NEWS: Nationally acclaimed open-air theatre company to bring comedy to Greater Manchester this summer.

Nationally acclaimed open air theatre company
set to visit Astley this summer

Professional theatre company Rain or Shine, hailed by ‘The Stage’ as “one of the best companies touring open air theatre" are set to delight family audiences once again this summer. Following the success of last year’s “She Stoops to Conquer”, Rain or Shine Theatre Company are delighted to continue our celebration of Restoration Comedies by presenting “The Recruiting Officer”, a rakish Restoration comedy by Irish playwright George Farquhar.

One of the most popular plays of its time (more often performed than Shakespeare or Farquhar's contemporaries) this is a delightful romp through 18th Century Shrewsbury.

Our story follows the mischief of crooked army recruiting officers, Captain Plume and Sergeant Kite, as they head to the county town of Shrewsbury to persuade men to take the Queen’s Shilling by any means, legal or otherwise!
Plume has set his cap at the vivacious Sylvia, and their bumpy path to true love is mirrored by their closest friends, nervy, melancholy Worthy, and haughty, comically self-important, heiress, Melinda. Help and hindrance come in equal measure from Captain Brazen, the foppiest of fops.
Be prepared for saucy shenanigans in a hilarious romp awash with deceit, passion, swordfights, and surprises galore!
Sign up! Pack your bubbly, chairs and picnics and join the dashing Captain Plume and the devious Sergeant Kite on a roller coaster ride in period costume for all the family.
 
Suitable for audiences from age 6 to 106, Rain or Shine aim to bring classical theatre into the heart of local communities as they travel across the country from June until September.

The company’s UK tour includes a performance at Damhouse, Astley on Saturday 18th June at 7.00pm. Tickets are available on the door or in advance from Damhouse 01942 876417, online via rainorshine.co.uk  or by ringing Rainorshine’s hotline 0330 660 0541

Audiences are requested to bring along low-backed seating or rugs, and a picnic to maximise their enjoyment of the al fresco performances. Full details of the full UK tour and venues can be found on the Rain or Shine website and tickets can be purchased from www.rainorshine.uk, or by ringing 0330 660 0541.