The Merlin Theatre's first lockdown, socially-distanced outdoor show has been declared a complete success! The full programme of eight shows is now available.

The outdoor summer theatre and music event opened last Saturday with a laughed-packed outdoor family show where distancing was practiced on-stage and off as the afternoon was declared a triumph by all.

August now brings the following, limited ticket numbers available, to Frome:

Shakespeare Rattle and Roll, from Martin Dimery, also well known as director of the Frome Festival; two shows, the Emperor's New Clothes and Doctor Dolittle, from internationally renowned touring company Illyria; Folksy theatre will perform The Taming of the Shrew; Rocktopus, the ultimate rock band for kids, make a welcome return to town and the next event on the ECOS amphitheatre will be bluegrass and old-time American roots artist Kate Lissauer (well-know lead of the Buffalo Gals) who will duet with Appalachian step-dancer Jenny Read on 15th August.

Lovers of versatile acting, storytelling and mesmeric folk music will be keen to see The Holland Handkerchief from Kerchief. In a reminder of the importance of a community theatre and its far-reaching effects, this new professional theatre company, was founded by Frome resident and former Frome College student Maddy Herbert . Maddy, who will be remembered by many for her own performances in Merlin Christmas shows as a child as well as known by many now as the leader of the local youth theatre, formed the Kerchief Theatre Company herself as well as adapted and directed this production of The Holland Handkerchief.

Merlin director, Claudia Pepler assures all visitors to the venue: "Thanks to our stewards and a robust system we are now buoyantly looking forward to a busy August. All our processes are in place, from booking ahead, to sitting safely, through a one-way system for purchasing pre-show refreshments, we are prepared for a celebratory summer."

Please note that the summer season is a fund-raiser event programme and all tickets must be booked in advance. Due to rules on distancing the theatre will be unable to sell walk-up tickets on the door. For details of shows, dates, times, prices and how to make your bookings in advance click HERE: the Merlin site