All set for summer shows at the Merlin!

Frome’s Merlin Theatre is knee deep in preparations for a full season of events.  

Re-opening in just a few week’s time, this popular professional, community venue will be presenting over 30 shows between June and early September in both its 230 seat indoor auditorium and on the ECOS (European Community Of Stones)  outdoor amphitheatre.

The fun starts on the afternoon of 2nd June with world-renowned touring experts Illyria Theatre and a half-term children’s family treat.  Bring along your picnics, cushions and a love of hilarious acting to join the characters in The Further Adventures of Dr Dolittle.

Another afternoon delight for all summer-lovers is a visit from Down For The Count who will present a vintage afternoon to remember with their jazz-era show, Legends of Swing. Regulars at jazz clubs including Ronnie Scotts, they are top class instrumentalists and singers with classic tunes, completely perfect for an afternoon ‘on the stones’ next to the main Merlin building. 

As this year’s wonderful Frome Festival is set to go-ahead, the Merlin theatre takes pride in joining forces to host an array of fantastic events. Kicking off on 2nd July with an feast of imagery and the unique talents of Kate Lissauer (Buffalo Gals), Jason Titley and Leon Hunt, three of the UK’s finest Bluegrass and Old-Time American musicians; providing a remarkable, unique sound-track to a bygone era, they play live to accompany the iconic Hollywood black and white silent movie,  Beggars Of Life.

With details of shows coming out weekly, the season looks set to be a sure fire hit with other acts including visits from George Egg, comedian Paul Foot, duo Jonny and the Baptists, poet Liv Torc and a return visit from Illyria with a Shakespeare play and a full scale Gilbert and Sullivan. 

Theatre Director, Claudia Pepler, takes a moment to reassure all locals and visitor as she tells us, “We will be following government guidelines and will extend our social distancing measures throughout the summer in keeping with official advice to ensure safety and confidence for patrons and staff.  Our audiences, performers and staff are our top priority so anyone with concerns should, of course, get in touch.”

For full details of all performances and to book tickets please use the website merlintheatre.co.uk