The Ipswich Regent Theatre will host a special performance of the long-running variety show That’ll Be The Day on 10 June 2026 at 7:30pm to celebrate its 40th anniversary.
First performed in 1986, the production is widely marketed as the longest-running touring theatre show in the UK and has reached over five million people. The performance in Ipswich is part of the show’s 2026 spring tour, which runs until 12 June.
The show, created and led by 80-year-old Trevor Payne, offers a musical journey through the 1950s to the 1980s. It features more than 60 classic hits from artists such as The Beatles, ABBA, Cliff Richard, Tom Jones, The Rolling Stones, Tina Turner, Whitney Houston, and Dolly Parton.
Payne, who writes, directs, and performs in the show, had originally planned for this tour to be his final one. However, he has since decided to continue his career, which includes performing between 180 and 200 shows annually, following discussions with his family about his future arrangements.
The production has also contributed to charitable causes, raising over £1 million for organisations including Childline, Make-A-Wish, Help for Heroes, the Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation, and the Red Cross Ukraine Appeal.
The Ipswich Borough Council, which has operated the historic venue since 1991, manages the Grade II listed building. As East Anglia’s largest theatre, the venue can seat over 1,500 people.
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