Regent Theatre, Stoke-On-Trent by Ambassador Theatre Group

REGENT THEATRE STOKE-ON-TRENT

SPRING 2010 ▲

BOX OFFICE 0844 871 7649 (bkg fee) www.ambassadortickets.com/ stoke

REGENT THEATRE STOKE-ON-TRENT

SPRING 2010 ▲

BOX OFFICE 0844 871 7649 (bkg fee) www.ambassadortickets.com/ stoke

Thu 10 Dec - Sun 10 Jan

WELCOME TO OUR SPRING SEASON In September we celebrated our 10th birthday and a decade of bringing the biggest and best shows to Stoke-on-Trent. We were delighted to be joined by thousands of local residents throughout our celebrations and were overwhelmed to receive so many positive comments from people who have supported us over that time. The development of the Cultural Quarter - and The Regent Theatre and Victoria Hall in particular - represented one of the first major regeneration projects in the City Centre. 10 years and 3.5 million visitors later, we’re delighted to remain at the heart of Stoke-on-Trent’s cultural offering.

For just £25, enjoy Exclusive Priority Booking Ambassador Friends’ discounts at your home venue and ATG’s other regional AND West End venues No online fees for most productions and much, much more! Season highlights include:

Swan Lake 15 - 20 Feb

Russian State Ballet of Siberia 13 & 14 Jan

Count Arthur Strong 15 Jan

Magic -A Kind of Queen & ELO 16 Jan

010 Dance 21 - 30 Jan

The Rat Pack 2 - 6 Feb

Die Fledermaus 8 - 9 Feb

And so, onto the shows! We’ve got another fantastic line-up of the biggest and best musicals, dramas, opera and ballet over the coming months including Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake, Moscow State Circus and Alan Bennett’s hugely popular play The History Boys. Our annual pantomime Dick Whittington is promising to be another Christmas cracker, packed with all the essential ingredients to entertain and delight. The festive season just isn’t complete without it, so don’t miss out!

Most Haunted 11 Feb

Jimmy Carr 13 Feb

In January our dance showcase is back - and this time it’s even more exciting! Almost 2000 talented dancers will take to The Regent stage during 010 Dance and it’s a testament to the ongoing work of our Creative Learning team and their efforts to engage with the community that these events have proved to be so popular and successful. All of us look forward to welcoming you to The Regent over the coming months. Richard Wingate Chief Executive

The Rat Pack 2- 6 Feb

Dick Whittington 10 Dec - 10 Jan

The History Boys 22 - 27 Mar

Full details at www.ambassadortickets.com/friends or AmbassadorFriends booking line 0844 8717654 Richard Wingate with Jonathan Wilkes, Stoke’s Top Talent winner Su Annagib and Sheila Ferguson.

Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake 15 - 20 Feb

The 39 Steps 22 - 27 Feb

Dara O Briain 1 Mar

Björn Again 2 Mar

Pasión de Buena Vista 3 Mar

Moscow State Circus 4 - 7 Mar

The King & I 10 - 13 Mar

Snow White on Ice 17 - 21 Mar

The History Boys 22 -27 Mar

George’s Marvellous Medicine 30 Mar - 3 Apr

Dynamics 14 - 17 Apr

Tap Dance Fever 22 - 24 Apr

Joseph 26 Apr - 1 May

Forthcoming Shows

The Potteries Museum & Art Gallery

Creative Learning

Booking Information

Victoria Hall Highlights

Corporate Membership

THE PURR-FECT TREAT FOR ALL THE FAMILY

SHEILA FERGUSON AMY DIAMOND Winner of Stoke’s Top Talent

SU ANNAGIB

AND

PRESENT

JONATHAN WILKES

CHRISTIAN PATTERSON STEVEN SERLIN PETE CONWAY MARTIN TIDESWELL

Join Dick Whittington and his faithful sidekick Tommy the Cat on their exciting adventure from Alderman FitzWilliams’ rat-invested mansion to the exotic shores of Morocco as they seek their fame and fortune! Along the way they are helped by the mischievous Sarah the Cook and the magical Fairy Oatcakes. But will the wicked King Rat ruin their plans? Stoke-on-Trent’s favourite panto star Jonathan Wilkes is back as our hero Dick, following an astonishing run of four record-breaking years. Joining Jonathan this year is The Three Degrees legend Sheila Ferguson who will be playing the part of Fairy Oatcakes! After his hilarious turn last year as evil henchman Christian Patterson returns as the funniest dame in panto-land, Sarah the Cook. Completing the cast is West End star Steven Serlin as the evil King Rat, actress and model Amy Diamond as the beautiful Alice FitzWilliams and of course, the winner of Stoke’s Top Talent 09, Su Annagib. Plus, local legend Pete Conway will be appearing as Alderman FitzWilliams 10 - 22 December with The Sentinel’s Martin Tideswell making his pantomime debut in the role for the remaining performances. The Regent Theatre pantomime has become a must-see Christmas tradition featuring all of your favourite pantomime ingredients; sensational songs, dazzling dance routines, slapstick comedy, and plenty of audience participation. Book now for the region’s biggest and best panto.

Family Tickets (Based on 4 people including at least 1 child) Price Band A - £18 per ticket. Price Band B - £16 per ticket. Maximum of 2 Family Tickets per booking. Not available on red dates.

•

OAP Matinee Rate

£11.50 per ticket on weekday matinee performances marked in this way. Not red dates.

Sponsored by

Schools £9.50 per ticket. 1 accompanying adult free for every 10 children booked. Available on all mid-week matinee perfs (not red dates). S denotes Schools Only performances.

Thu 10

7.00 ★★

Fri 11

1.30

7.00★

2.00★

7.00★

1.30★

5.30★

7.00★

Sat 12

10.30

Sun 13

Mon 14

No Performances

Tue 15

10.30S

Wed 16

10.30S

7.00★

1.30

7.00★

Thu 17 Fri 18 Sat 19

10.30

1.30

7.00★

2.00★

7.00★

1.30★

5.30★

Sun 20

Mon 21

No Performances

Tue 22

2.00

7.00

Wed 23

2.00

7.00

Thu 24

1.30

5.30

7.00

Fri 25

No Performances

Sat 26

2.00

Sun 27

1.30

5.30

Mon 28

2.00

7.00

Tue 29

2.00

7.00

Wed 30

2.00

7.00

Thu 31

1.30

5.30

January 2010 Fri 1

No Performances

Sat 2

2.00

7.00

Sun 3

1.30

5.30

Mon 4

No Performances 7.00

Tue 5

1.30

Wed 6

1.30

7.00

Thu 7

1.30

7.00

Fri 8

1.30

7.00

Sat 9

2.00

7.00

Sun 10

1.30

5.30

Signed performances Fri 11 Dec 1.30pm Sat 12 Dec 2pm Wed 6 Jan 7pm Audio described performances Thu 17 Dec 1.30pm Thu 7 Jan 7pm Creative Learning Teachers’ packs & School workshops available

Group Discounts Available on all perfs: 20+ £18 per ticket, 40+ £17 per ticket, 60+ £15 per ticket.

December 2009

★★

Ambassador Friends 2 for 1 on price bands S, A & B on perfs marked with 2 stars

★

Ambassador Friends £6 off on price bands S, A & B on perfs marked with 1 star

0844 871 7649 (bkg fee) www.ambassadortickets.com/stoke

WORLD CLASS BALLET

FOR ONE NIGHT ONLY

‘Simply breathtaking’ Raymond Gubbay presents The Russian State Ballet & Orchestra of Siberia

Hull Daily Mail

The Sleeping Beauty Every child’s favourite fairy tale, this is the classic story of love and innocence, mystery and magic set to Tchaikovsky’s sublime score. Stunning choreography, sumptuous costumes and wonderful sets form the fantasy world in which the Lilac Fairy struggles against the evil Carabosse.

‘every child’s vision of a fairytale brought to life’

The Nutcracker In a magical production, this most famous of fantasy ballets begins as night falls on a traditional fireside scene on Christmas Eve. On the stroke of midnight we are transported to an enchanting world where nothing is as it seems, as toy dolls come to life and an army of soldiers does battle with a gang of mice and a Nutcracker is transformed into a handsome prince.

‘the scenery turned the stage into a winter wonderland’

Count Arthur Strong The Man Behind The Smile Following the smash-hit success of his BBC Radio 4 comedy series (Sony GOLD Award Winner - Best Radio Comedy 2009) and sell-out tour, Count Arthur Strong, showbiz legend and raconteur, reminds us just what we've been missing since his last television series, The Robin Hood Club, was axed in 1960-something. As Arthur himself says, ‘Wouldn’t it be wonderful if you could just turn the telly on after a hard day at the abattoir - or whatever it is you do - and there I was, smiling back at you, in my own programme again.’

★★★★★

‘an immaculate performance’ Mail on Sunday Wed 13 & Thu 14 Jan Sleeping Beauty Wed 7.30pm Nutcracker Thu 7.30pm Ambassador Friends Wed 2 for 1, Thu £5 off price bands S, A & B S G Details page 29

0844 871 7649 (bkg fee) www.ambassadortickets.com/stoke

★★★★★

‘Count Arthur is nothing less than wonderful. One of the greatest comic creations of this century’ The Mirror Fri 15 Jan 7.30pm

Two fantastic concerts in one fabulous show. The first half features Magic - A Kind of Queen performing their acclaimed concert of Queen hits. The second half will see Magic A Kind of ELO perform with their breathtaking precision the legendary songs of ELO - The Electric Light Orchestra. Magic’s outstanding vocal and musical talents have been enhanced by the addition of the acclaimed keyboard player Dave Chapman, who helps them to perfectly capture the complex orchestral sounds which are part of the ELO legend. A must for all lovers of great music!

Sat 16 Jan 7.30pm

Ambassador Friends 2 for 1 on price bands S, A & B S G

THE BOYS ARE BACK IN TOWN Songs include: I’ve Got You Under My Skin, That's Amore, Volare, My Way, My Kinda Town, That’s Life, Sway, New York, New York, Lady is a Tramp, Candyman, Mr Bojangles, Fly Me to the Moon, What Kind of Fool, Everybody Loves Somebody, Me and My Shadow and Mack the Knife

DecaDance!

One stage Ten nights Over 90 dance companies Take a trip back in time to the glamorous, glitzy nights of Las Vegas in the late 1950s and early 60s where, in the company of three of the world’s most popular entertainers, the fabulous Burrelli Sisters and The Rat Pack Big Band, you will experience Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr and Dean Martin performing at the famous Sands hotel.

250 new works and almost 2000 talented young dancers! The region’s most extensive and exciting youth dance festival returns! 010 Dance brings you an eclectic menu of styles from sublime ballet to stomping street, creative contemporary to passionate pop! See one show and we promise you’ll be back for more!

This spectacular production celebrates the incredible singing talent of three world-famous entertainers and performers and some of the finest music and song that has ever been recorded. Hit follows hit, including: The Lady is a Tramp, Mr Bojangles, I’ve Got You Under My Skin, That’s Amore, Everybody Loves Somebody Sometime, New York, New York, My Kinda Town, Fly Me to the Moon, Sway, Volare, Me And My Shadow, My Way, Memories Are Made Of This and many more.

Thursday 21 January features pieces specially created for the epic stage at The Regent Theatre. Performances continue each evening, including Sunday, to our final show on Saturday 30 January. ‘010 Dance successfully brings together The Regent Theatre’s high production values with opportunities for young people to perform and experience a diverse range of dance styles, making it a high-quality dance performance experience for audiences and participants alike’ Toby Norman-Wright, Clore Fellow (Dance) and Youth Dance Strategy Manager, West Midlands Programmed and Managed by Creative Learning at Stoke-on-Trent Theatres 7

Photo: St Margaret Ward Catholic School and Arts College in 09 Dance by Clive Jones.

Thu 21 - Sat 30 Jan 7.30pm Creative Learning Workshops available Family ticket £24 (4 people, max 2 adults)

If you wish you’d swung with the hardest partying pack in town, now’s your chance! Frank, Sammy & Dean – The Rat Pack Live From Las Vegas is still the coolest party in town!

‘A triumphant production’ Evening Standard

Tue 2 - Sat 6 Feb Tue - Sat eves 8pm Wed & Sat mats 2.30pm Ambassador Friends Tue 2 for 1, Wed - Fri £5 off price bands S, A & B S G Details page 29

0844 871 7649 (bkg fee)

www.ambassadortickets.com/stoke

A NIGHT OF SEDUCTION AT THE THEATRE

Opera della Luna presents

Die Fledermaus

One of the world’s most famous operettas, Die Fledermaus, now gets a glittering new look from this acclaimed opera and operetta company. Opera della Luna have earned themselves a matchless reputation, this year celebrating 15 years of acclaimed productions of Gilbert and Sullivan and Offenbach. They now turn their hand to the Waltz King Johann Strauss and this most sparkling of scores. Dr Falke was once left to wander home, drunk and dressed as a bat, by his friend Gabriel von Eisenstein. To exact his revenge he arranges for Eisenstein to attend an extremely risqué party at the home of the outrageous Russian aristocrat, Prince Orlofsky. There, Eisenstein seduces a mysterious Hungarian countess, who is in fact his own wife in disguise. This entirely new and saucy production is directed by Jeff Clarke (with his own new translation) and designed by Gabriella Csanyi-Wills - the team that created the company’s wonderful recent production of The Mikado. An evening not to be missed by all fans of opera!

FOR ONE NIGHT ONLY AT THE REGENT THEATRE

‘Brilliant, not to mention hilarious. The most enjoyable evening for ages’ Opera Now

‘Truly delightful. Mischievous and witty and the outfits have all the razzledazzle of Versace’ Financial Times

‘Ensemble playing at its best’ Evening Standard

Mon 8 & Tue 9 Feb 8pm Ambassador Friends Mon 2 for 1, Tue £5 off price bands S, A & B S G Details page 29

Most Haunted - Live Yvette Fielding and the team from Living TV’s Most Haunted live on stage. With Karl Beattie, Brian Shepherd, Cath Howe, Ciaran O’Keefe, and Stuart Torevell. The Most Haunted team have explored some of the spookiest and most infamous locations in the UK and across America, in an attempt to uncover the truth behind tales of restless spirits and mysterious visions. Now for the first time on stage the team are pleased to be coming to Stoke-on-Trent. Expect a supernatural thrill-fest as the Most Haunted team of mediums and ghost hunters report on purported paranormal activity, show unseen film footage, and attempt to explore paranormal or scientific explanations for the various phenomena that occur. Experience the unexplainable!

Jimmy Carr Rapier Wit If you only see one comedy show this year - what’s the matter with you? Get out more. A ‘rapier’ is the long sword of a gentleman. ‘Rapier wit’ is defined as clever, quick, intelligent humour. Please note, Jimmy Carr doesn’t have ‘the long sword of a gentleman’ and even if you like him, ‘clever, quick and intelligent’ is a bit of a stretch.

‘One of the most polished performers in the business’ Independent

‘A masterclass in comedy’ The Guardian

0844 871 7649 (bkg fee) www.ambassadortickets.com/stoke

Thu 11 Feb 7.30pm

Suitable for over 16s only.

Sat 13 Feb 7.30pm 10

MATTHEW BOURNE’S SENSATIONAL MASTERPIECE

★★★★★ ‘As bold and beautiful as ever’ Daily Telegraph

When it premiered at Sadler’s Wells in 1995, Matthew Bourne’s triumphant modern interpretation of Swan Lake turned tradition upside down, taking the dance world by storm. Now firmly crowned as a modern-day classic, this iconic production is perhaps best-known for replacing the traditional female corps de ballet with a menacing male ensemble. Matthew Bourne blends dance, humour and spectacle with extravagant, award-winning designs by Lez Brotherston, to create a provocative and powerful Swan Lake for our times. Collecting over 30 international theatre awards including 3 Tonys, Swan Lake has been acclaimed as a landmark achievement on the international stage. It has become the longest running ballet in the West End and on Broadway and enjoyed four hugely successful tours in the UK and thrilled audiences all over the world. 11

Photographs Bill Cooper

Mon 15 - Sat 20 Feb Mon - Sat eve 8pm Wed & Sat mat 2.30pm Ambassador Friends Mon 2 for 1, Tue - Fri £5 off price bands S, A & B S G Details page 29

0844 871 7649 (bkg fee) www.ambassadortickets.com/stoke

HITCHCOCK MEETS HILARIOUS!

‘rollicking fun’ The Times

‘Uproariously jolly and splendidly inventive’ The Guardian

WINNER BEST COMEDY Laurence Olivier Award 2007 2 Tony Awards 2008 Direct from the West End, Broadway and 25 countries around the globe comes Alfred Hitchcock’s classic spy thriller, The 39 Steps, brilliantly and hilariously recreated as the smash-hit Olivier Award-winning Best New Comedy. This blissfully funny show follows the incredible adventures of our handsome hero Richard Hannay, complete with stiff-upper-lip, British gung-ho and pencil moustache as he encounters dastardly murders, double-crossing secret agents, and, of course, devastatingly beautiful women. This wonderfully inventive and gripping comedy thriller features four fearless actors, playing 139 roles in 100 minutes of fast-paced fun and thrilling action.

‘Dizzyingly entertaining’ The Telegraph

‘A joyous version of the Hitchcock classic’ Sunday Times

Mon 22 - Sat 27 Feb Mon - Sat eve 8pm Wed & Sat mat 2.30pm Creative Learning Post-show talk Wed mat School workshops and teachers’ packs available Ambassador Friends Mon 2 for 1, Tue - Fri £5 off price bands S, A & B S G Details page 29

0844 871 7649 (bkg fee) www.ambassadortickets.com/stoke

BREATHTAKING CIRCUS ACTS

FOR ONE NIGHT ONLY

Dara O Briain Award-winning stand-up comedian and host of BBC2’s Mock The Week, Dara O Briain hits the road again following his 2008 sellout tour and best-selling book Tickling the English. Don’t miss this opportunity to catch the brand-new show from the most charming, charismatic, fast-talking funnyman working on the UK’s live comedy circuit today. Book early to avoid disappointment.

‘If you don’t laugh at O Briain, check your pulse - you must be dead’ The Evening Standard

‘Unassuming, likeable and very, very funny’ Time Out

2010 Here We Go Again

Pasión de Buena Vista

One Aussie bloke presents four pretendy Swedes and a trip to the theatre you’ll never forget! Join in all the fun with Björn Again - 2010 Here We Go Again featuring ABBA’s hits and songs from Mamma Mia together with the legendary voice of host Tony Blackburn playing all the UK hits of 1988. This is the greatest party night out for everyone of all ages.

Pasión de Buena Vista is the music and dance extravaganza that is taking Europe by storm.

Björn Again, created and founded in 1988 by director and musician Rod Stephen, rapidly achieved worldwide cult status and were endorsed by ABBA’s blonde vocalist Agnetha Fältskog.

‘Björn Again has been going for twice as long as ABBA!’ Benny Andersson

Filled with hot rhythms, delicate dances, and beautiful melodies, the show will take you on a tour through the streets of the Pearl of the Caribbean on an exciting Cuban night, allowing you to experience the unspoiled rawness and joy of Cuban life. The show features three top Cuban singers, dancers from the world famous Tropicana Club in Havana and an eightpiece live band, as well as beautiful costumes, stagebackdrop and breathtaking projections which will infect you with the heat and passion of Cuba.

‘A great show’ Agnetha Fältskog Mon 1 Mar 8pm Recommended for ages 14+

Tue 2 Mar 7.30pm

Wed 3 Mar 7.30pm Ambassador Friends £5 off price bands S, A & B S G

Russia’s greatest award-winning circus performers will push the boundaries of physical ingenuity to the limit and astound you with their split second timing and disciplines honed from years of rehearsal and practice. In this new production the circus will explore the story of the mysterious Russian character Rasputin. Was he a mad monk or healer, a sinner or a saviour? There’s something for all the family so escape to the magical world of the circus and be wowed by the jugglers, dazzled by the trapeze artists and amazed by the acrobats.

Thu 4 - Sun 7 Mar Thu - Fri eves 7.30pm Sat 2.30pm & 7.30pm Sun 2pm & 5pm Ambassador Friends Thu 2 for 1, Fri £5 off price bands S, A & B S G Details page 29

0844 871 7649 (bkg fee) www.ambassadortickets.com/stoke

A TIMELESS TALE OF LOVE

THE RUSSIAN ICE STARS

‘Breathtaking and stunning to watch’

Stage Productions present an amateur production of

Whatsonstage.com

Music by Richard Rodgers. Book and lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II. Based on the novel entitled Anna and the King of Siam by Margaret Landon. The amateur rights for The King & I have been given by permission of Josef Weinberger Limited on behalf of R&H Theatricals of New York. Production photographs taken from John Cumberlidge’s 2009 production.

The timeless classic musical, Rodgers & Hammerstein’s The King and I, has captured the hearts and minds of millions with its charming story of the British governess brought into the court of Siam to tutor the King’s many children. Stage Productions brings this spectacular new production created by the award-winning professional director John Cumberlidge, for one week only. The unique love story is told with one of the most glorious and unforgettable scores ever written. The much-loved songs and sweeping melodies from the show include: The March of the Siamese Children, Shall We Dance, I Whistle a Happy Tune, Hello Young Lovers and the unforgettable Getting to Know You. 17

Wed 10 - Sat 13 Mar Wed - Sat eves 7.30pm Wed & Sat mats 2.30pm Ambassador Friends Wed mat & eve 2 for 1 on price band A G Details page 29

0844 871 7649 (bkg fee) www.ambassadortickets.com/stoke

‘Superb ice dance spectacular’ Eastern Daily Press

THE FAIREST STORY OF THEM ALL ON ICE The world famous Russian Ice Stars will take you on a magical journey to the heart of the best-loved fairy tale of all time, Snow White. The original story of an enchanted mirror, a beautiful girl, the ultimate Prince Charming and a shiny red apple comes to life on ice with ballet, gymnastics and aerial aerobatics to create a breathtaking and mesmerising experience. This spell-binding show promises to be lavish and spectacular, dazzling the whole family with its sheer beauty and elegance.

Wed 17 - Sun 21 Mar Wed - Sat eves 7.30pm Thu, Sat & Sun mats 2.30pm Ambassador Friends Wed 2 for 1, Thu & Fri £5 off price bands S, A & B S G Details page 29

0844 871 7649 (bkg fee) www.ambassadortickets.com/stoke

‘Blissfully funny. In short, a superb, life-enhancing play’ Guardian

EYE-POPPING FUN FOR ALL THE FAMILY! ‘Deeply affecting. deliciously funny’ Time Out

‘One of the finest plays Alan Bennett has ever written. This is a wonderful evening, as heartcatching as it is hilarious’

Press comments on previous BSC Roald Dahl Productions

‘Spectacular fun’

Daily Telegraph

Metro

‘A major play by a writer I believe to be among the greatest of our time’

‘An excellent, eye popping production. Outstanding!’ Aberdeen Post

‘Brought wonderfully to life in this gem of a production. Not to be missed’

Express

The Sunday Mercury By Alan

Bennett

One of the great plays of the decade, The History Boys is set in a school in the North of England where a boisterous bunch of bright, funny sixth-form boys are attempting to gain entrance to Oxford and Cambridge whilst fending off the distractions of sport and sex. In Alan Bennett’s much-loved play, staffroom battles and the anarchy of adolescence provide a rich vein of comedy. The History Boys opened in May 2004 at the National Theatre to rave reviews and a sell-out run and went on to become one of their biggest ever hits, winning no less than 30 major awards including both Olivier and Tony Awards for Best New Play. In 2005, a film was made with the entire original cast, many of whom have subsequently become household names. This will be the first major revival of the play since the original National Theatre production. Alan Bennett is one of the most distinctive voices in British theatre. Wry and tender, his impeccably-observed plays include Talking Heads, Single Spies, Forty Years On, Habeas Corpus, The Madness of George III and The Lady in the Van. 19

Contains strong language. Photograph Chris Pearsall.

Tue 30 Mar - Sat 3 Apr Tue & Wed 1.30pm & 7pm, Thu 7pm, Fri & Sat 2pm & 7pm Mon 22 - Sat 27 Mar Mon - Sat eves 8pm Wed & Sat mats 2.30pm Signed performance Wed 8pm Audio described perf Thu 8pm Ambassador Friends Mon 2 for 1, Tue - Fri £5 off price bands S, A & B S G Details page 29

0844 871 7649 (bkg fee) www.ambassadortickets.com/stoke

By Roald

Dahl

Adapted by David

Wood

We present Roald Dahl’s amazing story about a young boy who makes a marvellous new medicine to cure his grandmother of her terrifying temper. But when his grandmother drinks his special new potion, the most incredible things start to happen. And George’s adventure has just begun! The Birmingham Stage Company is back on tour with a brand new adaptation of one of Roald Dahl’s funniest and most exciting stories. It follows the company’s acclaimed productions of Horrible Histories, Why the Whales Came and Danny the Champion of the World. If you’re looking for fizztickling fun and whizzpopping magic for all the family, then don’t miss George and his Marvellous Medicine!

Creative Learning School workshops and teachers’ packs available Family Ticket £40 (4 people, max. 2 adults) Discounts available for School & Uniformed Groups Ambassador Friends Tue mat & eve 2 for 1, Wed - Fri mat & eves £5 off adult tickets S Details page 29

0844 871 7649 (bkg fee) www.ambassadortickets.com/stoke

ANGELA BEARDMORE’S SCHOOL OF DANCE & PERFORMING ARTS AND STUDIO #1 PRESENT

FROM THE CREATORS OF SPIRIT OF THE DANCE

‘From Fred Astaire to Tap Dogs, this show taps faster than an express train’ New York Post

Angela Beardmore’s School of Dance & Performing Arts has teamed up with Studio #1 to create a new musical and dance spectacular. Dynamics features hundreds of local children and adults performing on The Regent stage. A whole host of classic movie themes will form a dramatic backdrop to the thrilling routines. Songs from Annie, Beauty and the Beast, Blues Brothers, and Mamma Mia all feature with a truly magical tribute to Disney from the younger performers. Plus, don’t miss an energetic tribute to the King of Pop, Michael Jackson. Angela Beardmore’s School of Dance & Performing Arts has an outstanding record of students training to embark upon professional careers within performing arts with many already achieving successful careers. Studio #1 is an acclaimed street dance academy with many students holding world titles. 21

The spectacular Tap Dance Fever bursts onto The Regent Theatre stage to take you on a whistle-stop tour of the greatest tap-dance moments in showbiz history.

Wed 14 - Sat 17 Apr Wed - Sat eves 7.30pm Sat mat 2.30pm Family Ticket £45 (4 people, max. 2 adults) Ambassador Friends Wed £3 off price band A

0844 871 7649 (bkg fee) www.ambassadortickets.com/stoke

Featuring tap dance highlights from a selection of smash-hit shows including 42nd Street, Singin’ in the Rain, A Chorus Line and bang up-to-date routines from Tap Dogs and Stomp, this awesome, original show will leave you shouting for more! Tap Dance Fever taps its way through history from the era of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers right through to the 21st century. Experience the glitz and glamour of outstanding tap dance which has entertained generations and which is now a firm fixture on the small screen with the BBC’s So You Think You Can Dance. Smashing box office records around the world, Tap Dance Fever is not to be missed.

Thu 22 - Sat 24 Apr Thu - Sat eves 8pm Ambassador Friends Thu 2 for 1, Fri £5 off price bands S, A & B S G Details page 29

0844 871 7649 (bkg fee) www.ambassadortickets.com/stoke

Bill Kenwright by arrangement with The Really Useful Group presents

TIM RICE & ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER’S

BOOK NOW FOR THIS SMASH -HIT MUSICAL ‘With his charm, good looks and pop star voice, Any Dream’s Craig Chalmers is a dream Joseph’ Evening Times

‘Magnificent’ Edinburgh Evening News

‘It is utterly irresistible, GO, GO, GO, JO!’ The Mail on Sunday

EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT £5 off tickets purchased before 31 Dec. Excludes Fri eve & Sat perfs, cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer, excludes price band S.

Featuring from BBC’s Any Dream Will Do

Craig Chalmers as Joseph! Having enjoyed sensational reviews, Bill Kenwright’s ‘Amazing’, ‘Superb’, ‘Wonderful’ and ‘Brilliant’ production of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s sparkling family musical continues to enjoy huge success across the country with standing ovations at every performance. Craig Chalmers, the most popular finalist in the hit BBC series Any Dream Will Do, comes to The Regent Theatre in the title role, having delighted theatre audiences on tour across the country week after week with his vocal talents.

‘It explodes like glittering fireworks. Brilliant!’ The Sunday Times 23

Retelling the Biblical story of Joseph, his eleven brothers and the coat of many colours, this magical musical is full of unforgettable songs including Any Dream Will Do, Close Every Door To Me and One More Angel. A truly global phenomenon, Joseph has been thrilling audiences worldwide for over 40 years - book your tickets now and be part of the magic! Technicolor is the registered trademark of the Technicolor Group of Companies. Photographs from previous productions.

Craig Chalmers will not appear in all 12 performances. Please contact the Box Office for further details.

Mon 26 Apr - Sat 1 May Mon -Thu eves 7.30pm Tue -Thu mats 2pm Fri 5pm & 8pm Sat 2pm, 5pm & 8pm Audio described perf Tue eve Signed performance Wed eve Creative Learning Teachers’ packs available Ambassador Friends Mon 2 for 1, Tue -Thu £5 off price bands S, A & B S G Details page 29

0844 871 7649 (bkg fee) www.ambassadortickets.com/stoke

FORTHCOMING SHOWS

‘Brilliant. There was nothing for it but to surrender to his control’ Mail on Sunday

Join us for the international touring stage show celebrating the music of Stoke-on-Trent born superstar Robbie Williams. All of the hits performed by a company of magnificent musicians, singers and JK – recognised as the world’s No.1 Robbie impersonator. Having performed around the world in front of more than 1.5 million people he sings and entertains like the man himself.

Be prepared for a once-in-a-lifetime theatrical experience when the master of illusion returns to the stage with Derren Brown: Enigma. Derren will once again bewilder, baffle, bewitch and show why he is one of the country’s most revered live performers; a master of magic, mind control and psychological illusion.

All the greatest hits and many more, from Rock DJ and Feel to the swing songs such as My Way and Mr Bojangles which Robbie performed at the Royal Albert Hall, combined with brand new stage sets, spectacular special effects and that hint of Robbie magic make this a night not to be missed.

‘A spectacular night of entertainment. Derren Brown is, without a shadow of a doubt, this country’s greatest illusionist’ Time Out

‘You repeatedly find yourself retrieving your jaw from the floor’ Daily Telegraph 25

Not suitable for children under 12 years.

Mon 17 - Wed 19 May 7.30pm

0844 871 7649 (bkg fee) www.ambassadortickets.com/stoke

Sat 5 Jun 7.30pm Ambassador Friends £2 off price bands A & B

Following the resounding success of their BAFTA-nominated Armstrong & Miller Show, Ben Miller (Moving Wallpaper) and Alexander Armstrong (Mutual Friends) will be hitting the road in Autumn 2010 and touring a brand new live show. With their usual mix of the beautifully observed and the utterly barmy, Ben and Xander will be performing a parade of characters from their extensive dressingup box and wig-store. Don’t miss the street-talking WWII chav pilots, the filthy Brabbins and Fyffe, Jilted Jim - dumped at the altar but still on his honeymoon, Terry Devlin - the royal correspondent who really KNOWS the royals, Dennis Lincoln-Park - the accident-prone culture buff, the Frank Dad, and many more.

‘Armstrong and Miller are both exceptionally good comic performers’ Time Out The performance contains strong language.

Sun 10 Oct 8pm 26

THE POTTERIES MUSEUM & ART GALLERY

STOKE-ON-TRENT CITY COUNCIL

Carnival by Esther Willoughby, part of the Romantic Proposal exhibition

The Cultural Quarter is home to The Potteries Museum & Art Gallery. The Museum houses one of the greatest collections of ceramics in the world alongside a varied and exciting programme of changing exhibitions. Why not combine your visit to the theatre with a trip to the Museum and make your experience of Stoke-on-Trent all the more special? Admission free. For further information please contact the Museum direct on 01782 232323.

Romantic Proposal Sat 12 Dec - Sun 18 Apr An exhibition exploring the rituals of courtship, from the medieval to the contemporary.

Building Jerusalem: Bethesda Chapel Reborn Sat 23 Jan - Sun 9 May Located opposite The Potteries Museum & Art Gallery, Bethesda Chapel is one of the most significant historical buildings in the city. This timely exhibition explores the fascinating history of this former Methodist chapel and plans for the future.

The city of Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, and the surrounding area, are home to some of the world’s leading luxury brands and successful creative industries. Recognised as the world capital of the ceramics industry, its design capabilities, attractive development opportunities, central location and commitment to sustainability make the area an astute choice for leading-edge businesses. Its population of 500,000 people enjoy access to two highly-rated universities and an abundance of outdoor space. The area includes; Stoke-on-Trent, one of the UK’s greenest cities; thriving market towns such as Newcastle-under-Lyme and Leek; beautiful villages; the historic Mersey & Trent Canal; spectacular gardens and the dramatic Staffordshire Peak District.

Sat 13 Mar - Sun 25 April Young people’s multi-media artwork inspired by the city’s past.

010 DANCE – DECADANCE! Thu 21 – Sun 30 Jan 7.30pm Unmissable youth dance festival! For more information see page 7. THE 39 STEPS Mon 22 - Sun 27 Feb High quality drama for students in primary and secondary education and at university. Highly recommended for GCSE, BTec, A/S and A Level Theatre Studies – covering two curriculum areas: non-naturalism and multi role-play. Workshop available. £200 + VAT. Enquiries joblagg@theambassadors.com Free education resource pack available to download at www.love39steps.com Post Show Talk Wed 24 Feb mat Pre-booking essential. Free.

RAW ENERGY Sat 16 Jan 7pm at Victoria Hall A stunning show featuring the very best youth dance companies

Stoke Through Time: An Expression of a New Generation

For more information on our exhibitions, events and activities happening at The Potteries Museum & Art Gallery, Gladstone Pottery Museum, Ford Green Hall and Etruria Industrial Museum visit www.stoke.gov.uk/museum or call 01782 232323 for more information.

CREATIVE LEARNING

The Cultural Quarter Initiative is funded by the National Lottery through the Arts Council of England, the European Community through the European Regional Development Fund and the City of Stoke-on-Trent.

from the West Midlands. Two groups will be selected to go to the national platform in Birmingham in July. Adults £8 (Concs £6) Family Ticket £24 (max. 2 adults) NEW YEAR HIGHLIGHTS MUSICAL THEATRE PERFORMANCE PROJECT Fantastic Easter holiday opportunity for young people interested in acting, singing, and dancing to join a highly experienced company and perform in a world premiere performance on The Victoria Hall stage! Chris Monks and Richard Atkinson have been commissioned to write a brand new piece especially for young people age 10+. Early booking recommended – call us now! YOUTH THEATRE AND ADULT DRAMA Highly popular classes continue each week in term time only, led by our exceptional in-house team of artists: Jo Docksey,

Victoria Gotham, Paul McCleary, Catherine Shevloff and Samantha Vaughan. BOYS DANCE LAB with Rachel Rimmer, Dance Artist in Residence. New boys may sign up in February and join this high quality dance company which works on funky, physical and contemporary styles.

If you are involved with dance and young people in Staffordshire, Hannah White (Youth Dance Contact) would be pleased to hear from you. hannahwhite@ theambassadors.com

For information on all events visit www.atgcreativelearning.co.uk/ stoke and download our newsletter. Telephone enquiries 01782 213808.

The Regent Theatre is proudly taking part in A Night Less Ordinary, giving people under 26 free tickets to shows! To book your tickets just call 0870 060 1488. Please see the website for full terms and conditions. The initiative is an Arts Council England scheme in association with Metro. For more information about the scheme visit www.anightlessordinary.org.uk

Photo top middle: Staffordshire Sentinel News and Media Ltd

BOOKING INFORMATION

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This publication was produced to ISO14001 Environmental Management System standard and 95% of the waste created during the process was recycled. The materials used included vegetable oil inks, elemental chlorine free pulp and fibre from PEFC managed forests. The PEFC provides an assurance mechanism to purchasers of wood and paper products that they are promoting the sustainable management of forests.

CONCESSIONS B U C K N Only 1 concession per ticket.

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booked for each performance to be eligible for discounts.

A50

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BOX OFFICE The Regent Theatre, Piccadilly, Stoke-on-Trent ST1 1AP

IN PERSON Box Office counter at The Regent Theatre is open 10am-6pm on nonperf days or until the start of the perf. Open 1 hr prior to Sun perfs (times may vary on Bank Holidays). TELEPHONE BOOKINGS/ RESERVATIONS 0844 871 7649 * Mon - Sat 9am - 10pm Sun 10am - 8pm GROUPS HOTLINE 0844 871 7619 groupsales@theambassadors.com ONLINE www.ambassadortickets/stoke ACCESS 0844 871 7677 POSTAL BOOKINGS Box Office, Victoria Hall, Bagnall Street, Stoke-on-Trent ST1 3AD Facsimile 01782 214738* PAYMENT METHODS Cash, cheques (payable to Stoke-onTrent Theatres Ltd), Mastercard, Visa and Switch. Personal cheques must be covered by a guarantee card, and card details written on the reverse of the cheque. Tickets may be reserved for up to 4 working days. TICKET EXCHANGES Once sold tickets are non-refundable. Where possible we will exchange tickets for another performance of the same production in advance. Exchanged tickets will incur a £2 per ticket charge. Members of our Friends scheme can exchange tickets free of charge, subject to availability.

BOOK YOUR PROGRAMMES AND ICE CREAMS IN ADVANCE WHEN BUYING YOUR TICKETS!

SUBSCRIBE AND SAVE!

Book 3 shows & save £3 per ticket, Book 4 shows & save £4 per ticket, Book 5 shows & save £5 per ticket. Applies to Price Band A only. Same number of seats must be

Friends discounts appear on individual pages. Under 16s, full-time students, registered unemployed, Senior Citizens £2 off each seat for most productions (Mon -Thu only, price bands A, B, C when 5 prices). Over 60s weekday matinees best available seats, discounts available for most shows.

G GROUPS & SCHOOLS Groups of 10+ £2 off Groups of 20+ £4 off Groups of 40+ £5 off Applies to price bands A & B only, rates may vary. Not available Fri & Sat eves. School Groups or Uniformed Groups of 10+ - Best available seats in Band B or below for £6.50 for most shows (not Fri or Sat eves). 1 accompanying adult goes free for every 10 school tickets booked. Full time student /educational group rates available for selected perfs. AMBASSADOR FRIENDS Friends members get 2 for 1 tickets or a discount for a maximum of 4 tickets per membership card. CUSTOMERS WITH DISABILITIES We strive to offer equal access for all. Should you have particular requirements, please discuss with the Box Office when making your booking and we will do all we can to assist you. EQUAL ACCESS FOR ALL Wheelchair spaces on all auditorium levels. Lift access to all areas of the venue including Box Office, toilets & bars. Infra-red audio system available for people with hearing impairment. Guide dogs welcome in all areas. Audio described and sign language interpreted perfs offered on selected shows see show pages for details. Arrive 15 mins early for Audio Described Introductory Notes Limited number of large print and audio versions of this brochure available on CD or cassette.

For further info or assistance please ring the Box Office on 0844 871 7677. * A transaction fee of £2.75 will be added to all telephone bookings excluding Friends and Group bookings. TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRE The Victoria Hall is proud to be the home of the Stoke-on-Trent Tourist Information Centre. T 01782 236000 stoke.tic@stoke.gov.uk The information in this brochure was correct at the time of going to press. Stoke-on-Trent Theatres Ltd reserves the right to alter the advertised programme or facilities. All discounts subject to availability and only one discount applies per ticket unless otherwise specified. Data Protection The Regent Theatre and The Victoria Hall are managed by Stoke-onTrent Theatres Ltd, part of the Ambassador Theatre Group. We would like to add or retain your details on our lists to keep you informed about future events, special offers and other developments. We also look to secure information and special offers for you from other organisations. You will be asked whether you want to receive any of this information the next time you book. If you do not want to receive information from ourselves and/or third parties or have any queries, contact the Marketing Department on 01782 211210.

AMBASSADOR THEATRE GROUP The Regent Theatre is operated by the Ambassador Theatre Group (ATG), currently the largest theatre group in the West End and separately, the second largest in the UK regions, with a total of 23 venues. ATG currently owns and operates 10 high profile West End Theatres: the Comedy, Donmar Warehouse, Duke of York’s, Fortune, Phoenix, Playhouse, Piccadilly, Savoy and Trafalgar Studios. ATG’s regional theatres include The Ambassadors, Woking; Theatre Royal Brighton; Victoria Hall and Regent Theatre in Stoke-on-Trent; Milton Keynes Theatre; Churchill Theatre, Bromley; Richmond Theatre; King’s and Theatre Royal in Glasgow and New Wimbledon Theatre. Current and recent ATG successes in London include Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Sunset Boulevard, Elling, Guys and Dolls and West Side Story.

Price band

Dick Whittington

£23

£21

£18

£16

£14

£26

Sleeping Beauty / Nutcracker

£25

£22

£19

£15

£10

£28

Count Arthur Strong

All tickets £15

Magic - A Kind of Queen & A Kind of ELO

£16.50 £16.50 £15.50 £15.50 £15.50 £16.50

010 Dance The Rat Pack Sat eve Tue - Fri eve Sat mat Wed mat

£26.50 £24.50 £22.50 £20.50

£24.50 £22.50 £20.50 £20.50

£20.50 £20.50 £17.50 £20.50

Die Fledermaus

£18

£16

£14

£12

£10

£21

Most Haunted - Live

£24

£22

£20

£24

Swan Lake Sat eve Mon - Fri eve & Sat mat Wed mat The 39 Steps Sat eve Mon - Fri eve & Sat mat Wed mat

£29

£20

£15

£34

£27 £24

£24 £19

£19 £14

£14 £12

£32 £27

£21

£19

£16

£13

£11

£24

£19 £17

£17 £15

£15 £12

£12 £12

£10 £9

£22 £20

£24

£20

£16

£13

£11

£27

£22 £21

£18 £17

£14 £14

£12 £12

£11 £10

£25 £24

Tap Dance Fever Joseph All Sat Mon - Fri eve & Fri early Tue, Wed & Thu mat

Adults £15 Children under 16 £10

£13 £12.50 £11.50 £13.50 £13 £12

£20

£18

£15

£13

£10

£23

£21

£17

£14

£11

£26

£21

£19

£16

£14

£11

£24

£18

£16

£13

£11

£27.50 £27.50 £27.50 £27.50

One Night of Robbie Williams £16.50 £16.50 £16.50 The Armstrong & Miller Show

£15

£9

£21

£25

£27.50

£15

£16.50

All tickets £20

All tickets £19.50 £17.50 £17.50 £17.50 £16.50 £16.50

Pasiòn de Buena Vista The Moscow State Circus Sat & Sun eve Thu & Fri eve, Sat & Sun mat

£25

Dynamics Wed - Fri eve & Sat mat Sat eve

Derren Brown*

£29 £24

Dara O Briain* Björn Again

£17.50 £14 £29.50 £17.50 £12.50 £27.50 £14.50 £12.50 £25.50 £17.50 £12.50 £23.50

All tickets £22.50

£31

The History Boys Sat eve Mon - Fri eve & Sat mat Wed mat

George’s Marvellous Medicine

Adults £8 Concs £6 Family Ticket £24

Jimmy Carr *

Price band

£17.50

All tickets £21

£25

£23

£18

£14

£11

£28

£23

£21

£17

£13

£9

£26

The King & I Wed - Sat eve Wed & Sat mat

£18 £16

£16 £14

£14 £13

£13 £12

£12 £10

Snow White on Ice Wed - Sat eve Sat & Sun mat Thu mat

£25 £24 £20

£22 £21 £18

£20 £18 £17

£18 £16 £13

£13 £14 £10

£28 £27 £23

Regent Theatre Seating Plan Price Band S relates to superior seats situated in Row D of the Stalls and Row A of the Circle. Seating plans and price breaks may vary for some productions. *£2.75 per ticket booking fee applies.

CORPORATE MEMBERSHIP Sponsored by

Diamond Members

V The Victoria Hall offers an eclectic line up of live music, the biggest names in comedy, children’s shows, dance and local events for the whole community and is just a 2 minute walk from The Regent Theatre. To book call the Box Office on 0844 871 7649 or visit our website: www.ambassadortickets.com /stoke

VICTORIA HALL HIGHLIGHTS STEPHEN K AMOS Sat 30 Jan 7.30pm £16.50*

OCEAN COLOUR SCENE Wed 24 Feb 7.30pm £22.50*

ANTON & ERIN Thu 25 Feb 7.30pm £36.50 29.50

LEE MACK

AL MURRAY

Fri 5 Mar 8pm £18.50*

Fri 27 Nov 8pm £25*

TRIVIUM

ALISTAIR McGOWAN

Sun 7 Mar Doors 7pm £16.50*

Sat 5 Dec 8pm £15*

DAVE GORMAN

SALLY MORGAN

Thu 18 Mar 8pm £18.50*

Sun 13 Dec 7.30pm £17.50 19.50 31

Gold Members

*Per ticket booking fee applies.

Silver Members Church Lane Physiotherapy Clinic HSBC Newcastle Police Social & Welfare Club Stanley Circus Casino

Bronze Members Access All Areas (Alton Towers Resort Social Club) Aztech Enterprises Hanley Building Society Hulme Upright Manning KJD Solicitors North Staffordshire Chamber of Commerce & Industry