Talisman Mainstage
Talisman Mainstage
What’s On at the Talisman Theatre
The Talisman offers nine main stage productions every year at our Kenilworth based theatre. We produce shows from across a wide spectrum of different genres and styles, offering a thrilling, vibrant evening in the theatre.
Our reputation means that we attract dynamic directors and top local actors to our stage. We also welcome visiting companies to enhance our programme.
Each season brings something for everyone, including Comedy, Murder and Mystery, Thrillers and the Classics alongside Musicals and our ever-popular family Pantomime.
Check out our What’s On pages regularly to ensure you don’t miss out on these amazing shows.
🎤 COMEDY NIGHT: LIVE AT THE TALISMAN
Sunday 31st August, 7:30pm – Main Auditorium
Join us for a riotous night of stand-up as we bring top-class comedy to the Talisman’s Main House! Headlining is Ignacio Lopez — the razor-sharp Spanish/Welsh comedian seen on Live at the Apollo, QI, and Have I Got News for You. Your host for the evening is the ever-brilliant Harry Jenkins, joined by the hilarious Andy Fox and Mad Ron.
Expect belly laughs, bold banter, and brilliant acts.
EMMA
Saturday 27th September - Saturday 4th October 2025
Matchmaking mischief leads to unexpected love.
Join us at the Talisman as we celebrate the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen’s birth with this world premiere adaptation of Andrew Davies’ film version of ‘Emma’.
As a rich and clever young woman, Emma Woodhouse has no shortage of would-be suitors, whether it be the amorous Mr Elton, the dashing Frank Churchill or the down-to-earth Mr Knightly.
Emma, however, is more interested in finding a match for her friend Harriet, until her actions have some unexpected consequences.
Lovers of Jane Austen will not be disappointed by this classic romantic comedy, written in the best Andrew Davies style and brought to life in true Talisman fashion.
'A NICE DAY FOR A WHITE WEDDING’ AN INTERACTIVE MURDER MYSTERY
Saturday 18 October 2025 7.30pm (Doors open 7pm)
You are cordially invited to the wedding of Beatrice Holmes and Oliver Appleton, the most anticipated function of the season. No gifts please, but dress appropriately and bring your keen detective skills…. Just in case. In conjunction with the Talisman Theatre, Whodunnit are back with another original interactive murder mystery evening. Tickets £13.50, available from TicketSource or the Talisman Box Office.
THE PILLOWMAN
Monday 3rd - Saturday 8th November 2025
Explore the darker side of fairy tales in this acclaimed black comedy.
Delve into the twisted world of Katurian, a short fiction writer living in a police state. When several children are found murdered in ways strikingly similar to his macabre children’s stories, he finds himself arrested and at the mercy of two detectives. As the clock ticks relentlessly toward his impending execution, Katurian must prove to the police that his only crime is crafting stories—but will they believe him in time?
Comprising narrations and reenactments of several of Katurian’s stories (including the harrowingly autobiographical ‘The Writer and ‘The Writer’s Brother’), this play explores the development of Katurian’s disturbed imagination, along with the impact a troubled past can have on the present.
Step into the darkly enchanting world of The Pillowman, where Oscar-winning screenwriter Martin McDonagh weaves a gripping tale that echoes the chilling brilliance of the Brothers Grimm.
Age recommendation: Age 16+ or at parental discretion, parental supervision strongly advised. This show is not suitable for children. Contains disturbing themes. Trigger warnings: Child abuse and child murder, depictions of mental illness, violence, police brutality and firearm use.
🎤 THE LISTENING ROOM
Live in the Talisman Foyer Sunday 16th November 2025 at 7.30pm
📅 Sunday 16th November | 7:30pm | Tickets £10
*Tickets strictly limited – advance booking essential*
Following a sell-out event, our acclaimed singer-songwriter night is back, and don’t miss it this time. The Listening Room is a wonderful night of acoustic music celebrating the rich talent of original singer-songwriters. Set in the warm, intimate atmosphere of our theatre foyer, this special evening features performances from Nicky Ager, Pandora Craig, David Ellis and Simon Hirst and, will be hosted by Talisman regular, Daniel Barrie. Each artist will not only perform their music, but also share the inspirations and experiences that brought their songs to life.
With soft lighting, stripped-back sound, and heartfelt storytelling, this is a chance to connect deeply with the music and the artists behind it. These musicians have thousands of streams to their names and have graced prestigious venues across the UK and internationally. Now they’re coming together for a captivating night in Kenilworth.
Our licensed bar will be open, making it the perfect night out to relax with friends and family whilst enjoying great music.
Tickets are strictly limited, and the previous event sold out, so booking in advance is strongly advised to avoid missing this truly special evening.
🎤 COMEDY NIGHT: LIVE AT THE TALISMAN
HARRY JENKINS & FRIENDS
Saturday 29th November, 7:30pm – Main Auditorium
🎤 Live at the Talisman Comedy Night Special – Harry Jenkins & Friends
📅 Saturday 29th November | 7:30pm | Tickets £15
The laughs are back – bigger and better – in the welcoming surrounds of our main house as rising comedy star Harry Jenkins hosts a cracking night of stand-up at the Talisman.
Joining Harry are two of his top circuit mates:
🎤 Ollie Fox – British Comedy Guide Award winner and Get Up Stand Up 2024 finalist, praised by The Stand Up Club as “one of the best new acts in the country.”
🎤 Henry Michael – Southport Comedian of the Year and Leicester Mercury Comedian of the Year winner… not to mention a practising GP!
The evening rounds off with the live filming of Harry’s acclaimed debut solo hour: Thanks a Lot (You Idiot) – fresh from the Rik Mayall, Birmingham, and Ram comedy festivals.
Expect sharp wit, standout acts, and a brilliant night of live entertainment.
📸 Please Note: This performance will be filmed for artistic development purposes to support the ongoing growth of the comedy acts involved. While filming will focus primarily on the performers, audience reactions may be captured. By attending, you consent to potentially appearing in recorded footage. We appreciate your support in helping these talented comedians hone their craft!
🎟️ Book now – seats are limited and demand is high!
ROBINSON CRUSOE
20th December 2025 to 3rd January 2026
Set sail for adventure!
Prepare for a hilarious, magical journey in this year’s pantomime production.
When Robinson and his brother find a treasure map, there’s nothing for it but to set off in search of their fortune on a faraway island.
Their travels take them to the mysterious Skull Valley, encountering a host of comical characters along the way.
Laughter and music awaits in this swashbuckling voyage across (and below) the waves.
Get your tickets now and join the fun!
ROBINSON CRUSOE - RELAXED PERFORMANCE
3rd January 2026
Set sail for adventure!
After the success of our first relaxed performance last season, we are proud to be offering a relaxed performance again this year for our pantomime ‘Robinson Crusoe.’
This performance will be dedicated to creating a welcoming and more ‘relaxed’ environment for families or individuals with sensory needs and other visible and hidden disabilities.
