3 1 0 2 R A M N A J www.disscornhall.co.uk
If you want to shake off the winter blues, this January to March Corn Hall programme will bring a sparkle to the dark months. A musical highlight of our year will be one of the first gigs by the new all-girl folk supergroup Carthy, Hardy, Farrell & Young. In January, the irrepressible and popular Churchfitters return with their highenergy fusion of jazz and folk, and there’s a light-hearted musical celebration of St Valentine’s Day with Terence Blacker and Derek Hewitson. Over Easter, The Merry Opera Company will perform their critically acclaimed and unforgettable production of Handel’s Messiah, a joint event with St Mary’s church. Two of the country’s best tribute bands Classic Clapton and Simply Take That round off a spectacular music season. The Antiques Roadshow’s popular expert, Eric Knowles will be with us to talk about his career and even value your own treasured possession. The work of another famous name, Quentin Blake, the first Children’s Laureate and artist for Roald Dahl, will grace the Corn Hall Gallery in January. February 2013 would have seen the 70th birthday of the late Roger Deakin, the Mellis resident whose writings and broadcasts have put him among Britain’s best-loved chroniclers of the natural world. We mark the occasion with a celebration of his work. Roger’s beloved Waveney River is the subject of Peter Knight’s exhibition of paintings, Campfires and Kingfishers. We’ve great family entertainment too. From Mere Players panto Cindy-Ella and SNYSB’s New Year concert with RAF Honington Voluntary Band, to The Keeper’s Daughter Springtime Showcase and our increasingly popular children’s Saturday Club events. Great films on Wednesday night and our Corn Hall Comedy Club nights put the finishing touches to another great season.
STOP PRESS
Great news! The Corn Hall and the town have been successful in getting through the first stage of a Heritage Lottery Fund bid for a major regeneration project for the Hall and the Heritage Triangle. Check our website www.disscornhall.co.uk for developments and to find out how you can get involved. It’s going to be an exciting year!
Angela Sykes, Diss Corn Hall Manager
BOX OFFICE 01379 652241 Mon - Fri 11am - 4pm Sat 11am-2pm www.disscornhall.co.uk
The Old Stables beside the Corn Hall St Nicholas Street Diss IP22 4LB
DATE
EVENT
TIME
PAGE
4 Jan-2 Feb Sat 5 Jan Wed 16-Sat 19 Jan
Art Film Panto
The World of Quentin Blake Brave (PG) Cindy-Ella – Mere Players
4 4 5
Sun 20 Jan Wed 23 Jan Fri 25 Jan Sat 26 Jan Sat 26 Jan Wed 30 Jan 4 Feb-2 March Wed 6 Feb Fri 8 Feb Sat 9 Feb Wed 13 Feb Thurs 14 Feb Sat 16 Feb Wed 20 Feb Fri 22 Feb Fri 22 Feb Sat 23 Feb Wed 27 Feb Fri 1 March
Music Film Comedy Family Music Film Art Film Music Word Film Music Family Film Family Word Music Film Theatre
5-30 March
Art
Box office hours
14
Wed 6 March Fri 8 March Wed 13 March Sat 16 March Sat 16 March Wed 20 March Thurs 21 March Fri 22 March Sat 23 March
Film Music Film Family Theatre Film Fashion Comedy Word
SNYSB with RAF Honington Voluntary Band 2 Days in Paris (15) Corn Hall Comedy Club Saturday Club – Sally and the Sunflower The Churchfitters The Imposter (15) Peter Knights – Campfires and Kingfishers A Royal Affair (15) – subtitled Carthy, Hardy, Farrell & Young Roger Deakin – in his own words Berberian Sound Studio (15) Funny Valentine – Terence Blacker & Derek Hewitson Saturday Club – Suitcase Circus Private Peaceful (12A) How High? – Theatre Jemilda Luke Wright’s Stand-up Poetry Club Simply Take That – Diss & District Rotary Club Anna Karenina (12A) The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists – Townsend Productions Clare Johnson & Orson Kartt – Reinterpretations of the familiar Tabu (15) – subtitled Classic Clapton In Love with Alma Cogan (PG) Saturday Club – Bright Sparks Springtime Showcase – The Keeper’s Daughter Looper (15) Charity Spring Fashion Show – WI & M&Co Corn Hall Comedy Club Eric Knowles – Antique Antics
Box office hours 5pm 7.30pm, Sat 2.30 & 7.30pm 7.30pm 8pm 8.15pm 2pm 8pm 8pm Box office hours 8pm 8pm 7.30pm 8pm 7.30pm 2pm 8pm 11am & 2pm 8pm 7.30pm 8pm 7.30pm
15 15 15 16 16 16 17 17 18
Wed 27 March Sat 30 March
Film Music
Oil City Confidential (15) Handel’s Messiah – The Merry Opera Company
8pm 7.30pm 8pm 2pm 7pm 8pm 7pm 8.15pm Valuations 6.30pm, Show 7.30pm 8pm 7.30pm
3
5 5 6 6 7 7 8 8 9 9 10 10 11 11 12 12 13 13 14
18 19
January “one of the world’s favourite illustrators”
Art
Film
An exhibition in the Diss Corn Hall Gallery 4 January-2 February Box office hours Free
Saturday 5 January 5pm Tickets £5 / Under 18s £2.50
The World of Quentin Blake
Brave
Quentin Blake is one of the world’s favourite illustrators of children’s books, known especially for his association with Roald Dahl; his mischievous characters have amused and charmed three generations. We are delighted to be holding an exhibition of Blake’s first original etchings and lithographs, made to celebrate his 80th birthday. This show is ‘off the page’ as none of the work comes from his book illustrations, but is entirely derived from the artist’s imagination and experience. Based around three themes – Girl and Bird, Girl and Dog and Insects – this will be the first exhibition of the work following its launch by London’s prestigious Marlborough Fine Art in December.
Directed by Mark Andrews and Brenda Chapman, 2012 USA, 100 minutes Voiced by Kelly Macdonald, Billy Connolly, Emma Thompson
Lunchtime viewing
Sunday 6 January 11am-3pm
Join us for a perfect lunchtime treat.
4
(PG)
Chosen to close this year’s Edinburgh Film Festival, Brave is set in a mythic Scotland, with a teenage princess (Kelly Macdonald), who is all tousled red curls and attitude. Naturally she falls out with the King and Queen (Connolly and Thompson) over a choice of husband and sets off on her adventures. Humorous, entertaining with the occasional scare, it’s a great way for parents and children to start the New Year.
Pantomime Wed 16 - Sat 19 Jan 7.30pm Matinee Sat 19 Jan 2.30pm Tickets £9 tiered / £8 level Mere Players present
Cindy-Ella Cindy-Ella is the traditional Cinderella story but set in 1960s America. All the essential panto ingredients are there: the cruel cross-dressing ugly sisters; the Good Fairy; the Demon King; the magic mice; audience participation and a shed load of bad jokes, but all dressed up in jeans and circle skirts and pretending to be Grease. With a brilliant score packed with pastiche 60s numbers, this is a panto that’s almost a musical. High energy, high camp and oodles of fun! www.mereplayers.com
Music Sunday 20 January 7.30pm Tickets £9 tiered / £7 level
SNYSB in Concert with Royal Air Force Honington Voluntary Band The SNYSB January concert is always a highlight in the calendar. This year they are teaming up with new partners, the RAF Honington Voluntary Band to play a variety of music including arrangements from well known film scores, songs from the shows and a selection of classical pieces. The RAF Honington band, under the direction of the Director of Music Tom Milford, regularly performs at concerts, parades and other ceremonial occasions and our own SNYSB has performed to rapturous applause in Europe and as far afield as Singapore, Borneo and Thailand. Refreshments will be served during the interval. www.snysb.org.uk
Film Wednesday 23 January 8pm Tickets £5 / Under 18s £2.50
2 Days in Paris
(15)
Written and directed by Julie Delpy, 2007, USA, 96 minutes With Julie Delpy, Adam Goldberg, Daniel Bruhl The first and most entertaining of the 2 Days films sees Delpy and Goldberg returning from an unsatisfactory romantic break in Venice to spend a few days with her parents before returning to their successful lives in New York. But the parents are a nightmare, old secrets emerge and Gallic and American perceptions clash. Likeable, offbeat and stylish, with a wicked sense of humour and a real understanding of relationships. 5
January “another line-up of hot new comic talent”
Comedy
The Saturday Club
Friday 25 January 8.15pm Tickets Advance £9 / Door £10 Min age 18
Saturday 26 January 2pm Tickets £5 / Children £3 (3-7 yrs)
Corn Hall Comedy Club Comics who’ve performed at our comedy nights are regularly popping up on Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow and Edinburgh Comedy Festival Live. This month we have another line-up of hot new comic talent. Tom Deacon Tom is one of the hottest young stand-ups on the circuit today, having already performed on The Rob Brydon Show and Dave’s One Night Stand. From the new year Tom will host a weekly comedy show on BBC Radio 1. ‘with looks, confidence, charm and great material, expect other comics to lynch him’ The Sunday Times
Tom Deacon
Paul Sweeney A fast-rising young performer, Paul blurs the line between stand-up and rock star with his sharp, self-deprecating and original comic songs. His wildly imaginative style of musical comedy, is in turn both entertaining, beguiling and infinitely charming. ‘Intriguing and memorable’ Chortle
Paul Sweeney
Jonny Freeman (compère) With a real stage presence, quick wit and affability, we are in safe hands with tonight’s experienced MC.
Sally and the Sunflower A delightful story of a very small girl, a very tall sunflower and a magical adventure. Sally and the Sunflower is an enchanting and inventive retelling of Jack and the Beanstalk with puppetry, colourful projections and storytelling. Ripstop Theatre specialise in shadow theatre, creating and performing innovative and engaging shows for young people. ‘Shadow puppetry with exquisite simplicity’ Time Out Running time 45 mins.
‘Highly impressive…’ London Is Funny.com
www.ripstoptheatre.com
Food and full bar from 7.15pm. Line up is subject to change.
Ripstop Theatre presents
Jonny Freeman
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Music
Film
Saturday 26 January 8pm Tickets £10 / Concessions £9
Wednesday 30 January 8pm Tickets £5 / Under 18s £2.50
The Churchfitters
The Imposter
The Churchfitters is a folk band like no other. A double bass made out of a saucepan. Heart-wrenching vocals accompanied by a musical saw. Foot-stompingly fast fiddle mixed with infectious funk-rock rhythms. And traditional tunes reinvigorated with mesmerising jazz sax.
Directed by Bart Layton, 2012 UK, 99 mins With Adam O’Brian, Alan Teichman, Anne Ruben
The four virtuoso musicians from England, Ireland and France strut their stuff on a stage that bristles with instruments – adding flute, banjo, dulcimer, tin whistle, guitar, ukulele, electric hub-cap bass and a sackful of percussion to their ensemble. Throw in some exquisite harmonies, original songs and a few jokes that create instant rapport and you’ve got a high-energy show that always leaves audiences cheering. Mike Harding, a self-confessed ‘huge, huge fan’ calls them ‘totally brilliant and beautiful’. Running time 90 mins plus interval.
www.churchfitters.com
7
(15)
Frederic Bourdin, a real-life serial imposter, convinced a Texas family that he was their long-lost son – despite being seven years older and foreign-looking. Or did he? A mixture of documentary (including interviews with the family and Bourdin) and recreation using actors. Pure suspense from the start, with a sensational twist to finish. ‘Enjoy one of the year’s most provocative movies.’ Observer
February “sensational period drama about illicit royal romance”
Art
Film
An exhibition in Diss Corn Hall Gallery 4 Feb-2 March Box Office Hours Free
Wednesday 6 February 8pm Tickets £5 / Under 18s £2.50
Peter Knights
– Campfires and Kingfishers (An Artist’s Journey down the River Waveney)
During May 2012 local artist Peter Knights, accompanied by his brother Paul, canoed the River Waveney from its source to the sea. This unique exhibition depicts their journey exploring the extraordinary wetland wilderness and hidden backwaters of the Waveney in paintings, notes, sketches and photographs from the perspective of an artist on the river. From wild solitude and big skies, to otters, buzzards, large dogs and giant strawberries – all are captured in Peter’s evocative oil paintings. Afternoon demonstrations On Wednesday 13th, 20th and 27th from 1.30-4pm Peter will be working at his French box easel on a Waveney landscape and will be happy to answer questions. Evening viewings Wednesday 6 February 6-7.45pm and Saturday 9 February 6.30-7.15pm Join us afterward on Saturday for our celebration of the life and work of Roger Deakin (see p9).
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A Royal Affair (15) – subtitled
Directed by Nikolaj Arcel, 2012 Denmark/Sweden, 137 minutes With Mads Mikkelson, Alicia Vikander, Mikkel Boe Folsgaard A sensational period drama about illicit royal romance. It is the early 1770s and a shrewd German doctor with a sideline in seditious tracts is summoned to care for Denmark’s unhinged King Christian. He finds a kindred spirit in the young queen and together they persuade Christian to embark on a bold reform agenda. But their mutual admiration turns to something racier, and the courtiers start sharpening their knives.
Music
Word
Friday 8 February 8pm Tickets £12 / Concessions £10
Saturday 9 February 7.30pm Tickets £10 / Concessions £9
Carthy, Hardy, Farrell & Young
Roger Deakin
Four of the finest female fiddle players in British music bring together passion, soul and enormous talent. Their tight four-part harmonies and quartet fiddle playing revive old favourites and initiate brand new songs.
To mark what would have been his 70th birthday, this event celebrates the very personal and distinctive work of the late Roger Deakin as author, broadcaster and film-maker. With readings from his books, including the bestselling Waterlog, extracts from his famed Radio 4 programmes and rarely-seen footage from documentaries made for Anglia TV in the 1990s, this will be an evocation of the countryside, East Anglia and his home in Suffolk through the eyes, ears and words of one of the best-loved nature writers and conservationists of modern times. Among the contributors will be Robert Macfarlane and Richard Mabey.
– in his own words
Mercury Prize nominated superstar Eliza Carthy, undoubtedly one of the most impressive and engaging performers of her generation, joins forces with Bella Hardy, winner of the BBC Radio 2 Best Original Song 2012. They are joined by Scotland’s rising folk pioneer Kate Young and double folk-award nominee Lucy Farrell. Four superb voices, four outstanding violinists – rhythms and harmonies in voice and bow – combine to make this the perfect, all-female folk supergroup for our times.
Running time 2 hrs including interval.
9
February “evening of sparky lyrics and musical sophistication”
Film Wednesday 13 February 8pm Tickets £5 / Under 18s £2.50
Berberian Sound Studio (15) Directed by Peter Strickland, 2012 UK, 92 minutes With Toby Jones, Antonio Mancino, Susanna Capellaro Toby Jones is the mousy English film sound engineer working on a 1970s Italian pulp shocker. His unsettling confrontation with Italian culture provides the material for a uniquely weird psychological thriller that is also funny and affectionate about movie styles. Spot on sets, costumes, lighting, music and most importantly sound effects complete the picture. ‘Peter Strickland has emerged as a key British film-maker.’ Guardian
Music Thursday 14 February 7.30pm Tickets £8 Terence Blacker and Derek Hewitson present
Funny Valentine
– A Musical Antidote to St Valentine’s Day
What do Cole Porter, Sophie Tucker, Noel Coward, Tom Lehrer and Randy Newman think about love and romance? In this evening of sparky lyrics and musical sophistication, Terence Blacker and Derek Hewitson, creators of the successful show Taboo-Be-Do! provide some surprising and often hilarious answers, raiding the songbooks of the past and present for unforgettable, occasionally outrageous, songs of love true and false. ‘Relaxed, funny and enjoyably provocative.’ Neil Innes on Taboo-Be-Do! Running time 1hr 45 mins including interval.
10
The Saturday Club
Film
Saturday 16 February 2pm Tickets £6 / Children £4 (4+ yrs)
Wednesday 20 February 8pm Tickets £5 / Under 18s £2.50
Suitcase Circus
Private Peaceful
A delightfully heart-warming and interactive family-friendly spectacular. Meet Wobulous Discombobulous, the anarchic sock as he presents a line up of extraordinarily talented performing objects, all with their own unique and captivating storylines.
Directed by Pat O’Connor, 2012 UK, 100 minutes With Richard Griffiths, Jack O’Connell, Frances de la Tour
House presents Folded Feather with
Suitcase Circus features the most unlikely of performers including the world’s only acrobatic potato sack, a daredevil ski glove, an incredible dancing milkshake straw, the hypnotic tie snake Windsor Knot, and the lovable yet bizarre magical Mexican hat Timrek. ‘Suitcase Circus are outstanding.’ Time Out London ‘A fantastic puppetry act who transform a potato sack into a flying ninja with wit and grace.’ The British Theatre Guide Running time 60 minutes.
www.foldedfeather.com
11
(12A)
Following Speilberg’s successful version of War Horse comes the adaptation of another Michael Morgurgo novel. A classic rites of passage story of two brothers, it explores the exuberance and pain of their teenage love for the same girl, the pressures of their feudal family life, the horrors and folly of WW1 and the ultimate price of courage and cowardice. Brilliant portrayals of the hopes and fears of youth from the young leads.
February “Expect thigh-slapping acerbic wordplay”
Children Friday 22 February Two performances – 11am & 2pm Tickets £7 (Suitable for 3-8 yrs) Theatre Jemilda in association with Half Moon
How High? A magical show which explores children’s relationship to the world using the concept of height. Hetty loves to measure things. She measures in feet and hands, in sausages and snails, in butterflies and Barbies. Her Uncle Magnus travels the world in his hot air balloon, searching for the tallest things he can find, sending her leaves from lofty treetops, snow from the highest mountain and stories of giants and trolls. Join Hetty as she explores the world of height and meets an extraordinary new friend. A captivating new show with live music. Running time 50 minutes.
Word Friday 22 February 8pm Tickets £8 / Students £6
The Stand-up Poetry Club – Your New Favourite
Poet featuring Luke Wright
Expect thigh-slapping acerbic wordplay and bawdy bar room ballads as Wright introduces you to a cast of greedy politicians and boozy ne’er-do-wells. Meet Jeremy, the public schoolboy who draws penises on everything; kung-fu fighting French copper Jean-Claude Gendarme; and witness the world’s first b-movie set in Brentwood. ‘The best young performance poet around.’ The Observer ‘The most relevant poet of his generation.’ Exeunt ‘Timely, patriotic, touching and consistently funny.’ ##### The Scotsman ‘An assured performer, Wright walks a dangerously thin line between politically weighty poetry and observational stand-up but emerges completely unscathed.’ Broadway Baby Running time 1hr 45 mins including interval.
www.lukewright.co.uk
12
Music
Film
Saturday 23 February 7.30pm Tickets £15 / £13.50 / £12.50
Wednesday 27 February 8pm Tickets £5 / Under 18s £2.50
Anna Karenina
Diss & District Rotary Club present
Simply Take That
(12A)
Simply the ultimate Take That tribute band. All four lads in Simply Take That have performed since they were in their teens and their outstanding vocals, tight dance routines and energy provide a breathtaking show.
Directed by Joe Wright, 2012 UK, 130 mins With Keira Knightley, Jude Law, Aaron Taylor-Johnson
Featuring all your favourite Take That hits from the nineties, It only takes a Minute Girl, Pray, Million Love Songs right up to their latest songs from the Circus Tour, Slice, Up all Night and Patience.
From British director Joe Wright (Atonement. Pride and Prejudice) and featuring a great performance by Keira Knightley, this lavish film provides a striking new take on Tolstoy’s timeless classic. It is set entirely in a theatre. The story of Anna’s doomed love for Count Vronsky and her attempt to escape from her boring husband is visually inventive, beautifully acted with an adventurous script by Tom Stoppard.
In Aid of Rotary ‘End Polio Now’ campaign and other Rotary charities. Running time 2hrs 45 mins including interval.
13
March “Forever relevant and provoking”
Theatre
Art
Friday 1 March 7.30pm Tickets £10 / Concessions £9
An exhibition in Diss Corn Hall Gallery 5-30 March Box office hours Free
Townsend Productions present
Clare Johnson and Orson Kartt
The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists By Stephen Lowe Directed by Louise Townsend This hilarious, fast-paced adaptation of Stephen Lowe’s play, based on Tressell’s classic book follows a group of decorators and their struggle for survival as they live on poverty wages whilst generating huge profits for their masters. They are joined by Owen, an artist and visionary, who attempts to rouse his fellow workers from their political complacency. Forever relevant and provoking, this gem of period humorous theatre is first class irreverent entertainment. #### ‘Well worth catching.’ The Times (Libby Purves) 10/10 ‘Sensational’ Liverpool Echo
– Reinterpretations of the familiar
At its best, art can make you feel you have discovered something new, or rediscovered something lost. The art of Clare Johnson and Orson Kartt, who work and live together, brings that rare sense of discovery and wonder. Johnson’s vision of industrial buildings offers a reminder of our historical heritage infused with modern day meaning. Kartt uses art as a tool to confront reality, sometimes embracing the ridiculous in order to access the ordinary. www.orsonkartt.com wwww.clarejohnson.co.uk Evening viewing Wednesday 6 March 6-7.45pm Come and meet the artists in person. Join us afterward for our screening of festival-winner Tabu (see p.15).
Running time 2hrs including interval.
www.townsendproductions.org.uk
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Film
Music
Wednesday 6 March 8pm Tickets £5 / Under 18s £2.50
Tabu
(15) – subtitled
Directed by Miguel Gomes, 2012 Portugal, 110 minutes With Ana Moreira, Henrique Espirito Santo, Laura Soveral A gently mysterious film set in modern-day Lisbon and 70s Mozambique. Now, Aurora (a tremendous performance from Paura Soveral) is a cantankerous gambling addict; then, she was a colonial adventuress. The melodrama is offset by the elegant monochrome imagery. A festival prize-winner. ‘The absolute quintessence of movie romance.’ Telegraph
Friday 8 March 7.30pm Tickets £14 / Concessions £12
Classic Clapton The world’s No1 Eric Clapton tribute band. Featuring frontman Mike Hall, who not only looks like Eric, he sings and plays guitar like him too, Classic Clapton comprises four excellent musicians who stunningly recreate Slowhand’s electrifying stage performances. From Cream to John Mayall’s Bluesbreakers and Derek & The Dominos to the solo years and including all of his hits – Wonderful Tonight, I Shot The Sheriff, Lay Down Sally, Crossroads, Tears in Heaven, Layla and even an Unplugged segment. A breathtaking two hour journey through the music of Eric Clapton. www.classic-clapton.com
Film Wednesday 13 March 8pm Tickets £5 / Under 18s £2.50
In Love with Alma Cogan
(PG)
Directed by Tony Britten, 2012, UK, 99 minutes With Roger Lloyd-Pack, Naimh Cusack, Gwyneth Strong Filmed on and around Cromer pier, this gentle comedy drama revolves around a seaside theatre on the slide. Its manager (LloydPack) clings to past glories, particularly the ghost of 60s singing star Alma Cogan, who he once met. But he leaves it all behind to help long-suffering assistant (Cusack) to achieve her ambition of becoming a singer, finding romance in the process. Norfolkbased director Tony Britten expects to join us to talk about his film (to be confirmed). 15
March “comedy, movement and brilliant storytelling”
The Saturday Club
Film
Saturday 16 March 2pm Tickets £5 / Children £3 (all ages)
Bright Sparks
– a family concert
Steve is a composer and performer whose appearances include television, radio and concert venues throughout the country. He plays mandolin, guitar, and a range of music-making toys. There will be rhymes, action songs and audience participation. Heliballoons and birds fly around and the baby elephant walks and trumpets to an enchanting accompaniment. People who came to the magical concert given by The Drones will remember him as the singer with that band. ‘Inspirational’ Times Educational Supplement Running time 50 mins.
www.dronesmusic.net
Theatre Saturday 16 March 7pm Tickets £10 / Students £5 (Suitable for 8+ yrs) The Keeper’s Daughter present
Springtime Showcase The Keeper’s Daughter present an evening of theatrical gems from their professional company of actors and equally talented young company, including brand new devised pieces as well as classics from their previous shows. If you’re a fan of the company you will love the imagination on show tonight. If you’ve never seen a TKD show, come and experience theatre as you’ve never seen it before! A family friendly evening filled with comedy, movement and brilliant storytelling. ‘Theatre should always be this vital and thrilling’ Diss Express This event is a fundraiser for Diss Corn Hall’s resident theatre company, The Keeper’s Daughter. Running time 2hrs.
www.thekeepersdaughter.org.uk 16
Wed 20 March 8pm Tickets £5 / Under 18s £2.50
Looper
(15)
Directed by Rian Johnson USA, 119 minutes With Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Bruce Willis, Emily Blunt 2074: when the mob wants to get rid of someone, they will send their target 30 years into the past, where a looper – a hired gun – awaits. Joseph GordonLevitt is a looper who learns that the mob wants to ‘close the loop’, sending back his future self (Willis) for assassination. As thoughtprovoking as it is thrilling, Looper delivers an uncommonly smart blend of sci-fi and good old-fashioned action.
Fashion Thursday 21 March 7pm Tickets £5
Comedy Friday 22 March 8.15pm Tickets Advance £9 / Door £10 Min age 18
Diss WI in conjunction with M&Co present
Corn Hall Comedy Club
A Charity Spring Fashion Show
Julian Deane ‘assured and brilliant… underplayed and honest, Deane is a class apart. Each seemingly everyday tale ends with a brilliant and believable punchline. A master of the pull back and reveal, Deane consistently rewards the audience with hilarious twists and turns.’ Chortle Review (New Act of the Year 2011)
Enjoy a show of the latest Spring fashions with models aged from 6 to 80+ and all sizes.
Julian Deane
Soft drinks and home-made biscuits will be included in the price. Craft stall and prize draw with proceeds in aid of local charities.
Charmian Hughes Comedian Charmian studied clowning under Philippe Gaulier and Theatre de Complicite but unable to uphold the mime vow of silence, ran away to play stand-up comedy clubs throughout the nation, entertaining everyone from members of the House of Commons to ‘Lifers’ in prison (not to be confused).
Running time 2hrs 15mins including interval.
‘Charming ribaldry’ The Guardian Jim Smallman (compère) Jim started his comedy career in 2005, completely by accident and with no intention of turning it into a full-time job. However, he loved doing it from day one and now you can find him performing all over the country pretty much every night of the week. Away from stand up Jim presents a weekly TV wrestling show called The Slam, makes silly videos and writes a blog.
Charmian Hughes
Jim Smallman
‘Smallman playfully ruminates on his very comic life experiences… an engaging and entertaining performance and a truly enjoyable evening’ Three Weeks, 2010 Food and full bar from 7.15pm. Line up is subject to change.
17
March “A rip-roaring account of one of the best bands Britain ever produced”
Word
Film
Saturday 23 March Valuations 6.30pm / Show 7.30pm Tickets £12
Eric Knowles
– Antique Antics
BBC Antiques Roadshow’s, Eric Knowles will give a fascinating and entertaining illustrated talk which takes the wraps off a business in which he has been immersed for over 30 years. Eric has become the friendly face of an industry shrouded with no small element of mystery. Fortunately, he is one of those rare individuals who is able to share his extensive knowledge in a warm, humorous and down-toearth manner. The first part of the evening is given over to what are quite often irreverent anecdotal reminiscences, ably supported by excellent images. The second half is devoted to the audience’s own treasures, 25 of which will have been selected by Eric during an initial valuation session. Members of the audience who would like to meet Eric before the show and have an item valued (1 per person) should arrive at the earlier time of 6.30pm. The show itself will start at 7.30pm. Running time of show 2hrs plus interval.
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Wednesday 27 March 8pm Tickets £5 / Under 18s £2.50
Oil City Confidential
(15)
Directed by Julien Temple, 2009 UK, 106 minutes With John Martin, Lee Brilleaux, Wilko Johnson The final instalment of Julian Temple’s brilliant trilogy on the British music scene. As much about the times (the 1970s) and the place (Canvey Island) as it is about the band (Dr Feelgood), this is a very cinematic, compelling documentary. ‘A rip-roaring account of one of the best bands Britain ever produced by a film-maker who looks increasingly like our very finest rockumentarian.’ Mark Kermode
Music Concert in St Mary’s Parish Church, Diss Saturday 30 March 7.30pm Tickets £12
COMING TO
Merry Opera Company presents
Handel’s Messiah After ecstatic reactions around the country to their performances of the Messiah in 2012, we are delighted to bring the Merry Opera Company’s unforgettable version of this great work to Diss. Staged in costume with twelve professional opera singers, here are some audience reactions and press quotes: ‘That was the Messiah I have waited all my life to hear.’ ‘Goose-bumpingly good.’ ‘…the entire audience stood and cheered at the end.’ ‘Imaginative new staging… worked beautifully… creating a wall of sound with the power to move every spectator.’ British Theatre Guide ‘A powerful and affirming performance… a delight.’ Opera Now This joint event with St Mary’s Diss will be held in the church.
Here are just some of the great events we already have lined up throughout the year. Events with prices are on sale now. FILMS TO LOOK OUT FOR NEXT SEASON: Skyfall – 23rd Bond film, directed by Sam Mendes (American Beauty) which has smashed box office records. Great Expectations – starring Helena Bonham Carter as Miss Havisham Beasts of the Southern Wild – “Utterly original… a total triumph” The Telegraph Friday 5 April 7.30pm £10 / Under 16s £8
The Trench – The eagerly anticipated new show from razor-sharp theatre company, Les Enfants Terribles. “A total theatre experience of engrossing intensity, The Trench employs acting, mime, music, puppetry, film...” Must See Show, The Stage
Saturday 6 April £7.30pm £15.50 / £12.50
Raymond Froggatt – The top UK country music entertainer who has made over 40 records and was voted the top male singer by the British Country Music Association for six years in a row, is back by public demand.
Saturday 13 April £14 / Concessions £12 8pm
Spiers & Bowden – “They’ve recorded five rapturously received albums, expanded the basic duo into an all conquering big-band Bellowhead, and generally given the British folk movement its biggest shot of energy and inspiration for years.” mojo magazine
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VOUC GIFT HERS
Diss Corn Hall Gift Vouchers make great Christmas or birthday presents. And, you’ll be helping to support the Corn Hall at the same time!
Vouchers are redeemable for 12 months from the date of purchase and may be made up to whatever value you wish, starting from just £5. We can also provide gift Friend memberships, see below for more information about costs and benefits. To purchase a Gift Voucher or gift Friend membership, visit the Box Office in the Old Stables Mon-Fri 11am4pm, Sat 11am-2pm or ring on 01379 652241.
Become a Friend of Diss Corn Hall If you believe that the Corn Hall should be an important feature in the life of Diss – please support us by becoming a Friend – and there are of course benefits! Become a Friend for £25 a year (under 25s £15) – get £1.50 off tickets at most performances and £1 off films Become a Good Friend for £100 or a Very Good Friend for £250 – Good Friends get 6 free tickets, and Very Good Friends 15 free tickets each year Please complete this form and send it, along with your cheque made out to “The Diss Corn Hall Trust”. To: Diss Corn Hall, St Nicholas Street, Diss IP22 4LB I would like to
become a Friend – enclosing £25 become a Good/ Very Good Friend – enclosing £ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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Email . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Telephone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
HIRE This impressive historic building in the heart of Diss offers flexible accommodation which can meet a variety of needs at very reasonable cost. This includes the Assembly Hall (seating capacity 300) for dinners, dances, wedding receptions, corporate hospitality, productions, fairs, sales and exhibitions, indoor sport and educational gatherings. The Waveney Room and Council Chamber provide excellent locations for classes and workshops, rehearsals and seminars. With a range of room sizes, versatile seating and layout possibilities, a fully-equipped bar, kitchen and large dance floor, Diss Corn Hall is the obvious first choice when organising your event. For more details go to the Hiring page on our website www.disscornhall.co.uk, come to the box office in the Old Stables or phone Angela Sykes on 01379 652239. Viewings may be made by appointment.
“Events nights”
3 Cobbs Yard Diss IP22 4LB
Any main course and a glass of house wine £10
CORN HALL
Special offer
Lunches From £5
www.ildivorestaurant.co.uk
Family Friendly Pizza & Pasta Restaurant 01379 644447
Open Monday to Saturday from 11am lunchtimes and 5.30pm evenings Booking advisable Credit and debit cards accepted Eat early and still get to see the show
Haines Watts
Chartered Accountants Norwich ❖ Ipswich Diss ❖ Thetford Lowestoft ❖ Great Yarmouth
Haines Watts are delighted to support Diss Corn Hall by providing experienced, qualified and expert business and financial help and advice. Tel: 01379 640555 diss@hwca.com www.hwca.com/east-anglia
Wilderness Stores ANTIQUES & DECORATIVE HOMEWARE HARLESTON, NORFOLK
Shabby-chic and… French rustic… Bullock Fair Close, Harleston IP20 9AT
Tel 01379 853067 www.wildernessstores.com 21
1- day Paint You Furniture W r Own or – visit web kshops site for dates
…furniture and much, much more
COMING TO CLASSES & COMMUNITY Blood Donor Sessions
Here are just some of the great events we already have lined up throughout the year. Events with prices are on sale now.
1.00-3.30pm and 5.00-7.00pm Tuesdays 29 January & 12 March New donors please register in advance at www.blood.co.uk.
Thursday 18 April 8pm £24
Elkie Brooks – One of the most successful and popular singers the UK has ever produced is back.
Thursday 23 May 7pm £8 / Children £4
The Girl with the Iron Claws – Following a sell-out success at Edinburgh 2011 and a critically-acclaimed tour of the UK and Ireland during 2012, comes this dark fairytale about a wayward girl who dares to follow her longing. Stunning puppetry, enchanting music and deft humour combine in this fierce coming-of-age story.
Monterey Line Dance Club – Improvers Class Monday evenings 7.15-9.00pm from 21 January) Line Dancing is an excellent way to keep fit and classes place great emphasis on socialising and having fun. Led by qualified instructor Melissa Hawkes. Further details phone 01379 651773.
Thursday 6 June £9 / Concessions £8
Callas – sensitive and candid portrayal of the legendary singer based exclusively on interviews with ‘La Divina’ throughout her life. “There are no false notes in Anna Korwin’s superb performance.... Unmissable” What’s On in London
Saturday 8 June 7.30pm £14 / Concessions £12
The Jerry Lee Lewis Story – starring the sensational Peter Gill, this exhilarating show tells the story of the first wild man of rock and without doubt rock ‘n’ roll’s most exciting performer.
Weekly Acting Classes
Saturday 29 June 7.30pm £15 / Concessions £14
Bootleg Shadows – a unique tribute concert that encompasses The Shadows amazing career from 1960 up until the early 80s and includes all their fantastic hits. In aid of the East Anglian Air Ambulance.
Tuesday evenings term time (8 Jan-26 Mar) Ages 13-18 7.00-9.00pm 12 week block: £125.00
Thursday 19 September 7.30pm £8
Landermason – exceptional musicians who introduce a multitude of instruments into a winning repertoire of haunting ballads, jaunty jazz and folk tunes, and the bounciest of jigs.
Fri 1 November 7.30pm £15 / Group discount £13 for bookings of 4 or more / Under 16s with an adult £2.
Blowzabella – come and dance to this legendary band who are touring to celebrate their 35th anniversary. www.blowzabella.com
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– With The Keeper’s Daughter Theatre Company
Devise a brand new show with one of the most imaginative professional theatre companies in the region! Learn industry skills, perform in public and grasp what it takes to be an actor. Further details www.thekeepersdaughter.org.uk OR phone Mark on 07876 184 187. The Keeper’s Daughter is Diss Corn Hall’s resident theatre Company
15% Discount
Spice Cottage
on every Take-Away order plus a FREE bottle of EXCLUSIVE INDIAN & NEPALESE CUISINE wine with ONLY NEPALESE CUISINE IN NORFOLK! orders of £30 Market Place, Diss IP22 4JT or more. We are situated next door to Diss Post Office
Come and celebrate Christmas with us. Book now for your parties
7-Course Christmas Day lunch for £35
(COLLECTION ONLY)
Free home delivery available All major credit cards accepted when spending over £20.
Christmas Day Opening times: 12 noon-5pm
Telephone: 01379 640222 or 640777 www.spice-cottage.co.uk Opening times: Lunch 12 noon – 2pm Evening 5.30pm – 11pm (11.30pm Fri & Sat) Open 7 days a week including Bank Holidays.
Lunch menu available. Meals from £5.50.
Enjoy Buffy’s Beers at Home! Our Beers are now available Bottle Conditioned and in 5 litre Mini Cans! Please contact the brewery by phone or email to leave your order.
Also available for national delivery via our website.
Tel: 01379 676523 email: buffysbrewerysales@gmail.com Website: www.buffys.co.uk Buffy’s Brewery Ltd, Rectory Road, Tivetshall St Mary, Norfolk NR15 2DD 23
BOX OFFICE 01379 652241 Mon-Fri 11am-4pm
Sat 11am-2pm
The Old Stables, beside the Corn Hall, St Nicholas Street, Diss IP22 4LB www.disscornhall.co.uk
email: boxoffice@disscornhall.co.uk
Tickets In person: During box office opening hours. By phone: Card payment is accepted (credit cards incur a 50p processing fee). Outside box office opening hours you may leave a message and your call will be returned. Tickets will be held for collection on the door or can be posted to you for an additional 50p if requested. By post: Send full details of the tickets you require along with a SAE and a cheque for the full amount. Cheques should be made payable to the Diss Corn Hall Trust. Online: Tickets for most events may be booked online at www.disscornhall.co.uk. Email: You may email requests for tickets to boxoffice@disscornhall.co.uk.
Access There are three disabled parking bays on the street directly outside the Corn Hall. The main hall, bar and accessibility toilet are fully accessible to wheelchair users via the side entrance. Please inform the box office when booking.
Bar and door opening times The bar and auditorium will usually open 45 mins before the start of a performance, unless otherwise stated.
Getting involved If you are interested in helping at the Corn Hall as a steward, in the box office, or in any other way, please get in touch by emailing admin@disscornhall.co.uk. We’d love to hear from you.
DI SS
Thanks Our most heartfelt thanks go to: Diss Town Council, South Norfolk Council, Norfolk County Council, Diss Corn Hall Trustees and our dedicated team of volunteers.
Special thanks to our Good Friends Terence Blacker, David Case, Lynn Clark, Peter Dudley, Don Dunkin, Brian & Gunilla Falk, Christopher Grocott, Charles & Liz Handy, Stephanie Harrison, Jo & Gary Hincks, Martha Kearney, Jay Leader, Mrs A Leitch, Dr A Linder, Glynne Lloyd-Davis, Richard Mabey, Elizabeth Mooney, Sheila Moss-King, Laura Purling, Sue Shrager, John Taylor, Richard Vivian and Corporate Friends: Buffy’s Brewery; Haines Watts Chartered Accountants, Il Divo, Mere Players, Spice Cottage and John Taylor Builders.
Patron The Duke of Norfolk.