First Read Fridays
–About First Read Fridays
Join cast members from our Festival 2026 shows as they table read brand-new scripts for the first time.
Get a glimpse behind the creative process and be the first to hear these new plays out loud brought to life by the talented casts of our Festival productions.
Icarus Drowning by Sandy Foster | Friday 15 May
Read by company members from Magic
When Old Man and Girl meet on the beach in Bognor Regis, never could they imagine the connection that will grow between them. Whilst both carrying their own sadness, they build something extraordinary.
My Baby by Anna O’Grady | Friday 12 June
Read by company members from Atonement
A dark comedy about family, desire and what it really takes to be a parent.
Hope’s Rest by Simon Longman | Friday 14 August
Read by company members from Atlantis
A chilling and moving ghost story set in a B&B in Keswick during off season, Hope’s Rest is about loss, hauntings and the stories we tell ourselves to get by.
Play to be announced | Friday 4 September
Read by company members from a small and quiet light
Details to be announced.
The Visitors by Katherine Soper | Friday 16 October
Read by company members from Antigone Exits
Whilst working in a smart(ish) London hotel, three women feel their lives being moved by unseen forces. A play about society, love and how people can find power in their powerlessness.
Prices & info
General admission | £15 per event
Access tickets
Access tickets may be available for Access Members. Select the relevant Access tickets in the basket to receive your discount (where applicable).
Prologue £5 tickets
£5 Prologue tickets may be available to Prologue members aged 16-30. Please note you will be required to bring ID with you to the event.
Groups
You can book up to ten tickets online. Want to book more? Email groups@cft.org.uk
Only one reduction applies per ticket, and all discounts are subject to availability and at the discretion of the Box Office. ID may be required for certain discounts.