Spring highlights at The Berry Theatre

The venue, in Hedge End, will present two new shows commissioned and developed specially.

As part of the two year programme, Road to Agincourt, the theatre will unite local primary school children in a tale of battle, bravery and honour in Matt Beames’ fantastical adventure The Legends of Sir Bevis, landing on The Berry Theatre’s stage on March 10.

Through workshops, the cast will learn about the history of Agincourt and bring to life the local fable of Sir Bevis of Hampton using theatre puppetry, live music and visually stunning set pieces; representing a part of Hampshire’s history in this riveting stage production.

The Berry Youth Theatre will bring to life the classic novel The Secret Garden, originally penned by Frances Hodgson Burnett, directed by Drama Education Officer Lucy Fennell, written by frequent collaborator Neil Duffield, and realised by the talented Youth Theatre on April 8 and 9.

This magical show, that ignites the imagination through theatre puppetry and vibrant imagery, promises to showcase the emerging talent in the Youth Theatre which brings together young people aged eight to 16.

Family theatre company Stuff and Nonsense return to premiere two new productions. The company, who create witty, fun and accessible theatre for all, will be on stage on February 19 and 20 with The Three Little Pigs and March 31 and April 1 with The Emperor’s New Clothes,

Returning after a successful run in 2015 is Saturday Storytime on select Saturdays throughout spring. Join professional performance-makers as they lead families with young people into a magical wood that allows song, theatre, games and encourages audience interaction.

In association with The D@rt, The Berry Theatre takes part in a month of exhilarating literary events and activities that bond the communities in and around the Borough of Eastleigh. Wordplay is in its second year following a warm reception from the public in 2015 and will take place between March 10 and April 10.

Funnyman Lee Hurst pays a visit with his touring stand-up Comedy Show No.9 on April 16.

The National Theatre Live will broadcast a live screening of the Domar Warehouse’s enthralling stage adaptation of Les Liaisons Dangereuses. Filled to the brim with stand-out performances from Dominic West, Elaine Cassidy and Janet McTeer, director Josie Rourke’s Olivier award-winning production will screen live on January 28.

The venue is also showing a range of films suitable for the entire family. Join in on the cinematic fun with titles such as Spectre, Hotel Transylvania 2 and the newest instalment in the acclaimed science fiction franchise, Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens, among others.

For tickets and details, visit theberrytheatre.co.uk or call 023 8065 2333.