Theatres in Oxfordshire
Oxfordshire’s theatre scene is a vibrant mix of historic university venues, grand commercial stages, and intimate community spaces. Whether you’re looking for West End touring shows, experimental student drama, or a unique architectural tour, there’s a venue for every visitor.
Key Theatres & Locations
Oxford Playhouse
Performing arts theatre
City Centre – A leading regional theatre hosting everything from classic drama to a legendary annual pantomime.
New Theatre
Performing arts theatre
City Centre -The county’s largest venue, specializing in major West End musicals, concerts, and big-name comedy.
Image of Sheldonian Theatre
Sheldonian Theatre
Performing arts theatre
City Centre -A 17th-century masterpiece designed by Sir Christopher Wren. While it hosts concerts and university ceremonies, it is also a major tourist attraction.
The Theatre Chipping Norton
Performing arts theatre
Chipping Norton – A charming independent venue in the Cotswolds known for its unique “Biff-centric” parodies and strong community focus.
The North Wall Arts Centre Oxford
Art Centre
Summertown – Focuses on innovative new work and emerging artists.
Pegasus
Performing arts theatre
Cowley -A creative hub primarily for young people and cutting-edge contemporary performance.
What You Can Do There
Watch Performances: Enjoy a diverse range of entertainment including musical theatre, stand-up comedy, opera, ballet, and contemporary dance.
Climb the Cupola: At the Sheldonian Theatre, you can climb 114 stairs to the iconic green-domed Cupola for 360-degree panoramic views of Oxford’s skyline.
Educational Visits: Many venues offer exhibitions on their history, such as the display boards in the Sheldonian about its journey from the reign of King Charles II to today.
Participate: Venues like the Oxford Playhouse and Pegasus offer workshops, youth theatre programs, and creative learning opportunities for the community.
Who Should Go & When
Families: Highly recommended during Christmas for the Oxford Playhouse pantomime or choral evensong at nearby Christ Church Cathedral.
Architecture & History Buffs: Anytime the Sheldonian Theatre is not in use for ceremonies, it is open for public tours.
Students & Budget Seekers: College student productions often offer reasonably priced tickets throughout the academic term.
Summer Visitors: Look out for outdoor performances; summer festivals often bring theatre to unique locations like Oxford Castle or Blenheim Palace.
Unique Features
Historical Significance: The Sheldonian is an “architectural jewel” and the ceremonial home of the University of Oxford.
Site-Specific Work: Groups like Creation Theatre are known for performing in unusual, non-traditional locations across the city.
Social Mission: Venues like the Old Fire Station share their space with homelessness charities, blending professional arts with social enterprise.
Offers & Member Benefits, Venue Membership/Offer Highlights
Oxford Playhouse Friends Membership (£60/yr): Up to 50% off selected shows, priority booking, and 10-15% discounts at local partners like Thaikhun and Oxford Wine Café.
New Theatre Oxford ATG+ Membership: Zero transaction fees, priority booking, and 25% off Happy Hour drinks at the bar.
Chipping Norton Theatre Friends/Patron Schemes: 2-for-1 ticket deals on selected shows, 15% bar discount, and local discounts at pubs like The Fox.
Cornerstone Arts Centre Member Benefits: 20% discount on two tickets for most shows and £5 tickets for NT Live and cinema screenings.
Special Times to Visit
Happy Hours: ATG+ members at New Theatre Oxford can enjoy a 25% discount at the bar up to 30 minutes before performance time.
Touch Tours & Accessible Shows: The Oxford Playhouse regularly schedules audio-described performances and touch tours for specific shows like A Midsummer Night’s Dream.
Primary Playmaker Showcase: Special annual events where local school children perform their own work