The Secret Garden ... in the Garden

I have seen outdoor theatre shows advertised at various locations over the last couple of years but for one reason or another I had never been to one.  An opportunity arose (thanks Gwenda!) for 2 tickets to see The Secret Garden at Alnwick Garden and I jumped at the chance.

I had absolutely no idea what to expect.  We have visited the Garden on many occasions since it opened and love the place.  Such a wonderful idea and we have enjoyed many a family day out here over the years.  So I knew it would be lovely and was very much looking forward to it.

Armed with picnic blanket, umbrella's (just in case), drinks and snacks, my daughter and I arrived at the Garden at about 6.10 with 20 minutes till showtime.

The stage was set just to the left of the Grand Cascade and it was magical.  It was an absolutely perfect setting.  The staff were lovely, exceptionally helpful and always on hand to help out.  We were directed to the 'blanket only' spot which was a great idea as a lot of people had brought their own chairs, this way we got a perfect view.

This performance was put on by Chapterhouse Open Air Theatre Company who are putting on 6 wonderful shows throughout the summer in some of the country's most beautiful locations.  Check out their website, there is sure to be one near you.

The actors were brilliant,  we loved them all and they played their parts perfectly.  Eva particularly liked Mary and Colin, she found their stroppiness really funny!

The performance lasted approximately an hour and a half and there was a 15 minute interval in the middle which was perfect timing to let the kids have a run about in the garden, we even found our own secret door.

The bar was open throughout the first act and the interval and there was also a yummy barbecue serving burgers and sausages in buns complete with salad.  Most people had come well prepared with large picnic baskets, we will do better next time!

At the end of the performance, Eva got the chance to meet some of the cast and Mary posed for a photograph on the stage with her which she was over the moon with.

Chapterhouse and The Secret Garden are moving onto Auckland Castle on 8th August and there are plenty more productions in the North East before the end of Summer, Jane Eyre, Pride and Predjudice, Sherlock Holmes and A Midsummer Night's Dream all taking place in stunning locations.  I would love to see Jane Eyre at Belsay Hall, that would be wonderful.

The Alnwick Garden was the perfect place to watch this performance and we will definitely be back for more shows.  Thank you Chapterhouse and Alnwick for a lovely evening.