A warm welcome to the Talisman Theatre and Arts Centre’s latest lineup of exciting plays for 2025.
We launch the season in February with Noël Coward’s sophisticated (and occasionally madcap) comedy Present Laughter. Inspired by the National Theatre’s 2019 production with Andrew Scott, we felt it was time to bring this classic back to our stage after over 40 years! 2024 marked the 125th anniversary of Coward’s birth – a perfect occasion to celebrate his genius. Following the success of Matilda Jr. last year, our talented Youth Theatre takes the spotlight in March with Oliver Twist, adapted by Guy Williams from Charles Dickens’ beloved novel. You’ll definitely be asking for more! 
April brings Enchanted April, a charming romantic comedy by Matthew Barber, adapted from Elizabeth von Arnim’s novel. A group of women, weary of post-World War I London, find new life and love in an Italian villa. In May, don’t miss Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, adapted by Rona Munro, where the author herself steps into the narrative, grappling with her infamous creation. In June, before our summer break, we offer Rachel Wagstaff’s fresh take on Agatha Christie’s The Mirror Crack’d, breathing new life into this classic mystery.
Summer 2025 coincides with Kenilworth’s 450th anniversary celebration of Queen Elizabeth I’s visit to the castle. As part of the festival, in August, we’ll present The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) by Adam Long, Daniel Singer, and Jess Winfield. Described as “stupendous, anchorless joy” and “rollicking, fast-moving, and hilarious,” this madcap play has three actors racing through all 37 of Shakespeare’s plays in just 97 minutes!
After the success of 2023’s Pride and Prejudice, adapted by our patron Andrew Davies from his TV script, we return at the end of September with his take on Emma – another unmissable Austen adaptation. November’s production is yet to be confirmed, but rest assured, it will be worth the wait!
And finally, what better way to ring in Christmas and New Year than with our family pantomime? This time, Daniel Defoe would be turning in his grave as Robinson Crusoe gets a lively twist, with the titular hero encountering not only Friday but a shipload of family and friends, along with a full chorus! Expect laughter and plenty of festive fun.
We look forward to welcoming you throughout the year!
Steve Smith & Stephen Duckham – Artistic Director
