Orange Tree Theatre has revealed further programming for 2026, with new productions, community festivals and expanded engagement projects added to the year’s already ambitious plans.
The announcement includes Peter Shaffer’s Black Comedy, directed by Caroline Steinbeis, and the world premiere of Stephanie Street’s a small and quiet light, co-produced with Chichester Festival Theatre and starring Priyanga Burford.
The season expands on the previously announced OT on the Hill and OT in the Church, reaffirming the venue’s commitment to presenting bold new work and reimagined classics for Richmond audiences.
Artistic Director Tom Littler said:
“2026 is a transformational year for the Orange Tree. We are transforming our front of house and backstage areas, making the OT a more accessible and welcoming place for audiences and artists alike. I’m thrilled that our beloved in-the-round auditorium will remain untouched and open throughout, and these two remarkable new productions reflect the ambition and intimacy our audiences cherish.
“We’re also branching out further into our community than ever before. This year sees a host of exciting projects beyond our walls. Richmond Myths is our most ambitious and large-scale community production yet, which will light up our town with creativity and storytelling. Our community is at the heart of the next chapter of the OT.”
Peepolykus founders Javier Marzan and John Nicholson reunite for Black Comedy, which previews from 16 May and opens on 27 May, running until 11 July 2026.
Following its Chichester run, a small and quiet light opens at the Orange Tree on 28 September, with previews from 21 September, and runs until 24 October 2026.
The OT Community programme will unite all groups and local partners for Richmond Myths, part of Centre Stage, a multi-arts festival transforming Richmond town centre from 17 to 19 July 2026. Directed by Georgia Green, Richmond Myths will reimagine Greek mythology through performances across the town.
Community Director Francesca Ellis said, “The OT is a venue at the heart of its community, and our ambitious work with schools and local partners has been an integral part of the programme since the theatre’s early days above the pub. Now, as we rebuild our front of house to better welcome everybody IN to the building, we are taking the opportunity to go OUT, engaging with partners across the borough and bringing a vibrant weekend of performances to Richmond town centre. It’s going to be spectacular!”
Tim Corum, Arts Service Manager for London Borough of Richmond, added, “The Orange Tree Theatre is a valued cultural partner, and their commitment to inclusive, community-driven practice is well recognised within the borough. Richmond Myths will play an important role in ensuring that the benefits of culture are shared more widely and more equitably across Richmond.”
The theatre will continue to bring Shakespeare to local schools, with Primary Shakespeare offering workshops and performances of The Comedy of Errors, and Shakespeare Up Close touring Macbeth and Romeo and Juliet to secondary schools.
Audiences can also look forward to OT Teatime Plays, replacing the long-running OT Lunchtime Plays, as well as Saturday Seminars offering insights into productions throughout the year.
The OT Artists’ Network, a free programme supporting creatives at all career stages, will continue with talks and events led by leading industry figures.
For audiences seeking accessible theatre options, OT On Screen will return with limited-time streams of each 2026 production, alongside the ongoing OT Under 30 Nights and the theatre’s £1 ticket scheme for those receiving government support.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
