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You are here > What's On > Outdoor Cinema & Theatre
When summer comes along, many of Nottinghamshire's best-loved heritage attractions play host to a variety of outdoor film and theatre performances. Along with popular films screened underneath the stars, this 2024 you can catch Shakespeare plays, delightful comedies and fun-filled children's theatre in the picturesque grounds of historic houses and country parks.
Rally your friends, grab a picnic blanket, bring along some delicious snacks and settle down for a relaxing and entertaining day.
Performances take place around the county from May to September. Here's our round-up of some of the highlights.
Make sure to click the read more button below to see the full range of outdoor cinema & theatre options available throughout Nottingham and Nottinghamshire
Broadway at Lakeside: Moulin Rouge! I Saturday 11th March 2024
A celebration of love and creative inspiration unfolds at the infamous, gaudy, and glamorous Parisian nightclub, the Moulin Rouge, set at the cusp of the 20th century. A young poet, plunged into this heady world, begins a passionate affair with the club's most notorious and beautiful star.
This outdoor film screening, presented by Broadway at Lakeside, is a grand spectacle featuring glittering costumes, mind-blowing dance sequences like the can-can and tango, and a soundtrack filled with pop hits from Madonna, Elton John, and more.
Entry starts at 7pm. The screening will begin after sunset, as soon as it is dark enough.
Nott's Maze are proud to announce our outdoor cinema, in partnership with Owen Productions. Be prepared to watch a great film snuggled in a blanket or camping chair, with a wide range of on site facilities including freshly made hot food & cold snacks, hot and cold drinks, fresh popcorn, and a licensed bar.
Whether your trip is for a special occasion, date night, family night or just because, there is a movie for everyone to enjoy as well as palleting everyone's taste buds! (Toilets on site for all events, Free parking, onsite cafe/bar).
Lost Boys | Saturday 3rd August
Teenage brothers Michael (Jason Patric) and Sam (Corey Haim) move with their mother (Dianne Wiest) to a small town in northern California. While the younger Sam meets a pair of kindred spirits in geeky comic-book nerds Edward (Corey Feldman) and Alan (Jamison Newlander), the angst-ridden Michael soon falls for Star (Jami Gertz) -- who turns out to be in thrall to David (Kiefer Sutherland), leader of a local gang of vampires. Sam and his new friends must save Michael and Star from the undead.
Cars | Saturday 10th August
In a world where the towns are peopled with cars, and even the bugs are mini motors, a young ambitious racing car called Lightning McQueen is a star. On his way to an important event he has to stop in the little town of Radiator Springs after he accidentally damages the road and is forced to repair it. He finds living in a community oddly endearing, making true friends and beginning to realise there's more in life than winning. A Pixar animation.
Encanto | Saturday 24 August
The Madrigals are an extraordinary family who live hidden in the mountains of Colombia in a charmed place called the Encanto. The magic of the Encanto has blessed every child in the family with a unique gift -- every child except Mirabel. However, she soon may be the Madrigals last hope when she discovers that the magic surrounding the Encanto is now in danger.
Back to The Future | Saturday 24 August
In this 1980s sci-fi classic, small-town California teen Marty McFly (Michael J. Fox) is thrown back into the '50s when an experiment by his eccentric scientist friend Doc Brown (Christopher Lloyd) goes awry. Traveling through time in a modified DeLorean car, Marty encounters young versions of his parents (Crispin Glover, Lea Thompson), and must make sure that they fall in love or he'll cease to exist. Even more dauntingly, Marty has to return to his own time and save the life of Doc Brown.
Horror Night | Saturday 14th September
Notts maze are proud to present not 1 but 2 horror films back to back! Be prepared to watch The Blair Witch Project followed by Texas Chainsaw 2013 in our amazing outdoor location.
Saturday 22nd & Sunday 23rd June | 2024 | 7pm - 9.30pm daily
Hardwick Hall
£10 - £18
Experience a Tudor tale like no other with The Three Inch Fools as they bring "The Secret Diary of Henry VII" to the historic grounds of Hardwick Hall. Immerse yourself in the rollicking story of the young Henry VII as he navigates the treacherous twists of the Tudor court. Packed with humor, drama, and plenty of surprises, this outdoor performance has broad appeal—whether you're a history buff or just love a great night out. With reviews describing it as "laugh-out-loud funny" and "riotously fun," it's sure to be a memorable evening for all ages. Bring your picnic blankets, gather your friends and family, and prepare for a delightful evening under the stars. Tickets range from £10 to £18, and the performance includes a 20-minute interval. Don't miss out on this quintessentially British theatrical experience!
27th June | 2024 | 6:30PM - 8:30PM
Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre
Adult: £20 (£16 RSPB member), Child: £10 (£8 RSPB member)
Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, brought to life by the talented cast of This Is My Theatre amidst the natural beauty of Sherwood Forest.
Step into the shoes of Dorothy and her companions as they embark on a quest filled with friendship, courage, and magic. From the moment the tale graced cinema screens in 1939, it has captivated audiences worldwide. Now, experience the story like never before, as you journey through the whimsical land of Oz.
Join Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and the Cowardly Lion on their daring escapades, encountering quirky characters and overcoming challenges with humor and heart. Whether you're young or young at heart, this performance promises to delight audiences of all ages.
Nestled in the heart of Sherwood Forest, surrounded by lush greenery and towering trees, this outdoor theatre experience offers a truly magical setting. Bring along your friends and family, pack a picnic, and prepare for an evening under the stars that you won't soon forget.
Don't miss out on this unforgettable event—it's a spectacle that promises to be truly memorable. Plus, with free admission for children under 4 and registered carers/personal assistants, everyone can join in the adventure.
Saturday 27 July & Sunday 28 July 2024
Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre
Tickets from £15 (£12.50 for RSPB Members)
Outdoor cinema returns to Sherwood Forest this summer with a programme of four fantastic films to enjoy in July.
Saturday 27 July | 1pm
Brave
When a courageous young princess decides to assert her independence, her defiance leads to chaos in her kingdom. And when skilled archer Merida challenges tradition it sparks a daring adventure which will change her fate. This event is perfect for audiences of all ages, offering a heart-warming story of family, bravery, and the bonds that unite us.
Saturday 27 July | 7pm
Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves
RSPB Sherwood Forest continue their weekend of outdoor cinema with the movie that was made to be shown in Robin Hood's home. The 1991 Hollywood epic, starring Kevin Costner as the outlaw hero of Sherwood and Alan Rickman as the dastardly Sheriff of Nottingham, is what many people regard as their favourite cinematic depiction of the Robin Hood legend! Gather friends and family, pack a picnic, and settle in for an unforgettable night of entertainment amidst the ancient trees where the real outlaws used to roam.
Sunday 28 July | 12pm
Disney's Robin Hood
Who doesn't love this Disney classic? And where better to watch it than in Robin Hood's forest? The animated retelling of the legend of Sherwood Forest has been adored by people around the world for more than 50 years. It's been shown at Sherwood for the past two years and audiences have loved seeing it in the very landscape that inspired the movie.
Sunday 28 July | 3pm
The Princess Bride
RSPB Sherwood Forest rounds off this year's Films in the Forest programme with a fantasy adventure packed with swashbuckling action, romance and comedy. When a grandfather begins reading the tale of The Princess Bride to his grandson, the boy isn't too sure about listening to a love story. But as the tale of Buttercup and Westley unfolds, the boy is captivated by the escapades of pirates, a kidnapping, warring kingdoms, skilled swordsmen and a giant! Voted as one of the funniest films ever made, the Princess Bride is an all-action caper with amusing lines you'll find yourself repeating after an unforgettable afternoon of outdoor cinema in Sherwood Forest.
Friday 26 - Sunday 28 July 2024
Gates open at 8pm, screenings start at 9.30pm and finish at approximately 11.15pm
Newstead Abbey
Tickets: £9.50 - £21.50
Enjoy a range of family friendly films at Newstead Abbey. Catch Top Gun: Maverick (12), The Greatest Showman Sing-A-Long (PG), and Grease (PG) from 21st - 23rd July this year. You can expect a specially curated soundtrack of music to enjoy before each film.
Picnics and drinks welcome (no glassware), and no seating provided unless you have premium tickets. Blankets and camping chairs are allowed. On-site toilets will be available including accessible facilities. With the exception of registered assistance dogs, no animals are allowed at any of these events
Friday 2nd August 2024, 6.30pm
RSPB Sherwood Forest
£20 adults (£18 RSPB members)
£10 children (£9 RSPB members)
Shakespeare will be in Sherwood Forest this summer as This Is My Theatre perform the bard's much-loved mystical romance A Midsummer Night's Dream!
Packed with music, magic and plenty of mischief this is a tale which never fails to warm hearts and spread joy. The lush greenery and towering trees will provide the perfect backdrop for this unforgettable performance. So gather your friends and family, pack a picnic for a wonderful evening of theatre under the stars.
Thursday 8 August 2024 | 7:30-10pm
Tickets £15.50 (£9.50 under 12s)
Greased Lightning! A fantastic outdoor cinema experience with plenty of songs to sing along to!
Immerse yourself in the singing and dancing world of 'Grease', as Adventure Cinema bring you a Sing-A-Long showing of the most successful movie musical of all time. Plus music to enjoy before the movie with a soundtrack of songs from the 60s, 70s & 80s.
Sunday 11th August | 2024 | 3pm - 5pm
Tickets: Child £9.50, Adult £15.50
Scarlett Johansson, Taron Egerton and Matthew McConaughey all star in this animated musical movie about a singing competition, put together for animals in an attempt to save a theater. Five contestants emerge: a mouse, a timid elephant, a pig, a gorilla and a punk-rock porcupine.
Sunday 11th August | 2024 | 7.30pm - 9.30pm
Tickets: Child £9.50, Adult £15.50
An amazing theme park with living dinosaurs but things are about to turn deadly. Expect incredible special effects and action-packed drama.
There's no getting around it - quite simply one of the greatest blockbusters of all time.
Friday 9th August | 2024 | 3pm - 5pm
Tickets: Child £9.50, Adult £15.50
A family film that is truly for the whole family - from grandparents to grandkids. Finding Nemo is a precious gem in the Pixar and Disney vaults and so much fun to watch. Plus music to enjoy before the movie.
Saturday 10th August | 2024 | 1.30pm - 3.30pm
Tickets: Child £9.50, Adult £15.50
Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Frozen like never before as you watch and singalong with the movie on a huge open-air screen.
This perfect family day out is going to be something special!
Saturday 10th August | 2024 | 6.30pm - 10.30pm
Tickets: £24.50
An all singing, all dancing ABBA day where you'll watch Mamma Mia! and Mamma Mia Here We Go Again on a HUGE open-air screen and singalong with ABBA's greatest hits!
Plus ABBA disco before the movies, Street Food, Bar, Fancy dress and more! *Tickets will sell quickly for this!
Thursday 25 July - Sunday 11 August 2024
Wollaton Hall & Deer Park
Thursday 25 July | Gates 6pm, show 7pm
Three Inch Fools: The Secret Diary of Henry VIII
Three Inch Fools present a brand new comedy of their own about one of England’s most epic monarchs. Don’t miss this mad-capped take on the epic life of King Henry VIII - an essential guide on how to keep your head in the Tudor Court.
Wednesday 7 August | Gates 5pm, show 6pm
Chapterhouse Theatre Company: Beauty & The Beast
When an arrogant prince is cursed to live as a hideous beast, his only hope is a kindly young woman in search of a rose. Presented with original music and sparkling humour in delightful settings from picturesque gardens to sweeping country parks, Chapterhouse Theatre Company’s lovely new adaptation of Beauty and the Beast is perfect for all the family!
Sunday 11 August | Gates 5pm, show 6pm
Folksy Theatre: Angelica Sprocket's Pockets
Angelica Sprocket lives next door. Her overcoat has pockets galore! And you’ll never guess what’s in them… Prepare to be surprised, thrilled and tickled pink by Angelica Sprocket’s never-ending pockets, and the marvellous things she keeps in them. Filled with Folksy’s touch of live music, puppetry, audience interaction and madness!
Saturday 20 July | Gates 6pm, show 7pm
Illyria Theatre Company: Romeo & Juliet
A passionate, poetic and utterly gripping production of this Shakespeare favourite. Shakespeare states in the opening lines of this play that we are going to see an explosive swash-buckling romance. But the surprise he has in store for us is that it’s extremely funny too! The Montagues and the Capulets are at war with one another - but when Montague’s son gatecrashes Capulet’s party in disguise and falls in love with Capulet’s daughter, a chain-reaction of events is set in motion which has a devastating conclusion.
Saturday 27 July | Gates 5pm, show 6pm
Pantaloons Theatre Company: Robin Hood
Join utter legends Robin, Marian and the Merry Men in Sherwood Forest for a hilariously adventurous take on the timeless tales of everyone’s favourite archer. Pernicious Prince John and the shifty Sheriff of Nottingham have hatched a plan to put a stop to Robin Hood’s charitable crime spree once and for all. Can they outwit the outlaw? Or will Robin hit the target once again? Find out in The Pantaloons’ original take on the classic tales and characters featuring live music and audience interaction!
Sunday 11 August | Gates 6pm, show 7pm
Three Inch Fools: The Comedy of Errors
The Comedy of Errors is Shakespeare’s shortest and wildest comedy. The clock is ticking as the Fools rush to untangle one almighty mess in this farcical tale. With musical instruments in hand, Three Inch Fools present a joyous take on this Shakespearean rib-tickler.
Friday 16 August | Gates 6pm, show 7pm
Chapterhouse Theatre Company: Little Women
Louisa May Alcott’s beloved coming of age story. This summer, meet headstrong Jo March and her sisters Meg, Amy, and Beth. Each sister is determined to pursue her own path in life, but though their dreams may be different, their family ties remain as true as ever. An uplifting and heartfelt tale of the March sisters’ journey into adulthood and all the trials and triumphs that come with it, Little Women features authentic costuming and a beautiful musical score.
Saturday 27th July, Wednesday 7th August & Friday 30th August | 2024 | 7pm - 10pm (doors 6pm)
Southwell Minster, Wollaton Hall and Newstead Abbey
From £12 (Under 5s go free)
Join Chapterhouse Theatre Company this summer for a brand-new telling of this classic fairy tale. When an arrogant prince is cursed to live as a hideous beast, his only hope is a kindly young woman in search of a rose. Featuring a delightful cast of specially crafted puppets,
lively original songs and sparkling humour, Chapterhouse Theatre Company's rollicking new adaptation of Beauty and the Beast is perfect for all the family!
Chapterhouse Theatre Company produces critically acclaimed UK and international tours, specialising in Shakespeare, classic literature adaptations, and family shows. Originally founded to tour outdoor productions of Shakespeare in 1999, they have continued to grow and thrive. The new year marks the company's 25th anniversary of touring theatre, which celebrates a quarter-century of incredible shows including outdoor theatre, music concerts, and a yearly Christmas tour.
Pack a picnic and head to the Parsonage Lawn, in front of the lake, for daytime child-focused fun or for an evening of literary classics.
Saturday 27 July I 7pm - 9pm
The Handlebards’ present Comedy of Errors
Experience Shakespeare's classic comedy with a unique twist as the all-male troupe, The Handlebards, deliver a high-energy, bike-powered performance of mistaken identities and slapstick humor.
Friday 2 August I 3pm – 5pm
Immersion Theatre presents Peter Pan
Join Peter Pan, Wendy, and the Lost Boys on a magical adventure to Neverland in this lively outdoor production by Immersion Theatre, perfect for children and families.
Thursday 15 August I 3pm – 5pm
Talegate Theatre presents Panto in the Park: Alice in Wonderland
Dive down the rabbit hole with Alice in Talegate Theatre's pantomime adaptation, filled with whimsical characters, vibrant costumes, and interactive fun for all ages.
Friday 16 August I 3pm – 5pm
Immersion Theatre presents Midsummer Night's Dream
Witness the enchanting world of fairies and mistaken love in Immersion Theatre’s captivating rendition of Shakespeare’s beloved comedy, set in the beautiful outdoor setting of Clumber Park.
Thursday 22 August I 7pm - 9.30pm
The Lord Chamberlain's Men presents Hamlet
Enjoy an authentic performance of Shakespeare’s Hamlet by The Lord Chamberlain's Men, featuring traditional costumes and a talented cast, as the tragic tale unfolds under the evening sky.
Friday 23 August I 3pm – 5pm
Talegate Theatre presents Panto in the Park: Pinocchio
Follow Pinocchio’s journey to become a real boy in this engaging and humorous pantomime, brought to life by Talegate Theatre’s dynamic and interactive performance style.
Saturday 24 August I 3pm – 5pm
Quantum Theatre presents Jemima Puddleduck
Delight in Beatrix Potter's classic tale of Jemima Puddleduck, charmingly adapted for the stage by Quantum Theatre, offering a delightful afternoon for young children and families.
Friday 30 August I 3pm – 5pm
Talegate Theatre presents Panto in the Park: The Little Mermaid
Join Talegate Theatre for an underwater adventure with The Little Mermaid, packed with colorful characters, catchy songs, and plenty of audience participation, perfect for a summer day out.
For more information about all summer events, including outdoor theatre, pop into the Nottingham Tourism Centre or call 08444 77 5678. Make sure you check out the What's On section of our website for further summer inspiration.
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