EVERY year a bunch of enthusiastic actors and back stage crew get together to rehearse in the cold and rain for the annual Shakespeare at Traquair production at Traquair House.

And this year has been no exception, with the added complication of wrestling with the Beast from the East and his little brother two weeks later.

The production this year is Much Ado About Nothing, directed by actor Scott Noble.

Last performed 15 years ago with Scott playing the role of Benedict, the play tells the multi-layered story of two young lovers, Claudio and Hero, as well as the slightly more complex relationship between Benedict and Beatrice and the usual mix of goodies and baddies.

Scott’s view on the latter couple was that they had been around the block a bit, perhaps had a bit of history and that this would give an interesting dynamic to the scenes.

For this reason Scott has cast two of the more ‘mature’ actors in the group in these roles.

Alex Saunders of Live for Dance (and the Eastgate Theatre) will choreograph a dance sequence to music composed for the play by Jenny Noble, who is currently studying classical music.

The musical director and co-composer this year is Sarah Chapman, a local musician who has returned to Peebles (and Shakespeare at Traquair) after several years away and directs Peebles MusicMakers, an offshoot of Peebles Orchestra.

Much Ado About Nothing will be performed in the grounds of Traquair House from the May 30 to June 2 and from June 6 to 9.

Tickets are available at Eastgate Theatre Peebles or by calling 01721 725777. A Shakespearean themed pre theatre supper is also on offer at The Garden Cafe nightly from 5.30pm, phone 01896 830777 to book.

To follow rehearsal progress, visit shakespeare-at-traquair.co.uk