Bard in the park

Swindon's Mayor Stan Pajak poses to promote the performances in the park

Two of William Shakespeare's best known explorations of power and romance come to the green swards of Swindon's Lydiard Park later this month.

On Friday 19th July Richard III searches for his horse in front of the audience who have just enjoyed their picnic and Saturday 20th July, that well know weepy Romeo & Juliet returns with its familiar refrains.

Performed in the open air against the backdrop of Lydiard House by nationally acclaimed company of actors Heartbreak Productions, enjoy a picnic before an evening packed with passion, intrigue, manipulation, mayhem and death.

Lydiard House boasts a historic connection with the era Sharkespeare describes in his play. Richard III according to keeper of the house Sarah Finch-Crisp was defeated by Henry Tudor who mother had links with the St John's, the family who owned the house for many hundreds of years before it was bought by Swindon Council in 1943.

Picnicers before each performance will be entertained by the Swindon Young Musician recorder and guitar ensemble.

Tickets are available from Link Centre: £8 adults, £4 juniors before 12 July. £1 more after 12 July and, if available, on the gate which opens at 6pm. For credit card bookings, call 445566 (a fee applies).