Event of the Week: Join Puck and the mortal fools for A Midsummer Night's Dream at Kew Gardens

By The Editor 18th Aug 2021

It's amazing to see how many Richmond events are going on in the coming weeks and months - how lucky we are to live where we do!

Our top pick for this week is a MONTH of performances of A Midsummer Night's Dream at Kew Gardens. Could there be a more perfect setting for this Shakespeare classic?

Set against the backdrop of a glittering twilight sky and the heritage trees of Kew Gardens, the play is described as "an alfresco romp peppered with contemporary references".

Read our review here.

The listing says: "This beguiling comedy of enchantment and transformation is brought to life within a dream-like woodland filled with feuding fairies, eloping lovers and a hapless troupe of actors.

"There's magic in the air alongside wild thyme, oxlips, nodding violets, luscious woodbine, sweet musk roses and eglantine. It's an alfresco romp peppered with contemporary references. Into the mix add a spellbinding potion and a mischievous sprite for a summer night of mayhem like no other."

Laura Rodrigues reviewed the play, saying: "Shakespeare at its best, faithful to the text and subverted with ribald additions and physical comedy. My 10 year old niece - who had read the Lamb version - laughed out loud and her favourite pieces were not only the jokes. I think your first Shakespeare is life defining, and this was just right.

"Setting is ofc outstanding, staff incredibly helpful, and I just wish we could stop air travel for the duration. The actor playing Puck is an amazing all rounder, acting, dancing, singing, acrobatics and comedic tempo. The rustics are vulnerable, the fairies just erotic enough, the Athenians played with sensitivity, humour and gusto.

"I left without thinking how I would have produced/directed it differently, and that is very rare for me."

Tickets available on the Kew Gardens website.

Performances

Tuesday - Sunday: 8.00pm.

Running Time - 2 Hour 20 Minutes including intermission.

Kew Gardens is delighted to announce that the season has been extended until Sunday 5 Sept!

Getting there

Enter via Victoria Gate. All other gates will be closed from 7pm.

By Tube: Kew Gardens station (500m to Victoria Gate).

By Train: Kew Bridge station (800m to Elizabeth Gate).

By Bus: Route 65 stops at Victoria Gate.

By Bike: Racks are available at all gates.

By Car: Parking is available at the National Archives Car Park. Approx. 12-minute walk to Victoria Gate. NOTE: parking at Brentford Gate Car Park will not be available.

Free Accessible Parking: Blue Badge Holder's street parking available on Lichfield Road, Leyborne Park, Burlington Avenue. Spaces are limited.

What to bring

Pack a portable chair, blanket or cushions to sit on, and insect repellent.

This is an open-air picnic-style event. There is no seating available, and the performance area is completely uncovered.

Location - Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Enter through Victoria Gate entrance. Performance takes place at the Theatre Lawn, Behind the Palm House.

Pack a raincoat in case of inclement weather.

Find out more on the event on our What's On page.

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