Northern Broadsides’ take on a classic novel, hits by Boyzone and Westlife and a royal crisis – pick of what’s on in Halifax this week

Crown Matrimonial

Halifax Playhouse, until Saturday March 21, daily at 7.30pm and a Saturday matinee at 2.30pm

The drama will be presented by the Halifax Thespians.

The play, set at Marlborough House, focuses on the private family drama surrounding Edward VIII’s abdication in 1936.

He gave up the throne to marry Wallis Simpson, a divorced American woman. The play depicts the conflict between the king’s personal desires and his duty to the crown and the royal family’s struggle to navigate the political and social implications of the crisis.

Director Steve Tetlow said: “This is the story of how Elizabeth came to the throne. However, this play is not just about the throne but about a family in turmoil; it’s about a mother and her two sons. It’s about choosing personal happiness over duty.”

Tickets: www.ticketsource.co.uk/HalifaxPlayhousewww.ticketsource.co.uk/HalifaxPlayhouse, ring the box office on 01422 365998 or email: [email protected]

Boyzlife featuring Keith Duffy and Brian McFadden

Victoria Theatre, Halifax, Saturday March 21 at 7.30pm

Boyzone and Westlife respectively achieved as two of the defining groups of 90s and 00s boyband era, with a 21+ UK No1 singles and countless millions of audience members performed to worldwide.

Hits include No Matter What, Flying Without Wings, Swear it Again and Baby Can I Hold You.

Now, Boyzlife, the supergroup comprised of Boyzone’s Keith Duffy and Westlife’s Brian McFadden, will be performing a mixture of Boyzone and Westlife’s classic tracks as well as their own original music.

On their 2026 tour, Keith Duffy and Brian McFadden said: Brace yourselves for more unforgettable nights filled with music, laughter, and possibly some special guests joining us along the way. Can’t wait to see you all.”

Tickets: 01422 351158 and www.victoriatheatre.co.uk/

Copacabana Magic: The Barry Manilow Show

Victoria Theatre, Halifax, Sunday March 22 at 7.30pm.

Tribute show featuring Martyn James and his band and dancers. They will perform Manilow's hits including Mandy, Could It Be Magic, Can’t Smile Without You, I Write the Songs, I Made It Through the Rain, Bermuda Triangle, Even Now and Copacabana.

Tickets: 01422 351158 and www.victoriatheatre.co.uk/

Northern Broadsides presents: Crime and Punishment

Victoria Theatre, Halifax, Wednesday March 25 at 7.30pm, Thursday March 26 at 1.30pm and 7.30pm and Friday March 27 at 1.30pm and 7.30pm

Adapted from the novel by Fyodor Dostoevsky and directed by Laurie Sansom

The event takes place with the audience seated on the stage of the Victoria Theatre for a more intimate experience.

In the heart of a bustling city, a penniless student murders in cold blood. He is caught in a spiral of paranoia and delusion as a cunning detective circles. Only the chance of love offers a way out.

The powerful production explores a society where some people will do anything to survive.

Northern Broadsides bring their bold and playful style to Dostoyevsky’s classic novel, with his huge canvas of larger-than-life characters brought to life by just three actors.

Adult themes throughout the production. Recommended age 12-plus.

Tickets: 01422 351158 and www.victoriatheatre.co.uk/