Don't Miss These Two Landmark Productions at Newcastle Theatre Royal
This autumn, Newcastle Theatre Royal is set to host an extraordinary double bill of theatrical brilliance
From Wednesday 10th–Saturday 20th September 2025, the internationally acclaimed War Horse visits Newcastle Theatre Royal for the first time. Adapted by Nick Stafford from Michael Morpurgo’s best-selling novel, and featuring the iconic puppetry of South Africa’s Handspring Puppet Company, War Horse is a visually stunning and emotionally stirring journey of love, loss and courage during the First World War. With over 8.4 million audience members worldwide and more than 25 major awards, including the Tony Award for Best Play, this production is widely considered one of the National Theatre’s greatest achievements.
Set in the trenches and battlefields of Europe, the story follows Albert and his beloved horse Joey, separated by war and bound by unbreakable loyalty. The astonishing puppetry, heartfelt storytelling and inventive stagecraft leave a lasting impact; War Horse is a must-see for theatre lovers and newcomers alike.
Making its much-anticipated North East debut, the critically acclaimed Dear England arrives on stage from Tuesday 11th–Saturday 15th November 2025, following its Olivier Award-winning run in London. Written by one of theatre’s most highly regarded playwrights, James Graham (Quiz, Sherwood), and directed by Rupert Goold, this riveting new drama tells the story of Gareth Southgate’s transformation of the England men’s football team, with a story reaching far beyond the football pitch.
Exploring themes of identity, leadership and transformation, Dear England examines how a game helped a country reconnect with its sense of pride. With a creative team including designer Es Devlin (who has recently worked with both the Royal Opera House and the Royal Shakespeare Company), the play delivers spectacle and soul. Whether you’re a football fan or simply love powerful, contemporary drama, Dear England offers a night of theatre that’s moving, timely and uplifting.
These two productions – one a modern classic, the other a bold new hit – represent the very best of British theatre. For Newcastle Theatre Royal, hosting both in one season is a true milestone, and showcases its commitment to bring world-class drama to the region for North East audiences to enjoy.
Tickets are selling quickly for these two unmissable productions. Don’t miss your chance to experience the National Theatre at its most extraordinary, in the heart of Newcastle.
