The Scottish Play with extra atmosphere

The wind has been strengthening all day, noticeable on the motorway drive, and more so as we picnic on the stately 'picnic slope' at  Tolethorpe Hall before the play.

We follow the sun, minor heliotropes, shifting our chairs, balancing our plates. We are not of those who dine on weighted down but flapping tablecloths.

"This evening's performance will begin in five minutes."

We take our seats and watch the branches dancing , and hear the leaves whooshing or soughing.  Better than a painted backcloth and a worthy background for the initial meeting of the weird sisters, and the general mood of the play.

Another thoroughly enjoyable production by the Stamford Shakespeare Company, with particularly strong performances in the roles of Macbeth and Lady Macbeth.

Henry V at Tolethorpe

Preparing to picnic

Excellent evening out and very enjoyable performance - I'd forgotten how much comedy there is in this play, as well as the more serious matters of state and war. 

     

Stamford Shakespeare Company in Twelfth Night

Entertaining, easy to follow, and the twins were alike enough for suspension of disbelief to work. Usual magical setting, and good weather.  Excellent Toby Belch and Andrew Aguecheek, but why would Viola ever fall in love with a drippy duke Orsino - the character, not the actor!

A Winter's Tale at Tolethorpe

As usual a very enjoyable performance by Stamford Theatre company in their outdoor theatre at Tolethorpe Hall..  Some good set pieces - sword dance and morris dancing,  Especially liked ... as Paulina, ...as Autolycus, and ... as the young shepherd.