Here’s what’s on in York this week.
The annual York International Shakespeare Festival is back to celebrate the Bard, step into Narnia as The Lion, The Witch And The Wardrobe comes to the Grand Opera House, Two Worlds Collide at York Minster with a heavy metal concert, and Matt Goss is at York Barbican.
What’s on in York this week: Sunday 20 – Friday 25 April
All week
York International Shakespeare Festival
The annual York International Shakespeare Festival is back! Get ready for over 10 days of events celebrating the beloved Bard, from performances to comedy to speakeasys to competitions. Check out our guide to eight unmissable highlights for the festival here.
- Various locations
- Tue 22 Apr – Sun 4 May
- Various times
- More info
The Lion, The Witch And The Wardrobe
Step through the wardrobe into the magic kingdom of Narnia where a world of wonder awaits. Join Lucy, Edmund, Susan and Peter as they meet new friends, face dangerous foes and learn the lessons of courage, sacrifice, and the power of love. Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime as the West End smash-hit production comes to York. Read our sparkling review here when it debuted at Leeds in 2024.
- Grand Opera House York, Cumberland Street, York YO1 9SW
- Tue 22 – Sat 26 Apr
- 7pm (2pm matinee performances)
- More info
Thursday
10th Birthday Party at the Open Arms
Join the Open Arms in Selby for an open afternoon as they celebrate their 10th birthday! The event will feature music from singer Marina Mae and will also be raising funds for Dementia Forward and celebrating their S.C.R.A.P store.
- Profiles Building, 10 Gowthorpe, Selby, YO8 4ET
- Thu 24 Apr
- 12:30-4pm
- More info
Green Ink by Stephen May – Book Launch
Join us for the launch of Stephen May’s new book Green Ink. Green Ink imagines what might have been with brio, humour and humanity; and is a reminder that the past was once as alive as we are today. After the talk, books will be available to buy and Stephen will be happy to sign copies.
- York Explore Library and Archive, Library Square, York, YO1 7DS
- Thu 24 Apr
- 6:30pm
- More info
Swing That Music with Down for the Count All-Stars
Join the UK’s hardest swinging band, Down for the Count All-Stars for “one helluva celebration of vintage music” (TimeOut London). This mini big band recreate the music of Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Glenn Miller, Nat King Cole, Ella Fitzgerald and more – but this is no mere nostalgia trip, as the band perform each song in their own unmistakable style, breathing new life into the best vintage music.
- Joseph Rowntree Theatre, Haxby Road, York, YO31 8TA
- Thu 24 Apr
- 7:30pm
- More info
The Thankful Village
A poignant play that follows the lives of three women from the same rural household- above and below stairs- through the long years of The Great War, left behind to cope as their men-folk march off to Flanders. By Badapple Theatre’s Artistic Director, Kate Bramley with songs and music by Sony Radio Academy Award Winner, Jez Lowe.
- York Theatre Royal, St. Leonard’s Place, York, YO1 7HD
- Thu 24 – Sat 26 Apr
- 7:30pm
- More info
Friday
Missing the Mystery? York Mystery Plays Past, Present, and Future
Join us for the next talk in our Slice of History series, exploring one of York’s most enduring theatrical traditions. Alan Heaven and Roger Lee will take us on a fascinating journey through the York Mystery Plays, Tickets are £10, including coffee and a slice of cake.
- Bedern Hall, Bartle Garth, St Andrewgate, York, YO1 7AL
- Fri 25 Apr
- 2pm
- More info
ORGANIC METAL: Two Worlds Collide
Hear two worlds collide as Plague of Angels, an electro-symphonic-metal powerhouse known for epic arrangements, infectious choruses, and dramatic compositions, presents an evening of heavy metal music showcasing York Minster’s magnificent Grand Organ.
- York Minster, Deangate, York, YO1 7HH
- Fri 25 Apr
- 7:30pm
- More info
Matt Goss: The Hits & More
Matt Goss: The Hits & More will be a celebration of all Matt has achieved in his music career and beyond. Bringing sensational songs, and an electric atmosphere this show promises to be the biggest and best night out with this celebrated artist.
- York Barbican, Paragon St, York, YO10 4AH
- Fri 25 Apr
- 8pm
- More info