Summertime, and the living is easy

Imagine the scene:  it was a very hot, sunny summer evening and we were enjoying light refreshments on a terrace overlooking the sights of the city.  Everyone had their sunglasses on and the sun cream to hand, even though it was past 6.30.  You may be surprised to learn that we were in London! 

After a lovely ‘picnic’ on the terrace, we were given a ‘goodie bag’ with strawberries and cream and a small bottle of wine before boarding an original Routemaster bus for the short trip to the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre.  Alessandra and I were fortunate to be guests of Knight Frank for an evening of the best that London has to offer, particularly when the weather cooperates!  

Set amidst the beautiful grounds of the royal Regent’s Park, this is one of the largest open air theatres in London with 1,250 seats.  It blends beautifully with the surroundings, and, despite its size, once inside it has a very intimate feel.  There are also places within the grounds where you can dine al fresco, or simply have a drink at the bar. 

The production we were seeing was Gershwin's Porgy & Bess. Most of the performers are award-winners, with Rufus Bonds Jr. playing the role of Porgy, while Bess was played by Nicola Hughes.




The stage was very simply set with a copper coloured, wave-like structure that looked amazing against a back-drop of lush green trees.  And the acoustics were fabulous, assisted with the rustling of trees that created additional atmosphere for the ‘outdoor’ scenes of the show.  The story, an American classic, was beautifully performed and the actors made us feel as if we were part of the show.  And of course, many of the songs are well known; including ‘Summertime’ and ‘It Ain’t Necessarily So’, and you could see the audience joining in. 

While we had a spectacular evening, from a meteorological perspective, should you be lucky enough to go to an outdoor theatre, please remember to be prepared for all the British weather might have to offer.  There is nothing worse than turning up for a wonderful show and being miserable because you feel cold, wet, scorched, or some combination thereof.  Do go out and enjoy all the cultural events that London has to offer, including theatre, concerts and outdoor cinemas.

Regent's Park Open Air Theatre:  http://openairtheatre.com/
Knight Frank:  http://www.knightfrank.co.uk/


Written by Eva Stock. Eva is Director of Sponsors Relations at FOCUS.

For more information about FOCUS visit:  www.focus-info.org