Theatre By The Lake 2026 season revealed
- Alan Hulme
- 5 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Keswick's Theatre By The Lake has announced a 2026 season packed with home-grown and visiting productions
Four new TBTL productions (in collaboration with other theatres) lead the season, from the folk songs of Lark Rise to Candleford, to the rebellious rhythms of Nell Gwynn, and the anthems of Calendar Girls The Musical to the ghostly harmonies of A Christmas Carol.
Lark Rise to Candleford (March 26-April 18, 2026) is a cherished modern classic about memory, belonging and finding your voice, follows young Laura’s journey from her rural home to a wider world of possibility. The show will feature original folk music played live, and an ensemble cast.
Nell Gwynn (July 9-August 1) is set in London in 1660. The theatres are alive, the monarchy is restored and one woman is ready to take the stage. There's wit, music and mischief in this feminist comedy, which tells the story of the actress, trailblazer and royal favourite.
Calendar Girls The Musical (August 6-September 5) is a co-production with Scarborough's Stephen Joseph Theatre and the Bolton Octagon, and tells the true story of the Yorkshire WI women who stripped off - tastefully - to make a charity calendar that became a hit around the world, and was given a second life as this hugely-popular stage musical by Tim Firth and Gary Barlow.
A Christmas Carol (November 13-January 2, 2027) is a new adaptation of Dickens' classic Christmas story.
Acting artistic director Julia Samuels said: “These plays explore determination, wit and solidarity in the face of change, offering stories that are both moving and full of life.
“We are also continuing to grow opportunities for artists, young people and families through our Young Company, Big Days for Tiny Theatre Makers and long-term partnerships with schools.”
Beyond the main house, the theatre will also tour Every Brilliant Thing (dates to be confirmed), the award-winning and uplifting play about finding joy in small things; the theatre's Young Company (from January) will be a new group allowing young people to explore theatre together, and Tiny Theatre Makers (from January will offer play sessions for babies, toddlers and children under four and their families.
More info and tickets here