There’s nothing quite like an evening of food, drink and culture, underneath a blanket of (hopefully) cloudless, starry skies. Seriously. Nothing. To be honest, even pouring rain (which is a high probability knowing our British summers…) could take away the magic from these 5 open-air theatres…just, er, maybe bring a jacket?
[VisitLondon]Reconstructed just a stones throw away from its original site, Shakespeare’s Globe is one the few thatched buildings in London. The buzzing atmosphere and stunning architecture makes it a once in a lifetime visit; not to mention the phenomenal (and totally accessible) performances of Shakespeare’s classics taking place, up close and personal, from April until October each year. This season kicks off with Midsummer Night’s Dream, followed by The Taming of the Shrew, Macbeth and Imogen. Plus, if you’ve got the stamina, you can get standing tickets in the yard for only £5 – trust us when we say you’ll be so mesmerised that you’ll ‘Bard-ly’ notice!
21 New Globe Walk, Bankside, SE1 9DT
2. Regent’s Park Open-Air Theatre
[VisitLondon]Its steeply raked auditorium is one of the largest in London with 1,250 seats, but this does not take away from the intimacy that Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre gives its audiences. Think fairy lights, blankets and picnics (and bar…) along with some wonderful theatre, suitable for everyone. This year they’re showing Running Wild by Michael Morpurgo, Henry V, Jesus Christ Superstar and Pride and Prejudice, adapted by Simon Reade. Pimm’s at the ready, folks!
Inner Cir, Westminster NW1 4NU
3. Iris Theatre, Covent Garden
[BargainTheatreland]An open-air theatre in the heart of central London?! Surely not! Well, sorry to come as the bearer of GREAT news, but Iris Theatre is just that, situated in the magical gardens of 17th century St Paul’s Church in Covent Garden. Their collaborative approach explores performance of all styles (from classical theatre to circus-style acrobatics), gives London a little bit of something for everyone. This year, Much Ado About Nothing and Treasure Island take the stage.
St Paul’s Church, Bedford St, WC2E 9ED
4. The Scoop, Tower Bridge
[VisitLondon]At this 1,000 person sunken amphitheatre, The Scoop at More London stages events all year round. Their own events are added to by those organised by charities and the local community, giving it a collaborative and community feel. Their free open-air programme – including musical performances (July), theatre productions (August) and movie screenings (September) – runs all throughout the summer months, so make sure to keep your eye out for what’s on!
