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Cork Shakespearean Company presents Shakespeare in the Gardens
June 11 @ 17:00 - June 12 @ 20:00
Cork Shakespearean Company presents Shakespeare in the Gardens
Saturday 11th & Sunday 12th July 2026
This summer, Cork Shakespearean Company — one of Ireland’s oldest and most beloved theatre companies — brings Shakespeare to life at Fota Arboretum.
Shakespeare in the Gardens is an intimate promenade theatre experience set entirely within the grounds of Fota House & Gardens. Audiences of 25 people at a time move together through the arboretum, discovering six Shakespeare scenes performed in six remarkable natural locations — from the ancient moss-covered rock garden to the enchanted pine cones and the breath taking gravel approach to the Orangerie.
There is no stage. No set. No amplification. The gardens themselves are the production design.
Featuring scenes from Romeo & Juliet, Hamlet, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Measure for Measure and The Merry Wives of Windsor, the programme offers something for everyone — dark, funny, romantic, magical and alive in the open air.
The full experience lasts approximately 110 minutes.
What to Expect
- Move through the gardens as a group of 25 people, guided by volunteers
- Discover a Shakespeare scene in each of six extraordinary natural locations
- No seats, no stage, no set – just Shakespeare and the landscape
- An experience that lasts approximately 110 minutes from start to finish
- Suitable for all ages and all levels of Shakespeare experience
Date: Saturday 11th & Sunday 12th July 2026
Performance times: 5:00pm, 5:30pm, 6:00pm and 6:30pm both evenings
Ticket price: €25 per person
Capacity: Strictly limited to 25 people per group
Early booking strongly advised.
Please wear appropriate footwear and be mindful of the grounds. The event takes place on natural outdoor terrain.
Shakespeare in the Gardens is produced by Cork Shakespearean Company (The Loft), founded 1924, in association with Fota House & Gardens.