Bristol's performing arts and theatre scene is gripping, diverse and truly original. You will never be short of live music, dance, theatre, comedy or magic performances during your visit to Bristol. Plus the packed schedules mean there is something different to enjoy every night of the week.
Bristol Theatres
For a brief introduction to theatres in Bristol... The Bristol Hippodrome proudly hosts blockbuster shows and West End musicals throughout the year but be sure to get your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.
Other incredible theatres in Bristol include Bristol Old Vic, Tobacco Factory Theatres , The Redgrave Theatre and The Wardrobe Theatre. They each offer an excellent programme of performance year-round, from epic Shakespeare festivals to first shows from cutting-edge young playwrights. Take a look at theatre shows coming soon to Bristol.
Bristol Old Vic Theatre trains students in acting, design, costume, technical skills, writing and directing and has trained the likes of Olivia Coleman. Keep an eye out for Bristol Old Vic Theatre School events which take place at venues across the city.
When it comes to musical performance, Bristol's finest concert halls take your breath away. Bristol Beacon hosts a varied selection of artists including some of the most famous names around, and is also the focal point for the annual Blues and Jazz Festival. St George's Bristol hosts some of the world's leading classical musicians, but also a range of other performers from folk to modern Jazz. View our upcoming concerts and gigs.
Comedy & Magic in Bristol
Bristol is the breeding ground for many of the UK’s greatest comedians, from Stephen Merchant and Russell Howard to Mark Watson, John Robins and Lee Evans. Therefore it should come as no surprise that there is a fantastic comedy scene here, where you can get the giggles most nights of the week.
Bristol hosts huge touring comedians appearing at Bristol Beacon, Bristol Hippodrome, Bristol Old Vic and Tobacco Factory Theatres, as well as annual comedy festivals including the fantastic Bristol Comedy Garden, where big name comedians take part in an epic festival in the beautiful Georgian Queen Square.
There’s also the Bristol Slapstick Comedy Festival, which celebrates silent and classic comedy and provides the largest assembly of living comic talent to discuss the great comedy stars of the past.
There are also numerous comedy clubs and bars across the city, which have regular nights for up and coming stand ups as well as the occasional secret gigs with bigger names. Check our comedy listings for the latest announcements.
As well as comedy, Bristol has its own dedicated magic bar Smoke and Mirrors, where you can go along and watch live magicians entertain from the comfort of your seat. After all, Derren Brown, the illusionist, mentalist and hypnotist started his early career in Bristol, proving, yet again, how much Bristol encourages new talent.
