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.

A Midsummer Night's Dream at Tolethorpe, Stamford.

This is a play I studied when I was eleven and it's one I remember pretty well. Sure, Leonie had reminded me of the "wild thyme" speech - she was learning it by heart with her kids, and involved me.

The play is ideal for an outdoor setting, and the Tolethorpe stage , with its back drop of trees, and its imaginative use of lighting and height was just the job.  Romance, comedy, fantasy, fairies, magic potions, a jealous Oberon and a careless Puck all add to the magic.  Very neatly set off by the workmen's acting of Pyramus and Thisbe.

Very entertaining.