The Seagull
About The Seagull
By Anton Chekhov
New English language version by Simon Stephens
Presented by University of Oxford student company Lighthouse Productions
Directed by Alys Young
“Yes but the theatre! We can’t live without the theatre.”
The Seagull is Chekhov’s darkly comic masterpiece. It explores the romantic and dramatic tensions between four characters: the aspiring actress Nina, the fading actress Irina, the symbolist playwright Konstantin, and the obsessive-compulsive writer Boris.
When Irina visits her brother Sorin’s isolated estate, unfulfilled ambitions are thrown into sharp relief.
This is a fresh take on Chekhov: a live original score will combine with bird-like choreography to transform this classic play into a theatrical spectacle.
Celebrating the play’s 130-year anniversary, University of Oxford student company Lighthouse Productions reignites The Seagull for the 21st century using a new translation by Olivier award-winning playwright, Simon Stephens.
Originally produced by the Lyric Theatre, Hammersmith, London on 03 October 2017.
Tickets
Please see important booking information below.
Booking information
Ticket prices:
Full price – £15.00
Concessions (Student, disability, benefits, under 16) – £5.00
All orders will be subject to a per transaction booking fee of £2.75
Dates & times:
Wednesday 21 to Saturday 24 October 2026
Wednesday to Saturday at 7.30 pm
Saturday at 2.00 pm
Running time:
3 hours, including an interval
Age guidance:
15+
Content guidance:
This production contains strong language; discussions of suicide, loss of a child, death; depictions of attempted suicide with a replica gun, sexual content, sexual assault.
Warning:
This production includes strobing/flashing lights, blackouts, haze, sudden loud noises, use of blood, and the smoking of herbal cigarettes.
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.
