HandleBards bring outdoor Shakespeare shows to Northumberland
Outdoor theatre company The HandleBards will return to Northumberland this summer with two comic Shakespeare productions.
The troupe will perform a ‘fast-paced and farcical’ version of As You Like It alongside a high-energy take on Macbeth as part of their 2026 summer tour.
Northumberland performances include:
Rock Hall – As You Like It, August 6 at 6.30pm
Felton Park – As You Like It, August 7 at 6.30pm
Alnwick Castle – Macbeth, August 19 at 6.30pm
Known for their environmentally-friendly touring style, The HandleBards transport costumes, props and sets by bicycle and electric vehicle while performing Shakespeare in outdoor spaces across the UK.
This summer’s production of As You Like It will see the troupe embark on their longest cycling tour yet, covering around 1,800 miles between venues.
This year, the company has worked with visually impaired theatre company Extant to integrate audio description and accessible comedy elements into performances.
Audience members are encouraged to bring blankets or chairs, picnics and weather-appropriate clothing.
More information and tickets can be found here.