Open Air Theatre FAQ’s

If you were able to snap up some tickets, check below for any queries you might have ahead of showtime! We can't wait to see you there...

Where is the Garden Theatre?

The Garden Theatre in located behind the Mansion House in Calderstones Park. You will need to enter via the side gate next to The Reader Bookshop.

What time can I arrive?

The Garden Theatre gates will open one hour before the event, but if you would like to come and soak in the atmosphere earlier, our Bookshop café will be open serving a selection snacks, alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.

Where can I sit?

This is an outdoor performance and the layout for this production is unreserved seating. Unless you have booked a premium ticket, please bring your own chairs, blankets and any other low-level accessories to sit on. If you require an accessible seat, please let us know in advance by emailing tickets@thereader.org.uk.

How long is the event and what do I do if I’m late? 

The running time is available on our booking page. You can find this by visiting www.thereader.org.uk/summer2024. Latecomers will be admitted during an appropriate moment in the performance.

Will the performance be cancelled due to bad weather? 

Being outdoors is an integral part of the experience. Come rain or shine the show will go ahead so wear sensible clothing and come prepared for hot weather (suncream, hats) or rain (coats, ponchos). We’d prefer it if you do not bring umbrellas as this can make it difficult for other audience members to see.

Where can I park? 

We have limited parking at Calderstones park and encourage cycling or public transport when possible. Bikes can be locked up outside the Mansion House.

Accessible parking spaces are also limited so please consider saving parking spaces for those who need them.

You can find out more information about travelling and parking here.

Premium Tickets

A Premium Ticket includes a deckchair with a guaranteed great view of the performance.

Do I need to print my tickets?

We ask that you show your tickets on a mobile or tablet where possible to save on unnecessary printing. If you’re unable to find your ticket, don’t worry the Box Office team will have a list of names.

Ticket Terms and Conditions

View the conditions here.

Is the Garden Theatre accessible? 

Yes. The Garden Theatre is accessible, and we have a designated access area for those who need it. If you’d like to talk to a member of the team about your access requirements, please email tickets@thereader.org.uk and we'll be happy to accommodate.

Accessible toilets are located inside the Mansion house and accessible parking is also available.

Can I bring my own food and drink? 

We encourage you to support our charity by purchasing from The Reader. We will be serving up fresh Pizzas, Grazing Boxes, Ice Cream, and hot/cold drinks. Order no later than 3 days before the show to beat the queues and save 10%.

We cannot allow the consumption of alcohol that is not bought on the premises in the Garden Theatre, however, you’re welcome to grab a drink from our pop-up bar where we’ll be accepting card payments only.

Can I smoke in the Garden theatre?

Following customer feedback, if you wish to smoke or vape, please do so outside the Garden Theatre gate.

Can I purchase tickets on the door?

Ticket sales may be available on the day (subject to availability). We encourage you to book in advance from our website.

Can I bring my dog?

Can I take pictures?

You can take pictures of the set and the Garden Theatre before and after the performance or during the interval. We would ask audience members to refrain from taking pictures of filming during the performance as this can be distracting. Official photography will also be taking place, if you do not wish to be captured please make yourself known to a member of staff on the day.