Welcome to the home of one of the world’s best loved playwrights, where you can experience the works of William Shakespeare performed in the town where he was born, raised a family, and was laid to rest.
Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon
Stratford-upon-Avon is the home of the Royal Shakespeare Company, who perform the works of Shakespeare, his contemporaries, and today’s writers on the stages of their theatres here in the town. The Royal Shakespeare Theatre stands prominently on Waterside, in the centre of Stratford-upon-Avon, sharing a building with the more intimate Swan Theatre - a favourite space with many actors, directors and theatre-goers.
The Royal Shakespeare Theatre is a place to immerse yourself in your love of Shakespeare and the world of theatre. Fully open to the public, the main auditorium is surrounded by a riverside cafe, and a rooftop restaurant offering pre-theatre dining, alongside normal lunch, dinner and afternoon tea service. Explore the gift shop for the best Shakespeare souvenirs, and visit the theatre box office (often the only place to find a last minute ticket for a popular performance!) The 32 metre RSC Tower is the ideal spot to take in panoramic views of the town, and much of the surrounding Warwickshire countryside. The tower is free to enjoy, although donations to the RSC are welcomed at the top.
A short walk away from the main theatre is the Other Place, a more contemporary performance space and creative hub. During the warmer months, you can often enjoy outdoor performances in The Dell Theatre Garden on the banks of the River Avon. In Stratford-upon-Avon, you are never far from an impromptu artistic performance or the opportunity to spy a favourite actor enjoying a wander around town in between performances.
Away from the stage you can delve right into the world of theatre with a backstage tour of the Royal Shakespeare Company buildings - taking in the costume workshops, and backstage areas, where experienced guides will let you into some of the secrets of this exciting world.
Theatre in Warwickshire
Theatre is available to experience across Warwickshire, and it is accessible to everyone. The Belgrade Theatre in Coventry is a place to be entertained, inspired, share your stories and unleash your creativity. The Belgrade Theatre is the only professional theatre in Coventry and so acts as both the city and region’s commercial and producing theatre, and is also highly respected for its ground-breaking community and education initiatives.
The Benn Hall is a multi-purpose entertainment venue in Rugby offering a variety of performances, acts and music concerts throughout the year. The Benn Hall stands in the heart of Rugby town and is a creative hub for locals and visitors to this famous Warwickshire town.
Warwickshire Theatre at Christmas
During the festive season, families will love taking in a Christmas performance at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre or engaging in a traditional pantomime at the Belgrade Theatre. Both are a great way of encouraging younger children into the magical world of theatre.
Visit our What’s On pages for theatre performances and events in Warwickshire and start planning your next visit.
