With longer evenings, warmer weather and — for families — lots of time off school to look forward to, make the most of the summer months at Painswick Rococo Garden, with a whole programme of alfresco entertainment for the season.
Kicking things off is an appearance from Game of Thrones actor, Anton Lesser, as he takes on the role of Laurie Lee in an immersive theatre production all about Gloucestershire's literary hero on Saturday 22 June 2024.
Red Sky at Sunrise tells Lee's story in words and music, combining material from his autobiographical trilogy with live music from The Orchestra of the Swan — with Killing Eve actor, Charlie Hamblett, co-starring as a younger version of the poet.
Another twist on classic theatre, The Handlebards brings its bicycle-fuelled production of Shakespeare's The Comedy of Errors to Rococo on Thursday 4, Friday 5 and Saturday 6 July 2024.
Then, bring the bubbly for an evening of opera on Friday 19 July 2024, as the Gloucestershire pleasure garden plays hosts to a Royal Opera House-level standard musical performance from sustainable opera company, Wild Arts.
Known for its 'affordable and accessible' performances that are ideal for anyone who might be new to opera, audiences can expect a love story told through operatic masterpieces, performed by four up-and-coming stars, with spellbinding musical scores played by a string quartet.
For families, the Enchanted Garden trail is bringing willow-sculpted fairies, dragons and unicorns back to Painswick Rococo Garden, for another year of fairy tale-themed fun.
Throughout the summer holidays from Saturday 20 July to Sunday 1 September 2024, curious kids can embark on a whimsical adventure, following the map to find the other-worldly creatures hiding in the woodland and around the follies. Dressing up is strongly encouraged!
Rounding off the summer on bank holiday Monday 26 August 2024, catch an open-air performance of The Little Mermaid from IKP — the theatre group known for its 'delightfully daft' shows that put a comedic twist on classic stories. It's bound to get the whole family laughing!
Painswick Rococo Garden is open from 10am to 5pm Wednesday to Sunday, as well as every day during the summer holidays.
Tickets for all events, as well as general admission to the popular Gloucestershire attraction, can be booked online via rococogarden.org.uk.
