New Year, New Season at Old Rep

Premieres and old favourites launched at community-based theatre.

The new season at The Old Rep is packed with performances and premieres from emerging and established Midlands artists, celebrating Birmingham’s creative community, championing diversity and the excellent new work being made in the Midlands and across the UK.

The Old Rep is delighted to welcome Motionhouse with outstanding dance-digital production Scattered, inspirational British East Asian company Yellow Earth with Tamburlaine, multi-award-winning physical theatre company Tmesis with Happy Hour, Theatre Sans Frontieres with Carnegie Medal winner David Almond’s Heaven Eyes.

Birmingham Ormiston Academy and Birmingham School of Acting present showcase productions, The Colour of Me and The Ugly Duckling offer interactive experiences for the very young, and a strong comedy line-up includes Matt Forde, Josie Long, Lee Nelson, Sara Pascoe, Andy Parsons, Gary Delaney and Justin Moorhouse.

The Old Rep will provide a base for emerging Midlands artists through its New Work Nights programme, this season supporting and showcasing work by Paven Virk, Marlene McKenzie, Thomas Moran and Rem Conway; host talent development programmes with partners including National Youth Theatre and Frantic Assembly; and continue as the home of dynamic and diverse young creative leaders Southside Producers, working with Beatfreeks, MAIA Creatives, Arts Connect and Southside BID. The venue also offers FREE Creative Craft sessions ahead of family shows.

Chris Sudworth, Executive Director at The Old Rep said: “The Old Rep re-launched two years ago as a young people-driven venue, presenting a high quality contemporary programme, showcasing the talents of our city, championing its diversity, and developing new creative opportunities hand in hand with Birmingham’s young people, artists and communities. As part of the Birmingham Ormiston Academy Group and working with high profile regional and national partners, we place a priority on training the future arts workforce.

“This season it’s exciting to be welcoming Motionhouse with their breathtaking Scattered, supporting premieres by two Midlands writers, and deepening our talent development partnerships with National Youth Theatre and Frantic Assembly. Added to a programme of sell-out comedy, top quality work for families, and vibrant festivals and showcases, it adds up to a wonderful few months.”

For further information on the whole season at The Old Rep and to book tickets call the box office on 0121 359 9444 (open 11am-6pm Tuesday-Friday, 1pm-6pm Saturday) or visit oldreptheatre.co.uk (online booking fee applies).