A royal wedding celebration is set to enchant audiences in a whimsical outdoor theatre experience.
A Midsummer Night’s Dream, one of Shakespeare’s best-loved comedies, will be performed in a special promenade production at St Cynog’s Church in Merthyr Cynog on August 15 and 16.
The production invites audiences to follow the action through the church grounds as characters move among them in what promises to be a fast-paced, immersive experience.
Aileen Gonsalves, a director with experience at the Royal Shakespeare Company, will lead the production.
Ms Gonsalves said: "A Midsummer Night’s Dream feels like it was written for nights like this.
"To bring this play to St Cynog, as the sun sets, with the audience close to the action, is exactly what Shakespeare intended.
"We’re creating something joyful, a little mischievous and very unique."
She is joined by designer Will Hargreaves, who has 30 years of experience in theatre design.
Mr Hargreaves said: "Designing for outdoors is all about responding to a specific location.
"It’s a real privilege to bring my experience to this beautiful community setting.
"Expect fairies in the yew trees."
Mr Hargreaves will incorporate natural materials and handcrafted costumes into a set design that blends the churchyard and nearby trees into the storytelling.
Reverend Richard Wootten of St Cynog’s Church welcomed the chance to host the production.
He said: "St Cynog has been a place of gathering and story for centuries.
"To welcome Shakespeare into our grounds is a wonderful way to bring people together, to celebrate community, creativity and the beauty of where we live.
"We’re delighted to open our doors – and our grounds – to theatre in this way."
The performances will take place at 7pm on both Friday, August 15 and Saturday, August 16, with a special matinee at 3pm on Sunday.
Families attending the matinee will also be able to take part in a fairy workshop, with children invited to join the performance in fairy wings.
Tickets are available online through cynogchurch.eventbrite.co.uk.
Audience members are encouraged to dress for the weather and bring blankets and camping chairs.
Refreshments will be available on site.
The event offers a rare chance to enjoy Shakespeare under the Powys sky in a setting as magical as the play itself, and celebrates storytelling, community, and the natural beauty of Merthyr Cynog.
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