A few weeks ago I asked myself, should I take a teenager to The Globe theatre? With Big Brother studying Macbeth for GCSE English Literature, I thought it would be fun to take a trip to the theatre and watch the play performed in the setting it was designed for. Shakespeare’s Globe on London’s Bankside contains two performance spaces – the Globe Theatre and Sam Wanamaker’s Playhouse. We visited Sam Wanamaker’s Playhouse to watch a retelling of Twelfth Night at a few years ago, but never visited the Globe.

Opened in 1997 this reconstructed open-air theatre is based on the original the Globe Theatre from Shakespeare’s time. It is the only thatched roof building in London (as these was outlawed after the Great Fire of London!). Today the Globe offers a variety of events tailored to audiences, making it an excellent choice for a cultural outing in London.

We booked tickets for Playing Shakespeare with Deutsche Bank: Macbeth which is a new 90-minute version of Shakespeare’s tale of tyranny and ambition, created especially for young people and a great introduction to Shakespeare.

Why a trip to the Globe Theatre is great for teens

Youth Theatre Programme – aimed at 11-19 year olds, the Globe’s Youth Theatre offers weekly training in voice, movement, text analysis, and stage combat. It’s an excellent opportunity for teens interested in acting and performance.

Family-friendly tours – The Family Globe Theatre Guided Tour is designed for families with children aged 7-11 but is suitable for all ages. It includes a guided tour of the Globe Theatre and access to an interactive exhibition space.

Engaging performances – the Globe stages productions like Macbeth and Romeo and Juliet, which are often adapted to be more accessible and engaging for younger audiences.

Top tips for enjoying a trip to the Globe Theatre

Check age recommendations – ensure the events or performance is suitable for your teenager. Our production came with a warning of violence, stage blood and weapons as well as loud gunshots and references to war.

Book in advance – popular events can sell out quickly, so it’s advisable to book tickets early or you may be left with the restricted view seats

Prepare for the weather – the Globe is an open-air theatre, so dress appropriately for the weather conditions

Engage with the content – encourage your teen to read the play beforehand or watch a film adaptation to enhance their understanding and enjoyment. Browse the free digital programme which includes more in-depth views on ideas explored in the play.

Pay for a cushion – seats are arranged in galleries all around the wide, open stage, so spectators and performers can see each other at all times. The wooden benches are hard so pay extra for a cushion or bring your own.

Drinks and snacks – arrive early and enjoy food and drinks and soak up the atmosphere around the theatre and Bankside (within walking distance of famous sights such as St Paul’s Cathedral, Tate Modern and Borough Market)

The Globe offers a dynamic and educational experience that can captivate and inspire teenagers. We loved the experience of watching Macbeth performed live. The open-air theatre, the immersive experience of the performance, and the general atmosphere made for a truly amazing experience we won’t forget. Hopefully it was educational too and helped the teen immerse himself in the story too.

You may also be interested in our trip to houses connected to Shakespeare – Shakespeare’s Birthplace, Shakespeare’s New Place and Anne Hathaway’s Cottage.