Events

Join us for an outside performance with a difference on the remains of medieval Norton Priory and learn the answers to some of the big questions in life. Who is the God of dog poo bags? How did the microwave get its ping? What ancient crime was Marmite the punishment for… And why was it inflicted upon us?

Senior academics of history, and rather silly men, Professor Doctor Lee Hithersay and Doctor Professor Robert Rhys Bond, forge three new myths from the unhinged minds of their audience - and a boatload of cardboard props!

Will it be Greek? Viking? Ancient Babylonian? They haven’t a clue! That’s all up to you. Help shape the stories and even become the hero yourself (if you want, no pressure) in this EPIC interactive experience!

The renowned Rubbish Shakespeare Company and Silly History Boys present a hilarious hour of high-octane adventure for children and childish adults. Featuring clowning, storytelling, physical comedy, live music and more. 

You’d be mad to myth it! 

The Story Forge is part of Norton Priory's Summer of Stories programming for 2025.

Norton Priory Museum and Gardens welcomes Illyria's sparkling production of Jane Austen's 'Pride and Prejudice' as part of the 'Summer of Stories' programme.  This outdoor theatre production will be performed on the medieval remains of Norton Priory's cloister.

With her tongue firmly in her cheek, Jane Austen tells us “It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife.” Mrs Bennet certainly thinks so. So when Mr Bingley – single, young, handsome, and with £5,000 a year – moves into nearby Netherfield Park, she devotes all her energy to contriving for Jane, the eldest of her five daughters, to meet him during rural Hertfordshire’s whirlwind of social balls.

But even Mrs Bennet draws the line at Mr Bingley’s disdainful friend Mr Darcy despite his whopping £10,000 a year. Thank heavens Lizzy, her second daughter, finds him detestable too! Or does she…? Can she see beyond his pride – and could he overcome her prejudice – to consider a possible future together?

Following seven sell-out seasons of this sparkling adaptation, award-winning Illyria prepares to celebrate Jane Austen’s 250th birthday in style. Bring a picnic and enjoy her at her vibrant, forthright, bitchy best! Running time: 140-minutes (approximately), including a 20-minute interval. Suitable for all ages.

Following several years of sold-out outdoor Shakespeare at Norton Priory, this hard-hitting 'Romeo and Juliet' adaptation from multi-award winning A Place For Us Theatre delivers a story which resonates across the ages. Set in the stunning Woodland Theatre space, passion, violence and urgency explode in a bold, high energy production. With dynamic, visceral performances, heart-stopping drama and immersive staging this 70 minute adaptation creates an unforgettable theatrical experience under the open sky.

Friday 27th June 5:30pm

Saturday 28th June 5:30pm and 7:30pm

Running time approx 70 minutes.  No interval, but bring a picnic!

Suitable for ages 9 and upwards

"…The torment is real, the hideous crimes authentic, the anguish and grief tangible – each scene, each actor, each movement, played with passion and credence. It was superb…" (***** Northwest End Review – Macbeth 2024) 

Experience Shakespeare's dark tragedy like never before as raw ambition, betrayal and supernatural dread ignite the stage. After a sell-out run in 2024, this five-star abridged and accessible version of Shakespeare's chilling play returns to the atmospheric woodland theatre at Norton Priory this June presented by multi-award winning A Place for Us Theatre for limited performances only. 

Something wicked this way comes...

Running time approx. 70 minutes - No interval but bring a picnic!

Suitable for ages 9 upwards.

"...the torment is real, the hideous crimes authentic, the anguish and grief tangible - each scene, each actor, each movement played with passion and credence. It was superb..." (***** Northwest End Review)

Pack your picnics and join Ratty, Mole, Badger, and the fantastically irrepressible Toad as they embark on the adventure of a lifetime, culminating in a colourful battle to save Toad Hall from the mischievous weasels!

Multi-award nominated Immersion Theatre proudly bring their trademark style and energy to Norton Priory, where the riverbank is brought to life on the excavated remains of the priory. Expect heaps of interaction, stunning costumes, toe-tapping music, and larger-than-life characters as part of Norton Priory's Summer of Stories programme.

A TOAD-ally terrific treat whether you’re 4 or 104!

Introducing 'The Tempest', Shakespeare’s most magical play bursting with mayhem, comedy, romance and surprises!

Having developed a reputation for producing first-rate, critically-acclaimed, and highly accessible adaptations of Shakespeare’s work, Immersion Theatre – the multi-award nominated company behind last year’s smash hit 'A Midsummer Night’s Dream', proudly presents 'The Tempest"='; Shakespeare’s unforgettable tale of magic, romance, comedy, and revenge!

With heaps of audience participation, this mesmerising show will be brought to life in unforgettable style, perfect for both, seasoned theatre-goers and newcomers to Shakespeare’s work.

Not to be missed! Suitable for ages 8+

Pre-booking for this event is essential! Pre-booking closes at 11:45 the night before the event, so book now to avoid disappointment!