In Conversations are your opportunity to put questions to a wide range of theatre professionals including actors, directors, writers, musicians, costume designers, producers, Board Chairs, Principals, photographers, theatre workers, Council Leaders,  to name but a few! This picture was taken during an In Conversation with Jude Owusu who played Lopakhin in The Cherry Orchard.  

In Conversations are usually hosted by a Member of the Bristol Old Vic Theatre Club and last around an hour. Following questions from the audience guests usually stay on after the event for further discussion.  

Most In Conversations are recorded. In Conversation Podcasts by year  All In Conversation Podcasts. Upcoming Guests. 

Our Lunch Circle events are always popular. A wonderful opportunity to share a nice meal, with good company and of course a chat about theatrical experiences. Previous lunch venues have included Bristol Old Vic, Aqua, San Carlo, SS Great Britain, Cowshed, Prezzo, Pitcher & Piano, Glass Boat, Cote Brasserie. 

We always seek to find accessible venues which are reasonably priced and have a good selection of gluten free, vegetarian and vegan dishes.

Theatre Chat is based on the popular ‘book club’ concept. There is great joy in discussing a performance after a show with others and to share our reactions and thoughts on the production. Theatre Chat gives Members and guests the opportunity of watching a pre-agreed show whenever they are able, and then come together for an informal, but often lively, chat to share their experience and views.  There are no experts and we encourage a wide range of views. The person who chose the production usually opens the discussion and suggests a theme or two for the group to explore together.

Volunteers who want to nominate and lead future sessions are agreed and the chosen show/s are advertised in News! There is no commitment to attend every session; ideally participants will have seen the show, but it is not essential.

The Theatre Club not only supports Bristol theatres, but we also visit theatres further afield.  Most recently Members enjoyed a trip to The Dresser at Cheltenham Everyman. Previous events have included trips to Hay on Wye to watch Story Book by poet, Owen Sheers and trips to  London’s West End. 

Closer to home we have enjoyed tours including a backstage tour of Bristol Hippodrome, the Costume Warehouse at the Bottle Yard Studios (pictured), BBC Studios on Whiteladies Road and Bristol Old Vic Theatre School facilities. 

A group also attended a fascinating walking tour courtesy of Show of Strength Theatre Company, where members found out about the history of Blood and Butchery in Bedminster. We regularly support events held at the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, including the annual Generate Exhibition, which showcases the work of graduating students, as well as Director and Design events. We have also been treated to observing Open Rehearsals at BOVTS. Upcoming Trips and Tours 

Do you enjoy theatre but not keen on late nights? Then join fellow Theatre Club Members for a Matinee Meet Up.  

Members book their own tickets and usually meet for a meal first, see the show and then meet afterwards to swap thoughts with a drink.