www.beaconartscentre.co.uk
LIGHTING UP LIVES
IN INVERCLYDE
Apr-Jul 2022
EVENTS AT A GLANCE
JULY
JUNE
MAY
APRIL
DATE/S
GENRE
Fri 1 & Sat 2 Apr Musical Theatre Fri 1 & Sat 2 Apr Music Sun 3 Apr Music Tue 5 Apr Theatre Wed 6 Apr Tribute Fri 8 Apr Tribute Fri 8 Apr Music Sat 9 Apr Variety Mon 11 Apr Opera Thu 14 – Sat 16 Apr Theatre Thu 21 Apr Variety Wed 20 & Sun 24 Apr Theatre Tue 26 – Sat 30 Apr (Festival) Theatre Sat 30 Apr Music Thu 5 May Theatre Thu 5 May Tribute Fri 6 May Theatre Sat 7 May Theatre Tue 10 & Thu 12 May Variety Wed 11 May Music Sat 14 May Tribute Sat 14 May Theatre Wed 18 May Comedy Thu 19 May Tribute Fri 20 May Theatre Mon 23 May (Lunchtime) Theatre Wed 25 May Tribute Thu 26 May Music Fri 27 & Sat 28 May Musical Theatre Sat 28 May Tribute Sun 29 May Comedy Sun 29 & 30 Mon May Family Thu 2 & Fri 3 Jun Family/Kids Thu 9 – Sat 11 Jun Dance Sat 11 Jun Dance Thu 16 Jun Tribute Fri 17 – Sun 19 Jun Festival Tue 12 Jul Music Thu 14 Jul Music Wed 20 Jul Family/Kids Thu 21 Jul Music Fri 22 Jul Music Sat 30 Jul Dance TAKE PART EXHIBITIONS INFORMATION AND ACCESS COMING SOON
GENRE & VENUE KEY T
S
GS
MAIN THEATRE
STUDIO
GALLERY SUITE
TITLE
PAGE
Orphans: A New Scottish Musical 2 Blue Rose Code 2 Legends of Irish Music & Song: The Fureys 3 Our Carnal Hearts 3 Some Guys Have All The Luck 4 Oh What A Night! 4 Karen Marshalsay 5 Carnival of Carnage 5 The Marriage of Figaro 6 MON EH ‘TON! 6 All Our Yesterdays 7 This Is How It Happens 7 NT Connections 12-13 Konrad Wiszniewski & Brian Kellock 14 One Mississippi 14 Lost in Music 15 Two’s Company 15 Dancing with the Devil 16 WCS/QMU Degree Showcase 16 Tenors Unlimited: That’s Amore! 17 Hotel California 17 The Metamorphosis: Unplugged 18 Friends! The Musical Parody 18 A Vision of Elvis 19 The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde 19 A Number 20 Matt Monro Story 20 Aly & Phil 21 Stepping Out 21 MacFloyd: To The Moon and Back 22 Menopause The Musical 2: Cruising Through Menopause 22 2065 23 Little Top 23 Alba Ballet 24 The Flames 24 The Magic of Motown 25 Meliora Festival 26-27 Damien O’Kane & Ron Block 25 The Counterfeit Sixties 28 The Polar Bears Go Go Go 28 Ireland The Show 29 Sun Records: The Concert 29 Burn (SOLD OUT) 30 8-9 10 30-31 32-33
TRIBUTE
OPERA
MUSIC
THEATRE
DANCE
VARIETY
FAMILY
BALLET
COMEDY
MUSICAL THEATRE
2022 Spring Season Welcome Welcome to our Spring/ Summer brochure, and what a season we have in store for you! We’re thrilled to have two visits from the National Theatre of Scotland book-ending the season, with preview performances of Orphans in April, prior to its Scottish tour, and BURN with Alan Cumming in July, before its run at the Edinburgh International Festival. Other great theatre performances include Our Carnal Hearts, One Mississippi and 2065. It has been lovely to welcome some of our local groups back to the Beacon over the past months and we look forward to more of these performances with GIP’s Mon Eh 'Ton in April and Greenock Players’ Stepping Out in May. Inverclyde Council's Meliora Festival will be at the Beacon from 17-19 June and offers a weekend of entertainment and fun for all ages to kickstart your summer. Don’t miss Chatting Up Elaine C Smith, Scottish Opera’s Pop-Up Opera, Ed Byrne and the chance to experience the amazing Luminarium. The National Theatre's Connections Festival will be hosted at the Beacon for the first time in April and we are excited to welcome school and youth theatre groups from across Scotland. We hope you can join us for their performances.
If you're a music lover, you will be spoiled for choice with performances across the musical spectrum including Blue Rose Code, The Fureys, Karen Marshalsay and Aly & Phil, as well as a range of fantastic music shows including Sun Records The Concert, Tenors Unlimited with That's Amore, Lost in Music, A Vision of Elvis and The Magic of Motown. We are also excited to announce the launch of our Beacon Jazz Club, which will take place once a month from May. Please check our website for further details. Our Curator, Fraser Taylor, continues to bring a fascinating series of exhibitions from local, national and international artists. Full details on page 10. Every day at the Beacon we see the potential of the arts to transform lives and our Creative Engagement team delivers a wonderful range of opportunities to participate. Details of Beacon Youth Theatre, Creatability, Platinum Dance and Dance for Parkinson’s are on pages 8 and 9 of this brochure. Our Cafe/Bar is open every day from 9am4.30pm and later on performance evenings. What better setting for dinner and a show? Thank you to all of our customers for your continued support and we look forward to seeing you. Pauline Kane | Director
Our own Beacon Young Company will present This is How It Happens, highlighting the global impact of the climate emergency, on 20 and 24 April. All information correct at the time of printing. For the most up to date information visit www.beaconartscentre.co.uk or follow us on social media. @thebeaconartsc
@thebeaconarts
@thebeaconarts
Beacon Arts Centre
Beacon Arts Centre is proud to be funded and supported by
Greenock Arts Guild Ltd, trading as Beacon Arts Centre, is a company incorporated in Scotland under the Companies Acts (Company No. SC024805, VAT Registered Number 265140673, Scottish Charity Number SC003030)
APRIL Noble Savage Management
Blue Rose Code Support act to be announced
Fri 1 Apr – SOLD OUT Sat 2 Apr – Extra Date! 7:30pm | £16
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Ross Wilson aka Blue Rose Code’s songs address universal themes of love, loss, travel, home and hard times in a deeply personal way. Embracing folk, Americana, jazz and soul, his soulful eclecticism has rightly earned comparisons to John Martyn, Van Morrison and Tom Waits.
'One of the greatest live acts around right now so if you get a chance to see them in any of their many guises do yourself a favour and go.' AmericanaUK
www.bluerosecode.com Image credit: Siobhan Watts
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April - July 2022
The Fureys
An Tobar & Mull Theatre and Arch 468 presents
Our Carnal Hearts
by Rachel Mars with music by Louise Mothersole Sun 3 Apr | 7:30pm £24/£22(conc)
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Legends of Irish music & song, The Fureys, renowned for their hit songs, have been entertaining audiences worldwide for 43 years. The oldest of the brothers, Eddie Furey left home in 1966 and travelled to Scotland at the time of the great folk revival where he shared accommodation with then unknown folk singers Billy Connolly, Gerry Rafferty and Alex Campbell. In 1969 with his brother Finbar, he was the special guest for the Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem throughout the USA and Canada. In 1971 he moved to mainland Europe where he toured for seven years. Dave Stewart from the Eurythmics has credited Eddie with teaching him his first chords on guitar when they met up in the North East of England while Dave was still a teenager.
Tue 5 Apr | 7:30pm £15/£10 (senior citizen) £8 under 18s
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This fairy comes round your house. You, she says, You are in luck. Ask for anything you want. Anything in the world and I’ll give it to you. But whatever you ask for, your neighbour gets the same thing, but double. Great, you say. Fine. Cut out one of my eyes. With a raucous chorus of original music, Our Carnal Hearts is a gleeful, thrilling and murky celebration of envy, competitive spirits and all the times we f*ck each other over.
BOOK TICKETS AT www.beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723723
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APRIL Prestige Productions
Handshake Ltd
Oh What A Night! Wed 6 Apr | 7:30pm £24.50/£22.50 (conc)
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Over 50 years since the release of Rod’s first album, Some Guys Have All The Luck – The Rod Stewart Story is back in theatres with a brand new show, bringing to the stage a fantastic live concert celebration of one of rock music’s most successful artistes of all time. Capturing the excitement, energy and charisma that have made Rod a true rock icon, including those infamous moves and all the hits like Handbags & Gladrags, Maggie May, Baby Jane, Do Ya Think I’m Sexy, Sailing, Tonight’s The Night, The First Cut Is The Deepest and You’re In My Heart.
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Fri 8 Apr | 7:30pm £24/£22 (conc)
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Restricted view £12
Oh What A Night! takes you on a musical journey through the incredible career of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons, now immortalised in the multiaward winning show Jersey Boys, which has been packing theatres worldwide since its debut in 2005. Valli’s unmistakable voice dominated the airwaves for more than two decades with classics such as Sherry, Let’s Hang On, Big Girls Don’t Cry, Can’t Take My Eyes Off You, My Eyes Adored You, December 63 (Oh What A Night), Bye Bye Baby, Who Loves You and many, many more. With a repertoire which needs no introduction, Oh What A Night! combines infectious personalities, amazing vocals, slick harmonies and even slicker dance moves to deliver a show full of energy and nostalgia which will leave you wanting more!
April - July 2022
Rob Adams
Carnage Events
Karen Marshalsay Fri 8 Apr | 8pm £12/£10 (conc)
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Karen Marshalsay is a master of traditional Scottish harp music. Playing all three Scottish harps: gut-strung, wire-strung and the distinctive-sounding bray harp – Karen has appeared throughout the UK, Europe, America and Australia. Between gigs with Irish music legend, Boys of the Lough founder Cathal McConnell’s group, Karen released her solo album, The Road to Kennacraig, in 2019, earning a four-star review in The Scotsman. Full of musical insights, her concerts take you into the timeless world of Scotland’s ancient instrument.
Carnival of Carnage Sat 9 Apr | 7pm £25
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Strictly 18+
Carnival of Carnage is back for its second year after an extremely successful sold-out debut in 2019, growing exponentially in production, acts and theatre size. Carnival of Carnage brings performers from all over Scotland to perform in acts such as aerial hoop, pole dance, burlesque, drag, contortion & comedy. This year we are excited to announce guest performances from the World Champion in Pole Dance Heidi Hildersley Lyle, International pole icon Kitty Velour and many more.
BOOK TICKETS AT www.beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723723
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APRIL GIP
MON EH ‘TON! Thu 14-Sat 16 Apr | 7:30pm £19/£17 (conc)
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MON EH ‘TON! returns by popular demand to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the mighty ‘Ton winning the Scottish Cup. The show tells the history of Greenock Morton Football Club in a funny and poignant way.
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‘I'm not a football fan but went as my husband wanted to see it. Really enjoyed it. Touching, informative and hilarious.’ Audience member
Mon 11 Apr | 7:30pm £17/£15 (conc) £6 (under 18)
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‘Terrific show. The banter was magic and the interplay with the audience is one of the highlights.’ Audience member
One of Scotland's top professional touring opera companies returns with The Marriage of Figaro. The big day has arrived for Figaro and Susanna, but a catalogue of twists and turns threatens to spoil it all! Will the wedding go ahead, or will Count Almaviva have the last laugh? Oliver Platt directs a new English version of the opera, designed by Alisa Kalyanova, and performed in a special arrangement for piano (Andrew Brown) and cello (Andrew Huggan). A stellar cast includes Andrew McTaggart, Catriona Clark and Scottish Opera emerging artists, Arthur Bruce and Charlie Drummond.
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April - July 2022
Beacon Youth Theatre
This Is How It Happens Wed 20 Apr | 7:30pm Sun 24 Apr | 1pm £8/£6 (conc)
Thu 21 Apr 2:30pm | £16 7pm | £18/£16(conc)
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If you are looking for the ‘ultimate feel-good experience’, this show is not to be missed! Enjoy this slick, fast moving and vibrant show, bringing you some of the greatest songs ever written, performed by a cast of world class singers and dancers.
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Written, devised, and performed by the Beacon Young Company, This Is How It Happens tells the story of three strangers from across the globe, brought together by the cataclysmic and devastating forces of climate change, and looking ahead to the future of our planet. When the world changes beyond all recognition and we are uprooted from life as we know it, how do we keep moving forward while holding onto our humanity?
Step back into the magical atmosphere of theatre and re-live the fantastic sounds of the 50s, 60s and 70s presented in our unique ‘Timeless’ style. This highly acclaimed production continues to captivate audiences worldwide with beautiful harmonies, brilliant choreography and over 100 stunning costumes reflecting each era. An unforgettable show packed with fun, energy, and a few laughs along the way.
BOOK TICKETS AT www.beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723723
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TAKE PART! Beacon Youth Theatre
Beacon Young Company
Yes, BYT is back! Always wanted to try youth theatre but didn’t want to sign up for a term? Come along for a free taster. We promise you’ll love it or your money back…oh hang on the taster is free! For those of you who came along before our lives were turned upside down, welcome back we’ve missed you! A supportive environment where young people (aged 5-14) can develop their skills and interest in theatre.
From performance technique to theatre making this is a brilliant opportunity for young people (aged 14-18) in Inverclyde who are interested in exploring and developing their creative potential.
Bring ideas and stories alive on stage, improve your confidence and work as a team. Most of all – have fun! Beacon Youth Theatre (or just BYT) is a place where young people use their imagination, share their ideas, tell real life stories and then collaborate to bring them to life on stage. It’s a positive and supportive environment, open to all and there’s no need to audition. Bursary places available. SUNDAYS Glowbugs (5-8) 10.45am-11.30am Little Sparks (8-11) 11.45am-12.45pm Beacons (11-14) 1.15pm-2.45pm Please email info@beaconartscentre.co.uk or call 01475 723723 for further information and to book.
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Our Beacon Young Company are a committed group and offer a supportive environment where young people can develop their performance skills, express themselves and discover a love for creative arts. We aim to inspire, excite and provide the opportunity for young creatives to collaborate on devised work to be performed on stage. Beacon Young Company meet every Sunday 3-5pm, If you are interested in joining us for next term (Sunday 1 May-Sunday 19 June). Please contact info@beaconartscentre.co.uk or call 01475 723723 for further information and to book. Beacon Youth Theatre
Platinum Dance
Dance for Parkinson’s
Our Platinum Dance classes offer physical and mental health benefits to those aged 55+ whilst having fun and taking part in our accessible dance activities.
The warm and informal Dance for Parkinson’s Scotland classes feature elements of ballet and contemporary dance. Dance can help people with Parkinson's physically, mentally and socially, aiding mobility and improving overall feelings of wellbeing. Come and join us to experience the benefits of dance and creativity - improving balance, spatial awareness, confidence and fluidity in movement.
Reactivate old dance skills or learn some new ones in this supportive and focused environment. These classes, which focus on technical skills and choreography, will boost self-confidence and encourage social interactions. This class is open to all genders over 55. No experience necessary, just an open mind and willingness to join in! Don’t know what to wear? Doesn’t matter just something you are comfortable in. MONDAYS 10-11am/11am-12noon £5 per class
Our classes also include activities focused on problem solving, improvisation, vocal skills and repetition from memory and multi-tasking, which are all key areas for people with Parkinson's. The classes feature live music accompaniment and we finish each class with a social cafe element. The Beacon is delighted to partner with Scottish Ballet to provide these classes.
Creatability
TUESDAYS 1-3PM To book please email info@beaconartscentre.co.uk or call 01475 723723 £5 per class
We are delighted to continue our programme of drop-in weekly sessions in multiple artforms and activities for neurodivergent and disabled young people. Everyone welcome. Runs every week on a Tuesday. Parents and carers welcome to stay in the building or go and leave us all to have a great creative experience!
If you would like to register your interest in the class or find out more, please email Karen Townsend, our Creative Producer at karent@beaconartscentre.co.uk or call 01475 460266.
Pop along for a visit on a Tuesday to join in or for an orientation visit if you prefer. Please email info@beaconartscentre.co.uk first to say hello. Let us know if there are any reasonable adjustments we can help to make your visit easier.
Creatability
Dance for Parkinson's
TUESDAYS Ages 4-11 5 - 6pm Ages 12-21 6:30 – 7:30pm Free to attend Please email info@beaconartscentre.co.uk or call 01475 723723 if you have any questions.
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Exhibitions Immediate Forms
by Joanna Holisz + Orla Kane 2-30 April “We spent an October day painting at the Beacon Arts Centre. It was foggy and overcast; the water blended with the sky to create an empty, horizonless space. We stood in the room and looked out of the windows – a glass wall – and felt like we were floating. The mirrors doubled the size of the room and we set up our inks and watercolours, starting to paint in silence. The day went on like that and we ended up with several sketched out works on paper, a successful day. Each piece is slightly different, but all are part of the same conversation. They are immediate and influenced by the places and thoughts we find ourselves in, but they are really just experiences in the joy of making.” Joanna Holisz + Orla Kane
Threshold
by Susan Harvey | 7-28 May The concept of ‘threshold’ has long been a personal preoccupation for Susan Harvey. She is interested in the meeting of day and night, land and sea and the transitional of time and place. The Celts thought of the water’s edge as a point of entry into another world, where individuals could merge with the infinite. Iona is such a place, a tiny elemental island that
Immediate Forms
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Threshhold
Susan first visited forty-five years ago and which she repeatedly returns to both emotionally and physically. She is drawn to its quiet simplicity, translucent light and sense of collective memory. The fragility of our environment is reflected in Susan’s bird and plant imagery. Her observations of airborne birds always bring her joy. Susan’s ideas are visualised in contemporary painting, using traditional materials that embody the essence of her subject matter - egg tempera, watercolour, silverpoint and oils; on paper, handprepared gesso panels and canvas.
Flowers
by Ruby Flowers | 9 - 30 July "I have been a Glasgow based florist for 20 years. My appreciation of flowers and their transient pleasures started at an early age. Both my parents loved gardening. I watched them so content in the garden planting flowers and vegetables. Cutting flowers and bringing them into the home comes naturally to anyone who spends time in their garden. It’s a way of mapping the seasons and appreciating the beauty of the present. My drawings are a gesture to their beauty, whether closely examining the fragile ruffle of a crinkled leaf or the grand physique of their form." Ruby Flowers
Flowers
PRE THEATRE 2 COURSES FOR £16
3 COURSES FOR £19
Opening hours 9am – 4:30pm Monday – Sunday Pre-theatre served from 5pm (last orders 6pm)
Telephone: 01475 460274
@beaconartcentrecafe
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We are thrilled to become the newest National Theatre Connections Festival Partner Theatre, bringing this prestigious festival to Inverclyde for the first time. Each year the National Theatre commissions ten new plays for young people to perform, bringing together some of the UK’s most exciting writers with new and emerging talent. The festival has eight performances by eight young companies both performing and providing the technical aspects of what you will see on our stage. The festival participants will also have the opportunity to take part in many creative and development opportunities as well as a few surprises! Please come and support the new talent gracing our stage as they step into the spotlight, bringing our stage and venue alive with young talent.
TUE 26 APR
FRI 29 APR
Strathaven Academy Drama Presents:
Bathgate Academy Drama Club Presents:
by Tim Crouch
by Stef Smith
Superglue
Remote
WED 27 APR
SAT 30 APR
Lochend Community High School Presents:
Young Theatre Royal Presents:
Superglue by Tim Crouch
Like There's No Tomorrow
Knightswood Secondary School Presents:
created by the Belgrade Young Company with Justine Themen, Claire Procter and Liz Mytton.
by Stef Smith
Kirky High Playhouse Presents:
Remote
Chat Back by David Judge
THU 28 APR Triple Act Theatre and Arts Presents:
Variations by Katie Hims
TICKETS
£5 standard Group booking: 11 tickets for the price of 10
Mull Youth Theatre – Comar Arts Presents:
The Ramayana Reset by Ayeesha Menon, with choreography by Hofesh Shechter.
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APRIL
MAY Beacon RobArts Adams Centre
Bijli Productions, in association with Platform
Konrad Wiszniewski & Brian Kellock Sat 30 Apr | 8pm £12/£10(conc)
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For International Jazz Day we present a wonderful new duo comprising two of Scottish jazz’s outstanding talents, saxophonist Konrad Wiszniewski and pianist Brian Kellock. Together, Konrad and Brian explore the jazz standards repertoire and with their fabulous improvising ability and knowledge of the jazz canon they bring new life to old favourites and play with deep creativity, huge passion and palpable enjoyment of the music.
One Mississippi Thu 5 May | 7:30pm £12/£10 (conc)
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‘They say that the person you are at eighteen defines who you are going to become…’ A hard-hitting verbatim play that explores how the impact of childhood experiences shape men’s adult lives, and the journey it takes them on. Blending humour and storytelling with powerful elements of physical theatre, One Mississippi is an uncompromising insight into what takes us to breaking point. Written by Mariem Omari (Revolution Days) and Directed by Mark Jeary (Blackout) Part of Scottish Mental Health Arts Festival 2022
bijliproductions.com
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April - July 2022
Entertainers
Thu 5 May | 7:30pm £27/£25 (conc)
Gillian Duffy World Première Production
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The show that everyone is talking about, now even bigger. Join us as we recreate the Magical 70’s and let us take you on a musical journey straight to the heart of Disco. Relive some of the greatest songs of all time from artists such as Donna Summer, Gloria Gaynor, Earth, Wind & Fire, Sister Sledge and Chic. Boasting a sensational live band, incredibly talented cast and stunning vocals and is sure to have you dancing in the aisles! It’s the feel-good show of the year! Lose yourself with us and leave your troubles at home.
Fri 6 May | 7:30pm £15
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The new comedy drama from the writer of The Ghosting of Rabbie Burns and Co-Writer of The Wedding Planners. Meet Maureen Parker. 55, single, twice divorced, Lonely-Hearts Guru – and now owner of NEW Matchmaking Agency with a difference, Two’s Company. The agency soon receives an enquiry that rings a few unexpected bells – Maureen’s first love is back in town (the one who broke her heart) and he’s looking for a date – with her! But does she want to see Michael again after all these years, especially when he left with no explanation, no goodbye…
BOOK TICKETS AT www.beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723723
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MAY Paul Moore
West College Scotland
WCS/QMU BA Hons Drama, Theatre & Performance Degree Showcase Tue 10 & Thu 12 May 7 & 8:30pm £5
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West College Scotland and Queen Margaret University Honours Students present their Degree Showcase.
Sat 7 May | 7:30pm £16.50/£14.50 (conc)
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Age advisory 16+ 'Ye dancin’?'
Tuesday 10 May students will perform Jumpers for Goalposts by Tom Wells (7pm) and The Pillowman by Martin McDonagh (8.30pm) Thursday 12 May performances are No Exit by Jean-Paul Sartre (7pm) and Swallow by Stef Smith (8.30pm).
1968. Glasgow’s Dancehalls jiving & swinging to the sounds of the 60s. Remember The Palais, The Plaza, The Locarno? And then there was The Barrowlands Ballroom – rife with rhythm, romance and rumour of a serial killer, 'Bible John'. And the dance went on, as 'Bible John' dodged the grasp of Glasgow’s detectives. An intriguing new musical drama, with a soundtrack of 60s hits & original music when dancing with the devil, was a jive, a 'Jim' or a 'John'.
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April - July 2022
Hotel California Wed 11 May | 7:30pm £22.50/£20.50 (box seats)
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Make a date to see Tenors Unlimited the 'rat pack of opera’ the number 1 selling classical vocal trio thrill once again with their uplifting new show That’s Amoré. Let Scott, Paul & Jem take you on a journey through some of the best loved songs of the last century, made famous by other ‘icons of song’, such as Pavarotti, Lanza, Sting, Bublé and Freddie Mercury. The group will be joined by local choir Musichoir.
‘BRAVI!’ Sting
Sat 14 May | 7:30pm £20/£18 (conc)
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Experience of 100 minutes of pure Eagles nostalgia. You’ll return to a dark desert highway, cool wind in your hair, or stand on that street corner in Winslow, Arizona when you join Hotel California as they faithfully re-create The Eagles and their Californian Sunshine Rock sound. Expect a set that includes tracks from the outstanding Long Road Out Of Eden album. The Eagles’ music is timeless, appealing to audiences of every age, bringing back memories and touching the hearts and souls of each new generation. This concert promises to be a fantastic night to remember for all Eagles fans, young and old, new or long-standing.
BOOK TICKETS AT www.beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723723
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MAY Vanishing Point
The Metamorphosis: Unplugged
Sat 14 May | 7.30pm £15
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Based on Franz Kafka’s brilliantly funny and compelling story, The Metamorphosis: Unplugged is a warm-hearted retelling of the mysterious tale of Gregor Samsa, who wakes up one morning to find he’s turned into a giant insect. Told from the perspective of his sister Greta, it’s a musical, cabaret-style night out from the team that brought you The Dark Carnival: Unplugged and Interiors. Join us on tour around Scotland, as we welcome you to Gregor’s strange world with a free (though not compulsory!) glass of something for everyone. 'This warm-hearted yet sometimes hard-edged reflection on life, death and eternity seems set to delight audiences up and down Scotland' The Scotsman on The Dark Carnival: Unplugged.
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Wed 18 May | 7.30pm £28
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Friends! The Musical Parody the first UK and Irish tour of the hilarious new, off-Broadway and Las Vegas hit musical that lovingly lampoons the popular TV sitcom Friends, celebrates and pokes fun at the wacky misadventures of the group of 20-something pals we love from the hit TV show as they navigate the pitfalls of work, life and love in 1990’s Manhattan. Friends! The Musical Parody is a fabulous goodhearted romp through our favourite moments from the hit TV show in an uncensored, hilarious, fast-paced, music-filled production. You'll laugh! You'll cry! You'll Unagi! With friends like these, who needs television? PIVOT!
April - July 2022
Artist International Management Ltd
Thu 19 May | 7:30pm £25/£23 (conc)
Isosceles RLN MUSIC Theatre
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Put on your blue suede shoes and come celebrate the music of the King of Rock ’n’ Roll with the UK’s supreme Elvis – Rob Kingsley – and his talented cast. This breath-taking recreation of a live Elvis Presley concert takes you on an epic audio-visual journey through time like you've never seen before. Including hits Stuck on You - It's Now or Never - Return to Sender - GI Blues - Suspicious Minds - The Wonder of You - American Trilogy and many, many more. As soon as the show begins you are taken on an emotional rollercoaster with a truly Elvis authentic musical spectacular!
Fri 20 May | 8pm £12/ £10 (conc)
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First performed in 2006, this is a fast-paced adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson's classic novel which has enthralled audiences throughout Britain and Ireland and played to packed houses everywhere. ' Done in fine style.... a good, vivid, popular version of a great story, told with notable passion.' The Scotsman ' Every emotional nuance is wrung out of it and a packed audience sit rapt at such conversely dark materials.' Glasgow Herald
www.isosceles.biz
www.elvistributeuk.com BOOK TICKETS AT www.beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723723
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MAY Rapture Theatre
Chimes International Entertainment
Matt Monro Story Wed 25 May | 7:30pm £24
by Caryl Churchill Mon 23 May | 1pm £15*
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*Light lunch served from 12pm and included in ticket price. You’ve made a really bad mistake in life. Is it possible to start over? What if you hurt others in the process? And what happens when your actions finally catch up with you? Salter may be sorry for decisions he has made in his past, but is his remorse enough? It is Salter's son, Bernard, who must face the consequences of his father’s devastating decisions when he discovers that he is one of “a number” of Bernards whom his father has had cloned.
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Celebrating the life and music of the legendary Matt Monro. The Matt Monro Story is an inspired and unforgettable show. a unique evening of music, warmth and love, keeping the memory of his music alive. From born free to walk away to portrait of my love be prepared to be transported in time by this tribute to one of Britain’s most popular and endearing singers named 'the singer’s singer' by his peers. The show is enhanced by audio visual and narration.
‘Matt Monro is one of the finest male vocalists in the singing business’ Frank Sinatra
The music of the legend that is Matt Monro lives on.
Caryl Churchill’s powerfully disturbing drama, winner of the Evening Standard Award for Best Play, considers the damage parents can do to children, explores the question of nature versus nurture and asks whether any of us can truly escape our past.
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April - July 2022
Dogstar Theatre Limited
Thu 26 May | 8pm £22/£20 (conc)
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Together Aly Bain and Phil Cunningham have established themselves as the epitome of excellence in the world of traditional music. With their musical magic and quick-witted humour they will pull your emotional strings one moment and have you falling off the seat with laughter the next.
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Fri 27 & Sat 28 May 7:30pm £16 Based on the movie starring Liza Minelli, this comedy follows the stories of eight mismatched characters as they try to pull together to perform a tap-dancing recital. There are laughs and dramas along the way. Can they cut it? Get your tickets and find out!
Mike Russel has described them as 'probably one of the best traditional musicians you are ever likely to hear'.
BOOK TICKETS AT www.beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723723
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MAY
Sat 28 May | 7:30pm £20
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MacFloyd (Scotland's Pink Floyd) return to Beacon Arts Centre with their new show for 2022. It promises to be an unforgettable journey through the Pink Floyd catalogue visiting their most memorable and timeless classics. From Dark Side to Division Bell albums and lots more within the "Floyd" solar system. In a show lasting over two hours with an impressive light and visual display, let them take you to the Moon and Back!
Sun 29 May | 4pm & 7pm
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£27.50/£13.75 restricted view Age advisory 16+
In our brand-new show, Cruising Through Menopause, the hysterical sequel to the smashhit show Menopause the Musical®, we fast forward five years to catch up with the same four characters as they set off on the high seas for tales of their lives, loves and losses. Hot flushes, mood swings, memory lapses, weight gain - these are a few of our favourite menopausal things! For these four ladies the menopause was not the beginning of the end, but the beginning of a beautiful friendship where love conquers, and friendships never fail. Join us on Facebook at
'Menopause the Musical UK Tour'
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April - July 2022
JUNE Frozen Light
Starcatchers and SUPERFAN
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Thu 2 & Fri 3 June 11am & 2pm £5 (ticket price for babies & adults)
2065 Sun 29 & Mon 30 May 11am & 1:30pm | £10
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Age advisory 13+
2065 is a futuristic sensory extravaganza for audiences with profound and multiple learning disabilities (PMLD). The year is 2065; the people are stifled under an oppressive regime. We follow a group of rebels who live outside the system and believe things can change for the better. Can they remind people what it feels like to hope? And bring music back to a city where it is needed more than ever?
A magical first circus experience for babies from birth to 18 months and their adults. Little Top will transport you to a playful, joyous, upside down, topsy-turvy world where people can fly, patterns fill the air and anything is possible. At a time in their development when young children are discovering their own physicality and the pleasures and perils of gravity, Little Top invites babies to experience spectacular balances, astonishing tumbles and inventive juggling in a specially designed set that miniaturises the magic of the Big Top.
'This show is amazing! Saw it on tour and it’s just lovely. My one-year-old was captivated.' Audience member
www.starcatchers.org.uk/work/little-top/
'The way the show is so carefully tailored to the audience’s needs provides a vital reminder that theatre can accommodate everyone.' The Stage HHHH BOOK TICKETS AT www.beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723723
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JUNE Tricky Hat presents
Alba Ballet Thu 9-Sat 11 June 7.30pm
The Flames T
Sat 11 June | 3 & 7pm £8 / £6 young scot card
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A fantastic showcase of classical ballet and dance awaits this year's audience at Elite`s 13th annual Summer Show. An opportunity for parents and friends to create lifetime memories while students showcase their hard work.
Created and performed by: The Flames Directed by: Fiona Miller Digital Design by: Kim Beveridge Music and Composition by: Mick Slaven Dance artist: Aya Kobayashi
After missing out in 2020 due to covid and following on from Dancing around Inverclyde in 2021, Elite are returning to the stage for 3 nights in 2022.
The Flames will reignite in a striking and innovative mix of film, music and performance to explore stories about life after fifty, presenting a fresh look at how we approach ageing.
Tickets are available directly from www.theeliteacademyofdance.co.uk 07753 246035
Join The Flames for a unique performance of devised work, taking inspiration from everyday life, to challenge pre-conceived ideas of how older people think and what they aspire to.
©Brian Hartley
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April - July 2022
JULY Entertainers
Apex International
Damien O’Kane & Ron Block Thu 16 June | 7:30pm £28/£26 (conc)
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Come celebrate with us, as we’re coming out to start off a chain reaction and take you on a musical journey with the biggest Motown party of the year. Get ready for all the hits, glittering costumes, dazzling dance routines and outstanding musicianship in this breath-taking live concert spectacular. You will be going Loco down in Acapulco as we take you back down memory lane with all the Motown classics from artists such as, Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross, Stevie Wonder, The Temptations, The Supremes, The Four Tops, Martha Reeves, The Jackson 5, Smokey Robinson and many many more. Celebrate the sound of a generation and Reach Out for – The Magic of Motown!
Tue 12 July | 8pm £15
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What do you get when an American bluegrass banjo and an Irish tenor banjo join forces? In the case of Coleraine’s Damien O’Kane and California’s Ron Block… fireworks! A spectacular sound probably like nothing you could ever imagine, a union of transatlantic cultures melding two styles and two approaches creating a life affirming, uplifting, truly captivating effect. ‘An inspirational album composed with sonic and cultural influences from both sides of the Atlantic, forging a new and innovative sound. The 4 & 5 string banjos of Damien and Ron, a unique and beautiful combination, are exquisitely played on this pristine recording.' Gerry ‘Banjo’ O’Connor
BOOK TICKETS AT www.beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723723
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Beacon Arts Centre in partnership with Inverclyde Council is delighted to present a weekend of performances, activities and experiences for all the family to enjoy.
The Swings
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COMEDY • VISUAL ART • MUSIC THEATRE • DANCE • OPERA STREET THEATRE • FOOD
17-19 June Chattin’ up
Ed Byrne
Scottish Opera’s Pop-up Opera
Luminarium
Elaine C Smith
@thebeaconartsc
@thebeaconarts
@thebeaconarts
Beacon Arts Centre
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JULY A Unicorn / The Polar Bears production
The Polar Bears Go Go Go
Thu 14 July | 7:30pm £20/£18 (conc)
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Re-live the sounds of the swinging sixties, as Britain's No. 1 tribute show brings alive the magic of the sixties, with their tribute to over twenty-five bands of that era. The show encompasses everything from that period, from the clothes that were worn to flashbacks from television history including: TV programmes, adverts and even clips from the original bands. The Counterfeit Sixties presents a showcase of the great bands of this unforgettable time. The fantastic music of The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, The Who, The Dave Clark Five, The Kinks and The Monkees - to name but a few - all recreated in this stunning show. Join us for a night of sixties nostalgia!
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Wed 20 July | 11am & 2pm £8
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The Polar Bears are back with another adventure and this time they are off on their holidays. What could go wrong? Join the lovable but slightly hapless duo as they set off on their holiday adventures. Will they ever reach their destination? Or are they just going around in circles? With friendship at its heart, this deaf-friendly show explores the joy and confusion of navigating stations, airports and suitcases, and realising that home has to more to offer than you imagined. A funny and beguiling show for children aged 2-5 years. Have your ticket ready, find your seat, fasten your seatbelt and anchors aweigh – take off and go, go, go! April - July 2022
JMG Music Group
Thu 21 July | 7:30pm £25
SS1 Entertainments
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Following a debut sell out nationwide tour to nightly standing ovations including the Royal Concert Hall, Glasgow join an all- star cast of the Emerald Isles most talented singers and performers accompanied by the fabulous Keltic Storm band and world champion Keltic Fusion Irish dancers. The unmissable Ireland the Show will take you on a journey through the decades of a globally loved culture and a string of hilarious stories and jokes from an award-winning comedian, topped off with energetic reels and jigs. If it’s all things Irish you like then this is the show for you!
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Fri 22 July | 7:30pm £25
The label that brought you Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Johnny Cash, Roy Orbison, Carl Perkins and Rufus Thomas comes to life. Revisit the recording studio that produced trailblazing hits That's Alright Mama, Great Balls of Fire, I Walk the Line, Whole Lotta Shakin', Bear Cat, Blue Suede Shoes, Good Rockin' Tonight... songs that would influence the world of music. Featuring authentic musical instruments, starring a multi-talented cast of singers, the official concert show takes you back to the birthplace of rock'n'roll.
BOOK TICKETS AT www.beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723723
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JULY
INFORMATION TERMS & CONDITIONS
Full conditions of ticket sales are available at the Box Office and on the website. Please note that Beacon Arts Centre operates a strict no-refunds policy.
BOOKING TICKETS ONLINE:
beaconartscentre.co.uk Telephone: 01475 723723 In Person: Beacon Arts Centre, Custom House Quay, Greenock PA15 1HJ
CONCESSIONS
Concession rates are available on many performances and apply to the following groups: Children (under 16, or over 16 in full-time education) • Young Scot cardholders and students • Senior citizens • Those in receipt of Jobseeker’s Allowance, Disability Living Allowance, Personal Independence Payment, and Employment and Support Allowance recipients • Disabled patrons. Carer and assisted companion tickets are also available • Members of Equity, BECTU, Scottish Society of Playwrights and Musicians’ Union. Proof of entitlement must be shown when collecting tickets.
ACCESS
To book access seats please call 01475 723 723/ option 1. Online booking beaconartscentre.co.uk Our modern venue has easy access to all levels via lift.
MAIN AUDITORIUM
There are 9 wheelchair positions with companion seats in our main house: 5 in the stalls and 4 in the circle.
STUDIO THEATRE
There are 3 wheelchair positions with companion seats in our Studio.
TRANSFER SEATS
We understand that some of our customers may wish to transfer into a seat. Please advise box office if you will be transferring into a seat for the performance and our FOH staff will be happy to store your chair for you until required.
GALLERY SPACES AND CAFÉ
All other visitor spaces are fully accessible to all. Guide, hearing and other working dogs are welcome in all parts of the theatre. Please advise when booking if your dog will remain with you during the performance. There are separate, accessible toilet facilities located at each of the principal seating levels.
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April - July 2022
Our venue has an induction loop with staff fully trained to help. Disabled parking spaces are situated to the front of our main door.
ACCESSIBLE PERFORMANCES
BSL/Audio Described and Captioned Performances are detailed on our website.
ADDITIONAL ASSISTANCE:
Our visual story and symbol resources are available to download on our website here: beaconartscentre.co.uk/accessibility/. If your visit would be helped by an orientation appointment beforehand, we will be pleased to welcome you. To arrange please email karent@beaconartscentre.co.uk We have a 360 tour of our venue available here: beaconartscentre.co.uk/accessibility/. Please let a member of staff know if you may require use of a chill out area during your visit and we will do our best to accommodate this.
ACCESS REGISTER
Our scheme makes it easier to book the right seats for you and helps our staff deliver excellent and consistent service. It does this by only asking you once about your requirements to ensure a great visit. You can join easily by either filling out a form at Box Office or Online. Personal Assistant (essential carer) tickets are only available to those registered to the scheme; however, it is not a requirement to join the scheme in order to book tickets. By joining the scheme and booking concession tickets you agree that the ticket (s) will only be used by a disabled person (as defined by the Equality Act 2010) and their essential carer. Customers who intentionally give false information will be removed from the register.
ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY
We aim to be as green as possible and are proud to use fully compostable cups and paper straws. We recycle and are working to reduce our energy use.
WI-FI
We have FREE Wi-FI throughout the building.
HOW TO GET HERE
Beacon Arts Centre is situated on Custom House Quay, opposite the Custom House, and is within easy reach of Greenock town centre and close to all public transport links.
BY ROAD
Beacon Arts Centre is off the A8 behind Greenock Police Station. Turn into Brymner Street at the Police Station and then right into Custom House Place. We have free customer parking to the rear of the building and to the left of the building in front of the Custom House.
BY TRAIN
Greenock Central railway station is 500 metres away up a slight gradient, with a frequent service on the Glasgow Central/Gourock line. Journey times from Glasgow are approximately 30 or 40 minutes and services run until 11pm (an hour earlier on Sundays). Check scotrail.co.uk for up-to-date timetables.
GROUPS
For certain performances, we offer one free ticket with every 10 purchased.
BOOKING FEE
We charge a £2.20 online and phone transaction fee which goes towards our processing costs. All booking fees are subject to change as we develop our services. We charge £1.50 for postal delivery.
FAMILY FRIENDLY
We are breast-feeding friendly. There are baby-changing facilities.
DISABILITY FRIENDLY
Beacon Arts Centre is fully accessible with wheelchair spaces, lifts and an induction loop. Our staff are fully trained to help. BOOK TICKETS AT www.beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723723
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EDDI READER 1 Sep 2022 | 7:30pm
MOVIES TO MUSICALS TOUR 2022 18 Sep 2022 | 2:30 & 7pm
WORN 30 Sep 2022 | 7:30pm
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19 Oct 2022 | 8pm
April - July 2022
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JERRY SADOWITZ 21 Oct 2022 | 8pm
VINCENT SIMONE TANGO PASSIONS 2 Nov 2022 | 7:30pm
MARTI PELLOW PELLOW TALK 3 Nov 2022 | 7:30pm
Fri 25 Nov | 8pm
BOOK TICKETS AT www.beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723723
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Thursdays once a month from May 2022
www.beaconartscentre.co.uk