A Summer of Shakespeare

This August, Torre Abbey will showcase two fantastic open-air theatre productions set against the stunning backdrop of our 800-year-old medieval abbey and gardens. Join us for these unforgettable performances and immerse yourself in the thrill of live theatre in the serene setting of Torre Abbey's gardens.

Just as no two Shakespeare tales are the same our two productions promise two very different experiences.

On Thursday 17 August, the talented 440 Theatre bring their Shakespeare 'Double Bill' to Torre Abbey, combining the classic tale of forbidden love in Romeo and Juliet and the fall of a tragic hero in Macbeth. The 440 Theatre Shakespeare Double Bills are quintessentially British in their style of comedy, 4 actors delivering 2 40-minute productions in one night. You might have seen Shakespeare before but never like this, two of Shakespeare’s greatest tragedies have been transformed into outrageous, fall-on-the-floor comedies. Four Forty have been delighting audiences up and down the country with their fast paced, in your face, hysterically funny productions. Offering an alternative take on some of the world's most famous plays, their inimitable style and charisma has set them apart as one of the hungriest and playfully ambitious travelling troupes around.

Our Summer of Shakespeare continues, as the Duke's Theatre Company take their turn to visit the Abbey, performing the Twelfth Night on Wednesday 23 and Thursday 24 August. Shakespeare's classic comedy has been reimagined for the open-air performance, bringing new life to the tale of love and mistaken identity. A romantic comedy unfolds with a madcap farce at its heart. The broadest of broad humour (poor Malvolio tricked into absurdity) mixed with moments of unbearable pathos (listen out for Sir Anthony Aguecheek's wistful "I was adored once too"). The Duke's Theatre Company promise the full text in all its glory, innovative production design, high energy, and original music so that Shakespeare's writing is heard in a whole new way. Four hundred and twenty-one years on from when the Twelfth Night was first performed, The Dukes Theatre Company express their pride and privileged in bring this extraordinary play to our ancient building.

Torre Abbey is delighted to once again be hosting open air theatre productions this summer. Our historical setting and beautiful gardens create a truly unique atmosphere; paired with these incredible productions, we are confident it will be a summer highlight. The early evening performances offer the perfect opportunity to experience unique productions while taking in the sights and scents of the gardens as sunset draws in. So as the sun fades and the stars begin to come out, join us this summer and be transported to a magical world of love, laughter, and live theatre.

Do not miss your chance to experience these timeless tales in the enchanting setting of Torre Abbey's garden. Book your tickets now and join us for an evening of Shakespearean magic you'll never forget.