Surrey Downs Magazine

Epsom Playhouse

Epsom Playhouse presents a varied programme of both professional and community productions. The main auditorium hosts leading theatre and ballet companies, plus frequent solo shows with diverse personalities, while the Myers Studio within the Playhouse is a regular venue for jazz evenings, children’s shows and community events. Visit the Epsom Playhouse weskit to see what’s on. 

_{Paul Zerdin, Oct 16 at Epsom Playhouse} 

The Leatherhead Theatre

In 2001, following an extensive refurbishment, the curtain went up at The Leatherhead Theatre for the first time in four years. Now the venue hosts everything from musicals to children’s shows, as well as the Leatherhead Drama Festival: two weeks of plays by budding playwrights hoping to win the prestigious Sir Michael Caine Drama Award (often presented by Sir Michael himself). Visit these links for a list of forthcoming shows at The Leatherhead Theatre or for ticket information.

_{Peter Pan The Musical}

The New Victoria Theatre, Woking

Still regarded as the new kid on the Surrey theatre block, the New Victoria has quickly established itself as a prime receiving theatre since its inception in 1992. The auditorium hosts a wide variety of touring productions, including major musicals, opera and ballet, along with an annual large-scale pantomime which attracts big celebrity names. Right in the centre of Woking, the theatre is also handily positioned for the cinema and Peacocks Shopping Centre. To see what’s on visit the New Victoria Theatre website.

_{Blue/Orange, Oct 16 to 20 at Woking New Victoria} 

The Harlequin Theatre and Cinema, Redhill

In the heart of Redhill, the Harlequin plays host to just about everything from music and ballet to stand-up and professional wrestling. Among its annual highlights is the Tune Up Band Night, run in association with the Reigate & Banstead Youth Council and featuring the best local youth bands. Visit the Harlequin Theatre and Cinema website to find out what’s playing next. 

_{Sleeping Beauty}

Yvonne Arnaud Theatre, Guildford

Standing proudly on its island in the River Wey is the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre, named after the French actress who lived on nearby Effingham Common. Since its inception in 1965, it has been a thriving producing theatre and receives top-class productions too, many of which transfer to the West End. Recently it staged the world premiere of the stage adaptation of hit film The King’s Speech. For a list of what’s on visit the Yvonne Arnaud website.

Driving Miss Daisy, Oct 10 to 13 at the Yvonne Arnaud 

The Rose Theatre, Kingston  

The Rose is named after the Elizabethan Rose Theatre on London’s South Bank. Championed by Sir Peter Hall and broadcaster David Jacobs, Kingston’s Rose near the River Thames includes a thrust stage and capacity for 899 audience members on three sides. Since its opening in 2008, it has presented many classic productions with a host of leading British actors including Dame Judi Dench, Celia Imrie and Timothy West. Visit the Rose Theatre website to see what’s playing.

^{Laura Michelle Kelly as The Second Mrs Tanqueray}

Dorking Halls

Dorking Halls hosts professional performances in all genres from ballet and comedy to opera and dance. The Leith Hill Music Festival takes place at the halls each year showcasing the best choirs in the local area. The venue has had major refurbishments done over the pat 15 years making it one of the best places in Surrey to see live entertainment. Visit the Dorking Halls website for more information.

G Live

A relatively new venue, fast earning itself a reputation for top class comedy, musical theatre and live music. The range of talent on offer includes big comedy names, touring theatre companies, Russian orchestras, as well as local acts. Visit the G Live website or call the box office on 0844 7701 797.