Professional theatre company Rain or Shine, hailed by The Stage as “one of the best companies touring open air theatre" are set to delight family audiences once again this summer with their production of Shakespeare’s merry war of words and wit - Much Ado About Nothing.

November 1918. The Great War has finally come to end, and the men of the British military forces are returning to their homes. Don Pedro and his comrades are coming at last to Messina (a little known village on the edge of the Cotswolds) where they are met by friends, old and new. Join Rain or Shine Theatre Company this summer, as they visit one of Shakespeare’s best loved comedies. From the dastardly Don John, to the daft Sergeant Dogberry, ‘Much Ado About Nothing’ will bring you revellers, rascals and romance. Featuring the very best of the Bard’s wit and wisdom, the fiery Beatrice gives Benedick, the bachelor, a battle of words to remember, and true love is at its sweetest as Claudio falls for his darling Hero.

So dig out your hampers and load up your picnic bags as Rain or Shine’s return to Dore Abbey on their 20th anniversary summer tour and the people of Messina find love, scupper mischievous plots and celebrate new found peace across the world!

Rain or Shine will present Much Ado About Nothing 'by the River Wye' in Eaton Bishop on Friday, June 15 at 7.30pm. To book, call 03306 600541.

Much Ado About Nothing can also be seen at Dore Abbey on Wednesday, July 11 at 7.30pm - tickets are available from 01981 570264 or directly from Rain or Shine on 0330 660 0541 or visit rainorshine.co.uk

Audiences are requested to bring along low-backed seating or rugs, and a picnic to maximise their enjoyment of the al fresco performances.