Jane Austen’s lively tale of love and heartbreak will be brought to life in the great outdoors this September – in a bid to raise vital funds for a Birmingham hospice.
Birmingham St Mary’s is hosting ‘Live at the Pavilion: Sense and Sensibility’, in which they’re inviting local people to enjoy a magical evening of theatre and picnic under the sky.
Taking place on Sunday 2 September in the hidden grounds of King Edward’s School’s cricket pavilion, the performance will follow the loves and lives of the famous Dashwood sisters as they make their first forays into the exciting world of Regency society.
Adapted by the award-winning writer Laura Turner, viewers will watch as Elinor and Marianne fall in love, make mistakes and experience heartbreak for the first time – as well as find that all-important balance between sense and sensibility.
In addition to the drama, spectators will be able to enjoy a luxury picnic hamper which includes honey glazed gammon, homemade quiche, seasonal berry Eton Mess and more. Prosecco, wine and other drinks will also be available to purchase.
All funds from the picnic will go towards Birmingham St Mary’s, which provides vital care and support to local people living with life-limiting illness.
Laura Nash, events manager at Birmingham St Mary’s, said: “What better way is there to enjoy Sense and Sensibility than in the magical surroundings of the great outdoors? Come rain or shine, we’re excited to bring this Jane Austen classic to Birmingham and look forward to watching the Dashwood drama unfold like never before.
“It will cost £8 million to run our hospice this year, so Live at the Pavilion is a unique way to enjoy a relaxed theatre performance whilst raising vital funds for charity. We really do rely on the kind generosity of local people to ensure we can continue to provide our expert hospice care to everyone that needs us, wherever and whenever they need us.”
Every day, Birmingham St Mary’s cares for 350 people across Birmingham and Sandwell – whether that’s at the hospice, in people’s own homes, or in community locations.
Sense and Sensibility will be performed by the Chapterhouse Theatre Company from 4.30pm to 9pm. Tickets cost £16. Picnic hampers start at £14.50 and include cutlery, plates and napkins. Spectators are encouraged to bring their own picnic blankets or deck chairs.
