Reading Rep announces 2025/26 Season - including a musical first
The season includes classical reimaginings, family favourites and more
Reading Rep Theatre has announced a bold 2025/26 season featuring its first musical, major revivals, and co-productions with top-tier national partners. Building on critically acclaimed productions and national touring success, the season positions Reading Rep at the forefront of British regional theatre.
The new season will open with the venue's first musical production, a new revival production of Jason Robert Brown’s cult-favourite contemporary musical The Last Five Years. This co-production with The Barn Theatre and Theatre Royal Bath will make its debut in Reading from Friday 19 September - Sunday 12 October ahead of subsequent runs in Cirencester and Bath.
A new staging of Beth Flintoff’s 5* acclaimed adaptation of A Christmas Carol, will relocates Charles Dickens’ seminal story to Reading and the iconic Huntley and Palmers Biscuit Factory during the festive season. The adaptation, which enjoyed sold-out seasons in 2021 and 2022, will run from Friday 28 November 2025 - Saturday 3 January 2026. Chris Cuming returns to direct.
From Thursday 26 February - Saturday 21 March 2026, the venue will present a brand new production of Willy Russell’s beloved modern classic Educating Rita, following working class hairdresser Rita and her Open University tutor Frank.
The season will continue with a modernised new staging of Noël Coward’s sparkling romantic comedy Private Lives from Thursday 16 April - Saturday 9 May.
Alongside its award-winning ENGAGE programme, there is one more production to be announced, as the venue continues its commitment to audience development and inclusive practice with a dynamic pricing model and £5 Preview tickets for Under 30s.
Speaking of the new season, Paul Stacey, Founding Artistic Director of Reading Rep Theatre, said,
‘This season captures what makes Reading Rep unique: bold takes on classic stories, collaborations with world-renowned playwrights, and a company of outstanding creative talent. Every show is made right here in Reading — and this year, we’re proud to be working alongside some of the UK’s leading theatres.
It’s a season that reflects how far we’ve come, and where we’re headed. Following Reading Rep’s transfers of Jekyll and Hyde to the Lyceum and a national tour last year, and with multiple productions now in development with national partners, we’re building something special.’
Nick Thompson, Executive Director of Reading Rep Theatre, added,
‘This is our biggest and boldest season yet — with something for everyone. From our first-ever major musical revival to festive favourites and timeless comedies, it’s the perfect year to experience everything Reading Rep has to offer.
Whether you’re planning a great night out with friends or looking to discover Reading’s hidden gem, there’s no better time to join us.’
Casts and creative teams for all productions are to be announced.
Priority booking for Friends opens from Tuesday 3 June, with general booking available from Friday 6 June via the venue website.