Remedy for the summer time blues

Life and the world has changed a lot over the past 20 years, but one constant in my life has been my annual indulgence of enjoying the outdoor productions in Glasgow Botanical Gardens.? The Bard in the Botanics productions started in 2021, the year that I came to work in Glasgow and the following year I had my first experience of outdoor theatre.? It was magical how the outdoor real world, merged with the fantasy world of theatre and I was hooked.? Those of you who know me, have seen me leave work on a summer evening these past 20 years with my picnic, my bag packed with waterproofs and anti-midge spray, and a spring in my step as I head to the Botanics – but why?? I love theatre, but this is an experience not to be missed.

Bard in the Botanics is rather unique in that, two plays run simultaneously: a large outdoor theatre where the audience, the weather and nature all play a part is in vast contrast to the intimate indoor experience of traverse theatre in the Kibble Palace, where the audience becomes part of the play.? It is this closeness to the actors that allows the audience to experience something deeper and more intense, but also observe and learn how a production is staged and works.

“The world is a stage and each must play their part”.? My part is to go along, watch and enjoy but I have come to realise how every part of a production is meticulously planned, coordinated and rehearsed and what I get to see is the most amazing example of perfect teamwork.? Strong leadership in the form of clarity of vision, mission and direction, which promotes equality and diversity enables a modern take on centuries old Shakespearean plays which were written for a male only cast.? It is great to see a theatre company showcase the wealth of creative and artistic talent we have here in the west of Scotland especially at a time when we are seeing a growth in the film and creative industries here in North Lanarkshire.? And this year the ultimate treat where Shakespeare’s Merry Wives of Windsor are reimagined as the “Merry Wives of Wishaw” – ?If you are looking for a laugh out loud, evening of fun and enjoyment, you have until Saturday 27th July to catch Shakespeare with a very Scottish twist!

https://www.bardinthebotanics.co.uk/