News.
MAY AT LEEDS HERITAGE THEATRES
1st May 2025
This May sees our Rage & Reinvention series explode onto our stages, with James Graham’s powerful new adaptation of Alan Bleasdale’s Boys from the Blackstuff at The Grand, John Keenan: 48 Years, Live in Leeds! at The Varieties, and screenings and events at Hyde Park Picture House.
Leeds Grand Theatre also hosts a variety of show-stopping musicals and Olivier Award-winning plays, as well as an exclusive one-night-only evening with Sir Derek Jacobi as he shares stories from his life on stage and screen.
Over at Leeds’ hidden gem, celebrate the 80th anniversary of VE Day with The D-Day Darlings, hear fascinating discussions at our many in-conversation events, and enjoy music from the likes of China Crisis, Martin Fry, The Phantoms, Let There Be House, Curtis Stigers and more, in the nation’s longest-running music hall.
A SELECTION OF SHOWS AT LEEDS GRAND THEATRE IN MAY 2025:
Cruel Intentions: The 90s Musical: Wed 7 – Sat 10 May
The brand-new smash-hit musical Cruel Intentions is coming to Leeds. Based on the iconic film and inspired by Les Liaisons Dangereuses, it’s packed with ‘90s pop classics including the songs of Britney Spears, Boyz II Men, Christina Aguilera, TLC, R.E.M., Ace of Base, Natalie Imbruglia and more!
Alan Bleasdale’s Boys From The Blackstuff: Tue 13 – Sat 17 May
James Graham’s powerful new adaptation of Alan Bleasdale’s BAFTA Award-winning TV series is directed by Kate Wasserberg and comes to Leeds direct from the National Theatre and the West End.
Sir Tim Rice: My Life in Musicals: Sun 18 May
Due to popular demand, following his sell-out tour earlier this year, Sir Tim Rice, the multi-award-winning, internationally renowned lyricist, will return to theatre stages with his extraordinary live musical theatre event – My Life In Musicals – I Know Him So Well.
Kinky Boots: Tue 20 – Sat 24 May
The Broadway and West End phenomenon, Kinky Boots The Musical, is strutting into Leeds Grand Theatre in a brand-new production with a star cast including Strictly Come Dancing’s Johannes Radebe, Dan Partridge (Grease), Courtney Bowman (Six) and Scott Paige (The Addams Family).
An Evening with Sir Derek Jacobi in conversation with Richard Clifford: Sun 25 May
An icon of stage and screen known for his work at the Royal National Theatre, Sir Derek Jacobi is a BAFTA, Olivier, Emmy, Screen Guild and Tony Award-winner. Not bad for a boy who grew up in Essex, the son of a corner shop owner and a secretary.
Pride & Prejudice* (*sort of): Tue 27 – Sat 31 May
Direct from its triumph in the West End where it won the Laurence Olivier Award for Best Comedy and the Evening Standard Award, Pride and Prejudice* (*sort of) returns to Leeds Grand Theatre by public demand and is a unique and audacious retelling of Jane Austen’s most iconic love story.
A SELECTION OF SHOWS AT CITY VARIETIES IN MAY 2025:
An Evening With Warren Gatland: Mon 12 May
On the eve of the Lions Tour to Australia, this unique event allows you to meet one of the most successful coaches of the modern era, speaking about his success at Wales (when he won four Six Nations titles) and so much more.
John Keenan: 48 Years, Live in Leeds!: Wed 14 May
Come and join legendary promoter John Keenan in conversation, as he attempts to chronicle 48 years of promoting live music in and around Leeds. John has brought some of the biggest acts to Leeds, including U2, Radiohead, Nirvana, Coldplay, and Oasis. He also helped launch the careers of local acts such as The Sisters of Mercy, The Gang of 4, and The Mekons. Part of the Rage & Reinvention series.
Levison Wood: Walking the World: Sun 18 May
Join Levison Wood, world-renowned explorer, best-selling author and TV presenter, as he embarks on his fifth UK theatre tour, Walking the World: A Life of Exploration and Adventure. This brand-new show will celebrate the human spirit and the transformative power of travel.
Let There Be House: Sat 24 May
This powerhouse of a show takes the audience on a magical journey of the greatest dance music vocal classics of the 90s with a 10-piece band and singers at the top of their game. Songs include Show Me Love, Put ‘Em High, Everybody’s Free, Lola’s Theme and Do You Want It Right Now.
The D-Day Darlings: VE Day 80 Anniversary Tour 2025: Tue 27 May
The nation’s premiere wartime-inspired group is back by popular demand with a sensational celebration show. Featuring music from their much-anticipated brand-new album When The Lights Go On Again, expect an uplifting tribute to hope and heroes.
The Man Who Was Magic: Wed 28 May
Dare to believe in magic and step into a world where the impossible comes alive! James Phelan is The Man Who Was Magic in a completely new show for 2025. You’re invited to a night of wonder where secrets unravel, and you’re left aching with laughter and dizzy in disbelief.
To see what’s on and book tickets, visit leedsheritagetheatres.com.