Regular visitors to the Open Air Theatre at Regent’s Park, London will notice some differences this year.
As the photos above show, wind turbines have been installed in both the Rose Garden and park itself, in order for the theatre to achieve two long-held ambitions to become entirely energy self-sufficient... and be air-conditioned for the comfort of its audience on hot days.
King Charles III personally granted permission to the operators of the Open Air Theatre, in accord with His Majesty's own championing of "green" initiatives, and as a testbed that may in the future power other Royal Parks.
It is calculated that just one moderately breezy day will charge the theatre’s new batteries sufficiently to run the entire venue, including performance stage and restaurant ovens for at least 6 of the 8 shows presented each week.
A further benefit is that the fans themselves are close enough to the seating area to provide the auditorium for the first time with “air conditioning.” Powerful enough to create a moving air current sufficient to keep it moving on even the hottest day, but positioned far enough from people to prevent a tornado, the Rose Garden installation will thus provide attendees with a far more pleasant and cooler atmosphere.
There are also back-up plans in place for when windspeeds are too low to turn the fans at all.
The main boating lake now boasts a wind turbine of its own, while the rowing boats and pedalos hired out have been equipped with dynamo units linked by a light mesh placed under the water to the new Open Air Theatre power cables.
Early tests have also resulted in copper strips being laid around the banks of the park lake, allowing the ducks, geese, swans and other wildlife users of the lake to “earth” themselves while swimming, and prevent accidents.
All this means that the Open Air Theatre will not only be more comfortable, but also release around 10 tonnes less carbon each year, reducing its power bills by up to 90%. Once the initial cost of installation has been repaid, it will also mean lower ticket prices as a major expense has been reduced.
To mark the occasion, the 2026 season will celebrate all things “Windmill” by presenting themed works. “Don Quixote” and “Windmill Baby” by David Milroy, an Indigenous Australian writer will be the plays, with “Mrs Henderson Presents” as the musical. Public booking will open on 1st April 2026 at 12 noon.
Thanks for reading this year's April Fool. Have a good one, everyone!
