Northampton BID

Holiday Club: Dragon Masters
2025-08-04 09:00 - 17:00, 2025-08-05 09:00 - 17:00, 2025-08-06 09:00 - 17:00, 2025-08-07 09:00 - 17:00, 2025-08-08 09:00 - 17:00 (Europe/London) | Royal and Derngate Theatre, 19-21 Guildhall Road, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 1DP
How do you teach a Dragon…?
Come and join a magical adventure this summer in this dragon-themed camp for little people (aged between 4 and 8) with big imaginations!
Using storytelling, theatre, crafts and more, young Dragon Masters will explore and hone their creative skills over the week to create their own original fiery stories.
For more information, please email getinvolved@royalandderngate.co.uk
Bursaries and Lunch Clubs are available.
(For older adventurers aged 9-13 we have Holiday Club: Myths, Legends & Monsters from Mon 11 – Fri 15 Aug)

Holiday Club: Myths, Legends & Monsters
2025-08-11 09:00 - 17:00, 2025-08-12 09:00 - 17:00, 2025-08-13 09:00 - 17:00, 2025-08-14 09:00 - 17:00, 2025-08-15 09:00 - 17:00
Give your young adventurer (aged between 9 and 13) an epic summer experience exploring Gods, heroes, monsters and mayhem in our mythology themed camp.
Using theatre, storytelling, crafst and more, they will explor and take inspiration from tales from different ancient partheons whilst honing their imaginations and creative skills to become the hero of their own legendary story.
For more information, please email getinvolved@royalandderngate.co.uk
Bursaries and Lunch Clubs are available.
(For younger adventurers aged 4-8, we have Holiday Club: Dragon Masters from Mon 4 – Fri 8 Aug)

BBC Radio Northampton Make a Difference Awards 2025
2025-08-16 19:00
The show will be on sale to the general public on Mon 21 July at 9am

Join Bernie Keith and Annabel Amos as they host this year’s BBC Radio Northampton Make a Difference Awards.
The awards are a chance to say, Thank You and celebrate all the people, community groups and even animals who love to make life better for others.
Join us on Wed 10 September at the Royal & Derngate for a night of entertainment with special guests, Born to Perform and Northampton Male Voice Choir.
And if that wasn’t enough, tickets are free!
We’ll find out who Northamptonshire’s Young Hero under the age of 16 is.
The Community Group that has helped to change the lives of others.
The Fundraiser that’s gone the extra mile for a good cause.
We’ll recognise those using physical activity or sport to improve the lives of their community with the new Active Award.
Find out who looks after or protects their local environment with Green Award.
Who will be given the Volunteer Award?
And everyone’s personal favourite – the Animal Award – given to either a remarkable animal that improves people’s lives, or a human that helps animals.
Come and celebrate the Northamptonshire’s unsung heroes and enjoy a night of laughter, music and uplifting stories.
Doors will open at 6pm and the ceremony will begin at 7pm
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Rosie Jones: I Can’t Tell What She’s Saying
2025-08-20 19:30
Join self-professed prick and star of Taskmaster, Rosie Jones as she heads back out on the road with her brand-new stand-up show. She’s talking about the big stuff: being single, the pressures of representing huge sections of the population, and gravy. Oh, and boobs. The BAFTA-nominated powerhouse returns with her loveable blend of cheek and charm following a nomination for Most Outstanding Show at Melbourne International Comedy Festival 2023.
As seen on nearly everything, including Taskmaster, Live At The Apollo, The Jonathan Ross Show, The Royal Variety Performance, QI, 8 Out Of 10 Cats, Cats Does Countdown, The Last Leg, Joe Lycett’s Got Your Back, Mock The Week, and soon to be on her very own upcoming sitcom.
“Seldom can an hour in a prick’s company have been more enjoyable” The Guardian
“Her jokes are beautifully crafted with no beat wasted and punchlines that take you by surprise” iTalkTelly

The Horne Section’s Hit Show
2025-09-11 19:30
They have two series of their own Channel 4 TV show, an iTunes-chart-topping podcast and now they’re tuning up their instruments once more to tour the country: it’s The Horne Section’s Hit Show!
“Britain’s Funniest Band” (The Guardian) have made appearances on The Last Leg (Channel 4), Peter Crouch’s Year- Late Euros (BBC One),?they are Dictionary Corner regulars on?8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown?and the only band to ever host? Never Mind The Buzzcocks. Separately, members of The Horne Section have performed with recording artists including Robbie Williams, Madness, Florence and the Machine, Amy Winehouse, George Ezra, Basement Jaxx, Disclosure and Noel Gallagher’s High-Flying Birds.
Unruly, ridiculous, and surprisingly satisfying, the six-headed comedy band includes five outstanding musicians and one non-musical stand-up. There’ll be comedy, songs, enthusiastic dancing, and a lot of mucking about. A brand-new show from the hugely talented band and Alex Horne, the creator and co-host of the BAFTA and National Comedy Award winning Taskmaster.

An Evening with Nigel Owens MBE
2025-09-12 19:30
Northampton are delighted to bring you an evening with one of the world’s top Rugby Referees Nigel Owens MBE. After playing to a sell-out crowd across venues in the UK, Nigel returns to celebrate the release of his book The Final Whistle with tales from on and off the field.
Nigel is one of the most engaging and humorous characters in the game of Rugby Union.
He is also the only referee to be appointed for three consecutive Heineken Cup finals and forever will be renowned and admired for displaying a dry sense of humour and sharp wit when dealing with players during the heat of battle.
This an evening simply not to be missed for any sports fan, as he recounts stories from his life and career.
There will also be an opportunity for a Q&A in the second half of the evening

Sophie McCartney
2025-09-13 20:00
After last year’s phenomenal 70 date international tour, award-winning comedian and number one bestselling author Sophie McCartney is back with a brand-new show!
Recently kicked out of club 18-30, a new decade now beckons and she DOES NOT BELIEVE IT. Tackling her perimenopausal panic with denial, delirium, and a shot of tequila – what does life look like when you’re too old to be young, but too young to be old? Desperate for a mad night out (as long as she’s home by 9pm), this mum of three, and optimistic raver, is by no means down and out – she’s up and in… watching Netflix.
Grab your glow sticks and join Sophie as she embarks on life’s next big chapter with sequins, snorty laughs, and a pair of killer orthopaedic heels.
Pre-Show Meet and Greet tickets are available, which includes a Meet and Greet with Sophie, a photo opportunity and premium seating.

NC Jazz: The Edison Herbert Quartet
2025-09-13 20:00
Get ready for a night of pure jazz fire as The Edison Herbert Quartet meets Simon Spillett at Northampton’s Royal & Derngate Theatre. This collaboration promises an evening of swinging grooves, foot-tapping rhythms, and soul-stirring ballads — performed by some of the UK’s most exciting jazz musicians.
At the heart of the night is guitarist and bandleader Edison Herbert, whose melodic flair and deep sense of swing have made him a standout name on the UK jazz scene. He’s joined by the ever-tasteful Sean Hargreaves on piano, groove-master Neville Malcolm on bass, and the dynamic Andrew Wood on drums — a lineup known for its chemistry, creativity, and sheer musical class.
Adding serious firepower to the evening is special guest Simon Spillett, one of the UK’s most electrifying tenor saxophonists. Known for his high-energy performances and deep connection to the jazz tradition, Spillett brings intensity, passion, and a fearless sense of swing that’s guaranteed to lift the roof.
This is not just another gig — it’s a rare opportunity to experience live jazz at its best: spontaneous, soulful, and thrilling from start to finish. Whether you’re a seasoned jazz fan or simply love great live music, this promises to be a night to remember.

The Billy Joel Songbook
2025-09-14 19:30
The electrifying celebration of a timeless legend is back for 2025!
The hugely acclaimed singer-songwriter and pianist Elio Pace and his incredible band are set to thrill audiences once more with the smash-hit award-winning show The Billy Joel Songbook after a sell out tour in 2024.
This exciting live show pays homage to one of the most iconic musicians, singer-songwriters and composers of the 20th Century, transporting the audience through a catalogue of Joel’s music. Elio and his band will perform more than 30 hits, including The Longest Time, She’s Always A Woman, An Innocent Man, Uptown Girl, Tell Her About It, The River of Dreams, We Didn’t Start The Fire and Piano Man.

Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club
2025-09-20 20:00, 2025-09-25 20:00
Don’t miss our comedy club with compere Dan Evans.
This season features many of comedy’s rising stars.
Doors 7.45pm Show 8pm.

Sat 20 September
Michael Shafar
Rachel Fairburn
Ed Night
This show will take place in the Underground

Sat 25 October
Tony Law
Toussaint Douglass
Abigoliah Schamaun
This show will take place in the Underground

Line up may be subject to change, advance booking is recommended. Recommended for ages 16 and above.

Tim Peake: Astronauts
2025-09-22 19:30
The Quest to Explore Space Tour
With fewer than 650 people having reached Earth’s orbit, nobody is more qualified than Tim to celebrate the historic achievements and human endeavours of space exploration. Up until now, Tim has brought his own incredible journey to life through unparalleled storytelling and extraordinary archive footage. In this new show, Tim will share the remarkable stories of some of his fellow astronauts and explore the spectacular evolution of space travel.
From the first forays into space in the 1950s, to the first human missions destined for Mars, Tim will traverse the final frontier. As he recounts the awe-inspiring endeavours of astronauts across the ages, Tim will reveal what spaceflight is truly like: from the wondrous view of Earth, living in weightlessness, the unique dangers and unexpected moments of humour, to the years of training and psychological and physical pressures that an astronaut has to take on.
The journey has only just begun…come and join Tim for this one-of-a-kind show!

Uncanny: Fear of the Dark
2025-09-23 19:30
From the team behind the sell-out show Uncanny: I Know What I Saw
Uncanny: Fear Of The Dark
The first Uncanny live stage show I Know What I Saw was one of the best-selling paranormal shows in theatre history.
Now, Danny Robins and his team of experts are back with a brand-new show for 2025, with even more terrifying real-life stories and witness accounts that will have you gripped from the very beginning.
This is not an ordinary podcast show. This is story-telling and paranormal investigation at its peak. Using a unique mix of sound, projection and stagecraft, recollections of hauntings, apparitions and events that seem to defy logical explanation are examined by Danny, Ciarán O’Keeffe and Evelyn Hollow, with input from you, the audience, as you get the chance to share your theories and your own experiences.
As always, whether you are team sceptic, team believer or somewhere in between, everyone is welcome.
The only question to ask before you come is; do you have a fear of the dark?

Pre-Show Meet & Greet Opportunity available to add at checkout. Places are limited.

The Illegal Eagles
2025-09-24 19:30
Celebrating over 50 years since the formation of the legendary West Coast Country Rock band The Eagles in 1971, The Illegal Eagles make a welcome return with a brand new production, promising more of their trademark musical prowess, acute attention to detail and incredible showmanship.
This critically acclaimed show features the very best from the Eagles’ catalogue of classics including Hotel California, Desperado, Take It Easy, New Kid In Town, Life In The Fast Lane and many more…
The latest all-star line-up of the show, produced as ever by Phil Aldridge, features Tony Kiley (formerly from 80’s sensation The Blow Monkeys) on drums, Trevor Newnham (Dr Hook) vocals and bass, Greg Webb vocals and guitars, Mike Baker vocals, guitars and keys and Garreth Hicklin vocals, guitars and keys.
Garreth, Greg, Trevor and Mike effortlessly capture the vocal style and delivery of Henley, Walsh, Fry, Schmidt and Meisner and are all masters of their respective instruments.
Extremely tight harmonies & an acute attention to detail are synonymous with The Illegal Eagles, now in their 24th year on the road. Following a number of critically acclaimed UK & European Tours, The Illegal Eagles have established themselves not only as the ultimate celebration of The Eagles, but as one of the foremost authentic and talented shows in the world.

Alan Davies
2025-09-26 19:30
He thinks he’s Marty McFly but he’s older than Doc Brown. He spends more time in the pharmacy than the gym. Subject to relentless eye rolls from his kids. What is he? A late middle-aged stand up on tour for the first time in a decade. Funnier than ever, he says.
Alan Davies is a critically acclaimed stand-up comedian, actor, writer, and TV personality. He is a staple of British television, known for his performance as the eponymous hero of David Renwick’s hugely popular, long-running TV series Jonathan Creek, and as a permanent panelist on QI. His talk show, Alan Davies: As Yet Untitled, recently reached its seventh season. He is also one of the UK’s best-loved comedians. His stand-up show Urban Trauma ran in London’s West End and Life is Pain and Little Victories sold out in venues across the UK. His second memoir, Just Ignore Him was published in 2020 and the third instalment will be published later this year.

Jamaica Love
2025-09-27 19:00
Nominated for Best Musical Production at the Black British Theatre Awards, this theatrical triumph celebrates the 77th anniversary of Windrush, weaving together the rich tapestry of British and Jamaican history.
Feel the rhythm of Reggae as you enjoy the legendary vocals of John McLean, the soulful harmonies of Celia Wickham-Anderson (of Black Voices fame), and the vibrant sounds of our amazing live band as they take you on a journey through Jamaica’s rich musical heritage — from ska and rocksteady to reggae.
Written and Directed by Mervyn Weir, immerse yourself in an evening of compelling storytelling, humour, and unforgettable music that delves into themes of identity, resistance, and resilience.

Tickets include access to a pre-show event from 5pm – 7pm, featuring live music and a Jamaican Heroes Exhibition in the foyer. Caribbean food will be available to purchase on the night and there is also the option to pre-order food as an add-on to your ticket price. Our bars will be open as usual.
Meal deal = Meal & drink: Ticket price plus £20.00
Rice & peas or white rice, and meat (Jerk Chicken, Curried Goat, Escovitch Fish or Oxtail Curry)
Rice & peas or white rice, and Chickpea Curry
Pattie & drink deal add £10.00 to ticket price
Beef, Chicken or vegetable pattie & drink
Drinks
Fruit punch
Sorrel

An Evening of Francis Rossi’s Songs from the Status Quo Songbook and More…
2025-09-28 19:30
Francis Rossi is coming to Northampton as part of his brand new show. This show will feature songs that he has never played before in this format and offer first hand backstage tales about appearing over 100 times on Top Of The Pops, why they went on first at Live Aid, life with Rick Parfitt, the hits, fellow stars, and misadventures across the world, all cut through with Francis’ wit and humour.
A strictly limited amount of VIP tickets will be available at each show, and will include: a pre-show Meet & Greet with Francis, personal photo opportunity (please bring your own phone/camera for this), signing opportunity for one of your own items, one of the best seats in the house for the show, and an exclusive tour merchandise item.
Francis will perform many of his signature hits that made the Quo name, plus some personal favourites and deeper cuts, and he’ll be telling more stories about his incredible life in music. Think you know Francis? Not yet you don’t… The story starts with Pictures of Matchstick Men but continues right up to the present day. Francis will mostly be playing his Acoustasonic guitar which, as he says, “is basically a Telecaster but is more compatible with a show of this nature – it still has the ring and sound of a Tele”.

Eddie Izzard: Hamlet
2025-09-28 20:00
Eddie Izzard performs Shakespeare’s Hamlet
Direct from her critically acclaimed, triple-extended New York, Chicago and London solo performances of Shakespeare‘s Hamlet.
Nominated for New York’s: Drama League’s Distinguished Performance Award and Outer Critic’s Circle Outstanding Solo Performance Award.
Akin to the original performances of Hamlet, Eddie will perform on the blank canvas of a bare stage, letting Shakespeare’s words and pure storytelling take the spotlight.
Adapted by Mark Izzard and directed by Selina Cadell
Presented by Mick Perrin Worldwide Ltd in association with PBJ Management
This production is true to the text of Shakespeare and for ages 9 to 90.

The Makings of a Murderer 2: The Real Manhunter
2025-09-30 19:30
Following sell-out shows nationwide, the UK’s top true crime theatre tour is back with a brand-new lineup!
Featuring Senior Investigating Officer Colin Sutton, who caught serial killers Levi Bellfield and ‘Night Stalker’ Delroy Grant. Join us for a chilling, thrilling night at the theatre as Colin, former head of a Metropolitan Police murder squad, shares the stories of how he caught some of the UK’s most notorious murderers. In this all-new show, Colin, the inspiration behind the ITV drama series Manhunt, will walk you through his remarkable career and the experience of chasing and catching serial killers.
This unique, one-off event is perfect for true crime fans and theatre goers alike. Don’t miss The Makings of a Murderer 2 – a crime thriller night at the theatre!

Pirates Love Underpants Live
2025-10-03 13:30
Based on the beloved book by Claire Freedman and Ben Cort
These?pirates? SO love underpants!
Join our swashbuckling party of?pirates?on their quest to find the fabled Pants of Gold for the Captain’s Treasure chest!
Dodge hungry crocs beneath Long-John Bridge, bob upon the waves of Big Knickers Bay, spot sharks in fancy underpants and trek across Three Pants Ridge.
Filled with music, puppetry and glittering pants of gold, arrr you ready to set sail for a family adventure?
Pirates Love Underpants is suitable for children aged 1+
“Pirates Love Underpants will persuade you that there’s always room on the shelf for another picture book on one of children’s favourite subjects…Hilarious!” Nursery World

Babatunde Aléshé
2025-10-03 20:00
Baba’s Back on Tour! Join the multi-award-winning comedian as he guides us through family life, his
new found fame and the joys of Costco in this hilarious new stand up show. As seen on Taskmaster
(C4), Live at the Apollo (BBC), Celebrity Gogglebox (C4), Would I Lie to You (BBC) and The Last Leg
(C4).
