The largest open-air Shakespeare Festival in the UK is not to be missed. Last year, over 8,000 people attended productions in the heart of historic Bristol – and this year’s event promises to be even better.
“Open-air summer theatre is an outstanding experience, a magical way to spend an evening with a picnic and friends,” says festival director, Dr Miles Gregory. “Whether you are an old hand or you haven’t yet found out just how great it is, there are no excuses for missing out this summer.”

As part of the festival, a variety of open-air productions will take place across city parks during the summer months. Bring a picnic, sit back and enjoy the performance.

All the details of the events in the festival are showcased on the festival website, which also features advice to audiences on how to get the best out of the unique open-air experience. (Joanna Stevens)

Festival Performance Diary

Twelfth Night – Bier Keller, All Saints Street, Bristol
Roughhouse (Indoor production)
21 - 24 July, 7.30pm (£8 - £10, Tickets on the door / booking number TBC)

Romeo and Juliet – Old Bowling Green, Brandon Hill
Shakespeare’s Globe Touring
31 July - 3 August, 7.30pm (except 3 August, 6.30pm), Mat 2 August 2.30pm
(£10 - £15, under 10s free, Tickets 020 7401 9919)

Merry Wives of Windsor – Bristol Zoo Gardens
Illyria
6 August, 7.30pm (£6 - £13, Tickets 0117 974 7307)

The Winter’s Tale – Old Bowling Green, Brandon Hill
Shakespeare’s Globe Touring
13 - 16 August, 7.30pm, Mat. 16 August 2.30pm
(£10 - £15, under 10s free, Tickets 020 7401 9919)

Much Ado About Nothing – Queen Square
The Lord Chamberlain’s Men
20 - 21 August, 7.30pm (£8.50 - £14.50, Tickets 0117 9020344 )

Pinocchio – Bristol Zoo Gardens
Illyria
31 August, 4.30pm (£6 - £13, Tickets 0117 974 7307)