Cardiff Open Air Theatre Festival The biggest outdoor theatre event in Wales opens THIS MONTH! and Cardiff Times readers have a final chance to bag free tickets: read on to find out how… Now in its fortieth year, the Cardiff Open Air Theatre Festival holds a special place in memory for many: “I first saw a production at the Festival when I was a student at Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama back in the nineties,” says actor and director Greg Ashton. Three decades later, he’s taking the reins at the same Festival he loved as a student, directing both the cult classic musical The Addams Family and the fun “Super Sheep” family shows. “It’s a huge honour to direct for the Festival now,” he adds. “To be asked back for their 40th anniversary in particular is mindblowing!” “It’s a privilege to be back at the Festival for another year, with a fabulous show and a wonderful cast,” agrees Simon West, returning this year to direct Calendar Girls after wowing crowds with the hit comedy Blackadder Goes Forth in 2022. Also returning are the famously high-octane young performers of Go Productions: “We’re delighted to be back at Sophia Gardens for our ninth fabulous Festival family show,” enthuses Go’s Emma-Jayne Parker. “We can’t wait for everyone across Cardiff to join the revolt with Matilda Jr!” Finally, A Midsummer Night’s Dream brings the Festival to its triumphant conclusion in late July. “Shakespeare’s masterpiece strikes bells as current today as when the play was written,” notes director Paul Clements. “If you’ve ever been in love, fulfilled, disappointed, enchanted - this is an evening for you.” For you, indeed, and for everyone: with comedy, musicals, drama, music and more, the Festival offers something for all, whether you are a long-time theatre enthusiast or simply looking for a vibrant evening out: explore the full programme at www.cardiffopenairtheatrefestival.co.uk. And YOU could go for free! Festival organisers Everyman Theatre have partnered with the Brewhouse & Kitchen in Sophia Gardens to offer readers the chance to win an unforgettable evening, with a meal for two and a pair of tickets to any Festival performance! Simply answer this question by 20th June for your chance to win:
What sort of mythical creature is Queen Titania in A Midsummer Night’s Dream? Send your answer to: festivalcompetitions@ everymantheatre.co.uk. The lucky winner will be contacted by email within 7 days of the closing date. Full T&Cs at www. cardiffopenairtheatrefestival.co.uk.
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