Open Air Theatre
Summer Open-Air Performances at Kentwell
Open Air Entertainment returns to Kentwell this summer!
Join us on the stunning Cedar Lawn at Kentwell for two magical evenings of live open-air theatre, featuring top-class performances of classic works by Gilbert & Sullivan and Shakespeare.
Bring a picnic, relax under the evening sky, and let the drama unfold!
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Gilbert and Sullivan's HMS Pinafore or 'The Lass That Loved A Sailor'
📅 Saturday 4th July | 🕖 7:00pm
Gate Open from 6:15pm
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Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet
📅 Friday 17th July | 🕖 7:00pm
Gate Open from 6:15pm
Further Information
Venue
Kentwell is a moated Tudor manor house, surrounded by about 30 acres of gardens, grounds & woodland. Performances will take place outdoors on the Cedar Lawn against the East Wing of the Hall.
What to bring
Please bring your own rugs, cushions or low-backed seating as we don’t provide seating.
You are welcome to bring a picnic, however naked flames are not permitted.
Paths will be lit but we recommend bringing a torch.
Come prepared for the changeable British Summer Weather, summer evenings can be quite chilly – layers, jumpers, sunglasses and raincoats should all be considered.
Do check the weather before you set out!
Seating
To ensure the best possible view for everyone, seating will be in two areas:
1. Nearer the stage area: rugs, cushions and floor chairs
2. Further back; chairs and tables
Please bring your own seating with you.
Interval
At Kentwell we have a 45 minute supper interval for you to enjoy your picnic in the grounds before coming back for the second half of the show.
Our on-site tearoom will also be open during the interval and serving warm drinks and cakes.
Access
Kentwell is largely flat and fully accessible to people with reduced mobility.
There is an accessible parking area outside the main carpark, a bit closer to the entrance.
Getting here
Kentwell Hall (CO10 9BA) is on the north edge of the village of Long Melford.
There is a large car park on-site. It is a couple of minutes’ walk from the performance area.
There is a bus stop close to the end of the Avenue, after which there is a ¾ mile/1.2km-long walk up to the House (c.10mins, dependent on walking speed).
The nearest railway station is in Sudbury, approximately 9.8km/6m away.
If using a satnav to get here, Tom Tom satnavs (or Bing maps) will take you the wrong way. To get to us, please drive up the avenue. The entrance is opposite Cherry Lane Garden Centre and the Hare Inn.
Weather
Our performances continue in all but the very worst weather, rain does NOT stop play with us!
Do check the weather before you set out to make sure you have everything you’ll need to enjoy your evening.
Peafowl
Percy the Peacock (and his family) may be in the Cedar trees. They may join in with the singing during louder parts of the show.
Please don’t leave your picnic uncovered/unattended – that would be a feast for the Percies: defend against marauders!
Other Information
Tickets are non-transferable or refundable unless the event is cancelled by Kentwell Hall or the visiting company.
Dogs are not permitted at Kentwell.
The Tearoom will be open before the show and during the interval for hot drinks and cakes.