Summer outdoor show is saved (From Stroud News and Journal)

Summer outdoor show is saved

A GROUP of amateur thespians have got together to rescue a popular summer outdoor production at Painswick's Rococo Gardens.

The annual production, which attracts a total audience of nearly 3,000 people, was under threat after the Gloucester Drama Association (GDA) which normally produces the play, was forced to pull out.

The GDA sustained heavy financial losses following last year's production and announced last November that it would not be able to put on an outdoor production in 2003.

On hearing the news, a group of actors who had been involved in previous GDA productions put together a rescue plan.

The group, under the new name of The Rococo Players, have now cast their first production, The Merry Wives of Windsor, a bawdy Shakespearean romp which will run over five nights from Tuesday 15 to Saturday 19 July.

"We couldn't just let the whole thing die when it gives so much pleasure," said Phil McCormick, chairman of the Rococo Players. "We have assembled a terrific cast this year - I think we'll do the GDA proud."

This year's production will also see an end to the traditional mad scramble for seats at 6pm every night.

"It was a bit of a bunfight," said McCormick. "People queued from 4.30pm and there was a mad scramble for the best seats. "This year, book early to avoid disappointment."

The Players intend to hand all profits from Merry Wives of Windsor to the GDA, in the hope that the GDA will be able to take back the reins again in 2004.

Anyone who would like tickets for this year's production should call Brian Gibbins on 01452 830958.