A visit to one of Suffolk’s theatres is a versatile experience, offering entertainment in the form of plays, musicals, comedies and panto, amongst many others. There are often matinee performances as well as shows on in the evening, plus entertainment aimed at children and families.
It is also possible to find various workshops, talks, film screenings, stand-up comedy, and art exhibitions taking place at a theatre in Suffolk, and most have excellent food and drinks facilities as well as disabled access and parking.
Please continue reading to learn more about Suffolk theatres, and click on each theatre’s link for more information including a full programme of performances and ticket booking information.
Eastern Angles Theatre Company
Eastern Angles Theatre Company combines heritage with theatre to make regional stories and hidden histories come to life on stage. They provide professional rural touring and site-specific theatre with a focus on new writing, new audiences and the development of new talent. Their stories and themes are derived from their sense of place, specifically East Anglia and the East of England. Since forming in 1982, Eastern Angles have blazed a trail across East Anglia over 30 plus years and expanded to national tours and Edinburgh Festival residencies. Click the link above to find out where and when you can see them in action.
Aldeburgh’s historic Jubilee Hall
Aldeburgh’s historic Jubilee Hall built in 1887 is more than just a theatre. Nestled on the seafront, it is home to the Aldeburgh Literary Festival which takes place every March, as well as many other music, performance, theatre, festivals, talks, fairs and more throughout the year. The Jubilee Hall has a fascinating history and is well worth a visit when you are in the area. Please click the link above to see what’s on and when you can visit.
The Red Rose Chain
For a truly unique Theatrical experience, take in an open-air play in the middle of Rendlesham Forest! The Red Rose Chain, Ipswich is an independent film and theatre company specialising in Shakespearean performances, drama workshops. For a unique experience that kids will love – including a picnic in the Woods perhaps? – click on the link above to find out their Summer performances this year.
Spinning Wheel Theatre
Spinning Wheel Theatre are a touring theatre who offer innovative productions and creative opportunities for all. They support emerging creatives through their Aspiring Artists programme and run regular extra curricula and in-school classes. They are also commissioned to create one off community projects. They have a range pf events happening throughout the year from performances at local village halls to workshops and summer schools for children. To find out what they are up to at the moment, click their link above.
Spa Pavillion Theatre in Felixstowe
The bustling Spa Pavillion Theatre in Felixstowe sits right on the seafront and affords stunning views across the ocean. It boasts a glorious art deco auditorium for up to 900 people, and has a fantastic and varied line up of shows all year round from big names and touring theatre to local productions. There are 2 seaview café/bar/restaurants to choose from which include a delicious Mediterranean-style pizza, pasta & grill menu. With food served all day including home-made cakes and pastries, lunch and dinner menus, with tapas, sandwiches and takeaway also available, you can really make day of your trip to the Theatre! Plenty of transport links and close to the A14 means it is easy to reach wherever you’re coming from. To find out whats on, see Spa Pavillion Theatre
The Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds
The Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmund was originally built in 1819, and is the oldest working Regency playhouse in Britain. It has been fully restored to its Regency design today produces and hosts a variety of drama and live entertainment year-round including comedy, drama, children’s work, dance and music, plus tours of the Theatre.
The Cut, Halesworth
The Cut, Halesworth, is a popular entertainment venue featuring live performances of music, theatre, dance, comedy, cinema, workshops and art exhibitions, along with a great cafe available an hour before most evening events, and two meeting rooms for hire.
Marina Theatre, Lowestoft
Originally built in the 1870’s as a roller skating rink, the Marina Theatre, Lowestoft, is now one of the leading Civic Venues in the country offering a variety of shows including musicals, stand-up comedy, dance, film screenings an ‘Evening with a Celebrity’ events, farce, and the ever popular Christmas Panto! The Marina is also a residence of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.
The New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich
The New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich, is a thriving arts centre and theatre that offers a versatile selection of shows, post-show talks and workshops. The Café Bar is a lovely place to eat or to have a drink at any time and particularly when the sun is shining and you can sit on the terrace. The New Wolsey is also home of the Pulse Fringe Festival and gift vouchers are available for all performances and events.
The Quay Theatre, Sudbury
The Quay Theatre, Sudbury, offers a wide array of entertainment as well as costume hire, an Art Gallery, a book club, Young People’s Theatre, Singles’ Nights and other bar events. The Quay also offers a range of hiring possibilities for events large and small, from private parties to commercial conferences. Catering is available.
Ipswich Regent Theatre
Finally, Ipswich Regent Theatre & The Corn Exchange are two superb venues for a cultural night out in a Suffolk theatre. The Regent is East Anglia’s largest theatre, and the Corn Exchange offers a variety of elegant rooms for hire, for conferences, weddings, meetings, exhibitions, private social functions and hosts the annual CAMRA Beer Festival in September. Both venues feature big name comedians, live music, theatre shows, dinner dances and balls.
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