Oak Theatre & Studios paid partnership
Oak Theatre & Studios, nestled within the historic grounds of Scarisbrick Hall, is delighted to announce that it will be taking part in Independent Venue Week 2027 for the very first time, with a special programme of events running from Tuesday 26th January to Sunday 31st January 2027.
The week-long celebration will showcase the diversity of entertainment and creative opportunities available at the 391-seat venue, bringing together live music, poetry, comedy, new writing and community engagement.
Independent Venue Week is a nationwide celebration recognising the important role independent venues play in supporting artists, developing talent and bringing communities together through live performance.
For Oak Theatre, the occasion provides an opportunity to introduce new audiences to the venue, celebrate local creativity and highlight its growing role within Southport’s cultural community.
A Week of Entertainment for Everyone
The celebrations begin on Tuesday 26 January 2027 with Community Night, an opportunity for local residents, performers, community groups and businesses to discover everything Oak Theatre & Studios has to offer.
Guests will be welcomed with live music and an introduction to the theatre from Theatre Manager Tom Cain, alongside the opportunity to explore the venue’s facilities and learn more about its upcoming programme. The first 100 guests will also receive a complimentary glass of fizz on arrival.
On Wednesday 27 January 2027, Joseph Roberts: Live will bring an intimate evening of poetry, conversation and performance to the stage. Hosted by Jeff Nolan, the event will explore Joseph’s journey into poetry, the inspiration behind his writing and his latest book, alongside performances accompanied by a pianist and an opportunity for audience questions.
Thursday 28 January 2027 sees Oak Theatre host its first Scratch Night, providing an exciting platform for emerging playwrights and theatre companies to showcase new work. Featuring 10-minute plays, the evening will give writers and performers the opportunity to test ideas, develop material and receive valuable feedback from a live audience.
The entertainment continues on Friday 29 January 2027 with Comedy Bingo, hosted by comedian Brendan Riley, bringing a hilarious twist to the traditional bingo night. Combining comedy, audience participation and all the excitement of bingo, Brendan will lead an evening packed with laughter, entertainment and plenty of surprises. With his humour and engaging style, this promises to be anything but an ordinary game of bingo! It’s the perfect opportunity to gather friends and enjoy a fun-filled evening at Oak Theatre.
Bringing the celebrations to a close on Sunday 31 January 2027 are The Dunwells, the acclaimed Leeds-based folk-rock band known for their rich vocal harmonies, heartfelt songwriting and captivating live performances. Blending elements of folk, rock and Americana, the band has built a loyal following through its distinctive sound and engaging stage presence. Audiences can look forward to an evening of uplifting live music, powerful vocals and the warm, intimate atmosphere that makes live performances at independent venues so special.
Supporting Independent Theatre and Local Creativity
Alongside its programme of touring productions, Oak Theatre & Studios is committed to supporting local performers, community organisations and emerging talent.
Its versatile studio spaces provide opportunities for rehearsals, workshops, classes and smaller performances, while its main theatre welcomes everything from family productions and comedy to dance, live music and tribute acts.
Taking part in Independent Venue Week is another step in the venue’s ambition to make theatre more accessible, encourage creative development and strengthen its connections with the wider community.
Tom Cain, Theatre Manager at Oak Theatre, said:
“Being part of Independent Venue Week for the first time is a really exciting moment for Oak Theatre. We’re incredibly proud of the venue and the opportunities it offers, but we also know there are people locally who have yet to discover us.
“This week is about opening our doors, welcoming new audiences and showing just how much independent venues have to offer. From supporting new writing and emerging performers to bringing established artists to our stage, we want Oak Theatre to be a place where creativity thrives and our community feels welcome.
“We’ve put together a programme that really reflects what we’re about, and we hope people will come along, experience something different and discover their new favourite local venue.”
With tickets starting from as little as £5, Oak Theatre hopes to encourage audiences of all ages to experience live entertainment and support their local independent venue.
Whether discovering Oak Theatre for the first time or returning for another memorable performance, audiences are invited to join the celebrations and experience Southport’s Hidden Gem.
For full event details and tickets, visit the Oak Theatre website: Oaktheatreandstudios.co.uk
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