A new open-air theatre is set to take root in the heart of the New Forest.
The New Forest Open Air Theatre has announced plans to establish a 300-seat woodland venue on the Hinton Admiral Estate near Burley, with the aim of launching its first season in 2027.
Abbey Wright, artistic director of the New Forest Open Air Theatre, said: "This project brings together world-class theatre, community engagement and access to nature in a way that is unique to the New Forest.
"Our ambition is to create a venue that delivers outstanding cultural experiences while remaining accessible, sustainable and rooted in its local landscape.
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"There is such scope for telling bold and epic stories in the woods. Imagine fairies appearing from the glade and kings riding in on horseback.
"But there is also a great intimacy in the cradle of the trees and it is so moving to see the figure of a human standing next to the figure of an ancient tree searching for meaning, underneath the stars."
Supported by prominent cultural figures including Dame Judi Dench, Sir Derek Jacobi, Sir Lenny Henry, and Lady Candida Meyrick, the theatre company has launched a fundraising campaign to help realise the project.
Dame Judi said: "I am so happy to be a patron of the beautiful New Forest Open Air Theatre.
"There is nowhere like it. A glorious mix of theatre and trees; what could be better?"
The theatre will be set in a natural woodland basin and constructed from coppiced timber from the surrounding woodland.
It will be dismantled at the end of each season to minimise environmental impact.
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Designed by Natalie Skeete of Forest Architecture, the venue will benefit from the estate’s existing infrastructure, including parking, utilities, catering, and visitor facilities.
The long-term vision is to create a professional outdoor theatre which also supports community participation, outdoor learning, and engagement with nature.
The theatre company is already working with partners such as Culture in Common to increase access to the arts in isolated communities.
A new membership and patron scheme has been launched to support the campaign, with opportunities for individuals, businesses, trusts, and foundations to contribute.
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