10 best open-air theatre and cinema events in the Cotswolds this summer
Because who doesn’t want to spend a blissful summer evening at one of the Cotswolds’ most glorious locations enjoying top-notch entertainment!
A night out under the stars on a warm summer evening watching a big screen golden oldie or live theatre production – is there a more idyllic image? Throughout the summer, many of the Cotswolds’ most beautiful and impressive landmarks play host to pop up screens and stages – perfect for a family outing, romantic date night, or a fun get-together with friends.
This list is not exhaustive by any means and new events pop up as the year progresses. All you need to do is book your tickets, pack up a picnic (don’t forget the Pimm’s!) and maybe a cosy blanket to keep you snug and you’re all set for a night under the stars.
Open Air Theatre
Berkeley Castle
- A Midsummer Night’s Dream: 7th-8th August 2022
The Dukes Theatre Company present an ambitious production of Shakespeare’s famed fairytale – A Midsummer Night’s Dream, filled with mayhem, theatrical magic, live music and of course a donkey.
- The Gun Powder Plot: 11th September 2022
Touring the UK this summer the Gun Powder Plot is an explosive and fun evening as five actors endeavour to pull off the most infamous event in English history. Intrigue, chaos and mayhem ensue along with many, many false moustaches!
Dyrham Park
- As You Like It – The Lord Chamberlain’s Men: 29th July 2022
Enjoy a performance by one of the UK’s finest touring theatres; The Lord Chamberlain’s Men as they present As You Like It in the same guise as when first performed for William Shakespeare – with an all-male cast, Elizabethan costumes, singing and dancing and in the open air. This rustic romp is packed with fun and frolics and even a little wrestling! There is plenty to keep you entertained.
National Trust – Upton House and Gardens
- A Midsummer Night’s Dream – Quantum Theatre: 6th August 2022
Spend a magical evening under the stars immersed in one of Shakespeare’s most famous plays. A comedy tale of magic and chaos set on the most bewitching of nights when fairies are on the loose and four young lovers find themselves embroiled in an enchanted forest, whilst a feuding Fairy King and Queen cause mayhem.
Newark Park
- The Reluctant Dragon – Quantum Theatre: 22nd July 2022
Be captivated by an outdoor performance of Kenneth Grahame’s much-loved children’s tale, the Reluctant Dragon. This dragon is not like other dragons though! Rather than breathing fire and terrorising villages, this one prefers to write poetry and really would rather not fight. This delightful tale of bravery and friendship will enchant audiences of all ages.
- The Tale of Peter Rabbit – Quantum Theatre: 30th July 2022
The classic tales of Benjamin Bunny and the Tales of Peter Rabbit are adored by generations of children and this outdoor performance will keep you all spellbound. Will Peter and Benjamin escape from Mr MacGregor’s garden and who did make all those footprints in the flower beds?
Painswick Rococo Gardens
- Twelfth Night – The Handlebards: 1st July 2022
This fun and energetic bicycle-powered show is performed by the Handlebards, a troop of cycling Shakespearean actors who carry their props and costumes on the back of their bikes. Enjoy the laugh-out-loud product of Twelfth Night where you’ll witness much frivolity and madcap capers.
- Rapunzel – IKP: 29th August 2022
Treat the family to a fabulous open-air performance of Rapunzel. Wicked witches, swoon-worthy princes, trolls and a princess with very long hair come to life in a fun adaptation of this classical fairytale. There’s plenty to keep audiences of all ages entertained.
Sudeley Castle
- As You Like It – The Lord Chamberlain’s Men: 21st July 2022
Against the spectacular backdrop of Sudeley Castle and Gardens, sit back and soak up a performance of As You Like It. Presented as it was first seen by William Shakespeare this all-male ensemble is hugely entertaining as they sing, dance and laugh their way through the sparkling comedy.
The Fleece Inn
- Wind in the Willows: 22nd April 2022
Journey alongside Ratty, Mole, Badger and the larger-than-life Mr Toad as they embark on adventures through the Wild Wood and along the river. This musical adaptation uses song, light, sound and traditional English folk melodies set to new lyrics to paint a vivid picture of Kenneth Grahame’s much-loved classic tale.
Open Air Cinema
Berkeley Castle – Lost Cinema
- Dirty Dancing: 20th May 2022
Nobody puts Baby in the corner! One of the most famous movie lines in film history. Enjoy a music-filled evening at Berkeley Castle as Open Cinema opens its summer season with this all-time favourite – Dirty Dancing. Other dates later in the year are available with films to be announced.
Compton Verney – Movies by Moonlight
- Films (TBC) – 22nd-25th September 2022
Head to the magical setting of Compton Verney for a memorable evening with a film under the stars. The film lineups will be announced in late spring.
Sanford Parks Lido – The Alfresco Film Company
- Ghostbusters – Afterlife: 19th August 2022
- Grease: 20th August 2022
- Jaws: 21st August 2022
With classic films such as Ghostbusters, Grease and Jaws on the schedule, what better reason do you need to spend an evening in the landscaped gardens of Cheltenham’s Sandford Parks Lido?
