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.
13. A Christmas Carol - December 31 – January 17
The Playhouse’s stunning theatrical adaptation of Dickens’ classic returns, charting the transformation of the miserly Scrooge. This production uses emotional depth and powerful staging to bring the Ghosts of Christmas to life. 🎠Leeds Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Quarry Hill, Leeds, LS2 7UP | Leeds Playhouse
14. John Cleese’s Fawlty Towers: The Play - January 6 – January 10
The legendary sitcom is adapted for the stage by John Cleese himself, bringing the chaos, confusion, and iconic comedy of the dysfunctional seaside hotel to life. Expect Basil’s tantrums, Manuel’s mishaps, and Sybil’s sighs in this fast-paced adaptation. 🎠Leeds Grand Theatre, 46 New Briggate, Leeds, LS1 6NZ | Contributed
15. Pinocchio - January 16 – January 24
The classic tale of a puppet who longs to be a real boy is brought to life on stage. Join Pinocchio, Geppetto, and the wise Jiminy Cricket on an enchanting journey filled with adventure and moral lessons about truth. 🎠The Carriageworks Theatre, Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 3AD | Leeds Community Arts Network
16. Uncanny: Fear of the Dark - January 27 – January 29
Danny Robins returns with a brand-new show based on terrifying real-life paranormal accounts and witness testimonies. Using sound, video, and theatrical magic, this is an interactive storytelling and paranormal investigation at its peak. 🎠Leeds Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Quarry Hill, Leeds, LS2 7UP | Tilted
17. Mozart's The Marriage of Figaro - January 30 – February 20
Mozart’s masterpiece of wit, romance, and political mischief is staged by the acclaimed Opera North. Follow the chaotic events of a single day as Figaro and Susanna attempt to marry amidst aristocratic manipulation. 🎠Leeds Grand Theatre, 46 New Briggate, Leeds, LS1 6NZ | Opera North
18. Voices of Resilience - February 5
This powerful evening reflects upon the resilience of Palestinians in Gaza, presented through the diaries and poetry of three women. Testimonies are accompanied by traditional Arabic music and a visual score by Gazan filmmaker Hossam Abo Shamallah. 🎠Leeds Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Quarry Hill, Leeds, LS2 7UP | Comma Press