Winter is pretty much here, and the Leeds theatrical landscape is set to host an unprecedented line-up of plays, musicals, and opera across its major stages.
From now until the end of March, five key venues—including the towering Leeds Grand Theatre, the city’s producing powerhouse Leeds Playhouse, and the intimate space run by Slung Low—will present over two dozen must-see productions, offering something for whatever your taste.
The season of theatre taking place throughout the cold months is an eclectic mixture of genres and scale; on one hand, you have the blockbuster spectaculars hitting the Grand Theatre, featuring the satirical brilliance of The Book of Mormon alongside the epic romance of Miss Saigon and major productions from Opera North. On the other hand, our schedule is punctuated by urgent, contemporary drama, including politically charged works like Voices of Resilience and spine-tingling new thrillers like It Walks Around The House At Night.
Of course, there’s always room for a touch of Panto this time of year, too, right? (Oh no, there’s not/oh yes there is!)
If any of the shows pique your interest, tickets for many are still available from the theatre’s respective box offices, but this is what is set to be on many of our schedules for the colder months ahead.
7. Miss Saigon - December 3 – December 13
Set against the backdrop of the Vietnam War, the epic, heartbreaking love story follows the relationship between an American GI and a young Vietnamese woman. Known for its spectacular staging and powerful score, this remains one of the most successful musicals in history. 🎠Leeds Grand Theatre, 46 New Briggate, Leeds, LS1 6NZ | Provided
8. A Christmas Carol - December 10 – December 13
"Marley was dead... to begin with." The Book of Darkness & Light return with a chilling, thrilling solo show that teases out the gothic aspects of Dickens' beloved classic. 🎠The Carriageworks Theatre, Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 3AD | The Book of Darkness & Light
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9. Christopher’s Christmas - December 14 – December 31
This Makaton Friendly wintery tale follows Christopher Nibble and the guinea pigs of Dandeville as they desperately try to save Christmas. Told through beautiful puppets and stunning scenery, they must save Father Christmas after his Santa Nav breaks down. 🎠The Carriageworks Theatre, Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 3AD | William Lonsdale
10. Emporium Curioso 2 - December 18 – December 19
All the curious items in this quiet little shop have a story to tell—some scary, some funny, and some sad. Performed by an LDC-Learning Disabled Cast, this "museum" specialises in trinkets, whispers, and forgotten chapters of lives lost. 🎠Leeds Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Quarry Hill, Leeds, LS2 7UP | Bright Sparks Theatre Company
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11. Northern Ballet’s The Nutcracker - December 18 – January 4
A magical holiday tradition featuring exquisite costumes and Tchaikovsky's iconic score played live. Join Clara as she is swept away on a fantasy adventure from the Christmas Eve party to the Land of Snow. 🎠Leeds Grand Theatre, 46 New Briggate, Leeds, LS1 6NZ | Emily Nuttall
12. Stick Man - December 31 – January 4
Based on the beloved picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, this delightful family show follows the heroic journey of Stick Man. It is packed with puppetry, live music, and laughs for the youngest theatregoers. 🎠Leeds Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Quarry Hill, Leeds, LS2 7UP | Provided