What’s on at the Wharf Theatre in October?

OCTOBER at The Wharf Theatre, Devizes arrives with a burst of creativity, variety and irresistible entertainment. This month’s programme showcases everything that makes the Wharf Theatre such a beloved cultural home: bold theatre, international film, Shakespearean drama, laugh‑out‑loud comedy and the soaring power of live opera. It’s a rich, colourful season designed to surprise, delight and keep audiences coming back for more…..

The month begins on 1st October at 7.30pm, when Devizes Film Club presents the award‑winning foreign‑language treasure Fremont. Quietly powerful, gently humorous and visually striking, Fremont has earned international acclaim for its delicate storytelling and emotional depth. This is world cinema at its finest—thoughtful, human and beautifully crafted. For film lovers, it’s an unmissable start to the autumn season.

From 8th–10th October at 7.30pm each night, the spotlight shifts to the 17th‑century stage with Playhouse Creatures, April De Angelis’ celebrated play exploring the lives of the first women to perform professionally in English theatre. Brought vividly to life by local company 3rdThird Theatre, this production blends wit, grit and historical insight, celebrating the resilience, rivalry and sheer determination of the women who changed theatre forever. Expect passion, humour and a compelling ensemble performance.

On 18th October at 8pm, jealousy takes centre stage as Shakespeare Live presents Shakespeare’s Green Eyed Monster. This dynamic collection of scenes dives into the Bard’s most gripping explorations of envy—from simmering suspicion to explosive rage. Performed by a talented local company with a reputation for clarity, energy and accessibility, it’s a thrilling way to experience Shakespeare’s emotional fireworks up close.

Laughter erupts on 23rd October at 7.30pm, when Hambledon Productions bring their professional touring show The Phantom Raspberry Blower of Old London Town to Devizes. Inspired by Spike Milligan and Ronnie Barker’s iconic sketch, this riotous stage adaptation promises gleeful silliness, sharp satire and a lovingly chaotic romp through Victorian London. It’s comedy with heritage—and guaranteed hilarity.

The month concludes with operatic splendour as White Horse Opera return from 27th–31st October with La Traviata, Verdi’s timeless masterpiece. Featuring soaring melodies, sumptuous costumes and a talented amateur cast from across Wiltshire, this production offers all the romance, tragedy and musical brilliance that have made La Traviata one of the world’s most cherished operas. It’s a perfect autumn treat for seasoned opera‑goers and newcomers alike.

And before the Wharf transforms for its magical Christmas production of Peter Pan, there’s one November gem you won’t want to miss: Don Quixote (is a very big book) by Opposable Thumb Productions. Fresh from the Edinburgh Fringe and presented in association with DOCA, this inventive, anarchic and joyously theatrical retelling of Cervantes’ epic is a whirlwind of imagination and comic brilliance.