Villa Marina Gardens to host an open-air theatre

Mon, 28 Aug 2023

The VillaGaiety and local company Parodos Theatre have collaborated to host William Shakespeare’s classic ‘The Merchant of Venice’.

The open-air theatre will open from September 7 at the Villa Marina Gardens. Audiences are encouraged to bring along rugs, blankets and chairs to watch the late summer evening play. A bar services will also be available before and during the interval of each performance.

Director of Parodos Theatre, Charlie Williams, said: “The themes of The Merchant of Venice are, unfortunately in many ways, still as relevant today as they were when it was first performed. We are staging a play in which it is difficult to find characters without flaws and whose actions expose the complexities of human nature and prejudice. 

“Yet alongside this, the play explores moments of humour, romance and levity that will be brought forth by our fabulous cast in the wonderful Villa Marina Gardens.”

Head of Culture and Arts, Sarah Wilson-White, said: “As part of our year-round programme of shows and events, we are looking to develop the outdoor offering during Spring and Summer. This production is a great way to explore new ideas, and we’re very excited about this collaboration with Parodos Theatre.”

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