'Shakespeare Under the Stars' returns

Whale Chorus is heading back outdoors this November, transforming Fort Scratchley into the court of Richard III for the fifth season of its Shakespeare Under the Stars series.

From Wednesday, 11 November to Sunday, 15 November, Richard III will unfold across Fort Scratchley in a 90-minute open-air performance created specifically for the historic Newcastle site

Following last year’s New Annual production Meet Me at the Baths and Whale Chorus’ previous promenade production of Hamlet, the Newcastle theatre company is returning to Fort Scratchley with one of Shakespeare’s most famous history plays.

This time around, a cast of Novocastrian actors forms a shape-shifting ensemble, with the role of Richard changing hands throughout the performance as power moves between characters.

Directed by Whale Chorus Artistic Director Janie Gibson, the production will use Fort Scratchley’s historic stone walls and open-air setting as part of the action, turning the Newcastle landmark into Richard’s royal court.

The cast includes Lou Chapman, Barnaby Donaghy, Aoife Gregory, Matt Harper and James Lawson, with Vanessa Kellas on costume design.

There’s even a little fun with the ticketing, with different tiers inspired by Richard’s court – from Groundling through to the Royal Box.

Richard III – Shakespeare Under the Stars

When: Wednesday, 11 November – Sunday, 15 November 2026
Where: Fort Scratchley, 1/3 Nobbys Road, Newcastle
Time: 8:00pm
Cost: Groundling $18; Middling Sort $44; Gentry $49; Nobility $69; Royal Box $250 for four people
To book, visit Richard III – Shakespeare Under the Stars