When most people hear the term “theatre in Cornwall” their first thought is probably the Minack and their second is most likely the Hall for Cornwall. The place many people still don’t know about is Penlee Park Open Air Theatre.
It seats up to 300 people and hosts a range of shows throughout the summer, including stand-up, live music, family performances, mini festivals and even outdoor film screenings. They’re already well into their 2017 summer programme but there’s still loads more to come.
Last year I went to see Illyria’s production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream and they’re back this year, with performances of The Lost World, The Emperor’s New Clothes and The Mikado.
If you’re looking for more Shakespeare, there are various incarnations of Twelfth Night, The Taming of the Shrew, Romeo & Juliet and Macbeth.
I’m really excited about their outdoor cinema programme, which includes Mamma Mia, The Lost Boys, The Goonies, Pulp Fiction and The Jungle Book. Plus tickets are only a fiver for adults!
Families/younger audiences will love the variety on offer, including The Wind in the Willows, The Secret Garden, The Princess and the Pig and David Walliams’ Billionaire Boy.
There’s something for the grown-ups too, with Gin & Jazz in the Park plus a Silent Disco, both this weekend.
The shows go on whatever the weather and I can say, following my visit last year, that damp weather certainly didn’t dampen the atmosphere. Plus hot food and drinks are available for most performances, including homemade veggie curry (dairy and gluten free – and super-tasty!), as well as beverages from the much-loved Polgoon.
If you’re a local and plan to see a few shows over the year, be sure to grab a loyalty card – every fourth show is free!
I am looking forward to The Third Policeman