Enjoy the arts in Winchester’s open air this summer

9 July 2010

Winchester’s summer season of open air performances combine some of literature’s best loved stories performed against the historic backdrop of England’s ancient capital.

Guests visiting the city, which is just an hour outside of London by car or train, and just a 30 minute drive from Southampton Airport, can take advantage of summer rates at the centrally based Winchester Royal hotel.  Prices start from £80 per room B&B until 31 August.* Book on-line at www.forestdale.com

Why not pick up a freshly-made takeaway picnic from The Bridge Patisserie for only £10-£12 (based on two sharing) and sit in the open air to enjoy some fine theatre in some of Winchester’s most beautiful surroundings – nowhere does it better this summer.

Here are just some of the upcoming performances:

• The Importance of Being Earnest at Wolvesey Gardens – 17 July at 7:30pm
The Rain or Shine Theatre Company presents Oscar Wilde's classic comedy of manners, morals and morality in the gardens of the ruins of Winchester's medieval Bishop's Palace. Tickets: £12.40

• As You Like It at Wickham Vineyard – 25 July at 6pm
The Villagers Open Air Shakespeare Group perform Shakespeare's popular comedy of love, mistaken identity, exile and return. Tickets: £6

• Pride and Prejudice at Winchester Cathedral - 5 and 6 August at 7:30pm
The resting place of Jane Austen showcases this imaginative adaptation of Pride and Prejudice performed in the Cathedral’s inner close, which itself is just a stone’s throw from Jane Austen’s final home. Tickets: £12.50

• Robin Hood at Winchester Cathedral – 29 August at 5pm
Cambridge Touring Theatre presents their very funny musical romp through the world of Robin Hood, Friar Tuck, the Sherriff of Nottingham and Maid Marian. Suitable for children aged 3 and above. Tickets: £12.50

For more performances and further information please see www.visitwinchester.co.uk

Rates are inclusive of full English breakfast and VAT. Minimum two night stay to include either a Friday or Sunday. Payable in full on booking - non-refundable and non-transferable.

For press information, contact:
Sophy Norris/Lewis Shields
Flagship Consulting
01392 426 287 or 020 7886 8440
Sophy.norris@flagshipconsulting.co.uk or lewis.shields@flagshipconsulting.co.uk