CELEBRATIONS will take place in Warwick this summer to mark the 120th anniversary of the biggest theatrical event the town has ever seen – The Warwick Pageant of 1906.
In the early 20th century, ‘pageant fever’ was sweeping the country and, under the direction of acclaimed dramatist Louis N Parker, Warwick rose to the occasion.
In the grounds of Warwick Castle, a cast of 2,000 local performers took to the stage for a week of performances, watched by some 44,000 people.
The profits from the performances were used to buy local land and, as a result, The Pageant Garden off Jury Street was opened as the town’s first public park in 1908.
And on Sunday July 5, The Pageant Garden will play host live music, theatre and craft activities, all inspired by the original spectacle of 1906. Performances will happen five times throughout the day, starting at 10am, 11am, 1pm, 2pm and 3pm.
The free, family-friendly event, has been created by local community interest company A Book of Portraits in partnership with Warwick Town Council.
Alex from A Book of Portraits said: “It’s been a pleasure to delve into the history of the pageant and uncover its various iterations.
“We hope the event goes some way to capture the spirit of the event and mark its 120th anniversary. We aim to grow the event in the coming years and are very interested in working with the people of Warwick, providing plenty of opportunity for the local community to get involved.”
The celebrations have also received generous support from local organisations and trusts including Warwick District Council, Warwick Court Leet, The William Cadbury Trust and The Austin Edwards Charitable Trust.
Free places are available to book online at www.ticketsource.com/warwickpageant2026. Advanced booking is encouraged.
Alongside the performances, there will be a free exhibition in the Visitor Information Centre with photographic displays and archival material from the original pageant.
