AS part of Evesham Festival of Words’ year-round programme of events, Mikron Theatre Company will bring their popular production ‘Redcoats’ to Raphael’s Restaurant at Hampton Ferry, on Wednesday, August 28 at 7pm.

This delightful production is an absolute must for anyone who has ever visited Billy Butlin’s amazing holiday world, which was Butlins and if you didn’t get to visit during the heyday come along anyway to discover what you missed out on.

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Butlin’s entertainment ranged from bonny babies to knobbly knees competitions, together with fairground rides and all the bingo anyone could possibly cope with. 

But it didn’t stop there, it was an amazingly professional set up with guest appearances made by the likes of Marlene Dietrich, Gracie Fields, Laurel and Hardy and Larry Adler.  Butlins also launched many careers, not least Sir Cliff Richard, who, in the 1950’s and backed by a band called The Drifters, earned £25 a week for his rock and roll stage performances at Butlins, Clacton on Sea! 

Add to Sir Cliff, household names such as Jimmy Tarbuck, Des O’Connor and Michael Barrymore and it’s easy to see how influential Butlins has been in the world of UK entertainment.

Mikron’s radiant redcoats will gently guide the audience through 80 years of fun, action, songs and a generous shrinking of pathos.

Raphael’s riverside setting is perfect for the occasion, bring your own chairs, picnic blankets and umbrellas, although a wet weather plan is in place if things are too wet. 

Please don’t bring your own refreshments as Raphael’s will be serving food and drinks throughout the evening. Tickets for the production are not required as Mikron will make a cash collection on the night.