Theatregoers will be treated to open-air productions of classic tales whilst surrounded by flourishing flowers at Birmingham Botanical Gardens this summer. July marked the start of theatre season for the gardens, which will run until the end of August. The Edgbaston-based Botanical Gardens will be showcasing three magnificent shows, produced by popular touring theatre companies in August including Jungle Book, Treasure Island and Hamlet.

Chapterhouse Theatre Company will be returning after their successful performances of Sherlock Holmes and A Midsummer Night’s Dream in July. The popular Shakespearian play sold-out after selling over 700 tickets. This month the Lincoln-based theatre group will be staging a wild performance of Jungle Book. Visitors will be wowed as well-loved characters and animals are brought to life during this family-friendly musical, taking place Wednesday 6th August.

Pirates will be setting sail to the gardens shortly after, as Gloucester-based Rain and Shine Theatre present a captivating production of Treasure Island on Wednesday 13th August. Guests will be able to watch as the mystery of the buried treasure unfolds in the beautiful surroundings of the gardens.

Young actors will also be given the chance to shine this summer as Base Tikes bring their adaptation of Hamlet to 15-acre gardens. The local theatre group will be providing a modern twist to the well-known classic as they round off the theatre season on Wednesday 20th August.

James Wheeler, chief executive of Birmingham Botanical Gardens said: “The gardens provide a wonderful space for theatre productions. Our plants and flowers are now flourishing in the summer heat, and their beautiful colours and fragrances will provide the perfect backdrop for theatre productions.”

“Guests can bring their own picnics whilst watching the lively performances and The Pavilion Cafe will be serving up hot and cold drinks, as well as some tasty treats during the shows. The weather is really heating up, so it’s the perfect time to get out in the sun and be entertained by some very talented actors.”

Productions of Jungle Book, Treasure Island and Hamlet will start at 7.30pm at various dates in August.

For more information and to book tickets, visit www.birminghambotanicalgardens.org.uk/events