2,213 Donations to our Arts Matter! fundraising campaign
4,520 Hippodrome Education Network students attended performances
5,128 Sessions delivered for young people
42,512 Young people participated in our Hippodrome Education Network New bookers welcomed
279,959 People attended our festivals
17 Access & Inclusion Advocates
1,030 Hippodrome Creatives members
2,954 Artists engaged with us
63 Assisted access performances
Our mission at Birmingham Hippodrome is to provide that “goosebumps feeling through memorable and extraordinary experiences”.
Goosebumps happen right across our organisation, whether you are watching a show, eating in our Circle Lounge, attending one of our festivals, participating in one of our youth theatres or attending a job interview.
The page opposite is a simple snapshot of the many and varied ways that goosebumps are created by our teams and partners. We always strive to do more and continue to improve but I hope this illustration provides a peek behind the curtain at the scale of work that we undertake annually.
This Autumn’s programme is beautifully varied with productions including Associate Company Motionhouse’s Hidden, new musical Black Power Desk and the mega blockbuster hit Moulin
Rouge! The Musical (grab your tickets as it’s selling fast). In the main house, join us for Birmingham Royal Ballet’s exquisite production of The Nutcracker followed by this year’s spectacular pantomime Robin Hood, with an all-star line-up and dazzling set and costumes direct from the London Palladium. We will be presenting the second of our My First Musical productions in the Patrick Studio with No Such Thing As Wolves - a funfilled musical from the inimitable writers of Horrible Histories.
As you look through this brochure, you will see that 2026 is looking just as exciting.
We hope to welcome you to the Hippodrome over the coming months for your own goosebumps moment or two.
Jon Gilchrist Artistic Director & Chief Executive Officer
Front Cover: The Nutcracker p6, Moulin Rouge! The Musical p5, Top Hat
Wed Sat 7.30pm
Thu & Sat 2pm
Sun 1pm
From £25
Prices and discounts subject to change (see p36).
Age Guidance 8+
Contains archival voiceover that includes bleeped out swearing and conversations around taking and using of drugs.
Class on Stage £15
Sat 27 Sep 10.45am
Pre-Show Talk
Fri 19 Sep 6.30pm
Free to ticket holders
Audio Described Sat 20 Sep 2pm Touch Tour Sat 20 Sep 11.15am
Black Sabbath - The Ballet
After a sell-out opening season in 2023 and international tours in 2024 and 2025, Carlos Acosta is turning up the volume on Birmingham’s musical legacy once more when Black Sabbath - The Ballet returns this Autumn.
Black Sabbath - The Ballet is a spectacular theatrical experience, featuring thrilling dance and original Black Sabbath recordings (including Paranoid and Iron Man) alongside full orchestrations of their work and original orchestral compositions inspired by the sound of metal - all performed live by the Royal Ballet Sinfonia.
Acosta was drawn to both the band’s work and its musical legacy as the originators of heavy metal. This fullevening ballet is a unique undertaking with three composers and three choreographers, led by renowned Choreographer Pontus Lidberg (whose work has been performed by the
Swedish Royal Ballet and the Paris Opera Ballet) and Composer Chris Austin (whose work includes orchestrating the White Stripes music for Wayne McGregor’s Chroma) working alongside award-winning writer Richard Thomas (Jerry Springer, The Opera) to create an extraordinary metal symphony over three acts. Black Sabbath themselves were closely involved in developing this unique collaboration.
Sparks fly in this intriguing response to Black Sabbath’s music and legacy - the first true heavy metal ballet experience. Don’t miss this spectacular, innovative fusion of classical ballet and iconic heavy metal sound.
Joanne McNally returns with her hotly anticipated new stand-up show Pinotphile. Hailed by Variety as One to Watch, McNally has been keeping herself busy by ruining men’s lives (and her own) and now she’s back; still single, still unfertilised, and laden with irreverent, ridiculous and hilarious war stories.
“Authentic, hilarious comedy”
“ Terrifyingly funny”
10 Oct & 11 Oct
Internationally renowned dance-circus company Motionhouse returns with its latest production, Hidden.
Hidden is a powerful blend of artforms, where breathtaking dance melts effortlessly into thrilling circus feats. Hidden explores how, in an increasingly divided world, light can come out of darkness in times of crisis. At the cutting edge of live performance and digital integration, gravity-defying choreography, an emotive soundscape and a shape-shifting set combine with groundbreaking projections to create an immersive world on stage.
“Almost primeval energy”
The Stage
Hidden is co-commissioned by Birmingham
Hippodrome, FABRIC, and Warwick Arts Centre. Created with support from John Ellerman Foundation and the UK’s innovation agency, Innovate UK. Motionhouse is a Birmingham Hippodrome Associate Company.
Moulin Rouge! The Musical
Pop the champagne, Moulin Rouge! The Musical is coming to Birmingham Hippodrome!
Enter a world of splendour, of eyepopping excess, of glitz, grandeur and glory! A world where Bohemians and aristocrats rub elbows and revel in electrifying enchantment. Welcome to Moulin Rouge! The Musical!
Baz Luhrmann’s revolutionary film comes to life onstage, remixed in a new musical mash-up extravaganza.
Directed by Tony Award winner Alex Timbers, Moulin Rouge! The Musical is a theatrical celebration of Truth, Beauty, Freedom, and - above all - Love.
With a book by Tony Award winner John Logan; music supervision, orchestrations, and arrangements by Tony Award winner Justin Levine; and choreography by Tony Award winner Sonya Tayeh, Moulin Rouge! is more than a musical - it is a state of mind.
“ Spectacular!”
From £26
The Nutcracker
At the stroke of midnight on Christmas Eve, Clara tiptoes downstairs and is swept away on an unforgettable magical journey…
At her parents’ lavish Christmas party, Clara is given a mysterious Nutcracker Doll. Once all the guests have left, she sneaks downstairs to find her present and comes face-to-face with the fearsome King Rat, ready to do battle with the Nutcracker and his band of toy soldiers.
As soon as King Rat is vanquished, Clara is whisked away on a magical adventure with the Nutcracker, travelling through swirling snowflakes to an enchanting kingdom where she is transformed into the Sugar Plum Fairy.
Tchaikovsky’s glorious score, performed live by the 60-strong Royal Ballet Sinfonia, provides the captivating soundtrack to this festive classic.
This sumptuous and timeless production boasts daring swordfights, falling snow, magic, and a 30-foot Christmas tree. Whether you’re yearning for a hint of nostalgia or looking to start a whole new tradition for your family and friends, plan ahead ready to start your 2025 festive season in style.
“Still the best Nutcracker on offer in the UK” The Guardian
“No other version comes close” Sunday Times
“Delivers the wow-factor year on year” Birmingham Post
Robin Hood
Join TV fashionista, DJ and radio star Gok Wan as Gok Scarlet, Birmingham panto favourite Matt Slack as Robin Hood, Faye Tozer as Maid Marion and Matt Cardle as the dastardly Sheriff of Nottingham. The all star line-up is completed by Andrew Ryan as Henrietta Hood, Sandra Marvin as The Spirit of Sherwood, and pantomime royalty Christopher Biggins who makes a special appearance as King Richard.
With stunning scenery and dazzling costumes direct from The London Palladium, Robin Hood promises all the ingredients of a perfect pantomime: laugh-out-loud comedy, bundles of audience participation, astonishing special effects, and plenty of boos and hisses for the whole family to enjoy.
Packed with action, adventure, and a generous dose of glitz and glamour, Robin Hood will shoot straight to the top of your Christmas wish list.
Pantomime is loud for a small pair of ears, Spectacular sights can sometimes cause tears! If bringing a little one,please be aware One or two scenes are intended to scare.
The odd naughty joke for grown-up laughter Ensures that we all finish Happily Ever After.
6 Feb & 7 Feb
18 Feb Wed 7pm From £25
An evening of sparkling highlights from classical favourites Swan Lake, The Sleeping Beauty, Coppélia and Giselle to celebrate Birmingham Royal Ballet’s Founding Director, Sir Peter Wright, and the many brilliant productions he has created for the Company, in his 100th year.
Completing the evening is Kurt Jooss’s The Green Table, a dramatic work created in 1932, foreshadowing the futility of the peace negotiations of that decade but still powerfully resonant today. Sir Peter danced with Ballet Jooss and The Green Table is one of his favourite works.
Fri & Sat 7.30pm
From £17
MÁM is international dance-theatre at its finest. Described as ‘90 minutes of ritualised ecstasy’ by The Irish Times, this visionary piece playfully and provocatively takes you on an otherworldly journey steeped in the landscape and culture of West Kerry in Ireland.
MÁM sees 12 fearless dancers summon a whirlwind of myth and magic, moved by the collaborative music making of virtuoso Irish traditional concertina player Cormac Begley and European classical contemporary collective s t a r g a z e, performed live on stage.
Nominated for an Olivier Award, MÁM has enjoyed sellout performances at Sadler’s Wells, London and across Festivals world-wide. This rapturous production now embarks on its debut UK tour for Dance Consortium.
Birmingham Royal Ballet’s Director Carlos Acosta delivers joyful entertainment for all ages when he brings an explosion of Spanish sunshine, spectacular dance and vivacious comedy back to the Hippodrome stage.
In this production created especially for Birmingham Royal Ballet, Don Quixote introduces us to Cervantes’ famous knight himself, lovers Kitri and Basilio, and a host of supporting characters. As the Don sets out on a quest to track down his true love, with his loyal friend and servant Sancho Panza at his side, he finds himself embroiled in an unlikely adventure of love and dreams.
If you like Swan Lake and The Sleeping Beauty, you shouldn’t miss this stunning 19th-century masterpiece, full of thrilling pas de deux, delightful music played by the Royal Ballet Sinfonia, and much, much more!
“ Full of joy” Bachtrack
The Times
The Telegraph
“ Blends romance and comedy with the fantastic footwork‘ ” Express and Star
Photo
Johan Persson.
Illustration
The Lightning Thief - The Percy Jackson Musical
When 16-year-old Percy Jackson discovers that he is the half-blood son of the Greek God, Poseidon, his life takes a dramatic turn as he is plunged into a world much bigger than he could possibly have imagined.
With newly-discovered powers he can’t control, a destiny he doesn’t want and a whole mythology textbook’s worth of mythical monsters on his tail, Percy must learn what it means to be a hero.
The future of the world hangs in the balance as Percy and his friends embark on an epic adventure that will have you on the edge of your seat.
Over the past 20 years, Percy Jackson has become a worldwide phenomenon. First there was the best-selling series of books, then two incredible films and a Disney TV series. Now the adventures of Percy Jackson will burst onto the stage at Birmingham Hippodrome. It’s the perfect adventure for gods and
mortals of all ages with a gripping story that shows that ‘normal’ really is a myth!
Book by Joe Tracz, Music & Lyrics by Rob Rokicki.
Adapted from the book ‘The Lightning Thief’ by Rick Riordan.
“A bolt of stage magic. A show that whisks you to another dimension” The Times
“ You are guaranteed the night of your life” Radio Times
“ Hugely fun. A heartfelt musical romp” The Stage
Top Hat
There may be trouble ahead, But while there’s moonlight, and music, And love, and romance... Let’s face the music and dance
You’re invited to the musical equivalent of the finest vintage champagne. Effervescent, elegant and exhilarating, Top Hat is a heady romantic cocktail laced with sparklingly witty dialogue, stunning choreography, lavish sets and gorgeous costumes. Irving Berlin’s irresistible score includes some of Hollywood’s greatest songs, the immortal Cheek to Cheek, Let’s Face the Music and Dance, Top Hat White Tie and Tails and Puttin’ on the Ritz.
When Broadway star Jerry Travers arrives in London to open a new show, he crosses paths with model Dale Tremont, whose beauty sleep is rudely interrupted by Jerry tap dancing in the hotel suite above hers. Instantly smitten, Jerry vows to abandon his
bachelor life to win her - but the path of true love never does run smooth.
Based on the classic 1935 film which starred Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, the stage adaptation’s West End premiere won the 2013 Olivier Award for Best New Musical and the Evening Standard Award for Best Night Out. Acclaimed American director and choreographer Kathleen Marshall, whose Tony and Olivier Award-winning production of Anything Goes recently wowed audiences and critics in London and on television, comes to the UK to stage this brand-new production.
“ Ravishing musical taps immaculately off the silver screen”
The Guardian
Tue – Sat 7.30pm
Wed, Thu & Sat 2pm
From £20
and
(see p36).
Age Guidance 10+
BSL Interpreted
Wed 11 Mar 7.30pm
Audio Described
Wed 11 Mar 7.30pm
Captioned
Thu 12 Mar 7.30pm
Dear England
The National Theatre’s Olivier Awardwinning smash hit Dear England comes to Birmingham Hippodrome in a highly anticipated national tour.
Football and non-football fans alike will be brought to their feet in this joyous, five-star ‘new stage epic’ (Telegraph). From multi award-winning writer James Graham (Sherwood, BBC), Dear England tells the uplifting, at times heartbreaking, and ultimately inspiring story of Gareth Southgate's revolutionary tenure as England manager.
David Sturzaker (Doctors, BBC) plays former England manager Gareth Southgate in this gripping examination of nation and game. He is joined by stage and screen actress Samantha Womack (EastEnders, BBC; The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe) as team psychologist Pippa Grange.
A co-production with JAS Theatricals. “ As thrilling and nail-biting as a penalty shoot-out”
Matthew Bourne’s production of The Red Shoes
The double Olivier award-winning smash hit returns.
A timeless fairytale and Academy Award-winning movie, The Red Shoes has captivated audiences and inspired generations of dancers with its powerful tale of obsession, possession and one girl’s dream to be the greatest dancer in the world. Victoria Page lives to dance but her ambitions become a fierce struggle between the two men who inspire her passion.
Matthew Bourne’s magical double Olivier Award-winning production of the legendary Powell and Pressburger film is set to a score orchestrated by Terry Davies, featuring the mesmerizing music of golden-age Hollywood composer Bernard Herrmann, with sumptuous designs by Lez Brotherston
(set and costumes), Paule Constable (lighting) and Paul Groothuis (sound).
An intoxicating drama where life imitates art with fateful consequences, The Red Shoes will dazzle your senses and break your heart.
“ A cinematic masterpiece re-Bourne on stage”
Evening Standard
“ A gorgeous swirl of storytelling and style”
The Independent
Mon – Sat 7.30pm Wed 2pm Sat 2.30pm
From £26
Prices and discounts subject to
(see p36).
Age Guidance 14+
Strong language and adult themes
BSL Interpreted Wed 25 Mar 7.30pm Captioned Thu 26 Mar 7.30pm
Audio Described Sat 28 Mar 2.30pm
Priscilla Queen of the Desert
Priscilla Queen of the Desert, based on the 1994 Oscar-winning film, is back with a dazzling UK and International tour!
This joyous Broadway and West End hit musical takes you on a hilarious, heartwarming ride as three friends hit the road across the Outback to put on the show of a lifetime. Priscilla Queen of the Desert explores identity, diversity and the journey towards self-acceptance by challenging societal norms as the characters confront prejudice and adversity. It’s a true celebration of the power of love, friendship, unity, being unapologetically yourself and embracing others for who they are.
From the producers of Hairspray, The Full Monty and Shrek, and starring Adèle Anderson (Fascinating Aïda) as Bernadette, this sparkling musical extravaganza is packed with jaw-
dropping dance routines, eye-popping costumes, and an iconic soundtrack full of your favourite 80s and 90s disco and dance anthems, including; Hot Stuff, It’s Raining Men, I Will Survive, Girls Just Wanna Have Fun, Finally and many more. A guaranteed unforgettable night out bursting at the seams with humour and heart!
So, grab your heels, pack the glitter, and get ready to Shake Your Groove Thing once again - book now!
“The greatest disco anthems ever to fill a dance floor” The Telegraph
“The best feel-good show since Mamma Mia” Sunday Express
SIX
The crowning glory of Broadway, the West End and beyond, the international smash hit musical SIX makes its royal return to Birmingham following its previous sell out success!
Winner of over 35 international awards, including the Tony Award for ‘Best Original Score’ and ‘Best Costume Design’, double winner of the WhatsOnStage Award for ‘Best West End Show’ and a Gold Disc winning album, this sell-out Tudor take-off has ‘an incredibly strong and powerful message’ (The Australian) and is ‘pure entertainment’ (New York Times).
From Tudor Queens to Pop Princesses, the six wives of Henry VIII take to the mic to tell their tales, remixing five hundred years of historical heartbreak into an 80-minute celebration of 21st century girl power. These Queens may have green sleeves but their lipstick is rebellious red.
Think you know the rhyme, think again...
Divorced. Beheaded. LIVE!
“ Exhilarating entertainment from six killer Queens. They will, they will rock you!” Daily Express
“ A royal treat” Daily Telegraph
“ Smart. Sassy. I’d give this ridiculously fun musical six stars if I could” Sunday Express
“ Captivating and exhilarating. Do yourself a favour and go and party with SIX. You won’t regret it!” Attitude
14 Apr
18 Apr
Tue – Sat 7.30pm
From £20
Prices and discounts subject to change (see p36).
Age Guidance 12+
Please be advised that this production contains racially explicit language, themes and content and references to sexual abuse and violence. There will be brief gunfire audio in the performance.
Aaron Sorkin’s riveting, award-winning stage adaptation of the seminal American novel about racial injustice and childhood innocence became a Broadway and West End sensation with star-studded sell-out seasons on both sides of the Atlantic. Now this thrilling courtroom drama comes to Birmingham Hippodrome.
Successful lawyer, Atticus Finch, encourages kindness and empathy in his children, but is pushed to the limits of these qualities himself when he resolves to uncover the truth in a town that seems determined to hide it.
Set in 1934 Alabama, To Kill A Mockingbird was inspired by novelist Harper Lee’s own childhood and has sold more than 45 million copies worldwide. It won the Pulitzer Prize for Literature and was long at the top of banned book lists.
“It feels like a storm breaking, so charged is the atmosphere in the theatre” Mail on Sunday
“ Powerful. Important. Deeply moving. I wept as I rose at the end” Sunday Express
Barnum
Step right up and enter the dazzling world of P.T. Barnum, where imagination and ambition know no bounds. Hand in hand with wife Charity, Barnum’s life and career twists and turns as he schemes and dreams his way to headier heights.
West End favourite and TV star Lee Mead will take centre stage as the legendary 19th century showman P.T. Barnum. Lee shot to stardom with his breakout win on Any Dream Will Do and acclaimed performances in Joseph and The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Wicked, and Legally Blonde.
This spectacular production directed by Jonathan O’Boyle and choreographed by Oti Mabuse will feature an extraordinary ensemble cast of over 20 actor-musicians, acrobats and amazing circus acts. Audiences are certain to delight at every sight, wonder and miracle that the name Barnum stands for!
Come follow the band with the glorious music of multi-award-winner Cy Coleman, Michael Stewart’s lyrics and Mark Bramble’s book. Barnum features a whole host of classic show tunes including Join the Circus, Colours of My Life, Come Follow the Band and Love Makes Such Fools of Us All.
“A dazzling all-singing, all-juggling musical”
The Observer
Dec
As Wolves 10.15am & 1.30pm 24 Robin Hood 2.30pm & 7.15pm 08
Such Thing As Wolves 1pm & 4.30pm 24 Robin Hood 1pm & 5.15pm 08 Robin Hood 2.30pm & 7.15pm 08 No Such Thing As Wolves 10.15pm & 1.30pm 24
Hood 2.30pm & 7.15pm 08
Such Thing As Wolves 10.15pm & 1.30pm 24
Hood 1pm & 5.15pm 08
Such Thing As Wolves 1pm & 4.30pm 24 Robin Hood 1pm & 5.15pm 08
Such Thing As Wolves 10.15pm & 1.30pm 24 Robin Hood 2.30pm & 7.15pm 08
Such Thing As Wolves 10.15pm & 4.30pm 24 Robin Hood 1pm & 5.15pm 08
Such Thing As Wolves 1pm & 4.30pm 24
Hood 2.30pm & 7.15pm 08
Such Thing As Wolves 1pm & 4.30pm 24 Robin Hood 2.30pm & 7.15pm 08
Such Thing As Wolves 10.15pm & 1.30pm 24 Robin Hood 1pm & 5.15pm 08
Jan
No Such Thing As Wolves 1pm & 4.30pm 24 Robin Hood 2.30pm & 7.15pm 08 No Such Thing As Wolves 10.15pm & 1.30pm 24
Wed 25 The Lightning Thief - 2pm & 7pm 12 The Percy Jackson Musical
Thu 26 The Lightning Thief - 7pm 12 The Percy Jackson Musical
Fri 27 The Lightning Thief - 7pm 12 The Percy Jackson Musical
Sat 28 The Lightning Thief - 2.30pm & 7pm 12 The Percy Jackson Musical
Mar
Sun 1 Uncanny: Fear of the Dark 2.30pm & 7.30pm -
Tue 3 Top Hat 7.30pm 13
Wed 4 Top Hat 2pm & 7.30pm 13
Thu 5 Top Hat 2pm & 7.30pm 13
Fri 6 Top Hat 7.30pm 13
Sat 7 Top Hat 2.30pm & 7.30pm 13
Tue 10 Dear England 7.30pm 14
Wed 11 Dear England 2pm & 7.30pm 14
Thu 12 Dear England 2pm & 7.30pm 14
Fri 13 Dear England 7.30pm 14
Sat 14 Dear England 2pm & 7.30pm 14
Tue 17 Matthew Bourne’s 7.30pm 15 The Red Shoes
Wed 18 Matthew Bourne’s 7.30pm 15
The Red Shoes
Apr
May
THIS IS DANCE, an international season of dance in Birmingham presented in partnership with FABRIC, Birmingham Hippodrome, Birmingham Rep, Fierce Festival, Midlands Arts Centre and Sampad Arts.
6 Nov
Thu 7pm
£12, £10 concessions
£5 under 25s
Deciphers
by Naishi Wang & Jean Abreu
A compelling and intimate physical performance that examines the complexity of human communication. Blending elements of Chinese Folk Dance, Brazilian movement, spoken word, breath work, and ink on paper, to explore themes of translation in this crosscultural collaboration.
26 Nov
Wed 7pm
£12, £10 concessions
£5 under 25s
Taranto Aleatorio
by María del Mar Suárez, La Chachi
Two women share a common space, a conversation, the intimacy of silence. The cante (singing) & baile (dancing) burst forth, transforming a mundane scene into a magical spectacle. They embark on a personal take of the Taranto Flamenco form embracing irreverent gestures & humour.
27 Nov
Thu 7pm
£12, £10 concessions
£5 under 25s
Mathroo Basha
by Hetain Patel
Acclaimed visual artist Hetain Patel uses movement and audio interviews to explore generational change across his Brit-Gujarati family. The passing of several first-generation immigrant relatives, prompts reflection on what is lost and what is transformed, revisiting rituals rooted in family experience. Performed in English and Gujarati.
Photo: Maya Yoncali
Photo: Foteini Christofilopoulou
CATWALK EXTRAVAGANZA
Fierce Fashions - Luscious Lip Syncs - Delectable Dance and a splash of the XXX factor are all on show in this spectacular event. Born out of Queer Black Joy, Catwalk Extravaganzas are exploding around the UK to sell-out crowds.
Following on from the success of the last three Vogue Balls, the Shout Catwalk Extravaganza will be the ultimate competition in Lip Sync, Dance and Performance. Community participants, professional queer collectives and fierce individual performers are invited to battle it out for the audience, and they will have the power to decide who will be crowd winners.
15 Nov & 16 Nov
Sat & Sun 7pm From £10
A lad heads off to kill a monster.
A boy falls out of the sky.
Following it’s sold-out run at Edinburgh Fringe 2024, witness two inextricably linked stories of hope and loss, wildly retold by internationally acclaimed ‘masters of storytelling’ (FourthWall). Wright&Grainger and Oliver Tilney reimagine two myths - the adrenaline fuelled THESEUS & THE MINOTAUR and the heartrending DAEDALUS & ICARUS
“Wild gig theatre that’s both invigorating and heartbreaking”
Lyn Gardner, The Stage
“Raucous, rudimental-style bangers... soulful electronic arias akin to Bon Iver’s More experimental work”
The Scotsman
Join us this winter for a fun-filled, musical adventure, perfect for everyone aged 3 and over! From writers of TV’s Horrible Histories, Gerard Foster and Richie Webb, and directed by Emily Ling Williams, this is one party you won’t want to miss.
Hettie Hedgehog is ready to hibernate – until her new friend, Sydney Squirrel, convinces her to throw a party instead! But when two mysterious guests arrive with great big ears and pointy teeth, things get paws-itively wild... Can Hettie and Sydney save the day and make some new friends along the way?
The cast includes Faye Campbell (Hamnet) as Hettie Hedgehog, Matthew Rutherford (Mamma Mia!) as Harry Hedgehog, Beth Gourlay (Dick Whittington) as Sydney Squirrel, Elinor Peregrin (Pericles) as Woofy and Oliver Sidney (Oliver!) as Wiffy.
No Such Thing As Wolves is the second show in Birmingham Hippodrome’s My First Musical series, following last year’s 5-star hit The Jingleclaw. With catchy songs, hilarious scenes, and a wolfy twist in the tale, this show is sure to have you howling with laughter!
Ladies of Laughter
The Ladies Of Laughter are back, flexing their female funny muscles especially for you! Join us for a good ol’ gigglefest, featuring Noreen Khan, Kyrah Gray, Tej Dhutia and Shazia Mirza
This hit tour returns for a night made for everybody (whatever your pronoun) so round up your friends & family and have a guaranteed night of hilarity!
We are proud of our home in Birmingham and want to keep bringing goosebumps to the next generation of theatre lovers. That’s why we’re working with Theatre Green Book to improve our environmental impact through our new sustainability strategy.
GoingGreen
May
Sun 7.30pm
£34.50
Judi Love: All About the Love
Judi Love is back with a brand-new show packed with home truths about the hustle of juggling parenting, work and everyday life.
Judi has dedicated her life to service; as a friend, parent, in the workplace, on TV, or at home, all with a bit of humour, which has been a life saviour. She has learned one key thing: it’s all about the Love...
5 May
Tue 7.30pm
£34.50
Josh Widdicombe: Not My Cup of Tea
Josh Widdicombe is back on tour, not again! By now he has almost certainly mastered the art of stand-up, either that or he has wasted the last 15 years of his life. Come along and decide for yourself. Expect it to be shorter and with lower production values than Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour, but funnier and with more references to tea.
10 May
Sun 7.30pm £29
Tom Davis: Spudgun
Tom Davis is back on the road, firing out his freshly cooked observations on life’s hot topics.
Co-host of the mega-hit podcast Wolf and Owl with Romesh Ranganathan, star of BAFTA and Royal Television Society award-winning comedy series Murder in Successville and BBC One smash-hit comedy King Gary, Tom also has his own special Underdog available to watch on Sky and NOW TV. Get ready - this one’s fully loaded.
7 May
The Flying Dutchman Wagner
This gripping reimagining of The Flying Dutchman explores the deep ache of loneliness and the fragile hope of human connection. Inspired by the sublime beauty of the Welsh coast, the sea is the opera’s canvas, and both a compulsion and prison for its characters.
8 May
Blaze of Glory!
Blaze of Glory! is a jubilant celebration of the Land of Song and a tribute to how community spirit can triumph over adversity. Traditional Welsh harmonies blend with the a cappella sounds of the 1950s, operetta, gospel and big band as our intrepid band of gleemen Lindy Hop their way to glory.
9 May Sat 3pm £20, £10 Under 16s
Play Opera LIVE
Sail the high seas with our interactive family show
This interactive and educational show, for all the family, is the perfect introduction to the wonderful world of opera and classical music. The relaxed vibe will allow you to fully lose yourself in the music, story and drama as we charter the waves and bring our crew back to dry land.
12 May
30 May
Tue – Sat 7.30pm
2pm
From £30
Prices and discounts subject to change (see p36).
Age Guidance 5+
Captioned Thu 14 May 7.30pm
Audio Described Sat 16 May 2.30pm
BSL Interpreted Thu 21 May 7.30pm
MAMMA MIA!
Join us at MAMMA MIA! and enjoy the ultimate feel-good factor at the world’s sunniest and most exhilarating smashhit musical, coming to Birmingham Hippodrome for three weeks only!
Set on a Greek island paradise, a story of love, friendship and identity is cleverly told through the timeless songs of ABBA
Sophie’s quest to discover the father she’s never known brings her mother face-to-face with three men from her distant romantic past on the eve of a wedding they’ll never forget.
This irresistibly funny show has been thrilling audiences all around the world and now there’s never been a better time to see this unforgettable musical in Birmingham.
Whatever age you are, you can’t help but have the time of your life at MAMMA MIA!
Derren Brown - Only Human
Prepare to be astonished! The multi award-winning master of mind control and psychological illusion, Derren Brown, returns to Birmingham Hippodrome with his brand new live show, Only Human
The content of Only Human is still under wraps, but we can guarantee you a mind-blowing experience that’ll take your breath away!
Tickets for Derren’s shows always sell out fast, so don’t miss out.
“ Be brainwashed into joy by one of the world’s best magicians”
New York Times
Photos: Pamela Raith.
20th-Century Masterpieces
20th-Century Masterpieces shows how ballet can thrill and delight through sheer artistry and brilliance, and yet it can also explore dark and ever-with-us conversations about man’s inhumanity to man.
Birmingham Royal Ballet’s founder director, Sir Frederick Ashton, made Birthday Offering for the then Sadler’s Wells Ballet to celebrate their 25th anniversary in 1956 (the year they became The Royal Ballet), working with a dazzling cast of dancers that included Margot Fonteyn.
The Green Table is considered Kurt Jooss’s masterwork - created in 1932 he foreshadows the ultimate futility of the peace negotiations of that decade and shows Death becoming the inevitable dance partner of each of the characters in turn.
George Balanchine’s joyous Theme and Variations drips with gilded grandeur, evoking in Balanchine’s own words the ‘great period in classical dancing when Russian ballet flourished with the aid of Tchaikovsky’s music’ - created in 1947, it is a glorious celebration in dance with which to round off the programme.
Winner of over 100 international awards, including 24 for Best Musical, the ‘hilarious, moving, glorious’ (Daily Telegraph) global phenomenon, Matilda The Musical is the multi-award winning musical from the Royal Shakespeare Company. Inspired by the beloved book by Roald Dahl, the show has now delighted over 12 million audiences worldwide.
In celebration of 15 years on stage since opening at the Courtyard Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon, and following performances in 100 cities across 17 countries worldwide, Matilda now returns to Birmingham Hippodrome following the sellout success of its first tour in 2018/19.
With book by Dennis Kelly and original songs by Tim Minchin, Matilda is the story of an extraordinary little girl who, armed with a vivid imagination and a sharp mind, dares to take a stand and change her own destiny.
“ Simply unmissable. There’s never been a better time to see Matilda”
Huffington Post
“An absolute cracker” Daily Express
“A must-see” Mail on Sunday
Here at Birmingham Hippodrome, we understand that nothing is more disappointing than not being able to attend an event you’ve been looking forward to, so when the unexpected happens and you can’t make your show, we’ve got you covered with Secure My Booking.
When you book for your next show online or over the phone, protect your tickets with refund protection and be covered for accidents, illness, severe weather, rail strikes and more!
To read the terms and conditions and see full details of your refund protection go to birminghamhippodrome.com/refund-protection/
Mrs. Doubtfire
Helloooo, poppets! Mrs. Doubtfire is the West End’s hit comedy musical based on the beloved film and it’s heading to Birmingham Hippodrome from Thu 13 Aug 2026.
This ‘genuinely funny’ (Time Out) show follows out-of-work actor Daniel (played by the critically acclaimed Gabriel Vick*, original London company) who will do anything for his kids. After losing custody in a messy divorce, he creates the alter ego of Scottish nanny Euphegenia Doubtfire
in a desperate attempt to stay in their lives. As his new character takes on a life of its own, Mrs. Doubtfire teaches Daniel more than he bargained for about how to be a father.
Mrs. Doubtfire features all the hilarious moments you love from the movie, plus fabulous new songs and dazzling dance numbers! Put it all together, and you’ve got a ‘surefire hit’ (The Telegraph, Daily Express) that can’t be missed. Book now, dears!
From £25
The Maiden of Venice
Admiral Sandro returns victorious to Venice to prepare for his marriage to the daughter of the Doge. He learns that his childhood love, Nicoletta, is about to become a nun, and when they meet they declare their love for each other. Nicoletta’s guardian Bishop Olivolo overhears their declaration. The Bishop is also in love with Nicoletta and he vows to destroy Sandro.
In this sumptuous reimagining of the 19th-century classic La Bayadère, Carlos Acosta moves the action to Renaissance Venice. With the original score by Ludwig Minkus played live by the Royal Ballet Sinfonia, gorgeous designs by Anna Fleischle and showstopping dance that includes the famous Kingdom of the Shades, this new production promises to be the ballet sensation of 2026.
Don’t miss this powerful story of love, lust, betrayal and murder.
Young Advocates (Ages 14-23)
A group of young people from the West Midlands selected each year to help shape the Hippodrome’s work with, and for, young people.
A group of individuals selected from a range of backgrounds, come together and work with us to break down barriers for individual and community access to theatre. To register your interest email CharlotteBoyer@birminghamhippodrome.com
Access Social Drop-In Sessions (Ages 16+)
An opportunity to socialise and feed in ideas about how we can be more accessible as a venue.
Access at Festivals
We offer a variety of access initiatives across our festivals. For more information visit birminghamhippodrome.com/access birminghamhippodrome.com/getinvolved
How To Book
You can book or reserve tickets, become a Friend, reserve a table in our lounges, make a donation or ask us a question:
Online birminghamhippdrome.com
Phone
Mon-Fri 10am-6pm (closed on weekends and bank holidays)
Information & Sales 0121 689 3000
Groups 10+ 0121 689 3010
Access Bookings 0121 689 1060
Post-purchase Enquiries 0121 689 1070
In Person
Our reception on Thorp Street Mon-Fri 10am-5pm
Pre-show sales counter 1 hour before a performance, until 30 minutes after the show starts.
Payment & Tickets
We accept most major credit and debit cards (excluding American Express) as well as Birmingham Hippodrome vouchers.
Following payment, we’ll send e-tickets no later than 2 weeks before a performance date unless booked within that period.
Refund Protection
We offer refund protection on your booking. Protection covers injury, illness, travel trouble and unexpected events. Full details can be found in the terms and conditions on our website.
Conditions of Sales
Full terms and conditions are available at birminghamhippodrome.com or you can call us on 0121 689 3000 and ask one of our friendly team.
We are easy to find and centrally located with easy access from New Street and Moor Street stations, the West Midlands Metro and many bus routes. For further details, see tfwm.org.uk.
We are dedicated to creating a safe, welcoming, and respectful environment for all visitors, staff, and performers. Visit birminghamhippodrome.com/mutual-respect for more info.
For full details on parking, travel, The Circle Lounge, bars and facilities, please go to birminghamhippodrome.com/yourvisit.
Birmingham Hippodrome is a cashless venue.
Children
As very young children can get bored or easily upset by special effects, we do not admit children under 3 into the majority of our main house performances. Please check individual show age guidance on our website.
We welcome young children for our family shows and indicate terms or prices for babes in arms (18 months and under). Please book babes in arms in advance. Everyone admitted to the theatre needs a ticket.
Under 13s must be accompanied by an adult so we know they are safe.
Artistic Director & Chief Executive Officer: Jon Gilchrist
Access Registration & Information
For listings of access performances, information on our registration scheme and for details of our facilities please visit birminghamhippodrome.com/access
We are pleased to have launched our Access Registration scheme in partnership with Nimbus Disability, now allowing online booking alongside our phone and in-person service.
Visually-impaired
Guide dogs are very welcome in the theatre and can be looked after by staff during performances. Should you require a seat close to entrances, please ask when booking. Please book your guide dog in with Ticket Sales in advance of your visit.
Touch Tours take place alongside audio-described performances. Times are confirmed 2-3 weeks in advance.
Deaf, deafened and hard-of-hearing
If you’d like a receiver, just ask at the Access Assistance Desk, located at our main entrance.
Impaired mobility
Automatic doors and lifts are available and we have wheelchair positions in our main auditorium and Patrick Studio. We have accessible unisex and ambulant disabled toilets on all levels and in The Circle Lounge, plus low-level counter service.
Please let us know when booking your ticket if you need any additional help with your visit.
Enjoy your next visit!
Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this brochure, changes may occur.
A note on ticket prices, discounts and charges
• All ticket prices listed in this brochure and elsewhere are subject to change at any time.
• In response to demand we may adapt prices, seating areas and discounting, and availability of concessions or discounts may be limited at our discretion.
• Check online at birminghamhippodrome.com or call us on 0121 689 3000 for current prices.
• Tickets for selected events may include a levy retained by Birmingham Hippodrome.
• We will always endeavour to keep discounts as generous as possible so that no bookers are at a disadvantage.
• Discounts vary, cannot be combined nor applied retrospectively, and may be restricted or limited and are generally available on presentation of valid ID.
• On occasion ticket agents may sell on our behalf. Please check their charges when booking.
Birmingham Hippodrome’s Board: Andrew Connors • Ranjit Dhindsa • Andrew Hammond • Vidar Hjardeng MBE • Immy Kaur • Elizabeth Lawal • Catherine Mallyon (Chair) • Harj Millington (Deputy Chair) • Jacqui O’Hanlon • Dr Tru Powell • Rob Valentine • Dr Justin Varney-Bennett
Special Adviser: Sir John Crabtree OBE
Please note: These diagrams are a guide and not an accurate representation of seating positions. Stalls Rows A - D are not used for Opera and Ballet performances. Other variations may apply due to technical reasons.
Due to potentially restricted views of the stage and the technical requirements of specific productions, boxes may be unavailable to purchase. They are often made available for sale closer to the time over the phone only. If you would like to enquire about a box for a specific performance, please contact us on 0121 689 3000.
Stalls Circle
...to all our supporters - donors, patrons, sponsors, business partners, Trusts and grant makers - for helping us to provide exceptional creative experiences and opportunities for all local communities.
Together we are bringing our charitable ambitions to life because Arts Matter!
Major Gifts
Charles Holloway OBE, Founding SupporterNew Musical Theatre Department
Hippodrome Circle Patrons
Jane & Ann Allsop • Mark Hopton • Maureen & Roy Kirby • Mark & Amanda Smith • Paul Twose
Leading Role Patrons
Curtain Raiser Circle
Angelina Adamo • Joe Glover • Daphne Hall • Deborah Horton • Jamie & Alison Justham • Anonymous Donors
Headline Act Patrons
The Dickens Foundation • Daphne & Liz Hall • Janette Rutter • Helen Thompson • Tim & June Watts • Anonymous Donors
Mark, Liz & Holly Abrol • Heath Allard • Janet Chance & Tony Davis • Nicola Fleet-Milne • Davinia & Matthew Gransbury • The Sebbie Hall Kindness Foundation • Andy & Rebecca Hammond • Rachel & Graham Hill • Alison & Jamie Justham • Debbie & Mark Lilburne • Michael & Cerys Luckman • Jeremy & Harjinder Millington • John & Sandra Phenix • Tony & Julie Phillips • David Renton & Mark Lattimore • Paul Sherry • Steve & Suzie Whittern • Neil & Polly Wilson • Anonymous Patrons
Supporting Cast Patrons
Mary & David Ayres • Christine Bachelor • Simon Bashford • Kelly Beckett • Simon & Amanda Boardman-Weston • Sandra Brown & Carol McKinley • Colleen & Kevin Budge • Richard Burke • Marie Bushell, Connor Sherry & Jaydon Bushell • Kathy & Ed Catchpole • John & Amanda Clapham • John & Heather Clemson • Andrew & Sarah Connors • Adrian Cox • Marcus & Linda Daly • Ros & Trevor Davies • Gareth & Jane Edwards • Patricia Etchells • Finula Foley • Mark Forty • Katie Fraser • Mick & Sue Gower • Sara Griffiths • Martin & Roni Guest • Phillip Harrison & Wendy Hazel Sinclair • Janet Inglis • Deborah Install • Abid Iqbal • David & Wendy Jackson • John Jeremy & Pamela Buckley • Jan Johnson • Andy Le Marr • Maureen Levermore • Anne McKee & Pat Alsop • Lynne Myers • Emma & Peter Neads • Katie Newbon • Mrs Jill Parker • Lee Parry • Tony & Judy Pickard • John Queenan • Dr Gavin Ralston • Dr Christopher & Mrs Maureen Reynolds • David & Jane Richardson • Emma Rowley • Mary Shaw • Philip & Keira Shorey • Sukhvinder Singh • Wendy Smith & Family • Christine Spittle • Gwen Stephens & Christine Bellingham • Glynis Troth • Mrs Ann Wailing & Mrs Vanessa Ottley • Joel Wata • Anonymous Patrons
Gifts in Wills
Special thanks to our legacy pledgers, and other donors who prefer to remain anonymous, who have left a gift to the theatre in their will. Paul Callas • Terry & Yvonne Gateley • Lara Ratnaraja • Janette Rutter • The late Mr J Weston
Get in touch: to find out more about how you can play your part, please email fundraising@birminghamhippodrome.com or call 0121 689 3068 to start the conversation.
Baron Davenport’s Charity • Birmingham Bodenham Trust • The Bishop of Birmingham Charitable Trust • The Charles Michael Holloway Charitable Trust • Creative Futures Fund • The D’Oyly Carte Charitable Trust • The Garrick Charitable Trust • The Grimmitt Trust • Hortons’ Social Purpose Committee • IMI Charitable Trust • The Sir Barry Jackson Trust • The Oakley Charitable Trust • The Owen Family Trust • Property for Kids • The Reed Foundation • Richardson Brothers Foundation • The Saintbury Trust • The Sebbie Hall Kindness Foundation • The Squire Patton Boggs Charitable Trust
We look forward to welcoming you to the Hippodrome ‘family’ of supporterstogether we can make a real difference.
Birmingham Hippodrome strives to provide Access for all.
T• Please ask our Ticket Sales team for a copy of our access brochure for full details of our access provision.
• Our Access Registration scheme is in partnership with Nimbus Disability and allows online booking alongside our phone service. Find out more and register at birminghamhippodrome.com/accessregistration
• Our Access and Inclusion Advocates, made up of people representative of different ages, experiences, backgrounds and cultures, meet monthly and are committed to improving our access offer and experience for visitors.
• If you have any questions, our friendly Access Advisors are available at 0121 689 1060 or hippodromeaccess@birminghamhippodrome.com
Upcoming Accessible Performances...
Black SabbathThe Ballet Sat 20 Sep 2pm
Motionhouse: Hidden Sat 11 Oct 2.30pm
Black Power Desk Sat 25 Oct 2pm Thu 23 Oct 7.15pm
Rouge!
Musical
- The Nutcracker Sat 29 Nov 2.30pm
Robin Hood Wed 14 Jan 2pm Sat 17 Jan 2.30pm Sun 11 Jan 1pm & 5.15pm Sun 18 Jan 1pm & 5.15pm Thu 29 Jan 12 noon Dance Consortium: MAM Sat 7 Feb 7.30pm
BRB - Don Quixote Sat 14 Feb 2pm
The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical Sat 28 Feb 2.30pm Wed 25 Feb 7pm Thu 26 Feb 7pm
Top Hat Sat 7 Mar 2.30pm Wed 4 Mar 7.30pm Thu 5 Mar 7.30pm
Dear England Wed 11 Mar 7.30pm Wed 11 Mar 7.30pm Thu 12 Mar 7.30pm
Matthew Bourne’s The Red Shoes Sat 21 Mar 2.30pm
Priscilla Queen of the Desert Sat 28 Mar 2.30pm Wed 25 Mar 7.30pm Thu 26 Mar 7.30pm
SIX Sat 4 Apr 4pm Wed 1 Apr 8.30pm Thu 2 Apr 8pm
To Kill A Mockingbird Sat 18 Apr 2.30pm Wed 15 Apr 7.30pm Thu 16 Apr 7.30pm
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