EVENING winds blew props across the stage in an all-day theatre event which brought hoardes of people to Frinton’s famous Greensward.

Quantum Theatre kicked off their summer tour of Alice in Wonderland and Great Expectations in Frinton, where more than 100 theatregoers arrived to enjoy the plays, adapted by Michael Whitmore with Gideon Escott as musical director.

Emily Arnfield wowed crowds as Alice while Will Gillham played a convincing Pip and Richard Innocent multi-tasked as the harrowing convict Abel Magwitch.

Artistic director Jessica Selous said: “What’s special about Frinton is we have our die hard Quantum fans.

"Everyone wore their winter clothes and wrapped up in blankets to stay the whole time.

“Plus it’s always out first date so the actors are usually supercharged.

“We had a really appreciative audience who understood what we were trying to do.

"Dickens approached Great Expectations with a lightness of touch although it has serious themes, which was the style we went for.

“Outdoor theatre is certainly magical. The actors aren’t wearing a mic so they have to be project a lot and be big and energetic.

"It’s always a powerful performance.”

The London-based company has enjoyed several years in Frinton, which includes delivering educational theatre sessions to schools in Tendring and Colchester.

With continued support from Tendring Council, which enable residents to enjoy the shows for free, it is hoped Quantum will be back again next year.