THIS weekend will see the highly-anticipated outdoor spectacular The Witching Hour descend on Birkenhead Park.

Created by theatre company Periplum in partnership with Hull-based Absolutely Cultured as part of Wirral's Borough of Culture celebrations, the free event will run from Friday, May 17 until Sunday, May 19.

The Witching Hour will focus on Wirral and Hull with the performance weaving between both locations, highlighting local legends and stories of both fact and fiction associated with East Park and Birkenhead Park.

It will bring to life memories and myths in an exciting and dramatic performance featuring a specially commissioned soundtrack, theatrical lighting, pyrotechnics, fire and promenading action.

Local residents have been invited to share their stories and memories which had been incorporated in the performance.

Wirral Globe:

The Witching Hour will explore local folklore both fact and fiction (Picture: Tom Arran)

Assistant director for culture and visitor economy at Wirral Council Lucy Barrow, said: “With only days to go before The Witching Hour arrives in Birkenhead Park, we’re thrilled to welcome residents and visitors to step inside this exciting world and really looking forward to seeing how the history and heritage of this very special park has inspired Periplum’s ground-breaking show.

“We know that audiences can expect an awe-inspiring experience which will be something entirely new for Wirral, and we’re delighted to be able to present this kind of large-scale spectacular during our Borough of Culture year with the support of the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, Arts Council England and the National Lottery Heritage Fund.”

Where is the event taking place?

The Witching Hour will take place in Birkenhead Park's Upper Park from 9.45pm each night, lasing one hour.

Entrance will be via the gate on Park Road North adjacent to Birkenhead Park Rugby Football Club and the gate on Ashville Road adjacent to Highgate House.

As the event will take place outdoors in the dark, visitors are being urged to dress for the weather and wear suitable footwear as there may be muddy or uneven areas at the park.

Wirral Globe:

You can view an interactive map by clicking here

How can I get there?

Parking is limited and organisers are urging visitors to use public transport to get to the event.
Visitors are reminded to respect local residents by not parking in the streets around the park.

There is limited parking available for blue badge holders which will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis inside the main park opposite the main entrance gate on Ashville Road. With the exception of assistance dogs, no animals are allowed.

For those who are wheelchair users or have mobility issues, you must book a space on a viewing platform by emailing cultureteam@wirral.gov.uk

Wirral Globe:

The free event will take visitors on a mythical journey through Wirral and Hull (Picture: Tom Arran)

Once you're there...

Entry to the event is on a first come first served basis and organisers have the right to reserve entry in the unlikely event that it is oversubscribed.

Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

Don’t forget to share your pictures on social media using #TheWitchingHourWirral.

For more information The Witching Hour visit imaginewirral.com