ONE of Shakespeare's best-loved comedies A Midsummer Night's Dream comes to Beaulieu for two nights this week.

The Castle Theatre Company's annual visit will bring the Bard's summery masterpiece to the historic setting of the 13th century Abbey Cloister.

The story of misunderstanding, mistaken identities and consequent mayhem will provide the perfect light entertainment for a summer evening which will be well spent in the idyllic surrounds of Beaulieu Abbey.

The scene is set in a forest where a group of would-be actors disturb the plight of four lovers whose mutual affections have been distorted by a mischievous fairy messenger. Combined with a strange course of events, which have resulted from a royal argument in the fairy world, the confusion caused is the source of unadulterated hilarity.

The Shakespeare production is tailor made for sheer indulgence on a lazy summer evening.

Visitors are invited to bring their own strawberries, cucumber sandwiches and champagne for a picnic and enjoy an al fresco setting.

21-22 July, Beaulieu Abbey Cloister. Cloisters open for picnickers at 6.00pm. Performance: 7pm. Tickets: £8.50. Box office: 01590 614604.