Shakespeare updated for outdoor performance.

“All the world’s a stage…” and in this case, the decks of a pirate shipwreck play area at community garden Martineau Gardens, will be transformed into a stage for a special outdoor theatre production of The Taming of the Shrew. The Shakespearean comedy will be performed on Sunday 10 August, 2pm by Folksy Theatre.

Depicting the courtship between Petruchio, of Verona, and Katherina of Padua, this adaption of the play has been set in 1950’s Britain, there will be plenty of doo wop, comb backed hair, polka dots and live music. Caroline Hutton, Director of Martineau Gardens said: “This event is all about having an entertaining afternoon enjoying live theatre in a beautiful Garden, in Shakespeare’s anniversary year.”

Visitors are welcome to bring picnics, blankets and folding chairs. The Gardens, though only two miles from Birmingham city centre are a green oasis that is teeming with wildlife. There’s plenty to enjoy, including woodland, glass houses, formal gardens, orchard, vegetable plots, wildflower meadow, a nature trail, a bird hide and more.

The Taming of the Shrew takes place at Martineau Gardens on Sunday 10 August, 2pm at 27 Priory Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B5 7UG. Admission is Family ticket £35, Adult £12 and Children £8 (in advance). Tickets are also available on the gate, subject to availability. Located five minutes from the MAC and opposite the Priory Hospital. There are parking spaces available on site or the Gardens are served by buses 1, 45, 47, 61, 63, or X64. More details are available by calling 0121 440 7430 or logging onto www.martineau-gardens.org.uk/events