Yorick or the Skull character

Greensleeved presents: Yorick or the Skull

  • 21st - 22nd Aug 2026
  • 19:00 | Doors open from 18:45
  • THIS SUMMER

    21 - 22 August 2026

  • SELECT TIMES

    19:30

  • DURATION

    Approx. 80 mins

  • PRICES FROM

    Adult: £18 | Concessions: £16

  • BOOK NOW

    COMING SOON

From Laughter to Legacy

Greensleeved joins the Oxford Shakespeare Festival for the first time, with Yorick or the Skull.  

The story begins on the night Hamlet is born. We meet court jester Yorick and his closest friend, Hamlet, who has just become king but remains unskilled in navigating state matters. At the same time, a serious land dispute with King Fortinbras of Norway looms over the kingdom.

Hamlet’s young queen Gertrude has just given birth to an unsmiling son, and his brother, Claudius, seizes upon her sorrow to separate them, leaving the child’s upbringing to Yorick as the threat of war grows. Torn between “playing the fool who knows better” and advising a fragile crown, Yorick exposes the uneasy bond between art, politics, and censorship. As for Hamlet, he must choose between truth and pride. 

Prepare yourself for an intimate view of Elsinore’s court as it turns sour, answering many of the questions Hamlet Jr walks around with in his own play.

Yorick or the Skull character

What's Included?

  • An open-air performance of Yorick, based on Hamlet by William Shakespeare.
  • Music and songs, humour, and heartfelt connections with the audience, in true jester fashion.
  • Access to purchase beverages and snacks during intermission.

Frequently Asked Questions

While we do not impose an age restriction, this production may not be suitable for young children and parental discretion is advised.

Each performance lasts approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, including the interval.

Yes. Concession tickets (£16) are available for: 

  • Children under 15 years old.
  • Students with a valid ID (please note this will be checked on arrival).
  • Seniors.

Yes. Free carer tickets can be booked by contacting info@oxfordcastleandprison.co.uk or by calling 01865 260663. Please note that you will need to provide a form of ID or documentation. For a list of accepted forms for carer entry, please visit our accessibility page.

Yes, anyone under 18 must attend with an adult aged 18 or above. If they are not accompanied by an adult, they may be denied entry.

The performance is open-air, so the weather can affect it. If conditions are severe enough and we need to postpone and reschedule the performance, we will inform you as soon as possible. 

No. The event is a separate, ticketed activity and does not include the guided tour or access to the Mound or St George’s Tower. 

No, a general admission ticket is not required for the event.

Yes, spaces are limited for this event. We recommend booking in advance to avoid disappointment.

We recommend arriving at least 15 minutes before the performance starts to get the best seats, as seating is not reserved. Doors open from 18:45. 

If you arrive more than 15 minutes late, please note that entry may be denied. If you anticipate being late, contact us at 01865 260663 as soon as possible, and we will do our best to assist you.

If you need to cancel or change your booking, please contact us at info@oxfordcastleandprison.co.uk or call 01865 260663 as soon as possible. Changes may be possible depending on availability. Please note that bookings cancelled within 48 hours of the event are non-refundable.

Yes, we do offer a group discount. If you are looking to make a booking for 15 or more, please contact us at info@oxfordcastleandprison.co.uk or call us on 01865 260663. 

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