Court summons for Bottom and Darcy

Summer performances at Coughton Court, south Warwickshire.

Outdoor theatre returns to beautiful Coughton Court in south Warwickshire next month as owners the National Trust welcome two well-known touring companies to its spreading lawns.

On July 5, Chapterhouse Theatre Company, celebrating 20 years 'on the road' this year, will be bringing their version of the Jane Austen classic Pride and Prejudice to the stately home. Brought to life by award-winning writer Laura Turner, the adaptation has been a favourite of Charterhouse audiences for years.

Two weeks later, on July 19, The Lord Chamberlain's Men will be staging Shakespeare's hugely popular comedy A Midsummer Night's Dream as part of a tour that celebrates their own 15th anniversary this year.

Artistic Director Peter Stickney says, "Reaching this milestone is a testament to the great work of the many actors and creatives who have worked with us, but we truly couldn't do any of it without the support of our wonderful venues and amazing audiences. We played to almost 30,000 people across the summer last year and we hope that this year will see us entertain even more."

Tickets at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/coughton-court or from 01789 400777.

Photo: Scene from Midsummer Night's Dream by Jack Offord