Rediscover Benjamin Britten’s chilling opera The Turn of the Screw in a new production by the English National Opera at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre.

Based on Henry James’ novella, The Turn of the Screw is the story of unearthly encounters at a remote house in the country – and of a young governess desperate to protect her children. The classic tale reaches new levels of suspense in this unique outdoor staging.

Director Timothy Sheader, conductor Mackerra Fellow Toby Purser, and members of the ENO orchestra bring their award-winning expertise to Britten’s masterly reworking of Henry James’ novella. Libretto by Myfanwy Piper.

Book your tickets for The Turn of the Screw at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre today!

Cast

22 | 25 | 27 (mat) | 29 | 30 (eve) June

Prologue – William Morgan

Peter Quint – Elgan Llŷr Thomas

Governess – Anita Watson

Mrs Grose – Janis Kelly

Miss Jessel – Elin Pritchard

 

23 | 26 | 27 (eve) | 30 (mat) June

Prologue – Elgan Llŷr Thomas

Peter Quint – William Morgan

Governess – Rhian Lois

Mrs Grose – Sarah Pring

Miss Jessel – Rachael Lloyd

Duration

2 hours (including the interval)

Good To Know

WEATHER

Every theatre performance is unique, but this is especially the case at the Open Air Theatre where both the stage and entire auditorium are uncovered.

Each visit can be distinctly different as the weather and light spontaneously interact with the play. Warm or cool, clear or overcast, the point at which dusk turns to night, being outdoors adds a thrilling contribution to our work and is an integral part of your experience here. Some of our audience's favourite memories have been of the sun breaking through the clouds during the show whilst some of the most electric performances happen in the wake of rainfall.

It's best to come prepared for all types of weather: bringing your own shade in the afternoon is particularly important as is a jumper for the end of evening performances. So sun hats, sun cream, sunglasses, raincoats and rain hats should all be considered. Although the vast majority of performances are completed each year, as the auditorium and stage are completely uncovered, we may have to stop and re-start the show.

On rare occasions, it will not be possible for us to complete the performance, but we will never cancel a performance before the advertised start time. This is because you would be amazed how often it can rain all day and then clear up just in time for the action to start and indeed, how localised bad weather can be. Also we really don't want to disappoint anyone - audiences or our actors (who are always keen to perform, if at all possible).

Please note that films and one-off live music and comedy shows are never cancelled because of the weather.

Location

Regent's Park Open Air Theatre

The Regent's Park, Inner Cir, London NW1 4NU

Additional Details & FAQ

Cancellation Policy

No refunds or exchanges after booking. 

How Does It Work

Please print confirmation email and bring along with you to your performance. 

Suitable For Children

This is a sung-through opera by Benjamin Britten which is suitable only for secondary school age and over. 

Where Do I Go

Open Air Theatre

Inner Circle

Regent's Park

London

NW1 4NU

How to find us

We are just a 10 minute walk from Baker Street underground station. 

Reviews

3.5(6 reviews)
  • Mrs Cole

    Jul 1, 2018

    Did not understand the story, nor did some of the audience. A lot of people were refering to the programme during the performance. I come every year and this is the first time me and my friends did not enjoy the show

  • Anon

    Jul 1, 2018

    Smashing production of turn of the Screw. The set was ingenious, illuminating and spooky. The singing was glorious. The amplified sound was a bit disconcerting but overall a marvellous evening. the good weather helped.

  • Helen

    Jun 30, 2018

    Having read the book, the opera interpretation lacked the atmosphere I was expecting. However the venue was superb, very comfortable and fantastic for being outside and able to hear the wind in the trees and see the swooping of the birds. Will certainly be returning.

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