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Using money raised by National Lottery players, The National Lottery Heritage Fund supports projects that connect people and communities with the UK’s heritage. Vanbrugh 300 is made possible with The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Thanks to National Lottery players, we have been able to develop a nationwide project that aims to broaden the awareness of Vanbrugh through special displays, free education programmes and lectures, throughout his tercentenary year in 2026.
England's oldest student dramatic society, the Cambridge University Amateur Dramatic Club is beyond delighted to be celebrating the tercentenary of Sir John Vanbrugh at Grimsthorpe Castle. Vanbrugh’s plays were an essential part of his career, and compiling them in advance of this performance has reminded us of their enduring comedy, musicality and wit. To stage extracts from across his work is already an absolute joy; to do this in the beautiful Vanbrugh Hall, considered his last masterpiece, is an additional asset, and will make this an unforgettable experience. We are delighted to be bringing a talented student company, composed of experienced actors as well as some taking part in theatre for the very first time. The evening will feel as rowdy, imaginative and light-hearted as Vanbrugh’s best comedies, bringing together classic scenes from his work, live string music and brand-new, student-written scenes which have been commissioned for this event. This will be a celebration of the storytelling that beats through Vanbrugh’s work, and the sense of community and ensemble that theatre encourages; we are absolutely honoured to have been asked by the wonderful team at Grimsthorpe Castle, and hope that audiences are able to share in our offering to the Vanbrugh300 programme.
Photography credit - Chris Wordsworth
