Carved into the rugged Cornish cliffs and overlooking the azure waters of Porthcurno Bay, the Minack Theatre is a sight to behold. More than just a performance space, it’s an open-air masterpiece, a testament to human passion and the breathtaking beauty of nature.
A Theatre Born from Love and Willpower
The Minack’s story is as captivating as its setting. In the 1920s, a young woman named Rowena Cade in love with this dramatic stretch of coastline, decided to build a small open-air theatre near her holiday home. Armed with a pickaxe and determination, Rowena with the help of her garderer, was able to carve from the cliffs the auditorium and stage. Over the decades the theatre explanded, new terraces, dressing rooms, and a tea room were added. Today, the Minack can seat up to 750 spectators, and welcome over 200,000 visitors a year.
A Stage overlooking the Sea
Stepping into the Minack is like stepping onto a stage yourself. The terraces cascade down the cliffside, framed by lush subtropical gardens and the endless expanse of the ocean. The atmosphere of the Minack is pure magic. As the sun dips below the horizon it casts an orange glow on the granite and when the Moon rises from the water, it is bliss! The performances themselves are as captivating. The Minack’s season runs from Easter to October. The program is diverse: Shakespearean plays, musicals, concerts, and drama. With the ocean as a backdrop and the salty air swirling around you, every performance is a unique event.
Beyond the Stage: A Day at the Minack
Even if you don’t catch a show, the Minack is worth a visit. Explore the gardens, full of colorful flowers and exotic plants that thrive in the cliffside microclimate. Take a guided tour to learn about the theatre’s fascinating history, or simply relax in the Cafe and soak in the breathtaking views.
A Must-See for Every Traveler
The Minack Theatre is more than a theatre; it’s a Cornish treasure, a testament to human creativity, and a place of fascinating nature and art. Whether you’re a theatre enthusiast or a nature lover, the Minack should be at the top of your Cornwall to do list.
Opening Times
The Minack theatre opens daily from 9:30am and closes to visitors at 11:30am for matinees and 6:30pm for evening performances. If you are just coming to visit for a look around, you do need to check the website to see whether or not there is a performance during the day. The cafe closes at 5pm
Tips for Planning Your Visit:
- Book your tickets in advance, especially for popular performances and during high season
- Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for uneven terrain and steps
- Bring a cushion to sit on, as the seating is on grassor concrete
- Dress in layers and bring a blanket as the weather can change quickly
- Allow plenty of time to get to the theatre, as parking can be limited