The Orange Tree Theatre has unveiled further programming for 2026, alongside plans for a major community festival and continued building improvements.

The announcement comes as Richard Eyre's adaptation of August Strindberg's Dance of Death continues its run at the Clarence Street venue.

Joining the previously announced OT on the Hill and OT in the Church projects, the 2026 season will include Peter Shaffer's Tony Award-winning Black Comedy, directed by Caroline Steinbeis.

The farce, staged in collaboration with Peepolykus theatre company founders Javier Marzan and John Nicholson, will open on 27 May (previews from 16 May) and run until 11 July 2026.

Later in the year, Stephanie Street's world premiere a small and quiet light will arrive at the theatre following its run at Chichester Festival Theatre. Directed by Diyan Zora and Elin Schofield and starring Priyanga Burford, the co-production opens on 28 September (previews from 21 September) and runs until 24 October 2026.

Artistic Director Tom Littler said: "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."

A highlight of the year will be Richmond Myths, described as the theatre's most ambitious community production to date.

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The project will bring together all OT Community groups and local partners including Otakar Kraus Music Trust, BridgeLink Centre, Multicultural Richmond, Richmond Carers and Combination Dance Company.

Inspired by Greek mythology and directed by Georgia Green, the production will form part of Centre Stage, a multi-arts festival delivered in partnership with Richmond Council and HemingwayDesign.

Running from 17 to 19 July 2026, the festival will transform Richmond town centre into a free hub of arts and culture.

Francesca Ellis, Community Director at OT, added: "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."

Tim Corum, Arts Service Manager at Richmond Council, described the theatre as a "valued cultural partner" and said the project would help ensure cultural benefits are shared more widely across the borough.

Orange Tree also confirmed its continued commitment to young people through its flagship Primary Shakespeare project, which will tour local primary schools with workshops ahead of school visits to see The Comedy of Errors between May and July.

Shakespeare Up Close: Macbeth and Romeo and Juliet will tour secondary schools in a co-production with Guildford Shakespeare Company.

Throughout the year, OT Teatime Plays will replace the long-running Lunchtime Plays, while Saturday Seminars will offer behind-the-scenes insights into productions, beginning with Dance of Death on 28 February.

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The theatre will also continue its Artists' Network events and maintain accessibility schemes including OT On Screen streaming, Under 30 Nights with £15 tickets and post-show Q&As, and a £1 ticket scheme for those receiving government support.

To find out more about Orange Tree Theatre click here.

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