Holkham Hall set for a summer of outdoor theatricals

A uniquely theatrical backdrop awaits some of the UK's leading production companies as they prepare for a diverse outdoor summer theatre programme at Holkham Hall.

The estate's eighteenth century, six acre walled gardens, will form the scenery for classic drama, music and action to entertain audiences throughout the summer months.

It all starts with Oscar Wilde's The Importance of Being Earnest on July 22 at 7pm. This sparkling society farce pokes fun at the Victorian's tight reins on social etiquette and demonstrates Wilde's legendary wit. This classic is brought to Holkham by the acclaimed drama school The London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art.

On August 5 at 6.15pm Box Tree Productions presents The Three Musketeers, the story of young d'Artagnan's ambition to become a musketeer which unites him with Aramis, Porthos and Athos. They become the best of friends and work together to protect the King and Queen of France from the scheming Cardinal Richelieu. Featuring original songs and spectacular, swashbuckling swordfights, the fast pace is guaranteed to keep audiences on the edge of their seats.

The walled gardens will provide the perfect setting for Frances Hodgson Burnett's captivating tale of The Secret Garden on August 12 at 6.15pm. Chapterhouse Theatre's adaptation of this enchanting story will be loved by children and adults alike. Join young Mary Lennox as she escapes the confines of her uncle's Yorkshire house to discover unexpected friends and magical creatures who help her unlock the mysteries of the secret garden.

Shakespeare's Twelfth Night will be performed on August 19 at 7pm by The Lord Chamberlain's Men with an all-male cast. The story tells the comedic tale of mistaken identity and tangled love stories. The final performance is brought to Holkham by Cambridge Touring Theatre on August 26 at 6.15pm. Robin Hood – The Musical, set in the English countryside, sees Robin seeking to restore the rightful balance and thwart the Sheriff of Nottingham. This performance is suitable for children aged three upwards and boys and girls are invited to come along dressed in their best Sherwood fashion as Robin, Maid Marian or maybe even the Evil Sheriff of Nottingham.

Audience members are invited to bring picnics and low backed seating or rugs and to come prepared for all weathers.

Theatre-goers will be admitted to the gardens 45 minutes before the production starts.

Tickets are available to book online at www.holkham.co.uk or from Holkham Ticket Office on 01328 713111.