Host: Sam Lee
Come to the forest, be enchanted by the sweet song of the Nightingale and discover the role these exceptionally rare birds have played in inspiring our great Bard and his contemporaries but also their ancient connection to our timeless and wondrous relationship with nature.
Key Information
Location: Secret location near Barcombe, Lewes, Sussex
Time: 7:00 pm - 12:30 am (site opens at 5:30 pm)
Journey with us into the forest where Shakespeare's words dance with the Nightingale's song. In the Bard's time, these magnificent birds serenaded much of England, weaving their way into his sonnets and plays with an elegance that has endured through centuries.
Our adventure begins gathered at the fireside, where welcome drinks await. Before dusk approaches, we’ll be led on a short ecological tour experiencing and unravelling the evening chorus and discovering the rich biodiversity of our ancient woodland. Returning to the warmth of the campfire, a two-course vegan dinner awaits accompanied by a selection of herbal brews, wines, beers, and ciders.
As night falls, we'll discover how these master musicians of the night inspired one of our greatest literary beacons and his contemporaries before embarking on a silent walk through the darkness to find our singers. Here, under a blanket of stars, Shakespeare's most beautiful Nightingale passages will accompany us, their words finding new life alongside the very songs that inspired them. Experience these beloved texts, sonnets and songs as never before, with their muse singing in accompaniment as if they had just been written. As midnight passes, we’ll make our way back across the starry fields to the campsite and carriages.
Please make sure you have versed yourself in the important practical information below and reviewed our comprehensive FAQs to ensure a safe and comfortable experience for you and your guests. As our events involve walking across challenging terrain at night, we kindly ask you to consider any mobility requirements within your group before booking. For a full insight into the concept and idea behind the project, please see our What is SWN page.
