The shows will go on at a quirky outdoor theatre near Milton Keynes this summer

There will be Shakespeare, comedy, family summer panto fun and a gig with a BAFTA-nominated comedy and music legend.

Now in its third year, The Arches' mission is to bring live theatre from professional and local troupes to a local audience, in a beautiful location and at a fraction of the price of larger theatres.

The venue takes its name from the four disused railway arches that provides the outdoor stage.

Its summer programme kicks off with The Wet Mariners, a professional Shakespeare theatre troupe, with their stage adaptation of The Comedy of Errors on August 15.

Local company Milton Keynes Theatre of Comedy brings its hilarious performance of the BBC classic ‘Allo ‘Allo!’ to the stage on August 22 and 23.

Those looking for some magical family fun are in luck on August 29 and 30, when Aladdin and friends fly in on their magic carpet for a summer pantomime.

On August 31, top comedy and folk singer, Richard Digance will perform a range of songs in his intimate one-man show.

To add to the great outdoor experience, tickets holders are invited to bring a picnic and enjoy it in the grounds before each show.

Owner of The Arches Theatre, David Pibworth, said: “With many theatres in darkness and the arts in a critical condition, we are delighted to be able to stage a variety of performances to help keep the industry alive and theatre fans entertained.

“We have increased our programme this year to be able to cater for all ages. After the last few months, we want to be able to give everyone the opportunity to see a fun, live show and have something to look forward.”

The theatre will be putting strict social distancing measures in place to ensure the safety of its staff, audience, and troupes.

Tickets to all productions are available now via The Arches Theatre website here