THE Shakespeare Live Theatre Company are performing the bard's Romeo & Juliet, set in mid-Victorian London, at Cleeve House in Seend this week.

Performances take place from Monday to Saturday, July 8-13, with six of the seven performances starting at 8pm and a Saturday matinee at 2pm. Saturday evening’s Gala Night includes varied live entertainment from 6pm and during the interval.

Shakespeare Live is celebrating its 31st year in 2019 and this production will be the company’s third at Cleeve House, with its stunning setting looking south over Salisbury Plain, its sweeping lawns surrounded by woodland, perfect for pre-show picnics, and its beautiful old house, which will, this year, again provide a backdrop to the play.

Directed by Lauren Davis and Phoebe Fung, this production of Romeo & Juliet is set in Victorian England on London’s Verona Terrace. Shakespeare’s very familiar story is based around the family feud between the Capulet and Montague families, with the star-crossed lovers caught in the middle.

But what happens when fate intervenes to ruin these lovers’ lives? Featuring the character of Fate in the form of a Ringmaster and his circus troupe, love triangles, spectacular costumes and setting, and specially commissioned music played live, Shakespeare Live’s Romeo and Juliet delves into the murky Victorian world and adds more darkness to the well-known tragedy.

Company spokeswoman Gill Morrell said: “Shakespeare Live have performed annual outdoor Shakespeare for over 30 years and have built up a reputation for sparkling, accessible, accurate and entertaining interpretations of the plays.

“We always aim for the highest of standards, not only for directing and acting, but also for stage management, costumes, sound, music and lighting.

“All audience seats are in the spacious covered stand which ensures that the play can go on whatever the weather, even if the actors get wet.

“Normally, we welcome all children but this production is probably best for over 10s only. We welcome older school parties. We regret that no pets are allowed.”

Tickets range from £10 to £22.50, with a £5 discount for students and U19s. To book, go to www.shakespearelive.com or call 07780 938107.