The Little Brochure
The Theatre Little H e llofrom
Hello! And welcome to a brand new year at The Little Theatre. The second half of our 2024-25 season brings with it comedy, drama, musicals, a Parish council, male nudity, a brass band, and even Shakespeare. So never let it be said that we don’t have something for everyone…
For Leicester Drama Society, we begin with dramatic comedy The Breath of Life. March is busy, with northern drama A Taste of Honey, followed by sitcom classic The Vicar of Dibley, and a studio production of Lizzy, Darcy & Jane sandwiched in between. This year’s Easter production is Shakespeare’s timeless tragedy, Macbeth – offering a special deal for school groups. May features our youth theatre production of The Wind in the Willows. In June, we have the thriller Strangers on a Train, and in July, we cap off the season with Brassed Off, featuring The Enderby Band. Our extended family of operatic societies will also be staging musicals in the form of The Full Monty (LOPs) and Footloose (WAOS).
On top of all that, we have more than 20 one-off visiting productions, including tribute acts, comedians (such as Miles Jupp and
Bobby Davro), true crime specialists, flamenco dancers, the LGS Big Band, and some primary school bangers – to name but a few.
There’s a lot to see, but don’t forget we have a range of discounts available for LDS plays. There’s our 5-for-4 season ticket, that includes all our plays, except for the Easter production. Alternatively, if you book your tickets before January 17, you’ll get 10% off through our early bird discount. Fully paid-up LDS members can get £11 tickets for LDS plays (when booked within a month of the show), and under 25s can get £5 tickets when booking on the day of the performance.
Once again, a few members of our acting talent are representing the LDS membership throughout this brochure. It takes all 400+ members to create, crew, design, lead and welcome you to our shows. Almost everyone you see working at The Little, whether it be on or off stage, is a member volunteering their time. If you’d like to know more about becoming a member and the benefits thereof, call the box office on 0116 255 1302 or visit thelittletheatre.co.uk.
We look forward to welcoming you back to The Little Theatre this season!
JANUARY
20 25 WHAT’S ON
FEBRUARY
MARCH/ APRIL
MAY
JUNE
JULY/ AUGUST
DECEMBER
Save with a Little season ticket
Your chance to see quality live theatre in Leicester at a discounted price!
Watch five great Leicester Drama Society plays for the price of four with our half-year season ticket
See the following shows in our ‘five-for-four’ season ticket:
The Breath of Life
A Taste of Honey The Vicar of Dibley Strangers on a Train Brassed
Off
Standard seating season ticket
£70 (save £17.50)
Concession seating season tickets £64 (save £16)
Premium seating season ticket £74 (save £18.50)
(Concession seating not applicable for premium seating)
What’s
more...
You can choose the same seat for every show (subject to availability). If you can’t make a particular show or it’s not one for you, you’re free to pass your season ticket on to a friend or family member and treat them to a live performance.
Season tickets are on sale from the box office and website until February 8, 2025 0116 255 1302 thelittletheatre.co.uk
VALID FOR ALL LDS MAINSTAGE PLAYS VALID FOR ALL LDS MAINSTAGE PLAYS WHEN BOOKED ON THE DAY OF THE PERFORMANCE WHEN BOOKED ON THE DAY OF THE PERFORMANCE
Subject to availability - for more, visit: - for more, visit: thelittletheatre.co.uk/visit/buying-tickets thelittletheatre.co.uk/visit/buying-tickets
IT COULD BE ANY ONE OF US
by Alan Ayckbourn
January 20-25, 2025
Directed by Mary Jones
The Breath of Life by david hare
RUTH CHEETHAM
The Breath of Life
by David Hare
Directed by Ruth Cheetham
An LDS Production
Box Office 0116 255 1302
thelittletheatre.co.uk
February 3-8, 7:30pm Saturday Matinée: 2:30pm
Standard: £17.50
Premium: £18.50
Concessions: £16
rances was the dutiful wife of Martin. Madeleine was his not-so-dutiful mistress of 25 years.
Now Martin has moved to America with a younger woman, so the two enemies meet face-to-face at last, to discuss their relationships with the elusive man by whom they refuse to be defined.
Together they explore the past, realising they must learn to feel the breath of life again.
A riveting play, packed with electric tension, quick wit and raw humour. The original West End production was performed by Judi Dench and Maggie Smith, and was sold out before it opened!
This amateur production of “The Breath of Life” is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals Ltd. on behalf of Samuel French Ltd. concordtheatricals.co.uk.
February 9 - 6:00pm
Murder She Didn’t Write
You become Agatha Christie in this improvised comedy as an original murder mystery play is created based entirely on audience suggestions. So take up your magnifying glasses and don your deerstalkers for a neverbefore-seen (and never-to-be-seenagain) evening of murder, mayhem and making it up on the spot.
All Tickets: £15
Lady Violet slain with a whisk at a bakeoff? Mr Gold crushed by a mannequin during New York fashion week? You decide, but will you guess whodunnit?
Jersey Beats - Oh What A Nite!
Asensational show celebrating the wonderful music of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons, including Sherry, Beggin’, Grease and My Eyes Adored You, as well as other music from the era.
Host Leye D Johns brings a lighthearted flavour to proceedings, ensuring audiences leave with a big smile on their face.
February 11-12, 7:30pm
Standard: £26
Concessions: £24
“This joyful show about near-death is his best yet” The Times ★★★★
“An elegantly funny, terribly English account of a tumour”
The Guardian ★★★★
The Telegraph ★★★★
Chortle ★★★★
The Arts Desk ★★★★★
MILES JUPP ON I BANG
February 10, 7:30pm - £25
Since Miles’ last tour finished at The London Palladium in 2017, he’s been in The Full Monty on Disney+, The Durrells and Why Didn’t They Ask Evans? on ITV, as well as a heap of episodes of Frankie Boyle’s New World Order and Have I Got News For You on the BBC. He’s made an award-winning radio series, published a novel, and played the Emperor of Austria and Europe in a Ridley Scott film.
Yet one sunny day in the middle of all this,
he suddenly suffered a brain seizure. This led to the discovery of a tumour the size of a cherry tomato, and a rather pressing need to undergo major neurosurgery. Obviously, one doesn’t wish to make a big deal of it, but the experience has left him with a story to tell and a few things that he’d like to share with the room. So that’s exactly what he’s doing in his new show On I Bang – a tale about surprise, fear, luck, love and qualified medical practitioners.
LGS Big Band
February 13, 7:30pm - £12
Director of Music John Barker is thrilled to bring the Leicester Grammar School Big Band back to The Little Theatre.
This year, we are joined by special guest Mr Ed Barker, the late George Michael’s star saxophonist. Come and enjoy an evening of swing, soul, and suave sophistication with us on the night before Valentine’s Day!
The Fleetwood Mac Songbook
W
ith soft rock anthems from the Rumours and Tango in the Night albums, The Fleetwood Mac Songbook is ranked among the top 20 tribute artists & bands by Champions UK.
Every detail is immaculate to ensure that the unmistakable ‘Mac’ sound is recreated faithfully, including the exceptional three-part harmonies.
February 15, 7:30pm
All Tickets: £22
February 16, 7:30pm
The Dazzling Diamonds: The Comedy Variety Drag Show
The Dazzling Diamonds make a triumphant return! From jawdropping dance numbers to hilarious lip-sync performances and not forgetting the sensational live vocals, the cast are pulling out all the stops to make this show as unforgettable as the last!
All Tickets: £23
So gather your friends, put on your most fabulous outfit, and join us for a night of glitz, glamour, and pure entertainment.
West End Magic
London’s longest-running theatre magic show, direct from the Leicester Square Theatre, presents some of the most exciting names in magic and variety in the UK.
An exciting, family-friendly show offering an amazing mixture of magic, comedy, and variety acts, featuring British Champion of Magic Oliver Tabor, magical compere Wayne Trice, and other special guest acts.
February 20, 7:30pm
February 19, 2:00pm
Adults: £20
Children: £15
Primary School Assembly Bangers Live!
Join James for an evening of pure nostalgia, stepping back in time with some joyous singalong tunes to take you back to your Primary School days. You won’t have to sit cross legged on the school hall floor, but you will be encouraged to sing along!
All Tickets: £20
As well as the assembly bangers, there will be other musical surprises, throwback mashups and comic reflections on growing up in the 90s.
The George Harrison Project
The UK’s leading live music tribute to George Harrison, performing his best-loved hits from The Beatles, his solo career and The Traveling Wilburys, including My Sweet Lord, Got My Mind Set On You, Give Me Love, What Is Life, If I Needed Someone, Something, While My Guitar Gently Weeps, Here Comes The Sun, and many more!
February 21, 7:30pm
February 22 - 7:30pm
All Tickets: £22
Ultimate Classic Rock Show
Dust off your air guitars for an evening of the very best classic rock anthems from legends past and present!
Let them take you on a rollercoaster journey of classic rock nostalgia, performing hit after hit, live with stunning accuracy and high energy accompanied by an incredible light and projection show, they’re guaranteed to have you on your feet all night.
by Shelagh Delaney
A Taste of Honey
by Shelagh Delaney
Directed by Russell Hughes
An LDS Production
Box Office 0116 255 1302 thelittletheatre.co.uk
LMarch 3-8 - 7:30pm Saturday Matinée - 2:30pm
Standard: £17.50
Premium: £18.50
Concessions: £16
Includes racist and homophobic language/attitudes.
iving in a filthy tenement bedsitter, 17-year-old Jo is deserted by her nagging peroxided mother, Helen, who is unaware that her daughter is pregnant by a black sailor.
To soothe, clean and cook for Jo is Geoff, an effeminate art student, with whom she makes a temporary home. Bruised by insensitivity and rejection, the boy and girl find a very real comfort in each other.
A stunning portrayal of the complex bond between a mother and daughter, who –despite their sharp bickering – are both holding on for that taste of honey.
This iconic play is a sharply observed portrait of working-class life in Salford in the late 1950s.
This amateur production of “A Taste of Honey” is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals Ltd. on behalf of Samuel French Ltd. concordtheatricals.co.uk.
ONE-ACT PLAY FESTIVAL
All-England Theatre Festival – Leicestershire and Rutland. March 14-15 - £10 per session
We’ll be hosting the All-England Theatre Festival’s (AETF) regional event in March. Held over a few days, each session will feature one-act plays of 25-55 minutes. Genres may include farce, comedy, thrillers, historical, social messages/situations, dance, drama, or many others.
Participating groups can also choose to enter the preliminary round of the national one-act play festival, with the possibility of advancing to further national performances later in the year.
Full details about the plays selected will be confirmed nearer the festival. Tickets and final performance times will be available at thelittletheatre.co.uk from March 1, 2025. Call the Box Office on 0116 255 1302 to join a waiting list.
If you have a one-act play (original work or an existing script) that you would like to stage during the festival, entry for adult groups is £35 (£20 for youth groups) and the application deadline is January 24, 2025.
Contact Sandra Sutcliffe on sootysut467@ gmail.com for more information and to register interest.
We will also be hosting the national semifinals on May 24, 2025. See page 35 for details.
LDS won Best Play for Breaking & Entering at the 2024 festival.
Advertising opportunities
Advertise in our show programmes
With 12 main house productions a year (including 10 plays, the Easter production, and the pantomime), advertising in our theatre programmes is a great way to promote your business at a reasonable rate while supporting the local arts. You can advertise in a programme for a single show or take a series of adverts across several shows.
Or, for an annual fee, enjoy the following benefits:
● An advert in the programme of every LDS main house show, including the pantomime
● Get your brand seen by an audience of over 25,000 patrons a year
● Choose from full, half or quarter page designs with the option for your advert to be designed by a professional graphic designer.
Sponsorship
Individuals or companies can sponsor The Little Theatre, with the option to sponsor a specific show or the theatre as a whole. Benefits include:
● A verbal announcement prior to each LDS main house show
● A display area in the upper foyer
● Sponsor’s logo or name on show posters (one space available per production)
● Sponsor’s logo or name in programmes for all LDS main house productions
● Sponsor’s logo or name published in the theatre’s promotional brochures for one year
● Sponsor’s logo or name published on The Little Theatre’s website for one year
● Six vouchers for tickets to a show of your choice. Sponsorship packages can be varied to suit your goals and budget, at reasonable rates.
Please contact hello@thelittletheatre.co.uk for more information
Lizzy, Darcy Lizzy, Darcy & Jane & Jane
by Joanna Norland
by Joanna Norland
Lizzy, Darcy & Jane
March 19-22, 7:30pm Saturday Matinée: 2:30pm
ane Austen pits her wit and will against her greatest adversary and ally:
Heady with her first taste of love, a 20-year-old Jane creates Elizabeth with Mr Darcy taking on the role of her arch-enemy and reluctant admirer.
But when her actual romance sours, Jane sentences Elizabeth to marry the odious Mr Collins and herself to an equally disastrous marriage.
The fates of the author, the novel and its heroine are at stake.
This amateur production of “Lizzy, Darcy & Jane” is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals Ltd. on behalf of Samuel French Ltd. concordtheatricals.co.uk
March 24-29, 2025
A stage adaptation by Ian Gower and Paul Carpenter
Based on the original TV series written by Richard Curtis and Paul Mayhew-Archer
Produced by Tiger Aspect Productions
Directed by Nikki Favell
The Vicar of Dibley
A stage adaptation by Ian Gower and Paul Carpenter; based on the original TV series written by Richard Curtis and Paul Mayhew-Archer.
Produced by Tiger Aspect Productions
Directed by Nikki Favell
An LDS Production
Box Office 0116 255 1302 thelittletheatre.co.uk
March 24-29, 7:30pm Saturday Matinée: 2:30pm
Standard: £17.50
Premium: £18.50
Concessions: £16
When the aging, dearly-beloved vicar of Dibley becomes the dearly-departed, the parish council request a new preacher to fill the vacancy. Expecting another man, they are startled by the arrival of Geraldine Granger – a progressive, chocolate-loving, rock-&-roll-playing… woman!
With the locals in uproar, council chairman David Horton seeks to have her dismissed, but Geraldine goes about her business, seeking to win over the villagers through her ministry.
Follow Geraldine’s adventures as she navigates the quirky characters and charming eccentricities of the small village of Dibley, delivering vast amounts of humour, warmth, and even a wedding!
This amateur production of “The Vicar of Dibley” is presented by kind permission of Richard Curtis and Tiger Aspect Productions, and supporting Comic Relief.
Terrence McNally
by David Yazbeck
Cattaneo
The Full Monty
Directed by Steve Elliott Leicester Operatic Players
All tickets £20 by Terrence McNally & David Yazbek; based on the film written by Simon Beaufoy
Box Office 0116 255 1302 thelittletheatre.co.uk
April 1-5 - 7:30pm Saturday Matinée - 2:30pm
Includes nudity and strong language.
While spying on their wives at a ‘Girls’ Night Out,’ a group of unemployed steelworkers from Buffalo sees how much they enjoy watching male strippers. Jealous, out of work and feeling emasculated, the men come up with a bold and unclothed way to make some quick cash.
As they prepare for the performance of their lives, they are tested and exposed, both physically and emotionally. Overcoming their fears, self-consciousness, and inner demons, the men realise that they are stronger together and find solace in their friendship. This gives them the courage to finally ‘let it go’ and reveal all!
Based on the 1997 hit film, The Full Monty is a ten-time Tony Award nominee, and filled with honest affection, engaging melodies and the most highly anticipated closing number of any show. With a raucous mix of razor-sharp humour and toetapping pizzazz, this heart-warming, upbeat musical comedy is a must see!
Based on the Motion Picture released by Fox Searchlight Pictures and written by Simon Beaufoy, produced by Uberto Pasolini and directed by Peter Cattaneo. This amateur production is presented by arrangement with Music Theatre International.
All authorised performance materials are also supplied by MTI mtishows.co.uk.
Originally Produced for Broadway by Fox Searchlight Pictures, Lindsay Law, and Thomas Hall World Premiere at The Globe Theatres, San Diego, CA.
MACBETH
Macbeth
by William Shakespeare
Directed by Jane Towers
An LDS Production
Box Office 0116 255 1302 thelittletheatre.co.uk
April 16-May 3 - 7:30pm*
Saturday Matinée - 2:30pm
Standard: £17.50
Premium: £18.50
Concessions: £16
SPECIAL DISCOUNT FOR SCHOOL GROUPS: 10% discount for groups of 10+, plus one free teacher ticket per 10 students.
“Something wicked this way comes…”
Aprophecy from three witches stokes ambition in the heart of Macbeth, one of Scotland’s finest generals. But the path to the crown is drenched with blood, and only murder can make the witches’ words come true.
Encouraged to wield the dagger by his wife, Macbeth falls into a despotic bloodbath of treachery, paranoia, and war.
A staple of the school syllabus, and one of Shakespeare’s most popular and enduring tragedies, Macbeth is the first of the Bard’s plays to be staged at The Little since 2017’s production of Hamlet
* Performances:
7:30pm: April 16, 17, 22, 23, 25, 26, 28, 29, 30, May 1, 2, 3 2:30pm: April 26, May 3
This extended Easter production is not included on our season ticket offer.
Bobby Davro Everything Is Funny If You Can Laugh At It
May 7, 7:30pm
Standard: £28.50 Concessions: £26.50
F
ollowing a series of sell-out shows at The Edinburgh Fringe Festival last summer, comedy legend Bobby Davro hits the road for his first tour in over a decade.
Everything Is Funny If You Can Laugh At It is a masterclass in stand-up from one of Britain’s best loved comedians at the top of his game.
“I hope to prove two things,” says Bobby. “You’re never too old for a good gag and everything is funny if you can laugh at it. So, if you like to laugh, come along – and don’t forget, if you’re on the frontline, you’re in the punchline!”
“A polished performance of predictably old-fashioned but expertly delivered gags.” The List
“If more modern comedians had a fraction of his showmanship, the circuit would be a jollier place… spot on delivery… bulletproof professionalism.” Chortle
Night of the Stars: The Greatest Hits
A stylish celebration of iconic songs from some of the most legendary Artistes of all time. From Shirley Bassey, Barbra Streisand, and Adele, right up to Cher, Tina Turner, Whitney Houston, Celine Dion, Abba, Queen and many more.
This show is brought to you by the outstanding and captivating voice of Sandy Smith who moves effortlessly from the heart-rendering ballads to the high-energy anthems and dancefloor numbers.
May 4, 7:30pm
Standard: £18
Concessions: £15
The Sounds of Simon
As seen on BBC’s The One Show, The Sounds of Simon is the UK’s longest running tribute to the wonderful music of Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel.
Explore the friendship that led to songs such as Mrs Robinson, The Sounds of Silence and of course, Bridge Over Troubled Water. The full band will also take you through the pair’s solo careers, May 8, 7:30pm
with songs such as You Can Call Me Al, Graceland, and Art’s smash hit, Bright Eyes.
All Tickets: £16
Supersonic Queen
Take a trip back in time to experience the magic and excitement of a live Queen concert with Supersonic Queen: their energy, enthusiasm and on-stage chemistry is mesmerising as they belt out hit after hit. Round up your family and friends, book your tickets and get ready to rock. It is a kind of magic!
Supersonic Queen have been touring for over 10 years, with a top-class set of musicians who care deeply about delivering the most authentic and entertaining performance!
May 9, 7:30pm
All Tickets: £24
The Upbeat Beatles
Paying homage to the greatest band in history, The Upbeat Beatles take you through the whole of The Beatles’ career; from the early days of ‘Beatlemania’ (She Loves You, I Want To Hold Your Hand) across the Atlantic to conquer the USA (Help!, Ticket To Ride), through the ‘Summer of Love’ and Psychedelia (Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, Strawberry Fields Forever) then finally down the ‘Long and Winding Road’ to the end of the 1960s, for the Beatles’ final live performance as a group (Get Back, Come Together).
“The Magical Mystery Tour is coming to take you away!”
May 10, 7:30pm
All Tickets: £25
JOIN THE 200 CLUB
Support Leicester Drama Society Ltd and be in with a chance of winning up to £250 every month
DONATE £60 TO BE ENTERED IN 12 MONTHLY LOTTERY DRAWS
20% of proceeds support the ongoing development of The Little Theatre THREE CASH PRIZES EVERY MONTH
Participants must be aged 16 and over For further details and to enter, scan the QR code or go to thelittletheatre.co.uk/get-involved/the-200-club
The Wind in the Willows
by John Morley and Kenneth Grahame
Directed by Andy Longley-Brown and Kate McIntyre
An LDS Youth Theatre Production
Box Office 0116 255 1302 thelittletheatre.co.uk
May 16-17, 7:30pm Saturday Matinée: 2:30pm
All Tickets £11
oin Toad, Mole, Ratty and Badger on an exciting adventure for the whole
From Toad’s obsessions with caravanning and motorcars, through his imprisonment and daring escape, to his fight with the weasels and stoats for control of Toad Hall, all the familiar adventures are right here in this heartwarming stage adaptation of the beloved children’s classic.
This amateur production of “The Wind in the Willows (Morley)” is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals Ltd. on behalf of Samuel French Ltd. concordtheatricals.co.uk.
Art of Andalucia –Flamenco Dance
The Daniel Martinez Flamenco Company returns to The Little Theatre with its third production: Art of Andalucia.
This new show shifts the focus entirely to the art of flamenco dance, offering audiences an immersive experience where the dancers take centre stage,
May 18, 7:30pm
bringing the passion and energy of Andalucia to life. If that weren’t enough, Daniel will also perform new pieces from his highly anticipated third album.
All Tickets: £32
Manhunter & Mindhunter
The psychology of a serial killer
An unforgettable evening of true crime with two of Scotland Yard’s most prolific detectives: Detective Chief Inspectors Steve Gaskin and Colin Sutton.
Manhunter & Mindhunter is a gripping two-man show that delves into the dark world of serial killers, offering audiences a unique blend of true crime storytelling and psychological exploration.
May 19, 7:30pm
All Tickets: £24
Legends of Motown
Celebrating a timeless era for music, Legends of Motown pays tribute to the iconic artists that appeared on the Motown label.
Get ready to be out of your seats and up dancing in the aisles, with music from artists like Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, The Supremes, Smokey Robinson, The Four Tops, Martha Reeves, The Temptations, Jackie Wilson and many more!
May 21, 7:30pm
All Tickets: £20
All-England Theatre Festival – Semi-Final
The central region semi-final of national one-act play festival
May 24, 7:30pm
TAll Tickets: £10
he finest one-act plays from across the Midlands come to Leicester to compete in the All-England Theatre Festival’s central region semi-final. The winning play will advance to the national final in London.
Full details about the featured plays will be confirmed nearer the festival. Tickets and final performance times will be available at thelittletheatre.co.uk from March 1, 2025. Call the Box Office on 0116 255 1302 to join a waiting list.
We will also be hosting the Leicestershire & Rutland heats on March 14-15, 2025. See page 18 for details.
The Mumford & Sons Story: Awake My Soul
Recreating the incredible tale of the floor-stomping folk-rock band that took the world by storm in 2009.
Four musicians come together in tweed waistcoats, skinny jeans and bushy beards to celebrate the best of Mumford & Sons’ iconic music and their explosive rise to fame.
May 27, 7:30pm
All Tickets: £26
Top Secret: The Magic of
Science
F using the mystery of magic with the wondrous and miraculous feats of science.
Hang on to your seats and experience a non-stop action packed interactive magical science show with experiments and magic that will capture the imagination.
May 28 - 2:00pm
May 28 - 2:00pm
Adults: £15
Adults: £15
Children: £12
Children: £12
Sensation: Abba Tribute Band
Widely considered to be one of the best Abba tribute acts ever, Sensation play to packed theatres and festivals across Europe. It’s a stunning stage show with a faithful reproduction of the Abba sound.
The band love audience participation, so you can sing along, clap or even get up and dance. And if you’re ‘too posh’ to join in, then no problem; just rattle your jewellery!
A great evening’s entertainment for all ages.
May 29 - 7:30pm
May 28 - 2:00pm
Standard tickets: £22 Concessions: £20
Footloose: The Musical
Stage adaptation by Dean Pitchford and Walter Bobbie, based on the original screenplay by Dean Pitchford. Music and lyrics by Tom Snow and Dean Pitchford. Additional music by Eric Carmen, Sammy Hagar, Kenny Loggins and Jim Steinman.
Directed by Sarah Varnam Wigston Amateur Operatic Society
Box Office 0116 255 1302 thelittletheatre.co.uk
FJune 3-7, 7:30pm Saturday Matinée: 2:30pm
Tickets: £19
ollowing a sold-out production of Grease in 2024, WAOS are back with Footloose!
When Ren and his mother move from Chicago to a small farming town, he is prepared for the inevitable adjustment period at his new high school. But he’s not prepared for the rigorous local edicts, including a ban on dancing instituted by the local preacher, who is determined to exercise control over the town’s youth.
When the reverend’s rebellious daughter sets her sights on Ren, her roughneck boyfriend tries to sabotage Ren’s reputation, with many of the locals eager to believe the worst about the new kid. The heartfelt story that emerges pins a father longing for the son he lost against a young man aching for the father who walked out on him.
To the rockin’ rhythm of its Oscar and Tony-nominated Top 40 score, augmented with dynamic new songs, Footloose celebrates the wisdom of listening to young people while guiding them with a warm heart and open mind.
This amateur production of “Footloose: The Musical” is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals Ltd. concordtheatricals.co.uk
JUNE 16-21, 2025 by
Craig Warner
Directed by Martin Bell
Strangers on a Train
by Craig Warner; based on
the novel by Patricia
Highsmith
Directed by Martin Bell
An LDS Production
Box Office 0116 255 1302
thelittletheatre.co.uk
June 16-21, 7:30pm
Saturday Matinée: 2:30pm
Standard: £17.50
Premium: £18.50
Concessions: £16
Guy Haines wants rid of his philandering wife Miriam; Charles Bruno wants to see the back of his abusive father. When the two strangers meet each other on an overnight train they hatch the perfect plot to ‘swap’ murders.
For one of them it’s just a joke, but for the other… it’s deadly serious.
Patricia Highsmith’s novel and Alfred Hitchcock’s 1951 film are brought to the stage in this classic suspense thriller.
This amateur production of “Strangers on a Train” is presented by arrangement with 42M&P Ltd.
CODA: Songs from Stage and Screen
June 22, 7:30pm
Standard tickets: £18
Group discount 10+: £15
LDS Members: £11
Introducing CODA, an award-winning touring company known for bringing the magic of the West End and Broadway to audiences everywhere.
Featuring the stunning talents of Soprano Gemma Ashley and Baritone Mark ‘#ManInTheHat’ James, CODA delivers captivating performances of beloved songs from iconic musicals like Les Misérables, Phantom of the Opera, Little Shop of Horrors, My Fair Lady, Grease, and more.
With their breathtaking vocals and dynamic stage presence, CODA transports audiences on a journey through the greatest hits of musical theatre.
Everything Changes: Take
That Tribute
Everything Changes is the UK’s finest tribute to Take That, with vocalists paying homage to Gary Barlow, Mark Owen, and Howard Donald.
You’ll hear all the hits, from Greatest Day, Giants, Shine, Get Ready For It to 90s classics Pray, Back For Good and Could It Be Magic, to name just a few.
June 27, 7:30pm
May 28 - 2:00pm
Standard: £23
Adults: £15
Children: £12
Concessions: £21
ELVIS: Up Close and Personal
Lee Newsome’s one-man tribute to the King of Rock & Roll, concentrating solely on the love songs and power ballads of Elvis Presley.
A jaw-dropping experience from start to finish, Lee’s stunning, powerhouse vocals set him apart from every other Elvis tribute act working today.
June 28, 7:30pm
All tickets: £20
The Haywood Studio Productions
We’re delighted to be producing work in our studio theatre once again. Our 2023-24 season saw it return to action with two one-act plays in our New Directors’ Showcase, and the hilarious adaptation of Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors. This was followed by another round of one-act plays in November 2024.
Our spring-summer season will feature two full-length plays: The first will be Lizzy, Darcy & Jane – as featured on pages 20-21 – taking place March 19-22, 2025.
At time of going to print, the second title is still TBD, but it will run June 11-14, 2025. Keep an eye on our social media for updates nearer the time.
Tickets for studio productions can be purchased from our website and box office.
Brassed Off
by Paul Allen; based on
the screenplay by Mark
Herman
Directed by Mary Jones
An LDS Production
Featuring The Enderby Band
Box Office 0116 255 1302
thelittletheatre.co.uk
GJuly 7-12, 7:30pm Saturday Matinée: 2:30pm
Standard: £17.50
Premium: £18.50
Concessions: £16
rimley Colliery is set to close; the accountants say there’s more money in it shut than open, even after redundancy payments.
It means 1,200 job losses, a dying town and the loss of its brass band. But despite coughing through coal-dusted lungs, under revered band leader Danny’s direction, the group are somehow transformed into contenders for the National Championships at the Albert Hall.
Based on the 1996 smash-hit film, this is a heart-warming story of community spirit and triumph over adversity. It’s both poignant and funny, with rousing music performed live by The Enderby Band.
Written 30 years ago, but still a story for our time.
This amateur production of “Brassed Off” is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals Ltd. on behalf of Samuel French Ltd. concordtheatricals.co.uk.
August 4-8, 2025 9am-5pm Week One
August 11-15, 2025 9am-5pm Week Two
THE SOOTY AWARDS 2025
End of Year Celebration
Saturday, August 30, 7:30pm
It’s PARTY TIME! Our third annual end-of-season award show is an opportunity to celebrate all the work The Little Theatre has produced or hosted over the past year. From Witness for the Prosecution to Brassed Off, we’ll look back at all the plays and musicals from our 2024-25 season, including those from both LDS and our extended family of visiting societies.
It’s also a wonderful opportunity to bring the whole family together, enjoy each other’s company, and look good doing it.
An independent judging panel has selected our nominees and winners, having kindly given their time to watch every show this year.
The ceremony, hosted by Tom Young, will feature the presentation of twenty awards, as well as musical numbers, laughs, and heartwarming moments. This will be followed by an after-party in the bar/studio, so stay late and dance the night away!
Dress Code: Formal/Black Tie
A select number of tickets will be made available to the cast & crew of each production PUBLIC TICKETS ON SALE FROM EARLY JULY
Standard: £16
LDS Members: £11
Business Networking
6 events per half-season, each on the opening night of a Leicester Drama Society production
If you’re looking to meet other business leaders, reward employees, or court prospective clients, The Little Business Club brings a new theatrical flavour to networking in Leicester
The tiered pricing structure starts from £150 per half-season
LDS Youth Theatre
The LDS Youth theatre offers acting workshops that lead to an annual main house production; this year’s will be The Wind in the Willows (see pages 32-33).
Youth Theatre takes place on term-time Saturdays
Juniors (8-12 years), 9am-10:30am Seniors (13-18 years), 11am-12:30pm
For more details, prices and term dates, please visit thelittletheatre.co.uk or contact the box office on 0116 255 1302
Ages 8-18
Acting Workshops
Led by professional actor and drama teacher Michael King
Our workshops focus on developing key acting skills, such as projection and articulation (voice), The Stanislavsky technique, emotional memory, embodiment of a character, animal acting, and much more.
There are two workshops available: Beginners & Intermediate and Advanced*. No matter what level your skills are when you join, we have a class available for you.
Members discount will activate at checkout when signed in.
20% discount when purchasing 5 sessions or more in a single transaction.
Book online to ensure your space. Check website for term times.
Beginners: 6:30pm-8pm Advanced*: 8:15pm-9:45pm
Non-members: £8 per session LDS members: £4 per session
* Please attend Beginners & Intermediate first, so your level can be assessed
Tuesday Connection
If you’re interested in becoming a member of our theatre and would like to get a glimpse behind the scenes, our Tuesday Connection open evenings offer the chance to meet other new members, tour the theatre, view rehearsals, and learn about our history. You can also discover all the opportunities to get involved in, whether that be acting, front of house, stage management, lighting, sound, or helping in the bar, to name but a few.
We meet in the bar at 6:50pm for a 7pm start. Places are limited, so if you’re interested in attending, email the box office on tuesdayconnection@thelittletheatre.co.uk or call 0116 255 1302 to book.
Held the week before our main house shows open, we’ll be hosting Tuesday Connection on the following dates (and viewing rehearsals for these shows):
January 28 (The Breath of Life)
February 25 (A Taste of Honey)
March 18 (The Vicar of Dibley)
April 8 (Macbeth)
June 10 (Strangers on a Train)
July 1 (Brassed Off)
The Arts Society Leicester
Afriendly society which aims to increase the enjoyment of the decorative and fine arts, and support our cultural heritage.
The society meets on the fourth Wednesday of each month at the Sue Townsend Theatre.
Find more information about our monthly lectures at theartssocietyleicester.co.uk.
Seating plan and access
Mobility
A lift between the ground floor and the auditorium may be used by wheelchair users and those with walking difficulties. Accessible toilets are available on both levels of the theatre.
Wheelchair spaces are shown on the seating plan (row D coloured purple) with provision for escorts’ seats (D4 and E1 in blue). Seats C1–3 are removed for access.
Wheelchair patrons are requested to be in the foyer half an hour before the performance begins to ensure Front of House staff are available to assist you.
Wheelchair spaces can only be booked in person or over the phone during box office opening hours.
Hearing impaired
An infra red amplification system is provided in the Main House. Please ask Front of House staff in the foyer if you wish to borrow a headset.
Vision impaired
A service is provided for LDS Main House shows which makes theatre going a rewarding experience for the visually impaired. A CD with detailed descriptions of the cast, characters and costumes is sent by post in the week of the performance. On Saturday at 1pm, a touch tour of the set and costumes takes place, with the opportunity to meet the cast, after which patrons can enjoy the matinée performance. Call the box office on 0116 255 1302 for more details and to book.
Plan your visit
PLEASE NOTE:
The road layout from Granby Street is expected to change in early 2025
The City Council has closed off the entrance to the Dover Street car park from Dover Street. This change is NOT shown on Google Maps or most Satnavs.
Box Office
0116 255 1302 or book online: thelittletheatre.co.uk
The Little Theatre
Dover Street, Leicester, LE1 6PW hello@thelittletheatre.co.uk
The Little Gallery
Work by local fine artists and photographers is displayed in the theatre’s public areas.
The Bar Lounge
Our fully licenced lounge bar is open from an hour before curtain up until after the performance. Interval drinks may be ordered before curtain up.
Parking
24-hour pay-and-display parking opposite the theatre in Dover Street (vehicle access via Dunkirk Street). NCP multi-storey car park in East Street. Please allow plenty of time for parking – the nearest car park may not always have spaces available.
Keep in touch
To join our email list, visit our website: thelittletheatre.co.uk.
Booking Information
Online: thelittletheatre.co.uk
Telephone: 0116 255 1302
Email: hello@thelittletheatre.co.uk
Box Office hours:
Weekdays: 10:00-18:00
Saturday: 10:00-13:00
Plus ticket desk in foyer before shows, from one hour before the performance.
A £1 transaction fee applies to all bookings. Tickets can be collected at the box office or an e-ticket can be sent to you. Alternatively, tickets can be posted to you for an extra £1. E-tickets must be presented upon entry. They can either be printed at home, or shown on a mobile device. Reservations must be paid for within 48 hours or tickets will be offered for resale.
All payments in the venue are card only.
Refunds and exchanges: No refunds are made. A £1 transaction fee will be applicable for exchanges.
Concessions for LDS main house shows (proof of status may be requested):
● Disabled patrons. Free carer companion tickets if required (contact box office)
● Students, jobseekers and under 16s
● Over 65s
● No concessions available on premium seats
Gift vouchers are available to purchase at the box office and on our website.
Full terms and conditions can be read at thelittletheatre.co.uk/terms-and-conditions or a paper copy may be obtained from the Box Office.
Season Ticket: For LDS main house shows (not including Macbeth or panto), a discounted price (20% off) is offered to patrons buying tickets for each of the five plays. Patrons can also reserve specific seats for the next half-season’s offer by contacting the box office.
Early Bird Discount: Get 10% off a ticket price for any regular LDS mainhouse show* if booked prior to January 17 (cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer).
Theatre-Goers Under 25: For LDS main house shows*, we offer £5 tickets on the day of performance to those under 25. Contact the box office on the day to check availability (proof of status may be requested).
Group Bookings: For LDS Mainhouse shows, including pantomime and Macbeth, there is a 10% discount for groups of 10+. For a special group deal for schools, see page 27.
Group reservations can be made by contacting the box office. A nonreturnable deposit of 10% is payable at time of booking with balance to be paid four-weeks before the performance (or by October 31 for the pantomime.)
Content Warning: This production contains content that some viewers may find offensive.
Please note that each theatre-goer, regardless of age, must be in possession of a valid ticket.
The Theatre Little
The Little Theatre is owned by Leicester Drama
Society Limited (LDS)
Registered in England Company No.268828
Registered Charity No.214249
Member of the Little Theatre Guild of Great Britain
Theatre Manager & Premises Supervisor
Graham Muir
Contact
Box Office: 0116 255 1302
Admin: 0116 254 2266
hello@thelittletheatre.co.uk thelittletheatre.co.uk
Theatre spaces
Main Auditorium: 349 seats
Haywood Studio: 35 seats
Enquiries to Theatre Manager Graham Muir graham.muir@thelittletheatre.co.uk
The Little Gallery
Display space for local fine artists and photographers
Enquiries to Tim Hogarth-Jones: hogarthjones@btinternet.com
Patrons
Richard Cadell and Sooty
Sir Anthony Hopkins CBE
Andy Nyman
Gervase Phinn
Trustees
Paul Beasley (Productions)
Mo Carberry (Chair & Without Specific Responsibility)
Jackie Caunt (Membership)
Jenny Harding (Treasurer)
Frances Harris (Front of House)
Martin Scott (Facilities)
Stew Wale (Without Specific Responsibility)
Tom Young (Marketing)
David Moore (Company Secretary)
Sue Nicholson (Minutes Secretary)
Dover Street, Leicester LE1 6PW
December 12, 2025 - January 4, 2026