Minack Theatre
50° 2' 24" N 5° 38' 58" WThe Minack Theatre is an open-air theatre, constructed just above the famous Porthcurno Beach.
The Minack was constructed by Rowena Cade between 1931 and 1932 to put on its first performance; Shakespeare’s ‘The Tempest’ in the summer of1932.
The Minack is currently used from Easter to September for a full summer season of 20 plays, produced by companies from all over the UK and visiting companies from the US. The theatre is open for visitors throughout the rest of the year and more than 100,000 tourists pay an entrance fee to look around the site. It has appeared in a listing of the world’s most spectacular theatres.
Visitors are advised to book tickets in advance, especially during the summer months, as shows can sell out quickly due to the theatre’s popularity and limited seating. It’s essential to dress appropriately: even on warm days, the sea breeze can be chilly, so bring warm, waterproof clothing. Cushions or blankets can also enhance comfort on the theatre’s hard seating.
Arriving early allows time to explore the beautiful gardens that surround the theatre and offer breathtaking views of the Cornish coastline.
Refreshments are available on-site, but visitors are welcome to bring their own picnics to enjoy in the designated areas, adding to the magical experience of a performance under the stars. Remember, the Minack Theatre is an outdoor venue, so always be prepared for the unpredictable Cornish weather.
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- Carpark (Free)
- Public Toilets
- Café (Open all year)
- Shop
- Hazard: Cliffs
- No Fly Zone (NFZ) for Drones
- Dogs allowed (All year)
History of Minack Theatre
The theatre was built by Rowena Cade, a local resident, in the 1930s with the help of her gardener, Billy Rawlings. The site was originally a gully with a granite outcrop jutting into the sea. Cade and Rawlings transformed the site by hand, moving granite boulders and creating a stage and seating area out of the rocky cliffs. The theatre opened in 1932 with a performance of Shakespeare’s “The Tempest,” and since then, it has become one of the most iconic venues in the UK for open-air performances.
During World War II, the theatre was used as a lookout point by the Home Guard, and Cade continued to develop the theatre in the post-war years, adding seating and terraces. In the 1970s, the Rowena Cade Trust was established to ensure the theatre’s preservation, and it has since been expanded to include a visitor centre, cafe, and exhibition space.
Today, the Minack Theatre hosts a variety of performances, including plays, musicals, and concerts, with its stunning location and unique atmosphere attracting audiences from around the world. The theatre remains a testament to the vision and determination of Rowena Cade and Billy Rawlings, who created a truly unique and enduring legacy.
Travel / Parking information for Minack Theatre
Directions to Minack Theatre
To reach the Minack Theatre, drive to Porthcurno via the A30 towards Penzance. From Penzance, take the A3071 to St Just, then the B3283 to Porthcurno, following signs for the Minack Theatre.
Parking for Minack Theatre
Parking is available in a dedicated car park situated a short walk from the theatre entrance. This car park accommodates a significant number of vehicles and is free for theatre visitors. However, it can fill up quickly during performances and peak tourist season. Additional parking is available in Porthcurno, with a picturesque walk leading to the theatre.