This summer, East Riding Theatre (ERT) in Beverley is once again positioning itself as one of the region’s cultural cornerstones. With a programme that blends sharp new writing, evocative music, and original comedy, the converted chapel on Lord Roberts Road continues to punch well above its weight in terms of ambition and artistic quality.
The season begins with Do I Love You, a new play written and directed by Yorkshire theatre mainstay John Godber. Running from 29 May to 7 June, it’s a Northern Soul-infused story about finding meaning, music, and identity in the overlooked corners of working-class Britain. Known for his acute social observations and a deep understanding of northern life, Godber’s return to Beverley is a welcome one.
On 11 June, the theatre hosts The Switch, a piece devised and performed by students from East Riding College. The story follows a group of teenagers whose relationships are tested when they’re invited to a mysterious house party via social media. Youthful, contemporary and relevant, the production reflects ERT’s ongoing commitment to supporting emerging talent and providing a platform for young voices.
Comedy fans can look forward to Patrick Monahan’s one-night show The Talkinator on 14 June. Monahan, known for his warmth and physical energy, blends anecdotes and audience interaction in a style that’s made him a regular on the live circuit. His stop in Beverley promises to be both topical and light-hearted—ideal midsummer fare.
Music takes centre stage later in the month with the return of the Beverley Folk Festival on 21 and 22 June. The line-up includes an open mic night, family-friendly folk workshops, and headline performances from Jamie Lawson and Cara Dillon, both of whom bring strong national followings. For traditionalists and newer folk converts alike, this is a highlight of the town’s calendar.
Visual arts are also part of the summer schedule. From late May through June, the Theatre Gallery will host Dreamscapes, a solo exhibition by Gary Saunt. His vibrant, figurative canvases explore modern life with a surreal, sometimes satirical edge, inviting viewers to reflect on the strangeness of the everyday.
On 24 June, cycling commentator Carlton Kirby visits with a special talk titled True Tales of the Tour de France, an insider’s account of the world’s most gruelling sporting event. For those seeking something more interactive, Locomotive for Murder: The Improvised Whodunnit runs 26–28 June. In this fast-paced, audience-led comedy, viewers help shape the plot of a chaotic murder mystery set aboard a moving train.
July and August bring a variety of music acts to the stage. Highlights include King Pleasure and the Biscuit Boys (4 July), the Jon Palmer Acoustic Band (11 July), and blues-rock trio The Alex Hamilton Band (9 August). Swing, folk, Latin, and soul influences appear throughout the schedule, making for an eclectic summer soundtrack.
Whether you’re a regular at ERT or planning your first visit, the theatre’s summer programme offers something distinctive. With its mix of professional excellence, community collaboration and adventurous programming, ERT remains a vital part of Beverley’s cultural identity. As the weather warms, so too does the stage.
Book online here: https://www.eastridingtheatre.co.uk/