Reading Rep Theatre has announced details of its 2025/26 season, promising a groundbreaking programme that will cement the town’s position as a vibrant cultural hub and a must-visit destination for theatre enthusiasts across Berkshire and beyond.
This new season will be crafted by award-winning artists and showcases a commitment to West End quality productions while remaining deeply rooted within Reading’s community.
And there is no need to take a train to London: the theatre is next to Reading College and on the Purple 17 bus route (other buses stopping there include the Lion 4s, the Orange 13/14, and Tywford buses).
Paul Stacey, the founding artistic director and CEO of Reading Rep Theatre, said: “This season captures what makes Reading Rep unique: bold takes on classic stories, collaborations with world-renowned playwrights, and a company of outstanding creative talent.
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“Every show is made right here in Reading – and this year, we’re proud to be working alongside some of the UK’s leading theatres, including Theatre Royal Bath and The Barn Theatre.
“It’s a season that reflects how far we’ve come, and where we’re headed.
“We’re building something special – a producing theatre that’s turning heads nationally, and proving that world-class work doesn’t have to mean a trip to the West End. There’s so much more to come, including some very exciting casting news we can’t wait to share.”
This view was shared by Paul’s colleague at Reading Rep Theatre, its executive director, Nick Thompson. He said: “This is our biggest and boldest season yet, with something for everyone.
“From our first-ever major musical revival to festive favourites and timeless comedies from Noël Coward and Willy Russell, it’s the perfect year to experience everything Reading Rep has to offer.
“Whether you’re planning a great night out with friends or looking to discover Reading’s hidden gem, there’s no better time to join us.
“And we’ve still got one surprise show left to announce.”
Of this additional performance, the theatre remains tight-lipped, but it says it will be a major production, and there will also be exciting casting and creative team announcements, which will be revealed in July.
What is Reading Rep planning for its 2025-26 season?
The 2025-26 season opens with Reading Rep’s first-ever musical, a revival of Jason Robert Brown’s cult-favourite contemporary musical, The Last Five Years.
Co-produced with The Barn Theatre and Theatre Royal Bath, this musical will debut in Reading from Friday, September 19, to Sunday, October 12, before transferring to Cirencester and Bath.
A cherished festive tradition for Reading families makes a triumphant return with a new staging of Beth Flintoff’s acclaimed adaptation of A Christmas Carol.
This unique production, which relocates Charles Dickens’ classic tale to Reading’s iconic Huntley and Palmers Biscuit Factory, offers a perfect festive night out with a local twist.
Following past sell-out runs, A Christmas Carol will run from Friday, November 28, 2025, to Saturday, January 3, 2026.
Chris Cumings (Peter Pan, The Snow Queen) returns to direct this Christmas show.
Following the festive period, Reading Rep will present a brand-new production of Willy Russell’s modern classic, Educating Rita.
The comedy explores the relationship between working-class hairdresser Rita and her Open University tutor Frank. It will run from Thursday, February 26 to Saturday, March 21, 2026.
This marks the theatre’s first staging of a Willy Russell work.
The season continues with a modernised staging of Noël Coward’s romantic comedy, Private Lives. Running from Thursday, April 16, to Saturday, May 9, 2026.
Reading Rep’s team says this production aims to bring Coward’s wit and charm into the 21st century.
Families with younger children will delight in Rabbit on the Run, a joyful adventure for early years audiences running from February 18 to 21, 2026.
Putting accessibility and community at the forefront
Reading Rep Theatre says it remains deeply committed to making theatre accessible to all in Reading and Berkshire.
The 2025/26 season continues its initiative of £5 tickets for under-30s during preview performances, alongside free seats for community groups.
Early bird offers and what else to expect at Reading Rep Theatre’s 2025-26 season
To celebrate the 2025-26 season, Reading Rep Theatre is offering 20% off first ticket purchases when audiences sign up for the theatre’s newsletter.
In addition to its main season, Reading Rep continues to host National Theatre Live screenings throughout the year, providing Reading audiences with access to the very best of British theatre on the big screen, right in the heart of town.
For more information and to book tickets, visit readingrep.com.
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