Nottingham’s much-loved summer tradition is back as the Theatre Royal Nottingham unveils the Colin McIntyre Classic Thriller Season 2026, running throughout August. A firm fixture in the venue’s calendar since 1988, the season once again promises a thrilling programme of gripping mysteries, dark twists and edge-of-your-seat drama for city audiences.
Presented by Tabs Productions in association with Theatre Royal Nottingham, the 2026 season features three compelling productions, blending suspense, intrigue and moments of wicked humour.
Kicking off the season from Tuesday 11 to Saturday 15 August, Anybody for Murder by Brian Clemens and Dennis Spooner delivers a deliciously dark comedy thriller. Set on a Greek island, the story follows Max, whose plans to murder his wife and claim her life insurance are thrown into chaos when unexpected guests arrive with news of a vast inheritance. As plots unravel and tensions rise, everyone becomes a suspect in a fast-paced tale of deception, ambition and murder.
The suspense intensifies from Tuesday 18 to Saturday 22 August with The Nightmare Room, adapted by John Goodrum from Arthur Conan Doyle’s chilling mystery. This contemporary thriller centres on two women locked in a room and forced into a deadly psychological game involving poison and manipulation. Packed with tension and unexpected twists, the production offers a modern take on classic gothic suspense.
Closing the season from Tuesday 25 to Saturday 29 August is The Mantrap, the premiere production of Robert Thomas’s original play Piège pour un homme seul, newly translated and adapted by Sean Aita. Set in a remote Cornish cottage, the story explores themes of identity, memory and truth, as a man searching for his missing wife is confronted by a stranger claiming to be her. With its intricate plot, the play promises to keep audiences guessing until the final moment.
The annual event has built a loyal following across Nottinghamshire and beyond, with audiences returning year after year for its carefully curated line-up of classic and contemporary thrillers and its unique mix of suspense, humour, and theatrical storytelling.
Karen Henson, co-producer of the season for Tabs Productions, said:
“We are delighted to be working with the Theatre Royal to present another exciting season of thrillers in Nottingham this August.
For us, it’s like a big family reunion each summer: the actors on stage, the team behind the scenes, and the wonderful audiences out front all coming together to enjoy this much-loved repertory season.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or discovering it for the first time, there’s something for everyone to enjoy so please do come along and join us.”
Tickets for all performances are on sale now via www.trch.co.uk and box office 0115 989 5555.
Listings Information:
The Colin McIntyre Classic Thriller Season 2026
Theatre Royal Nottingham
Tuesday 11 to Saturday 29 August 2026
- Anybody for Murder: Tue 11 to Sat 15 Aug
- The Nightmare Room: Tue 18 to Sat 22 Aug
- The Mantrap: Tue 25 to Sat 29 Aug
Age Guidance 12+
www.trch.co.uk Box Office 0115 989 5555
Posted on 01 July 2026
