This summer, Frome’s unique amphitheatre at The Merlin Theatre will host a variety of open-air performances.
The venue, which features a purpose-built outdoor stage, will offer a diverse programme of shows from now until mid-September. Highlights include family-friendly productions such as The Adventures of Doctor Dolittle, musical shows like The Gondoliers and an adaptation of The Hound of The Baskervilles. Audiences are invited to bring their picnics and enjoy the summer evenings in this charming setting.
“As the old theatre adage tells us, ‘The show must go on!’ And go on indeed it does, every week at Frome’s much-loved community arts venue, The Merlin Theatre – even during the summer holidays,” says The Merlin’s artistic director Claudia Pepler.
“This multi-use arts centre is one of only a few live performance venues in Somerset to be blessed with a purpose-built outdoor stage space. The Merlin’s amphitheatre, surrounded by unique monoliths, and known as ECOS (European Community Of Stones) has already played host this year to a series Frome Festival events and a number of children’s shows as it now revs up into full use until mid-September.
“Suitable for all, a funny, exciting and puppet-packed production of The Adventures of Doctor Dolittle will take place on Thursday 6th August as Illyria Theatre brings new life to Hugh Lofting’s classic tale of the man who could talk to the animals. With an early start time of 6pm, audiences of all ages are encouraged to come and delight, bringing their picnic teas and suppers, to this special evening out.
“Gilbert and Sullivan fans will delight that the same company will bring the wonderful comedically absurd and romantic The Gondoliers to life on 3rd September. This show’s witty lyrics and catchy melodies promise an enchanting evening, guaranteed to leave audiences with a song in all their hearts.
“And to round off the open-air theatre treats for the year, the country’s longest-running professional outdoor theatre company have also created a new show about the original and greatest literary detective of them all. Sherlock Holmes. Accompanied by Doctor Watson, mystery and intrigue will reach new theatrical heights as the duo navigate treacherous moors and fateful curses on 12th September in the shape of The Hound of The Baskervilles.”
Full details of these and other indoor shows, including a junior production of The Little Mermaid can be found on the website www.merlintheatre.co.uk
