Loading Events

« All Events

  • This event has passed.

The Vanishing Elephant

11 June 2025 to 14 June 2025

Beaumont Street
Oxford, Oxfordshire OX1 2LW United Kingdom
+ Google Map
01865 305305
View Venue Website

The Vanishing Elephant
The Vanishing Elephant

About The Vanishing Elephant

Presented by Cahoots NI in association with Buxton Opera House

Directed by Paul Bosco Mc Eneaney

Written by Charles Way

Puppetry Designer and Director Helen Foan

This summer, fresh from a run at London’s Southbank, comes an uplifting journey of friendship and epic adventure, spanning decades and continents.

In Bengal, a young boy named Opu dreams of becoming an elephant trainer. When he befriends Janu, a majestic Asian elephant, their bond sparks a life-changing adventure through stormy seas, fearsome challenges, and unexpected twists.

Years later, now an old man, Opu hears that world-famous magician Harry Houdini is set to make an elephant vanish on stage in New York City. Could it be Janu, his long-lost friend? Determined to find out, Opu sets out on a courageous journey into the unknown.

This moving tale of friendship, belonging, and a remarkable journey from Bengal to Broadway was named a Critic’s Pick by The New York Times, which hailed it as an “alluring spectacle.”

Theatrical magic for all ages.


Watch the trailer


Reviews 

“As poignant as it is joyful.” 

British Theatre Guide

“At times reminiscent of War Horse and Life of Pi, it will be hard to vanish the memories of this production from the minds of the captivated audiences.” 

The Irish Times


Tickets

From £14.00

Please see important booking information below.


Booking information

Ticket prices:

From £14.00

Dates & times:

Wednesday 11 to Saturday 14 June 2025

Wednesday to Friday at 11.00am and 7.00pm, Saturday at 2.30pm and 7.00pm

Running time:

1 hour 45 minutes, including an interval

Age guidance:

8+

Warning:

This show contains a gunshot and the use of a gun on stage; haze is used throughout.


About Oxford Playhouse

Oxford Playhouse and its Burton Taylor Studio present and produce several live performances and feature a rich array of British and international dramas, family entertainment, contemporary dance and music, student and amateur shows, comedy, lectures and poetry.

The Playhouse not only produces and tours its own theatrical productions, but it also fosters creativity through its Artists in Residence program and the Playhouse Plays Out series, which brings unique events to various locations across the county.

The theatre’s Participation Team engages over 15,000 individuals annually, offering an extensive range of activities, including post-show discussions, workshops, work experience opportunities, holiday programs, a youth theatre, and a company for young performers.

Oxford Playhouse stands dedicated to its mission of being a Playhouse for all, striving to ignite inspiration and bring about transformative experiences through its commitment to creativity on its stages, within its community and online.

Discover more about Oxford Playhouse, including travel, access and venue information.