Hull Truck Theatre are excited to begin February with a brand-new must-see show of the season: Macbeth (Thu 5th – Sat 28th February). Premiering in Hull, Shakespeare’s iconic tragedy has been co-produced with regional theatre partners; Octagon Theatre Bolton and Derby Theatre and is also touring to the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre in Guildford.
This powerful and chilling production set in a contemporary warzone follows the story of Macbeth, an esteemed and trusted nobleman who is driven by an insatiable desire to succeed.
As Macbeth and his power-hungry wife set off on a murderous course to seize the crown, he is consumed by a great darkness… with violence and tyranny inflicted upon everything and everyone who stands in his way. But will his sanity remain intact, or will he pay the ultimate price for such destructive actions? Find out what happens when human ambition remains dangerously unchecked in this gritty stage drama.
Mark Babych, Macbeth Director and Artistic Director and Joint CEO at Hull Truck Theatre, said: “Our production of Macbeth is set against the backdrop of a contemporary warzone where the path of the story will remain loyal to the original piece, but the context will be different pulling on contemporary references, that feel like ‘Stranger Things’ when we bring in the witches, that people might recognise. There are fantastic actors in this production who bring the words of Shakespeare to life, making the story clear and exciting.”
For audiences who might wish to explore the world of Macbeth before they see the production, there is the opportunity to attend a practical drama workshop at Hull Truck Theatre with First Thursday Theatre Club – Acting Shakespeare: Exploring Macbeth (Thu 5th February). Delve into the play’s core characters, central themes, and storyline where participants are encouraged to take part in whatever way feels comfortable – as a confident performer, a complete beginner, or someone who simply wants to join the discussion or observe from afar.
For drama lovers looking for something more “kitchen-sink” drama in style, Children of The Night (Wed 25 – Thu 26 Feb) is a studio play inspired by the testimony of 30 people from Doncaster and a love letter to the working-class cultural pulse of the North. Amidst the chaotic finale of 90s nightlife, the backdrop of post-Thatcher Britain and during the UK’s first heterosexual HIV cluster, this is: A Play, A Poem, and A Party.
Looking for a hilarious way to spend Valentines Day with a partner, friend or yourself this year? Look no further! Colosseum of Chaos (Fri 13th – Sat 14th February) will present a physical comedy for adults aged 18+. Expect impressive fights, hilarious games and raucous fun as two idiot gladiators will fight for your enjoyment and the amusement of the Almighty Amazon Alexa!
The Colosseum of Chaos gladiators are also taking over our Great Adventures programme during the February Half Term break. Packed with laughter, creativity and fun, families are invited to get stuck into some arts and crafts followed by a fun interactive show for adventurers aged 3-6 years. Each show last approximately 30 minutes and there is a chance for children and adults alike to make new friends, complete guided crafts and enjoy the magic of a live theatre experience. (Sat 14th – Tue 17th February).
Performers, Andy Ross and Jack Fielding said: “We’re excited to bring Colosseum of Chaos to Hull Truck Theatre. Expect a double dose of goofy gladiators, brilliantly fun audience interaction and side-splitting laughter. The Great Adventure shows focus on playful competition and visual comedy, while adult performances dive deeper into mischief, naughtiness and improvised chaos.”
Hull Truck Screen is back for another month and set to premiere a range of films and screenings in collaboration with Hull Independent Cinema, National Theatre Live, and Cinema Live.
Hull Independent Cinema will present The Ice Tower (15) (Thu 19th February), set in the 1970’s, and presenting the Hans Christian Andersen story of The Snow Queen. Sentimental Value (15) (Fri 27th February), 9-time Oscar nominee will also present the story behind a successful but emotionally fragile stage actress.
Samuel Sims, Programmer at Hull Independent Cinema, said: “We’re delighted to share another programme full of films that we’ve carefully and lovingly curated with you, our wonderful audience, in mind. Hull Independent Cinema has a longstanding relationship with Hull Truck Theatre, and we love to present our films at the Hull Truck Screen.”
Olivier Award-winner Hiran Abeysekera (Life of Pi) will star in the fearless, contemporary take on Shakespeare’s famous tragedy, Hamlet (Wed 18th February), presented and recorded by NT Live. Returning to cinemas for the first time in over a decade, Helen Mirren plays Queen Elizabeth II in the Olivier and Tony Award® – winning hit production, directed by Stephen Daldry – The Audience (Sat 28th February), one of the most-watched NT Live productions.
Cinema Live will pair classic silent movies with epic rock music to bring audiences a unique big screen experience this February with R.E.M X Buster Keaton’s Sherlock Jr (12A) (Tue 24th February). Whether you’re a movie lover or a rock music fan this is an experience you won’t want to miss!
Last but not least, Hull Truck Theatre have collaborated with local artist Emily Oetegenn, founder of Tales and Scales Productions, to offer the opportunity for local artists to connect with Hull Truck Theatre. Welcoming local artists to perform in a warm, safe, inclusive and welcoming environment, there will be a performance event where audiences can enjoy a programme of open mic performances at Tales and Scales Productions Showcase and Disabled Artist Networking Event (Monday 23rd February).
To book tickets for any of the shows on stage or to sign up to any opportunities at Hull Truck Theatre in February 2026, please visit www.hulltruck.co.uk