Stormy goings on in The Tempest thanks to MATE

It’s been rather hot over the last few days – but now prepare for The Tempest.

Prescot-based MATE Productions is staging the mystical Shakespeare play in a series of open air productions between now and mid-July, when the final shows will be performed at the Dell at the RSC in Stratford.

The show comes to St James Gardens below Liverpool Cathedral this Saturday at 4pm, and then moves on to Sudley House garden in Mossley Hill on July 1 at 3pm.

There are also performances planned at St Nicholas Church Gardens in Halewood on July 2, at 2pm and 7pm, Croxeth Hall Walled Garden on July 8 (2pm and 7pm), Ness Gardens in Wirral at 6pm on July 9, and Prescot Woodland Theatre on July 15 at 2pm and 7pm.

A thunderous storm and shipwreck will transport you to an enchanted island to witness to a magical tale of treachery, revenge and love involving a magician, a pair of lovers, a large helping of the supernatural and a comedy subplot involving a monster and a couple of fools.

The Tempest is directed and produced by MATE artistic director Gaynor La Rocca in association with the RSC, and has original live music by Tara and Aimee Harris and what are described as “breathtaking pyrotechnics” by Holly Blue.

Chairs are provided at Halewood and Prescot, but otherwise, bring seating or a picnic blanket and dress appropriately for the weather conditions.

Tickets are £9.50 for adults, £5.50 children and £26 for a family ticket (two adults, two children) on 0844 8000 410 or via www.mateproductions.co.uk