Things To Do: The Minack Theatre

Where Is The Minack Theatre?

There are two routes to the Minack theatre. The fastest is via the A30 onto the B3315, which takes you from the cottages to Tretheway and then onto Porthcurno. The second route is via The Valley, just minutes longer. Take the A30, then onto the B3315, turning immediately into The Valley, a gated rural area. Follow the road until you reach Porthcurno, then follow the signs for the theatre.

Minack Theatre History

The name Minack comes from the Cornish Meynek, meaning a rocky place. And the headland was indeed rocky when Rowena Cade moved there after the first World War. She purchased the headland for £100 to build her home there. Involved with amateur dramatics, Rowena decided in 1930 to build a theatre in her back garden. In 1932 the first play, The Tempest, was performed against the dramatic backdrop of the fabulous view.

Rowena continued to develop the theatre, even using the local sand to make her concrete seating look like stone. The chairs are engraved with Celtic signs, names of plays and performers.
During the Second World War, the army used the theatre as a lookout post. Following the war, the theatre was again in action, which continues today with the many events and performances. 

Minack Theatre Gardens

When visiting the theatre, allow time to have a wander in the sub-tropical gardens you will find there. It is advisable to book in advance for all the events but especially to visit the gardens, there are also regular guided tours by the head gardner.

What's On A Minack Theatre?

Some exciting events are taking place throughout the summer of 2022, with performances of The Odyssey, Greek theatre with boring bits removed! There is also a fun opera for all ages, 'The Firework Maker's Daughter'. Or take in the fascinating performance of Vanity Fair, Don Giovanni, The Pirates of Penzance, David Copperfield, Little Women - The Musical and The Scalet Pimpernel. Please check all dates, performance times and prices on their website. Booking in advance is required..

There are almost daily garden and theatre visits. In addition, there are concerts and storytelling. Well recounted stories  that take you to prehistoric times with Stones & Bones, alongside Smugglers Tales, The Piskie in The Garden, and many more stories to be enjoyed.

Book In Advance

The Minack theatre has 90 steep steps leading down to the theatre. There is an accessible balcony if you have mobility problems. You can book online or by phone (01736 810181). Remember this is an outdoor theatre and wear appropriate clothing. Afternoons can be hot, and it can get chilly in the evenings. Take a cushion or blanket with you, As the grass and the concrete chairs are not the comfiest to sit on! Dogs on lead can visit unless there is a performance on. You can also take your own picnic, there are hot and cold snacks available but no alcohol.

 

Late availability offers

We have some great late availability offers for cottages at Vellandreath Cornish Cottages: