A Landmark Year of Firsts, Revivals, and Local Stories

Reading Rep Theatre has announced its most ambitious season to date, unveiling a powerful 2025/26 programme that blends bold new work, major revivals, and national collaborations — all made right here in Reading.

Fast becoming one of the UK’s most formidable regional powerhouses, Reading Rep’s new season proves that world-class theatre isn’t just found in the West End — it’s right on your doorstep in the heart of Berkshire.

The new season marks a major milestone for the company, launching its first-ever musical, high-profile co-productions with national theatres, and returning audience favourites reimagined for today. With past productions hailed as “heart-stopping theatre” (The Telegraph) and “sincere and moving” (The Guardian), the 2025/26 season cements Reading Rep’s growing national reputation.

 

SEASON HIGHLIGHTS

 

The Last Five Years

Friday 19 September – Sunday 12 October 2025
Reading Rep opens the season with a revival of Jason Robert Brown’s The Last Five Years — the company’s first-ever musical, co-produced with The Barn Theatre and Theatre Royal Bath. This cult-favourite love story will debut in Reading before touring to Cirencester and Bath.

A Christmas Carol

Friday 28 November 2025 – Saturday 3 January 2026
Beth Flintoff’s acclaimed adaptation of A Christmas Carol returns, relocating Dickens’ classic tale to Reading’s iconic Huntley & Palmers Biscuit Factory. Directed by Chris Cumings (Peter Pan, The Snow Queen), this festive tradition is back by popular demand following sell-out runs in 2021 and 2022.

★★★★★ “A glorious version of a Christmas classic — it really sings and warms the heart.” – Henley Standard

Educating Rita

Thursday 26 February – Saturday 21 March 2026
Willy Russell’s beloved modern comedy comes to Reading Rep for the first time. Educating Rita follows the unlikely friendship between a working-class hairdresser and her Open University tutor — a funny, moving, and timeless story.

Private Lives

Thursday 16 April – Saturday 9 May 2026
Noël Coward’s sparkling romantic comedy gets a fresh new staging, modernised for 21st-century audiences while retaining its trademark wit and elegance.

Rabbit on the Run

18 – 21 February 2026
A joyful adventure for early years audiences, Rabbit on the Run promises wonder and delight for the littlest theatregoers and their families.

 

A Theatre for Reading, Made in Reading

“This season captures what makes Reading Rep unique: bold takes on classic stories, collaborations with world-renowned theatres, and a company of outstanding creative talent,” said Paul Stacey, Founding Artistic Director & CEO. “Every show is made right here in Reading. And with our work now transferring to national tours and stages across the UK, we’re proving that you don’t need to travel to London for great theatre.”

Nick Thompson, Executive Director, adds: “This is our biggest and boldest season yet — with something for everyone. Whether you’re planning a night out with friends or discovering Reading’s hidden gem for the first time, there’s no better moment to join us.”

 

Affordable, Accessible, and Inclusive

Reading Rep remains committed to making theatre affordable and accessible to all. The 2025/26 season continues the company’s acclaimed ticketing initiatives, including:

• £5 tickets for Under 30s during preview performances
• Free seats for local community groups
• 20% off your first ticket when you sign up to the Reading Rep newsletter via readingrep.com

 

One More Surprise…

The full creative teams and casting for all productions will be announced in the coming months — along with one final mystery show still to be revealed…

Stay tuned. Because this season isn’t just a programme — it’s an invitation.

“We’re building something special… and there’s so much more to come.” — Paul Stacey