Launching OVO's Roman Theatre Open Air Festival 2025
Get ready for an extraordinary fusion of history, theatre, and music as the Roman Theatre Open Air Festival returns to St Albans for its 11th year.
The summer showpiece promises an unforgettable season of bold, imaginative, and dynamic performances in the breath-taking setting of the Verulamium Roman Theatre.
Offering innovative adaptations of classic plays and vibrant musical performances, the 2025 season is set to be another sell-out success – making it a highlight of the summer arts calendar – and runs from June 6 to August 31.
Shakespeare is at the heart of the Roman Theatre programme and OVO is delighted to present its dazzling 1970s musical adaptation of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, directed by its artistic director Adam Nichols, which will transport audiences to the glittering age of disco.
This will be followed by a lively, interactive, and comedic production of Hamlet, presented by Roman Theatre favourites, The Pantaloons.
Classic plays this summer will include Red Shift founder Jonathan Holloway’s directing debut for OVO with his adaptation of Victor Hugo’s epic story of love, injustice and redemption, Les Misérables.
A fresh take on F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel, The Great Gatsby, directed by OVO associate director Kelly Ann Stewart, will be performed with a live jazz soundtrack capturing the energy and excess of the 1920s.
As part of OVO’s commitment to supporting youth and local community theatre groups, Act 4 presents A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, a brilliant, non-stop musical comedy. Meanwhile, OVO’s critically acclaimed youth ensemble return with a gripping adaptation of William Golding’s classic tale of survival and human nature, Lord of the Flies.
This summer’s festival also features a range of live music nights, including an evening with Mark Morriss of The Bluetones, a night of The Rolling Stones music from Ver Players Ukulele Group, followed by a Big Band Explosion presented by local Jazz Orchestra Hertfordshire Big Band, and performances by live 80s Band – Our Friends Electric.
Various ticket types are available from as little as £15 or for those looking for a little more luxury, there is comfortable covered seating in the new premium seating area, with tickets in this section from £30.
For those who want to experience the full magic of the festival, season tickets are available from just £75. Find out more here.
“We are thrilled to unveil a 2025 programme packed with exceptional productions and creative talent.
“I’m especially pleased that we are increasing our commitment to making the festival as accessible as possible, with thousands of tickets available at £17 or less, giving everyone the chance to experience bold, imaginative and surprising theatre in the wonderful surroundings of the Roman Theatre.” – Adam Nichols, Artistic Director & Founder