Norwich is proud of its thriving theatre and arts scene. You’ll find theatre, live music, comedy, plays, opera and dance all year round in the City of Stories. The city has six theatres – Norwich Theatre, Norwich Puppet Theatre, The Playhouse, The Garage, Sewell Barn and Maddermarket Theatre. Popping along to one of the many theatres for a night out is definitely one of the best things to do in Norwich.
Norwich Playhouse is famous for its comedy, with the calibre of Jenny Éclair, Harry Hill and Jason Byrne all treading those well-worn boards. Go along and have a laugh with friends and remember to stop at the venue’s excellent bar where you can sup local ale outdoors in summer or warm yourself with a glass of hot cider or chocolate indoors during the colder nights. Prices vary per show. Book online for tickets, by phone on 01603 630 000 or at the venue itself.
The Norwich Playhouse Bar is a firm favourite
Whether you prefer drama, comedy, music or dance – you’re bound to find productions you love at Norwich Theatre. Well, 500,000 people a year do, anyway…
From classics such as Les Mis and Mamma Mia to 2022’s trending Girl from the North Country and the brilliant Sister Act, there are plenty of musicals to choose from. Plus, there’s also ballet and live music. 2022 also sees the launch of its fifth stage, ‘Norwich Theatre Beyond.’ This involves taking plays outdoors for an immersive experience. The theatre also offers special £10 tickets for every show. Prices vary. Book online or in person at the box office. You can also book via phone: 01603 630 000.
Big name musicals such as SIX play at Norwich Theatre
Puppets aren’t just for kids, you know. You’ll find the odd adult show at the city’s famous Puppet Theatre too. You can also learn to make your own puppet for your own personal performances at home. One of just a handful of dedicated puppet theatres in the UK, this has been around for more than four decades, making it one of Norwich’s favourite attractions. As well as puppets, you can also enjoy the odd guitar and folk singing night, with many acclaimed performers to admire. Book tickets online or phone 01603 629921.
A Norwich Puppet Theatre show
Offering an array of live music, theatre and comedy, The Garage has plenty on the bill to make you laugh, cry and jump back in fear. There’s lots of variety, from dark comedic thrillers to documentary screenings and panto. Why not take part and let out your inner performer – or dancer – in one of their many adult classes? From tap dancing to seated Pilates and street dance – there’s something for everyone. Book online or via phone: 01603 283382.
The Garage
Pop along to Maddermarket Theatre’s 300-seat auditorium and lose yourself in a Shakespeare play, stand-up comedy session, magic display or some rockin’ loud live music. This popular community theatre has a packed programme of plays, music and general stage entertainment – enough to keep you thrilled all year round. Tickets vary per performance and can be booked either online on the website or via the Box Office, tel: 01603 620917.
The Maddermarket Theatre
Enjoy yourself in the adaptation of a famous play or an up-and-coming script at the small and intimate Sewell Barn Theatre. You’ll find classic plays from the likes of Harold Pinter, Dylan Thomas and Christopher Marlow to contemporary offerings from Scottish poet Liz Lochhead and the much-loved Alan Bennett.
Evoke over a century of history while you sit in the barn – once believed to have been the stables of the horse on which the book Black Beauty was based. Tickets can be booked online or by telephone: 0333 666 3366.
This Norfolk & Norwich Festival has been delighting the people of Norwich for 250 years, and has developed into an international festival from humble beginning. The Festival takes place each May in the city and beyond, with circus and dance performances, comedy, outdoor arts, literature and, of course, live music – for an impressive total of 17 days. The only difficulty is choosing which ones to go to and when to ensure you don’t miss out on some of your favourites!
The flagship arts festival for the East of England, the entertainment programme regularly attracts more than 60,000 people each year. So, book early for a special event you’re desperate to see to ensure you get a ticket. Prices for tickets vary. The Box Office number is 01603 531800.
Norfolk & Norwich Festival in 2019
