THE stage is set and the cast are ready for open air theatre in Evesham.

Evesham Festival Players are performing two plays the town’s country park next week. It will be the third year in a row the amateur dramatic group has taken drama outdoors and this year they are staging Shakespeare’s Merchant of Venice as well as Robert Bolt’s classic A Man for All Seasons.

“Everybody enjoys outdoor theatre”, said Eric Jones, director and co-founder of the Evesham Festival Players.

“There is something really special about a picnic, the drama and the open air which makes it popular all over the country throughout the summer.

“We have thought for some time now that Evesham deserves its share of this form of entertainment, so that’s what we have provided. We are an amateur group relying on ticket sales and have been well supported in 2008 and 2009.

“But there’s always room for more folk to settle down and watch the plays”.

Merchant of Venice is being performed by London-based Theatre Set-Up on Monday, July 12 and Tuesday, July 13.

“We are delighted to have them with us for two nights,” said Jones.

“Last year they came to us with Cymbeline, and even on a very dull evening, performed to much acclaim for a very enthusiastic audience. This year, with a play which is even better known, and of course, with better weather, it should provide a wonderful evening under the setting sun for both Evesham folk and visitors to the town’.

A Man for All Seasons will be performed by the Festival Players on Friday, July 16 and Saturday, July 17.

Bolt’s story of Sir Thomas More’s disagreement with King Henry VIII premiered 50 years ago and remains a much loved piece of drama.

For more information about the open air shows see eveshamarts.net. Booking can be done through the Almonry Heritage Centre or Eric Jones on 01386 48788.

Tickets are £10 each or £18 for a ticket to both plays.