(Image: Robert Wilson / PA Wire)
A York-born Oscar winning actress and stage performer has given her backing to an outdoor theatre planned for woodland.
Dame Judi Dench is a patron of New Forest Open Air Theatre, which aims to be based in the 5,500-acre Hinton Admiral Estate near Burley, Hampshire, following six years of touring performances across the region.
Officials at the charitable company behind the project said the new venue will seat up to 300 people and will be built using locally sourced coppiced timber.
Inspired by ancient amphitheatres, the design will blend into the natural surroundings and will be dismantled each season to minimise environmental impact.
Dame Judi Dench, one of the project’s patrons, said: "I am so happy to be a patron of the beautiful New Forest Open Air Theatre.
"There is nowhere like it.
"A glorious mix of theatre and trees; what could be better?"
The theatre will host a programme of theatre, music, storytelling, and community events.
Sir Mark Rylance, also a patron, said: "I am very pleased to support New Forest Open Air Theatre.
"It is wonderful to see a project that brings people together in nature to enjoy live performance."
The idea for the theatre dates back to the summer of 2020, when pandemic restrictions silenced indoor venues.
A company of actors borrowed costumes and equipment from closed theatres and staged two Shakespeare productions beneath the trees of the New Forest, inspired by Shakespeare’s company, which performed in the countryside during outbreaks of plague in Elizabethan London.
The success of those performances led to a vision for a permanent open-air theatre in the heart of the forest.
Organisers describe the theatre as "more than a venue," calling it a place where audiences can "gather beneath the trees to experience exceptional performance, connect with one another and create lasting memories."
They are seeking support from individuals, trusts, foundations, and businesses who believe in the power of culture, community, and nature.
Other patrons of the project include Sir Derek Jacobi, Lenny Henry, Geraldine Somerville, Dan Snow, and Lady Candida Meyrick.
The theatre will offer a rare opportunity to "establish a permanent home where performance, nature and community come together," organisers said.
Supporters are invited to become Founding Supporters and help bring the project to life from the very beginning.