We’re gearing up for an exhilarating start to 2024 with a line-up of over 100 new events from January to April. You’re guaranteed an unforgettable theatre experience with our vibrant mix of comedy, music, drama, film, and family favourites.
Launching the comedy season with infectious energy is Live at the Apollo star Adam Rowe takes to the stage to deliver a side-splitting set of brutally honest stand-up. Scottish comic Janey Godley and Trigger Happy TV’s Dom Joly also present two brand new shows, before national treasure Rosie Jones gives a dose of unapologetic cheekiness later in the spring.
If you’re a fan of original drama, get ready for a nostalgic journey into the past with cult favourite Solve-Along-A-Murder-She-Wrote, a unique and hilarious night inspired by the hit television series. Renowned stars of stage and screen Colin Baker (Doctor Who) and Terry Molloy (The Archers) also join forces to play world famous detectives, Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson, in a gripping adaption of Hound of the Baskervilles, and Neil Brand presents his all-new masterpiece about comedy duo Laurel & Hardy.
We are also proud to showcase new writing from emerging artists. Playwrights Luca Saunders and Philip Robinson delve into the challenges of neurodiversity in their powerful new play The Washing Machine of Destiny, while actress Mia Borthwick leads you on a laugh-out-loud journey through life’s comedic twists in I Don’t Have a Math’s GCSE.
The season unfolds with Shush, an evocative piece that explores hearing loss and social identity, and Right of Way, an autobiographical reflection on disability, chronic illness, and young caregiving.
But the tales don’t stop there! Families are in for a real treat this February Half Term with Framed!, a thrilling whodunnit full of original music and enchanting puppetry. Popular shows Dinosaur Adventure Live and Ministry of Science will also return, promising an explosive blend of entertainment and experiments to captivate young minds.
As the calendar flips to Easter, the magic continues with beloved storybook characters leaping from page to stage in musical adaptations of Charlie Cook’s Favourite Book, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, Spot’s Birthday Party, and The Lion Inside.
For the more musical, we continue to stage some of the world’s finest tributes with performances from The 80s Movie Mixtape, Purple Zeppelin, The History of Rock, Back to Bacharach, and Shape of You – The Music of Ed Sheeran.
Folk fans can also look forward to performances from acoustic roots duo Show of Hands and singer-songwriters Mark Harrison and Charles Benfield. Plus, R&B legends The Drifters return for another show-stopping spectacle.
The season also includes inspiring talks from fictional horror author Garth Marenghi and mountaineer Simon Yates, who each bring their own unique perspectives to the stage.
Our vibrant programme is further complimented by a series of weekly classes and workshops, offering activities for all ages. Launching later this month is a brand new Youth Choir, giving young people the chance to perform some of their favourite musical numbers. The popular Youth Theatre also continues, along with themed Easter workshops.
Commenting on the new season, Chief Executive Vickie Hobbs said: “After such a successful run of A Christmas Carol, with record breaking audience numbers, we can’t wait to launch into 2024. With top comedians, amazing music, and lots of family shows to look forward to, it’s going to be a spectacular start to the year.”
Tickets for the spring 2024 season are now sale. Book online or contact our Box Office on 01823 283244 (open weekdays from 10am – 4pm).
