Peter Rabbit’s Musical Adventures
A perfect introduction to classical music for all the family.
8th, 9th, 15th, 16th August 2026
Amphitheatre, Waterperry Gardens
Join Peter Rabbit on a garden adventure, guided by a magical storyteller, in this charming retelling of Beatrix Potter’s beloved tale, brought to life with Haydn’s string quartets. A perfect introduction to classical music for children - and fun for all ages!
Peter Rabbit’s Musical Adventures is a delightful, family-friendly performance that blends storytelling and classical music in the beautiful Garden Glade of Waterperry. Follow Peter as he squeezes under the garden gate, dodges Mr McGregor, and learns a few lessons along the way - all interwoven with moments from Haydn’s vibrant string quartets, performed live. This playful production is an ideal first opera or classical experience for children, with plenty to enjoy for grown-ups too.
Credits
Original story by Beatrix Potter. Music by Joseph Haydn.
Timings
Performance starts at 1pm. Approx finish 1:45pm.
Tickets
Tickets start at £16, with a small booking fee.
Under 16s Tickets at £9.
Age Guidance
Designed for families and children of all ages. Children under 2 may attend free but must have a ticket for capacity monitoring. All children must be accompanied by an adult with a ticket.
General Booking opens 31st March.
Cast
Peter Rabbit | Oskar McCarthy
The Music
Waterperry’s much loved production of Peter Rabbit returns in 2026, with the emollient Oskar McCarthy reprising his role as storyteller. Once again, excerpts from Joseph Haydn’s string quartets accompany Beatrix Potter’s tales.
The choice of Haydn’s music might seem surprising, but in fact telling stories with humour, wit, and charm was a key part of Haydn’s development of the quartet genre. In ‘Papa’ Haydn’s hands (he was given this nickname both for his fatherly good nature and his foundational role in the development of the symphony and string quartet) classical forms are endlessly adaptable and can convey complex narratives, replete with multiple characters, and even jokes. One of Haydn’s key innovations was to harness the power of silence for dramatic effect – listen out for that as Peter’s adventures ensue!
FAQs
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The concert lasts for around 30 minutes, with no interval.
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In the Amphitheatre.
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Yes! These relaxed performances are designed for families and children of all ages.
Children under 2 may attend free but must have a ticket for capacity monitoring. All children must be accompanied by an adult with a ticket.
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Step-free access on the back row only.
