From award-winning West End productions and much-loved musicals to hilarious comedians and spectacular shows for all ages, there’s plenty to look forward to from September through to the festive season.
Whether you’re planning a long-awaited theatre trip, a family day out or a night on the town with friends, autumn is the perfect time to take your seats.
BARNUM
Tuesday 8 – Saturday 12 September
Step into the dazzling world of P.T. Barnum in this spectacular musical celebration of the man who became known as the World’s Greatest Showman. Starring Matt Rawles, Barnum follows his extraordinary rise alongside his wife Charity, as ambition, imagination and showmanship take centre stage. Expect larger-than-life characters, memorable music and plenty of spectacle in a production that celebrates the wonders and excitement associated with the Barnum name.
PARANORMAL ACTIVITY
Tuesday 15 – Saturday 19 September
Hold your nerve as the terrifying Paranormal Activity comes to Milton Keynes Theatre. Fresh from its Olivier Award nomination for Best Entertainment, this chilling stage adaptation follows James and Lou as they leave Chicago for London, only to discover that the real danger may not be where they expect it. Packed with suspense, supernatural scares and edge-of-your-seat moments, this is one for those who enjoy their theatre with a serious fright factor.
WAITRESS
Tuesday 22 – Saturday 26 September
Treat yourself to a slice of five-star musical theatre with Waitress. Carrie Hope Fletcher takes on the role of Jenna, with Les Dennis as Old Joe for this special week-long run. Jenna is a talented pie-maker dreaming of a happier life when an unexpected new arrival turns everything upside down. Featuring Sara Bareilles’ acclaimed music and lyrics and a groundbreaking female-led creative team, Waitress combines warmth, humour, heart and plenty of feel-good moments.
THE SILENCE OF THE LAMBS
Monday 28 September – Saturday 3 October
A chilling new chapter begins as The Silence of the Lambs makes its world stage premiere. Based on Thomas Harris’ gripping novel, this electrifying production brings one of the most iconic psychological thrillers ever created to the stage. With John Partridge, Mollie Gallagher, Oliver Farnworth and Sam Jackson bringing these unforgettable characters to life, expect tension, intrigue and a race against time.
THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHT-TIME
Tuesday 6 – Saturday 10 October
Experience a thrilling new staging of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time. When Christopher Boone discovers that his neighbour’s dog has been killed, he sets out to uncover the truth, embarking on an investigation that reveals secrets much closer to home. Starring Joe McFadden and Charlie Brooks, this inventive production combines a gripping mystery with a moving coming-of-age story about family, courage and seeing the world differently.
MAMMA MIA!
Tuesday 13 – Saturday 24 October
It’s time to have the time of your life as MAMMA MIA! arrives at Milton Keynes Theatre. Set against the stunning backdrop of a Greek island, this irresistibly feel-good musical tells a story of love, friendship and family through the timeless songs of ABBA. Packed with unforgettable hits, hilarious moments and plenty of sunshine, MAMMA MIA! is the perfect autumn escape and a guaranteed night of feel-good entertainment.
MATILDA THE MUSICAL
Wednesday 28 October – Saturday 14 November
Roald Dahl’s beloved story comes to life in the multi-award-winning Matilda The Musical. The spectacular RSC production has entertained more than 12 million people worldwide and celebrates 15 years on stage with a brand-new UK tour. Follow extraordinary little girl Matilda as she discovers her incredible powers and finds the courage to rewrite her own destiny, accompanied by Tim Minchin’s unforgettable music and lyrics. A magical theatre experience for the whole family.
SIX
Tuesday 24 – Saturday 28 November
Forget everything you thought you knew about Henry VIII’s six wives! SIX transforms five centuries of heartbreak into an 80-minute celebration of 21st-century girl power. With more than 35 international awards under its belt, including Tony Awards, this global smash-hit musical puts the six Queens firmly in the spotlight as they compete to tell their stories through an energetic pop concert. Expect huge personalities, brilliant music and a whole lot of attitude.
SLEEPING BEAUTY - Panto Time!
Saturday 5 December – Sunday 10 January
Christmas wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the pantomime, and this year Sleeping Beauty promises to be a festive spectacular for the whole family. Chart-topping superstar Alexandra Burke stars as wicked Carabosse, joined by television favourite Richard Cadell with Sooty and Sweep, fabulous panto dame Ceri Dupree and special guest Christopher Biggins. Expect dazzling effects, laugh-out-loud comedy, familiar pop hits and plenty of festive magic.
One-Night Shows
COMEDY
John Cleese and The Holy Grail
Prepare for an unforgettable evening with comedy legend John Cleese as he celebrates Monty Python and the Holy Grail. Enjoy a special screening of the much-loved cult classic before Cleese takes to the stage for a hilarious conversation and audience Q&A, sharing behind-the-scenes stories, memories and plenty of his trademark wit.
Sam Campbell: Kid Giblet
Edinburgh Comedy Award winner and Taskmaster champion Sam Campbell brings his brilliantly surreal comedy to Milton Keynes. Known for combining absurdist humour with razor-sharp observations, Campbell promises an unpredictable evening of laugh-out-loud comedy.
Lenny Henry: Still At Large
Lenny Henry returns with a brand-new show combining stand-up, storytelling and plenty of laughs. Looking back over five decades in entertainment while exploring the ideas and creativity that continue to inspire him, expect a funny, heartfelt and insightful evening with one of Britain’s best-loved performers.
Harry Enfield and No Chums
Legendary satirist Harry Enfield celebrates 40 years of comedy in this rare live appearance. Expect some of his most iconic characters, plenty of brilliantly silly humour and the chance to put your own questions to one of the UK’s true comedy originals.
Chris Ramsey: Here Man
Chris Ramsey brings his trademark stand-up back to the stage with Here Man. As seen on The Chris & Rosie Ramsey Show, Strictly Come Dancing and Taskmaster, Chris promises an evening of honest, hilarious observations and stories that he simply couldn’t keep to himself.
Simon Brodkin: Unleashed
Get ready for outrageous punchlines and electric crowdwork as Simon Brodkin brings Unleashed to the stage. Famous for his headline-making pranks and characters including Lee Nelson, Brodkin takes aim at everything from wild swimmers and vape shops to religion and everyday life.
MUSIC
Michael Ball
Spend an evening with one of the UK’s most iconic entertainers as Michael Ball brings his celebrated vocals and trademark warmth to Milton Keynes. With a career spanning more than four decades across the West End, Broadway, television and radio, this promises to be a memorable night of music and showmanship, with rising star Liss Jones joining him.
Francis Rossi: Songbook – Quo
Status Quo legend Francis Rossi takes to the road with Songbook: Quo – Past, Present, Future. Expect a hand-picked selection of Quo classics, deeper cuts and a fresh medley, alongside stories and insight from Rossi himself, accompanied by guitarist Andy Brook.
The Australian Pink Floyd
Pink Floyd fans are in for a spectacular evening as The Australian Pink Floyd return with The Happiest Days Of Our Lives. Combining iconic songs with impressive staging, video animation, cutting-edge lighting, lasers and massive inflatables, the show recreates the atmosphere and sound of Pink Floyd for both devoted fans and newcomers.
A Country Night in Nashville
Bring the Nashville spirit to Milton Keynes with A Country Night in Nashville. Celebrating country music legends past and present, from Johnny Cash and Dolly Parton to Kacey Musgraves and The Chicks, Dominic Halpin & The Hurricanes deliver an evening packed with country hits, impressive musicianship and the energy of a downtown honky-tonk.
ENTERTAINMENT & SPECIAL EVENTS
Michael Portillo: A Life of Two Halves
Join Michael Portillo for a fascinating journey through his life, from his family’s experiences during the Spanish Civil War to his career in politics and his adventures travelling around the world. Combining personal stories with tales from his many journeys, this promises an entertaining and insightful evening.
Make a Night of It
Why not turn your theatre trip into a full evening out? Milton Keynes City Centre has plenty of places to eat before or after a show, from relaxed bites to restaurants perfect for a pre-theatre dinner. If you’re travelling in from further afield, make a weekend of it by staying locally. 
Hotel La Tour and 
Premier Inn are both conveniently located close to
Milton Keynes Theatre, making it easy to enjoy dinner, a show and a comfortable night's stay without having to rush home.
With such a varied autumn programme, there’s never been a better excuse to book a theatre trip. Whether you’re looking for a big musical, a night of comedy, live music or a family-friendly spectacular, choose your show, book your tickets and start planning your visit to Milton Keynes City Centre.
