Pack a picnic blanket and settle in for an afternoon of magical open-air entertainment as acclaimed touring company Illyria presents Gilbert & Sullivan’s comic opera The Pirates of Penzance at Itchen Valley Country Park on Saturday 19th September 2026! Staged in the picturesque surroundings of the High Field, this vibrant outdoor family theatre show features glittering wit, memorable songs, and a talented cast of six actors and singers accompanied by a full orchestra. Follow the hilarious tale of Frederick, a pirate’s apprentice bound by a leap year loophole, in a performance suitable for all ages.
The Pirates of Penzance Performance Dates & Opening Times
Schedule and afternoon timing details for the open-air theatre performance at Itchen Valley Country Park:
- Event Date: Saturday 19th September 2026.
- Opening Times: Grounds and seating area (“doors”) open at 2:30 PM, with the performance starting at 3:00 PM and concluding around 5:00 PM.
- Performance Duration: Approximately 120 minutes, including a 20-minute interval.
Show Highlights & Production Details
Featured performers, production background, and outdoor venue setup for this family opera:
- Acclaimed Illyria Production: Performed by award-winning touring theatre company Illyria, operating under the Equity Union’s Charter for Outdoor Theatre.
- Gilbert & Sullivan Comic Classic: A hilarious adaptation of the celebrated 19th-century comic opera following the story of pirate apprentice Frederick and his leap-year conundrum.
- Talented Cast & Live Music: Performed by a cast of six versatile actors and singers accompanied by a full orchestra soundscape.
- Picnic in High Field: Set outdoors in High Field within Itchen Valley Country Park. Spectators are encouraged to bring their own low-back camping chairs, rugs, picnic blankets, and food.
- Family-Friendly: Suitable for audiences of all ages, offering an ideal outdoor cultural afternoon for families.
Ticket Information & Box Office Booking
Pricing and ticket reservation options for Itchen Valley Country Park:
- Adult Ticket: £18.00 per person.
- Child Ticket: £10.00 per child.
- Direct Booking: Reserve tickets online through the official Itchen Valley Country Park event booking page. Advance ticket booking is highly recommended.
How to Get to Itchen Valley Country Park
Travel options for reaching High Field at Itchen Valley Country Park, located on Allington Lane, West End (SO30 3HQ):
- By Car: Conveniently located near Junction 7 of the M27 or via the A27 into West End, taking Allington Lane directly towards the park entrance.
- By Bus: Local bus services connect West End village, with a short walk or connection along Allington Lane.
- By Bicycle / Foot: Accessible via local cycleways and public footpaths connecting Eastleigh, Hedge End, and West End.
Itchen Valley Country Park Parking Information
Parking options on site at Allington Lane:
- On-Site Visitor Car Parks: Pay-and-display parking is available across the main country park car parks, featuring Blue Badge accessible bays near the visitor center and paths leading directly to High Field.
Discover More Local Events
Looking for more exciting things happening across the region? Check out our complete list of What’s On in Southampton to discover outdoor theatre, family events, park activities, and local entertainment near you.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When is The Pirates of Penzance performing at Itchen Valley Country Park?
- The performance takes place on Saturday 19th September 2026. Doors and grounds open at 2:30 PM, and the show begins at 3:00 PM, running until approximately 5:00 PM.
- Where in the park is the show taking place?
- The open-air theatre performance is hosted at High Field inside Itchen Valley Country Park, located on Allington Lane, West End (SO30 3HQ).
- How much are tickets for the performance?
- Tickets are £18.00 for adults and £10.00 for children.
- What should I bring to the performance?
- As this is an outdoor grass field performance, audience members should bring their own low-back camping chairs, picnic blankets, and outdoor clothing suitable for the weather.
- Is parking available at Itchen Valley Country Park?
- Yes, pay-and-display parking is available across the main country park car parks, including accessible Blue Badge spaces near the visitor center.