Continuing the Magical Tradition of Outdoor Theatre in Cornwall - Stranger Beasts.
There is a tradition of outdoor theatre in Cornwall, perhaps the most well known is the stunning Minack Theatre, which sits above the sea, perched on the cliff near Porthcurno. The setting always gives the performance a run for it's money as centre stage!
Also worth a mention is the fantastic Rogue Theatre who run immersive, seasonal shows in the atmospheric setting of Tehidy Woods, always a special visit whatever your age..
We had the good fortune in October 2025 to see a performance of Wildworks' Stranger Beasts. It was in an outdoor setting ( above ground) at Geevor Tin Mine and used both the built and natural landscape, to create a tale that travelled through the Shining Land of Cornwall.
The play spread into the expanse at it's disposal, using multiple settings and stages, large flags, totems, fire pits and torches, platforms, light and music to fill the space, as we travelled imaginatively and literally through the scenes. Despite being a small cast plus supporters, they were never overwhelmed by the vast clifftop and sea beyond, but persuaded you that these were always there to be part of their story.
We were lucky, the weather was beautiful, the sun set, with accompanying beautiful skies, through the performance and it was magical. I do think whatever the weather it would add something to the play, becoming another character in the story. In the UK it always seems to be a blessing when the weather is kind, it's so unpredictable that the sun shining always feel like a gift from the Gods!
Stranger Beasts was a tale of Love, the transformative nature of strangers to ourselves and our potential, to look outside of what we know and expect. It was love song to Cornwall, to the wild land and skies and to taking the power of your roots and facing whatever weather you are brave enough to wether. It takes the form of a familiar fairy tale told with all the passion and frustration any of the characters may feel, being subjected to the ideals of many of these childhood stories. It showed the beauty of love and the dark nature of shame, and to find the true nature of yourself may take looking outside of what you know, however strange and wild.
If you are travelling down to Cornwall, booking an outdoor theatre experience may be one of the highlights of your holiday. It can show the landscapes in different and unexpected ways, challenge your perception of Cornwall and just be a great and entertaining way to spend a few hours!
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