Dame Maureen Lipman DBE will return to UK stages to star in the world premiere of Allegra, a new comedy by Tony Award and double Olivier Award-nominated playwright Peter Quilter.
The production opens at Theatre Royal Brighton on 12 May 2026, coinciding with Dame Maureen’s 80th birthday, before touring nationwide and heading to the West End. The National Press Night will take place at Richmond Theatre on 8 June 2026.
Following her acclaimed performance in Rose in the West End in 2023, Dame Maureen leads this joyful, heartwarming comedy about Allegra, a woman so full of joy she bursts into song everywhere she goes—at home, in the street, even in shops and restaurants. Her exuberance creates chaos in her village, leaving her brother and carer scrambling to manage her eccentricities without destroying her happiness.
“To find a comedy which can turn our current face of gloom into an upturned grin of happiness, is rare. Allegra is about a woman who is relentlessly upbeat – in more ways than one. Ibsen it isn’t,” said Dame Maureen Lipman.
Playwright Peter Quilter added: “Maureen is one of the great theatrical treasures of this country, and to have her bring Allegra to life is a joy and an honour.”
Producer Thomas Hopkins commented: “Working again with Maureen after the remarkable West End success of Rose is an absolute privilege. Allegra is sure to be one of UK theatre’s highlights of 2026.”
The comedy features spectacular song and dance sequences alongside a touching exploration of how even the most beautiful minds can begin to fade. More cast and creative team will be announced soon.
Allegra will tour major venues including Brighton, High Wycombe, Aberdeen, Malvern, Richmond, Windsor, Glasgow, and Bath, with additional dates to follow.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
