Theatres in Cornwall

There's far more to Cornwall than its beaches and natural beauty. The county has a wide selection of theatres, some of which are open-air venues which have a magical atmosphere on a summer's evening.

Minack Theatre, Porthcurno

Possibly the best known theatre in Cornwall is the unique Minack Theatre, carved out of a granite cliff on a craggy headland overlooking Porthcurno Bay. This 750-seat outdoor auditorium was the brainchild of one determined local lady with a vision, Rowena Cade. Productions are staged from May through September and you should definitely take a cushion with you. The tiered concrete and grass seating can be very unforgiving but the stunning atmosphere is worth it!

Falmouth Arts Centre

With a national reputation, Falmouth Arts Centre puts on a great season of films, performances and acts from top artists. The lunchtime recitals are also a wonderful opportunity to see and encourage some of the UK's most promising musicians.

Sterts Theatre, Upton Cross

Set in another great outdoor setting, Sterts Theatre is located along a remote winding lane between Liskeard and Launceston. Theatre-goers are encouraged to bring a picnic and enjoy the grounds before the performance, or enjoy a drink or a meal in the Bistro Bar. The season runs from June through September and puts on professional standard musicals and family favourites beneath a large canopy which seats 400.

Hall for Cornwall, Truro

Offering a taste of culture, the Hall for Cornwall attracts highly acclaimed performing arts companies from the Royal Shakespeare Company to the Rambert Dance Company. From Blood Brothers to the Glenn Miller Orchestra, there's sure to be something to appeal along with visiting celebrity entertainers such as Bill Wyman and Mike Reid.

Redannick Theatre, Truro

This small theatre complements the larger Hall for Cornwall by regularly hosting plays and musicals by the Truro Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society.

Princess Pavilion, Falmouth

This multi-purpose events theatre has a year-round program of professional, semi-professional and amateur performers aimed at family entertainment.

Acorn Theatre, Penzance

Worth attending just to enjoy the historic venue, this independently run arts venue offers a wide program of drama and entertainment. The Acorn Theatre is highly regarded by both visiting artists and audiences and presents some of the best small-scale productions in the area.

Lane Theatre, Newquay

The only live theatre in Newquay, the award-winning Lane Theatre was founded in 1931. Owned and run by the Newquay Dramatic Society, it hosts midweek Comedy Nights during the summer and a great entertianements program throughout the year. It has been recently expanded to seat audiences of up to 160 with a licensed bar, disabled facilities and a large car park.

Kidz R Us Youth Theatre, St Ives

The flourishing St Ives Theatre Youth Company hosts regular shows and performances by talented youngsters.

Carnglaze Caverns, St Neot

This interesting underground attraction puts on a number of concerts throughout the year in the atmospheric Rum Store. With superb acoustics, Carnglaze Caverns host a series of concerts from Classical to Rock in this former slate mine. The year-round program of events includes tribute bands and special Christmas performances in the cavern which is a constant 10°C all year round.