Theatre
Inside and out, a summer of cool Kentish performances
Whether it is indoor opera at Leeds Castle or timeless classics in a Kentish garden, this summer has a lot to offer…
Barber of Seville This summer, there is an opportunity to go inside Leeds Castle to see the Pop-Up Opera company’s rendition of Rossini’s Barber of Seville. Set in the Henry VIII
banqueting hall, opera lovers will be up close to the action as it happens. It is a courageous move by
Leeds Castle management to stage such an event indoors in the middle of an English summer. But the surroundings should make all the difference — with atmospheric wood-panelling and creaking, ancient floors. The Pop-Up Opera company
comes to the castle with positive reviews and the company takes the venues very seriously. It takes its productions
beyond traditional theatres — whether it is a boat made of scrap metal, a restored
Victorian poorhouse, a cider barn or an ancient castle. And the critics seem impressed, with The Times saying of one production that Pop-Up Opera provides “top- class singing and exceptional acting”. The Barber of Seville is a much-loved tale of lies, deception and love. A bar will be available before the performance and during the interval for drinks in the 1930s drawing rooms.
July 20, 7.30pm. Tickets adults £25, concessions £22, must be booked in advance.
Book online or call the Box Office on 01622 880008.
Josie Long with Grace Petrie
The Quarterhouse in Folkestone is right in the heart of the seafront regeneration area, although the main work to bring prosperity back to the town is yet to start in earnest. Some of the country’s bigger acts try out their material at the Quarterhouse before embarking on national tours. Al Murray is due later in the summer, but tickets sold out a long time ago. And then there is emerging
talent who are attracted to venues of this size for testing new material. One such act is Josie Long, pictured right, the triple Edinburgh Comedy Award nominee, presenter of Radio 4’s Short Cuts and star of Radio 4’s Romance and Adventure. The comedienne presents her latest stuff as she sows the seed of her next stand-up show and she’ll be joined by accomplice Grace Petrie. Her previous act, Cara Josephine, was a worldwide hit
– selling out shows in London, across the UK and Europe, in Australia and in New York. It was rated among the Guardian’s top 10 shows of the
year, the best-reviewed show of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2014 and a New York Times Critic’s Pick.
July 23, 7.30pm. Tickets £10. The Quarterhouse, Folkestone
THEATRE
Al fresco entertainment has become very fashionable in recent years – despite the vagaries of the English weather. The National Trust is opening up some of its grounds for a summer of outdoor theatre...
Emmetts Garden, Kent
Once upon a time there were four little rabbits… Quantum Theatre are delighted to perform their own adaptation of Beatrix Potter’s timeless stories. This production delivers a magical occasion for all ages. August 2, 4.30pm (picnics from 3.30pm). Adults £12, child £7, family from £26. Call 0344 249 1895
Much Ado about Nothing Enjoy an all-male production by The Lord Chamberlain’s Men of this popular fast-paced Shakespeare comedy. August 18, 7.30pm (picnics from 6.30pm) Adult £15, child £8. Call 0344 249 1895
Smallhythe Place, Kent The former home of the great Victorian actress Ellen Terry hosts a series of outdoor performances in the enchanting gardens. Tickets can be booked on the National Trust website or by calling 0344 249 1895.
The Wizard of Oz Join Dorothy and her friends on this magical adventure to
Emerald City. Meet the characters and get involved with the show to make sure she gets back home to Kansas. July 16, 6pm. Adult £15 child £8
The Merry Wives of Windsor The most farcical of all Shakespeare comedies performed on the date of Ellen Terry’s death in 1928 as a tribute to her talent and legacy. July 21, 7.30pm. Adult £15, child £8
Romeo and Juliet Watch the famous forbidden love affair between two members of feuding families. Set in Verona and performed in this quintessentially English garden, enjoy the evening with Shakespeare’s star-crossed lovers. August 14, 6pm. Adult £15, child £8
Gulliver’s Travels Whilst on a trip to the South Seas, Lemuel Gulliver is captured by the tiny people of Lilliput. Will he ever break free and return home? Bring a picnic and enjoy the show in the summer garden. August 29, 6pm. Adult £1, child £8
Mid Kent Living 29
Al fresco
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