What's On / Bristol Concerts, Theatre & Dance / theatre

Theatre Shows in Bristol

upcoming event

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).

Buy tickets for theatre events in Bristol

Our recent theatre recommendations

NEVER miss a chance to enter the mystical and rarely-opened Redcliffe Caves. Especially when they’re illuminated with the celestial lights and voices of 130 local women, celebrating 100 years since the hard-won right to vote. An unmissable, uplifting, enchanting, subterranean wonderworld from In Between Time for International Women’s Day and beyond. An immersive sound and light installation in Bristol's iconic Redcliffe Caves on the Harbourside

New queer classic in the making: in Cowboys and Lesbians, two teenagers escape the real life inertia of secondary school for the dream world of a sweeping South Western ranch romance - we’ve all been there. A comic coming-of-age charmer exploring desire, gender and fantasy. Queer coming of age rom-com play

What our editors say

“This improvised post-apocalyptic show is a darkly comic, absurdist piece of theatre joy. Taking a single suggestion from the audience these talented improvisers will create a unique narrative on stage with no pre-prepared characters, story or dialogue.”
From: Tales from the Wasteland

“Corinne is a Bristol-based performance storyteller with mixed Irish/British heritage. She creates original work based on folktales, myths and legends viewed through a contemporary lens. She is committed to telling stories that re-centre marginalised voices and silenced histories. As well as engaging with traditional storytelling practices, she uses physical theatre, stand-up comedy & audience participation to create brand new storytelling performances for a modern audience.”
From: Tam Lin Retold

“Upstage Productions has been on the hunt for Bristol’s best hidden talent, who are looking for their chance to shine on stage. Come and see your three compares, Aoife, Mikey, and Ava cling on to their love of musical theatre while they guide you through a night of music and games to showcase 5 talented individuals. There will be killer comedy, vibrant vocals, and a luscious live band! Expect a few surprises along the way in this show like no other.”
From: The 5hit Show

“Starring a huge cast of drag artists from all around the UK: Glitter King, Misty Fye, Peaches Munroe, Phobia, Melancholy, Jason The Dream & Jazmine Sparks. The perfect combination of drag and theatre is here and it’s queer!”
From: Drag Out Of Hell - A Musicals Drag Cabaret Show

“A completely original one woman show without words, A Strange New Space melds physical theatre with stunning puppetry and original music. We travel on an imagined voyage into space, paralleled with Amira’s real-life journey as a refugee across continents, forming an unforgettable introduction to theatre for audiences of four years and older.”
From: A Strange New Space