AN open-air performance of William Shakespeare’s comedy Twelfth Night for housing and homelessness charity Shelter will be staged on Wirral later this month.

Illyria touring theatre company's production will be performed at Claremont Farm in Bebington on Tuesday, June 27. 

Illyria, described as one of the UK’s finest touring companies, promise "an evening of yearning romance, music and sheer joys – all performed on a stage inspired by those of the Elizabethan touring troupes".

Twelfth Night tells the story of Viola, washed-up in Illyria following a shipwreck, where her only chance for survival is to make use of her quick wit and fine singing voice, disguising herself as a man and applying to work in the court of Duke Orsino.

The lovesick Orsino sends “him” to lady Olivia to woo her on his behalf, but Viola's efforts are so successful that Olivia falls for Viola rather than Orsino. Meanwhile Olivia’s carousing uncle Sir Toby Belch crosses swords with her steward Malvolio and devises a wicked plan to humiliate him. It could all end in tears - even if most of them are of laughter.

The performance at Claremont Farm in Bebington on Tuesday, June 27 starts at 7pm.

Funds raised will help Shelter’s frontline services to continue providing free and expert help to thousands of people facing homelessness, as well helping the charity to campaign for lasting change.

According to Shelter homelessness stats which cover Oct to Dec 2022, there were 6,900 homeless households in temporary accommodation in the North West, with 7,530 children living in those households.

Pauline Cox, regional community Fundraiser for Shelter Merseyside, said: "This special outdoor performance of Twelfth Night is set to be a spectacular evening.

"By coming along the community can enjoy a night of original Shakespearean comedy in the open air, while helping Shelter to continue to be there for people who don’t have anywhere safe to call home.

"Thousands of people in the North West are homeless, many are families with children. Shelter’s work to fight the housing emergency, and provide practical help and advice to people, is vital. Our emergency helpline is open 365 days a year so that no-one has to face homelessness alone – but we cannot continue to do this without the amazing support of the public and our partners.

“We are incredibly grateful to everyone who buys a ticket and comes along to this event, and we can’t thank Claremont Farm enough for their support in making this dazzling night of theatre possible."

Ticket holders must bring their own chair and dress for the weather as the show will continue in all but the very worst conditions. Dough Bros wood fired pizza and a cash bar are available on site at Claremont Farm.

Gates open at 6pm. Tickets are available by clicking here