The Roses launches outdoor Garden Festival
The Roses Theatre is taking theatre beyond its walls this summer with the launch of a brand-new outdoor Garden Festival in Tewkesbury
The Roses Theatre is inviting audiences to experience theatre in a completely different setting as it prepares to host its first-ever Garden Festival in the picturesque Victoria Gardens.
Taking place from 30 July to 2 August 2026, the four-day event forms part of the theatre's 50th anniversary celebrations and promises a packed programme of outdoor performances, live music, family entertainment, workshops and great food and drink.
Designed to bring theatre closer to the community, the festival will transform the riverside gardens into a vibrant outdoor venue where visitors can relax, explore and enjoy a unique mix of culture and summer entertainment.
With affordable ticket prices and free admission for under-threes, organisers hope the event will appeal to families, theatre lovers and those simply looking for a memorable day out in Tewkesbury.
The Roses heads outdoors for a special summer festival
Tewkesbury's Roses Theatre is bringing the world of the stage into the great outdoors and inviting the whole community to be part of its inaugural Garden Festival.
Hosted in Victoria Gardens from Thursday 30 July to Sunday 2 August, the event will feature dramatic performances, workshops, live music, children's activities, street food and a festival-style atmosphere in one of the town's most scenic locations.
"Across four easy-going summer days, we'll be transforming Victoria Gardens into something Tewkesbury's never quite seen before - part theatre, part hangout, part mini escape," says Danielle Lewis, the theatre's Marketing & Events Officer.
"Bring the kids for bold, brilliant twists on classic stories and let them jump straight into hands-on activities and workshops.
"Plus, there'll be live music drifting through the trees, street food worth lingering over and a bar that will turn the whole thing into a really special summer occasion!"
Great theatre in the great outdoors
Each day of the festival will feature a professionally produced outdoor performance, offering audiences a fresh and engaging take on well-known stories.
Productions include Charles Dickens' The Pickwick Papers, which famously includes a visit to Tewkesbury, alongside reimagined versions of Sherlock Holmes and The Railway Children. Younger visitors can also enjoy the interactive puppet show Bin Rat!
"We're really proud to be bringing these productions to the beautiful Victoria Gardens," says The Roses' Artistic Director, Derek Bond.
"They're intended to be huge fun and get the audience involved in all the craziness.
"The whole family will have a great time with every one of these stories - it's such a treat to be putting on great theatre in the great outdoors, all at the heart of our town."
A festival atmosphere for all ages
Alongside the theatre programme, visitors can enjoy live performances from local musicians, children's entertainment throughout the day and a selection of street food vendors and refreshments.
Organisers hope the combination of theatre, music, food and outdoor fun will create a unique summer experience for residents and visitors alike.
"Our goal is to put on a really great event for our community and to bring theatre to the outdoors," adds Lewis.
"Come for the vibes, stay for the theatre - we're going to have a fab four days!"
> Find out more about The Garden Festival at The Roses Theatre
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17 June 2026
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