Bristol Old Vic announces programme for 2026

Leading the newly-announced shows for Bristol Old Vic this year is the world premiere stage adaptation of Max Porter’s folk horror Lanny. It will be adapted by the multi-award-winning West Country writer Bea Roberts and directed by Nancy Medina.

Published in 2019, Lanny follows a family who move out of London to a West Country village. When their son Lanny awakens the interest of the mythical figure Dead Papa Toothwort, reality and imagination intertwine in a dark and powerful story of folklore, fable and the nature of belonging. It will play from 16 Oct - 7 Nov.

This Christmas, a new production of Cinderella: A Fairytale will take to the stage. First seen on the stage at the Tobacco Factory in 2011, the Travelling Light co-production will be devised by Sally Cookson, Adam Peck and the original Olivier-nominated company. It will be directed by Bristol Old Vic’s Literary & Directors Associate, Lisa Gregan (Little Red & Other Winter Tales; Orpheus & Eurydice).

Other work heading to the theatre in 2026 includes Bryony Kimmings’ Bog Witch from 4 to 5 June, Murder She Didn’t Write from 15 to 19 September, and Lost Dog’s Juliet & Romeo from 22 to 26 September. There’s also Sh!t Theatre’s acclaimed production of Evita Too from 11 to 14 November, giving audiences in the area lots to check out across the rest of the year.

The Curve and Mayflower Southampton co-production of Kiss of the Spiderwoman will also play at the Bristol Old Vic from 29 April to 16 May.

For further information on what you can see and how to book your tickets can be discovered here.