Description

 Four young lovers, fighting for each other’s attention, a bickering Fairy King and Queen, a group of slapstick craftsmen dreaming of performing for the Duke. And one supernatural night in the forest…

Step into the court of Theseus, Duke of Athens, newly betrothed to his soon-to-be Queen, Hippolyta. As we join, excitement at their nuptials is interrupted by his judicial duties to uphold the marriage - arranged to his benefit by statesman, Egeus - of his daughter, Hermia, to Demetrius, notwithstanding that Demetrius had hitherto professed love to Helena, nor that Hermia is in love with Lysander!

Their love, life (and death) trials take them into the enchanted woodland world of the Fae - and two worlds collide.

Along with a third, that of local tradesmen, sometime amateur thespians (such are we), intent on being selected to entertain guests at the Duke's wedding.

The fairy King and Queen, embroiled in a 1000-year-long love-hate relationship, entertain themselves by blurring the lines between worlds ... only mischievous Puck knows where reality and illusion lies.

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St Ninian’s Gardens, nestled in the heart of Dunkeld, provides a perfect backdrop, with a natural amphitheatre-feel and providing unique staging options. Audiences will be treated to a production, immersed in Perthshire's natural beauty.

Open-air Shakespeare is always something special. Embrace the experience as we transport you to a wonder-filled midsummer night, filled with laughter, romance, and the magic of Shakespeare.

“Are you sure

That we are awake? It seems to me

That yet we sleep, we dream.”

About

Open-Air Shakespeare - FAQS

Outdoor theatre with Birnam Institute players 

We can’t wait to welcome you!

We’ve been working hard to ensure your Summer experience with us, is as memorable as possible.

St. Ninian’s Gardens are a picturesque oasis tucked away behind the main streets, with a natural amphitheatre-feel, right in the centre of beautiful Dunkeld - with its centuries-long association with Shakespeare.

It’s going to be different to experiencing theatre in a building. So, here are a few things you need to know for your comfort and enjoyment.

Can I buy tickets, or additional tickets, on the day?

Yes. You can purchase tickets on Birnam Arts website up until an hour before the show starts, to allow us to have a list of attendees. There will also be card purchase available on the door.

Are seats numbered?

No. Open air theatre space is on a first-come, first-served basis. To aim to get a particular spot, please make sure you arrive early. Tickets have been limited to ensure everyone can fit into the seating area available, to maximise visibility for the audience.

Is there seating available?

No. There are no seats in the gardens. Please bring your own seats or picnic rugs for your own comfort. Should you choose to bring a rug, please be aware, we cannot guarantee there won’t be other visitors with seats in front of you. To aim to get a particular spot, please make sure you arrive early.

The ‘auditorium’ area is gravelled. You may want to bring cushions for added comfort.

What should I bring?

Please bring your own seats, cushions or picnic rugs for your own comfort. Please note, there won’t be anywhere to leave belongings, so please leave them in your vehicle or bring a bag suitable to carry around with you.

When should I arrive?

Please arrive 20-30 minutes prior to allow time for our front-of-house volunteers to check you in and for you to find your space before your show.

Can I park in Dunkeld?

Yes. There is limited street parking, but there are Pay and Display car parks at the far end of town by the bus terminus, and along the river.

Car parking Perth and Kinross: https://www.pkc.gov.uk/article/20720/Map-of-car-parking

Do I need to show tickets?

Yes. Please print and bring along, or have to-hand on your phone. We will also have a list of attendees for the event to check you in.

Will I be able to buy refreshments?

The trustees of St Ninian’s Gardens plan to provide refreshments. Please feel free to bring a picnic if you prefer. There is also a Co-op and other food outlets in town to buy your own treats.

Note: due to licensing restrictions, no alcohol can be consumed in the gardens.

Please be responsible with your litter. Find a bin, or take away with you to keep the gardens as beautiful as when we arrive.

Will there be toilet facilities?

Yes. We have hired the Duchess Anne Rooms, at the end of The Cross in Dunkeld, to be able to provide this comfort for our audiences.

What should I wear?

All performances are fully outdoors. St.Ninian’s Gardens are sheltered, and have some tree canopy, but there is no cover.

It’s a Midsummer Night, so we hope it will be warm and dry, but please be prepared to wrap up and wear shoes for crossing a gravel area. It could also be sunny and hot – wear layers and bring your brolly and your sun-cream!

What happens if it rains?

We get wet! As with all open-air theatre and cinema, shows go ahead in all weather, so come prepared with raincoats, umbrellas, sun cream and shades!

Note: We will only cancel a performance if the conditions are considered dangerous to performers or audience, which is incredibly rare. It is highly unlikely we will cancel a performance before the advertised start time.

The vast majority of open-air performances in all forms, across the UK are completed each year, and St Ninian’s Gardens are sheltered, but uncovered, so we may have to stop and re-start the show.

Can we exchange tickets?

In the event that the performance doesn’t go ahead, or is abandoned due to bad weather, you may be able to exchange for a next performance.

As an amateur production, there are only four performances. Your ability to exchange into another performance will be subject to the availability. This will be assessed at the point when your request for an exchange is processed.

We will not be able to refund your tickets if you decide not to attend.

What happens if my event is cancelled?

In the unlikely event we cancel your event we’ll aim to transfer you to another date. If this is not possible, we will process a refund (minus the booking fee).

Where do we go to enter St Ninian’s Gardens? There are a couple of entrances:

• A wide archway on the main high street, on the left as you head towards the bus station: St Ninian’s Wynd, opposite the Vintage shop and Livvi’s.
• A narrow archway along The Cross towards the Catherdral, on the right, past Taste Talk, and before the Three Churches charity shop.

Will latecomers be admitted?

Yes. But please be respectful of the performance in progress and other audience members. Due to the nature of outdoor performance space, any latecomers must take spaces at the rear of the audience in situ.

Is the event suitable for buggies and wheelchairs?

There is flat access from street level, but please be aware much of the site is laid to gravel.

Are Dogs Allowed?

Well behaved, quiet dogs on a lead are permitted. For the enjoyment of the audience and focus of the performers, if they become noisy, sadly, we will have to ask them to be removed. Thank you for your understanding.

Do I need a ticket for a baby?

If you feel it is suitable for your little one, they are very welcome. Under 2s on laps go free – all over two years will need a ticket so we can monitor numbers.

Should your child become restive, for the enjoyment of the audience and focus of the performers, we may have to ask you to take a step out of the ‘auditorium’ until they become quiet. Thank you for your understanding.

For any further questions, please email us on BIPstheatre@outlook.com We’ll be happy to help.

We’re thrilled to be welcoming you with us. Thank you for your support.