Mrs Warren’s Profession
26-27 July
Location: Shaw’s Corner
SHAW2020, the award-winning theatre company renowned for its innovative approach to George Bernard Shaw’s repertoire, is delighted to announce a summer tour of Mrs Warren’s Profession, 99 years after its public debut. Written in 1893 and published as one of a trilogy of plays in Plays Unpleasant in 1898, Mrs Warren’s Profession was originally banned owing to its controversial subject matter. It wasn’t until 1925 that it had its debut public performance. The play delves into the complex relationship between a mother, Mrs Kitty Warren, and her daughter, Vivie, as they grapple with issues of morality, social expectations, and the economic constraints faced by women in the Victorian era.
The Merry Wives of Windsor
Until 28 July
Location: Roman Theatre
OVO’s 10th anniversary season will kick off with the highly-anticipated return of their critically acclaimed production, The Merry Wives of Windsor. Full of nostalgic 80s rock hits, this Shakespeare retelling features tight trousers, big hair, and an ensemble to remember as it presents an irresistible high-octane piece of gig theatre. OVO’s riotous adaptation of what is often seen as the world’s first sitcom returns to the Roman Theatre by popular demand after a sellout run in 2020.
At Home
Throughout July
Location: Aldenham Estate
Set to become an annual “must-do” on the family calendar, the brand new Wild Oak Meadows Family Festival (13 July) is a celebration of the great outdoors amongst the picturesque meadows and woodlands of the Aldenham Estate. At Home Farm’s Event Director Elissa Gold – also renowned for producing the family areas at award-winning festivals, including Wilderness – has programmed a joyous day packed with fun, laughter, music, and creativity for young ones and the young at heart.
Tootles + Nibs will host their signature family rave with UV paint, bubbles, and glow sticks a-plenty. Vegas Girls will mash-up “old skool classics” with big harmonies, and One Jah Music will be bringing their unique reggae versions of nursery rhymes to the Woodland Stage.
Activities for Children
- Smoking Apple Theatre: Interactive “part man, part tree” walkabout performance.
- Big Tree Climbing: Zip lines and giant tree climbing amongst the woodland canopy.
- Exploring Nature: Creative workshops connecting children to the great outdoors.
- Showtime Circus: Circus skills sessions.
- Pages Farm: Meet friendly farm animals.
This is just one event at what looks like an extraordinary summer At Home. Dine under a mighty oak with a celebrated chef, walk into the fairy-lit woodland glade for a magical performance after a pre-show meal in the meadow, and much more. Their individually ticketed outdoor events run through the spring and summer, brought to you by some of the finest musical, culinary, and comedic talent.
Everyman In The Garden
From 18 July
Location: The Grove
Everyman In The Garden returns to The Grove with an outdoor cinema line-up in partnership with luxury automotive brand Discovery. Guests are invited to relax under the stars at an immersive outdoor cinema experience with bean bags, delicious snacks, and beverages. Enjoy an array of new releases, family favourites, and much-loved classics. Dates for the diary in July include:
- Frozen: 26 July
- Toy Story: 27 July
- The Greatest Showman: 28 July
Essex & Herts Air Ambulance
14 July
Location: Hatfield House
Get ready for a fun-packed afternoon where family fun takes flight. Join Essex & Herts Air Ambulance at their Heli-bration event to celebrate the launch of the amazing new AW169 helicopter. Set against the stunning backdrop of Hatfield House, your local life-saving air ambulance is excited to unveil its newest addition to its fleet and would love you to join them. You’ll be able to see the helicopter up close, meet the crew, and watch as it takes to the skies. There really is something for everyone to enjoy, from face painting to fun rides, tasty refreshments, plus the opportunity to learn CPR, a valuable life-saving skill.
Big Art Fair
19-21 July
Location: Hitchin Town Hall
One of the major events of Herts Visual Art’s year, the Big Art Fair, brings a great buzz to Hitchin Town Hall. Sixty artists will exhibit their beautiful work. Visitors’ feedback from previous events showed they were wowed—”fantastic show,” “very inspiring,” “absolutely amazing art!” and “marvellous exhibition.” This is a chance to buy a unique piece of art, enjoy a glass of bubbly, and immerse yourself in creativity.
Futures Festival
Until 13 July
Location: Chickenshed
Get ready for an electrifying invitation from Chickenshed’s Young Company as they invite you to embark on a journey into their vision for the future during their 50th year. This dynamic youth-led festival delves deep into their hopes, dreams, and concerns for the future. Join them as they navigate the unwritten, planting the seeds of their aspirations and igniting the sparks of their potential. As they mark fifty incredible years of Chickenshed, let’s envision a world from those who will be leading the way for the next 50 years.
