08 Jun 2023
So you are really tempted to try some outdoor theatre this summer but your worries about the practicalities of it are standing in the way? Well, please read on. To celebrate the launch of this year’s Roman Theatre Festival presented by OVO, Deborah Heath wants to help you be fully prepared so that you can focus on enjoying the play!
1. Toilets “To wee or not to wee, that is the question”– don’t worry about this one. The Roman Theatre has plenty and they aren’t grotty festival ones!
2. Layers of warmth “I beg cold comfort”– it never fails to surprise me how quickly it turns chilly after the sun goes in. I recommend wearing sturdy trousers rather than shorts/skirts and 3 upper layers of clothes including a snuggly warm jumper. Also, take one more layer than you think you will
need -you might be glad of it. A blanket for the knees is always welcome after 8.30. Guess what, you can even hire them at the Roman Theatre!
3. Companion “I would not wish any companion in the world but you” – I nearly forgot this one but if you can attend with someone you know well enough to snuggle up to when things get chilly it would really help. You might even be able to share their blanket.
Note: don’t snuggle or share a blanket with someone you don’t know unless you have asked them first. Perhaps this might be the start of something beautiful.
4. Afternoon sun “Shine out, fair sun” – although most shows are in the evening there are a few matinees on offer too and we might even have some sun! So slip on a layer over your shoulders, slop on the sun cream and slap on a hat. Not one with a massive brim or you might seriously annoy the person sitting behind you, especially if you have tried snuggling up to them first.
5. Hydration. “Here’s drink; I drink to thee” – The Roman Theatre have a lovely scandi-style bar.
However, if you fancy something hot, please remember to bring a flask to warm your insides during the second half.
6. Cushion. “Like a Barber’s chair that fits all buttocks.” – It’s a personal choice. I find the chairs at the Roman Theatre to be pretty comfortable and I’m on the bony side. But let’s be honest, Shakespeare tended to write longish plays. Even Comedy of Errors, his shortest play (on 28th August and I can’t wait!) is going to last longer than an episode of Gogglebox.
Therefore, you might want to bring a cushion, particularly if you are attending a performance at a different venue where you have to sit on the grass.
7. Rain. “The rain it raineth every day” – OK, that would be unlikely but we do live in the UK so it’s bound to happen at some point and let me tell you, the show will go on unless there is an electric storm. There is an absolutely no shame in getting the waterproof trousers out. Please, please, please do not use an umbrella. This is extremely bad etiquette as it blocks sight lines. Wear a raincoat instead. If you do feel momentarily miserable just spare a thought for the actors who are carrying on despite a slippery stage and no protective clothing.
We hope the above tips have put your mind at rest. Now you can be fully prepared so head to the OVO website and book something marvellous. There is a great mix of classics, light comedies, music and family entertainment. Have fun!
Quotes from:
- Hamlet, sort of!
- King John
- The Tempest
- Richard III
- Romeo And Juliet
- All’s Well That Ends Well
- King Lear
