Shakespeare from the... Riverside!

It's time to dig out the picnic blanket and find the camping chairs, The Living Theatre is on the road with the bard's greatest hits. Where better to stop than the at the riverside, St Mary's Churchyard in Hitchin! Bring along the family and set yourselves up on the beautiful bank of the Hitchin riverside fountain. You'll be thoroughly entertained as our company delivers you soliloquies, scenes and songs in this joyful celebration of Shakespeare's work. Expect romance, rivalry, comedy and chaos, all performed by a cast of dynamic actors who transform the simplest setting into a stage fit for kings and fools alike. So settle in for an afternoon of theatre under the sky. Perfect for the whole family, and rooted in The Living Theatre’s signature blend of creativity, community and sustainable design.

This is a Pay What You Can Event. Spend £3 to reserve your ticket then on the day our actors will have cash buckets and card machines to collect what you think is a reasonable price for our entertainment. We encourage those who may not be in a position to buy theatre tickets for all the family to feel comfortable to pay what you can spare and nothing more - no questions asked. To those who may be in a position to give a little more, please give generously! 

Sponsored by the fabulous Jones Hunt Keelings Accountants and Natwest, Hitchin. Supported by Visit Hitchin, St Mary's Heart of Hitchin and Hitchin Festival 2026.

Seating - Please bring picnic blankets / camp chairs.

Run Time - 2hr incl. interval.

Parking - Parking can be found at St Mary's Car Park, Hitchin - parking charges apply.

Toilets - Toilets will be accessible from the church hall.

Age Suitability - This performance is suitable for adults and children of all ages.

Food & Drink - Feel free to bring along a picnic and something to drink or grab yourselves something delicious from one of Hitchin's many fantastic foody spots!

What to bring - Umbrellas and waterproofs. Sunhats, sunglasses and sun cream. Be prepared for all British weather. Blankets and something to sit on.