11 Best Performing Arts Venues in Stratford-upon-Avon and the Heart of England, England

Set within an ultramodern building next to the staggering contemporary design of Birmingham’s library, the revered Birmingham Repertory Theatre is one of England’s oldest (founded in 1913) and most esteemed theater companies. All about the live performance, it’s equally at home performing modern or classical works.

This is the home of the distinguished City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra and a venue for jazz, pop, and classical concerts. The centerpiece of the revamped Centenary Square has a shoebox-shape, 6,000-pipe organ, and impeccable acoustics; it's easily one of the finest concert halls in England.

Held in the grounds of Ludlow Castle, this annual celebration of local produce from independent growers and small-scale suppliers along the border of England and Wales is held over three days each September and features more than 180 stalls, many of which offer free tastings.

One of the finest repertory troupes in the world and long the backbone of England’s theatrical life, the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) performs plays year-round in Stratford and at venues across Britain. The stunning Royal Shakespeare Theatre, home of the RSC, has a thrust stage based on the original Globe Theatre in London. The Swan Theatre, part of the theater complex and also built in the style of Shakespeare’s Globe, stages plays by Shakespeare and his contemporaries, such as Christopher Marlowe and Ben Jonson. Outside is the Holloway Theatre, where plays are presented in spring and summer. Contemporary works are staged at The Other Place nearby. Whichever venue you choose, the caliber of the performance will be high, and staff are very helpful when it comes to answering queries about the theaters and helping you buy tickets. Seats book up fast, but day-of-performance and returned tickets are sometimes available. Tickets are available from £10.

First opened in 1901, the Alexandra, or “the Alex” as it is affectionately known, welcomes touring companies on their way to or from London’s West End. Bookings and queries should be done online.

The festival takes place in late September and early October each year at a variety of venues in and around the Malvern Hills. Classical music is the mainstay of the festival (local hero Edward Elgar's music is featured heavily), with plenty of literary events as well. Tickets and full listings are available from early August.

The second company of the Royal Ballet, the touring Birmingham Royal Ballet is based at the Hippodrome Theatre, which also plays host to visiting companies such as the Welsh National Opera.

This huge stadium within the massive National Exhibition Centre (universally known as "the N.E.C.") is located close to the airport. Tickets for all events here should be bought through the Ticket Factory.

These free festivities have taken place on and around the weekend closest to April 23, the Bard’s birthday, since 1824. Over several days, the streets are filled with performers, impromptu concerts, and pageantry, and special events are held at various venues. The celebrations culminate with a spectacular procession.

This modern theater by the river has two auditoriums and covers all the lively arts: classical and popular music, dance, and drama.

The splendidly neoclassical venue holds a wide range of events, including organ recitals, opera, and contemporary music concerts. Monthly tours teach about the history of this magnificent building, where both Mendelssohn and Charles Dickens debuted new works.