Reading Rep Launches 2025/26 Season
A New Chapter For Theatre In Berkshire
Reading Rep Theatre today unveils its 2025/26 season — a bold new programme that proves Reading is home to one of the most exciting theatres in the country — and it's right on your doorstep. Created by award-winning artists, this season combines national-calibre ambition with a deep commitment to Reading’s audiences.
As Berkshire’s flagship producing theatre, Reading Rep is putting the town on the cultural map. A true hidden gem in the centre of town, they prove you don’t need to travel into London for West End Quality theatre and a great night out!
Award-Winning Musical
The Last Five Years
Friday 19 September - Sunday 12 October 2025
New Staging Of Beth Flintoff’s Reading-Based Adaptation
A Christmas Carol
Friday 28 November 2025 - Saturday 3 January 2026
Willy Russell’s Beloved Modern Classic
Educating Rita
Thursday 26 February - Saturday 21 March 2026
Noël Coward’s Sparkling Romantic Comedy
Private Lives
Thursday 16 April - Saturday 9 May 2026
Plus: Rabbit On The Run — A Joyful Adventure For Early Years Audiences
(18–21 February 2026)
25/26 season will also continue its commitment to financial accessibility to its programme with £5 under 30s tickets during previews
“We’re building something special… and there’s so much more to come” - Paul Stacey
Reading Rep Theatre is proud to unveil its boldest and most ambitious season to date – made in Reading, for Reading.
“Because great theatre should never be out of reach, Reading Rep was founded to break down barriers — and today, they’re still leading the way. From £5 tickets for under 30s to free seats for community groups, it’s all part of making sure everyone in Reading can feel at home in the theatre.”
The theatre is also offering 20% off first ticket purchases of the season, when people sign up to the theatre’s newsletter via their website.
Reading Rep Theatre will open the new season with their first musical production, a new revival production of Jason Robert Brown’s cult-favourite contemporary musical The Last Five Years. The musical, which is co-produced with The Barn Theatre and Theatre Royal Bath, will make its debut in Reading from Friday 19 September - Sunday 12 October ahead of subsequent runs in Cirencester and Bath.
A festive tradition for Reading families returns, blending local heritage with magical storytelling to light up the season. For the festive season, the theatre will produce a new staging of Beth Flintoff’s 5* acclaimed adaptation of A Christmas Carol, which relocates Charles Dickens’ seminal story to Reading and the iconic Huntley and Palmers Biscuit Factory. The adaptation, which had past sell-out runs in 2021 and 2022 in Reading, will run from Friday 28 November 2025 - Saturday 3 January 2026. A perfect family night out with a local twist. Chris Cumings (Peter Pan, The Snow Queen) returns to direct the new staging of Reading Rep’s Christmas show, who was previously co-director and movement director on the prior incarnations of the show.
Previous praise for A Christmas Carol
“A glorious version of a Christmas classic — it really sings and warms the heart” Henley Standard
‘If you want to experience a wonderful alternative to the classic Christmas panto, then Reading Rep are one to watch.’ Reading Chronicle
Reading Rep Theatre will present a brand-new production of Willy Russell’s beloved modern classic Educating Rita. The comedy, which follows working class hairdresser Rita and her Open University tutor Frank, will run from Thursday 26 February - Saturday 21 March 2026. The production marks their first staging of Willy Russell’s work.
The season will continue with a modernised new staging of Noël Coward’s sparkling romantic comedy Private Lives. The production, which will run from Thursday 16 April - Saturday 9 May, will aim to modernise Coward’s comedy for the 21st Century.
Paul Stacey, Founding Artistic Director & CEO, Reading Rep Theatre:
“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. 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.”
Nick Thompson, Executive Director, Reading Rep Theatre:
“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…”
More information can be found at readingrep.com. A further production for the season, casting and creative team announcements will be revealed at a later date.
This season isn’t just a programme — it’s an invitation. Whether you’ve been with us since the beginning or are discovering us for the first time, this is your theatre. These are your stories. And we can’t wait to welcome you in.
