A DENBIGHSHIRE town is once again looking forward to a special drama production in the gardens of its oldest historical property.

The Illyria Production company will be returning to Ruthin’s Nantclwyd y Dre this Sunday, June 24, performing the William Shakespeare's The Merchant of Venice.

This is suitable for families, in the superb setting of the building’s recently restored garden.

Friends of Nantclwyd y Dre committee member Robert Hughes said: "It is quite a rare event to have an open air Shakespeare play in Ruthin and Illyria have had fantastic reviews wherever they go.

"People are very welcome to bring along a picnic and enjoy the atmosphere of Nantclwyd’s garden, as well as view the restored Lord’s Garden.

"With the Lord’s Garden now restored, people are most welcome to see the changes and improvements that have been made, and what better opportunity than an evening of culture and entertainment.

"It takes a lot of work to put on such an event, so we would encourage everyone to get tickets and support the event."

The Shakespeare play is part of the town’s long established festival, which this year culminates as always with the popular Top of Town event, which will take place on the town square on Saturday, June 30.

Musical artistes such as Dafydd Iwan a’r Band, Ceidwad y Gan, the Wee Bag Band, Skariad and Trwbz, as well as performers such as Dawnswyr Caernarfon and the Bagad pipe band - from Ruthin’s twinned town Briec in Brittany - will be present.

The committee is looking forward to the whole festival week, which runs this year from June 23 until July 1.

Ruthin Festival committee chair Christine Ellis said: "There is an extensive programme planned with something for everybody, including creative workshops, folk music, a Shakespearian play, classical music, a poetry session and, of course, the town’s annual carnival organised by Ruthin Forward, which kicks off the weeks events on June 23 on the fields of Ruthin School.

"We are particularly looking forward this year to welcoming the town’s friends from Briec in Brittany.

"A new element to the week will be a history tour delivered by the knowledgeable Roger Edwards from the local history society.

"There are two time slots available - the tours will be on Wednesday, June 27, starting at 1.30pm, and Friday, June 29, starting at 6.30pm.

"Places are limited and must be booked in advance."

Tickets for the Merchant of Venice this Sunday are £15 for adults and £8 for children, while a family ticket (family of four) costs £42.

They are available at Siop Elfair (01824 702575), the Ruthin Bookshop (01824 703840), or on the door on the night.

To book a place on one of the history tours by Roger Edwards, people need to book at Siop Elfair (01824 702575).

There is no fee for the tour, but people are encouraged to give a donation.

More information about the festival is available on the Facebook page Gwyl Rhuthun Festival or at www.ruthinfestival.co.uk