What’s on January at Hull Truck Theatre 2026

Hull Truck Theatre are delighted to welcome audiences to join them to start the new year with an exciting line-up of shows that are sure to both entertain and bring the community together.

With new comedy, authentic music tributes, great drama and raucous fun, January at Hull Truck Theatre will offer audiences the chance to enjoy a wide range of visiting work. So, whether you are looking to continue partying well into the new year or just fancy trying something new, Hull Truck Theatre is the place to be.

Janthi Mills-Ward, Executive Director at Hull Truck Theatre, said:

“We all need a pick me up at the start of the New Year so if you are looking for standout comedy, fresh perspectives on Shakespeare, or musical one nighter’s, our January programme at Hull Truck offers something for everyone. We’re excited to welcome audiences back to the theatre in 2026 to share unforgettable experiences together.”

Why not start the New Year with something new? Alice in Neuroland – A Tale of Minds Unmasked (Saturday 10 January) is an amateur performance brought to life by neurodiverse individuals. Join Alice as she journeys into a remarkable world where eye contact is discouraged, stimming is embraced and every form of expression is honored as valid communication. Brought to you by T.I.C Yorkshire – providing support for anyone affected by Tourette’s Syndrome and Tic disorders within Hull, Lincolnshire and Yorkshire.

Hull Truck Theatre has a variety of live comedy, music and drama shows to start your year. Bridget Christie is back by popular demand with her brand-new comedy show: Jacket Potato Pizza (Thursday 15 January). With a razor sharp, consistently hilarious, expertly paced and structured set, she is one of the biggest and best stand-up artists around. Tickets are already selling fast so don’t miss out. Chuckl. Hull also returns, this time with Seann Walsh and Brennan Reece (Friday 23 January). Get ready for a huge night of stand-up comedy with hand-picked selection of top comedians from across the UK comedy circuit. For Shakespeare and contemporary drama lovers, join Colin Hurley for Lear’s Shadow (Thursday 15 January). Using only Shakespeare’s words (reordered, repurposed, and often repeated) Lear’s Shadow is a mischievous, engaging reflection on Shakespeare’s great domestic tragedy. Meanwhile, for fans of the Pop-Rock Sensation, Olivia Rodrigo, then look no further! Complete with authentic costumes, vocals and dancers, The Olivia Rodrigo Experience (Saturday 17 January) promises to be a fun-filled, action packed night out for all ages.

As part of the Hull Truck Screen programme and ongoing partnership with Hull Independent Cinema (HIC), you can experience two screenings throughout the month of January. Palestine 36 (12A) (Friday 16 January) follows Yusuf, a Palestinian from a rural village, amid mounting repression, who can’t avoid becoming more aware of the forces shaping his identity. Still Pushing Pineapples (Saturday 24 January) sees former pop star Dene Michael clinging to the remnants of fame that he once had as a member of the 1980’s novelty pop group Black Lace. Do you love the hit Agadoo? Dene is eager to press on with his music career and get out from under the legacy of that hit. Find out if he can ever get one last chart success. The film will be followed by a live Q&A with director Kim Hopkins and producer Margareta Szabo.

If that was not enough cinema, Bat Out of Hell – The Musical (Tuesday 20 January) is also available to enjoy, presented by Cinema Live. Get ready for the ultimate rock experience as the West End cast bring a streamed edit of Jim Steinman and Meat Loaf’s iconic anthems to life. National Theatre Live will present a screening of The Fifth Step (Wednesday 21 January), where Olivia Award-winner Jack Lawrence (Slow Horses, Dunkirk) is joined by Emmy and BAFTA-winner Martin Freeman (The Hobbit, The Responder) in this critically acclaimed and funny new play by David Ireland. Finally, for fans of fine art, multi-award-winning filmmakers David Bickerstaff and Phil Grabsky will delve into the hidden narratives of the life of Caravaggio in Exhibition on Screen: Caravaggio (Friday 23 January). Get ready to piece together clues embedded within his incredible art, the intriguing self-depictions within his work and view the psyche and personal struggles of this brilliant, complex and controversial historic figure.

An Introduction to Stand-Up comedy with Kevin Precious is back for another year! Comedian Kevin Precious will be expertly guiding recruits through the tricks of the trade, building stand-up content and confidence across a six-week period. The short course will take place every Tuesday evening between Tuesday 20 January – Tuesday 24 February. Get stuck in writing new material and practising techniques with a friendly group of participants, culminating with each participant getting the opportunity to perform their first gig at a sharing on Tuesday 3 March.

Another way to challenge yourself with something new in 2026 could be to dip your toe into the world of acting. Introduction To… Acting will be led by professional actor, Peter McMillan. Specially designed for adults, this short course will take participants on a practical journey, analysing theatre exercises, voice, characterisation and scene study.You do not need any previous experience in acting to take part and everyone is welcome. Sessions run 6.30 – 8.30pm for six weeks from Tuesday 20 January – Tuesday 24 February. Introduction To… Screenwriting short course with Lydia Marchant is currently sold out, with a waiting list available.

To book tickets for any of the shows on stage or to sign up to any opportunities at Hull Truck Theatre in January 2026, please visit: www.hulltruck.co.uk.