There is something quite surreal about sitting on a fishing stool in a rain soaked park, slurping hot chocolate with umbrella overhead, watching Shakespeare.

But when the setting is the ruined remains of Worden Hall I can suffer the odd summer shower to watch actors stomp around in wellies and see through rain macks over authentic RSC costumes.

That was the location for an en-promenade production of Much Ado About Nothing, by Dean Taylor Professional Theatre Productions, at Leyland's Worden Park from Tuesday-Thursday last week.

As with previous outdoor productions this company has performed locally this year's offering was a feast that even the Bard would have been proud to lap-up and enjoy.

Be ye a seasoned Shakespearian or newcomer, it was hard not to get sucked into the ambience of it all, despite the rain!

Detailed production notes provided information about the play and a first-rate cast ensured the comedy plot could be grasped and followed with ease.

Meandering around a seated audience of 60 or so, all dotted around a half circle and later in the round, the actors commanded the space well and effectively closed the spectator/stage gap, adding to the enjoyment.

And with the occasional snatched glass of wine and use of the audience to bounce off a line or two, or take on a small role, the performance had that 'feel-good panto' effect in part.

With a well-gelled cast who had worked together on all or some of the company's previous four Shakespearian productions, each confident and convincing performance was delivered with great clarity and depth.

Katey Siddall took on the feisty role of Beatrice with deep passion and emotion while Dominic Cazenove's naturally funny stage presence benefited his amusing portrayal of the hapless Benedick.

Other notable performances came from Carole Carpenter as the wronged-in-love, Hero, seasoned stage and screen actor, David Rex, as Hero's father Leonato, and the versatile Brigid Lohrey who doubled up well in the dissimilar roles of kindly Margaret and the 'wise-owl' Abbess.

It was good to see company director/producer Dean take on the small role of dim-wit watchman, Verges, against Tony (As You Like It's shepherd with Big Ears the sheep) Bond's superb Master Constable.

With the vocal skills of Worzel Gummidge coupled with Dean's lanky frame and naturally amusing facial expressions, twisting and turning to full comedic effect, it was a pity we didn't see more of this fine actor.

For those of you who missed the show, shame, the company's 26-date tour has now come to an end. But before you reach for your handkerchiefs I have it on good authority that the company will be back about this time next year with yet another first-class Shakespearian classic.

So keep your eye on the Citizen newspaper and this website or log onto the link below for details about forthcoming productions.