The Mill Arts Centre in Banbury are absolutely thrilled to have been exclusively chosen as a venue for Sad Book’s UK Tour! This fantastic adaptation of Michael Rosen’s critically acclaimed book first premiered at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in 2022 to immense acclaim. With dance, strong storytelling, animation and stunning original music Sad Book is a visually inventive, moving story of navigating complex emotions in the midst of everyday life. ★★★★ “A talent to watch” – The Evening Standard
Coming to Banbury on 28th & 29th March, Sad Book makes the deeply personal, universal. In this personal story of loss, a father explores the disconnection between what we feel, what we show, and different ways we deal with sadness. Directed and choreographed by 201 Dance Company Artistic Director, Andrea Walker, Sad Book is the third touring production by this trailblazing company, renowned for presenting emotional, evocative pieces with cinematic production design. We just can’t wait for this to be on our stage!
For younger audiences and their families, Let’s All Dance brings Snow White and Rose Red (15th February) back to The Mill! This lively ballet adaptation of the Brothers Grimm classic promises unforgettable characters, fantastic dancing, and enchanting storytelling. Plus, join Sonrisa Arts for an evening adventure in a giant sleepover den! Their production, Dance In The Dark (20th February), is a dreamy, multi-sensory experience with contemporary dance, live music, immersive sounds and scents, and plenty of audience interaction. Children aged 3-6 are invited to wear their PJs and enjoy this magical show!
We’re delighted to welcome Fluff (6th March), winner of Best Theatre Production at the Buxton Fringe 2024, to The Mill. This darkly humorous play dives into memories and life choices. Meanwhile, acclaimed theatre company Conn Artists bring to life Hardy’s classic Far From The Madding Crowd (19th February), capturing the poignant story of Bathsheba Everdene and her three passionate suitors—perfect for fans of classic theatre.
Get ready to laugh with comedian Andrew Bird in A Ticklish Mind (7th February), or explore the human side of economics with It’s The Economy, Stupid (13th February), another Edinburgh Fringe hit based on a real family’s experience during the 90s recession.
For music lovers, Right Down the Line: The Gerry Rafferty Songbook (8th February) will take you on a soulful journey through Rafferty’s timeless music, while Fearlessly Taylor (15th February) promises all the hits and glamour of a Taylor Swift concert… This one’s for all you Swifties out there!
There’s something for everyone as we head into 2025, so book your tickets early and get ready for a New Year filled with laughter, music, and magic.
Visit our website or pick up our What’s On Guide to discover what’s on at your local theatre!
Full details of our programme are available at www.themillartscentre.co.uk. Tickets can be purchased online, by phone 01295 279002 – or pop into our Box Office in person at The Mill Arts Centre, Spiceball Park Road, Banbury OX16 5QE.
The Mill is open 9:30am-4:30pm Monday-Saturday with hot and cold drinks and light refreshments available from the Café Bar.
