Royal Exchange Theatre Announces 2025 Season, Including Singin’ in the Rain Revival
The Royal Exchange Theatre in Manchester has unveiled its exciting programme for 2025, featuring a mix of revivals, world premieres, and community-driven productions. The venue’s Christmas show will be a much-anticipated revival of Singin’ in the Rain, while other highlights include Liberation by Ntombizodwa Nyoni and a co-production of Dancing at Lughnasa with Sheffield Theatres.
Singin’ in the Rain Revival for Christmas 2025
One of the most highly anticipated productions of the year will be a revival of Singin’ in the Rain, based on the iconic 1952 film. Directed by Raz Shaw, who previously helmed The Producers at the Royal Exchange, this musical extravaganza will run from 29 November 2025 to 18 January 2026. The production promises to bring the iconic rain-soaked scenes to life once again, set to the unforgettable tunes by Betty Comden, Adolph Green, Nacio Herb Brown, and Arthur Freed.
Artwork for Singin’ In The Rain supplied by Feast
World Premiere of Liberation by Ntombizodwa Nyoni
A world premiere in the 2025 season will be Liberation, a play by Ntombizodwa Nyoni. The production explores the legacy of the 1945 Pan-African Congress in Manchester. Directed by Monique Touko and featuring original music by Ife Ogunjobi, Liberation will run from 27 June to 26 July 2025 as part of the Manchester International Festival. This thought-provoking piece promises to delve deep into the history and impact of the Pan-African movement.
Dancing at Lughnasa – A Co-Production with Sheffield Theatres
Also featured in the 2025 season is Dancing at Lughnasa, the renowned play by Brian Friel. This production will be a co-production with Sheffield Theatres and directed by Elizabeth Newman. Running from 10 October to 8 November 2025, this will mark the first time the play has been staged at the Royal Exchange Theatre.
Abigail’s Party Extended Due to High Demand
The popular production of Abigail’s Party has been extended until 24 May 2025 due to high demand. Directed by Natalie Abrahami, the show features Kym Marsh as Beverly Moss alongside Graeme Hawley, Tupele Dorgu, Kyle Rowe, and Yasmin Taheri.
The Den Returns with New Community Productions
Beyond its main stage, the Royal Exchange Theatre’s pop-up venue, The Den, will return in 2025 with performances in Tameside (May) and Leigh (August). These community-focused performances will include No Such Thing as Ordinary, a new play by Rachel McMurray based on local stories, and Best Mates, Top Bins & Venga Venga, a collaboration between Tameside schools and writers Lekhani Chirwa and Lauren-Nicole Mayes. Additionally, HER Productions will present a version of The Taming of the Shrew.
Partnership with Band on the Wall for Summer Musical Gigs
The Royal Exchange Theatre will revive its partnership with Band on the Wall, offering a series of intimate musical gigs throughout the summer. This collaboration promises to bring a unique blend of live music and theatre to audiences across Manchester.
Looking Ahead to 2026 – The 50th Anniversary
Creative Director Selina Cartmell is already working on a special programme for the theatre’s 50th anniversary in 2026, with details set to be announced in autumn 2025. Expect big celebrations as the Royal Exchange Theatre marks this major milestone.
Get Ready for an Exciting Year of Theatre
With Singin’ in the Rain, Liberation, Dancing at Lughnasa, and much more on the horizon, the Royal Exchange Theatre’s 2025 season promises to be a thrilling year of innovative performances, new works, and community-driven initiatives. Tickets for these productions will be available soon, so don’t miss out on the opportunity to be part of an exciting year in Manchester’s theatre scene.
