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Outdoor Theatre: Vanity Fair in Lewes Castle’s Gun Garden

Step into the dazzling world of Vanity Fair – a giddy carousel of social climbers, buffoons, and preening dandies. Set against the historic backdrop of Lewes Castle’s Gun Garden, this bold new adaptation of William Makepeace Thackeray’s classic novel whirls audiences through a tale of ambition, love, betrayal, and ruthless self-advancement.

Follow the fortunes of the cunning Becky Sharp and the sweet-natured Amelia Sedley as they navigate the glittering Regency world of salons and ballrooms – and the brutal realities of the battlefield at Waterloo.

Infused with original music, sharp wit, and theatrical flair, this vibrant production is brought to life by the same inventive company that wowed audiences with Macbeth and Much Ado About Nothing. Join us for an unforgettable evening of open-air theatre, full of drama, humour, and heart, surrounded by 1000 years of history.

This is an outdoor performance, so please dress for the weather. The show will go on in all but the most extreme weather. Pack a picnic, bring a blanket or chair to sit on and enjoy!

Performance times:

Saturday 9th August
3pm & 7pm

Sunday 10th August
2.30pm & 6.30pm

Doors open 30 minutes before the performance begins.

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From our visitors

"Incredibly stunning place. You get a medieval feel and can imagine being there as a King. They have done well to keep it like this and would highly recommend"

TheoB via Tripadvisor - Lewes Castle

“A Trip Back in Time. Fascinating history of the Roman Palace. Well explained. Lots to see in the museum and the remains. Incredible detail in the layout of the Palace.”

Sue A via Tripadvisor - Fishbourne Roman Palace

“Go Visit NOW! The gardens are genuinely some of the most beautiful we’ve seen. We are going back soon.”

HorshamLass via Tripadvisor - Michelham Priory

“This was such an interesting place to come to. You could really feel the history of this place.”

Fifi582014 via Tripadvisor - The Priest House and Gardens