Let’s rewind to the 1930s – flapper dresses, swing bands, and Scarborough Borough Council doing something marvellously bonkers: turning a lake into a theatre.
Yes, really. The original Scarborough Open Air Theatre opened in 1932, plonked in Northstead Manor Gardens, and featured a stage set in the middle of a lake. The audience sat across the water, probably wondering whether the actors would need armbands for the second act.
Over the years, the venue has hosted all sorts – from water pageants and drama productions to local dance troupes doing their thing under the stars. But as tastes changed and telly took over, the crowds started thinning. By the 1980s, the place was looking a bit sorry for itself – unused, unloved, and possibly haunted by the ghost of forgotten jazz hands.
Back With a Bang: The 2010 Revival
Enter the 21st century and, in classic Yorkshire fashion, Scarborough said: “Right, let’s sort this out.” The theatre got a whopping £3.5 million refurbishment and reopened in 2010, bringing in modern staging, better seating, and a tech setup that could handle everything from pop to opera.
And how did it relaunch? With a spot of seaside royalty, of course – none other than Dame Kiri Te Kanawa performed at the grand reopening. Classy stuff. Since then, the theatre’s played host to a cracking line-up, from Elton John and Britney Spears to indie favourites and throwback icons.
Why It’s a Gig Like No Other
So what makes Scarborough Open Air Theatre stand out in a world of arenas and identikit concert halls?
For starters, the setting is unbeatable. Nestled in Northstead Manor Gardens with the Yorkshire coast as its backdrop, it’s an atmosphere you can’t bottle – and not just because of the sea air and seagulls squawking along to the beat.
It’s the largest open-air theatre in Europe, with room for around 8,000 fans when the seats and standing spaces are fully in swing. But even with those numbers, it still feels intimate. Maybe it’s the layout, maybe it’s the acoustics, or maybe it’s just the sheer Yorkshire charm of it all.
Big Names, Bigger Nights
Over the past decade, the theatre’s reputation has skyrocketed – and so has its guest list. We’re talking global stars, chart-toppers, and the odd nostalgic icon that get the whole crowd moving.
And they keep coming back, because performing here is genuinely special. Artists rave about the crowd energy, the stunning setting, and – if they’re lucky – a proper chippy tea afterwards. Not your average tour stop.
Scarborough Open Air Theatre Lineup 2025
Here’s what’s on the cards for the 2025 season. From nostalgic icons to festival-style line-ups, it’s looking like an absolute belter:
- June 11 (Wed) – The Corrs with Natalie Imbruglia
- June 13 (Fri) – Gary Barlow with Beverley Knight
- June 14 (Sat) – Shed Seven with Jake Bugg & Cast
- June 20 (Fri) – Pendulum with Normandie
- June 21 (Sat) – Basement Jaxx
- June 27 (Fri) – Snow Patrol with Freya Ridings
- June 28 (Sat) – The Human League with Thompson Twins’ Tom Bailey & Blancmange
- July 5 (Sat) – The Script with Tom Walker
- July 6 (Sun) – UB40 feat. Ali Campbell with Bitty McLean & Reggae Roast ft Horseman
- July 10 (Thu) – Blossoms with Inhaler & Apollo Junction
- July 11 (Fri) – Rag’n’Bone Man with Elles Bailey & Kerr Mercer
- July 12 (Sat) – McFly with Twin Atlantic & Devon
- July 19 (Sat) – Craig David presents TS5 with Patrick Nazemi
- July 23 (Wed) – Judas Priest with Phil Campbell & The Bastard Sons
- July 26 (Sat) – Texas with Rianne Downey
- August 2 (Sat) – Faithless with Orbital
- August 13 (Wed) – The Smashing Pumpkins with White Lies
- August 24 (Sun) – Will Smith
From indie icons to full-blown legends, it’s shaping up to be the kind of summer that deserves a few loud singalongs and a decent pint.
Top Tips for Your Visit
Book Early
Big names sell out fast – faster than you can say “bucket and spade.” Keep an eye on announcements and snap up tickets sharpish.
Dress for the Weather
This is Yorkshire, love. That means packing layers, bringing a poncho, and embracing the unpredictability. Umbrellas aren’t allowed, so think waterproof, not parasol.
Arrive Early
The gates open a good while before the show starts, and it’s worth getting in early for a drink, a wander, and a good spot.
Make a Weekend of It
Scarborough’s not short on charm – from the beach and arcades to the castle and Peasholm Park. Why not turn gig night into a seaside getaway?
Final Encore: A Theatre That’s So Yorkshire It Hurts (In a Good Way)
Scarborough Open Air Theatre isn’t just a venue – it’s an experience. It’s where history meets headline acts, where the seagulls provide backing vocals, and where the Yorkshire spirit is alive and loud.
Live music by the sea is something we do brilliantly up north. And at Scarborough Open Air Theatre, it’s done with heart, humour, and just the right amount of seagull sass.