The Lord Chamberlain's Men Continue Touring Despite The Theft Of Their Set And Costumes

On 21st May, just days before The Lord Chamberlain's Men production of The Tempest was due to premiere at the Brighton Festival, the van containing their bespoke set and entire collection of new handmade costumes along with props and many other items were stolen and continue to remain missing.

With over 70 venues and more than 10,000 miles of touring ahead there remained only one option; continue touring and recreate the design elements of the production. For the first few weeks of the tour the group put together a version of the set in order to present the production and captivated audiences at the Brighton Festival. Now, only three weeks since the theft, The Lord Chamberlain's Men have completely rebuilt their set, remade their costumes and continue their tour across the UK and Europe.

Peter Stickney, Artistic Director said; "The moment we discovered that our van was stolen, we knew we had lost the entirety of the production. It had taken months of tireless work and, understandably, the company and our creative team were devastated. But like a phoenix from the ashes we have risen!

"The way in which everyone has pulled together to recreate this magical production has been extraordinary. Now, with plenty of dedication and without missing a single show, we have brand new costumes and a beautiful set which will enable us to continue touring the highest quality outdoor theatre to audiences across the UK and Europe.

In this short time we have had to rely on many people and would like to thank just a few of them: the incredible teams at Splinter Scenery and Planet Costume, our wonderful designer Morgan Brind and many others along the way who have dropped everything at short notice and leapt to our aid. I would also like to thank our fantastically supportive venues and our loyal and lovely audience for making it all worthwhile."

As well as touring across the UK, this summer The Lord Chamberlain's Men will present their production of The Tempest at six of the capital's most beautiful locations for the first time in the Company's history. Beginning at Ham House and Garden on Sun 8 July, the production will then play at Eltham Palace on Wed 11 July, Chiswick House and Gardens on Thu 12 July, Morden Hall Park on Fri 17 Aug, St John's Lodge Garden in Regents Park on Sat 18 Aug and finally Kenwood House on Sun 19 Aug.

The perfect way to enjoy an English summer evening, audiences are invited to bring their own picnics, fizz and beverages before enjoying one of Shakespeare's greatest plays as the sun sets across some of the capital's most glorious historic venues.

For further information and to book tickets visit www.tlcm.co.uk

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