Set within 54 acres of open spaces and breathe-taking views I didn’t quite know what to expect from an outdoor walkabout theatre production. But there’s a first time for everything…right? So I jumped at the chance to experience something new, and I’m so glad I did!
As we followed the winding paths through the park heading towards the imposing Ashton Memorial (where the first scene would be held) it soon became clear where each of the scenes around the park would be set. With huge imagination The Dukes had completely transformed the space around them, to the extent that I felt I was part of the very magic itself!
The location of Williamson Park and getting up close and personal with the cast made the whole experience completely believable. Characters bounded towards us with heaps of enthusiasm greeting us and setting the scene for this Lancashire, Oliver Twist.
There was something quite special about being in the great outdoors, looking down on the incredible views, breathing in fresh, coastal air whilst enjoying a brilliant show.
Although the storyline was very familiar, the performers wove a few northern and Lancashire twists into the performance, something to definitely watch out for. On the night I visited, these excellent touches had the audience roaring with laughter. The Dukes very cleverly offered some northern ‘grub’, delicious hot pies, pasties and sausage rolls for sale to sustain hungry audience members along the way.
It’s difficult to pin down my favourite bits (as there are so many) but it would have to be the final scene set on the picturesque lake as the sun went down – full of atmosphere – as the trees loomed over us. The dramatic final scene rounded off the performance quite nicely, leaving a lasting impression on me and no doubt all my fellow audience members who showed their appreciation with grateful applause.
An unforgettable experience! One not to be a missed this summer!
Written by Anna Bamber, a UCLan undergraduate, working with Marketing Lancashire as Marketing Support Assistant until June 2016.
Comments