Shakespeare North Playhouse announces a vibrant new programme of shows, film screenings, community activities and special events now on sale for Spring 2026. From bold new theatre productions to food experiences, guided tours and family activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
A Northern Classic Returns
Kicking off the new line-up is Jim Cartwright’s TWO. Set in a northern pub where two actors embody 14 characters over the course of one night, the play offers a funny, moving and sharply observed portrait of working-class life. Audiences encounter a cross-section of pub goers: from flirty couples and squabbling husbands and wives to lonely drinkers and lost souls – each carrying their own stories of hope, humour and heartbreak.
At its core, TWO is about resilience, connection and the hidden struggles we carry. As laughter collides with grief, and small talk masks deeper pain, Cartwright shines a light on the joy and fragility of ordinary lives.
Lisa Allen, CEO & Creative Director of Shakespeare North Playhouse will be directing the play. She said: “TWO is a play rooted in northern life and storytelling. It’s funny, moving and deeply relatable – exactly the kind of theatre we want our audiences to experience here.”
More Theatre Highlights
Other highlights now on sale include Puck: A Fairy’s Tale, a magical reimagining of Shakespeare’s mischievous sprite, direct from Riverside Studios London; The Silence of Snow: The Life of Patrick Hamilton, Mark Farrelly’s award-winning solo show; and Justin Moorhouse: The Greatest Performance of My Life, a brand-new comedy show from the northern favourite.
Local voices take the spotlight in Our Public House, a funny and heart warming new play with music by best-selling novelist and playwright Barney Norris, inspired by real voices from across the nation. Music fans can look forward to a special performance from Paul Young on the Cockpit Theatre stage as part of Knowsley Music Festival 2025 in November.
Big Screen In Prescot
Also new, Shakespeare North Playhouse introduces a 6-month programme of film screenings curated by Imagine Futures CiC. Each month features two special screenings:
- Wee Film Club – Saturday morning screenings for children, complete with free arts and crafts activities.
- IF Cinema Fridays – evening screenings for adults, from must-see new releases to restored classics, each paired with a short by a local filmmaker.
Tickets are £3 for children’s screenings (Wee Film Club) and £5 for adults, making a family day out or an evening at the cinema possible for everyone. Local filmmakers can submit their short films for free at imaginefutures.uk for the chance to be featured. Supported by Film Hub North with National Lottery funding on behalf of the BFI Film Audience Network, this pilot programme is delivered by Imagine Futures CiC.
A Place To Connect
Alongside theatre and film, Shakespeare North Playhouse offers a wide range of opportunities to connect, learn and discover. Community favourites such as Baby Bards, Chatty Café, Shared Reading, Life Drawing, and Itch Spoken Word Nights sit alongside the brand-new Shakespeare North Young Company and special events like Supper Clubs, while Heritage and Tech Tours invite audiences behind the scenes.
Whether you’re seeking unforgettable theatre, film, delicious food, or opportunities for families and communities to get creative, this latest programme invites everyone to make memories at Shakespeare North Playhouse.
Priority booking for supporters opens 10th September.
Support starts from just £5 per month.
Explore the full programme and join as a supporter today at shakespearenorthplayhouse.co.uk.