6 Outdoor Theatre Shows To Book This Summer
The summer theatre season is near, and we have the full list of your must-hit shows. Rather than visiting the old theatre hall, book an alfresco theatre experience instead. From the classic Much Ado About Nothing to a reimagining of the beloved musical Cats, we’ve rounded up the six best open-air, outdoor theatre performances going on this summer.
Anasi the Spider, Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre
In collaboration with London’s Unicorn Theatre, Regent’s Park is bringing this classic West African and Caribbean folk tale to life. This performance follows a mischievous spider who outsmarts creatures much smaller than himself.
Although created for younger audiences, the theatre performance is witty and wonderfully imaginative, making for an entertaining performance for all.
When: 15 august- 06 september
Where: The Regent’s Park, Inner Cir, London NW1 4NU
Book here
Un Ballo in Maschera, Opera Holland Park
This Holland Park feature is the first revival of Rodula Gaitanou’s original 2019 production of Verdi’s classic 1859 tragedy. A story of illicit love and political turmoil, the protagonist must renounce his love or his throne.
Choreographed by Steve Elias, lit by Simon Corder, and conducted by Michael Papadopoulosm Un Ballo Maschera is a thrilling, summer must-watch.
No one beats Verdi at rendering the gorgeous cacophony of desire and rage.
Howard Jacobson, The Observer
When: 25 july- 07 august
Where: Opera Holland Park Theatre, Ilchester Pl, London W8 6LU
Book here
Much Ado About Nothing, The Globe
Another unmissable Shakespearean billing: this June, Much Ado About Nothing will return to The Globe’s summer programme. Under Chelsea Walker’s direction, the romantic comedy promises an unfiltered look at bad behaviour, second chances, and recovering from old wounds.
Shakespeare’s beloved romantic comedy will be returning to the Globe this summer.
Staged within the iconic grounds of Shakespeare’s Globe, there are few better places to catch outdoor theatre in London this summer.
When: 11 June – 24 October
Where: 21 New Globe Walk, London SE1 9DT
Book here
Greenwich+Docklands International Festival
Experience the height of outdoor performance this summer at the Greenwich+Docklands International Festival (GDIF). As London’s leading celebration of free street theatre and art, it offers an unparalleled sanctuary for any theatre enthusiast.
Throughout the festival, it delivers an ambitious programme of production and commissions in a bid to break new ground for outdoor arts in the UK.
When: 21 August – 6 September
Where: Venues across Southeast London
Book Here
Cats, Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre
For those looking to add a musical to their summer itinerary, Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre will also be staging an outdoor production of Cats from July through to September.
Witness a bold new retelling of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s legendary masterpiece, staged beneath the stars in the immersive surroundings of Regent’s Park.
Witness a bold new retelling of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s legendary masterpiece, staged beneath the stars in the immersive surroundings of Regent’s Park.
When: 25 July – 12 September
Where: The Regent’s Park, Inner Cir, London NW1 4NU
Book here
Love’s Labour’s Lost, The Globe
One of Shakespeare’s beloved romances, a new production of Love’s Labour’s Lost is coming to The Globe this summer. Directed by Indiana Lown-Collins, this production channels the vibrancy of her rural Spanish roots, infusing the play with rich, flamenco-inspired choreography.
Step into a world of fiery romance, exciting affairs, and rhythmic flamenco dances.
When: 21 july – 13 september
Where: 21 New Globe Walk, London SE1 9DT
Book here
