Birmingham Rep invites you on a magical journey through classic literature, enchanting tales, and historical narratives with an exquisite lineup of theatrical performances. From the eerie echoes of 'A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story' to the adventurous spirit of 'The Snowman', each production promises to captivate hearts and minds. Step into the past with 'Birdsong', explore reimagined classics like 'Pride and Prejudice* (*sort of)', and witness the transformative power of theater. Join us for an unforgettable season filled with drama, humor, and timeless stories.

Birmingham Rep: A Theatrical Journey Through Time and Tales

Birmingham Rep is set to host a diverse and captivating lineup of theatrical events from January to June 2025. The season features adaptations of classic novels, reimaginings of historical tales, and fresh, vivid storytelling brought to life on stage. From the poignant narrative of ‘Birdsong’ to the audacious retelling of 'Pride and Prejudice* (*sort of)', and the immersive world of 'Coraline', each production promises to offer a unique blend of drama, humor, and cultural reflection. Join us as we dive into the highlights of this exciting theatrical journey.

Theatre Revelations at Birmingham Rep: From Timeless Classics to Bold Adaptations

Birmingham Rep is set to dazzle audiences with an extraordinary lineup of theatrical productions. From the intense depths of war-torn narratives to the vibrant retellings of classic tales, this season promises a diverse array of performances that cater to every theatrical taste. With a mix of drama, comedy, and musical enchantment, audiences are invited to experience the multifaceted world of theater. Here's a look at what's in store, as Birmingham's Library and Repertory Theatre stages bring these stories to life.

Unfolding Stories: A Season of Theatrical Brilliance at Birmingham Rep

The Birmingham Rep is set to host an extraordinary array of theatrical performances that promise to captivate and engage audiences with their unique stories and stellar casts. Featuring productions like 'The Merchant of Venice 1936', 'The Worst Princess', 'The Shark is Broken', and 'Coraline', this season showcases a diverse range of theatrical experiences. From reimagined classics to whimsical tales and behind-the-scenes drama, these performances highlight the creativity and artistry that Birmingham Rep is renowned for.

A Theatrical Journey: From Classic Shakespeare to Contemporary Drama

The Birmingham Rep kicks off 2025 with a diverse collection of theatrical performances that promise to captivate audiences of all ages. From a Shakespearean classic reimagined in 1930s Britain to a comical princess with a twist, a behind-the-scenes look at a cinematic masterpiece, and a mysterious musical journey, each production brings something unique to the stage. Join us as we explore the creative narratives, talented casts, and the overall vibrancy that defines Birmingham Rep's offerings this year.

Birmingham Rep's 2025 Theatrical Lineup: A Blend of Classic, Comedy, and Mystery

Embark on a theatrical journey with Birmingham Rep as it brings to life an eclectic mix of productions. From a 1930s spin on 'The Merchant of Venice' to the fiery adventures of 'The Worst Princess', the chaotic creativity of 'The Shark is Broken', and the whimsical mystery of 'Coraline', each performance promises an unforgettable experience. These productions, held at the Library of Birmingham and Repertory Theatre of St. Louis, showcase not only the timelessness of classic tales but also the innovative spirit of contemporary storytelling.

Birmingham Rep: A Stage for Rediscovery and Reinvention

This spring, Birmingham Rep is set to enthrall audiences with a diverse lineup of performances that push the boundaries of traditional theatre. Kicking off with the reimagined 'The Merchant of Venice 1936', followed by the whimsical 'The Worst Princess', the chaotic yet captivating 'The Shark is Broken', and concluding with the mysterious musical 'Coraline', each event offers a unique narrative and artistic experience. With a mix of historical adaptation and contemporary storytelling, these productions promise to captivate theatre enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

Birmingham Rep's Stage Extravaganza: From Shakespearean Reimaginings to Modern Mysteries

Prepare for a theatrical ride unlike any other with Birmingham Rep's diverse lineup of productions. From the unconventional fairy tale of 'The Worst Princess' to the chaotic behind-the-scenes drama of 'The Shark is Broken' and the eerie musical adaptation of 'Coraline,' each event promises an unforgettable experience. These productions not only showcase unique narratives but also spotlight creative talents redefining storytelling. Join us as we delve into an eclectic mix of whimsy, wit, and wonder in the world of theater.

Exploring Whimsy and Drama: A Theatrical Journey with Unique Characters

There is something not quite right about the house Coraline and her parents have moved into. The roof leaks, the wallpaper is peeling off the walls, the new neighbours are a little eccentric and her parents are so busy they hardly notice her at all.

EPSG:4326

Coraline

Repertory Theatre of St. Louis Mainstage

Fade in: The open ocean, 1974. Filming is delayed…again. The lead actors – theatre veteran Robert Shaw and young Hollywood hotshots Richard Dreyfuss and Roy Scheider – are crammed into a too-small boat, entirely at the mercy of foul weather and a faulty mechanical co-star. Alcohol flows, egos collide, and tempers flare on a chaotic voyage that just might lead to cinematic magic…if it doesn’t sink them all.

The Shark is Broken

Library of Birmingham

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?

The Worst Princess

Starring Tracy-Ann Oberman (Eastenders, Doctor Who) as Shylock, Shakespeare’s classic is transported to 1930s Britain in this “striking and impactful” (Guardian) new production that “makes theatre history” (The Telegraph). It is adapted by Brigid Larmour and Tracy-Ann Oberman.

The Merchant of Venice 1936

Returning with a new look, Floella Benjamin’s award-winning and iconic book Coming to England comes to life in this joyful stage adaptation with music, storytelling and song.

Coming To England

Back by popular demand, Pride and Prejudice* (*sort of) returns to The Rep, direct from its triumph in the West End. This unique and audacious retelling of Jane Austen’s most iconic love story won the Laurence Olivier Award for Best Comedy and the Evening Standard Award.

Pride and Prejudice* (*sort of)

In pre-war France, a young Englishman, Stephen Wraysford, embarks on a passionate and dangerous affair with the beautiful Isabelle Azaire that turns their world upside down. As the war breaks out over the idyll of his former life, Stephen must lead his men through the carnage of the Battle of the Somme and through the sprawling tunnels that lie deep underground. Faced with the unprecedented horror of the war Stephen clings to the memory of Isabelle as his world explodes around him.

Birdsong

When a young boy’s snowman comes to life on Christmas Eve, the two set off on a night-time quest for adventure. They meet Father Christmas, dancing penguins, reindeer and crowds of The Snowman’s friends, but will they escape evil Jack Frost and get back home for Christmas morning?

The Snowman

Featuring an incredible lineup including: Dave Chawner (BBC, CH4, ITV), Gary Delaney (BBC Live at The Apollo, Mock The Week), Kyrah Gray (Netflix, Comedy Central Live), Tommy Sandhu* (BBC, Brownload) and Imran Yusuf* (Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow, The Imran Yusuf Show).

Live At The Rep - November

Three young, regional actresses: Saoirse, Coco and Sonia are struggling to survive in London. Their shared dream is dwindling away quicker than their bank balances. But who needs electricity? Or Netflix? Every night, through their grotty living room window, the antiheroes have a front row seat to observe the life of Instagram ‘celebrity’ Iris Montague-Willis.

Rotten

Hitchcock meets Spaghetti Western in this multi-award-winning, cinematic caper of accusations, accidents, and accents.

After he narrowly avoids an explosion, Roger – a Frenchman in 1960’s New York – throws his ordered, predictable world into chaos, chasing his would-be assassins around the globe.

The Man Who Thought He Knew Too Much

Billy and his best pal Adam are die-hard football fans. It’s how they spend every weekend, without fail. It’s their escape, their religion and their life. But when they encounter a new group of mates, they start to take their support one step further.

Why I Stuck A Flare Up My Arse For England

It’s the eve of the mayoral election, and the kids of Hamelin aren’t happy. The mayor and owner of the local pie factory has imposed a music ban, and to make matters worse, there’s a serious rat problem. But, there have been whispers of a mysterious rat catcher in town… Can this curious stranger help Hamelin to find its voice once more?

Pied Piper

This latest Rep production is brought to the stage by a world class creative team including writer and two-time Tony Award-winner Joe DiPietro (What’s New Pussycat? and Memphis) and Olivier Award-winner and three-time Tony Award-winner, Kathleen Marshall (Anything Goes and The Pajama Game).

Sinatra The Musical

This hilarious night of comedy features an incredible line-up, including: Richard Blackwood (MTV, ITV, BBC, CH4), Josh Pugh (Live at the Apollo, Mock the Week), Sukh Ojla (Mock The Week, Life Sukhs, BBC), Alex Egan (Egans Comedy) and Jo Enright (ITV, Phoenix Nights).

Live At The Rep - October

I was 23 when it came crashing into my life; without warning, just when everything was going so well, just when I was really, really happy…

A three-woman, one-woman show about Multiple Sclerosis, MS for short, not to be confused with M&S or S&M.

Bright Places

This eagerly anticipated coming-of-age story is directed and choreographed by two-time Tony Award-winner Jerry Mitchell, legendary director of blockbuster musicals including Legally Blonde, Kinky Boots, The Devil Wears Prada, Hairspray, Pretty Woman: The Musical and many more.

Becoming Nancy

For sixty years, Roger McGough has thrilled and delighted generations of readers with his irreverent, intimate and ever-original poetry.

Roger McGough

One of the most celebrated stars in British comedy, Tez Ilyas (Live At the Apollo, Mock The Week, Comedy Central, Comic Relief) and Sunday Times best selling author (Secret Diary of a British Muslim Aged 13 3⁄4) is back with his hilarious new show.

Tez Ilyas

On a rainy evening in May 1964, Granada Studios broadcast a gospel concert on a disused railway station in Manchester. For the star of the show, Sister Rosetta Tharpe, it was an opportunity to revive her gospel career. For young Brits, the chance to see the type of African American performer they’d only heard on the radio.

Glory

Birmingham Repertory Theatre

Prince Tamino falls in love with Pamina, the kidnapped daughter of the Queen of the Night, and must journey to rescue her with the help of the hapless Papageno. His quest will set him against forces of darkness and light and transform his understanding of the dream-like world in which he lives.

Directed by Royal Opera House, Glyndebourne, and Opera North regular James Hurley, this surreal tale of lovers, bird-catchers, and operatic queens offers an electrifying evening of magic, romance, and timeless music.

The Magic Flute

Declan Bennett takes us on a raw, brutal and often funny journey into the messy, turbulent world of toxic masculinity, homophobia and men’s mental health; confronting his catholic school days, discovering the gay scene in Soho and surviving the harsh bright lights of New York City.

Boy Out the City

During this session we will talk more about our upcoming access performances, and welcome questions and feedback from participants on our provision.

Access Forum

Prince Tamino falls in love with Pamina, the kidnapped daughter of the Queen of the Night, and must journey to rescue her with the help of the hapless Papageno. His quest will set him against forces of darkness and light and transform his understanding of the dream-like world in which he lives.

This gripping narrative revolves around Keloughn Douglas, a British-Caribbean Music Teacher entangled in the complexities of his aspirations for senior leadership, a burning passion for a successful music career, and his yearning to marry the love of his life.

No More Mr Nice Guy

It’s a cold Christmas Eve and mean-spirited miser Ebenezer Scrooge has an unexpected visit from the spirit of his former business partner Jacob Marley. Bound in chains as punishment for a lifetime of greed, the unearthly figure explains it isn’t too late for Scrooge to change his miserly ways in order to escape the same fate, but first he’ll have to face three more eerie encounters…

A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story

On her way to visit Nana with a basket of goodies and wearing her signature bright red coat, she sets out for what will be her most exciting adventure yet!

Little Red Riding Hood

From the shambolic final rehearsals before opening night in Weston-super-Mare, to a disastrous matinee in Ashton-under-Lyne seen entirely, and hilariously silently, from backstage, before we share their final, brilliantly catastrophic performance in Stockton-on-Tees.

Noises Off

festival of Order and Chaos

The 1947 partition of India saw millions uprooted and resulted in unspeakable violence. The partition resulted in the formation of three countries: India, West Pakistan and East Pakistan – now Pakistan and Bangladesh.

Silence

On his 15th birthday, Noble transforms into a bird. Thousands of miles away, his sister Cleo is stationed on a remote island with the British Antarctic Survey. The birds have disappeared. Noble needs to reach her.

Too Much World At Once

“I got you, and we got each other”. George and Lennie are migrants with a dream; a dream of a better life, a place where they can belong, where Lennie feels safe and George can be somebody. But this is the Great Depression, not many dreams come true in a time where a few have plenty but most have nothing. When the friends take a job on Curley’s farm, tragedy unfolds leading to a heart-breaking decision.

Of Mice & Men

On 25 Mar, Fix It: The Celebration will take place in spaces across The Rep with a host of events that look back on the Shifting the Dial project, reviewing the impact the project has made to the young men who have been part of the last three years and celebrating the end of the Lottery funded project in its current form.

Fix It The Celebration

Apphia Campbell’s moving 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

In the late 1980s, two Birmingham school friends tentatively come out: one as gay, the other – more shockingly – as an ABBA fan. Thirty years later, they reunite to form the world’s first ABBA tribute band – in drag. Can their friendship survive the tribulations of a life on the road; one full of platform boots, fake beards and a distractingly attractive stranger?

The Way Old Friends Do

As the Uni Bhangra dance team wait nervously backstage to find out if they’ve made it to Nationals, the real showdown has already begun as team mates Preeti and Mary clash over what Bhangra really means to them. Whilst Preeti believes that the team needs to stick to tradition, Mary is passionate about shaking things up to belong to today.

Bhangra Nation

Based on the timeless Christmas story by Benji Davies, The Snowflake tells the tale of a snowflake, a little girl and her Grandpa – all longing for their own special place in the world.

Birmingham Rep

12 - 22 Jun, 2025

Coraline

6 - 10 May, 2025

The Shark is Broken

Articles & News

Birmingham Rep