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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

Grassroots food'n'film fundraiser featuring two illuminating shorts: in My Neighbourhood, Mohammed must suddenly share his family home in East Jerusalem with Israeli settlers, while Free Running Gaza shows parkour as a means of temporary escape from the constant oppression in Khan Younis refugee camp. Palestine Film Fundraiser - My Neighbourhood and Free Running Gaza at The Arc.

Sell out warning! Guardian columnist extraordinaire Owen Jones rings the death knell for Western superpowers, launching his explosive new tome in person with former Green leader Carla Denyer MP. Laying bare the 21st century's parade of arrogance and economic failures, Jones shows how the elite's crumbling façade paved the way for the migrant-baiting insecurities of today. The Fall of the West launch - Owen Jones in conversation with Carla Denyer at The Station.

Save House of Boussé from a Computer Hearts fate! Plug in for a four tunnel immersion into the Matrix featuring VRGF’s cyber-pop, Ani Klang hacking the hard dance mainframe, techno-conceptual performances from iPad clown Petty Nonsense and more. Plus interactive games throughout the night to determine who makes it out alive, or stays trapped in the digiverse forever. HOUSE OF BOUSSÉ ARE TRAPPED IN THE INTERNET at Loco Klub.

A kinetic exorcism of working-class identity and masculine performance, Oona Doherty’s 'Hope Hunt and the Ascension Into Lazarus' is a mutating pastiche of regional archetypes. Best known for 'Hard to Be Soft', an electrifying portrait of her hometown Belfast, the Northern Irish dancer-choreographer’s chameleonic blend of comedy, swagger and grace is unmissable. Hope Hunt and the Ascension into Lazarus at The Mount Without.

What our editors say

“Elevate is a skills-building programme for socially engaged theatre-makers and artists who are interested in working with a specific community of people. It is designed as a practical, explorative course that we hope builds a lasting creative community. We have a cohort of practitioners signed up for the term, but we also open up some sessions for all to book on to.”
From: An introduction to social enterprise: running yourself as a business

“Whilst this work is done by us in a theatre setting, we feel this workshop would benefit more people than just theatre practitioners. We particularly think community organisers and campaigners may benefit, but also any artists that work in community settings.”
From: Community theatre practice: Engaging with communities. Why and How?

“This workshop will benefit anybody who is passionate about everyday heritage and people's history – not just for theatre practitioners. Writers, story tellers, film-makers, and researchers may also find this helpful.”
From: Engaging with heritage to create original theatre

“Spend a relaxed Sunday afternoon in the theatre drawing faces and meeting new people. Portrait club welcomes everyone, even those that say they can't draw! Complete beginners are welcome and all materials and drawing boards will be provided. Free tickets are available for anyone who feels they need one, documents will not be required.”
From: Adult Portrait Club

“What to expect? Each session will be a mix of physical theatre games and exercises, dance improvisation, expressive art and playing creatively with voice. Expect lots of moving, creating nonsense worlds and nonsense sounds and soundscapes - drawing from and soaring on our personal and collective imagination.”
From: Silly serious sessions