“One of the most vital arts organisations in southern England” The Times
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. Our activities are worth £7.3m to the local economy every year, and support 130 jobs in addition to our own staff.
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
Support The Anvil Trust
Now and in the future
We need your support to ensure our work continues to enrich lives in Basingstoke and the region.
• 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
Visit anvilarts.org.uk/about-us to find out more.
Donations A one-off or regular donation will be used to support our programme of events and community engagement. Please contact the box office for details or visit anvilarts.org.uk/donate
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:
The Haymarket: 3 – 8 Dec / 10.30am / Tue – Wed & Fri – Sun 1.30pm
The Owl Who Came for Christmas
based on the book by John Hay and Garry Parsons
Inspired by a true story, fly into the heart-warming tale of Rosie the Owl on her feathered adventures in The Owl Who Came for Christmas!
Christmas is coming, and the decorations are going up... But one family is about to discover an unexpected visitor snuggled up in their tree; a tiny owl.
The epic bird rescue that follows is brought to life through creative puppetry, colourful costumes, and beautiful sets, transporting you to the heart of the woodland as Rosie’s newfound human friends help her return home to the forest.
With songs to sing and fun audience interaction, the whole family are sure to get into the Yuletide spirit.
“A beautiful Christmas presentation for the young ones and a real introduction to the magic of theatre” East Midlands Theatre
December – January 2025
The Anvil: 12 Dec – 5 Jan / see diary for
performance times
The fabulous family pantomime at The Anvil promises a laugh-a-minute extravaganza with stunning sets, top musical hits, fantastic costumes, and exciting special effects to keep audiences both young and old entertained!
A beautiful Princess is cursed by the evil Carabosse on the eve of her 18th birthday party and can only be awoken by true love’s kiss. Can the Good Fairy’s magical spell break the curse? Will she find her true love and live happily ever after?
Don’t get caught napping – book now and join us for the greatest magical pantomime ever told!
£34.50, £33.50, £28.50. Under 16s, f/t students, and Friends of Anvil Arts £3 off (exc 14 – 15 Dec and 21 – 23 Dec for Friends). Relaxed performance £14 (includes £4 booking fee)
Tue 17 Dec / 6pm Thu 2 Jan / 2pm
The Anvil: 21 – 22 Jan / 7.30pm
Varna International Ballet presents
Tue 21 Jan
The Nutcracker
This most famous of fantasy ballets for all the family begins as night falls on Christmas Eve. Whilst it snows outside, the warm glow of the open fire sends flickering shadows across the boughs of the Christmas tree and all the presents beneath.
When midnight strikes, we are swept away to a fairy-tale world where nothing is quite as it seems, toy dolls spring to life, the Mouse King and his mouse army battle with the Nutcracker Prince, and we travel through the Land of Snow to an enchanted place where the magic really begins.
Wed 22 Jan
Swan Lake
The greatest romantic ballet of all time is brought to life by Tchaikovsky’s haunting and unforgettable score.
See the impressive splendour of the Palace ballroom and the moon-lit lake where swans glide in perfect formation, this compelling tale of tragic romance has it all. From Odile, the temptress in black tulle as she seduces the Prince by spinning with captivating precision, to the spellbound purity of the swan queen, Odette as she flutters with emotional intensity, the dual role of Odette/Odile is one of ballet’s most unmissable technical challenges.
£50, £44.50, £42.50 (includes £4 booking fee). Under 25s and f/t students £5 off (excludes top price), under 16s half price.
The Forge: Jan – Mar Nashville Meets London
The team behind the successful Nashville Meets London comes to The Forge for a monthly residency showcasing some of the best country artists.
Fri 24 Jan / 7.45pm
Jeff Cohen’s Writers Round
Grammy/CMT Award nominated Jeff Cohen hosts this Writers Round featuring three songwriters from both sides of the Atlantic – Ashley Campbell (USA), Kezia Gill (UK), and Jonny Morgan – AMA ‘Emerging Artist of the Year’ (UK).
Fri 28 Feb / 7.45pm
Alyssa Bonagura
A songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist, Alyssa Bonagura spent the past decade finetuning a sound that reaches far beyond her Nashville roots. It’s a sound that blurs the boundaries between genres, mixing the southern storytelling of country music, the free-thinking spirit of rock & roll, and the cinematic sweep of Brit-pop into its own hybrid.
Sat 22 Mar / 7.45pm
Ashley Campbell
Daughter of country star Glen Campbell, Ashley began her career playing in her father’s band and has since found success as a solo artist; most notably with her debut single Remembering Her music has taken her all over the world, from China to London’s O2 Arena, and opening for Kris Kristofferson and the Bellamy Brothers.
£24 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Anvil: Sat 25 Jan / 7.30pm
Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra
Johann Strauss II On the Beautiful Blue Danube Berg Violin Concerto Brahms Symphony no. 2
Alena Baeva violin Mark Wigglesworth
We are delighted to welcome the new Chief Conductor of the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra , Mark Wigglesworth , in a programme which highlights connections in Viennese music across generations.
Brahms was an enormous admirer of Johann Strauss II , and himself inspired the Second Viennese school of Berg and Schoenberg.
Berg ’s last completed work is an emotion-packed farewell to the daughter of a friend, who died young. From the opening folksong depicting the innocent girl, to the final pages, where an angelic violin soars above a consoling Bach melody in the orchestra, it is an unforgettable piece.
Brahms ’ radiant Second Symphony was written while on holiday in the summer of 1877, and is predominantly warm, lyrical, and tender, building to an explosion of joy in the finale.
£45, £40, £34, £25, £17. Under 25s and f/t students £12 (includes £4 booking fee)
6.30pm / The Forge
The Anvil: Fri 24 Jan & Sat 12 Apr / 7.30pm
That’ll Be The Day
That’ll Be The Day is back for two more exciting shows. Experience a captivating journey through music history, from the ‘50s to the ‘80s, filled with electrifying performances, and era-defining tunes.
Don’t miss out on this spectacular celebration that will leave you wanting more.
£32 (includes £4 booking fee)
Suitable for: ages 12 and over (contains adult humour)
The Anvil: Wed 29 Jan / 7.30pm
Wet Wet Wet
plus special guest Heather Small
Selling Fast
Following on from a sold-out tour in 2024, Wet Wet Wet are back.
Featuring founding member Graeme Clark, accompanied by long-standing guitarist Graeme Duffin, and Kevin Simm (winner of The Voice UK 2016 / Liberty X), the band will perform their catalogue of defining hits, including Sweet Little Mystery, Angel Eyes, and more.
Miles is back with his 2024 sell-out show, On I Bang As well as appearances in The Full Monty, The Durrells, and Have I Got News for You, Miles has made an awardwinning radio series, published a novel, and starred in a Ridley Scott film.
Yet one sunny day in the middle of all this, he suddenly suffered a brain seizure. He doesn’t wish to make a big deal of it, but the experience has left him with a story to tell.
£27 (includes £4 booking fee)
Suitable for: ages 16 and over
The Anvil: 30 – 31 Jan / 8pm
Rob Beckett
Giraffe
Tickets for this event have sold out. Please email your name, address and contact number to box.office@anvilarts.org.uk to be added to the waiting list.
£34 (includes £4 booking fee)
Suitable for: strictly ages 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 1 Feb / 7.30pm
Philharmonia Orchestra
Weber Overture: Der Freischütz
Beethoven Piano Concerto no. 3
Dvořák Symphony no. 9 (From the New World)
Pierre-Laurent Aimard piano
Manfred Honeck
The opening movement of Beethoven ’s Third Piano Concerto is full of tension and drama. The slow movement is a lyrical dialogue between the soloist and woodwinds, while the vivacious finale is punctuated with quicksilver piano flourishes.
Dvořák ’s Symphony no. 9 was inspired by the spirituals and folk music Dvořák heard while he was working in New York in the 1890s. The lullaby-like cor anglais melody of its slow movement is just one of many memorable moments in this mainstay of the orchestral repertoire.
£45, £40, £34, £25, £17. Under 25s and f/t students £12 (includes £4 booking fee)
6.30pm / The Forge
“An extraordinary experience – beautiful, profoundly intelligent, and fun”
New York Classical Review on Pierre-Laurent Aimard
The Anvil: Sun 2 Feb / 5pm
Cirque Enchantment
A little girl with a big imagination enters a frozen circus wonderland meeting an array of weird, wonderful, and talented characters along the way.
Featuring superb choreography, breathtaking live vocals, and mesmerising circus performers, with an eclectic soundtrack, this dynamic fairytale offers a much-needed escape from reality for all the family.
£34. Under 12s £24 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Philharmonia Orchestra is Anvil Arts’ Orchestra in Partnership
The Anvil: Thu 6 Feb / 8pm
Jimmy Carr: Laughs Funny
Returns Only
Tickets for this event have sold out. Please email your name, address and contact number to box.office@anvilarts.org.uk to be added to the waiting list.
£39 (includes £4 booking fee)
Suitable for: ages 16 and over
The Anvil: Wed 5 Feb / 7.30pm
The Classic Rock Show
Celebrate three decades of the world’s greatest classic rock music, with a stunning multi-million dollar sound and light show to match.
Featuring the music of Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, Queen, The Rolling Stones, The Eagles, AC/DC, The Beatles, Meat Loaf, Aerosmith, The Who, Fleetwood Mac, and more.
Note-for-note, anthem after anthem, riff after riff, and solo after solo – culminating in a show-stopping guitar duel that is definitely not to be missed!
£49, £44, £39 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Anvil: Fri 7 Feb / 7.30pm
Jon Culshaw
Imposter Syndrome
The star of Dead Ringers, The Impressions Show, and Partygate takes his brand-new show on the road.
Join Jon Culshaw for an evening of comedy and music as he conjures up an array of the best-known personalities from the worlds of entertainment, politics, and beyond in his trademark hilarious style.
£31 (includes £4 booking fee)
Suitable for: ages 16 and over
“I really liked dancing with my sisters at the front! It was REALLY exciting. I want to see them again!”
Phoebe (aged 3)
The Anvil: Sat 8 Feb / 7.30pm
The ELO Show
A Tribute to the Genius of Jeff Lynne
The ELO Show are back with a stunning new stage production, featuring a band of amazing musicians, complimented by a female string section, playing hit after hit from the group’s vast back catalogue.
Expect songs like Evil Woman, Don’t Bring Me Down, Telephone Line, Sweet Talkin’ Woman, Turn to Stone , and of course, Mr. Blue Sky , plus many more, with a surprise or two.
£32 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Forge: Sat 8 Feb / 11.30am
Family Folk Show with Megson
Award-winning folk duo Megson blend their infectious mix of heavenly vocals and lush harmonies into a gentle, entertaining concert specially for little ones, featuring children’s folk songs old and new from their When I Was a Lad and Little Bird albums.
£12.50. Under 16s £10 (includes £4 booking fee)
Suitable for: ages 0–8 years
The Anvil: Sun 9 Feb / 7.30pm
Boyzlife
featuring Keith Duffy & Brian McFadden
Boyzlife , the super group comprised of Boyzone’s Keith Duffy and Westlife’s Brian McFadden , are celebrating the defining hits from both acts with their first tour in two years.
The duo will perform a mixture of songs, including Boyzone’s I Love The Way You Love Me, All That I Need, No Matter What , and Westlife’s My Love, I Lay My Love On You , and Uptown Girl . £46, £41, £34. VIP upgrade £154 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Anvil: Wed 12 Feb / 7.30pm
Senbla presents Opera International ’s award-winning Ellen Kent production
featuring the Ukrainian Opera & Ballet Theatre Kyiv with international soloists, highly-praised chorus, and full orchestra
Directed by Ellen Kent , this brand-new production is traditionally staged and features beautiful sets and costumes.
La Bohème is one of the most romantic operas ever written. It tells the tragic tale of the doomed, consumptive Mimi, and her love for a penniless writer.
The set reflects the Bohemian art of the period, and will include snow effects, and Muzetta’s dog will also make an entrance.
This tale of Parisian love and loss features many famous arias, including Your Tiny Hand is Frozen, They Call Me Mimi, and Muzetta’s Waltz.
£49, £45, £41, £37. Under 25s and f/t students half price (plus booking fee), over 65s £2 off (includes £4 booking fee)
Sung in Italian with English surtitles.
Buy tickets for both La Bohème and Madama Butterfly (4 May) and save 20%
The Anvil: Thu 13 Feb / 7.30pm
Prague Symphony Orchestra
Dvořák The Noonday Witch
Prokofiev Piano Concerto no. 3
Shostakovich Symphony no. 5
Gabriela Montero piano
Tomáš Brauner
The programme opens with Dvořák ’s symphonic poem based on a spine-chilling Czech folk tale.
Prokofiev ’s best-known piano concerto is a blend of dynamic pianism and swooning melodies. The spectacular finale builds up enormous energy.
Arguments continue over the true meaning of Shostakovich ’s most performed and recorded symphony, but it remains a work of extraordinary emotional and musical tension, poised on a knife edge between survival and disaster.
£45, £40, £34, £25, £17. Under 25s and f/t students £12 (includes £4 booking fee)
6.30pm / The Forge
The Anvil: Fri 14 Feb / 8pm
Jack Dee
Small World
Tickets for this event have sold out. Please email your name, address and contact number to box.office@anvilarts.org.uk to be added to the waiting list.
£34 (includes £4 booking fee)
Suitable for: strictly ages 14 and over (likely to be swearing and adult content). Children younger than this will not be admitted, even if accompanied by an adult.
“She performs from her soul, and her playing is phenomenal” Leipzig Volkszeitung
The Anvil: Sat 15 Feb / 7.30pm
Peter Andre in The Best of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons
Selling Fast
This nostalgic musical journey pays tribute to the life and career of four boys from Jersey, who soon went on to become one of the most recognised groups in history.
Featuring all your favourite songs, including Sherry, Big Girls Don’t Cry, Can’t Take My Eyes off You, and many more leaving you saying Oh, What a Night!
£49 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Anvil: Wed 19 Feb / 7.30pm
Philharmonia Orchestra
Prokofiev Violin Concerto no. 2
Rachmaninov Symphony no. 2
Daniel Lozakovich violin
Tugan Sokhiev
Prokofiev ’s second violin concerto was written in the same summer as the ballet Romeo and Juliet , and shares its drama and lyricism. The tender slow movement is one of the composer’s most beautiful, while the finale is an exuberant dance.
Rachmaninov ’s Second Symphony is a richly scored, full-blooded masterpiece. The first three movements are all to varying degrees based on the same falling theme, while the finale is a joyous outburst of fanfares and celebration.
£45, £40, £34, £25, £17. Under 25s and f/t students £12 (includes £4 booking fee)
6.30pm / The Forge
The Philharmonia Orchestra is Anvil Arts’ Orchestra in Partnership
The Anvil: Sun 23 Feb / 7.30pm
The Bickram Ghosh Rhythm Experience
Don’t miss a phenomenal showcase of drumming and percussion when a superstar group of musicians makes its first ever visit to the UK – the Bickram Ghosh Rhythm Experience .
From the wildly infectious songs of bhangra and Bollywood to the beauty of its ancient dance traditions, Indian music has influenced everyone from George Harrison and Philip Glass to today’s chart hits.
Bickram Ghosh is one of the great tabla players of modern times. After working with giants such as Ravi Shankar and Ali Akbar Khan, his albums Talking Tabla and Rhythmscape broke new ground in extending the tradition. He is also well known for film scores, and was Oscar-nominated for the music to the film Jal .
He is joined by an incredible line-up including the explosive V. Suresh on ghatam (clay pot), the “ mind-bending, gasp-worthy ” ( US National Public Radio ) B C Manjunath , Arun Kumar on Western drum kit, and introducing the brilliant young sitar player Abhishek Mallick .
The unstoppable rhythms and amazing interplay between the all-star musicians make this an unforgettable performance. You don’t need to know about Indian music to enjoy their amazing artistry. There are only three dates in the country, so make sure you see them at The Anvil.
£29. Under 25s £12 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Haymarket: 27 Feb – 1 Mar / 7.30pm / Sat 2pm
Rumpus Theatre Company presents
The Ripper Files
by John Goodrum
Inspector Lestrange is up to his neck in evidence, but there’s one fact only the Ripper himself will know.
Charles William Lestrange was a newly promoted Detective Inspector in the Metropolitan Police, when ‘The Autumn of Terror’, as it came to be known, reached its grisly height.
Now, thirteen years later, and ably assisted by former Detective Constable Edwards and his close friend Miss Elsie Fordham, Le Strange rehearses again, for your delectation and delight, the ghoulish events in Victorian Whitechapel which have been a source of universal fascination since the 1880s.
Anyone wishing to leave the auditorium during the performance as a consequence of excessive fright or terror is respectfully requested not to do so in the middle of a murder!
£26, 2pm £24. Under 25s and f/t students £15.50, Friends £21 (27 Feb) (includes £4 booking fee)
Sat / 2pm
The Anvil: Fri 28 Feb / 7.30pm
Emilio Santoro as Elvis
The Anvil: Tue 25 Feb / 7.30pm
Chris de Burgh 5OLO
Tickets for this event have sold out. Please email your name, address and contact number to box.office@anvilarts.org.uk to be added to the waiting list.
£64, £54 (includes £4 booking fee)
World Champion Emilio Santoro brings his award-winning Elvis Presley show to the UK.
Having wowed America’s Got Talent , he was crowned the Ultimate Elvis Tribute at Graceland in 2024, officially making him the number one in the world.
Supported by his band The Creoles , Emilio celebrates Elvis’ younger years in spectacular style. Put on your Blue Suede Shoes and get All Shook Up for the greatest rock ‘n’ roll hits of all time, including Jailhouse Rock, Devil in Disguise, Can’t Help Falling in Love, Hound Dog, Always on My Mind, and many more.
£31.50 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Haymarket: Sun 2 Mar / 7.30pm
Harry Hill
New Bits & Greatest Hits
Tickets for this event have sold out. Please email your name, address and contact number to box.office@anvilarts.org.uk to be added to the waiting list.
£34 (includes £4 booking fee)
Suitable for: strictly ages 9 and over. Children younger than this will not be admitted, even if accompanied by an adult.
The Anvil: Wed 5 Mar / 7.30pm
Jason Donovan
Doin’ Fine 25
The Haymarket: Tue 4 Mar / 7.30pm
Albert Lee
Grammy Award-winning Albert Lee has worked with The Everly Brothers, Eric Clapton, Emmylou Harris, and The Crickets over his long and illustrious time in the industry. His distinguished picking style performed at breakneck speeds must be seen to be believed!
With his special blend of rock ‘n’ roll and country ballads, featuring his blistering signature hit Country Boy, this is your chance to see ‘the guitarist’s guitarist’ in action.
£29 (includes £4 booking fee)
Selling Fast
Jason Donovan brings a spectacular celebration of his remarkable career in music, theatre, film, and TV to Basingstoke.
Having delighted audiences worldwide with his versatility as an actor, singer and all-round entertainer, Jason has amassed a rich catalogue of hits, and Doin’ Fine 25 is set to be a sensational culmination of his outstanding achievements to date.
Brit Floyd return with their biggest production to date, celebrating the 50th anniversary of Pink Floyd’s album Wish You Were Here.
Taking to the stage to perform note for note renditions of all these tracks from Pink Floyd’s magnificent catalogue of albums, including the Dark Side of the Moon, The Wall, Animals, The Division Bell, Meddle, and much more.
Don’t miss the world’s greatest rock tribute experience!
Join multi-award winning, BAFTA-nominated writer and comedian Mark Steel for his new tour.
The topic? His battle with throat cancer he is thankfully winning and which only his rapier wit could fashion a comedy show out of. Cancer has done nothing to dull Mark’s acute political observations. You will laugh, you will cry, but you’ll laugh again, and again, and again.
£22 (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.
How to Beat Scammers
with TV expert Nick Stapleton
Investigative journalist Nick Stapleton explores the murky world of scams and fraud, as he shares some essential strategies to make sure your money stays where it should – in your pocket!
As the presenter of BBC’s BAFTA and multi-award winning Scam Interceptors, Nick has witnessed the sheer scale of this devious industry.
Join Nick Stapleton for this eye-opening show that promises to empower and help protect us all.
£28 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Anvil: Tue 11 Mar / 7.30pm
Sue, Matt & Phil Live!
The Reunion Tour
Tickets for this event have sold out. Please email your name, address and contact number to box.office@anvilarts.org.uk to be added to the waiting list.
£49 (includes £4 booking fee)
Not affiliated with the BBC or A Question of Sport
“A captivating performance… exemplary”
Vancouver Sun on Yeol Eum Son
The Anvil: Thu 13 Mar / 7.30pm
Tap Factory
10th Anniversary Tour
Tap Factory is thrilled to make its return to the UK with its 10th Anniversary Tour!
Prepare to be captivated as eight extraordinary male performers create an electrifying display of high-energy dance, explosive percussion, and jaw-dropping acrobatics, seamlessly woven together with live music and mesmerising choreography. This mind-blowing experience will ignite your senses and make your toes tap!
£31.50 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Anvil: Wed 12 Mar / 7.30pm
Vienna Tonkünstler Orchestra
Sibelius Symphony no. 7
Mozart Piano Concerto no. 21
Brahms Symphony no. 1
Yeol Eum Son piano
Yutaka Sado
Sibelius ’ last symphony absorbs the traditional four movements into a single, fascinating arch of music.
Mozart ’s most familiar piano concerto begins with a stealthy march which develops in many directions. The heart of the work is the slow movement of great beauty, and it ends with a riotous, comic-opera finale.
Brahms ’ titanic First Symphony is one of his most dramatic and fulfilling works.
£45, £40, £34, £25, £17. Under 25s and f/t students £12 (includes £4 booking fee) 6.30pm / The Forge
The Anvil: Sat 15 Mar / 7.30pm
Nikita Kuzmin
Midnight Dancer
Rising star of Strictly Come Dancing and Celebrity Big Brother , Nikita Kuzmin brings his brand-new show, Midnight Dancer , to the stage on his first-ever solo tour.
Nikita is joined by a sharp and chic cast of talented dancers and vocalists in a production jam-packed with the hits we all know and love, in an evening bursting with happiness, euphoria, and of course, world-class dance.
Tickets for this event have sold out. Please email your name, address and contact number to box.office@anvilarts.org.uk to be added to the waiting list
£30.50, £28.50 (includes £4 booking fee)
Suitable for: ages 16 and over
The Haymarket: Sat 15 Mar / 8pm
George Lewis
The Best Thing You’ll Ever Do
Described as ‘the funniest dad on Instagram’, stand-up comedian George Lewis is bringing his brand-new stand-up show to the stage. It won’t just be about parenting though, because he has done loads this year. He’s bought a new hoover, watched some more stuff on Netflix... loads.
£20 (includes £4 booking fee)
Suitable for: strictly ages 14 and over (likely to be swearing and adult content). Children younger than this will not be admitted, even if accompanied by an adult.
Selling Fast
The Anvil: Wed 19 Mar / 7.30pm
Philharmonia Orchestra
Missy Mazzoli These Worlds In Us
Mozart Piano Concerto no. 25
Mendelssohn Symphony no. 5 (Reformation)
Mao Fujita piano
Osmo Vänskä
A short and moving piece from American composer
Missy Mazzoli opens this concert, dedicated to her father who was a soldier in the Vietnam War.
Mozart ’s concerto is one of his very best, an expansive and majestic work in which trumpets are added to the usual orchestra.
Mendelssohn ’s powerful and exciting symphony cleverly interweaves psalm tunes with simpler, more rustic music, before ending with a triumphant set of variations.
£45, £40, £34, £25, £17. Under 25s and f/t students £12 (includes £4 booking fee)
6.30pm / The Forge
The Philharmonia Orchestra is Anvil Arts’ Orchestra in Partnership
“Brings the music sparkingly to life” Gramophone on Mao Fujita
The Forge: Fri 21 Mar / 8.15pm
Smith & Brewer and The 4 of Us
A superior double bill of song writing and musicianship.
Having both been asked to support Fairport Convention, Robert Plant’s Saving Grace, and Jools Holland, Smith & Brewer and The 4 of Us continue to captivate audiences. Two duos, two new albums, one evening of outstanding entertainment.
£20 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Anvil: Sat 22 Mar / 7.30pm
Paul Chowdhry Englandia
Selling Fast
Star of Taskmaster and the first British-Asian stand-up to sell-out London’s Wembley Arena is back.
With his boundless talent and undeniable charisma, Paul Chowdhry continues to captivate audiences worldwide, leaving an indelible mark on the world of comedy.
“On top of his game” ( Mail on Sunday ) “An irresistibly enjoyable comic” ( Sunday Times )
The Levellers Collective return to The Anvil with a new show.
The Collective live shows and albums came about after the Levellers decided to do something a bit different with their extensive back catalogue in 2018. Together with members of fellow Brighton group The Moulettes, they went on to record two albums, radically reworking their songs.
£45, £40.50, £34.50 (includes £4 booking fee)
Returns Only
Tickets for this event have sold out. Please email your name, address and contact number to box.office@anvilarts.org.uk to be added to the waiting list.
£59, £49 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Haymarket: 25 – 29 Mar / 7.30pm / Thu & Sat 2.30pm
London Classic Theatre present
Just Between Ourselves
by Alan Ayckbourn
Five birthdays. Two unhappy marriages. One possessive mother. It is 1976. Dennis tinkers in his garage, cheerfully indifferent to wife Vera’s impending breakdown. Marjorie hovers in the background, making tea and finding fault. Neil has planned a birthday surprise for his wife, but Pam doesn’t share his enthusiasm, preoccupied by frustrations of her own.
In perhaps his most emotionally charged play, Alan Ayckbourn evokes a world of hidden tensions and suppressed hostility. He skilfully navigates the tightrope between comedy and tragedy, guiding us towards a hilarious, yet thought-provoking finale.
Ayckbourn ’s masterclass in suburban comedy will form the centrepiece of London Classic Theatre ’s (What The Butler Saw, Abigail’s Party ) 25th anniversary celebrations.
£22 (matinee), Tue – Thu £25, Fri – Sat £29. Over 65s £2 off, under 25s and f/t students £12, Friends £20 (25 Mar) (includes £4 booking fee)
“A master of comic ingenuity” The Guardian
The Forge: Thu 27 Mar / 7.45pm
Phil Beer
Phil Beer is the multi-instrumental half of award-winning acoustic duo, Show of Hands. His solo performances are an eclectic mix of traditional tunes, covers of Springsteen, The Hollies, and his own compositions.
These songs hold significance to Phil and he honours them in his subtle, melodic, and amusing style.
£23 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Forge: Fri 28 Mar / 7.45pm
Iago Banet
The Anvil: Fri 28 Mar / 7.30pm
Al Murray
Guv Island
Selling
Fast
Al Murray is back for another round of Guv Island with some freshly brewed material on the menu.
Standing up so you don’t have to take it lying it down anymore, the Pub Landlord is here to make sense of the questions you probably already had the answers to.
Hailed as ‘The Galician King of Acoustic Guitar’, lago is a solo fingerstyle guitarist, showcasing his immense talent and receiving rave reviews along the way, creating stories without words and enthralling audiences as he does so. lago’s takes the acoustic guitar to its limits with new levels of skill, complexity and versatility, fusing styles, including gypsy jazz, blues rock, country, dixieland, swing, pop and folk.
A one-man-band not to be missed.
£19 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Anvil: Sat 29 Mar / 7.30pm
Jason Manford
A Manford All Seasons
Jason Manford is back with his brand-new live show.
Jason’s been busy since his last smash-hit stand-up show, but fans of his Absolute Radio show will know he hasn’t changed a bit. A Manford All Seasons is his latest comic offering set to hit the road, and is sure to be “expert observational comedy” ( The Guardian ) mixed with “comic gold” ( Mail on Sunday ).
£44, £38, £24 (includes £4 booking fee)
Suitable for: ages 14 and over
The Haymarket: Sun 30 Mar / 7.30pm
Cara Dillon
Coming Home
Cara Dillon will be bringing her Coming Home show to life once again.
Born from a collection of personal poems and the remarkable album and book that followed, this live production sees Cara skilfully interweave this emotive new material with a carefully curated selection of her beloved songs.
Don’t miss her most compelling live show yet – in which profound memories and emotions are unlocked in all who see it.
£31.50 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Haymarket: Wed 2 Apr / 7.30pm
Country Hits Live
Country Hits Live celebrates the atmosphere and energy of an evening in the heart of Tennessee, performed by a cast of multi-award winning musicians and singers – fronted by UK country singer Jade Helliwell , and direct from Nashville, Lars Pluto
Prepare be taken back through the history of country music featuring hits by Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Dolly Parton, Shania Twain, Garth Brooks, right through to Taylor Swift and Luke Combs.
£34, £31 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Anvil: Thu 3 Apr / 7.30pm
Rumours of Fleetwood Mac
Selling Fast
Personally endorsed by Fleetwood Mac founding member, Mick Fleetwood, Rumours of Fleetwood Mac is the ultimate tribute to one of rock and roll’s most remarkable groups.
Channeling the spirit of the group at their very best, Rumours of Fleetwood Mac offers an opportunity for fans, both old and new, to rediscover the songs and performances that have ensured Fleetwood Mac’s place as one of the most loved groups of all time.
£49, £44, £39 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Haymarket: Fri 4 Apr / 7.30pm
Joel Dommett
Happy Idiot
The Anvil: Fri 4 Apr / 7.30pm
What’s Love Got to Do with It?
After a fantastic sell-out tour across the UK, Tina Turner fans will have the time of their lives as What’s Love Got to Do with It? is back, celebrating the music and 60-year career of this incredible rock and soul star.
Expect a night of high energy and feel-good rock ‘n’ roll, performed by an all-live band. This joyous show features all the hits including Proud Mary, River Deep, Simply the Best, Private Dancer, and many more.
£40, £34, £30, £24 (includes £4 booking fee)
Selling Fast
Joel Dommett (The Masked Singer, I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here: Extra Camp ) returns to his stand-up roots with a brand-new show. With glamorous tales from behind the camera and less glamorous anecdotes of first-time fatherhood, Joel remains a charming, exhausted, Happy Idiot
£29 (includes £4 booking fee)
Suitable for: strictly ages 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 Haymarket: Sat 5 Apr / 8pm
Rich Hall
Chin Music
The Anvil: Sat 5 Apr / 7.30pm
The Bootleg Beatles in Concert
Celebrating the Music of the Fab Four on Film
Featuring hits from all five movies: A Hard Day’s Night, Help!, Magical Mystery Tour, Yellow Submarine, and Let It Be, The Bootleg Beatles and their orchestra take you on a whistle stop trip through the celluloid career of the Fab Four in their brand-new, spectacular multi-media stage show.
£43.50, £40.50, £37.50 (includes £4 booking fee)
‘Chin Music’ has two meanings. One is idle talk. The other is a brushback throw in baseball or cricket to intimidate the batter. Both describe Rich Hall’s comedy. Idle but intimidating. Sharp, quick, splenetic, and sublimely improvisational.
If you’ve never seen him, you need to hustle down and grab a seat because he never disappoints. Ever.
£22 (includes £4 booking fee)
Suitable for: strictly ages 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 Haymarket: Tue 8 Apr / 2pm
The Amazing Bubble Man
Louis Pearl explores the breathtaking dynamics of bubbles, combining comedy and artistry with audience participation, and enough spellbinding bubble tricks to keep everyone mesmerised.
From square bubbles, bubbles inside bubbles, fog-filled bubbles, giant bubbles, bubble volcanoes, tornados and trampolines, to people inside bubbles, The Amazing Bubble Man conjures shrieks of laughter and gasps of amazement from all ages.
£18.50. Under 16s £16.50 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Anvil: Wed 9 Apr / 7.30pm
Philharmonia Orchestra
Prokofiev Symphony no. 1 (Classical)
Shostakovich Violin Concerto no. 1
Symphony no. 1
Nemanja Radulović violin
Santtu-Matias Rouvali
Prokofiev ’s lively Classical Symphony takes Haydn’s symphonies as its affectionate model, successfully updating the form to the early twentieth century.
Shostakovich ’s is one of the finest twentieth century violin concertos. Its four movements include a hushed and poignant nocturne, an imaginative set of variations over a repeated bass line, and an unstoppable finale. His dazzling First Symphony reflects the optimism and experimentation of the early 1920s, while showing signs of how the nineteen-year-old composer would mature.
£45, £40, £34, £25, £17. Under 25s and f/t students £12 (includes £4 booking fee)
6.30pm / The Forge
The Philharmonia Orchestra is Anvil Arts’ Orchestra in Partnership
“Rouvali’s imaginative, often spectacular musicality is exceptional even in an era with a number of remarkable young conductors”
Los Angeles Times
The Anvil: Thu 10 Apr / 7.30pm
Karen Hauer & Gorka Marquez
Speakeasy
Strictly Come Dancing ’s Karen Hauer and Gorka Marquez bring their all-new show, Speakeasy
From the clandestine New York Speakeasy to the sultry Havana dance floors, the Burlesque Cabaret Clubs of the mid-1900s to the glittering mirror balls of Studio 54, Speakeasy will be a delicious dance experience.
Mamba, salsa, Charleston, foxtrot, and samba the night away with the electrifying cast of world-class dancers, vocalists, and musicians.
£59, £52, £42 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Haymarket: Sat 12 Apr / 12.30pm & 3.30pm
Based on the best-selling book by Tom Fletcher & Dougie Poynter and illustrated by Garry Parsons
When Danny and Dino’s favourite rock band are playing their last ever concert, they go on a quest to get the last two tickets. But with a villainous band manager lurking, nothing goes to plan. Will the band perform? Will Danny rock out? Or will Dino’s rumbling tummy save the day?
Adapted from the number one best-selling books by McFly members Tom Fletcher and Dougie Poynter , the whole family will have a poopy good time enjoying a brand-new story for the stage.
Featuring new songs by Tom and Dougie, a lot of laughs, and a whole lot of poo!
£20.50. Under 16s £19.50 (includes £4 booking fee)
Suitable for: all the family!
The Anvil: Fri 11 Apr / 7.30pm
Luther Live
The world’s premier show in celebration of ‘The Velvet Voice’, fronted by international Luther Vandross tribute Harry Cambridge and his 10-piece band.
Experience all the hits from his amazing career, culminating over 40 million album sales and eight Grammy awards, including Never Too Much, Here and Now, Dance with My Father, and many more.
£31.50 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Anvil: Thu 17 Apr / 7.30pm
Sing The Musicals
Direct from London’s West End, the first national tour featuring songs from the greatest musicals of all time, including Mamma Mia!, The Greatest Showman, Dirty Dancing, Les Misérables, Phantom of the Opera, The Rocky Horror Show, Mary Poppins, Oliver!, We Will Rock You, and many more.
Performed by a sensational live band and character singers, to make this the must-see sing-a-long spectacular of the year.
£30.50 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Anvil: Tue 15 Apr / 2pm & 6pm
The Wizard of Oz – Easter Panto
Follow the Yellow Brick Road for a fantastic all-new Easter pantomime version of The Wizard of Oz
Packed with brilliant dance routines, well known pop songs, lots of audience participation, and plenty of laughter for all the family!
There’s no place like The Anvil for family entertainment, so click those heels together and book your tickets now!
Suitable for: over 16s and over (evening performance)
The Anvil: Sun 26 Jan / 3pm
The Band of His Majesty’s Royal Marines Band
Basingstoke Deane Rotary is proud once again to host the majestic full concert Band of His Majesty’s Royal Marines, the Corps of Drums, and special guests The Chelsea Pensioners, who will again make this a very special event.
The music is mixed with great variety and contains music from the movies, swing band, comedic pieces, popular classical songs, and good old-fashioned tunes known by all generations. Join in with the wonderful Land of Hope and Glory that brings the Night of the Proms flag waving end.
£32, £24.50, £18. Under 16s £15 (includes £3 booking fee)
All proceeds go to The Royal Marines and The Royal Hospital Chelsea
The Haymarket: 6 – 7 Feb / 7.30pm / Sat 2.30pm Sherfield School Oklahoma!
Experience the story of Laurey, torn between cowboy Curly and farmhand Jud, while Ado-Annie faces her own romantic dilemma. Join Sherfield School for a captivating retelling of this American story, filled with love, rivalry, and unforgettable music!
Thu 6 Feb £13. Over 65s, f/t students and under 16s £10. Fri 7 Feb £18. Over 65s, f/t students and under 16s £15 (includes £3 booking fee)
The Haymarket: 13 – 22 Feb / 7.15pm / Sat 2pm
Basingstoke Gang Show
a multi-award winning variety show for all the family!
Basingstoke Gang Show is recognised as the best-selling and longest-running family variety show in the South of England, making their return for its 29th stunning spectacular year!
Get down with the Gang as they showcase a series of sensational songs, comical choreography, super sketches, and a whole lot more.
£24 (Sat 22 Feb / 7.15pm), £23. Under 16s £16 (includes £3 booking fee)
The Anvil: Sat 22 Feb / 7.30pm
Basingstoke
Symphony Orchestra
February Fiesta
Shostakovich Festival Overture
Saint-Saëns Cello Concerto no. 1 in A minor Scotchmer Overture To Perth (Australia) Schumann Symphony no. 3 in E flat major (Rhenish)
Jiaxin Lloyd Webber cello
Shostakovich’s bubbling Festival Overture embodies a grand celebration. Saint-Saëns’ Cello Concerto features one continuous movement in which three sections are linked via a principal theme. It effectively displays the lyrical qualities of the cello as well as exploring its virtuosic possibilities.
Stephen Scotchmer’s delightful Overture to Perth (Australia) was inspired by his holiday in Australia in December 2023. It mixes Australian sea shanties and music inspired by Aboriginal culture.
Schumann’s Rhenish Symphony, written in 1850, pays homage to the River Rhine in a musical picture of the region.
£27, £22, £15. Over 65s £2 off, under 16s £3, f/t students £13.50, £11, £7.50 (includes £3 booking fee)
Early booking offer: £2 off if booked by Sat 11 Jan
The Anvil: Sat 1 Mar / 7.30pm
Mayor’s Spring Charity Concert
The Mayor’s Charity Concert returns with a programme of music which includes something for everyone.
This year’s event will celebrate the key anniversary of Jane Austen as well as commemorate VE Day. These themes reflect the Mayor’s principle of fostering community cohesion by bringing people together to enhance the wellbeing of all.
This is a great chance to support the Mayor’s Charity Appeal, focusing this year on the North Hampshire Prostate Cancer Support Group, and the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Community Foundation.
£20. Over 65s and f/t students £16, under 16s £13 (includes £3 booking fee)
The Haymarket: 19 – 22 Mar / 7pm / Sat 2pm
Basingstoke Amateur Operatic Society presents
BAOS: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
Step into Willy Wonka’s whimsical world with BAOS’ vibrant production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory !
Roald Dahl’s beloved story comes to life on stage, filled with colourful characters, magical moments, and toetapping songs. Follow Charlie’s thrilling adventure as he discovers the wonders and mysteries inside Wonka’s chocolate factory. This enchanting show will ignite your imagination and satisfy your sweet tooth for spectacular theatre. Don’t miss out on this golden opportunity!
£29. Over 65s and f/t students £27, under 16s £25 (includes £3 booking fee)
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
The Anvil: Tue 25 Mar / 7.30pm
Choir Spectacular
A celebration of song with choirs from across Hampshire schools supported by Hampshire Vocal Ambassadors Choir and Hampshire County Choirs
£12 (includes £3 booking fee)
The Anvil: Sun 30 Mar / 7.30pm
Basingstoke Choral Society
Vaughan Williams A Sea Symphony Towards the Unknown Region Britten Four Sea Interludes from Peter Grimes
All three works regularly captivate audiences with their rich imagery and emotional depth, inviting listeners to travel on a profound and majestic journey across the seas of the world and the human soul. Croydon Philharmonic Choir, as well as a professional orchestra and soloists join to make this a concert not to be missed.
£27, £21, £15. Under 16s £7 (includes £3 booking fee)
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
Box Office: situated at The Anvil and The Haymarket main entrances.
Box Office Opening Hours
The Anvil Mon – Fri, 10am – 2pm Performance nights – open at 6pm
The Haymarket Open on performance nights only
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.
The Forge
Purple: Circle rows A to D plus CC and DD 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
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 can be reprinted at a cost of 50p per ticket. We operate a re-sale facility on sold out performances (admin and booking 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.
Beat the queues with our hassle-free click & collect service. Pre-order your drinks using your e-ticket and simply pick them up from your designated collection
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 or sent by text. 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
E-tickets
We will send you a text message 10–48 hours before the performance, with a link to your e-tickets and other information about your visit.
point. And, try our new Order to Seat service at The Anvil, which allows you to enjoy a selection of food and drink delivered right to your seat pre-show!
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
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/ privacy-and-cookie-policy
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.
We’re delighted to announce our new and improved Friends of Anvil Arts scheme. As a Friend, you’ll not only be supporting us, but you’ll receive a range of exclusive benefits as well.
