This upcoming season at York Theatre Royal promises an extraordinary lineup of performances and events that cater to diverse tastes and interests. From immersive dance experiences to gripping theatrical retellings, the programs have something for everyone. Highlights include the creative dance workshop 'Leaps and Bounds,' Dickens-inspired 'Ghost Stories For Christmas,' and Simon Armitage's lyrical evening with LYR. Additionally, audiences will enjoy the comedy of Stewart Lee, the enchanting tale of 'Aladdin,' and the powerful story of 'Black Is The Color Of My Voice.' Join us for a season that celebrates the arts with vibrancy and creativity.

Enriching York Theatre Royal: A Season of Dance, Drama, and Delight

York Theatre Royal is set to dazzle audiences with an array of captivating performances this season. From the return of Robin Simpson in 'Aladdin' to Simon Armitage's poetic journey with LYR, the theatre promises a rich tapestry of storytelling. This season also features the bold comedy of Stewart Lee, the poignant narrative of 'Black Is The Color Of My Voice,' and a fresh take on classical tales with Bellini's 'The Capulets & The Montagues.' Dive into an unforgettable theatrical experience that celebrates creativity, culture, and the performing arts.

York Theatre Royal's Upcoming Season: A Blend of Comedy, Drama, and Cultural Exploration

York Theatre Royal is set to be the epicenter of theatrical brilliance this February and March, hosting an exciting lineup of performances that promise to captivate audiences. From the innovative choreography of Jasmin Vardimon's 'NOW' to the musical hilarity of 'Legally Blonde,' there's something for everyone. Delight in Shakespearean reinterpretations with 'RSC First Encounters – The Tempest,' and 'Shakespeare Songs,' while exploring powerful narratives like 'Black Is The Color Of My Voice.' The season rounds off with Bellini's operatic take on 'Romeo & Juliet' and an insightful pre-show talk.

Theatrical Extravaganza at York Theatre Royal: A Celebration of Storytelling and Performance

York Theatre Royal is set to dazzle audiences worldwide with a series of captivating events throughout 2025. From comedy festivals in scenic Brighton to breathtaking ballet performances in iconic UK venues, there's something for every performing arts enthusiast. This year promises an eclectic mix of humor, dance, and theatrical flair, featuring renowned performers like Dylan Moran, Chris McCausland, and the celebrated production, Riverdance 30. Join us as we explore the highlights of these must-attend events, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all attendees.

A Journey Through Laughter and Dance: York Theatre Royal's Stellar Lineup for 2025

York Theatre Royal is set to dazzle audiences with a stellar lineup of events throughout 2025. From comedy nights in Brighton and Dunstable to captivating dance performances in Blackpool and nostalgic theatre productions in Scarborough, this season promises a rich tapestry of humor, artistry, and entertainment. Headlined by renowned comedians like Dylan Moran and Sarah Millican, and showcasing timeless classics such as 'The Nutcracker', York Theatre Royal invites you to experience the best in performing arts at iconic venues across the UK and the US.

York Theatre Royal Presents: A Season of Laughter, Dance, and Drama

Get ready for a captivating evening with York Theatre Royal at the Paramount Theatre for the Performing Arts in Austin, US on November 12, 2025. Known for their enchanting performances, York Theatre Royal promises an unforgettable night of drama and entertainment. The show begins at 20:00, so make sure to arrive early to secure the best seats. To get a sneak peek of what to expect, visit their official website or YouTube channel. Don't miss out on this exciting event! Secure your tickets now at the primary event link. See you at the theatre!

EPSG:4326

SARAH MILLICAN: LATE BLOOMER

Paramount Theatre for the Performing Arts

An Evening with The Fast Show

Connexin Live

Get ready for an unforgettable evening of performing arts! York Theatre Royal is bringing its magic to Fareham Live on November 4, 2025, at 19:30. This iconic theatre company from York, United Kingdom is known for its captivating performances that enchant audiences of all ages. Don't miss the opportunity to experience their unique blend of storytelling, drama, and creativity. For a sneak peek into what's in store, check out their YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAFGsSGM0U68ObC7ghHnXKA. Secure your tickets now at https://www.ticketmaster.co.uk/milton-jones-hamilton-fareham-04-11-2025/event/37006259E4AA68A7. See you in Fareham!

Milton Jones: Ha!Milton

Fareham Live

Direct from London's West End and their Las Vegas debut, join the fearless and fabulous Queenz for an electrifying live vocal drag-stravaganza, where Dancing Queenz and Disco Dreams collide for the ultimate celebration of pop royalty through the decades. Packed full of powerhouse talent and undeniable heart - Drag Me To The Disco is a dazzling spectacle that will have you singing, laughing, and even shedding a tear. With more sequins, surprises, and show-stopping vocals than ever before, Queenz are ready to drag you to the dance floor and serve up an unforgettable fusion of fun, glamour and Disco Divas!

Queenz: Drag Me to the Disco!

Sheffield City Hall

Paramount Theatre

Get ready for an evening of laughter and entertainment with York Theatre Royal! Join us at the Pabst Theater in Milwaukee, US on the 20th of October, 2025. The show starts at 19:30. We're bringing the best of British performing arts to the United States. Don't miss out on this unique experience. For more information and to book your tickets, visit the official event page on the Pabst Theater website. You can also check out our YouTube channel for a sneak peek of what's in store. We're excited to see you there!

Pabst Theater

Get ready for an enchanting evening of performing arts as York Theatre Royal presents a spectacular production of the timeless classic, 'The Nutcracker', on October 17, 2025. The event will take place at the majestic Scarborough Spa Grand Hall, starting at 19:30. Immerse yourself in the magical world of Clara and her Nutcracker Prince, brought to life by the talented artists of York Theatre Royal. This is a not-to-be-missed event for all theatre and ballet enthusiasts. Secure your tickets now at Ticketmaster. For a sneak peek of what's in store, visit York Theatre Royal's official YouTube channel.

Nutcracker

Scarborough Spa Grand Hall

Join us at the Connexin Live in Hull, GB on October 12, 2025, for an unforgettable evening hosted by York Theatre Royal. The event will start at 19:00. We promise a night filled with thrilling performances that will leave you in awe. Don't miss this opportunity to experience the magic of performing arts at its finest. For more insights, visit our YouTube channel. Grab your tickets now at Ticketmaster and be part of this exciting event. We look forward to welcoming you!

Russell Kane: HyperActive

Join us for an unforgettable evening of performing arts at the Burnley Mechanics, presented by the esteemed York Theatre Royal. On September 18, 2025, at 20:00, immerse yourself in a captivating performance that promises to be a highlight on Burnley's cultural calendar. Don't miss the chance to experience the magic of theatre in a unique setting. For a sneak peek of what's to come, visit our YouTube channel. Secure your tickets now at Ticketmaster and be a part of this extraordinary event. See you there!

Chris McCausland: Yonks!

Burnley Mechanics

Scarborough Spa Theatre

Join us at the Grove Theatre in Dunstable on September 8, 2025, for an unforgettable evening hosted by York Theatre Royal. The event will start at 20:00, featuring the extraordinary talent of Chris McCausland. Known for his unique blend of humor and storytelling, McCausland is sure to captivate the audience. Don't miss out on this exciting performing arts event. Grab your tickets now via the primary event link. For a sneak peek of what's to come, check out York Theatre Royal's YouTube channel. See you there!

Grove Theatre

Get ready for an unforgettable evening of performing arts! On August 20, 2025, the renowned York Theatre Royal will present a spectacular event at the Blackpool Opera House. The show begins at 19:30, promising a night full of enchanting performances that will captivate your senses. For a sneak peek of what's to come, visit their official website or YouTube channel. Don't miss this incredible opportunity to experience the magic of live theatre in one of the UK's most iconic venues. Secure your tickets now on Ticketmaster. See you in Blackpool!

Riverdance 30 - The New Generation

Blackpool Opera House

Get ready for an evening of laughter and fun as York Theatre Royal brings you the Brighton Comedy Garden on July 6th, 2025. Set in the beautiful Preston Park in Brighton, this event promises a night to remember with performances from top comedians like Dylan Moran and Lucy. Don't miss out on this opportunity to enjoy a night under the stars filled with humour and merriment. Visit York Theatre Royal's official website or YouTube channel for more information. Secure your tickets now at Ticketmaster!

Brighton Comedy Garden: Dylan Moran, Lucy Beaumont, Josh Pugh

Preston Park

Evan is constantly touring venues around the country, solo or with the band. He has recently supported Peter Doherty, The Libertines and Hak Baker. And will be playing on the Strap Originals takeover at The Great Escape in Brighton on May 14th. 

As a defiant champion of the alternative, Evan’s future might be fixed sparring in the shadows of the underground, but if he’s caught in the searchlights, armed and equipped with his constantly surprising creative talent, he’ll come out fighting and win.

Ages 18+

Evan Williams

Fulford Arms

Local schools present an evening of Shakespearean delight – The Tempest, adapted for the YTR stage. Associate Schools is run in partnership with the Royal Shakespeare Company with the ambition of bringing active rehearsal room approaches into the teaching and learning of Shakespeare.

York Associate Schools’ The Tempest

York Theatre Royal

Join ETO for a behind the scenes talk about their production of Bellini’s The Capulets & The Montagues. Hear from the performers and creatives to find out what it takes to put on their shows.

Bellini: The Capulets & The Montagues Pre-Show Talk

A tale of two households, both alike in dignity, and two lovers, doomed by the conflict between their families. Bellini’s The Capulets & the Montagues is a gritty re-working of Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet, where loyalty and love are put to the test amidst political violence, set to exquisite bel canto peratic music that brings the story’s tragedy to the fore.

Bellini: The Capulets & The Montagues

Throughout the centuries, composers have been influenced and inspired by Shakespeare’s plays and poetry. Mixing puppetry and performance in a new theatrical staging with a collection of songs inspired by Shakespeare performed by singers and a chamber ensemble, ETO’s new production tells the story of a life and all its trials and triumphs and explores the timeless appeal of Shakespeare’s words and characters to composers and audiences throughout history.

Shakespeare Songs

Apphia Campbell’s acclaimed play follows a successful singer and civil rights activist as she seeks redemption after the untimely death of her father. She reflects on the journey that took her from a young piano prodigy destined for a life in the service of the church, to a renowned jazz vocalist at the forefront of the Civil Rights Movement.

Black Is The Color Of My Voice

When Prospero escaped Milan with his daughter years ago, the chance to return didn’t ever seem possible. Now ruler of a magical island, Prospero has his chance; as the King of Naples and Prospero’s estranged sibling Antonio sail close to the island. Will Prospero take revenge, or will all be forgiven and forgotten?

RSC First Encounters – The Tempest

The award-winning musical comedy Legally Blonde comes to York, brought to life by the talented York Light Opera Company! Join Elle Woods, a sorority girl with a heart of gold, as she tackles Harvard Law School to win back her man. But Elle discovers that she’s much more than just a pretty face, and proves that you can be both blonde and brilliant.

Legally Blonde

NOW, a new creation by choreographer Jasmin Vardimon MBE, will celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Jasmin Vardimon Company. It will reflect the current moment, the present, and the continuous movement of time.



Jasmin Vardimon Company: NOW

In this brand new show, Lee shares his stage with a tough-talking werewolf comedian from the dark forests of the subconscious who hates humanity. The Man-Wulf lays down a ferocious comedy challenge to the culturally irrelevant and physically enfeebled Lee. Can the beast inside us all be silenced with the silver bullet of Lee’s unprecedentedly critically acclaimed style of stand-up?

Stewart Lee vs The Man-Wulf

Simon’s new collection of lyrics, Never Good with Horses, and recent Sunday Times best-seller Blossomise, demonstrate the rich range of his repertoire and celebrate his ear for the music of language. LYR’s blend of soaring vocal melodies and ambient instrumentation creates an evocative and enchanting soundscape for Simon’s spoken word passages.

An Evening with Simon Armitage and LYR

York favourite, Robin Simpson (Dame Trott in Jack and the Beanstalk, Mrs Smee in All New Adventures of Peter Pan and Manky in Cinderella) will be returning for another sensational show.

Aladdin

Here are three of Dickens’s Christmas ghost stories: not only A Christmas Carol, but The Chimes and The Haunted Man. Their words unlock a world teeming with goblin-infested bells – with dark and shadowy doubles – with Ghosts of Christmases Past and Present and Yet To Come. These tales chill the marrow and tickle the funny bone, but always they enchant, as only the works of a master storyteller can.

Ghost Stories For Christmas

What (yoghurt and) banana skins await Ivo next? No ball games, no blind alleys, no backstage printers this year: just one of the best stand-ups of his generation back to prove he’s not just Taskmaster’s yardstick for failure but “on this form, as funny as anyone in town.” (The Times).

Ivo Graham: Grand Design

Richard III was King of England from 1483 until his death in 1485 at the age of 32. He was killed at the Battle of Bosworth  (22 August 1485). He was the last King of the House of York and the last of the Plantagenet dynasty. His defeat at Bosworth was the penultimate battle in the Wars of the Roses and ushered in the Tudor dynasty.

A Voice for King Richard III

Once you have bought your ticket, you will be emailed the full details of how to access the livestream in the week leading up to the event.

Richard III was King of England from 1483 until his death in 1485 at the age of 32. He was killed at the Battle of Bosworth  (22 August 1485). He was the last King of the House of York and the last of the Plantagenet dynasty. His defeat at Bosworth was the penultimate battle in the Wars of the Roses and ushered in the Tudor dynasty.

A Voice for King Richard III: Livestream

Everyone is flocking north, every ale house is packed with the great and the bad. Yorkshire is the place to be; a region drunk on making money, social climbing, gambling and gin, but with wealth in abundance, the temptation is great.

The Highwayman is a thrilling theatrical adventure coming from the region where Turpin was caught and Nevison made his great leap! Godber’s Highwayman is visceral, venal and very funny. History has never felt so modern, theft never more attractive. The Highwayman’s creed is simple; look after number one and to hell with the hangman!

The Highwayman

Charles Ignatius Sancho – born on a slave ship on the Atlantic Ocean in 1729, he became a writer, composer, shopkeeper and respected ‘man of letters’ in 18th century London – the first man of African Heritage to vote in Britain.

Sancho & Me is an unmissable storytelling by Paterson Joseph, accompanied by co-creator and musical director Ben Park and delivered directly to the audience and built around Paterson’s recent novel The Secret Diaries of Charles Ignatius Sancho.

Sancho & Me

Showcasing and celebrating dance in schools and community settings across Yorkshire. A chance for young people to shine and share their creativity with a live audience and immerse themselves in all things dance. Created by Dance Space Projects in partnership with Children’s and Young People’s Dance Network North , York Dance Space, Yorkshire Dance and Northern School of Contemporary Dance.

Everybody Dance Festival

Crafty Tales is a weekly craft and storytelling session run by professional theatre makers, Cassie and Janet of Story Craft Theatre. Each session starts with big hellos, warm-up games and songs, followed by crafting altogether and then into the interactive storytelling. Watch your little one’s confidence, language and social skills grow, week by week, as they discover a wider world through story.

Crafty Tales Autumn 2024

A fun and friendly introduction to dancing led by York Dance Space! Explore moving together using a variety of dance styles, stories, creative play and imagination. You will need to wear comfy clothes to move in, bring a water bottle, we encourage people to dance in bare feet although socks are fine too but may be slippy.

Leaps and Bounds

Direct from its triumph in the West End where it won the Laurence Olivier Award for Best Comedy, Pride and Prejudice* (*sort of) is a 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.

Pride and Prejudice* 

Join children’s TV superstar Andy Day and bestselling illustrator Steven Lenton for a fun-filled show to celebrate their new Dino Dad series and the second exciting instalment Dino Dad: Ice Age, published by Puffin Books. With music, quizzes and a live draw-along, the Dino Dad show is a must for any dino-lover.

Meet Dino Dad! With Andy Day & Steven Lenton

One of York’s newest stage companies York Actors Collective make their debut at York Theatre Royal in the Studio with a revival of the J M Barrie drama Mary Rose from 30 October to 2 November.

Mary Rose

Olivier Award-winner Sally Cookson (A Monster Calls) directs the critically acclaimed Bristol Old Vic production of Wonder Boy by Ross Willis, a heart-warming and inspiring story about the power of communication.

Wonder Boy

Join York’s own Internationally Award Winning Burlesque Artist Freida Nipples as she welcomes some of her favourite and most fabulous performance artists from across the UK and further afield to YTR this Halloween.

This Halloween edition brings Burlesque, Drag and beyond- so be sure to expect the unexpected. Get ready to be dazzled, shocked and in awe by these performers. Only a few things are guaranteed: glamour, gags and giggles.

Freida Nipples presents…The Exhibitionists : Halloween Edition

Genetic code, AI and choreography merge in a work that re-imagines and remakes itself anew for every performance.

Throughout his career, Wayne McGregor has made choreography that interrogates life through the experience of the body in its multifaceted relationship with technology.

Company Wayne McGregor Autobiography

The debut show from comedian Pete Selwood (As seen on Comedy Central Live, The Emily Atack Show, Radio 4) Uninspiring is a stand up show about the pitfalls of being a disabled man coming to terms with his limitations after becoming a parent. Recently seen at York Theatre Royal supporting Guz Khan and regular tour support for Jack Carroll.

Pete Selwood: Uninspiring

The Signal-Man is one of the most powerful ghost stories of all time and certainly the most frightening ever written by Charles Dickens. It is paired here with The Trial for Murder, in which Dickens treats the supernatural with just as much terrifying gravity.

The Signal-Man

York Medical Society

Since 2014 the band have appeared in many forms, to delight and entertain on the streets, in clubs, castles, tipis, tapas bars, stately homes and even on film sets. This October they finally set foot in York Theatre Royal with the outstanding Will Dreyfus fronting the band. Prepare for a unique fusion of irreverent covers, folk instruments, and punk energy playing pop bangers: a one-of-a-kind musical journey.

Hyde Family Jam

Riverdance 30

The Brighton Centre

Join us for a night of enchantment and allure at the Scarborough Spa Theatre on February 7, 2026, hosted by the York Theatre Royal. Experience an evening of Burlesque, a vibrant blend of cabaret and theatre that promises to captivate and entertain. As the lights dim at 19:30, prepare to be whisked away into a world of glitz, glamour, and tantalizing performances. Don't miss this spectacular event that will leave you mesmerized and wanting more. For tickets, visit the provided link. Also, get a sneak peek of what's to come on our YouTube channel. See you there!

An Evening of Burlesque

Mark your calendars for an unforgettable experience at Fareham Live! On February 28, 2026, York Theatre Royal will be presenting a captivating performing arts event. Known for their diverse and engaging productions, York Theatre Royal promises an event that will enthral audiences. The event will start at 12:30 PM in Fareham, GB. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to be part of the vibrant York Theatre Royal community. For more information and ticket bookings, visit the primary event link. You can also explore their official website and YouTube channel for more on their past and upcoming events.

Mark your calendars for a captivating evening at the Wycombe Swan Theatre on March 21, 2026, brought to you by the York Theatre Royal. This enchanting event features 'Ross Noble: Cranium of Curiosities', a mesmerizing performance that promises to leave you spellbound. Set in the charming city of High Wycombe, UK, the show commences at 20:00. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to experience the magic of performing arts at its finest. For more information and ticket booking, visit the official event link. You can also explore York Theatre Royal's YouTube channel for a sneak peek into the world of theatre they offer. See you there!

Ross Noble: Cranium Of Curiosities

Wycombe Swan Theatre

Get ready for an unforgettable evening of laughter and entertainment as York Theatre Royal presents a spectacular show at Vicar Street in Dublin, Ireland on May 2, 2026. The evening will kick off at 8:00 PM with a performance by the talented Chris McCausland. Known for his unique style and captivating stage presence, McCausland promises an event filled with humor and unforgettable moments. Don't miss this chance to experience a top-tier performance from one of the UK's finest talents. Book your tickets now on Ticketmaster. For more information, visit yorktheatreroyal.co.uk or the theatre's official YouTube channel.

York Theatre Royal

6 - 7 Dec, 2025

Riverdance 30

Feb 7, 2026

An Evening of Burlesque

Feb 28, 2026

Chris McCausland: Yonks!

Mar 21, 2026

Ross Noble: Cranium Of Curiosities

May 2, 2026

Chris McCausland

12 - 13 Nov, 2025

SARAH MILLICAN: LATE BLOOMER

Nov 7, 2025

An Evening with The Fast Show

Articles & News

York Theatre Royal