Setting the stage for summer
What better way to enjoy a movie or a stage show during the summer than in the great outdoors? Victoria Jones rounds up the best alfresco productions in Wales in the coming months
SUMMER has arrived, and open air cinema and theatre events are already underway.
Rain or shine, they are great fun and usually held at some gorgeous spots in Wales.
These are some of the events planned so far...
JUNE
Between June 21 and July 28, Cardiff Open Air Theatre returns to Sophia Gardens.
A staple of the summer arts calendar, you can expect Shakespeare, comedy and family entertainment, alongside the likes of film singalongs.
All seating is numbered and uncover, so if it rains you can still enjoy the show.
This year’s productions are: The Merchant of Venice (June 21 to 30); Sing-a-long The Rocky Horror Picture Show (July 1); Hello Cabaret In The Park (July 8); Dad’s Army (July 5 to 14) and Fiddler On The Roof (July 19 to 28).
There’s also an evening of comedy - Stand Up In The Park - on June 24; King Lear will be staged by Everyman Youth Theatre on July 22 and the 2018 children’s show is Seussical Jr, which runs from July 21 to 28.
The Grazing Shed will be there serving up burgers every day at the festival. There will also be vegetarian and vegan choices.
There is also a bar selling alcoholic and soft beverages and snacks.
Visit cardiffopenairtheatrefestival.co.uk
July
On Thursday, July 19 A Midsummer Night’s Dream will be performed at Oystermouth Castle in Swansea.
Shakespeare’s most enduringly popular comedy of love and intrigue, magic and mayhem is brought to life by Quantum Theatre in their production of the Shakespeare classic.
Advance tickets cost £12 for adults, concessions £9, PTL £7 and £38 for families.
Tickets will be available from www.enjoyswanseabay. com/outdoor-theatre
August
On August 9, The Reluctant Dragon will be performed at Oystermouth Castle.
In this new adaptation by Michael Whitmore, Quantum Theatre presents Kenneth Grahame’s The Reluctant Dragon, a tale of bravery and friendship for all the family.
Advance tickets are £7 for adults, £20 for families, concessions are £6, PTL £4.
Tickets will be available from www.enjoyswanseabay. com/outdoor-theatre
On August 21, there will be an open air theatre performance of David Walliams’ book ‘The Midnight Gang’ at Carew Castle and Tidal Mill.
Organisers advise theatregoers to take a rug or low backed chair. Picnics welcome, hot drinks and icecream will be available.
For ages 7+, it costs £15 for adult tickets, £12.50 for concessions, £10 for children, or £46 for a family (two adults, two children).
Tickets are non-refundable and the performance will go ahead in wet weather. Wear warm clothing.
Doors open 5.45pm, show starts 6.30pm. Visit facebook. com/events/932115053624459
September
Luna Cinema will be showing films in Cardiff and Swansea this summer.
The majestic backdrop of Oystermouth Castle in Swansea makes for a truly memorable evening of cinema under the stars.
This summer, it will play host to two nights of classic films, with the castle providing a gorgeous backdrop to our huge screen, for the ultimate open air cinema experience.
September 12 : Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone at Oystermouth Castle, Swansea
September 13 : Pretty Woman at Oystermouth Castle, Swansea
Located in the heart of the Welsh capital, medieval Cardiff Castle is one of the UK’s most famous historic sites with a richly complex history.
September 14: The Greatest Showman at Cardiff Castle
September 15: Pretty Woman at Cardiff Castle September 16: Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets at Cardiff Castle
Visit seetickets.com for tickets.