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Within These Walls
10 July to 12 July
About Within These Walls
Human Story Theatre in Collaboration with Oxford Health Charity presents Within These Walls by Janet Bolam.
In a quiet chapel in the grounds of a mental hospital, Stu and Lucy take refuge from their painful circumstances.
Plagued by questionable treatments, separation from their children and a sketchy sense of their own mental resilience, they form an unlikely bond which ignores a haunting suspicion that their friendship is not all it seems.
Within These Walls is a compassionate play about those who have lived within the walls of an institution, about the people who care for them and about the timeless healing power of human connection.
Within These Walls, produced by Human Story Theatre in collaboration with Oxford Health Charity as part of www.warnford200.co.uk—Oxford Health Charity’s 200th anniversary program in 2026—it’s a moving reflection on history, resilience, and care.
To enrich every performance, each evening concludes with a post-show panel discussion. These panels feature mental health professionals & experts from organisations who reflect on the themes of the play, connecting the past to the present.
Audiences are invited to stay, ask questions, and explore how these lived stories still resonate today.
Written by Janet Bolam – with contributions from Gillie Ruscombe-King
Director Anna Tolputt
Designer Lizzy McBain
Creative Producer Amy Enticknap
It’s not just a play—it’s a window into real, lived history. You’ll laugh, you’ll reflect, and see how far attitudes to mental health have changed. Plus, you get that panel discussion—so you’re not just watching, you’re part of the conversation. It’s a unique blend of storytelling, history, and the here and now!
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 10 to Sunday 12 July 2026
Friday and Saturday at 7.30pm
Sunday at 3.00pm
Running time:
1 hour 15 minutes with post-show talk
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.
