What’s On at Penlee Park Open Air Theatre This Summer?

Over 80 live performances lined up at Penlee Park Open Air Theatre

Penlee Park Open Air Theatre in Penzance is back for another packed season of shows, music and comedy, kicking off on 23rd May with Ella & The Rogue Tones and running right through to 6th September with the Last Night of the Cornish Proms.

Located in the heart of Penlee Park, the open air theatre has been entertaining audiences since 1948. This year’s programme features more than 80 performances, with a mix of local acts and touring artists from across the UK and beyond.

No booking fees and family-friendly pricing

Penlee is thought to be the only venue in Cornwall where the ticket price you see is the price you pay – no hidden booking fees. According to David Hunter, Event Manager, the theatre works hard to keep prices low and create a space that’s welcoming for families while still hosting high-quality performances. The theatre seats 300 and is supported by Penzance Council, with help from the Penlee Park gardening team to maintain the venue.

📷The Wind In The Willows

Big names and local legends

Among this year’s highlights is The Wind in the Willows from Illyria on 26th May, which promises to be a lively show for the whole family – perfect for the Bank Holiday weekend.

On 10th June, Penlee will host Another Darke Night, a special charity performance marking 20 years since the passing of Nick Darke. The event features a wide mix of performers who have appeared in Nick’s plays before and will be hosted by local actor Mary Woodvine.

Other standout performances include international soprano Nancy May on 6th July, a night of laughs with the Penzance Comedy Club featuring headliner Tom Stade on 11th June, and local favourites The Oggymen on 11th July.

📷The Fishermans Friends

August attractions and new ventures

August always sees a boost in audiences, with visitors coming from across the UK and overseas. The summer schedule includes a Simon & Garfunkel tribute show on 2nd August, Alice Through the Looking Glass by Quantum Theatre on 21st August, and performances from The Odd Folk on 30th August and Company B on 25th August.

This season also marks the theatre’s first Artist in Residence – Isadora Malik, a Penzance-based artist who will work creatively at the theatre throughout 2025. Her work will be exhibited in early 2026.

Supporting young talent across Cornwall

All profits from Penlee Park Open Air Theatre go directly to supporting the Cornwall Youth Theatre Company, which has worked with young people across the county since 1984.

Run entirely by volunteers from across West Cornwall and led by David Hunter and Shazz Andrew, Penlee Park Open Air Theatre continues to offer something unique: a professionally-run venue powered by local passion and creativity.

Tickets and more info: www.penleeparktheatre.com

📷Nancy May