production of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream.
Featuring star-crossed Athenian lovers, playful fairies and hilarious travelling players, the much-loved romantic comedy will be complimented by beautiful Elizabethan costumes and an engaging musical score.
Tickets for Beaulieu’s Alice in Wonderland are on sale at www.beaulieu.co.uk/events
Tickets can be purchased at www.exbury.co.uk/events_exhibitions
