We are thrilled to welcome one of the UK’s leading Commedia dell’arte practitioners to Helston this summer. Didi Hopkins — whose extraordinary career spans the National Theatre, the Royal Shakespeare Company, RADA, LAMDA and the Roundhouse, and who was a central figure in developing the smash-hit One Man, Two Guvnors — is coming to Coronation Park as part of Playful Park. Working with Trevow Helston, Didi will spend two weeks with a group of students, immersing them in the 500-year-old Italian theatre tradition of Commedia dell’arte — the masks, the characters, the improvisation, the slapstick and the storytelling that sit at the very roots of European theatre. The first week takes place at Trevow Chapel; the second week, the troupe moves to Coronation Park. Throughout the week, there will be a pop-up performance somewhere in the park. It could happen at any time — by the lake, near the cafe, in the play park, anywhere. Keep your eyes peeled and look out for them around and about! These unannounced, unpredictable and utterly delightful moments of live theatre are Commedia at its best — mischievous, physical, funny and totally in the moment.