About

The Orange Tree is a local theatre with a global reputation. An intimate theatre with the audience wrapped around the stage. The OT punches above its weight to create world-class productions of new and contemporary drama, revitalise classics and rediscoveries, and introduce children and young people to the magic of theatre.

The theatre started life above the Orange Tree pub in 1971: director Sam Walters and a group of friends staged lunchtime shows lit by daylight, a simple circle of chairs creating a space in the round. Since then, the OT has become one of the UK’s leading theatres, but the ethos of a community of passionate artists creating something special has continued.

In 1991, the OT moved across the road into their beautiful in-the-round home, adapted from a disused primary school. Since then, the OT has gone from strength to strength, hosting world-class actors, directors, writers, and artists, as well as collaborating with the National Theatre, the RSC, and almost all the UK’s top theatres.

As a registered charity (266128), with only 180 seats, and no support from Arts Council England, they rely on the generosity of audiences and donors to raise over £650,000 a year. These funds support the outstanding work on stage and in the community, and investment in the next generation of talent. You can support the OT by donating, becoming a Member, buying a ticket, or simply spreading the word. The OT's mission is for everyone to feel warmly welcomed and to experience the joy, power and creativity of live theatre.