Immerse Yourself in a Unique Performance in the Heart of Norfolk
If you’re staying in Blakeney and fancy a day trip or some evening entertainment, Westacre Theatre is well worth the visit. It’s the perfect choice if you’re fanatical about films and plays but prefer charming scenery to big city lights.
Ivan Ball, 68, from North Elmham, has been attending Westacre Theatre for as long as he can remember, and is now a part of their team.
Ivan helps Westacre with publicity, including social media, local news and external website promotion. He also organises the art exhibitions in the theatre’s Foyer Gallery, which is of interest to keen visitors.
The theatre started life as a converted village chapel and now offers plenty of opportunities for visitors to be inspired. Ivan says there’s nothing else quite like Westacre.
“I love being at the theatre with its wonderful outlook and friendly people. A warm welcome always awaits you at Westacre. It’s been offering inspiring and creative excellence from the heart of Norfolk for a quarter of a century. It’s probably the only all-year-round rural performance venue in the whole of East Anglia.”
Performance Information
Westacre Theatre is renowned for its varied and engaging programme of performances, attracting audiences from across Norfolk and beyond. From professional productions to community-led events, the theatre offers entertainment throughout the year in a unique countryside setting.
Theatre productions and touring companies
Visitors can enjoy a wide range of theatrical performances, including dramas, comedies, musicals and contemporary productions. Touring theatre companies regularly visit Westacre, bringing high-quality performances to this intimate and welcoming venue.
Live music, comedy and cinema screenings
In addition to theatre productions, the venue hosts live music performances featuring local and national artists, comedy evenings and occasional cinema screenings. This diverse programme ensures there is something to appeal to a broad range of interests.
Community performances and workshops
Westacre plays an important role within the local community, supporting amateur dramatics, youth productions and creative workshops. These events provide opportunities for both participation and entertainment, helping to foster a thriving arts scene.
Outdoor and indoor performances
The theatre’s beautiful rural setting allows for both indoor productions and outdoor performances during the warmer months. Open-air events offer a particularly memorable experience, combining live entertainment with the charm of the Norfolk countryside.
A Hidden Gem
Ivan says that the theatre appeals to locals and holiday-makers alike due to its wide range of events and activities. One thing that pulls visitors together is that they all share an appreciation for theatre and the arts.
Westacre is more than just a stage, despite the fully equipped studio auditorium being central to its all-inclusive approach.
“You find most theatres in towns and cities, where there are lots of people. But Westacre Theatre’s scenic setting is in the rolling Norfolk countryside and comes complete with a lake.
“In the summer, our sheltered South-facing terrace hums with audiences eager with anticipation. A short wander takes you to the walk along the tranquil River Nar.
“Tucked away in peace and solitude, the theatre is one of Norfolk’s best kept secrets. Once found, everyone says how lovely it is and wonders why they didn’t know about Westacre Theatre before.”
Seasonal Events
The programme changes throughout the year, with each season bringing new productions and special events for visitors to enjoy.
Spring and summer productions
Spring and summer often feature a varied programme of theatre, music and family-friendly entertainment. Longer days and pleasant weather also make these seasons particularly enjoyable for visitors exploring the theatre grounds.
Outdoor performances and festivals
Outdoor productions and special events are a highlight of the summer calendar, allowing audiences to experience live entertainment in a unique open-air environment.
Autumn programme
As the evenings draw in, the theatre continues its programme with a mix of dramatic performances, concerts and special events, providing plenty of cultural experiences during the autumn months.
Christmas and festive shows
The festive season brings a range of seasonal productions, family performances and holiday-themed entertainment, making Westacre Theatre a popular destination in the lead-up to Christmas.
Things to See and Do
There’s a dynamic range of events on offer at Westacre Theatre, which are regularly added to their website.
“Our own in-house theatre company regularly performs to great acclaim. The variety extends to plays of immense integrity and magical musicals, to well-known favourites or more challenging dramas. We also have a selection of touring companies who put on one-night shows.
“Our stage productions are complemented by the very best Live and Encore screenings from the likes of the National Theatre, the Royal Shakespeare Company, the Globe and Matthew Bourne. Film fans of more mainstream cinema are well catered for under the Wednesday Flicks banner, where there’s a mix of classics and recent releases.”
If that’s not enough, there are plenty of other events throughout the year that will appeal to visitors to the local area.
Westacre offer sought-after art classes, craft masterclasses and workshops. There are also weekly drama workshops for six to eighteen-year-olds throughout the year.
The art exhibition displays inspiring art throughout the foyer, new bar and gallery area. You can enjoy the work at performance times, or by arranging beforehand.
“The light and airy Foyer Art Gallery hosts thought-provoking exhibitions by both up-and-coming and more established artists. The artwork will often be the centre of a pre-performance or interval conversation. It all forms part of the Westacre Theatre experience!”
Visitor Tips
A little planning can help ensure you enjoy every aspect of your visit to Westacre Theatre.
Arriving before the performance
Arriving early gives visitors time to find their seats, explore the venue and relax before the performance begins. It also allows you to enjoy the peaceful surroundings and unique atmosphere of the theatre.
Café, bar and refreshments
Refreshments are often available before performances and during intervals, allowing guests to enjoy drinks and light snacks as part of their theatre experience.
Accessibility and facilities
Westacre Theatre aims to provide a welcoming experience for all visitors. Checking accessibility information in advance can help ensure any specific requirements are accommodated where possible.
Exploring the theatre grounds
The theatre is set within attractive grounds that are worth exploring before or after a performance. The rural location contributes to the venue’s distinctive character and charm.
The Theatre’s Background
A charitable foundation oversees the theatre, so all proceeds go to the worthwhile cause of keeping the theatre alive for the next generation. The volunteers, cast and crew at Westacre play a key role in the activities that are offered.
“We are supported by those who volunteer their time for a few hours each month and undertake tasks appropriate to their skills and knowledge.
“Many of the tight-knit team are long-serving troupers; once at Westacre, people tend to stay for the friendship and fulfilment, getting to know regular audience members like long-lost friends.”
Further Information
Refreshments
Westacre offers a range of delicious food and drink. If you’re having lunch or supper, you should book a table in advance. You can easily do this when you book your seats for your chosen performance.
“The Café-Bar is open at performance times to serve a range of hot and cold drinks. Light lunches are served before the afternoon Wednesday Flicks, while simple suppers are available before most evening shows, whether on stage or screen.
“Many of our visitors like to make a day or evening out of their trip, so the food is a very popular element of their time with us. Sometimes our ingenious caterers create menus to reflect the production, to add that extra something to your experience.”
Location
Visitors can find Westacre Theatre a short distance from the A1065 Fakenham to Swaffham road, marked by brown tourist signs. For satnav users, the postcode is PE32 1UD, but a location map can be found on the website.
“We’re an easy half-hour’s drive from Fakenham through the picturesque Norfolk countryside. We suggest that visitors arrive early to look around and enjoy a drink with us.”
Parking and Disabled Access
There’s plenty of off-road parking available for guests. For those with limited mobility, there are designated spaces by the front door. There’s also a level entrance and floor throughout the foyer and auditorium, and an accessible toilet.
Booking a Performance
You can easily book a performance online, which Ivan recommends as the easiest option. Some performances sell out in advance, while others have limited availability on the day, which you can check out on the website at a glance.
“The online box office lets you choose your favourite seats. With all 80 seats giving you a perfect view of the stage, you are guaranteed to hear every word – there are no restricted views here! The value-for-money ticket prices have to be seen to be believed.”
If you’re interested in booking a performance with Westacre Theatre, you can book online here. Alternatively, you can contact the team on 01760 755800 or email [email protected].
Enjoy a Memorable Visit to the Theatre
Westacre Theatre offers a truly unique cultural experience in the heart of the Norfolk countryside. With its diverse programme of performances, welcoming atmosphere and beautiful rural setting, it continues to delight audiences of all ages throughout the year. Whether you’re attending a play, concert, comedy show or special seasonal event, a visit to Westacre Theatre is sure to be a memorable part of your North Norfolk adventure.
Enhance your theatre getaway with a stay at The Blakeney Cottage Company. Our collection of self-catering holiday cottages provides the perfect base for exploring Norfolk’s cultural attractions, charming villages and stunning coastline. Browse our cottages today and start planning your perfect North Norfolk escape.