THE Castle Players are hitting the road as they return to the stage for the first time since the pandemic struck.
Members are brushing off their costumes, learning their lines and putting their best feet forward in preparation for an outdoor summer show with a difference.
Rehearsals have begun for The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged), by Adam Long, Daniel Singer and Jess Winfield, for a short, outdoor tour in July.
The show will be performed at Mickleton Village Hall, The Bowes Museum and All Saints Church, in Darlington, in July.
Director Gordon Duffy-McGhie said the show was a perfect way for the Players to reconnect with the group’s audience.
“The Complete Works is an entertaining, vaudeville-style jog through all of Shakespeare's plays and perfect for the company to tour.”
Presented by arrangement with Josef Weinberger Limited, Mr Duffy-McGhie, is joined by Laura Shaw and Keith Irons in directing the show.
“The overall flexibility of the piece and its popular appeal makes it ideal for audiences and actors alike,” added Mr Duffy-McGhie.
“It requires no set or special effects, just props and costumes, and we’re giving a great deal of thought as to how we can put something together in a safe way for those in it and those who come to see it.”
Castle Players chairman Laurence Sach said: “We are looking forward to being back to business-as-usual next summer when we will be giving A Comedy of Errors the full Castle Players summer production experience.
“This summer, however, we are just delighted to be able to perform again.
“Everyone is looking forward to acting in front of a live audience.”
Tickets for the show go on sale from Monday, May 31.
The performance at Mickleton Village Hall takes place on Friday, July 9, at 7pm. Tickets are £8 and £3 for the U16s. Call 01833 640909 or email mickletonvh@gmail.com.
The show then heads to The Bowes Museum on Saturday July 10 and Sunday, July 11, at 2pm.
Tickets for these performances are also £8 and £3 available in person from Chocolate Fayre, Barnard Castle or online from: www. castleplayers.co.uk. A 50p per ticket service charge applies to all online bookings.
Evening performances, starting at 7pm on Saturday, July 10, and Sunday, July 11, take place at All Saints Church, Blackwell, Darlington. Tickets for these performances are £5 adults and £3 children. Contact: 01325 281487 for details.
