A OPEN-air theatre show of Shakespeare's Hamlet will be performed at Highcliffe Castle next month.

The Festival Players Theatre Company are bringing their production of the famous play to Christchurch on Wednesday, June 8 for one night only as part of their 80-show UK tour to mark 400 years since the playwright's death.

Presented in full costume, the all-male company will bring to life the story of revenge and tragedy which they have condensed into a two-hour fast-paced performance in the surroundings of the historic castle.

Michael Dyer, artistic director of The Festival Players, said: "Our shows are an amalgam of energy, entertainment and colour and we aim to make them clear and transparent, as well as keeping them short for the comfort of our patrons.

"We set out to take audiences of all ages on a journey and make them feel very much part of the production."

The seating area will be open from 6.30pm and tickets cost £44 for families, £13.50 for adults and £11.50 for children under 16, students and season ticket holders with a £1 reduction for advanced bookings. Audience members are asked to bring their own picnics and rugs or low-backed chairs.

For more information, go to Thefestivalplayers.co.uk or call the box office on 01425 278807.