Bard In The Botanics

What was your first experience of Romeo and Juliet?

An awkward high school production? Leonardo DiCaprio weeping with a gun?

Whatever it was, there is no denying that this is the love story to end all love stories.

That’s because the Bard’s best loved work has got it all – teen passion, warring families and nail-biting elopements. Which makes it pretty much the perfect play to enjoy outdoors on a balmy summer evening, doesn’t it?

That’s why we’re excited that this year, the ever popular Bard in the Botanics festival is back with a contemporary take on Shakespeare’s classic romance. So channel your inner culture vulture and snatch up a ticket with today’s Big Deal.

Romeo, Juliet… and you

Today’s Big Deal is for one ticket to Romeo and Juliet, which you will get to watch outdoors in Glasgow’s Botanic Gardens as the sun sets over the lawns. Romantic, no?

The play will be an immersive experience and is part of the annual Bard in the Botanics festival. It is directed by Jennifer Dick, who has crafted a thoroughly modern version of the famous love story. You have a choice of six dates, with performances starting at 7.45pm:

22nd, 23rd, 29th, 30th June

6th, 7th July

You can either bring along a picnic blanket to lounge around on or rent a stool on a first come, first served basis. You are also welcome to bring your own seating, so maybe dust off those deckchairs? (and don’t forget nibbles).

Multiple purchases are available, so you could either make this a romantic evening with your other half or a cultured get together with pals.

Plus as the performance is suitable for people aged twelve and over, so you could even turn it into a family occasion

Happy audiences

Last year’s Bard in the Botanics audiences had plenty of positive things to say on the festival’s Facebook page, including the following:

‘Saw ‘Taming of the Shrew’ on Tuesday 4th July, now my 4th time seeing a BITB performance, and it did not disappoint! Performances were hilarious, touching, energetic and emotional. Had a fab night and love being able to take a nice picnic and some cosy blankets and watch a fantastic performance out in the fresh air. One of the highlights of my year! Well done again to all – you’re fab!’

‘Went to see Measure for Measure in the glasshouse at The Botanics. What an amazing experience. Esme Bayley was excellent in her dual role and the other 3 actors made the story flow easily. The performances were strong and believable. The scene with Angelo and the nun Isabelle was both powerful and emotional. A great production. Well worth a watch.’

‘Saw Taming of the Shrew last night Tuesday 4th on a very chilly evening. What a wonderful performance, so enjoyable and every drop of humour much appreciated by the audience, particularly the ad libs! David Rankine did a magnificent job and somehow we forgot he was reading from the script. Thank you for such a great evening.’

Shakespeare at sunset

If open-air theatre in a stunning setting sounds appealing to you, then grab today’s Big Deal from Bard in the Botanics. You and your companions will have a chance to bring along a picnic and enjoy an immersive, up-to-date version of Shakespeare’s classic.

With multiple purchases available and a choice of six dates, this is your chance to soak up a bit of culture this summer.