What’s On
Louth Riverhead Theatre has a long running history of providing a varied calendar of events throughout the year - Drama, Musical, Comedy and more. Explore our upcoming events below and check back regularly as we add new events all the time.
Scratch Night
Lincolnshire’s hottest new writing event returns!
A Night of Comedy, Romance, Drama and Thrills
The latest batch of local budding writers see a sample of their script brought to life by local actors at the Riverhead Theatre.
Every audience member gets to vote anonymously for their favourite play via a fun and interactive points system.
The play with the most votes will be performed in 2024 as a full-scale production on behalf of Louth Playgoers and local professional theatre company Hambledon Productions.
The ‘Scratch Night’, which has asserted itself as arguably the most innovative, immersive and entertaining event on the theatre’s social calendar, is returning for its seventh year and is the golden opportunity to have an active say in what you would like to see at your local theatre.
The event, which is open to all, is the culmination of a series of workshops held by local playwright John Hewer.
Comedy Night
"The award-winning Comedy Hotspot offers some of the UK's best comedy line-ups at the Riverhead Theatre. The line-ups feature a diverse range of styles, ensuring a night filled with laughter from the UK's top professional comedians.
The venue is fantastic, and the shows are professionally run to guarantee a wonderful atmosphere every time. Come join us for an evening packed with belly laughs."
Cluedo
Based on the iconic 1985 Paramount movie (“Clue”) which was inspired by the classic Hasbro board game, Cluedo is a hilarious farce-meets-murder mystery.
The tale begins at a remote mansion, where six mysterious guests assemble for an unusual dinner party where murder and blackmail are on the menu. When their host turns up dead, they all become suspects.
Led by Wadsworth – the butler, Miss Scarlet, Professor Plum, Mrs. White, Mr. Green, Mrs. Peacock and Colonel Mustard race to find the killer as the body count stacks up.
Cluedo is the comedy whodunit that will leave both cult-fans and newcomers in stitches as they try to figure out... who did it, where, and with what!
The Fantastic Funky Fusion Circus
A Night of Fantastic Funky Fusion!
Join us on Friday 17th October 2025 at Louth Riverhead Theatre, for a spectacular live performance by Linkage Choices! Expect energy, creativity, and plenty of circus-style fun at the Fantastic Funky Fusion Circus – an unforgettable evening presented by Linkage Community Trust.
Haunted Treasure Chest
Brought to you by Magic Light Productions, specialists in magic, illusions, and children’s theatre, The Haunted Treasure Chest is a spook-tacular family adventure! When some unlikely pirates stumble upon a mysterious treasure chest, they accidentally unleash a mischievous ghost who sends them on a wild treasure hunt. Along the way, they’ll encounter puppet friends, thrilling illusions, toe-tapping sea shanties, and laugh-out-loud comedy. Packed with unforgettable characters, surprising twists, this Halloween adventure promises family fun and magic this Halloween.
Nunsense
Nunsense is a Musical Comedy that begins when the Little Sisters of Hoboken discover that their cook, Sister Julia, Child of God, has accidentally poisoned 52 of the sisters, and they are in dire need of funds for the burials.
The sisters decide that the best way to raise the money is to put on a variety show, so they take over the school auditorium, which is currently set up for the eighth grade production of “Grease.” An unholy amount of comedy ensues as we meet Reverend Mother Regina, a former circus performer; Sister Mary Hubert, the Mistress of Novices; a streetwise nun from Brooklyn named Sister Robert Anne; Sister Mary Leo, a novice who is a wannabe ballerina; and the delightfully wacky Sister Mary Amnesia, the nun who lost her memory when a crucifix fell on her head.
Wacky and outrageous with a hysterical ‘anything goes’ sense of fun, Nunsense is a heavenly delight!
Rudder - A Comedy Dance Show About Balance
Stephanie has a history of falling over a lot, accidentally kneeing herself in the face, and falling in love with Total Kn*bheads. In this show she uses a mixture of stand-up and dance to talk about bodies, sex, dancing, liking yourself, consent and healing.
Also there are cartoon bears and burlesque.
“Gloriously silly, wonderful unpretentious” (Broadway Baby)
“Devastating technique… natural comic timing and delivery” (Chortle)
Comedy Night
"The award-winning Comedy Hotspot offers some of the UK's best comedy line-ups at the Riverhead Theatre. The line-ups feature a diverse range of styles, ensuring a night filled with laughter from the UK's top professional comedians.
The venue is fantastic, and the shows are professionally run to guarantee a wonderful atmosphere every time. Come join us for an evening packed with belly laughs."
Santa Claus and the Elf Who Stole Christmas
Santa has had a busy week. He has delivered all the presents to the children. With his chief Elf, Nimble Fumblefingers, he checks off his list. Wait! There is a sack of presents missing! His enchanted sack ensures presents never go missing. Can he find them before Christmas day, or is Christmas now ruined?
He sets off with his ‘Star-lite Compass’ deep into the snow enchanted forest where he meets Frostbite, a grumpy but wise old polar bear.
Frostbite explains that they will have to search The Frozen Hollow, deep in the Enchanted Forest. Here he meets his arch enemy, Jack Frost and his Frost-Sprites, Holly Wobblebottom, Filthy Finnegan and Candy-Cane Crusher. The dangerous adventure begins.
SANTA CLAUS AND THE ELF WHO STOLE CHRISTMAS is full of laughs, Snowballs, Magic, Music, Special Effects and Festive Joy.
Jack & The Beanstalk
Join us for a magical adventure in our annual Pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk. Follow the daring young Jack as he embarks on a thrilling quest to save his village from the clutches of the fearsome Giant Blundabore and his wicked henchman, Fleshcreep. With the help of his mischievous brother Simon, their lovable cow Daisy, and the ever-charming Dame Trot, Jack sets off on a journey filled with laughter, music, and surprises. But when he trades his family’s last hope for a handful of mysterious beans, he soon discovers that sometimes, the most extraordinary adventures begin in the most unexpected ways.
Packed with hilarious comedy, catchy songs, and plenty of audience participation, this traditional pantomime promises fun for the whole family. Cheer for our heroes, boo the villain, and marvel at the magic as a towering beanstalk leads to an adventure beyond the clouds! Will Jack defeat the Giant, rescue the Princess, and bring peace back to the village? There's only one way to find out - join us for an unforgettable journey in Jack and the Beanstalk!
Keeping Up Appearances
Step into the world of one of Britain's most beloved sitcoms in this new stage adaptation of Keeping Up Appearances. Featuring the iconic characters from the classic BBC comedy, this fresh and hilarious production brings Hyacinth Bucket (pronounced Bookay, of course!) back to the stage in a delightful new story.
When Hyacinth sets her sights on the world of amateur dramatics, chaos is sure to follow. As she attempts to bring her unique brand of class and refinement to the local theatre group, tensions rise, tempers flare, and the results are nothing short of spectacularly funny.
With all the charm, wit, and farcical fun of the original TV series, this stage play is a must-see for fans of classic British comedy. Will Hyacinth finally get the recognition she believes she deserves? Or will her theatrical ambitions take a dramatic turn?
Calendar Girls
When Annie's husband John dies of leukaemia, she and best friend Chris resolve to raise money for a new settee in the local hospital waiting room. They manage to persuade four fellow WI members to pose nude with them for an "alternative" calendar, with a little help from hospital porter and amateur photographer Lawrence. The news of the women's charitable venture spreads like wildfire, and hordes of press soon descend on the small village of Knapeley in the Yorkshire Dales. The calendar is a success, but Chris and Annie's friendship is put to the test under the strain of their new-found fame.
Based on the true story of eleven WI members who posed nude for a calendar to raise money for the Leukaemia Research Fund, Calendar Girls has become the fastest-selling play in British theatre history and we are thrilled to bring it back to Louth Riverhead Theatre in September.
The Great British Bake Off Musical
The Great British Bake Off Musical is a comedic and heartwarming celebration of baking, self-discovery, and the joy of community, served with a generous helping of British charm and comedic flair. This delightful show brings the beloved baking competition to life, blending the charm, humour, and heartwarming moments of the TV show with catchy tunes and recognisable characters. Whether you're a fan of the show or simply love a good musical, this is a theatrical treat that promises to rise to the occasion.
Follow the journey of a group of contestants as they whisk, knead, and bake their way to glory, all under the watchful eyes of judges and hosts who have become household names. With a mix of original songs that capture the spirit of the Bake Off tent—from tense technical challenges to joyous showstoppers—the musical creates a vibrant and immersive experience. Expect a rollercoaster of emotions as friendships form, cakes collapse, and dreams come true.
Comedy Night
"The award-winning Comedy Hotspot offers some of the UK's best comedy line-ups at the Riverhead Theatre. The line-ups feature a diverse range of styles, ensuring a night filled with laughter from the UK's top professional comedians.
The venue is fantastic, and the shows are professionally run to guarantee a wonderful atmosphere every time. Come join us for an evening packed with belly laughs."
STOP!... You’re Killing Me - A detective Spoof
Written by John Hewer
Directed by Rachael Hewer
“Things had been pretty quiet at the office of my agency. Ever since my partner had lost his sense of hearing, that is…”
Meet Sam Sloan, Private Detective, as he tackles his most dangerous, most compelling, most gag-packed case yet.
New York, 1938. America is in the grip of The Great Depression, so we’ve added some jokes to help things along.
Max Summers, a local horse-bookie, has disappeared. His femme fatale sister, Rowetta, wants to uncover the truth, and calls on our intrepid hero to solve the mystery.
Join Sloan, Rowetta, his assistant Frank and a plethora of gloriously clichéd characters, red herrings and running horses.
From the makers of ‘Dracula! One Bloody Fang After Another’ and ‘Maybe Dick’, this clever compendium of witty puns and broad slapstick will leave you clueless.
***** ‘UTTERLY HILARIOUS’ – What’s On The Fringe ***** ‘RELENTLESS FUN’ – Broadway World
www.hambledonproductions.com
The Great Baldini - Family Magic Show
The legendary magician the Great Baldini tells the story of his, and Baldwin the magical dog’s, life from their first tricks to the height of their careers – attempting Houdini’s greatest escape. The show is packed with magic, sweets, puppetry, sweets, water, sweets, eggs, sweets, and escapology. It’s hilariously silly…with sweets.
The Great Baldini is an award-winning member of the Magic Circle, and 22/23 Bristol Stage Magic Champion.
“Incredible” Front Row, BBC Radio 4
“Charming, engaging, and charismatic. A pleasure.” FringeReview
Open Mic Night
Open Mic Nights!
Fancy having a go at something you've been working on?
Want to support your mates?
Or just want to come along and see the best up and coming talent Lincolnshire has to offer? No matter what it is, get yourself down to Louth Riverhead Theatre for a unique evening's entertainment!
Limited free entry so book early.
Age restriction 15+.
Tech support provided.
Drinks and bar snacks available.
Box Office: 01507 600350.
Confessions of a Teletubby
Arguments and poo! Sex and swearing! Blood, sweat, tears and giant rabbits! Life on the set of Teletubbies might not be as you imagined…
Selling out at Fringe 2023, Confessions of a Teletubby is a revealing peek behind the scenes of a global TV phenomenon.
Nikky Smedley was the O.G. LaaLaa for six years - that’s a lot of custard for a grown woman to get excited about!
Hear how she dressed as a table to get the job; what it was really like inside those Tubby suits; how the NooNoo worked and why children loved the show so much.
For The Love Of Julia Variety Show
A very Special Variety Show
In memory of a very special lady
"Julia Burnett Simmons"
A Great Entertainer and Former Mayor of Louth
A brilliant afternoon of Comedy, Music and Dance
and a few surprises too!
Comedy Night
"The award-winning Comedy Hotspot offers some of the UK's best comedy line-ups at the Riverhead Theatre. The line-ups feature a diverse range of styles, ensuring a night filled with laughter from the UK's top professional comedians.
The venue is fantastic, and the shows are professionally run to guarantee a wonderful atmosphere every time. Come join us for an evening packed with belly laughs."
RAISE THE OOF with John Shuttleworth
Radio 4 favourite, comedy legend, and ‘the 42nd best reason to love Britain’ (The Telegraph) JOHN SHUTTLEWORTH, is back with more hilarious stories and songs performed on his trusty Yamaha organ (with built-in auto accompaniment!) In RAISE THE OOF John celebrates 40 years in showbiz. Yes, it was 1985 when he met TV’s Clarinet Man - next door neighbour Ken Worthington who came last on New Faces in 73 (Tony Hatch crucified him!)
“When I met Ken he was eating a CurlyWurly” recalls John, “although initially I thought it was a packet of sparklers, so I gave him a wide berth”, and the rest, as they say, is hysterical!
All proceeds going to local charities!
Rabbits Out of the Hat
Norvil & Josephine present a magical extravaganza - and you’ll have never seen a show quite like it!
It’s 1905 and their world will never be the same again. At first they appear to be the ‘traditional magician’ and ‘doting assistant’ but it’s time for the magician to find new dreams while the assistant starts to call the shots!
Featuring breathtaking magic and circus tricks plus showstopper songs, ‘Magic Circle’ magicians Norvil & Josephine share a humorous and heartwarming story about being yourself, no matter what.
Gently exploring issues of identity and acceptance, Rabbits Out of the Hat has been created by an international team of specialists in magic, circus and clowning.