A Spectacular Summer of Theatre & Music at St Albans
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Get ready for an extraordinary fusion of history, theatre, and music as the Roman Theatre Open Air Festival returns to St Albans for its 11th year.
Presented by acclaimed theatre production company OVO, the 2025 summer festival promises an unforgettable season of bold, imaginative, and dynamic performances in one of the UK’s most breathtaking, historic settings.
Since its inception in 2014, the festival has grown into one of the largest outdoor festivals in the country, drawing over 15,000 visitors each year.
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Roman Theatre of Verulamium, this open-air festival takes place in the UK’s oldest producing theatre, dating back to 140 AD.
With innovative adaptations of classic plays and vibrant musical performances, the 2025 season is set to be another sell-out success – making it a highlight of the summer arts calendar.
2025 Highlights:
Shakespeare is at the heart of the Roman Theatre programme and OVO is delighted to present its dazzling 1970s musical adaptation of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, directed by its Artistic Director Adam Nichols, which will transport audiences to the glittering age of disco. This will be followed by a lively, interactive, and comedic production of Hamlet, presented by Roman Theatre favourites, The Pantaloons.
Classic plays this summer will include Red Shift founder Jonathan Holloway’s directing debut for OVO with his adaptation of Victor Hugo’s epic story of love, injustice and redemption, Les Misérables. Afresh take on F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel, The Great Gatsby, directed by OVO Associate Director Kelly Ann Stewart, will be performed with a live jazz soundtrack capturing the energy and excess of the 1920s.
OVO is thrilled to support youth and local community theatre groups. Hertfordshire-based theatre company Act 4 presents A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, a brilliant, non-stop musical comedy. Meanwhile, OVO’s critically acclaimed youth ensemble return with a gripping adaptation of William Golding’s classic tale of survival and human nature, Lord of the Flies.
This summer’s festival also features a range of live music nights, including an evening with Mark Morriss of The Bluetones,a night of The Rolling Stones music from Ver Players Ukulele Group and performances by live 80s Band – Our Friends Electric.
A Unique Experience
The theatre is the only example of its kind in Britain, being a Roman theatre with a stage rather than an Amphitheatre, making watching performances here all the more unique.
Audiences can enjoy a diverse line-up of theatre and live music for all ages while soaking up the magic of this historic venue. With a fully stocked hill-top bar offering a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, plus a variety of snacks and exceptional views. The festival is the perfect setting for a romantic evening, a night out with friends, or a great way for kids to experience live theatre and be outside away from their screens!
Whether you’re a theatre lover, a history enthusiast, or simply looking for a magical summer night out, the Roman Theatre Open Air Festival 2025 is not to be missed.
Various ticket types are available from as little as £15 or for those looking for a little more luxury, there is comfortable covered seating in the new premium seating area, with tickets in this section from £30.
For those who want to experience the full magic of the festival, Season Tickets are available from £75, offering incredible value.
Adam Nichols, OVO Artistic Director and Founder, says: “We are thrilled to unveil a 2025 programme packed with exceptional productions and creative talent. I’m especially pleased that we are increasing our commitment to making the festival as accessible as possible, with thousands of tickets available at £17 or less, giving everyone the chance to experience bold, imaginative and surprising theatre in the wonderful surroundings of the Roman Theatre.”
A Must Experience Outdoor Festival
“The venue is wonderful, what a privilege to watch live theatre where our Roman ancestors sat.” Audience feedback
“The venue is awesome – a beautiful, atmospheric and intimate theatre and just perfect for a warm summer’s evening.” Audience feedback
Festival Dates: 6th June – 31st August 2025
General Ticket Sales Open: 28th February 2025
Book Now: www.ovo.org.uk
Directions: The Roman Theatre of Verulamium is situated on Bluehouse Hill, St Albans, AL3 6AE. Click here for Google Maps
About OVO:
- OVO is a theatre production company based in St Albans. It creates bold, imaginative and surprising adaptations of classic plays and stories.
- OVO has staged over 100 productions since being founded in 2003, being particularly well known for its musical Shakespeare’s, along with “first revivals” of modern classics.
- The company also tours its work around the country, including regular visits to the world famous Minack Theatre in Cornwall.
- OVO has received numerous awards and critical acclaim. Its production of As You Like It won the 2016 Minack Trophy and was named as one of The Guardian’s best shows of 2019. It was recently named one of the country’s top seven boutique theatres in The Times. In 2021, Artistic Director, Adam Nichols, was named in The Stage 100, the definitive guide to the most influential figures working in the UK theatre and performing arts.
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