For nearly 60 years, Blackfriars Theatre has been the beating heart of Boston’s arts scene—a place where stories come to life, where music fills the rafters, and where generations of performers and audiences have shared unforgettable moments. But what makes this theatre truly special isn’t just its history—it’s the people who bring it to life, night after night. This World Theatre Day, we’re celebrating everything that makesBlackfriars a home for creativity, community, and unforgettable live entertainment
As we look back on the past six decades, we’re also stepping boldly into the future.With exciting new shows, fresh partnerships, and a brand-new leader at the helm,Blackfriars is gearing up for its next chapter. Whether you’ve laughed, cried, danced,or even taken to the stage yourself, this theatre belongs to all of us. So here’s to the next 60 years—because the best performances are still to come!
THE LITTLE THEATRE WITH BIG AMBITIONS – MEET ADEY RAMSEL, BLACKFRIARS’ NEW COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF
If you’ve stepped through the doors of Blackfriars Theatre recently, you might have sensed a fresh energy in the air. That’s because at the helm of this historic venue is Adey Ramsel—a man with a passion for the arts, a wealth of experience, and a big vision for the future.
With over 25 years in the industry, Adey has worked across the UK and New Zealand, managing venues, theatre companies, producing shows, and curating unforgettable live experiences.
From running Tamworth’s Grade II listed Assembly Rooms Theatre; directing & writing pantomimes, plays and musicals to producing large-scale outdoor events and festivals, his track record is proof that he knows how to bring arts and culture to the forefront of a community.And now, he’s got his sights set firmly on Blackfriars.
For Adey, this isn’t just another job—it’s an opportunity to unlockBlackfriars’ full potential, not just for Boston but for Lincolnshire as a whole. “Blackfriars is such an untapped arts resource,” he says. “We may not be the biggest venue on the circuit, but our reputation is growing, and the passion within these walls is undeniable.” Under his leadership, audiences can expect an exciting shift—bigger shows, cutting-edge programming, and more community-driven events, from outdoor theatre to multicultural festivals. “We’re a venue for everyone,” Adey adds. “We want to open our doors even wider, to welcome new ideas and new audiences.” With a focus on growth, innovation, and accessibility, Blackfriars isn’t just surviving—it’s thriving. The little theatre that could? It’s now the little theatre that will.
TAKING A BOLD LEAP WITH FRINGE-STYLE STUDIO THEATRE!
Blackfriars Theatre is making waves with a brand-new Fringe-style studio theatre series, marking a bold shift in programming that brings intimate, powerful, and thought-provoking performances to Boston.
In collaboration with Boston College’s Sam Newsom Centre, these shows strip theatre back to its rawest form—up-close storytelling that challenges, moves, and entertains.
This series is a statement of intent—Blackfriars is evolving, pushing boundaries, and proving that theatre isn’t just for grand stages and big budgets. It’s about connection, conversation, and giving unique voices a place to be heard.
- Born in the USA – Fri 19th April, 7:30pm
A gripping one-man play about a Vietnam veteran struggling to navigate life after war. Intense, moving, and brilliantly performed. - Unversed – Fri 2nd May, 7:30pm
One woman. One stage. Every Shakespearean woman who nevergot a chance to speak. A funny, sharp, and powerful exploration of female voices in theatre. - Confessions of a Teletubby – Sun 8th June, 7:30pm
Ever wondered what really went on behind the scenes of one of TV’s most iconic kids’ shows? Laalaa spills the tea in this hilarious tell-all! - Florence Nightingale: Lady with the Hammer – Sun 9th Nov,7:30pm
Forget the ‘lady with the lamp’—this is Florence Nightingale as you’ve never seen her before. A fierce, fascinating solo performance.
This is the future of Blackfriars—punchy, bold, and unmissable.The theatre is proving it’s not just about tradition; it’s about creating something fresh, relevant, and exciting.
“Our new partnership with Boston College brings world-class fringe theatre to Boston for the first time. This 94-seat studio at the Sam Newsom Centre will put us on the map and boost the town’s night-time economy!” Adey said.
6 THINGS YOU MIGHT NOT KNOW ABOUT BLACKFRIARS THEATRE!
Think you know Blackfriars Theatre? Well,think again! Nestled in the heart of Boston,this little theatre has a big history—onethat includes royalty, rebellion, and atouch of drama (both on and off stage!).Whether you’re a local or visiting for the first time, here are six fascinating facts that make Blackfriars truly one of a kind…
- Boston’s Oldest Drama Queen
Blackfriars Theatre isn’t just any theatre—it’s the UK’s oldest building still putting on a show. Originally a Dominican friary built in the 1200s, it’s been a place of worship, a royal pit stop, and now a stage for everything from Shakespeare to stand-up. - A Room Fit for a King (Literally)
After a massive fire in 1288, King Edward I sent oak from Sherwood Forest to rebuild the friary.Rumour has it, he slept over once the work was done—right in what’s now our Upper Bar. So next time you raise a glass in there, remember—you might be standing where a king snored. - Powered by People, Not Profit
Unlike big city theatres, Blackfriars isn’t run by suits, but by trustees, volunteers, and a small but mighty full time team. From backstage tech wizards to the legends who pour your interval pint, the place runs on passion, caffeine, and sheer determination. - A Wall with a Wild Past
The Pilgrim Fathers, en route to founding America, were banged up in Boston Guildhall in 1607—which, fun fact, shares a wall with our stage. That very wall is now protected by law, meaning we can’t paint it, lean on it, or let the ghost of a monk rest his tea on it. A true piece of history, just chilling behind the curtains. - From Boston to the West End
Our Theatre Academy isn’t just for show—these kids mean business! Putting on three full-scale musicals a year, plus an end-of-year spectacular, Blackfriars has launched many a future professional performer. The next big star? Might just be warming up in our wings right now. - Saved by the Locals, Loved by All
By the 1960s, Blackfriars was more crumbling ruins than curtain calls, but a group of theatre lovers swooped in and saved it. Thanks to their hard graft, it reopened as a theatre in 1966—and nearly60 years later, it’s still buzzing with live performances, music, and comedy. Proof that all the world’s a stage… especially in Boston.
