Birmingham's vibrant theatre scene is set for a spectacular year in 2026, with a host of major West End musicals and award-winning productions scheduled to visit the city's premier venues. From January through to December, theatregoers can look forward to an impressive roster of shows, including beloved classics and modern hits, with tickets still available for many performances.
Spring and Summer Spectaculars
The theatrical year kicks into high gear in the spring. Priscilla Queen of the Desert arrives at the Birmingham Hippodrome from Monday, March 23, to Saturday, March 28, marking the film's 30th anniversary with a brand-new tour. The show features former Strictly Come Dancing professional Kevin Clifton in the lead role of Tick/Mitzi.
Following closely is the Tony Award-winning phenomenon SIX, which makes a royal return to the Hippodrome from Tuesday, March 31, to Saturday, April 11. This modern retelling of the stories of Henry VIII's wives has garnered over 35 international awards.
Concurrently, The Alexandra Theatre will host the Legally Blonde The Musical from March 31 to April 4, starring Strictly finalist Amber Davies as the iconic Elle Woods. As spring turns to summer, the Hippodrome welcomes Waitress (April 28 - May 2), starring Carrie Hope Fletcher, and the irresistible ABBA-fueled joy of Mamma Mia! for a three-week run from May 12 to May 30.
The summer season also brings the beloved orphan Annie to The Alexandra (June 2-6), the epic revival of Miss Saigon to the Hippodrome (June 23-27), and the magical Matilda The Musical for an extended stay at the Hippodrome from July 1 to August 2.
Autumn and Winter Highlights
The latter half of 2026 promises equally dazzling entertainment. July sees the cult classic The Rocky Horror Show rock The Alexandra from the 6th to the 11th. This is followed by the highly anticipated West End hit Mrs Doubtfire The Musical, which will occupy the Birmingham Hippodrome stage for over a month, from Thursday, August 13, to Saturday, September 19.
Autumn brings the poignant and long-running favourite Blood Brothers to the Hippodrome from October 20 to 24. Andrew Lloyd Webber's iconic Cats then leaps into the venue with a new production from October 27 to November 7.
The year concludes on a hilari mean note with Mean Girls The Musical, direct from the West End and starring Steps' Faye Tozer. It will run at The Alexandra from Tuesday, December 14, to Saturday, January 2, 2027, offering a festive treat for audiences.
Plan Your Theatre Year
With such a diverse and high-quality lineup spanning the entire year, Birmingham solidifies its status as a top-tier destination for theatre lovers. The schedule offers everything from heartwarming family stories and laugh-out-loud comedies to powerful dramas and groundbreaking contemporary musicals. Both the Birmingham Hippodrome and The Alexandra Theatre are central to this cultural offering, providing the perfect stages for these world-class productions. Enthusiasts are encouraged to book early to secure seats for what promises to be an unforgettable year of live performance in the heart of the UK.
