London's outdoor theatre season has officially begun, running from late April through October. Whether the weather cooperates or not, there are plenty of shows to enjoy. Our theatre editor Andrzej Lukowski shares his top picks for the best open-air theatre experiences this spring and summer.
1. Cats at Regent's Park Open Air Theatre
Andrew Lloyd Webber's iconic musical returns for its first British revival. The production runs from July 25 to September 19 at the Regent's Park Open Air Theatre. Expect a fresh take that avoids the 1980s vibe of the original and the infamous film adaptation.
2. A Midsummer Night's Dream (Two Productions)
Shakespeare's beloved comedy appears at both Shakespeare's Globe (now through August 29) and Regent's Park Open Air Theatre (June 20 to July 18). Both productions promise joyful, good-vibes-only interpretations. The OAT version introduces 12.30pm matinees to protect audiences from the sun.
3. Sherlock Holmes at Regent's Park Open Air Theatre
A brand-new Sherlock Holmes adventure by playwright Joel Horwood opens the OAT season from May 2 to June 6. This boisterous, all-encompassing entertainment is ideal for the outdoor setting.
4. Midnight Matinees at Shakespeare's Globe
The Globe's unique midnight performances start at 11.59pm and offer a raucous, good-natured experience. This year's lineup includes A Midsummer Night's Dream (June 20), Much Ado About Nothing (July 31), and As You Like It (September 11).
5. West End Live in Trafalgar Square
This free two-day festival on June 20 and 21 showcases performances from nearly every musical in London. While Saturday is busiest, Sunday is more relaxed. It's a highlight of the Theatreland calendar.
6. Shakespeare in the Squares
Celebrating its 10th anniversary, this tour brings accessible Shakespeare to London's garden squares from June 3 to July 12. This year's production is the rare Love's Labour's Lost.
7. Kew Gardens Theatre Season
The Australian Shakespeare Company presents Jack and the Beanstalk, The Wind in the Willows, and Twelfth Night at Kew Gardens from July 18 to August 23. Children's shows include garden entry; Twelfth Night is an after-hours performance.
8. Greenwich + Docklands International Festival
This festival features spectacular installations and live performances after dark, typically in late August to early September. Dates for 2026 are to be announced.
