Shakespeare Under the Stars: Romeo and Juliet Comes to Harrogate and Ripon

Pack a picnic, unfold your camping chair and prepare for a memorable summer evening as Shakespeare’s greatest love story comes to two beautiful North Yorkshire locations.

The Duke’s Theatre Company will perform Romeo and Juliet in Harrogate’s Valley Gardens on Thursday 23 July before visiting Ripon Racecourse on Friday 24 July as part of the Ripon Theatre Festival.

A powerful new production

Whether you love Shakespeare or simply fancy trying something different, this bold open-air production promises drama, romance and original music.

Directed by Joseph Pitcher, it features music by award-winning composer Rob Millett and forms part of a UK tour visiting more than 50 venues.

Harrogate

• Date: Thursday 23 July 2026
• Time: 7pm–9.30pm
• Venue: Valley Gardens, Valley Drive, Harrogate, HG1 2SZ
• Gates open: Approximately 6.15pm

Ripon

• Date: Friday 24 July 2026
• Time: 7pm–9.30pm
• Venue: Ripon Racecourse
• Event: Ripon Theatre Festival
• Gates open: 6.15pm
• Tickets: £13.82–£18.43, including booking fee

Before you go

Bring a folding chair or blanket and arrive early to find a comfortable spot. You are welcome to bring a picnic, while hot and cold drinks will be available to buy at Ripon.

The performance lasts approximately two hours, including a 15-minute interval, and is recommended for ages seven and over. It will continue whatever the weather, so pack a waterproof just in case.

Dogs are not permitted at the Ripon performance.

For families, couples and theatre lovers, this is a wonderful opportunity to experience Romeo and Juliet beneath the North Yorkshire summer sky.