Outdoor Theatre Returns to Epping Forest’s Wanstead Park This Summer
The historic Temple at Wanstead Park is set for a lively transformation as the City of London Corporation brings back outdoor theatre to Epping Forest this summer. The programme kicks off on Sunday, 21st July, with Illyria’s performance of “The Gondoliers,” a charming operetta set in Venice.
Following this, the park will host a variety of performances, including Arthur Conan Doyle’s classic mystery “The Hound of the Baskervilles” on 13th August and “The Adventures of Doctor Dolittle” on 24th August. Additionally, a mask-making workshop will precede the East London Shakespeare Festival’s rendition of “Much Ado About Nothing” on 3rd August, offering an interactive experience for attendees.
Ben Murphy, Chairman of the City Corporation’s Epping Forest & Commons Committee, expressed enthusiasm for the summer events, stating, “We are delighted to be hosting another summer of outdoor theatrical performances in Wanstead Park. It is the perfect opportunity to bring your family and friends together with a picnic and enjoy the show. These performances offer something for everyone, and the great thing is, there’s an entire Forest to explore before or after the performance!”
Wanstead Park, East London’s oldest public park and a Grade II listed site, has been managed by the City of London Corporation since 1880. Known for its national heritage and ecological significance, the park forms part of the extensive Epping Forest, which stretches from Manor Park in the south to Epping in the north, attracting over 10 million visitors annually.
Epping Forest is recognized for its national and international conservation importance, boasting two registered historic parks, eight listed buildings, and four scheduled ancient monuments. It is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Special Area of Conservation, making it one of the few remaining extensive natural woodlands in southern England.
The City of London Corporation oversees 11,000 acres of green space across London and southeast England, including Hampstead Heath and Burnham Beeches. These sites are maintained with an annual investment of over £38 million, primarily operating as charitable trusts at minimal or no cost to the communities they serve, and are safeguarded from development by special legislation.
For those looking to enjoy a unique theatrical experience in a picturesque setting, Wanstead Park’s summer programme promises a delightful array of performances amidst the natural beauty of Epping Forest.
For performance details and tickets visit www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/things-to-do/green-spaces/epping-forest/whats-new-in-epping-forest.
