Summer Theatre in the Northwest: A guide

Let's face it, you don't want to be stuck indoors in the summer – even in the wet and windy North. This means that theatre probably isn't the first thing you think of when it comes to fun in the sun. Sandals, spade, bucket... theatre tickets? No, thank you. 

But you'd be wrong, because never has there been more drama to enjoy outdoors and in unusual places than right now. Site-specific and outdoor work is in vogue, which means 2016 is the year when you can see Shakespeare and still get a sun tan.

There's all kinds of work on offer this season, from Stig of the Dump at the Open Air Theatre in Chester to David Walliams' book Ratburger in a brand-new stage adaptation. And of course it wouldn't be summer without festivals, so we've thrown a few of those into our guide for good measure. Enjoy!

Whispers of Heaton

Where: Heaton Hall, Manchester

When: 26-30 May, 2pm and 7pm (Thursday), 2pm and 4.30pm (Friday-Monday)

Why: A world premiere of two promenade pieces from Feelgood Theatre Productions, Whispers of Heaton combines two plays from writers Cathy Crabb, Lindsey Williams and Peter Kerry. Set in WWI, the stories combine the women’s peace movement, the music of Ralph Vaughan Williams and the bravery of working class soldiers in an interconnected whole. This is also the perfect excuse to have a nosy around the historical Heaton Hall, which is packed with impressive paintings and rather regal furniture. 

Much Ado About Nothing

Where: Speke Hall, Liverpool 

When: 22 June, 7pm

Why: The Lord Chamberlain’s Men specialise in outdoor shows, so where better to start than with their comic romp through Much Ado About Nothing, complete with Edwardian clothes? Should I compare thee to a summer's day? No, but bring a picnic blanket to sit on and relax in the gardens of the sumptuous Speke Hall. 

Ratburger

Where: Fletcher Moss Botanical Gardens, Didsbury, Manchester

When: 29-31 July, 6.30pm (Saturday matinee 2pm)

Why: When comedian David Walliams first turned his attention to children's books, we were sceptical – it sounded like another celebrity cash-in *cough* Madonna *cough*. But it turns out he's actually rather good, as this adaptation of his bestseller Ratburger, produced by Heartbreak Productions, shows. It tells the tale of young animal fanatic Zoe and her adventures, complete with lots of gross bits. This one is worth watching whether you're a young or old fan of Walliams' work. 

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As You Like It / Stig of the Dump

Where: Grosvenor Park Open Air Theatre, Chester

When: As You Like It: dates between 1 July-21 August, 2pm, 4.30pm, 7.30pm / Stig of the Dump: dates between 9 July-21 August, 2pm, 4.30pm

Why: No, this isn't the most bizarre double bill in history – we just couldn't choose between Shakespeare and Stig. Of course, with this year marking a big Shakespeare anniversary (400 years since his death), there's plenty of the Bard's best bits on this summer, but this particular one features the favourite 'All the world's a stage' monologue. And Stig of the Dump – what's not to love about Clive King's grubby caveman hero? 

Greater Manchester Fringe

Where: Various, Manchester

When: 1-31 July

Why: OK, OK, so some of this definitely isn't outdoors, but it wouldn't be a theatre-lovin' summer without a fringe festival. Our advice: save yourself the trip to Edinburgh and take in all of the amazing theatre Manchester has to offer. Hot tips include Dan Wallace (aka Anna Phylactic) in Die Diana at Bandit Mugger & Thief; The Sketch Men: Attempted Jokes at Joshua Brooks; and Aspects of Ageing at the King's Arms. 

The Ring Cycle

Where: The Lowry, Salford

When: Dates between 13-18 June, various times

Why: If the last entry was cheating then this is definitely tenuous, but hear us out: while the location isn't unusual, the content certainly is. When mixing with cultural bigwigs you'll no longer need to pretend you've heard Wagner's Ring Cycle in full (the musical equivalent to reading War and Peace without skipping a page). Not for those with a short attention span, and no – it isn't just like the Bugs Bunny bit where Elmer Fudd sings 'Kill the Wabbit' along to Ride of the Valkyries.  

A Midsummer Night's Dream

Where: Chorlton Park, Manchester

When: 18 June, 11am, 7.30pm

Why: If ever a play were made for the great outdoors then it is this one. Kings and queens quarrel, Puck runs riot and puns aplenty are made in this comic classic produced by outdoor experts Plays in the Park. 

Shiny New Festival

Where: Lantern Theatre, Liverpool

When: 15-24 July

Why: Held at Liverpool's fringe favourite the Lantern Theatre, Shiny New Festival offers both theatre shows and standup. Highlights include comedian Harriet Dyer, who is amazing; Pond Wife (an eccentric reimagining of The Little Mermaid); and spy thriller The Communist Threat from Rusted Dust. Following the recent news that Lantern Theatre is on the move, this will be the last big event in the current venue and is set to be the best Shiny New Festival to date. 

Manchester Histories Festival

Where: Various, Manchester

When: 3-12 June

Why: Sure, we all want to have a good time – but why not learn something while you're at it? That's exactly the spirit behind Manchester Histories Festival, which this year includes walks, talks, theatre and photography. LipService Theatre are doing a piece at Cross Street Chapel that looks promising, while local singing legend Jennifer Reid is performing ballads at Band on the Wall. 

Declaration

Where: The Lowry, Salford

When: 23-24 June, 8pm

Why: We've thrown this one in for those of you who are prone to sun burn and need to get back inside – and also because we couldn't bear to leave off this list the incredible performer that is Sarah Emmott. Her powerful autobiographical piece takes the audience on a colourful and candid exploration of what ADHD is, and what it means for those who live with it. If the previews are anything to go by then it's going to be great.