Theatre Archives • Round & About Magazine

Enjoy an evening of open-air theatre at Basset Manor while supporting Citizens Advice Oxfordshire

Zoe Gater

July 28, 2026

Theatre

Zoe Gater

Illyria’s acclaimed adaptation of The Three Musketeers is coming to the beautiful grounds of Basset Manor this August, with an evening of outdoor theatre, picnics and a silent auction raising vital funds for Citizens Advice Oxfordshire.

Audiences are invited to enjoy a summer evening of swashbuckling adventure as Baroness Sheehan hosts an open-air production of The Three Musketeers at Basset Manor, with all proceeds supporting Citizens Advice Oxfordshire.

Taking place on Saturday 1 August 2026, the historic grounds of Basset Manor will be transformed into 17th-century France as acclaimed outdoor theatre company Illyria brings Alexandre Dumas’ much-loved classic to life.

Renowned for its energetic performances and spectacular stage combat, Illyria’s adaptation follows the young D’Artagnan as he sets out to prove himself worthy of joining the King’s elite Musketeers — Athos, Porthos and Aramis. Along the way, audiences can expect daring duels, royal intrigue, dramatic twists and memorable encounters with the formidable Cardinal Richelieu and the scheming Milady de Winter.

Running for approximately two hours and 15 minutes, including a 20-minute interval, the production promises an evening packed with romance, betrayal, humour and action beneath the summer sky.

Guests are encouraged to bring a picnic, blanket or folding chair and settle in for an atmospheric outdoor performance, with refreshments also available to purchase on the night. As the performance continues into the evening, warm clothing is recommended.

Alongside the performance, visitors will have the opportunity to bid in a silent auction, featuring a carefully curated selection of prizes, with every bid helping to support the charity’s work.

All proceeds from the event will benefit Citizens Advice Oxfordshire, helping the organisation continue providing free, independent and confidential advice to people across the county.

The venue is wheelchair accessible via a gravel path, and only assistance dogs are permitted.

For more information and to book tickets, visit ticketsource.com/illyria/the-three-musketeers-at-basset-manor/e-bgypjl.

Dom Joly brings Trigger Happy TV 25th anniversary tour to Cranleigh Arts

Zoe Gater

July 27, 2026July 20, 2026

Theatre

The man behind one of Britain’s most iconic hidden camera shows is heading to Cranleigh Arts this September, celebrating 25 years of Trigger Happy TV with classic clips, behind-the-scenes stories and plenty of surprises.

Comedy fans can relive one of television’s most unforgettable prank shows when Dom Joly brings his Trigger Happy TV 25th Anniversary Tour to Cranleigh Arts on Thursday 10 September 2026.

Marking 25 years since Trigger Happy TV first burst onto screens, the live show celebrates the cult comedy series that reinvented hidden camera television with its surreal characters and brilliantly absurd public pranks.

Audiences can look forward to revisiting some of the show’s most memorable creations, including The Giant Snail, The Traffic Warden, The Morris Dancer, The Scout, A Gang of Squirrels and, of course, that Big Mobile Phone.

Alongside clips and anecdotes, Joly will reveal behind-the-scenes stories about creating the groundbreaking series, offering fans a fascinating insight into how the show came together at the dawn of the new millennium.

Reflecting on Trigger Happy TV’s enduring popularity, Joly said: “Trigger Happy TV happened in this curious moment in time. It was the beginning of the millennium when so many things were changing. We had the internet, but it was still dial-up. We had mobile phones, but they were still very basic. You could call, text and play snake. That was about it. Making a show like Trigger Happy TV felt like being in The Wild West.

“There were no rules and we were making something that felt fresh and almost revolutionary.”

The anniversary tour follows a string of sold-out performances last year, prompting Joly to take the show back on the road.

He said: “I played a handful of shows in autumn that sold out. We were inundated with requests for more shows – so here they are.”

Fans can also upgrade their evening with a pre-show Meet & Greet, which includes a photograph with Dom Joly, an autograph and a Trigger Happy goody bag. Premium tickets with a goody bag are also available.

Tickets start from £28 per person.

For more information and to book, visit cranleigharts.org/event/dom-joly-returns-with-trigger-happy-tv-aniversary-tour/.

Corn Exchange Newbury unveils exciting new season as Old Library opens its doors

Zoe Gater

July 27, 2026July 21, 2026

Theatre

The Corn Exchange Newbury is launching a new era this autumn with a packed programme of theatre, comedy, music, circus and family entertainment across its flagship venue and the newly transformed Old Library.

A major new chapter in Newbury’s cultural life begins this autumn as the Corn Exchange Newbury launches its first live season across both its flagship theatre and the newly restored Old Library.

Running from September to November, the programme marks the completion of the organisation’s ambitious capital fundraising campaign, which has transformed the historic Old Library into a permanent creative hub for the community.

Audiences will be among the first to experience the new venue during its opening weekend. Families can enjoy Wonder Gigs, an interactive musical experience from Filskit Theatre on 11 September and 6 November, while acclaimed circus performer Charlotte Mooney, Artistic Director of Ockham’s Razor, presents Comb on 12 September, a magical solo show inspired by Celtic, Slavic and Siberian folklore.

Comedy fans have plenty to look forward to throughout the season, with performances from Ria Lina, James Barr, Michael Akadiri and Daniel Foxx, while theatre highlights include The Essence of Audrey, exploring the life of Audrey Hepburn, the award-nominated In the Land of Eagles, and Anthem for Dissatisfaction, a moving coming-of-age story set against the backdrop of austerity Britain.

The programme also features a host of family-friendly productions, including There’s A Monster In Your Show, Out of the Box, the interactive Mystery of the Old Library, Dinosaur World Live and the festive favourite The Nutcracker during October half-term.

Music lovers can enjoy performances from Seth Lakeman, Jacqui Dankworth and Ruby Wax, while dance productions Emerald Storm and Play Ball add to a diverse programme designed to appeal to audiences of all ages.

Beyond performances, the Old Library will become a year-round creative space, hosting community activities including Dare to Dance, Sing 55, Tai Chi for over-55s, and youth theatre and dance sessions for children and teenagers.

Jessica Jhundoo-Evans, Director of the Corn Exchange Newbury, said: “This season marks an exciting new chapter for us as we open the doors to the Old Library to live performance and present a vibrant programme filled with theatre, music, circus, storytelling and family experiences.”

For the full programme and tickets, visit cornexchangenew.com.

Shrek the Musical comes to G Live as 100 young performers take centre stage

Zoe Gater

July 27, 2026July 20, 2026

Theatre

More than 100 talented young people will bring the magic of Shrek the Musical to Guildford’s G Live this August, as the venue’s hugely popular Summer Youth Project returns with its biggest production yet.

More than 100 young performers are set to light up the stage at G Live this summer when the venue’s annual Summer Youth Project presents the spectacular Shrek the Musical on Friday 14 and Saturday 15 August.

Following the success of last year’s production of Annie, this year’s cast of local performers aged eight to 18 has spent two weeks rehearsing with theatre professionals to bring the much-loved musical to life in a full-scale production.

Based on the Oscar-winning DreamWorks film, Shrek the Musical follows the adventures of everyone’s favourite reluctant ogre as he sets out to rescue Princess Fiona, joined by the ever-entertaining Donkey and a colourful cast of fairy-tale characters. Along the way, audiences can expect plenty of laughs, memorable songs and a heartwarming story about friendship, acceptance and discovering that true beauty comes from within.

Now in its fifth year, G Live’s Summer Youth Project has become a highlight of the local arts calendar, giving aspiring performers the chance to experience every aspect of producing a professional musical. From auditions and rehearsals to performing on G Live’s main stage, participants develop confidence, teamwork and valuable theatre skills while creating lasting memories.

The production is the project’s most ambitious yet and showcases the incredible talent of young people from across the region, making it a fantastic opportunity for audiences to support the next generation of performers.

Perfect for families, musical theatre fans and anyone looking for an uplifting summer day out, Shrek the Musical promises colourful costumes, energetic choreography, show-stopping songs and plenty of fairy-tale fun.

Performances take place at G Live, Guildford, on 14 and 15 August. Tickets are available now and are expected to be popular.

Book tickets and find out more at: https://trafalgartickets.com/g-live-guildford/en-GB/event/creative-learning/summer-youth-project-presents-shrek-the-musical-tickets

Guildford Fringe Festival returns with comedy, theatre and family fun

Zoe Gater

July 27, 2026July 20, 2026

Theatre

From laugh-out-loud comedy and thought-provoking theatre to live music, cabaret and family entertainment, Guildford Fringe Festival returns this September with an eclectic programme of affordable performances across venues throughout the town.

Guildford Fringe Festival is all about making great arts accessible for all and now in its 13th year it is continuing that tradition.

The open-access multi-arts extravaganza spreads across an eclectic mix of venues from traditional pubs and historic churches to Guildford Institute and a nature reserve.

The Back Room of The Star Inn serves as the festival’s hub once again with highlights including Juliette Burton: Villain Era, Adam Flood: Life and Death of the Party, Michael Brunström: William Tell versus the Algorithm, Jack Barry: Let’s Get Barried and Comedy Shomedy. Fans of improv will find plenty too including Adult Panto [Unscripted], CSI: Crime Scene Improvisation and the galaxy-brained Space Planet Mission: The Improvised Sci-Fi Epic.

This year’s theatre includes Alan Bennett’s celebrated monologue An Englishman Abroad and Lady Bracknell’s Confinement, a reimagining drawn from the world of Oscar Wilde. Gothic literature lovers are in for a treat with One Man Poe: The Black Cat and The Raven, and Christ Church Guildford provides a fitting setting for From the Dawn of Time to the Last Battle. The line-up also includes the intimate drama Behind Closed Doors, the unsettling Ghost Light, and Pandora: The Musical which is an original rock/folk retelling of the Greek legend.

Music fans have plenty to look forward to with the annual free concert Opera on the Balcony and Café De Swing bringing jazz to Clandon Wood Nature Reserve. Cabaret fans can enjoy Glitter, Guilt and Good Intentions at the Fallen Angel Bar, Keys and Tease, and the cheerful irreverence of Vince Taylor: Punk to Pension Plan. The Rock Choir takes over Guildford High Street once more, and there’s a free community UkeJam at the Britannia Pub.

Younger audiences are catered for with The Wow Bubble Show for Kids at Clandon Wood Nature Reserve and The Smallest Sardine of the Seven Seas at The Stoke Pub. In Juliet’s Garden by Judy Elliot McDonald brings original outdoor theatre to Clandon Wood.

Charlotte Wyschna, Managing Director of Guildford Fringe, said: “The 2026 programme is one we’re really proud of. There’s so much variety and so many brilliant performers coming to Guildford this September. At the heart of everything we do is a belief that great arts should be accessible to everyone, and this year’s programme is a real reflection of that.”

Special thanks to Guildford Fringe’s sponsors and supporters, Chapters Financial, Experience Guildford, Churchmill and Kellys Storage.

Most ticketed shows at Guildford Fringe are priced at £12, and several events are free. For the full programme, visit: guildfordfringe.com or call the Box Office on 01483 361101. During the Festival, there will be a daily Box Office at The Star Inn, Quarry Street, from 6-7pm.

Experience Shakespeare like never before as Moonhawk Theatre’s unsettling Macbeth comes to Oxford

Zoe Gater

July 8, 2026

Theatre

Zoe Gater

Experience Shakespeare’s darkest tragedy in a bold new way as Moonhawk Theatre brings its immersive, horror-inspired production of Macbeth to Oxford’s Burton Taylor Studio for three performances this July.

Forget everything you think you know about Macbeth. This July, Oxford audiences can experience Shakespeare’s darkest tragedy reimagined as an immersive, experimental theatrical event packed with psychological horror, haunting soundscapes and striking visual storytelling.

Presented by award-winning company Moonhawk Theatre, the bold new production takes over the Oxford Playhouse Burton Taylor Studio for just three performances on 20 and 21 July 2026, promising a fresh take on one of the Bard’s most iconic plays.

Known for creating theatre that is fearless, thought-provoking and impossible to forget, Moonhawk Theatre has built a reputation for pushing creative boundaries. Since launching in 2019, the company has toured original productions across London, Oxfordshire, West Sussex and Scotland, taken two shows to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and earned five-star reviews for its distinctive style.

Now, artistic director Leon Witcomb turns his attention to Shakespeare’s tale of ambition, power and guilt.

Rather than presenting a traditional interpretation, Moonhawk’s Macbeth draws striking parallels with today’s world while exploring the psychological consequences of unchecked ambition.

“The true horror in Macbeth lies in guilt,” says Leon. “We watch someone unable to reconcile his actions, slowly unravelling from within. As the supernatural closes in around him, the horror becomes deeply human.”

The production combines innovative staging with immersive technical design to create an intense theatrical experience. Audiences can expect claustrophobic atmospheres, cinematic sound design, shocking moments and inventive stagecraft that transforms Shakespeare into something thrillingly contemporary.

Joining Leon’s creative team are co-technical director Mike Ward, assistant director and co-scenographer Ella Wernham-Clark, Chris Bedford in the title role and acclaimed stage performer Laura King as Lady Macbeth.

Whether you’re a lifelong Shakespeare fan or simply looking for an unforgettable night at the theatre, Moonhawk’s latest production offers a bold alternative to the traditional classic.

With only three performances scheduled, tickets are expected to be in demand.

Book online at oxfordplayhouse.com/events/moonhawk-macbeth or call the Oxford Playhouse Box Office on 01865 305305.

Powerful psychological drama Duet for One comes to Oxford this May

Zoe Gater

April 22, 2026

Theatre

A raw and intimate drama exploring identity, illness and resilience comes to the Old Fire Station from 27 to 31 May 2026.

What happens when the thing that defines you disappears? That question lies at the heart of Duet for One, arriving at the Old Fire Station this May.

This intimate and psychologically charged play follows Stephanie, a celebrated violinist forced to confront life after a life-altering diagnosis.

As her world begins to shift, Stephanie enters therapy. What unfolds is a series of intense, probing conversations that blur the boundaries between control, truth and self-discovery.

Set entirely within a consulting room, the production strips everything back to language, emotion and the subtle power dynamics between patient and therapist.

In a compelling twist, the role of Dr Feldmann is shared across the run by two actors – one younger, one older – creating nuanced shifts in authority and tone. The result is a production in which no two performances feel quite the same.

At its core is a deeply personal performance. The actor playing Stephanie, who lives in Watlington, draws on her own experience of chronic illness and past mental health struggles. That lived experience lends powerful authenticity to a story that explores loss, identity and resilience with honesty and care.

Thought-provoking, raw and quietly intense, Duet for One is theatre that asks difficult questions – and lingers long after the final line.

Performances run from 27 to 31 May 2026, with both evening and matinee shows available.

To book, visit the Old Fire Station website or call 01865 263990.

Perfect Show For Rachel brings joyful chaos to Oxford Playhouse

Zoe Gater

April 13, 2026April 13, 2026

Theatre

Zoe Gater

Perfect Show For Rachel brings anarchic, ever-changing theatre to Oxford Playhouse this May 2026.

Oxford Playhouse will host the critically acclaimed Perfect Show For Rachel, a vibrant, ever-evolving theatrical experience running from Wednesday 13 to Saturday 16 May 2026.

Zoo Co and Improbable co-produce the show, which delivers a bold, unpredictable and deeply human piece of theatre that challenges convention while celebrating individuality, creativity and connection.

Flo and Rachel O’Mahony form the sister duo behind Perfect Show For Rachel. Flo works as an award-winning theatre director and serves as artistic director of Zoo Co, while Rachel is a 35-year-old learning-disabled artist who loves Kylie Minogue, brings a sharp comic eye, and embraces joyful chaos. Together, they created what they call Rachel’s “perfect show” – funny, unpredictable and different every time it plays.

With no fixed script, Rachel takes control at the push of a button and steers the action in unexpected directions while the cast react in real time. One moment the stage erupts into an improvised bar fight; the next, performers become singing biscuits or receive a sudden mid-scene “firing”. The result feels chaotic, fast-paced and full of surprises.

Flo describes the show as “beautifully inconvenient”, a phrase that captures how it pushes theatres to adapt their spaces and processes to properly support the company. The work also extends beyond the stage, sparking wider conversations around access, inclusion and leadership in the arts.

The production arrives at Oxford Playhouse as part of a series of relaxed performances designed to feel welcoming and flexible for all audiences. Loud noises and flashing lights may feature, and audiences can move in and out of the auditorium as needed.

Tickets are available via the Box Office on 01865 305305 or oxfordplayhouse.com.

Mike Stoneham brings Shakespeare’s most raucous rogue to life on stage in Oxford with Falstaff

Zoe Gater

April 2, 2026April 2, 2026

Theatre

Zoe Gater

Whether you’re a Shakespeare aficionado or simply in search of a night of unfiltered entertainment, Falstaff promises a theatrical experience that is as bold and boisterous as the man himself this April 2026.

Raise a cup, loosen your belt and prepare for a night of glorious misrule when Falstaff takes over the stage at The Players Theatre in Oxford – for just one special night in April.

Taking place on Friday 17th April 2026, renowned actor Mike Stoneham presents a bold, hilarious one-man play celebrating one of Shakespeare’s most beloved and outrageous characters, offering a new take on the boastful, boozy, larger-than-life figure.

Adapted from the acclaimed novel by Robert Nye, this fast-paced production reimagines the raucous rogue in a whirlwind of wit, mischief and unapologetic excess.

Described as ‘fat, flatulent and fabulous’, this version of Sir John Falstaff draws inspiration from Shakespeare’s appearances of the character in Henry IV and Merry Wives of Windsor, with Mike delivering a performance which captures a shameless appetite and surprising charm.

Tickets cost £15 per person.

For more information or to book, visit thameplayers.co.uk/events/falstaff.

Operation Mincemeat brings West End magic to Oxford stage this spring

Zoe Gater

March 24, 2026March 31, 2026

Theatre

Zoe Gater

Oxford welcomes the Olivier Award-winning musical Operation Mincemeat for a limited run, bringing a wildly inventive true wartime story and West End acclaim to the city stage.

Oxford is set to welcome one of the West End’s most talked-about productions as Operation Mincemeat arrives at New Theatre Oxford for strictly limited run from Tuesday 31 March to Saturday 4 April.

Fresh from sell-out success in London, this Olivier Award-winning musical brings its signature blend of comedy, music and wartime intrigue to the city for the first time.

With an extraordinary 113 five-star reviews to its name, the show has become a bona fide phenomenon. Audiences can expect a fast-paced, laugh-out-loud retelling of one of Britain’s most audacious intelligence operations during World War II.

Set in 1943, the story follows a daring plan in which British operatives used a stolen corpse and an elaborate fake identity to deceive Nazi forces.

Oxford’s connection to the story adds an extra layer of in trigue. Charles Cholmondeley, one of the key masterminds behind the real-life operation, studied at the University of Oxford before helping to devise the ingenious scheme.

Bringing the production to the city where part of its history began gives this tour stop particular resonance.

The show also boasts a strong contemporary Oxford link through Zoe Roberts, co-founder of comedy group SpitLip and co-creator of Operation Mincemeat. Her distinctive comedic voice is central to the musical’s success, seamlessly blending sharp satire with moments of genuine poignancy.

Producers are promisisng an unforgettable theatreical expereince, and anticipation is already building among local audiences eager to see what has become one of the UK’s must-see stage hits.

With its unique mix of history, humour and heart, Operation Mincemeat looks set to be a highlight of Oxford’s cultural calendar this spring.

Tickets are on sale now, but with demand high and the run limited, theatre lovers are encouraged to book soon to avoid missing out.

Theatre

Illyria’s acclaimed adaptation of The Three Musketeers is coming to the beautiful grounds of Basset Manor this August, with an evening of outdoor theatre, picnics and a silent auction raising vital funds for Citizens Advice Oxfordshire.

Get the latest news straight to your inbox

Theatre

The man behind one of Britain’s most iconic hidden camera shows is heading to Cranleigh Arts this September, celebrating 25 years of Trigger Happy TV with classic clips, behind-the-scenes stories and plenty of surprises.

Get the latest news straight to your inbox

Theatre

The Corn Exchange Newbury is launching a new era this autumn with a packed programme of theatre, comedy, music, circus and family entertainment across its flagship venue and the newly transformed Old Library.

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Theatre

More than 100 talented young people will bring the magic of Shrek the Musical to Guildford’s G Live this August, as the venue’s hugely popular Summer Youth Project returns with its biggest production yet.

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Theatre

From laugh-out-loud comedy and thought-provoking theatre to live music, cabaret and family entertainment, Guildford Fringe Festival returns this September with an eclectic programme of affordable performances across venues throughout the town.

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Theatre

Experience Shakespeare’s darkest tragedy in a bold new way as Moonhawk Theatre brings its immersive, horror-inspired production of Macbeth to Oxford’s Burton Taylor Studio for three performances this July.

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Theatre

A raw and intimate drama exploring identity, illness and resilience comes to the Old Fire Station from 27 to 31 May 2026.

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Theatre

Perfect Show For Rachel brings anarchic, ever-changing theatre to Oxford Playhouse this May 2026.

Get the latest news straight to your inbox

Theatre

Whether you’re a Shakespeare aficionado or simply in search of a night of unfiltered entertainment, Falstaff promises a theatrical experience that is as bold and boisterous as the man himself this April 2026.

Get the latest news straight to your inbox

Theatre

Oxford welcomes the Olivier Award-winning musical Operation Mincemeat for a limited run, bringing a wildly inventive true wartime story and West End acclaim to the city stage.

Get the latest news straight to your inbox