Affordable Theatre in Bristol and Bath

Keep an eye on the budget whilst enjoying theatre in Bristol

By Charlie Kenber | Updated Sep 4 2023

No one loves a bargain more than we do, and with such a plethora of quality theatre to catch, it can really start to hit the purse-strings. Luckily, venues in Bristol and Bath run a number of schemes to help you out…

Student Rush at the Bristol Old Vic

If you're lucky enough to be studying in or around Bristol, then you can take advantage of a stellar ticket deal at the Bristol Old Vic. Sporting its recently refurbished foyer to complement the redone main house and backstage areas, the theatre is proudly putting on some of the best fare in the city once more. If you time it right, students can get top-priced seats for a cracking £7.50. Available two hours before the show online (select ‘Student Ticket’) or in person, it’s the ideal way to catch some high-quality theatre on the cheap. So move quickly and don’t forget your student card!

The Bristol Old Vic is on King Street, BS1 4ED

Bath Fringe Festival

For two and a half weeks from May into June, Bath gives itself over to its very own Fringe festival. Featuring all manner of theatre and comedy, it’s a festival for all of the arts, and takes place in numerous venues across the city. The latest manifestation in a heritage line of local festivals, the current event is organised by a cooperative, and largely created by its own artists and producers. Expect an eclectic mix of shows over the duration of the festival, and with all the shows funded by the artists and venues themselves, it’s a great way to contribute to the cultural life of the area.

The Bath Fringe Festival runs from 22 May to 7 June 2020. Once the programme is announced, check out the festival website for full details.

Pay What You Decide at the Wardrobe Theatre

Operating since 2011 (2015 in its current incarnation) with a strong connection with their community, the Wardrobe Theatre has always worked hard to keep prices down. In that spirit, some performances at the venue are staged on a ‘Pay What You Decide’ basis, in which you wait until after the performance to quantify what you think it was worth. If you haven’t got the funds this is a great way to catch a play, but it’s also worth noting that all the ticket money goes straight back into the venue, so do pay more if you can! Entry is first come first served with the box office opening 45 minutes before the show, so get there early to be sure of a seat.

The Wardrobe Theatre is at the Old Market Assembly, 25 West Street, Old Market, BS2 0DF

Theatre Royal Bath

Finally, for some of the best touring and local productions, head over to the Theatre Royal Bath. Comprising the Main House, Ustinov Studio and the Egg (a thrilling venue for children’s and family theatre), the Theatre hosts a wide range of work. The Ustinov is often the best place to find a bargain, but they also have a number of discounts on offer for students, seniors, under 16s and JSA claimants, as well as if you buy for several shows at once.

Theatre Royal Bath is at Sawclose, Bath BA1 1ET