Arnos Vale Cemetery – Theatre in a Cemetery?

19/04/2023 editorial

Theatre in a cemetery might seem like an unusual location, but not for Arnos Vale Cemetery in Bristol. It’s a beautiful Victorian garden cemetery in the south of the city, which has two large venues – an Anglican Chapel and the Spielman Centre. The cemetery has excellent visitor facilities, including toilets and a cafe

The quiet, atmospheric surroundings make it perfect for productions with a slightly spooky edge – which is where Red Rope Theatre has made its niche home in the city.

Putting on a series of gothic horror shows each year – usually around Halloween – these make for really special viewing. Not just for the quality of work the theatre company puts on. But also for the inspired choice of venue. Stories such as Turn of the Screw, Frankenstein and Jekyll and Hyde, have been performed in the Anglican Chapel, with their most recent production A Christmas Carol in 2022

If a cemetery at night is a bit much for you, Arnos Vale Cemetery is also recognisable as a filming location for TV shows such as Sherlock. And, the cemetery has a packed schedule of weddings and family events right through the year.

The deceptively huge venue is perfect as a quiet and peaceful time out for visitors during its opening hours.