Immerse yourself in a world of enchanting performances at The Marlowe Theatre, Canterbury, as it hosts a spectacular lineup of events. From the magical pantomime 'Beauty and the Beast' featuring Maisie Smith, to the vibrant musical 'Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat' starring Joe McElderry, this season promises a captivating blend of drama, music, and festive cheer. With shows like 'Philharmonia Orchestra: Brass At Christmas' and the heartwarming 'Dear Evan Hansen,' there is something for everyone to enjoy. Join us for an unforgettable theatrical experience!

A Theatrical Feast: Upcoming Highlights at The Marlowe Theatre

The Marlowe Theatre in Canterbury is set to host a series of enthralling events from musicals to orchestras, and comedy to dance, each showcasing diverse talents and captivating performances. The line-up includes the vibrant 'Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat' featuring Joe McElderry, the poignant 'Dear Evan Hansen', and a live orchestral experience with the Philharmonia Orchestra. With performances spanning from classic plays to modern-day musicals and avant-garde dance, the theatre promises a rich cultural experience for all attendees.

Unveiling Canterbury's Cultural Tapestry: A Theatrical Journey at The Marlowe Theatre

Get ready for a cultural spectacular at The Marlowe Theatre this March! From Jazz Emu's musical extravaganza 'Knight Fever' to the avant-garde dance performance 'Dragons' by Eun-Me Ahn Dance Company, there's something for everyone. Witness the historical drama 'A Man for All Seasons', the comedic brilliance of 'The Shark is Broken', and the iconic musical 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang'. With tribute performances from Ben Portsmouth as Elvis and Jason Donovan celebrating his illustrious career, the stage is set for unforgettable performances. And, don't miss the dance sensations Giovanni Pernice, Karen Hauer, and Gorka Marquez lighting up the floor.

March Marlowe Marvels: A Diverse Celebration of Arts and Culture

March through May 2025 promises to be an extraordinary season at the Marlowe Theatre in Canterbury, UK. With a diverse array of performances, including Jason Donovan's vibrant tour, the sizzling dance showcase of Karen Hauer and Gorka Marquez, and a dynamic revival of 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang,' audiences are in for a treat. Whether you're a fan of musicals, orchestral brilliance, or ballet's timeless elegance, this season encapsulates the heart of performing arts, promising unforgettable experiences for all.

A Kaleidoscope of Culture: Unveiling Marlowe Theatre's Spectacular Line-Up

The Marlowe Theatre in Canterbury is set to host a stunning variety of performances throughout March and April 2025. From the legendary Ben Portsmouth's Elvis tribute to the enchanting ballet of Giovanni Pernice and the musical magic of Jason Donovan, there's something for everyone. Dance enthusiasts can look forward to Karen Hauer and Gorka Marquez's Speakeasy, and families will enjoy the classic Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. This season promises to be a vibrant celebration of music, dance, and theater, reaching a crescendo with orchestral performances and Shakespeare-inspired productions.

A Cultural Extravaganza: Unmissable Performances at The Marlowe Theatre

Don't miss our spectacular family pantomime, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs!

Starring an amazing cast including Sarah Hadland (Miranda, Strictly Come Dancing, original cast of Horrible Histories), childrenʼs favourite Phil Gallagher (Mister Maker), Marlowe legend Ben Roddy (winner of Best Dame at the Pantomime Awards 2024), Marc Pickering (winner of Best Supporting Artist at the Pantomime Awards 2024) and Mia Kobayashi (WhatsOnStage Award nominee for Best Professional Debut 2025).

Once again, the show will be written and directed by Paul Hendy, (winner of Best Script at the Pantomime Awards 2024), and produced by the Marlowe Theatre and Evolution Productions, the same award-winning team that brought you the five-star box office smash-hits Aladdin and Beauty and the Beast.

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs

Marlowe Theatre

From humble beginnings in Nutbush, Tennessee, to her triumphant transformation into a multi award-winning global superstar, Tina Turner didn’t just break the rules, she rewrote them, winning 12 Grammy Awards and selling more concert tickets than any other solo performer in music history.

TINA - The Tina Turner Musical

Dare to experience the dangers and delights of Dinosaur World Live in this roarsome interactive show for all the family as the Olivier award-winning production returns to Canterbury!

Dinosaur World Live

After building his reputation as part of Squeeze, in 1987, Jools formed The Jools Holland Big Band which gradually metamorphosed into the current 19-piece Jools Holland and his Rhythm and Blues Orchestra.

Jools Holland and his Rhythm and Blues Orchestra

Step through the wardrobe into the magic kingdom of Narnia where a world of wonder awaits.

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

Ready to thrill you with fun and naught moments, Richard O’Brien’s legendary musical returns to Canterbury as part of a new world tour.

The Rocky Horror Show

This is a dynamic new dance show-with-a-difference created by BAFTA award recipient and world-renowned choreographer Jason Gilkison. Red Hot and Ready builds on the acclaimed performance legacy created by the global dance sensation Burn the Floor which has wowed audiences for over two decades.

Dianne & Vito: Red Hot and Ready

The Broadway and West End sensation, Kinky Boots the Musical, is strutting back to Canterbury in a brand-new production starring Strictly Come Dancing’s Johannes Radebe, WhatsOnStage Award-winner Courtney Bowman and rising star Dan Partridge.

Kinky Boots The Musical

Cameron is thirteen, and all he wants is to be normal – have friends, go to school, and dive to the bottom of his local swimming pool. But he desperately needs a heart transplant and time is running out. When he’s finally offered a new heart, Cameron must choose how far he’ll go to get his life back.

Pig Heart Boy

Gosh almighty! Based on the much-loved Doris Day movie, this plumb fancy new production stars the multi-award-winning West End actor and singer Carrie Hope Fletcher (Cinderella, Les Misérables) as the fearless, gun slingin’ Calamity Jane.

Calamity Jane

Nikita is joined by a sharp and chic cast of talented dancers and vocalists in a show like no other, jam-packed with the hits we all know and love in an evening bursting with happiness, euphoria and of course, world-class dance.

Nikita Kuzmin: Midnight Dancer

Transport yourself to the golden age of Hollywood with Erich Wolfgang Korngold’s Violin Concerto. Korngold made his name as one of the most influential film music composers of all time. His Violin Concerto borrows music from several of his film scores. Tonight it is in the hands of Gramophone’s 2022 Young Artist of the Year: Swedish-Norwegian virtuoso, Johan Dalene.

Philharmonia Orchestra: Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 6

Murder, greed, corruption, exploitation, adultery and treachery… all those things we hold near and dear to our hearts. So begins the international multi-award-winning musical, Chicago.

Chicago

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.

Pride and Prejudice* (*Sort of)

Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake caused a sensation when it premiered almost 30 years ago. It has now become the most successful dance theatre production of all time, creating new audiences and inspiring generations of young dancers. In celebration of that ongoing impact, Swan Lake will take flight once more in a major new revival for the next generation of dancers, and for audiences who will experience it for the very first time.

Swan Lake

The first woman to conduct London’s Last Night of the Proms and to serve as the head of a major orchestra in Britain, the United States, South America and Austria, Marin Alsop is one of the most powerful and inspiring conductors of our time. We are lucky enough to witness Marin conduct as the Philharmonia’s Principal Guest Conductor in this wonderful concert full of iconic music.

Philharmonia Orchestra: Marin Alsop & Jeneba Kanneh-Mason

Italian composer, Vincenzo Bellini’s The Capulets and the Montagues (I Capuleti e i Montecchi) is a gritty re-working of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Loyalty and love are put to the test amidst political violence, set to exquisite ‘bel canto’ (literally meaning beautiful singing) operatic music that brings the story’s tragedy to the fore.

Bellini's The Capulets and the Montagues

Alongside The Capulets and the Montagues in our Main House, ETO continue to bring us a Shakespeare-inspired season with Shakespeare Songs, a collection of Shakespeare-inspired songs taking us through the centuries up to the present day.

Shakespeare Songs

Puck does. It’s been a while since A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Athens is changing. The forest is being chopped down, and as each tree vanishes, more magic disappears from the land. It’s time to find Oberon and Titania and restore the beauty of the forest.

The Vanishing Forest

The landmark, record-breaking television series Only Fools and Horses celebrates its 40th anniversary! Written by the late, great John Sullivan, the critically acclaimed home-grown British musical spectacular is the UK’s funniest show!

Only Fools and Horses the Musical

A brand-new production of this much-loved family favourite stars Liam Fox (Emmerdale) as Grandpa Potts. Directed by Thom Southerland (Titanic, Parade), choreographed by Karen Bruce (BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing, The Bodyguard) and designed by Morgan Large (Newsies, Joseph and the Technicolor Dreamcoat), this ravishing award-winning musical is bursting with unforgettable songs by the Sherman Brothers including Toot Sweets, Hushabye Mountain, Truly Scrumptious and of course the Academy Award-nominated title song, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang

Mamba, Salsa, Charleston, Foxtrot, Salsa the night away with our electrifying cast of world class dance talent, vocalists and musicians.

Karen Hauer and Gorka Marquez: Speakeasy

Jason Donovan’s Doin’ Fine 25 tour, is a spectacular celebration of his remarkable career in music, theatre, film and TV. This exciting tour will take fans on a journey through 35 years of hits on stage and screen via Jason’s energetic and unique live performance style.

Jason Donovan: Doin' Fine 25

The 2021 Strictly champion and BAFTA winner will be taking to the stage once again with his company of world class performers.

Giovanni Pernice: The Last Dance

With global success in over 20 countries including sellout performances on the same Vegas stage as Elvis, to London’s West End, you won’t want to miss Ben Portsmouth: This is Elvis, at the Marlowe Theatre.

Ben Portsmouth: This is Elvis

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. 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

Robert Bolt’s classic play of power and conscience set in the Tudor Court of Henry VIII stars Martin Shaw as Sir Thomas More – scholar, ambassador, Lord Chancellor and friend to King Henry VIII. Above all, he is a man of integrity, loved by the common people and his own family.

A Man for all Seasons

Dragons by avant-garde South Korean choreographer Eun-Me Ahn brings together modern and traditional dance styles from across Asia.

Eun-Me Ahn Dance Company: Dragons

Musical supernova Jazz Emu will be bringing his brand-new show, Knight Fever, alongside his full live band, ‘The Cosmique Perfectión’ to the Marlowe Studio. Following his run at the Soho Theatre and Edinburgh Festival Fringe, this tour will feature brand new songs, and an appearance from the King himself.

Jazz Emu: Knight Fever

The Philharmonia’s impressive recording catalogue includes a huge variety of film scores – you’ve probably heard our players before at the cinema or on TV, without even realising. Tonight, we swap the screen for the stage in a concert showing off the versatility of our musicians.

Philharmonia Orchestra: Philharmonia At The Movies

Fresh from her victory as the winner of Britain’s Got Talent 2024, Sydnie Christmas is thrilled to announce the My Way Tour, her debut UK tour.

Sydnie Christmas: My Way Tour

In this brand new show, Lee shares his stage with a tough-talking werewolf comedian from the dark forests of North America 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

Celebrating over 50 years since the formation of the legendary West Coast Country Rock band The Eagles in 1971, The Illegal Eagles make a welcome return to Canterbury with a brand-new production, promising more of their trademark musical prowess, acute attention to detail and incredible showmanship.

The Illegal Eagles

Meet Evan: an anxious high school kid who wants nothing more than to fit in. The thing is, on his way to fitting in, he didn’t tell the whole truth. And now must give up on a life he never dreamt he’d have. As events spiral and the truth comes out, Evan faces a reckoning with himself and everyone around him.

Dear Evan Hansen

Starring X-Factor winner Joe McElderry as the roof-raising Pharaoh, the smash-hit London Palladium production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat comes to Canterbury in January!

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

Like mulled wine and mince pies, Christmastime and brass music go hand in hand. Back by popular demand, tonight, the Philharmonia’s dazzling brass players take the spotlight in this carefully curated programme of carols, festive favourites and more. Whether you’re in the spirit already or you need a bit of Christmas magic, we guarantee you’ll be leaving the concert feeling jolly.

Philharmonia Orchestra: Brass At Christmas

When a young girl finds a little star that has fallen from the sky, she decides to look after it, giving it the love, time and care that the star needs to get its sparkle back.

My Pet Star

Don’t miss our spectacular magical pantomime Beauty and the Beast, starring Maisie Smith (EastEnders, Strictly Come Dancing, Strictly Ballroom: the Musical), children’s favourite, Phil Gallagher (CBeebies’ Mister Maker), and Marlowe Theatre Legend, Ben Roddy. They will be joined by children’s TV stars Richard David-Caine (Horrible Histories) and Tyler Collins (Swashbuckle), along with West End superstars Jocasta Almgill (Dreamgirls, & Juliet) and Joseph Hewlett (Madagascar the Musical).

Beauty and the Beast

Winner of four Olivier Awards including Best New Musical in London and the Tony Award for Best Direction of a Musical on Broadway, this smash-hit show shares the incredible real-life story of the 7,000 air passengers who were grounded in Canada during the wake of 9/11, and the small Newfoundland community that invited these ‘come from aways’ into their lives with open hearts.

Come From Away

A Cuban take on the favourite festive classic, Carlos Acosta’s brand-new production Nutcracker in Havana explodes onto the Marlowe Theatre stage, featuring new choreography by Carlos Acosta CBE performed by more than 20 dancers from his Cuban company, Acosta Danza.

Carlos Acosta’s Nutcracker in Havana

Having sold over 15 million albums in the UK alone, 10cc have eleven Top 10 hits to their name, including three No 1 singles – Rubber Bullets, Dreadlock Holiday and the ubiquitous I’m Not In Love – along with Donna (No 2), Art for Art’s Sake and Good Morning Judge (both reaching 5), The Things We Do for Love and I’m Mandy Fly Me (No 6), and The Wall Street Shuffle (No 10).

10cc: The Ultimate Greatest Hits Tour

The National Theatre’s acclaimed production returns in an all-new UK tour. War Horse is an unforgettable theatrical experience which takes audiences on an extraordinary journey from the fields of rural Devon to the trenches of First World War France. Based on the beloved novel by Michael Morpurgo, this powerfully moving and imaginative drama, filled with stirring music and songs, is a show of phenomenal inventiveness. At its heart are astonishing life-sized horses by South Africa’s Handspring Puppet Company, who bring breathing, galloping, charging horses to thrilling life on stage.

War Horse

Get whisked away on a fabulous journey as Juliet ditches her famous ending for a fresh beginning and a second chance at life and love – her way. Created by the Emmy-winning writer from Schitt’s Creek this hilarious new musical flips the script on the greatest love story ever told.

& Juliet

Adapted by Christopher Gable and Massimo Moricone, Romeo and Juliet is one of Northern Ballet’s most beloved and critically acclaimed productions. Every leap, every turn, every heartbeat breathes new life into Shakespeare’s masterpiece and invites you to rediscover the iconic love story like it’s the very first time.

Romeo and Juliet

Winter 1934 and an avalanche stops The Orient Express dead in its tracks. A murder. A train full of suspects. An impossible case. Trapped in the snow with a killer still on-board, can the world’s most famous detective, Hercule Poirot, crack the case before the train reaches its final destination?

Murder on the Orient Express

Arguably the most recognisable West End performer of her generation, author, actress, vlogger and award-winning sensation Carrie Hope Fletcher is heading back out on the road in Autumn of this year!

Carrie Hope Fletcher: Love Letters

The Philharmonia’s Finnish Principal Conductor Santtu-Matias Rouvali is at home in this repertoire, framing Grieg’s concerto with music by his compatriot Sibelius. First, enjoy Sibelius’s musical depiction of the Oceanides, sea-nymphs of Greek mythology – one of his most loved works.

Philharmonia Orchestra: Stephen Hough Plays Grieg

Star of his own Netflix special Philly Philly Wang Wang, where he explores race, romance, politics and his mixed British-Malaysian heritage, we will be treated to a headline set from Phil Wang. Phil has been a firm favourite of shows including Live at the Apollo, Taskmaster, The Graham Norton Show and many more.

Live at the Marlowe

A dance, music, fashion and visual art creation that showcases the depth of ancient Yoruba philosophy, mixed with Nigerian youth culture and its pure and uncompromising joy. Ten young dancers and two musicians perform the cycle of life with explosive energy, marked by the urban chaos of the Nigerian city of Lagos.

Qudus Onikeku: The QDance Company

The nation’s twelfth-favourite doctor brings his brand-new show to Canterbury, fresh from a record-breaking run at the Edinburgh Fringe. This is Going to Hurt was a literary sensation, selling three million copies and becoming a multi-BAFTA-winning BBC series.

Adam Kay: Undoctored

Celebrating 40 years of iconic and chart-topping compilation albums, this brand-new musical comedy has an unbeatable 80s soundtrack and show-stopping direction and choreography by Strictly Come Dancing’s Craig Revel Horwood. This is an event you won’t want to miss.

NOW That's What I Call a Musical

Slow and steady wins the race.

Two unlikely friends, the Hare and the Tortoise, meet for the greatest race on earth. A nail-biting, seconds-ticking, medal-winning contest to decide who is the quickest: the excitable Hare or the wise Tortoise.

The story bursts to life in sunny spring, moves through a playful summer, and ends in the snowy frost of winter.

This charming adaptation of Aesop’s fable is brought to life by Tutti Frutti Productions, with fun, live music, unforgettable songs and delightful characters.

Hare and Tortoise

Enjoy a programme curated and introduced by Philharmonia trombonist Philip White, including arrangements of Christmas songs, carols, seasonal classics and more. Join our fantastic brass players – with a bit of help from our percussionists – for an evening where they celebrate and show us everything their instruments can do.

Whether you’re a lover of Christmas or a self-proclaimed Scrooge, we guarantee you’ll leave this concert feeling a little more festive.

Philharmonia Brass at Christmas

The players of the Philharmonia are experts in the recording studio, being many film composers’ first choice for their movie soundtracks. Tonight, you can see those experts live on stage in a handpicked selection of film music favourites. Expect memorable melodies from beloved British classics including Mary Poppins, Wallace & Gromit, Harry Potter and many more.

Philharmonia at the Movies: Best Of British

On board a luxurious cruise under the heat of the Egyptian sun, a couple’s idyllic honeymoon is cut short by a brutal murder. As secrets that have been buried in the sands of time finally resurface, can the world-famous detective, Hercule Poirot, untangle the web of lies and solve another crime?

Following the sell-out tour of Murder on the Orient Express, this thrilling production reunites writer Ken Ludwig, director Lucy Bailey (Witness for the Prosecution) and Fiery Angel.

Death on the Nile

After performing his smash-hit show Horizons to nearly half a million people across the world, Professor Brian Cox is back warming up for his next tour. Join him for an intimate evening where you get exclusive access to his latest live show.

Professor Brian Cox: Warm Up

A moving celebration of the music, life, and the band that changed it all.

Following a phenomenal two years in the West End and a sensational first UK and Ireland tour, the “indisputably terrific” (The Times) Olivier Award-winning best new musical, charting the euphoric highs and agonizing lows of THE KINKS, is back!

Sunny Afternoon

Divorced. Beheaded. Live!

The international smash-hit musical SIX makes its royal return to Canterbury following its previous sell out success!

From Tudor Queens to Pop Princesses, the six wives of Henry VIII take to the mic to tell their tales, remixing five hundred years of historical heartbreak into an 80-minute celebration of 21st century girl power. These Queens may have green sleeves but their lipstick is rebellious red.

Winner of over 35 international awards including Tony Awards for ‘Best Original Score’ and ‘Best Costume Design’. Boasting a Gold-Disk winning album, this sell-out Tudor take-off has wowed audiences from the West End to Broadway, with ‘an incredibly strong and powerful message’ (The Australian) and is ‘pure entertainment’ (New York Times).

A sharp-nosed return to stand-up.

Arctic Monkeys’ album Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not hit the shelves in January 2006. Tracks like I Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor and When the Sun Goes Down became anthems, showcasing Alex Turner’s sharp lyrics and observational storytelling.

Now, in 2026, Tom Rosenthal takes to the stage with his brand-new show, Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I Am. Jokes like Wimbledon, Daniel Radcliffe and Some Weather We’re Having have the potential to become classics, showcasing Rosenthal’s sharp nose and observational squawking.

Tom Rosenthal: Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I Am

Bringing together modern dance and the ancient heartbeat of Ireland.

Described as “90 minutes of ritualised ecstasy” by The Irish Times, this visionary piece playfully and provocatively takes you on an otherworldly journey steeped in the landscape and culture of West Kerry in Ireland.

MÁM sees 12 fearless dancers summon a whirlwind of myth and magic, moved by the collaborative music making of virtuoso Irish traditional concertina player Cormac Begley and European classical contemporary collective s t a r g a z e, performed live on stage.

MÁM

A guaranteed Christmas catastrophe from multi-award-winning company Mischief.

The Cornley Amateur Drama Society are back with tidings of chaos and joy, ready to tackle the Charles Dickens’ classic, A Christmas Carol.

A new production of Christmas Carol Goes Wrong smashes into the Marlowe Theatre, direct from a strictly limited 8-week West End run. Don’t miss this guaranteed Christmas catastrophe from Mischief, the multi award-winning company behind The Play that goes Wrong, Peter Pan goes Wrong and The Comedy About a Bank Robbery.

As the Cornley crew hilariously battle miscommunication, delays to their set, actors missing in action and a growing feud over who will play the lead, it’s sure to be a disastrous take on the much-loved classic Christmas story of Ebenezer Scrooge. Will Cornley finally change their ways, or will their misfortunes wreak havoc with hysterical consequences.

Christmas Carol Goes Wrong

Renad, a young Gazan girl, embarks on a dangerous journey. Carrying only the echoes of her grandmother’s tales and the spark of her own imagination, she searches for her family and the ‘Anqaa’ – the mythical Palestinian Phoenix.

A Grain of Sand is a one-woman show that takes an intimate look at war through the eyes of a child, blending Palestinian folklore with real-life testimonies from children in contemporary Gaza.

A Grain of Sand

Aaron Sorkin’s riveting, award-winning stage adaptation of the seminal American novel about racial injustice and childhood innocence became a Broadway and West End sensation with star-studded sell-out seasons on both sides of the Atlantic. Now the iconic play comes to Canterbury.

Successful lawyer, Atticus Finch, encourages kindness and empathy in his children, but is pushed to the limits of these qualities himself when he resolves to uncover the truth in a town that seems determined to hide it.Set in 1934 Alabama, To Kill a Mockingbird was inspired by novelist Harper Lee’s own childhood and has sold more than 45 million copies worldwide. It won the Pulitzer Prize for Literature and was long at the top of the banned book lists.

Oscar winning writer Aaron Sorkin’s stage adaptation of To Kill a Mockingbird is paired with Bartlett Sher’s visionary direction. Aaron Sorkin has had many years of great success on stage and screen. He is perhaps best known as the creator and screenwriter of hit TV series The West Wing, and as the screenwriter for The Social Network, for which he received an Academy Award, Golden Globe, BAFTA and Writer’s Guild Award. He is also the writer-creator of The Newsroom and Academy Award-winning film A Few Good Men.

Bartlett Sher spent over ten years as Director of New York’s Lincoln Centre Theater, and has also headed acclaimed productions such as My Fair Lady, The King and I and South Pacific.

To Kill a Mockingbird

The iconic international West End and Broadway smash-hit musical comedy is back in fashion with a huge new production.

Starring Amber Davies (Pretty Woman, 9 to 5 the Musical) as Elle! The iconic international West End and Broadway smash-hit musical comedy is back in fashion with a huge new production.

This ultimate feel-good rom-com, based on the award-winning film starring Reese Witherspoon, follows Elle Woods on her transformation from it-girl fashionista to legal ace at Harvard Law School, all in the name of love.

Elle must prove she is more than blonde ambition, swap the changing rooms for the courtroom and learn that “being true to yourself never goes out of style”.

Legally Blonde the Musical

A timeless fairytale and Academy Award-winning movie, The Red Shoes has captivated audiences and inspired generations of dancers with its powerful tale of obsession, possession and one girl’s dream to be the greatest dancer in the world. Victoria Page lives to dance but her ambitions become a fierce struggle between the two men who inspire her passion.

Matthew Bourne’s magical double Olivier Award-winning production of the legendary Powell and Pressburger film is set to a score orchestrated by Terry Davies, featuring the mesmerizing music of golden-age Hollywood composer Bernard Herrmann, with sumptuous designs by Lez Brotherston (set and costumes), Paule Constable (lighting) and Paul Groothuis (sound).

The Red Shoes

Back by popular demand: Bluey, Bingo, Bandit and Chilli are returning to the Marlowe Theatre for their Olivier Award-nominated live stage show!

Featuring brilliantly created puppets, this theatrical adaptation of the Emmy® Award-winning children’s television series is packed with music, laughter, and fun for the whole family.

When Dad feels like a little bit of afternoon time out, Bluey and Bingo have other plans. Join them as they pull out all the games and cleverness at their disposal to get Dad off that bean bag! With an original story by Bluey creator Joe Brumm, and new music by Bluey composer, Joff Bush.

This is Bluey, for real life!

Bluey's Big Play

Get ready for an unforgettable evening of high-energy, feel-good rock and soul.

After a fantastic sell out debut tour across the UK, What’s Love Got To Do With It? is back and bigger than ever for 2026! This electrifying tribute show celebrates the music and unparalleled career of the one and only Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll, Tina Turner.

Packed with all the classic hits you know and love, the show delivers showstopping performances of Proud Mary, River Deep – Mountain High, Simply the Best, Private Dancer, and many more, all brought to life by a phenomenal live band.

Stepping into Tina’s iconic heels is Kent’s own Holly Bannis, the daughter of Greg Bannis, former lead singer of Hot Chocolate.

What's Love Got To Do With It? - The Ultimate Tribute to Tina Turner

Hamlet’s mother has married his uncle, and at a less than decent interval too. As he pulls at the threads of his not-so-happy new family, Hamlet unravels a web of deceit and immorality that leads to the ultimate crisis of conscience.

Fresh from its run in Stratford-upon-Avon, this gripping production of Shakespeare’s famous revenge drama visits Canterbury as part of a major national tour.

Ralph Davis (RSC’s Tamburlaine, Timon of Athens, Richard III and King John) will play the role of Hamlet.

The stellar creative team is led by multi-award-winning director Rupert Goold whose recent work includes Dear England (National Theatre) and King Charles III (Almeida). Rupert has directed multiple celebrated productions at the RSC and in 2026, he will take up the post of Artistic Director at London’s Old Vic in 2026.

Hamlet

Gravity is a show that celebrates the defining roles of Ellis, Dearman and Tucker. With a collective back catalogue consisting of We Will Rock You, Cats, Oliver, My Fair Lady, Miss Saigon, Les Miserables, Guys and Dolls, Evita, Grease, Joseph, The Great Gatsby, Sunset Boulevard, Chicago and more, this tour is for everyone and anyone who has enjoyed musical theatre throughout their lives.

Gravity

A great night of music and dance!

Your favourite Strictly couple returns in their brand-new show.

From chart-topping pop anthems to the stage and screen’s iconic scores, join Aljaž and Janette as they dance their way through musical history, including the work of Cole Porter, Hans Zimmer, Quincy Jones, George Gershwin, David Foster and many more musical greats.

Aljaž & Janette: Let's Face the Music and Dance

Art imitates life in English Touring Opera’s new production of Pagliacci.

When Canio, leader of a theatre troupe, sees his life reflected in rehearsals for an upcoming opera, he becomes convinced that his wife is having an affair. Can Canio temper his spiralling emotions, or will his jealousy get the better of him?

Ripped from the headlines about a real-life crime case from composer Ruggero Leoncavallo’s own childhood, Pagliacci packs passion, melodrama and revenge into an intense 90 minutes of drama. 

Leoncavallo’s Pagliacci

English Touring Opera’s new production of Gilbert and Sullivan’s last great success.

Two handsome and charming gondoliers discover that one is the long-lost heir to the throne of Barataria – but which one? In the pursuit of the truth, a bewildering series of events threaten both their marriages and their claim to the throne.

The Gondoliers is a fizzing comedy of mistaken identity that marries joy and chaos with a sharp satire of monarchy and class. This new production is helmed by Liam Steel, who directed ETO’s Olivier Award-winning production of Paul Bunyan.

English Touring Opera presents Gilbert and Sullivan’s The Gondoliers

The groundbreaking festival of hip hop dance theatre from around the world and around the corner is coming back to Canterbury!

Based at Sadler’s Wells Theatre, London since 2004, prepare to be blown away by high-energy, world-class performances from celebrated poppers, lockers, b-boys and b-girls.

Get ready for: Olivier Award-winning TRAPLORD, exploring masculinity and mental health and challenging racial stereotypes of Black men, Femme Fatale (France/ Mexico/ South Korea), a mesmerising female trio, trailblazing ILL-Abilities (Netherlands/Brazil), an all-star crew of differently abled b-boys. Plus incredible local talent.

Breakin’ Convention

Beethoven’s Fourth Piano Concerto is a masterpiece. Opening with the solo piano with no orchestral introduction, it’s a deeply intimate work that remains one of the composer’s best loved. Tonight, we hear it in the hands of Alim Beisembayev, winner of the prestigious Leeds International Piano Competition in 2021.

Brahms’s magnificent First Symphony was many years in the making. And it may never have seen the light of day without the support and friendship of Robert Schumann and his wife Clara – an article by Robert Schumann launched Brahms’s composing career when the three first met, and they soon became devoted friends. The symphony is a 45-minute journey through all the poetry and power an orchestra can conjure.

Philharmonia Orchestra: Alim Beisembayev plays Beethoven

The year is 1943 and we’re losing the war. Luckily, we’re about to gamble all our futures on a stolen corpse.

Singin’ in the Rain meets Strangers on a Train, Operation Mincemeat is the fast-paced, hilarious and unbelievable true story of the twisted secret mission that won us World War II.

Bursting at the seams with the kind of chaos you couldn’t invent, the question is: how did a dead body, a fake love letter, and (of all people) Ian Fleming come together to wrong-foot Hitler?

Operation Mincemeat

Priscilla Queen of the Desert is back with a dazzling, brand new 30th anniversary tour production.

The musical comedy sensation follows three friends on a hilarious and heartwarming road trip across the Australian Outback to stage the show of a lifetime, in a joyous celebration of unity, love, and being unapologetically yourself. Starring Adèle Anderson (Fascinating Aïda) as Bernadette, Kevin Clifton (Strictly Come Dancing, Chicago) as Tick/Mitzi, Nick Hayes (Groundhog Day, Remembrance Monday) as Felicia/Adam, and Peter Duncan (Hairspray, Pretender) as Bob/Preacher, this production is bolder and more fabulous than ever.

Priscilla Queen of the Desert

The ultimate tribute to Fleetwood Mac - unforgettable music.

Coming to Canterbury in May 2026 is a celebration of Fleetwood Mac’s sound.

Personally endorsed by Fleetwood Mac founding member Mick Fleetwood, Rumours of Fleetwood Mac is a stunning tribute to one of rock and roll’s most remarkable groups.

Rumours of Fleetwood Mac

A bona fide British musical legend.

After building his reputation as part of Squeeze, in 1987, Jools formed The Jools Holland Big Band which gradually metamorphosed into the current 19-piece Jools Holland and his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra.

The rhythm and blues phenomenon returns to Canterbury featuring special guest star Roachford and guest vocalists Ruby Turner, Louise Marshall and Sumudu Jayatilaka.

Jools Holland and his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra

Boundary-breaking and genre-defying, these modern-day warriors of rock are back with a brand-new set.

Boundary-breaking and genre-defying, the London Symphonic Rock Orchestra return to the UK with a brand new set. Performing legendary anthems with breathtaking scale and intensity, fusing the majestic power of the symphony orchestra with the rebellious energy of rock.

Since 2018, the London Symphonic Rock Orchestra has been tearing up world stages with strings that shred and drums that detonate. Delivering epic, reorchestrated hits from Queen, Led Zeppelin, Metallica, Guns N’ Roses, AC/DC, Black Sabbath, Fleetwood Mac and more…

London Symphonic Rock Orchestra

Ballet like you’ve never seen it before!

For almost 50 years, the all-male comedy ballet company Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo (affectionately known as “The Trocks”) have been delighting audiences worldwide with their fabulous sense of fun and flawless dance.

Originally from New York, the Trocks are now loved world-wide for their sassy spoofs and hilarious homages to classical ballet, where the dancers each transform into two personas, both ballerina and danseur!

Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo

From the BAFTA Award-winning co-creator of Yes, Minister and Yes, Prime Minister, Jonathan Lynn, comes the long-awaited final chapter of British political satire and it is as cunning, cutting, and catastrophically funny as ever.

Jim Hacker is back – older, but perhaps not wiser, and still utterly baffled by the real world. Hoping for a quiet retirement at the tranquil Hacker College, Oxford, Jim instead finds himself facing the ultimate modern crisis: cancelled by the college committee.

Enter the delightfully devious Sir Humphrey Appleby, Latin phrases, and well-timed obstruction. Can Humphrey outmanoeuvre the meddling students, the Fellowship, and reality itself? Or is it finally time to say, “I’m Sorry, Prime Minister…”?

I'm Sorry, Prime Minister

trictly Come Dancing finalist and fan favourite Nikita Kuzmin takes centre stage in the explosive new production Supernova, coming to Canterbury in 2026.

Created in collaboration with world-renowned choreographer and BAFTA award recipient Jason Gilkison, and presented by international dance sensation Burn the Floor, Supernova is fuelled by the firepower of world-class performers and creatives from across the globe.

Expect an evening of electrifying entertainment where artistry meets innovation, and Nikita’s trademark charm, power and charisma shine brighter than ever.

Nikita Kuzmin: Supernova

You can bet your bottom dollar you’ll love it!

The smash-hit West End production of Annie, the world’s favourite family musical, comes to Canterbury for one week only.

Set in 1930s New York, brave young Annie is forced to live a life of misery at Miss Hannigan’s orphanage. Her luck soon changes when she’s chosen to spend a fairytale Christmas with famous billionaire, Oliver Warbucks. Meanwhile, spiteful Miss Hannigan has other ideas and hatches a plan to spoil Annie’s search for her true family…

Annie

Boublil and Schönberg’s legendary musical is reborn.

The spectacular new production of Miss Saigon is embarking on a major national tour. The soaring score features hit songs including; The Heat is On in Saigon, The Movie in My Mind, Last Night of the World and The American Dream.

In the last days of the Vietnam War, 17 year-old Kim is forced to work in a Saigon bar run by a notorious character known as The Engineer. There she meets and falls in love with an American GI named Chris but they are torn apart by the fall of Saigon. For 3 years Kim goes on an epic journey of survival to find her way back to Chris, who has no idea he’s fathered a son.

Miss Saigon

The "Greatest British Sitcom of all time" (Radio Times) is back – this time on stage!

Written by John Cleese & Connie Booth

50 years since it first graced our TV screens, Fawlty Towers is now a brand-new stage play adapted by comedy legend John Cleese and directed by Caroline Jay Ranger.

Fresh from a SOLD-OUT West End season! This laugh-out-loud production was universally acclaimed by every London and national critic, selling out every single performance during its record-breaking West-End run.

Fawlty Towers the Play

Welcome to The Choir of Man, the best pub in the world… Come ready to drink in the excitement!

Brimming with hits from artists such as Queen, Luther Vandross, Sia, Paul Simon, Adele, Guns & Roses, Avicii and Katy Perry to name but a few, this is a pub like no other!

A wildly talented group of incredible instrumentalists, world-class wordsmiths, and sensational singers, this cast of nine (extra) ordinary guys serve it all… live!

An uplifting celebration of community and friendship where everyone is welcome, don’t miss this feel-good night of foot-stomping entertainment.

The Choir of Man

Get in loser, we’re going to the Marlowe Theatre!

Winner of Best New Musical (WhatsOnStage Awards), the ferociously funny show Mean Girls is coming to Canterbury direct from the West End.

Mean Girls

Peppa Pig is back with a brand-new ‘oinktastic’ stage show.

Based on the much-loved animated preschool TV series, Peppa Pig’s Big Family Show is packed full of music, adventure and surprises for little ones and is the perfect introduction to theatre.

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 and George all need your help to get everything ready before the arrival of baby Evie! There’s so much to do – will they get it all finished in time?

Peppa Pig's Big Family Show

The smash-hit musical is back and coming to Canterbury.

The award-winning sensation The Bodyguard returns, starring Adam Garcia (Saturday Night Fever, Kiss Me, Kate, Wicked) as Frank Farmer, West End powerhouse Sidonie Smith* (Sister Act, Chicago, Jesus Christ Superstar) as Rachel Marron and Matt Milburn (Coronation Street, Hollyoaks) as Sy Spector.

Former Secret Service agent Frank Farmer is hired to protect global superstar Rachel Marron from an unknown stalker. Both expect to be in charge – neither expects to fall in love.

The Bodyguard

Love is a burning thing, and no one burned brighter than Johnny Cash and June Carter.

He was a small-town musician and storyteller with a voice that stirred the soul. She was the comedienne of the first family of country music.

The Ballad of Johnny & June takes you inside the soaring highs and shattering lows of a love story that defined an era. From the stage to the road, through triumphs, heartbreak, and redemption this brand-new musical, created with the support of their family and told through the eyes of their son, John Carter Cash, shows why Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash remain one of the most infamous couples of the 20th Century.

The Ballad of Johnny & June

Step right up and enter the dazzling world of P.T. Barnum.

Join us, where imagination and ambition know no bounds. Hand in hand with wife Charity, Barnum’s life and career twists and turns as he schemes and dreams his way to headier heights.

Barnum: The Circus Musical

Sylvia Pankhurst. Activist. Rebel. Icon.

Torn between loyalty, love, and revolution, see her remarkable story explode onto the stage when Sylvia storms into Canterbury in 2026.

The Olivier Award winning electrifying musical is fueled by an irresistible soundtrack that joyously unites hip hop, funk and soul, by Josh Cohen and DJ Walde and brought to life by world-renowned choreographer and storyteller Kate Prince (ZooNation).

Sylvia

FASTEN YOUR SEAT BELTS… Matthew Bourne’s award-winning The Car Man is back!

Loosely based on Bizet’s ever-popular opera, The Car Man has one of the most thrilling and instantly recognisable scores in New Adventures’ repertoire.

The familiar 19th century Spanish cigarette factory becomes a greasy 1950’s garage-diner in the American mid-west where the dreams and passions of a small-town are shattered by the arrival of a handsome and enigmatic stranger. Fuelled by heat and desire, the inhabitants are driven into an unstoppable spiral of greed, lust, betrayal and revenge.

The Marlowe Theatre

Nov 28, 2025 - Jan 11, 2026

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs

12 - 31 Dec, 2025

Hare and Tortoise

Dec 18, 2025

Philharmonia Brass at Christmas

Jan 18, 2026

Philharmonia at the Movies: Best Of British

20 - 24 Jan, 2026

Death on the Nile

Nov 28, 2025 - Jan 11, 2026

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs

Oct 28 - Nov 8, 2025

TINA - The Tina Turner Musical

Articles & News

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