Within These Walls - A Play to Mark the Warneford Hospital’s 200th year

Human Story Theatre, in collaboration with Oxford Health Charity, presents Within These Walls, a moving new play by Janet Bolam that follows Stu and Lucy; two patients seeking refuge from painful circumstances.

Compassionate and deeply human, Within These Walls explores 200 years of life inside a mental health institution - reflecting on the lives of those who lived within institutional walls, the people who cared for them, and the enduring healing power of human connection. 

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Photo by: Simon Vail

Actors (left to right): Amantha Edmead & Daisy Bainbridge

Presented as part of Warneford 200, Oxford Health Charity’s 200th anniversary programme in 2026, Within These Walls will be running at Warneford Sanctuary (formerly The Chapel) from 23rd June - 4th July 2026.

Please note:

Content: The play contains strong language and scenes that some viewers may find distressing.

Run time: Approx. 1 hr 40 mins. Each performance (approx. 1 hr 20 mins) will be immediately followed by a post-show panel discussion / Q&A (approx. 20 mins) featuring mental health professionals and guest experts from partner organisations. There is no interval during the performance.

Parking: Free parking will be available on the Warneford Hospital site for all performances, though parking spaces will be limited for matinees. There are also limited on-street parking spaces available outside Warneford Hospital Sanctuary on Warneford Lane in the evenings. We encourage attendees to plan their journey in advance and consider sustainable travel where possible. 

Chapel entry: Due to staging requirements, late entry won't be possible once the performance starts.

Accessibility: Step-free access is available and accessible toilet facilities are available in a nearby building (2 mins walk). There is no hearing loop in the chapel. 

On-site facilities: While the venue has no toilets, facilities are available nearby.

Produced by:

Director: Anna Tolputt

Designer: Lizzy McBain

Creative Producer: Amy Enticknap

All proceeds from ticket sales will go to Oxford Health Charity.