From the wintry cool courts of Sicilia to the summer sun festivities of Bohemia, experience seasonal change and the passage of time in this spectacular comedy drama.

The Winter’s Tale combines the best of Shakespeare’s comedies, tragedies and histories to make for an entertaining night at the theatre – controlling kings, a courageous queen, kind princes, a lost princess, courtroom drama, storms, shipwrecks, festivals, runaway couples, a rogue-ish trickster, disguises, mistaken identities, emotional reunions and a spellbinding final act!

Considered by critics to be one of Shakespeare’s greatest plays, this vibrant production will be a delightful and gripping feast of ensemble action, comedy, drama, trials, love, romance, live music, puppetry and magic. Suitable for all ages, this enchanting and exciting play – with one of theatre’s most famous stage exits (involving a bear …) – is the perfect way to spend a summer’s evening with family, friends, loved ones or solo.

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 at 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!