Theatre Royal Winchester opens the new year in 2026 with a programme packed with music to suit all ages and tastes – from musical theatre to rock, opera to pop, and much more.
The programme begins with two popular returning shows – Oh What a Night! (9 – 10 January), which celebrates the music of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons, and Beyond the Barricade (11 January) – the UK’s longest running concert tour of musical theatre. Expect rock ‘n’ roll classics and favourites from the West End and Broadway.
Next, a number of incredible tributes, starting with The Magic of the Beatles (14 January), which features a lookalike and soundalike cast performing the Fab Four’s biggest hits. The Elvis Years (16 January) is the critically acclaimed tribute direct from the West End – packed with Elvis’ best-loved songs, stunning costume changes and nostalgic video clips. Ultimate Coldplay (17 January) have been described as ‘the next best thing’ to the original band with a ‘Chris Martin’ who plays piano and guitar, sings and dances like the star! Finally, Michael Starring Ben (18 January) features the UK’s ultimate MJ star, Ben Bowman – who has honed his routine so carefully that audiences believe they are watching the legendary performer!
Fans of all music genres are catered for throughout January and February with blues from Ben & Tom Waters, A Very Special Night of Boogie, Blues & Rock ‘n’ Roll (20 January), new wave from Totally Blondie (23 January), and rock and pop from The Searchers and The Hollies Experience (31 January).The Americana Revue (1 February) is a live country rock show celebrating US legends from Bruce Springsteen to ZZ Top, Shanty Night (2 February) is packed with sea songs old and new, while Cosi fan tutte (4 February) is Mozart’s comic opera. Expect pop from Ultimate Girl Band with Michelle Heaton from Liberty X (6 February) and Wickedly Ariana (13 February) and enjoy a youth theatre’s take on the musical, Curtains (19 – 21 February).
There’s also music on the big screen, including Lionel Bart’s musical adaptation of the Dickens’ classic – Oliver! (19 January), and The Royal Opera present Verdi’s La traviata (19 January) – about a celebrated Parisian courtesan who swaps luxury for love.
Lastly, audiences thinking about making their own music and learning a musical instrument in the new year may be interested in the 12-week ukelele courses that run at Theatre Royal Winchester – with the next beginners and improvers courses from Friday 9 January.
For more information, or to book tickets, visit: theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk or call 01962 840 440.
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