GO Play outside

If you didn’t manage to catch any of this year’s performances… you really missed out.

There’s nothing quite like an early summer evening in Lytham even if it’s not always sunny. Despite the blue skies but cooler temperatures this summer, the magic of the outdoor theatre experience shines through. With layers, raincoats, picnics, and wine in hand, audiences were transported to enchanting worlds—from the depths of a forest to the heart of the American Civil War, from the canals of Venice to the moors of Dartmoor. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the illuminated Hall and its magnificent grounds created a sense of contentment and gratitude for the cultural riches on our doorstep.”

The outdoor theatre season at Georgian Lytham Hall grounds kicked off with a whimsical  enchanting production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Shakespeare’s beloved comedy was brought to life with the versatility of the talented Chapterhouse cast delivering memorable performances. The fairies’ antics, the lovers’ confusion, and the travelling players were all captured with delightful humour and charm.

Next up was Little Women, a heartwarming adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s classic novel. The March sisters were brought to life with sensitivity and authenticity, and the audience was captivated by their struggles, triumphs, and sisterly bond. The production was beautifully staged, with stunning costumes and all in what is such a picturesque setting.  An appreciative capacity audience of 500, the largest of Chapterhouse’s nationwide summer tour so far.

The iconic love story of Romeo and Juliet was given a powerful and passionate performance. The young lovers’ star-crossed romance was portrayed with intensity and emotion, and the tragedy of their fate was deeply felt by the audience. The production’s staging was visually striking, and the Illyria actors’ performances were truly captivating.

The season continued with Illyria’s light-hearted and entertaining production of the The Gondoliers. This Gilbert and Sullivan operetta featured a talented cast of six singers and dancers, who delivered a lively and enjoyable performance. The music was beautifully sung, and the comedic elements were well-executed. A lovely performance too from Lytham Community Choir prior to the operetta

A delightful and family-friendly production of The Adventures of Dr. Doolittle was most appealing. The audience was transported to exotic lands as Dr. Doolittle and his animal companions embarked on their adventures. The Illyria cast’s energetic performances , skilled puppetry and the imaginative staging  made this a memorable experience for all ages. There was a special area reserved for children to sit on the grass right in front of the stage, as the adventures unfolded and a huge variety of animals were introduced

Finally, the season concluded with a thrilling production of The Hound of the Baskervilles. Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson were brought to life with considerable skill, and the mystery of the ghostly hound was expertly unravelled. The production’s spooky atmosphere and the actors’ powerful performances made for a gripping conclusion to the season. in front of another full house of 500, the higest anywhere in the country on Illyria’s nationwide tour so far.

Four of the six plays took place under bluie skies with sunshine.Once again for 2024 the diverse range of productions offered,  something for everyone, and, as eve,r the beautiful setting provided a magical backdrop for these unforgettable performances.

 Top that 2025!

The season was made possible by the theatre organiser Julian Wilde, strongly supported by some 50  generous local business Patrons  and the staff and volunteers of Lytham Hall.