Minack Theatre Announces Easter 2026 Programme

Giants, Ghosts and a Daring Escape at the Minack

The Minack Theatre is set to bring Cornish folklore, myth and true-life adventure to the stage this Easter with three very different productions.

From family-friendly giants to darkly comic ghost stories and a gripping tale of survival, the clifftop theatre’s seasonal programme promises something for all ages.

Giants take over Marazion

The season opens with Giants, a Minack Theatre production described as the perfect Easter treat for families.

Storyteller John Brolly and composer and musician Ben Sutcliffe present a lively reimagining of the legend of Cormoran, the terrible giant of St Michael’s Mount. In the small town of Marazion, preparations are under way to celebrate the mayor’s 50th anniversary. But there is a problem. Two huge giants have moved into the neighbourhood, throwing the village into turmoil.

The villagers need a hero and young Jack might just be the one. The question is whether he can take on two giants single-handed.

Packed with songs and fun, the show features members of the Minack Youth Theatre alongside professional actors. Giants runs from Friday 3rd to Wednesday 16th April, with performances at 4pm. It is suitable for everyone aged five and above.

A darker turn with Widdershins

As evening falls, the theatre’s programme takes on a darker edge.

From Tuesday 7th to Thursday 9th April, audiences aged ten and above can see Widdershins, an original piece written specifically for former Kneehigh actor Dave Mynne by Cornish writer Carl Grose and directed by Olivier Award winner Simon Harvey.

The show takes its name from an old Cornish nursery rhyme: “Three times round the circle and faerie-land begins; three times round the wrong way and call it widdershins!”

Set in a long-forgotten village buried deep in a wild corner of Cornwall, the story follows Bob Droll, a local raconteur, folklore enthusiast and village hall caretaker. He guides audiences through tales including that of poor “Pity Me” Jose, the ghost of Treacle Straight bus stop and a Sea Captain who was afraid of death.

Described as dark, delirious and delightful, the production promises stories told with a sting, alongside irreverence, wit and silliness.

A real-life legend in Oh Mary

During the second week of the holidays, a true story takes centre stage with Oh Mary, a one-woman show devised, performed and produced by Bec Applebee.

Bec Applebee’s credits include work with Kneehigh Theatre, Wild Works, SLG, Golden Tree and Cousin Jacks. The production tells the true-life story of Mary Bryant, who led one of maritime history’s most daring escapes.

The show features specially commissioned tunes by Neil Davey and a traditional Cornish soundtrack recorded by Dalla and Radjel.

Oh Mary has drawn praise from a number of quarters. Emma Rice, Artistic Director of the Emma Rice Company, described it as “pure storytelling” that is “moving and surprising and funny,” while reviewer Jenni Balow wrote of Bec Applebee: “Here is a remarkable actress who gives her all… we feel every emotion, hang on every word.”

Performances take place from Tuesday 14th to Thursday 16th April at 7pm.

From Cornish myth to ghostly folklore and a tale of courage and resilience, the Minack’s Easter programme offers three distinct reasons to visit the theatre this spring.

For full listings, booking information and access details, visit the Minack Theatre website.