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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

A performance piece from artist Hetain Patel, Mathroo Basha (Mother Tongue) traverses dance, voice, and personal history to reflect on immigration and the ways traditions shift over time. Patel responds to recorded Gujarati-language interviews with women from his own family, using movement to explore what is passed down between generations after loss. IMPERMANENCE Presents... Acclaimed visual artist and filmmaker Hetain Patel's latest work which uses movement and audio interviews to explore generational change across his Brit-Gujarati family.

Linguistic sorcery from Satellite of Love with Bristol treasure Edson Burton launching his long-awaited second volume of poems (his first in 16 years!) The restless polymath runs the emotional gamut, with damning reflections on Grenfell nestled next to tender odes to love and desire – come hear it from the good doctor himself before it hits the shelves. Satellite of Love Poetry and Spoken Word run monthly events, workshops and writing retreats. Our monthly events at the Loco Klub offer a platform for local and touring poets, open mic and our Community Poem.

Sell out warning! The sands sing for one night only! Dune The Musical turns Herbert’s dense desert saga into a one-man song cycle, with Gurney Halleck soundtracking destiny on baliset and guitar. Knowing jokes for book obsessives, and big choruses for newcomers... this is surprisingly moving, unsurprisingly wormy, deeply nerdy fun. The incredible TRUE story of Paul Atreides, as told by Gurney Halleck

Sell out warning! A fresh and accessible way into the Bard from award-winning writer, director and performance storyteller Debs Newbold. She transforms the Cube’s stage into the Tempest’s otherworldly isle in a playful, one-woman reimagining of Shakespeare’s most enigmatic work. Fairytales for grown-ups at the Cube

What our editors say

“OTTER Produces is a Bristol-based, not-for-profit art company. Specialising in narrative-based, interactive art experiences which share the joy of art, play and creation with all. We are about supporting, inspiring and bringing together people from all different backgrounds and our unique blend of technology, music, theatre and art helps breakdown barriers and encourages creative-play and community.”
From: OTTER's Bristol Art Quest

“Join us on Wednesday 20 May at The Jam Jar for a one-night takeover celebrating bold, brilliant, experimental performances by emerging queer ESEA (East & Southeast Asian) artists — plus a special performance from our host, the iconic Miss Dynasty Expect a joyful mix of theatre, comedy, music and surprises, all in a safe, inclusive, and seriously fun space. When the performances wrap, DJ FFINN will be on decks to keep the party going”
From: TASTE Bristol

“I LOVE YOU BUT YOU MAKE ME WANT TO CUT MY HAIR. Critically acclaimed tragi-comedy, SPLIT ENDS follows the story of a woman who falls in love with a Vacuum. Using physical theatre, puppetry and multi-media, this ‘Sarah Kane Rave’ explores control and abusive power disguised as love.”
From: Split Ends

“Burgundy Rose has training in theatre, dance and aerial circus, which influences their personal style. In 2019 they were awarded a ‘Developing Your Creative Practice’ grant from Arts Council England to deepen their research across rope, dance and physical theatre. Their shibari teaching and creative performances have taken them across London, Manchester, Bristol, Brussels, Berlin, Copenhagen, Prague, Athens, Rotterdam and Portland (USA).”
From: BOUND IN BRISTOL

“Experience a delightful evening filled with the magic of musicals, as a talented lineup of performers takes the stage to bring beloved show tunes to life. This enchanting event will feature a diverse array of songs from some of your favourite musicals, ensuring an unforgettable performance. After the live show, we invite you to join us for an engaging sing-along, where you can step into the spotlight and connect with fellow music enthusiasts as you belt out the lyrics to iconic songs. Come and immerse yourself in an unforgettable celebration of musical theatre!”
From: There Is Something About Musicals