This talk tells the story of Stansted Park’s theatre from the mid 1920s until World War Two, with an outline of later events and the Theatre’s legacy.

Today many people enjoy visiting Stansted park’s outdoor theatre performances and atmospheric retelling of ‘A Christmas Carol’ in the House. But nearly a century ago, the 9th Earl of Bessborough, supported by his talented family, built and operated a 200-seater theatre in the Estate with three productions a year.

The cast was made up of friends, family and staff, experienced amateurs and gifted newcomers - former World War One officers, local landed gentry, estate staff and families all had their parts to play. Charabancs ran from Chichester, the Chief Constable lent bloodhounds and constables for one play, costumes came from London, and cast members living at a distance stayed at Stansted Park during the fortnight’s intensive rehearsals.

Shakespeare alternated with a ‘modern’ author like Shaw while Christmas saw a seasonal production. Many local charities benefitted from the plays’ incomes and local and national papers published reviews.

Sadly the theatre burned down during World War Two and although post war it was recreated elsewhere on the Estate by the 10th Earl of Bessborough, its heyday was over. Its legacy though can be seen in the skills the Bessborough family subsequently brought to the foundation of Chichester Festival Theatre.

Timings & Tours 

Tuesday 16th September: 11am - 11:45am

Location & directions 

Contact on day: Jessica Williams

Telephone number: +442392412265

Booking information 

Pre-booking requirement: Pre-booking required

Booking website: https://stansted-park.arttickets.org.uk/stansted-park/heritage-open-days-the-stansted-theatre-689da5bd5edf2

Max no of people per tour: 10

Estimated tour duration: 45 minutes