THE Merlin Theatre in Frome is preparing for its first full autumn/winter season since 2019.
A spokesperson for the Theatre said, “Frome’s Merlin Theatre, following a feast of festival events and an amazing summer school production of ‘Oliver Jr’ staring local children, is gearing up for its first full autumn/winter season since 2019. Staff, volunteers, community participants and the highest quality visiting professional companies and performers are all full of energy and raring to go. Live theatre is very much alive.
“Setting the tone, with comedy murder-mystery thriller, Crimes On The Nile, are the slick and hilarious actors of New Old Friends. Nationally recognised, this professional company are coincidentally based in the town itself and as such enjoy a great local following. The premier of their irreverent, high-energy, ensemble show will take place in Frome at the Merlin on Friday 3 September, with two more chances to see this murderous romp on Saturday 4 September. See more details on page 20.
“With a lingering sense of summer, and the weather for that day currently predicted to be warm, award-winning Something Underground Theatre present an outdoor show imbued with the groovy tunes and memorable atmosphere of 1969. Taking in moon landings, civil rights, drugs, the Vietnam war and Apollo11, The Spirit of Woodstock is an immersive show that will blow your mind.
“For lovers of romance, The National Theatre’s acclaimed live-filmed lockdown, ground-breaking production of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, with Jessie Buckley and Josh (The Crown) O’Connor is not to be missed.
“October opens with the UK’s most popular comedy magician. Already well known for his TV appearances with Sarah Millican, John Bishop and on The Next Great Magician as well as Tonight at the London Palladium, Peter Firman brings his hilarious jokes and jaw-dropping magic to the town in the shape of a Bag of Tricks on Friday 1 October (recommended over 16 years of age).
“The following winter months look to be warm inside, whatever is going on outside, as the theatre promises a joyous puppet show for children, a one-woman Agatha Christie show, Frome Drama Club’s annual autumn production, stand-up, poetry, Liv Torc and Elvis McGonagall and a chance to see a host of local Frome actors re-enacting three episodes of Dad’s Army with familiar cries of “We’re doomed!” and “Stupid Boy!”. There are some very well-known locals heading onto the stage to take the roles of Mainwearing, Wilson, Godfrey, Jonesie, Pike and all.
“With details of more shows coming online, the theatre urges you to check their website for additions to the season and also any updates to the government guidelines and the venue’s policy on Covid safety procedures.”
Theatre Director, Claudia Pepler, tells us “We will be following government guidelines plus our own advisory actions to ensure the comfort of all patrons and staff but 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
