Take a look at what’s going on in York this week.
Expect to see some roaming Romans, as it’s the return of the Eboracum Roman Festival, Sister Act the Musical will be raising the roof at Joseph Rowntree Theatre, Strictly professional dancer Nikita Kuzmin is heating up the stage at the Grand Opera House, and there’s some cracking comedy from Paul Chowdhry and Elf Lyons too.
Take a look at our full guide below.
What’s on in York this week: Sunday 18 – Friday 23 May
All week
Eboracum Roman Festival 2025
The Eboracum Roman Festival returns this May! From a living history encampment and an impressive parade through the streets, to a symposium and lectures featuring Professor Mary Beard, Peter Addyman, John Oxley and many others, the Roman Festival will have something for everyone.
- Various locations
- Mon 19 – Sat 31 May
- Various times
- More info
Sister Act The Musical
When disco diva Deloris Van Cartier witnesses a murder, she is put in protective custody in one place the cops are sure she won’t be found: a convent! Disguised as a nun, she finds herself at odds with both the rigid lifestyle and uptight Mother Superior. Using her unique disco moves and singing talent to inspire the choir, Deloris breathes new life into the church and community but in doing so, blows her cover. Soon, the gang is giving chase only to find them up against Deloris and the power of her newly found sisterhood.
Featuring original music by Tony and 8-time Oscar winner Alan Menken (Disney’s Aladdin, Enchanted) and songs inspired by Motown, soul and disco, this heavenly musical is joyous and uplifting in equal measures.
- Joseph Rowntree Theatre, Haxby Road, York, YO31 8TA
- Wed 21 – Sat 24 May
- 7:30pm (2:30pm Sat matinee)
- More info
Switcheroo
When it comes to scattering their mother’s ashes, three siblings are hit with a bombshell revelation that turns their world upside down
This remarkable play is based on the very simple premise that ‘it’s not what you say, it’s the way that you say it’. The first act is a full-blown, larger than life comedy. Then, after the interval, the actors swap characters and it’s repeated as a serious drama. How can the same story, performed by the same actors, saying the same words be so different? There is only one way to find out…
- York Theatre Royal, St. Leonard’s Place, York, YO1 7HD
- Thu 22 – Sat 24 May
- 7:45pm (2:30pm Sat matinee)
- More info
Tuesday
Nikita Kuzmin – Midnight Dancer
International champion and Strictly Come Dancing star Nikita Kuzmin brings his brand-new show, Midnight Dancer, to the stage in York. Nikita Kuzmin invites you to a fairytale ball like no other and a night full of music, sequins, and world class dancing.
- Grand Opera House, Cumberland Street, York YO1 9SW
- Tue 20 May
- 7:30pm (2:30pm Sat matinee)
- More info
Wednesday
Rise Up! A celebration of poetry and the spoken word
Join us to welcome poets Nafeesa Hamid, Zakariye Abdillahi & Samiir Saunders to our bakery stage!
- Bluebird Bakery, 201 Acomb Road, Acomb YO24 3HD
- Wed 21 May
- 7:30pm
- More info
Horatio Gould: Return of The Space Cowboy
Following his sell-out debut show, viral sensation Horatio Gould brings his much-anticipated sophomore show, Return of the Space Cowboy, on the road.
At the age of 27, Horatio is tribal elder of Gen Z. Existing on the cusp of two age groups and desperate for something meaningful to believe in, Horatio explores the crisis facing young people seeking purpose in life that isn’t fat jeans or rock-climbing.
- Theatre@41, 41 Monkgate, York YO31 7PB
- Wed 21 May
- 8pm
- More info
Friday
Paul Chowdhry: Englandia
Renowned as the most successful British Indian stand-up comedian in British history, Paul’s career is marked by numerous accolades and groundbreaking achievements. Paul’s talent has earned him prestigious awards, including “Best Live Event” at the ITV Asian Media Awards, “Comedian of the Year” at the Asian Voice Awards, and the esteemed “Eastern Eye Comedian of the Year” award. Described by The Eastern Eye as “the greatest British Asian comedian of all time,” Paul’s impact on the comedy scene is undeniable.
- York Barbican, Paragon St, York, YO10 4AH
- Fri 23 May
- 6:30pm
- More info
York Philharmonic Concert
Spend a special evening with the fantastic York Philharmonic Choir! Food and drinks can be ordered on the evening.
- Impossible York, 3 Saint Helen’s Square, York YO1 8QN
- Fri 23 May
- 7pm
- More info
Sheriff’s Soul Night
YKSoul DJs Nick Beilby and Steve Bradley are delighted to return to the decks and support Sheriff’s Soul Night. In true YKSoul fashion, Steve and Nick will be playing ‘across the board’ soul music and look forward to welcoming our old supporters and friends to the dance floor.
- The Crescent York, 8 The Crescent, York, YO24 1AW
- Fri 23 May
- 8pm
- More info
Elf Lyons: Horses
The first ever comedy show performed entirely by a horse. Made by award-winning Elf Lyons, performed by Treacle.
- Theatre@41, 41 Monkgate, York YO31 7PB
- Fri 23 May
- 8pm
- More info