Four Forty Theatre are back with a British Summertime Shakespeare Double Bill!

Twelfth Night and A Midsummer Night’s Dream, both performed in one night by only four actors in forty (ish!) minutes each! Experience the hilarity of two of the Bard’s best comedies condensed into short, side-splitting shows. In a mere 40 minutes each, they distil the essence of Shakespeare's masterpieces into uproarious performances. Prepare for an unforgettable night of laughter and with a British Seaside Twist!

2024 will see the company reach more people than ever before and they invite you to join them on their biggest tour to date! “This is an exceptionally special, hilarious, speedy tour of two of Shakespeare’s arguably greatest plays!” “Their inimitable style and charisma definitely set them apart as one of the most playfully ambitious theatre groups around!”

Answers to Frequently Asked Questions about the 2024 Open-Air Theatre Festival:

Seating:

No seating is provided. Please bring low-back seating and/or blankets,
An area for people on blankets is reserved at the front.
If you still wish to be socially distanced, please sit towards the rear or sides of the audience area
Performances start at the stated time, so please arrive in good time to take your seats

Tickets:

Disabled people are welcome to a free ticket for their carer/assistant. Please call the box office on 01805 624624
Every 11th ticket is free for group bookings. Available via the box office on 01805 624624
Tickets, if not sold out, are also available on the gate (cash or cards).
Ticket holders enjoy free access to the gardens two hours before 7pm performances and one hour before earlier performances. (Or earlier for pre-show drama workshop ticket holders)
Most performances last approx 2 hours with a 20 minute interval
Minimum ages are advisory only. Please use your discretion.

Refreshments:

Please support the high quality onsite catering/bar facilities that are available at most venues
Check with the individual venue for more details.
Hartland Abbey: Ring for details (TBC)
Castle Hill Filleigh: Tea/coffee sandwiches & cakes etc
Tapeley Park: Hot & cold food and bar
Arlington Court (NT): Hot & cold food and bar
Clovelly Court Park: Soft drinks + tea/coffee available.
Blackberry Farm Milton Damerel: Hot & cold food and bar
Castle Hill Gardens, Torrington: Hot & cold food and bar
The Lodge, Eggesford: Bar and Barbecue
Castle Drogo (NT): Please bring your own picnics/drinks
Lapford Mill, Mid Devon: Hot & cold food and bar
Reforge Retreat: Bar and snacks available
Badock Gardens, Holsworthy: Teas/coffees/biscuits

Weather:

Performances continue regardless of the weather. Be prepared.
There are no indoor alternatives in case of bad weather.
In the event of electrical storm, tickets will be exchanged for another date.
The following may be useful: A torch, insect repellent, an umbrella (or sunshade!)

Dogs:

Well behaved dogs are welcome at most venues. Check with the venue. (Castle Drogo (NT): Assistance dogs only.)

Access:

Most venues have level access, adjacent parking and accessible toilet facilities. For specific access information please call the box office on 01805 624624 or contact the individual venue via their website.
Other Info:

Please bring cash for a raffle to support The Plough Arts Centre. £1 per ticket. One winner takes half the proceeds!