A SUMMER OF PASSION AND POETRY HILLBARK PLAYERS PRESENT ROMEO AND JULIET IN ROYDEN PARK
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A SUMMER OF PASSION AND POETRY HILLBARK PLAYERS PRESENT ROMEO AND JULIET IN ROYDEN PARK
This June, one of the Wirral’ s most treasured cultural traditions returns to the woodland stage of Royden Park. Hillbark Players, the region’ s longest-established open-air Shakespeare company, will present the timeless tragedy Romeo and Juliet from Monday 23rd to Saturday 28th June 2025, with performances each night at 7:30 PM and a special Saturday matinee on June 28th at 2:00 PM.
This much-anticipated production promises a magical evening of theatre beneath the open sky, where nature and drama meet in perfect harmony. Whether you are a seasoned Shakespeare lover or a newcomer to the Bard, this year’ s production offers a rich and moving experience in one of the Wirral’ s most beautiful outdoor venues. With all audience seating under cover, you can sit back and enjoy the performance in comfort— whatever the weather.
A Fresh Vision from a New Director The 2025 production is especially notable as it marks the Hillbark Players debut of director Shannon McMullan. With a background in both classical theatre and contemporary staging, McMullan brings vibrant new energy to the company’ s creative team. Her vision for Romeo and Juliet is both elegant and emotionally resonant.
“ Romeo and Juliet is the story of what happens when passion clashes with duty; and the inevitability of the tragedy that follows. The Regency setting I’ ve chosen provides the strict, courtly societal rules that dictate the decisions of love and marriage. It’ s Bridgerton meets Shakespeare, and the stakes for our young lovers are high as they defy the rules of society and risk ruination by allowing themselves to be guided by their hearts over their heads. We’ ve had a lot of fun translating this timeless classic into the romantic and elegant Regency era. We hope to entertain, beguile and devastate our amazing Hillbark audiences.”
Real Love, Real Craft Adding depth and dynamism to this year’ s cast are Simon Baron and Amber-Page Moss, a married couple from Liverpool who bring a wealth of experience to the roles of Romeo and Juliet. Both are accomplished actors with a background in open-air theatre, and their shared understanding of the demands and possibilities of the space shines through in their performances. Far from resting on familiarity, they’ ve worked hard to make their on-stage relationship feel immediate
and alive, offering a fresh, invigorated take on Shakespeare’ s iconic lovers. Their partnership brings not only cohesion but a vibrant energy that enhances the emotional clarity of the play.
A Spectacle in the Park Hillbark Players are known not only for the strength of their performances, but for the stunning visual world they create in Royden Park. The natural surroundings become part of the staging, with towering trees, fading daylight, and open skies forming a living backdrop to the action.
The Regency setting will be brought to life with beautiful period costumes, adding elegance and historical charm. From sweeping gowns to military coats, the design work helps immerse audiences in an era of romance, duels, and deeply felt honour.
The Hillbark Tradition For over 60 years, Hillbark Players have been a cherished part of the Wirral’ s cultural scene, offering professional-quality Shakespeare in a welcoming and inspiring environment. Their commitment to making theatre accessible and engaging has earned them a loyal following and a reputation for excellence.
Each production is mounted with care, talent, and a deep respect for the text. But it’ s also about community— local actors, directors, and backstage volunteers come together to create something truly special. Romeo and Juliet is a story about love and loss, but also about the power of coming together— and there’ s no better example of that than Hillbark Players themselves.
Don’ t Miss It Tickets are on sale now through the Floral Pavilion Box Office. To book, visit http:// www. floralpavilion. com or call 0151 666 0000. Early booking is advised— performances are expected to sell quickly, especially with the limited run and the popularity of this classic play.
Join the Hillbark Players this June for an unforgettable evening of love, loss, and lyrical beauty in the heart of Royden Park. With a brilliant cast, a bold new director, and the perfect setting, Romeo and Juliet is set to be one of the theatrical highlights of the summer.
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