arts centre
spring summer 2015
welcome The Beacon has just turned 2 years old and looking back over the year it’s fantastic to see that we held 196 performances attended by more than 47,500 people. 377 people regularly attend weekly classes in the Beacon and our busy Learning team have partnered with many schools and community groups across Inverclyde. That’s more than 10% growth in everything we do and we couldn’t have done any of it without your support; thank you. This year we’ve got a great selection of entertainment on offer including more adventures from ‘Maggie’ in 52 Shades of Maggie; Steve Brookstein; illusions from The Champions of Magic and Murray the Magician and some classic variety from Dean Park.
what’s on guide
There’s new writing in Sell a Door’s thrilling new interpretation of Jekyll and Hyde and Inverclyde-based Sleeping Warrior Theatre, with their comedy Love 2.0 about dating in the digital age. In May the National Theatre of Scotland will preview their new tour of Yer Granny here, starring a whole host of familiar faces including Gregor Fisher. The UK’s leading inclusive theatre company Graeae, will present Blood Wedding in collaboration with Dundee Rep. We are proud to be one of only three venues in Scotland to be hosting this new
arts centre
interpretation which includes fully integrated BSL interpretation, captioning and audio description.
opening times box office: Monday-Saturday Sunday
9am to 8pm 12pm to 6pm
bistro: Monday-Sunday
From 9am Daily
01475 723723 info@beaconartscentre.co.uk www.beaconartscentre.co.uk
Inverclyde has a uniquely vibrant amateur scene and we’re delighted to welcome back some of our local companies; Kayos Youth Theatre presents Miss Saigon, whilst Sideline Productions brings The Witches of Eastwick. And there’s the end of year dance showcases; Linda Jackson Dance, Dance Mania, Dance Dreams and Dance1Studio. There’s plenty to keep your wee ones entertained too: Visible Fictions’ The Adventures of Robin Hood (our cover image), Children’s Classic Concerts’ Junk Trunk, and FUNBOX’s Pirates and Princesses to name a few! With tickets from as little as £5, we hope that you will join us soon for a great night out.
beaconartscentre
@thebeaconarts
Photography by Marc Bowker, Manuel Vason and Tommy Ga-Ken Wan.
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the beacon what’s on guide
Julie Ellen Artistic Director and CEO February 2015
Jekyll and Hyde
Palm Court Mondays
p4
One Act Play Festival
Love 2.0
p5
Dance Display 2015
Steve Brookstein
p6
Voodoo Room
Back to Broadway
p7
Diamondz Showcase
Dean Park
p8
Illusions, Love & Magical Things
Luke Danskin - Psychic Medium
p9
The Adventures of Robin Hood
Three’s a Crowd
p10
Junk Trunk
Miss Saigon
p11
KidO
Champions of Magic
p12
Blood Wedding
Far From Over
p13
A Night of Dirty Dancing
And the Beat Goes On
p14
Nathan Carter
Memory Lane
p15
Only One Direction
3,000 Trees: The Death of Mr William MacRae
p16
Simon & Garfunkel - Through the years
Danny Champion of the world
Trio Gitan: Orient Express
Varmints
p18
Des Clarke – The Trouble with Being Des
The Firelight Show - Murray the Magician
p19
Pirates & Princesses
Fairy Tale in Greenock
p20
Yer Granny
52 Shades of Maggie
p21
The Witches of Eastwick
Gary Little - This Thing Is
p22
Peter Morrison
69 Shades of Black
p23
7+
7+
p17
Upcoming Shows
p24
Workshops and Events
p25
Dance Residency Programme
p26
Bistro
p27
Take part
p28
Hire the Beacon
p30
Support Us
p32
Booking Information
p33
Access
p34
key to symbols Comedy Drama
Drama
Light Entertainment
Musical Theatre
Comedy Stand-Up
Dance
Live Music
Family
Community or Amateur Production
These icons give guidance on the ideal starting age for enjoying a show. Parents or guardians should consider the content of this show if children are attending. Known to contain strong language and/or adult themes.
These icons give guidance as to the age group the event is suitable for. Please note that these are recommendations only. You should decide what is suitable for yourself and your group.
spring/summer – 2015
3
Sell a Door
Inverclyde Schools
Jekyll and Hyde
Palm Court Mondays
Sat 21 Feb 7:30pm
Mon – 23 Feb, 30 Mar, 27 Apr 4.15pm
£10.00/£8.00
Free
Theatre
Bistro
Robert Louis Stevenson’s cult classic Jekyll and Hyde is reinterpreted in this modern adaptation set in an alternative London of the future, written by Jo
Pop along to the Beacon for a pot of tea, a slice of cake and ponder the thoughts of the day whilst listening to a live eclectic range of light music,
Clifford and multi award-winning touring company Sell a Door.
provided by the pupils of Inverclyde Schools.
A devoted man of science, Dr. Henry Jekyll is a high-profile cancer specialist, determined to find the chemical breakthrough that will solve mankind’s most challenging medical uncertainties. Instead, Jekyll’s controversial research leads him to accidentally unleash his ultimate inner demon: the infamous Mr. Hyde.
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the beacon what’s on guide
Scottish Community Drama Association
Sleeping Warrior
One Act Play Festival
Love 2.0
Thu 26 – Sat 28 Feb 7pm
Thu 26 Feb & Wed 4 Mar 7:30pm
£10.00/£8.00 under 18’s
£10.00/£8.00
Theatre
Studio
Three nights entertainment from local drama groups. The mixture of nine one act plays will be performed by members of Greenock Players –who always
Gary is a catch, on Facebook at least. He’s virtually a virtual dream man – smart, funny, profound. A certified “Lad”. He even likes all the same things
prove their versatility from pantomime to drama. GIP Theatre Company – always original, always entertaining and Thistle Theatre Company – fresh from The Diary of Anne Frank.
as Suzie – cheeky full-fat lattes, One Born Every Minute and the divine melodies of Mick Hucknall and Simply Red.
Greenock Players will also showcase their young talent with two teams competing in the Youth section. Will you agree with Adjudicator Colin Dolley’s summing up of the individual productions and his eventual choice of winners...the only way to find out is to be part of the audience.
However, when the pair try and move their whirlwind virtual romance into the real world, things don’t go quite according to plan… Love 2.0 is an outrageous new comedy about dating in the age of social media, where Facebook profiles are brought to vivid life on stage and nothing is quite what it seems. Shortlisted for the Channel 4/Oran Mor Comedy Drama Award. Supported by Creative Scotland.
spring/summer – 2015
5
Jackson Dance Academy
Dance Display 2015
Steve Brookstein
Mon 2 & Tue 3 Mar 7:30pm
Thu 5 Mar 7:30pm
£12.50
£15.00
Theatre
Studio
Celebrating 30 years of dance.
Ten years after becoming the first winner of the X Factor, soul singer Steve Brookstein is coming with a new acoustic show featuring guitarist Luca
The most exciting display of dance and talent around, celebrating 30 years of excellence.
Boscagin. Remembering the legends of soul, Forgotten Man recalls the great songs and singers of the past. Including classic from Marvin Gaye, Luther Vandross, Sam Cooke, Freddie Scott Al Green and many more. “Brilliant” – Sir Tom Jones.
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the beacon what’s on guide
Voodoo Room
Back to Broadway
Voodoo Room
Back to Broadway
Fri 6 Mar 7:30pm
Sat 7 Mar 7:30pm
£10.00/£8.00
£15.00/£14.00
Studio
Theatre
Paying tribute to both Hendrix & Cream, Voodoo Room are a stunning high energy “Power Trio” featuring some of the UK’s finest musicians.
Back To Broadway is the all-singing, all-dancing, theatrical sensation that invites you to take a breathtaking journey through the magical world
Their collective career credits include playing with Steve Winwood, Duran Duran, Ben E King, Fish, Thunder and Jo Harman.
of musicals. Now in its fourth successful year, Back To Broadway returns with a stunning new show for 2015. All the best-loved songs from the world’s greatest musicals are showcased in a spellbinding and captivating stage spectacular! Be enthralled by the unforgettable One Day More from Les Misérables, the glitz and glamour of Copacabana, the uplifting Time Of My Life from Dirty Dancing and the fantastic Defying Gravity from Wicked: just some of the timeless showstoppers performed live on stage by some of the country’s finest performers currently touring the UK. So join us for an evening of non-stop entertainment that will leave you clamouring for more. With unforgettable performances, dazzling costumes and original
“(They) sound fantastic” Judi Spiers – BBC Radio
choreography, all backed by a stunning New York setting.
spring/summer – 2015
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Dance Mania
Jendagi Uk Ltd
Diamondz Showcase
Dean Park
Mon 9 Mar 7pm
Sat 14 Mar 7:30pm
£11.00
£16.50
The athletes & dancers hold National Championship titles which will be displayed on the night!
Enjoy an evening with Scotland’s top entertainer Dean Park as he celebrates 40 years in showbusiness. Not only is he Scotland’s top comedian he shall also be singing favourites from the era of the Big Bands, Motown, Country Music and Sinatra.
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the beacon what’s on guide
Beacon Dance
Illusions, Love and Magical Things
Luke Danskin – Psychic Medium
Mon 16 Mar 7:30pm
Tue 17 Mar 7:30pm
£6/£4
£15.00
Theatre
Theatre
Illusions, Love and Magical Things brings together Beacon Dance groups from 16 months to 87 years. We will follow a magical trunk moving
Luke Danskin, Scotland’s exciting new psychic medium, is bringing his astonishing interactive show to Greenock. Although Luke’s live shows are
through different generations that will take you on a journey through enchanted memories and mystical meanderings. We will stumble across a mysterious teddy bears picnic and wonder what happens when the genie is let out of the lamp…
full of emotion, his natural warmth and endearing personality makes audiences feel completely at ease. Passionate in encouraging people to celebrate the lives of loved ones, laughter is a common theme at Luke’s shows.
This production is supported by the Creative Learning Network (CLN). The production team is made up of a group of young people who are participating in the programme.
Since taking to the stage Luke has sold out every show. Audiences are left utterly speechless at his capability to give detailed messages with amazing accuracy.
For more information about Beacon Dance Groups, please contact Gail Sneddon (Dance Developer) gail@beaconartscentre.co.uk
With a huge waiting list Luke Danskin is in high demand. Don’t miss your chance to see this sensational psychic medium in action! This show is for the purpose of entertainment only.
spring/summer – 2015
9
Visible Fictions
7+
All or Nothing
The Adventures of Robin Hood
Three’s a Crowd
Thu 19 Mar 1pm and 7pm
£12.00/£10.00
£5
Theatre
Studio
Three’s A Crowd brings together six superb performing artists in this breath-taking and touching look at human relationships, emotions and how we
Somewhere near you there is a band of brothers fighting for justice. Seeking to rid the land of evil and return hope to the poorly treated. They are lean, mean, trained justice fighting machines! Armed with whatever comes their way, nothing is as it seems in this Sherwood Forrest, but one thing is for sure . . . no rogue is safe! Join internationally acclaimed Visible Fictions for a silly and unexpected take on Robin Hood and be prepared to unleash your imagination!
Thu 19 Mar 7:30pm
all affect each other. Set around a reunion of friends, what really lies beneath the surface of this get together? How are they connected? What happens to the dynamic, to each other, when a third element becomes involved? Told with stunning imagery, thrills, spills, heartbreak, happiness and the odd bit of humour, Three’s A Crowd is an aerial dance theatre show involving harness flying, aerial acrobatics, circus, dance and theatre. Directed by Jennifer Paterson, designed by Becky Minto, written by Zoe Venditozzi, lighting design by Kate Bonney and set to a powerful new score by Luke Sutherland. All or Nothing is Scotland’s leading aerial dance company creating, performing, training and helping to establish aerial arts in Scotland. Try aerial dance for yourself. See p25 for details of workshops.
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the beacon what’s on guide
Schools Edition Children’s Classic Concerts
Kayos Youth Theatre
Junk Trunk
Miss Saigon
Sat 21 Mar 3pm
Wed 25 – Sat 28 Mar 7:30pm
£5
£16/£13
Theatre
Theatre
Percussion superstars Owen and Olly and friends will be drumming up a storm with Junk Trunk – the latest showstopper from family favourites Children’s
Kayos Theatre Company is proud to present the amateur Scottish premiere of one of the most iconic west end musicals in recent memory. From
Classic Concerts. Join in the fun as they turn household junk into funk! From dustbin drum-kits to trash band tom toms and hosepipe horns, this action-packed family concert is not to be missed. With all of the usual joining in, musical mayhem and top tunes, Junk Trunk is definitely not just a load of old rubbish!
the writers of Lés Miserables, Miss Saigon boasts a fantastic storyline and score, with such fabulous songs as Bui- Doi, Why God, Why, Last Night of the World, I Still Believe and Movie in my Mind.
Joins us before the show for the Garbage Band workshops. See p25 for details.
spring/summer – 2015
11
Scottish Opera
RIP Productions
KidO
Champions of Magic
Thu 26 Mar 12pm & 3pm Fri 27 11am & 2pm
Sun 29 Mar 7:30pm
£5
Theatre
Studio Building on the success of BabyO and SensoryO, their much-loved productions for babies and toddlers, Scottish Opera’s new show for 3-4 year olds and their carers is fast paced and full of fun. Directed by acclaimed children’s theatre director Lu Kemp, and with music by Katy Lavinia Cooper, KidO leads audiences into a world of sound and rhythm where anything can happen. Encouraging play and make-believe, KidO tells the story of two very different characters who find it difficult to share a space. Can they find a way to live together with a little help from their friends? The show features a mix of live singing, opera and specially written music, and uses vocal and body percussion to create exciting rhythms and build up words in the blink of an eye.
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£19.50/Under 16 £16.50/Family £55
the beacon what’s on guide
Join our award winning team of tricksters for a spectacular night of mystery that’ll keep you guessing for a long time to come. Witness stunning illusions including disappearances, teleportation, levitation and a heart stopping finale that sees one performer walk through the spinning steel blades of a giant industrial fan, all presented with lighting and pyrotechnics to rival the biggest arena productions. “Spectacular family show... take a seat and prepare to be astounded, astonished and amazed” – Heart FM
Dundee Rep Ensemble, Derby Theatre and Graeae
Dancedreams Theatre School
Blood Wedding
Far From Over
Wed 1 Apr 1pm/Thu 2 Apr & Fri 3 7pm
Sat 4th April 1.30pm / 6.30pm
£12.00/£10.00/£5.00 schools
£14
Theatre
Fresh from the success of winning the Mardi Gras Challenge in London and Showbiz of The Year in
In this day and age, anybody can love anybody. Or are there still taboos? David Ireland’s radical new take on Lorca’s play re-fuels this classic story with a contemporary twist. Jenny Sealey and David Ireland push this tale of searing lust, love and rebellion to its limits. When young lovers are overrun with passion, infatuation and defiance – the consequences are explosive.
Blackpool. The talented pupils of Dancedreams Theatre School will once again stage a spectacular array of singing and dancing in their annual show Far from Over. With terrific music, fiercely energetic routines and dazzling costumes.
Includes a creative combination of BSL interpretation, captioning and audio description. Post show discussion: Thu 2 & Fri 3.
spring/summer – 2015
13
The Entertainers
Horsecross Arts & Random Accomplice
A Night of Dirty Dancing
And the Beat Goes On – A story of sequins, survival and Sonny & Cher
Tue 7 Apr 7:30pm £18.50 Theatre No film has captured the hearts of a generation like Dirty Dancing. Relive the passion, indulge in the romance and celebrate the greatest movie soundtrack of all time. It’s all down to Kellerman’s end of season show. Revel in the moments you loved, the memories you made and music that’s resonated throughout the years: including She’s Like the Wind, Big Girls Don’t Cry, Hungry Eyes and, of course, the Oscar-winning (I’ve Had) The Time of My Life. Don’t be the one sitting in the corner. Immerse yourself in the timeless, theatrical treat. Take a trip back to the summer of ’63, in the ultimate coming of age romance. Please note this show is not affiliated with ‘Dirty Dancing: The Classic Story on Stage’ currently on tour in the UK and worldwide.
Wed 8 Apr 7:30pm £12.00/£10.00 Theatre Peter and Lily have a secret. They love Sonny & Cher, their favourite celebrity couple of all time. With a string of hits in the 1960s and a successful American variety TV show in the 1970s, Sonny and Cher were mismatched, they were camp, they were good honest fun. Decades later Peter and Lily are still listening to their records, still lip-syncing to their songs and practicing their comedy routines every evening. But beneath their obsession with sparkle and showmanship is a tragedy. And as dark truths start to pop their bubblegum act, it becomes clear not everything is quite as it seems… A new play from Olivier award-winning playwright, Stef Smith, And The Beat Goes On is performed by Random Accomplice Artistic Directors, Julie Brown and Johnny McKnight with Julie Wilson Nimmo and directed by Horsecross Arts’ Associate Director for Theatre Kenny Miller in a brand new creative partnership.
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the beacon what’s on guide
Pinetree Promotions
Timeless Theatre
Nathan Carter
Memory Lane
Sat 11 Apr 7:30pm
Thu 16 Apr 2:30pm & 7:30pm
£23.00
£14.00/£12.00 concs and matinee
Theatre
Theatre
Nathan Carter, the great entertainer and one of the biggest names in irish music makes a return visit to the Beacon where his show there last year got a well
From the biggest nostalgia show producers in the UK, a stunning musical journey through the past six decades. Including some of the greatest all time
deserved standing ovation. Nathan has a superb show of country, Irish and popular songs that will suit young and old and he and his superb six man band will put on a show that you will remember and want to go to again, and again. Clap your hands at his mega hit Wagon Wheel and hear some of the songs from the album Wagon Wheel live.
hits by Judy Garland, Connie Francis, Buddy Holly, Cliff Richard, Dean Martin, Frank Sinatra, Sandy Shaw, Dusty Springfield, Elvis Presley, Tom Jones, The Carpenters, Bay City Rollers, Abba, Michael Bublé and many more. Beautifully costumed and choreographed. Performed by West End and International vocalists, along with the stunning Memory Lane dancers.
Guests on the show will be the Haley Sisters. Jo-ann and Becky have appeared with Daniel O’Donnell and have travelled all over the world singing their country songs.
Come along and enjoy some of the greatest songs ever written. From the producers of A Timeless Collection, All our Yesterdays, and Rolling back the Years.
spring/summer – 2015
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Pink Productions
Teatro Magnetico
Only One Direction Sat 18 Apr 7pm
3,000 Trees: The Death of Mr William MacRae
£15/£12/£45.00 family
Fri 24 Apr 8pm
Theatre
£10.00/£8.00
Following their sell-out 2014 tour the world’s original One Direction tribute band is back again with a brand new show for 2015. Travelling all over the
Studio
UK, Europe, as far out as Dubai and having played to over a quarter of a million people, Only One Direction have secured themselves as the most popular band on the market. Capturing the charisma, energy and enthusiasm of the famous five this show features songs from all 4 of One Direction’s smash hit albums including What Makes You Beautiful, Story of My Life, Best Song Ever, Midnight Memories, Steal My Girl and so many more! The perfect family friendly pop concert guaranteed to keep you Up All Night complete with giveaways, audience participation and a meet & greet with the boys.
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the beacon what’s on guide
Willie MacRae – anti-nuclear campaigner, SNP politician, and successful lawyer, whose death prompted speculation that he was murdered by the state. MacRae was found dying in his car on a highland road in 1985 with a single gunshot wound to his head, apparently fired from his own gun. Was he under surveillance the day of his death? Did he die because of his investigation of the nuclear industry in Scotland or, as many now believe, because he was about to expose a sex abuse scandal at the heart of the establishment? With songs by Andy Paterson, this show enjoyed a sell-out run at the 2014 Edinburgh Fringe. It is a powerful and thought-provoking play, offering a reminder of darker political times, seen through the eyes of a troubled man.
Bookends
London Contemporary Theatre
Simon & Garfunkel – Through the years
Danny Champion of the World
Sun 26 Apr 7:30pm
Mon 27 Apr 7pm/Tue 28 1pm
£16.00/£14.00
£8/Schools £5
Theatre
Theatre
Following a sell-out run at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, receiving 4 stars from Broadway Baby, Bookends are back on tour with their moving and
Follow the journey of a young English boy, Danny, and his father William, the most exciting Dad a boy has ever had. The pair live in a caravan fixing
powerful live performance and multimedia show that takes a chronological journey through the friendship and career of Simon & Garfunkel.
cars for a living. But his Dad has a secret hobby – poaching pheasants.
Following a BBC Radio tour the show was describe as a “must see” with Bookends being labeled as the most authentic sounding tribute to the music of Simon & Garfunkel. Opening at the start of their career and ending at the much publicised breakup the show features hits such as The Sound of Silence, Mrs. Robinson, The Boxer and the unforgettable Bridge Over Troubled Water.
When Victor Hazell, a local developer, wants to take over the land their garage is on trouble ensues but Danny rises to the occasion, and he and his Dad come up with a most exciting plan! London Contemporary Theatre is proud to present one of Roald Dahl’s best loved books. A magnificent adventure for all the family.
spring/summer – 2015
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Trio Gitan
The Orient Express Musical Tour of Europe
East London Dance, Sadler’s Wells and Stratford Circus
7+
Varmints
Fri 1 May 7:30pm
Fri 1 May 1:15pm
£10.00/£8.00
£5
Studio
Studio
Trio Gitan proudly present an extravaganza of passionate European musical styles, based on a fantastical voyage on the legendary Orient
There was once only the sound of bees and the wind in the wiry grass, the low murmuring of moles in the cool dark earth, and the song of birds in the high blue sky.
Express train. This exciting show is packed full of the charm, romance and wonder of a grand tour of Europe on board the famed Orient Express. Trio Gitan will take you on a breathtaking musical adventure, visiting some of the most romantic European capitals before returning to the final destination of Paris. Playing with passion, poise and virtuosity, Trio Gitan push the boundaries of acoustic music to the limits in this spellbinding show. Their fresh interpretations of classic music and song form an enchanting display of sensitivity and skill. Individually they are all masterful musicians; together they are simply spectacular.
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the beacon what’s on guide
Varmints tells the poignant tale of one small creature’s struggle to preserve a world in danger of being lost forever. Every day the city grows larger and the noise grows louder, until there is so much noise that no-one can hear themselves think. This exhilarating dance-theatre show is choreographed by B-boy Wilkie Branson and directed by children’s theatre specialist Sally Cookson. Based on the award-winning book by Helen Ward with beautiful illustrations by Marc Craste, Varmints is a rich visual piece of original dance theatre for young people and their families. Free interactive post show discussion.
Lakin McCarthy Entertainment Ltd
Cameron Murray
Des Clarke – The Trouble with Being Des
The Firelight Show – Murray the Magician
Sat 2 May 7:30pm
Fri 8 May 7:30pm
£14.00/£12.00
£10.00/£8.00
Theatre
Studio
Glasgow-based comedian Des Clarke is taking to the road with the full-length version of his hit 2014 Edinburgh Fringe Assembly Rooms sell out show – The Trouble With Being Des.
This show drags you into the world of 1930s dustbowl North America to blast your senses with magic, stunts and escapes so powerful you will not
Des is an award-winning stand up comedian who first appeared at the Edinburgh Fringe as a teenager. Since then, he has travelled the world with his warm and offbeat brand of humour.
Enter the world where Fearchara knows your every thought, where items found in a haunted Winnipeg cellar exhibit strange powers, where you see life put on the line not just once but twice!! Murray performs Russian Roulette and sinks into Houdini’s most dangerous escape, the Milk Can.
In his latest show, Des reveals he is at a crossroads in his life and has some things he needs to get off his chest. This time it’s personal. There have been some major bumps in the road though. All part of The Trouble With Being Des. Des is a Chortle Award Winner. “Hilarious homespun comedy…in this very funny, very Scottish stand up show” – Three Weeks
believe your eyes.
Murray is one of a few escapologists worldwide who perform the Milk Can escape. Filled with frozen cold water it is sealed and locked from the outside. Failure means a drowning death. “Gripping performance” – Dumfries & Galloway Life Magazine
spring/summer – 2015
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Funbox
Beacon Youth Theatre
Pirates & Princesses
Fairy Tale in Greenock
Sat 9 May 1pm & 3:30pm
Fri 15th – Sat 16th May 7pm
£12.50/£46.00 Family/£10.50 Groups
£3
Theatre ‘Pirates and Princesses’ is the brand new show from Anya, Kevin and Gary (formerly of the Singing Kettle). Together they are FUNBOX. Our magical FUNBOX contains everything you need to sing a song and have an adventure, but it won’t open until you can find the special keys to open it up. But all the FUNBOX keys have been lost at sea. Using an old treasure map can we find all the keys and still be home in time for tea? Family favourite singalong songs like; Over The Irish Sea, Eely Ally O, There Was a Princess Long Ago, My Bonnie Lies Over The Ocean and What Shall We Do with The Drunken Sailor, alongside brand new songs, will entertain and enthrall kids of all ages, from nought to ninety. Dress up and join in the fun, come as a pirate, or a princess or a pirate princess! Who knows you may even get the chance to help us on stage.
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the beacon what’s on guide
Studio Your home town might seem boring, but sometimes, if you wish hard enough, magical things can happen! This short devised play involves all of Beacon Youth Theatre’s primary aged classes and tells the story of one child’s dream of a less humdrum life and their encounter with a slightly ditzy fairy.
National Theatre of Scotland
Robert C Kelly and Red Brick Road Productions
Yer Granny Tue 19 – Thu 21 May 7:30pm
52 Shades of Maggie (Dirty Dancing in the pub)
Previews: £10.00
Fri 22 8.30pm/Sat 23 May 5pm & 8pm
Theatre
£20.00
Yer Granny is a riotous new comedy about a diabolical 100-year-old granny who’s literally eating her family out of house and home. She’s already
Theatre
eaten their fish and chip shop into bankruptcy and now she’s working her way through their kitchen cupboards, pushing the Russo family to desperate measures just to survive beyond 1977. As proud head of the family, Cammy is determined that The Minerva Fish Bar will rise again and that family honour will be restored – and all in time for the Queen’s upcoming Jubilee visit. But before Cammy’s dream can come true the family members must ask themselves how far they will go to solve a problem like Yer Granny. Adapted from the smash-hit Argentinian comedy classic La Nona, the cast of Yer Granny features some of Scotland’s best-loved performers, including Gregor Fisher in the title role, Maureen Beattie (Casualty), Louise McCarthy (Mamma Mia!, West
The loveable Maggie Muff is back with a bang in the highly anticipated sequel to 51 Shades of Maggie. The dust has settled in the estate after the shenanigans of Maggie’s last adventure and now she and her idiot sidekick, big Sally-Ann, are planning a birthday party in the pub. Big Sally-Ann’s dream is to dance to the last dance from Dirty Dancing at the party – but she can’t find her rhythm, a dress or a swimsuit that fits! Join Maggie and chums for tales of a front wedgie, being caught short in zumba, and a friendship tested to the limit. This one-woman show will have you crying with laughter and you really will have The Time of Your Life!
End), Brian Pettifer (The Musketeers), Barbara Rafferty (Rab C Nesbitt), Paul Riley (Still Game) and Jonathan Watson (Only An Excuse?). spring/summer – 2015
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Sideline Productions
Scottish Comedy Agency
The Witches of Eastwick
Gary Little – This Thing Is
Wed 27 – Sat 30 May 7:30pm
Fri 29 May 8pm
Wed £16/£13, Thurs £16, Fri/Sat £18 (upper £16)
£10.00/£8.00
Theatre Three beautiful witches and one horny devil! From the company that brought you ‘Sunshine on Leith’, Sideline Productions presents ‘The Witches of Eastwick, the musical’. Based on the film starring Jack Nicholson, the story is set in a smug New England town where, one stormy night, three bored women wish for the man of their dreams and invite Daryl van Horne into their lives. Daryl’s creepy charisma seduces the desperate women and causes chaos in the town. However, things take a tragic turn and the witches come to their senses. Can they use their new powers to save the town, or have things gone too far? This musical bursts with melody and the story is vibrant, witty and sexy.
Studio Gary Little is one of the most consistent and funny acts in Scottish Comedy. He is recognised as a master storyteller and in this brand new show he talks Death, Love, Dog-walking Etiquette and Dying Hair. With a post-graduate from the University of Hard Knocks, the inaptly names Gary Little will be striding high with his comedy gold. Despite his imposing physical presence – a 6’ 2” skinhead – Gary has an incredibly personable, relatable style. Combine that with his unflinching honesty and openness – and just a hint of vulnerability – and audiences everywhere fall in love with his easy charm. He has that rare gift to turn mundane, every-day experiences into pure comedy gold, which will have you simply crying with laughter. ‘Some of the best stand-up I’ve seen’ Kevin Bridges
22
the beacon what’s on guide
Greenock Medical Aid
Michael Courtney Productions
The Peter Morrison Show
69 Shades of Black
Sat 6 Jun 7.30pm
Sun 7th June 7:30pm
£15.00
£20.00
Theatre
Theatre
Peter Morrison is one of Scotland`s most popular and accomplished singers. Starring in the hugely successful “Songs of Scotland” TV series in the
Starring Faye Tozer (from STEPS) as ‘Christina Black’.
seventies launched him on a singing career that has taken him literally all over the world. Apart from producing and promoting his own shows in every Scottish theatre he has sung in all the major British concert halls - the Royal Albert Hall, the Royal Festival Hall, the Barbican Centre, Manchester`s Bridgewater Hall, the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall and Edinburgh’s Usher Hall. For 25 years he was one of the principal soloists in the BBC’s famous Friday Night is Music Night. The Peter Morrison Show will include many well known and up and coming singers and musicians in what promises to be a great night of entertainment.
Boring, vanilla, Horlick’s swiller William Shight’s most interesting trait has always been his snigger inducing name. Up until now that is! Since landing his dream job at one of the country’s top advertising agencies, things have taken a nipple twisting turn for the shocking. Christina Black, the company director, has taken a shine to our William and attempts to seduce him with an indecent proposal. Willy tries in vain to resist but in the end relents and signs a 69 page contract, the one Chrisitina intends to use to make a man out of him! The 20 pages of “don’t” and 49 pages of “do whatever the hell I want” will lead William on a hilariously painful journey of a lifetime. This hilarious new comedy has a whip cracking script that promises to leave you wincing and laughing in all the right places.
spring/summer – 2015
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upcoming shows
M.A. Promotions
Phil and Aly
Mad about the Musicals
Thu 3 Sep 7.30pm
Sun 4 Oct 7.30pm
£16
£23/£21
Phil & Aly, two of Scotland’s most acclaimed traditional musicians have been delighting
Starring Gareth Gates and Michael Courtney, Mad About the Musicals takes you on a whistle stop
audiences across Scotland with their masterful, versatile and amusing performances and leading us in the dance on BBC’s live Hogmanay show for
tour from the heart of London’s theatre land to the glitz of Broadway, celebrating the very best songs from the shows we all know and love!
over two decades. October 2013 saw the legendary folk duo receive the Sunday Mail Great Scot Award’s ‘Lifetime Achievement” Award.
A small taste of what we have coming to the Beacon in autumn 2015
Live Nation
Stewart Francis Tue 15 Dec 8pm £17.50
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the beacon what’s on guide
The star of Mock The Week, Michael McIntyre’s Roadshow and Live At The Apollo, embarks on a brand new stand up tour with a fantastic and hilarious new show!
workshop & events
All or Nothing
Children’s Classic Concerts
Aerial Dance workshops With All or Nothing
Garbage Band Workshop
17 March
£2
We are offering two types of workshop for schools and community groups: Aerial Harness and
Studio
Aerial Cocoon
Aerial Harness Hang, swing and fly around in aerial harness with All or Nothing. The workshop will begin with a floor based warm up then basic moves in harness before going onto learn sequences and repertory from the show. Suitable for age 12+.
Aerial Cocoon Suspend, swing and hang upside down in aerial cocoon with All or Nothing. Using aerial cocoons material trapeze, the workshop will begin with a floor based warm up then basic moves in cocoon before learning a short sequence. Led by performers from Three’s A Crowd, this will give you more of an insight into what is involved in the show and how it feels to be airborne.
Sat 21 Mar, 2pm
Be part of the Junk Trunk action! Owen and Olly would love it if you brought your homemade junk instruments along to the concert. You can download instructions from our website for inspiration (available from February 2014) or come along to our Garbage Band workshop at 1pm on the day of the concert and work with CCC musicians to create your wacky and wonderful recycled instrument. Workshop places are limited so be sure to book early!
For more information about booking a workshop, or if you are an individual who would be interested in participating, please contact: Gail Sneddon, Dance Developer – gail@beaconartscentre.co.uk / 01475 723723.
spring/summer – 2015
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dance residency programme Here at the Beacon we are committed to supporting professional dance artists to develop and present innovative dance and performance work. This season sees the development of Anna Krzystek’s new work Untitled #1 and Ultimate Dancer (Louise Ahl’s) new work Holy Smoke. Both pieces will feature in Dance International Glasgow and we are very excited to have them working here at the Beacon. These residencies enable the Beacon to be at both the heart and the forefront of innovative 21st century dance and performance nationally and internationally. Sharing of work in progress for Louise Ahl Thursday 23rd April 2015 5pm Sharing of work in progress for Anna Krzystek Friday 8th May 2015 3.30pm For more information please contact gail@beaconartscentre.co.uk
Untitled #1
Holy Smoke
Anna Krzystek
Louise Ahl
Untitled #1 starts from Nothing. In looking at nothing everything comes into focus. Untitled #1 emerges from a sense of a new beginning and the unadulterated rawness of something new.
The Beacon will support the development of the new dance performance Holy Smoke, which will premiere by Ultimate Dancer and Crew at Tramway in May 2015. Holy Smoke investigates shamanic and personal-transformative practice using movement, text and sound and is kindly supported by Creative Scotland.
Untitled #1 extends laterally, exploding out wards in a visceral, aural and visual exploration of what is ‘there’ & ‘not there’.
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the beacon what’s on guide
the bistro Come and enjoy the taste of Scotland.Locally sourced, seasonal and sustainable are more than just buzzwords here - from Ayrshire bacon and Stornoway black pudding, Aberdeen Angus beef, West Coast seafood and Isle of Arran Cheeses, to the Fyne Ales of Argyll and Black Isle, we like to keep things close to home. Join us for breakfast, lunch or dinner, pop in for some homebaking or even just a drink. With spectacular views of the Firth of Clyde together with ample free parking, accessibility and wifi, it’s the perfect place to relax and unwind. To book a table call 01475 723723.
Open for Breakfast, lunch and dinner from 9am daily spring/summer – 2015
27
take part
There are lots of ways you can take part. We have classes where you can try your hand at theatre and dance, as well as special projects throughout the year.
day
age/school year
time
cost per term (8wks)
Saturday
P1 & 2
10-10.45am
£36
P3,4,& 5
10.45-12pm
£44
P6 & 7
12pm- 1.15pm
£44
S1 & 2
1.15pm-2.15pm
£44
S3 up to 21yrs
2.30pm-3.45pm
£44
beacon youth theatre
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the beacon what’s on guide de
dance classes
We offer classes for fun and for fitness, for every age from 16 months to 55+. Try your first class for FREE as part of the Get Scotland Dancing initiative.
day
class
age
time
cost
Monday
First Steps
16-24 mnths
10.00-11.00am
£4*
Micro movers
2-4 years
11.00-12.00pm
£4*
Flying Feet
4-7years
5.30pm- 6.15pm
£4*
Young Groovers
8-11years
6.30pm-7.30pm
£4*
Dance Workout
Adult Class
6.30pm-7.30pm
£5 per week
Platinum Project
60+ years
10.00am-11am
FREE
Beginners Ballet
4-10 years
5.30pm-6.30pm
£4*
Senior Ballet
13+
6.30pm-7.30pm
£4*
Beacon Youth Dance Company
14+
5.00pm 7.30pm
FREE
Tuesday
Thursday
*These classes must be paid in term blocks. Check with box office for term dates.
coming soon Creatablity – creative movement classes for young people with additional suppoprt needs. To register your interest and for more information contact Gail Sneddon - 01475 732 732 / gail@beaconartscentre.co.uk For more information or to book for any of our activities call 01475 723 723.
spring/summer – 2015
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hire the
30
the beacon what’s on guide
Whether you’re looking for a space for a business meeting or somewhere to celebrate a special occasion, our flexible event rooms can be arranged to create the ideal space. They are suited to events of all sizes; including conferences and seminars, private dining and celebrations, exhibitions, rehearsals and performances.
weddings We want you and your guests to have an experience that will be special and memorable for years to come. Our spaces can accommodate up to 150 guests and our event team can help advise on trusted suppliers. Call our events team to arrange a personal viewing and to discuss arrangements.
Each of our spaces is fully accessible, with wireless broadband available throughout the building, and additional technical support available on request. Full length windows create light and bright spaces, with panoramic waterfront views over the Clyde Estuary, giving wow factor to any occasion. Our in-house catering and bar facilities offer a range of options to suit every style of event and budget. Contact Stephanie Dodson, Events Co-ordinator: stephanie@beaconartscentre.co.uk 01475 723723
spring/summer – 2015
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The Beacon is Inverclyde’s home to the arts welcoming and encouraging events and activities which reach into every part of our community.
support us The Beacon offers the perfect canvas for theatre,
You can help us by:
dance, music, comedy and visual art forms. The main theatre and our smaller studio space offer
recommending us
flexibility and functionality; our rehearsal rooms with their purpose-built flooring and natural light, offer
different for a meal out; to host a birthday party; to hold a meeting or conference; or for special events
a stunning setting for every art form. These spaces
like a wedding, please think of us.
could offer the perfect setting for your events or functions, and are available for hire throughout the year. Our Bistro offers a day-round menu of delicious locally-sourced food; a well-stocked bar of drinks and cocktails; and offers catering services to support functions. These activities generate additional income which underpins our charitable purposes in developing young disadvantaged people from the local area; working with people with mental health problems; along with our primary focus of bringing arts to Inverclyde’s communities. The Beacon is the result of a vision, and the huge efforts of a group of Inverclyde people who have worked tirelessly to bring the vision to life. Now we need your help to continue to develop their vision – becoming more than just a beautiful building by offering wider community-based events and activities across Inverclyde. Bringing the arts to everyone!
If friends or family are looking for somewhere a bit
helping us Why not fundraise on our behalf? Run an event or a sponsored activity, or just gather your friends around you and ask them to donate. Or think of giving to support out work instead of birthday or Christmas presents.
volunteering If you have spare time and energy, why not help us? We have a wide range of volunteering opportunities available and are working to achieve ‘Volunteer Friendly’ status.
taking a seat For just £500, your name or message can be inscribed on the back of a seat in our stunning theatre. Recognising an anniversary, remembering a loved one; giving a lasting gift; or simply doing something out of the ordinary – say it in words.
gift aid it By allowing us to claim Gift Aid on your donation, your gift becomes worth even more – we can reclaim 25p for every £ donated by an individual taxpayer from HMRC.
talking to us Please do get in touch – by emailing us at info@beaconartscentre.co.uk; calling the Box Office on 01475 723723, or calling in to see us. 32 the beacon what’s on guide
the bookinginformation in person Our friendly and efficient box office is open Monday to Saturday from 9am – 8pm and from 12pm – 6pm on Sunday’s (8pm on performance evenings)
box office: 01475 723723
We are here to help you and can offer guidance and info on everything going on in and around The
stage
Beacon – just ask!
stalls
You can pay for tickets at the box office by cash,
a 15 – 1 a
cheque, debit or credit card (a fee of £1 is applied to credit card transactions)
b 22 – 1 b
Tickets must be paid in full on point of booking.
e 25 – 1 e
by telephone
g 25 – 1 g
c 23 – 1 c d 24 – 1 d
f 24 – 1 f
Call (01475) 723 723 to book your tickets by credit or debit card. You can choose to collect your tickets from the box office or for a £1 fee your tickets can be posted.
book online Online booking is available for most of our shows at www.beaconartscentre.co.uk Available 24 hours a day, you can book your seats and choose to have your tickets posted or collect them from the box office. A fee of £2.20 is applied to all online sales.
group bookings For bookings of 10 people or more you may reserve tickets. On most shows 1 free ticket is given for every 10 tickets booked. Please check with box office staff if this applies to the show of your interest.
concessions
h 24 – 1 h
w 5
w 1
j 25 – 1 j
k 24 – 1 k
l 25 – 1 l ps 24 – 23
ps 2–1
m 22 – 1 m
w 4
ps 22 – 21
n 21 – 1 n w 3
w 2
ps 4–3
circle ps 20 – 19
b 24 – 1 b
ps 18 – 17 ps 24 – 23 ps 22 ps 21 ps 20 – 19
ps 6–5
a 25 – 1 a
ps 8–7
c 25 – 1 c
e 25 w 25
– 22 w 24
d 24 – 1 d
e 4–1 w w 1 2
ps 2–1
upper circle
ps 3
f 1-2 & 23-24 restricted viewing
ps 4
f 24 – 1 f
g 25 – 1 g h 22 – 1 h
ps 6–5
terms & conditions 1. Tickets should be checked at the point of purchase as mistakes cannot be rectified later. 2. Latecomers will be asked to wait until a suitable
Concession tickets are available on selected shows, and apply to Students, Children (16 or under), Senior Citizens (60 and up), Unemployed, Registered disabled (assisting companions for disabled patrons are admitted free of charge).
break in the performance. 3. Tickets cannot be refunded unless the
All concessions must be claimed at the time of purchase and proof of eligibility shown on collection.
silenced before entering the auditorium. 7. Every audience member must
performance is cancelled or rescheduled. 4. Management reserves the right to refuse admission, and to alter the advertised programme should this prove necessary. 5. The use of camera and recording equipment in the auditorium is prohibited. 6. Mobile phones and pagers should be
have a valid ticket, including infants 8. Beacon Arts Centre reserves the right to introduce special offers and discounts on tickets at any time. spring/summer – 2015
33
access to the wheelchair access Wheelchair access is available throughout the building, There are 5 dedicated wheelchair spaces in the stalls of our main theatre and a further 4 wheelchair spaces in the circle.. We have 6 wheelchair spaces available in our studio. To ensure availability, early booking is strongly recommended.
assistance dogs are welcome Assistance dogs are welcome throughout the building.
induction loop Induction loop systems are provided. Please ask our Box Office staff to advise you on the best seats to book, to optimise the hearing benefits from this system.
additional access requirements If you need any additional help to enjoy your visit to the theatre, just ask for the Duty Manager upon arrival. It may be best to telephone 01475 723723 or email info@beaconartscentre.co.uk in advance of your visit to organise any additional access requirements.
where to find us The theatre is situated on Custom House Quay opposite the Custom House; it is in easy reach of Greenock town centre and close to public transport.
by road The beacon is just off the A8 behind Greenock Police Station. Turn into Brymner Street at the Police Station and then turn right into Customhouse Place. The Beacon is situated at the end of the road to the right of the Custom House.
parking The Beacon Arts Centre Customhouse Quay, Greenock PA15 1HJ
01475 723723 info@beaconartscentre.co.uk www.beaconartscentre.co.uk 34
the beacon what’s on guide
There are 8 disabled parking bays in front of the building, these are for blue badge permit holder only. For non-permit holders parking is on street, in and around Custom House Quay and Victoria Harbour. At peak times access alternative parking via Virginia Street.
– Bus Stop t hS
Hig
Inverclyde Council
– Train Station
Da
Custom House
lry
mp
le
St
arts centre
A8
Police Station Victoria Harbour e Ru
Alternative Parking at Peak Times
d En
Well Park
St
Greenock Central Rail
Re
ge
nt
A8
St
by train
thank you for your support
Our local station, Greenock Central is only 500 metres away with a frequent service on the Glasgow
We are very grateful for the support we receive from our audiences, volunteers, patrons, donor’s key
Central/Gourock line. Journey times from Glasgow are approx. 30 or 40 mins and currently run until after 11pm (an hour earlier on Sundays) see
funders, charitable trusts and sponsors. Your ongoing support allows the Beacon to continue being a vibrant, active theatre, bursting at the seams with
www.scotrail.co.uk
creative energy.
follow us
We look forward to seeing you soon.
Find us on Facebook and keep up-to-date with all the latest events, ticket news and show listings from the Beacon. We are developing lots of interactive content for our Facebook friends in the future, with regular updates on our productions, advanced notice of all our shows throughout the year and special ticket offers. Just search for us in Facebook and click LIKE on our page to join in! If you’re more of a tweeter then you can follow us at www.twitter.com/thebeaconarts
get information to your desktop Sign up to our email updates and you’ll be the first to know when we have news to share. You’ll also have access to ticket offers and competitions – all at the click of a mouse. Just visit www. beaconartscentre.co.uk and join our mailing list from there.
The Greenock Arts Guild Ltd. trading as The Beacon is a not-forprofit organisation, a registered Scottish charity and a member of the Scottish Theatre Community. Registered in Scotland Company No. SCO24805. Registered Scottish Charity No. SC003030.
spring/summer – 2015
35
February 21
Jekyll and Hyde
7
A Night of Dirty Dancing
23
Palm Court Mondays
8
And the beat goes on - A story of sequins,
26-28
One Act Play Festival
26
Love 2.0
March
survival and Sonny & Cher 11
Nathan Carter
16
Memory Lane
1
Dance Display 2015
18
Only One Direction
4
Love 2.0
24
3,000 Trees: The Death of Mr William MacRae
5
Steve Brookstein
26
Simon & Garfunkel - Through the years
6
Voodoo Room
27
Palm Court Mondays
7
Back to Broadway
27-28
Danny Champion of the world
9
Diamondz Showcase
May
14
Dean Park
1
Varmints
16
Illusions, Love & Magical Things
1
Trio Gitan: Orient Express - A Musical Journey
17
Luke Danskin - Psychic Medium
2
Des Clarke - The Trouble with being Des
19
The Adventures of Robin Hood
8
The Firelight Show - Murray the Magician
19
Three's a Crowd
9
Pirates & Princesses
21
Garbage Band Workshop
15 - 16
Fairy Tale in Greenock
21
Junk Trunk
19 & 21
Yer Granny
25-28
Miss Siagon
22 - 23
52 Shades of Maggie
26-28
KidO
29
Champions of Magic
27 - 30
The Witches of Eastwick
30
Palm Court Mondays
29
Gary Little - This thing is
(Dirty Dancing in the pub)
June
APRIL 1-3
Blood Wedding
6
The Peter Morrison Show
4
Far From Over
7
69 Shades of Black
arts centre
The Beacon Arts Centre Custom House Quay, Greenock PA15 1HJ
01475 723723
beaconartscentre @thebeaconarts
info@beaconartscentre.co.uk | www.beaconartscentre.co.uk Graphic Design:
www.derekcollinsdesign.co.uk