The Lyric Theatre Belfast has launched its Autumn/Winter 2026-27 season, a defining moment in its 75th anniversary year, with a dynamic programme brimming with tear-jerking drama, side-splitting comedies, extraordinary music, and some of the most celebrated writing for the stage.
Opening the 2026 season is the Lyric production of the smash hit Steel Magnolias by Robert Harling (13 Jun–10 Jul), Pull up a chair and be transported to 1987 Louisiana, as six sassy southern spitfires spill the sweet tea in their weekly beauty salon ritual in the Lyric’s highly anticipated summer show. You’ll laugh and cry in this celebration of love, loss, and the fierce friendships that see us through.
The season continues with a tragi-comic exploration of family, memory, and cultural identity in The Blind Fiddler (31 Jul–16 Aug) by acclaimed playwright Marie Jones. Set against a backdrop of traditional Irish music, the story follows Kathleen Gormley as she reflects on her parents’ turbulent relationship and uncovers long-buried truths. Featuring world-class musicians Cathal Hayden, Máirtín O’Connor, and the Murphy Brothers, this much-loved work returns to celebrate Fleadh Belfast 2026, following sold-out runs across the UK, Ireland, and the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.
A major highlight of the anniversary programme sees the return of Brian Friel’s Faith Healer (10 Oct– 14 Nov), in a landmark Lyric Theatre production starring Conleth Hill(Game of Thrones 2011-2019). Widely regarded as one of the greatest plays of the twentieth century, Faith Healer follows the enigmatic Frank Hardy, a travelling healer whose gift is as dangerous as it is extraordinary. Through shifting perspectives and poetic storytelling, Friel’s masterpiece examines faith, truth, and the fragile line between belief and illusion.
Completing the season in truly magical style is a festive adaptation of Little Women (28 Nov – 9 Jan 2027). This beloved classic is reimagined for the stage as a heartfelt celebration of family, ambition, and the enduring power of sisterhood – an unmissable treat for the holiday season that promises to leave audiences uplifted and inspired.
The Lyric also presents a bold and vibrant season of visiting work, rich in imagination and variety. A packed programme of comedy sees the return of favourites including Teresa Livingstone (4-5 Sept), Vittorio Angelone (6-7 Sept), Paddy Armstrong (10-13 Sept) and Grimes & McKee (10-30 December), alongside Aoife Dunne’s Good Grief(8 Nov), blending stand-up with powerful theatrical storytelling.
Other highlights include Guy Mitchell’s Dead Dog (26 May–21 Jun), followed by its daring sequel Spacebucket Rides Again (24–29 Nov). Also returning is the Climate Playwriting award-winning The Pitch (28–31 Jul), M.R. James (17–22 Nov), and the acclaimed 5-star production of The Human Voice (5-7 Nov).
Fresh voices within the season programme include A Filthy Dirty Rumour (22–25 Jul), Body Count (13–14 Nov) and Hello Charlie (7–18 Oct), alongside the sharp, hilarious Partitions (16–19 Sept). Ordinary Days (11–12 Sept) brings an intimate and uplifting musical moment.
The Lyric also welcomes Big Telly Theatre Company’s Darren Jackson’s Wedding(21 Oct-1 Nov) an immersive production that begins outside the theatre before moving indoors for a contemporary love story.
Music lovers can enjoy performances as part of Belfast TradFest with Seán Maguire Ómós (28 July), as well as the album launch concert from Mary Dillon, Dónal O’Connor and Neil Martin (25 Oct).
Other special events to celebrate the Lyric’s landmark 75th birthday include the opening of a new exhibition of paintings and archives, ‘The Return’, (7 Jun), and a celebratory concert, We Do It For Love (21-22 Aug), presented in collaboration with the Ulster Orchestra as they mark their 60th year.
The Lyric Theatre is supported by Arts Council of Northern Ireland National Lottery funding and Belfast City Council.
Nóirín McKinney, Director of Arts Development, Arts Council of Northern Ireland, said:
“The Arts Council of Northern Ireland is proud to be the Lyric Theatre’s principal funder and support their new season in this special 75th anniversary year. Once again, this historic theatre offers the opportunity to enjoy world-class productions, alongside some of the best home-grown talent and new writing, providing audiences with unforgettable experiences. We are delighted to support the very special contribution that the Lyric Theatre makes to the creative and cultural life of Northern Ireland.”
Lyric Theatre Executive Producer, Jimmy Fay, said:
“For over 75 years, the Lyric has been at the heart of theatrical culture here. Extraordinary actors, designers and directors continue to bring life to some of our greatest playwrights’ work. I hope you find something to entertain, provoke and interest you in our forthcoming season and we look forward to welcoming you to the Lyric over the coming months.”
Tickets for the 2026 season are now available. Full details can be found on the Lyric Theatre’s website visit https://lyrictheatre.co.uk/ Follow Lyric Theatre on Facebook and Instagram at @LyricBelfast.
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