A SUMMER of Shakespeare is coming to Witley Court.

The 19th century stately ruins are the impressive backdrop for a new touring production of Shakespeare's sparkling comedy As You Like It next week.

And one of the Bard's best known plays, Romeo and Juliet will be given an outdoor airing later in the month.

Enfield-based Theatre Set-Up, which promises casting and staging comparable with Shakespeare's own company, will be ushering viewers into the Forest of Arden on Thursday, June 13 at 7.30pm.

"Set in the medieval period of Richard the Lionheart and fabled troubadour Blondel, the production evokes the romantic atmosphere of a golden age," a spokesman said.

"A vibrant musical score includes songs penned by the Bard along with tunes from the 12th century."

Switching between a corrupt court and the honest, chilly forest, the play traces the fortunes of a banished Duke, his followers, daughter Rosalind - who is disguised as a boy - and his niece - disguised as her sister, Orlando, his daughter's lover, Oliver his brother and Touchstone the court clown who have been forced into exile by the lawful duke's elder brother.

Costumes are in the period of Richard the Lionheart with music that "the minstrel Blondel might have sung and played beneath his castle window."

Romeo and Juliet will be performed on Friday June 21 and the following evening.

Further information is available from Witley Court on 01299 896636.