Outdoor Theatre & Cinema 2024

There’s nothing more enchanting than an outdoor performance of a children’s classic, and we’re lucky to have quite a few options in our gorgeous local historic parks and gardens, which we’ve listed below. There are also evening performances of Shakespeare plays (never too soon to introduce the kids to Shakespeare!), and some cinema options at Osterley – what could be better on a warm summer’s evening than enjoying good company, good food and a great film or play!

Chiswick House & Gardens – Theatre

New for 2024, Quantum Theatre presents a delightful new adaptation of Beatrix Potter’s much-loved tale of Jemima Puddle-Duck.

• Wednesday 31st July, 2.30pm: The Tale Of Jemima Puddle-Duck

Illyria Theatre is returning with their new fun-filled family musical! Hugh Lofting’s timeless classic celebrates empathy, inspiring us all to see the world through the eyes of animals.

• Wednesday 21st August, 2.30pm: The Adventure Of Doctor Dolittle

Ham House & Garden – Theatre

In their 20th year, The Lord Chamberlain’s Men return to Ham House & Garden with Hamlet this June.

• Sunday 23rd June, 7.00pm: Hamlet

Kew Gardens – Theatre

Theatre on Kew is delighted to once again partner with the Australian Shakespeare Company, who present exciting, accessible, contemporary productions of Shakespeare, children classics, and other plays.

Join the magical Dream Fairies as they go on an exciting musical adventure!

• 19th July – 1st September, 10.30 & 2.00pm: The Dream Fairies – Adventure To Bubble Land

A rollicking yet gentle adventure with best friends Ratty, Mole, Badger, Otter and, of course, the arrogant, vain and hilarious Toad – Kenneth Grahame’s classic story of life on the riverbank.

• 20th July – 1st September, 11.00am & 2.30pm: The Wind In The Willows

Set beneath heritage trees, these are performances in uniquely botanical surroundings – as twilight falls, the stage is set for Shakespeare Under the Stars.

• 20th July – 1st September, 7.30pm: A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Osterley Park & House – Cinema

Pack a picnic and get ready for an experience like no other with Adventure Cinema. Gates open 7.30pm; films start 9.00pm:

• Thursday 8th August, 9.00pm: Pretty Woman (15)
• Friday 9th August, 9.00pm: The Greatest Showman Singalong (PG)
• Saturday 10th August, 9.00pm: Mamma Mia (PG)
• Sunday 11th August, 9.00pm: Back To The Future (PG)

Syon Park – Theatre

Shakespeare In The Squares will be celebrating their seventh anniversary with a new production of All’s Well That Ends Well with a fairytale twist and gypsy swing music.

• Wednesday 26th June, 7.00pm: All’s Well That Ends Well

Twickenham Town Centre – Cinema

Grab a deck chair (or take your own) and enjoy the Big Screen in Twickenham (Diamond Jubilee Gardens on The Embankment by the river). Why not also visit some of the great Twickenham shops nearby and order drinks or food from the many outlets along the high street. Tennis also being shown throughout Wimbledon fortnight.

• Friday 5th July, 7.00pm: Rocketman (15)
• Saturday 6th July, 10.00am: Encanto (PG)
• Saturday 6th July, 7.00pm: Bob Marley: One Love (12A)
• Sunday 7th July, 10.00am: Big Hero 6 (PG)
• Sunday 7th July, 7.00pm: Mamma Mia! Here we go again! (PG)
• Saturday 13th July, 10.00am: Elemental (PG)
• Saturday 13th July, 7.00pm: Barbie (12A)

See also the extensive programme at Regents Park Open Air Theatre and The Globe Theatre on the Southbank, or for London-wide cinema, Time Out has a comprehensive guide here.

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