Northampton BID

Uncanny: Fear of the Dark
2025-09-23 19:30 (Europe/London) | Royal and Derngate Theatre, 19-21 Guildhall Road, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 1DP
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.

Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club
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.

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).

Maximum Rhythm N Blues with The Manfreds
2025-10-04 19:30
The Manfreds, featuring original Manfred Mann members Paul Jones and Tom McGuinness, will once again bring their highly acclaimed Maximum Rhythm and Blues show to Royal & Derngate on Sat 4 October.
Their incredible repertoire of hits includes the iconic songs Do Wah Diddy Diddy, Pretty Flamingo, 5-4-3-2-1, The Mighty Quinn, plus many more, including those from Paul Jones’ solo success and Tom McGuinness from his hugely successful group, McGuinness Flint.
The band is delighted, and indeed privileged, to welcome their very special guest, Noel McCalla. Described by Blues & Soul magazine as ‘One of Britain’s best soul singers’, Noel’s impressive CV boast such credentials as lead singer with Manfred Mann’s Earth Band from 1991 until 2009, which brings hits such as Blinded By The Light and Davy’s On The Road Again onto the set list, plus his own unique blend of soul/jazz/blues inspired material.

Northampton Opera Group
2025-10-04 19:30
After their successful launch and recent Viva Verdi! concert, Northampton Opera Group returns to Royal & Derngate. There’s a new line-up of international opera soloists, local vocal talent and a brand-new programme of the greatest opera choruses and solos of every kind, from comic tunes to heartbreak, love and tragedy. If you love singing, join us!

NC Jazz: Richard Exall Quartet
2025-10-04 20:00
Richard Exall Quartet presents Goes Getz: A Tribute to the music of Stan Getz
Mike Ridout – Guitar
Mark Adams – Double Bass
Clark Tracey – Drums

The Richard Exall Quartet bring you a varied and exciting programme consisting of favourites from Jazz Samba, Getz Au Go Go and The Cool Sound Of Stan Getz. Making the most of Getz’s reputation for beautiful ballads and rip-roaring swing standards.

Dr Richard Shepherd
2025-10-05 19:30
Discover the Secrets Hidden in Death with Dr Richard Shepherd – Live on Stage
Step into the world of the forensic investigation of sudden and suspicious death with Dr Richard Shepherd, the UK’s most distinguished forensic pathologist, as he returns to theatres with his captivating new tour: Unnatural Causes – Time Of Death. Following his acclaimed 2021 and 2022 tours, Dr Shepherd brings audiences an unmissable evening exploring the mysteries of life, death, and many minutes in between.
In the realm of forensic pathology time is crucial and holds the key to understanding the truth behind accidents, murders and unexplained deaths – whether it’s the exact moment of death needed to help solve a crime, or how long it would take to die or an understanding what happens in the minutes, days and weeks after death. All these different times help interpret the truths a body can tell. Providing you ask the right questions.
Unnatural Causes – Time Of Death explores why the understanding of the passing of time is one of the most important factors in unravelling the secrets of a life cut short.
With over 23,000 autopsies to his name, Dr Shepherd has worked on the cases that defined our times: The Spy in the Bag (Gareth Williams), the Hungerford Massacre, the sinking of the Marchioness, Joy, Gardner, the Princess Diana Inquiry, 9/11 terrorist attack, Jo Cox MP, London Bombings, Russian assassination squads and more. From facing serial killers to uncovering the truth behind freak accidents, his work has brought justice to many, overturned unsafe convictions and has shed light into humanity’s darkest corners.
Now, he invites you to look with him behind the headlines to understand the truths. From the chilling crime scenes to the silent evidence left behind by those long dead, Dr Shepherd will reveal the painstaking process of solving the ultimate puzzles of life and death.
But this is not just a night of forensic medicine and science, it’s a deeply personal insight of a man who has spent decades walking the line between life and death. Unnatural Causes – Time Of Death offers a rare glimpse of how short life can be, how untimely death can be. And ultimately how a life surrounded by tragedy has shaped Dr Shepherd’s perspective on life. And the ultimate costs of his extraordinary career.
Join the man who has faced death head-on and solved some of its greatest mysteries for an evening that promises to be utterly gripping, profoundly moving, and full of unexpected revelations. Whether you’re a true crime enthusiast, fascinated by forensic medicine and science, or simply curious about the human condition, this is a very timely show and one that is not to be missed.

The Bootleg Beatles
2025-10-06 19:30
Sixty years ago the Beatles’ debut feature-length film A Hard Day’s Night became a huge critical and commercial success , even being nominated for two Academy Awards. The following year in 1965 their second film Help!, this one in colour, received similar glowing plaudits. The group was hailed as a modern-day Marx Brothers and their director, Dick Lester, credited with ‘fathering’ the MTV pop video culture that was to come.
So what better time to celebrate the songs not just from the soundtracks of these two iconic motion pictures, but from all five in their catalogue. Featuring hits from A Hard Day’s Night, Help!, Magical Mystery Tour, Yellow Submarine and Let It Be, The Bootleg Beatles and their orchestra will take you on a whistle stop trip through the celluloid career of the Fab Four in their brand new spectacular multi-media stage show.
It’s all there, the costumes, the hairstyles, the banter and the gear. It’s not the Beatles….. but you simply won’t believe it!
“You have to pinch yourself that you’re not seeing some kind of Al magic at play” The Times, Sunday Review
“Less a Tribute , more a reincarnation” The Daily Telegraph.

Level 42: World Machine 40th Anniversary Tour
2025-10-07 19:30
Level 42 are delighted to announce that they will embark upon the World Machine 40th Anniversary Tour coming to Royal & Derngate for Autumn 2025.
All of the shows will feature Special Guests Roachford. The tour will celebrate this landmark – and indeed breakthrough – album for Level 42, and the band will also, of course, be breaking out many of their classic era-defining hits.
World Machine was the album that changed everything for Level 42, and set them on the path to true super-stardom. Released in 1985, it was a hit both here and in the States, and has now been certified double Platinum. It was on this album, the band’s sixth, that arguably they nailed down the sound and the style that made them one of the biggest groups in the world. On this album they refined the funky pop fusion that had grown from their jazz roots – and had already brought them serious success – and truly made it their own. World Machine features the singles Something About You (the band’s only American top 10 hit) and Leaving Me Now, and it showed the band’s progression in style and confidence that would lead to their massive Running In The Family album the following year.
Four decades on from the release of World Machine, Level 42 are still in demand the world over. This UK tour celebrates a great album, but is also an opportunity simply to witness one of the most popular and enduring British bands doing what they do best.

Nina Conti: Whose Face Is It Anyway?
2025-10-07 19:30
The virtuoso ventriloquist, BAFTA nominee and British Comedy Award winner is heading back to Northampton! Nina presents an unparalleled, unscripted brand new show that delves deep into who we are, hijacking faces to spark a bold, hysterical reality warp.
Nina Conti (and Monkey) has regularly sold out shows all over the world with her widely acclaimed performances: in London’s West End, off-Broadway in New York, at Sydney’s Opera House, across the UK on tour and more – all without moving her lips!
As seen on BBC’s Live At The Apollo and many more. Her clips, live show special and In Therapy web series, have amassed several million views online.

Björn Again
2025-10-08 19:30
Following their summer performances at Wilderness, Glastonbury Festival and Brighton’s Gay Pride to packed out crowds, Björn Again return to Royal & Derngate. Fans can expect one massive sing-along with the Australian ABBA show next Autumn – not to be missed!
The Internationally acclaimed Björn Again show was created and founded in 1988 in Melbourne, by Australian musician/manager Rod Stephen. Since then, Björn Again has been hailed as the most successful tribute show of all time, and is the only ABBA tribute show globally to have been endorsed by the original members of ABBA.
Designed as a tongue-in-cheek rocked-up light-hearted ABBA satire, the show rapidly achieved worldwide cult status with critical acclaim and was acknowledged for singlehandedly initiating the ABBA revival, which brought about ABBA Gold, Muriel’s Wedding and MAMMA MIA!

Hal Cruttenden: Can Dish It Out But Can’t Take It
2025-10-09 19:30
Hal is back with a brand-new tour for 2025 with a show that promises to stick it to ‘The Man’, as long as ‘The Man’ doesn’t stick it back to him.
With his trademark hard-hitting ‘take no prisoners’ comedy (this is what Hal told me to write!!!) he will be hilariously pontificating on subjects like middle-aged dating, social media, the insanity of modern politics and the fact that his daughters love him but don’t respect him. He believes that, after you’ve seen the show, you’ll feel exactly the same way.
His last tour was extended four times and he’s one of a select number of comics to have done Live At The Apollo three times and the Royal Variety twice. TV also includes Have I Got News For You, The Apprentice You’re Fired, Bake Off Extra Slice and Would I Lie To You.

Nurse Georgie Carroll: Infectious
2025-10-09 19:30
Georgie Carroll is back with her brand-new show, Infectious. An undeniable live comedy powerhouse and a natural storyteller, she’s razor sharp and riotous.
Nurse turned comedian, Georgie Carroll is not only brilliantly funny, she is unstoppable on the comedy circuit having performed her smash hit award winning show Sista Flo 2.0 for three solid years of sold out seasons (UK, NZ, AU). Don’t miss her brand new show!

Alice Roberts: Domination
2025-10-10 19:30
Join Professor Alice Roberts as she takes us on an investigative journey to establish who spread Christianity, how and why; the story of the fall of an Empire – and the rise of another.
Celebrating the publication of her new book, Domination, the narrative will lead audiences from a secluded valley in South Wales to the shores of Brittany; from the heart of the Roman Empire in a time of political turmoil to the ancient city of Corinth in the footsteps of the apostle Paul; from Alexandria in the fourth century to Constantinople.
As the Roman Empire crumbled in Western Europe, a shadow of power remained, almost perfectly mapping onto its disappearing territories. And then, it continued to spread. Unearthing the archaeological clues and challenging long-established histories, Professor Roberts tells a remarkable story about the relationship between the Roman Empire and Christianity.
Lifting the veil on secrets that have been hidden in plain sight, this story is nothing short of astonishing.
Domination is a page-turning exploration of power and its survival, and now you have the opportunity to hear more from the author in this exciting evening with Professor Alice Roberts.

Jake Lambert: The Sunshine Kid
2025-10-10 19:30
Jake Lambert is going on his first national tour. Described as “A joke machine” by The Telegraph, the show will see the comedian talk about trying to navigate his way through everyday life, why he has a fear of being normal, and asking why we all feel the need to ask strangers what breed their dogs are.
It seems the perfect time for his first tour too; his online videos have gained over 150million views, he has been supporting Michael McIntyre on his worldwide tour and he will be appearing on the next series of Live at the Apollo.
????? “…pure brilliance from start to finish” London Theatre 1
????? “An absolute must-see” RGM
???? “A joke machine” The Telegraph

The Show Must Go…On?
2025-10-10 19:30
The show might be cancelled… but the night is just beginning!
When the curtain fails to rise, the Royal & Derngate’s unstoppable Front of House team step into the spotlight to save the show – with no script, no safety net, and definitely no permission!
Expect a gloriously chaotic night of singing, dancing, acting, and surprises as the front of house team you know and love turn the theatre upside down. Led by a quick-witted compère and featuring familiar faces from their viral TikTok channel, this immersive experience begins the moment you enter the foyer – and doesn’t let up until the final bow.
It’s backstage meets spotlight, and nothing is off-limits.
One cancelled show. One fearless team. One unforgettable night.

Eddie Kadi
2025-10-10 20:00
Please Note: This show has been rescheduled from Sat 15 March.
The highly anticipated nationwide debut tour from one of comedy’s fastest rising stars. A Son, Brother, Dad and Friend. From one culture to another. Join stand up sensation Eddie Kadi as he tells us how he got there.
Star of Strictly Come Dancing (BBC) and Team Captain of ITV’s Sorry I Didn’t Know. Host of The Official AfroBeats Chart Show on BBC1XTRA. As seen on BBC, ITV, Channel 4 & Comedy Central.
Best Breakthrough Award Nominee at Royal Television Society Awards and Edinburgh TV Awards.

We Call It Ballet: Sleeping Beauty Dance & Light Show
2025-10-11 18:00
Experience Sleeping Beauty like never before in this dance and light show.
Enjoy a unique fusion of classical ballet and modern technology, where local dancers literally light up the stage with glittering routines and glow-in-the-dark costumes. The timeless tale of the cursed princess awakened by her true love’s kiss comes to life on stage, as pirouettes and gravity-defying leaps cast a kaleidoscope of colours across the space.
It’s a beautiful production you won’t want to miss! Get your tickets now for We Call It Ballet in Northampton: Sleeping Beauty Dance and Light Show!

The Return Of The Legends
2025-10-11 19:30
Brendan, James, Pasha, Vincent and Ian.
All household names, all Strictly favourites, all kings of the ballroom, and all re-uniting again in The Return Of The Legends!
The boys return, following the incredible success of last year’s sold-out Legends Of The Dance Floor tour, described by Strictly Head Judge,Shirley Ballas as ‘by far one of the funniest shows that I’ve ever seen in my life. A great evening out’!
Brendan Cole, James Jordan, Pasha Kovalev, Vincent Simone and Ian Waite, together with a supporting cast, are back to create another evening of spectacular dancing, hilarious camaraderie, great music and a huge amount of laughter! They have all headlined their own solo tours but together they create what one journalist described as “a show that was nothing short of spectacular.”
All five thoroughly enjoyed their reunion last year and feel that they still have stories to tell, secrets to reveal and more dances to perform.
Performing Latin, ballroom, tango, rumba and so much more… our Legends are back with new routines and more hilarious Strictly and life stories.
It is showbusiness at its very best!
If you loved Legends Of The Dance Floor and you want more of the same, then grab your tickets now. If you didn’t see it last year, what are you waiting for… get your dancing shoes on!

Sam Avery
2025-10-11 20:00
Back with a bang, award-winning comedian Sam Avery returns with his electrifying new show, Thunderstorm! ?
In his trademark punchy style, Sam takes you on a whirlwind journey through the chaos of the modern world – from parenting disasters to culture wars, conspiracy theories to political morons.
With sharp wit and a stormy twist, he’s here to prove that the only way to weather modern life is through laughter!
Expect thunderous punchlines, lightning-fast jokes, and a night of belly laughs you won’t forget.

Mathew Horne: In Conversation
2025-10-12 15:00
A very special afternoon talking all things Gavin & Stacey with none other than the show’s lead: Mathew Horne!
For the very first time since the series’ hilarious and explosive finale, Mathew is sitting down in front of live audiences at select theatres, deep in conversation all about his Gavin & Stacey journey – talking his absolute favourite moments, revealing hilarious tales of behind the scenes misadventures, and exploring the quite colossal impact the show’s had on his own day-to-day life!
There will be a Q&A with the audience at these special events – so please come ready with your questions for Mathew! These shows are a very rare opportunity for an intimate audience with the lead of the nation’s very favourite series; early booking is strongly recommended to avoid disappointment!

Sibelius’ Symphony No.2 with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra
2025-10-12 15:00
Vasily Petrenko Conductor
Boris Giltburg Piano
Royal Philharmonic Orchestra

Nielsen Maskarade Overture
Grieg Piano Concerto
Sibelius Symphony No.2
The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra (RPO) returns to the Royal & Derngate stage, joining forces with acclaimed pianist Boris Giltburg and conducted by RPO Musical Director, Vasily Petrenko. ‘Titanic’ was how one critic described the playing of Boris Giltburg, and they didn’t stop there: ‘Giltburg had enormous reserves of firepower – and of musing poetry, too – to open up whole worlds of feeling and imagination.’
Now imagine him bringing all his wizardry to one of the best-loved showpieces of all time – Grieg’s evergreen (and gloriously tuneful) Piano Concerto. It’s the big heart of a concert that begins with the bright and witty Overture from Danish composer Carl Nielsen’s neo-classical comic Opera Maskarade, and ends beneath the Northern Lights of Finland, as Sibelius’ mighty Second Symphony grows from tranquil beginnings to a soaring hymn of triumph.
‘He made me listen to the music afresh… the whole trajectory of the piece became clearer. The audience’s reaction was fervent and impassioned, and rightly so.’ Seen and Heard International on Boris Giltburg, February 2024
