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About

The oldest theatre in Scotland, the Theatre Royal is in the heart of Dumfries and first opened its doors in 1792. It has strong associations with the renowned Scottish poet Robert Burns, who wrote several pieces specifically for its stage.

The Theatre saw multiple changes of ownership during the first half the of 20th Century, before being bought by the Guild of Players in 1959.

The Guild managed to secure support from new sources and instead of planning on building new facilities upwards, they looked towards expanding outwards.  Adjacent buildings were purchased, and renovation work began in 2014, completed by the end of 2015.  The newly refurbished building includes several new spaces while maintaining many of the historic features, ushering Scotland’s oldest theatre into the 21st Century.

Attend one of the touring productions presented throughout the year, which includes live music, stand-up comedy and theatrical dramas. The Guild of Players presents a regular season of four shows, as well as a family-friendly Christmas pantomime.

Grab a drink at the bar before the show or enjoy a meal from the customised theatre menus at nearby restaurants. Want to get hands-on at the theatre? You can participate in one of the workshops or join our group of fantastic volunteers and help build sets and design costumes.

Coming up

Claudia Buckley

Claudia Buckley

Theatre Royal Dumfries
Fri, Nov 13 7:30 PM
Theatre Royal

Claudia Buckley is an award winning performer and vocalist, from Athenry in Co. Galway and has fondly became known by her worldwide fan base as “The Galway Girl”. This past month has seen Claudia win Female Entertainer of the year for the third time running at the hot country music awards. With four “Female Entertainer Of The Year” award wins under her belt, Claudia is one of the leading country music stars in Ireland. She has two number 1 albums in the charts featuring hits such as “Diane”, “Come On In” and her breakthrough single “Drinking with Dolly” which has credited Claudia her own stamp on the country music scene in Ireland and beyond. Claudia has achieved record breaking success as she has massed a huge following of all ages who travel far and wide to see her perform with her five piece band at dance halls, theatres and at festivals both at home in Ireland and overseas. Of course, some would say it was inevitable that Claudia would pursue a career in music, following firmly in the footsteps of her father, Country music legend Jimmy Buckley. He speaks fondly with pride about Claudia’s love for her craft “I knew music would find her, she got bitten by the music bug at a very young age. I’m so happy that the public have taken to her wonderful personality, and she has the talent to match, I could not be more proud if I tried.” Claudia has dueted with and toured the UK extensively with Nathan Carter and after a sell out solo tour in 2025 including two nights in the prestigious Eden Court in Inverness, she is currently planning to bring her brand new tour back to Scotland in Autumn 2026. Claudia has featured on various television shows in Ireland including Ireland longest running and highest viewership ‘The Late Late show’ and notably being one of the special guests on Daniel O’Donnells Opry le Daniel show. This year sees Claudia taking her TV appearances to an even bigger audience as she was asked to duet with and be interviewed by Boyzones Ronan Keating for his new BBC UK series. This show is due to air nationally in Spring this year. **Doors open:** 18:30

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Christopher MacArthur-Boyd: Howling at the Moon

Christopher MacArthur-Boyd: Howling at the Moon

Theatre Royal Dumfries
Thu, Feb 4, 2027 8:00 PM
Theatre Royal
Comedy

CHRISTOPHER MACARTHUR-BOYD: HOWLING AT THE MOON TOTAL SELL-OUT RUN AT THE EDINBURGH FRINGE 2025 One of the hottest tickets at the Fringe in 2025, Howling At The Moon is CMB’s new show of nocturnal stand-up about neurodivergence, sexuality and lunacy. Host of the Here Comes The Guillotine podcast alongside Frankie Boyle and Susie McCabe. Star of the comedy specials Oh No and Scary Times. Host of the BBC New Comedy Award and star of Scotland Stands Up, with appearances on Frankie Boyle’s New World Order. Christopher has previously opened for comedians such as Kevin Bridges, Shane Gillis, Kerry Godliman, Jason Manford and David Cross. ‘Scotland is producing some compelling young comics right now, with CMB chief among them’ Chortle ‘Seriously fine-tuned his act and turned the offbeat humor up to 11’ The New York Times ‘Has the audience roaring with laughter from start to finish’ \*\*\*\* The Scotsman 'The gold standard of Scottish stand-up: funny, thoughtful, gently weird, and utterly relatable.’ \*\*\*\* One4Review ‘A charming charisma that makes him such a natural at stand-up’ \*\*\*\* FEST Mag ‘Funny and sharp and beautifully performed’ \*\*\*\* EntertainmentNow ‘Effortless, big laughs in pretty much of all the strange ports he stops in’ \*\*\*\* The List **Doors open:** 19:00 **Please note:** Age 14+ (swearing and adult content)

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Devine Tension’s 10th Anniversary Drag Extravaganza

Devine Tension’s 10th Anniversary Drag Extravaganza

Theatre Royal Dumfries
Fri, Mar 5, 2027 7:30 PM
Theatre Royal

*"From underground clubland culture, to opening for Chappell Roan in-front of 30,000 people, Devine Tension is a formidable force within Scotland’s drag scene. In 2027, she’s celebrating 10 YEARS of drag excellence - and you’re invited!* *Join Dumfries & Galloway based drag legend, Devine Tension, as she celebrates a decade of rural drag excellence at this all-singing, all-dancing, drag extravaganza in the heart of Dumfries. Expect fierce production, expect killer performances, expect jaw-dropping looks, expect the unexpected. With a decade in the entertainment industry under her belt, and various sold out shows, Devine knows a thing or two about putting on a show!* *Devine Tension’s 10th Anniversary Drag Extravaganza is guaranteed to leave you wanting more and more, with a show-stopping lineup of Scottish Drag Excellence who have made a significant impact on Devine’s career across this last decade. This line-up is truly insane, from live vocals and fierce lip-syncs to performance art, with something for everybody to sink their teeth into:* *- Dumfries-based drag legend, THE VOICE of the Scottish drag scene,**Madame Jo Mama*** *- Edinburgh-based drag legend, THE SHAPE-SHIFTING force of nature,**SYR*** *- Glasgow-based drag legend, THE MASTERCLASS of alternative drag,**Frans*** *- Glasgow-based drag legend, THE MODEL AND MUSE of Scottish drag,**Latex*** *This is a once-in-a-lifetime event, that you DO NOT want to miss out on. You only celebrate 10 YEARS of drag once!* *Whether you’re a drag aficionado, or well-versed in the art form, there is something for everybody at Devine Tension’s 10th Anniversary Drag Extravaganza. So fire up the group chat, and get those ticket’s booked NOW!* *ABOUT DEVINE TENSION* *Devine Tension is a drag artist, and producer, based in Dumfries & Galloway, Scotland. In 2017, Devine’s drag was born in London from a fascination with the intersection rural grit with cosmopolitan glamour. In 2018, she returned to Dumfries & Galloway, and never looked back. With a mission statement to create accessible LGBTQ+ nightlife spaces within the rurality of Dumfries & Galloway, Devine created “Club Queer” at Chancers Nightclub, which began building a community of LGBTQ+ individuals and their allies whom engage within the local nightlife scene. Having worked with numerous venues across the region, and building a network of clients across the country, Devine has produced upwards of 300+ events since her inception. In 2025, Devine opened for Chappell Roan at the Edinburgh Highland Showgrounds. In 2026, she opened for drag legend Peaches Christ on her European Tour. Ten years later, she’s still going strong (and constantly refining her craft).* *ABOUT DEVINE TENSION PRESENTS \[DTP\]* *DTP are a Dumfries & Galloway based LGBTQ+ focussed production company, led by local drag superstars Devine Tension and Madame Jo Mama, responsible for the regeneration of Dumfries’ queer nightlife scene since 2021. With a plethora of events, ranging from**Dine’n’Drag**at Home Restaurant and**STEAMIN'**at Chancers Nightclub to, DTP have welcomed renowned queer artists from across the country such as Lawrence Chaney, Cheddar Gorgeous & Lawrence Chaney from RuPaul’s Drag Race UK. Additionally, DTP are known for producing “Slay The Spirits” - an online drag-infused paranormal investigation collective.”* **Doors open:** 18:30

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Can You Catch A Serial Killer?

Can You Catch A Serial Killer?

Theatre Royal Dumfries
Sun, Mar 14, 2027 3:00 PM
Theatre Royal

**THE UK’S FIRST INTERACTIVE SERIAL KILLER INVESTIGATION** Join the investigation in 'Can You Catch a Serial Killer?' Featuring real-life cases through dramatised crime scene mock-ups, criminal profiling, investigative techniques, forensic evidence, and simulated autopsies. You’ll connect the dots, analyse the clues, and catch a killer - LIVE! Hosted by serial killer expert Cheish Merryweather, this immersive experience features fictionalised reconstructions, audience voting via CLiKAPAD and high-pressure investigative simulations. Cheish challenges you to make critical decisions before the killer strikes again. Recommended age 16+ Contains intense themes, realistic crime scene reconstructions, and graphic simulated autopsy material. LIVE VOTING When you arrive at Theatre Royal, you’ll be directed to where you can collect your Clikapad. Each device can be worn securely on a lanyard, so you can keep it with you comfortably while watching the show. REVIEWS FOR PREVIOUS SHOWS "EXCELLENT! ‘Combines the grisly business of murder with some fun along the way!" - Kent Live ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "A thoroughly enjoyable night out" - Sussex Courier ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Fascinating night for a true crime fan, or anyone interested in how the human brain works. A great night at the theatre." - StageSideUK ⭐⭐⭐⭐ “I was hanging on every word — mind-blowing content. 5 out of 5 stars.” - Rotherham Advertiser ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ **Doors open:** 14:00 **Please note:** Age 16+ recommended

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Can You Catch A Serial Killer?

Can You Catch A Serial Killer?

Theatre Royal Dumfries
Sun, Mar 14, 2027 6:30 PM
Theatre Royal

**THE UK’S FIRST INTERACTIVE SERIAL KILLER INVESTIGATION** Join the investigation in 'Can You Catch a Serial Killer?' Featuring real-life cases through dramatised crime scene mock-ups, criminal profiling, investigative techniques, forensic evidence, and simulated autopsies. You’ll connect the dots, analyse the clues, and catch a killer - LIVE! Hosted by serial killer expert Cheish Merryweather, this immersive experience features fictionalised reconstructions, audience voting via CLiKAPAD and high-pressure investigative simulations. Cheish challenges you to make critical decisions before the killer strikes again. Recommended age 16+ Contains intense themes, realistic crime scene reconstructions, and graphic simulated autopsy material. LIVE VOTING When you arrive at Theatre Royal, you’ll be directed to where you can collect your Clikapad. Each device can be worn securely on a lanyard, so you can keep it with you comfortably while watching the show. REVIEWS FOR PREVIOUS SHOWS "EXCELLENT! ‘Combines the grisly business of murder with some fun along the way!" - Kent Live ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "A thoroughly enjoyable night out" - Sussex Courier ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Fascinating night for a true crime fan, or anyone interested in how the human brain works. A great night at the theatre." - StageSideUK ⭐⭐⭐⭐ “I was hanging on every word — mind-blowing content. 5 out of 5 stars.” - Rotherham Advertiser ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ **Doors open:** 17:30

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Souvenir: A Tribute to Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark

Souvenir: A Tribute to Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark

Theatre Royal Dumfries
Sat, Jul 3, 2027 7:30 PM
Theatre Royal
Live Music

**SOUVENIR** deliver a faithful, high-energy celebration of one of the most influential synth-pop bands of all time. This show features live bass, live drums and live vocals, combined with a meticulously programmed production that captures the sound, style and spirit of OMD. Created by devoted OMD fans, every detail has been considered to deliver an evening that captures the spirit of the source material while paying a loving homage to a band that changed the face of electronic music. From the pioneering electronic anthems of the early ’80s to the more mainstream hits of later decades, expect all the classics, standout album tracks and fan favourites – performed with precision, passion and respect for the music. With atmospheric lighting, vintage staging and a love for every detail, Souvenir is more than a tribute – it’s a statement of devotion to the songs that shaped a generation. **EXPECT TO HEAR** Enola Gay • Electricity • If You Leave • Souvenir • Joan of Arc • Maid of Orleans • Messages • Tesla Girls • Locomotion…and many more. Whether you’ve followed OMD from their Factory Records days or discovered their music more recently, this is a night for every fan of intelligent, atmospheric synth-pop. “*This isn’t your average tribute, it’s a loving homage to a band that changed the face of electronic music*.” **Doors open:** 18:30

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Johnny Cash Roadshow

Johnny Cash Roadshow

Theatre Royal Dumfries
Wed, Oct 20, 2027 7:30 PM
Theatre Royal
Live Music

THE OUTLAW LEGEND. THE SHOW YOU CAN’T MISS. Prepare for a night that hits like a freight train and lifts the roof off the theatre -Johnny Cash Roadshow is back, bigger, better and more electrifying than ever. Fronting this explosive production is award‑winning Clive John, universally hailed as an extraordinary Johnny Cash. His voice, presence, and raw authenticity don’t just imitate Cash - they ignite him. Every note. Every story. Every iconic move. It’spowerful, spine‑tingling, and utterly unforgettable. By his side, the sensational ‘June Carter’ brings unstoppable charm, lighting up the stage with show‑stopping duets such as Jackson, times awastin’ and help me make itt hrough the night. Together, they’re backed by a powerhouse lineup of world‑class musicians delivering the unmistakable boom‑chicka‑boom like a runaway train. This isn’t just a tribute -it’s a high‑octane celebration of Cash, bringing his outlaw spirit, with all his hits including Folsom Prison and Cocaine Blues and this year the roaring legacy of the American Supergroup The Highwaymen with hits such as Highwayman and Silver Stallion and mamas don't let your babies grow up to be cowboys. Expect a sensational rendition of Hurt, warm soulful nostalgic songs such as Walk the Linea nd Daddy Sang Bass,i ncorporating all the hits and finishing with the unforgettable classic Ring of Fire. Every performance erupts instanding ovations - every night, every venue, every crowd swept to their feet by the power, passion, and unstoppable energy of this phenomenal show. \*\*This is the Man in Black as you’ve never experienced him. This is the outlaw revival of the decade.This is the Johnny Cash Roadshow - keeping the legend alive, louder and stronger than ever.\*\* Grab your tickets. Hold on tight.And get ready for the ride of your life. **Doors open:** 18:30

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