Theatre and movie lovers can ditch the typical indoor venues in favour of a stunning, outdoor location that offers everything from Shakespeare to Grease.
Classic theatre doesn't need to be confined to a listed building, some of the most magical and engaging performances come from humbler surroundings where a cast are all you need.
The summer months are the perfect time to experience outdoor theatre and cinema, and luckily Merseyside has a handful to choose from. Below, we've compiled a list of all the places to visit and see the theatre in a new light.
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Woodside Drive-In Cinema
Pull up and enjoy the authentic American experience you've always seen in the movies. Roller skating waitresses are happy to serve you directly from the vehicle but don't get too comfortable as Kiss Cams are in operation.
Those without a car can still enjoy the atmosphere with a number of bean bags available for anyone making the journey on foot.
Location: 22-16, A41, Birkenhead CH41 5DQ
What's on: You can see a full list of shows here
Illyria Outdoor Theatre
Illyia is a travelling theatre company that regularly calls Liverpool its home. Locations vary from the Sefton Palm House to Wirral's Claremont Farm but they typically make a point to visit every month.
Through a wide variety of creative plays and cultural showcases, they aim to deliver over 100 performances throughout the summer.
Location: Varying
What's on: You can see a full list of shows here
Off The Ground Theatre
Off the Ground Theatre aim to be as inclusive as possible, operating a strong youth policy which means employing young professionals and working with professionals and amateurs where possible.
With ten productions a year, a youth theatre and workshops, it's an incredible opportunity to help support a new generation of theatre stars while still enjoying under the stars.
Location: 4A Grange Rd, West Kirby, Wirral CH48 4HA
What's on: You can see a full list of shows here
Imaginarium Theatre
After years of success in various locations across Merseyside, Imaginarium has gone from strength to strength to establish an expansive and community-focused hub in Prescot.
Its productions of Shakespeare and literary classics tour annually to parks, community gardens and great halls across the North West to audiences of 2000+ people, making an exciting night for anyone's calendar.
Location: 4-6 Eccleston St, Prescot L34 5QE
What's on: You can see a full list of shows here
St Luke's Bombed Out Church
The Bombed Out Church is one of Liverpool's calling cards to the world. The building endured damage during the May Blitz of 1941, leaving only the external masonry that we see today.
Since then, it's established itself as a cultural hub for theatre, arts and music, regularly offering an extensive lineup of programmes that appeal to the entire family. It also hosts the annual Liverpool Theatre Festival so there's no shortage of events to choose from.
Location: Leece St, Liverpool L1 2TR
What's on: You can see a full list of shows here
Moonlight Flicks
Chester's Storyhouse Theatre is staging its hugely popular Moonlight Flicks again this year.
With more than 28 screenings planned over two months, film fans can watch their favourite films under the stars in the surroundings of Claremont Farm, as well as Chester Cathedral and, Snugbury’s Ice Cream at Park Farm near Nantwich.
Claremont Farm will open its season with the much-loved musical sensation Grease on Friday July 21, with other family-friendly films being shown over the summer including The Goonies and Matilda the Musical.
Location: Claremont Farm, Old Clatterbridge Road, Bebington, Wirral, CH63 4JB
What's on: For full listings and to buy tickets click here
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