Open-Air Theatre at Newstead Abbey

About

Open-Air Theatre
Wednesday 24 June - Sunday 6 September 2026
Newstead Abbey

The popular Open-Air Theatre season returns to Newstead Abbey this summer with a programme of new and traditional performances.

You are invited to pack your picnics, camping chairs and blankets to enjoy theatre in the great outdoors!

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What's On

Wednesday 24 June | Gates 6pm, show 7pm
Oddsocks Productions: Romeo & Juliet

A family feud divides the community and violence stalks the streets. Who can see beyond the hate and dare to follow their heart? A pair of star-crossed lovers, Romeo and Juliet!

Oddsocks return with their new take on this well-loved classic, finding laughs and pathos in the most dramatic of tragedies. Will Romeo pull himself together to escape with Juliet? Will the Nurse think of a better plan than the Friar? Will the audience help the lovers elope? All will be revealed as Oddsocks create uplifting comedy from the depths of despair in a show that’s the perfect antidote to prejudice.

Wednesday 15 July | Gates 6pm, show 7pm
Quantum Theatre: Treasure Island

It’s pirate ships, pieces of eight and salty old sea dogs in Quantum Theatre’s swashbuckling new adaptation of the classic pirate adventure, Treasure Island. Bursting with buccaneers, brouhaha and dastardly double dealings, this lively new adaptation delivers an action-packed adventure for the whole family.

Wednesday 19 August | Gates 6pm, show 7pm
Pantaloons Theatre Company: Twelfth Night

“Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them!”

Get in a fight. Cross-dress. Throw on some yellow stockings. Love can make you do the funniest things…! The critically-acclaimed Pantaloons Theatre Company present their own brand of Shakespearean mayhem in the Bard’s comedy of fools, duels and dual identities. Family-friendly fun with live music and audience participation.

Sunday 6 September | Gates 5pm, show 6pm
Illyria Theatre Company: The Three Musketeers

All for One; One for All! Young D’Artagnan is determined to join Athos, Porthos and Aramis as an elite Musketeer of the King’s Guard. Set against a sweeping panorama of 17th century France at war, this production is a whirlwind of scheming, romance and broad comedy – and the finest swashbuckling in the business.

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Gates open one hour before the performance starts. Please bring rugs or low-back seating. Performances will go ahead in all but the worst weather. The stage is located on Byron's Lawn at Newstead Abbey:

Plan your visit here: www.newsteadabbey.org.uk/visit and see the accessibility page: www.newsteadabbey.org.uk/accessibility