Summer success for Markeaton Park’s Outdoor Theatre and Cinema season

There’s been plenty of excitement in Markeaton Park Craft Village this summer, as their Outdoor Theatre and Cinema Season returned, attracting more than 1,200 people.

Kicking off the season were AVP Theatre and their cast of puppets, who returned to bring some well-known fairytales to life in their Pop-up Theatre on 21 and 22 June. There were lots of interactions, laughs, and a few surprises along the way. At the end of each show, the audience stepped forward to meet the cast themselves, as the puppets held their own meet and greet.

Then came a fantastic adaptation of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, brought to Markeaton Park by Oddsocks Productions in their signature irreverent and knockabout style, from 23 to 25 July. With live music, comedy, and high-energy performances, audiences were treated to a magical and hilarious evening under the stars. All three performances of A Midsummer Night’s Dream saw near sell-out audiences, with the Friday evening show drawing the largest crowd.

Elli Mackenzie, Creative Producer from Oddsocks Productions said:

“At a time when budgets are tight and cultural activities are cut back in response, it is important that we as a society embrace any and all opportunities to see live theatre, experience visual art and listen to live music.

Every year, we are delighted by the growing number of audience members, this summer being a record year for us.  As a performer, the space is a delight to play – easy on the voice and warm and friendly as a venue.  Thanks to Derby LIVE and their vision, our Derby audiences and followers, we look forward to returning year on year. ”

The picturesque Markeaton Park Craft Village theatre stage was then transformed into an outdoor cinema, where audiences sang out loud at the fan-favourite Mamma Mia! on 1 August. The following night, blockbuster Wicked captivated the crowd with the untold story of the witches of Oz, starring Emmy, Grammy, and Tony-winning powerhouse Cynthia Erivo and global superstar Ariana Grande.

The outdoor cinema experience was made complete with popcorn, pizza and drinks from The Orangery at Markeaton Park, where guests relaxed with themed cocktails, cold draughts, and delicious snacks under the summer sky.

Councillor Nadine Peatfield, Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Culture and Tourism, said:

“This year’s Outdoor Theatre and Cinema Season has been a fantastic celebration of arts and culture in one of Derby’s most scenic parks. It’s been wonderful to see families, friends, and theatre-lovers of all ages coming together to enjoy live performances and films in the open air. Markeaton Park continues to be a much-loved destination, and events like this make it even more special during the summer months.”