Lots to Like about this bicycle-powered Shakespeare play

The HandleBards are a four-strong troupe, and this summer they are making HBs history by embarking on their longest cycle ever, bringing environmentally sustainable Shakespeare to outdoor venues across the UK – including an outdoor performance of As You Like It at Sissons Barn, in Peakirk on September 1.

The HandleBards began with a sense of adventure, a love of Shakespeare and a nifty little pun. Since four fearless friends pedalled Twelfth Night to 20 UK venues in 2013, 13 years of epic outdoor tours commenced.

Their sustainable ethos and commitment to environmentally friendly touring have been described by The Stage as “a shining light in modern theatre touring”. Over the years, the company has grown to become an internationally renowned theatre company, bringing a charmingly chaotic brand of Shakespeare to audiences all over the globe.

Pedalling from venue to venue with all of their set, props and costumes on the back of their bikes, this summer, the troupe are making HandleBards history by pedalling 1,800 miles!

So, what is As You Like It about? Well, Rosalind and her cousin Celia flee to the Forest of Arden, where they bump into Rosalind’s love interest, Orlando. However, Rosalind is disguised as a young man. Add some local shepherds, and the stage is set for a wild ride of wooing, mistaken identity and the odd wrestling match.

Making this show accessible and welcoming to all audiences is a huge priority for The HandleBards team. This year, we have had the pleasure of working with Extant, a theatre company that makes work with visually impaired artists and for visually impaired audiences. With their assistance the show integrates audio description and accessible gags and jokes for visually impaired audiences.

Tickets from www.handlebards.com/tickets