Kew Gardens in south London is offering a unique outdoor theatre experience this summer. The historic botanical gardens, spanning 320 acres, will be transformed into a stage for a variety of performances, from Shakespearean classics to family-friendly shows.
In collaboration with the Australian Shakespeare Company, Kew Gardens will host outdoor theatre performances for the sixth season in a row. One of the highlights this year is a production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, set against the beautiful backdrop of the Pavilion. This classic Shakespearean comedy follows the adventures of fated lovers who become entangled in a fairy charm. London graduate Grace Holroyd will star as Hermia in this enchanting production.
For families with younger children, there will be a performance of Dream Fairies – Adventure Through Bubble Land, directed by Glenn Elston. This interactive show features music composed by Paul Norton and offers a reimagined version of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, where characters get lost and encounter Tinkerbell. Additionally, Kenneth Grahame’s beloved childhood classic, The Wind in the Willows, will be brought to life on stage, featuring the adventures of Mr. Toad, Mole, Ratty, and Badger.
Audience members will have the opportunity to participate in the action, as Head Chef Rabbit invites them to join in the adventures by transforming them into rabbits. The immersive experience, set amidst the opulent buildings and lush greenery of Kew Gardens, promises to transport viewers into the magical worlds of these timeless stories.
The outdoor theatre performances at Kew Gardens will run throughout the summer, with Dream Fairies starting on July 19, Wind in the Willows on July 20, and A Midsummer Night’s Dream on July 20. All shows will conclude on September 1. Tickets are available for purchase online, with prices starting at £17.90 for children and £23.75 for adults. Carers will be admitted for free, making it an inclusive and accessible event for all to enjoy. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the enchanting world of outdoor theatre in the heart of London’s historic botanical gardens.
