As summer approaches, you might be looking for some fun outdoor events for the family in the warm weather.
Outdoor theatre is an excellent choice if you want to enjoy a fun cultural experience and take advantage of the beautiful natural spaces in the local area at the same time.
There are lots of excellent venues hosting events near Chobham this summer, here are three of the best.
1. Polesden Lacey
Polesden Lacey in Surrey Hills is a beautiful estate with a large Edwardian house and various gardens to explore. There are several walks to enjoy around the walled rose garden and the winter gardens, as well as an exciting play area for the kids.
Over the summer, the grounds of Polesden Lacey will play host to several outdoor theatre events – some of the whole family and others better suited for adults.
On 6 July, you can enjoy a performance of Gentle Harry’s Farm, a musical comedy set in a 1950s boarding school.
Alternatively, if you’re looking for something a little more serious, you can see a performance of Twelfth Night by the Changeling Theatre Company on 12 and 13 July.
Both events allow you to bring your own chairs and blankets, and you could even pack a picnic to enjoy while you watch the performance too.
2. Painshill Park
Painshill Park in Cobham is an incredible landscape garden that was created as a “living painting” in the 18th century. It boasts vineyards, crystal caves, gothic temples and a picturesque lake to explore.
This unique setting is the perfect backdrop for some outdoor theatre.
On 24 July, you can see Shakespeare, but not as you know it. The Much Ado About Nothing and Macbeth double bill, performed by the Four Forty Theatre is a retelling of the classic plays.
Each will be performed in around 40 minutes, with just four actors that take the broad strokes of both works and repackages it into a hilarious show.
The show will be staged in the amazing walled garden, where you can set up your picnic blanket and enjoy some refreshments from the on-site bar.
3. Hatchlands Park
The Georgian country house and surrounding grounds at Hatchlands Park make for a great day out with the family. Over the summer, the park will also host an excellent range of outdoor theatre events.
If you’re looking for something suited to adults, you could see:
- Twelfth Night on 27 July
- The Tempest on 1 August
- HMS Pinafore on 3 August.
Fortunately, if you’re trying to keep the kids or grandkids entertained over the summer, there are some excellent family shows on too.
On 24 August, Immersion Theatre will bring their Wind in the Willows show to Hatchlands Park. This musical show is great fun for young children as there are lots of fun singalongs and interactive elements to get involved with.
Will you be enjoying some of these wonderful outdoor theatre experiences this summer?
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