Don’t miss an unforgettable experience at The Festival Theatre at Hever Castle

This state-of-the-art open-air theatre replaces the previous one damaged by severe storms in July 2023 and boasts several enhancements, including a continuous clear roof that provides uninterrupted views and an immersive outdoor atmosphere for all attendees, rain or shine.

Festival Director Ailsa Molyneux shared ‘The new theatre built for our 44 year old Festival has recently been described as ‘A very special place.’. Our audiences are telling us they are as pleased with our new home as we are, with comments including ‘Such a beautiful place, totally transporting and good for the soul.’, ‘A unique experience you will remember for ever.’ and ‘It’s just a perfect place… breathtaking.’. We really are ‘A theatre to escape to, in a magical setting.’ and I love being part of it. It's a glorious celebratory festival in our new theatre with lots of treats to entertain you over the next weeks, pack up your picnic and join us!’

This season, in collaboration with the Castle's curatorial team and Historian Dr. Owen Emmerson, the festival will host its first ever four-day deep-dive into Tudor history (19-22 Aug) featuring talks from esteemed historians Dr Elizabeth Norton, Dr Tracy Borman, Gareth Russell, Dr Nicola tallis, Dr Joanne Paul, Dr Alison Weir and Sarah Gristwood.

The music of legendary artists is celebrated with a series of tribute acts from classic rock to pop. The Beatles for Sale (24 Aug), The Retro Rock Show (31 Aug) and direct from London’s West End Whitney Queen of the Night (30 Aug) are amongst the performances paying homage to some of the most influential musicians of our time.

Renowned for its vibrant jazz scene, Ronnie Scott’s Club brings its iconic sound to the festival. Expect mesmerizing performances from some of the best jazz musicians in the world including The Soul Family featuring Natalie Wiliams (23 Aug) and festival favourites Charles Court Opera make a welcome return with their brand-new production of the first full length Gilbert & Sullivan opera The Sorcerer (18 Aug).

Family-friendly activities abound with wonderful puppetry in Out of the Hat (18 Aug) and the Horrible Histories team bring hilarious tales of Rotten Royals (29 Aug). The Festival Theatre will also return to Chiddingstone Castle with classic tale The Wind in the Willows (18 Aug).

The festival would not be complete without The Last Night of the Hever Proms (1 Sep). The Brandenburg Sinfonia returns to the Hever Festival to present its popular tribute to the Last Night of the Proms conducted by raconteur Bob Porter. Enjoy a memorable evening of world-class music at The Festival Theatre at Hever Castle with The Brandenburg Sinfonia. Join us in our magical setting, where we will be celebrating the final event of the summer season in a truly British fashion. Pomp, ceremony and attendees are encouraged to pack their flags and participate in the Best Dressed Brit competition with a pair of tickets to the 2025 Proms up for grabs.

The stage will light up with laughter for Blackadder, based on the iconic British television series. Fans of the sharp-witted and hilariously cynical Edmund Blackadder will not want to miss this hilarious adaptation (16 & 17 Aug) and the mesmerising Duke’s Theatre Company perform Shakespeare’s most famous and quotable comedy, As You Like It (28 Aug).

Join us at The Festival Theatre at Hever castle for an unforgettable summer of history, music, theatre and family fun in a breathtaking setting.

To see the full programme of events visit heverfestival.co.uk or call 07379 488477