Twelfth Night

Get ready to laugh yourself silly as The Australian Shakespeare Company continues its much-heralded tradition of “Shakespeare Under the Stars at Kew Gardens” to bring one of the bard’s most beloved comedies, Twelfth Night to the grounds this summer. With over 40 years of pioneering theatre at unique venues, the ASC present exciting, accessible, contemporary productions of Shakespeare to audiences of all generations.

Directed by Glenn Elston OAM, Twelfth Night has delighted critics, with Australian Arts Review calling it a “wonderful show, built around an engine of brilliant performances”, this production promises an unforgettable night of laughter, love, and lyrical mayhem for audiences of all ages.

“This production has been crafted to celebrate imagination, humour and the shared experience of theatre” – Director Glenn Elston OAM

Meet Sir Toby Belch – the man believed to have invented partying; Sir Andrew Aguecheek – dispossessed of any intelligence and naturally silly; Malvolio – a power-hungry puritan who falls from a great moral height when pushed by Sir Toby; and Maria – the housemaid who outwitsMalvolio and house-trains Sir Toby. Then there’s Viola, the shipwrecked girl who cross-dresses as a boy to find work, Olivia, the grieving noblewoman who rejects one suitor only to fall for another in disguise, and Orsino, the lovesick Duke whose heart changes course when truth andidentity collide.

Set against the backdrop of one of London’s most beautiful gardens, this much-loved outdoor production offers a unique theatre experience. Each theatre ticket include access to Kew Gardens, so audiences can enjoy an idyllic day exploring Kew’s 320 acres of iconic glasshouses and spectacular seasonal displays followed by a theatrical production under the stars.

Pack a picnic, and enjoy an unforgettable summer evening of outdoor theatre, bursting with comedy, romance, and Shakespeare at his finest in one of London’s most beautiful gardens.

Important Information

Entry via Victoria Gate only for ticket validation. This performance takes place on the Theatre Lawn, next to the Pavillion Bar and Grill restaurant, which is a 15 minute walk from Victoria Gate.

Age Restrictions

Ages 13+. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

Performance Times

Now taking bookings for performances up until Sun 30th August 2026.

Show times for each day are below.

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Kew Gardens Details

Facilities at Kew Gardens

Kew Gardens Location

Please note: The location shown on the map is an approximate location of the theatre. In the majority of cases the theatre will be marked on the map so please make sure you locate the exact location yourself. If the theatre is not shown on the map please make sure you locate the correct road name and take account of the directions.