The Garden Players are returning to Maidenhead to perform another Shakespeare classic in the open air, with all proceeds going to charity.

The Beaconsfield-based amateur theatre group are set to present Henry IV part one to audiences at the stunning location of Stubbings House from today until June 20.

The history play which is rich in comedy, believed to date back to 1597, is directed by John Timewell and stars acting stalwart Graham Weeks, who has previously appeared as Fagin in Oliver at the Wycombe Swan and Malvolio in Twelfth Night, as Falstaff.

He is joined by William Branston as Hal, Steve McAdam as King Henry, Grainne Harling as Lady Percy and Tim Harling as Hostspur.

The second play in Shakespeare’s tetralogy which deals with the reigns of Richard II, Henry IV and Henry V, tells the story as England is on the brink of civil war. The rebels, led by the Earls of Worcester and Northumberland and his son, the valiant Hotspur, plot their uprising.

Meanwhile, the King’s son Prince Henry (Hal) is living a life of debauchery with Sir John Falstaff and his raucous cronies in Mistress Quickly’s tavern and other bawdy dens in Eastcheap.

Can Hal rouse himself to take on Hotspur and save his father’s throne? Jousting company, Warhorse, will also be providing entertainment with two horses and riders in full regalia, who will be parading around the grounds of Stubbings before, during the interval and after the play.

The horses will also delight audiences with a special appearance within the show.

Since the theatre group staged their first production of Much Ado About Nothing in 2009, they have raised more than £63,000 for charity.

This year, the company are donating all proceeds to Child Bereavement UK and SportsAble. Last year, their performance of The Merchant of Venice raised a record £15,100.

The show is open air but the audience will be under cover on raised seating, so while the performers will be hoping for sunny weather, the audience are protected from the elements.

Visit www.thegardenplayersweb.co.uk for more information and to buy tickets, which are priced at £18. Alternatively, call the box office on 01628 820140.