Happy World Theatre Day! Newbury celebrates with award-winning improv
Don your deerstalker, grab your magnifying glass and get your ‘finger of suspicion’ ready to point… and celebrate World Theatre Day tonight (Thursday) at the Corn Exchange with Edinburgh Fringe favourites Degrees of Error, who are bringing back their multiple sell-out show for your sleuthing pleasure.
The renowned theatre company present Murder She Didn’t Write: Improvised Murder Mystery. This smash-hit Edinburgh Fringe favourite puts the audience in the director’s chair as they shape a brand-new Agatha Christie-style whodunnit live on stage. With outrageous characters, unexpected twists, and hilarious improvisation, no two shows are ever the same. The case is yours to crack! Ms Gold poisoned at a synchronised swimming gala? Dr Blue exploded by cannon during a hot air balloon race? Professor Violet crushed to death at a Love Island recoupling? You decide! But can you solve the mystery before the killer is revealed?
And because theatre’s for anytime, not just World Theatre Day…
Tomorrow (Friday), for those who’d enjoy a deeply moving theatrical experience, In Other Words tells the story of an intimate relationship using the power of music to help us remember the past, connect with the present and hope for the future. Weaving together humour, tenderness, and the timeless music of Frank Sinatra, this critically acclaimed play explores the effects of Alzheimer’s disease and how music can reconnect us to the past. This globally celebrated production has touched the hearts of audiences across the world with its powerful reminder of the enduring strength of love, even in the face of memory loss.
Meanwhile, younger theatregoers and families can immerse themselves in magical adventures with two beloved tales brought to life on stage. The Olivier Award-nominated adaptation of Room on the Broom (Thursday, April 10 to Sunday 13) by theatre company Tall Stories promises spellbinding fun for little ones, as a kind-hearted witch and her cat pick up an unexpected group of hitchhikers on their broomstick. But when disaster strikes and a hungry dragon appears, will there be room on the broom for everyone? Bursting with music, laughter, and a little bit of magic, this enchanting show is perfect for ages three and up.
There is also the opportunity for little ones to get creative before the show with artist Gemma Kirby in the Room on the Broom Pre-show Workshop (Saturday, April 12) to decorate their very own witch’s mask. Children can then wear their mask to watch the show take it home to keep the story going.
For fans of classic storytelling, Michael Morpurgo’s Farm Boy (Tuesday, April 22) brings a heartfelt sequel to War Horse to the stage. Following a touching intergenerational tale, this beautifully crafted production blends drama, storytelling, and original music to capture the changing face of the English countryside. As a grandson listens to his grandfather’s memories of childhood, the play becomes a nostalgic journey through history, exploring how stories connect us across generations.
World Theatre Day is a time to celebrate the joy and impact of live performance, and the Corn Exchange offers a range of theatre productions. Whether you’re unravelling a mystery, rediscovering love through music, or sharing a magical adventure with your family, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Tickets for these shows are available online at www.cornexchangenew.com or by contacting the box office on 01635 522733.
