SHAKESPEARE Live has chosen a particularly appropriate play for their 30th anniversary year, coming to the stage in Seend from July 2-7.

The Merry Wives of Windsor is a broad comedy set, not surprisingly, in the town of Windsor under the shadow of the castle, and tells the story of the lascivious Sir John Falstaff's attempts to seduce not one, but two, of the town's married women.

Supposedly commissioned by Queen Elizabeth herself because she enjoyed the character so much in earlier plays, this is a two hour romp, full of fabulous characters, ridiculous situations, and plenty of laughter.

Rather than putting the show on in Windsor, Shakespeare Live is looking forward to its second year at Cleeve House in Seend.

With the special Gala Night on Saturday evening already over a third sold, and tickets going fast for all the other performances, this is a show to be booked early.

Seating is in a large tiered and covered stand, with seats near the front inevitably going first.

Tickets cost £15 for Monday-Friday evenings and Saturday afternoon, and £20 for Saturday evening. There are £5 reductions for under 19s and NUS students. Limited groundling places are also available. Performances start at 7.30pm Monday-Thursday, at 8pm on Friday and Saturday, and at 2pm on Saturday afternoon. The grounds, with easy parking, bar, refreshments, and lovely lawns for picnics, open 90 minutes before each show.

Contact the box office on 07780 938107 or find more details and book via www.shakespearelive.com.