The course of true love never did run smooth, but Rickmansworth Players are hoping that the words of Lysander in A Midsummer Night’s Dream don’t apply to the affection they feel for their production of Shakespeare’s much-loved comedy.

And they really do love it – the open-air production, set to take place in the grounds of Oakhill house in Heronsgate next week, has been two years in the making and came about as a result of the members begging to do their first outdoor performance in 50 years.

“We’ve been rehearsing in the grounds of the house, where we’ll be performing and everyone just loves it,” says acting chairperson Charlotte Rose. “It’s so beautiful, the stage is next to a pond and the audience will sit spread out around that, it’s really lovely.

“And for this play, we’ve been able to bring everyone together – our choir, our youth group and our new junior group, which has been wonderful.”

For this production, instead of the usual snacks and drinks that are offered as refreshments, the players are offering hampers, which can be pre-ordered, and will be supplying a barbecue.

So far so good, but one thing that could bring about chaos and disorder, much like in the play, is the natural world itself - the Great British weather.

“We’ve allowed for that in the ticketing and terms and conditions, if a show gets cancelled if the weather is awful,” explains Charlotte, “but if it’s just a little bit drizzly we’ll carry on regardless – the show must go on!”

  • A Midsummer Night’s Dream is in the grounds of Oakhill, Long Lane, Heronsgate, Rickmansworth from Thursday, June 25 to Sunday, June 28, at 7pm, with a 2pm matinee on Saturday and Sunday. Details: 0333 666 3366, dream2015.co.uk