THE curtain is set to rise tonight on a new era for one of Hampshire's best-loved drama festivals.

Shakespeare's timeless language will echo around the historic setting of the tithe barn as Titchfield Festival Theatre revives its tribute to the Bard.

Escalating costs forced organisers to cancel performances last year but now, after securing a new backdrop to the festival, the show goes on.

Organisers have now bounced back with a new venue for the Shakespearean feast, thanks to Portsmouth Football Club. The club has allowed them to use the barn, which sits on land owned by the club.

The tithe barn, just off Mill Lane, Titchfield, is the largest barn in Hampshire and its unique structure and medieval architecture will provide the perfect backdrop.

This year's festival will feature A Midsummer Night's Dream, The Merry Wives of Windsor and two solo shows. The season runs from tonight until September 8.