Imaginarium Theatre brings Romeo and Juliet to the open air stage

Star-crossed lovers Romeo and Juliet are set to appear at a garden or park near you this summer.

Imaginarium Theatre – previously known as MATE Productions – is bringing Shakespeare’s classic tragedy to open air venues across Merseyside.

The production opens at the Prescot Woodland Theatre this Saturday, before travelling to Reynolds Park in Woolton on Sunday, June 16.

Further dates include Taylor Park in St Helens on June 22, St Nicholas Church Gardens, Halewood, on June 23, Croxteth Hall Walled Garden (June 29), Ness Botanic Gardens (June 30), Prescot Woodland Theatre (July 13), Crosby Hall in Little Crosby (July 20), Sudley House Gardens, Aigburth (July 21) and Royden Park, Frankby on August 17.

It’s Verona 1783, hot air balloons are the only way to travel, Carnevale is a way of life and love is a dirty word. A rebellious girl and a sensitive boy dream of escape from patriarchy and feuding families.

Imaginarium promises pulsing Carnevale rhythms merging with Italian opera, explosive fight choreography, fire dancing, masks and spectacle.

Artistic director Gaynor La Rocca said: “We’re delighted to be once again working in partnership with the Shakespeare North Trust, Arts Council England and the Royal Shakespeare Company as we re-launch as Imaginarium Theatre UK.

“More than 100 community performers and volunteers have been involved in the creative process of Romeo and Juliet, and the accompanying schools knife crime programme, Violent Ends, will engage a further 6,000 young people this autumn.”

Seating is provided at Prescot and Halewood, but for other venues audience members should bring a low-backed chair or picnic rug.

For more information and tickets visit the website HERE