Performing arts

On weekend theatre breaks, take a cushion and a bottle of something sparkly and enjoy an al-fresco evening in the company of world-class opera singers, Shakespearean actors or lithesome ballet dancers. Often, the setting will be as stunning as the performances. Make the most of theatre breaks by taking in a show of every type, from dramas to musicals to children’s plays. And theatre trips don’t need to be restricted to the city. Smaller towns and villages host touring arts companies and stage regular music and performing arts festivals of their own.