Photos taken at previous productions by The Lord Chamberlain’s Men. Photography by Bill Smith and Jack Offord.
The Lord Chamberlain’s Men: Shakespeare’s Othello
10 June | Gates open: 18:00 | Performance starts: 19:00| Approx. finish: 21:10 (including a 15-minute interval)
This summer, we are delighted to welcome The Lord Chamberlain’s Men to Leonardslee for the very first time with Shakespeare’s Othello, one of the most captivating and thrilling plays ever written.
Experience Shakespeare as it was originally performed, as The Lord Chamberlain’s Men – with a history stretching back to Shakespeare’s own company – present this gripping tragedy in the open air, with an all-male cast and authentic Elizabethan costumes, music and dance.
“I know my price, I am worth no worse a place.”
Othello, the Moor of Venice, a respected General in the Venetian army, promotes the young Cassio to be his Lieutenant over Iago, a soldier in his service. In doing so he unwittingly sparks Iago’s deep-seated hatred into terrifying life and sets in motion a horrendous spiral of vengeance and destruction that sweeps away everyone before it. As Iago weaves his web and seeks his revenge he poisons Othello against Desdemona, who he has recently and secretly married, and turns the world upside down until Othello becomes unmoored from reality with devastating consequences.
“Put out the light, and then put out the light.”
A powerful story of deception, jealousy and a man that loved not wisely but too well – this stunning and heartbreakingly poignant play is one you won’t want to miss. Bring a chair and settle in for a truly unforgettable evening of open-air theatre. Book early to avoid missing out!
“The best authentic Shakespearean experience” Yorkshire Post
Video taken at previous productions of Twelfth Night by The Lord Chamberlain’s Men
Adult £20 | Child £12 (plus booking fee)
Read more about the Open-air performance | Bring your own chair or blanket (seating not provided) | Suitable for families from age 12+ | Playpark will be closed during this time | Accessible routes to the performance area| No dogs except assistance dogs | Performance continues in most weather conditions | Garden Entry from 18:00, visitors can explore the gardens before the performance starts | Parking is free for this event
No external food & drink allowed on-site | Leonardslee bar will be on Leonardslee House Lawn | Grab and go food from The Clocktower Kitchen| Information on external vendors that will be on Leonardslee House lawn to follow
About The Lord Chamberlain’s Men
The Lord Chamberlain’s Men is the UK’s premier all male theatre company, dedicated to staging the works of William Shakespeare in the style in which they were first performed. With direct links to Shakespearean heritage, the company presents productions as they would have been seen in Elizabethan England: performed by an all male cast, in the open air, accompanied by period costume, music and dance.
Renowned for their clarity, energy and commitment to authenticity, The Lord Chamberlain’s Men combine historical accuracy with a vibrant, accessible performance style. Their work champions traditional staging while breathing fresh life into some of the greatest plays ever written. The result is a theatrical experience that honours Shakespeare’s original vision while continuing to engage and inspire modern audiences.
