Summer is on its way, so why not enjoy the escapism of theatre in the great outdoors? Today, we share with you just 10 of the shows you can experience over the next few months.
Regent's Park Open Air Theatre
London has a fantastic selection of outdoor theatre happening across the city. Whether you’re after some Shakespeare under the stars at Shakespeare’s Globe or if you’re looking for a family-friendly show in the sunshine at the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, there’s something for everyone to enjoy over the next couple of months.
The Crucible at Shakespeare’s Globe
The Crucible at Shakespeare's Globe.
Set in Salem in 1692, The Crucible is Arthur Miller’s powerful and political historical play that follows a group of girls who are rumoured to be practising witchcraft. The production, staged at Shakespeare’s Globe, features intense themes of fear, power, and integrity. Hailed by Broadway World as a ‘compelling…vital watch’, it plays until 12 July.
Shakespeare in the Square: The Taming of the Shrew
Shakespeare in the Square: The Taming of the Shrew.
If you want more from The Bard, Shakespeare in the Squares presents its eighth summer tour which kicked off this month. The sharp-edged comedy is staged across London garden squares for one night in each venue every summer. The Taming of the Shrew promises to be a lively battle of wits, wills and wild romance all set to toe-tapping pop classics.
Romeo and Juliet at Shakespeare’s Globe
Artwork of Romeo and Juliet. Image provided by production.
Shakespeare’s classic romantic tragedy plays at the Globe, but with a bold twist, setting the action in the American Wild West. This fresh perspective brings the story of the star-crossed lovers to life with an unforgettable mix of poetic passion, youthful energy, and raw emotion. Hailed by the Guardian as ‘irresistible’, check out Romeo and Juliet until 2 August.
Alice in Wonderland at Kew Gardens
Alice in Wonderland at Kew Gardens.
Lewis Carroll’s beloved classic heads to the Kew Gardens, presented by the Australian Shakespeare Company, who provide exciting productions for the whole family to enjoy. Alice in Wonderland takes audiences through an enchanting journey of original songs, dance and interactive games. As part of a programme of performances including Shakespeare and musicals, this will spark your children’s imagination this summer.
Brigadoon at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre
Brigadoon Artwork. Photo provided by Regent's Park Open Air Theatre
Lerner & Loewe’s musical classic Brigadoon heads to the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre in August, being revived for the first time in three decades. Adapted by the Scottish playwright Rona Munro, Brigadoon is a classic magical romance story about two WW2 fighters who fall in love with two sisters in a dreamlike village. The production begins performances on 2 August.
Noughts & Crosses at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre
Noughts and Crosses Artwork. Photo provided by Regent's Park Open Air Theatre.
Inspired by a powerful young adult novel by Malorie Blackman, Noughts and Crosses makes its outdoor theatre debut in a new production adapted by Dominic Cooke. Set in an alternate society where racial dynamics are reversed, the story echoes that of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Starring Noah Valentine and Corinna Brown, Noughts and Crosses promises a striking production.
The Enormous Crocodile at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre
If you’re a fan of Roald Dahl and the stage musical, Matilda - you’ll love what The Enormous Crocodile has in store for families this summer. Returning to the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre for another run this summer, the production follows a greedy crocodile who devises a secret plan to eat children. Thanks to innovative and captivating puppetry, the vibrant jungle residents burst to life, bringing this joyous and thrilling adventure to the stage like never before!
Twelfth Night at Shakespeare’s Globe
Artwork of TWELFTH NIGHT. Image by Shakespeare's Globe.
More action heads to Shakespeare’s Globe this season with Twelfth Night, a fast-paced comedy that is bursting with music, mischief and mistaken identities. Heading to the authentic and unforgettable open-air setting of the Globe, Robin Belfield directs the production from 8 August.
The Elixir of Love at Holland Park
Artwork of Elixir of Love. Photo by Holland Park.
Operatic fans are in for a treat with a rich lineup of performances at Holland Park’s canopied open-air auditorium over the next few months. One highlight is the Wild Arts revival of Donizetti’s comic gem The Elixir of Love. Relocated to a 1950s seaside setting, this charming tale of lovers and luck-chasing liars unfolds to a sparkling new arrangement for chamber orchestra on Saturday 16 August.
Troilus and Cressida at Shakespeare’s Globe
Artwork of TWELFTH NIGHT. Image by Shakespeare's Globe.
For a final instalment of Shakespearean magic, Troilus and Cressida will conclude the theatre’s summer season this year. Considered by many as one of the more complex and cynical plays, as well as one of the Bard’s least-performed plays, it offers a bold and snappy take on love and war that will leave you stunned.
If you’re on the lookout for more inspiration for upcoming theatre trips this summer, don’t forget our guide to the Best New London Shows, which keeps you informed and up to date.
