Question 1

What is outdoor Theatre?

Accepted Answer

Outdoor Theatre is just that! Performances in the great outdoors. Our venue on Binnewith Island has a large stage with back drop, and a large open area for audiences to sit. We also have a Foyer area with Picnic Tables you can relax at before the show starts or during the interval.

Question 2

What time should I arrive before the show?

Accepted Answer

The island gates will open 30 minutes prior to the performance start time. We recommend arriving at least 15 to 20 minutes before curtain-up to clear the gate, find a prime spot on the lawn, and set up your chairs or blankets.

Question 3

What do I need to bring? Should I bring my own seat?

Accepted Answer

Yes, please do! Binnewith Island is a natural, open-air lawn venue. We encourage you to bring your own folding camp chairs or picnic blankets to sit on. To ensure everyone gets a great view, those on blankets will be seated towards the front, with chairs arranged clearly behind.

During the day for walk-ins we do have some bench seating, and can provide Picnic Blankets suitable for 2-4 people, for a small additional fee.

Question 4

What is the island's policy on food and drink?

Accepted Answer

You are welcome to bring snacks and soft drinks for our evening events, but please note that no glass is permitted on the island for safety and conservation reasons. For refreshments, we highly recommend visiting the Mooring Café right by the entrance before the show to take drinks and treats to enjoy during the performance.

Question 5

What happens if it rains?

Accepted Answer

As an open-air venue, our performances will usually go ahead in light rain or drizzle—often adding to the atmosphere! (There's nothing like Prospero conjuring actual Thunder around us!) We advise checking the forecast and dressing for the British weather (layers and waterproofs are highly recommended at certain times). However, if the weather becomes genuinely unsafe or adverse, the Venue Manager may make the decision to cancel. Please see our ticketing section below for what happens in that scenario.

Question 6

Are there lavatories on the island?

Accepted Answer

To maintain the environmentally friendly nature of the site, we have a single occupant compost lavatory! There is also a lavatory at the Mooring Cafe, open to our customers.

To use the Compost Lavatory, just observe the signage there. It's a little unique, but a clean and comfortable experience.

Question 7

Is the area wheelchair/pram accessible?

Accepted Answer

The Island is an area of natural terrain, therefore it is somewhat uneven in places. We have portable ramps available and our staff are ready to help anyone with mobility issues.

There is a left hand path, sloped to allow access to the auditorium area, to which our staff will guide you.

Question 8

Can I bring my dog?

Accepted Answer

Because the island is a unique and delicate natural environment, we only permit registered assistance dogs on site.  We kindly ask that you leave all other furry family members tucked up safely at home.

Question 9

Are performances amplified?

Accepted Answer

Our performances use natural acoustics to project sound, with actors utilising their vocal training to project, and using unamplified instruments. This keeps the neighbours happy!

Question 10

Can I take photographs and video?

Accepted Answer

We adore the human experience we enjoy with each other, and for the comfort of performers and the audience we do not allow photography or video during performances (Either side, no problem!) We ask that Mobile phones are placed on "Aeroplane Mode" for the duration of a performance, or switched off.

Question 11

Can I smoke on the Island?

Accepted Answer

Smoking and E-cigarettes are prohibited due to the natural environment we are in, as it provides a fire hazard and can affect the wildlife too. Enjoy the fresh air on the riverbank!

Question 12

Can I bring an umbrella if it rains?

Accepted Answer

o ensure that everyone behind you has an unobstructed view of the stage, umbrellas are not permitted during the performance. If wet weather is on the horizon, please bring a good waterproof coat or poncho with a hood so you can stay dry without blocking someone else's view.

Should you forget to bring one, Ponchos are available at the Foyer during inclement weather!

Question 13

Is there any shelter on the island?

Accepted Answer

Binnewith Island is a fully open-air, natural space. There is no roof or permanent overhead shelter for the audience area, which is why we encourage checking the forecast and arriving prepared for the elements. There are some areas with tree canopies, such as in the Foyer area, and the Mooring Cafe next door is a dry spot to seek shelter when required!

Question 14

Can I leave and come back onto the island during the show?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If you need to step away during an interval or use the facilities, you can re-enter the island. Please ensure you keep your digital ticket handy on your phone so our gate team can quickly check you back in.

If you need to leave during a performance, our Staff will find a suitable time to let you back in without causing an interruption.

Question 15

What happens if I arrive late?

Accepted Answer

We know traffic or travel delays happen. If you arrive after the performance has started, our front-of-house team will guide you onto the island lawn at a suitable break in the action so as not to disrupt the actors or the rest of the audience.

Question 16

How long do the performances usually last?

Accepted Answer

Most evening or full performances last between 1.5-2hrs, with an interval. Our day time events and shows are between 30-45 minutes, usually without an interval.

Question 17

Are the shows suitable for children?

Accepted Answer

Age suitability varies by production. We always list recommended age guidance on the individual booking page for each show. Please note that regardless of the production, all children must be accompanied by an adult and remain seated safely within your group's designated area during the performance.

Our day time performances are generally suitable for all!

Frequently asked questions