Oxfordshire bursts into a vibrant spectacle of arts, music, and theatrical brilliance throughout June, offering a kaleidoscope of events that cater to a wide array of interests and tastes. From the serene grounds of Blenheim Palace hosting the enchanting Nocturne Live, featuring a lineup of iconic acts like Sugababes, Melanie C, and Shaznay Lewis, to the historic Sheldonian Theatre’s classical rendition of Beethoven’s Pastoral Symphony by the Southbank Sinfonia, the region promises an unforgettable cultural experience.
A small selection of what’s on in Oxfordshire this June 2024
Simon Evans and Friends
Saturday 01 June 2024
The Kenton Theatre, 19 New Street, Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire, RG9 2BS
On Saturday 1st June 2024, the renowned Kenton Theatre in Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire, is set to host an evening filled with laughter and sharp wit, featuring the celebrated Simon Evans as the star of “Simon Evans and Friends.” Known for his incisive humour and compelling stage presence, Simon Evans is a luminary of the UK comedy scene, celebrated for his appearances on prominent television and radio programs. His return to The Kenton promises an extended headline set brimming with fresh material, offering audiences a unique opportunity to experience his latest comedic explorations.
Evans, whose reputation for fearless, provocative, and intelligently crafted comedy precedes him, is a fixture on shows like BBC One’s “Live at the Apollo,” “Mock the Week” on BBC Two, and a regular contributor to Channel 4’s “Stand Up for the Week,” among others. His insightful BBC Radio 4 series, “Simon Evans Goes to Market,” showcases his unique ability to mine humour from the unlikely realms of commodities, trading, and wealth, solidifying his status as a master of comedy with depth.
Supporting Evans on this special night are two rising stars in the comedy world, Alex Kealy and Tadiwa Mahlunge, who bring their own distinctive styles to the stage. Kealy, known for his sharp political wit as showcased on Radio 4’s “The Now Show,” and Mahlunge, who has made waves with his appearances on Comedy Central, promise to complement Evans’ headline act with their vibrant and engaging performances. However, attendees are kindly reminded that the line-up of support acts is subject to change
High Jinx 2024
Saturday 01 June 2024
The Mill Arts Centre, Spiceball Park Road, Banbury, OX16 5QE
The High Jinx show is making a grand return to the stage in 2024, promising an afternoon filled with spellbinding magic, breath-taking illusions, and exhilarating circus acts that will captivate and entertain audiences of all ages. Michael Jordan, the exceptionally talented and multifaceted performer, along with his dynamic supporting cast, invites you to dive into a world where the impossible becomes possible. Renowned for their previous performances at the iconic Blackpool Tower Circus and celebrated appearances at the ‘International Festival de Magie,’ High Jinx is synonymous with top-tier entertainment that seamlessly combines the art of magic with the thrill of the circus.
Michael Jordan’s masterful execution of magic tricks, alongside his adept juggling and daring acrobatics, will dazzle and amaze. His showmanship is unparalleled, ensuring that every moment of the show is laden with suspense, laughter, and awe. From mind-bending illusions that challenge your perception to circus thrills that keep you at the edge of your seat, the High Jinx show is a spectacle that defies the ordinary and celebrates the extraordinary.
Lark Rise
Thursday 06 to Sunday 09 June 2024
The Theatre Chipping Norton, 2 Spring St, Chipping Norton OX7 5NL
The Theatre Chipping Norton is set to transport audiences back to the cusp of the 20th century with its evocative production of “Lark Rise,” adapted by Keith Dewhurst from Flora Thompson’s cherished book.
This captivating play unfolds on a summer’s morning at the end of the 19th century, where the audience will follow the 14-year-old protagonist, Laura, through her journey on the first day of harvest. Laura’s day is filled with encounters with a remarkable, eccentric, and endearing array of characters that bring to life the songs, laughter, and everyday tragedies of the villagers of Lark Rise. Set against the backdrop of golden cornfields and smoky taverns, the production promises a deep dive into the rich tapestry of rural England’s past, its fieldworkers’ chants, and long-lost songs, offering a nostalgic glimpse into a world that has since faded away.
What sets this production apart is its engaging narrative and historical setting with its unique presentation. “Lark Rise” is performed in an immersive promenade style, promising to envelop the audience in the unfolding action within a completely reimagined auditorium of Chippy Theatre. This innovative approach, combining professional creatives, performers, and a mix of amateur actors, singers, and dancers from the community, ensures a truly communal and immersive experience. Adding to the theatrical feast, the play is performed as a double bill with “Barn Dance” by Mike Bartlett, offering audiences an extended exploration of themes and stories.
Music at Oxford and Southbank Sinfonia; Beethoven’s Pastoral Symphony
Saturday 08 June 2024
Sheldonian Theatre, Broad Street, Oxford, OX1 3AZ
The historic Sheldonian Theatre in Oxford will be the setting for a remarkable performance of Beethoven’s Pastoral Symphony, presented by Music at Oxford in collaboration with the Southbank Sinfonia.
This event stands out as a highlight of Music at Oxford’s season, dedicated to the theme of the Natural World, showcasing a piece that resonates deeply with the beauty and drama of nature. Beethoven’s Sixth Symphony, with its evocative scenes of dancing country folk, bird songs, a dramatic storm, and even the calls of a cuckoo, serves as a vivid musical homage to the composer’s profound love and appreciation for the natural environment. It’s a work that captures the essence of the countryside, celebrating its tranquillity, dynamism, and the cyclical forces of life and renewal.
The Southbank Sinfonia, known for its vibrant and youthful energy, is uniquely suited to bring this masterpiece to life. Comprised of the brightest young professional musicians of their generation, the orchestra is renewed annually, ensuring a fresh and enthusiastic approach to the repertoire. This constant infusion of new talent allows the Southbank Sinfonia to explore Beethoven’s Pastoral Symphony with a sense of discovery and innovation, making well-known music feel newly minted.
For audience members, this performance promises not just a listening experience but an immersive journey through the sights and sounds of nature, as interpreted by one of the most talented orchestras of our time. This combination of youthful exuberance and timeless music against the backdrop of the Sheldonian Theatre’s architectural splendour is poised to create an evening celebrating nature’s wonders through the lens of Beethoven’s genius.
Cilla & The Swinging 60s
Saturday 08 June 2024
The Mill Arts Centre, Spiceball Park Road, Banbury, OX16 5QE
The Mill Arts Centre in Banbury is set to host a vibrant celebration of the 1960s, headlined by the tribute show “Cilla & The Swinging 60s,” dedicated to the legendary Cilla Black and her illustrious contemporaries. This highly entertaining production promises to captivate audiences with its nostalgic journey through the era’s most iconic music, featuring the unforgettable voice of Sandy Smith. Alongside her talented dancers, Smith will bring to life the hits that defined a generation, including Cilla Black’s chart-toppers like ‘Anyone Who Had A Heart,’ ‘Alfie,’ and ‘You’re My World.’ The show’s repertoire extends beyond Cilla’s own songs to include classics by Dusty Springfield, Lulu, Petula Clark, The Beatles, and many more, offering a comprehensive homage to the vibrant music scene of the 1960s.
“Cilla & The Swinging 60s” is not just a musical tribute; it’s a time capsule that transports audiences back to the heart of the 60s pop revolution. The performance is packed with hit songs such as “Dancing in the Street,” “Shout,” “Do You Love Me,” and “Proud Mary,” each promising to imbue the night with an irresistible “feel-good” vibe. The show’s success across the country, underscored by glowing reviews, is a testament to its ability to resonate with fans of the era and new audiences alike. Attendees can expect an evening of relentless energy, hit after hit, that not only celebrates the legendary Cilla Black but also the spirit of an unforgettable decade.
Nocturne Live – Blenheim Palace
Wednesday 12 to Sunday 16 June 2024
Blenheim Palace, Woodstock, Oxfordshire OX20 1UL
Nocturne Live at Blenheim Palace, set within the stunning Oxfordshire countryside, is gearing up to be an unforgettable summer event, running from Wednesday 12th June to Sunday 16th June 2024. This musical extravaganza brings together a diverse array of legendary artists and bands, offering a unique blend of pop, soul, and rock to the historic grounds of one of England’s most beautiful estates. Highlighting the weekend, on Saturday, 15th June, British pop royalty such as the Sugababes, Melanie C, and Shaznay Lewis are slated to grace the stage, promising an evening filled with nostalgic hits and contemporary classics. The event not only celebrates these iconic figures of British pop music but also provides a platform for them to showcase their enduring appeal and musical talents amidst the grandeur of Blenheim Palace.
The line-up for Nocturne Live extends beyond pop music, featuring a soulful Thursday on 13th June with performances by the legendary Chaka Khan, Sister Sledge, and The Fatback Band, followed by a closing night on Sunday, 16th June, that boasts names like Crowded House, Sheryl Crow, and Turin Brakes. This rich diversity in musical offerings ensures that attendees will experience a wide spectrum of sounds and styles, all in the spectacular setting of Blenheim Palace. Visitors are encouraged to make the most of their experience by exploring the palace, park, and gardens with an Annual Pass, turning their concert evening into a full day of cultural and historical immersion.
The 39 Steps
Tuesday 11 to Saturday 15 June 2024
Oxford Playhouse, Beaumont Street, Oxford
Alfred Hitchcock’s timeless classic, “The 39 Steps,” is making a triumphant return to the stage, reimagined with Patrick Barlow’s award-winning comedic brilliance. Scheduled from Tuesday, 11th to Saturday, 15th June 2024 at the Oxford Playhouse, this adaptation revives the spy thriller with a unique blend of humour and intrigue that has captivated audiences worldwide. After an impressive nearly decade-long run in London’s West End, conquering Broadway, and being performed in 39 different countries, “The 39 Steps” has proven its global appeal, enchanting over 3 million people with its spirited homage to the original film and novel. This version, based on an original concept by Simon Corble and Nobby Dimon, preserves the essence of Hitchcock’s masterpiece while infusing it with a light-heartedness that transforms the spy narrative into a laugh-out-loud theatrical experience, winning both Olivier and Tony Awards for its ingenuity.
The play follows the thrilling escapades of Richard Hannay, portrayed as the quintessential British hero, complete with a stiff upper lip, a sense of unflappable gung-ho, and the obligatory pencil moustache. Hannay’s journey is a whirlwind of suspense and comedy, involving dastardly murders, double-crossing secret agents, and encounters with devastatingly beautiful women, all intricately woven into the fast-paced storyline. Barlow’s adaptation is a marvel of theatrical creativity, utilising a small but versatile cast to bring to life a multitude of characters and settings, making for an inventive and exhilarating viewing experience.
Pet Shop Boys, Actually
Friday 14 June 2024
Fat Lils, 64 Corn Street, Witney, OX28 6BS
On Friday, 14th June 2024, Fat Lils in Witney will play host to “Pet Shop Boys, Actually,” a tribute band that meticulously recreates the sound and essence of one of the most influential pop duos of the modern era. This 3-piece ensemble, with over 25 years of playing experience, takes fans on a nostalgic journey through the Pet Shop Boys’ impressive 40-year catalogue, promising an evening filled with timeless hits like “Go West,” “It’s A Sin,” and many more.
The tribute band’s dedication to authenticity, from the synthesiser sounds to the vocal stylings, ensures that attendees will feel the same electrifying energy that the Pet Shop Boys have been known for since the 1980s. As “Pet Shop Boys, Actually” surges through the decades-spanning repertoire, the audience at Fat Lils will be treated to an evening of sing-along anthems and dance-floor classics, all delivered with a passion and precision that pays homage to the original artists’ ground-breaking contributions to pop music.
Rory Stewart – Politics on the Edge
Thursday 20 June 2024
New Theatre Oxford, 24-26 George St, Oxford, OX1 2AG
The New Theatre Oxford is set to welcome Rory Stewart for an enlightening evening titled “Politics on the Edge.” As a co-presenter of the hit podcast “The Rest is Politics,” Rory Stewart brings his wealth of experience as a diplomat, explorer, cabinet minister, and writer to the stage for a no-holds-barred discussion on the intricacies of crisis, politics, and the shifting world order. This event unravels the complex dynamics of power—questioning who gets to win it, how it’s maintained and lost, and importantly, who is systematically excluded from wielding it. Through Stewart’s lens, attendees will explore the corrupting nature of power and whether it is possible for leaders to maintain their integrity while in authority, offering a rare opportunity to delve into the moral dilemmas at the heart of leadership and governance.
Following a series of sold-out events in 2023, Rory Stewart’s return to the stage is eagerly anticipated. His unique journey from political outsider to acting as the prime minister, and his eventual dismissal from a Conservative Party he scarcely recognised, provides a compelling narrative arc that will form the backbone of the evening’s discussion.
Stewart’s first-hand experiences—tackling ministerial challenges ranging from flood response and prison violence in the UK to addressing conflict and poverty on an international scale as a foreign minister, and navigating the tumultuous waters of Brexit—offer a profound insight into the deficiencies and complexities of modern governance and democracy. As Stewart opens up about populism, global conflict, and the insights from his instant number 1 Sunday Times bestseller, “Politics On The Edge,” attendees will also have the unique opportunity to pose their own questions, making this an unmissable event for anyone interested in the realities of political life, the challenges faced by leaders, and the future of global politics.
Beacon Festival 2024
Friday 21 to Saturday 22 June 2024
Watlington Hill Farm, Christmas Common, OX49 5HS
Beacon Festival 2024, set to take place from Friday, 21 June to Saturday, 22 June at Watlington Hill Farm and is renowned as Oxfordshire’s premier family-friendly music festival. This not-for-profit event boasts what is arguably the best location for live music in the UK, offering breathtaking views across the Chilterns. Beyond its musical allure, Beacon Festival distinguishes itself with a purely plant-based food selection, a dedicated Kids Zone, various workshops, a feel-good area, and an array of bars serving real ale, cider, and guest beverages. It’s a comprehensive community event designed to cater to all family members, ensuring that whether you’re camping onsite for the weekend or just dropping by for a day, the experience will be unforgettable. For first-timers and seasoned festival-goers alike, Beacon Festival promises easy access, no queues, and a wide range of musical genres to suit every taste.
As the sun sets over Oxfordshire, the Beacon Festival transforms into a magical enclave, enhanced by the lighting of the Beacon atop the hill, visible for miles around. The 2024 lineup, featuring headliners Rusky Shackle on Friday and Green Haze on Saturday, alongside a diverse array of other outstanding musical acts, guarantees an electrifying atmosphere. The festival not only celebrates a broad spectrum of music from hard rock to folk but also emphasises sustainability with its Sparkle Vegan Village and a variety of local artisan traders.
Blenheim Palace Flower Show
Friday 21 to Sunday 23 June 2024
Blenheim Palace, Woodstock, Oxfordshire OX20 1UL
The Blenheim Palace Flower Show, a much-anticipated highlight on the British gardening calendar, is set to bloom once again from Friday, 21st to Sunday, 23rd June 2024. This fabulous three-day event at the historic Blenheim Palace in Woodstock, Oxfordshire, promises to be an extraordinary showcase of horticultural excellence and creativity.
The show is poised to feature an even greater array of stands and entertainment options than in previous years, making it a must-visit for gardening aficionados and casual enthusiasts alike. Central to the event’s attractions is the return of the Grand Floral Pavilion, which will house a stunning collection of floral exhibits. Alongside, the innovative ‘Floral Street’ will offer immersive outdoor displays, setting the scene for a weekend filled with the beauty and diversity of British gardening.
Beyond the visual spectacle of blooms and gardens, the Blenheim Palace Flower Show offers a rich program of talks and demonstrations led by gardening experts, providing invaluable insights and tips for gardeners of all skill levels.
Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in plant shopping from a wide selection of vendors, ensuring they can take a piece of the show’s magic back to their own gardens. The event also caters to a broader range of interests with fabulous food and drink options, homeware and crafts stalls, and live music to entertain visitors throughout the weekend.
Six
Tuesday 25 to Saturday 29 June 2024
New Theatre Oxford, 24-26 George St, Oxford, OX1 2AG
“Six,” the international smash hit musical that has captivated audiences from the West End to Broadway, announces its much-anticipated UK tour, making a stop at the New Theatre Oxford from Tuesday, 25th to Saturday, 29th June 2024. Celebrated for its innovative retelling of history, “Six” transforms the tales of Henry VIII’s wives from Tudor Queens into Pop Princesses, offering a vibrant, modern twist on a centuries-old story. This Double Tony Award-winning production, recognised for ‘Best Original Score’ and ‘Best Costume Design,’ and the recipient of the WhatsOnStage Award for ‘Best West End Show’ in 2022 and 2023, promises to be a theatrical event not to be missed. The musical’s unique approach to storytelling, combining historical depth with contemporary flair, has not only won critical acclaim but also a dedicated fan following, making it a standout addition to the UK’s theatrical offerings.
The charm of “Six” lies in its empowering narrative and catchy tunes, as it remixes five hundred years of historical heartbreak into an 80-minute celebration of 21st-century girl power. With an energetic score that features hits like “Don’t Lose Ur Head” and “Ex-Wives,” the show’s soundtrack has achieved Gold-Disk status, a testament to its popularity and the universal appeal of its music. Described by The Australian as having ‘an incredibly strong and powerful message’ and hailed by the New York Times as ‘pure entertainment,’ “Six” is more than just a musical; it’s a cultural phenomenon that redefines what audiences expect from historical storytelling.
As it embarks on its UK tour, “Six” is set to bring its revolutionary spirit and infectious energy to Oxford, inviting theatregoers to experience the compelling stories of these six queens as they’ve never been told before.
Mark Simmons – Quip Off The Mark
Thursday 27 June 2024
The Kenton Theatre, 19 New Street, Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire, RG9 2BS
The Kenton Theatre in Henley-on-Thames is set to host Mark Simmons and his critically acclaimed tour show, “Quip Off The Mark.” Celebrated as the UK Comics’ Comic 2022 – Best Act and lauded by the Evening Standard as “one of the UK’s pre-eminent pun merchants…the quickest quipster in showbusiness,” Simmons has carved a niche for himself in the comedy world with his sharp wit and masterful one-liners. Having made a mark with semi-regular appearances on BBC2’s “Mock The Week” alongside comedy stalwarts Dara O’Briain and Hugh Dennis, Simmons’s show promises an evening brimming with clever punchlines and rapid-fire humour. His tour, which has already captivated audiences across over 125 venues, selling more than 15,000 tickets, showcases his unique talent for comedy that’s both smart and hilariously engaging, earning him spots on BT Sport’s DIY pundit, “The Rugby’s On,” and various other television and radio appearances.
“Quip Off The Mark” is not just any comedy show; it offers a distinctive narrative that sets it apart from typical one-liner performances. This year, the show is themed around a personal anecdote – Mark’s parents selling his childhood home, prompting him to retrieve a box of memories from the loft. This inventive premise serves as a backdrop for a series of jokes and one-liners, inviting the audience into a more personal dimension of Simmons’s comedy. Furthermore, Mark’s engagement with other comedians through his solo podcast, “Jokes With Mark Simmons,” where he discusses the art of joke-writing with guests like Gary Delaney and Sarah Millican, adds depth to his comedic perspective. Audiences at The Kenton Theatre can expect not just a series of jokes, but a crafted narrative experience, peppered with Simmons’s trademark wit and a unique insight into the comedian’s world, making “Quip Off The Mark” a standout event in the comedy calendar.
Nik Kershaw
Friday 28 June 2024
O2 Academy Oxford,190 Cowley Road, Oxford
The O2 Academy Oxford will play host to an extraordinary event as Nik Kershaw, along with his fabulous band, prepares for an intimate festival warm-up show. This special occasion offers fans a unique opportunity to experience the legendary musician’s work in a close and personal setting, a rare treat for those accustomed to seeing their favourites in larger, more impersonal venues.
Nik Kershaw, whose career spans several decades, is renowned for his engaging live performances and a catalogue of hits that have left an indelible mark on the music industry. You can look forward to live renditions of classics such as “Wouldn’t It Be Good”, “The Riddle”, and “I Won’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me”, alongside selections from his nine studio albums.
As a songwriter, Kershaw has penned songs for other artists, further cementing his status in the industry. This festival warm-up show offers a comprehensive look at his journey as a musician, showcasing not only the well-loved singles but also highlighting his evolution over the years. For fans old and new, this performance is a chance to connect with Kershaw’s music on a deeper level, experiencing the energy and emotion of his songs in a live setting that promises to be both memorable and moving.
Adolf and Winston
Friday 28 June 2024
The Theatre Chipping Norton, 2 Spring St, Chipping Norton OX7 5NL
On Friday, 28th June 2024, “Adolf and Winston” is set to take the stage at The Theatre Chipping Norton, promising a unique and humorous take on two of the most iconic figures of the 20th century. This production, featuring just two actors, Howard Coggins and Stu Mcloughlin, embarks on a creative and daring exploration of the lives and legacies of Winston Churchill and Adolf Hitler, albeit through a lens that is far removed from the sombre tones often associated with their histories.
The play begins with a reflective moment in London, 1939, where Winston Churchill, amidst the brewing storm of World War II, resolves to lead Britain through its darkest hour. Fast forward to Bristol, 2014, Howard Coggins finds a resemblance to Churchill in his mirror, setting off a chain of events that leads to a comedic yet thought-provoking portrayal of history.
“Adolf and Winston” is more than just a play; it’s a bold experiment in storytelling, weaving together the threads of history with personal narratives and a touch of the absurd. Following their success with “The Six Wives of Henry VIII,” Coggins and Mcloughlin continue their tradition of tackling grand historical themes with a blend of humour, satire, and a decidedly light-hearted approach to research. As the narrative shifts to Bristol, 2015, with Stu Mcloughlin donning a small moustache to embody Hitler, the duo invites the audience on a tightrope walk of taste and decency.
This production challenges conventional portrayals of these monumental figures, offering a fresh perspective that promises to engage, entertain, and perhaps even enlighten, as it navigates the complex waters of history and its impact on the present. Will either of these characters, or indeed the actors themselves, emerge unscathed from this war of wits and words? “Adolf and Winston” at The Theatre Chipping Norton is an event not to be missed by those who enjoy their history served with a side of irreverence and wit.
Discover the ideal place to stay in Oxfordshire by exploring our ‘Stay’ section, offering accommodation choices for every budget. From charming bed and breakfasts perfect for unwinding after festival activities. Great hotels that elevate your festival journey, or serene retreats like glamping for contemplation amidst the arts, or a self catering option that offers the comfort of home.
Ensure your Oxfordshire visit is nothing short of perfect.
