Michael Portillo – A Life of Two Halves
29 October @ 7.30pm
About Michael Portillo – A Life of Two Halves
Secretary of State. Traveller. TV superstar. The inimitable Michael Portillo comes live on stage to share funny, insightful, and poignant stories from his extraordinarily rich and varied life.
The son of a refugee who rose to become one of Britain’s leading politicians and best loved broadcasters, Michael Portillo’s life has been a game of two halves.
As a statesman, he served under Margaret Thatcher, ran for the leadership of the Conservative Party, and lost his seat in one of the most famous moments in British political history, only to become one of the nation’s favourite broadcasters, sparring with Diane Abbott and Andrew O’Neill and enthralling millions of us with his travels on the world’s greatest railways.
In this unique stage show, Michael will share his life story, from his late father’s experiences of the Spanish Civil War and escape to England, where he and Michael’s mother met while looking after refugee children, all the way to his present-day adventures travelling across Spain, the USA, India, and beyond.
We’ll hear Michael’s funny and insightful observations about his old boss Margaret Thatcher and his reflections on the decay of political power. He’ll tell us about his break into TV – including the time he became a single mum…
And, of course, we’ll hear about the great railway journeys he has undertaken and what they can tell us about the history and state of the world today.
Whether you are passionate about politics or a fan of Michael’s many international adventures, this is an unmissable treat. All aboard!
Tickets
Please see important booking information below.
Booking information
Ticket prices:
From £36.74
Tickets are subject to a transaction fee of £3.95
Dates & times:
Thursday 29 October 2026 at 7.30pm
Running time:
This show has an interval
Age guidance:
14+ at the discretion of a parent or guardian.
About New Theatre Oxford
There has been a theatre on George Street for almost 170 years. The first theatre was built in 1836, and a second in 1886. In 1934, the third New Theatre opened.
The theatre has been owned by several different companies and undergone several name changes. It is now owned by the Ambassador Theatre Group and hosts everything from ballet and opera to musicals.
On performance days, the Box Office opens at noon and closes 15 minutes after the show starts. If there is a performance on a Sunday or Bank Holiday, Box Office will open 2 hours before the show begins and close 15 minutes after the show starts.
There is a large air-conditioned bar with seating located below the Stalls Foyer, two further bars in the Circle Foyer and an additional one at the back of the balcony. All stocked with an array of drinks and snacks.
There is a cloakroom located in the stalls bar. If this is closed, please speak to a member of staff. £1 per item. It is free to ATG Theatre Card members.
See important information about Getting there and Access here
