Culture in Norwich: Norwich Theatre
Culture in Norwich: Norwich Theatre
As one of the most important stages in the region, it’s no surprise that Norwich Theatre is a go-to for touring shows, big names and local theatre lovers alike.
Founded in 1758, the Theatre Royal is one of the oldest established theatres in the country! But this is a venue that’s a supporter of the forward-thinking, modern and innovative. Alongside classic plays and star-spangled musicals, you can expect heart wrenching dance and orchestras, dramatic operas and accessible takes on Shakespeare- to name a few.
Here we speak to Charlotte Nelson, Senior Communications Manager, on how theatre can be for everyone and what to look out for from Norwich Theatre this summer and beyond!
Norwich Theatre was founded in the 1700s and is one of the oldest in the country!
Norwich Theatre Royal is the biggest stage in the East of England and plays host to an amazing programme of performances. Besides West End musicals and plays, what can we expect from the upcoming lineup at Norwich Theatre?
There is so much to look forward to, and there really is something for everyone. We can’t talk about what is coming up without mentioning the summer blockbuster at Norwich Theatre Royal, Matilda the Musical (6 Aug – 6 Sep)! It’s a magical show inspired by the beloved Roald Dahl book, and it has won some serious awards.
Beyond musicals, we are excited to welcome back Matthew Bourne’s New Adventures in the epic thriller The Car Man (29 Sep – 3 Oct), loosely based on Bizet’s opera Carmen. We also have the stunning Acosta Danza present a brand-new piece, Cuban Baroque (20 – 21 Oct), which beautifully weaves the Baroque period with the vibrancy of Cuban dance. If you are into opera, you must catch The Marriage of Figaro (8 Sep). It is an evening of sparkling tunes, tangled romances, and razor-sharp wit … what’s not to like?
But the fun doesn’t just stop at Norwich Theatre Royal! At Norwich Theatre Playhouse, we have a genre-defying string quartet, Bowjangles (11 Sep), who will bring their trademark mix of comedy, improbable dancing, vocals and virtuosic string playing. For some gut-punching choreography and unflinching beats, try Woodhill (10 – 11 Nov), which shines a light on the hidden story of HMP Woodhill.
Meanwhile, at Norwich Theatre Stage Two, we proudly present 3 Migrant Women (4 – 5 Sep). This is a striking and intimate exploration of migration, memory, and the profound cost of leaving everything behind. We also have Flotsam (28 Oct), a new opera from OperaUpClose inspired by the David Wiesner magical picture book.
3 Migrant Women is a Norwich Theatre production, exploring migration through movement
Why do you think Norwich is a stop on so many national tours?
We are so lucky! While we are the biggest stage in the East, it goes beyond that. Producers know that people in this region love theatre and are incredibly passionate. It is also often described as one of the best places on the tour; we might be biased, but we couldn’t agree more.
Tickets for your shows are often more affordable than those in the West End. Why do you think it’s important to make theatre accessible to local people?
We know that experiencing theatre has massive benefits. It’s a way to learn new things, enjoy different stories, improve wellbeing, or escape from the world for two and a half hours. Because of this, it is important that everyone has the best opportunity to experience live theatre, and we are committed to making that happen.
Recently, we have launched My Theatre, a scheme that allows those registered the opportunity to secure seats for a wide range of shows for only £10, along with additional opportunities to access discounted and free tickets. We are also one of a handful of theatres that offer a pay-in instalments scheme to help spread the cost.
You have collaborated with dancer Carlos Acosta and welcomed shows from Matthew Bourne, Rambert and national and international ballets. Has the demand for dance grown?
Demand for dance has always been strong, but there is definitely a growing appetite for dance and movement-based shows. This style of performance allows the audience to experience storytelling in a way where words are not the focus, so you can be completely absorbed by what is happening onstage.
We are so lucky to have regular artistic partners, such as Carlos Acosta, Matthew Bourne’s New Adventures, Rambert and Northern Ballet, as well as world-class and celebrated choreographers, dancers and artists from around the globe, including through Dance Consortium, all of whom bring world-class dance to our region.
Carlos Acosta is just one of many dance companies and choreographers who are regulars at Norwich Theare
I want to try opera for the first time. Where should I start?
Ok, first off, it is not as scary as you might think! If you love the spectacle of a powerful musical, it can be a natural step.
The most common concern we hear is whether it will be difficult to follow. However, thanks to the surtitles (screens above or to the side of the stage that display the translation), it is really easy to follow along.
Our best advice is to spend a few minutes researching the plot before the show. When you combine this with the vocals, movement and acting, you will have a great time. Chances are that the opera is way more familiar to you than you think. Take La traviata (coming to Norwich Theatre Royal from 31 Jul – 2 Aug), for example: it has plot parallels with the 1990 hit film Pretty Woman and with Moulin Rouge.
What was your reaction to Timothée Chalamet’s controversial comments on ballet and opera during the Oscars build-up earlier this year?
As lovers of all forms of storytelling, it is sad to hear. We know that not everyone is going to like every genre. Some people love musicals while others can’t stand them; there are dance fanatics, and there are people who just don’t get it.
However, opera and dance absolutely thrive here at Norwich Theatre. Audiences continually turn up to support and engage with this form of storytelling. To say nobody cares is simply untrue. We care, Timothée, and so do our audiences!
Finally, is there anything we should look out for when touring Norwich next year? (Aside from Hadestown and Jesus Christ Superstar, of course!)
2027 is another bumper year with some amazing shows. We have Giovanna Fletcher starring in the thriller Before I Go to Sleep (23 – 27 Mar), and Savage (13 – 17 Apr), a new play based on the life story of Paul O’Grady.
If you are a dance fan, we have São Paulo Dance Company (9 & 10 Mar) returning for another electrifying tour. You can also enjoy a thrilling and evocative love story, set in London during the Second World War, with Matthew Bourne’s Cinderella (6 – 10 Apr). Rambert’s new dance work It’s a Sin (15 – 19 Jun), inspired by the era-defining, award-winning Channel 4 Series by Russell T Davies, is also high on our must-watch list!
For opera lovers, a timeless story of ill-fated love is brought to life with a brand-new orchestration in English Touring Opera’s production of Gluck’s Orpheus and Eurydice (12 Mar). Alternatively, you can try Tosca (13 Mar), which is set over two chaotic days of passion and intrigue.
Norwich Theatre is home to Norwich Theatre Royal, the Playhouse and Stage Two. Its programme boasts an amazing array of shows and performances across all genres and styles. Take a look on their website for What’s On and to book tickets!
