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

A Marlowe Theatre production

Written by Amy Rosenthal

Directed by Richard Beecham

Set Design by Simon Kenny

The sensational story of the Mitford sisters.

The glamorous Mitford girls cut a glorious swathe through pre-war high society, amidst the glittering world of debutantes and dukes. But as Fascism rises and political storm clouds crackle over carefree country houses, the bonds of sisterhood are threatened by new and treacherous desires.

Amy Rosenthal's compelling, touching and witty new play explores the true story of a family riven by political extremism, seen through the eyes of Jessica (Decca) Mitford as she battles to stay true to her beliefs.

Nancy aspires to be a celebrated novelist, Diana and Unity fall for the dangerous, charismatic leaders of the Far Right in Britain and Germany, and Debo sets her cap at a Duke. Meanwhile Decca crosses continents in her own passionate pursuit of love – but can she ever escape her sisters and her past?

Age: 12+
Duration: 2hrs
Warning: This production contains a gunshot. The play contains a reference to suicide and explores the theme of antisemitism.

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

Presented by Theatre Royal Bath Productions

By Jane Austen, Adapted by Ryan Craig

“I am going to take a heroine whom no one but myself will much like.”

This autumn, we celebrate Jane Austen’s 250th anniversary with a sparkling new stage adaptation of Emma. This witty and beloved comedy of manners is produced by the Theatre Royal Bath - the city synonymous with so many of Austen’s stories.

Headstrong and high-spirited, Emma Woodhouse - handsome, clever, and rich - has sworn never to marry. Instead, she delights in meddling in the romantic lives of those around her. But as her matchmaking schemes unfold, could she find herself caught in love’s wake?

Filled with Austen’s unforgettable characters - Mr. Knightley, Jane Fairfax, Harriet Smith, and the delightfully pretentious Augusta Elton. This special 250th anniversary production is adapted by Ryan Craig, whose acclaimed work includes plays for the National Theatre, Hampstead Theatre, and the bestselling stage adaptation of 1984.

Age: 12+

Peppa Pig and friends are back in their brand new live stage show!

With a new arrival on the way the whole family are busy getting ready. With building and decorating work to be done it’s an oinktastic makeover and Peppa Pig, Mummy Pig, Daddy Pig & George all need your help to get everything ready before the big day. There’s so much to do – will they get it all finished in time?

Peppa Pig’s Big Family Show is packed full of music, adventure and surprises for little ones, and is set to delight audiences across the UK.

A brand-new show about extinct, gigantic, charismatic megafauna from three-time Edinburgh Comedy Award nominee and very good comedian Josie Long.

In these troubled times, in this wicked world, it can feel like the apocalypse is everywhere. But did you know that 11,000 years ago, there were armadillos the size of cars? Really big. And they were vegetarian, so don’t even worry about them. Also, my daughter has a hamster.

Josie takes to our stage with a show about discovery, wonder, extinction, and how to navigate a landscape of monstrous disaster. Plus, at least one genuinely useful tip about silt, guaranteed.

Age: 14+
Warning: Includes strong language

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