The sun is high in the sky and the warm weather is here, so what better way to spend a hazy summer’s evening in Kent than to watch some mysterious to funny outdoor theatre with some pretty special backdrops? So pack a picnic, grab your blanket and enjoy a performance under the stars...
Belmont Broadway
Throughout July and August enjoy amazing theatre at Belmont House’s Gardens where you’ll be transported to the worlds of Shakespeare and classic family stories, all set to the houses' backdrop which has recently been featured in BBC's Antique's Roadshow. On July 14th watch on as one of Shakespeare's first comedies unfolds in Love's Labour's Lost - fans of Bridgerton are encouraged to book as it's tale of four boys and four girls in a game of love. In August, it’s time to watch one of the worlds most popular family shows - The Wizard of Oz. This magical performance is cued to take place on August 27th in the stunning gardens, where picnics are encouraged!
Sit back at Spa Valley Railway
What could be better than being whisked through the Kentish countryside on a spring or summers day? Doing so with a live stage show taking place around you making you laugh! In select dates throughout April to October, get onboard with Faulty Towers: The Dining Experience where you'll be part of the action with Basil, Sybil and more guaranteeing you will have an immersive and interactive experience - if you can do so without rolling on the floor! Trains are departing from Tunbridge Wells West and we hear tickets are expected to leave the station quickly so, you best get booking!
Theatre at The Historic Dockyard Chatham
Get ready for a open air theatre productions in a setting like no other at the Historic Dockyard Chatham! On Saturday 10th at 6:30pm, The Wind in the Willows will head to Museum Square where an adaptation of the children’s novel by Kenneth Grahame will entertain the whole family, led of course by Mole. Later in the year in September, Robin Hood will be playing on the 2nd for this classic tale as he takes on tyrant the Sheriff of Nottingham. All of the shows will go on whatever the weather (despite extreme of course) so bring your low back chairs and blankets and come prepared. But let’s hope for sun, fun and an all round entertaining evening at the docks!
Canterbury Shakespeare Festival
The festival season has kicked off in Canterbury with performances that have a twist; Henry V, A Kidsummer Night’s Dream, The Merry Wives of Windsor, The Changeling and so much more. So head over to St Margaret’s Churchyard in Canterbury this summer holidays and watch the amazing performances with your children.
Powell Cotton Museum
‘Here we go again’… Back by popular demand is Powell Cotton Museum’s open-air cinema. Join them on August 25th to watch the world’s favourite movie, Mamma Mia! (PG) located in the beautiful lawns on Quex Gardens. Why not make it a fun day out with friends and dress up as the characters in the movie but don’t forget to sing out loud and to pick up those snacks and drinks.
Oval Bandstand
Located in Margate is Oval Bandstand and Lawns an incredible open-air venue. Head over this summer and relax whilst listening to live music, theatre performances, outdoor cinema screenings and community festivals. There is always something going on in Margate so what is stopping you from visiting?
Chapel Down
Chapel Down might be known for its beautiful views and extraordinary wine but did you know they are also hosting Doctor Dolittle production for children of all ages on 27th August and for the adults, The Great Gatsby live performance. Make sure to pick up a range of snacks from their new horse box wine bar and even a cheeky glass of wine.
Walmer Castle and Gardens
What better setting could you think of when watching a theatre performance? Walmer Castle and Gardens are hosting many different theatre performances throughout August and September from A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Nightingale, Machamlear and so much more. With a beautiful view of the Castle whilst enjoying live performances, you will not be bored!
Chiddingstone Castle
Looking for that perfect place to enjoy your picnic whilst being entertained by live performances of Peter Pan or The Jungle Book? Head down to Chiddingstone Castle and watch the performances at The Orangery from The Festival Theatre at Hever. This theatrical treat is like no other, let your imagination run wild with these amazing performances perfect for a family trip to the Castle.
Rochester Castle
Do you love Netflix’s Bridgerton? Then this show is the one for you! Presented by Changeling Theatre, at Rochester Castle, is Love’s Labour’s Lost a phenomenal performance promising luscious costumes and a few surprises. Expect excitement, sadness and laughter sending you on an emotional ride on this early Shakespeare performance.
Upnor Castle
Did you miss the other performances of A Midsummer Night’s Dream happening in Kent? Well here’s one by Boxtree Productions taking place at the stunning Upnor Castle but this Shakespearean musical has a modern day twist on it! With modern language and tummy jiggling jokes, mischievous fairies, magical moment and fantastic original songs, this is a performance you do not want to miss out on!
Knole Park
Summer holidays might be finished but why stop the fun in August when it can carry on in September? Knole Park are hosting their very own outdoor cinema showing Little Women and Matilda the Musical perfect for family and friends to enjoy whilst sat in the beautiful surroundings of Knole’s Green Court. Enjoy delicious drinks and snacks from the Lodge Coffee Shop and don’t forget to get your singing voices ready!
Treasure Island
Set sail with Open Air Tour, performing the tale of Treasure Island, located at many different locations in Maidstone on different nights throughout August. Performed by Hazlitt Theatre this tale is one to watch with the family and watch how the story unfolds! Make sure to bring a picnic and a rug and enjoy the surroundings of Maidstone with this amazing performance.
