This is a sponsored article on behalf of Westminster Abbey.
Here's a novel way to soak up two of the Bard's best-loved comedies.
On Thursday 29 and Friday 30 August, Four Forty Theatre takes over Dean's Yard at Westminster Abbey to perform a double bill of Twelfth Night and A Midsummer Night's Dream. The twist? Well, the clue's in the theatre company's name: each play features just four actors and lasts a mere 40(ish) madcap minutes.
Billed as panto-meets-theatre-in-the-park, this is a fully family-friendly affair. Bring a picnic, bring the kids and buckle up for an evening of pure escapism, featuring outlandish disguises, mischievous fairies and magic potions. Not only do Four Forty Theatre's condensed run times cater well to shorter attention spans, but the breakneck speed with which each show unfolds adds to the farcical fun — the kind of organised chaos that all ages can get a kick out of.
All of the action unfolds in the stunning surrounds of Dean's Yard, a green quadrangle overlooked by Westminster Abbey. Used as a recreation ground for pupils of Westminster School, it's usually off-limits to the public — a rare chance, then, to enjoy this central London oasis. You could even combine your theatre trip with a visit to the Abbey itself (it's open to the public 9.30am-3.30pm both days, tickets here) before grabbing your picnic supplies and settling in for the show.
Doors open at 6.15pm for a 7pm start. With each performance lasting around 40 minutes, it's all over by 9pm, and that's including a 20-minute interval — ideal if you've got young ones in tow (or just aren't much of a night owl)! Tickets cost £17 for adults and £12 for concessions and can be bought here.
Four Forty Theatre: A Midsummer Night's Dream and Twelfth Night. At Dean's Yard, Westminster Abbey, 29-30 August 2024.
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