The country is gripped by football fever once again as England compete in the FIFA World Cup Finals and they now face Argentina in the Semi Finals.

England vs Argentina – Wednesday 15 July – kick off 8pm

If you want to watch all the action with others to soak up that atmosphere and cheer on the team, here are a few ideas on where you can watch the England match live in Milton Keynes…

Milton Keynes Dons FC

The League One club will be hosting a Semi Final World Cup screening on 15 July. Join them at Stadium MK to watch the match live in their Club Red hospitality area. Entry through Gate 1 from 8pm. £5 per ticket (includes complimentary drink voucher).

Purchase your entry ticket for the England v Argentina match viewing HERE

Xscape Milton Keynes

At Xscape, you have a few options on where to watch the England match. If you’re over 18, head to MERKUR Casino Milton Keynes where you can watch in their multi-screen sports bar, where the drinks are cold, the food hot, and the atmosphere unbeatable.

You can also choose to go to Wing Kingz where they have the tastiest chicken on offer alongside multiple screens to make sure you don’t miss a thing or at The Moon Under Water you can expect good value food, cask ales and plenty of big-screen sporting action.

The Hub

At The Hub, you can enjoy dining and the England games at Maaya Indian Kitchen & Bar where they’ll be offering in game offers and all the food and drink you need, brought direct to your table. Booking is a must CLICK HERE

At The Residence, they’ve got multiple 60” TVs plus immersive surround sound for the best viewing experience, and they’ll keep the ice-cold drinks flowing and have game day bites ready for you. Table bookings now open.

At Maaya Indian Kitchen & Bar you can enjoy top-class Indian food plus Kingfisher beers and watch the big game on a big screen in a fully air-conditioned restaurant – bring it on! BOOK HERE

Unity Place

Watch England take on Argentina this Wednesday at Unity Place, on one of Milton Keynes’ biggest sports screens. Everyone is welcome – expect an unmissable match-day atmosphere, with food and drinks available throughout. Bar & food stalls open from 4pm, with kick off at 8pm.

Tickets are £5 per person – limited availability – BOOK HERE

Holiday Inn – Central Milton Keynes

The hotel will be showing the match live in their Open Lobby and on the Terrace. Whether you’re staying with them or simply looking for a great place to watch, why not head down. They also have some great food & drink offers during matches.

1IRON Indoor Golf

Milton Keynes Disability Awareness Day 2026 will now take place at Camphill Milton Keynes, Willen Park, on 14 July from 12pm to 2.30pm, providing visitors with access to indoor and outdoor spaces following concerns about the hot weather.

The FREE community event, which celebrates the talents, achievements and contributions of people with disabilities, will be hosted across Camphill’s Theatre and Green, creating a welcoming and accessible environment for everyone to enjoy.

Visitors can look forward to an afternoon packed with activities, performances and opportunities to try something new. Highlights include:

• Live performances from local musicians, including Dale O and Melody Woman
• Dance and performance sessions from MacIntyre, Suzie Birchwood Consultancy and Spectrum CA
• Football goal-scoring with MK Dons Community Trust
• Sports activities from MK SNAP
• DJ workshops with On The Decks Group
• Wellness workshops led by D’Rose
• Health walks and bug hunts with The Parks Trust
• A community Silent Disco hosted by Camphill MK

There will also be a range of information stalls covering topics including neurodiversity, dementia, disability sport, wheelchair services, DJ-ing and local support services.

Bring along your picnic, find a spot to settle and enjoy the entertainment.

John Moffoot DL, Chair of the organising committee, said:

“Disability Awareness Day is all about celebrating what people can do. We’re delighted that Camphill MK has stepped forward to host this year’s event, allowing us to offer a fantastic programme of activities in a comfortable and inclusive setting.”

The event is open to everyone, with families, schools, community groups and local residents all encouraged to come along, get involved and celebrate disability inclusion in Milton Keynes.

Event Details

Milton Keynes Disability Awareness Day 2026
📅 Tuesday 14 July 2026
🕛 12.00pm – 2.30pm
📍 Camphill Milton Keynes, Willen Park
🎟 Free and open to all

12th Street in Central Milton Keynes will be transformed into a vibrant festival hub on Saturday 11 July as part of the Milton Keynes Comedy Festival, offering a full day of free family entertainment, live performances and the exciting launch of Elmer’s Art Parade.

Running from 10am to 7pm, the 12th Street hub will be completely FREE to enter and open to the public, making it the perfect destination for families, friends and festival-goers of all ages.

Comedy Festival Hub

With a programme of live music and family friendly performances throughout the day, visitors can expect to encounter a stilt walker, a balloon artist and festival compère Dave Allen, who will bring a touch of magic and fun to the streets.

Food and drink will be available during the day, with a range of options including ice cream, fresh pizza and barista coffee, alongside a pop-up bar hosted by Mulligans, ensuring visitors can relax and enjoy the atmosphere from morning through to early evening.

While the 12th Street hub is free and open to everyone, the wider Milton Keynes Comedy Festival will see 20 shows taking place across the day, ranging from family-friendly performances to evening stand-up. With tickets starting from just £5 and selling fast, audiences are encouraged to book early to avoid missing out.

The Comedy Festival runs from 9–12 July, bringing a packed programme of live comedy to venues across the city centre, and positioning Milton Keynes as a growing destination for live entertainment.

Launching Elmer’s Art Parade

The day also marks the launch of Elmer’s Art Parade, a brand-new public art trail in for the summer, featuring 12 large Elmer the Elephant sculptures, each decorated in bold, colourful designs inspired by famous artists. The trail will invite visitors to explore Milton Keynes city centre in a fun and creative way, while celebrating art, storytelling and community.

12th Street will act as the starting point for the trail, with a lively programme of activity to mark the occasion. Younger visitors can take part in free Elmer-themed craft activities throughout the day, while the first 250 attendees will be able to pick up a special goody bag. Families will also have the chance to meet Elmer himself at intervals across the day, thanks to Gulliver’s Land, creating plenty of memorable moments.

Both the Milton Keynes Comedy Festival and Elmer’s Art Parade are funded by city centre businesses via MyMiltonKeynes Business Improvement District (BID), reflecting a shared commitment to creating vibrant events that bring people into the city and support local trade.

For more information on Elmer’s Art Parade, visit www.elmermk.co.uk, and for full comedy listings and tickets, visit www.miltonkeynescomedyfestival.com

Michael Harrison for Lloyd Webber Harrison Musicals has announced Jesus Christ Superstar will tour the UK following the conclusion of its West End engagements at The London Palladium. Sam Ryder brings his highly anticipated take on the iconic role of Jesus to theatres across the UK for the first time, arriving at Milton Keynes Theatre from 27 – 31 Jul 2027.

PRE-SALE TICKETS NOW AVAILABLE

GENERAL SALE STARTS 24 JUNE AT 10AM

Producer Michael Harrison said: “We are absolutely delighted that Jesus Christ Superstar will embark on a major UK tour following the phenomenal response to this extraordinary new production. The tremendous buzz generated by Saturday night’s first performance at The London Palladium underlines just how special this iconic musical remains, and we are thrilled that audiences across the country will now have the opportunity to experience Tim Sheader’s visionary staging, Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s legendary score, and Sam Ryder’s electrifying performance.

This is fantastic news for touring theatre and audiences throughout the UK, ensuring that this remarkable production can be enjoyed by many more people following our seasons at The London Palladium and Theatre Royal Drury Lane.”

Full casting will be announced at a later date.

Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s iconic global phenomenon is directed by Tim Sheader with choreography by Olivier Award-winner Drew McOnie and design by Tony and Olivier Award-winner Tom Scutt. Reuniting the creative team of the 2016 production to create a unique staging of their Olivier award-winning, worldwide smash-hit production. The production, which was originally created and produced at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, heads out on a tour of the UK following an 11-week season at The London Palladium and a 12-week season at Theatre Royal Drury Lane.

Jesus Christ Superstar follows the events of the last days of the life of Jesus Christ, as seen through the eyes of Judas. Reflecting the rock roots that defined a generation, the legendary score includes ‘I Don’t Know How to Love Him’, ‘Gethsemane’ and the iconic title number ‘Superstar’.

Originally released as an album, Jesus Christ Superstar opened on Broadway in 1971, at the Mark Hellinger Theatre, where it was nominated for five Tony Awards including Best Original Score. The original London production ran for over eight years. By the time it closed, after 3,358 performances, it had become the longest-running musical in West End history at that time.

Joining Tim Sheader, choreographer Drew McOnie and designer Tom Scutt on the creative team are musical supervisor Tom Deering, lighting designer Lee Curran, sound designer Adam Fisher, wigs, hair and makeup designers Sam Cox & Maria Johal, fight director Kate Waters and casting directors Grindrod Burton Casting.

LISTINGS

Jesus Christ Superstar
Performances: Tue 27 – Sat 31 Jul 2027
Access bookings: 0333 009 5399
Group bookings: 0207 206 1174
Online Booking: ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes*

The nationwide interactive bingo experience arrives in Milton Keynes following sold-out events across the UK, starring Miss Demeanour alongside queens from RuPaul’s Drag Race and a fabulous cast of live performers at Stadium MK on Saturday 5 September 2026.

The UK’s live entertainment scene is about to get a lot more fabulous as Drag Bingo UK struts into The Ballroom at DoubleTree by Hilton Milton Keynes, Stadium MK on Saturday 5 September 2026. Created by award-winning drag performer Miss Demeanour, Drag Bingo UK transforms traditional bingo into a fully interactive night of live vocals, drag performances, audience games, iconic music and complete camp chaos. “We always say it’s less about the bingo and more about the atmosphere,” says Miss Demeanour.

“We just want people to come in, forget real life for a few hours and leave feeling fabulous”. Unlike traditional bingo events, you won’t win any money as it’s not a gambling event (although it is still strictly 18+), but you might win a toilet seat with Miss D’s face rhinestoned on it, or a gigantic bag of 440 tea bags. Drag Bingo UK uses song-filled bingo cards rather than endless number calling, with audiences marking off tracks as they’re played throughout the night alongside live singing, dance-offs, lip sync performances and interactive games. “We’ve also made the whole thing incredibly interactive,” says Miss D. “On the back of the bingo cards there’s a live event portal where audiences can enter competitions, send shoutouts, send pictures and videos directly to me throughout the night and properly become part of the event themselves. It feels more like a massive party than a traditional bingo night.”

The event has already built a growing reputation across the UK, after selling out in Folkestone,  Worthing and Tunbridge Wells with audiences ranging from hen parties and birthday groups to drag fans, couples, friendship groups and first-time attendees looking for something completely different from a standard night out. “Honestly? Everybody comes to Drag Bingo UK,” says Miss D. “We’ve had hen parties, an 80th birthday, drag queens, office groups, couples on date nights, mums and daughters, straight lads who got dragged along and ended up living their best lives by the end of the night.”

As drag entertainment continues to grow in mainstream popularity across the UK, Drag Bingo UK has become part of a wider shift towards immersive, experience-led nights out. “I think drag has become more popular because people have finally realised we’re fabulous full-throttle entertainers,” says Miss D. “At the heart of it all, our job is to make YOU feel fabulous, welcomed and part of the party.”

Event Information

Event: Drag Bingo UK
Venue: The Ballroom at DoubleTree by Hilton Milton Keynes, Stadium MK,  Stadium Way West, Bletchley, Milton Keynes MK1 1ST
Date: Saturday 5 September 2026
General Tickets: £35.00 | VIQ Tickets: £50.00.
Booking Link: www.DragBingo.UK

SMK Live have announced the final artists set to complete a fabulous weekend of live music at Stadium MK, with the introduction of the C Stage.

The C Stage, situated near Gate 1, will host DJs DJ Hurley, Tony Dibbin and VICCARS on both Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th June.

A well-known face in the MK area, award-winning DJ, producer and radio presenter, Keith Hurley – aka DJ Hurley – is a name synonymous with skill and longevity in the UK dance music scene. With over 35 years of experience behind the decks, he is the current host of the MKFM weekend mixshows.

From performing at private functions for Oscar winning Hollywood movie directors to sharing the stage with the giants of the music industry, Tony Dibbin is also fellow heavyweight of the dance floor.

Having spent decades working on radio brands such as Gold, Greatest Hits Radio, Absolute 80s, Nation Radio UK, Nation 80s and Nation 90, he brings a wealth of skill and experience to Stadium MK’s festival weekend.

Finally, VICCARS is another Milton Keynes-based DJ known for tightly crafted, high-energy club sets built on instinct, sharp selection, and a deep understanding of how to move a room. Rooted in years of playing bars, clubs, and private events, he has developed a reputation for fluid, responsive sets that build pressure, release it and keep dancefloors locked in.

Alongside his DJ work, Paul has presented on MKFM, bringing his musical identity and voice to local radio.

These DJs join a now complete line up, with the Main Stage set to showcase Basement Jaxx and Black Eyed Peas (UK Festival Exclusive), alongside Jason Derulo, Cat Burns, Clean Bandit, Groove Armada, Jalen Ngonda, Katy B, Jax Jones, Moonchild Sanelly, Maverick Sabre and Jaguar Skills. In addition to this, Bimini and Big Narstie bring their unwavering charisma and charm to the stage to host the festivities.

In addition, the B Stage – a second stage located by the Food Village – will host DJs throughout the weekend. Saturday will see party facilitators SoulGood take over with DJ sets from Welsh talents Paul Lyons, The Tribe of ViBE and Luna Amani. Sunday sees DJ, producer and TV personality Marcel Somerville take to the decks alongside DJ Twist and Kaptin & Dregz.

Housed inside Stadium MK’s stunning 30,000-seater stadium, the festival – the first of its kind in the stadium’s history – will offer music fans a jam-packed day-to-night schedule of high-octane performances, bringing some of the most memorable hits spanning the last two decades to the heart of Milton Keynes.

The festival is additionally set to host one of the biggest England vs Panama World Cup screenings in the country, with the game shown live on giant stadium and main stage screens inside Stadium MK on the 27th, transforming the venue into a one-night football and music extravaganza.

Day, Weekender, Group and VIP tickets remain available for SMK Live – although time is running out to snap one up!

Check out all ticket options HERE

A massive summer of sport in nearly here with the World Cup, Commonwealth Games and Wimbledon coming soon…and there’s no better place to build excitement ahead of the action than at Xscape Milton Keynes.

Whether you’re looking to get active, challenge your friends or simply soak up the competitive spirit, Xscape is the ultimate destination to gear up for an unforgettable summer. Packed with thrilling experiences, sporting inspiration and great places to eat, drink and catch the big games, there’s something for everyone under one gigantic roof.

Take on the challenge

Inspired by all the sporting action coming up this summer? If it’s got you raring to go and ready to challenge your nearest and dearest to a spot of friendly competition, we know just the place. It’s time to step up, get active and put your skills to the test at Xscape Milton Keynes! Planning a family day out or group visit? Don’t leave it to chance – book your adventure in advance to avoid missing out.

• Speed & reflexes
  Get your adrenaline pumping and put your reactions to the test with exciting competitive experiences at Xscape Milton Keynes. Step into immersive new worlds at InstaVR, where fast-paced virtual reality adventures challenge your coordination and focus, or head to Hollywood Bowl for friendly competition across bowling lanes, arcade games and glow bowling fun.
• Precision & focus
  Head to Volcano Falls Adventure Golf and put your focus and precision to the test. From immersive themed courses to competitive family fun, it’s the perfect way to spark some friendly rivalry inspired by the summer sporting season.
• Agility & endurance
  Bounce into action at Gravity Active, where high-energy challenges help build agility, coordination and stamina in a fun and fast-paced environment. Looking for even more adrenaline? Take on climbing challenges and action-packed experiences at Gravity Rocks, designed to keep the whole group entertained!
• Balance & confidence
  Feel inspired to try something new? Snozone offers the chance to sharpen your balance, control and confidence on real snow, whether you’re a complete beginner or already slope-ready. Ski lessons and slope sessions are incredibly popular during the summer months, so don’t leave your booking until the last minute. Or maybe learn to indoor skydive at iFLY Milton Keynes for an adrenaline rush like no other.
• Reaction & competition
  Funstation is packed with quick-fire challenges, leaderboards and competitive fun. Test your reactions, chase high scores and challenge friends and family to see who comes out on top in a fast-paced gaming environment designed for all ages.

Gear up like a Pro

Ready for summer adventures, but still need the gear to match? Whether you’re planning fun days outdoors, cycling adventures or active family weekends, Xscape Milton Keynes has everything you need to look and perform your best. Visit Ellis Brigham, Evans Cycles and Trespass for outdoor clothing, sporting essentials, adventure-ready accessories and expert advice before your next challenge.

Summer of Sport – Where to watch

You’ve built up your competitive spirit – now it’s time to enjoy the main event.

At Xscape Milton Keynes, Wing Kingz continues to be a go-to destination for live sport, flavoured wings and match-day atmosphere seven days a week, while at The Moon Under Water you can expect tasty food, cask ales and plenty of big-screen sporting action. Plus, don’t forget that MERKUR Casino will be screening live World Cup action throughout the tournament.

Planning to visit? Don’t leave it until the last minute – activities, dining reservations and group experiences are likely to book up quickly throughout the summer season.

Secure your spot, plan ahead and get ready for an unforgettable day out at Xscape Milton Keynes!

Modern architecture, huge green spaces, great shopping opportunities, world-famous history, and top-class entertainment make Milton Keynes one of the UK’s most surprising destinations.

Often known for its grid roads and redways, the city offers far more than visitors expect — from wartime codebreaking centres to lakeside adventures and indoor skiing – all waiting to be discovered

Here are the top 10 attractions visitors should add to their Milton Keynes itinerary…

1. Bletchley Park

No visit to Milton Keynes is complete without exploring the legendary wartime estate where Allied codebreakers cracked the German Enigma code during World War II. Interactive exhibitions, restored huts, and fascinating stories bring one of Britain’s greatest intelligence operations to life. It remains one of the city’s most internationally recognised attractions.

2. Willen Lake

Willen Lake is the recreational heart of Milton Keynes. Visitors can enjoy scenic walking and cycling routes, paddleboarding, wakeboarding, open-water activities, cafés, and picnic areas. The surrounding parkland also includes adventure attractions and peaceful lakeside viewpoints, making it ideal for both families and couples.

3. Xscape Milton Keynes

This giant entertainment complex combines indoor skiing, climbing walls, skydiving simulation, cinemas, restaurants, and gaming experiences under one roof. It’s especially popular during rainy weather and offers year-round activities for all ages.

4. Milton Keynes Theatre

Milton Keynes Theatre is one of the city’s leading entertainment venues, known for hosting major West End productions, comedy shows, concerts, ballet, and family performances throughout the year. Located in the heart of the city centre, the modern theatre attracts visitors from across the region.

5. centre:mk & Midsummer Place

Milton Keynes is known for its great shopping. Right in the heart of the city centre, within easy reach of the main railway station and with excellent parking, you’ll find the two main undercover shopping centres offering a huge range of top brands including Apple, Lego, Reiss, Space NK, H&M, Primark, Zara, Mango and more. Plus, you’ll find many restaurants and eateries to help you rest and refuel in between shops.

6. Gulliver’s Land Theme Park Resort

Perfect for younger families, Gulliver’s Land features themed rides, adventure zones, seasonal events, and interactive attractions designed primarily for children aged 2–13. The park has become one of Milton Keynes’ best-known family destinations.

7. Milton Keynes Museum

Milton Keynes Museum offers a fascinating look into the history and heritage of the local area, from rural village life to the development of the modern new city. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, historic farm buildings, vintage transport, and recreated period rooms, making it a fun and educational attraction for families and history enthusiasts alike.

8. MK Gallery

As the leading contemporary art venue in the region, MK Gallery showcases modern exhibitions from internationally recognised artists alongside photography, film, performance, and cultural events. The gallery also features a cinema, café, and creative spaces, making it a popular destination for art lovers and visitors exploring the city centre.

9. Campbell Park

Stretching from the city centre toward the Grand Union Canal, Campbell Park blends landscaped gardens, public art, event spaces, and panoramic viewpoints. It’s also home to the iconic Light Pyramid sculpture and regularly hosts festivals and outdoor performances, and is free to visit.

10. Ouzel Valley Park

For visitors who enjoy walking, wildlife, and open green spaces, Ouzel Valley Park showcases the natural side of Milton Keynes. The park features riverside trails, public art pieces, historic monuments, cycling routes, and links into the city’s famous Redway network. Free to explore.

Visitors are rediscovering Milton Keynes

Milton Keynes has steadily evolved into one of the UK’s most versatile short-break destinations, given the city’s combination of modern entertainment, extensive parks, cultural attractions, and easy transport links – what will you explore?

Looking to plan a Father’s Day with a difference? At Xscape Milton Keynes, they’re all about bringing families together for unforgettable days out packed with fun, food and quality time.

Let’s face it – he probably doesn’t need another pair of socks, and their cupboard is already full of “World’s Best Dad” mugs. This year, swap the predictable presents for something everyone can enjoy together instead.

Whether he’s into action-packed adventures, laid-back family meals or simply spending time with his favourite people, Xscape has everything you need for a Father’s Day done right – all under one gigantic roof.

BOOK THE BIG MOMENTS FIRST

Planning ahead is the secret to a smooth, stress-free Father’s Day, especially when it comes to the most popular activities. Start by locking in your cinema trip at Cineworld – the hottest cinema seats get booked up quickly, so make sure you secure yours early to get the best view in the house!

Looking for something more adventurous? Book now for high-energy family fun at iFLY Indoor Skydiving, challenge Dad to a little healthy competition at Hollywood Bowl or Volcano Falls Adventure Golf, or put your teamwork to the test at Escape Hunt. If you’re planning to visit Gravity too, booking early means less waiting around and more time making memories together.

And don’t forget Father’s Day food plans! Some of our busier restaurants, including Pizza Express, Sumac Room and Vita accept bookings, so it’s worth planning ahead if you’ve got your heart set on a family meal together.

MAKE A DAY OF IT

The best Father’s Day plans are the ones that feel effortless, and Xscape makes it easy to turn a few hours into a full family day out. Start with coffee and catch-ups at Starbucks, T4 or Xpresso Net before diving into activities, games and adventures together.

If he loves trying something new, there’s plenty to discover here. Take on climbing challenges at Gravity Rocks, experience immersive virtual reality at InstaVR or hit the slopes together at Snozone. Prefer a slower pace? Browse the latest outdoor gear and gifts at Trespass, Ellis Brigham and Evans Cycles.

When it’s time to refuel, you’ll find plenty of options to suit every craving, from burgers and wings to desserts and sweet treats. Whether you’re planning a big family lunch, casual dinner or post-activity milkshake stop, there’s something for everyone at Xscape.

GIVE THE GIFT OF TIME TOGETHER

Father’s Day isn’t about finding the perfect present – it’s about making memories together. Whether you’re competing for bowling bragging rights, sharing dessert after dinner or laughing your way through an escape room challenge, Xscape Milton Keynes is the perfect place to celebrate the father figures in your life.

So, what are you waiting for? Plan your Father’s Day visit now and book ahead to make the most of the celebrations.

CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE XSCAPE MK WEBSITE

The iconic 80s movie comes to the stage: The Karate Kid – The Musical, based on the original Columbia Pictures motion picture written by Robert Mark Kamen, arrives at Milton Keynes Theatre from Tue 16 – Sat 20 June.

Producers Naoya Kinoshita, Kumiko Yoshii, John Gore, Kenny Wax, Michael Wolk, Jack Lane and Leo Stages present the UK premiere production of THE KARATE KID – THE MUSICAL. Based on the smash hit Columbia Pictures motion picture, this new stage adaptation features a book by Robert Mark Kamen, screenwriter of the original 1984 film that launched a 40-year global franchise, and music and lyrics by Drew Gasparini.

Honouring the roots of the timeless story, this new musical celebrates resilience, mentorship, and the quiet strength that bridges generations. Daniel is the new kid in town trying to fit in until he becomes the target of Cobra Kai’s relentless star student, Johnny. Underestimated and outmatched, Daniel struggles to find his footing, until Ali, Johnny’s ex, sees something in Daniel that no one else does. As Johnny refuses to step aside, teenage rivalry turns into something more sinister. Daniel discovers guidance from Mr. Miyagi who teaches him that karate isn’t about fighting, it’s about balance, respect and that the greatest victories are won from within.

Adrian Pang will lead the company as Mr. Miyagi, with Gino Ochello as Daniel LaRusso, Abigail Amin as Ali Mills, Joe Simmons as Johnny Lawrence, Matt Mills as John Kreese, Sharon Sexton as Lucille LaRusso, and Finley Oliver as Freddie Fernandez.

Adrian Pang is an acclaimed Singaporean performer whose extensive stage career spans the UK and Asia. Credits include the title roles in Hamlet and Macbeth, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Twelfth Night, The Comedy of Errors, The Grand Babylon Hotel, The Glass Menagerie, Little Shop of Horrors, Barefoot in the Park, The Odd Couple and The God of Carnage. In 2024 he portrayed Ying Ruocheng in the world premiere of Salesman in China at the Stratford Festival in Ontario, later reprising the role at the National Arts Centre in Ottawa.

Gino Ochello, a Gibraltar-born performer and singer makes his professional stage debut as Daniel LaRusso. Abigail Amin a recent Arts Ed graduate, recently completed filming James Graham’s feature film Ink directed by Danny Boyle. Joe Simmons also recently graduated from ArtsEd, with credits including Cruel Intentions (UK Tour) and Pippin (West End). Matt Mills’ theatre credits include MJ the Musical (West End), Dreamgirls (UK Tour), Tina – The Tina Turner Musical (West End), Motown the Musical (UK Tour) and Beautiful – The Carole King Musical (UK Tour).

Featuring a Tony Award®-winning design team and an electrifying new score, this coming-of-age masterpiece is reimagined for the stage with stunning artistry and ground-breaking choreography.

Tickets are on sale now and are available at ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes

LISTINGS
The Karate Kid The Musical
Performances: Tue 16 – Sat 20 Jun
Access bookings: 0333 009 5399
Group bookings: 0207 206 1174
Online Booking: ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes*
*Fees may apply. Calls cost up to 7p per minute, plus your phone company’s access charge

Following the seventeenth West End and fifth Broadway extensions, the Tony Award® and double Olivier Award®-winning musical Operation Mincemeat comes to Milton Keynes Theatre.

Having launched on 16 February 2026 at Lowry in Salford – the venue that first encouraged the writers’ extraordinary debut musical and hosted its first-ever scratch performance in 2017 – a 40-week run will play at theatres nationwide through 28 November 2026, including Milton Keynes Theatre from 8 – 13 June.

In Operation Mincemeat, it’s 1943, and the Allied Forces are on the ropes. Luckily, they’ve got a trick up their sleeve. Well, not up their sleeve, per se, but rather inside the pocket of a stolen corpse. Equal parts farce, thriller, and Ian Fleming-style spy caper (with an assist from Mr. Fleming himself), Operation Mincemeat tells the wildly improbable and hilarious true story of the covert operation that turned the tide of WWII.

Reprising their acclaimed roles, West End alumnae Christian Andrews (Sherlock Holmes and the 12 Days of Christmas), Seán Carey (The Play That Goes Wrong), Charlotte Hanna-Williams (Rogers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella), and Holly Sumpton (Lovers Actually) are joined by new recruit Jamie- Rose Monk (Rome & Juliet) to form the cast, while Katy Ellis (The Curious Case of Benjamin Button), Georgina Hagen (Only Fools & Horses), Jordan Pearson (Back to the Future: The Musical), and
Morgan Phillips (The History Boys) complete the company.

SpitLip, the musical’s writers and composers, commented: “We’re so excited to see Operation Mincemeat heading out on a world tour next year, and the fact that it’s all kicking off at The Lowry, Salford – a venue who have fiercely championed us as theatre makers for over a decade, and where some of us made our professional debuts -is incredibly special. Having launched our show on Broadway this year, we know there’s an appetite (and a need) out there for shows which champion joy, and the power of small groups of people to change the world. We’re also delighted to be welcoming back our agents Christian, Charlotte, Holly and Seán, and welcoming our amazing new recruit Jamie-Rose, to kick off the UK leg of the tour – MI5 couldn’t be in more capable or more spectacularly stupid hands. Father’s never been prouder!”

The decision to write the musical was the last roll of the dice from SpitLip, a quartet of young British creatives after years of performing sketch shows at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, and echoes the journey of Beyond the Fringe from the world-famous quartet Alan Bennett, Peter Cook, Jonathan Miller, and Dudley Moore, which premiered at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in 1960, before moving to the Fortune Theatre and later to the Golden in 1962.

Performances run at Milton Keynes Theatre from Mon 8 – Sat 13 Jun. Tickets are available now via
ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes.

LISTINGS
Operation Mincemeat: A New Musical
Performances: Mon 8 Jun – Sat 13 Jun 2026
Access bookings: 0333 009 5399
Group bookings: 0207 206 1174
Online Booking: ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes*

*Fees may apply. Calls cost up to 7p per minute, plus your phone company’s access charge

Milton Keynes Theatre has unveiled its vibrant Summer Season for 2026, featuring an unparalleled line-up of West End hits, iconic concerts, award‑winning drama, side‑splitting comedy, beloved family favourites and world‑class dance.  The season promises unforgettable experiences for every audience.

June brings a packed programme of dance, comedy and musical theatre, including the internationally celebrated all-male comedy ballet company Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo (2–3 June), Midge Ure (4 June), and Strictly Come Dancing favourites Amy Dowden & Carlos Gu (5 June).

One of the summer’s biggest highlights follows with the award-winning, record-breaking smash hit musical, Operation Mincemeat, running 8–13 June. This hilarious show tells the unbelievably true story of the twisted secret mission that won us World War II. Get your tickets quick!

The Milton Keynes Theatre stage then welcomes The Karate Kid – The Musical (16–20 June) and the iconic Lord of the Dance for its 30th Anniversary Tour (22–28 June).

Families will also delight in the return of The Tiger Who Came to Tea on 29 June.

Closing the month, audiences can enjoy the political satire I’m Sorry, Prime Minister, opening 30 June, starring Simon Rouse (ITV’s The Bill) and Clive Francis (BBC’s Poldark, Netflix’s The Crown).

July kicks off with Matthew Bourne’s acclaimed and award-winning dance production The Car Man, running 7–11 July, followed by the gripping stage adaptation of The Spy Who Came In From The Cold (14–18 July), starring Ralf Little (The Royale Family, Death in Paradise).

Music fans are treated to A Vision of Elvis (19 July) and Jools Holland and His Rhythm & Blues Orchestra (27 July), while families and musical lovers can look forward to the beloved classic Annie from 21–26 July.

August opens with the feel-good favourite The Magic of Motown on 1 August, bringing timeless hits and high energy choreography back to the Milton Keynes Theatre stage.

The summer season ends with a bang as the iconic Dirty Dancing arrives for a special run 27–29 August, giving audiences the chance to relive the romance, music and emotion of the beloved film live on stage.  Be the first to see the new tour as it opens in Milton Keynes!

View the full programme of events at Milton Keynes Theatre and book your tickets at:
ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes

LISTINGS

Milton Keynes Theatre – 500 Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ

Access bookings: 0333 009 5399
Group bookings: 0207 206 1174
Online Booking: ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes*

*Fees may apply. Calls cost up to 7p per minute, plus your phone company’s access charge