by Katie Thompson
Here in the City of Stories, we’re no strangers to a thriving arts and culture scene. It’s something Norwich natives like to shout about. From West End productions to local acting troupes, live music, comedy, plays, opera, orchestra, ballet, modern dance, poetry and more.
And with six (yes, really!) theatres across the city, there’s something to see all year round. Here’s our guide to Norwich’s incredible theatres.
Norwich Theatre Royal is the largest stage in the East
Norwich Theatre Royal is the largest stage in the East and one known for its fantastic array of performances. Here, you can experience the very best West End productions (and at a lower price than London!), from Hamilton and Mamma Mia to An Inspector Calls and Dear England, alongside unforgettable dance by the likes of Northern Ballet and Matthew Borne’s New Adventures and sell-out comedians. Plus, here you can see our own Norfolk & Norwich Operatic Society, and we couldn’t forget the panto! (We recommend booking a table at Prelude for dinner- it’s yours for the evening!)
Meanwhile, Stage Two offers an intimate space where creativity is made to be explored. Think short plays, family workshops and preview performances.
And for theatre that’s even more immersive and forward-thinking, Norwich Theatre Beyond takes performance off the stage and out into the world. With Norwich Theatre Beyond, the audience is part of the performance, taking place in local spaces like The Great Hospital, Sweet Briar Marshes and even a shipping container!
For tickets, visit Norwich Theatre’s website or contact the Box Office on 01603 630000 or by visiting in person.
The Playhouse is known as one of the best fringe venues in the country!
Known as one of the best fringe venues in the country (not to mention home to the ever-popular Playhouse Bar), Norwich Theatre Playhouse is a 300-seater venue recognised for its exciting line-up of comedians and emerging productions. This is where you can laugh out loud at the likes of Jenny Eclair one night, before a first encounter with the RSC the next. Time it right and you’ll be one of the first to see up-and-coming shows like Six whose first ever UK tour started here in 2018.
For tickets, visit Norwich Theatre’s website or contact the Box Office on 01603 630000 or by visiting in person.
Did you know Norwich is home to one of only three building-based puppet theatres in the UK?
As one of only 3 building-based puppet theatres in the UK (and 5 overall), Norwich Puppet Theatre truly is a special venue. Located in a converted medieval church (this is Norwich, after all), Norwich Puppet Theatre puts on shows for every age. From reimagined fairytales to original plays, you’ll be immersed in the magical artistry of puppetry- whether they’re shadow puppets or marionettes. As well as family-friendly and adult-only shows, there are workshops, film screenings, and music nights to enjoy too.
Book tickets via Norwich Puppet Theatre’s website or call the Box Office on 01603 629921.
The Maddermarket is the city’s community theatre and home to the Norwich Players
Nestled in the heart of the Norwich Lanes, the Maddermarket Theatre is the city’s community theatre, home to the Norwich Players since it opened in 1921. With a beautiful 300-seater auditorium, and a small studio space, here you can lose yourself in (very affordable) plays and dramas by the local troupe as well as one-night-only performances from touring comedians, bands, singers and more.
To book tickets, visit the Maddermarket’s website or call their Box Office on 01603 620917.
As a performing arts hub, you can enjoy and get involved in theatre at The Garage
Creativity is the core of The Garage, a performing arts hub where learning and exploration is encouraged. Here you can watch small-scale performances in its 113-seat theatre, featuring local and national productions in theatre, dance and music. There’s plenty to make you laugh, cry or jump- from thrillers to documentary screenings and panto. Perhaps you’ll be tempted to join one of their adult dance classes afterwards!
Book tickets for The Garage via their website or call 01603 283382.
Situated slightly out of the city centre in the north of Norwich, Sewell Barn is a lively hub for local performers and audiences, named for local literary icon Anna Sewell. Here you’re right in the heart of the action. Discover up-and-coming plays or reacquaint yourself with classic scripts by Federico Garcia Lorca, Harold Pinter, Dylan Thomas and the more contemporary Alan Bennett.
Book tickets online or call 0333 666 3366.
Norwich Arts Centre recently celebrated 45 years!
While not necessarily a theatre, Norwich Arts Centre is one of the city’s most popular arts and culture venues. This award-winning space has been a popular destination for 45 years- Oasis even played here on their first UK tour in 1994. Today, you can enjoy local, national and international musicians, comedy and poetry as well as unique visual arts and dance experiences.
Book via Norwich Arts Centre’s website or email [email protected].
The Norfolk and Norwich Festival is the county’s biggest arts and culture event
One of the most anticipated events in Norwich’s arts and culture calendar is the Norfolk & Norwich Festival, which has been entertaining locals and visitors alike for over 250 years! For 17 days each May, across the city and beyond, you can catch circus and dance performances, outdoor arts, literature, comedy and live music. Keep an eye out for the big opening event!
Book tickets online or call their Box Office on 01603 531800.
Cromer Pier: home of the only end of pier full season show!
On the breathtaking North Norfolk coast, you’ll find the traditional seaside town of Cromer with tis iconic pier. Cromer Pier is home to the only full season end-of-pier show in the world! Each year, the Pavilion Theatre puts on a spectacle with their Summer and Christmas variety shows, not to mention a line-up of exciting music nights and concerts throughout the year.
For tickets, book online or call Cromer Pier’s Box Office on 1263 512495.
