Theatre Royal, Bury St. Edmunds

Theatre Royal

Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds is one of Britain's most significant theatre buildings and the last surviving Regency playhouse in the country. Built in 1819 and restored to its Regency origins in 2007, this intimate Grade 1 listed building is the only theatre in the National Trust property portfolio. Theatre Royal presents a vibrant, year-round programme of drama, music, dance and comedy, featuring many of this country’s leading companies and performers. It has built a reputation of producing quality dramas and productions including the ever popular annual pantomime. Alongside on-stage programme of shows, the theatre offers a wide-ranging educational and community-based programme of activities and opportunities to engage people from 5 – 105 years of age.

With many of its original features still intact, it is a superb example of a Regency playhouse and one of the most beautiful, intimate and historic theatres in the world. We offer the chance for guests to discover and experience some of the history of the theatre through behind the scenes tours.

Our diverse programme includes classic productions with recent examples being Blackeyed Theatre’s Frankenstein, our own outdoor production of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol and Northern Broadsides, As You Like it.  We add into this contemporary shows such as John Godber’s Shakers and brand-new writing straight from Edinburgh Fringe chosen by Artistic Director Owen Calvert-Lyons. Comedy fans have been treated to brilliant stand ups such as Michael McIntyre, Russell Howard, Mark Watson and Griff Rhys Jones as well as our very own Comedy Club showcasing upcoming comedians from the comedy circuit.  Ballet Theatre UK, Ballet Central and Ballet Cymru are regular visitors with their stunning ballet performances. Families with children of all ages can enjoy brilliant shows such as Stick Man and The Gruffalo. Music fans will love the contemporary sounds from a wide range of tribute bands and the more classic tunes from Bury St Edmunds Concert Band and our regular Lunchtime Concerts.  There really is something for everyone to enjoy at Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds, and the majesty of the auditorium itself simply must be seen to be understood.

Theatre goers can now also enjoy pre-show dining provided by LÉA: a delicious new artisan food range from award-winning Maison Bleue.