Four pairs of soulmates meet in the mysterious Forest of Arden. One pair leap straight into bed. Another pair are instantaneously dumbstruck by each other's beauty and pledge their undying troth. The third pair torment each other: he showers chaste love upon her which she haughtily rejects - yet secretly she enjoys the flattery. The fourth pair go further still, playfully blurring their roles and identities to such an extent that flirting becomes more pain than pleasure, and Love itself is pushed to the limit of its endurance and beyond. Throughout the summer Shakespeare's iconic comedy will be performed where its action is set in the great outdoors, by a 5-strong cast of classically trained professional actors. Multi international award-winning Illyria has an unmatched reputation for excellence, forged over three decades, that dominates the outdoor touring theatre sector. Join them this summer for a memorable night of laughter and romance under the stars.

Age advisory: All ages
Bring seating/blankets.
Refreshments/bar/teas/cakes by Friends of Bude Sea Pool.

North Coast Arts is based in Bude, Cornwall and is supported by Norton Barton Artisan Food Village. North Coast Arts promotes an exciting menu of high quality arts events around the North Coast of Cornwall, at a range of lovely open-air and indoor venues.

This performance is one of 50+ professional Open Air and Indoor Theatre, Music, Comedy & Poetry events taking place in Bude during 2026.

For details of other North Coast Arts events in North Cornwall, or to become a 'Friend' of North Coast Arts (£free!) visit www.northcoastarts.co.uk

For info/queries please email [email protected]
Or call Richard Wolfenden-Brown on 07922 594244

Answers to Frequently Asked Questions
about the North Coast Arts 2026 Open-Air Theatre & Music Festival:

Tickets:
Tickets are on sale via WeGotTickets (8% booking fee applies) or at face value (no booking fee) at Spencer Thorn Bookshop, Bude T.I.C., or The Seventh Wave Gallery, Bude. Check event details for any additional ticket information.
Unless sold out in advance, tickets are also available on the gate (cash only).
All venues are accessible. People with access needs are welcome to a free ticket for their carer/assistant. Please email Richard via [email protected] to arrange the free ticket.
Every 11th ticket is free for group bookings. Book via [email protected]
Most performances last approx 2 hours with a 20 minute interval
Minimum ages are advisory only. Please use your discretion.
All venues operate a no smoking/vaping policy on site. Please respect this.

Seating:
No seating is provided. Please bring seats and/or blankets,
An area for people on blankets is reserved at the front.
If you wish to be socially distanced please sit towards the rear or sides of the audience area
Performances start at the stated time so please arrive in good time to take your seats

Dogs:
Well behaved dogs are welcome. No barking!

Getting to the Venues:
If you can, please walk, cycle, use public transport or car-share to access the venues
Public car parks are close to all venues. Charges vary.

Refreshments:
Please support the catering/bar at the venues and dont bring your own alcohol to licenced venues.
Ebbingford Manor: The Registered Charity The Friends of Bude Seapool will provide hot drinks, cakes, snacks, bar at the open air theatre events.
The Outside Inn (selling Norton Barton spirits) will provide a high quality bar, and Serendip Sri Lankan Street Food and Leo's Pizzas will be at the open air music events on 19 June, 31 July and 1 Aug at Ebbingford Manor.
The Castle Lawn Bude: Cafe Limelight at The Castle closes at 5pm. Other caterers/bar will be on site for most evening events. See individual event for details.
4 July, Colbay, Week St Mary: The Wurzels: Full bar and catering provision plus camping available (£10 per pitch or van)

Weather:
Performances continue regardless of the weather. Be prepared.
There are no indoor alternatives in case of bad weather.
In the event of electrical storm, tickets will be exchanged for another date.
The following may be useful: A torch, insect repellent, an umbrella (or sunshade!)

Access:
Most venues have level access, adjacent parking and accessible toilet facilities. For specific access information please email the box office on [email protected]
Limited parking spaces for disabled patrons are available at Ebbingford Manor. Please email North Coast Arts to reserve a space. [email protected] 07922 594244