Autumn 2023 e-Brochure

We are a charity

The Anvil Trust is the charity behind Anvil Arts, the largest performing arts organisation in Hampshire that operates three fantastic cultural venues. We bring many big names to Basingstoke and attract 200,000 people into the town centre each year, who visit shops, bars, restaurants and hotels, as well as The Anvil , The Haymarket and The Forge.

Trust members are local people with specific skills to ensure we meet our charitable objectives. For further details, please contact the Chief Executive.

As an independent charity we can:

• Make sure that we present a variety of performances for a wide range of audiences, both popular and specialist

• Help Basingstoke gain a reputation as a town with a strong cultural offer, punching above its weight on the national stage

• Give opportunities to local children, schools and colleges, young musicians and performers

• Work to benefit people on the autistic spectrum and people with dementia, their carers and families, with specially designed projects

• Partner with other charities, both local and national, to make our resources go further

• Apply for investment from Arts Council England and other support organisations

• Make sure that any surplus is reinvested in our work to benefit people in Basingstoke and Hampshire, making the Borough a better place to live and work

Foyer opening hours and pre-show service

We will send you a text message 24–48 hours hours before the performance, with a link to your tickets and other information about your visit. There’s also a quick and easy way to pre-order your drinks. Foyers open from 6pm for evening performances.

“ONE OF THE MOST VITAL ARTS

ORGANISATIONS IN SOUTHERN ENGLAND” The Times

The Anvil: Tue 29 Aug / 7.30pm

GRAHAM NASH – SIXTY YEARS OF SONGS AND STORIES

Graham Nash , founding member of both The Hollies and Crosby, Stills and Nash, performs favourites from across his sixty-year career.

There are just ten dates in this country, his first visit for four years, so don’t miss it!

£63.50, £51.50 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Anvil: Sat 9 Sep / 8pm

JUDI LOVE

THE ONE LIKE JUDI LOVE

Bringing her fresh, unapologetic and charismatic real talk to Basingstoke, expect unrelenting and hilarious anecdotes from Judi’s life!

Regular panellist on Loose Women , and as seen on Taskmaster, The Graham Norton Show, 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown, and The Royal Variety Performance.

£25 (includes £4 booking fee)

Suitable for: Strictly 14 and over (likely to be swearing and adult content. Children younger than this will not be admitted even if accompanied with an adult)

The Haymarket: Tue 12 Sep / 7.30pm

GARY DELANEY

GARY IN PUNDERLAND

Get ready to dive into a rabbit hole of the best jokes in the world. One of the most sought-after joke writers in the country and long-standing Mock the Wee k guest, Gary Delaney has been through the laughing glass and he’s ready to bring you a brand-new show with hit after hit of the kind of one-liners only a master could craft. If you’re hunting for snark, Gary’s got it covered!

£25 (includes £4 booking fee)

Suitable for ages: 16 and over

The Anvil: Wed 13 Sep / 7.30pm

THE ILLEGAL EAGLES

Celebrating over 50 years since The Eagles’ formation, The Illegal Eagles make a welcome return with a brand-new production, promising more of their trademark musical prowess, acute attention to detail, and incredible showmanship.

This show features the very best from the huge catalogue of hits, including Hotel California, Desperado, Take It Easy, New Kid in Town, Life in the Fast Lane, and many more.

The Forge: Wed 13 Sep / 7.45pm

RAIN OF ANIMALS

World-roving troubadours, Rain of Animals , a richly euphonious collaboration between Pepita Emmerichs (of former Aussie chart-toppers Oh Pep!) and Theodore Barnard (Wire & Wool) grew from their love of all things mandolin, fiddle, guitar, harmony vocals, bluegrass, old-time, swing, and much, much more.

£18. Under 25s and f/t students £16 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Anvil: Fri 15 Sep / 7.30pm

GRAYSON PERRY

A SHOW ALL ABOUT YOU

Selling Fast

What makes you, you? Is there a part deep inside of you that no one understands? Have you found your tribe or are you a remarkable human being? Or is it more complicated than that?

Grayson Perry , white, male, heterosexual, able-bodied, English, southerner, baby boomer, and member of the establishment, takes a mischievous look at the nature of identity in his brand-new show that will make you laugh, shudder, and reassess who you really are.

£44, £39, £34, £29 (includes £4 booking fee) Suitable for: ages 16 and over

£36.50 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Anvil: Sat 16 Sep / 7.30pm

BEN PORTSMOUTH: THIS IS ELVIS

Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist winner, Ben Portsmouth brings you his jaw-dropping tribute to The King of Rock and Roll.

Ben and the band will take you on a trip down memory lane with barnstorming sets of many of Elvis’ most loved songs from all eras. With his looks, charm and charisma, Ben continues to amaze audiences with his stage presence, with fans claiming globally “this is the closest you will ever get to the King himself”.

£35 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Haymarket: Sat 16 Sep / 7.30pm

JOHN ROBINS

HOWL

Edinburgh Comedy Award-winner John Robins embarks on his first stand-up tour since 2019.

If you’ve seen him before you know what to expect; rage, anxiety and a lot of laughs.

£25.50 (includes £4 booking fee)

Suitable for: ages 16 and over

The Haymarket: Sun 17 Sep / 7.30pm

JEN BRISTER

THE OPTIMIST

If middle age has taught Jen Brister anything, it’s that optimism does not come naturally to her. In fact, it’s fair to say that her cup is very much half empty and she’s making no attempt to fill it. Can Jen work against her natural instincts and finally see the light? Or will she stay the same old pessimistic naysayer she’s always been. I mean, I think we know the answer to that, but let’s try and be optimistic.

£21 (includes £4 booking fee)

Suitable for: ages 18 and over

The Haymarket: 19 – 23 Sep / 7.30pm Thu & Sat 2.30pm

LONDON CLASSIC THEATRE present

by Mike Leigh

It was 1977, the year of skin-tight polyester, the Queen’s Silver Jubilee and Saturday Night Fever. The Sex Pistols were storming up the charts, skateboarding was the latest craze and Angela Rippon danced with Morecambe & Wise.

And at Hampstead Theatre in London, Mike Leigh and his cast were putting the finishing touches to Abigail’s Party , a ferocious black comedy and landmark of twentieth century theatre.

In her suburban living room, Beverly prepares for the arrival of her guests. She and husband Laurence will play host to neighbours Angela, Tony and Sue. As the alcohol flows and the ‘nibbles’ are handed around, Mike Leigh ’s ruthless, achingly funny examination of 1970s British life

£29 (Fri-Sat), £25 (Tue–Thu), £22 (2.30pm). Under 25s and f/t students £12. Over 65s £2 off. (includes £4 booking fee)

Suitable for: ages 14 and over (contains strong language)

The Anvil: Thu 21 Sep / 7.45pm

MAXIMUM RHYTHM & BLUES WITH THE MANFREDS

60TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR

Join the pioneers of UK Rhythm and Blues, The Manfreds, as they celebrate a remarkable 60 years in the business. Paul Jones and Mike D’Abo tour together one last time, alongside long-standing members Rob Townsend , Marcus Cliffe , and Simon Currie .

The band defined a decade with their incredible sound and much-loved hits, including Pretty Flamingo, 5-4-3-2-1, and Do Wah Diddy Diddy .

£39.50, £37.50 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Forge: Thu 21 Sep / 8pm

CHRIS WOOD

In a world of soundbites and distractions Chris Wood is a truth seeker. His writing is permeated with love and wry intelligence, uplifting and challenging as he celebrates the sheer one-thing-after-anotherness of life. A wise and soulful craftsman, his concerts are a cliché free zone.

£20. Under 25s and f/t students £18 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Anvil: Fri 22 Sep / 7.30pm

THE ELO SHOW

A TRIBUTE TO THE GENIUS OF JEFF LYNNE

The ELO Show – the world’s greatest tribute to the music and genius of Jeff Lynne and ELO.

A stunning performance with a band of amazing musicians, including a female string section, a light and laser show, and 3D video screens very similar to Jeff’s current backdrop.

Expect to hear songs like Evil Woman, Sweet Talkin’ Woman, Turn to Stone, and of course, Mr. Blue Sky, plus many more, with a surprise or two.

£30 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Anvil: Tue 26 Sep / 7.30pm

DO YOU BELIEVE IN GHOSTS?

An experiential ghost story, unlike anything you have ever experienced before.

Hear the secrets of what occurs when the auditorium goes dark, when the only thing to guide you is the Ghost Light.

We dare you to join us for a dark night.

£33 (includes £4 booking fee)

Suitable for: ages 12 and over

The Anvil: Sat 23 Sep / 7.30pm

FASCINATING AÏDA – THE 40TH ANNIVERSARY SHOW

Celebrating 40 years on the road, Dillie , Liza , and Adèle , Britain’s raciest and sassiest musical cabaret trio, are bringing their brand-new show to Basingstoke.

Marking this astonishing milestone, the show will feature much-loved favourites and some wickedly hilarious new songs. If you’ve been delighted by Dogging, sung-along to Cheap Flights or shared their rudest-ever Christmas song, don’t miss the chance to celebrate with these unstoppable performers in their glorious prime!

£29.50 (includes £4 booking fee)

Suitable for: feisty teenagers upwards, ages 14 and over (contains bad language and sexual references)

The Anvil: Thu 28 Sep / 7.30pm

PHILHARMONIA ORCHESTRA

Muhly One Line, Two Shapes

Brahms Violin Concerto

Rachmaninov Symphony no. 3

Nicola Benedetti violin

Cristian Măcelaru

The concert opens with a short piece by American composer Nico Muhly One Line, Two Shapes was first performed under tonight’s conductor. Nicola Benedetti then joins the orchestra for Brahms ’ violin concerto, which is built on a symphonic scale. He replaced the original middle two movements with one of his most beautiful adagios, and the finale is a vigorous Hungarian dance. Rachmaninov ’s Third Symphony was written just after the Rhapsody on the theme of Paganini . Its taut construction and dramatic power make the many moments of lyricism throughout the score all the more poignant and emotional.

£44, £38, £33, £24, £16. Under 25s and f/t students £12 (include £4 booking fee)

6.30pm / The Forge

The Anvil: Fri 29 Sep / 7.30pm

THE GREATEST LOVE OF ALL

A TRIBUTE TO WHITNEY HOUSTON

STARRING BELINDA DAVIDS

Fresh from her show-stopping Britain’s Got Talent finals appearance, Belinda Davids returns to bring to life

Whitney Houston’s musical legacy in this sensational show described as “mind-blowingly spot on”

With the accompaniment of a live band, backing vocalists, and choreographed dancers, plus state-of-the-art sound, lighting, vision, and theatrical effects, this is a beautifully crafted tribute to one of the world’s most revered singers.

£33 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Philharmonia Orchestra is Anvil Arts’ Orchestra in Partnership

Not associated with the Estate of Whitney Houston

The Haymarket: Fri 29 Sep / 8pm

AN EVENING AND A LITTLE BIT OF MORNING WITH MARK STEEL

There is so much to yell about. There’s the modern world in which you spend so long trying to work out iTunes, that it’s easier to form a band and learn the songs.

And this is stand-up, so whatever has happened in the room, in the town or in the world that day will almost certainly be in the show. So, I’ll try to keep it to a decent length, but it could so easily end up as an evening and part of the next day.

£21 (includes £4 booking fee)

Suitable for: Strictly 14 and over (likely to be swearing and adult content). Children younger than this will not be admitted, even if accompanied by an adult.

The Anvil: Sun 1 Oct / 8pm

JIMMY CARR: TERRIBLY FUNNY 2.0

Selling Fast

Another chance to see the incredible sell-out show Jimmy brought to Basingstoke in 2022.

Star of the UK’s most streamed Netflix comedy special of 2021, Jimmy’s show contains jokes about all kinds of terrible things.

Terrible things that might have affected you or people you know and love. But they’re just jokes –they are not the terrible things.

£36.50 (includes £4 booking fee)

Suitable for: ages 16 and over

The Forge: Sun 1 Oct / 8.15pm

RANAGRI

Ranagri have forged a new and contemporary sound on the folk scene, winning audiences all around the world, an energetic festival band yet equally at home with their more intimate writing and thought-provoking lyrics. They are as happy to make you dance as they are to make you smile or shed a tear, passionately delving into current world topics, and creating uplifting music to lyrics with great depth.

£19. Under 25s and f/t students £17 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Anvil: Tue 3 Oct / 7.30pm

AN EVENING WITH ANTON DU BEKE

THE ULTIMATE EVENING OF ENTERTAINMENT

One of the country’s best-loved entertainers, Anton Du Beke is joined by special guest singer Lance Ellington , as well as a live band, and one of his professional dance partners to create an evening filled with song, dance, and a lot of laughter.

Anton will also share some hilarious behind-the-scenes stories from his career, including some memorable moments from Strictly Come Dancing. Don’t miss this special opportunity to get up close to The King of Ballroom!

The Haymarket: Wed 4 Oct / 7.30pm

WISHBONE ASH

LIVE DATES LIVE

With 2023 marking the 50th anniversary of the renowned album Live Dates , this is a rare opportunity to hear Wishbone Ash performing their biggest-selling album in its entirety, along with songs from many of their other, much-loved albums.

Hear hits such as The King Will Come, Throw Down The Sword, Warrior, and Blowin’ Free delivered with a twin-guitar sound that has become a part of rock history.

£33.50 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Anvil: Thu 5 Oct / 7.45pm

ELKIE BROOKS

60TH YEAR ANNIVERSARY TOUR

Now in the sixth decade of her career, Elkie Brooks is still proving to be one of the most powerful and versatile vocal talents of her generation.

Performing some of her top hits, intertwining blues and jazz, this electric evening is guaranteed to leave you begging for more.

£57, £50, £41 (includes £4 booking fee)

£32.50, £29.50 (includes £3 booking fee)

The Forge: Thu 5 Oct / 8pm

LAUREN HOUSLEY TRIO

Lauren Housley is a singer and songwriter from Yorkshire, with a deep connection to great songs, the craft of storytelling and an emotive vocal performance.

“A wonderful emerging Americana act, I really love her music” Bob Harris

£18. Under 25s and f/t students £16 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Anvil: Fri 6 Oct / 7.30pm

LOST IN MUSIC

ONE NIGHT AT THE DISCO

Join us as we recreate the magical 70s taking you on a musical journey straight to the heart of disco!

Relive some of the greatest songs of all time from artists including Donna Summer, Gloria Gaynor, Earth, Wind & Fire, Sister Sledge, and Chic.

The feel-good show of the year!

£37 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Haymarket: Fri 6 Oct / 8pm

IVO GRAHAM

ORGANISED FUN

After dismantling a barge, doxxing himself in the Doubletree, and blanking on the 1992 Ipswich Town crest (Taskmaster, Off Menu, University Challenge ), Ivo ropes his audience into more chaos against the clock.

£20 (includes £4 booking fee)

Suitable for: strictly 14 and over (likely to be swearing and adult content). Children younger than this will not be admitted, even if accompanied by an adult.

The Anvil: Sat 7 Oct / 7.30pm

BASINGSTOKE VARIETY SHOW 2023

IN AID OF THE MAYOR’S CHARITY APPEAL

The Basingstoke Variety Show returns showcasing some of the best talent from across the borough. This is a great opportunity to support your community, while raising money for the Mayor’s charity appeal (Citizens Advice Basingstoke and Tadley, and Shopmobility Basingstoke).

£19. Over 65s and under 16s £15 (includes £3 booking fee)

All tickets include a souvenir programme

The Haymarket: Sat 7 Oct / 7.30pm

SKIPINNISH

Skipinnish are at the very top of Scotland’s vibrant Celtic music scene. Their anthemic songs and rocking bagpipe led tune sets have given them a track record of hits and sell-out shows.

£31.50 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Anvil: Sun 8 Oct / 5pm

CIRQUE –THE GREATEST SHOW!

WHERE MUSICAL THEATRE MEETS CIRCUS

Musical theatre showstoppers meet jaw-dropping circus spectacular as everyone’s favourite West End hits combine with breath-taking performances, incredible contortionists, and thrilling feats of agility and flair.

£36 (includes £4 booking fee)

Show content varies dependent upon venue facilities and regulations. Promoter reserves the right to alter the programme

The Anvil: Thu 12 Oct / 7.30pm

The Haymarket: Tue 10 Oct / 7.30pm

DAMIEN O’KANE & RON BLOCK

BANJO BROTHERS

What do you get when an American bluegrass banjo and an Irish tenor banjo join forces? In the case of Coleraine’s Damien O’Kane and California’s Ron Block … fireworks!

£23.50. Under 25s £17.50 (includes £4 booking fee)

Selling Fast

SIMON REEVE – TO THE ENDS OF THE EARTH

Simon Reeve is an author, TV presenter, and one of the world’s most adventurous travellers. His journeys have taken him to more than 130 countries to some of the most beautiful, dangerous, and remote regions of the world.

With behind-the-scenes footage and stunning imagery, Simon will inspire and remind audiences that we all need more journeys in our lives, and plenty of wild experiences.

£32.50 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Haymarket: Thu 12 Oct / 7.30pm

SH!T-FACED SHAKESPEARE

MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING

Stumbling out of their London local, hoping to not get bard along the way, Sh!t-Faced Shakespeare return with an all-new production of their hit show Much Ado About Nothing

Expect a combination of a hacked-to-bits Shakespeare script, half a dozen professional actors, and a bucket load of booze!

£28 (includes £4 booking fee)

Suitable for: ages 16 and over

The Anvil: Fri 13 Oct / 8pm

SARAH MILLICAN LATE BLOOMER

Returns

Tickets for this event have sold out. Please call the box office on 01256 844244 to join the waiting list.

Extra date added: Fri 1 Nov 2024 / 8pm

£36.50 (includes £4 booking fee)

Suitable for: ages 16 and over

The Haymarket: Fri 13 Oct / 7.30pm

BANDS OF HM ROYAL MARINES – THE OCEANAIRES BIG BAND

The world-famous Bands of HM Royal Marines are delighted to bring back the Oceanaires Big Band under the direction of Captain Phil Trudgeon .

This concert will feature star players and big band specialists from across all their bands.

£25 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Anvil: Sat 14 Oct / 7.30pm

DANIEL O’DONNELL

Daniel O’Donnell ’s career spans more than 30 years, racking up over 15 million album sales worldwide.

Daniel is the only artist in the world to score a hit in the UK album charts every year since 1988, an unprecedented and unbroken 35-year span and, in doing so, he has outshone everyone from Michael Jackson and Madonna, to U2 and The Rolling Stones.

£49.50, £45.50 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Haymarket: Sat 14 Oct / 7.30pm

SINATRA: RAW

written and performed by Richard Shelton

Palm Springs, 1971 - Frank Sinatra prepares for his last pre-retirement show. But his blue eyes are red rimmed with memories and regret. He drinks too many when things take an unexpected twist. This is the 2am Sinatra you dream of meeting – dangerous, unpredictable, brilliant!

Starring Richard Shelton (Emmerdale ); internationally recognised as one of the world’s best interpreters of Frank Sinatra’s music.

£25 (includes £4 booking fee)

Please note: includes adult themes and language

The Anvil: Sun 15 Oct / 7.30pm

THE MAKINGS OF A MURDERER!

INVESTIGATING THE UK’S MOST NOTORIOUS SERIAL KILLERS

A chilling, thrilling night with Scottish Detective David Swindle (who brought serial killer Peter Tobin to justice).

From Jack the Ripper, Harold Shipman, and Peter Sutcliffe, to the ‘Killer Couples’ Fred and Rose West, and Ian Brady and Myra Hindley, get the detective’s perspective on what makes a serial killer tick, the warning signs, and clues behind The Makings of a Murderer!

£33 (includes £4 booking fee)

Suitable for: ages 18 and over

The Anvil: Thu 19 Oct / 7.30pm

THANK YOU FOR THE MUSIC

THE ULTIMATE TRIBUTE TO ABBA

Calling all Dancing Queens, this is your night to say, Thank You for the Music !

Now in its 20th year, this international smash-hit tribute show brings all ABBA’s number one hits to the stage in a brand-new show for 2023.

£34 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Haymarket: 19 – 21 Oct / 7.30pm / Sat 2.30pm

by Theatre Workshop , Charles Chilton , Gerry Raffles , and members of the original cast

More than a century on from the Armistice, Oh, What A Lovely War! remains a masterpiece of modern theatre and a powerful reminder of the atrocities of a war that cost twenty million lives.

A journey from joy to despair and back again, it’s a deliciously satirical attack on the military incompetence and inconceivable disregard for human life the First World War has come to represent and a chilling reminder of man’s inhumanity to man.

Wildly satirical, visually stunning and deeply moving, Oh, What a Lovely War! is a theatrical experience like no other; a fusion of live music, movement, songs and sketches bringing to life the folly, farce and tragedy of the First World War. Now, more than ever, it holds a mirror up to the world and speaks to us all.

£26, Sat 2.30pm £25. Over 65s £2 off, under 25s and f/t students £15.50 (includes £4 booking fee)

Suitable for: ages 11 and over

Brian Murphy, from the cast of the original 1963 production

BLACKEYED THEATRE in association with SOUTH HILL PARK ARTS CENTRE presents the 60th anniversary tour of JOAN LITTLEWOOD’S Musical Entertainment

“A SPLENDID REVIVAL THAT DOES THE ORIGINAL PRODUCTION PROUD”

The Forge: Thu 19 Oct / 7.45pm

RACHAEL MCSHANE & THE CARTOGRAPHERS

Rachael McShane is a celebrated folk singer, cellist, fiddle, and viola player. She gained fame as an original member of Bellowhead, recording five studio albums with them and winning a staggering eight BBC Folk Awards. Away from Bellowhead, Rachael is the leader of The Cartographers, a band featuring traditional folk and contemporary sounds.

£19. Under 25s and f/t students £17 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Anvil: Fri 20 Oct / 7.45pm

TOYAH & ROBERT’S SUNDAY LUNCH

with Toyah Wilcox & Robert Fripp

Fresh from their hit YouTube series, Toyah Willcox and Robert Fripp are bursting out of the kitchen and going on tour with Toyah’s full ‘Posh Pop’ band.

With the exciting artistic twists that both Robert and Toyah are renowned for, they’ll perform their own hits plus many much-loved songs, including My Generation, Heroes, Smoke On The Water, Are You Gonna Go My Way, Paranoid, and more!

£32.50, £29 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Anvil: Sat 21 Oct / 7.30pm

NATIONAL SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA OF UKRAINE

Lyatoshynsky Symphonic Picture: Grazhyna

Bruch Violin Concerto no. 1

Strauss Don Juan

Liszt Mazeppa

Aleksey Semenenko violin

Volodymyr Sirenko

We are delighted to welcome one of Eastern Europe’s finest orchestras on its biggest ever UK tour, supporting the continuation of the rich musical culture in Ukraine. Boris Lyatoshynsky is regarded as the father of modern Ukrainian music, and Grazhyna is one of his best works, based on a poem about a fierce princess who leads her people in battle. Bruch ’s most popular violin concerto is one of the wonders of the violin repertoire, with an endless flow of heartfelt melody. Strauss ’ exhilarating Don Juan is a bold and dashing work which proceeds at full throttle before evaporating in an enigmatically dark conclusion. The concert ends with Liszt ’s symphonic poem, based on the story of the nobleman Mazeppa punished for an illicit affair by being tied to a wild horse which gallops relentlessly across the Ukrainian countryside.

£42, £38, £31, £24, £16. Under 25s and f/t students £12 (include £4 booking fee)

6.30pm / The Forge

The Anvil: Sun 22 Oct / 7.30pm

GYLES BRANDRETH

CAN’T STOP TALKING

Gyles Brandreth can’t stop talking. The jumper-loving This Morning and Just a Minute star has been babbling since he was a baby, and in his hilarious new one-man show, the award-winning raconteur is trying to work out why.

£29 (includes £4 booking fee)

Suitable for: ages 12 and over

The Anvil: Tue 24 Oct / 7.30pm

THE WATERBOYS

Few bands have as great a live reputation as The Waterboys . From their mid-1980s big music period, through the influential mix of Celtic, gospel, and country on their Fisherman’s Blues tours, to the hundreds of brilliant shows accompanying the last decade’s run of supremely in-form albums – The Waterboys have consistently blended tightness, inspiration, and improvisation to reach heights of performance few other acts can. Come and feel the fire!

£46 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Anvil: Wed 25 Oct / 7.30pm

GET IT ON

It’s time to bang a gong and Get it On for one night of glam rock!

Featuring the biggest hits from T.Rex, Mud, Slade, Bowie, Suzi Quatro, Wizzard, Sweet and many more.

So, bring your tiger feet and join us for a night like no other.

£34 (includes £4 booking fee)

This is a tribute show and is in no way affiliated with any original artists/estates/management companies or similar shows. Promoter reserves the right to alter the programme.

The Forge: Wed 25 Oct / 7.45pm

JOSIENNE CLARKE

Indie-folk singer, songwriter, guitarist and producer Josienne Clarke is often said to draw on traditional British folk inspirations, but is a thoroughly modern, multifaceted artist who follows her own compass.

£18. Under 25s and f/t students £16 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Haymarket: Thu 26 Oct / 2.30pm

THE SOOTY SHOW

75TH BIRTHDAY SPECTACULAR!

Celebrating 75 amazing years in show business, Sooty, Sweep, and Soo are planning a very special birthday party and you’re all invited. However, in true Sooty style, nothing goes to plan!

With buckets of audience participation and gallons of giggles, this spectacular celebration of the longest-running children’s television show in the world will delight Sooty fans old and new.

Plus, meet Richard and Sooty after the show!

£21. Under 16s £18.50 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Anvil: Thu 26 Oct / 7.30pm

RADIO GAGA

THE ULTIMATE CELEBRATION OF QUEEN

Be part of a night like no other as we recreate two magical hours of Queen live on stage.

Celebrating the musicianship, fun and showmanship, featuring all the hits: Don’t Stop Me Now, I Want to Break Free, We Are the Champions, We Will Rock You, Bohemian Rhapsody, and more.

£36 (includes £4 booking fee)

This is a tribute show and is no way affiliated with any original artists/estates/management companies or similar shows. Promoter reserves the right to alter the programme.

The Anvil: Fri 27 Oct / 7.30pm

LUTHER

The world’s premier show in celebration of The Velvet Voice, Luther Vandross, fronted by international tribute Harry Cambridge and his 10-piece band.

Experience all the hits from Luther’s amazing career, culminating over 40 million album sales and eight Grammy Awards, including many of the greatest dance anthems and love songs ever written. Expect to hear songs such as Never Too Much, Here and Now, Ain’t No Stoppin’ Us Now, Dance with My Father, and many, many more.

£29 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Haymarket: Fri 27 Oct / 7.30pm

MARTIN CARTHY

A SPECIAL EVENING OF SONG AND CONVERSATION WITH JON WILKS

An extra-special chance to hear master craftsman Martin Carthy perform and reminisce on his illustrious career in folk song to date, with musical interludes and conversation with his talented friend, musician and journalist, Jon Wilks (Tradfolk ).

Expect frank and fascinating insights into all manner of subjects, from Scarborough Fair to the Beastie Boys!

£24. Under 25s £19 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Anvil: Sat 28 Oct / 7.30pm

CHINEKE! ORCHESTRA

Haydn Symphony no. 85 (La Reine)

Bologne Violin Concerto in A major Op. 5 no 2 Beethoven Symphony no. 3 (Eroica)

Nathan Amaral violin

Kellen Gray

The fourth of Haydn ’s ground-breaking Paris set of symphonies is one of the finest in his whole huge output. Three stately opening movements (befitting its ‘royal’ title) give way to a dancing, light-hearted finale. It’s followed by a violin concerto by one of the great figures of 18th century French music, a composer, violinist and conductor born in Guadeloupe whose virtuoso orchestra commissioned the Paris symphonies from Haydn Beethoven ’s Eroica symphony expanded both symphonic form and musical language in one astounding blow. The emotional heart of the piece is the famous funeral march, and it ends with a set of variations on a simple tune that overflows with musical imagination.

£44, £38, £33, £24, £16. Under 25s and f/t students £12 (include £4 booking fee)

6.30pm / The Forge

“AN ENSEMBLE WHERE THE SENSE OF SHARED ENJOYMENT IS PALPABLE”

The Haymarket: Sat 28 Oct / 7.30pm

BEVERLEY CRAVEN & JUDIE TZUKE STRINGS ATTACHED

After the success of their sold-out Woman To Woman UK tour, Beverley Craven and Judie Tzuke are back!

Performing with the Gabriella Swallow String Quartet , this intimate acoustic show will feature songs and stories spanning their careers as singer/songwriters.

Witty narrative, unforgettable melodies, and poignant sentiments will leave you with a warm glow of nostalgia, maybe even the odd tear.

The Anvil: Sun 29 Oct / 7.30pm

BILLY BILLINGHAM MBE

ALWAYS A LITTLE FURTHER

Billy Billingham MBE QCB is as tough as they come. Chief Instructor on Channel 4’s SAS: Who Dares Wins, Paratrooper, decorated SAS leader, and a bodyguard to Hollywood superstars, Billy has seen extreme combat and gruelling missions aplenty.

Educating, entertaining, and enthralling in equal measure, and with the chance to pose your questions to the man himself, this event will inspire those wishing to seek a challenge and conquer it – the SAS way.

The Anvil: Thu 2 Nov / 7.30pm

MAGIC OF MOTOWN

Seen by over one million people, now in its 18th year! Get ready for the biggest Motown party of the year with hits from The Temptations, Supremes, Four Tops, Jackson 5, Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross, Stevie Wonder, Martha Reeves, Smokey Robinson and more.

£40, £35 (includes £4 booking fee)

£42, £38, £30 (includes £4 booking fee)

£37 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Haymarket: Thu 2 Nov / 8pm

SUZI RUFFELL SNAPPY

Suzi Ruffell likes things Snappy: her stand up, her decisions and her suits. Suzi’s brand-new show is all about settling down (but not settling), becoming a mother (without becoming mumsy), and still worrying about everything.

As seen on Live At The Apollo, The Jonathan Ross Show, QI, The Last Leg, and Womanhood to name but a few.

£15. Under 25s and f/t students £13 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Forge: Thu 2 Nov / 7.45pm

NICK HART

Nick Hart is an award-winning singer and multi-instrumentalist whose work with English folk song is rapidly gaining him a reputation as one of the most acclaimed performers of his generation. His captivating live performances are a testament to the importance he places on story-telling.

£18. Under 25s and f/t students £16 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Anvil: Fri 3 Nov / Doors 7pm

AN EVENING WITH THE HOLLIES

The Hollies have been entertaining audiences for over the last 60 years with their much-loved hits, such as Long Cool Woman (In a Black Dress), The Air That I Breathe, He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother, and Bus Stop.

The line-up includes original members powerhouse drummer

Bobby Elliott , and singer, songwriter, and lead guitarist Tony Hicks . They are joined by lead singer Peter Howarth , bass player Ray Stiles , keyboardist Ian Parker , and Steve Lauri on rhythm guitar.

The band’s music has transcended generations, and their live performances continue to captivate fans worldwide.

£51.50, £41.50, £36.50 (includes £4 booking fee)

Please note: Maximum of six tickets per customer

The Haymarket: Fri 3 Nov / 7.30pm

BOB HARRIS & COLIN HALL present

THE SONGS THE BEATLES GAVE AWAY

BBC’s Bob Harris , and author/music journalist, and custodian of John Lennon’s childhood home, Colin Hall , share the story behind the songs, the hits, the misses, and the demos that The Beatles never released.

JOHN WILSON & HIS SINFONIA OF LONDON: HOLLYWOOD’S GREATEST HITS

PLUS SPECIAL GUESTS

Bringing the lush musical splendour of the silver screen to life.

This fabulous new show features hit songs Singin’ in the Rain, Over the Rainbow, S’Wonderful, High Society, They Can’t Take That Away from Me, That’s Entertainment, and many more performed by an all-star 70-piece orchestra of world-class musicians.

The Haymarket: Sat 4 Nov / 7.30pm

BAGA CHIPZ

THE MATERIAL GIRL

Baga Chipz is Stunning. Baga Chipz is Class. Baga Chipz is Sexy. She’s now a material girl.

Join Drag Race UK star Baga Chipz for her first ever solo theatre show with live singing, dancing, comedy and much more.

£28. VIP £40 (includes £4 booking fee)

Suitable for: ages 16 and over

£22 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Anvil: Sat 4 Nov / 7pm

£55, £50, £44, £39 (includes £4 booking fee)

Selling Fast

The Anvil: Tue 7 Nov / Doors 7pm

KEVIN BLOODY WILSON

INTERNATIONAL DILLIGAF DAY WORLD TOUR

Selling Fast

There are few international comedians today who shoot down political correctness with such comedic pinpoint accuracy as Australia’s Kevin Bloody Wilson

National DILLIGAF Day is every day, according to Kev, and he’s looking forward to bringing the new album and show to fans around the world.

Plus special guest Jenny Talia .

£36.50 (includes £4 booking fee)

Suitable for: ages 16 and over

The Forge: Tue 7 Nov / 8.15pm

GUY DAVIS

Guy Davis is a two-time, back-to-back Grammy nominee for Best Traditional Blues.

Guy uses a blend of roots, blues, folk, rock, rap, spoken word, and world music to comment on, and address the frustrations of social injustice, touching on historical events, and common life struggles.

£19. Under 25s and f/t students £17 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Anvil: Thu 9 Nov / 7.30pm

FAIRYTALE OF NEW YORK COMING HOME FOR CHRISTMAS

Fairytale of New York brings you all of your favourite Christmas songs including Driving Home for Christmas, White Christmas, Winter’s Tale, Silent Night, and of course, Fairytale of New York. Just when you think the party couldn’t get any better, this world-class show also features some of the greatest Irish sing-along songs of all time; The Galway Girl, The Irish Rover, Danny Boy, Dirty Old Town, and The Black Velvet Band.

This magical Christmas show will have everyone singing, laughing, and dancing in the aisles.

£30.50 (includes £4 booking fee)

“A TRIUMPH. FROM THE MYSTERIOUS OPENING TO THE DRAMATIC CLOSE”

Derbyshire Times

The Haymarket: 9 – 11 Nov / 7.30pm / Sat 2pm

RUMPUS THEATRE COMPANY presents

based on Charles Dickens ’ ghost story

Rumpus Theatre Company (The Tell-Tale Heart, Whistle and I’ll Come To You, The Black Veil ) returns to The Haymarket with a spine-chilling play.

Who is the faceless figure by the tunnel warning the haunted signalman?

In this eerie version of Charles Dickens ’ Victorian ghost story, a terrified signalman unburdens himself to the young student who chances upon his railway cutting.

He tells a chilling tale of the spectre that haunts him and the terrible disasters that follow each appearance.

But what horror is the ghost trying to warn of this time? And is the young man’s visit as innocent as it first appears?

£24, £22 (Sat 2pm). Under 25s and f/t students £15 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Anvil: Fri 10 Nov / 7.30pm

LEGEND – THE MUSIC OF BOB MARLEY

REGGAE

FOR THE WORLD

When you think reggae, there is only one name that comes to mind…

An unforgettable evening combines Marley’s superb, distinctive vocals with flawless musicianship as a supremely talented cast recreate Could You Be Loved, Is This Love, One Love, Three Little Birds and more.

The Forge: Fri 10 Nov / 7.45pm

JAMES DELARRE & SAUL ROSE

James Delarre (Topette!!, Mawkin, Mawkin: Causley), and Saul Rose (Waterson: Carthy, Faustus, Eliza Carthy & The Wayward Band) intertwine seamlessly; combining thrilling fiddle performances with some of the finest melodeon playing.

£18. Under 25s and f/t students £16 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Anvil: Sat 11 Nov / 8pm

TERJE ISUNGSET ICE QUARTET

The inventor of ice music, Terje Isungset , returns to the UK with his exquisite new quartet featuring voice, ice harp, ice horn, iceophone, ice percussion, and ice bass.

This ice concert is a tribute to the most important thing in the whole world – nature – and is based on music from his albums Winter Songs and Beauty of Winter , alongside brand-new material.

Prepare to be transported by the extraordinary, beautiful, and ethereal sounds of ice. It’s like nothing you’ve ever heard before.

£24 (includes £4 booking fee)

£36 (includes £4 booking fee)

This is a tribute show and is no way affiliated with any original artists/estates/management companies or similar shows.

The Forge: Sat 11 Nov / 8.45pm

THE LOCAL HONEYS

Ambassadors of Appalachian music, The Local Honeys dedicate themselves to the preservation of old music and the creation of new music. Their song writing often reflects subject matter that little girls ought not talk about as they tear into hard driving fiddle tunes, sing the high lonesome sound, and tell a damn good story.

The Anvil: Fri 17 Nov / 7.30pm

THE OVERTONES

GOOD TIMES TOUR

The multi-platinum selling group are bringing back the Good Times with their special blend of original material and feel-good standards.

The vocal harmony group, known for pitch perfect harmonies, perfectly timed dance moves and distinctive style perform a non-stop party with songs by The Drifters, Stevie Wonder and more, plus some festive favourites.

£46.50, £41.50, £36.50. VIP £94 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Anvil: Sun 19 Nov / 7.30pm

SHOW OF HANDS

FULL CIRCLE – PART I

After 30 remarkable years on the road, Show of Hands perform their final tour with Miranda Sykes. Full Circle Part I is the celebration of a much-loved collaboration with Miranda which started 20 years ago on the summer festival circuit in 2004 and is the last chance to see the full trio perform on tour.

£36.50. Under 21s £20.25

(includes £4 booking fee)

£18. Under 25s and f/t students £16 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Anvil: Tue 21 Nov / 7.30pm

EXTRA TIME WITH SUE, MATT & PHIL

Selling Fast

A brand-new sports quiz show bringing Sue Barker , Matt Dawson , and Phil Tufnell back together with a new format of testing questions, lively audience interaction, games, hilarity, and a cast of famous guests from the sporting world.

£49, £39. VIP £154 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Anvil: Thu 23 Nov / 7.30pm

BOURNEMOUTH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

SEETA PATEL DANCE

Tchaikovsky Suite: The Sleeping Beauty Stravinsky The Rite of Spring

An extended suite from Tchaikovsky ’s great ballet score forms the first part of this special evening. Written at the height of his powers, the composer always thought of it as one of his very best works.

Just twenty-three years later, Stravinsky detonated the Russian ballet world with his extraordinary score for The Rite of Spring . Tonight’s performance is brilliantly re-imagined with choreography from the ancient Indian tradition of Bharatanatyam. Premiered to huge acclaim in March, this is one of a handful of chances in this country to see one of the most exciting performances of the year.

£44, £38, £33, £24, £16. Under 25s and f/t students £12 (include £4 booking fee)

6.30pm / The Forge

“UP THERE WITH THE VERY BEST… TERRIFIC” Financial Times

The Haymarket: Thu 23 Nov / 7.30pm

THE THREE DEGREES

The Three Degrees (Valerie Holiday, Freddie Pool, and Tabitha King) still make the claim as being the longest-running female vocal group in history, and they show no signs of slowing down!

More than five decades on from their biggest global hit, When Will I See You Again, the threesome has retained their precise vocal qualities, and, in between, have amassed an impressive list of successful records, including Dirty Ol’ Man, Year of Decision, and Take Good Care of Yourself.

£34. VIP meet & greet £49 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Anvil: Fri 24 Nov / 7.30pm

CLASSICAL BALLET and OPERA HOUSE presents THE

NUTCRACKER

featuring a live orchestra

Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without a dazzling production of the most famous ballet in the world.

Snow flurries, sweets, princes, magic, and love are just some of the elements that will be brought together. A highly accessible ballet, full of familiar music such as the Waltz of the Flowers and the Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy .

£42, £37. Under 25s and f/t students £2 off (includes £4 booking fee)

The Haymarket: Fri 24 Nov / 7.30pm

ELIZA CARTHY & JON BODEN’S WASSAIL

Before there was carolling, there was wassailing, where seasonal songs were exchanged for money, food, and ale.

Presenting seasonal, traditional material on a stage decorated for the occasion, Eliza Carthy and Jon Boden take audiences back to some of the oldest songs in the English canon, telling yuletide tales, spreading good cheer, and lighting up the darkest days of the year, ahead of Christmas Day itself.

£24. Under 25s £20 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Anvil: Sat 25 Nov / 7.30pm

DAWN FRENCH IS A HUGE TWAT

Tickets for this event have sold out. Please call the box office on 01256 844244 to join the waiting list.

£49, £44 (includes £4 booking fee)

Suitable for: ages 14 and over

The Haymarket: 25 – 26 Nov / Sat 2.30pm / Sun 11am & 2pm

TALES FROM ACORN WOOD

Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler ’s beloved Tales from Acorn Wood stories return for another enchanting lift-the-flap experience.

Poor old Fox has lost his socks!

Are they in the kitchen or inside the clock?

And Rat-a-tat-tat!

Who’s that keeping tired Rabbit awake?

Packed full of toe-tapping songs, puppetry, and all the friends from Acorn Wood, this beautiful show from the team that brought you Dear Zoo Live and Dear Santa promises to be the perfect treat for children of all ages.

£19.50. Under 16s £17.50 (includes £4 booking fee)

Suitable for: ages 1 and over

The Anvil: Tue 28 Nov / 7.30pm

CHRISTMAS AT THE MOVIES

Join the 70-piece Studio Orchestra as they take you on a magical journey through some of the best loved festive films of all time, including: Love Actually, The Nightmare Before Christmas, Elf, The Polar Express, Home Alone, The Holiday, Harry Potter, It’s A Wonderful Life, and many more.

£46, £39, £33.50, £25, £16 (includes £4 booking fee)

“THIS IS SOMETHING REALLY SPECIAL… THE SIXTEEN ELEVATE EVERYTHING THEY PERFORM”

Gramophone

The Anvil: Thu 30 Nov / 7.30pm

FASTLOVE

THE GEORGE MICHAEL TRIBUTE

The Anvil: Wed 29 Nov / 7.30pm

THE SIXTEEN

A CHILD IS BORN

One of the world’s great choral ensembles, The Sixteen thrills and delights audiences around the world. This special Christmas programme includes a feast of carols and seasonal choral music, from Hildegard of Bingen to Morten Lauridsen. Favourite traditional versions, stunningly beautiful Tudor and Renaissance works and modern settings are combined in a ravishing and satisfying evening of music. The perfect way to start your Christmas celebrations.

£38, £29 (includes £4 booking fee)

Now touring in 18 countries, selling over 250,000 tickets worldwide, join us for one very special night as we celebrate the late great George Michael.

Playing all the hits: Wake Me Up, Too Funky, Father Figure, Freedom, Faith, Knew You Were Waiting, Careless Whisper, and many more.

£37 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Haymarket: 30 Nov – 2 Dec / 7.30pm Sat 2.30pm

SAY IT AGAIN, SORRY? presents

When a traditional production of Oscar Wilde ’s play gets underway, everything seems to be going perfectly to plan, that is, until the lead actor fails to arrive on cue.

You might think you know this chaotic story of love, mistaken identity and double lives, but you have never seen it like this before. Filled with wicked Wildean wit and bursting with Bunburying, join us for a hilarious and unpredictable twist on the world’s favourite comedy masterpiece.

£26. Sat 2.30pm £25. Under 25s and f/t students £12 (includes £4 booking fee)

“A MASTERCLASS IN COMEDIC THEATRE”

North West End UK

HHHHH

The Haymarket: Tue 5 Dec / 7pm & Sat 23 Dec / 7.30pm

CHAPTERHOUSE THEATRE COMPANY presents A CHRISTMAS

CAROL

by Charles Dickens

Chapterhouse Theatre Company return with their sell-out production of A Christmas Carol, Charles Dickens’ endearing tale of hope and redemption.

With dazzling musical sequences and authentic period costuming, this adaptation promises to be the perfect accompaniment to the festive season guaranteed to melt the hearts of even the sternest of Scrooges.

£23.50. Under 16s and f/t students £16 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Stage

“DICKENS’ TALE HAS LOST NONE OF ITS PUNCH… FUSING A CONTEMPORARY FEEL WITH THE AUTHOR’S POETIC TEXT”

The Haymarket: Sun 3 Dec / 7.30pm

BRIDGET CHRISTIE: WHO AM I?

Bridget Christie returns with her sell-out show Who am I?

It’s a menopause laugh-a-minute with a confused, furious, sweaty lady who is annoyed by everything.

£24 (includes £4 booking fee)

Suitable for: ages 14 and over

The Haymarket: Tue 12 Dec / 7.30pm

THE UNTHANKS

The heart-warming pathos and glacial majesty present in their music to date makes a winter concert a mouth-watering prospect. The Unthanks are the perfect band to bring us an abstract new work capturing the magic and wonder of the turn of the year; the end and beginning of the circle of life.

The Haymarket: Wed 13 Dec / 7.30pm

THE LOCK IN CHRISTMAS CAROL

featuring The Demon Barbers

Half gig, half dance show and half panto! Join the BBC Award-winning team of musicians and dancers for 150% of the very best festive live music, song and dance.

It’s Christmas Eve and the regulars of The Olde Fighting Cocks are excited about the night ahead; it’s going to be the folk and Hip-Hop dance party of the year. To their dismay the landlady, Jasmineezer Scrooge, has more profitable ambitions… the Oompah Techno Bar! Cheap alco-pops and mind-numbing bass beats are all in danger of ruining Christmas! Fortunately, some insightful souls are at hand to save the day.

£20.50. Under 25s and f/t students £18.50 (includes £4 booking fee)

£TBC

The Haymarket: 7 – 10 Dec / 10.30am & 1.30pm / Sat & Sun 4pm

Santa is determined to deliver the most fantastic Christmas present to Sarah, but he doesn’t get it right straight away! With the help of his cheeky Elf, he finally settles on something ‘perfect’, just in time for Christmas Eve.

From the author of the well-loved children’s book Dear Zoo , Rod Campbell , Dear Santa is an ideal introduction to theatre for those aged two and over. The Christmas cheer continues, with the opportunity to meet Santa in his grotto after the show, where every child will receive an extra special gift! The perfect family show this festive season.

£19. Under 16s £17. Relaxed performance £10 (includes £4 booking fee)

Fri 8 Dec / 1.30pm

Suitable for: ages 1 and over

Mumsnet

“MAGICAL FAMILY TREAT AND A JOY TO WATCH”

The Anvil:

8 – 31 Dec / see performance diary for times

Join Peter, Smee, Tinker Bell, and Ethyl Mermaid on a brand-new swashbuckling adventure full of fun, laughter, and crocodiles!

After defeating the evil Captain Hook and his crew of prancing pirates, life has been pretty perfect for Peter Pan. But when a stranger arrives in Neverland, he is forced to question his past and face his future. Will Peter ever grow up?

And then there are the rumours...

That a certain someone survived the stormy seas and is seeking revenge! Have you heard them too?

People are saying that Hook is back! So watch out, he might be behind you!

£33.50, £32.50, £29.50, £23.50

Under 16s and f/t students £3 off, Over 65s £1 off (exc 9 & 10 Dec / 2pm and 16 – 28 Dec).

Relaxed performance £12 (includes £4 booking fee)

Tue 12 Dec / 6pm

Tue 19 Dec / 2pm

The Haymarket: Fri 15 Dec / 7.30pm

BUDDY HOLLY & THE CRICKETERS

HOLLY AT CHRISTMAS 2023 – 31 YEARS OF ROCK ‘N’ ROLLING THE WORLD!

Buddy Holly & The Cricketers once again herald in the Yuletide festivities with Holly at Christmas , the show that is now as traditional as mulled wine and mince pies!

Holly’s hits, other contemporary tracks and some Christmas crackers are all wrapped up in a fast, furious and funny feast of entertainment to make the perfect gift for all the family.

Whatever the season, whatever the excuse to party, make your Heartbeat a little faster with the show that has thousands of fans the world over saying: “I can’t believe it’s not Buddy!” .

£25 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Haymarket: Sat 16 Dec / 7.30pm

CARA DILLON

UPON A WINTER’S NIGHT

Cara Dillon , possessed of one of the most celebrated folk voices to have come out of Ireland, will be touring her annual Christmas show. The overwhelming success of previous tours cementing this magical and memorable festive experience as a firm tradition for many years to come.

£25 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Haymarket: Tue 19 Dec / 7.30pm

PHILHARMONIA BRASS AT CHRISTMAS

Join the Philharmonia Orchestra Brass Ensemble for a feast of seasonal music.

There’s something irresistibly Christmassy about the sound of brass instruments, their warm tones blending together like a choir of carol singers. The Philharmonia brass section has long been celebrated for its style and finesse, and for the tautness of its ensemble.

This programme brings together music sacred and secular, old and new. From serene Advent pieces to the merriest melodies of the season, this is a Christmas concert that has something for everyone.

£29 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Haymarket: 20 – 21 Dec / 7.30pm

TENNESSEE CHRISTMAS SHOW

For the first time ever, a Tennessee Country Christmas is coming to celebrate the festive season bringing renditions of holiday favourites in a country style, combined with some of the biggest-selling hits from the superstars of the genre.

Join tributes to Dolly Parton, Kenny Rogers, Johnny Cash, Patsy Cline and Garth Brooks, along with a few surprise performers.

It’s going to be a Jolly Dolly Christmas.

£27 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Haymarket: Fri 22 Dec / 7.30pm

THE ALBION BAND CHRISTMAS SHOW

Join The Albion Christmas Band for an evening of traditional English Christmas music, song and celebratory readings.

Featuring the combined talents of Simon Nicol (Fairport Convention), Kellie While , Simon Care (Edward II), and Ashley Hutchings MBE (Fairport Convention, Steeleye Span).

£26 (includes £4 booking fee)

“THE PERFECT ANTIDOTE TO THE CORPORATE CHRISTMAS” The Guardian

The Haymarket: 14 – 19 Nov / 7.30pm / Sat & Sun 2.30pm

BASINGSTOKE AMATEUR THEATRICAL SOCIETY

JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT

Any Dream Will Do, Close Every Door, Jacob and Sons, Go Go Go Joseph… every song’s a winner in this sensational family musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice.

Join BATS for one of the most enduring and popular shows of all-time.

£28.50. Under 16s £23.50, over 65s and f/t students £2 off (includes £3 booking fee)

An Amateur production by arrangement with The Really Useful Group Ltd.

The Anvil: Sat 18 Nov / 7.30pm

BASINGSTOKE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

Brahms Tragic Overture

Grieg Piano Concerto

Beethoven Symphony No. 5

Roman Kosyakov piano

Stephen Scotchmer

Brahms’ Tragic Overture is a profound and dramatic start to any concert. Grieg’s popular Piano Concerto follows, communicating with fiery passion. Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony is instantly recognisable from its four-note motto opening.

£26.50, £21.50, £14.50. Over 65s £2 off, f/t students £13.25, £10.75, £7.25, under 16s £3 (includes £3 booking fee)

The Anvil: Sun 26 Nov / 3pm

BASINGSTOKE CHORAL SOCIETY

Verdi Requiem

Docklands Sinfonia

David Gibson

Verdi’s Requiem is a powerful and emotional work. Written by Verdi in the aftermath of the loss of a very close friend, its first performance took place in the Royal Albert Hall and was conducted by the composer himself. The Dies Irae must be familiar to many as it is often used for atmospheric background music both in film and television.

£27, £21, £15. Under 16s £7 (includes £3 booking fee)

Seating Plans Booking Details

The Anvil

01256 844244 anvilarts.org.uk box.office@anvilarts.org.uk

Churchill Way, Basingstoke, Hampshire RG21 7QR

Box Office: situated at The Anvil and The Haymarket main entrances.

Red: Stalls rows A to T

Blue: Circle rows A to N

Purple: Side Circle rows CA to CD and DA to DD

Yellow: Choir seats rows A to E

The Haymarket

Office Opening HoursOpen Monday –Mon – Fri, 10am – 2pm

Performance nights Open at 6pm

Call 01256 844244 or email box.office@anvilarts.org.uk

Reserved Tickets: held for three days or until an hour before the performance, whichever is sooner. After this time, unpaid reservations will be released.

Returns Only Performances: please contact the box office to join the returns list. Some tickets may be released nearer to the performance date.

Booking Fee: all ticket prices include a booking fee. The Anvil Trust is an independent educational charity. Without the booking fee, we would not be able to offer the current level and variety of programme at our venues or our extensive work with schools, young people and people living with dementia.

Blue: Stalls rows C to M

Orange: Stalls rows N to S

Purple: Circle rows A to D plus CC and DD

The Forge

Purple: Rows A to G

Group Booking

For information on group booking rates and availability, please call 01256 366935 (answer service when not staffed) or email group.booking@anvilarts.org.uk. Alternatively, visit anvilarts.org.uk/groups

Box

You can pay by Paying less for your tickets

Cards: Mastercard and Visa.

We do not accept personal cheques. Please do not send cash through the post.

Gift Vouchers: Anvil Arts gift vouchers can be used for tickets at any Anvil Arts venue, and are valid for 24 months. Available from the box office. Please note we do not accept Theatre Tokens.

No refunds can be given. We offer ticket cancellation protection – please contact the box office for details, or visit ticketplangroup.com

Exchange and resale of tickets

Once tickets have been printed, they can be exchanged within the run of the same event for tickets of the same value at a cost of 50p per ticket. Lost tickets for reserved seats can be reprinted at a cost of 50p per ticket. We operate a re-sale facility on sold out performances (admin fee applies).

Bars and Refreshments

Foyers are open from 6pm for evening performances, and one hour before all others. Out of respect to fellow audience members and performers, re-admission to the auditorium with drinks once a show has started is not permitted.

Order your drinks and snacks online prior to the performance. Alternative ordering options are

Safety and Enjoyment

Please ensure you always have your ticket with you as scanned tickets are checked when entering the foyers and auditorium.

We may on occasions conduct bag and security searches. Large bags will not be permitted into the auditorium.

We will make every effort to admit latecomers at a suitable break in the performance, but we cannot always guarantee entry.

We reserve the right to refuse admission or eject audience members from our venues and events at our discretion, including for behaviour affecting people’s enjoyment of the performance.

Please switch your phone off or to silent during a performance or event.

Discounts are available for performances where stated.

Only one discount can apply to any one ticket.

You may be asked to provide proof of eligibility. Student tickets cannot be posted out. Please show your ID on collection.

For full terms and conditions of sale, contact the box office, or visit anvilarts.org.uk/terms-and-conditions

available from within the venues. Please visit our website for more details.

We operate a Challenge 25 Policy in our venues. Please be prepared to show photographic ID on request when purchasing or pre-ordering drinks or products containing alcohol.

We do not permit the unauthorised use of cameras and recording equipment within the auditorium or foyers.

Please be aware that other audience members may stand or dance during the performance.

If you experience any problems during a performance or event, please inform a member of staff immediately, so that we can do our best to resolve the issue at the time.

Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult ticket holder; Anvil Arts cannot be held responsible for children unaccompanied by an adult.

Please be kind to our staff and to each other so that everyone can enjoy the experience

Children’s Performances

A limited number of booster seats are available on entry to the auditorium, for use free of charge. Baby changing facilities are available in both venues

Children under 18 months require an Infant in Arms ticket (available at selected performances) for the cost of £3–£4. To book, please call the box office on 01256 844244

Conditions of Sale

It is the nature of live performance that start and running times may vary, and artists, programmes, and other details may be subject to last minute changes.

Anvil Arts reserves the right to introduce discounts and special offers at any time, and these cannot be applied to tickets already purchased.

Not all seats may be available at all performances or when booking opens. Details in this brochure were correct at the time of going to press, but changes may be unavoidable.

Access Facilities

Access List

Anvil Arts operates a free Access List in order to improve our service to patrons with access needs. Registration forms are available from the box office or anvilarts.org.uk/access

Wheelchair Users

Our ticket sales counters have drop-down or lowered sections for wheelchair users. We have up to six wheelchair spaces available in The Anvil, one in The Forge and up to two in The Haymarket. We are unable to sell wheelchair spaces or allow transfers out of wheelchairs into seats in the Circle level of The Anvil auditorium. Emergency evacuation from The Haymarket auditorium is via an emergency lift or evacuchair, all other lifts in our venues cannot be used in an emergency. Personal emergency evacuation plans can be made available on request.

Hearing Enhancement

The Anvil and The Haymarket are equipped with infra-red hearing enhancement systems for use with portable headsets and personal induction neck loops. Both are available at the Stalls Foyer counters.

Privacy

Anvil Arts is committed to protecting your privacy and to this end has developed a Privacy Policy. We operate and are registered in accordance with current data protection legislation. For more information visit anvilarts.org.uk/privacypolicy

Assistance dogs are welcome; please discuss availability of suitable seating areas at the time of booking.

Parking

Blue Badge parking is available in car parks within a short distance of both The Anvil and The Haymarket. Please visit anvilarts.org.uk/ visit-us/how-to-get-here for full details.

Familiarisation Visits

If you would like to look at the venues in advance, please call the box office to arrange.

Visual Stories

Visual Stories for The Anvil and The Haymarket can be found at anvilarts.org.uk/access to assist your visit.

This brochure is available in large print and Braille on request.

For more information visit anvilarts.org.uk/access or accessable.co.uk (search for The Anvil or The Haymarket).

If you require any help in planning your visit, the box office will be happy to help.

If you have any questions about our Privacy Policy or information we hold about you, email datacontrol@anvilarts.org.uk or write to us at: Information Controller, Anvil Arts, Churchill Way, Basingstoke RG21 7QR.

Support The Anvil Trust

Now and in the future

The Anvil Trust is a charity. If you like what we do, please consider supporting us.

Donations

A one-off or regular donation will be used to support our programme of events. The Great Music of the World fund specifically supports the International Concert Series. Please contact the box office for details or visit anvilarts.org.uk/donate.

Become a Friend

Enjoy priority booking, no postage charges, advance information and other benefits. Please contact the box office for details or visit anvilarts.org.uk/friends

Make a gift in your will

By including The Anvil Trust in your will, you’ll enable us to continue to give the gift of music as well as reducing your inheritance tax bill.

The Anvil Trust is grateful for the support of the following:

Get Involved

Every year we work with thousands of people from across the Borough and beyond to explore their creativity in our Community Engagement programme.

We provide schools and colleges with opportunities to experience classical and world music, to create their own music and theatre, and to support their careers. We work with people living with dementia

to help them stay connected and tell their stories creatively in our Finding the Words project. Our popular Musication Station encourages the community to try a musical instrument, whatever their age or ability.

To find out more visit anvilarts.org.uk/get-involved