The Southgate theatre is hosting an evening with acclaimed actor Sir Derek Jacobi plus a new spring production and a murder mystery event, writes Susan Jamson

Sir Derek Jacobi (credit Raph_PH via Wikimedia Commons)

There’s lots to look forward to at Chickenshed Theatre at the start of 2026 – with a hit show, major event, and a powerful new spring production.

We closed 2025 on a truly extraordinary high, having received amazing four and five-star reviews for our original winter production RED. Audiences have been captivated by the company’s bold, inclusive approach to storytelling, and the excitement continues long after the final scene.

RED perfectly demonstrates Chickenshed’s mission to create wonder out of chaos, challenge perceptions and celebrate the extraordinary potential in everyone. If you haven’t seen it yet there’s still time, as it continues with regular showings until Saturday, 10^th January, with both matinee and evening performances available.

Soon afterwards, our spring season begins with a very special event on Saturday, 18th January, when we host An Evening with Sir Derek Jacobi.One of Britain’s most distinguished actors, Sir Derek’s career spans six decades, with iconic roles from I, Claudius to Gladiator, The Crown, and countless Shakespearean performances.

He will be joined in conversation by actor and director Richard Clifford, his partner since the 1970s, whose career includes theatre, film, opera, and two decades as director at the Folger Shakespeare Library. This intimate fundraising evening celebrates their long-standing support of Chickenshed’s life-changing work.

Looking ahead, Chickenshed’s spring production, The Wrong They Knew, opens on Thursday, 5th March and runs until Saturday, 28th March. This production tells a powerful story of courage, community, and the fight to be heard. Set in London in 1958, against rising racial tension, families dream of creating a community carnival to bring hope and unity. Through the eyes of children and teenagers navigating a divided world, the play explores justice, identity, and resilience. Echoing classics such as To Kill a Mockingbird and Small Island, it’s a moving, defiant celebration of standing together and the extraordinary power of community.

For something completely different, why not join us for our exciting, creative, and completely unique Who Dunnit Murder Mystery Evening on Saturday, 28th February. Set in a glitzy 1920s ‘speakeasy’, guests will take their seats as part of a detective team and help uncover the truth behind a shocking murder that unfolds live around them. With live performances, jazz numbers, clues to solve, and plenty of surprises, it promises to be an evening of theatre, intrigue, and Chickenshed fun.

Through our hugely successful Christmas show, a legendary evening with Sir Derek Jacobi, a spring production packed with heart and courage, and a glamorous murder mystery fundraiser, Chickenshed proves once again why it is one of London’s most inspiring, creative, inclusive and life-changing theatres. We can’t wait to welcome you to Chickenshed in the coming weeks.

Find out more and book tickets:
Visit chickenshed.org.uk

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