The Orange Tree Theatre has revealed its ambitious 2026/27 season, featuring celebrated actors Tamsin Greig, Olivia Williams and Claire Skinner in a mix of classic adaptations, new writing and Shakespeare. The programme signals a continuation of the venue’s commitment to intimate, high-quality theatre alongside a new music collaboration.

The 2026/27 season at Richmond’s Orange Tree Theatre opens with Tamsin Greig leading the cast in Cranford, adapted by Lin Coghlan and Shaun McKenna from Elizabeth Gaskell’s novel. The production, directed and co-created by Josh Roche, reunites the creative team behind the theatre’s adaptation of The Forsyte Saga. Cranford runs from 13 November 2026 to 16 January 2027, with previews starting on 3 November.

Shakespeare returns to the Orange Tree with Richard II and King Lear performed in repertory. Roger Allam and Freddie Fox lead the productions, joined by Arthur Hughes and Amber James. Tom Littler, the theatre’s artistic director, directs this pairing which opens on 3 March 2027, after previews from 15 February, and runs until 10 April.

Olivia Williams makes her Orange Tree debut in Noël Coward’s The Vortex, under the direction of Jonathan Munby. This production begins previews on 17 April 2027, opening on 23 April, and concludes its run on 29 May.

The season includes the world premiere of Sapling by Georgina Duncan, winner of the 2025 Women’s Prize for Playwriting. Directed by Claire O’Reilly, this new play is a co-production with Sheffield Theatres and Paines Plough. Sapling previews from 5 June and runs from 9 June to 3 July before transferring to Sheffield.

Claire Skinner also debuts at the Orange Tree starring in Infamous Anne, a new comedy by Penelope Skinner. Directed by Charlotte Gwinner, the production will preview from 10 July and run from 16 July to 7 August 2027.

Alongside theatre productions, the venue launches OT Music in partnership with St Mary Magdalene church. Curated by Seb Gillot, the programme features solo and chamber recitals from musicians including pianist Harry Baker, Dame Emma Kirkby, and the London Conchord Ensemble. The popular Sunday Morning Coffee Concerts, led by former Allegri Quartet violist Dorothea Vogel, will return.

Artistic director Tom Littler emphasised the theatre’s blend of strong writing and acting, highlighting the new plays, classic adaptations, and Shakespeare repertory. He also noted the upcoming reopening of the venue’s refurbished bar and foyer in early spring 2027, as the theatre seeks to expand its cultural offering with music alongside dramatic work.