Following a shipwreck, Viola is washed-up in Illyria, where her only chance for survival is to make use of her quick wit and fine singing voice, disguising herself as a man and applying to work in the court of Duke Orsino.
The lovesick Orsino sends “him” to lady Olivia to woo her on his behalf, but Viola’s efforts are so successful that Olivia falls for Viola rather than Orsino. Meanwhile Olivia’s carousing uncle Sir Toby Belch crosses swords with her steward Malvolio and devises a wicked plan to humiliate him. It could all end in tears – even if most of them are of laughter.
Illyria presents an evening of yearning romance, music and sheer joy – all performed on a stage inspired by those of the Elizabethan touring troupes.
Running time (approx): 2hrs 20mins (including 20 minute interval)
Suitable for ages 8+
Illyria
Illyria was created in 1991, and ever since has delighted audiences the length and breadth of the UK, and in the Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland, France, the United States and Canada.
Illyria has also won 4 international “Best Performance” awards and attracted numerous “5-star” and “Critics’ Choice” reviews for the lively clarity of its approach to Shakespeare’s plays, the high quality of its shows for families and the refreshing originality of its English classics adaptations and Gilbert & Sullivan performances.
Illyria’s mission is simply stated: to create a varied programme of outstandingly enjoyable theatre and to make it available for everyone to see.
Illyria has given more performances to more people across a wider area than any other open air touring theatre company, its presence dominates the sector and its standards set the bar high. Illyria works closely with the Equity to ensure that all its actors are paid a fair living wage and treated with the respect and dignity they deserve.
Setting
Outdoor theatre at Painshill is staged on the lawn in the Walled Garden. Surrounded by beautiful flower beds, the garden is a beautiful space for watching a performance. Please note, however, that cover and seating will not be provided. Ticket holders are advised to bring picnic blankets or picnic chairs to sit on.
Catering
Each night alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks will be on offer from the bar. Food will not be available to purchase at this event but you are welcome to bring a picnic. Please do not bring alcohol to the event, it will be possible to purchase alcoholic drinks from the bar.
Please note: this event takes place outside and the event will not be cancelled due to poor or inclement weather. Cover and seating will not be provided.
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In true British style the event will go ahead whatever the weather and cover or shade is not available. Please consider that carefully when making your booking.
Alcoholic drinks and soft drinks will be available to purchase from the bar at the event. Please do not bring alcohol into the event. Painshill reserves the right to request a search of customers’ bags and prevent the admission of guests carrying alcohol or suspected of carrying alcohol.
Event tickets in the evening to do not allow access to the landscape in the day. The landscape will be closed during the event.
Dogs are not permitted at this event.
Painshill reserves the right to amend or change the above event details.
Organised in aid of Painshill Park Trust Limited, registered charity in England and Wales (284944). We rely on fundraising to preserve and maintain Painshill for future generations so your support is very important to us.
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