Holkham unveils summer season of popular adaptations for outdoor theatre productions

The open air theatre productions at Holkham Hall are a firm favourite with local people and visitors alike and this summer promises to be as popular as ever with an exciting programme of family entertainment on offer.

Holkam Theatre Productions

Set in the beautiful backdrop of the courtyard in Holkham Park each outdoor theatre production has a unique atmosphere created by theatre goers enjoying their picnics in a buzz of excitement and expectancy of what is to come.   A range of touring companies will be performing some carefully selected productions of comedy and drama with captivating and beautiful adaptations of some of our best loved traditional titles. 

The season begins on August 5 with the Chapterhouse Theatre Company performing The Jungle Book with all the favourite animal characters brought to life in an enchanting and fun-filled musical show for children of all ages.   Join Mowgli on his wonderful adventures with the loveable and wise Baloo the Bear, the powerful panther Bagheera, not to mention mischievous monkeys and the terrifying tiger Shere Khan.

On August 13 the Blunderbus Theatre Company will be performing Hugless Douglas, a new show which brings this well-known tale to life with an irresistible blend of music, puppetry and high energy storytelling.  Hugless Douglas is a huggable, lovable young brown bear who wakes up one morning in need of a hug. Little Cubs aged 3 - 7 years old will love this heart warming tale, but grown-up bears will have lots of fun too. Join Douglas in this happy show, full of laughter, sing- along songs and plenty of opportunities to join in!

On August 20 Alice will be bringing her adventures in Wonderland to Holkham with the help of the Cambridge Touring Company.  This ever -popular children’s fairy tale is presented with a lively and hilarious performance brought to life with music, dancing and a host of pranks that appeal to young and old alike.  Children are invited to come along in their best ‘wonderland’ fashion.

The final production will take place on August 27 when The Lord Chamberlain’s Men will be performing one of Shakespeare’s classic plays, Romeo and Juliet.  With action from the outset, jealousy, comedy, murder, banishment and the most famous balcony in the history of theatre, the audience can settle back and be swept up in the romance, drama and passion of the Bard’s famous tragedy.   

Further information on the productions including ticket prices can be found on the website www.holkham.co.uk/html/events.html.

Creative Fun At The National Motor Museum 6th – 29th August

This August, visitors to the National Motor Museum, Beaulieu, can take part in a host of fun and creative Summer Activities inspired by the museum’s outstanding collections.
Sponsored by The Caravan Club, the sessions will take place in the museum on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 6th – 29th August, between 12:00 – 4:00pm.

There will be a range of activities on offer including construction, colouring, and crafting.  Families can take part in a Towcar Challenge to design, build and road test their very own car and caravan.

Come along and find out more about the wonderful Motoring Collections housed at Beaulieu while you enjoy creating your own artwork and vehicles.

The activities are included in the price of your entrance ticket to Beaulieu, adult £21, child (5-12) £10.50, youth (13-17) £12.50 or £55 for a family ticket (2 adults +3 children/youths or 1 adult + 4 children/youths).

No booking is required, just drop-in and join in the exciting sessions. Visit www.beaulieuevents.co.uk for more details.

Pack a picnic and tuck in to the popcorn… or treat yourself to a luxury foodie feast with fizz at Burghley’s summer film festival

Four days of fabulous films from Bond to children’s favourites will transform England’s greatest Elizabethan house into one of this summer’s best outdoor cinema settings.

But along with a film feast featuring 15 movies over four days and nights in August, Lincolnshire’s Burghley House aims to provide a food feast too, including luxury picnics - and the tasting of the final menu has just been completed!

Each day during the Festival at Burghley - on the edge of the Georgian stone town of Stamford - there will be two family films, while for a night at the movies an evening ticket will cover two additional films more geared to adult audiences.

Of course, visitors are welcome to bring their own picnics to enjoy in the spectacular outdoor setting, but during all film showings Burghley’s great British barbecue will offer perfect summer BBQ food, with all of the meat sourced from local producers, while in the evenings there will also be delicious Ottolenghi style salads as well as a host of other options available.

For an extra special movie treat, those who really want to celebrate in style - and let someone else do the work - can pre-order a special three course Burghley picnic for two.

It’s a chance to settle back to watch your chosen movie on the big screen while you tuck in to a three course feast that starts with a tantalising trailer including marinated lucques olives, organic crudités, pitta chips and bruschetta fingers with fresh tomato and basil salsa.

Followed by the main presentation of lemon marinated English goat’s cheese with chargrilled artichoke hearts, poached salmon with ribbons of cucumber and shaved fennel tossed with a lemon dressing and a superfood salad with crispy greens and pea shoots.

And the end credits of delicious homemade chocolate brownie and strawberries with Rodda’s clotted cream, all washed down with a chilled bottle of sparkling wine.

The Film Festival Luxury Picnic (serving two) costs £80 and must be booked online.

Burghley’s Great British BBQ will also be selling hot food during all performances as well as snacks, popcorn, ice-cream and homemade fruit juice slushies to keep the children happy, while no summer evening would be complete without Pimms as well as cold beer, wine and cocktails.

The big screen will be set up against the backdrop of the magnificent Elizabethan house overlooking the beautiful South Gardens, Capability Brown lake and the sweeping parkland beyond for the Film Festival, 1-4 August 2013.

Movies include A Night of Royal Entertainment (Thursday 1st August) featuring The Duchess and The King’s Speech; Bond Night Fever (Friday 2nd August) with Casino Royale and Skyfall; Sing-a-long-a-Sensation (Saturday 3rd August) showing Grease and Rocky Horror Picture Show; and Les Mis Under The Stars (Sunday 4th August) starring Les Miserables.

Daytime showings range from Disney blockbusters Finding Nemo and Toy Story 3 to all time favourite Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and smash-hit Shrek.
Early-bird buyers can still take advantage of specially priced tickets available online now from Burghley’s website - saving £4 per ticket before 30th June and £2 per ticket before 31 July, compared to the on-the-day price.

Tickets are priced at £6 for adults until 30th June; £8 until 31st July and £10 on the gates. Child tickets are priced at £4. For full details of opening times and to book online tickets, visit www.burghley.co.uk

The House is open from Saturday 16th March to Sunday 3rd November 2013 daily (except Fridays) from 11am to 5pm (last admission 4.30pm). Admission: House and The Gardens of Surprise - adults £12.70; children (3–15 years) £6.50; seniors/students £11.50; family (2 adults & 2 children) £34.

Visit England’s Best Visitor Attraction This Summer 20th July – 1st September 2013

Summer Fun

Skittles on the lawn

Awarded Gold by VisitEngland in the 2013 Awards for Excellence, you are assured of a great day out at Beaulieu this summer. Between 20th July and 1st September, join the Victorian house party in Palace House with music in the Lower Drawing Room, family games outside on the lawns and daily playlets to enjoy. See Veteran and Vintage cars motoring around the grounds, and watch the Victorian cyclist on his Penny Farthing. In the picturesque Beaulieu Abbey Cloisters, learn about the history of falconry and watch special daily flying demonstrations to see some of these amazing birds in flight.

Join the Victorian gardener for a tour of the Kitchen Garden where produce for Palace House is grown. Meet Brother William, the Cistercian monk who strolls the pathways of Beaulieu’s Abbey Cloisters and hear his talks on the folk law of herbs and the life of the monks who lived in the Abbey.

See the National Motor Museum’s exciting exhibition, BOND IN MOTION, with 50 original vehicles from the James Bond films. Some of Bond’s most iconic vehicles are on display, including the aquatic Lotus Esprit S1 from The Spy Who Loved Me, the quirky ‘Little Nellie’ autogyro from You Only Live Twice and the vanishing Aston Martin Vanquish from Die Another Day plus vehicles from the latest film Skyfall. There are also film clips and exclusive behind-the-scenes footage from some of the most impressive vehicle stunts.

View the museum’s collection of over 250 vehicles, from Land Speed Record Breakers to F1 racers, and take a ride on ‘Wheels’, a journey through 100 years of motoring history.  New for 2012, On Screen Cars has car stars of the TV and film world, including Mr Bean’s lime green Mini and Harry Potter’s ‘flying’ Ford Anglia. Enter the ‘World of Top Gear’ to see genuine cars from the presenters’ most ambitious challenges on the popular BBC motoring show.

Take a ride on the high-level Monorail to get a birds-eye view of the cars as you travel through the roof of the museum, see the sights from the open-topped replica 1912 London Bus or head to the Arena and get in the driving seat on the Go-Karts.* 

Budding young drivers can take to the road on Dipstick’s Driving Circuit** in mini motorised vehicles while younger visitors can enjoy the Mini Motor Play Trail with its Veteran Bus climbing frame, swings and Little Tykes ride-on-cars.

Beaulieu is open daily from 10am to 6pm. For further information visit www.beaulieu.co.uk

* A good value extra charge applies to this ride. Please check www.beaulieu.co.uk for Go Kart running dates. ** Height restrictions apply.

Spring into summer at Beaulieu

Bluebird

Lotus Esprit Wet Nellie from The Spy Who Loved Me

Richard Kiel The Spy Who Loved Me

During the May Half Term, 25th May – 2nd June, spring into summer at Beaulieu and enjoy all the fantastic features of one of the south’s leading visitor attractions, plus special activities for all the family.

In the grounds of the parkland, have a go on some Giant Games! Balance blocks in a towering Jenga game, get tactical with giant sized Noughts and Crosses and test out your logic skills with larger than life Connect Four.

Visit the National Motor Museum and see over 250 vehicles on display, including Land Speed Record Breakers, F1 race cars, family cars of the 30s and 40s, plus rare motoring oddities such as a giant orange on wheels.

Younger visitors can follow a Quiz Trail through the museum’s BOND IN MOTION exhibition, the largest ever display of original James Bond vehicles. Answer the questions, crack the code, and hand in your completed quiz sheet for the opportunity to be entered into a draw to win a Bond-themed prize. See some of Bond’s most popular and iconic vehicles, including the Lotus Esprit S1 ‘submarine’ car from The Spy Who Loved Me, the quirky Crocodile Submarine used in Octopussy and the Die Another Day Aston Martin Vanquish with ‘adaptive camouflage system’.

On Sunday 26th May, actor Richard Kiel, who played famous Bond villain Jaws, will be in BOND IN MOTION meeting and greeting visitors. Richard starred in ‘The Spy Who Loved Me’ and ‘Moonraker’ and at a towering seven feet and 1.75 inches tall, was famously recognisable for his razor sharp steel teeth.

Visitors will be able to purchase Richard's autobiography, 'Making it Big in the Movies' plus copies of his official photographs. He will happily sign purchases and pose for a photograph, so don't forget to bring a camera!

Richard will be accompanied by Blanche Ravelec, who played his true love 'Dolly' in ‘Moonraker’ and they will be signing for periods between 10.30am and 4pm.

Visit World of Top Gear to see actual vehicles created by presenters Jeremy, Richard and James during some of their most memorable challenges, including two from the latest series; Richard and Jeremy’s exploding ‘Grannymobile’ and the P45 micro car driven through the British Library by Jeremy.

The ‘Enormodrome’ recreates the feel of the Top Gear studio with regular features from the programme, including the Cool Wall and the Celebrity ‘Lap Times’ board, kept up to date in line with the show. Visitors can also watch behind-the-scenes footage of the Top Gear production zone and clips of some of the best Top Gear moments.

Monorail Bus

Take a ride on the high-level Monorail or hop onboard the open-topped veteran London bus for a different way to explore the grounds.

See Palace House, home of the Montagu family since 1538 and discover the history of 13th century Beaulieu Abbey in the Domus Exhibition of Monastic Life.

All-inclusive attraction admission tickets can be bought on the day of your visit, or take advantage of the 10% discount offered on tickets bought in advance online at www.beaulieushop.co.uk

Beaulieu is open daily, 10am – 5pm. For more information, visit www.beaulieu.co.uk

Summer 2013 guide to England's Best Outdoor Theatre

Expect an imaginative feast of top theatrical performances, concerts and outdoor cinema at The Treasure Houses of England this summer. Immerse yourself in spectacular surrounds at the country’s grandest palaces, houses and estates for a series of show-stopping events for all ages.

The calendar features everything from children’s classics and pre-school favourites to Shakespeare and Prom Spectaculars to folk and contemporary music, all set against the backdrop of some of England’s finest castles, palaces and historic houses.

Celebrating 200 years since Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice was first published; travel back in time with Chapterhouse Theatre Company who appear at Harewood on Sunday 30 June, Chatsworth, Thursday 1 August and Castle Howard on Friday 2 August.

The ancient grounds of Beaulieu Abbey provide a beautiful summer backdrop for the Castle Theatre Company’s performance of As You Like it, one of the great comedy plays by Shakespeare on the 4 & 5 July.  Enjoy a picnic in the Cloisters before the performance at 7pm.

The Oxford School of Drama presents Summer Outdoor Theatre from the 12-22 June, in the magical surroundings of the Pleasure Gardens at Blenheim Palace, Enjoy a picnic in the glorious settings before the start of the performance at 7pm.

Burghley’s 9th annual Battle Proms Concert (Saturday 6 July) is one of the premier picnic proms offering an evening of soul stirring classical music.  Featuring the world renowned Blades Aerobatic Team, Spitfire display, cannons, cavalry and fireworks for a memorable and unforgettable event.  The Burghley Film Festival takes place on 1-4 August for four days of fabulous films with the Elizabethan house providing a wonderful backdrop.

Don’t’ miss one of the most popular outdoor classical events with The Proms Spectacular on the 17th August at Castle Howard – a stunning location, brilliant music and spectacular fireworks all combine to make an unrivalled evening of magical entertainment including popular classics, movie themes, and traditional favourites associated with the Last Night of the Proms.

The Chatsworth Garden is hosting theatre productions with Treasure Island 31 May, Horrible Histories 30 & 31 July and Pride & Prejudice 1 August.   Enjoy an evening of songs from classic musicals such as Phantom of the Opera, Miss Saigon, Billy Elliot, My Fair Lady and many others at the West End Classic concert on 2 August or get your dancing shoes on for a superb night of classic disco, soul and pop at the ultimate party with a stunning 10 piece band comprising of London’s top session musicians on the 3 August.

The Medieval Faire takes place at Harewood on Sun 26 & Monday 27 May and brings together all the colour, excitement and history from this extraordinary period: jousting and archery, armoury displays, Norman skirmish and encampments; historical traders, crafts, cooking, clothing, puppet shows, medieval music, games, falconry and storytelling.  There’s also a variety of Summer outdoor events with Cliff Richard’s tour starting on the 1 June, Gilbert & Sullivan operetta The Mikado on 11 July; Shakespeare’s, As you Like It on 25 July, Wind in the Willows (8 August) and  Babe the Sheep Pig (31 August).

Hatfield House is welcoming Sir Cliff Richard – Still Reelin’ and A-Rockin’ (9 June) with A Summer Holiday to Remember spectacular.   Enjoy some of folk's finest acts gathered in beautiful leafy parkland for one uplifting summer day of music on the 21 July with Folk by the Oak bringing some exceptional folk and acoustic music to Hatfield.  There is also outdoor theatre with Lord Chamberlain’s Men preforming ‘As you like it’ on the 11 August and the family favourite ‘Treasure Island’ on 22 August.

Holkham Hall has a bevy of summer performances commencing with The Lord Chamberlain’s Men and their all male production of Shakespeare’s mysterious and romantic comedy ‘As you like it’ (24 July).  Special Family theatre takes place during the summer holidays with Gulliver’s Travels (7 August), Dotty the Dragon (14 August), Treasure Island (21 August) and 101 Dalmations (28 August).

Leeds Castle is hosting an open air classical concert (13 July) where John Rigby conducts the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra in a programme of classical favourites with special guests including the Military Wives.  The event includes a whole evening’s entertainment with a special display from a classic World War 11 aircraft and a fireworks finale.  Luna Cinema presents two nights of outdoor cinema showing ‘The Blues Brothers’ (6 September) and Casablanca (7 September).

Be captivated by the magic of outdoor theatre amongst the stunning setting of the Woburn Abbey Gardens with A Midsummer Night’s Dream (10 August) and Sherlock Holmes (16 August).

Bring family and friends along with your blankets, low-back chairs, scrummy picnics and something chilled to drink and escape into enchanting worlds of romance, mystery, comedy and fairytales on a fine summer evening.For more live event information visit: www.treasurehouses.co.uk

Treasure Houses of England

The Treasure Houses of England are ten of the most magnificent palaces, houses and castles in England today. Members are Beaulieu, Blenheim Palace, Burghley House, Castle Howard, Chatsworth, Harewood, Hatfield House, Holkham Hall, Leeds Castle and Woburn Abbey.  Each has its own unique charm and all combine together to give a fascinating insight into life in England over the centuries.

One of the most compelling features of the Treasure Houses of England is that they all offer the visitor a living history. Most are still homes to the great families who have owned them for generations. Others keep their heritage alive by re-creating scenes and events that have dominated and shaped England from the 9th century to the present day.Between them they house some of the most important art collections in the world with famous works from artists such as Van Dyck and Gainsborough and priceless antiques including Chippendale, Wedgwood and Meissen.

Discover hidden gems and dark secrets, follow walks and adventure trails in beautiful parklands and gardens, enjoy classical concerts, outdoor theatre, family fun and relax over afternoon tea:  the Treasure Houses change with the seasons, move with the times and always have something unexpected to offer, something new to discover.

Beaulieu To Host Summer Sculpture Trail

The successful association cemented between the National Motor Museum, Beaulieu and the Surrey Sculpture Society (SSS), sees the famous motor museum’s historic Palace House and gardens hosting the society’s Summer Sculpture Trail for the third year running.  Again this year, SSS artists from all over the south of England will be displaying their unique range of sculptures – along the attraction’s pathways, around the ruins of Beaulieu Abbey and through the delightful gardens and riverside grounds; to the historic interior of Palace House.

Surrey Sculpture Society’s Summer Sculpture Trail will open at Beaulieu on 23rd May and the exhibition will run until 23rd August.

Within this distinctive setting a wide range of sculptures can be discovered, from striking contemporary pieces to expressive figurative works of art, which will be placed to enhance the natural beauty of their surroundings, including the Victorian Flower, Herb, Ornamental Kitchen and Wilderness Gardens, as well as by the riverside walk – forming one of the largest and most popular exhibitions of sculpture in the country.

Hampshire based sculptor and a Surrey Sculpture Society member, Bridget Dumper, is a regular exhibitor at Beaulieu and commented: “I am very excited to be exhibiting at Beaulieu again and wouldn’t miss a year.  The standard of both the Surrey Sculpture Society organisation and the incredible attention to detail that the Beaulieu staff give to every aspect of the exhibition is very high.  I love having my work exhibited at such a professional level in such a perfect environment – it is a real pleasure and a privilege.”

Animals are a popular subject and there will be a number of life-size animal sculptures to complement the natural surroundings, as well as smaller sculptures on display inside Palace House, ranging from contemporary to traditional styles offering broad appeal to suit all tastes and budgets.

The sculptures have been carefully selected from the large SSS membership of 374 based across the southern region and created by both talented amateurs and top professional sculptors. All are available to purchase.

The Summer Sculpture Trail at Beaulieu will be open from 10am daily and further information on the Surrey Sculpture Society’s exhibition programme can be found at www.surreysculpture.org.uk

The opportunity to view the sculpture trail is included in general admission to the Beaulieu attraction which features the National Motor Museum, with its BOND IN MOTION exhibition, World of Top Gear and the fascinating Secret Army Exhibition as well as Palace House and Beaulieu Abbey.  There are also many places to picnic within the picturesque parkland, or visitors can enjoy Leith’s Brabazon Restaurant. 

For information call 01590 612345 or visit www.beaulieu.co.uk