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Theatre Shows in Bristol

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Bristol's Theatre Scene

Bristol’s theatres: an overview

Bristol’s theatres and art galleries are as world-renowned as it’s underground culture (Banksy, Tricky et al). Think Bristol Hippodrome, Bristol Old Vic, The Tabacco Factory, Redgrave Theatre and the Department of Theatre at the University of Bristol, where the theatre journey starts for many young Bristolians. While Bristol’s theatres are all smaller than those of the capital and there’s no dedicated theatre district, you’re just as likely to see West End plays like the Book of Mormon and War Horse as smaller more experimental productions at one of the city’s dramatic festivals like Mayfest, Young Blood Theatre Festival and the Bristol Shakespeare Festival. Even clubs like Loko Club act as a sort of in-between for Bristol’s more immersive theatre productions that stem from circus-based theatrics of Circomedia.

Bristol’s Old Vic Theatre is nationally renowned for big-budget shows and for empowering new theatrical talent with Bristol Ferment. While the Old Vic and it’s companion theatre school cater for both experimental and traditional performances, the popularity of physical theatre elsewhere in the city continues to rise. Cicrcomedia’s school for circus performance and physical acting hosts shows from both its students and scratch nights put on by Ausform. The Tobacco Factory Theatre is South Bristol’s artistic hub with tickets for experimental theatre, comedy and workshops all available. Other theatres of note include The Alma Tavern in Clifton and the Wardrobe Theatre in Old Market (part of the Old Market Assembly).

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Our recent theatre recommendations

Lifelines of knowledge, community and safety in hostile times, queer bookshops have always been quiet powerhouses in the fight for liberation, long overdue their day in the sun. AJ West celebrates centuries of shelf-based salvation the globe over in this inspiring new work, launched in conversation with LGBTQ+ historian Jack Shoulder. How Queer Bookshops Changed the World with AJ West at Bookhaus.

Now THIS is how you do a Lynch screening: with the movers-and-shakers of Bristol’s improv scene serenading you Roadhouse-style, getting your Badalamenti juices flowing before Chris Isaak steals all the dark hearts in the singular nightmare of Fire Walk With Me. The keys to Season 3 lie within, don’t get burnt! DAVID LYNCH TRIBUTE: TWIN PEAKS: FIRE WALK WITH ME + PRE SCREENING GIG at SouthBank.

A fascinating half-day symposium exploring how experimental darkroom processes inform the photographic practices of contemporary women, non-binary and trans artists. Expect lively presentations and discussions on techniques from cyanotypes and photograms, to printing on leaves, fruit and fabrics. Art of Experimentation: Alternative Photography at Bristol Folk House.

Free entry! Beyond the watermelon! Through five fruit-themed narrative slices, Ian Wellens’ uniquely ground-up approach elegantly and accessibly chronicles 150 years of Palestine’s past, while diving deep into the stories of its people, culture and land. He joins BPM for this book launch, talk and Q&A rolled into one. A History of Palestine in Five Fruits - Book Launch at Bristol Palestine Museum.

What our editors say

“The latest offering from the revered touring company, Project Dance has built a nationwide reputation for creating unforgettable original work, promising audiences of all ages a truly transformative theatre experience. As seen on the BBC, the award-winning Project Dance presents Things I’ve Never Said, a heart-touching story that shines a light on the secrets and unspoken thoughts we each carry. The production will premiere this August with a limited run, coming to the Redgrave Theatre on 29th August.”
From: Things I've Never Said

“A new night at the All Inn featuring two great acts for you H.E.L.E.N H.E.L.E.N are an improv comedy trio specialising in Freudian nightmares. Slick, chaotic & unique. Exhilaratingly free. “H.E.L.E.N are magnificently funny and unhinged…imagine David Lynch directing the Chuckle Brothers.” - Blast Kultur After The Interval Two people go to the theatre but all is not as it seems. Come to find out what happened After The Interval and how the play changed their lives. Tickets are PWYC with a suggested value of £5 as this is a new night and we are trying to see if it will work.”
From: All Made Up

“Mr Browns Pig Puppet Show is a collection of enchanting stories with glove and rod puppets, performed from a puppet booth theatre. Features dragons, princesses, woodland animals and pirates, there will lots of comedy and audience participation for all to join in with! Together with music and silliness, the show will entertain all the family from one to one hundred. Shows will be an hour duration. Bring you blankets and rugs to sit on. The City Farm Cafe will be open for refreshments.”
From: Mr Brown's Pig: Puppet Show

“Welcome to the Playback Theatre magic! Where you get to experience your stories, memories, brought to life on stage on the spot! In the Playback Theatre workshops you will learn how to be part of an improvised show in a real life story. Playback theatre has the power to transform your experiences and see them in a diffrent perspective. Get ready to laugh, connect and be amazed by the power of Playback Theatre! Workshop dates Friday 24/7 7.10pm-8.45pm Friday 31/7 7.10pm-8.45pm Friday 7/8 7.10pm-8.45pm See you soon, Yoti”
From: PlayItBack 3 consecutive Fridays · 7:15–8:45pm