What's On

Cold Comfort Farm

by Paul Doust,
adapted from the novel by Stella Gibbons.

In this classic comedy set in the early 1930s, orphaned Flora Poste "possesses every art and grace save that of earning her own living”, so decides to live with her eccentric relatives, the Starkadders, at Cold Comfort Farm. Forceful and organised, she decides to impose order on their chaotic lives. This is a story full of incident and larger-than-life characters, including a doddery old farm hand obsessed with his cows, a fire-and-brimstone preacher, and a forbidding matriarch who once saw something nasty in the woodshed.

A rollicking romp to kick off our 80th season at Progress. 

British Sign Language (BSL) interpretation performance on Tuesday 8 September at 7.30pm
Relaxed performance on Saturday, 12 September at 2.30 pm

 

Sunday 6 September, Gala Matinee — Afternoon Tea Included

Make your Sunday truly special with our Gala Matinee performance, followed by a delightful afternoon tea and a glass of fizz alongside the cast. Join us as we continue the Wedding celebrations from the show and raise a glass to 80 wonderful years of Progress Theatre. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a great performance and an afternoon of celebration — book your ticket now, as spaces for this special event are limited!

 

This amateur production is presented in association with Concord Theatricals Ltd

 

---

Dance Nation

by Clare Barron
Directed by Imogen Lilley

A fierce, funny, and explosive coming‑of‑age battle cry as a troupe of competitive dancers fight for glory and identity.

‘Dance Nation’ traverses the awkwardness of pre-teens on the brink of adolescence, the competitive dance world and the chaotic and messy ascension to womanhood.

Set in Ohio, a group of highly ambitious and competitive dancers are preparing for a National Dance competition led by their fearless leader Dance Teacher Pat. Their dance needs to be epic, needs to be out-of-the-ordinary, needs to be about Gandhi.

In the comical lead up to the reveal of who will be dancing the lead as Gandhi, the dancers grapple with their friendships, the demands of being a dancer and their growing curiosity around sexuality. ‘Pussy’ which was once a word of shame is reclaimed as a battle cry of empowerment and solidarity amongst the dancers.

This funny, tender show captures the angst and complexity of growing up.

 

80 year link

A nod to our long tradition of staging American drama of differing genres from 20th century classics to contemporary takes on life in the 250 year old nation.

 

This amateur production of DANCE NATION is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals Ltd. on behalf of Samuel French, Inc.

 

---

 

See our full 2026-27 Season of Plays.

Please note that various themes may be distressing to some audiences. See our list of Content Warnings.

If you need assistance, please email: [email protected]

Note: We cannot offer refunds, but you can exchange your tickets for another show date in advance of the date on your current tickets. To do so, please email [email protected]