The New Wolsey Theatre has been at the heart of Ipswich’s cultural life for 25 years, but our story starts even earlier.
We proudly stand on the legacy of The Arts Theatre, Ipswich’s much-loved repertory theatre, which for decades was a vital part of the town’s cultural landscape. When the Wolsey Theatre opened in 1979, it carried that tradition forward, but after closing briefly in 1999, it was brought back to life in 2001 by the New Wolsey Theatre Company – a registered charity committed to making high-quality, diverse, and accessible theatre for all.
Tommy, 2017
For over 20 years, under the leadership of Sarah Holmes and Peter Rowe, the theatre flourished, establishing itself as a powerhouse of regional theatre with a national reputation. We became and are still know known for staging world premieres and landmark revivals of musicals, including 20th Century Boy, It’s a Wonderful Life, Made in Dagenham, Never Lost at Home, Once, Our Blue Heaven, Sweet Charity, The Who’s Tommy (winner of the UK Theatre Award for Best Touring Production). Our much-loved Rock ‘n’ Roll Pantomime has also become a festive staple, blending actor musicianship, mischief, and mayhem into a show like no other.
Footloose, 2024
Since 2022, under the leadership of Chief Executive and Artistic Director Douglas Rintoul, the New Wolsey Theatre has built on its rich legacy with box office hits like Kinky Boots and Footloose, while continuing to tell bold, resonant stories that reflect the communities of Ipswich, Suffolk, and beyond. We are not just a theatre; we are ambassadors for the town, connecting Ipswich to the wider cultural landscape and championing its growth and creative energy.
Village Idiot, 2023
Accessibility and inclusion are at the heart of what we do. As a founding member of Ramps on the Moon, we’ve helped transform opportunities for deaf and disabled artists and audiences, winning the UK Theatre Award for the Promotion of Diversity in 2017. Our Creative Communities programme engages thousands each year, ensuring theatre remains open to all. We also take our environmental responsibility seriously, cutting our carbon footprint by 60% and following Green Book standards to minimise our impact. Recognised with a Carbon Charter Silver Award, we’re committed to making sustainable theatre a reality. In 2024, we were proud to win the Positive Impact in the Community award and be named Suffolk Business of the Year, reflecting our vital role in Ipswich and beyond.
Brief Encounter, 2023
The New Wolsey Theatre is a producing powerhouse, balancing artistic ambition with affordability and accessibility. We continue to push boundaries, forge new creative partnerships, and bring inspiring theatre to audiences. Whether you’re here for a show, a workshop, or just a coffee, we’re proud to welcome you. This is your theatre – and the next chapter is just beginning.