Whitchurch Open Air Theatre

Established in 2024 with funding from the UK Government Rural England Prosperity Fund, Whitchurch Open Air Theatre is a family theatre event held every two years, with performances by professional theatre groups and rural touring companies.

It alternates with our award-winning, Arts Council England-funded Whitchurch Children’s Festival, ensuring that every year brings accessible cultural experiences to local families in rural north Hampshire.

Whitchurch Open Air Theatre returned in July 2026 with three days of high-quality, interactive performances designed especially for children and families.

There are two ticketed performances each day at 11am and 2pm, with relaxed bench seating in the idyllic setting of the Fulling Mill watermeadow. Tickets are heavily subsidised at just £4 per person, with children aged two and under attending free of charge. 

Our 2026 season welcomed 600 attendees over the three-day event.

2026 Season:

• Friday 24th July: Astro Norma and the Cosmic Piano (Fladam Theatre: Age 3-10, 55 mins)
• Saturday 25th July: Books!  (Tit For Tat Circus: Age 6-11, 35 mins) plus creative workshop bookmark craft activity with Junk Jodie (*to celebrate the National Year of Reading 2026 )
• Sunday 26th July: The Wizard and The Mechanic (Adventure Arts Theatre: Age 5-11, 60 mins)

Programming enquiries:

We are keen to strengthen our relationships with rural touring companies and theatre groups with a focus on outdoor performance: if this is you, please do get in touch if you have a show to offer for the 2028 season.

Please see our 2026 highlights video here: