We’ve covered local exhibitions; now it’s the theatre’s turn! There is a wealth of fantastic theatres and venues to be found in Hull and East Yorkshire, including the East Riding Theatre (located in Beverley), Hull Truck, and, of course, the iconic Hull New Theatre and Hull City Hall.
Naturally, Each and every one of these outstanding venues has a busy programme of events this Autumn! Whether you’re drawn to classic musicals, contemporary dance, or holiday-themed shows, there’s something for everyone. Here’s your ultimate guide to this season’s must-see theatre events.
Hull New Theatre
Jesus Christ Superstar
Dates: 2 October 2023 to 7 October 2023
The Olivier Award-winning revival of “Jesus Christ Superstar” graces Hull New Theatre for a one-week engagement, featuring iconic music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice.
Rocky Horror Show
Dates: 9 October 2023 to 14 October 2023
Celebrate the 50th anniversary of Richard O’Brien’s legendary “Rocky Horror Show” with a night of irreverent humor, catchy music, and outlandish theatrics.
Ailey 2
Dates: 20 October 2023 to 21 October 2023
For two days, dance company Ailey 2 will present a blend of passion, energy, and vision, featuring works by renowned choreographers like Robert Battle and Alvin Ailey.
Annie
Dates: 23 October 2023 to 28 October 2023
The feel-good musical “Annie” stars Craig Revel Horwood and Jodie Prenger in a heartwarming tale of love, friendship, and hope.
The Official Take That Musical: Greatest Days
Dates: 30 October 2023 to 4 November 2023
Starring Jennifer Ellison, “Greatest Days” is the official Take That musical exploring the lives of five band-obsessed friends reuniting after 20 years.
Dirty Dancing
Dates: 7 November 2023 to 18 November 2023
Experience the iconic “Dirty Dancing” in a show that promises drama, romance, and electrifying dance numbers.
Calendar Girls
Dates: 20 November 2023 to 25 November 2023
The poignant and uplifting story of “Calendar Girls” explores friendship, bravery, and the transformative power of art in a true-to-life tale.
Fairytale of New York
Dates: 27 November 2023 to 2 December 2023
The holiday-themed production “Fairytale of New York” captures the highs and lows of love and life during the festive season.
The Elvis Years
Dates: 10 December 2023 to 15 December 2023
Don your blue suede shoes for “The Elvis Years,” a musical biography that tells the extraordinary story of Elvis Presley.
Cinderella
Dates: 16 December 2023 to 7 January 2024
The family-favorite “Cinderella” enchants audiences with its magical production, featuring Lee Mead and Neil Hurst among an ensemble cast.
Hull Truck Theatre
The Mistake
Date and Time: Thu 28 September
Originating from the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and enjoying a successful run at London’s Arcola Theatre, “The Mistake” is a riveting play by Michael Mears. The story delves into the catastrophic events that heralded the nuclear age, beginning with a groundbreaking scientific experiment in Chicago in 1942. Three years later, these advancements result in a destructive force that changes the world. With two actors—one British and one Japanese—the play creatively weaves together the lives of a Hungarian scientist, an American pilot, and a devoted Japanese daughter. Expect a fast-paced, thought-provoking drama that raises questions about the ethical and existential implications of human advancements.
37 Plays: Sharing
Date and Time: Thu 19 October – Fri 20 October
A joint venture between Hull Truck Theatre and The Royal Shakespeare Company, “37 Plays: Sharing” marks the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s First Folio. In a national playwriting competition, 37 new plays are selected to discuss the pressing issues of our contemporary world. Performed script-in-hand by professional actors, these plays are a remarkable attempt to stir debate and enact change, offering audiences an exciting sneak peek into the plays’ early stages of professional life.
Do I Love You?
Date and Time: Tue 31 October – Sat 04 November
Join Sally, Nat, and Kyle as they delve into the world of Northern Soul in “Do I Love You?”. Starting as a college project, their passion for Northern Soul takes them far beyond Hull, igniting a sense of purpose and community. Through comedy and drama, the play explores economic hardships and cultural shifts while asking if the England of 2023 is really so different from that of 1973.
Identities: A Play About Boobs
Date and Time: Fri 10 November
Close To Home Productions presents “Identities: A Play About Boobs,” an intimate exploration into the life journey of Lucy’s breasts. Tackling issues from bra fittings to breast cancer diagnosis, the play is co-created with women who have experience with breast cancer and those who treat them. After a 5-star tour in 2022, the production is back to unclasp the stories that our bodies can tell.
Pinocchio
Date and Time: Fri 24 November – Sun 31 December
Hull Truck Theatre’s adaptation of “Pinocchio” brings the timeless story of a wooden puppet come to life. When Gepetto, a lonely carpenter, crafts Pinocchio, a magical blue spirit grants his wish for a child. Sending Pinocchio to school to fit in, Gepetto soon realizes his creation has other plans. The play is a captivating journey through joy and danger as Pinocchio, aided by the Cricket, strives to be brave, truthful, and selfless.
Hull City Hall
Milkshake Live
Dates: 15 October 2023
Ideal for a family outing, “Milkshake Live” offers an interactive experience featuring beloved children’s characters like Paddington and Noddy.
Whispering Jungle Presented by Concrete Youth
Dates: 16 October 2023 to 17 October 2023
This immersive, multi-sensory production is designed for young audiences with profound and multiple learning disabilities.
Fascinating Aïda – The 40th Anniversary Show!
Dates: 21 October 2023
The British cabaret trio Fascinating Aïda celebrates its 40th anniversary with a special performance filled with satire, keen observations, and riotous songs.
Steve Backshall’s Ocean
Dates: 3 November 2023
TV adventurer Steve Backshall takes audiences on an exploration of the world’s oceans, complemented by stunning visuals of marine life.
Christmas Memories
Dates: 15 December 2023
Step into a winter wonderland with “Christmas Memories,” capturing the spirit of the season through timeless songs, nostalgic stories, and festive cheer.
East Riding Theatre
The Remarkable Tale of Dorothy Mackaill
Dates: 27th September to 14th October 2023
This jazzy new musical charts the mesmerizing life journey of Hull’s own silver screen star, Dorothy Mackaill. From her humble beginnings on Chanterlands Avenue to her meteoric rise to Hollywood stardom, you’ll be captivated by her compelling story.
Filled with controversy, comedy, love affairs, marriages, and stars from the Roaring Twenties, it’s a rollercoaster ride that embodies life in the fast lane. But the musical doesn’t just focus on the glitz and glamour; it also explores how Dorothy was treated by the industry and why she chose to walk away. This is a must-see for anyone interested in the intertwining worlds of film, fame, and personal grit.
Alan Turing: A Musical Biography
Dates: Saturday 21st October 2023
Travel through the poignant and awe-inspiring life of Alan Turing with this evocative musical biography. Turing, a mathematical genius, is famed for breaking German codes in World War II, a feat estimated to have saved fourteen million lives.
This musical touches on Turing’s early loss, romance, and the dreadful way he was treated after the war due to his homosexuality. Composed by Joel Goodman and Jan Osborne and penned by Joan Greening, this production promises a blend of historical richness and emotional depth.
Charlie Bicknell – Cabaret with Claws
Dates: Friday 27th October 2023
Immerse yourself in an evening of wicked humour and eclectic jazz in ‘Cabaret with Claws.’ Charlie Bicknell and Louise Innes captivate audiences with their awe-inspiring vocal prowess and jaw-dropping circus acts.
Expect an audacious array of twisted takes on familiar themes, influenced by the likes of Tim Minchin, Phil Nichols, and Bonnie Tyler. With rave reviews and foot-stamping encores, this cabaret experience promises an unforgettable evening of entertainment.
The Lightbulb Princess
Dates: Thursday 2nd November 2023
From the minds of Tutti Frutti Productions and One Tenth Human comes ‘The Lightbulb Princess,’ a sparkling and educational journey suitable for children aged four and up. This show takes you on an adventure to restore the fairy lights just in time for the holiday season.
Featuring original songs from Ziad Jabero and stories that delve into the science behind electricity, this is a show aimed to light up young imaginations and inspire curiosity.
Dracula
Dates: Wednesday 8th November to Saturday 11th November 2023
In this novel twist on the classic story, Beverley Theatre Company poses an intriguing question: What if Bram Stoker’s ‘Dracula’ had never been published because the events had actually occurred?
As the tale unfolds, audiences will find themselves thrust into the world of Jonathan Harker’s trip to Transylvania and the bloody aftermath. This reimagining offers a unique take on a well-known story, pulling the audience into a darkly compelling narrative.
Toad on the Wolds
Dates: Wednesday 6th – Sunday 31st December 2023
Winter is upon us, and Toad is in jail again, but this time there’s an urgent reason to break free. When a desperate letter arrives from his ailing uncle, Toad and his faithful friends embark on an adventure to save the family estate in East Yorkshire from dastardly weasels.
The show features a road trip to the Yorkshire Wolds, treasure hunts, booby traps, and a countdown to New Year’s Eve to thwart the villains. Full of surprises, this family-friendly show promises laughter, excitement, and a lesson in the power of friendship.
All information correct at time of publishing. Keep an eye on our events directory for newly announced shows that might’ve popped up since!
