Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre announce Tinuke Craig as their new Associate Artistic Director. Tinuke’s extensive directing experience has seen her create work for the National Theatre, Royal Shakespeare Company, The Old Vic and Chichester Festival Theatre.

Tinuke takes up the role with immediate effect, joining Drew McOnie (Artistic Director), James Pidgeon (Executive Director), Laura Arends (Director of Communications & Audiences), mezze eade (Diversity & Inclusion Associate), Lauren King (Director of Producing & Administration) and Anthony Newton (Director of Technical & Production) to complete the newly structured Senior Leadership Team at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre.

Tinuke Craig said today, “I am beyond thrilled to be joining the team at Regent’s Park as Associate Artistic Director. I adore this theatre, its unique setting and its incredible ability to gather people together to experience extraordinary stories old and new. I’m excited to engage with new artists, to help programme and direct bold and varied work, and to cultivate new audiences to share in this joyful space.”

Drew McOnie said, “I’m delighted that Tinuke Craig is joining us at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre in the new role of Associate Artistic Director. Tinuke is an incredibly talented theatre maker with a wealth of experience across UK theatre. I’m excited for us to work together to shape the artistic ambitions for the Open Air Theatre as we enter this exciting new chapter for our unique venue.”

Tinuke Craig trained at LAMDA and at the National Theatre Studio. In 2014 she won the Genesis Future Director Award. She was the Gate’s Associate Director 2015-2016. From 2021-2023 she was Baylis Director at the Old Vic. She is an Artistic Associate at the Lyric Hammersmith. Tinuke works extensively with young people and with emerging artists.

Directing includes: A Raisin in the Sun (Headlong Tour), The School for Scandal (Royal Shakespeare Company), The Big Life (Theatre Royal Stratford East), Blue (ENO, London Coliseum), Trouble in Butetown (Donmar Warehouse), Jitney (Leeds Playhouse 2021 and The Old Vic 2022) Last Easter (Orange Tree Theatre), Crave (Chichester Festival Theatre), Hamlet For Young Audiences (Dorfman and National Theatre Tour 2020 and 2022), Cinderella (Lyric Hammersmith), Vassa (Almeida Theatre), The Color Purple (Leicester Curve/Birmingham Hippodrome and UK Tour), random/generations (Chichester Festival Theatre), I Call My Brothers (Gate Theatre), dirty butterfly (Young Vic).

In summer 2024, we open the theatre with Twelfth Night (or What You Will) (3 May – 8 June 2024). Shakespeare’s comedy of mistaken identities is directed by Owen Horsley set against the heat of the Mediterranean sun.

Playing during the daytime for those aged 4+ and their families is the new musical version of Roald Dahl’s picture book, The Enormous Crocodile (17 May – 8 June 2024), with book & lyrics by Suhayla El-Bushra, music by Ahmed Abdullahi Gallab and additional music and lyrics from Tom Brady. Developed and directed by Emily Lim, with co-direction and puppetry design by Toby Olié, the production comes to Regent’s Park following its successful 2023 Christmas season at Leeds Playhouse.

This is followed by the stage adaptation of Frances Hodgson Burnett’s classic story, The Secret Garden (15 June – 20 July 2024) in a new version by Holly Robinson and Anna Himali Howard, and directed by Howard.

The season concludes with Fiddler on the Roof (27 July – 21 September 2024), with book by Joseph Stein, music by Jerry Bock and lyrics by Sheldon Harnick. In a new production directed by Jordan Fein, this classic musical of joy, revolution and tradition features the glorious songs ‘If I Were A Rich Man’, ‘Tradition’ and ‘Matchmaker’.

James Pidgeon and Tim Sheader said today, “Following the announcement of Bear Snores On at the end of last year – marking the first time in our 92-year history that we’re producing a project in the spring – we’re now thrilled to be sharing our 2024 summer season with you. This year’s summer season includes a Shakespeare comedy revival; a new commission of a literary favourite, continuing our commitment to the development of new work; a revival of a musical classic which this year celebrates its 60^th birthday; and a new musical for ages 4+, produced in collaboration with Roald Dahl Story Company and Leeds Playhouse. Whilst Drew McOnie, our new Artistic Director, begins work on plans for 2025 and beyond, we very much look forward to welcoming you to Regent’s Park this summer for Tim’s seventeenth and final season which continues to celebrate the magic and power of togetherness that comes with telling stories under a shared sky.”

Full creative teams and casting for all productions to be announced.

Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre Memberships are now on sale, and Members’ priority booking for the 2024 summer season opens at 12pm today, with public booking opening at 12pm on Thursday 1 February 2024.

Visit www.openairtheatre.com/membership for more information.

The award-winning Director and Choreographer will assume the role in January 2024, taking over from Tim Sheader following his appointment at the Donmar Warehouse, and will programme the 2025 season onwards. He joins the theatre having previously directed and choreographed On the Town which was Olivier Award nominated for Best Musical Revival, and choreographed their productions of Carousel and Jesus Christ Superstar, currently touring the US and UK and for which he received an Olivier Award Nomination for Best Theatre Choreography. He retains his position as Artistic Director of The McOnie Company, with its production of Nutcracker currently running at the new pop-up space, The Tuff Nutt Jazz Club at the Southbank Centre, and the forthcoming world premiere stage adaptation of The Artist opening at Theatre Royal Plymouth in May 2024.

Drew McOnie said today, "For me there is nowhere in London where the shared experience of live theatre is more electric than at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre. It captured my imagination and stole my heart from my very first visit. I believe it’s because of the audience’s direct connection with the performers, each knowing equally that anything could happen and together they will experience something that its relationship with nature may make totally different the following day. It’s a magical setting to experience magical stories together.

Long before becoming a director and choreographer I was a dancer, and it was widely known within the performing community that Regent’s Park was THE place to work. This wasn’t just because of the exceptional standard of work being created but also because of the care and support for its artists. Under the inspiring leadership of Tim Sheader, I was able to become the artist I wanted to be, and I am committed to continuing that legacy of care and creativity for artists and audiences alike.

I am so excited to be joining forces with the brilliant James Pidgeon and can’t wait to begin writing the next chapter of this special venue’s story.”

Stuart Griffiths OBE, Chair of the Board of Trustees, added, “Following a rigorous and extensive recruitment process, we are delighted to appoint Drew McOnie as Artistic Director & Joint Chief Executive of Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre. Drew is an outstanding and innovative artist whose work thrills and inspires a broad range of audiences. We are excited by the vision and passion he will bring to our unique and world-renowned venue, building on the legacy of Tim Sheader’s tenure. On behalf of the Trustees we are delighted to welcome Drew to the team.”

Regent's Park Open Air Theatre Executive Director & Joint Chief Executive James Pidgeon commented, “Drew McOnie is an exemplary and well-respected artist who will continue the Open Air Theatre’s long-standing commitment to creating exceptional, enriching and unexpected theatre at scale whilst also bringing a new artistic vision and identity to the organisation that enhances our relevance and reputation. I very much look forward to working with him to lead the organisation and our incredibly talented team through this next exciting chapter of growth and development.”

Drew McOnie is a multi-award winning Director and Choreographer working across theatre and film.

His previous credits for Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre include, as director/choreographer: On the Town (Olivier Award Nomination for Best Musical Revival), and as choreographer: Carousel and Jesus Christ Superstar (Olivier Award Nomination for Best Theatre Choreography - also Barbican Theatre, UK and US tours).

Other credits as director/choreographer include: The Wild Party (The Other Palace), King Kong (The Broadway Theatre, Broadway), Strictly Ballroom (Piccadilly Theatre, West End/Toronto/West Yorkshire Playhouse), Torch Song (The Turbine Theatre London) and CAKE (Lyric Theatre, West End and UK Tour).

Other credits as a choreographer include: In the Heights (Olivier Award Winner for Best Theatre Choreography, Winner of the Off West End Theatre Award for Best Choreography - Southwark Playhouse and Kings Cross Theatre), The Lorax (The Old Vic), Hairspray (BroadwayWorld Award Winner for Best Choreographer – UK Tour), Bugsy Malone (Lyric Hammersmith and UK Tour), Oklahoma! (UK Tour), Chicago (Curve Theatre, Leicester) and Tommy (European Tour).

His credits for The McOnie Company include: Nutcracker (The Tuff Nutt Jazz Club at Southbank Centre), Jekyll and Hyde (BroadwayWorld Award Winner for Outstanding Achievement in Dance – The Old Vic), DRUNK! (Curve Theatre Leicester/ The Bridewell Theatre London), Making Midnight (Jermyn Street Theatre/ Latitude Festival), Slaughter (Audience Choice Award Winner - The Place Prize) and Be Mine! (Robin Howard Theatre), and the forthcoming world premiere stage adaptation of The Artist opening at Theatre Royal Plymouth in May 2024.

Ballets include: Merlin (Northern Ballet National Tour), XYZ- (Classical Creative Project), Monochrome Suite (Sadlers Wells), The Old Man Of Lochnagar (Sadlers Wells and Hackney Empire), Little Red Riding Hood (Wimbledon Theatre) and To You (Sadlers Wells).

Film credits include: Greatest Days - The TAKE THAT movie musical, and Me Before You (Directed by Thea Sharrock).

Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre Artistic Director Tim Sheader today announces that he will be stepping down from his role at the end of 2023 to take up the position of Artistic Director at the Donmar Warehouse.

Tim has been Artistic Director and Joint Chief Executive of the Open Air Theatre since 2007, and has helped transform the organisation into one of the most successful and loved producing theatres in London. Under Tim’s leadership, the theatre has won seven Olivier Awards, four Evening Standard Awards, was named The Stage’s London Theatre of the Year in 2017, and now welcomes over 140,000 people to its 20-week summer season every year.

Tim Sheader said today, “Working here at the Open Air Theatre has been the most exhilarating and fulfilling period of my life. Making and curating work for this thrilling space has been an absolute privilege and I am grateful to all of my many, many collaborators and colleagues for joining me on the journey. I am so proud of the continuing evolution of the organisation and its projects, in our quest to welcome as many people from as many different backgrounds as possible to experience the joy and communion theatre in the park offers.

I would especially like to thank both James Pidgeon and William Village, exemplary Executive Directors with whom I’ve had the pleasure of working with, Stuart Griffiths and the Board past and present, and everyone who has supported me in my ambition and passion for this special theatre. As I move on to a new adventure at the Donmar Warehouse I will miss them all terribly but can’t wait to be part of the ongoing story as a loyal and lifelong friend and audience member.”

Chair of the Board, Stuart Griffiths OBE, added, “Over the last 16 years Tim has transformed Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre’s creative output into a major force in producing theatre in London and touring in the UK and internationally. The unfunded, not-for-profit status of the organisation demands a fine balance between popularity and creativity to create success which Tim has always found, seeking new ways to update and diversify established repertoire and create new work for today’s audience. Alongside his own work, he has continuously nurtured emerging, diverse creative artists, making it a priority to develop new talent.

The Trustees are very grateful for Tim’s dynamic, creative and caring approach over many years and wish him every success in his new position at the Donmar Warehouse. He leaves an extraordinary legacy and will be much missed by everyone at the Open Air Theatre.”

During his tenure Tim has directed over 20 productions, including the Olivier and Evening Standard Award-winning musicals Into the Woods (also Central Park’s Delacorte Theater), Hello Dolly, Crazy For You (also West End) and Jesus Christ Superstar which, following two sold out seasons at Regent’s Park and a transfer to the Barbican, has been touring the US for three years and starts a UK tour this September. His hit production of To Kill a Mockingbird also enjoyed a national tour ending with a sell-out run at the Barbican in 2015.

Committed to taking the theatre’s work to as wide an audience as possible, he has overseen UK tours of productions including Pride and Prejudice, Lord of the Flies and Running Wild. Partnerships and co-productions have included work with the Barbican Centre, Chichester Festival Theatre, English National Opera, Leeds Playhouse, Roald Dahl Story Company and the Unicorn Theatre.

The theatre has become a hotbed of directing talent, producing work made by Maria Aberg, Natalie Abrahami, Matthew Dunster, Nadia Fall, Rob Hastie, Ola Ince, Rachel Kavanagh, Jamie Lloyd, Lucy Moss and Max Webster amongst others. After expanding the repertoire beyond the historical presentation of Shakespeare, in recent years new writing has become central to the theatre’s mission, with commissioned writers including Samuel Adamson, Torben Betts, Inua Ellams, Carl Grose, Zinnie Harris, Chinonyerem Odimba and Holly Robinson.

In August 2020, Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre led the industry back to live performance by staging a socially distanced concert version of Jesus Christ Superstar, the first full-scale production to be produced in the UK since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Working closely alongside two consecutive Executive Directors, William Village and James Pidgeon, under Tim’s tenure the theatre has undergone major capital refurbishment. The production and administration teams moved from offsite into new purpose built offices, backstage facilities were made fit for purpose for modern working, a suite of onsite rehearsal studios were built, and this season 48 seats have been added to the auditorium.

Tim’s final season at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre will be announced later in the year, and recruitment for the organisation’s new artistic leadership will begin in July 2023.

For my lunch today I would like… a nice juicy little child!

The ENORMOUS crocodile is weaving his way through the jungle in search of delicious little fingers and squidgy podgy knees. Only the other jungle creatures can foil his secret plans and clever tricks, but they’re going to have to find a large amount of courage to stop this greedy brute.

We are delighted to announce that our co-production with Roald Dahl Story Company and Leeds Playhouse, The Enormous Crocodile, will be playing at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre in the summer of 2024.

Based on Roald Dahl’s picture book The Enormous Crocodile, this new musical for young audiences about a large, hungry crocodile searching for a child to devour is brought to life with a playful score by composer Ahmed Abdullahi Gallab (who performs under the band name Sinkane) and a rib-tickling book and lyrics by Suhayla El-Bushra (Arabian Nights, Royal Lyceum Edinburgh; The Long Song, Chichester Festival Theatre and Channel 4’s Ackley Bridge), and additional music and lyrics from Tom Brady (The Butterfly Lion, Chichester Festival Theatre; Musical Supervisor & Arranger for Guys & Dolls, Bridge Theatre).

Directed by Emily Lim (Brainstorm for Company Three / National Theatre; Pericles, National Theatre), the production will feature a menagerie of mischievous puppets by one of the UK’s leading puppetry directors and designers Toby Olié, (Spirited Away, Imperial Theatre Tokyo; Pinocchio, NT; 101 Dalmatians, Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre) who also co-directs. Set and costume design is by Fly Davis (I Want My Hat Back, National Theatre; Ocean At The End of The Lane, National Theatre and West End).

“Watch out, there’s going to be a very big and extremely hungry crocodile on the loose in Regent’s Park next summer. Come and help us catch him before it’s too late! We’re thrilled to be working with our brilliant partners to share this story on stage.” - Timothy Sheader, Artistic Director of Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre.

The production will run from the 2 December to the 6 January 2024 at Leeds Playhouse playing in the Courtyard Theatre before heading over to us at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre in summer 2024.

Further details and on sale information will be released later in the year.

Gabrielle Brooks (Get Up Stand Up! The Bob Marley Musical) will play the central role of Ti Moune with Stephenson Adern-Sodje (Hamilton) as Daniel.

Directed by Ola Ince, Once On This Island has a book and lyrics by Lynn Ahrens and music by Stephen Flaherty, and is based on the novel My Love, My Love by Rosa Guy. The original West End production won Best New Musical at the Olivier Awards when it premiered in 1995 and the most recent Broadway revival won the Tony Award for Best Musical Revival in 2018.

The creative team also includes Phil Bateman (Musical Supervisor), Niamh Gaffney (Associate Sound Designer), Jessica Hung Han Yun (Lighting Designer), Niquelle LaTouche (Associate Choreographer), Nick Lidster (Sound Designer), Georgia Lowe (Designer), Lindsay McAllister (Associate Director), Philip d'Orléans (Fight Director), Chris Poon (Musical Director), Kenrick ‘H2O’ Sandy (Choreographer), Melissa Simon-Hartman (Costume Designer) and Jacob Sparrow (Casting Director).

A story of love, grief, faith and hope, Once On This Island tells of peasant girl Ti Moune, a boy called Daniel, and a union that prejudice forbids. Against the heat of the Caribbean sun and destruction of tropical storms, can Ti Moune settle the wager of the Gods, and prove that love is more powerful than death?

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With Priority Booking opening at 11am on Tuesday, 18 October, we are excited to announce the productions that make up our 2023 season.

The season opens with Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty’s musical Once On This Island (10 May – 10 June), directed by Ola Ince. This is followed by Carl Grose’s Robin Hood: The Legend. Re-written (17 June – 22 July), a Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre commission directed by Melly Still. Timothy Sheader then directs the musical La Cage aux Folles (29 July – 16 September), with a book by Harvey Fierstein, music and lyrics by Jerry Herman, based on the play by Jean Poiret.

Work for younger audiences and families includes a brand new adaptation of Ben Okri’s Every Leaf A Hallelujah (22 May - 10 June), adapted by Chinonyerem Odimba, The Tempest re-imagined for everyone aged six and over (30 June – 22 July) re-imagined and directed by Jennifer Tang in a co-production with the Unicorn Theatre, and Nicoll Entertainment’s Dinosaur World Live (11 August – 3 September), written and directed by Derek Bond.

Artistic Director Timothy Sheader said:

“Our 2022 season was big and bold; we were thrilled with how all three shows brought very different audiences to the Park. The 2023 season increases our commitment to commissioning and producing new work alongside our reimagined revivals and we are delighted to welcome Carl Grose and Chinonyerem Odimba to our stages. After the completion of a major capital project this winter the auditorium will be increased by a further 53 seats, all of which will be sold in the lower price bands. I am particularly excited that we can offer productions for children and families throughout the entirety of the season, engaging younger audiences with the magic of live performance.

We look forward to you joining us next summer.”

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Priority Booking is now open.

Find out how to access priority booking for just £15, or become a member for £50, which gives access to priority booking, discounted tickets and exclusive events.

Public Booking opens 11am, Tuesday 8 November.

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Our production of Jesus Christ Superstar has now embarked on the next leg of its North American tour, with dates confirmed through to June 2023. The multi-award winning production originated at the Open Air Theatre in 2016, with a subsequent revival in 2017. Following a transfer to the Lyric Opera of Chicago in 2018, the production returned to London and played a season at the Barbican in 2019 ahead of its first North American tour produced by Work Light Productions. In 2020, the production was the first to open in London during the pandemic.

We are delighted to announce five new Trustee appointments following an extensive open recruitment process throughout the summer. The focus of our first ever public call for Trustees was to identify individuals with new skills, backgrounds, perspectives and lived experiences to complement and augment those of existing Board members and to support the strategic growth of the organisation. 140 applications were received in total.

Joining Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre’s Board for an initial term of three-years, are:

• Charlotte Aherne, Senior Wealth Management Lawyer at UBS AG
• Partha Bose, Head of Capital Markets at Cervest
• Jaya Carrier, Vice Principal for Teaching and Learning at Westminster Academy
• Kate Millward, Head of Diversity & Inclusion at McKinsey & Company, UK, Ireland and Israel
• Dr Philippa Simpson, Director of Design, Estate and Public Programme at the V&A

Chair of our Board Stuart Griffiths OBE said:

“The enormous interest we had from our public recruitment campaign for new Trustees was truly inspiring, with the standard of applications incredibly high. Following a thorough selection process, we are delighted to welcome these five exceptional, highly-skilled and committed individuals to the Board of Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre. As we reach the end of our hugely successful 90^th anniversary season and launch a new vision and strategy for the next five years and beyond, this is an incredibly exciting time to be joining the organisation and we very much look forward to these new Trustees supporting and helping shape our next chapter of growth and development.”

New Trustees will be joining current Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre Board members Stuart Griffiths OBE (Chair), Anna Fleischle, Tyrone Huntley, Steve Pennington, Toni Racklin, Jim Reed, Samantha Spiro and Martin Wilkinson.

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Charlotte Aherne

Charlotte (she/her) is a qualified solicitor with nearly 20 years’ experience in banking and finance. She has a wealth of legal, financial and management experience drawn from working in and with large law firms and international banks. She also acts as Vice Chair of Twins Trust charity, supporting families of twins, triplets and more. Charlotte has a real passion for the arts and a particular interest in making theatre accessible to under-represented individuals and groups. Charlotte is incredibly excited to work with Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre as it not only lives its values, but has bold and ambitious aspirations for the future success of outdoor theatre.

Partha Bose

Partha is an experienced leader in strategic and commercial applications of complex data solutions. In his role as the Head of Capital Markets at Cervest, he advises organisations on their climate risk exposure and the financial implications it has for them. Prior to that, he has many years of technology and product experience in companies including Winton Capital Management, HSBC, Lloyds, and eBay. His areas of expertise include artificial intelligence, machine learning, digital strategy and sustainability. He was educated at the Indian Statistical Institute and the University of Oxford and is an experienced performance coach.

Jaya Carrier

Jaya has been teaching History in schools across inner London for 12 years, and currently works at Westminster Academy as a Vice Principal. She is an honorary lecturer at the UCL Institute of Education, and has acted as an educational consultant for organisations including the Imperial War Museum. As part of her ongoing interest in educational research, Jaya is currently undertaking a doctorate in education, focusing on teacher professional learning and retention. In recent years, she has presented at the British Educational Research Association conference, and at the Historical Association conferences, including leading sessions on effective strategies for teaching the histories of empire, and the use of social media in the History classroom. Jaya holds a coaching qualification from the Institute of Leadership and Management, and is a trained coaching facilitator who regularly leads foundational and intermediate coaching courses. Outside of work, Jaya has a longstanding passion for the arts, and as part of this, is an avid theatre goer.

Kate Millward

Kate has more than 15 years’ experience as a people professional within the legal and consulting sectors having spent her early career as a corporate lawyer. As an HR business partner she worked closely with senior leadership to develop and direct an HR agenda aligned with the business aspirations. Since 2013, Kate has specialised in diversity, equity and inclusion, leading the design and execution of strategies to recruit, retain and progress diverse talent and create an inclusive culture. She is currently Head of Diversity & Inclusion for the UK, Ireland and Israel at McKinsey & Company. Kate is passionate about creating environments that support people to thrive and reach their potential. Driving change in society more broadly through collaborations with charities and diversity organisations has always been integral to her work. Kate is a keen supporter of the arts and believes in the power of storytelling as a catalyst for change and the creation of a platform for diverse voices. Kate is a long term regular visitor to Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, sharing many memorable experiences at this unique and inspiring setting with family and friends. She is excited to deepen her connection to the theatre as a trustee.

Dr Philippa Simpson

Philippa is Director of Design, Estate and Public Programme at the V&A. Leading a team of around 120, she oversees the commissioning and development of all 2D and 3D design work, the conservation and maintenance of all sites, the delivery of an ambitious portfolio of capital projects and all exhibitions, displays and gallery events. Having worked for a short time in the commercial art sector, Philippa moved into museums as a curator at Tate, working on a range of international exhibitions and gallery projects while completing her PhD on the genesis of public art spaces. She then moved to Royal Museums Greenwich to lead an international touring exhibition programme. Since joining the V&A she has led a range of major building projects, including the Exhibition Road Quarter and the forthcoming Young V&A in Bethnal Green. She chairs the museum’s anti-racism task force and sustainability board. Philippa also sits as a Trustee on the Board of Chelsea Physic Garden.

Thank you to everyone who joined us for our 90th anniversary season, which has now come to a close.

Our 2023 season will be announced later this autumn, along with details of our priority booking period for Members. To discover more about the benefits of becoming an Annual Member of Regent's Park Open Air Theatre visit our Join Us page.

Critics and audiences alike are celebrating Antigone, the final production of our 90th anniversary season.

“DYNAMIC…the throb and thrill of the staging is beguiling.” The Guardian

“A feat of THEATRICAL EXCELLENCE” Broadway World

“SOPHISTICATED and stylishly staged” Daily Telegraph

“Language is relished: BRUTAL, LYRICAL, SLY” The Arts Desk

“HIGHLY CHARGED” Financial Times

“Rich, alive and CAPTIVATING” City AM

“EXHILARATING” Time Out

More reviews, photos and films

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90 years ago, on 12 July 1932, impresario Sydney Carroll and director Robert Atkins, transferred their production of Twelfth Night from the West End to Regent’s Park for four performances.

The production, which had amassed nearly 100 performances at the New Theatre (now the Noel Coward), continued with its usual performance

schedule, but moved outdoors by arrangement with the Office of Works – the first time the State had arranged for a Shakespeare play to be presented in a public park.

The production almost didn’t happen. In April 1932, Carroll and Atkins were presenting a new play at the New Theatre by Benito Mussolini (yes, the Italian dictator!), Napoleon: The Hundred Days, translated by John Drinkwater and featuring a cast of 70, including Atkins (replacing the original actor with a week’s notice) in the title role. The day after opening, Hannen Swaffer, the celebrated columnist, reported, ‘Diners out last night had a raw deal as every Italian waiter in London was at the New London to see El Duce’s play’. The production was a disaster and, although Robert Atkins and John Drinkwater were knighted by the King of Italy, a replacement play had to be found quickly.

The answer was Twelfth Night, designed entirely in black and white (with the exception of Malvolio’s stockings). It starred Jean Forbes-Robertson as Viola, Phyllis Neilson-Terry as Olivia, Arthur Wontner, Malvolio, John Laurie (known to many today as Frazer in Dad’s Army), Feste and Robert Atkins in the role of Sir Toby Belch.

Announcing the outdoor venture, the Evening Standard’s headline ran ‘West End Cast as Open-Air Players; seats for 4,000 – and the State lends a hand’. Tickets ranged from 1s 6d to 10s 6d, with 1,000 tickets available at the lowest price. The Daily Telegraph reported: ‘If a single deck chair remains vacant then some foolish playgoer is missing a treat’, and The Sketch proclaimed that ‘if the sun will shine as benignly as the play, then succeeding matinees, like the first, cannot fail to delight all who make the pilgrimage to the Royal Botanical Gardens* in Regent’s Park’.

We are thankful that the loss of £560 incurred from those first few performances didn’t dissuade Sydney Carroll and Robert Atkins from their vision for creating an outdoor theatre, and they presented the first full season here the following year.

To learn more about our 90-year history, visit openairtheatreheritage.com or, if you would like to donate items (we are particularly in need of archive materials from the 40s and 50s) please email heritage@openairtheatre.com

* It was named the Royal Botanical Gardens as a large glasshouse, by the same team that constructed the Palm House at Kew, stood in the location of today’s fountain, just outside the theatre grounds. The Royal Botanical Gardens were open to the public until 1932 (the year of our first performance), when it failed to secure a renewal of its lease. The gardens were renamed Queen Mary’s Gardens at the Silver Jubilee of King George V in 1935.

Images: John Laurie as Feste in Twelfth Night, 1932. © Hulton-Deutsch Collection/Corbis via Getty Images | Evening Standard article, 6 July 1932

This year, we are celebrating the 90^th Anniversary of Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre! To mark the occasion, our Official Spirits Partner Tipsy have created a Limited Edition Gin.

Inspired by the Queen Mary’s Rose Garden that backs onto our theatre, Tipsy distilled a rich and fragrant rhubarb and rose gin - perfect for summer nights in the Regent’s Park.

The bottle itself is a tribute to the many vibrant, inclusive and joyous productions that have given so much pleasure to Londoners and visitors alike over the past 90 years, and will help to support our venue.

Bottles of this limited edition gin are exclusively available through Tipsy Spirits

And on your next visit to the theatre, why not try the Tipsy Gin Tasting for Two served before the show offering a connoisseur’s journey through gin at a reserved lamplit spot along our woodland bank. Book here!

We are delighted to confirm our casting, and the full creative team, for Antigone, the final production in our 90^th anniversary season. This contemporary retelling of Sophocles’s epic story is the second new commission this season, and is written by Inua Ellams (Barber Shop Chronicles, Three Sisters).

A torn family. A hostile state. One heroic brother. One misguided son. One conflicted sister, and the second is on the run.

Zainab Hasan plays the role of Antigone, and Tony Jayawardena plays Antigone’s uncle, Creon.

Also joining the cast are: Pandora Colin (Eurydice) Rhianna Dorris (Lyra), Sandy Grierson (Aleksy), Nadeem Islam (Polyneices), Abe Jarman (Eteocles), Oliver Johnstone (Haemon), Munir Khairdin (Nikomedes), Susan Lawson-Reynolds (Commissioner), Eli London (Tiresius), Shazia Nicholls (Ismene), Mervin Noronha (Chorus), Razak Osman (Athan), Joseph Prouse (Officer), Nadia Sohawon (Kyria), Riley Woodford (Strom) and Lydia Bakelmun (walking understudy).

The creative team for Antigone includes: Michael ‘Mikey J’ Asante MBE (composer), Shanaé Chisholm (casting assistant), Barbara Houseman (voice & text and season associate director), Carrie-Anne Ingrouille (choreographer), Polly Jerrold (Casting Director), Jack Knowles (lighting designer), Emma Laxton (sound designer), Ingrid Mackinnon (season associate: intimacy support), Khadija Raza (costume designer), Leslie Travers (set designer), Jo Tyabji (co-director), Max Webster (director) and Kate Waters (fight director).

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Legally Blonde is now officially open!

We are 'Positive' that our Legally Blonde cast, company and guests had a wonderful press night. Guests at our press night included Brenda Edwards, Claire Sweeney, Amy Hart, Fisayo Akinade, Tom Read Wilson and more.

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Environmental sustainability involves us all making choices that ensure a better way of life for future generations, and we are committed to improving our impact on the environment.

Led by our Tanith, our Head of Catering, and Head Chef, Dean, we want to share some of the work we are doing across our bars and dining.

Our Covered Dining is now certified as a Sustainably Run
Restaurant. This means that, through an optional £1.23 added to your bill, a fruit tree will be planted in the developing world. This not only helps counterbalance the environmental impact of your meal, but also helps some of the poorest communities on the planet.

This season, crisps from Two Farmers use 100% biodegradable packaging, and snacks in recyclable packaging from Brave Foods contain very low carbon footprint pulses.

Supporting the #OneLess campaign in London, our Open Air Theatre branded still and sparkling water cans are supplied by Aquapax, the first carbon-balanced water brand. They give 1% of their annual turnover back to environmental restoration and, by bulk-purchasing for the season, we have cut our transport emissions from delivery.

In our kitchens, we have reduced both meat and dairy on our menus, and use sustainably farmed or high welfare products, such as buying only organic milk. Our condiments are from Rubies In The Rubble, using fruit and veg from London markets that would otherwise go to waste, and Jude’s supply the UK’s first carbon negative ice cream. In other tasty treats, Ombar
provides vegan, ethical chocolate, paying higher-than-fairtrade prices to farmers.

Behind the bars we’ve switched to mostly London-based beers, to support local business and reduce carbon emissions from transport, and are reducing the use of disposables across all areas, including the introduction of reusable water cups.

Find out more about what food and drink you can pre-order during your visit.

Published: 22 April 2022

There’s MOREoutdoor at the Open Air Theatre this summer, and Priority Booking is now open!

Daniel Kitson returns to the stage for the first time in two years with three gigs (Sunday 19 June, 24 July, 21 August). Performing with or near Gavin Osborn, it’s entirely unclear what the “thing” is they’ll be doing. It may involve them both being on stage at the same time, winking at each other, giggling or taking turns to do a nice little dance for everyone. Lovely.

Following sold-out gigs in 2020 and 2021, Berk’s Nest and Canned Laughter present two all-star comedy fundraisers in support of The Trussell Trust’s London food banks (Sunday 12 June). Suzi Ruffell hosts a 5pm early show, which also includes Sukh Ojla and Brett Goldstein, with Chloe Petts hosting an 8.30pm late show, featuring Ria Lina and Kerry Godliman. Full lines-ups to be announced in due course.

Tim Key (Alan Partridge, The Witchfinder) brings his 5-star show Mulberry to the Open Air Theatre (Sunday 19 June), with ruminations about the great indoors and a bit of stamping around. Oh, and a velour tracksuit, continental lagers and some “poetry”.

Austentatious: An Improvised Jane Austen Novel, is the award-winning smash-hit comedy – as seen in the West End and heard on Radio 4. Inspired entirely by a title from the audience, a new Jane Austen novel will be performed in period costume with live musical accompaniment. Swooning guaranteed (Sunday 31 July).

From Battersea Arts Centre the BAC Beatbox Academy present Frankenstein: How To Make A Monster (Monday 8 August). Part electrifying gig, part thrilling theatre, this powerful and poetic show pushes the power of the human voice to its expressive, musical and rhythmic limits. Reimagining a world of modern monsters and taking musical inspirations from Pachelbel to The Prodigy, Frankenstein will leave you asking: Who are the monsters we fear? Who created them? And how the hell did they just do that with their voices?

Le Gateau Chocolat makes his Open Air Theatre debut with his delicious Raw Cacao (Sunday 14 August). Sitting at the profound intersection of William Shakespeare and Maya Angelou, Raw Cacao is an exploration of intimacy; an invitation into the most hallowed of spaces - the chamber where one transitions from performer to person, asking “who are we when no one is watching?” Lurching from pop to opera via folk song, musical theatre, disco and more, this is a mixtape of who Gateau was, who Gateau is, and who Gateau hopes to become.

An annual Open Air Theatre favourite, The Luna Cinema present two incredible outdoor cinema events, both classics in their own right. With the night sky the backdrop to the galactic civil war, experience George Lucas’s Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope (Sunday 26 June) in a 45^th anniversary screening, followed by Steven Spielberg’s multi-award-winning new take on West Side Story (Sunday 18 September). With an epic score featuring ‘America’, ‘Maria’, ‘Tonight’ and ‘Somewhere’, this phenomenal movie musical is one not to miss in the glorious surroundings of a Royal Park.

Priority booking is now open. Get priority booking access for £15.

MORE INFO | BOOK TICKETS

Public booking opens 11am, Thursday 28 April 2022

Published: 1 April 2022

With rehearsals about to start for our 2022 season, meet the full cast of Legally Blonde.

Joining Courtney Bowman (Elle) and the already announced Michael Ahomka-Lindsay (Emmett), Lauren Drew (Brooke), Vanessa Fisher (Vivienne), Isaac Hesketh (Margot), Nadine Higgin (Paulette), Alžbeta Matyšáková (Enid), Eugene McCoy (Callahan), Grace Mouat (Pilar), Alistair Toovey (Warner), and Hannah Yun Chamberlain (Serena), are:

Gabriela Benedetti, Lucca Chadwick-Patel, Jasmin Colangelo, Allie Daniel, Joe Foster, Dominic Lamb, Esme Laudat, Liam McEvoy, Billy Nevers, Ashley Rowe, Shakira Simpson, Biancha Szynal and Paulo Teixeira (also Dance Captain).

MORE INFO | BOOK TICKETS

Published: 18 March 2022

We are excited to announce the full cast and creative team for 101 Dalmatians, with Olivier and Tony Award nominee Kate Fleetwood confirmed as the iconic villain Cruella de Vil.

With puppet direction and design by Toby Olié, Dalmatians Pongo and Perdi are puppeteered by Danny Collins (Pongo Voice), Emma Lucia (Perdi Voice), Yana Penrose (Perdi Head) and Ben Thompson (Pongo Head).

Casting by Jill Green CDG also includes: Jamil Abbasi (Ensemble), Stuart Angell (Captain Head), George Bukhari (Jasper), Sonya Cullingford (Ensemble), Jade Davies (Swing), Karen Fishwick (Danielle), Joseph Fletcher (Ensemble), Taofique Folarin (Swing), Courtney George (Ensemble), Tash Holway (Swing and Dance Captain), CJ Johnson (Ensemble), Kody Mortimer (Ensemble), Simon Oskarsson (Swing), Tom Peters (Captain Voice), Eric Stroud (Dominic), Jonny Weldon (Casper), and Grace Wylde (Madam Doué).

Director Timothy Sheader said:

“We are incredibly excited to finally bring 101 Dalmatians to our stage after postponing the production twice due to the pandemic. I think audiences are going to love reconnecting with this favourite story outside in Regent’s Park; the original home of Pongo and Perdi. The brand new script and music are both packed with fun and joy and I am delighted that Kate Fleetwood’s filming schedule for The Wheel of Time allows us the opportunity to work with her on creating that all time baddie, Cruella de Vil.”

Opening on 12 July, 101 Dalmatians is our newly commissioned musical written by Douglas Hodge (music and lyrics) and Johnny McKnight (book), from a stage adaptation by Zinnie Harris, based on the book by Dodie Smith,

101 Dalmatians is created by: Shanaé Chisholm (casting assistant), Josie Daxter (associate director), Jill Green CDG (casting director), Tash Holway (associate choreographer), Barbara Houseman (voice and text & season associate director), Howard Hudson (lighting designer), Maia Kirkman-Richards (assistant puppet director), Nick Lidster for Autograph (sound designer), Katrina Lindsay (costume designer), Ingrid Mackinnon (season associate: intimacy support), Tarek Merchant (musical director), Verity Naughton and Nick Hockaday for Verity Naughton Casting (children’s casting directors), Toby Olié (puppetry designer and director), Colin Richmond (set designer), Timothy Sheader (director), Liam Steel (choreographer) and Sarah Travis (musical supervisor and orchestrator).

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Published: 16 March 2022

It’s time to get SERIOUS people, as we announce initial casting for Legally Blonde, which opens our season on 13 May.

Courtney Bowman takes the central role of Elle Woods. Courtney’s previous credits include SIX (Arts Theatre/Lyric), Everybody’s Talking About Jamie (Apollo/Sheffield Crucible), Blondel (Union) and The Wind in the Willows (UK Tour). Courtney can currently be seen as Small in the hit children’s CBeebies show Big Cook Little Cook.

Casting by Natalie Gallacher CDG for Pippa Ailion Casting, also includes Michael Ahomka-Lindsay (Emmett), Lauren Drew (Brooke), Vanessa Fisher (Vivienne), Isaac Hesketh (Margot), Nadine Higgin (Paulette), Alžbeta Matyšáková (Enid), Eugene McCoy (Callahan), Grace Mouat (Pilar), Alistair Toovey (Warner), and Hannah Yun Chamberlain (Serena).

Full casting will be announced in due course.

Directed by Lucy Moss, co-director and co-writer of SIX, Legally Blonde is written by Laurence O'Keefe and Nell Benjamin (music and lyrics), Heather Hach (book) and is based on the novel by Amanda Brown and the Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer motion picture. We are also pleased to confirm the full creative team behind the show:

Cassiopeia Berkeley-Agyepong (dramaturg), Cat Beveridge (musical supervisor), Jean Chan (costume designer), Shanaé Chisholm (casting assistant), Natalie Gallacher CDG for Pippa Ailion Casting (casting director), Tony Gayle (sound designer), Phillip Gladwell (lighting designer), Ainsley Hall Ricketts (assistant choreographer), Laura Hopkins (set designer), Barbara Houseman (voice & text and season associate director), Majella Hurley (dialect coach), Ellen Kane (choreographer), Ingrid Mackinnon (season associate: intimacy support), Lucy Moss (director), Priya Patel Appleby (associate director), Chris Poon (associate musical director), Alexzandra Sarmiento (assistant choreographer), Amber Sinclair-Case (associate director) and Katharine Woolley (musical director).

MORE INFO / BOOK TICKETS

Published: 25 February 2022

It is that exciting time of year when we are recruiting the team to support our 2022 season.

Over the next few weeks we will be posting advertisements for a number of roles, from production to visitor services, box office, bars and dining staff.

To find out more about all the current roles available, visit openairtheatre.com/jobs, where all new positions will be posted across the next few weeks.

Published: 18 January 2022

Romeo and Juliet and Carousel were both nominated for The Casting Directors’ Guild Awards 2022. Huge congratulations to Stuart Burt & Annelie Powell (Romeo and Juliet) and Lucy Casson, James Orange, Jacob Sparrow & Verity Naughton (Carousel).

The CDG Casting Awards seek to reward and celebrate the incredible work achieved by casting teams across film, television, theatre and commercial.

The casting of our productions was celebrated in the media, with Afridiziak noting that “The blind casting for Romeo and Juliet helps push the Shakespearean classic into a new era. There is something significant in seeing yourself and your friends represented on stage” and in Carousel, Time Out described the casting as “superlative” contributing towards a “tougher Carousel, one that feels truer to its own tragedy.”

Published: 29 November 2021

We, along with the entire theatre industry, were saddened to hear of the passing of composer and lyricist, Stephen Sondheim. Whether you are an avid theatre-goer or simply dip in to the odd show tune here and there, you will have heard his work. His big break was as lyricist on West Side Story in 1957, followed by Gypsy in 1959, but from then he predominantly wrote both lyrics and music for his shows, including Follies, Company, Sweeney Todd, A Little Night Music and Passion. Here at the Open Air Theatre we have presented two of Sondheim’s musicals, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum and Into the Woods.

Timothy Sheader, Artistic Director of the Open Air Theatre, said:
“Stephen Sondheim was a genius. We all know that. But what put him on a higher plane to most was his generosity and eagerness to see his work live and pulsate with the creativity of others. He was delighted and thrilled to let the work be interpreted for a specific theatre, audience or time. Working on Into the Woods with him is a gift for which I will be forever grateful. Specifically his insightful, penetrating analysis of the vision. Rare to find such meaningful collaboration. I carry this experience into every new working relationship and always hope for similar conversation and inspiration.”

A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum takes inspiration from classical farces, with a slave attempting to achieve freedom by helping his master’s romantic pursuit of the girl next door. Directed by the then Artistic Director, Ian Talbot, the production earned an Olivier Award nomination for Outstanding Musical Production, and featured comedian Roy Hudd as Pseudolus.

Despite the artistic success of Forum, it would be 11 years until our next Sondheim show, but when we did, it really captured people’s imagination and went on to become one of our most successful productions. Staged in 2010 to celebrate Sondheim’s 80th birthday, Into the Woods featured the now Emmy Award-winning Hannah Waddingham as the Witch, and Dame Judi Dench voiced The Giant. At the time it became our highest grossing production and went on to win Best Musical Revival at the Olivier Awards. Having seen the first preview, Sondheim himself championed that we film the production, and this is available to stream via Digital Theatre. But the story doesn’t end there. In 2012 The Public Theatre transferred our production to New York’s Central Park. Again directed by Timothy Sheader and Liam Steel, it featured Amy Adams as The Baker’s Wife, multi-Tony Award-winner Donna Murphy as the Witch, and Glenn Close as the voice of the Giant.

One of the songs in Into the Woods is ‘Giants In The Sky’. Stephen Sondheim was a giant of theatre, and we hope you’ll join us in celebrating his life and his work.

Published: 22 November 2021

Five members of our 2021 season alumni took home awards from last night's third annual Black British Theatre Awards.

Ingrid Mackinnon, who worked as Movement Director on Romeo and Juliet, received the award for Best Choreographer. Isabel Adomakoh Young (Juliet) was recognised as Best Female Actor in a Play, joined by Andrew French (Lord Capulet) and Aretha Ayeh (Benvolia) who received Best Supporting Male and Female Actors in a Play respectively.

Natasha May-Thomas made her professional debut this year at Regent's Park, and so we are delighted that she was recognised as both Best Recent Graduate and Best Supporting Female Actor in a Musical for her work as Louise Bigelow in Carousel.

Published: 19 November 2021

We are thrilled to hear we have received funding thanks to the government’s Cultural Recovery Fund. Culture creates jobs, supports livelihoods and brings joy to everyone. The UK leads the world in the creative industries and we can all feel pride in that.

Now, in these challenging times, it’s everybody’s turn to show our support for culture. With an unprecedented investment through the Cultural Recovery Fund, the government is #HereForCulture so it can continue to weather the storm of coronavirus and come back stronger.

And we are #HereForCulture too.

#HereForCulture is a movement that unites the public, government and cultural organisations in support of our fantastic theatres, cinemas, music venues, museums, galleries and heritage.

Timothy Sheader and James Pidgeon, Joint Chief Executives, said:

“Restrictions meant that our 2021 season was shortened and, initially, we were only able to make 50% of our seats available. Following the challenges already experienced in 2020 due to coronavirus, the financial impact of this was significant and put into question the future programming of the theatre. With thanks to DCMS and Arts Council England, receiving this grant has allowed us to green light our 2022 productions – all by living writers – which will ultimately offer work to over 200 freelancers and engage with audiences of 150,000+.”

Priority booking is now open for our 2022 season – our 90^th anniversary – including Legally Blonde, the premiere of the new musical 101 Dalmatians, and Inua Ellams’s contemporary retelling of Antigone.

Culture Secretary Nadine Dorries, said:

“Culture is for everyone and should therefore be accessible to everyone, no matter who they are and where they’re from. Through unprecedented government financial support, the Culture Recovery Fund is supporting arts and cultural organisations so they can continue to bring culture to communities the length and breadth of the country, supporting jobs, boosting local economies and inspiring people.”

Over £1.2 billion has already been awarded from the unprecedented Culture Recovery Fund, supporting around 5000 individual organisations and sites across the country ranging from local museums to West End theatres, grassroots music venues to festivals, and organisations in the cultural and heritage supply-chains.

Darren Henley, Chief Executive, Arts Council England, said:

“This continued investment from the Government on an unprecedented scale means our theatres, galleries, music venues, museums and arts centres can carry on playing their part in bringing visitors back to our high streets, helping to drive economic growth, boosting community pride and promoting good health. It’s a massive vote of confidence in the role our cultural organisations play in helping us all to lead happier lives.”

We look forward to seeing you next summer.

We are excited to announce three incredible productions that will mark our 90^th anniversary season next summer.

Based on the hit movie of the same name, opening the season is the modern musical phenomenon, Legally Blonde. Meet fashion merchandising major, Elle Woods. Dumped by her Harvard Law School boyfriend, she embarks on a drastic plan to win him back, only to discover that there is more to love – and definitely Elle Woods – than meets the eye. Directed by Lucy Moss, co-writer and co-director of the smash-hit musical SIX, this will be a great start to the summer.

Previously postponed due to the pandemic, our highly-anticipated new musical, 101 Dalmatians, will premiere at the theatre in July. Local author Dodie Smith set her novel in Regent’s Park, so it is the perfect story for us to tell. Directed by Timothy Sheader, this heart-warming show is packed with puppetry, terrific songs, and is perfect for all the family.

In a dramatic season finale, Antigone, by multi-award-winning writer, Inua Ellams, is a blistering retelling of the epic story, directed by Max Webster. A torn family. A hostile state. One heroic brother. One misguided son. One conflicted sister, and the second is on the run.

Completing your Open Air Theatre experience, our ever-popular Covered Dining is back, and menus are already confirmed. Also available to pre-purchase are vouchers for The Grill and The Pizza Oven.

View menus

Priority booking opens 11am, Tuesday 16 November. Purchase access to priority booking for just £15, or, with access to priority booking, special events and ticket discounts, why not become a member for £50. Find out more

Public booking opens 11am, Tuesday 7 December.

Published: 14 October 2021

As the nominations were announced for the third Black British Theatre Awards, we are delighted that seven Open Air Theatre alumni have been recognised for their work in Regent's Park.

For their work on Romeo & Juliet:
Our Juliet, Isabel Adomakoh Young, receives a nomination for Best Female Actor in a Play, with Aretha Ayeh (Benvolia) and Andrew French (Lord Capulet) receiving nominations for Best Supporting Male and Female Actor in a Play respectively. The production's Movement Director, Ingrid MacKinnon, is nominated for Best Choreographer.

For their work on Carousel:
Up for Best Supporting Male Actor in a Musical is our Enoch Snow, John Pfumojena; while Natasha May-Thomas (Louise Bigelow) receives two nominations: Best Recent Graduate Award and Best Supporting Female in a Musical.

For their work in 2020 on Jesus Christ Superstar: The Concert:
For reprising his role as Judas, Tyrone Huntley receives a nomination for Best Male Actor in a Musical.

Huge congratulations to our alumni. The 2021 award ceremony will take place on Sunday 21 November.

Published: 26 August 2021

We are thrilled to share our trailer for Carousel – and the reviews keep coming!

‘Timothy Sheader’s cracking production wriggles free of sentimentality to find the darkness in the story, whilst still relishing the comedy and honouring the lush, haunting beauty of the score’ (Financial Times)

‘Tom Deering’s reorchestration is EXTRAORDINARY’ (The Observer)

‘Christina Modestou and John Pfumojena are a delight’ (Daily Express)

‘Drew McOnie’s choreography is witty, ironic and, later on, dreamlike and disturbing’ (The Guardian)

‘Emotionally complex, current and expertly conceived. A SOUL-STIRRING EXPERIENCE’ (London Theatre)

‘Declan Bennett’s Billy Bigelow is nuanced and complex’ (Musical Theatre Review)

‘Carly Bawden shines as Julie Jordan and Natasha May-Thomas as Louise delights in her professional debut’ (A Younger Theatre)

Our 2021 season ends 25 September.

Photos | Podcasts | Book Tickets

Published: 12 August 2021

The reviews are in for Carousel, and, as Time Out puts it - it is five-star “PHENOMENAL”. “A brave and powerful production, You’ll Never Walk Alone, sung beautifully by Joanna Riding, remains a thing of pure majesty”.

The show “glitters with STAND-OUT PERFORMANCES” (Culture Whisper), and “Declan Bennett (Billy Bigelow) and Carly Bawden (Julie Jordan) are SENSATIONAL” (Broadway World)

“Some of the most beautiful music ever composed, Tom Deering’s re-orchestrations retain its SOARING MELODIC BEAUTY” (WhatsOnStage)

“A tough, radical reinterpretation, the staging is crammed with texture. Drew McOnie’s intricately EXPRESSIVE CHOREOGRAPHY wordlessly sketches generations of struggle” (The i)

“Christina Modestou is a comic force as Carrie, John Pfumojena brings zeal to Enoch’s grand plans and Natasha May-Thomas makes a dynamic stage debut as Louise” (The Daily Telegraph)

“It’s wonderful to see how a classic show can be reckoned with and reframed. Spectacular but unsweetened, for the harsh here-and-now” (The Stage)

“Outstanding…inspired musical rearrangements. A show so potent with a sense of its own mission. I don’t think I ever fully felt the meaning of You’ll Never Walk Alone until Joanna Riding started singing it here unaccompanied in this ADVENTUROUS, BEGUILING, RESONANT REINVENTION” (The Times)

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Published: 12 August 2021

What a great gala night for Carousel!

Family, friends and supporters all came together for our opening of the Rodgers and Hammerstein musical. Angela Rippon CBE , Bonnie Langford, Amy Hart, Tina Daheley, Dame Jenni Murray and Brenda Edwards joined a line of supporters that included Jessica Hynes, Dame Arlene Philips, Roisin Conaty, Amy Tapper, Christopher Biggins, Harriet Thorpe, Omari Douglas and Patricia Hodge OBE.

In true Open Air Theatre style, we defied the weather and, afterwards, the Company celebrated following a full standing ovation.

You can see more photos from press night in our Facebook Gallery.

Published: 23 July 2021

Recognising the story told in Romeo and Juliet, we are highlighting the work of Papyrus, a national charity dedicated to the prevention of young suicide. Suicide is the biggest killer of young people under 35 in the UK. Every year thousands more attempt or contemplate suicide, harm themselves or suffer alone, afraid to speak openly about how they are feeling.

Each year, over 200 school aged children are lost to suicide.

Papytrus was founded in 1997 by Jean Kerr, a mother from Lancashire, following the loss of her son to suicide. The charity exists to reduce the number of young people who take their own lives by shattering the stigma around suicide and equipping young people and their communities with the skills to recognise and respond to suicidal behaviour.

They provide confidential support and advice to children and young people under the age of 35 struggling with thoughts of suicide, and anyone worried about a young person, through their confidential helpline, HOPELINEUK.

How to contact HOPELINEUK (available every day, 9am – midnight):

Call: 0800 068 4141

Text: 07860 039967

Email: pat@papyrus-uk.org

To find out more about their work, and ways that you can support, visit papyrus-uk.org

Published: 19 July 2021

We knew that opening our theatre this summer under the government’s restrictions would prove financially difficult, especially following such a curtailed season in 2020 (when we were able to play to just one third of our usual capacity), and it has been frustrating that guidance has required that we operate under the same regulations as indoor theatres. Latest government guidance now means that we can lift the majority of these regulations, including the removal of social distanced seating and face coverings.

Everyone who had purchased tickets for the season prior to 19 July had been made aware that we would open to full capacity once we were able to do so, and tickets purchased on this understanding. As a charity that receives no regular funding, we rely on ticket sales, so returning to 100% capacity - for the first time in 22 months - offers a lifeline to the theatre.

However, whilst government restrictions have been lifted, the safety of our audience is important to us. Therefore:

• our staff will continue to wear face coverings and we strongly recommend that audiences also wear a face covering during their visit;
• please be mindful that some audience members may feel nervous, especially if they are sitting directly next to someone without a face covering;
• hand sanitiser stations will continue to be available throughout the theatre;
• screens will be maintained at service points;
• we will maintain our programme of enhanced cleaning; and
• all payments at the theatre will be by card only,

Please do not attend the theatre if you:

• believe you may be infected with covid-19;
• have experienced symptoms in the last 14 days;
• have been in close proximity to anyone who has experienced symptoms in the last 14 days;
• have recently arrived in England and government guidelines require you to self-isolate; or
• have been instructed to self-isolate.

We will continuing to follow government guidance, but with these processes in place, and as an entirely outdoor theatre, Regent's Park Open Air Theatre is the perfect place to experience live theatre once again, and we look forward to welcoming everyone this summer.

Published: 9 July 2021

The Theatre Channel is an innovative online series celebrating musical theatre. We have been working in collaboration with them to create a special episode focusing on the shows of Rodgers and Hammerstein – all filmed at the Open Air Theatre and the surrounding areas of Regent’s Park. The episode features a mix of hidden gems and favourites from shows such as The King and I, The Sound of Music, Flower Drum Song and South Pacific, from performers including Michael Xavier and Josefina Gabrielle – both artists who have performed at the Open Air Theatre.

The programme also includes an extended feature behind the scenes of our Carousel rehearsals, including footage of Natasha May-Thomas (who plays Louise Bigelow) in rehearsal with choreographer Drew McOnie, and interviews with director Timothy Sheader and musical supervisor and orchestrator Tom Deering.

Stream the entire Rodgers and Hammerstein episode (Episode 7) on demand for £12.50 at www.stream.theatre/season/108.

Highlights from our Carousel rehearsal feature can be viewed here:

We hope you enjoy the episode.

Published: 25 June 2021

Our 2021 season is now open with our “sizzling new production” of Romeo and Juliet – “a version that gets to the bruised heart of Shakespeare’s text with a refreshing urgency and vitality.” (WhatsOnStage)

“BREATHLESS and JOYFUL…this irresistibly giddy Romeo & Juliet surges with young lust” Time Out

“A MASTERPIECE” The Upcoming

“Performed with youthful energy, Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre aims straight at the heart.” The Stage

“Joel MacCormack’s Romeo delivers the verse with graceful authority” The Times

“An exceptional young talent has arrived in the shape of Isabel Adomakoh Young as Juliet. She has the spellbinding ability to switch between conflicting thoughts and maintain a strong sense of purpose and passion in her character. A Juliet to remember.” Daily Mail

“After months and months of internal darkness what better place to re-discover the light than at the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre: it’s as if the world has just been created and then – let there be theatre – in all its wonder, in all its glory. The location is perfect, and this show does it more than justice.” LondonTheatre1

Take a look at our trailer:

And here's what audiences are saying:

Published: 16 June 2021

We’re excited to announce our full cast for Carousel. Joining Carly Bawden (Julie Jordan), Declan Bennett (Billy Bigelow), John Pfumojena (Enoch Snow), Joanna Riding (Nettie Fowler) and Natasha May-Thomas (Louise Bigelow) are Brendan Charleson (Mr Bascombe), Jo Eaton-Kent (Mrs Mullin), Sam Mackay (Jigger Craigin), Ediz Mahmut (Young Enoch) and Christina Modestou (Carrie Pipperidge).

The ensemble includes: Chanelle Anthony, Craig Armstrong, William Atkinson, Shay Barclay, Sarah Benbelaid, Madeline Charlemagne, Freya Field, Sebastian Goffin, Amie Hibbert, Tim Hodges, Lukas Hunt,Tessa Kadler, Lindsay McAllister, Matthew McKenna, Jack Mitchell, Charlotte Riby, Lisa Ritchie and Daisy West.

This production follows our award-winning reimaginings of the classic musicals Jesus Christ Superstar, Little Shop of Horrors and Evita. In 1999 Carousel was named best musical of the 20^th century by Time Magazine.

Performances start on 31 July, and the extended run now plays until 25 September.

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Published: 10 June 2021

We are delighted to announce that Mischief Movie Night is completing this year's MOREoutdoor line up. Other acts previously announced including Luisa Omielan, Aisling Bea, Jimmy Carr and Paul Chowdhry, and Canned Laughter present a comedy fundraiser in support of the Trussell Trust featuring Lolly Adefope, Kemah Bob, Jen Brister, Bridget Christie, Ed Gamble, Rosie Jones, Jamali Maddix, Rose Matafeo, Mawaan Rizwan, and Suzi Ruffell.

MOREoutdoor events also include a 20^th anniversary screening of Baz Luhrmann’s Moulin Rouge! and a screening of The Shining both presented by The Luna Cinema.

Returning after sell out performances last season, Mischief step back to their comedy roots for one night only with this improvised movie live on stage! Every show is different with audiences suggesting genre, location and title, and Mischief hilariously bring the show to life, complete with rewinds, fast forwards, director’s cuts and a thrilling live score to laugh along to.

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Published: 27 May 2021

We are delighted to announce that Paul Chowdhry is joining this year’s MOREoutdoor comedy line up. He joins the previously announced Luisa Omielan, Aisling Bea, Jimmy Carr and Canned Laughter who present a comedy fundraiser in support of the Trussell Trust featuring Lolly Adefope, Kemah Bob, Jen Brister, Bridget Christie, Ed Gamble, Rosie Jones, Jamali Maddix, Rose Matafeo, Mawaan Rizwan, and Suzi Ruffell. MOREoutdoor also include a 20^th anniversary screening of Baz Luhrmann’s Moulin Rouge! and a screening of The Shining both presented by The Luna Cinema.

Paul Chowdhry is a multi-award winning comedy powerhouse, known for his Amazon Prime special Live Innit as well as Taskmaster and Live at the Apollo. He comes to Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre for a night of new heavy jokes.

Luisa Omielan, who brings her show God is a Woman to Regent’s Park, is the first British comedian to ever receive a BAFTA Breakthrough Award for comedy. She is known for her ground-breaking shows which are uplifting, thought provoking, ahead-of-the-times and damn funny. Cry your eyes out funny. Her past shows include What Would Beyoncé Do?!, Am I Right Ladies?! and Politics for Bitches which was adapted into a six part series for BBC Radio 4.

Aisling Bea is an award winning writer, comedian and actor known for her appearances on 8 Out of 10 Cats, Netflix’s Living With Yourself and her Channel 4 sitcom This Way Up. She will be playing around with some new and old material and inviting some of her exciting friends to join her! A proportion of the profits from this show will be donated to Refuge – providing specialist support for women and children experiencing domestic violence.

Jimmy Carr is one of Britain’s best known comedians, hosting 8 Out of 10 Cats and The Big Fat Quiz of the Year. He brings his trademark black comedy to Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre with his show, Terribly Funny

After a sell-out double header in 2020, Berk’s Nest present Canned Laughter another all-star comedy fundraiser in support of The Trussell Trust’s London foodbanks. The stellar line-up includes award winning comedians Jen Brister, Bridget Christie, Jamali Maddix, Rose Matafeo and Suzi Ruffell (at the early show) and Lolly Adefope, Kemah Bob, Ed Gamble, Rosie Jones and Mawaan Rizwan (at the late show).

MOREoutdoor also features two screenings from The Luna Cinema. First, Baz Luhrmann's Moulin Rouge! celebrates its 20th anniversary with its iconic soundtrack including Lady Marmalade, Children of the Revolution, One Day I’ll Fly Away, Roxanne, Come What May and the incredible Elephant Love Medley. They will also be screening Stanley Kubrick’s seminal adaptation of Stephen King’s The Shining. A thrilling cinematic experience not to be missed on the big screen as the night draws in!

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Published: 17 May 2021

As rehearsals begin, we’re delighted to confirm the full cast and creative team for Romeo and Juliet, which opens the 2021 season on Thursday 17 June. Joining the already announced Isabel Adomakoh Young (Juliet) and Joel MacCormack (Romeo) are Cavan Clarke (Mercutio), Emma Cunniffe (Nurse), Peter Hamilton Dyer (Friar Lawrence) and Michelle Fox (Tybalt).

Also confirmed are Aretha Ayeh (Benvolia), Ellie Beavan (Lady Capulet), Tom Claxton (Peter), Ryan Ellsworth (Lord Montague), Andrew French (Lord Capulet), Sarah Hoare (Gregora/Apothacary), Irvine Iqbal (Prince Escalus), Richard Leeming (Paris), Priyank Morjaria (Sampson), Louise Mai Newberry (Lady Montague), Shadee Yaghoubi (Abra) and Marc Zayat (Balthasar).

Romeo and Juliet is created by Ciaran Bagnall (lighting designer), Christian Bravo* (creative team associate – sound), Stuart Burt (casting director), Naomi Dawson (designer), Catja Hamilton* (creative team associate – lighting), Barbara Houseman (season associate director/voice and text director), Fiona Kennedy* (creative team associate – voice), Ingrid Mackinnon (movement director), Kev McCurdy (fight director), Darcel Osei* (creative team associate – movement), Jon Pashley (associate director), Annelie Powell (casting director), Kimberley Sykes (director) and Giles Thomas (composer and sound designer).

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* The Open Air Theatre is proud to launch its inaugural Creative Team Associates programme providing opportunities for artists early in their career to broaden their experience making large scale work and be supported and mentored by the season’s lead creatives.

Romeo and Juliet is supported by Arts Council England and DCMS through the Culture Recovery Fund.

Published: 14 May 2021

We are thrilled to announce our initial principal casting for Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Carousel, which plays 31 July – 25 September. Carly Bawden and Declan Bennett play Julie Jordan and Billy Bigelow, John Pfumojena plays Enoch Snow, Olivier Award-winner Joanna Riding plays Nettie Fowler and Natasha May Thomas plays Louise Bigelow.

Carousel is created by David Allen (associate set designer), Joanna Bowman (associate director), Lucy Casson (casting director), Tom Deering (musical supervisor and orchestrator), Mark Dickman (associate musical director), Molly Einchcomb (co-costume designer), Annie May Fletcher* (creative team associate – sound), Barbara Houseman (season associate director/voice and text director), Nick Lidster (sound designer), Simisola Majekodunmi* (creative team associate – lighting), Aideen Malone (lighting designer), Matthew Malone (assistant musical director), Drew McOnie (choreographer), Ebony Molina (associate choreographer), Verity Naughton (children’s casting director), James Orange (casting director), Tom Scutt (set designer and co-costume designer), Timothy Sheader (director), Jacob Sparrow (casting director), Kate Waters (fight director).

Artistic Director Timothy Sheader, who directs Carousel, said today:

“As with our previous reimagining of classic musicals, I am excited to remove the rose tinted specs and examine this amazing piece through a 2021 lens. With new orchestrations by Tom Deering and Drew McOnie’s distinctive choreographic language rethinking the role of dance in the storytelling, we look forward to inviting a new audience to Carousel. It’s also important to us that, because of the story and content of Carousel, we are able to support the vital work of Refuge.”

Refuge is committed to a world where domestic violence and violence against women and girls is not tolerated and where women and children can live in safety. They support over 6,500 women and children on any given day, aiming to empower them to rebuild their lives, free from violence and fear.

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* The Open Air Theatre is proud to launch its inaugural Creative Team Associates programme providing opportunities for artists early in their career to broaden their experience making large scale work and be supported and mentored by the season’s lead creatives.

Published: 7 May 2021

With just six weeks until we open our 2021 season, we are delighted to announce that Joel MacCormack and Isabel Adomakoh Young will play the title roles in our new production of Romeo and Juliet, directed by Kimberley Sykes.

Joel MacCormack's recent theatre credits include Describe The Night (Hampstead), and on television, Safe House 2 (ITV). He won the UK Theatre Award for Best Performance in a Play for Each His Own Wilderness (Orange Tree). Other credits include: The Oresteia (Shakespeare’s Globe), Wolf Hall (Company Pictures), and Ready Player One directed by Steven Spielberg.

Isabel Adomakoh Young joined the RSC for the 2019 Swan Season (Venice Preserved, The Provoked Wife) on completing her training with the NYT Rep. She appeared in Meatballs (Hampstead) and with the acclaimed cabaret company Pecs Drag Kings. As a writer, her trilogy The Lionboy, co-written with her mum under the pseudonym Zizou Corder, has been published in 36 languages and was adapted for the stage by Complicité.

Romeo and Juliet is one of Shakespeare's most beloved plays; two young people fall in love in a dysfunctional society that says their union is forbidden. Yet their story spans just four days. It is as if they are accelerating in free fall towards the inevitable.

Take a behind-the-scenes look at our photoshoot, and meet Joel, Isabel and Kimberley.

The production plays from 17 June – 24 July, with just 50% of our seats on sale, for as long as is necessary, to allow for social distancing (reduced price previews: 17 - 22 June).

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Supported by Arts Council England and DCMS through the Culture Recovery Fund

Published: 8 April 2021

Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre led the industry last summer, being the first major London theatre to re-open amidst the coronavirus pandemic. Welcoming audiences of over 30,000, the theatre was widely celebrated as being at the forefront introducing new measures to safeguard theatre audiences, performers and staff.

We are excited to confirm details of our 2021 season, including extended runs of Romeo and Juliet (17 June – 24 July), directed by Kimberley Sykes, and Carousel (31 July - 25 September), directed by Timothy Sheader. Dragons and Mythical Beasts, for ages 3+, will now open on Friday 13 August with additional performances added during the run. The same covid-secure procedures will be in place for as long as necessary including an initial 50% reduction to seating capacity.

In addition, we will present a co-production with Unicorn Theatre of Anansi the Spider for ages 3-7. Brought vividly to life by Unicorn’s Artistic Director, Justin Audibert, the production – which consists of three classic West African and Caribbean tales about the spider hoaxster – enjoyed a critically acclaimed run at the Unicorn in 2019, and was ‘re-spun’ as part of their digital offering during the pandemic. The show will play daytime performances on the theatre’s lawn, 7 – 24 July.

We have created an Information Hub to share the work we are doing, and to help you prepare for your visit. This will be updated as new information is available to us, so please check this again in the lead up to your visit.

A series of MOREoutdoor events will include comedy from Aisling Bea, Jimmy Carr, and Luisa Omielan and, following last summer’s sell-out gigs, Canned Laughter present another all-star comedy fundraiser in support of The Trussell Trust featuring Lolly Adefope, Rosie Jones, Rose Matafeo and Suzi Ruffell – with more acts to be announced. Also confirmed is a 20^th anniversary screening of Baz Luhrmann’s Moulin Rouge! by The Luna Cinema alongside The Shining.

We are also proud to launch our inaugural Creative Team Associates programme providing opportunities for artists early in their career to broaden their experience making large scale work and be supported and mentored by the season’s lead creatives. For more information and to apply visit: https://openairtheatre.com/careers.

Artistic Director Timothy Sheader said:

“As a theatre that receives no regular public funding, the financial challenges of producing large-scale theatre with a 50% reduction in seating capacity cannot be underestimated. We are therefore thrilled to have been awarded a grant thanks to the government’s Culture Recovery Fund and look forward to welcoming both audiences and theatre makers back to our unique and special outdoor space this summer.”

Supported by Arts Council England and DCMS through the Culture Recovery Fund.

Published: 2 April 2021

We are thrilled to receive an award of £828,274 from the Government’s £1.57 billion Culture Recovery Fund to help us recover and reopen following the pandemic. We are grateful to DCMS and Arts Council England for this grant, and thank them for their support of the theatre.

More than £300 million has been awarded to thousands of cultural organisations across the county including Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre in the latest round of support from the Culture Recovery Fund, the Culture Secretary announced today. For us, this will help to cover the loss of income as a result of the cancellation of 101 Dalmatians and supports the reopening of the theatre with our production of Romeo and Juliet, providing jobs to artists, freelancers, production and front-of-house staff.

Over £800 million in grants and loans has already been awarded to support almost 3,800 cinemas, performance venues, museums, heritage sites and other cultural organisations dealing with the immediate challenges of the coronavirus pandemic.

The second round of awards made today will help organisations to look ahead to the spring and summer and plan for reopening and recovery. After months of closures and cancellations to contain the virus and save lives, this funding will be a much-needed helping hand for organisations transitioning back to normal in the months ahead.

Culture Secretary, Oliver Dowden, said:

“Our record breaking Culture Recovery Fund has already helped thousands of culture and heritage organisations across the country survive the biggest crisis they've ever faced.

Now we’re staying by their side as they prepare to welcome the public back through their doors - helping our cultural gems plan for reopening and thrive in the better times ahead."

Sir Nicholas Serota, Chair, Arts Council England, said:

“Investing in a thriving cultural sector at the heart of communities is a vital part of helping the whole country to recover from the pandemic. These grants will help to re-open theatres, concert halls, and museums and will give artists and companies the opportunity to begin making new work.

We are grateful to the Government for this support and for recognising the paramount importance of culture to our sense of belonging and identity as individuals and as a society.”

The funding awarded today is from a £400 million pot which was held back last year to ensure the Culture Recovery Fund could continue to help organisations in need as the public health picture changed. The funding has been awarded by Arts Council England, as well as Historic England and National Lottery Heritage Fund and the British Film Institute.

Published: 2 February 2021

We are pleased to announce that James Pidgeon has been appointed as our new Executive Director and Joint Chief Executive, succeeding William Village who takes up his new position as Chief Executive at Delfont Mackintosh Theatres in April.

James is currently Director of Shoreditch Town Hall and has been with the organisation since 2013 (initially as Producer). Responsible for developing the Town Hall’s multi-artform programme, James has led collaborations with the likes of Battersea Arts Centre, Dance Umbrella, LIFT, Manchester International Festival, The Old Vic, Royal & Derngate and Talawa. Under James’ leadership, the non-regularly funded venue has significantly increased its civic function and work in Hackney; heightened its artist development programmes (including partnering with Mountview on a new MA); had its first co-production transfer to the West End (The Wardrobe Ensemble’s Education, Education, Education); and achieved its highest core turnover since the Trust’s formation in 1998. James is on the Advisory Board of Theatre Re, and a Trustee of Theatre Royal Plymouth.

“James’s experience, skills and achievements in his career to date, allied to his passion for extending the boundaries of what is possible for an organisation and venue such as the Open Air Theatre, made him an outstanding candidate. On behalf of the Trustees we are delighted to welcome him to the team at this time when we are developing exciting plans for the future.” (Open Air Theatre Chair, Stuart Griffiths OBE)

The selection panel, led by Stuart Griffiths OBE, included Board members Steve Pennington and Anna Fleischle, Artisitic Director Timothy Sheader, Kate Horton, Co-Director of Fiction House, and Justin Audibert, Artistic Director of the Unicorn Theatre.

“It is an absolute privilege to be appointed Executive Director at Regent's Park Open Air Theatre - I couldn't be more delighted. I have long admired the ambitious work of this incredibly special theatre that plays such a unique and significant role in the cultural landscape of London and beyond, and I very much look forward to joining Tim in leading the organisation through its next chapter of growth and development.” (James Pidgeon)

Shoreditch Town Hall's Board of Trustees, said:

“We are tremendously grateful to James for his extraordinary vision and stewardship of Shoreditch Town Hall over the past 4 years. During his tenure, James secured the reputation of the Town Hall with a mixture of daring programming, innovative fundraising, and sound commercial acumen coupled with broad development opportunities for both the artistic and local communities. We wish him every success in his new role at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre.”

James takes up his position on 21 June 2021.

(Photo Ludovic Des Cognets)

Published: 15 October 2020

Executive Director and Joint Chief Executive, William Village, is to leave Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre in April 2021 to take up his new role as Chief Executive of Delfont Mackintosh Theatres.

Having joined the theatre in 2003 as General Manager, William became Executive Director in 2006 and Joint Chief Executive alongside Timothy Sheader in 2007. Together they have produced 47 shows garnering 7 Olivier, 7 WhatsOnStage and 4 Evening Standard Awards. Their productions have transferred to the West End and the United States alongside numerous UK tours. In 2017, the theatre was named London Theatre of the Year in The Stage Awards and, in 2020, was one of the first to re-open amidst the coronavirus pandemic to critical and box office acclaim.

During William’s tenure, the theatre has significantly expanded its activities including producing away from Regent’s Park at the Barbican and on tour, taking the bars and restaurants in-house, and completing several multi-million pound capital projects (largely funded by the theatre’s reserves), redeveloping and improving both front-of-house and backstage and, in 2019, adding a suite of new rehearsal studios.

“Over the past 17 years William's commitment, skill and incomparable leadership has enabled Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre to more than deliver on its wide ambitions and charitable objectives whilst also achieving commercial success as a major producing theatre. On behalf of the Trustees, I would like to express our enormous gratitude to William and wish him every success for the future.” (Stuart Griffiths OBE, Chair)

On 2 February 2021 it was announced that James Pidgeon would succeed William as Executive Director and Joint Chief Executive.

Published: 24 August 2020

It has been wonderful to welcome audiences back to the theatre – and the first reviews are in!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “It’s joyously uplifting to see London theatre reborn and rocking again; Andrew Lloyd Webber’s electric rock gig, is a wake-up call for our Covid-cowed capital” Daily Telegraph

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “An evening that revels in the joy of people coming together and the glory of theatrical talent getting back to work” The Guardian

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “This heavenly show perfectly encapsulates the power of theatre: its endurance and determination to return, and the sheer amount of talent from cast, crew, and creatives within it” Broadway World

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “This new, socially distanced normal is going to be just about bearable if other productions reach these heights” The Times

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “It is infinitely more than a concert. The socially-distanced separation of the chorus on the banks of bleachers increases the sense of isolation that both Judas and Jesus experience as the mood grows darker. Drew McConie’s clever choreography loses none of its expressive creativity, Lee Curran’s lighting is wonderfully evocative and the band, under the direction of Tom Deering sounds great.” WhatsOnStage

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Gloriously resurrected. Your temperature is checked on the way in but, to be fair, it should probably be done again on the way out after this Biblical assault on the senses. Praise be — and welcome back, live theatre!” Daily Mail

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Captivating…live theatre makes a triumphant return. This feels, hopefully, like the start of something. Regent’s Park was the first theatre my parents took me to as a child. It’s good to be back.” Evening Standard

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Take a look at our gallery of images:

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Join us for this “TRIUMPHANT” (Guardian) return.

Auditorium Ticket availability from 1 September. Book tickets

£20 Superstar On- Screen tickets available this week. Book On-Screen tickets

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“Nothing beats the thrill of a shared cultural experience. For a sector that has always marched to the rallying cry of “the show must go on”, this prestige al fresco production is the most glorious statement of intent.” The i news

Published: 11 August 2020

Having sold over a third of the available tickets in the first 48 hours, we are delighted to announce casting for Jesus Christ Superstar: The Concert.

As capacity for the 1,256 seat venue has been reduced to 390 to meet government guidance on social distancing, there will be 9 performances a week, across the 6-week run, to make the production economically viable. Therefore, the roles of Jesus, Judas and Mary will be double-cast, giving audiences the opportunity to see any combination of actors as they alternate performances. A performance schedule will not be confirmed in advance, allowing maximum flexibility.

Declan Bennett and Pepe Nufrio will play the role of Jesus. Declan originated the role in the Open Air Theatre production in 2016 and 2017. Pepe appears in the North American tour of the Regent’s Park production.

Tyrone Huntley and Ricardo Afonso will play the role of Judas. Tyrone won the Evening Standard Theatre Award for Emerging Talent when he originated the role in 2016, a performance which also earned him an Olivier Award nomination for Best Actor in a Musical and WhatsOnStage Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor in a Musical. Ricardo played the role of Judas when the Open Air Theatre production transferred to the Barbican in 2019.

Anoushka Lucas and Maimuna Memon both reprise their Open Air Theatre performances as Mary.

Also confirmed are: David Thaxton (Pilate), Shaq Taylor (Herod), Ivan De Freitas (Caiaphas), Nathan Amzi (Annas), Phil King (Peter), Cedric Neal (Simon), and Genesis Lynea, Rosa O’Reilly, Elliotte Williams-N’Dure (Soul Singers).

Completing the cast are: Daniel Bailey, Dale Evans, Rosie Fletcher, Josh Hawkins, Stevie Hutchinson, Billy Nevers, Charlotte Riby, Tinovimbanashe Sibanda, Barnaby Thompson and Tara Young.

Published: 15 July 2020

We are excited to announce that Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre is the first London theatre to welcome back audiences with 70 live performances in August and September.

In addition to a special concert staging of our production of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Jesus Christ Superstar, which plays for 6 weeks from Friday 14 August 2020, we will also be welcoming comedy back the theatre with MOREoutdoor Mondays featuring Rob Beckett, Gabby Best, Russell Brand, Joe Lycett, Kerry Godliman, Russell Kane, Olga Koch, Judi Love, Suzi Ruffell, Sindhu Vee and Mischief Theatre.

William Village, Executive Director said: “Following the government’s announcement last week that outdoor theatres may re-open, we have been working around the clock to find a way to open in August and September this year. With social distancing, seating capacity has been dramatically reduced to 390 seats (down from 1,256). This makes producing any large-scale show economically extremely challenging, particularly as we are an unfunded organisation. Nevertheless, both for us as a venue, and the industry as a whole, we believe it is incumbent upon us to do everything possible to re-open this year, and we’re delighted to announce this special concert staging of our award-winning production of Jesus Christ Superstar.

Of course, the safety of our audience, performers and staff remains of paramount importance to us. We will follow government guidance meticulously; measures to be introduced at the entirely open air venue include: reduced capacity, distanced performers, enhanced cleaning, one-way systems, mandatory face coverings, temperature checks, paperless and cashless systems and multiple hand sanitiser stations. All information will be set out clearly on our website and communicated with audiences in advance of their arrival.”

Timothy Sheader, Artistic Director said: “It has been, and continues to be, an incredibly challenging time for everyone working in the theatre industry. Whilst the arts sector awaits details of how the government’s support package will be disseminated, I’m heartened that we have been able to start work again with a number of our colleagues and to employ over 140 people including 70 performers and freelancers, at least for a brief period this summer.

However, a clear and specific timeframe for the re-opening of the rest of our industry, together with the complete and safe removal of social distancing measures in all venues, remains critical to secure the future of the arts in the UK.”

Following the continued uncertainty as to when theatres will be able to re-open due to Covid-19, it has become necessary for us to postpone our entire 2020 season until 2021. A note from Artistic Director, Timothy Sheader:

We are a charity which receives no public subsidy and so our ambitious audience, always up for the thrilling, yet unpredictable, nature of open air theatre, is of paramount importance to us. Ticket sales in the summer months provide the vast majority of our income. Whilst we had built a successful and resilient theatre through creative programming and shrewd financial management, the loss of an entire season coupled with having to wait another whole year until we are able to welcome audiences again, means we need your support now more than ever. With your backing, we will be able to continue producing award-winning shows in the heart of Regent’s Park, provide £10 preview tickets to 18-25 year olds, subsidise tickets to some 6,000 school children and champion access in all that we do. If you are able to do so, we would be very grateful if you would consider supporting us in one of three ways:

• Buy tickets now for our 2021 season;
• Make a one-off donation, helping us re-build our resilience fund as quickly as possible. If you’re eligible, we will be able to increase your donation by 25p for every £1 given at no extra cost to you, thanks to the Gift Aid scheme*.  
• Join us as an Annual Member, from just £50, and benefit from discounts and special events.

Your support really is much appreciated by all of us at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, and we look forward to seeing everyone again in a sunnier 2021.

* If you have already signed a Gift Aid declaration with us, you will not be prompted again when making new donations.

Published: 22 April 2020

22 April 2020 marks the 50^th anniversary of Earth Day, and to celebrate we’re focussing on our commitment to reduce the environmental impact of Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre.

Our Policy Regent's Park Theatre Ltd is committed to reducing its environmental impact and strives to identify renewable and recyclable alternatives across the organisation. We already champion sustainability in our redevelopment projects. Solar panels power our new Rehearsal Studios and Kitchens, with excess electricity fed into the National Grid; office lighting is linked to movement sensors to conserve energy in unused spaces; double-glazing is incorporated across the venue, and improved insulation throughout our buildings includes additional natural features, such as grass on the roof of the box office.

Exploiting other natural resources, water used in our public toilets and irrigation system is supplied via a borehole to an underground aquifer within the Park, meaning we don’t have to use the mains supply. Supporting the #OneLess initiative to change the way Londoners drink water, in 2019 we installed a Water Bottle Refill Station to encourage audiences to bring their own water bottle. In 2018 we started to work towards paperless ticketing. A few days before your visit, those who have selected the ‘print at home’ option will be sent a mobile ticket to their smart phone, which can be shown on your device upon arrival. As an additional benefit, if you are meeting a friend at the theatre, you will now be able to forward their specific mobile ticket to them so that you no longer have to wait for them before entering the venue.

The environmental impact of productions is also considered in the creative process. Identifying where recycled, recyclable and ethically sourced products can be used, sets and props will also be recycled or repurposed, where possible, following the production. We are committed to recycling across the venue, in partnership with The Royal Parks, all our waste is collected, sorted and recycled (where possible), with zero going to landfill.

We are proud to contribute towards the global drive to secure our world for future generations. These are just some of the measures we have introduced, but there is still more to do, and we will keep audiences updated with our progress. Environmental Policy | Earthday.org | onelessbottle.org

Published: 9 April 2020

John Tydeman OBE It is with sadness that we report the passing of John Tydeman OBE on 1 April 2020. John was a huge supporter of Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, joining the Board of Trustees from 1998 until 2010. Born 30 March 1936, John was a prolific theatre director and producer of radio plays.

Joining the BBC in 1969, he commissioned and directed the early plays of Tom Stoppard, Caryl Churchill and Joe Orton, and became Head of BBC Radio Drama in 1986 until 1994. He commissioned and directed Sue Townsend’s first ‘Mole’ script, when the title character was called Nigel (The Diary of Nigel Mole Aged 13¾). On first reading the script, he wrote to Townsend on 30 April 1981, declaring ‘I am sure there is a lot of mileage in MOLE and that there could be sequels’, signing his letter ‘John Tydeman Aged 29 and 364 days’; Townsend went on to become the bestselling author of the 1980s in terms of individual books, and John even became a character in the Mole novels.

Awarded an OBE in 2002, John was also honoured with the Radio Academy’s Lifetime Achievement Award in 2010.

Published: 13 Feb 2020

The first production of Romeo and Juliet in Regent’s Park took place in 1934, back when the stage was no more than a clearing of grass bank and the auditorium was made up of deck chairs and slatted park chairs. The production featured Griffith Jones and Margaretta Scott in the titular roles, but it was a name listed further down the programme that really caught our eye: in the ensemble listing was a one Greer Garson.

Greer Garson would go on to become a significant motion picture star of the 1940s, garnering fame for films such as Goodbye, Mr. Chips (1939), Pride and Prejudice (1940) and Mrs. Miniver (1942). She ultimately received seven Oscar nominations and holds two key records to her name.

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences awards database confirms that, along with Bette Davis, Greer Garson holds the record for the most consecutive Best Actress nominations at the Oscars, with five consecutive nominations in total:

Greer Garson Consecutive Best Actress Oscar Nominations Blossoms in the Dust (1941) Mrs. Miniver (1942, won) Madame Curie (1943) Mrs. Parkington (1944) The Valley of Decision (1945)

Her other record came with her 1943 Oscar win: Best Actress for her most notable role in Mrs. Miniver (1942). In their obituary, The Independent notes, “Garson made cinema history by making an acceptance speech that lasted 45 minutes: new rules were brought in to stop this happening thereafter” – although The Washington Post maintains that the speech was actually only seven minutes long – as suggested by a historian at The Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences. In his book, A Rose for Mrs. Miniver: The Life of Greer Garson, Michael Troyan claims the speech was, in fact, five and a half minutes long: “Greer quickly apologised for being unprepared (“I feel just like Alice in Wonderland”), and then launched into a five-and-a-half-minute speech that would become legendary. It seemed as though she thanked everyone who came to mind, from her Hollywood peers at MGM to the doctor who delivered her into the world in London.” However long the speech really was, it seems to be agreed that all future award-winners had Ms. Garson to thank for the “wrap it up” signals they receive during their speeches.

Prior to her ‘discovery’ by the head of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, Louis B. Mayer, Garson was a successful stage actress. She made her debut at Birmingham Repertory Theatre in 1932 at the age of 27 before later appearing in the Regent’s Park 1934 season including the first production of Romeo and Juliet. Her start at the Open Air Theatre was not a straightforward one, as documented by biographer Michael Troyan, “With little to do, Greer laid siege to Sydney Carroll’s office regularly, urging him to give her a chance in a featured role. Carroll finally acquiesced, casting her, despite assistant director Maxwell Wray’s protestations, as Hermia in A Midsummer Night’s Dream. With less than a week to memorize her part, Greer spent every moment preparing for her featured debut on June 19. After waiting a few days to receive her summons, she went down to the theater. To her utter surprise, she found the company already in rehearsals. Catching sight of her, Wray yelled out, “Where the hell have you been?” in front of the startled company. Taking her aside, he insisted that he had been unable to contact her and had recast Margaretta Scott as Hermia. She could work as the understudy or not at all. Needing the money – and too nonplussed to defend herself – she swallowed her pride and accepted the part, which included a walk-on role carrying garlands of roses – the female equivalent of a spear-carrier… Carroll was not able to find another part for her until Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet opened on August 7. Again she would be an extra.”

Troyan goes on to document the first time Greer became aware of Louis B. Mayer’s presence in London, “On July 31, haunting the backstage dressing rooms before Romeo and Juliet, she found her coworkers clustered together around the latest copy of the Daily Telegraph. Louis B. Mayer, head of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, America’s most powerful motion picture studio, was in London, planning to build an Anglo-American film industry alliance.” It would be the 1937 West End play Old Music that would eventually get Greer noticed by Mayer and the film studio – launching her film career.

Romeo and Juliet 1934 Featured Cast List* Dennis Hoey (Escalus), Eric Dance (Paris), R. Kerr Carey (Montague), Henry Baynton (Capulet), Griffith Jones (Romeo), Leslie French (Mercutio), Hubert Gregg (Benvolio), Terence de Marney (Tybalt), Ben Greet** (Friar Lawrence), Sydney Bromley (Balthasar), Frank Tickle (Sampson), Laura Smithson (Nurse), Marjorie Stewart (Lady Montague), Alison Pickard (Lady Capulet), Margaretta Scott (Juliet). Greer Garson was billed as an extra.

as per A Rose for Mrs. Miniver: The Life of Greer Garson by Michael Troyan *Another significant figure from this cast is Ben Greet (Friar Lawrence). During his time as Manager of the Old Vic Theatre (1915-1918), Greet presented 33 Shakespearean productions with the focus of changing children’s experience of Shakespeare – work that would later see him knighted by King George V in 1929.

Garson marks the first of many stellar names to take to the Open Air Theatre stage before becoming household names, with the likes of Vivien Leigh, Ralph Fiennes, Penelope Keith and Hugh Bonneville to name just a small selection.

Discover more of our history from our archive. Find out more about the 2020 production of Romeo and Juliet

Take a listen to our new podcast where Fiona Mountford, one of the leading voices in arts criticism, chats with our Artistic Director Timothy Sheader about his vision for the Open Air Theatre. Please note that this podcast was recorded before Covid-19, so information and dates have changed.

In this episode, Outdoor Theatre from the Inside, Timothy looks back at his first 10 years at the theatre, and at what drives his vision and programming decisions. He also looks towards the 2020 season and reveals why he loves creating theatre for this unique space.

Also just released is our 2019 Annual Review, which celebrates the successes of the last twelve months:

During the 2020 Season, Fiona Mountford will be leading two platform events, to give a further insight into our productions. Tickets for these are £8, and can be purchased when purchasing tickets for the performance.*

101 Dalmatians Platform Event: Friday 29 May @ 6.30pm Guests include the director, Kimberley Sykes [subsequent to this post, this event has been cancelled. Read Story.]

Carousel Platform Event: Tuesday 11 August @ 6.30pm Guests include the director, Timothy Sheader

More information about the Platform Events

*The cost of these Platform events does not include tickets for the production which must be purchased separately

Published: 5 December 2019

We are delighted that Evita has been nominated for 8 WhatsOnStage Awards – which is the most award nominations we have ever received for a production:

Best Musical Revival Best Direction (Jamie Lloyd) Best Choreography (Fabian Aloise) Best Musical Direction (Alan Williams) Best Set Design (Soutra Gilmour) Best Lighting Design (Jon Clark) Best Sound Design (Nick Lidster) And for the poster…Best Graphic Design (FEAST Creative).

The production went on to win the WhatsOnStage Award for Best Direction for Jamie Lloyd, who also won Best Director in the Critics Circle Award, and the production won the Evening Standard Award for Best Musical. Evita was due to transfer to the Barbican in 2020, however this was cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Published: 19 November 2019

Behind the branches and the blossom of the soon-to-be-planted cherry trees in The Regent’s Park is a story of mutual respect and friendship between Japan and the UK that first took root over 150 years ago. The new cherry trees are a symbol of this special relationship.

The trees are a gift from Japan as part of the Japan-UK Season of Culture 2019-20, that will see 6,500 planted in parks and schools around the UK. To mark the start of the project 36 cherry trees will be planted in The Regent’s Park on 27th November - the first of 125 in The Royal Parks.

The trees will be part of a growing cross-cultural legacy between the two countries that spans from business and industry to horticulture. Read more about the story behind the trees on The Royal Parks website.

The new cherry trees in The Regent’s Park will begin flowering next spring. They tend to live for around 50 years so hopefully it will be the first blossom of many in the years to come – each tiny petal a reminder of the trees’ history and the special bond between two countries.

Published: 9 November 2019

Christmas gift buying can be tricky so let us lend a hand this festive season. We’ve got something for everyone here at the Open Air Theatre…

For the person who already has everything, why not purchase a Membership? Our Members enjoy £10 off tickets and other discounts, as well as access to exclusive events including rehearsal sneak peeks and more. Discover more about Membership

Who says you can’t give a voucher at Christmas? With our Gift Vouchers*, your recipient can experience unique live theatre under the stars, or purchase pre-theatre dining to add to their experience with us. Vouchers are available to purchase for any amount, and are valid for 12 months. Purchase Gift Vouchers

Finally, the classic ticket… Our 2020 season has so much to offer with two musical productions – our NEW musical 101 Dalmatians and Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Carousel – as well as Shakespeare’s classic love story, Romeo and Juliet and Nicoll Entertainment’s Dragons and Mythical Beasts. So, whoever your recipient, you can give them a great night out at the Open Air Theatre. Get 2020 Production Tickets

*Redeemable against main house Open Air Theatre tickets and pre-booked food only. Excludes Evita at the Barbican.

Published: 11 September 2019

We are excited to announce the line-up for our 2020 season, which includes both a newly commissioned musical as well as a classic by Rodgers and Hammerstein, a Shakespeare favourite, and something beastly for ages 3+!

Opening the season is 101 Dalmatians (16 May - 21 June), a new musical by Zinnie Harris (book) and Douglas Hodge (music and lyrics), based on the iconic story by Dodie Smith. Set in Regent’s Park, the newly commissioned musical is directed by Timothy Sheader and has puppetry designed and directed by Toby Olié (Running Wild). We are also thrilled to welcome back to the theatre set and costume designer Katrina Lindsay (Porgy and Bess), choreographer Liam Steel (Peter Pan, Lord of the Flies, Into the Woods) and lighting designer Howard Hudson (On The Town, Little Shop of Horrors). Also joining the team are musical supervisor and orchestrator Sarah Travis and musical director Tarek Merchant. Casting is by Jill Green, with children’s casting by Verity Naughton.

Following this Kimberley Sykes directs Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet (27 June - 25 July). Kimberley recently directed Beryl (Octagon, Bolton), As You Like It (RSC/UK Tour), and was nominated for Best Director in the UK Theatre Awards for Dido Queen of Carthage (RSC).

We have become known for our innovative approach to musicals, and the 2020 season concludes with Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Carousel (31 July - 19 September), reuniting director Timothy Sheader with Superstar choreographer Drew McOnie. This classic score includes ‘If I Loved You’ and ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’.

Also playing during the summer, Nicoll Entertainment presents Dragons and Mythical Beasts (11 August - 6 September), a new 50-minute daytime show for everyone aged 3 and over, written by Derek Bond and directed by Derek Bond and Laura Cubitt. Enter into a magical world of myths and legends in this fantastical interactive show for all the family.

Platform Events

During the 2020 season, esteemed journalist and theatre critic Fiona Mountford will be leading a series of Platform Events. For 101 Dalmatians and Carousel, these will take place prior to an evening performance (so make sure you purchase a ticket for the show as well as the Platform event), and for Romeo and Juliet, she will host a post-matinee discussion and Q&A session.

Find out more

Public booking is now open.

Published: 10 September 2019

What makes a celebration that little bit extra special? Whether it’s an anniversary, a wedding toast or a reunion of friends, a bottle of bubbly is the perfect accompaniment to any occasion. Why not prepare for your next celebration with an exclusive offer from our partners, Champagne Canard-Duchêne?

We’re proud to have been working with Canard-Duchêne for many years as our Champagne Sponsors, Platinum Corporate Partners and, for the first time this year, as Production Partners for Evita. You may also have enjoyed a bottle of Canard-Duchêne as part of our Luxury Champagne Hampers!

Our partners are offering you an exclusive 25% off two bottles of each of their Charles VII Prestige Mixed Case: Blanc de Blancs, Blanc de Noirs and Rosé. Normal Price: £231 Offer price: £173.25

To enjoy this offer, simply head to https://champagnesandchateaux.co.uk/ and use code OAT2019 at the checkout.

Find out more about Canard-Duchêne

Canard-Duchêne should be enjoyed responsibly.

Published: 2 September 2019

If you've seen our season poster, leaflet or brochure, noticed our MOREoutdoor event promotion or received one of our post-show emails, you will have come across the logo of our hotel partner, The Marylebone Hotel. What you may, perhaps, be less familiar with is the hotel's restaurant and bar, 108 Brasserie.

Just a casual stroll (or an even shorter taxi ride) from Regent's Park Open Air Theatre, 108 Brasserie is set alongside the hotel in a tranquil spot at the top of Marylebone Lane. No doubt, if you've been in the Marylebone area you'll have seen people enjoying a drink, coffee or delicious food on the restaurant's terrace. With the gorgeous summer sun we've been having recently, this little pocket of London could easily be a Parisian square or an Italian piazza.

Smartly dressed and attentive waiting staff are ready to greet you on arrival and look after you throughout your visit. If you opt to sit inside, you're welcomed into a contemporary room where the walls are decked in interesting black and white photos of people at tables. The restaurant's plush red chairs really pop against the marble-topped tables.

There's a chic bar which is perfect for kicking off your evening, meeting friends or entertaining clients with a pre-dinner gin and tonic before you head to your table - the Brasserie's own 108 Gin is particularly good - and, for that all important first date - or a romantic anniversary dinner - there are corner booths for a little more privacy. Wherever you sit, the service will be exemplary, with servers ready to offer their expertise on wine choices or course selection.

The food itself lives up to the hotel's luxurious reputation with most patrons enjoying a full three courses during their visit. The menu offers a range of options to suit all tastes without becoming overwhelming with choices - modern brasserie style, drawing on global influences.

The 108 Brasserie is a great asset to enjoy during a stay at the hotel, but it also offers a beautiful spot for the general public too. Whether you're looking for a place to stop and enjoy a coffee, somewhere to meet friends for drinks or to take colleagues on a working lunch, the restaurant's peaceful and stylish atmosphere adapts to your needs.

Find out more about 108 Brasserie.

Published: 29 August 2019

We were delighted to welcome Sir Tim Rice and family to the Press Night of Evita on Thursday 8 August. Accompanying her father was the celebrated author, Eva Rice, who wore a bracelet with particular significance for the evening.

The gold bracelet in the image above was originally crafted for Eva Perón herself, ahead of her ‘Rainbow Tour’ of Europe. The bracelet was a gift to Eva Rice from her father.

From one Eva to another, we think you’ll agree that it has more than “just a little touch of star quality”.

Published: 14 August 2019

And the reviews keep rolling on in:

***** “THRILLING….sexy, full-bloodied and furious. Heart-stoppingly exciting and evisceratingly relevant”” (Metro)

***** “REVELATORY…a new production from Jamie Lloyd that demands our admiration.” (Daily Telegraph)

**** “MUSCULAR. EXPRESSIVE. EXPLOSIVE. The production’s beating heart is Samantha Pauly, who possesses a beguiling blend of butter-wouldn’t-melt charm and sensual guile, a pristine voice with a steel edge, and more than a touch of star quality” (Evening Standard)

**** “Forget everything you know about Evita: this one properly rocks” (Time Out)

**** “Jamie Lloyd’s radical staging strips away all the glamour. What he is left with is the hard sinew and bone of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s full-bloodied music – arguably his best score – and Tim Rice’s sharp, politically astute lyrics” (WhatsOnStage)

**** “Stripped-down, super-sleek, contemporary” (The Arts Desk)

**** “The music is immaculately played. Alan Williams’s orchestra is one of the stars of the evening” (The Times)

**** “Jamie Lloyd’s Evita dazzles with an interpretation that is stylistically groundbreaking. Together Soutra Gilmour (design), Jon Clark (lighting) and Nick Lidster (sound) have created an immersive experience that is utterly sublime” (BroadwayWorld)

TICKET UPDATE w/c 19 August: Check for returns w/c 26 August: Extra matinee: 28 August | All other performances: check for returns w/c 2 September: Some availability w/c 9 & 16 September: Best availability

BOOK TICKETS

Published: 10 August 2019

Evita is now officially open, and the first reviews are in!

Guests at our glittering first night included Sir Tim Rice, Dame Esther Rantzen, Candice Brown, Simon Mayo, Fiona Shaw, Anneka Rice, Gloria Hunniford, Karren Brady, Rachel Riley, Fay Ripley, Arlene Phillips, Bruno Tonioli, Diane Parish and Amy Hart. Also joining were many cast members from our previous productions this season, including Susan Wokoma, Amber James, Arthur Hughes and Francesca Henry.

“Pared-down, muscular, expressive and explosive” Evening Standard

“Forget everything you know about ‘Evita’: this one properly rocks” Time Out

“Jamie Lloyd’s stripped-down, super-sleek, contemporary take excavates the biting satire…and locates the furious spirit of Eva Perón – portrayed, with unusually convincing youth and fire, by the electrifying American actress Samantha Pauly…matched by Trent Saunders’ excellent Che” The Arts Desk

“One of the most intelligent and creative musicals I have seen. This production is raw and exposed in both its direction, choreography and design. Each moment in this production was beautifully thought out. From Fabian Aloise’s choreography and Jamie Lloyd’s direction to Soutra Gilmour’s costume and set design, every aspect married perfectly.” Encore Radio

View Press Night Gallery

Book Tickets

Published: 2 August 2019

Evita starts its 8-week run tonight, 2 August, directed by Jamie Lloyd and featuring Samantha Pauly in the iconic role of Eva Perón. With over 56,000 tickets already sold, it is our fastest selling production ever; best availability is now from 2 September, with best August availability at the new matinees added for 21 and 28 August.

Following a 1976 concept album, the original London production opened in 1978, and the musical became one of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber's greatest hits. The long awaited film version was released in 1996, and included a newly penned song, ‘You Must Love Me’, which won the Academy Award for Best Song (and is included in this production).

Following an extensive casting process, joining Samantha are Trent Saunders (Che), Ektor Rivera (Perón), Adam Pearce (Magaldi) and Frances Mayli McCann (The Mistress). The creative team includes Soutra Gilmour (design), Fabian Aloise (choreography), Alan Williams (musical supervision), Jon Clark (lighting design), Nick Lidster for Autorgraph (sound design) and Kate Waters (fight direction). Casting is by Will Burton CDG for David Grindrod Associates, US casting by Merri Sugarman CSA for Tara Rubin Casting, and children's casting by Adelle Moss.

Following previews, the production officially opens on Thursday 8 August, and plays until 21 September.

To be announced shortly, follow our social media channels to hear about some exciting ticketing news.

More Production Information | Book Tickets

Published: 11 July 2019

The reviews are in for A Midsummer Night’s Dream, which completes its run on 27 July:

“This is an enchantment of a production…enveloped in an air of magic; what an inventive delight this is.” The Times

“A spellbinding evening. Susan Wokoma is sheer bliss, delivering one of the most endearing and effortlessly funny Bottoms I’ve ever seen.” Daily Telegraph

"Rachael Canning's design is exquisite and the performers sublime. This production should be seen for fairies. Emerging like splinters from beneath set, the hulking arachnid creatures are terrifying. Hunched on tilted stilts, they converse in sign language, stalking lovers who swipe at the air around them as if walking into cobwebs" The Guardian

“A visual masterpiece. Never has there been a more enthralling rendition” The Upcoming

“Sounds and shadows haunt Dominic Hill’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and Shakespeare’s midnight revels take on a suggestively eerie quality” BroadwayWorld.com

"Bewitching and beguiling...a delectably dark and gothic-tinged take on Shakespeare's comedy gorgeously lit by Ben Ormerod who adds a note of beauty to the sinister setting" The Stage

Don’t miss this dream of a production. Book Now

Published: 10 July 2019

Jesus Christ Superstar is back! With standing ovations at every preview, the production officially opened at the Barbican last night, 9 July. Celebrating with the Company was lyricist Tim Rice, along with guests including Ricky Wilson, Carrie Hope Fletcher, Zizi Strallen, Richard Fleeshman, Celinde Schonemaker, and Leigh Francis.

Also in attendance to support Robert Tripolino (Jesus), Ricardo Afonso (Judas), Sallay Garnett (Mary), Matt Cardle (Pilate) and Samuel Buttery (Herod), were our original cast members Declan Bennett, Tyrone Huntley, Maimuna Memon, David Thaxton and Peter Caulfield.

View the First Night Gallery

Jesus Christ Superstar plays a limited season until 24 August at the Barbican, and heads on a North American tour from October

Book Tickets at the Barbican

Published: 8 July 2019

It was great to see so many friends at our press night for A Midsummer Night’s Dream, including guests Anthea Turner and Jason Gardiner, as well as cast members from our other productions this season, including Evita’s Eva, Che and Mistress - Samantha Pauly, Trent Saunders and Francis Mayli McCann.

We were also delighted to welcome Delena Kidd and Gary Raymond, who played Titania and Oberon in our 1971 production of Dream.

First Night Gallery

Published: 27 June 2019

With performances starting next Thursday (4 July), take a look at our incredible Superstar cast in rehearsals, and watch their performance at West End Live. View Gallery.

When the original London production of Jesus Christ Superstar premiered in 1972, it became the longest running musical in West End history, beating the record set by Oliver!

Our multi-award winning production started life at the Open Air Theatre in 2016 and, due to demand, returned the following year. In 2018 it played a season at the Lyric Opera of Chicago featuring Cavin Cornwall as Caiaphas; he recreates his performance at the Barbican.

Prior to a two-year North American tour, which starts this autumn, we are excited to bring the production to the Barbican this summer for a limited 60-performance.

Book Tickets

Published: 24 June 2019

As rehearsals begin today, we welcome our cast, Jamie Lloyd and creative team of Evita to the Regent's Park Rehearsal Studios.

Joining the already announced casting of Samantha Pauly* (as Eva Perón), Ektor Rivera (Juan Perón), Trent Saunders (Che) and Frances Mayli McCann (The Mistress), Adam Pearce plays the role of Agustín Magaldi.

The cast also includes: Alexander Barria, Felipe Bejarano, Alex Cardall, Russell Dickson, Lauren Drew, Hannah Fairclough, Chris Fung, Chlöe Hart, Travis Kerry, Jessica Lee, Dale Mathurin, Peter Nash, Sarah Naudi, Mireia Mambo, Marsha Songcome, Bree Smith, Monica Swayne, Oliver Tester, Amy Thornton, Jon Tsouras and Rodney Vubya. Four children alternate at each performance: Saffia Layla, Ava Masters, Chanai Owusu-Ansah and Ellicia Simondwood.

Opening on 2 August, Evita is our fastest selling production ever, and two additional matinee performances have been added, due to demand, on Wednesday 21 August and Wednesday 28 August*.

Evita premiered in the West End in 1978, and features a chart-topping score including Don’t Cry For Me Argentina, Oh! What A Circus, Another Suitcase in Another Hall, and the Academy Award-winning You Must Love Me, originally performed by Madonna in the motion picture.

BOOK TICKETS

* Samantha Pauly will not appear at the matinee performances on 21 and 28 August.

Published: 19 June 2019

Our first reviews for Hansel and Gretel are in:

“Update of Humperdinck’s masterpiece strikes the right note between pathos and enchantment; an opera for all ages” The Guardian

“Magical staging coupled with orchestral brilliance and strong singing in English made this production of the classic fairytale a delight” The Times

“A forest is a place of danger and enchantment, a fact amply exploited by Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre. Timothy Sheader’s new production (co-produced with English National Opera) makes full use of the arboreal setting; bathed in lighting both natural and theatrical, it becomes an other-worldly site.” Evening Standard

“Crowd-pleasing and dramatically satisfying; a candy-sweet Hansel and Gretel that gives the audience an irresistible sugar rush. A delicious theatrical cake.” Bachtrack

“Midsummer magic. The colourful and apparently delicious gingerbread house is a visual triumph. Rising star conductor Ben Glassberg doesn’t miss a trick in presenting Derek J Clark’s astute reduction of Humperdinck’s score for 20 musicians from the English National Opera’s orchestra.” The Stage

“Humperdinck’s Hansel and Gretel packs a heart-warming punch; a delightful production, full of joy and wonder, and just creepy enough to thrill the little ones.” Metro

Published: 18 June 2019

With rehearsals for A Midsummer Night’s Dream well under way, take a look at our gallery of photos of the cast going through their paces. Meet Titania and Oberon (Amber James and Kieran Hill), Puck (Myra McFadyen), the Lovers (Michael Elcock, Gabrielle Brooks, Pierro Niel-Mee and Remy Beasley) and Bottom (Susan Wokoma) with the madcap Mechanicals (Liz Crowther, Lee Mango, Joshua Miles, Tomi Ogbaro, Gareth Snook) as they discover that ‘the course of true love never did run smooth’.

Opens 28 July

“Haste; make no delay” - Book Tickets

Published: 17 June 2019

Take a look at our photo gallery to see Hansel and Gretel in production, with Rachel Kelly and Susanna Hurrell as Hansel and Gretel, Rosie Aldridge and Duncan Rock as Mother and Father, Alasdair Elliott as the Witch, and Gillian Keith and He Wu as the Sandman and Dew Fairy. Photos are by Johan Persson.

Performances run until Saturday, and this cast perform on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday evening and Saturday matinee.

Two casts alternate at each performance, so check in tomorrow to see photos of the cast who will perform on Tuesday, Thursday matinee, Friday evening, and Saturday evening.

View gallery | book tickets

Published: 4 June 2019

With preparations well under way for Hansel and Gretel, our co-production with English National Opera, we take you behind the scenes with photos from the rehearsal room.

With one week remaining in ENO’s Hampstead studios, Hansel and Gretel features two casts alternating at each performance, including Alasdair Elliott and John Findon who share the role of the witch. We have also partnered with a local charity, Pimlico Musical Foundation (PMF), who give children from Pimlico access to participate in music. Visit our blog to find out more about the charitable work of PMF. We are excited to welcome these children to Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, and to give them this unique opportunity of appearing alongside world-class opera singers in this beautiful production.

With just 10 performances (14 -22 June), don’t miss your chance to experience Engelbert Humperdinck’s opera outdoors.

View Rehearsal Photos | Book Tickets

Published: 4 June 2019

Pimlico Musical Foundation (PMF) is a charity that offers free music tuition to children in Pimlico who may otherwise be unable to access it, to enable them to achieve their full musical potential and, in doing so, improve social cohesion in one of London’s most complex communities.

Research shows that just eight weeks of music can significantly improve a child’s perception, language and literacy skills, and have a significant impact on their personal and social development. It also shows that group music lessons promote social cohesion and result in increased levels of engagement amongst young people. All this can change a child’s life chances and career prospects.

Over the last four years PMF has worked with the schools in and around Westminster’s largest estate, the Churchill Gardens. This has been a time when school budgets are under pressure and the range of subjects offered in schools has sometimes narrowed at the expense of music. PMF gives free support to Pimlico primary schools.

Alongside their school-based work, PMF offer extra-curricular opportunities, including the Pimlico Children’s Choir, which meets after school, and the Foundation Choir, an initiative under which 18 children sing Evensong once a week. Every project undertaken is selected based on its value for the children, both educationally and socially.

The chorus in our production of Hansel and Gretel comprises children from the Pimlico Children’s Choir and Foundation Choir, drawn from Millbank Academy, Westminster Cathedral Primary School, Churchill Gardens Primary Academy, Pimlico Primary, St Gabriel’s Primary and from two local state secondary schools, the Grey Coat Hospital and Westminster City School.

Participating in this professional production, alongside world-class singers and musicians, will be a life-changing experience for these children, and it is exciting to follow their development.

More about Hansel and Gretel

James Day is the Director of Music of the Pimlico Musical Foundation. He read Music at Durham University and Choral Conducting at the Royal Academy of Music. As well as his work with the Pimlico Musical Foundation he is the Director of the Tiffin Boys’ Choir and Director of the Barnes Music Festival. He has directed children’s choruses for performances with all of the London orchestras, Royal Opera House, English National Opera, and the BBC Proms.

Published: 3 June 2019

With just a week remaining, don’t miss your chance to see Our Town (ends 8 June), the opening production of our 2019 season.

“Thought-provoking…in Ellen McDougall’s breezy, unforced revival…Laura Rogers’s Stage Manager sets the scene, harnessing our collective imagination. The air fills with hymns, the evening darkens, and I swear, to whatever lies above, that at an ethereal high-point the trees shivered in eerie synchronicity”. (Daily Telegraph)

“An elemental pleasure…Francesca Henry and Arthur Hughes are both excellent in the key roles of the teen lovers Emily and George.” (Daily Mail)

“Ellen McDougall's Wilder revival hits home with force. It reminds us of our failure to appreciate life and argues – in a point that is ever more poignant today – that “we don’t have time to look at one another”. (The Guardian)

“There is a charm and dry wit in Thornton Wilder’s writing…it’s a remarkable play. The beyond-sublime third acts blows your mind”. (Time Out)

“There is a new star rising over Regent’s Park. Francesca Henry shines in Our Town…beguiling as a young bride; troubling in a later, darker incarnation; throughout gleamingly serious. Ellen McDougall’s production is wry, knowing, good-humoured”. (Observer)

For more about Our Town - including a podcast with the director - and to purchase tickets for the final performances click here.

Published: 29 May 2019

With just over a week remaining to catch the first production of our 2019 season, hear from director Ellen McDougall on what Our Town means to her, and about the landscape in which Thornton Wilder was writing his Pulitzer Prize-winning play.

“It seems to be be about nothing and suddenly it’s about everything”, says Ellen – which is why “the beyond-sublime third act blows your mind” (Time Out).

Listen to our new podcast, where we will share more insights to our work at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre.

Published: 24 May 2019

Family and friends came together on Wednesday, 22 May to celebrate the opening of the 2019 Open Air Theatre season and press night of Our Town.

Joining the cast, which includes Laura Rogers, Francesca Henry and Arthur Hughes, were cast members from other forthcoming Open Air Theatre productions. Susan Wokoma and Myra McFadyen (Bottom and Puck from A Midsummer Night’s Dream) and Robert Tripolino (who will play Jesus in Jesus Christ Superstar at the Barbican), were amongst those joining guests which included Rory Kinnear, Harriet Thorpe, Tyrone Huntley, Maureen Beattie and last season’s Olivier Award nominee, Marc Antolin.

For photos from the evening visit our Facebook gallery

The evening also included the unveiling of a new sculpture celebrating the life of David Conville OBE, who passed away in November 2018. As founder of The New Shakespeare Company – now named Regent’s Park Theatre Ltd - David was Artistic and Managing Director, Chairman and Honorary President, until retiring in 2012 following a 50-year association with the theatre.

Past colleagues, including Christopher Biggins, Celia Imrie, Richard Digby Day, Gary Raymond and Delena Kidd joined David’s children Clare and Leo Conville for drinks on the picnic lawn before Robert Davis MBE DL – Chairman of the Open Air Theatre – officially unveiled the sculpture by Lee Simmons.

Find out more about the sculpture

David Conville’s children, Clare and Leo, attending the unveiling of the sculpture.

Published: 24 May 2019

We commissioned Lee Simmons to design a sculpture celebrating the life of David Conville OBE, who passed away in November 2018. As founder of the company, Artistic and Managing Director, Chairman and Honorary President, David retired in 2012 following a 50-year association with the theatre.

The form of the sculpture derives from an abstract interpretation of the auditorium that aims to capture an essence of what it feels like to play in the open, exposed to the elements, and captures the sense of envelopment that is the centre of the stage. The form further echoes the evolving dialogue between actor, audience and nature with its changing of height from left to right and front to back.

Watching theatre in this venue delivers an unprecedented experience. Both stage and auditorium are uncovered, so weather adds a thrilling dimension to the bold and dynamic productions; productions which truly stimulate the senses. The natural environment and transition from daylight to dusk has informed the abstract and organic nature of the sculpture, even in how the sculpture itself responds to the breeze with a slight, pleasing movement.

The blade of grass-like fins of the sculpture are made from weathering steel that will, in time, weather down to organic tones of browns and oranges, akin to the sculpture’s natural surroundings.

Nestled within the foliage surrounding of our picnic lawn, this sculpture honours David Conville’s contribution, dedication and love of this place, so do take a look next time you visit…and please do walk on the bark around it for a closer look (an inscription is on the reverse of one of the lower fins).

About the Artist: Lee Simmons MA RCA An award-winning Royal College of Art graduate, Lee Simmons describes his work as a synthesis that brings together architecture, art and design and exploits the relationship between their blurred peripheries. Simmons is currently working on a number of high profile projects around the capital and his work can be found in both public and private collections. His recent commissions include an installation for The London Palladium titled ‘Wall of Fame’ on Great Marlborough Street.

Published: 13 May 2019

As we start rehearsals for Hansel and Gretel, and Our Town commences its on-stage technical rehearsals prior to Thursday’s opening, we are delighted to announce our cast for A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

Opening on 28 June, Amber James takes the roles of Hippolyta and Titania, and Kieran Hill Theseus and Oberon. Joining the Company are Susan Wokoma as Bottom and Myra McFadyen as Puck.

The production features Remy Beasley (Helena), Gabrielle Brooks (Hermia) Michael Elcock (Lysander) and Pierro Niel-Mee (Demetrius), and the cast also includes: Liz Crowther (Starveling), Joshua Miles (Flute), Lee Mengo (Snout), Tomi Ogbaro (Snug) and Gareth Snook (Qunice/Egeus), with Matthew James Hinchliffe, Mei Mac, Simon Oskarsson, Yana Penrose and Emily Rose-Salter (Fairies).

Joining Director Dominic Hill are Rachael Canning (Designer), Emily-Jane Boyle (Movement Director), Paddy Cunneen (Composer), Ben Ormerod (Lighting Designer) and Simon Baker and Jay Jones (Co-Sound Designers). Casting is by Vicky Richardson, and Barbara Houseman is the Season Associate Director (Voice and Text).

Amber James (Hippolyta/Titania) has previously appeared in Troilus And Cressida, Dido, Queen of Carthage (RSC), Titus Andronicus and Antony and Cleopatra (RSC/Barbican). Other theatre credits include: A Streetcar Named Desire (English Touring Theatre) and Two Gentlemen of Verona (Shakespeare’s Globe/International Tour).

Kieran Hill (Theseus/Oberon) recently appeared in Votes for Women (New Vic Theatre, Newcastle-under-Lyme). Other recent credits include: Worst Wedding Ever (Salisbury Playhouse), To Dream Again (Theatr Clwyd) The Shepherd’s Life (Theatre by the Lake), Edmund in King Lear (Citizen’s Theatre, Glasgow) and numerous appearances at Bolton Octagon, including: Long Day’s Journey Into Night, An Inspector Calls, Piaf, The Glass Menagerie, Tull and Of Mice and Men.

Susan Wokoma (Bottom) has previously appeared in Labour of Love (Noel Coward), A Raisin in the Sun (Sheffield Crucible), Game, Dream Pill (Almeida), Hotel (National Theatre), Julius Caesar and Henry IV (Donmar Warehouse/NYC) and Three Birds (Royal Exchange, Manchester/Bush) for which she received an Offie Award nomination for Best Female Performance. Television credits include: Chewing Gum, Crazyhead (for which she was selected by BAFTA as a Breakthrough Brit), Porters and the forthcoming Channel 4 comedy series, Year of the Rabbit.

Myra McFadyen (Puck) recently appeared in A Christmas Carol (Old Vic). Other theatre credits include: Rhinoceros (Royal Lyceum, Edinburgh), Hay Fever and The Choir (Citizens Theatre, Glasgow), and her numerous credits for National Theatre of Scotland include Macbeth, also Lincoln Centre, New York. On film credits include: The Sopranos, The Kid Who Would be King, Mamma Mia!: Here We Go Again and Mamma Mia!

BOOK TICKETS

Published: 9 May 2019

With just one week before the 2019 season opens (on 16 May), it’s time to catch up with Our Town, as we prepare to move from the rehearsal room to on-stage technical rehearsals.

Take a look at our rehearsal photos

The cast is led by Laura Rogers in the central role of Stage Manager, who introduces another ordinary day in Grover's Corners. The townsfolk go about their daily business: newspapers are delivered; people go to work; gardens are tended to. And a boy and girl fall in love. The boy, George Gibbs, is played by Arthur Hughes, and the girl, Emily Webb, by Francesca Henry.

But, as life's events unfold and a community comes together, one question remains: "do any human beings ever realise life as they live it? Every, every minute?"

We look forward to welcoming you to our 87^th season!

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Published: 12 April 2019

We are excited to announce principal casting for our two productions by Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber this summer: Evita and Jesus Christ Superstar.

The fastest selling production in the theatre’s history, Evita plays at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre from 2 August – 21 September. Jesus Christ Superstar, which won the Olivier Award for Best Musical Revival and the Evening Standard Award for Best Musical, plays a limited 60 performance run at the Barbican Theatre from 4 July – 24 August.

“After an international search, I am incredibly excited about the amazing talent we have discovered, and the variety of voices we have assembled, to share this story today. Samantha Pauly will lead a thrillingly diverse and powerful company.” Jamie Lloyd, Director

Chicago-based Samantha Pauly makes her UK debut in the role of Eva Peron, direct from her performance in SIX (Chicago Shakespeare Theatre) and as Valkyrie in Bat Out Of Hell (US Tour). She appears alongside Ektor Rivera, also making his UK debut, having recently played Emilio Estefan in On Your Feet! on Broadway and US Tour. In addition to lead roles in Rent, Hairspray and High School Musical, Ektor was selected by Jennifer López to be one of the lead singers in the US Television and Live show Q’Viva! The Chosen, which was seen by over 30 million television viewers.

An original Broadway cast member of Disney's Aladdin - where he has been performing on and off for the last 5 years - Trent Saunders returns to the UK in the role of Che following his appearance as St. Jimmy in Green Day's American Idiot (Hammersmith Apollo). Nominated for an Olivier Award for her role as Kylah in Our Ladies of Perpetual Succour, Frances Mayli McCann plays the role of The Mistress.

More Info | Book tickets

Samantha Pauly, Ektor Rivera and Trent Saunders are appearing with the support of UK Equity, incorporating the Variety Artistes’ Federation, pursuant to an exchange program between American Equity and UK Equity.

The new cast of Jesus Christ Superstar which opens at the Barbican on 4 July includes: Robert Tripolino and Ricardo Afonso in the iconic roles of Jesus and Judas, with Sallay Garnett as Mary. Matt Cardle* plays the role of Pilate, with Cavin Cornwall and Nathan Amzi as Caiaphas and Annas.

Originally from Australia, Robert Tripolino (Jesus) recently played Sal Russo in RAGS (Hope Mill, Manchester). His previous credits include: Omar in Disney’s Aladdin (Australian Tour), Chino in West Side Story (State Theatre, Arts Centre Melbourne) and The Addams Family (Capitol Theatre, Sydney).

Ricardo Afonso (Judas) previously appeared as the Taxi Driver in Women On The Verge Of A Nervous Breakdown (Playhouse), as Alberto Beddini in Top Hat (Aldwych/UK Tour), Lead Vocalist in Thriller Live (Lyric), Galileo in We Will Rock You (Dominion), and as a lead vocalist in The Classic Rock Show (European/UK Tour).

Irish-Sierra Leonean artist Sallay Garnett (Mary) also performs and records under the name Loah. With her unique blend of Afro-soul, she released her debut album This Heart in 2017. She has toured in Ireland, the UK, Sierra Leone and the USA.

Matt Cardle* (Pilate) is a multi-platinum selling recording artist who has sold over 2.2 million records since he won The X Factor in 2010. He has released four studios albums including 2011’s Letters, featuring the single When We Collide, and most recently 2018’s Time To Be Alive; both on Sony Music. In 2015 he joined the cast of Memphis (Shaftesbury) as Huey Calhoun, winning him the WhatsOnStage Award for Best West End Debut, and he returned to the stage in 2018, appearing as Wally Strand in Strictly Ballroom (Piccadilly).

* Please note that Matt Cardle will not appear on Friday 12 July, Saturday 13 July (evening), Tuesday 30 July or Wednesday 31 July.

Currently appearing in Rip It Up (Garrick) Cavin Cornwall (Caiaphas) originated the role of Caiaphas in the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre production of Jesus Christ Superstar, reprising the role at the Lyric Opera of Chicago in 2018. On film credits include, for the Star Wars franchise: Han Solo A Smuggler’s Trade, Star Wars VII The Force Awakens and The Last Jedi.

Nathan Amzi (Annas) most recently appeared in Heathers (Theatre Royal Haymarket). Other theatre credits include: One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest (Sheffield Crucible), Prom Queen (The Other Palace), In The Heights (Southwark Playhouse) and Urinetown (Apollo).

For more information about Jesus Christ Superstar and to book tickets visit jcsuperstar.co.uk

Published: 10 April 2019

Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre announce the full cast for Thornton Wilder’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play, Our Town. Directed by The Gate Theatre’s Artistic Director, Ellen McDougall, the cast is led by Natalie Klamar in the central role of Stage Manager.

As the Stage Manager introduces another ordinary day in Grover's Corners, the townsfolk go about their daily business: newspapers are delivered; people go to work; gardens are tended to. And a boy and girl fall in love. The boy, George Gibbs is played by Arthur Hughes, and the girl, Emily Webb by Francesca Henry.

But, as life's events unfold and a community comes together, one question remains: "do any human beings ever realise life as they live it? Every, every minute?"

George and Emily’s parents are played by Karl Collins and Pandora Colin (Dr and Mrs Gibbs) and Tom Edden and Thusitha Jayasundera (Mr and Mrs Webb). Nicola Sloane takes the role of Mrs Soames, and Garry Robson, Constable Warren.

Completing the cast are: Phil Adèle (Sam Craig), Jim Findley (Joe Stoddard), Peter Hobday (Simon Stimson), Terique Jarrett (Si and Joe Crowell), Louis Martin (Howie Newsome), Miriam Nyarko (Rebecca Gibbs) and Cleo Sylvestre (Professor Willard). The role of Wally Webb will be shared by Tumo Reetsang and Tyrell Russell-Martin.

Natalie Klamar (Stage Manager) has recently been seen in Keith? (Arcola), Richard II (Almeida) and Prom Kween (Edinburgh Fringe). Other theatre credits include: Cleansed, I Want My Hat Back (National Theatre), Future Conditional (Old Vic), The Cherry Orchard (Young Vic), All’s Well That Ends Well, As You Like It, Hamlet, King John (RSC), and as Desdemona in Othello (Shakespeare’s Globe).

Arthur Hughes (George Gibbs) has most recently been seen in the supernatural drama, The Innocents (Netflix). Recent theatre credits include: Saint Joan (Donmar Warehouse), The Solid Life of Sugar Water (Graeae Theatre Company/National Theatre) and Romeo and Juliet (Taking Flight Theatre Company). Extensive radio credits include Home Front (BBC Radio 4).

Francesca Henry (Emily Webb) recently made her professional debut in The Wolves at Stratford East, also directed by Ellen McDougall.

Karl Collins (Dr Gibbs) most recently appeared in Nine Night (Trafalgar Studios). Other theatre credits include: Chimerica (Almeida/Pinter), One Monkey Don’t Stop No Show (Eclipse Theatre/Tricycle), The 11^th Capital (Royal Court) and Fuente Ova Juna (National Theatre). On television Karl appeared in the BAFTA Television Award-winning mini-series This is England 90 and as Louis Loveday in Hollyoaks, and film credits include Twentyfourseven and the BAFTA winning The Unloved.

Pandora Colin (Mrs Gibbs) most recently appeared as Titania in A Misdummer Night’s Dream (Sheffield Crucible). Other recent theatre credits include: Julius Caesar (Sheffield Crucible), The Vote (Donmar Warehouse), Cornelius – Brits off Broadway (59E59 Theatre, New York), The Dark Earth and the Light Sky, The House of Bernarda Alda (Almeida) and After the Dance (National Theatre). On film credits include: Aftermath, Film Stars Don’t Die in Liverpool and The Lady in the Van.

Tom Edden (Editor Webb) recently appeared as part of the Pinter at the Pinter season directed by Jamie Lloyd. Other theatre credits includes: Mr Wormwood in Matilda (Camrbridge), The Resistible Rise of Arturo Ui (Donmar Warehouse), Amadeus (National Theatre), Doctor Faustus (Duke of Yorks), Peter Pan Goes Wrong (Apollo), Thénardier in Les Misérables and Fagin in Oliver! (Sheffield Crucible). On film, credits include: Star Wars Episode VII – The Force Awakens, Disney’s Cinderella and Mr Turner.

Thusitha Jayasundera (Mrs Webb) recently appeared in Stories (National Theatre). Other theatre credits include: Behind The Beautiful Forevers, Crime and Punishment, War Horse (National Theatre), The Vertical Hour (Park Theatre) and Tiger Country (Hampstead), and on television, credits include Humans, Doctor Foster and Broadchurch.

Nicola Sloane (Mrs Soames) recently appeared in Flowers for Mrs Harris (Chichester Festival). Theatre credits also include: Frankenstein, To Kill a Mockingbird (Royal Exchange Manchester), Love in Idleness, A Little Night Music (Menier), London Road (National Theatre), My Fair Lady, Me and My Girl (Sheffield Crucible). Film credits include Red Joan, The Danish Girl, The Theory of Everything, Les Misérables and London Road.

Garry Robson (Constable Warren) was most recently seen in Kiss Me Quickstep (Queen’s Theatre, Hornchurch/New Wolsey/Theatr Clwyd). Other recent theatre credits include: White Christmas (Curve, Leicester), Our Country’s Good (Ramps on the Moon/Nottingham Playhouse and touring), Blanche and Butch (Birds of Paradise), Mother Courage (Tron), The Who’s Tommy (New Wolsey Theatre/Ramps on the Moon), Reasons to be Cheerful and The Threepenny Opera (both with Graeae Theatre Company). He is Artistic Director of the disability led national organisation, Fittings Multimedia Arts.

Joining Director Ellen McDougall are Rosie Elnile (Designer), Sasha Milavic Davies (Movement Director), Orlando Gough (Composer), Lizzie Powell (Lighting Designer), Tom Gibbons (Sound Designer) and David Ridley (Musical Director). Casting is by Jacob Sparrow and Barbara Houseman is Season Associate Director (Voice and Text).

More information | book tickets

Published: 29 March 2019

We are delighted to announce the team joining Director Ellen McDougall to create the opening production of our 2019 season, Our Town – which includes: Rosie Elnile (Designer), Sasha Milavic Davies (Movement Director), Orlando Gough (Composer), Lizzie Powell (Lighting Designer), Tom Gibbons (Sound Designer) and David Ridley (Musical Director). Casting is by Jacob Sparrow and Barbara Houseman is Season Associate Director (Voice and Text).

Also confirmed is Francesca Henry who plays the role of Emily Webb. Francesca recently made her professional debut in The Wolves at Stratford East, also directed by Ellen McDougall. Full casting to be announced in due course.

A Relaxed Performance of Our Town will take place on Thursday 30 May at 2.15pm (gates to the venue will open at 12.45pm). All tickets for this performance will be £25.

Our Town is directed by Ellen McDougall, Artistic Director of the Gate Theatre, where credits include Effigies of Wickedness, The Tale of the Unknown Island and Idomeneus. Other recent credits include: The Wolves (Stratford East), Othello (Shakespeare’s Globe), The Remains of Maisie Duggan (Abbey Theatre, Dublin), The Glass Menagerie (Headlong), Anna Karenina (Royal Exchange Manchester) and Ivan and the Dogs (Olivier Award-nomination, Outstanding Achievement in an Affiliate Theatre/Actors Touring Company/Soho).

Designer Rosie Elnile is an Associate Artist at the Gate Theatre, where she won The Stage Debut Award for her design work on The Convert. Other theatre credits include: The Wolves (Stratford East), The Mysteries (Royal Exchange Manchester), Three Sisters (Royal Exchange Manchester/The Yard), Abandon (Lyric Hammersmith) and, as Costume Designer, The American Clock (Old Vic).

Movement direction is by Sasha Milavic Davies. A founding member and Artistic Associate of The Yard, Sasha makes work in the UK, France, Serbia, and Germany. Recent theatre, as Movement Director/Choreographer includes: Berberian Sound Studio (Donmar Warehouse), Touching the Void (Bristol Old Vic), Pity (Royal Court), The Writer (Almeida) and Jubilee (Royal Exchange, Manchester / Lyric, Hammersmith).

Music composition is by Orlando Gough who, as a composer, lyricist, librettist, music director and recording engineer, writes opera and choral music, and creates large-scale site-specific work.

Lighting Designer Lizzie Powell, has recently worked on productions including Mother Courage and Anna Karenina (Royal Exchange Manchester), Macbeth (RSC), Our Ladies of Perpetual Succour (National Theatre of Scotland/Duke of York’s) and Country Girls (Chichester Festival). She has also worked extensively with Citizens Theatre, Glasgow and National Theatre of Scotland.

Sound Design is by Tom Gibbons, whose recent work includes: All About Eve (Noel Coward), The Wild Duck (Almeida), The Madness of George III (Nottingham Playhouse), The Woods (Royal Court) and Home, I’m Darling (National Theatre/Theatr Clwyd). Tom won the Olivier Award for Best Sound Design for People, Places and Things (Young Vic/Wyndham’s).

Casting Director Jacob Sparrow is part of the internal casting department at the National Theatre, and has worked on their productions including: Hadestown, Pericles, Follies and Amadeus. Musical Director, David Ridley has previously worked on The Duchess of Malfi and Miss Littlewood (RSC), Jane Eyre (National Theatre/Bristol Old Vic) and Last Five Years (Tobacco Factory) and, continuing her work with the Open Air Theatre, Barbara Houseman is Season Associate Director (Voice and Text).

More information | biographies | book tickets

Published: 26 March 2019

As the evenings get lighter (and don't forget the clocks go forward on 31 March) take a look at our new menus for 2019 and complete your Open Air Theatre experience with pre-theatre dining.

There's an extended menu in Covered Dining - where you can enjoy your main course before the show and dessert at the interval - and there's more to choose from at The Grill too, including our new chicken burger and vegan 'pulled pork'.

You can also pre-order a Picnic, Luxury Champagne Hamper or Gin Experience, each created for two people to share, or - for terrific savings - order your wine and champagne ahead of your visit with our Pre-Theatre Drinks Service.

Pre-theatre dining can be added to your booking at any time, but don't miss out as some options have limited availability - and just make sure you select the same date and performance as your tickets!

Find out more | Book pre-theatre dining

Published: 28 February 2019

There’s MOREoutdoor this summer at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre with our series of music, comedy and film events - and tickets are now on sale.

Award-winning comedian Adam Kay shares his experiences as a junior doctor, taken from his Sunday Times bestselling book This is Going to Hurt – and who knows what will happen when audiences challenge the Comedy Store Players to prove their improvisational dexterity?

Music this summer is provided by singer-songwriter Nick Mulvey, who plays a very special one-off solo show at the Open Air Theatre, and film screenings will once again be presented by The Luna Cinema. We’re showing the smash hit movie musical A Star Is Born (with that Academy Award-winning song), the long awaited sequel to Disney’s musical masterpiece Mary Poppins Returns and, if you’re a very naughty boy, then why not look on the bright side of life with Monty Python’s Life of Brian, in celebration of its 40^th anniversary.

Don’t’ forget to check out our pre-event dining options, many of which can be booked in advance.

More on MOREoutdoor

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We are proud to acknowledge The Marylebone as our Hotel Partner for MOREoutdoor.

Located in the heart of bustling Marylebone Village, The Marylebone hotel is within a short walk to Regent’s Park whilst being close to the excitement of Oxford Street, Bond Street and Mayfair. Characterised by its striking design and décor – in places inspired by the great David Hicks, The Marylebone epitomises the vibrant charm of its special London location. Embracing art, design and culture, its guest rooms, suites and public spaces are a celebration of contemporary and antique art and furnishings.

Enjoy a light lunch, afternoon tea, or post theatre dinner and drinks at 108 Bar, 108 Pantry and 108 Brasserie.

More Information @HotelMarylebone @108Marylebone

Published: 28 February 2019

Following the success of The Turn of the Screw last season, we are proud to be working in collaboration with English National Opera once again to present Hansel and Gretel. Sung in English, experience the Grimm Brothers' fairytale anew in this operatic retelling by Engelbert Humperdinck.

Two casts will sing at alternate performances. Rachel Kelly and Heather Lowe share the role of Hansel, with Susanna Hurrell and Elizabeth Karani sharing the role of Gretel. Mother is played by Rosie Aldridge and Gweneth Ann Rand, and Father by Duncan Rock and Ben McAteer. Alasdair Elliott and John Findon share the role of the Witch. Gillian Keith takes the role of the Sandman at all performances, with He Wu as the Dew Fairy.

With 7 lead performers at each performance, an ensemble of 30, and 19 members of the ENO orchestra conducted by rising star Ben Glassberg, this will be the Open Air Theatre’s largest Company.

Joining the already announced director Timothy Sheader, design is by Olivier Award-winner Peter McKintosh (On The Town, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, Crazy for You), movement direction by Lizzi Gee (Little Shop of Horrors), lighting design by Oliver Fenwick (To Kill a Mockingbird, Hobson’s Choice, The Beggar’s Opera) and sound design by Nick Lidster for Autograph (The Turn of the Screw, Peter Pan, Jesus Christ Superstar).

With original libretto by Adelheid Wette after the fairytale Hänsel und Gretel by Jacob Ludwig and Wilhelm Carl Grimm, English translation is by David Pountney. Orchestral reduction is by Derek J Clark.

More information | biographies | book tickets

Published: 18 December 2018

The 2019 season is now on sale

Opening the season, Thornton Wilder’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play Our Town (16 May – 8 June) is directed by Ellen McDougall, Artistic Director of the Gate Theatre.

Continuing our collaboration with English National Opera we present Engelbert Humperdinck’s opera Hansel and Gretel (14 June – 22 June). Sung in English, members of the ENO Orchestra will be conducted by Ben Glassberg, with direction by Open Air Theatre’s Artistic Director, Timothy Sheader.

Dominic Hill, Artistic Director of the Citizens Theatre, Glasgow, then directs a new production of A Midsummer Night's Dream (28 June - 27 July), the first time we’re presented the Dream in seven years.

To conclude the season, Jamie Lloyd directs Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Evita (2 August – 21 September) as our other Rice/Webber hit Jesus Christ Superstar transfers to the Barbican (4 July – 24 August). Evita first premiered in the West End in 1978, and features a chart-topping score including Don’t Cry For Me Argentina, Oh! What A Circus, Another Suitcase in Another Hall, and the Academy Award-winning You Must Love Me, originally performed by Madonna in the motion picture.

OAT2019 | #OurTown | #HanselandGretel | #MidsummerDream | #Evita

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Published: 5 December 2018

We are thrilled to have received our highest number of nominations ever in the WhatsOnStage Awards for Little Shop of Horrors.

We have been nominated for:

Best Musical Revival Best Choreography (for Lizzi Gee) Best Supporting Actress in a Musical (for Vicky Vox) Best Costume Design (for Tom Scutt) Best Set Design (for Tom Scutt) Best Lighting Design (for Howard Hudson) Best Show Poster

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Published: 26 November 2018

It is with sadness that we report that David Conville, founder and former Artistic and Managing Director and Chairman of Regent's Park Open Air Theatre, died peacefully at home on Saturday morning (24 November 2018).

David Henry Conville was born on 4 June, 1929 in Srinagar, Kashmir, India, son of Lt Col Leopold Henry George Conville CBE and Katherine Mary Conville. He graduated from RADA in 1952.

A diverse acting career included roles in Coronation Street, A Little Big Business, Softly Softly, Bergerac, French Fields and Surgical Spirit, and the movies The Curse of the Werewolf and The Fourth Protocol.

In 1962, The Department of the Environment advertised in The Stage for tenders to take over Regent's Park Open Air Theatre following the retirement of founder Robert Atkins. Although the theatre had been struggling financially, David Conville took up the challenge and, with David William as Artistic director, he signed a contract for a three-month summer season. Initial investors included Laurence Olivier, with catering run by Clement Freud. The season opened with A Midsummer Night's Dream on 4 June 1962, a night of abysmal weather. Milton Shulman, reviewing for the Evening Standard, sat in his deck chair (there were no seats at that time), which promptly collapsed under him. This first season also included Twelfth Night and Love's Labours Lost. In 1963 David founded The New Shakespeare Company, a charity and a not-for-profit company.

The theatre grew from strength to strength over the next 25 years, and David directed many productions. His 1977 production of Henry V, featuring Clive Arrindell in the title role and Celia Imrie as Mistress Quickly, was described by The Guardian as "clear and unpretentious...with a warmth of enjoyment and ample delights" and his 1986 production of A Midsummer Night's Dream (a revival of Toby Robertson's earlier production) saw Ralph Fiennes and Hugh Bonneville make their professional debuts, with Bernard Bresslaw as Bottom. In 1983, with Benny Green and composer Denis King, David adapted George Bernard Shaw's The Admirable Bashville into an Olivier Award nominated musical starring Douglas Hodge - the first musical ever to be staged at the theatre.

In 1975 a new auditorium, designed by William Howell - which still forms the basis for the theatre today - was built at a cost of £150,000 - with a 1,200 seat capacity. 1982 saw the Golden Jubilee of the theatre, which was celebrated with a visit from HM The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh. In 1987, David became Chairman of the Company, while Ian Talbot succeeded him as Artistic and Managing Director (Richard Digby Day being Artistic Director between David William and Talbot), and subsequently Honorary President. He retired in 2012 following a 50 year association with theatre, yet remained a staunch supporter and audience member, enjoying his final visit in 2018 at the press night of Little Shop of Horrors.

Besides being a producer, actor, director and playwright, he was President of the Society of West End Theatres for three years, and was awarded the OBE in 1983.

David was married to Jean Margaret Bury (1956-1967) and to actress Philippa Gail from 1970 until her death in 1999. He is survived by his children Clare and Leo.

Published: 7 November 2018

“Magnificent…vivid and compelling” (Evening Standard)

We are excited to announce that our multi award-winning production of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber's Jesus Christ Superstar is back. Playing just 60 performances at the Barbican Theatre (4 July - 24 August) following two sell-out seasons at Regent's Park Open Air Theatre, this "gorgeous, thrilling, heavenly musical" (Guardian) is "an almighty revelation" (Daily Telegraph).

“This cracking revival brings Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s musical to a new generation” (Financial Times)

More Info | Book Tickets

Please note that all performances are at the Barbican Theatre. Casting to be announced.

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Published: 5 October 2018

You will have seen us selling toy hedgehogs over our 2018 Season to raise awareness of Regent’s Park’s vulnerable hedgehog population. The Royal Parks have now completed their 2018 hedgehog surveys and we’re excited to share their key findings with you…

• Over 2 nights 150 volunteers supported the surveys, contributing an incredible 560 hours to the project.
• 30 individual hedgehogs were found, 12 males and 18 females.
• This includes 10 juveniles – which is great news and means the hedgehogs have successfully bred this summer.
• All of the hedgehogs were healthy, a good weight and no injuries were recorded.
• The areas around St John’s Lodge, Cumberland Green and Gloucester Green and The Zoo Car Park were most popular.

Surveys will take place again next year in May and September.

To find out more, or to offer your support to Help the Hedgehogs, visit the Royal Parks website here.

Published: 24 September 2018

This season marks our ninth year of partnership with Mousetrap Theatre Projects. Founded in 1997, Mousetrap enriches the lives of disabled and disadvantaged young people by offering free and heavily subsidised tickets to London theatre, breaking down the financial, social and practical barriers that often prevent them from engaging with the arts.

True to the diversity of the Open Air Theatre’s programme, we have given Mousetrap access to a wide range of productions since 2011 including: Lord of the Flies and To Kill a Mockingbird (both are GCSE set texts); and our Olivier award-winning revivals of Into The Woods, Crazy for You and Jesus Christ Superstar. All schools who come to us via Mousetrap are invited to join in with any existing education projects, such as our lively post-performance Q&A sessions with members of the Peter Pan company earlier this summer.

The quality of productions - "I never thought I could be moved by the story of Peter Pan, but the way they linked it into the First World War…was so powerful. I loved the show so much” – and open air nature of our venue – “The outdoors location was wonderful and the play was made even more enjoyable by the backdrop of a summer sunset” – combine to make a memorable performance for those who rarely, or never, have the chance to go to the theatre.

Take a look below for more information about the projects we support:

Helping schools to overcome crippling budget cuts which make it increasingly harder to gain approval for school trips, theatreopeners offers heavily subsidised tickets to mainstream state secondary schools, prioritising those with a high percentage of students on Free School Meals.

For special schools, complex access requirements often prove a barrier to cultural visits. As part of our ongoing commitment to making the Open Air Theatre accessible to all, theatrejourneys offers supported visits to special schools and provides them with pre-visit activities to enhance their understanding of the different elements involved in theatre. This is supplemented by our own Venue Fact Pack and Production Fact Pack. One teacher who brought pupils to a performance of Peter Pan commented “I had anticipated some might have a bit of difficulty following, it being a story within a story but this was unfounded, mainly as a result of the fabulous resources sent in advance. It was really due to these that the play was so accessible so thank you.”

Beyond its work with schools, Family First Nights helps make theatre accessible for low-income families, many of which have never been to the theatre before. Ahead of their visit to the Open Air Theatre, we provided these families with detailed information on what to expect from their visit to help calm any apprehensions they might have (especially important given the unique nature of our venue). We also provided them with discount vouchers for The Grill to allow them to enjoy the whole Open Air Theatre experience.

Alongside our discounted education tickets, BREEZE membership scheme and under 18 ticket offer, our relationship with Mousetrap is an important part of widening our audience and reaching young people from across London. We look forward to working with them for many summers to come.

More information about our Education offering.

Published: 12 September 2018

Our wonderful Vicky Vox (Audrey II) and Matt Willis (Orin) spoke to BUILD LDN yesterday. Check out their lovely interview; there's a lot of love between the Little Shop of Horrors cast!

Little Shop of Horrors | Until 22 Sep

Buy tickets here.

Published: 5 September 2018

From one ‘mean green mother from outer space’ to another; Ridley Scott’s cinematic masterpiece Alien will be screened in the Park this Sunday. To get you in the mood for some sci-fi under the stars, here are things you might not know about the classic film:

It’s likely you’re aware of what the Alien looks like; designer H.R. Giger’s hybrid of human and technology is one of the darkest and most profoundly disturbing extra-terrestrials in film. The original idea was for the suit to be translucent, allowing audiences to see the inner workings. In actuality the costume didn’t work for Ridley Scott, so it became black in order to blend with the shadows – it also has no eyes!

Bolaji Badejo, a 6’10” Nigerian actor, was cast in the role of the Alien, his lean frame and height adding an other-worldly element to the creature. In fact, a number of people were considered for the role including basketball players, and the actor Peter Mayhew.

Ripley’s character was initially written as a man, a ‘truck drivers in space’ concept that would appeal to the masses. Fox studio head Alan Ladd suggested a new spin, perhaps Ripley could be a woman? A radical concept in the 1970s, but by topping the box office by taking $3.1m in its opening weekend, a gamble worth taking.

John Hurt was a last minute replacement for the role of Kane, when Jon Finch had to drop out on the first day of filming due to illness. Although originally considered for the role, but unable to commit due to a scheduling conflict, it was pure chance that he was suddenly available – the stars certainly aligned in his favour, in what was to become one of his most recognisable roles.

The Alien franchise has become one of the biggest successes of the genre, spawning a total of 9 films: Alien (1979), Aliens (1986), Alien³ (1992), Alien Resurrection (1997), Alien vs. Predator (2004), Aliens vs. Predator: Requiem (2007), Prometheus (2012), Alien: Covenant (2017), and Alien: Awakening (2019 release). Watch the original that started it all on the big screen beneath the stars this Sunday – remember ‘in space no one can hear you scream’!

For tickets, click here.

Published: 4 September 2018

Little Shop of Horrors set and costume designer, Tom Scutt, returns following his Open Air Theatre debut with Jesus Christ Superstar. It was his designs for Superstar, “tricked out with glitter dust and an industrial-looking set” that “contributed to the heard-edged feel of the whole”. “Its rusty cruciform walkway, sets the tone for an evening that may not be subtle but genuinely pulsates with emotion” (The Guardian). During its run at the Lyric Opera of Chicago earlier this year, The Chicago Sun Times confirmed that his “smoke-coloured costumes give the piece a timeless feel, as does his towering, sleek, steel-and-scaffolding set”.

On tackling Little Shop of Horrors, Tom got to thinking about the original 1960’s black and white film by Roger Corman “which had a completely subversive, anarchic quality”. The musical version by Howard Ashman and Alan Menken has been around for 36 years “and it has slipped into musical theatre history. It is so accepted and so known, that the element of subversion and anarchy and weirdness has slightly gone away. Every moment we can, we want to find ways to debunk it, smash it, break through the perceived way this show has been delivered, and keep the audience guessing every step of the way.” We think he succeeded!

“The first sight of Tom Scutt’s set for this production…is one of the most impressive visions I’ve seen anywhere in theatreland this year.” (★★★★★ The New European)

“Having recently redefined Jesus Christ Superstar for a whole new generation of theatregoers…this new take on Little Shop of Horrors is an unqualified triumph. It has never looked quite as exciting or outlandish as it does here, with inspired, witty designs by Tom Scutt.” (★★★★★ WhatsOnStage)

“A black-and-white New York skyline slowly turns ‘emerald city’ as green spreads over Scutt’s set, while his floristry is inventive: acid-bright kitchen utensils and toilet brushes form improbable blooms. And he really lets rip in the costume department with a final propagating pageant of spangled, silly, sexually suggestive alien plants.” (★★★★★ Mail on Sunday)

“Tom Scutt’s design brilliantly creates a comic-book urban landscape among the real, whispering foliage of Regent’s Park.” (★★★★★ The Times)

“There’s exceptional work from…designer Tom Scutt, whose approach to costume is to start with a ton of green glitter and a glue gun, then send out for more.” (★★★★★ Financial Times)

“Redesigned by Tom Scutt and housed inside a gorgeous scenic design that treats its audience almost like a hawk as you peer over the action, a trip to Skid Row has really never looked so sexy. The finale is worth the ticket price alone.” (★★★★★ Gay Times)

Concluding its run on 22 September BOOK TICKETS NOW

“Riotously fun...a surefire contender for bags of awards come the end of the year…there’s no excuse for missing this show.” (★★★★★ City AM)

Published: 29 August 2018

The Stage newspaper recently caught up with Little Shop director Maria Aberg, and quick-fired some Q&As about her career and influences.

What was your first non-theatre job? Working for my dad’s business, which made shop fittings for stores such as H&M. My sister, my brother and I used to spend the summer welding bits of Perspex together in the factory. It was cool.

What was your first professional theatre job? Literary assistant at the Royal Court.

What’s your next job? A big project for the Royal Shakespeare Company that will culminate in 2020. I’m not allowed to talk about it yet because it hasn’t been announced.

What do you wish someone had told you when you were starting out? Dominic Cooke came in to talk to the directors on the course at the National Theatre, and he said: “Don’t worry about the career, worry about the work.” That is the best piece of advice ever – so I actually had the advice I really needed.

Who or what was your biggest influence? Pina Bausch. I went to see The Rite of Spring and Cafe Muller when they came to Malmo when I was about 15, and I remember thinking: “This is just something else.” It’s stayed with me a long time. There’s something about the strength and vulnerability of the women in those pieces that’s quite astonishing.

What’s your best advice for auditions? I figured out a while back that the people who nail it in the room are not necessarily the people you should cast. You need to see a glimpse of someone working in the same direction you want to move in. It doesn’t have to be finished that’s what rehearsals are for. So for an actor, I’d say, have some genuine thoughts about the work, and engage with the big ideas.

If you hadn’t been a director, what would you have been? I would have been a florist – which is interesting, given the show I’m doing. I’ve always fancied that.

Do you have any theatrical superstitions or rituals? No.

Read Maria’s full interview

Published: 24 August 2018

On Sunday 26 August, The Luna Cinema present the 1997 movie Spice World - the first of our 2018 film screenings. But what do you remember of the year that introduced us to Harry Potter, Tony Blair as Prime Minister, Channel 5 - and the year that the Spice Girls dominated the pop world?

3 January: Evita is released on film starring Madonna as Eva Peron 4January: The Spice Girls achieve a number one single with ‘2 Become 1’, and their album ‘Spice’ tops the album chart (it tops the charts for a total number of 10 weeks during the year) 15 January: Princess Diana calls on an international ban on landmines 16 February: Martin Guerre wins Best New Musical in the Olivier Awards. Other winners include Robert Lindsay (Best Actor in a Musical, Oliver!), Maria Friedman (Best Actress in a Musical, Passion), Art (Best Comedy) and Stanley (Play of the Year) 7 March: Tom Cruise stars in Jerry Maguire 15 March: The Spice Girls hit number one with ‘Mama’ / ‘Who Do You Think You Are’ 25 March: The English Patient wins 9 Academy Awards 28 March: Baz Luhrmann’s Romeo+Juliet stars Leonardo DiCaprio and Claire Danes 30 March: Channel 5 is launched 1 May: Tony Blair leads a landslide victory for the Labour Party in the General Election 2 May: The first of the Scream franchise of films is released, starring Neve Campbell, Courteney Cox and David Arquette 3 May: Katrina and the Waves win the Eurovision Song Contest with ‘Love Shine a Light’ (and we haven’t won since) 26 June: ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’, J.K.Rowling’s first Harry Potter novel, is published 1 July: The UK transfers sovereignty of Hong Kong, to largest remaining British colony, to the People’s Republic of China 19 July: The IRA declare a ceasefire 29 August: The Full Monty is released in UK cinemas 31 August: Princess Diana is fatally injured in a car crash in Paris, instigating worldwide mourning 13 September: The release of Elton John’s ‘Candle in the Wind’, becomes the second best-selling single worldwide, beaten only by Bing Crosby’s 1942 release of ‘White Christmas’ 15 October: A new land speed record of 763.035mph is achieved by Andy Green – the first time the sound barrier has been broken on land 25 October: ‘Spice Up Your Life’ is another number one hit for The Spice Girls 1 November: Aqua’s ‘Barbie Girl’ starts 4 weeks at number one 15 November: ‘Spiceworld’ tops the album charts 18 November: Titanic receives a Royal Film Premiere in the presence of HRH Prince Charles 20 November: The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary 11 December: The Royal Yacht Britannia is decommissioned after 44 years in service. 12 December: Pierce Brosnan and Teri Hatcher star in the eighteenth Bond movie, Tomorrow Never Dies 21 December: The Spice Girls topped the UK charts with ‘Too Much’ (knocking the Teletubbies off the top spot) 26 December: Spice World is released in British Cinemas, featuring not only the Emma, Victoria, Geri, Mel B and Mel C, but also Roger Moore, Meat Loaf, Jools Holland, Richard Briers, Stephen Fry, Jennifer Suanders, Elton John, Bob Geldof, Jonathan Ross, Bob Hoskins, Richard E Grant, Barry Humphries...and many more!

Book Tickets for Spice World, Sunday 26 August 2018

Published: 22 August 2018

In case you don’t know what you’re missing...then this is what you’re missing!

“This production is like you’ve never seen it before” The Times

“A joyous, sweetly subversive romp in a magical horticultural setting” The Sunday Times

“It’ll be hard to find a production of this classic musical that will ever delight and amaze as much as this one” A Younger Theatre

“Riotously fun…a surefire contender for bags of awards come the end of the year” CityAm

“What Bob Flowerdew would make of it is anyone’s guess” Daily Express

With tickets from £25, don't miss your chance to see Little Shop of Horrors - "a night at the theatre you won't forget in a long time" Gay Times

Book Tickets | More Information

And don't forget to check out the skidrow blog

Published: 16 August 2018

“Triumphant…what an ebullient end to a glorious season.” (Evening Standard)

★★★★★ “Gloriously succulent and deliciously sinister; exuberantly excessive, and as thrillingly, dangerously seductive as a beribboned bouquet of triffids.” (The Times)

★★★★★ “Inventive sets, wild costumes and a predatory drag-queen flower: what more do you want?” (The Financial Times)

★★★★★ “Watch the joyous (and fabulous) wonders of Vicky Vox grow and grow into a night at the theatre you won’t forget in a long time!” (Gay Times)

★★★★★ “Spectacular…Marc Antolin is a delight; Jemima Rooper is glorious; Matt Willis is tremendous. A blooming joyous experience no-one should miss.” (Express Online)

★★★★★ “The mother of reinvention you should beg, steal, borrow or even kill to see.” (Attitude)

★★★★★ “An unqualified triumph. Do not miss it.” (WhatsOnStage)

For a round-up of news, photos and interviews, including coverage from our glittering opening night, visit www.skidrow.blog.

Book Tickets Now – “you’d be mad to miss this uplifting revival” (The Independent)

With under a week until Dinosaur World Live opens at the Park, let loose in the theatre the dinosaurs caused a bit of chaos!

There was pandemonium when the Triceratops felt peckish in the Park.

Our chefs had to flee the kitchen when the mischievous baby T-rex appeared. Does this seem familiar?

Once shooed from the kitchen, the ladies toilets were the next obvious playground.

With a roar the T-rex lead the way towards the stage.

Are you ready for a Jurassic adventure?!

Dinosaur World Live, 14 Aug - 9 Sep. More information | Buy tickets

Published: 8 August 2018

“Stop right where you are, doncha move a thing” – MORE TICKETS JUST RELEASED as Little Shop of Horrors extends its run to 22 September.

“Who’da believed it?”. With over 36,000 tickets now sold for Little Shop of Horrors, and a standing ovation at every preview performance, don’t miss your chance to meet this mean green mother from outer space!

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Published: 3 August 2018

Our highly anticipated production of Little Shop of Horrors has arrived, with reduced priced previews running from 3 – 9 August (7.45pm).

“Musicals at this exquisite venue in Regent’s Park have, quite rightly, become key fixtures on London’s cultural calendar in the summer months. Levels of ambition and accomplishment increase yearly.” (Evening Standard)

And with Little Shop of Horrors, you should expect the unexpected…so “ev’rybody better beware” (as Ronnette, Chiffon and Crystal pronounce).

With over 30,000 tickets already sold, and availability limited for the first couple of weeks, don’t risk missing Seymour, Audrey, Mr Mushnik, Orin and Audrey II – and the misfits of Skid Row – in this mean green monster musical.

Book Tickets

For more of our news from Skid Row, visit skidrow.blog

Published: 10 July 2018

As You Like It, with design by Naomi Dawson and lighting design by Howard Hudson (who lit our production of On The Town in 2017), officially opens this week. Max Webster’s new production, punctuated with wonderful new songs by Charlie Fink, is the perfect treat for a summer’s day.

The Forest of Arden has never looked so sumptuous, but look closely at our production photos and you’ll discover a world created from recycled and upcycled paraphernalia, where climate change brings flooding after rain that “raineth every day”.

Playing until 28 July, join us under the greenwood tree for Shakespeare’s most sparkling of romantic comedies.

View Photo Gallery | Book Tickets

Published: 5 July 2018

This week Canard-Duchêne, Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre’s champagne sponsor, celebrate their 150th anniversary. It’s a moment to remember a young couple, barrel maker Victor Canard and a local grower’s daughter, Léonie Duchêne, from the hillside village of Ludes outside Reims, in the Northern-most area of the Champagne region. Following a whirlwind romance, the couple were married in 1860 and, in 1868, they created the Champagne house, Canard-Duchêne.

Of the three main grape varieties permitted in the Champagne appellation (Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay), Canard-Duchêne’s unique identity stems from the character and elegance of Pinot Noir.

Canard-Duchêne became popular with Czar Nicholas II and the Imperial Court of Russia, and they were granted the right to adopt its coat of arms; the crowned double-headed eagle has appeared on every Canard-Duchêne label since the end of the 19th Century. In 1978, ownership passed to Veuve Clicquot, who subsequently became part of the luxury brand group, LVMH (which also includes Dior, Dom Perrignon, Givenchy, Moët and Chandon and Louis Vuitton).

In 2003, Alain Thiénot’s independent Champagne group, Thiénot, purchased Canard-Duchêne, and it remains one of the few wineries in Champagne to be family-run.

The original chateau was severely damaged in the two world wars and subsequently demolished, but under Alain Thiénot’s watch, the original limestone cellars – dug out by hand in the 19^th Century – have been restored. Now back in use, the cellars extend over six kilometers and four levels, between 12 and 38 meters deep.

Conceived from a romance some 150 years ago, and exuding a sense of joy (and an element of cheekiness), it is fitting that Canard-Duchêne’s week of celebration coincides with the opening of our latest production, Shakespeare’s most sparkling of romantic comedies, As You Like It.

As You Like It | 6 – 28 July | Book Tickets

Pre-order your bottle of Canard-Duchêne Champagne ahead of your visit:

Curvée Léonie ABV 12% £40.00 (a saving of £7.50)

| more information | pre-order

Charles VII Rose ABV 12% £72.50 (a saving of £25)

| more information | pre-order

Or purchase our Canard-Duchene Luxury Champagne Hamper £89.95

| more information & pre-order

The newly restored cellars.

Published: 27 June 2018

The reviews are in for The Turn of the Screw and, as the Rupert Christiansen writes in the Daily Telegraph: “it’s hard to imagine a more aptly evocative setting for Britten’s masterly adaptation of Henry James’s ghost story than the Open Air Theatre”.

“REVELATORY - A stunning re-imagination of Britten's ghost opera from ENO and Regent's Park Theatre.” (WhatsOnStage)

“Britten’s score becomes increasingly suggestive of evil forces insidiously whittling away the sanity of trusting innocents.” (The Times)

“Soutra Gilmour’s set is a masterpiece.” (Financial Times)

“There is a feeling of something unworldly…a psychological drama, in which the corruption of innocence is all too real.” (Evening Standard)

“This superb production creeps into every corner of the outdoor space, as the battle for children’s souls intensifies. Timothy Sheader’s production left me feeling that we were watching a genuine contest with forces of evil.” (The Guardian)

“The singing is superb and one sensed that every member of the capacity audience was spellbound” (Opera Today)

“Accomplished, sophisticated and disturbing.” (Broadway World)

The production closes on Saturday 30 June, and ticket availability is limited.

Book Tickets

Published: 25 June 2018

We are delighted to welcome the Little Shop of Horrors cast to the Park on Day 1 of rehearsals in our brand new rehearsal rooms! Following introductions, Designer Tom Scutt, gave an exciting insight into the subversive and anarchic vision for the show. Expect something truly riotous, and maybe a even a bit of voguing…!

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In case you missed it, here's a glimpse of the cast in action at West End Live on 16 June on our Skid Row blog.

Skidrow.blog

Published: 19 June 2018

There’s something afoot in the Forest of Arden! One of Shakespeare’s most popular plays, it is clear from our rehearsal photos for As You Like It that there is fun to be had ‘under the greenwood tree’!

Max Webster’s production opens on 6 July, with Olivia Vinall as Rosalind, Edward Hogg as Orlando, Beruce Khan as Oliver and Keziah Joseph as Celia.

View Gallery | Book Tickets

Published: 13 June 2018

With just over a week before The Turn of the Screw opens (22 June), here’s your chance to take a look at the production in rehearsal. The casts are rehearsing on the two tier set, the frame of which has been constructed in the rehearsal room. The orchestra (of 13 players) will be located behind the performers, with the acting space downstage.

The original novella by Henry James, on which the Benjamin Britten/Myfanwy Piper opera is based, was first published in 1898, when one reviewer described it as ‘the most hopelessly evil story that we have ever read’.

The Turn of the Screw traces the story of a young, inexperienced governess who is charged with the care of Miles and Flora, two small orphaned children abandoned by their uncle at his grand country house. The governess sees the figure of an unknown man on the tower and his face at the window; she also sees a woman. Mrs Grose, the housekeeper identifies the man as Peter Quint (the master’s valet) and the woman as Miss Jessel (the former governess); but both are dead.

A subtle, self-conscious exploration of the haunted house of Victorian culture, The Turn of the Screw can be read as a straightforward frightening ghost story. But are the apparitions of Quint and Miss Jessel what they seem? Henry James imbues his text with sexual and social unease, which give the story an eerily equivocal atmosphere. Might these apparitions actually be in the governess’s head?

When writing the opera, Britten told librettist Myfanwy Piper “Don’t worry about having the characters act in a haunted way or say spooky things. Leave all that to the music.” Performed in the open air, this will certainly be a production to experience!

View Photos | Book Tickets

Published: 7 June 2018

There’s just one week remaining to catch our ★★★★★ “thrilling” (FT) production of Peter Pan.

Set in 1918, the production coincides with the World War One Centenary Commemorations. As Mrs Darling watches over the empty beds of Wendy, John and Michael, how many other mothers between 1914-1918 wondered if their sons would return home? The Lost Boys of Never Land suggest the boys lost in conflict who were never to return to their parents..

★★★★★ “The genius of Timothy Sheader and Liam Steel’s Peter Pan is that it cross-fertilises the innocence of the pre-war years with the horrors that followed.” Daily Telegraph

★★★★★ “As the fantasy world of Never Land bleeds into the grim arena of conflict, poppies sprout from mattresses, and uniformed troops scurry up and down scaffolding to hoist the rigging for a pirate galleon.” The Times

★★★★★ “Inventive, revelatory, and deeply affecting, the glorious puppetry (Tinker Bell, a crocodile and mermaids made from gas masks, a stepladder and battlefield detritus) leaves the children in the audience enchanted.” Sunday Express

★★★★★ “The multi-ethnic company’s casting is seemingly ‘colour-blind’, bar Raphael Bushay’s portrayal of Nibs, an enlisted Caribbean soldier/Lost Boy. This nod to the 16,000 Caribbean troops that fought in the British West Indian Regiment is refreshing, in a context where the contributions of some four million black and Asian men to the war effort are rarely acknowledged in popular culture.” Afridiziak

★★★★★ “It’s rare to find a show that can delight young and old in equal measure, but Peter Pan pulls it off. An enlightening interpretation of the original that will touch adults - and copious adventure, excitement and wonder to keep kids enthralled” Culture Whisper

★★★★★ “A night of pure theatre” Daily Express

Final performance: Friday 15 June. Book Tickets

To find out more about World War One Centenary Commemorations across the country visit 1914.org

Published: 31 May 2018

We caught up with Dennis Herdman who plays the villainous Captain Hook, and sidekick Caroline Deyga, playing the loveable Smee.

“The man is not wholly evil – he has a Thesaurus in his cabin.” (Captain Hook as described by J. M. Barrie in Peter Pan) – what do you make of Hook’s character?

DH: Looking at the script, and reading the book, I think he’s probably motherless and is in need of mothering – just like Peter Pan. He’s envious of Peter’s cockiness, his lack of care, and his lust for life. Peter is wild, and Hook can’t really deal with that so he seeks to destroy it.

Hook being eaten by a crocodile is the perfect ending; perhaps the audience should feel a twinge of regret that he dies – hopefully because they enjoy watching Hook, but maybe because they see a bit of his vulnerability.

Smee is a bit of a buffoon, but also a pirate with a good heart, for example Smee offers to save Wendy from the plank, if only she promises to be his mother – an offer she refuses, in Barrie's words, "Not even for Smee" – what kind of Smee are we going to see in this production?

CD: Smee, traditionally, is the dopey pirate, but actually in our production all of the pirates are pretty dopey, so Smee actually ends up being the brains of the operation! A lot of the ideas come from Smee, however unintentional – for example, it’s her idea to kidnap Wendy. If she’s the brains, then the rest of the pirates are definitely the brawn; although she threatens violence a lot, she doesn’t actively participate.

Our Smee is a woman, so there is a slightly different dynamic than normal, but essentially Smee is still Smee, and based on the character in the book. We don’t really make a thing out of it; Smee is referred to as ‘he’ for the majority of the show, because maybe it’s never come up in conversation? She’s never made a thing of it, and they’ve never even asked!

What’s the relationship between Hook and Smee? Does this bear any resemblance to your relationship off-stage?

CD: Smee looks up to Captain Hook quite a lot, and I look up to Dennis; he’s a brilliant Hook, and I’ve learnt a lot from working with him and watching him in rehearsals.

DH: I hope I’m less condescending in real life! In terms of Smee being the accidental or secret brains of the operation, Caroline is also really astute and a great organiser! We rely on Caroline, in the same way that Hook relies on Smee; Hook tells Smee his plans not just because it’s safe to tell her, but because Smee comes up with plans and often hits the nail on the head!

CD: And, although we are a duo, we are actually a trio with Starkey. Kyle (Lima) who plays Starkey is a big part of our relationship. There’s a competition between Starkey and Smee, viaing for Hook’s attention, love, and admiration. I love acting alongside Kyle and Dennis – we talk a lot about things we want to try as a trio, and share the same sense of humour.

This show is full of puppetry – how does this enhance the storytelling?

DH: This is a world of a child’s imagination; flying and playing at pirates and mermaids. It should be a visual treat and it’s a great theatre for that. It’s wonderful to fire the imagination of the audience with brilliant puppets and puppeteers.

CD: The way that the puppets in this production are made is really clever. There are two distinct worlds, WW1 and Never Land; Never Land is in Wendy’s mind and comes from her experience as a WW1 nurse. The puppets are made out of things from that world: gas masks, lamps and suitcases. I find it amazing that I never look at them and don’t full accept that that’s what they’re supposed to be.

Elisa who plays Tinker Bell is so wonderful. Playing such an integral character who is a puppet and speaks in her own indistinct fairy language is a huge challenge. However, the response from the audience when she dies, and they have to help bring her back to life, says it all; there’s no hesitation in clapping and saying they believe in fairies – they’ve fallen in love with her and want her to live.

Why should people come and see the show?

CD: I think Peter Pan is one of the most magical stories ever written, and I think that Regent’s Park is one of the most magical theatres; it’s a perfect match. At an evening show, at the end of a performance when it’s dark and the stars are out, you watch Peter Pan fly, you’re not going to get that elsewhere – that’s really special.

DH: Your imagination will soar and your heart will break. You want to be moved and to laugh when you go to the theatre, and that will happen here.

Book tickets

Published: 23 May 2018

We are excited to announce our cast for As You Like It, which opens on 6 July.

Olivia Vinall and Edward Hogg take the roles of Rosalind and Orlando, with Keziah Joseph and Beruce Khan in the roles of Celia and Oliver. Danny Kirrane plays Touchstone with Maureen Beattie as Jaques.

With original music by former ‘Noah and Whale’ frontman Charlie Fink, also joining the cast are Amy Booth-Steel (Audrey/Singer), Me’sha Bryan (Amiens/Singer), Joanne McGuinness (Phebe/Singer), Jacade Simpson (Silvius/Singer), Jack Beale (Le Beau/Actor Musician) and Silas Wyatt-Barke (William/Actor Musician).

Completing the cast are: Simon Armstrong (Duke Fredrick/Duke Senior), Gary Lilburn (Adam/Martext), Kristian Phillips (Charles the Wrestler/Jaques De Boys) and John Stahl (Corin).

Book Tickets

Olivia Vinall (Rosalind) recently played the dual roles of Laura Fairlie and Anne Catherick in BBC1’s new adaptation of The Woman in White. Previous theatre credits include The Chekhov Trilogy (Chichester Festival/National Theatre), Cordelia in King Lear, and Desdemona in Othello (National Theatre).

Edward Hogg (Orlando) recently appeared as Romeo in Romeo and Juliet at Shakespeare’s Globe, where he has also appeared in Measure for Measure and The Tempest. Other theatre credits include Our Class, The Pillowman (National Theatre); Pictures from an Exhibition, Our Country’s Good (Young Vic) and Rock ‘n’ Roll (Royal Court/Duke of Yorks). He appeared on film in Once Upon a Time in Warsaw, Adult Life Skills, Mary Queen of Scots, The Comedian and White Lightnin’, and television credits include Taboo and Indian Summers.

Keziah Joseph (Celia) recently played Mowgli in The Jungle Book (UK Tour). Previous theatre credits include Kanye the First (HighTide Tour) and Silver Lining (Rose Theatre, Kingston).

Beruce Khan (Oliver) previously appeared at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre in Henry V. Other recent credits include Twelfth Night and A Christmas Carol (RSC); Hamlet (Shakespeare’s Globe International Tour); Romeo and Juliet (Shakespeare’s Globe); The Madness of George III, The History Boys (UK Tour) and The Black Album (National Theatre).

Danny Kirrane (Touchstone) previously appeared in A Little Hotel on the Side (Theatre Royal Bath); Three Sisters (Young Vic); Boys, Romeo and Juliet (Headlong); The History Boys (National Theatre) and Jerusalem (Royal Court/Apollo/Broadway). Television credits include Poldark, Game of Thrones, Wasted, Doctor Thorne and New Blood, with film credits including Pirates of the Caribbean.

Maureen Beattie (Jaques) has appeared extensively at the RSC, including The Histories, Titus Andronicus and Macbeth, and recently appeared in The Ferryman (Gielgud), Yerma (Young Vic) and Neaptide (National Theatre). She also appeared in Max Webster’s production of The Winter’s Tale (Royal Lyceum Theatre, Edinburgh).

Simon Armstrong (Duke Fredrick/Duke Senior) has appeared in The Winter’s Tale, Pericles and Hamlet (Tour) for Shakespeare’s Globe, with television credits including Game of Thrones and The Hollow Crown. Gary Lilburn (Adam/Martext) appeared in The Taming of the Shrew and A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Shakespeare’s Globe); The Cripple of Inishmaan (Michael Grandage Company); Calendar Girls (Chichester Festival/West End); The Weir (Royal Court) and in the film Philomena. Kristian Phillips (Charles the Wrestler/Jaques De Boys) appeared in Richard III (Almeida); as Lennie in Of Mice and Men (Birmingham Rep/UK Tour) and Season’s Greetings (Theatre Clwyd). John Stahl (Corin) has appeared regularly at the RSC, Shakespeare’s Globe and Traverse Theatre, and recently appeared in Max Webster’s production of The Winter’s Tale (Royal Lyceum Theatre, Edinburgh). Film credits include Mary Queen of Scots directed by Josie Rouke, and Victoria and Abdul.

Amy Booth-Steel (Audrey/Singer) appeared in Anita and Me (Birmingham Rep); Betty Blue Eyes (Mercury Theatre/West Yorkshire Playhouse) and The Light Princess and One Man Two Guvnors (National Theatre). Me’sha Bryan (Amiens/Singer) recently appeared as The Washing Machine in Caroline or Change (Chichester Festival/Hampstead), Joanne McGuinness (Phebe/Singer) in Our Ladies of Perpetual Succour (National Theatre/Melbourne Festival) and Jacade Simpson (Silvius/Singer) in The Book of Mormon (Prince of Wales). Jack Beale (Le Beau/Actor Musician) played the Guy in Once (Phoenix) and appeared in The Lorax (Old Vic); Spend, Spend, Spend (The Watermill) and Brief Encounter (UK Tour/Kneehigh). Silas Wyatt-Barke (William/Actor Musician) appeared in The Lorax (Old Vic); Forty Years On (Chichester Festival) and Sunny Afternoon (Harold Pinter).

Published: 12 May 2018

In this, the centenary of the end of WW1, our production of Peter Pan, which opens on Thursday, remembers a generation of lost boys. Our war-time framing of this iconic play is echoed elsewhere in the Park, with a pop-up WW1 mail sorting office opening on Cumberland Green – evoking the giant wooden building called the ‘Home Depot’ that handled all the mail from the front line 100 years ago.

Two free public events, hosted by The Royal Parks charity and The Royal Parks Guild on Saturday 12th and 19th May, 2018, invite the public to discover the vital role played by London’s Royal Parks during wartime Britain.

During the war, soldiers and their families sent over two billion letters and 140 million parcels. Every single item of post sent to members of the British Army went through the Home Depot at The Regent’s Park. It was sorted by thousands of postal workers – many of whom were women - and sent on to soldiers across the world.

The sorting office was believed to be the largest wooden building in the world - initially it covered four acres of The Regent’s Park and was then extended, increasing its area to just over five acres.

Now one hundred years on, visitors are invited to join an immersive experience, bringing to life the story of the 2,500 people who worked there to make sure soldiers' mail was delivered safely, securely and quickly.

For more information, please visit the Royal Parks website here.

To book tickets to Peter Pan, please click here.

Published: 26 April 2018

We are excited to announce our casting for Little Shop of Horrors, which opens on 3 August 2018.

Marc Antolin and Jemima Rooper play Seymour and Audrey, with Forbes Masson in the role of East Side florist Mr Mushnik. Matt Willis takes the role of sadistic dentist Orin, and the plant, Audrey II, is played by U.S. drag queen Vicky Vox.

Director Maria Aberg: “The figure of Audrey II represents chaos at the heart of the downtrodden, deeply conventional world of Skid Row. She is everything Seymour's existence is not - anarchic, queer, wickedly funny. Borne out of his greed, combined with his secret desires, the plant explodes like an out-of-control after party onto the stage, seducing and terrifying in equal measure, all with a knowing glint in the eye and a filthy sense of humour. Fuelled by Seymour's own wish for success she grows increasingly demanding, increasingly glamorous, and increasingly unreasonable, until she's conquered the whole of New York and the show erupts in a huge, defiant celebration of the subversive and the downright fabulous.”

Keep up to date with news on Little Shop of Horrors via https://skidrow.blog/

Book Tickets

Marc Antolin (Seymour) is currently appearing as Marc Chagall in The Flying Lovers of Vitebsk (Kneehigh / UK / USA Tour) and returns to the Open Air Theatre following appearances in Hello, Dolly! and Into The Woods. Recent credits also include Twelfth Night, Romantics Anonymous (The Globe / Sam Wanamaker); Peter Pan (National Theatre); The Trial (Young Vic); Taken at Midnight (Haymarket / Chichester Festival); Amadeus, Singin’ in the Rain (Chichester Festival); Matilda (RSC / Cambridge Theatre) and the film London Road.

Jemima Rooper (Audrey) recently appeared as Karen Marston in Death in Paradise (BBC); Trauma (ITV); Atlantis (BBC) and Hex (Sky One). Theatre credits include Me and My Girl (Sheffield Crucible - Best Performance in a Musical nomination, UK Theatre Awards); One Man, Two Guvnors (National Theatre / UK Tour / West End / Broadway - Best Supporting Actress nomination, WhatsOnStage Awards); Blithe Spirit (Gielgud / US Tour); All My Sons (Gielgud - Best Supporting Actress nomination, WhatsOnStage Awards) and The Norman Conquests (Chichester Festival). She also appeared in the films Kinky Boots and The Black Dahlia.

Vicky Vox (Audrey II) is a U.S. drag queen, working extensively on the West Coast. Originally from New Jersey, she performed in the band DWV with songs becoming viral hits on YouTube and, in 2013, performed at the ‘Life Ball’ in Vienna. On film Vicky appeared in movie Magic Mike XXL. Little Shop of Horrors marks her theatre debut.

Matt Willis (Orin) first found fame as bassist, vocalist and writer for the pop-punk band Busted. After several chart successes, including four number one singles, they dispersed in 2005 and Matt embarked on a solo career, releasing the singles Up All Night, Hey Kid, Don’t Let It Go To Waste, and a cover version of Crash for the film Mr Bean’s Holiday. In 2013, members of Busted joined with McFly to form the supergroup McBusted. Busted re-formed in 2016. Matt’s theatre credits include Footloose (Shaftesbury Theatre); Flashdance The Musical (UK Tour) and as Fiyero in Wicked (Apollo Victoria). In December 2017 he also appeared in The Christmasaurus (Eventim Apollo). Since winning I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here! Matt has enjoyed a successful career as a TV presenter, and also appeared in EastEnders, and as Garth Stubbs in the revival of Birds of a Feather.

Forbes Masson (Mr Mushnik) was most recently seen in Summer and Smoke (Almeida). Having appeared extensively with the Royal Shakespeare Company, other recent theatre credits include Big Fish (The Other Palace); Boudica (Shakespeare's Globe); Terror (Lyric Hammersmith); Travesties (Apollo Theatre / Menier Chocolate Factory); Doctor Faustus (Duke of York’s) and Mr Foote's Other Leg (Hampstead Theatre/Theatre Royal Haymarket). Television includes Catastrophe, Doctors, Shetland: Dead Water; EastEnders; Young Person's Guide To Becoming A Rock Star and The High Life.

The cast also includes Renée Lamb, Seyi Omooba and Christina Modestou as Chiffon, Crystal and Ronnette. Renée Lamb recently appeared as Catherine of Aragon in SIX (Arts Theatre). Seyi Omooba appeared in Boxed (Vaults Theatre); Little Beasts (Other Palace); Ragtime (Charing Cross Theatre) and The Color Purple (Cadogan Hall). Christina Modestou recently appeared as Anne Boleyn in SIX (Arts Theatre) and in the 20^th anniversary production of Rent (UK Tour). Christina’s other recent credits include The Last Mermaid (Wales Millennium Centre); Shrek (UK Tour); Urinetown (Apollo); In The Heights (Southwark Playhouse) and We Will Rock You (Dominion).

Completing the cast are: Joe Allen, Josh Baker, Billy Cullum, Julian Hoult, Rosalind James, Bobbie Little, Helen Siveter and Mary Lynn Tiep.

Published: 24 April 2018

Currently starring in the dual roles of Laura Fairlie and Anne Catherick in BBC1’s new adaptation of The Woman in White, we are thrilled to confirm that Olivia Vinall will play the role of Rosalind in As You Like It (06 Jul – 28 Jul).

Olivia’s previous credits include The Chekhov Trilogy (Chichester Festival / National Theatre) in the roles of Nina (The Seagull), Sofya (Platonov) and Sasha (Ivanov); Hilary in The Hard Problem, Cordelia in King Lear, and Desdemona in Othello (National Theatre) and on television, Maigret and Apple Tree Yard.

Full casting for As You Like It will be announced in due course.

Published: 6 April 2018

We are excited to confirm the announcement by Stephen Gabriel, President and Executive Producer of Work Light Productions, that our Olivier and Evening Standard Award-winning production of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s iconic musical Jesus Christ Superstar will commence a North American Tour in the Autumn of 2019.

“Superstar speaks to both theatre audiences and concert music fans. This production pays tribute to the historic 1971 Billboard Album of the Year while creating a modern, theatrical world that is uniquely fresh and inspiring,” said Stephen Gabriel, President of Work Light Productions.

Directed by Timothy Sheader, the creative team also includes Tom Scutt (set and costume design), Drew McOnie (choreography), Tom Deering (music supervision) and Lee Curran (lighting design). The Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre production won the 2017 Olivier Award for Best Musical Revival and Evening Standard Award for Best Musical, selling out two consecutive engagements in 2016 and 2017.

Jesus Christ Superstar is a proven musical phenomenon with a world-wide fan base. As demonstrated by NBC’s Jesus Christ Superstar Live in Concert, this epic work attracted over 9.6 million viewers, earned the highest ratings in its time period, and received the highest critical ranking of any live musical event on network TV. Now, almost 10 years after the last major tour in the US, this award-winning Regent’s Park production will play over 50 markets throughout North America.

For more information visit JesusChristSuperstar.com

Published: 6 April 2018

The Lyric Opera of Chicago, have confirmed full casting for Jesus Christ Superstar which opens on 27 April 2018.

Joining the already announced principals are Candace Edwards, Keirsten Hodgens and Sandyredd (Soul Girls), Eric A. Lewis, Drew King and Antwayn Hopper (Priests), and an ensemble of 33 – including 13 members of the Lyric Opera Chorus. Following his appearance in our production in 2016, Ashley Andrews joins the Ensemble and is Dance Captain for the production. [More information].

Top talents from The Green Mill, Jazz Showcase, and Chicago Jazz Festival stages form the Jesus Christ Superstar rhythm section, including Green Mill regular Pete Benson (keyboard), pianist, conductor, and composer Jo Ann Daugherty (keyboard), in-demand studio player and composer Kraig McCreary (guitar), rock, jazz and experimental music veteran Steve Roberts (guitar), versatile percussionist Bob Rummage (drums), and seasoned rhythm-and-blues artist Chuck Webb (bass). Outside the jazz arena, these musicians have been heard alongside such renowned vocalists as Aretha Franklin, Dolly Parton, Melissa Etheridge, and more. Rounding out the Chicago-driven musical talent for Jesus Christ Superstar are 31 members of the Lyric Opera Orchestra.

Published: 29 March 2018

With Easter now behind us, summer - and our 2018 season - is nearly upon us!

If you haven’t yet decided what to see, take a look at our season brochure for some additional inspiration. With plays, opera, stand-up comedy, films, dinosaurs and a mean green monster musical – there is something for everyone.

And of course, don’t forget to check our pre-bookable food and drink packages too!

Our 2018 season opens with Peter Pan, a production that we have wanted to revisit since we first presented it in 2015. The show was nominated for the Olivier Award for Best Entertainment and Family and so, with the creative team reassembled, we are excited to return to Never Land to rediscover its potential with our 2018 cast.

Sam Angell will take flight in the title role of Pan, with Dennis Herdman his adversary, Captain Hook. Sam debuted as Billy Elliot in 2007. Following graduation from LAMDA, recent credits include the short film Murder Myster, Josh in number 40 and the musical Scandinavian Heart. He is also a co-founder of the London based theatre company, ‘From The Gut’. Dennis’ recent credits include Around the World in 80 Days (UK Tour), The Lounge (Soho Theatre), The Winter’s Tale, Pericles and The Oresteia (Shakespeare’s Globe) and A Mad World My Master (RSC/ETT).

The roles of Wendy, John and Michael are played by Cora Kirk (most recently playing Lucy in The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe at West Yorkshire Playhouse), Theo Cowan (who previously appeared in our production of Lord of the Flies) and Omari Douglas (most recently seen in Five Guys Named Moe and, in 2016, our production of Jesus Christ Superstar). Following her work with Gyre & Gimble on Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons A Reimagining (Sam Wanamaker) and the UK Tour of Running Wild, Elisa De Grey will play/puppeteer the role of Tinker Bell.

Full Cast List | Book Tickets

We are excited to share our production publicity images for As You Like It and Little Shop of Horrors. Both images were developed following conversations with the directors and designers of each show, created to communicate an intent for each production.

We wanted As You Like It to be fun, contemporary, joyful and with a sense of movement – Rosalind is building a new world for herself in the Forest of Arden, and we wanted to convey the optimism which comes with re-creation.

In the spirit of what Little Shop of Horrors represented when it was first created, we wanted this image to feel subversive and anarchic. In the rather drab, downbeat surroundings of Skid Row, Audrey II brings chaos, and that’s what we wanted the image to suggest.

We look forward to sharing the casting for these productions in due course.

Bringing MOREoutdoor to the Open Air Theatre in 2018, our complete programme of one-off comedy and film events is confirmed.

Comedian Deborah Frances-White – The Guilty Feminist - records her comedy podcast in front of a live audience here on 15 July. With over 10 million downloads since it started last year, Deborah and her guests discuss their noble goals as 21^st century feminists and the paradoxes and insecurities which undermine them.

Following this we welcome Jimmy Carr (12 August), as he brings us an incredible, unparalleled night of entertainment with ‘The Best of, Ultimate, Gold, Greatest Hits Tour’ and, in what promises to be a deeply personal, funny exploration of beauty, intimacy, freedom and love, Simon Amstell’s ‘What Is This?’ tour arrives on 19 August.

The Luna Cinema then returns to the Open Air Theatre with three nights of classic cinema beneath the stars. Following the announcement that the Spice Girls are to reunite, ‘Spice Up Your Life’ with our screening of their iconic 1997 movie, Spice World (PG; 26 Aug). This is followed by the smash hit movie musical The Greatest Showman (PG; 2 Sep), and a screening of Alien (cert 15; 9 Sep) – the film that set the sci-fi benchmark - directed by the recipient of 2018’s BAFTA Fellowship, Ridley Scott.

Booking is now open.

Three-time GRAMMY Award nominee and artists from bands Postmodern Jukebox, tUnE-yArDs and Diane Coffee join Broadway and West End talent for the North American premiere of our Evening Standard and Olivier Award-winning production of Jesus Christ Superstar.

The show, which will be re-created by members of our original creative team, plays 27 April to 20 May 2018 at the Lyric Opera of Chicago, and we are proud that Cavin Cornwall will reprise his 2016 Open Air Theatre performance as Caiaphas. The Chicago production will also feature members of the Lyric Opera Orchestra and Chorus.

The Lyric cast also includes Broadway artist Heath Saunders (Jesus); three-time GRAMMY Award-nominated soul singer Ryan Shaw (Judas); tUnE-yArDs tour vocalist Jo Lampert (Mary Magdalene); Broadway and Postmodern Jukebox crooners Michael Cunio (Pilate) and Mykal Kilgore (Simon Zealotes); Diane Coffee frontman Shaun Fleming (Herod); Broadway artist Joseph Anthony Byrd (Annas); and Chicago-based artist Andrew Mueller (Peter).

The marketing image for a theatre production needs to satisfy a complex brief: to represent this particular production; to give a potential audience a flavour of the production aesthetic or themes (to give them a sense of what they are buying into); to be flexible in how it’s used in different marketing formats (for example, a leaflet, website banner or even the side of a bus), and to capture the imagination of a potential audience to translate their attention into ticket sales. The challenge when creating an image for a new production is that, at the point that the image is required, very little may be known about the production, requiring a certain flexibility in how the image represents the work.

Developing the Brief

For The Turn of the Screw, the marketing process started with the team reading the original Henry James novella, and listening to recordings of the Benjamin Britten opera. We then researched the artwork created for previous interpretations of the story, on stage (plays and opera), film and television - the objective being that we didn’t want to recreate something which has gone before, but rather to give our production an identity of its own.

Armed with this research, and accompanied by a designer from the agency Feast Creative, we met with the director (Timothy Sheader) and production designer (Soutra Gilmour), to learn of their vision for the production; what themes interested them; the production design aesthetic (style of costumes, period, colour palettes etc); and to gain their response to the research gathered. This led to a creative brief:

• Bleak - but bright
• Mono feel, but not black and white
• Wide expansive landscape; flat; marshes
• References: Skandi Noir; The Piano; Lady Macbeth

Realising the Brief

After selecting a model, a costume was sourced at CosProp with the help of Hannah from their ladies’ department, and a travelling case hired from the National Theatre.

The location was critical to the shoot, and after extensive online research, we decided to focus our attention on the Suffolk coast around Aldeburgh. The area offered different landscapes – heathland, marshes, coastal – and there was a nice link with Benjamin Britten who lived in Aldeburgh from 1942 until his death in 1976 (The Turn of the Screw was written in 1954). The National Trust came to our assistance with the offer of Dunwich Heath and Beach, which offered so many photographic opportunities. Working with the National Trust team at Dunwich Heath and Beach also gave us access to facilities which would make the shoot manageable on a bright, but freezing, January afternoon! We selected two locations and were blessed with some stunning skies, incredible light, and even an amazing murmuration of starlings as our shoot drew to a close.

Supporting the image

On the day of the photoshoot, executed by Oliver Rosser from Feast Creative, we also decided to film some footage so that we could build an associated trailer. We created a storyboard with the brief that this would be a short, 20 second teaser to support the image (albeit using a slightly adjusted costume). Without a recording from the opera to use for the sound bed (because of Rights restrictions), we decided to use the children’s nursery rhyme Lavender’s Blue, which features in the Britten score. Two young students from Stagecoach were approached to record this, and the combination of this and the natural ambience recorded on the shoot day, created an eerie atmosphere.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3rrEfnjuypw&feature=youtu.be

Completion

Feast Creative worked on the photographic and filmed assets in post-production, although little was needed to adjust the natural qualities. With leaflet, poster, print ads and digital banners created and approved by Timothy Sheader, Soutra Gilmour and English National Opera, work then commenced on creating imagery for As You Like It, thereby starting the process all over again!

We have thrilled to announce casting for our co-production with English National Opera of Benjamin Britten’s The Turn of the Screw, which plays at the Open Air Theatre 22 – 30 June 2018.

The Prologue and role of Peter Quint will be shared by Elgan Llŷr Thomas and William Morgan. Elgan Llŷr Thomas makes his English National Opera debut as a new ENO Harewood Artist having also covered the role of Count Almaviva in The Barber of Seville. Previously for English National Opera, William Morgan has appeared in The Day After and Between Worlds (ENO at the Barbican) and Le Comte Ory (ENO’s Opera Works programme at Sadler’s Wells.

Miss Jessel will be played by Elin Pritchard and Rachael Lloyd. Elin Pritchard, has previously appeared as Miss Jessel The Turn of the Screw and Musetta La bohème (Opera Holland Park). For English National Opera, Rachael Lloyd has appeared in The Day After, The Magic Flute, and as Pitti-Sing in The Mikado.

Mrs Grose will be played by Janis Kelly and Sarah Pring. Janis Kelly has performed with English National Opera for over 30 years, and takes the role of Marcellina in The Marriage of Figaro in Spring 2018. She received worldwide acclaim for her portrayal of the title role in Rufus Wainwright’s Prima Donna, which she performed at the Manchester International Festival (World Premiere), Sadler’s Wells, Toronto, Portland, in concert at the Royal Opera House and Teatro Real, Madrid. Other recent appearances include Mrs Lovett in Sweeney Todd (Welsh National Opera) and Mrs Nixon in Nixon in China (Metropolitan Opera, New York/Omroep Muziek/English National Opera).

Sarah Pring has previously appeared with English National Opera in Lucia di Lammermoor, Jenufa, and reprises her performance as Mrs Alexander in Satyagraha in February 2018. Other recent credits include Lady Bertram in Mansfield Park (The Grange Festival), Mother in Hansel and Gretel (Opera North), Marcellina in Le nozze di Figaro (Welsh National Opera) and, at the Royal Opera House, as Berta in Il barbiere di Siviglia, Giovanna in Rigoletto, and Annina in La traviata.

The role of the Governess will be played by Anita Watson and Rhian Lois. Anita Watson has previously appeared as the Governess in The Turn of the Screw (La Fenice, Venice), Die Zaubrflöte, and as Gretel in Hänsel und Gretel (Royal Opera House). Rhian Lois is an ENO Harewood Artist, taking the role of Susanna in The Marriage of Figaro in Spring 2018. Previous English National Opera credits include Atalanta in Xerxes, Musetta in La bohème, Frasquita in Carmen, Papagena in The Magic Flute, Peter Grimes, Between Worlds and The Passenger.

Full cast biographies | Book Tickets

The schedule of who will perform at each performance will be announced in due course, as will the casting of Flora and Miles.

Artistic Director of Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, Timothy Sheader, directs The Turn of the Screw, with ENO Mackerras Fellow Toby Purser conducting members of the ENO orchestra. The production is designed by Soutra Gilmour. Completing the creative team, lighting design is by Jon Clark, sound design by Nick Lidster for Autograph, and casting by ENO Head of Casting, Michelle Williams. Barbara Houseman is the Season Associate Director (Voice and Text) for the 2018 season.

OUR 2018 SEASON IS NOW ON SALE

Our 2018 Season, which includes Peter Pan, As You Like It, Dinosaur World Live, Little Shop of Horrors, and The Turn of the Screw, a co-production with English National Opera, is now on sale. Also on sale from today, as part of our MOREoutdoor series of events, is Joe Lycett's I'm About To Lose Control And I Think Joe Lycett [22 July; more information]. Further MOREoutdoor events will be announced in the New Year.

The season launches with a return of our Olivier Award-nominated production of Peter Pan, in the final year of the WW1 Centenary Commemorations. George Llewelyn Davies, who was one of the children who inspired J. M. Barrie to create the character of Peter Pan, was killed in action in 1915. Our production remembers him, and a generation of Lost Boys. [Opens 17 May; more information]

Max Webster, who recently enjoyed a revival of his production of The Lorax at the Old Vic, then directs Shakespeare’s romantic comedy, As You Like It, with music composed by former Noah and the Whale frontman, Charlie Fink. Following his Olivier-nominated lighting on Jesus Christ Superstar, Lee Curran is back to light the production. [Opens 06 July; more information]

With music by Benjamin Britten, The Turn of the Screw - our co-production with English National Opera - reunites director Timothy Sheader with designer Soutra Gilmour. Soutra previously designed the impressive multi-tiered set for our Olivier Award-winning production of Into the Woods. ENO Mackerras Fellow Toby Purser conducts the ENO orcherstra for this unique outdoor production of Britten’s masterly reworking of Henry James' classic novella. [Opens 22 June; more information]

Playing daytime performances, dinosaurs return to Regent’s Park in Dinosaur World Live, a brand new 50-minutes show (complete with Tyrannosaurus rex) for ages 3+. [Opens 14 August; more information]

Completing the season, Maria Aberg makes her Open Air Theatre directorial debut with the mean green monster musical Little Shop of Horrors. Designed by Tom Scutt (Jesus Christ Superstar), musical supervision is by Tom Deering (Jesus Christ Superstar / On The Town), lighting by Howard Hudson (On The Town), and sound by Nick Lidster for Autograph (Jesus Christ Superstar). [Opens 03 August; more information]

Public Booking is now open

#OAT2018

We have been nominated for Best Choreography and Best Costume Design for On The Town in the WhatsOnStage Awards! vote now

There’s MOREoutdoor every summer at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, including one-off comedy events and outdoor film screenings.

Our 2018 MOREoutdoor programme will be announced in the New Year, but we are delighted to confirm now that Joe Lycett will bring his latest show, I’m About To Lose Control And I Think Joe Lycett outdoors on Sunday 22 July 2018 - and tickets are now on sale [more information].

If you haven’t seen Joe and his challenge to a parking fine, experience his comedy genius here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Gkiw7zpULo

The 2017 season ended on 23 September, following an extended run of Jesus Christ Superstar. The season opened on 19 May with On The Town, and we are delighted that Miriam-Teak Lee, who made her professional debut in the production, has recently been awarded Best Actress in a Musical in The Stage Debut Awards. A Tale of Two Cities marked a debut for Dickens at the Open Air Theatre, and Oliver Twist created for everyone aged six and over became our highest selling production created especially for younger audiences.

Over 160,000 people visited the theatre during the season – an increase of 15% on 2016. Thank you to all those who came, to all those who created, and to our Season 2017 Partners.

Season 2018 will be announced later this Autumn.

Tell us a bit about your background; how you got into acting, where you trained, who inspired you?

I grew up in Nottingham and was trained as part of N.E.T (Nottinghamshire Education Theatre Company), an amazing programme funded by Nottinghamshire council. We did lots of shows; musicals, plays, dance pieces – we took a show to Poznan in Poland when I was 15 which was our twinned town. It was a trip that made me realise that this was something I could do for the rest of my life. It’s sad actually because that company’s funding has been cut over the years and I know so many people who benefitted from it: Rosalie Craig, Adam Penford (taking over as the new Artistic Director of Nottingham Playhouse), the producer John Bath, comedian Colin Hoult and loads of other brilliant professionals involved in the industry who probably wouldn’t have taken that route unless they'd gone there.

After my A levels I went to LIPA in Liverpool, which is an incredible drama school with amazing facilities. For someone like me who didn’t really know what their main strength was it was a safe place to explore and play; it was priceless.

You have quite a diverse portfolio of work, including the role of Dahh-Ren in Doctor Who – what was it like work on such an iconic show?

I didn’t want to get pigeon-holed from the beginning, and I had different skills; I didn’t want to just sing, just act, just be a physical performer. I’ve strived to try and do everything.

Acting in Doctor Who was brilliant. Dahh-Ren was such a weird and wonderful character, who was also completely blue! The episode was set in a futuristic spaceship full of the walking dead - and I got to have a really dramatic death! Interestingly I had a bald head in Doctor Who, and Tom Scutt (Designer) got really excited and asked if I’d shave my head for Herod this year…I said no! But we ended up compromising with a very effective bald cap.

Lots of changes have been made to your role this year: props, costume, make up and wigs (and a few additional flips!); what role have you had in the development of the character?

The changes to Herod have all been collaborative. He always went down well last year with the audience but I did feel like there was something missing; there’s a really ugly side of him which can sometimes be missed in interpretations of Herod. He is there for light relief because the second Act is so full on, and the audience need a chance to breathe, but underneath the uptempo number there is a sinister edge. He's unhinged, a crazed megalomaniac lunatic, and we wanted to explore in more detail these darker undertones as well as the dancing joker.

Tom Scutt came up with the idea of having a machete, which is hilarious and horrible, but also matched the fact that the ensemble have their heads on plates. We had a few hours playing around with the machete thinking how we could use it in the routine, how we could use it in a threatening way and actually realised we could completely subvert it as a dancing prop, which is somehow even weirder!

Then Timothy Sheader (Director) got me to really push myself in terms of losing my head. It’s only a 3 ½ minute song, but it like a 3 act play! In our story Herod is desperately trying to get Jesus to react and uses every bizarre tactic under the sun but Jesus remains stony faced. For people used to getting their own way, that's infuriating. I’m really glad we had a second chance to explore all of that, and give more of a three dimensional edge to Herod rather than just a traditional showman.

We were thrilled when it was announced that you would be coming back to reprise the role of Herod this summer. What drew you back to the Park?

We only did six weeks last year, which is such a short run! It’s no time at all, and so many people didn’t get to see it because it was sold out last year. The theatre is so stunning and such a nice way to spend the summer. It was really exciting that most of the ensemble were new which meant a different energy, a different vibe; so I knew we wouldn’t just be repeating the same show we did last year. Everyone from the onset wanted to push the show on and challenge themselves, so it felt great to re-explore it.

Your transformation into Herod is quite dramatic, how long does it take you to change, and what’s the process?

I’m in an unusual situation because Herod isn’t usually in the rest of the show, he’s just in Herod’s song, but in this version I do the entire first half in the ensemble doing the very challenging Drew McOnie Choreography. I come off after the Temple, which is a high energy number, covered in black spray, sweat and glitter and jump straight in the shower. I then head to the makeup room where the incredible Jess Plews (Head of Wigs, Hair and Makeup) starts work on Herod. We go from that point which is the start of the interval, through 'Gethsemane', through 'The Arrest', a total of 40 minutes. We do the bald head, makeup, lashes, glitter, latex dripping, gold spray, gold nipples…then the transformation is complete! I do Herod's song and then have about 3 minutes to get it all off to get back on for ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ at the end! I'm exhausted.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f3d5ccfrSGE

More information | Book tickets

The Graduate turned 50 this year, in celebration Studio Canal have released a beautifully remastered version which will be screened at the Park on Sunday 10 September by The Luna Cinema. Mike Nichols’ stylish film captured the zeitgeist with his bold storytelling, and as the highest grossing film of 1967 (taking just over $104m) is considered a 60s classic.

The film is synonymous with Dustin Hoffman, who’s role as Benjamin Braddock, made him a household name. Hoffman played a college graduate seduced by an older woman, Mrs Robinson, played by Anne Bancroft who was actually only 6 years his senior! His line “Mrs Robinson, you’re trying to seduce me. Aren’t you?” was voted as the #63 movie quote by the American Film Institute (out of 100).

It was Hoffman’s terribly awkward audition which charmed Nichols; upon his arrival the producer mistook him for a window cleaner, Hoffman rolled with it and in character, cleaned a window. Hoffman didn’t appear to be the natural choice as the book described Ben as a conventionally attractive college graduate, but Nichols “chose to give this short, funny-looking Jewish guy the role usually reserved for a tall, handsome protestant” Dustin Hoffman, The Guardian 2017.

Nichols seemed to know exactly what he wanted for that role. Robert Redford had also been screen tested for the role of Benjamin Braddock, but was rejected by Nichols who had to explain when Redford implored him to consider him for the film, “Bob, look in the mirror. Can you honestly imagine a guy like you having difficulty seducing a woman?”. It was Hoffman’s awkwardness he was after.

The memorable Simon and Garfunkel soundtrack was intentionally used by Nichols to shake up the conventional notion of a musical score; he wanted more popular songs to set a mood rather than correlate with a scene. The famous “Mrs Robinson” song was actually being written with the tentative title of “Mrs Roosevelt”, but Nichols was pestering Simon for extra songs, so the song was changed and a classic was born.

The Graduate has stood the test of time, and over half a century on it still has the ability to shock and entertain with its creative and accurate reflection of people’s lives. Back on the big screen it will make an unforgettable cinematic experience.

More information | Book tickets

40 years since Steven Spielberg’s masterpiece, Close Encounters of the Third Kind, entranced audiences, it will be shown at the Park on Sunday 3 September by The Luna Cinema.

Back on the big screen, watching this genre-defining film under the stars will be unforgettable: "Oh, the starry skies…I felt the sky was as important to the suspense and mystery of Close Encounters as the water was to Jaws…This film will only be successful if, when people see it, they come out of the theater looking up at the sky.” Steven Spielberg (The Rolling Stone, 1978)

Filmed on a budget of $20m, it went on to become one of the highest grossing films of the 1970s earning $337m worldwide since its release. Winning both an Oscar for Best Cinematography, and a BAFTA for Best Production Design, legendary author Ray Bradbury declared it the greatest science fiction film ever made.

Regarded as ground-breaking in its interpretation of aliens as being peaceful, Spielberg experimented with various ideas of how to depict the extra-terrestrials including one early concept which involved orangutans on roller skates, an idea soon dismissed as the primates found it too frightening!

Iconic film composer John Williams’ score was created before the film was edited and, unlike most blockbusters, Spielberg chose to edit the film to match the music. This editing process was lengthy and six ‘wrap parties’ were held before the film officially completed its production as Spielberg was continually revising the film! Williams’ orchestration ultimately gave the film its sense of wonderment and lyricism.

Check out this documentary to find out more about what inspired Spielberg:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UGtWIglp8Oc

More information | Buy tickets

Our Olivier and Evening Standard award-winning production of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber's Jesus Christ Superstar is back, and wowing audiences once again.

Playing to sell-out houses and standing ovations, over 45,000 have booked to see the show so far - but there are tickets still available. Best weekday availability is from 28 August, and best Saturday availability from 16 September - or check daily for returns/grass bank availability*.

Take a look at our 2017 cast in performance, including Declan Bennett (Jesus), Tyrone Huntley (Judas), Maimuna Memon (Mary), David Thaxton (Pilate) and Peter Caulfield (Herod).

“Still catchy as hell and an almighty revelation. Each song is sung with such feeling that the soul of the piece, so volatile in tempo, comes roaring through.” Daily Telegraph

View Photos | Book Tickets

* Grass banks will only be available when the weather is good and the ground dry. When available 10-20 tickets will be released at noon (for matinees) and 5pm (for evenings).

Joe Stilgoe’s smash-hit show Songs on Film pays tribute to some of the most memorable moments in cinematic history. But as Joe and his remarkable band add their own original and stylish orchestrations to songs written for, and inspired by, films of the last century, what more can audiences expect?

“Film music holds great importance for people as the music can strengthen the film's power and the emotional attachment”, says Joe. “Often the piece of music and the scene it's attached to is remembered more than the rest of the film – such as ‘Raindrops Keep Falling On My Head’ in Butch Cassidy and ‘Unchained Melody' in Ghost.”

For Joe, performance of this music is more than just a series of movie music extracts. “A cover should enhance the impact that song has. There’s one key rule - don't touch a song unless you can bring something new to it. Some artists try to ape the vocal performance and do a facsimile arrangement of the original. They then lose the instinctive magic of the original.”

Joe’s ‘something new’ comes from his love of jazz. “With jazz, we’re constantly looking to the past for inspiration, even though in performance it’s an immediate art form. My heroes are not only the performers – Ella, Louis Armstrong, Nat King Cole, but the writers – The Gershwins, Hoagy Carmichael, Harold Arlen, Frank Loesser, The Sherman Brothers, Cole Porter – and the arrangers, and Lalo Schifrin to Billy May, Nelson Riddle and Robert Farnon.”

“I meet lots of people who say they don’t like jazz. But actually they do like lots of jazz, just not, perhaps, the word and its association. It is down to us as performers to remember that we are giving a performance, and to guide the audience through it.”

La La Land, which is being screened at the Open Air Theatre later this month represented jazz in a very accessible way. “I loved the film. I didn’t mind too much about the slightly awkward ‘let’s show jazz’ moments – instead the characters, the performances and the lovely, nostalgic, warm glow the film gave me, reminded me of the classic MGM musicals and Gene Kelly films I loved so much.” And does Joe relate to Sebastien, the films leading mad? “I do feel a bit like Sebastian – two tones shoes, loves jazz, sings and plays piano, looks JUST LIKE RYAN GOSLING. But you should never open a jazz club though. It’s like that joke – how do I earn £1 million? Start with £2 million and open a jazz club...”

Joe Stilgoe’s Songs on Film comes to Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre on Sunday 20 August (7.45pm).

More information | Book Tickets

As we reach the final week in the rehearsal room, take a look at our incredible 2017 cast of Jesus Christ Superstar in action.

Performances start on 11 August, but early booking is recommended - the first week is sold out! There’s limited availability 21-26 August, with a wider choice of seats available from 28 August.

The show now plays until 23 September.

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We are thrilled to have had so many wonderful entries to our Twist drawing competition. Submissions ranged from colourful depictions of Fagin, dozens of very forlorn looking Olivers and plenty of Bullseye, Bill Sikes' faithful dog. It was very difficult to chose a winner, but Rebecca Chambers' drawing of Mrs Corney played by Gbemisola Ikumelo was an incredible likeness, so we are pleased to announce her as the winner!

Her prize includes: a poster signed by the cast, a copy of the book (Penguin Reader at the appropriate reading age), a family ticket to the Charles Dickens Museum where the author once lived and a copy of the (now out of print) Ladybird book, An Adventure in History: Charles Dickens.

Thank you to everyone who entered and we do hope to welcome you back to the Open Air Theatre in the future.

Creating the world of Charles Dickens, our eight actors (and three children alternating in the title role) play a total of 38 characters in Oliver Twist created for everyone aged six and over!

Mrs Corney transforms into Nancy, Mr Grimwig becomes Bullseye, nasty Fagin becomes good Mr Brownlow, and Mr Bumble rises to become (a rather comical) Mr Fang, the judge – all with the help of a costume change, a different hairstyle, or a reversed hat!

Take a look at our photo gallery

The production runs during the day until 5 August, and don’t forget, if you see the performance before Wednesday 26 July you can enter our drawing competition!

Preparations for our family production of Oliver Twist created for everyone aged six and over are well under way. With over 19,000 people already coming, take a look at our gallery to get a sneak peek into the rehearsal room.

This new play version of Dickens' classic story follows the adventures of Twist, as he's sold by the workhouse authorities to a funeral director, where bullying prompts him to run away to London; from there he gets mixed up with criminals, has a brush with the law, finds out his real identity (with the help of Nancy, who pays the price at the hands of Bill Sikes - who also comes to a sticky end!), and discovers a family he never knew.

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Children can get involved too with our drawing competition. After you see the show, draw a picture of your favourite character for the chance to win a poster signed by the cast, a copy of the book (Penguin Readers), a family ticket to the Charles Dickens Museum where the author once lived (and where he wrote Oliver Twist) and a copy of the (now out of print) Ladybird book, An Adventure in History: Charles Dickens.

Competition Blog | How to Enter

52 Stages launched on Instagram last week, and we were thrilled to be the first theatre to take part! An initiative of The Stage newspaper, every week a different theatre will take charge of the 52 Stages Instagram account to showcase its work and give a behind-the-scenes insight.

It’s been a great opportunity for us to share what happens both on and off the stage, and celebrate our uniqueness as a venue.

Gain a better insight into what goes into making the Open Air Theatre a firm fixture of the summer calendar!

Check out our posts here.

On 20 August, Joe Stilgoe brings his smash hit show Songs on Film outdoors for the very first time. We caught up with Joe to find out more about his music, influences and what audiences can expect from this S’Wonderful evening.

Q: What attracts you to music from the movies?

I'm a musician because at heart I'm a romantic and probably a fantasist, both of which are reasons why we go to the cinema, and why movies are made. I've also recently realised that all the songs I learned first were from films - The Jungle Book, Young Einstein, Stand By Me...I find that a song from a film, with the right arrangement and treatment, can bring out a really strong memory or emotion that's deeper than we think, and we can be transported somewhere magical, far away from life's daily worries.

Q: Favourite movie music moment, and why?

Song - it's got to be Singin' In The Rain. Instrumental piece - Jurassic Park; when we see the dinosaurs for the first time (my wife and I walked down the aisle to this - not sure the organist knew what it was!).

Q: How much of an influence was your dad, Richard Stilgoe?

Huge. Not in my field of music as Dad never ventured jazz-wards, but in writing, performing and interacting with the audience, he showed me the way. And also he didn't let me give up piano lessons when I was 10!

Q: Who’s in the band for Songs On Film, and how did you guys first meet?

My regular band is Tom Farmer on bass and Ben 'Bam Bam' Reynolds on drums (we also have an amazing choir featuring in the show). Bam Bam and I were doing a gig in art gallery together - we didn't know each other and the double bass snapped, so we had no bass player. We soldiered on with an exceptionally silly duo of piano and drums, and sweet vocal harmonies (with the bass player standing awkwardly nearby).

Tom and I were in a big band called NYJO together, way back, and then we reconnected a few years ago at Ronnie Scott's. They've both been with me ever since.

Q: What’s the kick of performing this show, and what can the audience expect?

I get to wallow in the music I love, the music that inspired me to be a musician, and the added bonus is that because of the connection to films there's an extra level for me and the audience. We cover so many films, and whether you're a fan of Chaplin, MGM musicals, cartoons, Tarantino or ALL the films of the 80s, it's all there. I love connecting with an audience, and we always end up having a great evening together. But please stop stealing my popcorn.

Q: Choose one: A Pulp Fiction $5 Shake, Homer Simpson’s Duff Beer, or James Bond’s Vodka Martini -

I'm not sure I trust Tarantino's shakes, and though I deeply revere Homer Simpson, I'm pretty sure Duff tastes as bad as its name suggests, so it'll have to be the martini. Roger Moore's version.

Joe plays at the Park on Sunday 20 August.

More information | Book tickets

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ckip_2mF6c

Take a look into the rehearsal room of Matthew Dunster’s new adaptation of A Tale of Two Cities, as the worlds of the ‘haves’ and the ‘have-nots’ collide under the movement direction of Liam Steel and fight direction of Kate Waters.

“It was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness”

Timothy Sheader’s production opens on 7 July, marking a Dickens debut at the Open Air Theatre.

“I see this place, which then has not a trace of this day’s horror I see that child I see that future”

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Making their professional debuts at the Open Air Theatre, we caught up with Miriam-Teak Lee and Siena Kelly who are playing Claire and Ivy in On The Town.

"crisp-as-Vermouth, towering, scissor-legged Miriam-Teak Lee is so delicious that you wonder where she has been hiding… only to discover that this is, astoundingly, her professional debut." (The Stage)

"All three (Lee, Kelly and Lizzy Connolly) are superb dancers, but McOnie makes Kelly work most during the lengthy dance sequences and you can see why. She is excellent.” (WhatsOnStage)

What first inspired you to get into theatre?

Miriam-Teak Lee When I was about four my mum took me to a local school called Morgan Aslanoff, my brother Dex Lee joined and we became duet partners. Doing dance competitions improved my confidence massively, but it was my mother who always told me to believe in myself and forever preached that practice makes perfect. I always loved role play! I used to have an alter ego called Miss Miriam, who was very sophisticated and well spoken; she would spend hours in conversation with my mother - I was seven! Acting is all about the imagination and I love that.

Siena Kelly My dad loves old-school movie musicals so I grew up watching classic MGM musicals all the time. My oldest sister loved musicals, so we would watch them together on repeat. I think it was Cyd Charisse in Singin' in the Rain and Anita in West Side Story that made me fall in love with them.

Tell us about your time at ArtsEd?

SK Training was a lot more difficult than I had anticipated. The hours are ridiculously long and it was mentally and physically draining. However, the training I received at ArtsEd was incredible. The teachers are so dedicated to the students and I loved how I was able to work on all three disciplines equally.

MTL I had an amazing time. A teacher once said that the school gives you a whole toolbox to help you as a performer, but not every tool works for everyone so it's about picking and choosing what works for you and creating you're own toolbox. That resonated with me so deeply and meant that I got the best out of my time at Arts, and discovered so much about myself as a performer.

How is the experience of your first professional job going?

MTL I can't even explain how extraordinary this job has been, and still is! Every single day I am inspired by the people that I share the stage with every night. I still can't believe how lucky I am to be playing Claire in On The Town at Regent's Park Open air Theatre as my very first professional job! It's just crazy, it's like I don't want to blink just in case I miss it!

SK This job has been a dream! I've loved it so much and couldn't ask for a better experience. The cast are so incredibly talented that initially I felt very intimidated in the rehearsal room, but luckily everyone has been nothing but supportive and kind to me. I'm so honoured that Drew McOnie trusted me to be in this production. I can not thank him enough for all the countless incredible opportunities he has given me. The first time I worked with him (at National Youth Ballet) was when I decided that I wanted to seriously try and be an actor.

How have you found performing outdoors?

SK Performing outdoors has been interesting. I think the biggest thing for me is that you can see the audience and their reactions until it reaches around 10pm. Also, acting in scenes that are set indoors when it's spitting, or really windy, always makes me giggle.

MTL Performing outdoors has been surreal! There's something really beautiful about having absolutely no control over animals and insects. In moments of stillness a bird could fly across the stage or even perch at the end of it. Butterflies can weave in and out of scenes, and oddly enough it brings a beautiful togetherness between the audience and the cast because we can all see it happening; it just adds a whole other layer to the show!

What actors inspire you?

MTL Idris Elba inspires me, as does Eddie Redmane and Matt Damon, which is hilarious because they are all male, but I find them all mesmerising to watch. I also love Meryl Streep as she defies the phrase 'type-cast'!

SK I think Cate Blanchett and Sophia Okonedo are incredible. I have a whole big list of actors and actresses who just astound me with their talent, commitment and detail but it's a very long list so I won't bore you with that.

It is just the beginning of your career, but do you have a dream role?

SK In terms of musical theatre, I would love to play Kathy Seldon in Singin' in the Rain and Roxie Hart in Chicago. I'd love to play Dido Elizabeth Belle in a TV series about her life.

MTL Felicia in Memphis! That is such a brilliant role and when I saw Beverly Knight do it I just completely fell in love!

What’s your favourite moment in On The Town?

MTL Singing "Some Other Time" not only is it a beautiful song, it's really poignant; we look inside the minds of these four lovers and see them come to terms with the fact that they will never see each other again.

SK My favourite part is the Times Square Ballet at the end of Act 1. I'm not in it until the very last section, so I watch from the wings. Every single night I feel proud watching everyone completely smash it.

What’s your favourite line in On The Town?

SK "Sex and art don't mix. If it did, I would've gone straight to the top".

MTL "Unless there's love, the world's an empty place"

[caption id="attachment_3759" align="alignnone" width="580"]Miriam-Teak Lee and Naoko Mori, Siena Kelly and Danny Mac at the On The Town Guest Performance Party[/caption]

On The Town runs until 1 July. Book tickets.

Howard Hudson, the Lighting Designer for On The Town, is making his debut at the Open Air Theatre. This theatre provides unique challenges for our creative teams, not least the Lighting Department who have to contend with the natural light constantly changing as night draws in. Howard has risen to the challenge, and his lighting design has been praised by the critics:

Drew McOnie’s choreography is ‘fiercely ignited, punctuated and presented by Howard Hudson's superbly imaginative lighting.’ (The Arts Desk)

“In a dream sequence, night-tinted by Howard Hudson’s wonderful lighting, everyone moves as if they were melting.” (The Observer)

This may be his first show at the Park, but Howard has worked on numerous celebrated productions, including: Romeo and Juliet, Kenneth Branagh Theatre Company, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, Linbury Studio and In the Heights, Southwark Playhouse and King’s Cross Theatre.

Gain a fascinating insight into what goes on behind the scenes, with a day-in-the-life of Lighting Designer Howard Hudson preparing On The Town with Whitelight Ltd.

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The first reviews for On The Town are in and it’s official…this “stylish, sultry Manhattan musical is ONE HELLUVA SHOW” (The Times)

★★★★ “Director and choreographer Drew McOnie explores the work's full balletic possibilities, and in Peter McKintosh the production has a set and costume designer who has a true artist's way with colour.” (Radio Times)

★★★★ “The cast lunge, leap and pirouette as if their lives depended on it. In McOnie’s thrilling reinvention of Gabey’s dream ballet en route to Coney Island…the choreography is at its most passionate and it is fiercely ignited, punctuated and presented by Howard Hudson's superbly imaginative lighting” (The Arts Desk)

★★★★ “McOnie’s choreography…has a freshly minted zing that captures the youthful, glad-to-be-alive exuberance of its protagonists.” (Guardian)

★★★★ ““McOnie’s exuberant work here is irresistible. A SMART, INFECTIOUS PRODUCTION” (Financial Times)

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We are thrilled to welcome Grammy-nominated vocalist Stacey Kent back to the Open Air Theatre for the first time since 2012 – and directly before she heads Stateside to play Blues Alley in Washington DC, and the world famous Birdland in New York.

Featuring music from her latest album TENDERLY – Stacey’s first album of standards and jazz-classics since the release of her breakthrough album of 2003, ‘The Boy Next Door’ – this will be an evening of pure jazz bliss in the glorious surroundings of the Open Air Theatre.

★★★★★ “Classic American songs, immaculately presented” (Observer on Tenderly)

Watch Stacey perform ‘Only Trust Your Heart’ from Tenderly

Book tickets now

Stacey Kent | Sunday 11 Jun 6.15pm gates | 7.45pm performance All tickets £25*

*which includes a £1.50 per ticket booking fee

It was great to welcome so many family and friends at our Guest Night for On The Town. Amongst the guests were several of the stars from Strictly Come Dancing here to support Danny Mac, including Ore Oduba, Louise Redknapp, Daisy Lowe, Will Young, Rob Rinder, and professional dancers Giovanni Pernice, Gorka Marquez, Oti Mabuse, Janette Manrara, Aljaž Skorjanec and Neil and Katya Jones.

Take a look at our Guest Night Gallery

We are also delighted to release our beautiful production photos by Johan Persson and Jane Hobson, which can be viewed on the production page.

In casting news, we are sad to report that Fred Haig, who played Chip, has withdrawn from the show following an injury to his foot, which has now been confirmed as a fracture. We wish Fred a speedy recovery and can confirm that, with the support of Danny Mac (Gabey), Samuel Edwards (Ozzie), Lizzy Connolly (Hildy) and all the Company, Fred’s understudy, Jacob Maynard has now stepped out of the Ensemble permanently to play the role of Chip for the remainder of the run.

On The Town runs at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre until 1 July 2017.

Book Tickets

We are delighted to announce that tickets are now on sale for Benjamin Britten's The Turn of the Screw, a collaboration between Regent's Park Open Air Theatre and English National Opera for Season 2018.

Directed by Timothy Sheader, this story of unearthly encounters at a remote country house, and of a young governess desperate to protect her children from certain evil, will find chilling new levels of suspense performed outdoors at the Open Air Theatre.

Members of the ENO orchestra, conducted by ENO Mackerras Fellow Toby Purser, will bring their award-winning skills to Britten’s masterly reworking of Henry James' classic novella.

With just 10 performances (22 – 30 June), and tickets starting at just £25.00, this will be a theatrical experience not to be missed.

Book Tickets

*Catering for 2018 can be pre-booked from November. Postal tickets for The Turn off the Screw will be mailed in April 2018.

You will have been aware that one our principals sustained an injury which meant that he was unable to perform on 23 May. Whilst we do have an understudy for the role, it was to have been only our fourth preview – and stage time was reduced during our technical rehearsals due to poor weather – so we’ve had limited opportunity to prepare his performance.

The decision to cancel was not taken lightly, and we are sorry for the inconvenience – and disappointment – that it caused.

However, we are delighted to say that, following two intense days of rehearsal, the show will continue as planned.

If you need to contact the box office about your booking for 23 May, please email boxoffice@openairtheatre.com.

Thank you for your patience and understanding

Bringing two of Charles Dickens’s most popular stories out in the open as part of our 2017 season, Dickens Uncovered celebrates the greatest storyteller of London Life – and we are delighted to announce our cast for both productions, A Tale of Two Cities (7 July – 5 August) and Oliver Twist created for everyone aged six and over (17 July – 5 August).

“I am delighted that this group of 32 talented performers are coming together to reimagine these two iconic London stories. For those of us who read them alone at home, at school or on the tube, I hope we can reclaim them anew together in the Park. For those who only know them as titles, then let us take you on a trip back to the nineteenth century blockbusters, via 2017. This is Dickens uncovered for everyone.” (Artistic Director, Timothy Sheader)

For full cast and creative team information, visit:

A Tale of Two Cities

Oliver Twist created for everyone aged six and over

As we approach the 2017 season, take a sneak-peak into the rehearsal room for On The Town. Opening on Friday 19 May, the production is huge!

For those who remember our towering set for Into The Woods, this is higher - to achieve not only the New York docks, but also Times Square and Coney Island. From sailors to Congacabana nightclub dancers - via two dream ballets - costumes are by Peter McKintosh, who won an Olivier Award for his designs for our production of Crazy for You.

And of course the show is directed and choreographed by Drew McOnie, whose choreography for Jesus Christ Superstar was so celebrated last season.

Take a look at our rehearsal gallery, and book tickets here; nearly 30,000 people have already secured their chance to see On The Town!

Leading us Up The Garden Path on 4 June, in a celebration of all things floral, are Alan Titchmarsh and Richard Sisson.

“I left school at fifteen to be a gardener,” says Alan, “and never regretted a moment of it. My grandad fanned the flame on his allotment when I was tiny.” As this specially cultivated evening suggests, it’s a little of everything Alan loves about gardens – though choosing what to include was like choosing his favourite plant. “It varies with the seasons. In June, for example, it's old-fashioned shrub roses with their great scents and wonderfully complex flowers. But I love spring - every year we get a chance to start again and there is a great freshness to it.” However, he finds great solace in Edwards Thomas’s poem Tall Nettles and Adelstrop too – so maybe they’ll make the final cut.

Richard Sisson discovered his own passion, for music, when he first heard a piano. “I loved the noise it made. And the piano seemed to be able to say everything I wanted the world to know about”. And he explains why the marriage of music and the great outdoors is a perfect one. “The beauty of nature (not to mention the miracle of the secateurs) have always demanded celebration by the highest forms of man's art. And like music, gardens make you feel happy. ‘Jardins sous la pluie’ by Debussy is beautiful, it's exotic, it's wet (and it's got a piano in it!)”. But for this evening, he’s going to play the delicious Marigold by Billy Mayerl. When you listen, you’ll know why.

Also performing on 4 June is Luton’s Cantores Choir, which Richard adjudicated for the national Choir of the Year competition. “They were exceptional and have grown and developed over the years to become one of the country's most satisfying amateur choral ensembles of young people.”

So what gardens have inspired Alan in the planning of this evening of words and music? “I love my own garden, but also Tresco (Isles of Scilly) and the Prince of Wales's garden at Highgrove. The park at Chatsworth is also very special, and there is a tiny garden on the cliffs at Woolacombe in Devon which is divine.”

And what’s on the horizon for Alan after Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre? “One day I'd love to go to New Zealand and see tree ferns growing in the wild. And I still battle to grow dieramas - the fairy wand flower. One day...”

And it wouldn’t be right to end without a gardening tip: “I struggled for years with carrots in stony soil, then I built a raised bed with sieved soil and - hey presto!”

Book tickets

We are excited to announce that Declan Bennett, Tyrone Huntley, David Thaxton and Peter Caulfield will reprise their roles of Jesus, Judas, Pilate and Herod this summer when Jesus Christ Superstar returns (from 11 August). With the production already selling quicker than in 2016, we have also extended the run through to Saturday 23 September.

Jesus Christ Superstar won the Olivier Award for Best Musical Revival and Evening Standard Award for Best Musical, along with five further Olivier nominations for Best Theatre Choreography, Best Lighting, Best Sound, Outstanding Achievement in Music, and Best Actor in a Musical (for Tyrone Huntley). For his role as Judas, Tyrone won the Evening Standard Emerging Talent Award.

Declan Bennett will perform ‘Gethsemane’ this evening (4 May) at Magic at the Musicals, at the Royal Albert Hall, with Danny Mac, Fred Haig and Samuel Edwards (replacing Jeremy Taylor, who has withdrawn from the production due to injury) also giving their first performance as Gabey, Chip and Ozzie from On The Town. Magic at the Musicals will be broadcast on Mellow Magic at 6pm, Sunday 7 May.

We are delighted that Magic are our lead media partner for Jesus Christ Superstar.

For tickets to the 2017 season, visit What's On.

@magicfm #JesusChristSuperstar #MagicAtTheMusicals

In 1944 Betty Comden’s and Adolph Green’s first show, On The Town, opened on Broadway; it was the beginning of a fruitful creative partnership in which Comden and Green would write lyrics, and often librettos, for some of the most iconic musicals on stage and screen. Today we celebrate the centenary of Betty Comden’s birth on 3 May 1917, and her and Green’s contribution to theatre history.

Having begun by writing and performing their own comedic material with their group, ‘The Revuers’ (also including Judy Holliday), Comden and Green went onto collaborate for over 60 years on projects including Bells Are Ringing, Wonderful Town, On The Twentieth Century, Peter Pan, The Will Rogers Follies, and notably the classic movie musical Singin’ in the Rain. Over the years their work featured many household names including Frank Sinatra, Gene Kelly, Fred Astaire, Ginger Rogers, Lauren Bacall, Rosalind Russell and Bert Lahr.

In 1980 Comden and Green were inducted into the Songwriter’s Hall of Fame, and in 1991 they both received the Kennedy Center Honors, given to those in the performing arts for their lifetime of contributions to American culture.

Comden and Green’s appeal is resolute as many of their works are recreated on stage and screen time and again. Our production of On The Town opens on 19 May, “New York, New York, it’s a helluva town!’, their lyrics say it all.

Book tickets for On The Town

Initially published in 31 weekly parts, from 30 April to 26 November 1859, A Tale of Two Cities was the lead piece in Charles Dickens’ journal, All the Year Round. The journal was a miscellany, costing 2 pence per week, which featured serialised novels, short fiction, poetry, travel writing and various non-fiction pieces, written by a multitude of authors. To keep the price of the journal low, Dickens avoided a tax on newspapers by ensuring All the Year Round did not feature any news, although it did report some international events. A Tale of Two Cities featured prominently on the front page, and inaugurated a popular tactic, used by Dickens and many other magazine editors of the 1860s, of drawing in readers and securing their loyalty with new, serialised works of fiction.

Whilst A Tale of Two Cities is now read as a single novel, Professor John M L Drew, launched a blog in 2012 which would rediscover the novel in its original episodic form. "Rules were strict: no reading ahead! It meant that for 30 weeks those involved were living the novel in the present, which is--if you like--a kind of updating of it in modern dress.”

Dickens' original instalments of A Tale of Two Cities can be found at the Dickens Journal Online, or alternatively take a look at John’s blog to find out more about his project.

INTRODUCING DICKENS

This season, with Dickens Uncovered, we’re bringing Charles Dickens to the Open Air Theatre for the first time with new adaptations of A Tale of Two Cities (7 Jul-5 Aug) and, for families, Oliver Twist created for everyone aged six and over (17 Jul-5 Aug).

Both novels began life as serialised stories in journals, with Oliver Twist published in 24 monthly instalments from February 1837, and A Tale of Two Cities across 31 instalments in Dickens’ own weekly publication, All The Year Round, from April 1859.

Professor John M L Drew, Professor of English Literature at The University of Buckingham:

“Serialising his writing meant that Dickens was reaching readers that other writers at the time, like Thackeray or Trollope or George Eliot, simply weren’t getting to. They were being read - pretty exclusively - by well-to-do, middle class readers, whereas Dickens’ reach through his weekly publication was very broad. And he was a brilliant businessman too; he repackaged the weekly magazine as a monthly, simply getting his printers to collate the four or five episodes belonging to that month and publishing them in a blue wrapper with advertisements. And then he sold handsome bi-annual volumes twice a year!”

When Dickens later agreed a bi-lateral publishing deal in America for the publication of Great Expectations (1861), it was estimated that his global readership was about 5 million. And this was just one man, and a maximum team of six people, working in an office off the Strand.

We’ll be uncovering more about Charles Dickens in a series of blogs as we approach our productions of A Tale of Two Cities and Oliver Twist created for everyone aged six and over, including contributions from both Professor John M L Drew and the Charles Dickens Museum.

Book tickets for A Tale of Two Cities

Book tickets for Oliver Twist created for everyone aged six and over

We are so proud that Jesus Christ Superstar won the award for Best Musical Revival at the 2017 Olivier Awards, in a strong category that included Funny Girl, Show Boat and Sunset Boulevard.

It was a great way to celebrate our 2016 season, with the original cast reuniting to perform Heaven On Their Minds at the Awards Ceremony, which will be televised on ITV (11 April, 8pm). Jesus Christ Superstar returns to the Open Air Theatre for just 41 performances from 11 August.

Plans for the 2017 season are well underway and, as rehearsals start, we’re delighted to welcome the cast and creative team of On The Town.

For full details of the 2017 season visit openairtheatre.com/whatson

The nominations for The Olivier Awards 2017 have been announced, and we are thrilled that Jesus Christ Superstar has received six nominations – making this our most nominated production ever:

Best Musical Revival

Best Theatre Choreography (Drew McOnie)

Best Lighting Design (Lee Curran)

Best Sound Design (Nick Lidster for Autograph)

Best Actor in a Musical (Tyrone Huntley)

Outstanding Achievement in Music

The winners will be announced on 9 April at the Royal Albert Hall, and Jesus Christ Superstar returns to Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre 11 August – 16 September 2017.

Buy Tickets for Jesus Christ Superstar

We are thrilled to announce that our production of Jesus Christ Superstar will play as part of the 2017/2018 season at the Lyric Opera in Chicago.

It will be Lyric Opera’s first rock musical, and programming it is both “a conscious choice and an important new step for the company”, said Anthony Freud (General Director, President and CEO of Lyric Opera). "We are getting more and more experienced at producing musicals… and there's really encouraging evidence that musicals are working for us and are contributing to the bottom line. This is one of the most iconic of all musicals".

Our core creative team, including director Timothy Sheader, choreographer Drew McOnie, designer Tom Scutt and lighting designer Lee Curran, will reimagine their production for Lyric Opera, which plays 27 April – 20 May 2018. Public booking opens in March 2017.

Following its initial sell-out run at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre in 2016, Jesus Christ Superstar won Best Musical in the Evening Standard Awards, and returns to conclude our 2017 season.

More information

After his work on Jesus Christ Superstar, Drew McOnie returns to the Open Air Theatre to choreograph and direct On The Town. As we continue to add to our Digital Archive, we take a choreographic look at some of our past productions, including the work of Stephen Mear, Bill Deamer, Liam Steel, Alastair David, Lisa Kent, Gillian Gregory and Kenn Oldfield.

“I admire how classic theatre shows are reimagined for new audiences with such skill and artistic integrity at the Open Air Theatre” says Drew McOnie. “Now, being given the opportunity to create a new production of On The Town – one of my favourite musicals - is just too exciting for words.”

Drew started his career as a dancer, training from the age of 11.

“As a performer, I worked on big dance musicals like Chicago, A Chorus Line and for Matthew Bourne’s dance company, New Ventures, where I was part of a lot of new productions. Every career choice I made as a performer was always about working with a new set of creatives to be able to learn and hone my skills as a dance maker.”

As a Creative, Drew initially choreographed shows in London Fringe venues, followed by an off-West End production of the musical In The Heights which went on to win three Olivier Awards, including Best Theatre Choreography.

“The success of In The Heights catapulted me into a bigger spotlight, and I started to work on larger productions.”

One such production was Jesus Christ Superstar “…a real landmark moment for me, career-wise. What was really brilliant was that Tim [Sheader] made me feel confident; I would make suggestions and Tim would encourage me to go further and really push it. I was able to create much bolder choreography than I think I would have done without his support.”

Drew went on to direct and choreograph Strictly Ballroom (West Yorkshire Playhouse) and The Wild Party (which plays at The Other Palace until April), with Jesus Christ Superstar returning to the Open Air Theatre in August.

“The collaborative process for Jesus Christ Superstar was really intimate and (the whole team) worked very closely together, which is why I think it resonated so well with people. We really pushed ourselves, and questioned the material and the work to bring the best out of it. I really want to take some of that ambition and creative freedom into On The Town.”

On The Town opens on 19 May.

Take a look at our Digital Archive

With less than 15 weeks until the 2017 season launches with On The Town, we thought we’d get you in the mood with our new venue trailer. Showcasing some of our recent past productions, alongside that unique Open Air Theatre experience, we hope that you are looking forward to it as much as we are.

In other awards news, our younger audiences have nominated Jesus Christ Superstar for four Mousetrap Awards, the UK's only youth-voted drama awards.

• Musical that landed with a bang (Best New Musical)
• Best Understudy for Joshua Dever
• ‘Welcome to the Westend’ Best Newcomer in West End Debut for Anoushka Lucas
• Best Actor for Tyrone Huntley

Musicals at the Open Air Theatre have become a highly anticipated moment within our calendar. From Gigi, to The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess, to our 2016 sell-out production of Jesus Christ Superstar (recently nominated for Best Musical in the Evening Standard Theatre Awards), Artistic Director Timothy Sheader has created some of the theatre’s most celebrated productions, winning the Olivier Award for Best Musical Revival for Hello, Dolly!, Into the Woods and Crazy for You.

We’ve delved into our archives to look back on Sheader’s musicals at the Open Air Theatre and added cast lists, photos, reviews, costume designs and production information to our digital archive For more information, visit openairtheatreheritage.com and search for Timothy Sheader.

Our production of Pride and Prejudice is touring the UK until the end of February 2017, Jane Austen’s bicentennial year.

Photos have been released of the show which features Olivier Award-winner Matthew Kelly and Felicity Montagu as Mr and Mrs Bennet, Tafline Steen as Elizabeth Bennet, Benjamin Dilloway as Mr Darcy, and Doña Croll as Lady Catherine De Bourgh.

Take a look at the gallery

For full tour information and to book tickets visit PrideAndPrejudicePlay.com

We are delighted to announce that our recent adaptation of Michael Morpurgo’s Running Wild will embark on its first UK tour with Children’s Touring Partnership, from February through to June 2017.

★★★★ “AUDACIOUS and IMAGINATIVE, stylishly directed and those puppets are things of never-ending beauty.” Evening Standard

This ‘brilliant, life affirming show’ (Radio Times), delighted audiences earlier this summer with a life-sized elephant, and an entire buffoonery of orangutan puppets. The tour launches at Chichester Festival Theatre, before visiting Coventry, Sheffield, High Wycombe, London, Blackpool, Leeds, Salford, Norwich, Edinburgh, Newcastle, Plymouth, Northampton, Canterbury and Wolverhampton.

UK TOUR INFORMATION/BOOK TICKETS

Following a sell-out run at the Open Air Theatre, we are excited to send our production of Pride and Prejudice out on UK tour, opening at The Churchill Theatre, Bromley, from 21 Sep.

★★★★ “Deborah Bruce’s charming production blows fresh air into Austen’s wonderful comedy” (Mail on Sunday)

To get you in the mood, take a look at our trailer, featuring all your favourite characters, including Mr and Mrs Bennet (Matthew Kelly and Felicity Montagu), Elizabeth Bennet (Tafline Steen) and, of course, Mr Darcy (Benjamin Dilloway).

View Trailer

The tour then visits: Norwich, Cambridge, Salford, Leicester, Woking, Truro, Birmingham and Richmond; and in 2017: Bath, High Wycombe, Canterbury, Newcastle and Cardiff.

UK Tour Information/Book Tickets

With thanks to our Media Partners, Classic FM and Country Life

We are delighted to announce that Lillian Henley’s music from our production of Pride and Prejudice is to be released on CD.

“Writing music in theatre is completely a collaborative process. It’s important to understand that the music you create can change and develop once you share your work with your creative colleagues in rehearsal.”

“As I developed the musical themes, I would then have meetings with Deborah, the director and Siân, the choreographer, to share my ideas and hear any feedback that they had. It was important to collaborate closely with Deborah, to check we were on the same page creatively.”

“As I take a lot of inspiration from visual stimuli, I visited the National Gallery to look at Turner, Constable and Gainsborough’s works of art. I sat there and looked at the brush strokes and tried to imagine a piece of music for each painting that I felt moved by. I wanted the world to be authentic, but also emotive of the characters we meet in the play, for example the long love story between Darcy and Lizzie. I improvise a lot at the piano, before I set on a final composition.”

“Many of the characters in this play were great fun to score. I found Mr Collins hilarious, and loved how he was being portrayed. I thought that he was an awkward soul, whose overconfidence and displeasure at the Bennet girls was a gift from a composer’s point of view. I also really enjoyed the awkward dance between Lizzie and Darcy in the ballroom scene. I love playing the awkward comedic moments and making, what could be very romantic, extremely uncomfortable for both lead characters.”

Ahead of the CD release, track are available to download from iTunes.

Visit the production page for more information.

What did you know of Jane Austen before starting Pride and Prejudice?

I will be embarrassingly honest and say that I came to Jane Austen rather late - last year in fact! But what a joy it is to stumble onto a treasure trove of work that you've yet to exhaust. I think that's rarer the older you get, so I feel rather lucky to have a lot of her work still to read.

Do you have similarities to Elizabeth Bennet? What is it like to play her?

I do like a good argument. But I can only aspire to her wit and good nature. A lot of people talk about her razor-sharp mind but she also has this huge heart. She is undoubtedly someone I'd meet at a party and follow around all night, hoping some of it'd rub off on me. (Which probably explains why a friend recently said I was definitely a Mary. She may or may not have been joking.)

What are you most looking forward to about performing Pride and Prejudice at the Open Air Theatre?

Open air theatre in general has always seemed magical to me. In fact, I remember a rather formative experience at the Minack in Cornwall when I was little, where the heavens opened and the sea beyond the amphitheatre was violently crashing into the cliffs, and it being such a wonderfully elemental thing. A real communion between people and nature and the ephemeral. Nature feels like another character in Pride and Prejudice so I'm really looking forward to that being so tangible in this production. Not that I'm actually wishing for rain every night...

When the production goes on tour, what five items are your tour essentials?

I've actually never been on tour so I'm hoping everyone else will be generous enough to tell me theirs! I did spend a bunch of time away last year doing a play in the U.S. and discovered the following things tended to solve most problems:

1. Baby wipes
2. Phone signal
3. A good friend
4. A good book
5. Tea

It's such a witty, heartfelt rush of a story that it feels like it was meant to be done like this all along. And Austen's eye for satire and observation, of class and societal interaction, make it more relevant than you might think.

Check for returns for the sell-out run at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre.

Book tickets for the UK Tour.

We are delighted to welcome back director Deborah Bruce and her team to re-launch their 2013 production of Pride and Prejudice ahead of a UK tour.

The cast includes Matthew Kelly and Felicity Montagu as Mr and Mrs Bennet, Tafline Steen as Elizabeth Bennet, Benjamin Dilloway as Mr Darcy and Doña Croll as Lady Catherine De Bourgh.

Best ticket availability is for Thursday matinees, with some single tickets for evening performances – but check the website daily for returns. Tickets are still available for The Churchill Theatre, Bromley (21 – 24 Sept), the opening venue on the UK tour.

More information

"The resurrection of the rock opera is cause for celebration" Sunday Times

Following the sell-out success of Jesus Christ Superstar at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, sign-up to be first to learn of our future plans for this production.

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With Pride and Prejudice just over two weeks away, take a look at Matthew Kelly, Felicity Montagu and Doña Croll, and Company, as we discover the wit and wisdom of Jane Austen in the rehearsal room.

Ticket availability is already limited, so be sure not to miss “Jane Austen’s most beloved novel re-born” (Times).

View Photos | Book Tickets

The UK Tour opens at The Churchill Theatre, Bromley on 21 September, before visiting Norwich, Cambridge, Salford, Leicester, Woking, Truro, Birmingham and Richmond this autumn. As we celebrate Jane Austen’s bicentennial, the tour then visits Bath, High Wycombe, Canterbury, Newcastle and Cardiff in January/February 2017.

UK Tour Booking Information

[caption id="attachment_3459" align="alignnone" width="580"] Jesus Christ Superstar Trailer[/caption]

Jesus Christ Superstar is getting standing ovations at every performance. If you want to see why, check out our just-released trailer!

★★★★ “The resurrection of the rock opera is cause for celebration” Sunday Times

Don't miss this strictly limited run which must end 27 August. Extra mid-week matinees on Wednesday 17 and 24 August.

Book Tickets | View Trailer

★★★★ “A gritty new Jesus Christ Superstar that might just be the finest musical this venue has yet produced.” Arts Desk

[caption id="attachment_3452" align="alignnone" width="580"] Tafline Steen as Elizabeth Bennet and Benjamin Dilloway as Mr Darcy[/caption]

As rehearsals start for Pride and Prejudice (2 - 17 Sept), we are delighted to confirm full casting.

Olivier Award-winner Matthew Kelly (Of Mice and Men, Toast, Educating Rita) joins the already announced Felicity Montagu as Mr and Mrs Bennet. Benjamin Dilloway, whose credits include The Silver Tassie (National Theatre), Of Mice and Men (Birmingham Rep) and King Lear (Almeida), will take the coveted role of Mr Darcy, with Tafline Steen as Elizabeth Bennet. Tafline made an impressive stage debut at the Almeida in King Charles III before transferring with the production to the West End and Broadway. Also announced is Doña Croll as Lady Catherine De Bourgh, whose theatre credits include All My Sons (Birmingham Rep) and Heresy of Love (RSC), as well as playing Vera Corrigan in Doctors and Pearl McHugh in Family Affairs.

Our production of Pride and Prejudice played to sell out audiences in 2013, and it returns for just 19 performances before embarking on a UK tour, visiting Bromley, Norwich, Cambridge, Salford, Woking, Truro, Birmingham, Richmond, Bath, High Wycombe, Canterbury, Newcastle and Cardiff.

Full Casting | Buy Tickets (Open Air Theatre) Full UK Tour Listing and Ticket Information

Following the official opening night of Jesus Christ Superstar, the first reviews are in:

★★★★ “A gorgeous, thrilling, heavenly musical; Wit, lyricism and satirical bite abound in this dramatic revival of the classic rock opera with a first-rate cast. An unexpected and considerable pleasure that really rocks” The Guardian

★★★★ “An almighty revelation” Daily Telegraph

★★★★ “Vivid and compelling. Timothy Sheader offers some of the most stylish direction I’ve seen all year” Evening Standard

★★★★ “ruggedly masculine and flamboyantly fabulous” Time Out

★★★★ “A gritty new Jesus Christ Superstar that might just be the finest musical this venue has yet produced.” The Arts Desk

Matt Lucas, Matthew Bourne and Michael Xavier were among the audience at the performance – take a look at our Opening Night Party Gallery.

More reviews | book tickets

Our fastest ever selling musical, Jesus Christ Superstar, has its official opening night tomorrow. With limited availability for some performances, we have just released an extra 2,200 tickets across the run.

Returning to the vibe of the original concept album, many of the cast are musicians themselves who have not only released albums, but are also part of the music gig circuit. Take a look at our video teaser to give you just a taster of what's in store from this sensational musical.

Link to trailer More info / book tickets

We apologise for the inconvenience that this caused, and hope that you may be able to return.

Ever wondered what it's like backstage just before an actor enters? Thanks to ‘Curtain Call’ photographer Matt Humphrey, take a glimpse backstage of Henry V.

[caption id="attachment_3422" align="alignnone" width="580"] Ryan Ellsworth, David Sibley and Jessica Regan preparing backstage at Henry V.[/caption]

In more backstage news, as we approach our final rehearsals for Jesus Christ Superstar - our fastest selling show ever - we are excited to share photos of the Company at work. Under the musical direction of Tom Deering, choreographer Drew McOnie takes the company through their paces as Timothy Sheader's production takes shape. More photos.

[caption id="attachment_3415" align="alignnone" width="580"] Company of Jesus Christ Superstar. Photo Johan Persson.[/caption]

'Curtain Call: A Year Backstage in London Theatre', chronicling a year of theatre from backstage, is now on sale, and include our productions of Seven Brides for Seven Brothers and To Kill a Mockingbird. For more: https://www.curtaincallonline.com/

We are thrilled to announce further casting for Pride and Prejudice, which returns to the Open Air Theatre to conclude the 2016 season ahead of our UK tour.

Benjamin Dilloway has been confirmed as Mr Darcy, with Tafline Steen taking the role of Elizabeth Bennet. We are also delighted to announce that Matthew Kelly will play Mr Bennet, joining the already announced Felicity Montagu as Mrs Bennet.

Benjamin recently appeared in Of Mice and Men (Birmingham Rep), The Silver Tassie (National Theatre), and If You Don’t Let Us Dream, We Won’t Let You Sleep (Royal Court). Tafline made her professional stage debut in King Charles III at the Almeida, reprising her role in the West End and on Broadway.

Matthew Kelly’s extensive stage career has included The Jew of Malta, Volpone and Love’s Sacrifice (RSC), Toast (Park Theatre and 59E59, New York), Educating Rita (Menier), Waiting for Godot with Ian McKellan and Roger Rees, and he won the Olivier Award for Best Actor for Of Mice and Men (Savoy). He is possibly still best remembered for presenting You Bet! and Stars in Their Eyes.

Further casting to be announced.

Book Tickets: Open Air Theatre | UK Tour

The Comedy Store Players return to the Open Air Theatre for the 26 consecutive year on Sunday 3 July. We caught up with Josie Lawrence, a member of the original players when they first performed at the Park in 1990, to find out what brings them back time and time again.

The Comedy Store Players have been performing at the Open Air Theatre for an incredible 26 years; what makes this space and this audience so special?

It is lovely to be surrounded by trees and nature. It is a beautiful theatre to play. We start in daylight and gradually the night draws in, almost unnoticed. We like the fact that we have chance to play on a different set every year, depending on which show is in the middle of its run. It might be a musical or a Shakespeare. We are always surprised and intrigued, especially Andy Smart, who finds new ways to make an entrance through an unexpected door, or from above (or even below one year!) The audience give us great suggestions too - interesting theatre or film styles, for example. They always come with their brains in gear.

To many, having to improvise would be a terrifying experience. It clearly isn’t for you. What still excites you about performing improvisation?

Every night is different. It's fantastic to play with my improv family, the Comedy Store Players. Each night - actually each sketch or story - is a different adventure, as the audiences vary in what they suggest.

Describe one of the best moments you’ve had here? Do you have any interesting anecdotes about The Park?

One year a man proposed at half time. Neil and I took the mic down to him (at his request) and he got down on one knee in front of over thousand people. And, by chance, someone filmed it and put it up on YouTube. They have a little boy of six now. If they had had a girl, I'm sure they would have called her Josie...

In all this time we've only really had two really rainy nights. One time, it bucketed down. Many of the audience just put on black bin bags to try and keep dry. We were soaked by the end, and the boys just lay down in a puddle to complete the job. Yet that was one of the most memorable nights.

Another time, our friend, Mike McShane, who people will remember from Whose Line Is It Anyway, came to see the show. There was a piece of revolving scenery, and the crew turned it round just as we took our curtain call, to "discover" Mike pouring himself a nice glass of wine.

What’s the most bizarre improv that you’ve been asked to do?

It's a joy to think back to all the different roles I've improvised. I have been a piece of coal, a pip inside an orange, a fork in a cutlery drawer, a Victorian ghost, a ship’s captain, an airline pilot, an evil chief executive and a cheeky elf. I've played women, men, aliens and even a medical giraffe. I'm not sure how that happened.

I guess you must have amazing team work skills to keep an improvised scene going. Have you ever been completely stumped?

We can often be stumped - and it's fun, actually. The audience relishes those moments while we struggle to think of something to say or to get out of a hole of our own making. Often one of the other Players steps in and tries to make sense (or even more nonsense) of the situation. Each of us is different, but we are all doing our best to make the others enjoy themselves.

What should be tell them to come armed with (eg, styles, scenarios etc)?

Come armed with suggestions that are not simply jokey. Great examples of suggestions for locations might be a cobweb-strewn attic or inside the fridge or the last tube home - something we can get out teeth into. Mostly come with your silliness too, so we can all enjoy playing together under the stars. (And maybe a blanket or insect repellent.)

BOOK TICKETS

Guests, press and members of our 2016 Open Air Theatre family – including casts of Running Wild and Jesus Christ Superstar – gathered for a glorious opening night of Henry V.

Take a look at our First Night Gallery.

The first reviews are in:

★★★★ “Robert Hastie’s revelatory revival…cuts to the heart of its concerns. A vital wakeup jolt to us all” (Daily Telegraph)

★★★★ “Michelle Terry is riveting. This is an excitingly staged production in which armies clash by smoke-filled night and drums resoundingly echo” (Guardian)

★★★★ “It’s immersive qualities place us in the thick of the action: soldiers spill out into the aisles, drummers pound a blood-pumping rhythm behind us, and…the “blast of war” does indeed blow in our ears” (The Arts Desk)

★★★★ “(Michelle Terry’s) a superb orator, her delivery fresh and intelligent, sometimes disarmingly gentle, sometimes completely commanding. She has such a way with verse, the words sphere in her mouth and she packs nuance and emotion into every line. A triumph for Terry. She is one of the most capable Shakespearean actors around.” (The Stage)

★★★★ "Michelle Terry brings a touch of danger to Shakespeare’s warrior king” (Time Out)

More reviews | Photos | Video | Book Tickets

With lighting by Joshua Carr, movement direction by John Ross, and design by Olivier Award-winner Anna Fleischle, take a look at our photo gallery to get a flavour of what Henry V has in store.

“This is a play where a chorus comes on stage and says you’ve got to use your imagination because we don’t actually have horses; we don’t actually have armies; there aren’t really kings” says director Robert Hastie.

“We are just working with what we’ve got to make this world come to life, and what we’ve got at this theatre is the open sky and the sounds of the world outside. We’ve added to that in ways that envelop the audience - so we have an astonishing drum soundtrack, incredible percussion that pumps through the auditorium; we’ve got sound effects in the audience, smoke, gunfire, pyrotechnics going off. It’s all about trying to give the audience an experience of what it’s like to be in the siege of Harfleur, or in battle at Agincourt.”

Our production of Henry V comes as we celebrate the legacy of William Shakespeare, in this the 400^th anniversary of his death. “Shakespeare has survived 400 years because these incredible stories can be continually retold and reinvented, and audiences and artists alike are hungry for that. These plays continually find new ways to provoke, to inspire, and to question the world that we live in today”.

View the Gallery | Book Tickets

[caption id="attachment_3374" align="alignnone" width="580"] Ben Wiggins in rehearsal for Henry V[/caption]

As on-stage technical rehearsals progress, we met up with cast member Ben Wiggins, to find out a little more about Henry V.

“It’s going to be a spectacle. We staged the first battle scene last night, and with the lighting, the smoke and the explosions it just gave me goose bumps. We haven’t even got to Agincourt yet, but when we do it’s going to be mammoth!”

Having spent the past two years performing in the grounds of castles and manor houses around Kent, outdoor theatre is nothing new to Ben. “It’s awesome - such a different experience. For an actor it’s vocally demanding as you are competing with the elements – the wind, planes overhead, the parakeets – which we have noticed are incredibly loud here! But it all adds to the ambience.”

There’s a clever devise at the start of the production which introduces Michelle Terry as King Henry, and the casting fluidity continues with several of the Captains also played by women. “Someone said the other day that, by mixing it up, you start to hear the dialogue afresh - as if you are hearing it for the first time”. It seems only fair then that Ben should play Princess Katherine, the French King’s daughter.

“I’ve never played a woman on stage before, and I’ve worked a lot with Rob (director Robert Hastie) in making sure that it doesn’t become a caricature. It’s about poise, and about moving in a softer, more feminine way - it’s not about eyelashes and wigs, or being flamboyant. It’s really important that the audience buy into it. It then allows for the humour of that scene (when Katherine attempts to learn English) to come through the dialogue and the language, rather than it being comical because it’s a boy playing a girl.”

It’s an interesting choice too that, when Ben first enters as Katherine, he is fencing. “Normally Katherine is sewing, or reading, or trying on dresses, but that wasn’t what Rob wanted. We considered karate, and shooting, and then someone suggested fencing. It’s a really beautiful sport and very graceful, and when I first appear as Katherine, I’m wearing a mask, so it is quite androgynous.”

Ben also plays the role of ‘the boy’ who, once his master Falstaff dies, becomes part of the Pistol / Bardolph / Nym gang. “The boy represents innocence and morality, all the things that aren’t reflected in the three men he hangs out with – and he’s constantly saying ‘I’m not like them; they’re cowards; I don’t want to steal things; I want to make something of myself and get a better job’. When he gets killed it’s doubly heart-wrenching because this stupid loss of life shows the complete futility of war, but it’s also the death of innocence. This young boy has hopes, aspirations, and dreams, and the audience has come to know him throughout the play, only to watch him be killed on stage – it’s quite harrowing.”

So what does Ben think the reaction will be to the production? “There is something quite spectacular about the space we are in - the fact that everything is so open and yet it feels so intimate too. The audience is going to get something pretty big, and there’s real surround sound too (that’s all I am going to say on that) – so I hope they’ll feel that this is pretty awesome. I do.”

Book Tickets

With final rehearsal room run-throughs complete, we welcome our Henry V cast to the Open Air Theatre to begin the on-stage technical rehearsals. Shakespeare's most thrilling of histories combines treachery, romance, comedy, and the battles of Harfleur and Agincourt vividly realised here through John Ross's choreography and Yaron Engler’s drum-based composition.

The story is Henry’s, showing him as king and leader, far removed from his youthful days spent in the Eastcheap taverns, and yet as a man of compassion:

“In our marches through the country, there be nothing compelled from the villages, nothing taken but paid for, none off the French upbraided or abused in disdainful language”

but, when not treated with the same consideration in battle, his response is resolute:

“We’ll cut the throats of those we have, and not man of them that we shall take shall taste our mercy”

His strength is also in motivational speak; when asked if the English can have more men to fight, his response is that “the fewer the men, the greater share of honour”. This speech continues to say that, in far off days, when a soldier shows his battle scars, he will do so with pride, and that “in it shall be remember’d; we few, we happy few, we band of brothers; For he to-day that sheds his blood with me shall be my brother”.

Production opens Friday 17 June, book tickets.

As rehearsals start for Jesus Christ Superstar, casting is confirmed.

Joining the previously announced Declan Bennett (Jesus), is Tyrone Huntley as Judas, Anoushka Lucas as Mary Magdelene) and David Thaxton as Pilate.

Tyrone Huntley can currently be seen in The Book of Mormon (BroadwayWorld Award nomination), having previously appeared in Memphis and in our 2014 production of The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess. He appears in Dreamgirls later this year.

Anoushka Lucas is a multi-instrumentalist, songwriter and singer. She regularly performs at Ronnie Scott’s, won the Jazz FM Love Supreme competition in 2013, and recently collaborated with Ché Walker on The Etienne Sisters (Theatre Royal, Stratford East).

David Thaxton won the Olivier Award for Best Actor in a Musical for Passion (Donmar) and has appeared as Javert in Les Misérables (Queens), Raoul in Love Never Dies (Adelphi) and as Maximillian in Candida (Menier).

Also confirmed are Cavin Cornwall as Caiaphas, Peter Caulfield as Herod, Phil King as Peter, Joel Harper-Jackson as Simon Zealotes and Sean Kingsley as Annas.

Completing the Company are Ashley Andrews, Will Barratt, Billy Cullum, Joshua Dever, Omari Douglas, Simon Hardwick, Raquel Jones, Bobbie Little, Sinead Long, Gloria Obianyo, Joseph Prouse, Charlotte Riby, Cameron Sharp, Barnaby Thompson, Rhys Whitfield, and The Soul Girls will be played by Genesis Lynea, Rosa O’Reilly and Shanay Holmes.

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In the 4^th and final instalment of our backstage feature on Running Wild, Joshua Fernandes, Ava Potter and Tyler Osborne talk about sharing the stage with Oona the elephant. Also, with exclusive footage from the production, see Running Wild come to life on the stage, and hear what audiences are saying about the show.

Episode 3: Rainforest

Hear more about the Young People’s Ensemble from Directors Timothy Sheader and Dale Rooks, A co-production with Chichester Festival Theatre, we also meet original Chichester cast members Romina Hytten and Fred Davis, who make their professional puppeteering debuts in the Open Air Theatre’s production.

Episide 2: Tyger, Tyger

In Episode 2 we chat with the masters of puppetry, Finn Caldwell and Toby Olié from Gyre & Gimble, and Leonie Lawrence from the Zoological Society of London talks about the darker side of the story: the threats to wildlife in Indonesia and the conservation work ZSL does in the field.

Episode 1: Creation

We talk to directors Timothy Sheader and Dale Rooks about what drew them to the story of Running Wild, and international best-selling author Michael Morpurgo reveals what inspired him to write it.

Performances from 13 May – 12 June

More Information | Book tickets

We are delighted to announce that Felicity Montagu will play Mrs Bennet in Pride and Prejudice. Known to many as Alan Partridge’s long-suffering PA Lynn, Felicity came to prominence as Perpetua in Bridget Jones’s Diary. She has recently appeared as Cousin Prue in The Durrells, and Mrs Mainwaring in Dad’s Army.

Pride and Prejudice originally played to sold-out audiences in 2013, and returns to the Open Air Theatre (2 – 17 Sep) ahead of a UK tour. Launching in Bromley on 21 Sep, the tour will also visit Norwich, Cambridge, Salford, Leicester, Woking, Truro, Birmingham, Richmond, Bath, High Wycombe, Canterbury, Newcastle and Cardiff. Following in the footsteps of To Kill a Mockingbird and Lord of the Flies, this is the third of our productions to tour the UK.

BOOK TICKETS (London)

UK TOUR DATES

Please note that Felicity Montagu will not perform on 17 September.

Running Wild Reviews

It was wonderful to see so many friends at the official opening of Running Wild, including Alison Steadman, Christopher Biggins, Charlotte Wakefield and Josie Lawrence (who returns with the Comedy Store Players on 3 July), not to mention cast members from this summer’s productions of Henry V and Jesus Christ Superstar. Take a look at our opening night gallery.

And the first reviews are in:

★★★★ “What an audacious and imaginative start this is to the Open Air Theatre’s season…stylishly directed by Timothy Sheader and Dale Rooks” Evening Standard

★★★★ “This absorbing visual feast gradually develops from a lost-in-the-jungle survival story into a morality tale that pitches a brave child against murderous poachers intent on killing endangered wildlife for profit…take a hankie. You'll need it.” WhatsOnStage

★★★★ “It’s a crowdpleaser, mainly thanks to inspiring and energetic staging, namely some amazing puppet animals brought to beautifully articulated life by worldclass ‘War Horse’ puppeteers Finn Caldwell and Toby Olié” Time Out

★★★★ “The puppetry is exquisite…and as the sun goes down over Regent’s Park and Paul Anderson’s atmospheric lighting kicks in, the magic really hits you.” Daily Telegraph

FIND OUT MORE | BOOK TICKETS

Rehearsals for our epic adventure, Running Wild, have now moved to the Open Air Theatre stage – and the venue has never looked so beautiful.

When approached about having Running Wild adapted for the stage, writer Michael Morpurgo questioned “how do you create the jungle? How do you create a landscape like that in a theatre?”

Designer Paul Wills has stepped up to the challenge. Bringing flavours of Indonesia to Regent’s Park, walkways of bamboo are complimented by towering bamboo canes to create a jungle environment within our tree-lined stage, and a triple revolve is decked with intricately cut designs in different hues of wood. Inhabited by Finn Caldwell and Toby Olié’s life-size puppetry of orang-utans, tiger and elephant, this richly textured and visually stunning design will transport audiences to the heart of the Sumatran jungle.

Michael Morpurgo went on to say “What’s wonderful is that it is a bit of the jungle…it’s the perfect place in London, the only place in London that it could be put on. I’m thrilled to bits”.

As we celebrate Shakespeare400, we are delighted to announce full casting for Henry V.

Joining the already-announced Michelle Terry (as Henry), Charlotte Cornwell takes the role of Chorus. Most recently seen at the RSC as Gertrude in Hamlet and the Countess in All’s Well That Ends Well, Cornwell’s theatre, film and TV career spans both sides of the Atlantic, including US productions of The History Boys, An Enemy of the People, Master Class and A Little Night Music.

Having appeared in the BBCs War and Peace, as well as Edward II (National), David Sibley will also play characters including the Archbishop of Canterbury and the King of France.

The role of Princess Katherine will be taken by Ben Wiggins, whose recent credits include Demetrius in A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Middle Temple Hall), and Katherine’s maid, Alice, will be played by Joy Richardson. Joy’s extensive career has included the Nurse in Shakespeare in Love (Noel Coward Theatre) as well as Calpurnia in To Kill a Mockingbird at Manchester’s Royal Exchange.

Ancient Pistol is played by Philip Arditti, whose recent credits include As You Like It (National) and The Danish Girl, as well as playing Uday Hussein in the HBO/BBC drama House of Saddam. Phil Cheadle takes the role of Bardolph having recently appeared in The Boy In The Striped Pyjamas (Chichester Festival Theatre), and in Henry IV Part I and Henry IV Part II (Globe).

We would also like to take this opportunity to congratulate our designer Anna Fleischle on her recent Olivier Award win (for Hangmen), as well as director Robert Hastie on his appointment as Artistic Director of Sheffield Theatres – a role he starts following our production.

Full Casting | Buy Tickets

We have already said that Running Wild is the largest-scale production we have ever mounted at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, but take a look for yourself; we have just released photos from the rehearsal room to give a flavour of the show we are creating.

With 6 adult actors, 3 children sharing the lead role, a Young People’s Ensemble of 55 (split into 2 alternating teams) plus 8 puppeteers animating life-size puppets of a tiger, a buffoonery of orang-utans, a crocodile and, not forgetting, Oona the elephant, this truly is a production not to miss.

Working with author Michael Morpurgo, we are delighted to open up the lead role so that it can be played by either a boy or girl. Performing at alternating performances, Joshua Fernandes and Tyler Osborne will play the role as Will, and Ava Potter (who some may remember in the role of Scout in To Kill a Mockingbird) will play the role as Lilly.

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Rehearsals have now under way for Running Wild, which launches the 2016 season on 13 May.

The part of Will is shared between three young performers, Joshua Fernandes, Tyler Osborne and Ava Potter, who previously appeared as Scout in To Kill a Mockingbird. Also cast are Hattie Ladbury, who played Miss Maudie Atkinson in To Kill a Mockingbird, and Okorie Chukwu, who appeared in last year’s Olivier Award-nominated Peter Pan.

Joining the cast of 17 is an ensemble of 57 young performers from the local community, aged between 9 and 19, alternating performances in two groups, making this our largest ever production.

We are also delighted to welcome, within the 8 puppeteers breathing life into Finn Caldwell and Toby Olié’s orang-utans, tiger, crocodile and elephant, Fred Davis and Romina Hytten who make their professional debuts having been part of the Chichester Festival Youth Theatre production in 2015.

PUPPETS GONE WILD

During half term discover how Gyre & Gimble, the team behind the puppetry, created such lifelike animal characters in a hands-on workshop for families. Make your own prototype puppet inspired by the show, and explore the different techniques they used to bring the cast of animals to life. Each workshop is limited to 20 children (ages 8+), and public booking opens at 11am on Friday 8 April.

Full Workshop Information

PRIORITY BOOKING NOW OPEN

PUBLIC BOOKING OPENS 11AM, 8 APRIL

We are delighted to announce that Beardyman and Sara Pascoe will headline a spectacular evening of comedy Live At Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre (7 Aug) and, of course, summer wouldn’t be summer without the sell-out sketches, skits and spontaneity of the Comedy Store Players (3 Jul).

Our open air screenings are always a hit, and this season Luna Cinema present Steven Spielberg's masterpiece Jurassic Park – the perfect choice for screening against our tree-lined backdrop (14 Aug). With VIP tickets available for our films, we also celebrate 30 years of a true 80's classic – Top Gun starring Tom Cruise and Val Kilmer (21 Aug).

Comedy: More Information | Get Priority Booking

Film: More Information | Get Priority Booking

This month celebrates Michael Morpurgo and his influence on children’s literature. During the week commencing 21 March, the focus is on his novels about animals, and specifically the relationship between animals and humans – including Running Wild.

Michael is unendingly passionate about exploring how animals interact with humans; how the relationship between humans and the helpless creatures that depend on them can be cruel and exploitative, but also sometimes filled with mutual tenderness. Once, Michael witnessed a boy talking to a horse so intently and with such affection that he found himself greatly touched: this led him to write his much-acclaimed and much-loved bestseller, War Horse. It is with a glint in his eye that Michael will talk about his very favourite animal, the elephant: a love that arose from his mother reading Rudyard Kipling’s The Elephant Child to him when he was a boy.

Running Wild is a moving and incredible tale, re-imagined from a real-life story, of a boy who was rescued by an elephant who sensed the 2004 tsunami in Indonesia. An ardent advocate for the rights of the animal and for the wisdom they can share with us, Michael always shows us animals as beautiful, sensitive creatures, who remain with us a long time after closing the book.

More information on his other novels involving animals

For more about Running Wild

This summer we are bringing the Indonesian rainforest to Regent’s Park with our epic production of Michael Morpurgo’s Running Wild.

Michael Morpurgo is one of our most popular authors, with War Horse gaining him an international reputation, through the novel, stage play and film. Finn Caldwell and Toby Olié, both previous Associate Puppetry Directors on War Horse, have created stunning puppets for his Running Wild, including an elephant, tiger, crocodile and orag-utans. Their work has also recently included The Lorax (Old Vic) and The Light Princess (National).

In a co-production with Chichester Festival Theatre, and with a cast of 40, Running Wild is our most ambitious project yet.

Amongst the wonder of the rainforest, Running Wild also tells a darker story: that of the destruction of habitat and of poachers killing for greed. We are proud to have teamed up with neighbours ZSL London Zoo, whose mission is to promote and achieve the worldwide conservation of animals and their habitats. As well as running education modules for schools in association with the production, for every family ticket purchased for Running Wild, we are offering an £8.00 discount to ZSL London Zoo, so that families can find out more about their important conservation work.

Ways to Save*

Early Bird Previews – save £5: Book before the end of April, and save £5 on standard prices during previews (13 – 18 May), valid on Price Bands A – D. This can be combined to Member and Group discounts, but not with student, senior concessions or with the Family Ticket.

U18 - £25 tickets: Get best available tickets for £25.00, valid on all performances excluding Saturday evenings (excluding premium seats).

Family Ticket – save up to £37: Exclusively for Running Wild, our £110 family ticket package of 4 tickets can be a combination of either 2 adults and 2 children, or 1 adult and 3 children), excluding Saturday evenings.

£10 BREEZE tickets: Aged 18 – 25? We have 50 tickets for every preview at £10 each (Price Band B). BREEZE membership costs just £10 per year– with a 10% discount at the bar and barbecue too.

Senior matinee - £22.50 tickets: Seniors can pre-book best available seats at £22.50 for mid-week matinees.

*Full terms for each of the discounts and concessions

We are delighted to announce that our production of Henry V will feature as part of Shakespeare400.

Shakespeare400 is a season of cultural and artistic events across 2016, celebrating four hundred years of Shakespeare. Led by a consortium of leading cultural, creative and educational organisations coordinated by King's College London, including the National Theatre, Shakespeare's Globe, Royal Opera House, London Philharmonic Orchestra and the British Library, to name but a few, the season of theatre, music, opera, dance and exhibitions seeks to demonstrate Shakespeare’s creative influence in national and global culture in this, the 400th anniversary of his death.

We are thrilled that our production of Henry V will be a part of this programme of work.

As part of this celebration, we have delved into the archives to discover more about past Open Air Theatre productions of Henry V. Find out more at openairtheatreheritage.com.

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A life's work A 400-year legacy A year of celebrations

We are excited to announce details for our 2016 season.

Michael Morpurgo’s Running Wild will open the season (13 May – 12 June). In a co-production with Chichester Festival Theatre, who originally created the piece with their youth theatre, we will develop the play to launch its professional premiere. Timothy Sheader and original Chichester director Dale Rooks direct.

To commemorate the legacy of Shakespeare, 400 years since the playwright’s death, Robert Hastie will direct Henry V (17 June – 9 July). Currently an Associate Director for the Donmar Warehouse, Robert recently received critical acclaim for Splendour by Abi Morgan and My Night With Reg, which subsequently transferred to the Apollo Theatre.

Celebrating 45 years since Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s seminal musical first hit the stage, Timothy Sheader will direct Jesus Christ Superstar (15 July – 27 August). With a legendary score, this epic story, with choreography by Drew McOnie, will find a new resonance in the unique surroundings of Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre.

The 2013 sell-out production of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, adapted for the stage by Simon Reade and directed by Deborah Bruce, will conclude the 2016 season (2 – 17 September). Following the success of To Kill a Mockingbird and Lord of the Flies (which continues until March 2016), Pride and Prejudice will then embark on a major UK tour.

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Earl dedicated his life to theatre, working as Master Carpenter between 1967 and 1983. In his 16 years as Master Carpenter, Earl built sets, toured productions and helped to construct the new backstage workshop during the developments to the theatre site during the 1970s.

Here are a few photos to show you some of Earl's brilliant work for the theatre:

Photo: 3 storey house built by Earl for Romeo and Juliet in 1971. The house was also used in many productions in following years.

Photo: Set build by Earl for The Tempest in 1972.

Photo: Set build by Earl for The Merry Wives of Windsor.

[caption id="attachment_3207" align="alignnone" width="480"]Judi Dench directing The Boys from Syracuse, 1991[/caption]

We are delighted to announce the launch of our Open Air Theatre Heritage Project. This is the first stage of the project which gives access to our fascinating 83 year history through a new website, www.openairtheatreheritage.com.

Currently held at the Shakespeare Institute in Stratford-upon-Avon, our archive includes programmes, posters, photographs and production designs and, once digitalised, these will be accessible to view, and search, via this new website.

With over 300 productions, the collection is vast; we have therefore focused on four of our alumni for the launch: Judi Dench, Benedict Cumberbatch, Janie Dee and Hugh Bonneville. Judi Dench has been on our board for over 20 years (and directed an Olivier Award-winning musical), and Hugh Bonneville made his theatrical debut here as the alternate for Ralph Fiennes in A Midsummer Night’s Dream in 1986. Benedict Cumberbatch first appeared here in 2001 as Demetrius in A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and Janie Dee met her husband whilst performing in Romeo and Juliet in 1993. Their stories are the first that we will tell through this website.

The JCL Trust is a Founding Sponsor of the Open Air Theatre Heritage Project. However, with such a wealth of collateral still to digitalize, donations to help fund the project can be made at www.openairtheatre.com/donations-booking.

We are also looking for donations of historic material, especially for the period 1932 – 1962, where current archives are limited. Please email heritage@openairtheatre.com to make contributions to the archive.

After a sold out run to conclude our 2015 season, Lord of the Flies has now embarked on a UK tour. The production is on an epic scale not usually achieved by touring plays, with all the elements from Regent's Park - including aeroplane wreckage, fire, smoke and flares - still included. These, alongside the storytelling credentials for which we achieved nationwide recognition with To Kill a Mockingbird, make this an experience not to miss.

The tour launches at New Victoria Theatre, Woking on Wednesday 16 September, where it plays 4 evening and 3 matinee performances until Saturday 19 September. Following this we head to the Grand Opera House in Belfast before arriving at the Mayflower in Southampton.

Whilst there are dates as far afield as Edinburgh, Dublin and Truro, if you are based in the London area, there are many dates within an easily commutable distance. In addition to Woking, we are also visiting Richmond Theatre, The Swan in High Wycombe, G-Live in Guildford and The Churchill Theatre in Bromley.

We look forward to sharing this extraordinary production of Lord of the Flies with audiences across the country.

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With rehearsals well under way for Lord of the Flies, take a look at the 2015 cast as they prepare for the production. Also released is a new publicity photo of Luke Ward-Wilkinson, who plays Ralph, and Freddie Watkins, his nemesis, Jack. Both of these young actors are making their stage debuts, but many will recognise Luke from BBCs Africa-based Wild at Heart and Freddie from the film Nativity!. You can follow their rehearsal journey on their blog www.lordofthefliesuk.me.

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Although there is very limited availability remaining for Lord of the Flies at the Open Air Theatre (3-12 Sept), tickets are still available for our UK launch dates at the New Victoria Theatre, Woking (16 -19 Sept). To book for Woking, and for all tour dates visit www.lordoftheflies.co.uk.

Alistair David with Director Rachel Kavanaugh in the rehearsal room

With the choreography for Seven Brides for Seven Brothers attracting such reviews as "a dazzling display of balletic warfare", "exhilarating", "barnstorming...packed with nimble charm, exuberance and athleticism...it leaves you breathless", we caught up with Choreographer Alistair David to find out how dance has shaped his life, and the challenges of bringing this iconic show to the Open Air Theatre.

How did you get into dancing?

I’ve danced all my life. I used to just dance in the street, a neighbour said to my mum that she takes her girls dancing and would I like to go? I went and I loved it from the off. Before long I was dancing every night of the week, and then my mum realised that it was something I should take further. I went to stage school, and then I went to a series of ballet schools. It’s all I’ve ever done, I can’t do anything else.

What inspired you to move from dancer to choreographer?

I had been very successful as a dancer - a lot of West End, and I’d danced for the RSC. I’d done a lot and most dancers know that when you approach a certain age, you only have a few years left and you start to make decisions about what you want to do. I’ve always choreographed; I won a choreography competition twice at ballet school. It is something that I had always done but had never taken it seriously. Then a very famous British choreographer said to me that if I wanted to be taken seriously I should stop dancing. So I stopped officially 10 years ago.

Why did you want to work on this particular project?

Simply because it’s a big dance show! When Tim (Sheader) first told me the title I was so overwhelmed because I’ve had a bit of connection with this show all my life. I played a suitor at ballet school, but I really wanted to be Gideon. I remember being very upset, but I loved doing the show anyway. It was also the first full book musical that I ever choreographed, about 12 years ago. I just think it’s a great, silly, entertaining show and I was really excited about doing something different when I heard Gareth Valentine was doing the dance arrangements, I thought I can stay faithful to the film but put my own little spin on it.

What is the relationship with the Director?

I had a few meetings with the Director, Rachel (Kavanaugh), prior to rehearsals beginning, where we would sit, go through the script, talk about what we wanted to keep, cut, move, and change. Once we get into the actual rehearsals, it’s a proper collaboration – it’s the best part of my job when I get to work with somebody like Rachel; we’re a team, we work together, there is no sense that “that’s your bit”, we just do it all together.

Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, 2015

Can you talk me through the process of choreographing a big dance show such as Seven Brides for Seven Brothers?

I begin at home, I have a little office where I sit and listen to the music and I basically make notes - how many bars, or counts there are in each section, and then write my thoughts. YouTube is a great tool nowadays you can have an idea of something and then you can search for it. For this I ended up watching a lot of male Russian dancers because I wanted it to have that very butch but balletic, regal feel when the boys transform.

Then I went to the studio with my assistant Emma Woods and Leon Cooke, one of the boys, where we spent 8 days just throwing each other around. Sometimes we spent 2 hours on maybe 8 counts; we just needed to work things out and we knew we wouldn’t have time in the studio. By the end of those 8 days I had pretty much choreographed the whole show though you’re always thinking that once you get it on the floor things might change. Then I go into rehearsals proper, with my armour of steps.

Was the Harvest Social a daunting routine to choreograph, knowing how famous and well-loved the original Barn Dance is?

There is pressure there, as that is one of the moments that people are looking out for. It’s daunting because it’s 8 minutes long, so I did a lot of preparation, a lot of listening to the music, working out what story I wanted to tell. I don’t watch any film of the show that I am doing, I don’t want to be in any way influenced even subliminally.

What about this show makes it special, and why should people come and see it?

It’s special because it’s made for the outdoors, if ever a title is suited to this theatre, it’s this. Laura Pitt-Pulford and Alex Gaumond are an excellent leading lady and leading man. We have a cast of fantastic dancers; really athletic and acrobatic. It looks lovely, and there are some surprises. We’ve taken a fresh take on a title which has some fairly dubious sexual politics; Rachel has done a fantastic job of addressing that for a 2015 audience. I‘m really proud of my choreography, it’s just a special evening in this space.

What have you got lined up next?

Next I am working on a really exciting project with director Lyndsey Turner. She’s just finished directing Benedict Cumberbatch in Hamlet so is really hot right now. Laura Wade is adapting Tipping the Velvet for the Lyric Hammersmith, which should be a really exciting, new, unique theatrical experience. I’m really excited about it because it’s brand new and will have all sorts of surprises.

“The Open Air Theatre is so delightfully good at revivals of classic musicals that its offerings have become a firm fixture on the summer cultural calendar. Seven Brides continues on this triumphant path” Evening Standard

Take a look at our trailer for Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, to see why this “joyful stage revival” (Metro) is delighting audiences at every performance.

★★★★ “Bless this beautiful revival” Daily Telegraph

★★★★ “Rachel Kavanaugh’s frolicking, rollicking, sunny and funny production bowls you over…resistance is futile.” Mail on Sunday

★★★★ “Alistair David’s barnstorming choreography is so packed with nimble charm, exuberance and athleticism that it leaves you breathless” The Times

★★★★ “Sensational” Daily Mail

★★★★ “You have no choice but to give in, roll over, and look forward to summer” WhatsOnStage

★★★★ “An evening to treasure” Sunday Express

More reviews | book tickets

Tickets are selling fast, so be sure not to miss this “sunny, witty, melodious show…the crowning treat of the Regent’s Park season” (Libby Purves)

Rehearsals are now under way for the final production of our 2015 season, Lord of the Flies. With just 14 performances at the Open Air Theatre, do not despair if you are unable to get tickets here – the production launches its UK tour at the New Victoria Theatre in Woking, with 7 performances 16 – 19 September.

The cast includes Freddie Watkins (Nativity!) as Jack and Luke Ward-Wilkinson (Wild at Heart, Beautiful People) as Ralph, and real life twins Thiago Pigatto and Fellipe Pigatto as twins Sam and Eric.

Full UK tour dates can be found at www.lordoftheflies.co.uk

In celebration of the summer and our special partnership with Grange Hotels, we would like to remind everyone about the great discounted rates all Open Air Theatre audiences enjoy in the nearby hotels.

The Grange Fitzrovia, Grange Langham Court and Grange Holborn are all walking distance to the Park and theatre, and our audiences can get 10% off best available rates at the weekends – giving you the perfect base for your next trip to the theatre.

The three hotels are in the heart of the West End and all of exceptional standard but with individual selling points: Grange Holborn boasts 5-star status, the Grange Langham Court is a more traditional property and the Grange Fitzrovia is closest to the theatre less than a mile away.

Bookings must be made by phone or email. Please call Central Reservations on 020 7233 7888 or email reservations@grangehotels.com, quoting 'REGENTSPARK', to access this.

More information can be found here.

The Open Air Theatre is open until Saturday 12th September, and the season continues with our hit musical Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, followed by Lord of the Flies. We also have a programme of Sunday Events of music and film which are running for the duration of August.

Friends and families gathered last week for the official opening night of Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, which was supported by lead media partner Country Life. We were also thrilled to welcome David Landay who wrote the book, and Jennifer Carter-Hirschhorn, widow of Joel Hirschhorn who, with Al Kasha, wrote new songs for the stage musical.

Celebrating the opening, Canard Duchêne supplied champagne to accompany canapés created by Head Chef Richard Dryden, including pork belly croquettes, carrot arancini, smoked salmon cream cheese and cavier, date and earl grey tea madeleines with a muscovado tip and bite size lavender doughnut with chocolate sauce.

Also joining us at the opening night were John Lithgow, Alison Steadman, Bonnie Langford, Christopher Biggins, Janie Dee, Sheila White, Harriet Thorpe and our Platinum Patrons Carol Bown, Rosemary Cox, Josephine and Oliver Rogger, Maureen Sutherland-Smith, and Andrew and Sandra Treagus.

Take a look at our opening night gallery on Facebook

In conjunction with our production of Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, JAY Productions have released a new recording of songs and music from the film and stage musical. A studio recording with the National Symphony Orchestra, three of our cast members, Alex Gaumond (Adam), Laura Pitt-Pulford (Milly) and Sam O’Rourke (Gideon) are guest performers on the CD, which can be purchased at the theatre for £12, or pre-ordered from our website.

Here is a full a track listing:

1. Overture
2. Bless Your Beautiful Hide
3. Wonderful, Wonderful Day
4. One Man
5. Goin’ Courtin’
6. Challenge Dance
7. Love Never Goes Away
8. Sobbin’ Women
9. We Gotta Make It Through The Winter 10. A Woman Ought To Know Here Place 11. Lonesome Polecat
10. Spring Spring Spring
11. Glad That You Were Born
12. Wedding Dance
13. Finale

Plus a bonus radio edit of Bless Your Beautiful Hide

Purchase CD

We are delighted to have two productions now open, The Seagull (playing until 11 July) and To Kill a Mockingbird which has started a month-long residency at the Barbican (until 25 July).

Photos have now been released for The Seagull, featuring Jon Bausor’s stunning designs (Jon also designed Peter Pan, To Kill a Mockingbird and Lord of the Flies), so do take a look. Don't miss this refreshing, captivating, funny and surprising Chekhov classic, which is already wowing audiences:

“amazing - possibly the best play I've ever seen!” “THAT'S how you do Chekhov!” “Striking and superb!” “ The Seagull was a sight to behold with some of the best scenes I've seen in theatre”

As To Kill a Mockingbird opens at the Barbican, we are thrilled to welcome back Robert Sean Leonard as Atticus Finch, “a marvel of restraint, conveying not showy heroism but weary, doubtful fragility” ★★★★★ The Times. With a few tickets still available, this is the last chance to catch our award-winning production. To book visit the Barbican website.

Matthew Tennyson plays Konstantin in The Seagull. He is 27 and grew up in London with his mum, a nurse, and dad, a physics lecturer (and he’s the great, great, great grandson of Alfred, Lord Tennyson!). In 2012 Matthew won the Evening Standard Award for Outstanding Newcomer for Making Noise Quietly at the Donmar.

When did you first discover your love of theatre?

I used to go to the theatre a lot with my granddad. I just sort of decided that I wanted to be an actor; it was a natural progression and instinctive. I sort of knew that I would always be an actor, I don’t know why, it was always in the back of my mind.

Tell us about the character of Konstantin, and what you are enjoying about playing him.

Konstantin is a young avant-garde writer whose work is ridiculed by his mother, a famous actress. It’s a pretty exhausting role; he’s quite highly strung and quite an intense person to get inside of his head. He never lets up really, he’s relentless.

What are you most looking forward to about performing The Seagull at the Open Air Theatre?

I think it will be really exciting here; Konstantin, at the start of the play, has an idea of what theatre should be like, and he talks about artifice and elemental natural things – the first half of the play is set outside so, from that perspective, doing it here makes sense. It’s such a chamber piece really, but putting it in this huge space means that you have to stretch it out, pull it apart – it kind of makes it crueller and makes the character’s needs more intense, and bigger. You’ve got to reach someone across this huge space and tell them you love them. It’s a challenge but it brings something new and exciting.

2015 marks the 120th anniversary of The Seagull, and in recognition of this, we have commissioned a new adaptation of Chekhov’s seminal play from award-winning writer Torben Betts. We continue our conversation with Matthew Tennyson about the production.

What can we expect from Torben Betts’ new adaptation of The Seagull?

Torben has amped up the fact that these characters never listen to each other. Director Matthew (Dunster) was saying that, in the original, there were lots of monologues and long stretches of people talking, but in Torben’s version he’s kind of chopped it up. He’s got all of these interjections from other characters throughout so, as an actor, and as Konstantin, you are constantly tuning in and out of what they are saying, and latching on to some things - and ignoring others. It feels very realistic because that is how people listen; they only pick up on some things. It’s so tricky to act that; you have to listen three times as hard to act ‘not listening’ to someone, and to not miss your cue either.

What did you know of the world of Chekhov before you started this process, and what have you discovered since starting rehearsals?

I knew he was this great naturalist, and wrote plays of, sort of, elegiac melancholy – but I realise more and more what a perceptive, heartfelt observer of human nature he is, and so funny. The play swings from the tragic to the ridiculous in almost the same beat. It’s really funny and intensely sad.

There is so much in The Seagull about art versus reality. I was watching Peter Pan and thinking about our set in that space where we’ve got this Astroturf, fake grass that we’ve got next to real grass, and it just says something about problems with reality, acting, and art - holding a mirror up to nature, which is something I think Chekhov wanted to do.

We are delighted to announce that we have extended our BREEZE scheme across all performances of The Seagull. For an annual membership fee of £10, those aged 18-25 can get tickets for just £10. In the final instalment of our chat with Matthew Tennyson, he tells us why schemes such as this are so important.

Did you take advantage of ticketing schemes for young people?

I absolutely did use them. As an actor, one of the most important things about learning how to act is watching other people do it. Without schemes like this I wouldn’t have been able to afford to go to the theatre. I think it’s vital.

And in the context of our production of The Seagull?

I think it’s really exciting to have young people come to see this play, and think that many might not have seen it before. And with £10 BREEZE tickets, I would urge everyone to come and give it a go – a night out at the Open Air Theatre is brilliant - they even have draft beer now too!

In a sentence, why should people come to see The Seagull?

I think it is going to be very funny and unexpected, and hopefully feel current and relevant because these characters feel so recognisable.

Currently thrilling audiences aged 8 to 80, rave reviews for Peter Pan continue to arrive. An adventure not to miss, this site-specific production only runs until 14 Jun.

★★★★★ “a magical spectacle” Time Out

★★★★ “boisterous and full of childlike ingenuity” Daily Telegraph

★★★★ “sprightly, imaginative and terrific fun” Financial Times

★★★★ “the aerialism suspends your disbelief…thrilling” The Times

★★★★ “ingenious puppetry” Evening Standard

★★★★★ “it’s rare to find a show that can delight young and old in equal measure, but Peter Pan pulls it off” Culture Whisper

Read More Reviews

As we reach tonight’s press night of Peter Pan, 2015 cast members David Birrell and Hiran Abeysekera (Peter Pan), Janie Dee (The Seagull), and Alex Gaumond and Laura Pitt-Pulford (Seven Brides for Seven Brothers) celebrate the official opening of our 2015 season.

Now playing through until 14 September, here are some things you shouldn’t miss:

• Peter Pan also plays two performances on Sundays, so plenty of opportunity to see him fly!
• A traditional afternoon tea can be pre-booked for weekend matinees of Peter Pan
• With its premiere on 19 June, ours is a brand new version of The Seagull, commissioned to mark its 120th anniversary
• Covered Dining is now one of our most popular pre-theatre dining options, with reservations totalling 1,200 (so far)
• Bless our beautiful hides, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers is our fastest selling musical of all time
• Audiences can’t wait for the taste of summer, with over 1,100 Regent’s Park Burgers already purchased
• Lord of the Flies opens on 3 September, but hurry – it’s already 50% sold out
• If you want to see more than one production, take a look at our Subscription Packages…you may be able to save some money

We look forward to welcoming you this summer.

We are delighted to welcome you to the 2015 season, which is now open.

Peter Pan is now playing until Sunday 14 June, with performances Tuesday to Sunday, with matinees on Thursday, Saturday and Sunday (no matinee on 16 May or 21 May). Evening performances are at 7.45pm (with gates opening at 6.15pm, and matinees at 2.15pm (with gates opening at 1.15pm).

From the lagoons and pirate ships of Never Land, to flying in the open air, this is set to be one of our most adventurous productions yet - so definitely one not to miss. Recommended for all ages 9+, remember to bring something warm to wear for the end of the evening!

We look forward to seeing you this summer.

As Peter Pan launches into its final week of rehearsal, full casting is confirmed for our next production, The Seagull.

Joining double Olivier Award-winner Janie Dee, Poldark’s Sabrina Bartlett and Evening Standard Award-winner Matthew Tennyson, director Matthew Dunster has assembled a remarkable cast including: Colin Hoult (Being Human, BBC), Fraser James (Liberian Girl at Royal Court / Law & Order, ITV), Lisa Palfrey (Best Actress, Theatre Critics of Wales Award for Before it Rains at Bristol Old Vic/Sherman Cymru and the film Pride directed by Matthew Warchus), Ian Redford (Antigone at the Royal Exchange, Manchester / New Tricks, BBC) and, as Boris Trigorin, Alex Robertson (who recently starred as Matthew Thorogood in the film The Suspicions of Mr Whicher: The Tie That Binds, and The Village, BBC).

This new version of The Seagull by award-winning writer Torben Betts, commissioned by us in celebration of the play’s 120th anniversary, premieres on 24 June (with previews from 19 June).

Full Casting | More Information

We caught up with Hiran Abeysekera, who will be playing Peter Pan, to find out more about him, and what he loves about this play.

Hiran is 29 years old, born and raised in Sri Lanka and went abroad for the first time to come to the UK in 2008 to attend RADA Drama School.

When did you first discover your love of theatre?

I was in class at school, and had behaved badly so the teacher got me on the desk so that all the other teachers passing our classroom could see me standing to say, ‘this is the naughty boy, watch out for him’. There was a new teacher and she was looking for people to use in her play, so she came into the class and asked my teacher ‘who has got a lot of energy?’. And she was like ‘he dances all the time, get that boy there!’.

So I was a rat in Pied Piper, that was my first role. From there I joined a children’s theatre company in Sri Lanka called Lanka Children’s and Youth Theatre Foundation/PlayHouse-Kotte.

In 2007, a director called Willi Richards came to Sri Lanka and, with the British Council, he directed Romeo and Juliet as a tri-lingual version of the play - so Sinhala, Tamil and English. It was when the war was still going on, so very apt. I played Romeo, and Willi asked me if I would like to go to drama school.

Willi and the British Council paid for the plane ticket, PlayHouse-Kotte along with friends and family collected some pocket money for the trip, and I came to England for the first time. RADA offered me a scholarship so I chose there. I didn’t know anything about drama school, so none of this was a big thing, I was just having the time of my life!

What are you most looking forward to about Peter Pan?

I’m looking forward to the flying, to getting comfortable with it so I don’t have to think about it or worry about it. It’s a huge cast, with a lot of energy, enthusiasm and phenomenal skill. I’m looking forward to the whole journey and to getting to the final product.

The flying rig looks pretty epic. How are you finding flying in the open air?

When you’re flying high up there, it’s the most amazing feeling. But you are constantly reminded that you’re not a bird, you’re just a human because it hurts! It’s so technical, the whole show, even five minutes of flying is over two hours of rehearsal for safety. It’s so precise, my life is totally in the hands of the counter weight, and they’re brilliant guys! They have to know what the rhythm of the scene is, what the rhythm of my character is, I have to feel them as well. It’s not me flying, it’s them flying me and we have to understand each other’s bodies and rhythms to make it work.

So why should people come to see Peter Pan?

It’s going to be magical and it’s going to be a spectacle. I think if I was a kid, and my parents said there’s this show, I would definitely enjoy it. As an adult, I would enjoy it more. To re-live it as an adult reminds us of our childhood, and that’s something which it is important not to forget.

Peter Pan runs from 15 May – 14 June.

With rehearsals about to start and summer just around the corner, we are excited to make our first casting announcement for the 2015 season.

Laura Pitt-Pulford (The Light Princess /The Sound of Music, Curve) and Alex Gaumond (Matilda, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels) star as Milly and Adam in Seven Brides for Seven Brothers. Sabrina Bartlett, who debuts in Poldark on Easter Sunday, joins Olivier Award-winner Janie Dee in Torben Betts’ new adaptation of The Seagull. Matthew Tennyson, who won the Evening Standard Award for Outstanding Newcomer in 2012, will play Kostantin.

In Peter Pan, the title role is played by Hiran Abeysekera (currently Beyond The Beautiful Forevers ,National) with Captain Hook played by David Birrell, who returns to the Open Air Theatre following his 2012 performances in A Midsummer Night’s Dream and as Father in Ragtime. Also returning are Beverly Rudd as Smee (Little Red Ridinghood, Into the Woods) and George Bukhari as Nibbs (Bottom, A Midsummer Night's Dream / Piggy, Lord of the Flies).

Don't forget that you have until the end of April to take advantage of our Early Bird Preview offer.

We are also delighted to confirm the 2015 UK tour dates for Lord of the Flies, which opens at the New Victoria Theatre, Woking on 16 September following 14 performances at the Open Air Theatre.

In more news, Nitin Sawhney will perform from his new album on Sunday 9 August, and Paul Merton has confirmed his return to the Comedy Store Players for their 25th anniversary gig at the theatre on 26 July.

Sunday 15 March marks the centenary of the date that George Llewelyn Davies died in action during the First World War. George was the eldest of the Llewelyn Davies children and, along with brother Michael, was one of J.M.Barrie’s favourite boys who inspired him to create the characters of Peter Pan and the lost boys.

Remembering Llewelyn Davies and a generation of lost boys, our production of Peter Pan will open on the Western Front of World War I.

Find out more about George Llewelyn Davies and his relationship with Barrie on the Peter Pan production page, including the poignant last letter Llewelyn Davies sent to his Uncle the day before he died.

We are thrilled to have been nominated in the prestigious Laurence Olivier Awards as Best Musical Revival for our 2014 production of The Gershwins' Porgy and Bess. We are delighted to have been chosen in a season where revivals have also included: Miss Saigon, Cats, Evita, The Pajama Game and City of Angels.

The award ceremony takes place on Sunday 12 April with highlights screened on ITV.

More information

We are delighted to announce our 2015 comedy and film events. Priority Booking opens 11am, 26 February; Public Booking opens 11am, 5 March.

As part of his fourth international stand up tour To Be Free, award-winning comedian Simon Amstell makes a welcome return to the Open Air Theatre on 28 June. Described as ‘the hardest working man in comedy’ – which, let’s face it, is not that impressive (his words, not ours!) - Jimmy Carr also brings us his brand new stand-up show Funny Business on 2 August.

On 26 July, join us to celebrate 25 years of performances by the Comedy Store Players at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre. With their inimitable blend of comedy, chaos and improvisation, it is easy to see why this is one of the most popular events of the season.

Luna Cinema return this summer with two outdoor screenings: Some Like It Hot (16 August) starring Marilyn Monroe, Tony Curtis and Jack Lemmon, and a 40th anniversary screening of the Spielberg classic, Jaws (23 August).

Early booking is strongly recommended for these events, and please check gate and performance times as these vary. Priority Booking can be purchased for £15.

J.M. Barrie’s Peter Pan launches the 2015 Open Air Theatre season.

Opening on 15 May, Artistic Director Timothy Sheader rediscovers J. M. Barrie's original stage play of Peter Pan. Creating a Never Land where danger stalks dreams and adventure breeds mischief, imagination takes flight in this darkly comic tale.

This is followed by the first of Chekhov’s great works, The Seagull, a play which opens with guests arriving at a country house for the staging of an open air production! This new version by Torben Betts is directed by Matthew Dunster (A Midsummer Night’s Dream 2012).

Always a highlight of the summer season, our 2015 musical is Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, a classic from the Golden Age of the movie musical. With songs including ‘Bless Your Beautiful Hide’, the production reunites the team behind our award-winning production of The Sound of Music.

To conclude our season, but for just 14 performances (so early booking is recommended), our acclaimed production of Lord of the Flies, William Golding’s story of survival, superstition and immorality, returns prior to a major UK tour.

We are delighted to announce that our 2014 production of The Gershwin's Porgy and Bess has been nominated for Best Musical Revival in the WhatsOnStage Awards. Winners are chosen by the public, so your vote really will make a difference. Voting is now open until 31 January 2015.

Vote now

We are delighted to announce that To Kill a Mockingbird will return to London in 2015. Our award-winning production will transfer to the Barbican from 24 June to 25 July at the conclusion of its UK tour, with Robert Sean Leonard reprising his critically acclaimed performance as Atticus Finch exclusively for the Barbican season.

Booking now open!

More information

Receiving a standing ovation at the curtain call. Photo David Jensen

Jade Ewen, Nicola Hughes and Sharon D. Clarke. Photo David Jensen

Nicola Hughes and Rufus Bonds Jr. Photo David Jensen

Phillip Boykin, Rufus Bonds Jr and Cedric Neal. Photo David Jensen

Orchestra during the curtain call. Photo David Jensen

For more information about the Gershwins' Porgy and Bess or to book tickets, please visit the production page.

To Kill a Mockingbird is the most successful play ever to be staged at the Open Air Theatre, and follows this season’s other productions Hobson’s Choice and Twelfth Night re-imagined for everyone aged six and over (both of which play until 12 July), and the Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess (17 July -23 August). The UK tour of To Kill a Mockingbird opens at the Marlowe Theatre in Canterbury on 15 September.

Book now | more information

As one show closes at the Open Air Theatre and we go into our technical rehearsals for the next, the stage team have the enormous job of completely changing the set in just 36 hours. To show the transition from All My Sons to Hobson’s Choice, we filmed this process and speeded it up so you can see it completed in just over a minute!

Hobson’s Choice will play at the theatre until 12 July, and tickets are available from our Hobson’s Choice production page.

We are delighted to announce casting for All My Sons, the first production of our season, which includes Tom Mannion, Brid Brennan, Charles Aitken and Amy Nuttall.

Tom Mannion (Joe Keller) has previously appeared in Arthur Miller’s The Price, as well as the Inspector in An Inspector Calls and as Oberon in A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Globe). His previous productions at the Open Air Theatre include Two Gentlemen of Verona and Bartholomew Fair.

Brid Brennan (Kate Keller) won a Tony Award for Dancing at Lughnasa and was Olivier Award-nominated for Rutherford and Son (National Theatre) and The Little Foxes (Donmar Warehouse).

Charles Aitken was recently seen in Sweet Bird of Youth (Old Vic) and on television appeared in Foyle’s War and Bonkers. Amy Nuttall’s stage credits include A Streetcar Named Desire, the Donmar’s Guys and Dolls and on television appeared in Downton Abbey.

Watch Artistic Director Timothy Sheader talking about his vision for All My Sons | See full cast list

Further casting is also confirmed for Hobson’s Choice and the Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess.

Karl Davies, best known for his long-running television roles in Emmerdale and Kingdom, as well as stage performances in Propeller’s The Winter’s Tale and Henry V, Karl plays Willie Mossop in Hobson’s Choice. Jade Ewen, currently appearing in Tonight’s The Night, joins the cast of Porgy and Bess as Clara, along with American actor Cedric Neal as Sportin’ Life. Cedric was a cast member of the 2012 Broadway production of Porgy and Bess and is currently appearing in After Midnight (Brooks Atkinson Theatre).

Leon Lopez and Golda Rosheuvel also join the cast as Jake and Serena in Porgy and Bess. Leon's stage credits include Rent (Duke of York’s), Tick, Tick… BOOM! (Duchess Theatre) and Piaf (Donmar Warehouse). Golda’s stage credits include The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time (National Theatre) and You Can’t Take it With You (Royal Exchange, Manchester). Golda previously played Lady Macbeth in our production of Macbeth re-imagined for everyone aged six and over.

Rufus Bonds Jr, Phillip Boykin and Cedric Neal are appearing with the permission of UK Equity, incorporating the Variety Artistes’ Federation, pursuant to an exchange program between American Equity and UK Equity.

Book now | See What's On

The 2014 Laurence Olivier Award Nominations have been announced and we are delighted to confirm that our 2013 production of The Sound of Music has been nominated for two awards; Best Musical Revival and Best Actress in a Musical for Charlotte Wakefield, recognising her performance as Maria Von Trapp.

The award ceremony takes place on Sunday 13 April with highlights screened on ITV.

More information

We are pleased to announce that we have won Best Play Revival for our 2013 sell-out production of To Kill a Mockingbird and Best Musical Revival for The Sound of Music in the WhatsOnStage Awards.

This year’s star-studded awards concert took place at the Prince of Wales Theatre last night where Artistic Director Timothy Sheader and Izzy Lee, representing the company, collected the award for Best Play Revival for To Kill a Mockingbird. The production will return to the venue this summer to conclude our 2014 season, ahead of a UK tour.

Director Rachel Kavanaugh also attended the awards to join Timothy Sheader to collect the award for The Sound of Music, and both Charlotte Wakefield and Michael Xavier (who starred in the production) performed as part of the concert. The Sound of Music became the highest grossing production in the history of the theatre and this is the first time that we have won this award.

Thank you to everyone who voted for us.

Mark Benton and stars from Broadway and the West End take the lead in 2014.

Opening on 12 June, Mark Benton stars as Henry Hobson in Hobson’s Choice. His stage credits include performances at the RSC, National and Donmar, but he is perhaps best known for his television work, appearing in Waterloo Road, Northern Lights and Strictly Come Dancing. Jodie McNee plays his daughter, Maggie.

Rufus Bonds Jr and Nicola Hughes take the title roles in the Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess. Rufus received a Drama Desk nomination for the original US production of Parade, and Nicola revisits the role of Bess following her Olivier Award nominated performance in Trevor Nunn’s 2006 production. Phillip Boykin reprises the role of Crown for which he received Tony, Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle nominations for the 2012 Broadway production. Double Olivier Award nominee Sharon D Clarke also joins the cast as Mariah.

More 2014 season casting to be announced.

Rufus Bonds Jr and Phillip Boykin are appearing with the permission of UK Equity, incorporating the Variety Artistes’ Federation, pursuant to an exchange program between American Equity and UK Equity.

Photos: Phillip Boykin, Mark Benton, Nicola Hughes.

Following the unprecedented success of our 2013 season, we are pleased to announce that we have been nominated for three WhatsOnStage Awards.

Our sell-out production of To Kill a Mockingbird, which will be returning to the venue next summer ahead of a UK tour, has been nominated for Best Play Revival, and our critically-acclaimed production of The Sound of Music has been nominated for Best Musical Revival and Best Actress in a Musical (Charlotte Wakefield).

The WhatsOnStage Awards are the only major theatre awards in which you, the audience, are the judges across all categories. Show your support for the Open Air Theatre by voting for us online (voting closes 31 January 2014).

Vote Now

If you already have an account, but have not registered an email address with us, please contact boxoffice@openairtheatre.com and we will add one to your account.

Tickets for To Kill a Mockingbird and memberships for the 2014 season are now available.

Congratulations to Edd Clarke, Emma Friend, Marianne Richardson and Katey Warran who ran the Royal Parks Half Marathon on Sunday 6 October 2013 to raise money for the theatre and the projects that we commission each year.

The team raised £1239.75.

Edd finished the race with a time of 01:51:36 and Emma, Marianne and Katey ran the entire race together, crossing the finish line with a time of 02:21:52.

Regent's Park Open Air Theatre is pleased to announce that initial plans for the creation of a digital collection to present material from the theatre's archive have now begun.

Spanning over 80 years, the theatre has a long and fascinating history and the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre Heritage Anniversary Project intends to make this history available for everyone. We will tell the story of the theatre through items such as programmes, posters, photographs and designs, aiming to paint a visual historical picture of the real story behind the Open Air Theatre.

We are very pleased that, with thanks to an anonymous donation, initial plans for the digital archive are well underway.

Please contact Marianne Steele or Katey Warran if you would like to know more about the project or if you would like to make a donation.

Photo above left: Hugh Bonneville (formerly Richard Bonneville) as Lysander in the 1986 production of A Midsummer Night's Dream. (Photo Regine Körner) Photo above right: Christopher Biggins, still a regular audience member, as Bartholomew Cokes in the 1987 production of Bartholomew Fair.

Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre is pleased to announce that, due to popular demand, the theatre's 2013 production of To Kill a Mockingbird will return to the venue in 2014.

Concluding next year’s season with a limited run from 28 August – 13 September 2014, the production will then embark on a UK Tour. To Kill a Mockingbird will once again be directed by our Artistic Director Timothy Sheader, from a stage adaptation by Christopher Sergel of Harper Lee’s Pulitzer prize-winning classic.

Public booking is now open.

Book now | more information

Casting and tour dates to be announced 2014 Memberships on sale 1 October

The administration team at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre have stepped out of the office to get their running shoes on, ready to run the Royal Parks Half Marathon on 6 October.

Training in and around Regent’s Park, Emma Friend, Edd Clarke, Marianne Richardson and Katey Warran are preparing to run 13.1 miles to raise money for the theatre and the wonderful projects that are commissioned each year.

This has been a great year for the theatre with the continuation of our education programme with the Young Shakespeare Company, audio described performances for patrons with visual impairments, and the announcement of the Heritage Anniversary Project, so we are delighted that Emma, Edd, Marianne and Katey have decided to take part in this run which will contribute to our continuing development.

If you are looking for an extra special gift, or just want something unique to remind you of your visit to The Sound of Music then these limited edition Costume Design Prints are the perfect thing for you. Signed and numbered by Olivier Award-Winning Designer Peter McKintosh, these designs are the perfect collectable for all Sound of Music lovers.

A selection of Costume Design Prints are available to purchase from the merchandise counter prior to performances of The Sound of Music.*

Single print = £25 Single framed print = £50 Set of 4 prints (1 of each design) = £85 (not available framed)

*Please note that prints must be purchased from the theatre and cannot be bought online.

News exclusive: Due to popular demand, Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre is pleased to announce that the run of The Sound of Music has been extended by one week to Saturday 14 September 2013.

The Sound of Music has been highly acclaimed by press and public alike, with Charlotte Wakefield receiving exemplary notices for her performance as Maria, including being called “superb” (Sunday Times), “spontaneous and full of life” (Independent) and “beguiling” (Times). Of her performance, the Daily Mail wrote “The shadow of Julie Andrews is banished by Wakefield’s girlish sunshine…warm presence, a huge smile and a voice that peals through the evening air”.

A trailer for the show is also now available on the production page for The Sound of Music. With a timeless score which includes ‘Do-Re-Mi’, ‘Climb Ev’ry Mountain’, and ‘Sixteen Going on Seventeen’ The Sound of Music has inspired audiences across the world with its story of love and freedom.

Now playing until Saturday 14 September.

Book now | Watch trailer

Regent's Park Open Air Theatre is pleased to announce that Erth's Dinosaur Zoo is now open. With daytime performances until 8 September, this highly imaginative and entertaining live show is the perfect tyrannosauric treat for all ages three and over.

Here is what the audience are saying:

more information | book now

★★★★★ Telegraph ★★★★★ Mail on Sunday ★★★★★ Sunday Telegraph ★★★★ Daily Mail ★★★★ Evening Standard ★★★★ Times ★★★★ Sunday Times ★★★★ Sunday Express ★★★★ Metro ★★★★ Independent

"The finest production of this musical that I have ever seen...Charlotte Wakefield is superb as Maria: funny, forthright and movingly vulnerable when the emotional stakes are high" Daily Telegraph

"Rachel Kavanaugh's superbly staged, gloriously atmospheric revival...scales every peak...climb every mountain...to get a ticket” Mail on Sunday

"This drop of golden sun will warm your heart" Daily Mail

"Glowing with warmth, performed with freshness and sung with clarity and simplicity. Resistance is futile, so go on – indulge yourself" Times

"A sure-fire hit...Michael Xavier brings a lovely understated poignancy to the Captain’s transformation from rigid patriarch into affectionate father." Evening Standard

“Kavanaugh looks as if she has simply put a few stitches between the string of marvellous melodies so that the evening is an almost seamless musical tapestry...gloriously staged.” Observer

book now | more information

Scouting for BEAR Lucy Hutchinson and Izzy Lee (who both played Scout in the theatre’s production of To Kill a Mockingbird) also attended the performance and met with BEAR on the picnic lawn.

"Exit, pursued by a bear" (The Winter's Tale, Act III, Scene 3)

As previews for our production of To Kill a Mockingbird start tonight, we are pleased to announce casting for the rest of the season.

Full details can be found on our production pages, but casting includes Jane Asher as Lady Catherine de Bourgh and Rebecca Lacey as Mrs Bennet (Pride and Prejudice) and Olivier nominees Charlotte Wakefield and Michael Xavier as Maria Rainer and Captain Von Trapp (The Sound of Music).

For family fun this summer don’t miss The Winter's Tale re-imagined for everyone aged six and over (29 Jun – 20 Jul) and the awesome Dinosaur Zoo (9 Aug – 8 Sept).

Sunday events include comedy and music gigs, and film screenings of Shakespeare in Love and Hitchcock’s The Birds

more info | book tickets

A sell-out at the Edinburgh Fringe 2002 and Melbourne Comedy Festival 2003, Richard Herring’s tenth anniversary update of his critically acclaimed show arrives at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre on 26 May.

Talking Cock promises to expose the truth about men and their flutes of love.

More information | Book now

Richard Herring will be joining a season of Comedy Events taking place at the theatre this summer; previously announced performers include:

Comedy Store Players (9 June) David O’Doherty (14 July) Jimmy Carr (18 August)

Early booking is recommended for these ever popular Sunday events.

More information | Book now

To celebrate William Shakespeare’s birthday, why not introduce our greatest storyteller to a new generation with tickets for The Winter’s Tale re-imagined for everyone aged six and over.

After introducing the characters and locations, the story of a lost princess who is raised by a humble shepherd unfolds using Shakespeare’s original text. Condensed to 2hours (including the interval) and with an emphasis on music, design and movement, our aim is to enchant, entertain and enlighten a younger audience.

All tickets are just £15 (or make a saving with our £50 family ticket*) Daytime performances 29 June – 20 July

Find out more

*4 tickets (at least one adult)

Direct from Australia, Erth’s Dinosaur Zoo will bring their highly acclaimed pre-historic creatures to Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre this summer.

With daytime performances from 9 August - 8 September, and suitable for all ages 3+, discover all about dinosaurs in this entertaining and highly imaginative live show - plus get up close and personal with them on the picnic lawn before you go.

But watch out - not all of these Jurassic giants are as tame as they seem!

Public Booking is now open

Book now | More information | Performance schedule

What better way to re-discover these classic films than on the big screen where they belong?

Public booking now open

Book now | More information

Please note that Shakespeare in Love and The Birds are rated 15.

Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre is pleased to announce that public booking is now open for:

Comedy Store Players (9 June) David O’Doherty (14 July) Jimmy Carr (18 August)

Watch the night sky darken and enjoy your favourite comedian in the unique setting of Regent's Park Open Air Theatre.

Early booking is recommended for these ever popular Sunday events.

More information | Log in to book

Regent's Park Open Air Theatre is pleased to announce that House star Robert Sean Leonard will perform in To Kill a Mockingbird this summer.

Directed by Timothy Sheader, To Kill A Mockingbird will be the first production of the 2013 season and Robert Sean Leonard will play the part of Atticus Finch. The Tony award-winning American actor is best known for playing Dr. James Wilson in the Fox television series House and Neil Perry in the 1989 movie Dead Poets Society. To Kill a Mockingbird will mark Robert’s return to the London stage for the first time in 22 years.

We are also pleased to announce that Eleanor Worthington-Cox will share the role of Scout in the production. Eleanor was the youngest recipient of an Olivier Award for the Royal Shakespeare Company’s production of Matilda The Musical.

Further casting | booking information

This week in January 1813 saw the publication of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice.

In this special 200^th anniversary year we are presenting Simon Reade’s stage adaptation of this ultimate romantic comedy.

Did you know…that Jane’s older brother, James, was an aspiring playwright - so even as a child she was surrounded by theatre and plays.

With reduced price previews 20 – 24 June, the play runs until 20 July.

more information | book now

Image: Jane Austen's house in Chawton, Alton.

Harper Lee’s American classic To Kill a Mockingbird will be
directed by Artistic Director Timothy Sheader, with design by Jon Bausor.

Deborah Bruce will direct Jane Austen’s ultimate romantic comedy Pride and Prejudice and Ria Parry will direct The Winter’s Tale re-imagined for everyone ages six and over. Both productions will be designed by Max Jones (set design) and Tom Piper (costume design).

Rachel Kavanaugh will then complete our summer line up by directing The Sound of Music with set and costume design by Peter McKintosh and musical direction by Stephen Ridley.

For more information please click here

Completing our line-up for 2013, Pride and Prejudice - Jane Austen’s ultimate romantic comedy - will play from 20 June to 20 July and, continuing our programme of Shakespeare productions created especially for younger audiences, The Winter’s Tale re-imagined for everyone aged six and over will play from 29 June to 20 July.

Priority booking is now open. Public booking for all productions opens at 10am on 20 November. See what else is on.

If you can’t wait for next season, join us on Tuesday 11 December for A Fairytale of New York, an evening of festive jazz classics performed in our Robert Atkins Studio. Don’t miss the priority booking period (now open) as tickets are limited.