Family program
Family Performance Programme
Booking required
A revolving series of live shows designed for family audiences.
Experience a diverse program of live performance at this established theatre. From major touring productions and classic comedies on the Main Stage to experimental new writing at the intimate Burton Taylor Studio, the venue showcases local talent, family shows, and acclaimed performers.
An active theatre in Oxford presenting a dynamic programme of professional drama, family performances, stand-up comedy, and experimental studio writing.
The Oxford Playhouse is a prominent theatre in Oxford presenting a diverse programme of drama, comedy, and dance. Across its main stage and the intimate Burton Taylor Studio, the venue hosts both professional touring companies and local productions. This active hub champions new writing and community initiatives to make performing arts accessible to all audiences.
Oxford Playhouse is located on Beaumont Street in Oxford, England. Positioned near the historic St Thomas' area and major university colleges, this prominent theatre serves as a vital cultural hub. Its central location makes it an easy and convenient stop for visitors planning to experience live drama, comedy, or dance during their time in the city.
Beaumont Street 11-12
OX1 2LW Oxford
St Thomas', England, GB
When planning your visit to the Oxford Playhouse in Oxford, consider using public transport, walking, or cycling as convenient ways to reach the venue. As latecomers are typically only permitted into the auditorium during an interval or suitable break, it is recommended to allow ample time for your journey and arrival.
Oxford Playhouse in the St Thomas' neighborhood offers a dynamic hub for live performances and theatre shows in Oxford. Across its Main Stage and the intimate Burton Taylor Studio, the venue hosts professional touring companies and community productions. Visitors can experience a diverse programme of contemporary dramas, stand-up comedy, and family performances. The studio space serves as a platform for experimental new writing and Fringe previews, showcasing raw creative talent. This active environment ensures audiences enjoy a rich mixture of local work and acclaimed artistry.
Founded in 1923 as The Red Barn by J. B. Fagan, the Oxford Playhouse has a deep theatrical history in Oxford. The current building on Beaumont Street was completed in 1938, featuring an exterior designed by Sir Edward Maufe. The structure was recognized as a Grade II* **listed building** in 1954 for its architectural significance. It later served as the base for the Prospect Theatre Company in 1961, and the Burton Taylor Studio originated in 1966.
Oxford Playhouse recently hosted the annual showcases for its Playmaker and Playmaker Later cohorts in the Burton Taylor Studio. Audiences enjoyed a series of original, full-length play extracts performed by professional actors, highlighting the culmination of a year-long mentorship program for local writers. The event celebrated diverse new works ranging from drama to comedy, underlining the theatre's commitment to nurturing grassroots artistic talent.
Oxford Playhouse recently concluded its successful 2026 season with inspiring end-of-term performances by the Playhouse Youth Theatre and the Playhouse Adult Company. Audiences were treated to an original comedy, School Tripped, and a powerful, multi-generational staging of The Visit. These productions highlight the dedication and collaborative spirit fostered within our community theatre programmes.
Through the Plays Out Tour, Oxford Playhouse has reached over 1,000 Oxfordshire students with the production of MakeBeth. This creative and interactive show reimagines Shakespeare’s classic for young audiences using sustainable, recycled cardboard scenery. The programme is a key part of the theatre’s ongoing commitment to creative education in the community.
Oxford Playhouse has unveiled the creative team behind its upcoming festive production of Snow White, running from November 2026. This reimagined classic promises a blend of music, comedy, and heart, featuring a fresh take on the fairy tale with themes of sustainability and environmental stewardship. The production will feature direction by Artistic Director Mike Tweddle and writing by Sarah Henley.
Former RSC Artistic Director Greg Doran returns to the Oxford Playhouse with a unique staging of Shakespeare's narrative poem, Venus & Adonis. Featuring live narration by Simon Russell Beale and intricate puppetry, this production offers a fresh, one-hour look at the classic tale.
The Rifco Theatre Company brings its spectacular production, Frankie Goes to Bollywood, to the Oxford Playhouse stage. This vibrant musical explores themes of belonging and the high-pressure world of Indian cinema through a powerful story of self-discovery. Catch this dazzling blend of British pop and Bollywood flair before it concludes its run on Saturday 6 June.
The Oxford Playhouse Adult Company returns to the Main Stage this summer with a new production of Friedrich Dürrenmatt's classic, The Visit. Directed by Emma Webb, this multi-generational ensemble brings a dark, compelling tale of morality and revenge to life in an intimate studio performance.
Oxford Playhouse presents a dedicated programme of queer performance in the Burton Taylor Studio throughout June. Visitors can experience new work-in-progress plays during the Queer Scratch Night, alongside solo performances and verbatum theatre productions celebrating LGBTQ+ voices.
Images of Oxford Playhouse in Oxford highlight its classic stone exterior, complete with prominent banners and a welcoming entrance canopy. The visual preview showcases the main auditorium's warm ambient lighting and tiered red seating across multiple balcony levels. You can also spot the red brick facade of the intimate Burton Taylor Studio, capturing the theatre's diverse performance spaces.
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