James Rowland: Team Viking
12 June @ 7.30pm to 8.40pm
About James Rowland: Team Viking
“Ten years ago, my best friend Tom was diagnosed with heart cancer and given three months to live. His last wish was to have a full Viking burial. So I gave him one.”
Team Viking tells the remarkable, hilarious and heart-lifting story of how James managed to give his best mate the send-off he wanted. Blending storytelling, music, comedy and even a genuine Viking helmet, it’s a comic ode to death, friendship and the beautiful absurdity of life.
The show premiered in a tiny meeting room at the 2016 Edinburgh Fringe and became a breakthrough hit: critically acclaimed, completely sold out, and the beginning of my career as a contemporary storyteller. Since then it has toured hundreds of times across the UK and beyond.
Now, ten years on, this modern classic returns for a special anniversary edition – as funny, raw and joyous as ever.
Team Viking is brought to you by Salam & Holohan.
Reviews
“Joyous – heartlifting and incredibly moving.” ★★★★★
The Stage
“Sometimes stories are better than real life.” ★★★★★
Wee Review
“Real grief, still raw; real heart, still healing… A reminder that life really is for the living.” ★★★★
Fest
“Brilliant storytelling… beautifully written and superbly performed.” ★★★★
Ed Fest Mag
“Equal parts sad, funny and ridiculous… a show of real courage.” ★★★★
ThreeWeeks
“The best theatre I saw was Team Viking by James Rowland.”
Stewart Lee
Additional Praise for James Rowland
“A riveting, remarkable hour of theatre.” ★★★★★
The Guardian (Learning to Fly)
“He delivers his story with grace and self-deprecating humour.” ★★★★
The Times (Learning to Fly)
“Captivating… A generous, deepening hymn to friendship.” ★★★★
The Sunday Times (Revelations)
“Masterful… One mighty, passionate epic.” ★★★★★
The Scotsman (Songs of Friendship trilogy)
Tickets
Please see important booking information below.
Booking information
Ticket prices:
Standard – £15.00
Pay more – £20.00
Pay less – £10.00
Dates & times:
Friday 12 June 2026 at 7.30pm
Running time:
70 minutes
Content guidance:
The show contains strong language, discussions of cancer, themes of an adult nature and mental health.
About The Old Fire Station
The Old Fire Station in Oxford is an arts centre with a unique social mission, combining creativity with community impact. Located in the city centre, it hosts a vibrant programme of theatre, exhibitions, music, comedy, and workshops.
It shares its space with the homelessness charity Crisis Skylight Oxford, supporting people experiencing homelessness through training and opportunities in the arts. By bringing artists, audiences, and vulnerable communities together, The Old Fire Station aims to challenge inequality and inspire positive change.
Discover more about The Old Fire Station, including travel, access and venue information.
