A ‘goes wrong’ farcical comedy about a troupe of actors attempting a staged version of the classic tale.
SEPTEMBER
ANNE BOLEYN’S MOTHER
6 Sep | Gleowit Productions | £16 – £18
This compelling one-woman play gives voice to Elizabeth as she confronts ambition and treacherous royal politics in the Tudor period.
ONE NIGHT OF COUNTRY
19 Sep | Steve Coates Music Productions | £18 – £20
From timeless classics to today’s biggest hits, get ready for a night packed with the very best of country music.
ANOTHER NIGHT AT THE MUSICALS: A MUSIC NIGHT PRODUCTION
20 Sep | Joseph Rowntree Theatre | £12 – £15
Don Pears and company are back for another night of unforgettable showstoppers.
ONE IOTA
ALBUM LAUNCH CONCERT
26 Sep | One Iota | £16.50
One Iota brings you an immersive live production as they perform their brand-new album, ‘Chapter and Verse’, in full.
BOX OFFICE: 01904 50 1935
WELCOME
from Dan Shrimpton, Chair of Trustees
Whether you love musicals, dance, drama or live acts, so many of you told us this year what the Joseph Rowntree Theatre means to you – and it was wonderful to hear.
As well as the shows themselves, supporting a local tradition played an important role, as did the theatre’s unique and timeless atmosphere and value for money on a night out with family and friends.
It takes all of this and more to keep a much-loved community asset. More than anything, however, it takes a diverse and enjoyable line-up of shows that capture the magic of live theatre – which brings us to another exciting season.
This year, we’ve got Hocus Pocus Live and Shrek: The Musical to look forward to. For comedy, there’s the arrival of the hilarious Noises Off, or if you’re looking for twisty detective drama, Miss Marple returns with another baffling mystery in A Murder is Announced.
This season also sees acclaimed climber Simon Yates of Touching the Void take to our stage to discuss endurance, exploration and survival, plus the return by popular demand of Alan Owen and his 16-piece band with Swing When You Sing
Finally, no winter would be complete without a pantomime and this year the Rowntree Players will be presenting a night of magic, music and mayhem in Sleeping Beauty.
Read on to discover more of what’s on offer this winter at the Joseph Rowntree Theatre and we hope to see you soon.
SCAN the QR CODES with your mobile device, to visit the What’s On page on our website and to book tickets!
OCTOBER
Anna’s Academy of Dance SHOWCASE 2026
Sat 3 Oct: 19:00 Sat 3 Oct: 14:00 Matinee
A showcase of ballet, tap, modern, jazz, contemporary and musical theatre performed by the pupils of Anna’s Academy Dance, with music from Grease, Aladdin, and Frozen, plus chart-topping hits and orchestral classics.
Ian Strougher
THE VELMA
CELLI SHOW
Sun 18 Oct: 18:00
Join international multi-award-winning Cabaret superstar and icon Velma Celli for an unforgettable evening of camp, comedy and mind-blowing vocals. Known as “the UK’s Queen of live vocal drag”, Velma has been charming audiences across the globe for the past 16 years.
Standard
PQA York
DARE TO DREAM JR.
Fri 23 – Oct Sat 24 Oct: 19:30
Celebrate the magic of Disney in this uplifting musical revue performed by the talented students of PQA York. Disney’s Dare to Dream Jr. follows a group of aspiring imagineers as they discover that every dream has the power to inspire, connect and change the world. Packed with unforgettable songs from beloved classics and modern favourites—this joyful family production is filled with laughter, heart and spectacular performances.
Standard
£16 18 & Under £16
Standard £30
VOLUNTEER WITH US
Become a part of the shows put on at the theatre. From stage crew to box office and more, we’d love to have you on board.
Lane Entertainments
HOCUS POCUS: LIVE EXPERIENCE
Sun 25 Oct: 13:30 Matinee
Join the mischievous Sanderson Sisters for a wickedly fun live experience filled with laughter, spooky surprises, audience interaction and magical mayhem from start to finish. With fang-tastic songs, hilarious comedy, games, prizes and plenty of chances to join in the fun, this enchanting Halloween show is perfect for audiences of all ages. Blending nostalgic Halloween magic for grown-ups with exciting interactive entertainment for little witches and wizards alike, Hocus Pocus: Live Experience brings the spirit of Salem to life in a family-friendly spectacular packed with energy, mischief, and unforgettable moments.
£2 OFF each ticket when you buy 5 or more! TICKETS:
The Royal British Legion York FESTIVAL
OF REMEMBRANCE
Sun 1 Nov: 15:00
The annual York Branch RBL Festival of Remembrance brings together local musicians, choirs and soloists, veterans and residents to acknowledge those from York who paid the ultimate sacrifice throughout various conflicts British Forces have been involved in for over 100 years.
Joseph Rowntree Theatre Presents...
A MURDER IS ANNOUNCED
Wed 4 Nov – Fri 6 Nov: 19:30 | Sat 7 Nov Matinee: 14:30
When a mysterious announcement appears in the local newspaper, stating the date and time a murder will take place in a quiet village home, curiosity and disbelief quickly turn to alarm, as it becomes chillingly clear that the threat is all too real. What follows is a classic Christie puzzle of mixed motives, concealed identities and long-held secrets for the sharp-witted Miss Marple to unravel. Full of intrigue and dramatic twists, A Murder is Announced keeps audiences guessing right up until its final reveal.
♥ A fundraising event for the Joseph Rowntree Theatre.
£2 OFF each ticket when you buy 5 or more!
Oddsocks Productions
MOTHERHOOD
Sun 8 Nov: 19:30
A moving and hilarious look at the bizarre and downright unbelievable aspects of raising children whilst running a family business. Actress and writer, Elli Mackenzie, explores the highs and lows, the frustrations and joys of being a working parent alongside her husband Andy, an orangutan and a giant woodlouse. Described by audiences as an “amazing” and “refreshingly honest piece of theatre.”
£2 OFF each ticket when you buy 5 or more!
Just Dance York
THE NIGHT AWAY
Fri 13 Nov – Sat 14 Nov: 19:30
Just Dance York are bringing their Dance the Night Away production to the Joseph Rowntree Theatre. The show will be filled with fabulous dance routines, talented performers and lots of brilliant music!
Standard
£12 18 & Under
£12
Become part of the fabric of our beautiful building with an engraved seat plaque bearing a personalised inscription. For a donation of £200 you can sponsor a seat for five years.
Select your seat online: josephrowntreetheatre.co.uk/support-us
♥ FUNDRAISING THIS SEASON ♥
PIE NIGHT
Thu 15 Oct: 18:30
Our famous Pie Night is back for another course. Enjoy delicious food, live music and after-dinner entertainment whilst also raising funds for the theatre’s vital contribution to the community. Places are limited.
Hartrigg Oaks, New Earswick
£27.50
GRAND CHRISTMAS RAFFLE
Tickets available from: Tue 1 Sep Winners drawn: Thu 17 Dec
With cash prizes up to £250, why not try your luck and get into the festive spirit whilst also fundraising for a good cause. The grand draw will take place at this year’s Choirs at Christmas event.
On sale at every performance from Tue 1 Sep £1 per ticket.
NETheatre York
SHREK: THE MUSICAL
Sat 21 Nov – Sat 28 Nov (no performance Mon 23 Nov): 19:30 Sat 21 Nov, Sun 22 Nov, Sat 28 Nov Matinee: 14:30
NETheatre York are back with the hilarious, multi-award-winning Shrek: The Musical. After making a deal with the scheming Lord Farquaad, the outcast ogre and his hyperactive donkey reluctantly set out to rescue the feisty Princess Fiona, leading to an adventure filled with true love, lovelorn dragons and a colourful cast of iconic characters. This is not your average fairytale.
£2 OFF each ticket when you buy 5 or more!
Rowntree Players
SLEEPING BEAUTY
Sat 5 Dec and Tue 8 – Sat 12 Dec: 19:30 | Sun 6 Dec: 18:00 Sat 5 Dec, Sun 6 Dec and Sat 12 Dec* Matinée: 14:00
Stilton-on-the-Mould has a problem. A royal baby, a wicked curse and absolutely no sharp things allowed anywhere in the kingdom. Not a needle, not a pin, not even a pointy kumquat. Fortunately, help is at hand. Unfortunately, that help is Magnolia Manglethorpe — psychic, seer and spectacularly unreliable guardian — and her son Ivor. Rowntree Players bring you
Sleeping Beauty, a brand new panto packed with magic, mayhem, romance and a trifle-related catastrophe you will not forget in a hurry.
*The Matinee performance on Sat 12 Dec will have a BSL interpreter and live captioning.
GROUPS OF 10 OR MORE PAY £16 A TICKET for select performances†
19:30
Makiom Ltd
SIMON YATES OF TOUCHING THE VOID: PLEASURE AND PAIN
Sun 13 Dec: 19:30
With more than 80 expeditions to some of the world’s highest and most remote mountains, Simon shares extraordinary stories from the past decade of exploration, from the far north and south to the peaks of South America, Central Asia and the Himalayas, including his 2023 expedition up the previously unclimbed north face of Patkhor in Tajikistan that led to an extraordinary three-day journey of survival. A powerful evening of adventure, endurance and survival, Pleasure and Pain is a fast-moving, first-hand account from one of Britain’s most respected mountaineers.
£2 OFF each ticket when you buy 5 or more!
Joseph Rowntree Theatre Presents... CHOIRS AT CHRISTMAS
Tue 15 Dec – Thu 17 Dec: 19:30
After the hugely successful launch of Choirs at Christmas last year, we’re delighted to be joined by even more groups from across the local area in support of the Joseph Rowntree Theatre and its community work. Whether you love traditional carols, modern classics or simply the joy of live music, this is the perfect way to celebrate the Christmas season.
♥ A fundraising event for the Joseph Rowntree Theatre.
OFF each ticket when you buy 5 or more!
Shepherd Brass Band CHRISTMAS CONCERT
Fri 18 Dec – Sat 19 Dec: 19:30
It wouldn’t be Christmas without a concert from the Shepherd Brass Band family. This showcase brings together the entire troupe – from their Brass Roots beginners through to their championship-level Senior Band –culminating in a grand finale where the entire company takes to the stage. A joyous and heart-warming event.
Standard £15 18 & Under £15
EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNTS WITH 17-25 MEMBERSHIP!
FREE to join!
Discounted tickets for you and a friend.
Two tickets for £20, or one ticket for £10.
Become a part of the local theatre community.
Enjoy
Joseph Rowntree Theatre Presents...
FEAST OF FESTIVE FAVOURITES
Sun 20 Dec: 19:00
Celebrate the magic of Christmas with legendary York musician Don Pears and the vibrant voices of the Singphonia choir. From timeless Christmas classics to uplifting festive favourites, there will be something for everyone to enjoy in this fundraising concert for the Joseph Rowntree Theatre.
♥ A fundraising event for the Joseph Rowntree Theatre.
Deadpan Players
PRINCESS RAPUNZEL: THE HEIR WITH THE HAIR
Fri 22 Jan – Sat 23 Jan: 19:30 | Sat 23 Jan Matinee: 14:00
Join the Deadpan Players for a pun-filled romp through the magical Forest of Tresemmé as Prince Garnier, Betty Bouffant and Fairy Dandruff set out to rescue Princess Rapunzel from the evil Mother Gothel. Can they overcome their fears to find Rapunzel and restore her to her rightful place as heir to the throne of Sassoon in time for her eighteenth birthday? Whatever the outcome, it’s going to be a close shave! With a host of colourful characters, fabulous music, laughs galore and some outrageous hairstyles, you’re guaranteed a fun-filled evening that’s a cut above the rest!
Steve Coates Music Productions
SWING WHEN YOU SING
Sun 24 Jan: 19:30
Back by popular demand, this spectacular feel-good show features the magnificent Alan Owen 16-Piece Swing Band live on stage. Enjoy an unforgettable celebration of the golden age of swing, featuring the timeless music of Glenn Miller, Broadway favourites, soaring ballads and classic hits. This year’s production is bigger and better than ever. It’s the sensational return of Swing When You Sing
£2 OFF each ticket when you buy 5 or more! Standard £20 18 & Under
DOWNLOAD THE JOSEPH ROWNTREE THEATRE APP
Get easy access to information about all of our shows and book tickets via our new app. Available to download on Apple and Android devices. ENTER NOW
FAMILY TICKETS
Look out for shows listed with a FAMILY ticket (2 adults and 2 children) to get your discounted tickets.
GROUP OFFERS
Look for the green flashes on individual shows to take advantage of the fantastic groups discounts.
3 SHOW DISCOUNT
Book ANY 3 SHOWS in the season together and SAVE 10%
Awards in a Box Ltd
MAGNIFICENTLY DIFFERENT
Thu 28 Jan – Sat 30 Jan: 19:30 | Sat 30 Jan Matinee: 14:30
This is a play written and produced in York about a little boy called Albie, who is late to speak, can’t read, can’t write, has ADHD and dyslexia, but he can draw. Based on the book Never Stop Drawing by Ian Donaghy, this is a musical about friendship, family and the struggles one boy has growing up, trying to fit into the square holes education has made for him. It celebrates our differences and shows us all how to be a better friend. It also shows how one boy who sees things differently can change the world one person at a time. Expect to laugh, cry and sing along in this uplifting musical about including everyone. Directed by Annie-Rae Donaghy.
TICKETS:
HOW TO BOOK YOUR TICKETS
All tickets for shows at the Joseph Rowntree Theatre are sold online through our website, josephrowntreetheatre.co.uk, or through our box office at the theatre on Haxby Road.
However you buy your tickets, there are no booking fees – the price on the ticket is the price you pay to enjoy the show!
• Each listing gives ticket prices for that show. All shows have a standard ticket price and one for those 18 and under. Some shows will also offer a 65 and over ticket option.
• Many shows offer family or group discounts, which will be applied automatically when you add the appropriate tickets to your basket.
• Children aged 4 and over need their own ticket and seat. Children under 4 sitting on an adult’s lap don’t need a ticket.
• To purchase tickets for our wheelchair spaces please call our box office.
• Tickets are non-refundable. Tickets can be exchanged for another show at the theatre or the money transferred to theatre credit for you to spend on tickets for another show in the future – there is no charge for this.*
• Gift vouchers are available online from josephrowntreetheatre.co.uk/gift‑vouchers or call the box office.
• All of our seats have an unrestricted view of the stage. The balcony is reached by 26 steps. There is no lift.
*Please see terms and conditions of sale for more information.
BOX OFFICE
Open for visitors to the theatre and for telephone bookings: Mon – Sat, 10am – 2pm and 1 hr before any performance
The Joseph Rowntree Theatre Ltd. Haxby Road, York YO31 8TA 01904 50 1935 boxoffice@jrtheatre.co.uk
HOW TO GET HERE FACILITIES & ACCESS
The Joseph Rowntree Theatre is a mile to the north of York city centre on Haxby Road, next to the Nuffield Hospital. If you are travelling from outside York, follow the brown signs from the York North outer ring road (A1237). The theatre’s postcode is YO31 8TA.
First York bus routes 1 and 5/5A stop outside the theatre. Free car parking is available during performances in the Nestlé car park behind the Yearsley swimming pool.
Neither the theatre nor Nestlé can accept liability for loss by theft or damage to cars or their contents while using the car park.
The theatre auditorium has a seating capacity of 365 on two levels. All seats have an unobstructed view of the stage and generous leg room. A large number of children’s booster seats are available free of charge, on a first come, first served basis.
The theatre is fully licenced and sells a large range of alcoholic and soft drinks, ice cream and confectionery, available to purchase before the show and during the interval.
The theatre is accessible to patrons with disabilities. There are two dedicated wheelchair spaces at the rear of the stalls with seats for accompanying carers. Please advise at the time of booking if a wheelchair space is required. Step-free access to the auditorium is available. The front of house stewards will be pleased to provide guidance and assistance where necessary. An induction loop for the hard of hearing is provided, covering the stalls seating. This is accessed by setting hearing aids into the “T” position. josephrowntreetheatre.co.uk
