Theatre Reviews
Discover honest, insightful reviews of the latest live theatre productions in Oxford and beyond — from West End transfers to independent local gems at New Theatre Oxford, Oxford Playhouse, and stages big and small across the Oxfordshire.
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Legally Blonde The Musical: Heart and high-energy spectacle charms audiences at sold-out Oxford run
A completely sold-out Legally Blonde The Musical lit up New Theatre Oxford with colour, comedy and heart, as audiences were swept away from a sweltering heatwave into Elle Woods’ world of confidence, charm and self-discovery.
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Review: Midsomer Murders – The Killings at Badger’s Drift at New Theatre Oxford
The stage adaptation of Midsomer Murders: The Killings at Badger’s Drift at New Theatre Oxford delivered an affectionate, lightly comic whodunnit, bringing the familiar village intrigue and eccentric characters of the beloved series to life with theatrical flair.
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2:22 A Ghost Story – a chilling exploration of the fragile fault lines between trust, scepticism and belief
A sharp, suspenseful thriller that unfolds in real time, 2:22 A Ghost Story examines trust, mortality, and the fragile fault lines between scepticism and belief.
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Here & Now – The Steps Musical: A Joyful Celebration of Pop, Friendship and Community
Here & Now – The Steps Musical brings friendship, love, and life to the stage with infectious energy and iconic pop hits. With a talented, diverse cast and a story full of heart, this feel-good show delivers laughter, nostalgia, and pure entertainment for all generations.
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Sunny Afternoon – genuine cultural symmetry as the story of “The Kinks” comes home to Oxford
The Olivier Award-winning musical celebrated the rise of The Kinks with original hits, compelling storytelling, and a vibrant live performance that reconnected audiences with a pivotal chapter in British music history.
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Dear England – an Olivier Award-winning play that is a lot more than a football story
Far more than a football play, this powerful and uplifting production explores leadership, humility and national identity, captivating football fans and non-fans alike through inventive staging, emotional storytelling and a timely examination of modern masculinity.
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Inspector Morse: House of Ghosts – a thrilling and nostalgic Oxford mystery on stage
Set in Oxford, Morse and DS Lewis investigate the sudden death of a young actress, uncovering secrets from Morse’s past. With suspense, nostalgia, and moments of vulnerability, this atmospheric play captures the iconic detective in all his classic brilliance.
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Review: Kinky Boots the Musical – A heartfelt high-heeled hit at New Theatre Oxford
A dazzling celebration of self-expression and acceptance, Kinky Boots struts into Oxford with heart, humour, and high heels – don’t miss this fabulous feel-good musical.
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Review: The Rocky Horror Show – A riotous night of time-warping fun
Outrageous, panto-esque and irresistibly bold – The Rocky Horror Show delivered a night of wild fun, fabulous costumes, and unfiltered audience energy. Just remember: don’t dream it, be it.
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Review: Cruel Intentions The ’90s Musical – Seduction, sass and a whole lot of ’90s nostalgia
Sexy, slick, and packed with sing-along anthems, Cruel Intentions: The ’90s Musical is a wickedly fun throwback that knows exactly what it’s doing — seducing audiences with scandal, sass, and a killer soundtrack.
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Review: Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat – bright, bold, and brimming with energy
With its uplifting themes, toe-tapping tunes, and a star-studded(ish) cast oozing with personality, this show was the perfect antidote to my post-Christmas malaise.
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Review: War Horse is nothing short of a theatrical triumph and continues to resonate so powerfully
From its extraordinary puppetry and minimalist set design to its compelling storytelling about the brutal realities of World War I, this production of War Horse exemplifies the enduring power of theatre to move and inspire.
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Review: Peaky Blinders – The Redemption of Thomas Shelby hits the Oxford stage
Oxford’s New Theatre has hosted Rambert Dance Company’s hit production Peaky Blinders: The Redemption of Thomas Shelby written by Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight and choreographed by Rambert’s Artistic Director Benoit Swan Pouffer
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Review: Grease the Musical – A nostalgic celebration of 1950s youth culture
A celebration of the 1950s youth culture, Grease captures the spirit, fashion, music, and rebellious energy of that era, combining it with timeless themes of teenage love, identity, and peer pressure.
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Review: & Juliet musical – What if there is life after Romeo?
What if Juliet didn’t die? What if Juliet ditches her famous ending for a new beginning and a second chance at life and love? Break free of the balcony scene and get into this romantic comedy that proves there’s life after Romeo.
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Review: An Officer and a Gentleman The Musical – Reviving 80s nostalgia with a modern twist
As Leicester Curve’s production of An Officer and a Gentleman: The Musical touring the UK heads to Oxford, director Nikolai Foster says audiences are in for a surprise.