The List

The Crescent Theatre

What's On @ The Crescent Theatre

Little Wars

Little Wars

16 May 2026 - 23 May 2026

France, 1940. Tensions are high. The booze is flowing. WW2 is raging. The coolest women on earth are having the what-if dinner party of your dreams. A dinner party during the Second World War unites celebrated writers Agatha Christie, Lillian Hellman, Dorothy Parker, Gertrude Stein and Alice B. Toklas – with a mysterious guest. With copious booze flowing, acid-tongued barbs flying, and the threat of global conflict looming, the guests – and the world around them – are close to boiling point. Everyone has a confession. Someone has a secret. Set in the French Alps in 1940, Steven Carl McCasland’s Little Wars is an enthralling, entertaining and ultimately moving portrait of seven exceptional women – and a thrilling fiction based on truth. Following Friday's performance there will be an After Dark session which is an opportunity to meet members of the cast and creative team to discuss the production.
Jumpers for Goalposts

Jumpers for Goalposts

11 Jul 2026 - 18 Jul 2026

“Meant to be a laugh isn’t it? I thought? Sort of, comedy team names, we’re called ‘barely athletic’, nothing too, just, banter, jumpers for, for goalposts. Six weeks, four teams, play each other twice. Sunday afternoon fun.” A hilarious and heart-warming comedy about football, friendship and finding your way. Luke wants Danny, but Danny's got a secret. Joe's happy in goal. Geoff wants to headline the main stage at Hull Pride and Viv just wants to beat the lesbians to the league title. Game on.
Jerusalem

Jerusalem

13 Jun 2026 - 20 Jun 2026

"English rebellions by their very nature are generally bloodthirsty affairs." Jez Butterworth's hugely acclaimed, prize-winning play - a comic, contemporary vision of life in England's green and pleasant land. Jerusalem is widely considered to be one of the best plays of the 21st century. On St George's Day, the morning of the local country fair, Johnny 'Rooster' Byron, local waster and Lord of Misrule, is a wanted man. The council officials want to serve him an eviction notice, his son wants to be taken to the fair, a vengeful father wants to give him a serious kicking, and a motley crew of mates who want his ample supplies of drugs and alcohol."
Eight

Eight

29 May 2026 - 30 May 2026

Set A: Mona, Jude, Danny and Bobby Set B: Astrid, Miles, Andre and Milly Eight compelling monologues offering a state-of-the-nation group portrait for the stage. From Millie, the jolly-hockey-sticks prostitute who mourns the loss of the good old British class system, to Miles, a 7/7 survivor, and Danny, an ex-squaddie who makes friends in morgues, Eight looks at what has happened to a generation that has grown up in a world where everything has become acceptable.
She Stoops to Conquer @ Crescent Theatre
"Ask me no questions, and I'll tell you no fibs.” Oliver Goldsmith's glorious comedy of misunderstanding is one of the greatest plays of the English stage. An ambitious stepmother, impassioned sweethearts, a pragmatic father and a pair of star-crossed lovers are sent spinning through a hilarious comedy of errors by practical joker Tony Lumpkin. Charles Marlow has been invited to visit the Hardcastles’ country home in order to consider engagement to Mr Hardcastle’s daughter Kate. On the way, however, Marlow and his companion Hastings are waylaid by Kate’s step-brother Tony, a practical joker who convinces them that the Hardcastle house is, in fact, a country inn where they will need to spend the night before continuing on their journey. Confusion reigns as Marlow takes Mr Hardcastle for a presumptuous innkeeper and Kate for the local barmaid, an error she happily plays along with to trick him into discarding his shy and formal public demeanour and revealing the rogue beneath. Kate’s cousin Constance, meanwhile, plots to elope with Hastings but first needs to steal her jewels out from under the nose of her controlling aunt, Mrs Hardcastle. Will the mistakes of the night be uncovered before it’s too late? Part of our summer tour, more venues on sale soon.
Dino Tales

Dino Tales

24 Oct 2026 - 24 Oct 2026

Families all over the UK, get ready for the ultimate theatrical dinosaur experience. There will be rangers, dangers and a baby Ankylosaurus missing in the forest who needs help before the Evil Scientist captures her for testing in his lab. This ultimate wild rescue mission will capture the imaginations of kids and parents alike with flapping frills and dino thrills abound. State-of-the-art walking Dinosaurs bring the story to larger-than-life with Freya the Dancing Velociraptor, Dylan the Dilophosaurus, Angie the Ankylosaurus, Scar the Spinosaurus and Bruce the mighty T-Rex. Dino Tales – Jurassic Rescue brings a prehistoric immersive safari rescue adventure to a theatre near you with interactive activities and some of the largest articulated dinos ever to walk the stage. This unforgettable fun-filled family adventure is recommended for ages 4+ and is the must-see children’s theatre show for 2026.
A Christmas Carol

A Christmas Carol

11 Dec 2026 - 19 Dec 2026

‘I will honour Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year.’ Dickens’ timeless masterpiece returns to the Crescent at Christmas. Whilst Christmas cheer and goodwill abound across Victorian England, tight-fisted Ebenezer Scrooge goes to bed on Christmas Eve with no compassion or love in his heart. However, that night he is visited by the ghost of his old business partner Jacob Marley. Bound in chains for a lifetime of greed, Marley warns Scrooge it isn’t too late to change his fate, but only if he survives three more ghostly encounters… This heart-warming tale of redemption is the perfect festive treat.
Shrek The Musical

Shrek The Musical

2 Jun 2026 - 6 Jun 2026

Join Shrek and his trusty sidekick Donkey as they set out on a quest to defeat the fearsome dragon and rescue the beautiful Princess Fiona. With a heart-warming story and a cast of unforgettable characters, this musical extravaganza from Bournville Musical Theatre Company is a journey you won't want to miss. The show is set to a toe-tapping soundtrack featuring fabulous songs like 'I'm A Believer', 'Big Bright Beautiful World' and ‘Freak Flag’. These tunes will have you humming all the way home. It's the perfect night out for the whole family, offering a fabulous show that promises an enchanting night of fun for big kids and little kids alike.
A Star Wars Improv Show: The One-Man Made-Up Movie
Fresh from a sell-out run at the Edinburgh Festival, the new and acclaimed show embarks on its 2026 UK tour. Award nominated stand-up and improviser Jon Hipkiss brings together the ultimate celebration of fandom and comedy. Coordinates at the ready as the pitch is this – you decide the show! Based on your suggestions Jon will improvise an entirely new and never-to-be-seen again Star Wars film all by himself. This show is in no way related to Disney or Lucasfilm... obviously! May the force be with us!
ABBA Gold
Abba
Music
Rock & Pop

ABBA Gold

29 May 2026 - 3 Jul 2026

With over a decade of sell out theatre performances under their sequin studded belts, ABBA Gold has entertained the nation for longer than ABBA existed and has become known as the UK's most spectacular ABBA Tribute concert. Featuring an all-star cast of the UK's finest musicians, dancers and vocalists, packed with all of ABBA's greatest hits performed with dazzling musicianship that only a true live band can accomplish. Stunningly authentic costumes, superb choreographed dance routines and a sprinkling of light-hearted humour make this a show which is definitely not to be missed. So dust down your platforms, put on your flares and sing along with all of your favourite ABBA hits including: 'Waterloo', 'Mamma Mia', 'Thank You For The Music', 'Dancing Queen', 'Winner Takes It All', 'Gimme, Gimme, Gimme' and many more!
The Future is Ours!

The Future is Ours!

20 Jun 2026 - 21 Jun 2026

Razzamataz Theatre Schools Sutton Coldfield are proud to be presenting their 2026 Annual Showcase; 'The Future is Ours'! Their students aged 4-18 will be wowing audiences with these special performances showcasing their incredible work at Razzamataz Sutton Coldfield. Show 1 - Saturday 20th June - 10:30 Saturday Minis 1, Saturday Juniors 2, Saturday Juniors 4 & Saturday Inters AM ONLY. Show 2 - Saturday 20th June - 14:15 Saturday Minis 3, Saturday Minis 4, Wednesday Inters, Sunday Minis PM & Tuesday Seniors ONLY. Show 3 - Saturday 20th June -18:45 Saturday Juniors 1, Saturday Juniors 3, Saturday Inters PM, Saturday Intro to Seniors & Saturday Seniors ONLY. Show 4 - Sunday 21st June - 12:00 Sunday Minis AM, Sunday Inters, Sunday Juniors 5, Sunday Juniors 6 & Saturday Seniors ONLY. Show 5 - Sunday 21st June - 16:30 ALL Tuesday Classes ONLY. Tuesday Minis, Tuesday Juniors 1&2, Tuesday Inters & Tuesday Seniors. Please carefully book for the correct performance time that your child’s class is listed under. Incorrect bookings cannot be rectified! If you are unsure which performance time your child is in please confirm with the Razzamataz team on [email protected] BEFORE booking. We politely ask that under 3's do not attend this performance.
National Theatre Live: The Playboy of the Western World
The Playboy of the Western World by John Millington Synge and directed by Caitrona McLaughlin Nicola Coughlan (Bridgerton) joins anna Hardwicke (The Sixth Commandment) and Siobhán McSweeney (Derry Girls) in John Millington Synges riveting play of youth and self-discovery. Pegeen Flahertys life is turned upside down when a young man walks into her pub claiming that hes killed his father. Instead of being shunned, the killer becomes a local hero and begins to win hearts, that is until a second man unexpectedly arrives on the scene Filmed live on stage at the National Theatre, Caitrona McLaughlin directs this darkly funny tale full to the brim with secrets.
Unplugged

Unplugged

18 May 2026 - 18 May 2026

Unplugged features performances by talented members of the Crescent Theatre Company alongside guest performances from some of the best musicians, singers, and acts in the Midlands, all keen to showcase their talents to an appreciative audience. A cornucopia of acoustic instruments is always in evidence including guitars of all kinds, mandolins, banjos, ukuleles, fiddles, guitaleles, harmonicas, concertinas, period instruments, and many more. Taking place in the intimate surroundings of the Crescent Bar, the event is totally free to all and promises a memorable evening of musical entertainment. This much loved event usually packs the bar to capacity, so please book your tickets in advance and come early if you want a seat!
Fun for Little Ones - A Tribute to Ms Rachel
Bringing Ms Rachel's character to life in a fun, interactive live on stage performance with lots of audience participation for the little ones! With over 5 billion views and over 8 million subscribers on Youtube, Ms Rachel is the biggest viral sensation to hit our children's screens since 'Baby Shark!' 'Fun for Little Ones Live' encapsulates the bubbly personality, sweet singing voice and educational content; bringing to life a fun show for children. The production also includes interactive screen content throughout featuring unique and on brand animation and scenery, plus puppetry, characters & voices on screen with Monty & friends. This UK Premier tribute is the only one of it's kind, with little people across the country going crazy for her.
Fearlessly Taylor – The Eras Tour Experience
Experience the ultimate celebration of Taylor Swift’s music in The Tour of the Eras, a breath-taking tribute starring the incredible Hannah Jenkins. Backed by a sensational four-piece live band and dynamic dancers, this electrifying production takes audiences on a journey through Taylor’s iconic eras, from country roots to pop anthems. Stunning vocals, dazzling costumes, and all the hits you know and love—including Cruel Summer, Love Story, Shake It Off, and many more. Whether you’re a lifelong Swiftie or a casual fan, this show promises an unforgettable night of music, energy, and magic.
A Woman of No Importance

A Woman of No Importance

26 Sept 2026 - 3 Oct 2026

Every woman is a rebel, and usually in wild revolt against herself. The price of reputation, the cost of truth: the revelation of a woman’s secret and scandalous past comes back to haunt her in this classic comedy. Oscar Wilde’s biting satire explores the moral hypocrisy, injustice and double standards of the Victorian era. By turns funny and dramatic, Wilde’s sparkling wit and sharp observations on human nature, morality and the consequences of actions still resonate today.
Bent

Bent

5 Jun 2027 - 12 Jun 2027

If you survive the train, you stand a chance. Here's where they break you. You can do nothing for your friend. Nothing. If you try to help him, they will kill you. If you try to care for his wounds, they will kill you. If you even see—see what they do to him, hear—hear what they do to him—they will kill you. If you want to stay alive, he cannot exist. Bent follows one man's journey from the hedonistic cabarets and clubs of 1930s Berlin to the inhuman excesses of an oppressive regime. Martin Sherman's searing landmark play takes the audience from the nightclubs of Berlin to the horrors of Dachau. Bent explores the persecution of homosexual men during the early years of Nazi Germany through the eyes of narcissistic, hedonist Max who will stop at nothing to survive. When, after years on the run, Max finds himself in a concentration camp, can he finally put others before himself and commit to a political act which affirms his true identity…or is it too late? Following Friday's performance there will be an After Dark session which is an opportunity to meet members of the cast and creative team to discuss the production."
Measure for Measure

Measure for Measure

7 Nov 2026 - 14 Nov 2026

‘To whom should I complain? Who would believe me?’ When her brother falls foul of the state’s rigid morality laws, Isabella is sent to plead for his life in Shakespeare's razor-sharp thriller of hypocrisy and corruption. Following Friday's performance there will be an After Dark session which is an opportunity to meet members of the cast and creative team to discuss the production.
Nigel Slater's Toast

Nigel Slater's Toast

12 Sept 2026 - 19 Sept 2026

A play about growing up. With food. Nigel Slater’s Toast is the critically-acclaimed play based on his award-winning biography. Vividly recreating suburban Wolverhampton in the 1960s, Toast is the story of Nigel Slater’s childhood, told through the tastes and smells he grew up with. From making the perfect sherry trifle to waging a war over cakes and from the pressured playground politics of sweets, to the rigid rules of restaurant dining, this is a story of love, loss and…toast.
Rules for Living

Rules for Living

16 Jan 2027 - 23 Jan 2027

Everyone creates their own rules for living. But what happens when an extended family gathers for a traditional Christmas dinner and each of them rigidly follows those rules? As the drinks flow and the obligatory games intensify, family resentments rise and relationships are pulled apart with a bang. Accusations fly, relationships deconstruct, the rules take over. Christmas Day will never be the same again. In Sam Holcroft's theatrically playful, dark comedy the instructions are there for all to see, audience included - so there's really no place to hide.
The Welkin

The Welkin

15 May 2027 - 22 May 2027

Rural Suffolk, 1759. As the country waits for Halley's Comet, Sally Poppy is sentenced to hang for a heinous murder. When she claims to be pregnant, a jury of twelve matrons are taken from their housework to decide whether she's telling the truth, or simply trying to escape the noose. With only midwife Lizzy Luke prepared to defend the girl, and a mob baying for blood outside, the matrons wrestle with their new authority, and the devil in their midst. Lucy Kirkwood's hard-hitting, compelling drama has been acclaimed as one of the best plays of the 21st century. Following Friday's performance there will be an After Dark session which is an opportunity to meet members of the cast and creative team to discuss the production.
Till the Stars Come Down

Till the Stars Come Down

10 Apr 2027 - 17 Apr 2027

It's Sylvia and Marek's wedding day. But as the vodka flows and the guests hit the dancefloor, passions boil over. Set in a former East Midlands mining town, the play follows Sylvia's working-class family as passions ignite and long-held secrets surface, testing loyalties and forcing characters to confront a future full of uncertainty. The play blends humour and tragedy, exploring complex family dynamics, love, loss, and the scars left by political and economic history. Till the Stars Come Down is a heartbreaking and hilarious portrayal of a larger-than-life family struggling to come to terms with a changing world.
Wait Until Dark

Wait Until Dark

17 Oct 2026 - 24 Oct 2026

Trapped with a killer in the dark. A West End and Broadway hit, this masterfully constructed thriller moves from one moment of suspense to another as it builds toward an electrifying, breath-stopping final scene. A sinister con man named Roat and two ex-convicts, Mike and Carlino, are about to meet their match. They have traced the location of a mysterious doll, which they are much interested in, to the basement apartment of Sam Hendrix and his blind wife, Susy. Sam had apparently been persuaded by a strange woman to transport the doll across the Canadian border, not knowing that sewn inside were several grams of heroin. When the woman is murdered, the situation becomes more urgent. The con man and his ex-convicts, through a cleverly constructed deception, convince Susy that the police have implicated Sam in the woman's murder, and the doll, which she believes is the key to his innocence, is evidence. She refuses to reveal its location, and with the help of a young neighbour, figures out she is the victim of a bizarre charade. But when Roat kills his associates, a deadly game of cat and mouse ensues between the two. Susy knows the only way to play fair is by her rules, so when darkness falls she turns off all the lights, leaving both of them to manoeuvre in the dark until the game ends.
What Shadows

What Shadows

10 Jul 2027 - 17 Jul 2027

In 1968 Midlands MP Enoch Powell has something to say. Something he feels needs to be said. Something that could divide Britain forever. In 1992 Rose Cruickshank, a black Oxford academic, wants answers. Powell's 'Rivers of Blood' speech, with its controversial words about immigration, shattered her childhood and now she is driven to confront both the man who made the speech and her own troubled identity. Will a meeting with Enoch resolve the conflicts that are tearing her – and the country – apart? Chris Hannan's powerful play, What Shadows, is a searing look at identity and immigration within a bitterly divided country. Following Friday's performance there will be an After Dark session which is an opportunity to meet members of the cast and creative team to discuss the production.
The Jersey Beats - Oh What A Nite!

The Jersey Beats - Oh What A Nite!

30 May 2026 - 10 Nov 2026

It's the night out not to be missed - wowing crowds since 2014, and now touring the country - Oh What A Nite! is a different style of tribute show to any other you have seen or heard of before. This tribute to Frankie Valli tells the story of how the band reached the dizzying heights of television appearances, fame and fortune - plus host Leye D Johns brings a light-hearted flavour to proceedings, ensuring audiences leave with a big smile on their face.
Birmingham Fest '26 Presents: in the air
Chloe's mom has left behind some old photos. As Chloe sees the younger version of her mother and wonders what she was like... she meets Violet. Violet is the very opposite of Chloe, but the two of them slowly realize that they have a lot in common. Told from their adjacent balconies, this is about how looking back helps with moving on. A coin toss before each performance will determine the cast. Written by: Ashley Amodeo Performed by: Ashley Amodeo & Elly Hocking Directed by: Elly Green Supported by Theatre Deli & New Diorama Theatre. Fundraising for The Maya Centre.
Secrets of The Simpsons - An Evening with Mike Reiss
Comedy producer Mike Reiss has written scripts for countless episodes of The Simpsons and many other American television shows and movies. ‘Entertainment Weekly’ called Season 4 of The Simpsons “the greatest season of the greatest show in history”. Mike Reiss lectures regularly throughout the USA and on several cruise ships including Cunard’s QM2. This Summer Mike makes his UK debut visiting London, Stockport, Birmingham and Brighton. A two-hour presentation including interval and audience Q&A.
The Mirror Crack'd

The Mirror Crack'd

6 Feb 2027 - 13 Feb 2027

In this dynamic new adaptation of Agatha Christie's classic mystery, Miss Marple unravels a web of lies, tragedy and danger when a fading Hollywood film star is murdered. In 1960s England, a wind of change is blowing through the land. It has even reached the sleepy village of St Mary Mead. There’s a new housing estate to make the villagers curious and fearful, and now the village has been thrown into a frenzy by the news that a glamorous American film star has bought the Manor House. Miss Jane Marple, confined to a chair after an accident, is wondering if life has passed her by. Then there is a vicious murder, and Miss Marple must unravel a web of lies, tragedy and danger. This adaptation of Agatha Christie’s famous novel brings real emotional depth and psychological insight to a thrilling story of revenge and dark secrets.
Backstage Theatre Tours

Backstage Theatre Tours

23 May 2026 - 24 Aug 2026

Some parts of the building are only accessible via stairs and may not be suitable for some people with restricted mobility however an amended tour route may be possible. Not suitable for children under 5. Discount tickets on matinee performances subject to availability. We can also offer tours to school groups on weekdays. Please contact the Box Office for more information.
The Sound of Music

The Sound of Music

24 Apr 2027 - 1 May 2027

Music by RICHARD RODGERS Lyrics by OSCAR HAMMERSTEIN II Book by HOWARD LINDSAY and RUSSEL CROUSE Suggested by "The Trapp Family Singers" by Maria Augusta Trapp The Crescent is alive with the sound of music! Worlds collide when free-spirited nun Maria is made governess in the strict household of Captain von Trapp. Seven rowdy children may be a handful, but Maria’s infectious zest for life soon captures their hearts and minds, and even softens the Captain’s steely heart. The final collaboration between Rodgers & Hammerstein has become the world’s most beloved musical. Featuring a trove of cherished songs, including “Climb Ev’ry Mountain,” “My Favourite Things,” “Do-Re-Mi,” “Sixteen Going on Seventeen” and the title number, The Sound of Music is a timeless classic.
Cabaret One

Cabaret One

4 Sept 2026 - 4 Sept 2026

Classic cabaret for modern audiences. Step inside the House of Aura, where glamour, wit and a touch of the unexpected meet. From captivating new voices to internationally acclaimed artists, Cabaret One unfolds through comedy, burlesque, music and spoken word in an intimate, carefully curated setting. An evening of bold performance, quiet magic and a little mischief—designed to linger long after the final bow. Cabaret One is proud to support Lymphoma Action and The Good Grief Trust.
Things I’ve Never Said

Things I’ve Never Said

25 Aug 2026 - 25 Aug 2026

A life-affirming story told through breathtaking dance theatre, with world-class original music. As seen on the BBC, the award-winning Project Dance returns to present Things I’ve Never Said - a heart-touching story that shines a light on the secrets and unspoken thoughts we each carry. The latest offering from the revered touring company, Yeovil-born Project Dance has built a nationwide reputation for creating unforgettable original work, promising audiences of all ages a truly transformative theatre experience. Written by James Bamford and Grace Noelle Music by Charles Harrison Directed by James Bamford projectdance.org.uk
She Stoops to Conquer

She Stoops to Conquer

11 Jul 2026 - 11 Jul 2026

"Ask me no questions, and I'll tell you no fibs.” Oliver Goldsmith's glorious comedy of misunderstanding is one of the greatest plays of the English stage. An ambitious stepmother, impassioned sweethearts, a pragmatic father and a pair of star-crossed lovers are sent spinning through a hilarious comedy of errors by practical joker Tony Lumpkin. Charles Marlow has been invited to visit the Hardcastles’ country home in order to consider engagement to Mr Hardcastle’s daughter Kate. On the way, however, Marlow and his companion Hastings are waylaid by Kate’s step-brother Tony, a practical joker who convinces them that the Hardcastle house is, in fact, a country inn where they will need to spend the night before continuing on their journey. Confusion reigns as Marlow takes Mr Hardcastle for a presumptuous innkeeper and Kate for the local barmaid, an error she happily plays along with to trick him into discarding his shy and formal public demeanour and revealing the rogue beneath. Kate’s cousin Constance, meanwhile, plots to elope with Hastings but first needs to steal her jewels out from under the nose of her controlling aunt, Mrs Hardcastle. Will the mistakes of the night be uncovered before it’s too late?
Tinderella

Tinderella

18 Feb 2027 - 19 Feb 2027

Get ready for the funniest, cheekiest, most wickedly fabulous ADULT PANTOMIME you’ve always wished to see. Release your inner child, and then leave them at home because this show is not for kids! In a scandalous twist on the classic fairy tale, it’s time to swipe right on "Tinderella" – the naughtiest adult panto to ever hit the stage! You’re invited to a night of raucous laughter, innuendos, outuendos and unexpected encounters that will have you begging for more! Tinderella is a whizz on social media, a real influencer, but it’s all a charade because poor Tinders has no money, no man and none of the glamorous life she claims to be living. Until one day, she meets not one, but two Princes in the woods…. But who has the biggest balls? Will this be her happy ending or will she lose more than her shoe?! You’ll be gagging for more in this outrageously funny Panto from the UK’s leading Adult Pantomime Producer. Expect cheesy anthems, spicy frolics, rib tickling antics and all the audience participation you could want for all you big boys and girls. Leave the kids at home and grab your glass slippers for TINDERELLA, Two Big Balls, One Happy Ending! WARNINGS: May not be politically correct Happy Endings are guaranteed Strictly over 16s, all Under 18s need to be accompanied by an adult
The Book of Musicals: Chapter Three
School of Theatre Excellence presents an evening of Musical Theatre featuring students from our school. Join us as we showcase our students on a journey through a selection of musical numbers from your favourite shows.
5678

5678

14 Jul 2026 - 15 Jul 2026

5678 is a high energy dance showcase, where every piece inspired by a number. Featuring a range of dance styles from Tap, Ballet, Jazz, Commercial and Contemporary our Year 12 students bring each number to life through movement, music and storytelling. Join us as we celebrate not just dance, but the moments that count, the rhythms, the memories, and the journeys that connect us all. 5, 6, 7, 8… and the show begins.

↖ Back to all venues