Five of the best plays to stream free of charge in the next seven days

1 THE TWO NOBLE KINSMEN

Shakespeare’s Globe, London, streaming until May 17

The Two Noble Kinsmen is set in pastoral ‘Merrie England’ and brought to life with original music composed by acclaimed folk musician Eliza Carthy, and dance choreographed by Ewan Wardrop. When the imprisoned Palamon and Arcite vow eternal friendship, they don’t expect that anything will come between them. But then from their cell window they see the beautiful Emilia, and their priorities take a sudden and violent turn. In this late romance, John Fletcher and William Shakespeare examine love in all its fluid and complex forms.

Where to watch: The Shakespeare's Globe channel on YouTube

2 CRONGTON KNIGHTS

Belgrade Theatre, Coventry, streaming until May 9

Life isn’t easy on the Crongton Estate and for McKay and his mates it’s all about keeping their heads down. But when a friend finds herself in trouble, they set out on a mission that goes further than any of them imagined. Join “The Magnificent Six” as they discover how lessons learned the hard way can bring you closer together with friends you’ll never forget. Physical theatre is combined with an innovative beatbox soundscape that brings the pulse of the city to life in this coming-of-age adventure.

Where to watch: belgrade.co.uk/between-stages

3 I WANT MY HAT BACK

Little Angel Theatre, streaming now

A sweet eight-minute treat for youngsters. Little Angel Theatre specialise in puppetry and lend their talents to this adaptation of Jon Klassen’s beloved picture book.

Where to watch: The Little Angel Theatre channel on YouTube

4 WISE CHILDREN

Streaming now, available until June

Director Emma Rice brings her unique, musical and exuberantly impish vision to Angela Carter’s great last novel, in an acclaimed production. A big, bawdy tangle of theatrical joy and pain, Wise Children is a celebration of show business, family, forgiveness and hope. Expect showgirls and Shakespeare, sex and scandal, mischief and mistaken identity - and butterflies galore. This recording was filmed at York Theatre Royal in 2019.

Where to watch: bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/p0892kf6/wise-children

5 KING LEAR

Royal Shakespeare Company, streaming now

King Lear is considered as one of Shakespeare’s great tragedies; a story of ignorance and deceit, as King Lear is unable to see beyond the lies of his eldest daughters. Antony Sher is equal parts imperious and broken in his masterly turn in the lead role.

Where to watch: marquee.tv, offering a 30-day free trial