Looking ahead to 2025, local theatres have announced an exciting lineup of plays and musicals—some of which are already must-sees. If you’re keen, booking early is advised.
The first major production of 2025 in Leamington is Medea. The timeless tale of love, betrayal, and vengeance remains as captivating as ever, often echoing themes seen in today’s headlines. This new adaptation by Ben Power, first staged to great acclaim at the National Theatre a decade ago, offers a fresh and accessible take on the classic tragedy. The production features an outstanding cast, led by Julie Ann Radell, Tom O’Connor (renowned to me for his direction of Hangmen), and Mark Roberts, who delivered a superb performance in last year’s Vanya. Directed by Craig Shelton, this Medea promises to be a powerful and unforgettable start to the theatre season.
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In February, Constellations by Nick Payne takes the stage at the Loft. Leonie Slater and Ted McGowan lead the cast under Sue Moore’s direction. Slater, who delivered a career-defining performance in Vanya last season, and McGowan, fresh from his stellar work in Mosquitoes, make this production one to watch. With its brilliant script and exceptional leads, Constellations is sure to shine as one of the season’s highlights.

The Loft Theatre kicks off spring with a highly anticipated production of the Broadway hit Spring Awakening, directed by Chris Gilbey-Smith. This show, which launched the careers of Jonathan Groff and Lea Michele, features an electrifying score and powerful themes. The Loft’s production boasts an impressive cast, including Olivier Award-winner Nathan Dowling and Michael Barker, who, like me, was fortunate enough to see the original production. With all the ingredients for success, Spring Awakening is likely to break box office records—especially if marketed effectively to A-level students and local university audiences.

Also at the Loft, casting has been announced for the May production of Andrew Bovell’s Things I Know to Be True. When I first read this play, I couldn’t put it down. At its core, it’s a poignant exploration of an Australian family’s triumphs and trials, with late twists revealing shocking truths and an ending too profound to spoil. Directed by Lynda Lewis, the production features a stellar cast: Ruth Herd (Mosquitoes) takes on the role of Pip, the older daughter, further cementing her reputation as one of the Loft’s finest talents. Joining her is Alice Arthur, a standout from Mosquitoes, as the younger daughter Rosie. The excellent Julien Rosa (Never the Sinner at the Talisman) will play Mark, the son. With such talent on board, this promises to be an unmissable production.

At the Talisman Theatre, Phil Reynolds stars in Noel Coward’s Present Laughter, directed by local legend Vanessa Comer. Reynolds, whose credits are too numerous to list, promises a typically witty performance in this high-energy comedy. With the Talisman’s recent modern redesign and its reputation strengthened by last season’s excellent Never the Sinner, audiences can look forward to sharp wit, impeccable manners, and plenty of laughs.

Meanwhile, the Priory Theatre brings Amanda Whittington’s Ladies Unleashed to the stage in February/March, directed by Stuart Lawson. The third installment in Whittington’s “Ladies” trilogy, this comedy—previously staged to great success by Hull Truck Theatre—features an all-female cast and promises to be a crowd-pleaser. Given the Priory’s track record of sell-out productions, securing tickets early is a wise move.

With this exciting start to 2025, local theatres are offering something for everyone. The directors’ choices reflect boldness and ambition, ensuring top-tier productions at an average ticket price of just £15—a true bargain. With London shows now charging upwards of £200, staying local is not only far more economical but often more enjoyable and stress-free.

Here’s to a fantastic year of theatre in 2025!

Mark Roberts

Ted McGowan

Leonie Slater

Ruth Herd

Phil Reynolds