The Beekeeper of Aleppo
05 May to 09 May
About The Beekeeper of Aleppo
Proudly presented by Martin Dodd for UK Productions Ltd in association with Nottingham Playhouse, adapted by Nesrin Alrefaai and Matthew Spangler, from the International No.1 Bestseller Christy Lefteri.
‘I was scared of the bees at first, but now, they make me feel alive. They are like a society in complete harmony with itself. Not like people at all, but maybe what people have the potential to be.’
Nuri is a beekeeper; his wife, Afra, an artist. They live a simple life, rich in family and friends, in the beautiful Syrian city of Aleppo – until the unthinkable happens. When all they care for is destroyed by war, they are forced to escape.
On their terrifying journey, they must face the pain of their own unbearable loss alongside incredible danger. Above all, they must journey to find each other again. This compassionate and beautiful play is a story of connection – between friends, families and strangers.
Winner of the Aspen Words Award, Runner up for the Dayton Literary Peace Prize, and one of The Times top three bestselling books of 2020, Christy Lefteri’s best-selling novel is adapted by Nesrin Alrefaai, and Matthew Spangler who adapted The Kite Runner.
Reviews
“Sparklingly assured… impressive show… anchored in strong performances from a uniformly excellent ensemble cast.” ★★★★
The Telegraph
“A story of loss, love, resilience and hope. … it’s impossible not to be moved.”
The Observer
“Fast-moving inventive production is epic in ambition and human in scale .” ★★★★
The Scotsman
Tickets
Please see important booking information below.
Booking information
Ticket prices:
From £15.00
A £2.75 booking fee per transaction applies to this event across all channels – website, phone and in-person bookings at the Box Office. The fee is waived for members, schools, groups and access bookers.
Dates & times:
Tuesday 05 to Saturday 09 May 2026
Tuesday to Saturday at 7.30pm
Thursday and Saturday at 2.30pm
Running time:
This show has an interval
Age guidance:
14+
Content guidance:
This show contains themes of war, violence & murder, loss of a child. References to sexual abuse, mental illness & forced migration.
Warning:
This show contains strobe and flashing lights, haze, and sudden loud noises.
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.
