Coming up at The Priory
With around 7 in house productions produced by Priory members each year, plus countless more external organisations hosting events in our spaces, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at The Priory!
We regularly add to our upcoming list as more gets booked into our calendar, so make sure you check back regularly to secure your tickets before they’re gone!
Sleeping Beauty
Once upon a time in a land far away, Princess Aurora is turning 21 but all celebrations have been banned by her wicked Aunt Carabosse, who is determined to stop the princess from taking her rightful place as Queen.
Carabosse tricks her niece into pricking her finger on a spinning wheel needle, cursing her to everlasting sleep.
Can true love survive and Prince Charming break the spell? Who will outwit the evil Enchantress and foil her wicked plans? Join us this Christmas on an unforgettable adventure to find out!
Full of fun, singing and all the action you’d expect from a Priory Panto – we promise to have you buzzing from a fantastic, festive night out.
LTG Central Region Conference 2024
Central Region LTG Conference
Booking information
The Priory Theatre is pleased to be hosting the Central Region LTG Conference and welcome you to join us on Saturday 26th October 2024.
We are also excited that the Theatre will be presenting Addams Family the Musical during the conference.
The Conference Fee is £11. This includes Saturday lunch, teas, coffee and workshops.
When you book you can also add a ticket for ‘The Addams Family’ Musical for either Friday evening or Saturday evening at an additional cost of £17 for Concessions and £19 for Full Price Tickets. This can be booked when booking your Ticket for the Conference and does not need to be purchased separately.
CONFERENCE AGENDA
09:30 - Registration and tours of the Priory Theatre
10:30 - Welcome talk from Priory Chairman and LTG Member
10:45 – 11:45 - Workshop 1. Kelly Taylor BAFTA nominated professional hair and makeup artist. Kelly will demonstrate her art on volunteer visitors.
11:45 – 12:15 - Coffee and biscuits in foyer.
12:15 – 13:00 - Workshop 2.
13:00 – 14:00 - Bar open and Lunch in foyer.
14:00 – 15:15 - Workshop 3. Stephen Boden. MD and founder of Imagine Theatre Ltd, a leading nationwide pantomime production company. Also former member of the Priory Youth Theatre and twice Priory Theatre Chairman.
15:15 - Tea and opportunity to chat
15:45 - LTG Central region. Open Forum. Followed by Formal closing of meeting.
6.00 pm. Theatre Bar Open. 7.30. Performance of Addams Family the Musical
All bookings must be completed by Sunday 6th October
During the booking process, you will be required to confirm your contact details, which theatre you will be attending from and any dietary requirements.
You will also be able to confirm if you wish to attend the Addams Family production and on which date.
During the booking process, you will also have an opportunity to include any topics would you like to raise at the Open Forum.
The Addams Family
The Addams Family musical is a dark comedy that brings the beloved and quirky Addams family to the stage with a delightful twist. In this story, the focus is on Wednesday Addams, now an eighteen-year-old young woman, who has fallen in love with Lucas Beineke, a boy from a normal, respectable Ohio family. As the rest of the Addams family try hold on to their unique values, Wednesday's new, unconventional romance poses a challenge to the family's traditions. The plot thickens when Wednesday invites the Beinekes to dinner, setting the stage for a fateful and hilarious night where secrets are revealed, relationships are tested, and the Addams family must confront the one thing they've avoided for generations: change.
Accessibility Information
This show has not yet entered the pre-production stage and therefore accessibility information is not currently available.
“The Addams Family” is presented through special arrangement with and all authorised performance materials are supplied by Theatrical Rights Worldwide (TRW), www.theatricalrights.co.uk
Manford's Comedy Club
BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND!
Following 3 successful nights of comedy, Manfords Comedy Club are back at The Priory for another night full of laughter and hilarity this May.
Featuring the hottest new talent, comedy circuit favourites and household legends, all personally chosen by Jason Manford.
Please note that entry to this performance is Strictly 18+
Accessibility Information
Subject to change, there are no planned production elements which require additional access arrangements.
Priory Treasure Hunt
A Priory Members Social Event
The Priory Treasure Hunt is coming back! Last held 2 years ago and won by Alex Holmes and his team, he is tasked to set this year’s spectacular!
Sunday 8th September
Arrival time - 1.30pm
Meet at Kenilworth railway station car park
Then we give you and your team clues and questions as you make your way around the local area by car (and also little bit of walking too….) following and gathering the clues as you go - and we then will all meet up at a secret venue where the winners will be revealed based upon the clues/answers gained and the time taken… Prizes are waiting to be won!
It's GREAT FUN and a lovely way to spend an afternoon – the best bit is that it is just a Fiver to enter a team/car, so is terrific value too!
The ‘secret’ end venue (found when you get the clues right!) can offer you a great selection of food and drinks – huge choice and very reasonable prices too, so you can order if you like - or not – as you please. At the end venue we all get together have a few laughs as we run through the results!
You can easily book on Ticket source on the Priory website- just like when you book a theatre seat – and it’s all done… So easy!
We look forward to seeing you on the day – and Thank you!
Accessibility Information
There are no production elements which require additional access arrangements.
The Stranger
The Stranger is a gripping play by Agatha Christie, adapted from her own short story "Philomel Cottage." The narrative revolves around Enid, who breaks off her long-standing engagement to marry the charming and mysterious Gerald. They move to a secluded country cottage, which initially seems like a romantic escape. However, the story takes a dark turn as secrets unravel, and Enid discovers that Gerald may not be the man she thought he was. The play explores themes of deception, love, and the realization that sometimes the greatest danger can come from those closest to us. It's a psychological thriller that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats, culminating in a dramatic and unexpected climax.
Accessibility Information
This show has not yet entered the pre-production stage and therefore accessibility information is not currently available.
This amateur production of “The Stranger” is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals Ltd. on behalf of Samuel French Ltd. www.concordtheatricals.co.uk
The Jive Aces - Keeping the show on the road tour
Together for over 25 years, The Jive Aces have been keeping the show on the road for three decades and become renowned worldwide for their high-energy live show having toured in over 40 countries. The band aim to spread smiles and cheer with their swingin' music and classic vintage style from crooning smooth ballads to blasting honking rhythm & blues. Having played for Her Majesty the Queen, selling out the Royal Albert Hall, becoming the first band to reach the finals of Britain's Got Talent or just entertaining at one of their 250 live shows a year, they continuously showcase why they are the UK's No.1 Jive & Swing band!
With their trademark yellow suits and a repertoire that stretches from the timeless tunes of the swing era to the glitz of the Rat Pack with a dash of classic rock 'n' roll, they perform songs in their unique upbeat style by such great artists as Louis Prima, Bobby Darin, Louis Armstrong, Sammy Davis Jr. and Ella Fitzgerald as well as a selection of superb original tunes.
The Jive Aces have earned their reputation and won several important awards including the City Of Derry International Music Award, the Variety Club Of Great Britain Award for their contribution to music & charity work and several film festival awards for their high production value music videos.
They have worked with many celebrities such as Van Morrison, Chick Corea (who performs two songs on their 'Recipe for Rhythm' album), Kenny Ball (appearing on their 'King of the Swingers' album, Kenny's last ever recording), John Travolta, The Proclaimers, The Undertones, Status Quo, Keely Smith, Jamie Cullum, Priscilla Presley and Kirstie Allie to name just a few.
When the Jive Aces released a music video for their upbeat version of a much-loved theme song in the UK, 'Bring Me Sunshinw' it immediately went viral and to date has over 3.7 million views on YouTube. It is so popular in fact that a Doctor in Seattle actually prescribed the video to his patients to cure "the blues"! Their version of the song has also been used in countless TV shows including thrice on 'Strictly Come Dancing'.
At the start of the pandemic with all their shows having just been postponed, the band decided to do an online live-streaming show called the "JiveStream" to keep up spirits. Not knowing how long this would last, they promised to do it every day which ended up being 500 consecutive, daily shows and as a result made a host of new fans and friends all over the globe from the USA to India and from Australia to Ireland. This is where the idea for their new album and tour "Keeping The Show On The Road" originated because through thick and thin they fought hard to bring people the music despite huge barriers!
Their new album, also called "Keeping The Show On The Road" celebrates the song that have become live favourites over the past few years and the band has aimed to pack in the energy of a live experience into the recording.
The band are now glad to be back on the road doing what they do best, delivering their high-energy vintage style entertainment to audiences of all ages!
Manford's Comedy Club
BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND!
Following successful nights of comedy in October and March, Manfords Comedy Club are back at The Priory for another night full of laughter and hilarity this May.
Featuring the hottest new talent, comedy circuit favourites and household legends, all personally chosen by Jason Manford.
Please note that entry to this performance is Strictly 18+
Accessibility Information
Subject to change, there are no planned production elements which require additional access arrangements.
Dead Simple
Directed by Karen Shayler
Following the nationwide acclaimed hit stage production of Peter James’ The Perfect Murder, the best-selling work of the No.1 novelist has returned to the stage with the adaptation of his most famous two million selling book and the first book that featured James’ now famous character of Detective Roy Grace - Dead Simple.
Michael Harrison thinks he has it all; great career, good friends and a beautiful fiancée. But when his stag night prank goes horribly wrong, Michael finds himself alone, buried alive and staring death in the face. As time runs out and the terror grows, Detective Superintendent Roy Grace tries to solve his mysterious disappearance, but begins to fear that Michael will never be found in time.
Accessibility Information
This show has not yet entered the pre-production stage and therefore accessibility information is not currently available.
Arabian Nights
Priory Youth Theatre Directed by Nicky Jessop
This is a simple and delightfully inventive re-telling of the stories from the Arabian Nights.
It is wedding night in the palace of King Shahrayar. By morning, the new Queen Shahrazad is to be put to death like all the young brides before her. But she has one gift that could save her – the gift of storytelling.
With her mischievous imagination, the young Queen spins her dazzling array of tales and characters. On her side are Ali Baba, Es-Sindibad the Sailor and Princess Parizade – adventurers in strange and magical worlds populated by giant beasts, talking birds, devilish ghouls and crafty thieves. But will her silver-tongued stories be enough to enchant her husband and save her life?
Accessibility Information
This show has not yet entered the pre-production stage and therefore accessibility information is not currently available.
This amateur production of “Arabian Nights” is presented by arrangement with Nick Hern Books
Richard Digance
Born in West Ham, London, Richard Digance is a BAFTA Nominated entertainer and a recipient of The Gold Award from The British Academy of Composers and Songwriters.
Along with award-winning radio documentaries he also composed and performed the music for the audio book version of work written by one of the world's best selling authors, Bill Bryson.
On his own ITV TV show in the 1980s and 90s he played a guitar duet with Queen's Brian May as well as joining Status Quo and The Moody Blues for cameo appearances.
Richard has made nearly 200 appearances on Channel 4s Countdown, released 43 albums and published 22 books.
Richard has also supported Steve Martin in The USA and both the late comedy genius Robin Williams and Roy Orbison at The London Palladium as well as Tom Jones at The Royal Albert Hall.
3-2-1 Dance!
Viva Theatre Arts is proud to showcase their talents in partnership with the Priory Theatre.
3-2-1 Dance is a celebration of different dance genres in solo, duet and trio performances by our students, aged from 4 to 17 years old. All featured students are members of the school’s Performance Squad, which participates in competitions across the region.
Manford's Comedy Club
BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND!
Following a successful, sell out night of comedy in October, Manfords Comedy Club are back at The Priory for another night full of laughter and hilarity this May.
Featuring the hottest new talent, comedy circuit favourites and household legends, all personally chosen by Jason Manford.
Please note that entry to this performance is Strictly 18+
Accessibility Information
Subject to change, there are no planned production elements which require additional access arrangements.
Sam Lawrence: An evening of Jazz & Swing
Sam is an accomplished jazz vocalist performing across the midlands and further afield. Sam started performing at the age of 16 and released a cover of Black Street’s ‘No Diggity’ which entered the Top 100 in 2014.
Sam focusses on bringing a sound of yester-year featuring the best of Big Band, Jazz and Swing with standards and classic numbers from the likes of Frank Sinatra, Bobby Darin and Sammy Davis Jr. Sam’s influences include Kurt Elling, Donny Hathaway and more.
The Book Taster - Tasting Notes Live
Presented by The Book Taster
Tasting Notes Live returns to The Priory for the fourth year running this May. Featuring Six authors, a full day of bookish love, goodie bags, breakfast and lunch … and so much more!
The Book Taster was founded by Jenna, who, whilst juggling motherhood, being a Primary School Teacher & a book worm, devouring books at a rate of knots! Jenna set up The Book Taster when she was unable to find a one-off bookish gift box for a friend who needed a little ‘pick me up’. When unable to find anything on the market, Jenna curated her own box which was warmly received. Repeating this a few times and not only enjoying the process but how the gift went down- the idea of ‘The Book Taster’ was born.
On Golden Pond
Directed by John Evans
A touching, funny and warmly perceptive study of a spirited and lovable elderly couple facing their twilight years. Ethel and Norman Thayer return to their summer home on Golden Pond for the 44th year. He is a retired professor, nearing eighty, with heart palpitations and a failing memory, but still as sharp-tongued, observant and eager for life as ever. Ethel, ten years younger and the perfect foil for Norman, delights in all the small things which have enriched and continue to enrich their life together.
They are visited by their divorced, middle-aged daughter and her dentist fiance, who then go off to Europe, leaving his teenage son behind for the summer. The boy quickly becomes the grandchild the elderly couple have longed for and as Norman revels in taking his ward fishing and thrusting good books at him, he also learns some lessons about modern teenage awareness in return.
Accessibility Information
This show has not yet entered the pre-production stage and therefore accessibility information is not currently available.
This amateur production is presented by arrangement with Music Theatre International on behalf of Josef Weinberger Ltd. www.mtishows.co.uk | www.josef-weinberger.com
Richie’s Skittles Night
A Priory Members Social Event
Back by popular demand, the infamous Priory Skittles Night returns this March!
The return of the ever popular Skittles night at this super venue approaches - complete with a sumptuous buffet provided by our very own Owen Prosser-Stock from Kenilworth’s ‘Time for Tea’ which is renowned for its high quality food!
The evening will comprise of teams/groups and everyone will get the chance to join in – and have some fun. Its been a few years since we last held this, it was hugely popular and everyone said they thoroughly enjoyed the atmosphere and laughs along the way. It’s only slightly competitive I might add - just a bit of fun - and most of us are complete novices which is the best bit - but worry ye not, as we will make sure it all goes swimmingly! Basically, just turn up and have a good night. There will be a typical ‘Richie-style’ prize for the overall winner too - but I can say it’s NOT a Fray Bentos pie!!
This event is open to all Members, family and friends, and is suitable for all ages so get a gang together and have a great evening of fun and laughter with us - and all for under a tenner – how’s that for a great value night out? Come on your own too if you fancy – we can ‘buddy-you-up’ on the night with others to get you an awesome team!
Accessibility Information
There are no production elements which require additional access arrangements.
Haunted Heritage - Ghost Hunt
Hosted by Haunted Adventures Ltd
The theatre staff has witnessed ghostly apparitions, poltergeist activity, and extreme cold spots in certain areas. Our medium saw a full apparition of a woman walk out of the dressing rooms and down the stairs!
But what spirits continue to take centre stage?
Are stories hidden within the walls of this historic building? Who still takes to the stage?
Join us as we attempt to communicate to spirits through seances, pendulums, and other means!
The spirits await. Join Haunted Heritage at this amazing Theatre. Because space is limited at this venue, we highly recommend booking early to get your ticket.
Haunted Adventures - Ghost Hunt
Hosted by Haunted Adventures Ltd
Haunted Adventures are one of the UK’s most popular overnight ghost hunting event organisers. We have been providing the general public with ghost hunting experiences since 2015 and we still continue to be one of the UK’s most popular paranormal event organisers. With a lot of research our team hand pick the most haunted, active and historic places across the UK. Do you have what it takes to join our team in some of the most spine chilling buildings in the UK.
Manford's Comedy Club
BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND!
Following a successful, sell out night of comedy in October, Manfords Comedy Club are back at The Priory for another night full of laughter and hilarity this March.
Featuring the hottest new talent, comedy circuit favourites and household legends, all personally chosen by Jason Manford.
Please note that entry to this performance is Strictly 18+
Accessibility Information
Subject to change, there are no planned production elements which require additional access arrangements.
Abigail’s Party
Directed by Bev Avis Dakin
It was 1977, the year of skin-tight polyester, the Queen’s Silver Jubilee, and Saturday Night Fever. The Sex Pistols were storming up the charts, skateboarding was the latest craze, and Angela Rippon danced with Morecambe & Wise.
In her suburban living room, Beverly prepares for the arrival of her guests. She and husband Laurence will play host to neighbours Angela, Tony, as well as Susan, whose teenage daughter, Abigail is having a party to which Susan has been dis-invited.. As the alcohol flows and the ‘nibbles’ are handed around, Mike Leigh’s ruthless, achingly funny examination of 1970s British life begins…
Accessibility Information
This show has not yet entered the pre-production stage and therefore accessibility information is not currently available.
This amateur production of “Abigail’s Party” is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals Ltd. on behalf of Samuel French Ltd. www.concordtheatricals.co.uk
Paranormal Eye - Ghost Hunt
Hosted by Paranormal Eye UK
Join the paranormal eye as we invite you on this intense ghost hunt at the priory theatre in Kenilworth. The theatre in Warwickshire is a tardis once you enter. The Theatre was converted from a disused chapel built in 1816. However, there is the belief that there was also a former church here. We have full access after dark to all three floors, including the crypt, which lies hidden underneath a trap door within the stage area. Ghost hunts here are said to be a terrifying experience, as poltergeist activity has been reported within the main theatre itself. Many former paranormal investigators here have encountered some rather dark energies. Dark ghostly shadows have been witnessed, footsteps heard, and deep growls and moans. Many believe this is connected to the former chapel. Join us as we invite you to step out of your comfort zone and be part of this ghost night where you will be a part of seances, watch and wait vigils and some more modern equipment sessions, including spirit boxes and Evp sessions.
Are you ready to enter this old haunted theatre?
Dick Whittington - Relaxed Performance
The Priory presents a relaxed performance of our Christmas 2023 pantomime!
Designed to create a welcoming environment to our customers with sensory needs and other visible and hidden disabilities, we're really excited to welcome you!
Arrangements include:
- No strobe lighting
- No pyrotechnics
- Volume turned down
- House lights remain on throughout the show
- The audience are free to move around and make noise during the show
- An introduction to the show before we begin
- Sensory tour prior to the show (TBC)
Pack up your hanky and join daring Dick Whittington and his trusty cat on their quest for fame and fortune. Their magical rags to riches tale takes us on a journey to London where the streets are (apparently) paved with gold.
The legendary Priory panto returns full of sparkle, excitement and fun. Our hero’s incredible adventure takes him onto the High Seas, into battle with the evil King Rat and see him fall head over heels in love with his boss’s daughter Alice. All the while the magical Bells are singing out his destiny – to become Mayor of London!
Full of fun, singing and lots of action – we promise to have you buzzing from a fantastic, festive night out.
Dick Whittington
Pack up your hanky and join daring Dick Whittington and his trusty cat on their quest for fame and fortune. Their magical rags to riches tale takes us on a journey to London where the streets are (apparently) paved with gold.
The legendary Priory panto returns full of sparkle, excitement and fun. Our hero’s incredible adventure takes him onto the High Seas, into battle with the evil King Rat and see him fall head over heels in love with his boss’s daughter Alice. All the while the magical Bells are singing out his destiny – to become Mayor of London!
Full of fun, singing and lots of action – we promise to have you buzzing from a fantastic, festive night out.