Oxfordshire is buzzing with live entertainment this May, with stages and stately homes across the county offering everything from West End-style musicals and hit tribute acts to thought-provoking drama, intimate jazz, food festivals and family circus fun. Whether you fancy a big night out at New Theatre Oxford, an atmospheric evening in a smaller venue, or a day of great food and outdoor spectacle at Blenheim Palace, there are plenty of ways to make the most of the longer, lighter days.
A small selection of what’s on in Oxfordshire this May 2026:
Kiss The Teacher (Abba Tribute)
Friday 01 May 2026
Fat Lil’s, 64 Corn Street, Witney, OX28 6BS
ABBA fans can dig out their flares and platform boots when Kiss The Teacher bring their 100% “ABBAtraction” show to Fat Lil’s in Witney on Friday 1 May 2026. This lively tribute act serves up all the biggest and most beloved hits, recreating the sound and spirit of the Swedish supergroup in a fun, feelgood night that is made for singing along.
Expect a set packed with classics from the golden age when ABBA ruled the charts, complete with catchy choruses, tight harmonies and plenty of nostalgia. Whether you grew up with the songs or discovered them through Mamma Mia!, this is your chance to dance, jive and have the time of your life to those timeless pop anthem
Strictly Come Dancing – The Professionals
Tuesday 05 and Wednesday 06 May 2026
New Theatre Oxford, 24-26 George St, Oxford OX1 2AG
Strictly fans can enjoy all the sparkle and footwork up close when Strictly Come Dancing – The Professionals returns to New Theatre Oxford on Tuesday 5 and Wednesday 6 May 2026. Stepping out of the TV studio and onto the live stage, a line-up of favourite pros – including Julian Caillon, Vito Coppola, Neil Jones, Gorka Márquez, Luba Mushtuk, Lauren Oakley, Jowita Przystał, Michelle Tsiakkas, Alexis Warr, Kai Widdrington and Nancy Xu – bring the full Strictly experience to Oxford. Expect a whirlwind of waltzes, tangos, salsas and more, all delivered with the energy, precision and showmanship that have made the series a national favourite since 2004.
The show pairs 11 world-class dancers from the latest TV series with a live band, powerful vocalists, lavish costumes, striking visuals and big, crowd-pleasing routines. With brand new choreography, a packed soundtrack and plenty of glitter, Strictly The Professionals takes the glamour of the BBC One show to another level, offering an electrifying night out for anyone who loves dance, sequins and a bit of Strictly magic.
The Beekeeper of Aleppo
Tuesday 05 to Saturday 09 May 2026
Oxford Playhouse, Beaumont Street, Oxford
Oxford Playhouse hosts a poignant and powerful piece of theatre when The Beekeeper of Aleppo comes to Beaumont Street from Tuesday 5 to Saturday 9 May 2026. Based on Christy Lefteri’s international No.1 bestselling novel, the play follows Nuri, a beekeeper, and his wife Afra, an artist, whose peaceful life in Aleppo is shattered by war. Forced to flee everything they know, they embark on a dangerous journey as refugees, confronting unimaginable loss, fear and uncertainty. At its heart, this is a story about love, resilience and the fragile hope that they might somehow find each other – and a future – again.
Adapted for the stage by Nesrin Alrefaai and Matthew Spangler (co-adapter of The Kite Runner) and presented by UK Productions Ltd in association with Nottingham Playhouse, the production has been praised for its assured staging and outstanding ensemble performances. Drawing on a novel that won the Aspen Words Award, was runner-up for the Dayton Literary Peace Prize and became one of The Times’ top three bestselling books of 2020, this compassionate play explores connection between families, friends and strangers and what it means to be human in the face of displacement and conflict.
Sherlock Holmes: The Death and Life
Wednesday 06 May 2026
The Mill Arts Centre Spiceball Park Road, Banbury , OX16 5QE
Sherlock Holmes refuses to go quietly in Sherlock Holmes: The Death and Life, coming to The Mill Arts Centre, Banbury, on Wednesday 6 May 2026. In this witty, fantastical twist on Conan Doyle’s world, the author himself has grown weary of his famously arrogant creation and decides to get rid of him by inventing criminal mastermind Professor Moriarty. But when Doyle’s plan collides with his own fascination for spiritualism and raising the dead, the consequences are far stranger – and more dramatic – than he ever intended, as his fictional characters begin to develop lives and ambitions of their own.
This wry, one-man tale of murder, mystery and the occult stars Nigel Miles-Thomas as Holmes, in a script by David Stuart Davies, adapted for the stage and directed by Gareth Armstrong, with original music by Simon Slater. Praised as “brilliant, unmissable” and “a firework display of acting virtuosity”, the show offers a clever, playful look at authors, their creations and what happens when a character simply refuses to leave the stage.
The Easy Rollers
Wednesday 06 May 2026
The North Wall Arts Centre, South Parade, Summertown, Oxford, OX2 7JN
Jazz lovers can step back into the golden age of swing when The Easy Rollers come to The North Wall Arts Centre in Summertown on Wednesday 6 May 2026. This seven-piece band has become known for channelling the energy and elegance of 1920s and ’30s Harlem, Kansas City and New Orleans, while remaining very much part of today’s vibrant British jazz scene. Their 2025 album … And Another Thing earned critical acclaim, radio play on BBC Radio 3 and an album launch at a sold-out PizzaExpress Live in London, praised for its strong ensemble playing, craft and obvious passion for the music.
Celebrating their 10th anniversary in 2026, The Easy Rollers are fronted by vocalist Dani Sicari, whose characterful, vintage-tinged voice recalls early jazz icons such as Helen Kane and Ruth Etting. On stage they deliver tight arrangements, original songs and classics with real flair, capturing the spontaneity and glamour of the Jazz Age without treating it as mere nostalgia. Expect an evening of sophisticated swing, infectious rhythm and the feeling of being dropped into a smoky jazz club from another era.
StevieMac – A Premier Tribute to Stevie Nicks & Fleetwood Mac
Friday 08 May 2026
The Corn Exchange, Market Square Witney, OX28 6AB
Fleetwood Mac fans can look forward to a night of big harmonies and classic rock when StevieMac – A Premier Tribute to Stevie Nicks & Fleetwood Mac comes to The Corn Exchange, Witney, on Friday 8 May 2026. One of the UK’s leading tributes to Stevie Nicks and the band, StevieMac deliver a polished, theatre-style show that captures both the distinctive sound and the emotional pull of Fleetwood Mac’s music, with tight musicianship and rich vocal arrangements.
Formed in 2018, the band has recently been revitalised by the arrival of a new lead vocalist whose voice, presence and Stevie-like charisma have taken the performance up another notch. The current line-up brings real attention to detail, musical accuracy and storytelling, recreating the atmosphere and drama of songs that have soundtracked decades. Whether you are a lifelong fan or simply love a nostalgic, high-impact night of live music, StevieMac promises an evening full of timeless hits and that unmistakable Stevie Nicks magic.
Giffords Circus
Blenheim Palace, Woodstock, Oxfordshire OX20 1UL
Friday 08 to Monday 18 May 2026
Giffords Circus brings its much-loved big top back to Blenheim Palace from Friday 8 to Monday 18 May 2026, promising another spellbinding show for all ages. Often described as a national treasure, Giffords is famed for creating productions with the charm and intimacy of a traditional village circus, paired with the artistry and polish you might expect from a West End stage.
The tent will once again be pitched among the ancient trees of the Blenheim parkland, close to the Butterfly House and Marlborough Hedge Maze. Inside, audiences can escape into a colourful world of acrobats, jugglers, horses and live musicians, all woven together with Giffords’ trademark warmth, humour and storytelling. It is the kind of outing that delights children and adults alike – a classic circus experience in a truly beautiful setting.
Supersonic Queen
Friday 15 May 2026
The Kenton Theatre, 19 New Street, Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire, RG9 2BS
Queen fans can expect a night of full-throttle rock theatre when Supersonic Queen arrive at The Kenton Theatre, Henley-on-Thames, on Friday 15 May 2026. Performing together for over a decade, this five-piece tribute band has built a reputation as one of the most exciting and convincing Queen tributes on the circuit, recreating the drama, energy and showmanship of the band’s legendary live performances. Whether in theatres, at festivals or on big outdoor stages, they deliver a crowd-pleasing, high-octane show that wins over die-hard fans and new listeners alike.
Frontman Phil Copping channels Freddie Mercury with uncanny flair – from the trademark moves and playful stage presence to the vocal power, phrasing and humour that made Freddie such a compelling performer. Backed by a line-up of top-tier musicians, Supersonic Queen perform every note live, with soaring harmonies, blistering guitar work and driving rhythms bringing classics such as Bohemian Rhapsody, Don’t Stop Me Now, Somebody to Love, We Will Rock You and Radio Ga Ga roaring back to life. Expect a night of big choruses, mass singalongs and pure rock ’n’ roll escapism.
Our House
Wednesday 20 to Saturday 23 May 2026
Oxford Playhouse, Beaumont Street, Oxford
Madness fans can step into the House of Fun when Our House comes to Oxford Playhouse from Wednesday 20 to Saturday 23 May 2026. Presented by University of Oxford student company Cross Keys Productions and directed by Madison Bouchta, this award-winning jukebox musical is set in Camden in the 1980s and follows Joe Casey on the night of his 16th birthday. Trying to impress his girlfriend Sarah, Joe makes a split-second decision: hand himself in to the police or run away. From that “sliding doors” moment, the show tracks his Good and Bad futures in parallel, showing how each choice shapes the lives of Sarah, his best mates Emmo and Lewis, and his mum, Kath.
Packed with the music and lyrics of Madness, this is a jukebox musical with real heart and plenty of chaos. Expect all the classics – House of Fun, Baggy Trousers, My Girl, Night Boat to Cairo, It Must Be Love and, of course, Our House – performed by a moving band of actor-musicians, alongside big dance numbers and larger-than-life characters. With infectious tunes, sharp humour and a story about family, community and consequences, it is the kind of show that will have you laughing, dancing in your seat and humming the songs all the way home.
James Morrison
Thursday 21 May 2026
New Theatre Oxford, 24-26 George St, Oxford OX1 2AG
James Morrison brings his rich, soulful vocals to New Theatre Oxford on Thursday 21 May 2026 as part of his Fight Another Day tour. Since his debut album Undiscovered stormed to number one in 2006, selling over two million copies worldwide and making him the year’s biggest-selling British male solo artist, he has been known for heartfelt songwriting and instantly recognisable hits such as You Give Me Something and Broken Strings.
Now, with new album Fight Another Day, Morrison returns to the stage with a set that blends fresh material with the songs that first won him a devoted following. Fans can expect an evening of emotional ballads, soulful mid-tempo tracks and that warm, gravelled voice in full flight. If you have ever sung along to his records, this is a chance to experience those songs live and up close.
Fused – Top 90s/00s Rock Cover Band
Saturday 23 May 2026
Fat Lil’s, 64 Corn Street, Witney, OX28 6BS
Fans of 90s and 00s rock are in for a big night when FUSED hit the stage at Fat Lil’s, Witney, on Saturday 23 May 2026. Long established as one of Oxfordshire’s top pop/rock covers bands, they deliver high-energy live sets packed with party anthems from the likes of The Killers, Kings of Leon, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Nirvana and plenty more era-defining artists. With a big sound and a setlist built for singing along and dancing hard, this is the ideal night out for anyone who grew up on indie discos and rock clubs – and with tickets expected to sell fast, it’s one to book early.
Blenheim Palace Food Festival
Saturday 23 to Monday 25 May 2026
Blenheim Palace, Woodstock, Oxfordshire OX20 1UL
Food lovers have a feast in store when the Blenheim Palace Food Festival returns from Saturday 23 to Monday 25 May 2026. Set against the stunning backdrop of Blenheim Palace in Woodstock, this three-day celebration brings together an impressive line-up of celebrity chefs and food experts, alongside an array of stalls offering everything from gourmet treats to much-loved street food favourites. It is a chance to graze your way around the world in one place, with flavours to tempt every palate.
In the festival kitchen, Michelin-starred chefs and well-known TV favourites will be sharing their skills and stories through live cookery demonstrations and Q&A sessions, giving visitors plenty of inspiration to take home. Beyond the food stalls you will find artisan producers, craft brewers, farm shops and specialist kitchenware traders, making it a perfect day out for anyone who enjoys cooking, eating and discovering new tastes in a spectacular setting.
Paul Young: Songs and Stories
Sunday 24 May 2026
The Kenton Theatre, 19 New Street, Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire, RG9 2BS
Eighties pop fans can enjoy an evening of nostalgia and insider tales when Paul Young: Songs and Stories comes to The Kenton Theatre on Sunday 24 May 2026. Forty years on from the breakthrough success of No Parlez – the chart-topping album that produced classics like Wherever I Lay My Hat (That’s My Home) – Paul looks back over a remarkable career that also includes the hit album The Secret of Association, global smash Everytime You Go Away and a memorable appearance at Live Aid.
This intimate show blends conversation with stripped-back, acoustic performances of the songs that made him a household name, along with stories from life on the road, in the studio and with his much-loved Tex-Mex band Los Pacaminos. It is a chance to hear the hits in a new light, ask questions, and spend time with an artist whose music has soundtracked four decades of memori
Kathryn Tickell and the Darkening
Friday 22 May 2026
The Theatre Chipping Norton, 2 Spring Street, Chipping Norton, OX7 5NL
Kathryn Tickell & The Darkening bring their powerful, atmospheric sound to The Theatre Chipping Norton on Friday 22 May 2026. Named after an old Northumbrian word for twilight, the band features Kathryn Tickell on Northumbrian smallpipes, fiddle and vocals, alongside Amy Thatcher (accordion, synth, clogs, vocals), Heather Cartwright (vocals, guitar), Joe Truswell (drums, percussion) and Stef Conner (vocals, lyres). Together they create what they call “Ancient Northumbrian Futurism” – music that fuses deep-rooted tradition with bold, contemporary textures and ideas.
Drawing inspiration from the landscapes around Hadrian’s Wall and far beyond, their songs explore themes of freedom, nature, resilience and stepping back into the light after darker times. The set moves from age-old stories and fragments of history – including a Roman inscription with links to Libya and Syria – to original material, all brought into the present through rich vocal harmonies, driving rhythms and Kathryn’s unmistakable piping. It promises a distinctive, evocative evening for anyone who enjoys folk music with ambition and edge.
Legally Blonde
Tuesday 26 to Saturday 30 May 2026
New Theatre Oxford, 24-26 George St, Oxford OX1 2AG
New Theatre Oxford turns a bright shade of pink this spring as Legally Blonde The Musical struts into town from Tuesday 26 to Saturday 30 May 2026. This sparkling new UK tour from Curve Leicester revives the much-loved West End and Broadway hit, based on the iconic MGM film, with music and lyrics by Laurence O’Keefe and Nell Benjamin, a book by Heather Hach and direction from Nikolai Foster (of Kinky Boots fame). Amber Davies (Pretty Woman, 9 to 5 The Musical) stars as Elle Woods, the sorority queen who swaps shopping trips for case notes when she follows her ex-boyfriend to Harvard Law – only to discover she is capable of far more than anyone, including herself, ever imagined.
Packed with big dance numbers, catchy songs and all the fan-favourite moments (including Bruiser the chihuahua and the Delta Nu sisterhood), this high-energy production is a joyful burst of 00s nostalgia with a thoroughly modern heart. As Elle navigates snobbery, sexism and heartbreak, she proves that intelligence, kindness and a positive attitude are anything but frivolous and that being true to yourself never goes out of style. It is the ultimate feel-good night out, guaranteed to send you home smiling.
Taylormania
Sunday 31 May 2026
New Theatre Oxford, 24-26 George St, Oxford OX1 2AG
Taylor Swift fans can revel in a full night of singalong anthems when Taylormania comes to New Theatre Oxford on Sunday 31 May 2026. Billed as a Swiftie’s dream, this award-winning tribute show celebrates one of modern pop’s biggest stars with a set packed full of hits from across her career. If you missed out on tickets to the Eras Tour, this is your chance to experience the next best thing in a live theatre setting.
Fronted by self-confessed superfan Katy Ellis, and seen on both ITV and the BBC, Taylormania features a live band, dancers and all the energy you would expect from a Taylor-inspired show. Expect to hear favourites such as Shake It Off, Blank Space, Love Story, You Belong With Me, Look What You Made Me Do, I Knew You Were Trouble and plenty more. With costumes, choreography and crowd participation, it promises an upbeat, feelgood night tailor-made for Swifties of all ages.
With so much happening across Oxfordshire this May, it’s the perfect excuse to turn a night out into a proper break. Stay over in Oxford in a central hotel or characterful guest house or base yourself in one of the county’s market towns or villages in a cosy B&B or self-catering cottage. From riverside pubs and historic inns to independent cafés and restaurants, you will find plenty of great places to eat, drink and unwind between shows. However you plan your visit, Oxford and Oxfordshire offer the ideal backdrop for a spring getaway filled with theatre, music, food and family days out.
