Royal Exchange Theater Announces Ambitious 2026 Season, Marking a New Chapter
The Royal Exchange Theatre in Manchester is poised for a significant resurgence with a dynamic 2026 season, signaling a renewed commitment to artistic excellence and community engagement. This declaration comes as the theatre aims to solidify its position as a leading cultural institution following recent challenges.
A return to the Stage for a Beloved Actor
Notably, acclaimed actor david Threlfall will return to the Royal Exchange to headline a production of King Lear in September and October 2026. This marks his first performance at the venue as 1999, a homecoming for an artist deeply connected to its history.
Threlfall previously served as a leading man and associate artistic director at the Royal Exchange. He’s since enjoyed a prolific career, including memorable roles in Shameless, What Remains, Code of a Killer, and Nightsleeper.
Furthermore, his stage credits include an Olivier Award win in 1980 and two Tony nominations. You might also recall his portrayal of Edgar opposite Sir Laurence Olivier in a 1983 television adaptation of King Lear.
A Season reflecting Manchester’s Past and Future
The 2026 season isn’t solely focused on a celebrated return; it’s a carefully curated program designed to resonate with the city’s identity and artistic spirit. It includes several premieres and revivals,promising a diverse range of theatrical experiences for audiences.
Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect:
* Even These Things by Rory Mullarkey: A new play exploring pivotal moments in Manchester’s history, including the aftermath of the 1996 IRA bombing that significantly damaged the theatre.
* Shooters by Tolu Okanlawon: The winner of this year’s Bruntwood Prize for Playwriting, this production delves into the life of Gordon Parks, a groundbreaking African-American photojournalist.
* Fun Home: A Tony Award-winning musical offering a poignant and compelling story.
* Revivals: Classic productions of Noel Coward’s Private Lives and Stephen Sondheim’s A Little Night music will grace the stage.
Navigating Recent challenges and Reaffirming Commitment
The Royal Exchange has faced a period of turbulence, navigating the impacts of the pandemic and a recent censorship controversy surrounding a cancelled production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. This led to the departure of the theatre’s chief executive.
Though, artistic director Selina Cartmell is optimistic about the future.She emphasizes the season’s role in “renewing our commitment to being a world-class theatre here in the heart of Manchester and an artistic engine-room for talent development in the North.”
The theatre receives substantial funding from Arts Council England, ranking among the highest recipients alongside the National Theatre and the Royal Shakespeare Company. This support underscores its importance within the national cultural landscape.
Ultimately, the Royal Exchange’s 2026 season represents more than just a program of plays. It’s a statement of resilience, a celebration of artistic vision, and a promise of continued cultural vibrancy for Manchester and beyond. You can anticipate a season that will captivate, challenge, and inspire audiences for years to come.
