By Isobel McArthur after Jane Austen

Following its Olivier Award and Evening Standard Award win and triumphant run in the West End, the critically acclaimed Pride and Prejudice* (*sort of) returns to Oxford. Expect a hilarious, unique and audacious retelling of Jane Austen’s most iconic love story.

Men, money and microphones will be fought over in this irreverent but affectionate adaptation where the stakes couldn’t be higher when it comes to romance. This multi-award-winning production features a string of pop classics including Young Hearts Run Free, Will You Love Me Tomorrow and You’re So Vain.

A joy for Austen and non-Austen fans alike! It’s the 1800s. It’s party time. Let the ruthless matchmaking begin.

Age: 12+
Duration: 140 minutes
Interval: Yes
Warning: This production features strong language, gunshots and smoking.

By Timberlake Wertenbaker
Directed by Paul Simpson

Australia 1789. As the British Empire grows and penal colonies begin to establish themselves along the coastlines of the Pacific, the debate on the rehabilitation of criminals invites a young lieutenant into the role of theatre director, with the convicts as the cast of his play.

Establishing the unifying values of theatre, with the opportunity for structure, commitment and connection, each convict begins to confront the harsh realities of their individual journeys, ever in the presence of the brutality of the noose.

The Playhouse Young Company, our collective of 17 to 25 year old, returns to the main stage. They explore Timberlake Wertenbaker’s Olivier Award-winning play, a set text for many A Level Drama students. Seating will be situated on the Playhouse stage.

Age: 16+
Duration: 150 minutes
Warning: Includes strong language, frequent sexual topics, and themes of misogyny, racism and colonisation.
Additional Information: This amateur production is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals.

A show about being human-can you relate???

Just like Tom Cruise does all his own stunts, I'm going to do all my own jokes!

A deep, dumb show for the masses.

Star of Dancing On Ice (ITV), champion of Taskmaster (Channel 4), co-host of Mel Giedroyc's Unforgivable (Dave), regular on QI (BBC) and as seen on The Late Late Show with James Corden (CBS) and Would I Lie To You? (BBC)

Ages: 14+
Duration: 110 mins

The BAFTA-winning comedian, “national sensation” (Evening Standard) and “extremely funny” (Daily Telegraph) Iain Stirling, is bringing his intuitive razor-sharp humour to Oxford with a brand-new stand-up show.

As the iconic voice of Love Island, star and writer of sitcom Buffering on ITV, and with his own stand-up special, Failing Upwards, on Prime Video, Iain hits the road once more with an hour (of jokes) in his biggest tour to date! (It’s called Relevant if you’re interested).

Age: 14+
Duration: 120 minutes
Warning: Includes strong language

The award-winning Oxford Opera Company is back at The Playhouse with Puccini’s iconic Tosca.

New Zealand born Samoan soprano, Marlena Devoe returns following critically acclaimed performances as Mimi in La Bohème and Pamina in The Magic Flute.

Be swept away by the majesty of Puccini’s music as Oxford Opera Orchestra, under the leadership of John Warner, bring this epic human story of love, lust, loyalty, corruption, jealousy, and revenge to life.

Sung in English and featuring members of the new Oxford Opera Youth Company this is a production not to be missed!

Experience world class opera in the heart of Oxford.

Age: 12+
Duration: 165 minutes
Warning: Includes adult themes

By George Bernard Shaw

Set in the bustling streets of early 20th century London, Pygmalion tells the story of Cockney flower girl Eliza Doolittle, dreaming of a better life. Professor Henry Higgins, a brilliant but arrogant linguist bets he can transform Eliza into a ‘duchess’ by teaching her to speak properly. But as the lessons progress, both teacher and pupil discover that identity and self-worth are far more complex than mere speech and social status.

A sharp critique of the British class system, Pygmalion combines wit, humour, and social commentary, challenging audiences to reflect on the nature of transformation and the true meaning of independence. Known for inspiring the beloved musical My Fair Lady, this play invites you to ponder wouldn't it be loverly if we could all see beyond appearances.

This production by Oxford Theatre Guild breathes new life into Shaw’s beloved play, emphasising its timeless themes of self-discovery, personal growth, and the power of words. Pygmalion promises to be a memorable theatrical experience that captures the essence of Shaw’s work in a way that resonates with today’s audiences.

This fresh and captivating production marks Oxford Theatre Guild’s 70th anniversary of theatre-making in Oxford.

Age: 12+

Book & Lyrics by Tom MacRae
Music by Dan Gillespie Sells
From an idea by Jonathan Butterell
Directed by Guy Brigg MBE
Musical Director Ali Kane

Jamie New is sixteen and lives on a council estate in Sheffield. Jamie doesn’t quite fit in. Jamie wants to be a drag queen and go to the school prom in a dress. Supported by his brilliant, loving mum and surrounded by his friends, Jamie overcomes prejudice, beats the bullies and steps out of the darkness, into the spotlight.

Based on the true story of Jamie Campbell this (‘Funny, outrageous, touching’ Daily Telegraph) musical is not to be missed! With an original score of catchy pop tunes by lead singer-songwriter of The Feeling, Dan Gillespie Sells and writer Tom MacRae (Doctor Who), this sparkling musical will have everybody talking about Jamie!

Brought to you by the award-winning Musical Youth Company of Oxford, you’re guaranteed a performance packed with energy, dance and song. This is a story of community and friendship, and a celebration of everyone’s messy, fabulous uniqueness.

Age: 12+
Warning: Includes strong language, offensive terms and mild sexual references. Parental discretion is advised.
Additional Information: This amateur production is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals

What are men for? Most heavy things can be lifted by machines and most problems can be solved by computers and most puddles can be crossed without us gallantly draping our capes over them - so are we fellas of any use at all?

Award winning MAN Marcus Brigstocke thinks we might still serve some useful function. But what is it? This new tour show will resolve the entire issue once and for all (in a non-patriarchal, open minded, progressive sort of way).

DaVinci’s Vitruvian Man is the image of the ideal male form.Marcus’ Vitruvian Mango is the same, but sweeter, softer, seasonally available and, when ripe, delicately perfumed.

Age: 14+
Duration: 110 minutes
Warning: Includes strong language

Based on the book by Anna Kemp and Sara Ogilvie

A delightful dragon-tastic show for pop princesses and naughty knights.

Feisty Sue is not your everyday fairy tale superstar, in fact she’s The Worst Princess. After being rescued by her twit of a prince she’s ready to start her happy end. But first she’ll have to make friends with a dragon, escape from a tower and set the Prince’s pants on fire with her new fire-breathing bestie. Will Sue find her happily ever after?

Enjoy laugh-out-loud comedy, cool puppets, sing along pop anthems and a dazzling larger-than-life dragon as this bestselling picture book is brought to life on stage.

Age: 3+
Duration: 50 minutes

After their sell-out Red Sky at Sunrise last spring, Hambletts and Orchestra of the Swan return to bring 19th century writer George Eliot to bold and dramatic life.

This female-led show tells George Eliot’s story through her great novels, letters, journals, poetry, and journalism. Performed by acclaimed singer-songwriter SuRie and Orchestra of the Swan alongside a guest leading actress.

In tune with Eliot’s radicalism, a dazzling music programme of contemporary female singer-songwriters, including Kate Bush, PJ Harvey, FKA Twigs and Florence + the Machine, weaves around Eliot’s immortal words.

Age: 12+

Joel returns to his stand-up roots with a brand-new show. With glamorous tales from behind the camera and less glamorous anecdotes of first-time fatherhood, Joel remains a charming, exhausted, happy idiot.

As one of the nation’s most familiar faces on television, Joel has established himself as one of the UK’s most trusted and beloved presenters and a firm favourite in UK households.

As presenter of Saturday night smash-hit The Masked Singer, ITV2’s I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here: Extra Camp, BBC’s reboot of Survivor, the hugely popular quiz show InWith A Shout and the front man of the National Television Awards, Joel has also hosted BBC’s Live at the Apollo and co-hosts hit podcast, Never Have I Ever with his wife, Hannah.

Age: 14+
Duration: 110 minutes
Warning: Contains strong language and adult references

Now in its 23rd year, Cassa Pancho's Ballet Black makes its return to The Playhouse with an exciting new double bill including Pancho's darkly comic adaptation of Oyinkan Braithwaite's international bestselling novel, My Sister, The Serial Killer.

When Korede gets a distress call from her sister Ayoola, she knows what to do: bleach, rubber gloves, nerves of steel, and a strong stomach. It’s the third boyfriend Ayoola has killed in "self-defense," and the third mess Korede has to clean up. She should probably go to the police, but family comes first. Things take a turn when Ayoola begins dating the doctor Korede secretly loves, forcing Korede to choose between saving him and betraying her sister...

The double bill is completed by Brooklyn-born, award-winning choreographer Chanel DaSilva, making her British choreographic debut. Renowned for using the arts to inspire meaningful change, DaSilva has been commissioned by prestigious companies such as The Washington Ballet, Parsons Dance Company, and Dallas Black Dance Theatre, and made history as the first Black woman to choreograph for The Joffrey Ballet. In her debut for Ballet Black, DaSilva delves into the profound practice of shadow work, exploring its power to reveal our true selves. Her work is celebrated for its deep exploration of humanity and its potential to inspire transformation both within the dance world and beyond.

Age: 12+

Directed by Mike Tweddle
Performed by Hannah Barrie and Paul O’Mahony

Something wicked this way comes...

Step into a world where ambition fuels chaos and destiny spirals out of control. This bold reimagining of Shakespeare’s timeless tragedy lays bare the psyche of a man caught in the struggle between valour and deception.

When a trio of mysterious witches plants the seeds of ambition, Macbeth finds himself drawn into a dark spiral of power and betrayal. Guided by his ambitious wife, he embarks on a path of destruction that threatens to unravel both his mind and the kingdom.

With stunning visuals and a fresh interpretation, Out of Chaos explores the intersection of fate and free will, inviting audiences to witness the chilling consequences of unchecked ambition. With two award-winning actors boldly playing more than 20 roles, Shakespeare’s brutal tragedy is given new life in a haunting, breakneck adaptation which retains the intensity and intrigue of the original cautionary tale, all in 80 high-octane minutes.

Age: 11+
Duration: 80 minutes

Join multi award-winning, BAFTA-nominated writer and comedian Mark Steel for his new tour The Leopard in My House. The topic? His battle with throat cancer. A battle he is winning (thankfully) and which only his rapier wit could fashion a comedy tour show out of. Cancer has done nothing to dull Mark’s acute political observations or quash his “frankly bonkers” energy: you will laugh, you will cry, but you'll laugh again, and again, and again. The Leopard in My House is proof that this leftie, working-class, Radio 4 favourite truly deserves his place in the UK comedy pantheon.

Mark is best known for his critically-acclaimed BBC Radio 4 show Mark Steel’s in Town (now in its 13th series), as well as his hit podcast What The F*** Is Going On..?. He has also written several acclaimed books, including an adaptation of his critically acclaimed stand-up show Who Do I Think I Am? for Audible.

Age: 14+
Duration: 120 minutes
Warning: Includes strong language

While parenting teenagers, bogged down with knicker admin and considering dealing HRT on the black market, Kerry's lost her mum bag but can’t remember what was in it as she’s outsourced her memory to her phone. The life of a middle aged woman who hasn't got the bandwidth for any of this.

Kerry Godliman, comedian, actor, writer, podcaster and broadcaster, returns to the stage with her straight-talking charm and quick wit on a brand new stand-up show.

As seen on Afterlife, Whitstable Pearl, Taskmaster, Trigger Point, Live At The Apollo and more. As heard on Radio 4 and Jon Richardson’s Absolute Radio Show.

Age: 14+
Duration: 90 minutes
Warning: Includes strong language

Directed by Sean Gandini and Kati Ylä-Hokkala

Everything is not as it seems.

Juggling and Magic are like long lost sisters. So similar and yet so different.

Gandini Juggling returns to Oxford with their new show, Heka which means the Egyptian goddess of magic.

This captivating performance blurs the lines between juggling and illusion, transporting audiences to a mesmerizing realm where objects materialize, vanish, and transform. The show poses a tantalizing question: what is real, and what is simply a trick of perception?

Heka blends humour and philosophy with contemporary choreography and world-class juggling as it reimagines magic through repetition and misdirection.

Age: 8+

By Ins Choi
Directed by Esther Jun

Following hugely successful runs both in London and internationally, Kim’s Convenience is heading to Oxford Playhouse.

There’s humour and heart in every aisle...Now a global smash hit, this hilarious and heartwarming drama about a family-run Korean store that inspired the Netflix phenomenon, is written by Ins Choi, who calls the play his ‘love letter to his parents and to all first-generation immigrants who now call Canada their home.'

Age: 14+
Warning: Themes of racism are explored

The Queen and her most powerful subject, behind closed doors.

Moira Buffini’s clever and fiercely funny comedy is a fly-on-the-wall look at what might have happened when Queen Elizabeth II and Margaret Thatcher came face-to-face in the privacy of the palace.

Over the course of a decade did the Monarch and the Iron Lady ever find a common ground, or did their stiff upper lips reign supreme? This highly entertaining Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch and Theatre Nation Partnerships production explores the intense relationship between two of history’s most revered female leaders, and the legacy they each left behind.

Age: 12+
Duration: 135 minutes
Warning: Contains description of bombing

Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women was an immediate critical and commercial success. The book was inspired by Alcott’s experiences growing up and is one of the best loved novels of all time.

Experience the enduring journey of the March sisters - tomboy Jo, beautiful Meg, sensitive Beth, and spoilt Amy, as they as they navigate the challenges of the Civil War era, forging unbreakable bonds of love and family. Step into the world of sisterhood, courage, ambition and follow them as they progress into womanhood.

Still as relevant today Little Women is a celebration of women proving that women can be heroes of their own story, can be bold, persistent, self-assured to stand strong in who they are, and what they desire for themselves in their present and future.

Anne-Marie Casey’s masterful new adaptation of the classic story offers a captivating rendition of Little Women that breathes new life into a cherished classic.

The recent success of the Greta Gerwig film, the nostalgia of the classic book, combined with a beautiful adaptation provides an exciting theatrical experience guaranteed to be a night (or afternoon!) filled with laughter, tears, and a heart-warming lifting of the spirits.

Little Women stars Belinda Lang (2point4 Children, Sister Boniface Mysteries), Honeysuckle Weeks (Foyles War, Calendar Girls the Musical), Jack Ashton (Call the Midwife, The Archers) and Grace Molony (Country Girls, The Great). With Cillian Lenaghan (The Woman in the Wall); Jade Kennedy (Rebus: A Game Called Malice); Catherine Chalk (Hilma) and Imogen Elliott (Grantchester).

Written by Federico García Lorca
A new translation by Emma Nihill Alcorta

A blade sharpened. A bride wedded. A blood-feud unleashed.

Surges of hate and love blast through a rural village where blood runs hot and knives are gripped in tense fists. Under the burning Andalusian sun, a bride marries a man she doesn’t love. On the night of her wedding she must make a decision: choose tradition and live respectably, or choose love and risk it all.

Written in the summer of 1932, Lorca’s acclaimed rural tragedy is a story of arid land and tough people, where societal expectations are rigidly defined and hidden yearnings simmer under the surface of convention. From the pen of an internationally revered Spanish playwright, Blood Wedding is a masterpiece of exquisite poetry and raw human longing.

Featuring an electric new translation and a live, original score with Flamenco roots, Full Moon Theatre’s Blood Wedding punches through to the gut of our present moment, asking what happens when individual yearning batters against the walls of tradition.

Age: 14+
Warning: Contains violence and strong references to violence and injury, blood, ableist and misogynistic language, references to death.

Directed by Paul Bosco Mc Eneaney
Written by Charles Way
Puppetry Designer and Director Helen Foan

Opu, a young boy in Bengal, dreams of one day becoming an elephant trainer. When he befriends Janu, an Asian Elephant, their friendship is the first step on an adventure so huge, it spans decades and continents.

On their separate paths they face many challenges - fearsome encounters, stormy seas and strange new worlds.

Years in the future, Opu, now an old man, hears that world famous magician Harry Houdini will vanish an elephant, live on stage in New York City. Could it really be Janu, Opu’s old friend, so far from home? He too must bravely make the long journey into the unknown to find out.

This moving story of friendship, belonging and one incredible journey from Bengal to the bright lights of Broadway was named a ‘Critics Pick’ in the New York Times, hailing it an ‘alluring spectacle’.

Age: 8+
Duration: 105 minutes
Interval: Yes
Warning: Contains a gunshot and use of gun on stage, haze used throughout

A new adaptation by Alex Thomas, based on the novel by Alexandre Dumas

MCS return to ThePlayhouse stage this summer with this beloved tale of companionship and courage. With original songs, a live tavern band and breath-taking battle scenes, this is a show not to miss!

The year is 1620, and Louis XIII sits precariously on the throne of France. His court is rife with plots and intrigues, due to the machinations of Cardinal Richelieu, who seeks to bring the queen into disrepute, aided by the charming but deadly Milady de Winter.

Into this murky world springs D’Artagnan, a young man seeking his fortune in Paris. He is desperate to follow in his father’s footsteps by becoming one of the King’s elite musketeers, but must first prove his worth. Within a day of arriving in the city he has been challenged to duels by the famed swordsmen, Athos, Porthos and Aramis, and brawled with the Cardinal’s Guards. He has also met Constance, the queen’s dressmaker, who might prove the most valuable friend of all…

Age: 8+
Warning: Contains stage fighting and themes of death

Hejira will be performing works by Joni Mitchell from the period regarded by many as the pinnacle of her mature writing: the late 70s. During this era, Joni released 6 outstanding albums (beginning with Court & Spark), culminating in the live recording, Shadows And Light. It is from this period that Hejira are drawing their repertoire and the spirit of their performances.

In addition to the above, the band will also perform a couple of instrumentals over the course of the evening (by musicians, closely related to the Mitchell repertoire).

In association with The Spin

We are thrilled to welcome Aakash Odedra Company to the Main Stage with Songs of the Bulbul, a captivating new dance work inspired by the Sufi myth of a caged songbird.

Featuring choreography by Rani Khanam and music by Rushil Ranjan, this exquisite performance blends Sufi Kathak, orchestral and Indian classical traditions, and Islamic poetry.

Tracing a journey from freedom to captivity and the soul’s longing for divine love, Songs of the Bulbul explores whether we, like the caged bird, remain bound to the material world or soar toward liberation and enlightenment.

Duration: 60 minutes
Warning: This performance contains loud music and strobe effects

We’re thrilled to welcome back the hilarious Le Navet Bete, the team behind King Arthur, with their smash-hit family comedy Treasure Island!

Join Jim Lad, Long John Silver, and a host of unforgettable characters aboard the Jolly Todger for a side-splitting voyage featuring dastardly pirates, tropical islands, and a mermaid you won’t forget.

This multi award-winning comedy company from Devon, in collaboration with writer-director John Nicholson (Peepolykus, BBC Radio 4), reimagines Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic tale in a way you’ve NEVER seen before. Will they find the treasure? And does ‘X’ really mark the spot?

Age: 10+
Duration: 140 minutes
Interval: Yes
Warning: Contains comic violence, mild innuendo, strobe lighting and gunshots

Oxford Operatic Society (OXOPS) is thrilled to announce its upcoming production of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s iconic rock opera, Jesus Christ Superstar.
Audiences will be transported into the climactic final days of Jesus of Nazareth, reimagined through electrifying music and captivating performances.

Renowned for its dramatic intensity and timeless score, including hits like I Don’t Know How to Love Him and Superstar, this production promises to be a compelling exploration of love, betrayal, and sacrifice.

Vibrant community group, OXOPS invites everyone to join them for an unforgettable theatrical experience. Whether you’re a long time fan of the show or new to its remarkable legacy, this performance is bound to inspire and captivate.

Mark your calendars and prepare to witness one of the greatest stories ever told, brought to life by the passionate performers of OXOPS.

Age: 10+
Warning: On stage depiction of crucifixion and violence

Have you ever been awake in the middle of the night and thought something so smart and astute that you couldn’t wait for the world to wake up so you could tell them?

This show is that thought. In that it doesn’t make much sense and is a bit weird on reflection. Sara Pascoe is a comedian, and her children don’t sleep, and her kitchen won’t clean itself and her husband “doesn’t want to be in it”.

As seen and heard on Taskmaster, Live at the Apollo, The Great British Sewing Bee, QI, 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown, Mock the Week and co-host of Sara & Cariad’s Weirdos Book Club podcast.

Age: 14+
Duration: 120 minutes
Warning: Includes strong language

Following the success of Eddie Izzard's triple-extended performances of Hamlet in New York, Chicago, and London, this groundbreaking production promises to be an unforgettable theatrical experience.

Adapted by Mark Izzard and directed by Selina Cadell, Eddie’s performance is set to captivate audiences once again, with a raw and powerful take on Shakespeare's Hamlet. Just like her iconic Hamlet, Eddie will take the stage alone, allowing Shakespeare’s words and the power of storytelling to shine - pure, unfiltered, and electric.

Eddie’s solo performances have earned critical acclaim, including nominations for the Drama League’s Distinguished Performance Award and the Outer Critics Circle Outstanding Solo Performance Award in New York.

Ages: 9+

By Hugh Whitemore
Based on the book Alan Turing: The Enigma by Andrew Hodges
Directed by Jesse Jones

“It’s not breaking a code that matters, it’s where you go from there.”

Mastermind. Code breaker. Maverick. Arguably one of the most important and inquisitive minds of the 20th century. Alan Turing is famed for cracking the Enigma code at Bletchley Park, effectively securing victory for the Allied forces in World War Two.

From triumph to tragedy, get to know a human being who loved, lost and never stopped asking questions in a quest for truth and understanding in this new production of Hugh Whitemore’s Breaking the Code.

For the first time, taking into consideration his recent Royal pardon and the development of Turing’s law, the original play will feature new material that speaks to Turing’s lasting legacy on modern Britain.

Age: 12+
Warning: Contains adult themes

Jen Brister is Reactive - or so she's been told. Apparently you don't have to respond to every little thing around you. Finding herself in a constant state of exacerbation at the state of the world and people in general, Brister has been told she needs to chill the hell out. Can Jen find her zen? It seems unlikely to be honest…

Jen is a critically acclaimed stand-up comedian and writer, as seen on BBC's Live at the Apollo, Frankie Boyle's New World Order, QI and Mock The Week. Following a sold out 2022 tour, Jen is back on the road with her highly anticipated new show.

Age: 18+
Warning: Contains strong language

Long before the tradition of carolling, festive revellers would go house-to-house, exchanging songs for money, food and ale. Coming from the old English waes hael, ‘wassail’ is a toast wishing good.

Eliza Carthy and Jon Boden combine their considerable talents and reputations within the UK folk scene, for a nationwide wassail, wishing good health to all across key venues.

Presenting seasonal material, among a stage of illuminated Christmas trees, they will take audiences back to some of the oldest songs in the English canon, spreading good cheer and lighting up the darkest days of the year.

Book now for the fabulous festive tradition that is an Oxford Playhouse Pantomime!

Join Dick Whittington and his trusty feline companion as they set off to the city in search of fortune. Will they find the streets paved with gold and panto glitter or will the absolute booable villain King Rat put a dreary dampener on things? Find out in next year’s fantastic pantomime adventure – with sensational singing, dazzling dancing and oodles of silliness.

It’s the purrrrfect festive treat!

Age: 5 to 105!
Duration: 120 minutes