Feel the rhythm of our new season, Theatre by the Lake unveils 2026 line-up
Feel the rhythm of our new season, Theatre by the Lake unveils 2026 line-up
Feel the rhythm of our new season, Theatre by the Lake unveils 2026 line-up
Theatre by the Lake have officially launched their 2026 season, a vibrant programme of productions and visiting shows. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re a drama-lover, comedy enthusiast, gig regular or just looking for something to do with the family, this new line-up celebrates the joy and connection that only live entertainment can bring.
Made by Theatre by the Lake
Leading the season are four new TBTL productions, presented in collaboration with a whole host of acclaimed theatrical partners. From the folk songs of Lark Rise to Candleford to the rebellious rhythms of Nell Gwynn, from the uplifting anthems of Calendar Girls The Musical to the ghostly harmonies of A Christmas Carol, the new season invites you to feel the rhythm with stories that sing.
“Joyful and full of spirit, these plays explore determination, wit and solidarity in the face of change, offering stories that are both moving and full of life,” said Julia Samuels, Artistic Director (Maternity Cover). “At Theatre by the Lake, we’re also continuing to grow opportunities for artists, young people and families through our Young Company, Big Days for Tiny Theatre Makers and long-term partnerships with schools across the county. We look forward to welcoming you for a season of theatre that celebrates creativity, warmth and connection”.
Lark Rise to Candleford 26 March – 18 April 2026 A Theatre by the Lake and Watermill Theatre co-production, in association with Hammerpuzzle Theatre Company This cherished classic follows young Laura’s journey from her rural home to a wider world of possibility. Intertwined with original live folk music and an ensemble cast, it’s a heartfelt story about memory, belonging and finding your voice.
Nell Gwynn 9 July – 1 August 2026 A Theatre by the Lake, Shakespeare North Playhouse and Storyhouse Theatre production London, 1660. The theatres are alive, the monarchy is restored and one woman is ready to take the stage. Wit, music and mischief await in this joyful, feminist comedy tells the story of Nell Gwynn – actress, trailblazer and royal favourite.
Calendar Girls the Musical 6 August – 5 September 2026 A Theatre by the Lake, Stephen Joseph Theatre, New Wolsey Theatre and Octagon Bolton Theatre production The iconic true story of the Yorkshire WI women who dared to bare all for charity – transformed into a hit musical by Tim Firth and Gary Barlow. Funny, touching and irresistibly uplifting, it celebrates friendship, courage and community spirit.
A Christmas Carol 13 November 2026 – 2 January 2027 A Theatre by the Lake production in association with Goblin THE festive favourite returns in a dazzling new adaptation, filled with song, laughter and a dash of supernatural wonder. As Scrooge faces the spirits of Christmas past, present and future, audiences are invited to experience the joy of the season at this delightfully spooky Carol service – unlike any other.
Full programme at a glance
February
The Bubble Show 2: More Bubbles (16 Feb): A spectacular show for families, full of wonder, colour, imagination and of course, bubbles.
It Walks Around the House at Night (20–21 Feb): A chilling theatrical horror from ThickSkin.
100 Years Celebration of Laurel and Hardy (26 Feb): Neil Brand brings the silent comedy legends to life.
Banff Mountain Film Festival (27–28 Feb): Experience an evening of thrilling adventure on the big screen.
March
Words by the Water (11–15 Mar): Join them in celebrating their 25th year of sharing words and ideas at Theatre by the Lake.
Lark Rise to Candleford (26 Mar – 18 Apr)
April
Love & Other Misunderstandings (8–11 Apr): Keswick Theatre Club present three short plays from Chekhov, Feydeau and G.B. Shaw.
Holmes and Watson and the Case of the Masked Magician (17 Apr): Attempt to solve the mystery, whilst enjoying some mind-bending magic.
May
Spitfire Girls (12–16 May): Returning to TBTL due to popular demand, a moving story inspired by real women who flew in WWII.
The Manfreds (23 May): Featuring original members Paul Jones and Tom McGuiness and an outstanding band, Get Your Kicks On Tour ’26.
June
Destination Live: Bowie (13 Jun): An 11-piece live band of session musicians shine for one evening, spanning five decades of Bowie’s hits.
The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) (16–18 Jun): The Reduced Shakespeare Company bring their hilariously rapid-fire roundup of all 37 plays.
July – September
Nell Gwynn (9 Jul – 1 Aug)
Calendar Girls The Musical (6 Aug – 5 Sep)
November – January
A Christmas Carol (13 Nov 2026 – 2 Jan 2027)
Beyond the main house
Every Brilliant Thing (Dates TBC): The award-winning, uplifting play about finding joy in small things will be venturing out once again for 2026 – following the 2025 UK Theatre Award-winning tour of Steel.
Theatre by the Lake Young Company (from January 2026): Following the success of Company 25 this year, this group will see young creatives come together to explore making new theatre.
Tiny Theatre Makers (from January 2026): The new season brings with it ongoing playful sessions for babies, toddlers, children under 4 and their families.
Book Now Tickets are on sale now via theatrebythelake.com or through the Box Office at 017687 74411.
Join us on the shores of Derwentwater for a season that will make you feel the rhythm of theatre once more.