About us

Bristol Old Vic Theatre Club has been going strong since 14 July 1946, created at a public meeting. Bristol Old Vic’s Artistic Director at the time, Hugh Hunt, suggested that an independent supporters’ organisation should be formed to champion the work of both Bristol Old Vic and Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, as well as presenting its own programme of events.

We maintain that mission to this day.

For a modest annual membership fee, we continue to add to the enjoyment of the theatregoer’s overall experience in a variety of ways.

We invite theatre practitioners to explain their work and share ideas that have shaped productions. We welcome directors, actors, playwrights and technicians, all of whom help us build insider’s knowledge of the work involved in taking a play from page to stage. We call these In Conversations.

Social events bring us into contact with one another and with the stage professionals involved in the creative process.

We host regular post show discussions called Theatre Chats, Members watch a pre-agreed show and then join the group to discuss over a coffee.

Join our Lunch Circle for delicious food and theatre discussion in a relaxed and welcoming environment.


We enjoy occasional invitations to exclusive performances of work in progress, celebrations, Theatre School tours, backstage visits and master classes.


Organised trips and discounted tickets make it easy for us to broaden our theatrical horizons. We visit productions at theatres in London, Plymouth, Stratford and Newbury, and other towns within easy reach.

We provide sponsorship and practical support to the Theatre and Theatre School, and so become partners in nurturing talent. We give helping hands to Bristol Old Vic’s new-writing initiatives, support the work of the Young Company and make annual awards to students of Bristol Old Vic Theatre School.

We also raise funds through Lucky Numbers, our quarterly draw and hold regular raffles at our In Conversation events.

Our monthly Newsletters (News!) report on events, provide more inside information about the work of Bristol Old Vic and the Theatre School, include interviews, a theatre what's on guide and more.

Membership of the Theatre Club offers an opportunity to meet like-minded people. We come from a variety of backgrounds and enjoy mixing with other theatregoers.

Come and join us!