Top writers big name plays and acclaimed productions coming soon at Harrogate Theatre

Harrogate Theatre is to launch one of the highlights of its annual calendar when it presents four big name plays in just four weeks.

The Autumn Drama Season will begin next month with Brighton ’84, a tense new political drama by Philip Stokes, followed by the classic Dial M for Murder by Frederick Knott, then The Highwayman by John Godber, to be concluded with Private Peaceful by Michael Morpurgo.

Thursday, September 3-Saturday, September 5: Brighton ’84

An acclaimed new production from King Brilliant Theatre Company, the creative force behind Shellshocked and The Tailor’s Ghost, Brighton ’84 is set on the night of the 1984 Brighton hotel bombing.

Harrogate Theatre's forthcoming Autumn Drama Season will feature four big name plays in four weeks. (Picture contributed)

The production explores one of the most significant moments in modern British political history through the lives of two ordinary men caught up in extraordinary events.

Tuesday, September 8-Saturday, September 12: Dial M for Murder

Before the iconic Hitchcock film, Dial M for Murder was a theatrical smash hit.

Now brought thrillingly back to the stage for 2026 by Phil & Ben Productions in association with Eastbourne Productions.

The setting is London. 1952. Former tennis professional Tony Wendice and his wealthy wife Margot appear to have it all.

But everything is not as it seems.

Tony believes he has orchestrated the perfect murder of Margot, but when the plan goes wrong it leads to a gripping web of lies, betrayal and lethal twists.

Wednesday, September 16-Saturday, September 19: The Highwayman

John Godber’s new theatrical romantic adventure is a fast-paced, character-driven comedy drama set around a Yorkshire pub.

Packed with wit and sharp observation, it captures community life with humour and heart.

Thursday, September 24-Saturday, September 26: Private Peaceful

Michael Morpurgo’s Private Peaceful brings the season to a powerful close.

This poignant one-man show follows a young soldier reflecting on love, loyalty and loss, creating a moving and resonant season’s finale.

Making his professional debut, rising star Benjamin Cain, a recent graduate of the BA Professional Acting course at Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, takes on the demanding solo role of Tommo Peaceful, bringing a compelling performance to this celebrated production.