Shakespeare 400 at Smallhythe Place

Twelfth Night performed open-air at Smallhythe Place

400 years ago the world lost the most famous playwright of all time, William Shakespeare. Over two centuries later Ellen Terry was born and helped to change the face of theatre. She brought The Bard’s legendary prose to life on stage as one of Britain’s most reputable actresses.

To celebrate their talent,Smallhythe Place is hosting Shakespeare-themed productions, activities and exhibitions. Children can look forward to quizzes and puzzles in the house, as well as a whole week of Shakespeare fun in May half term. This includes a garden trail of interesting facts to collect about the playwright, as well as the opportunity to make Venetian-style masks. Furthermore, young visitors will be able to dress up in costumes and create their own stories, just like Ellen Terry used to do with her grandchildren when she lived at Smallhythe Place.

Ellen Terry and her grandchild dress up in the garden
Ellen Terry and her grandchild dress up in the garden
Ellen Terry and her grandchild dress up in the garden

We are hosting a diverse variety of Shakespeare’s best-loved plays both in The Barn Theatre and in the open-air, from comedy in ‘Much Ado About Nothing’ to tragedy in ‘Romeo and Juliet’. On June 4th actress Dame Eileen Atkins will be exploring both William Shakespeare and Ellen Terry in her critically acclaimed production ‘Ellen Terry with Eileen Atkins’ that is now being aptly brought to its namesake’s home.

In addition, on permanent display in the house are hundreds of theatrical artefacts and memorabilia. Visitors can learn about the famous Beetlewing dress that Ellen wore to play Lady Macbeth, as well as props, scripts, and personal items that belonged to the actress. Visitors will be able to learn about the characters, costumes and more with weekly talks and informative chats with our friendly volunteers.

Titania in Shakespeare's 'A Midsummer Night's Dream'
Midsummer Night's Dream Titania
Titania in Shakespeare's 'A Midsummer Night's Dream'

In addition, on permanent display in the house are hundreds of theatrical artefacts and memorabilia. Visitors can learn about the famous Beetlewing dress that Ellen wore to play Lady Macbeth, as well as props, scripts, and personal items that belonged to the actress. Visitors will be able to learn about the characters, costumes and more with weekly talks and informative chats with our friendly volunteers.

Upcoming events

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Jane Eyre

Sun 19 May 2019
19:30-21:30
“I am no bird; and no net ensnares me: I am a free human being with an independent will.”

The Gift of Smallhythe Place

Wed 22 May 2019
11:00-17:00
In 2019 we will be celebrating the 90th anniversary of the creation of the Museum and the 80th anniversary of it being bequeathed to The National Trust by Edith Craig.

Tai Chi in the garden

Sat 25 May 2019
11:30-12:30
Join us for gentle exercise, mental relaxation and fresh air with an hour of Tai Chi in the tranquil gardens of Smallhythe Place.

Three Men In A Boat

Sat 25 May 2019
19:30-21:30
After the huge success of Old Herbaceous, Kick In The Head productions are back with a rip roaring barrel of fun, Three Men in a Boat, with Giles Shenton (Old Herbaceous himself!) playing the part of Jerome K Jerome.

Rose Month

Wed 29 May 2019
11:00-17:00
In their finest blooms, discover the roses at Smallhythe Place. With new displays, tours, talks and top tips for looking after your own. From 29th May - 30th June.

Three Little Pig Tails

Wed 29 May 2019
13:00-14:00
A brand new version of the classic story of the three little pigs set in Paris. A grumpy old wolf is a chef who wants some pigs' tails for his soup. Will the little pigs outwit the wolf and what kind of house will they build? A funny,...