UK Launches National Year of Reading to Tackle Youth Literacy
With reading for pleasure at a 20-year low, a new UK-wide initiative for 2026 aims to distribute 72,000 books and reignite a love of stories, starting with art. Discover how.
With reading for pleasure at a 20-year low, a new UK-wide initiative for 2026 aims to distribute 72,000 books and reignite a love of stories, starting with art. Discover how.
Frank Dunlop, the pocket dynamo who founded London's Young Vic and directed the Edinburgh International Festival, has died at 98. Read about his remarkable legacy in British theatre.
Journalist Emma Warren explores the devastating impact of austerity on UK youth centres and asks if a new government strategy can save them. Discover the hidden history and vital role of youth workers.
The National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain launched its 2026 Shimmer tour at the Barbican with a bracing programme of Debussy, Ravel, and contemporary works. Discover the highlights.
Actor and writer Paterson Joseph reveals how a conversation with Tilda Swinton transformed his path, leading to award-winning novels and overcoming early setbacks. Discover his journey from Peep Show to author.
Terence Rattigan's rarely seen play 'Man and Boy' returns to the National Theatre, revealing the dramatist's struggle for seriousness and his complex relationship with his father. Discover the scandalous 1934 story of a financier exploiting his son.
Discover the top theatre streaming this January. Watch James Corden's star-making farce, a glitzy musicals night, and breakdancers interpreting Bach. Stream now!
The UK government unveils its new paid military gap year scheme for under-25s, aiming to boost defence recruitment amid rising global threats. Discover the details and how it works.
Sam Grabiner's fearless dark comedy 'Christmas Day' explores a dysfunctional London Jewish family's festive clash. Now playing at the Almeida Theatre, Islington until 8 Jan 2026.
A wildly imaginative, Olivier-nominated spin on the Christmas classic for children, featuring sword fights, crooning mice and cheesy gags. On until 4 January in London.
Olivier-winning theatre company Little Bulb presents a playful, interactive adaptation of 'The Nutcracker' for families in London this Christmas. Runs 17 Dec 2025 - 4 Jan 2026.
Tom Stoppard's lesser-known play 'Indian Ink' is revived at Hampstead Theatre, featuring Felicity Kendal in a poignant tribute to the late playwright. Running until 31 Jan 2026.
A major UK survey finds one in nine 13-17 year olds asked to handle drugs, weapons or money. Over 120,000 teens accepted, revealing a hidden crisis of child criminal exploitation.
Felicity Kendal delivers a formidable performance in the first London revival of Tom Stoppard's Indian Ink since the playwright's death. A moving epitaph at Hampstead Theatre.
The Paranormal Activity stage play at London's Ambassadors Theatre delivers masterful horror, leaving audiences terrified and awestruck. Read our full review.
The West End stage adaptation of 'Paranormal Activity' at the Ambassadors Theatre is a masterclass in horror, directed by Felix Barrett of Punchdrunk. ★★★★ review.
Jordan Fein's stunning production of Sondheim's 'Into the Woods' at the Bridge Theatre is the perfect festive alternative to pantomime. A masterclass in musical theatre with a flawless cast.
The RSC launches a monumental two-part adaptation of The Forsyte Saga at Stratford's Swan Theatre. Discover our review of this ambitious seven-hour theatrical event.
Read our review of the dazzling new production of 'Singin' in the Rain' at Manchester's Royal Exchange Theatre, where classic Hollywood meets innovative stagecraft. Book your tickets now!
Charlie Josephine and Jim Fortune's new family musical 'Pinocchio' swaps Collodi's darkness for humour and heart at Shakespeare's Globe, London, until 4 January.
James Graham's powerful new play 'The Fatal Punch' is touring UK schools, engaging younger audiences with its story of a single act of violence. Discover how theatre is tackling urgent social issues.
A powerful new play at Oxford's Old Fire Station explores the legacy of Section 28 and the fight for LGBTQ+ rights. Discover this must-see theatrical reckoning.
Dog Man: The Musical is set for its London debut at the Southbank Centre next summer. We explore how theatre makers successfully adapt beloved children's books for the stage, from The Gruffalo to My Neighbour Totoro.
Australian stage icon Toni Lamond has died at 93. A critic recalls how a VHS tape of 'The Pirates of Penzance' revealed Lamond's genius, shaping a lifelong love of theatre. Read her tribute.
Noël Coward's 'Fallen Angels' receives a witty, champagne-fuelled revival at London's Menier Chocolate Factory. Read our review of the hilarious battle of wits.
UK unemployment has climbed to 5%, rising monthly since Labour took power. Youth and retail sectors are hardest hit. Read our analysis of the policy impact.
Read our review of 'Snow Mice', the enchanting Christmas puppet show captivating families at Bath's Egg Theatre. Discover the magic of this festive must-see.
Hannah McPake's intelligent new Christmas musical at Cardiff's Sherman theatre whisks a grown-up Alice back to Wonderland. A playful lesson in cherishing your inner child. Catch it until 3 January.
A temporary 500-seat theatre made from recycled fabric and timber could open on Marble Arch island in 2026. Westminster Council is set to decide on the plan.
The Guardian invites theatre lovers to share their top stage productions of 2025. Discover the standout shows that defined the year in British theatre.