Key information
Friday 1 August
Maumbury Rings
7pm, gates open 6pm
Seated (Bring low back chairs)
Set on board the warship HMS Pinafore, Gilbert and Sullivan’s sublime operetta cheerfully mocks Great British institutions as class, patriotism and the Royal Navy. Josephine, the captain’s daughter, is in love with Ralph, a common sailor; but her father wants her to marry Sir Joseph Porter, First Lord of the Admiralty.
The couple are caught as they elope from the ship and Ralph is locked in the ship’s dungeon. Only when certain revelations are made by Buttercup, a dockside vendor, can everyone end up freely marrying their true hearts’ loves. This musical comedy gets the complete Illyria treatment, faithfully performed by a reduced cast on a beautiful nautical set.
Our guide to getting the best out of your time outdoors
Come prepared! – Bring whatever you need for a cosy afternoon. Sun shades, sun cream, hats, a waterproof lap cover (either a sheet of paper or a bin bag work well), and insect spray!
Bring your own seat – Low backed chairs, rugs and a cushion are always nice. Combine comfort and style! Please make sure that any chairs and/or umbrellas will not obscure anyone else’s view.
Gather a posse – Bring friends and family (family tickets are available). The more the merrier for a fun day or night out!
Arrive Early – Pick a great spot and enjoy the atmospheric surroundings. There is plenty of room to run about at Maumbury Rings.
Bring a Torch – It’s very helpful to safely find your way back to the car for evening performances.
Bring a Picnic – Refreshments are also available from an hour before the performance. Note that the refreshment stand is cash only.
Accessibility
Maumbury Rings has wheelchair access. No seats are provided at this venue so please feel free to bring a chair or a picnic. Please note there are no toilets in Maumbury Rings with the nearest being in Farefield car park
Our bar
During our events at Maumbury Rings we have a stall with tea, cakes and soft drinks.
Booking information
Tickets can currently be purchased online or by telephone. The telephone line is manned between 10am and 4pm Monday to Friday. At all other times please leave your name, telephone number and ticket requirements and we will call you back.
We are not currently able to welcome visitors for advance face-to-face ticket sales.
No booking fees are charged, but a £1 Future Fund levy is included in most ticket prices to support our work. This levy is included in the published ticket price. Concessionary prices (for events promoted by Dorchester Arts): where available, these are offered to under 18s, students, those in receipt of benefits and people on low income regardless of age.
Please note that outdoor performances will go ahead come rain or shine. Cancellation will only occur in extreme circumstances and we will notify ticket holders immediately should such a situation arise.
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