Leeds Playhouse has unveiled a packed and dynamic Spring/Summer 2025 season, marking the final chapter of James Brining’s exceptional 13-year tenure as Artistic Director. This line-up celebrates the power of storytelling, community, and the connections that unite us all.
As the Playhouse enters its 55th year, audiences can expect a vibrant blend of world premieres, timeless classics, youth-driven performances, and visiting productions from some of the UK’s most innovative creators. From a love letter to Leeds United to daring reinterpretations of iconic tales, there’s something for everyone in this exhilarating program.
The Heart of the Lineup: Produced Productions
- Through It All Together
(23 June – 19 July, Courtyard Theatre)
A world premiere by Leeds playwright Chris O’Connor, this heartfelt production is a tribute to Leeds United, Marcelo Bielsa, and the enduring bonds of football fandom. It also tenderly explores living with dementia, drawing from collaborations with Leeds-based dementia communities. Directed by Gitika Buttoo, this is a must-see for anyone who’s ever found hope in the beautiful game. - Coraline – A Musical
(11 April – 11 May, Courtyard Theatre)
The world premiere of this fantastically spooky musical adapts Neil Gaiman’s beloved tale. Directed by James Brining, it promises a spellbinding journey that combines music by Louis Barabbas with Zinnie Harris’s masterful adaptation. - Animal Farm
(12 – 29 March, Quarry Theatre)
Orwell’s timeless allegory returns with a bold, industrial-inspired adaptation by Tatty Hennessy. Directed by Amy Leach, this production explores power, unity, and rebellion in a chillingly relatable way. - The House Party
(21 February – 1 March, Courtyard Theatre)
A contemporary reimagining of Miss Julie, this electrifying collaboration with Headlong and Frantic Assembly offers an intense look at class, ambition, and power dynamics. - Sisters 360
(7 – 10 May, Bramall Rock Void)
Inspired by real-life skateboarding sisters and their hero, Olympian Sky Brown, this play by Bradford’s Asif Khan is an adventurous tale of sisterhood and resilience.
Diverse and Bold: Visiting Productions
From the explosive satire of Tambo & Bones (14–24 May) to the heart-warming hilarity of Kim’s Convenience (12–15 March), the visiting line-up brings global perspectives to Leeds. Highlights include:
- Yippee Ki Yay (24–25 January): A joyous retelling of Die Hard.
- Buffy Revamped (1 March): A fast-paced homage to the 90s cult series.
- Romeo & Juliet (18–21 June): Northern Ballet breathes new life into Shakespeare’s tragedy.
Fresh Voices in the Bramall Rock Void
The studio’s intimate setting offers a chance to discover emerging talent and innovative storytelling. Productions like Philip Stokes’ poignant Shellshocked (5–8 February) and Tiggy Bayley’s moving one-woman show Squidge (6–7 June) highlight the breadth of creativity nurtured at Leeds Playhouse.
Spotlight on Youth and Community
The Playhouse continues its commitment to empowering young voices and fostering inclusivity. This season includes Brainstorm (10–12 July), a collaboration with its Youth Theatre exploring the teenage brain, and the joyful Sisters 360 Community Tour, which connects theatre to audiences across Leeds.
Don’t Miss Out
Tickets for the Spring/Summer 2025 season are now on sale for Priority Access, Playhouse Pass Members, and Under 30 Scheme members, with general sales starting 27 November.
Whether you’re a lifelong theatregoer or a curious newcomer, Leeds Playhouse’s Spring/Summer 2025 season promises a journey through stories that reflect the world we live in—and inspire the world we want to build.
Explore the full line-up and book your tickets at Leeds Playhouse.
This season offers a fitting farewell to James Brining’s transformative leadership while opening a new chapter for Leeds Playhouse. Which productions are you most excited to see? Let us know in the comments below!
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