The play is based on reality and features eccentric characters from history
As part of a theatre dinner evening, the ‘random players’ present a comic entertainment, Napoleon’s Algarve Nightmare.
The play includes the Portuguese royal family who fled to Brazil in 1807 when Napoleon’s troops invaded. Based on factual events that happened in the Algarve, it was the peasant people who showed stiff resistance when 4,000 troops arrived in the region. It was the inability of Napoleon’s soldiers to quell the riots that caused him consternation and frequent nightmares.
Similar to previous productions by the group, the play is based on reality and features eccentric characters from history. Generating humor throughout the show, Napoleon and his soldiers played by women in fishnet tights and military uniforms tell the story of an important period of local history.
Featuring the towns of Tavira, Faro and Olhão, there is admiration for the fishermen who set off in a little fishing boat to sail to Rio de Janeiro in Brazil. Bringing news to the Portuguese King that Napoleon’s troops had been expelled, the reception they received is not what they expected.
Today a replica of the boat that made the epic trip, the ‘Bom Sucesso’, is on view on the quayside in Olhão. It amazes the passing public that more than 200 years ago it made a voyage of almost 4,000 nautical miles across the Atlantic Ocean, a journey that is recreated in the play. Expect thunder, lightning and a turbulent sea!
The production will be staged at Quinta das Borboletas, located in Areeiro, on the outskirts of Almancil. Tickets are priced at €30, and profits will be donated to Families in Need in Portugal.
The evening commences with light refreshments and live music. This will be followed by the main course, dessert and the play. There will be a short interval between Acts One and Two. Finally, there will be more live music to dance to.
The English and Dutch owners of Quinta das Borboletas provide home-cooked and prepared meals with choices for vegetarians. The main course must be ordered in advance. Wine, beer and soft drinks are included in the price. Additional drinks and coffees can be purchased at the bar.
The script is written by Carolyn Kain supported by a team of actors and backstage crew of 12. Previous productions include Rags to Riches, The Rhyming Diary of Mrs Pepys, The Passionate Pilgrim, The Great Pretenders, The Windsors in Portugal & Cinderella and the Surrealists.
The show will be performed in a large marquee seating around 35 guests. There is ample parking nearby.
Performance date is Monday, April 1, starting at 7pm. Three previously advertised shows are already sold out.
To contact Quinta das Borboletas, call 963 812 846.
