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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

Don your most decadent Sunday best and follow the white rabbit to the otherworldly Mount Without. MadStillNess’ immersive soiree summons Invisible Circus performers, a high-camp catwalk with Soft Butch’s Lexx, light installations, live music, surreal ceremonial happenings and more. Plus it’s tee-total and all over by 9pm – more Monday morning-friendly cabaret pls! Through the Looking Glass at The Mount Without.

PWYC! A vibrant festival warm-up and World Poetry Day celebration from Lyra Fest, as Bristol’s finest lyrical talent takes to the Arnolfini stage for this year’s Slam qualifiers. Only 10 verse-smiths can make it into the finals to be crowned Lyra Slam Champion, TBD by your enraptured ears and voting hands! Lyra Bristol Poetry Slam 2026 | Qualifying Heats at Arnolfini.

PWYC! Poetry and music at the Palestine Museum to welcome playwright Peter Oswald and charity founder Nick Bilbrough: two men on a pilgrimage to connect with communities, combat Islamophobia and raise money for The Hands Up Project’s vital mission of resistance through art. Art from the Rubble & Poetry Event

Karla Shacklock’s autobiographical dance-theatre piece takes a one-woman lactivist leap into the many myths, social stigmas and divisive debates which surround the world of infant feeding. A heartfelt and deeply personal work, Niplash moves with humour, authenticity, compassion… and confetti. A dance theatre solo conceived, laboured and birthed by Karla Shacklock

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