- Play Hard
- 11th Feb 2026
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Shining a spotlight on Gala Durham this spring – what’s on and where to eat
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Spring is one of the best times to experience Gala Durham, the city feels lighter, livelier and full of possibilities.
As the days grow longer and the streets buzz with energy, Gala Durham once again takes centre stage with a vibrant spring programme packed with theatre, comedy, talks and live music.
Located in the heart of the city, Gala Durham is a cultural hub, offering everything from large-scale touring productions to intimate performances and family favourites.
Whether you’re looking for things to do in Durham with the kids, planning a midweek culture fix, or pairing a show with some of the best Durham restaurants, Gala Durham makes it easy to turn a visit to the theatre into a full day (or night) out.
This spring, the programme is bursting with colour, from Julia Donaldson classics brought to life on stage to fearless stand-up comedy, thought-provoking drama, inspiring talks and orchestral music. Here’s everything you need to know about what’s on at Gala Durham this spring.
FAMILY SHOWS AT GALA DURHAM
Zog
Tuesday 24th – Thursday 26th February
Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s much-loved story roars onto the stage in this feel-good musical for little ones. Zog is the keenest dragon at Madam Dragon’s school – but also the most accident-prone, crashing into trees and even setting his own wing alight.
Featuring songs by Joe Stilgoe and beautiful puppetry by Little Angel Theatre, this smash-hit production is a heart-warming treat for both children and adults too.
Wrongsemble’s Rapunzel
Wednesday 8th April
This bold and funny retelling of the classic fairy tale puts Rapunzel firmly in charge of her own destiny. Trapped in a tower by a wicked witch, she’s done waiting around, and no prince is coming to save the day.
From award-winning family theatre company Wrongsemble, expect music, magic and madcap schemes in a modern, empowering adaptation.
Northern Ballet: Little Red Riding Hood
Saturday 11th April
A playful and gentle introduction to ballet and live theatre, this reimagining of Little Red Riding Hood focuses on kindness, empathy and unexpected friendships. Perfect for younger audiences and first theatre trips.
The Utterly Revolting Science Show
Friday 17th April
Packed with burp biology, fart physics and revolting edible experiments, this high-energy science spectacular from Stefan Gates is as educational as it is hilarious.
The Detective Dog
Saturday 18th – Sunday 19th April
An inclusive production for Deaf and hearing audiences, The Detective Dog celebrates books, curiosity and reading with BSL, creative captions and spoken English.
FAMILY-FRIENDLY RESTAURANTS IN DURHAM
DRAMA AT GALA DURHAM
Teechers
Monday 30th – Tuesday 31st March
John Godber’s iconic comedy is reset for post-Covid times, delivering a fast-moving, funny and sharply observed portrait of life inside Whitewall Academy.
Fixing
Friday 20th Feb
An outrageous yet touching show where drag mechanic Natalie Spanner explores family break-ups, car maintenance and self-care. Interactive, heartfelt and laugh-out-loud funny.
Post Traumatic Slay Disorder
Thursday 16th April
This sharp and unflinching comedy follows Kit, a twenty-something waitress navigating PTSD, London life and TikTok culture – funny, honest and deeply relatable.
PRE-SHOW DURHAM RESTAURANTS
COMEDY AT GALA DURHAM
Ria Lina: Riawakening
Thursday 12th – Friday 13th February
Fearless, provocative and wickedly funny, Ria Lina returns following her critically acclaimed tour Riawakening. Expect high-energy stand-up tackling the state of the world, gender politics and rebellion.
Amy Mason: Behold!
Friday 13th March
A razor-witted exploration of digital dependency, intimacy and modern life, inspired by being hacked — and the bizarre consequences that followed.
Matt Forde: Defying Calamity
Leading political comedian Matt Forde finds positivity in politics and personal health — despite all evidence to the contrary.
Rob Newman Live
Saturday 11th April
A barnstorming stand-up show spanning future cities, film directors and Dorothy Parker’s multiverse diaries — utterly unlike anything else.
DATE NIGHT RESTAURANTS IN DURHAM
TALKS AT GALA DURHAM
Ben Fogle – WILD
Tuesday 3rd March
An uplifting evening of adventure, hope and discovery as Ben Fogle recounts remarkable journeys and life-changing encounters.
Gordon Buchanan: Lions and Tigers and Bears
Friday 27th February
Award-winning wildlife filmmaker Gordon Buchanan shares extraordinary encounters with big cats and bears from across the globe.
SOME OF THE TOP RESTAURANTS IN DURHAM
MUSIC AT GALA DURHAM
Hollywood Musicals
Saturday 25th April
The North East Film Orchestra presents iconic movie musicals performed by a sensational 65-piece orchestra — from The Wizard of Oz to West Side Story.
Travellers Tunes: An Evening with Steve Cradock
Thursday 30th April
Ocean Colour Scene guitarist Steve Cradock performs hits from the OCS songbook alongside stories from a career at the heart of British rock.
PRE-THEATRE DURHAM RESTAURANTS
Rachael Ellis
Head of Content
After gaining a first in her BA Media and Journalism degree at Northumbria University, Rachael worked at Newcastle’s leading regional newspaper with her stories being picked up in national and global newspapers. She spent two very successful years giving a voice to those communities across the North East who otherwise…
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