Sidmouth Summer Play Festival

The Sidmouth Summer Play Festival is a beloved annual tradition at Manor Pavilion Theatre, offering a remarkable 12 plays across 12 consecutive weeks, running from 21st June to 19th September 2026. One of the most ambitious and distinctive repertory seasons in the South West, it brings a rich and varied programme of theatre to this elegant Regency seaside town throughout the summer months.

The 2026 Programme

The 2026 season offers a superb mix of classic comedy, gripping thriller, literary drama and beloved adaptations. Productions include:

• Murder Weapon (from 22nd June) – a gripping thriller with a deceptive open-and-shut case
• Neighbourhood Watch (from 29th June) – Alan Ayckbourn’s dark comedy, where vigilance turns vicious
• Sweet Revenge (from 6th July) – Durbridge’s deadly tale of revenge
• The Good Life (from 13th July) – Tom and Barbara’s chaotic journey into self-sufficiency
• Plaza Suite (from 20th July) – three couples, one hotel suite, classic comedy from Neil Simon
• Charles Dickens’ The Haunting (from 27th July) – dark secrets in a mysterious manor
• Changing Rooms (from 10th August) – two affairs, one house, slamming doors
• Stone Cold Murder (from 17th August) – deadly secrets follow a stranger in from the cold
• Outside Edge (from 24th August) – love and cricket collide in this much-loved comedy
• Loot (from 31st August) – Joe Orton’s anarchic and gloriously rule-breaking farce
• September Tide (from 7th September) – love, jealousy and secrets in du Maurier’s gripping drama
• Blithe Spirit (from 14th September) – Noël Coward’s hilarious supernatural comedy closes the season

Season Launch

A free launch night for the 2026 Summer Play Season takes place on 9th June 2026. Doors open at 7:30 pm and places should be reserved in advance through the Box Office.

Season Tickets

Season tickets are available, offering excellent value for those wishing to attend multiple productions. These can be purchased online or through the Box Office.

About Manor Pavilion Theatre

Proudly owned and managed by East Devon District Council, Manor Pavilion Theatre is one of the jewels of Sidmouth’s cultural life. Set in the heart of the town, it provides a warm, intimate setting for professional theatre, live music and community events throughout the year.