Programming Policy
On This Page
- Programming Criteria and Process
- How To Submit a Programming Request
- Programming Priorities by Venue
- Venue Information and Technical Specifications
- Resources and Support for Visiting Companies
Overview
Sheffield Theatres presents work across four unique spaces, each offering different opportunities for visiting companies (guest productions) and audiences.
| Venue | Description | Capacity (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Crucible | World-renowned Sheffield landmark, home to Sheffield Theatres’ own productions and special events. | 700 - 900 |
| Lyceum | Stunning proscenium theatre showcasing the finest UK touring productions. | 1,000 |
| Playhouse | Intimate, flexible studio space designed for close-up theatre experiences. | 150 - 350 |
| Montgomery | Theatre and arts centre with a proud tradition of nurturing children’s creativity. | 400 |
Programming Criteria/Objectives
Each theatre has criteria/objectives that we assess all submissions against, which alongside our commitment to excellence, include:
- Artist Development
- Audience Development
- Arts Council England’s Strategic Framework
- Sales
A successful submission will satisfy at least one of these criteria. Please see our ‘Programme Priorities by Venue’ section below for more information.
Programming Process
We programme guest productions well in advance: up to one year ahead for the Playhouse and Montgomery, and up to two years ahead for the Lyceum.
We have three ticket on-sale periods each year, where we announce shows coming up over the next 12 months. These on-sale periods have set programming deadlines:
| On Sale | Guest Production Programming Deadlines |
|---|---|
| June | Early April |
| October | Early July |
| March | Early December |
How to Submit a Programming Request
To help us review your proposal efficiently, please read the information on this page and include the following in your submission:
- A tour pack with images, reviews and a short technical specification
- A trailer or recording of submitted piece and/or previous work
Please send your request to: programming@sheffieldtheatres.co.uk
Please note:
Due to the high volume of proposals we receive, we are unable to respond to every submission we receive.
Programming Priorities by Venue
Crucible
- Primarily presents Sheffield Theatres’ own produced work
- Home of the World Snooker Championship since 1977
- Festivals including DocFest and Crossed Wires
- Hosts events led by our Commercial and Fundraising team
Guest Production Availability
The Crucible’s priority is Sheffield Theatres’ produced work and is therefore rarely available for guest programming.
Please note due to our major capital redevelopment in the Crucible building, the Crucible Theatre will be temporarily closed from summer 2028.
Lyceum
- Welcomes some of the UK’s most successful touring musicals, plays, dance and opera productions.
- Hosts Sheffield Theatres’ and Evolutions’ annual pantomime December-January each year.
- Guest productions must demonstrate strong commercial viability, and we typically programme work for a minimum run of one week.
- Family shows and one-night events, such as comedy or live music, are also considered.
Guest Production Availability
Typically available for guest programming: January – July and September – late November.
Tanya Moiseiwitsch Playhouse
- Presents Sheffield Theatres’ own produced work
- Welcomes a diverse programme of guest productions (see our priorities below)
- Hosts Music in the Round
- Productions made by our Creative Engagement team, including work by Sheffield Theatres’ Youth Theatre, Launchpad and Sheffield People’s Theatre
- Programmes of work led by our Creative Development team, including opportunities for companies to share work in development and an annual festival called Open Works
- Hosts events led by our Commercial and Fundraising team
Our Priorities for Guest Productions at the Playhouse include:
- Theatre that connects emotionally and intellectually
- Bold, accessible storytelling for diverse audiences
- New plays with contemporary themes
- Stories rooted in South Yorkshire
- Northern voices that reflect the diversity and character of the region
- Under-represented voices
- Work for young audiences and families
Guest Production Availability
Typically unavailable in April due to the World Snooker Tournament. Please note due to our major capital redevelopment in the Crucible building, the Tanya Moiseiwitsch Playhouse will be temporarily closed from summer 2028.
Montgomery
- Hosts productions for young audiences and families
- Presents large studio/mid-scale touring musicals and plays
- Live entertainment such as comedy, tribute acts and music
- Local amateur and community theatre group productions
- Performances from local schools
- Hosts events led by our Commercial and Fundraising team
Guest Production Availability
The Montgomery Theatre became part of Sheffield Theatres in January 2025. Guest Productions programmed by Sheffield Theatres’ Producing & Programming Team will begin from Christmas 2026.
Resources and Support for Visiting Companies
Here are some resources and networks that can support visiting companies and artists in venues programming your work at Sheffield Theatres and beyond:
Venues North: Routes In
Routes In: A Guide to Getting New Work Programmed in the North of England
We are a member of Venues North a network of venues from across the North of England who are committed to supporting artists to create new work.
This guide has been put together to help artists and companies making new work overcome some of the barriers to getting their work programmed. We would recommend reading this guide prior to submitting your programming request.
Big Imaginations
We are a member of Big Imaginations, a network of arts organisations dedicated to bringing brilliant children’s theatre to the north of England and beyond.
Big Imaginations can support visiting companies and artists by offering funding, development opportunities, mentoring, access to rehearsal space, and help with programming and touring shows aimed at children and families, particularly for work that is diverse and imaginative.
