DECEMBER 2013 to JUNE 2014
SEASON SPONSOR
LomasDistribution
BUXTON OPERA HOUSE & PAVILION ARTS CENTRE BOX OFFICE 0845 127 2190 or 01298 72190 www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk
WELCOME Welcome to our December 2013 to June 2014 What’s On brochure and another packed season at the Opera House and Pavilion Arts Centre for you to enjoy •
Spring highlights include the award winning Morecambe, the very funny, Rising Damp and an hilarious dining experience with Faulty Towers
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The prestigious Russian State Ballet of Siberia will be returning to Buxton along with the fabulous Ballet Boyz and Tap Factory. There’s also a trio of dance from Birmingham Royal Ballet and a visual feast delivered by Aracaladanza
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Back by popular demand we have the full Sooty Show along with The Gruffalo, Dotty the Dragon, Comedy Club 4 Kids and lots of workshops to keep the kids entertained during EasterFest
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As usual we have lots of famous names dropping in, from Barry Cryer, Ruby Wax, Chris Packham, Monty Don and Joe McEldery to the ever-popular, but never brief, Ken Dodd
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If you want to join in the fun, try our Lunchtime Choir, afternoon Arts Club or bring your little ones along to Beanbag Stories in the Pavilion Arts Centre
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Back for the 12th year, our Four Four Time Festival of Live Music is bigger than ever! Mike & the Mechanics, Brian May & Kerry Ellis, Alexander O’Neal, The Blow Monkeys and The South are just a sample of the fantastic artists performing during the week.
We look forward to seeing you at the Opera House and Pavilion Arts Centre soon.
BUXTON OPERA HOUSE & PAVILION ARTS CENTRE
CONTENTS
Buxton Opera House is operated by High Peak Theatre Trust, a registered charity run on an entirely not-for-profit basis and managed by a board of Trustee-Directors. The Pavilion Arts Centre Ltd is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Trust. To present the artistic programme and staff the theatre we rely on major funders, a team of over 200 volunteers, our earned share of Box Office income, ancillary income such as bar sales and around £200,000 in annual fundraising from our regular donors, fundraising concerts and Cash Bonanza members. We are very grateful for everyone’s support.
Kaleidoscope
page 4
Beanbag Stories
page 4
High Peak Theatre Trust is managed by a Board of Trustee-Directors who oversee the running of the theatre and contribute their professional skills to the Trust. We welcome comments and suggestions and can be contacted via the Theatre Secretary, High Peak Theatre Trust, 5 The Square Buxton SK17 6AZ. Current Board members are: Clive Beattie (Chairman), Carol Prowse (Deputy Chairman), Dr Beverley Carter, Lady Jasmine Cavendish, Elizabeth Hitchin, Louise Potter, Paul Rooney, Keith Savage (High Peak Borough Council nominee), John Scampion, Rosemary Stafford and Colin Sykes. Patron: Lady Jasmine Cavendish Vice-Patrons: Michael Williams and Bob Mullholland
High Peak Borough Council has helped fund the Opera House since 1979. The Council makes an annual grant towards our artistic and operating costs and also gives financial assistance to the Buxton Festival. The Council owns both the Opera House and Pavilion Arts Centre and maintains both buildings. The major restoration and refurbishments of 1979, 2001 and 2007 were all joint projects between the Council and the Trust.
Arts Club
page 5
Kaleidoscope Choir
page 5
What’s On
page 6
Four Four Time
page 20
Film Festival
page 38
Studio Season
page 43
Coming soon
page 79
Recitals
page 80
Jazz
page 80
Cinema
page 81
Cash Bonanza
page 81
Comedy 4 Kids Buzz Comedy Club
page 82 page 82
Discounts & Offers
page 83
How to book
page 83
Theatre information
page 84
Diary at a glance
page 85
Sponsors
page 88
Clive Beattie, Chairman Buxton Opera House & Pavilion Arts Centre Arts Council England has supported the Opera House since 2003, making an annual grant towards our artistic costs, specifically the drama programme. ACE has also helped fund our Live Music Festival, Children’s Festival, Fringe Season and Learning & Participation Officer posts as well as providing a capital grant towards the 2001 refurbishment and Pavilion Arts Centre project. 2
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kaleidoscope
Arts Club
the learning & participation programme The name Kaleidoscope represents how busy and colourful our Learning & Participation programme is. From our friendly Arts Club and Community Choir to our Beanbag Stories for little ones and the boundless creativity of our children’s theatre companies, there’s something for all ages and there are lots of ways you can get involved. For more information, contact our Learning & Participation department on: 01298 72050 or email: participation@boh.org.uk
Mini (Ages 5 to 7)
m time 0 to 10.30am during ter Rehearsals: Sunday 9.3 ) id every half-term Cost: £5 per session (pa
Junior (Ages 8 to 10)
9.30 to 11am or Rehearsals: Saturday m 30p Sunday 11am to 12. id every half-term) (pa n sio ses per £6 Cost:
13) Intermediate (Ages 11 to m to 1.30pm 30a 11. ay urd s: Sat
Rehearsal 0pm or Monday 4.30 to 6.3 id every half-term) Cost: £8 per session (pa
Youth (Ages 14 to 18)
7 to 7 to 9pm or Tuesday Rehearsals: Monday ) rm f-te hal ry id eve Cost: £8 per session (pa
9pm
is a Beanbag Stories le chance for your litt ir the re plo ex to es on our gh ou thr ns tio imagina m the tch storytelling; wa n ve se the on il set sa new seas, discovering off far d an s rld wo for kingdoms. Perfect er ages 2 to 4 but oth are ers mb me ily fam g welcome, Beanba a Stories meet once ion vil Pa the in month Arts Centre from on. 11.15am to 12 no r Tickets cost £5 pe per ild ch ng ati particip session, but ults accompanying ad e! Call: fre are s and babie book. 0845 127 2190 to
Jan 14 Feb 11 March 11 April 1 May 6 June 3 July 9 4
The sessions are held in the Pavilion Arts Centre and cost £5 each, payable on the door or in advance from the Box Office.
Jan 14 & 28 Feb 11 & 25 March 11 & 25 April 29 May 27 June 24
Young People’s Theatre Companies
People's Theatre Kaleidoscope Young Since January 2011 the strength, to n going from strength Companies have bee This Spring we ! far so ws sho fantastic producing a total of 18 the Curry Bean. of tes Pira t, The Witches and are performing Basset ed, contact our about how to get involv For more information 72050 or email: 98 012 on: nt ion departme Learning & Participat .uk participation@boh.org
Drop in to our friendly Arts Club and let your imagination run wild with a choice of materials and resources. With help and guidance from professional artist Ruby Hickmott, you can develop your artistic skills and have fun along the way!
£5
£5
Kaleidoscope terFest s a E Choir £3.50 14-25 April 2014 The Opera House and Buxton Festival have teamed up with local teacher Carol Bowns to develop the Kaleidoscope Community Choir. It doesn’t matter if you’re an experienced singer or just want to give it a go, you can join us in singing everything from choir classics to pop songs and African lullabies. The Choir meet on a Tuesday in the Pavilion Arts Centre from 1pm to 2pm and on Monday evenings 7pm to 8pm upstairs in the Old Clubhouse. Tickets are £3.50 payable on the door or in advance from the Box Office.
ter holiday EasterFest is our Eas with ked pac jam e mm progra hops for rks wo and s performance of 14. children up to the age le as £3 and full Workshops cost as litt on the le ilab details will be ava re in early chu bro r ou in and te websi spring.
Feb 10 & 18 March 4, 10 & 18 April 1 & 15 May 6, 12 & 20 June 3, 9 & 17 July 1 & 14 July 15 Fringe Concert
But that’s not all… We also have Jump! Dance We ek in the spring, school worksh ops, spooky shows and events with Octobe rFest, Puppet Festival workshops , the Young Drama Panel which can count towards your Arts Award and a work experience programme. Visit our website for more information. 5
FOR CHRISTMAS...
Opera House Thursday 12 December 2013 to Wednesday 1 January 2014 Channel Theatre Productions & Buxton Opera House present The Annual Buxton Family Pantomime
Opera House Sun 15 Dec 7.30pm
Opera House Mon 16 Dec 7.30pm
Opera House Sun 22 Dec 7.30pm
Pavilion Arts Centre Thu 19 Dec 7.30pm
THE NUTCRACKER
STEELEYE SPAN
Tickets from £17. (Discounts available)
Tickets from £17.50 (Discounts available)
CHRISTMAS CROONERS
Thurs 12 Dec
1pm
THE VERY BEST OF BRASS & COMEDY - BRIGHOUSE & RASTRICK BAND & NORMAN PRINCE
Fri 13 Dec
1pm & 7pm
Tickets from £17 (Discounts available)
Sat 14 Dec
2.30pm & 7pm
Sun 15 Dec
No performances
Mon 16 Dec
1pm
Tues 17 Dec
10am & 2pm
Wed 18 Dec
1pm & 6.30pm
Thurs 19 Dec
1pm & 6.30pm
Fri 20 Dec
2pm & 7pm
Sat 21 Dec
2.30pm & 7pm
Sun 22 Dec
1.30pm
Mon 23 Dec
2pm & 6.30pm
Tues 24 Dec
2pm
Wed 25 Dec
No performances
Thurs 26 Dec
2pm & 6.30pm
Fri 27 Dec
2.30pm & 7pm
Sat 28 Dec
2.30pm & 7pm
Sun 29 Dec
2pm & 6.30pm
Mon 30 Dec
2pm & 6.30pm
Tues 31 Dec
1pm
Wed 1 Jan
2pm
Tickets from £16 (Discounts available)
Opera House Tuesday 31 December 9.30pm The British Philharmonic Concert Orchestra presents
NEW YEAR’S EVE GALA CONCERT Our New Year’s Eve Gala Concert - a massive hit in its first two years, 2011 and 2012, returns for a third glorious performance! Join us for a stunning fundraising orchestral concert in the beautiful surroundings of the Opera House to ring in the New Year of 2014. In aid of future capital and artistic work at the Opera House and Pavilion Arts Centre. Join us and the 44-piece British Philharmonic Concert Orchestra for a fantastic evening, full of vocal and orchestral favourites. Compere Mark Langley takes control of proceedings for the third time, along with a quartet of top-class British opera singers. The concert promises favourites from opera, ballet, film, TV and musicals rounded off at midnight with Auld Lang Syne, a touch of Vienna and a New Year singalong for the whole audience. There’s no doubt it’ll be yet another Opera House night to remember! Tickets: £20, £25, £30, £35 (No discounts)
Tickets: £16, £18.50, £21 Discounts: Senior Citizens/Disabled/JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: £1.75 off Children’s Groups of 10 or more: £9 (1 adult free per 10 children) Adult Groups of 10 or more: £16 Children 2 or under: £2.50 (on parent’s knee) Babies under 12 months: Free (on parent’s knee) Matcham Card/Buxton Breaks: ½-price (all shows up to 19 Dec, not Sat 14), £2.25 off all other performances. Standby Tickets: £5 (see p83)
BOX OFFICE 0845 127 2190 or 01298 72190
www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk
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NEW YEAR’S EVE GALA DINNER Why not make your New Year’s Eve the complete gala night out? Join us for a 3-course pre-concert dinner at 7.15pm in the magnificent Octagon in the Pavilion Gardens complex, behind the Opera House. Enjoy wonderful food and great company, then take the short stroll down the Promenade to the Opera House for the concert - the perfect way to end the old year and ring in the new! Dinner: £42.50 7
Opera House Saturday 4 January 7.30pm
Opera House Sunday 12 January 7.30pm
ULTIMATE BOWIE
TODD MILLER & THE JOE LOSS ORCHESTRA
David Bowie is widely regarded as one of the most influential innovators of the last five decades, selling around 200 million albums during his career. He first caught the public’s eye in 1969, with his space-age mini-melodrama Space Oddity, followed in 1972 by the flamboyant Rise & Fall of Ziggy Stardust & The Spiders from Mars. Hits such as Starman, Golden Years, Ashes To Ashes and Heroes followed, with a re-emergence in the mid-80s with the pop sounds of Let’s Dance and China Girl. Then in 2013, came his latest reincarnation, after a decade’s silence.
2014 sees The Joe Loss Orchestra celebrating its 80th anniversary and Todd Miller’s 40th with the orchestra. The orchestra is one of Britain’s longest-running live entertainment companies of any kind - a unique British entertainment achievement, so they must be doing something right! Their recording and touring achievements are so numerous they’re almost impossible to list!
Ultimate Bowie pays tribute to the work of this global superstar, in a show that is visually stunning and vocally impressive. Ed Blaney takes the spotlight and leads an 8-piece band that takes us from Bowie’s early years right up to the 21st century. This band isn’t called Ultimate Bowie for nothing – they capture the real essence and authenticity of David Bowie in concert! Tickets: £16.50, £18.50 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £1.75 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £2.25 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5
In 1989 Joe Loss, Britain’s most celebrated band leader, entrusted the leadership of his beloved band to his lead vocalist Todd Miller, who has led the orchestra through to the present day, performing the best in live entertainment for all generations. As their signature tune since 1938 suggests, they are determined to keep their audiences Still In The Mood.
Opera House Sunday 5 January 7.30pm
PAUL CARRACK 'The Man with the Golden Voice' according to a recent BBC4 documentary, Paul Carrack has provided the vocals for such pop classics as How Long, Tempted, The Living Years, Over My Shoulder and many more. Having recently completed a worldwide tour as a guest artist in Eric Clapton's band, Paul is now back on familiar ground with his Sheffield-based band playing songs from his vast catalogue. Not to be missed - and always a Buxton sell-out, so book early! Tickets: £27.50, £29.50 No discounts
BOX OFFICE 0845 127 2190 or 01298 72190
www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk 8
Tickets: £15.50, £17.50 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £1.50 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £2 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5
Opera House Sunday 19 January 7.30pm
MAGICAL MOZART BY CANDLELIGHT From the producers of A Viennese Strauss Gala, this sumptuous, fully-costumed show immerses the audience in the wonderful music and the classical world of one of history’s great composers, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. With beautiful costumes, music, and of course candlelight, the European Baroque Ensemble and Singers will transport you back to the sumptuous days of Salzburg and Vienna in the late 18th century. Magical Mozart by Candlelight is an evening of classical music and song which includes excerpts from the maestro’s operas The Magic Flute, The Marriage of Figaro and Cosi fan Tutte, among others, plus many more favourite vocal and instrumental moments from Mozart’s memorable masterpieces! Tickets: £17.50, £19.50 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £1.75 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £2.25 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5 9
Pavilion Arts Centre Sunday 19 January 7.30pm
Opera House Friday 24 January 7.30pm
SHAPPI KHORSANDI LIVE
THE JOHNNY CASH ROADSHOW
The star of Live At The Apollo, Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow, Friday Night with Jonathan Ross, and Have I Got News for You is back in Buxton. Shappi Khorsandi is one of the hottest comedy prospects in the country. She’s feisty, flirty and effortlessly funny and she handles every subject with a razor sharp wit, softened only by her deliciously dizzy delivery and endless charm. ‘Shappi is an endearing presence and possesses a charming self-awareness that ensures consistent laughter from start to finish’ – Huffington Post For ages 16 & over only. Tickets: £15 No discounts
Buxton Opera House welcomes back the Johnny Cash Roadshow – the only show to be endorsed by the Cash family! This year prepare for a musical adventure that truly celebrates the career of music legend, Johnny Cash.
Opera House Friday 17 & Saturday 18 January 7.30pm Matinee: Saturday 2.30pm
Adapted by emerging playwright Ivan Wilkinson, Sell a Door Theatre Company launch their 2014 season with this highly imaginative re-telling of Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic story perfect for young and old audiences alike.
Sell a Door Theatre Company presents
Ideal for family audiences aged 6+
KIDNAPPED Adapted by Ivan Wilkinson from the book by Robert Louis Stevenson ‘If life were easy, where would all the adventures be…?’ An adventure tale for all the family, Kidnapped tells the story of Davie Balfour as he survives shipwreck and murder to dramatically escape to the Highlands of Scotland. Set against the fierce social and political backdrop of 1750s Scotland, this gripping, fast paced adventure story is packed full of physical storytelling and imagination. 10
Free after-show Q&A on Fri 17 with the company in the Stalls. Tickets: £14 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £1.25 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £1.75 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5 PlayLink (see p83)
The UK’s No1 tribute, fronted by respected singer/songwriter Clive John, captures the essence of what it was like to be at a real Cash show. Featuring Jill Schoonjans as June Carter, all aspects of Cash’s life are covered with impeccable taste. The show takes the audience from the 1950s right up to 2002 and covers all the greatest hits including Ring of Fire and Walk the Line as well as the Johnny and June duets Jackson, Long Legged Guitar Pickin’ Man and many more - all accompanied by an amazing video back drop with evocative images and shots from Johnny Cash’s life. ‘What an amazing show, you could have sworn that Johnny Cash was there with you’ - The Ironworks, Inverness Tickets: £16, £18 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £1.50 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/Students/Children:½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £2 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5
BOX OFFICE 0845 127 2190 or 01298 72190
www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk 11
Opera House Saturday 25 January 7.30pm
Opera House Sunday 26 January 7.30pm
ABBA REUNION
DEREK ACORAH
ABBA Reunion is the creation of the director, producer and choreographer of the award-winning musical ABBAmania, and stars the original Frida from the London West End cast!
Voted Britain’s Favourite Male Medium by the prestigious Soul & Spirit Magazine, Derek Acorah makes his debut visit to Buxton Opera House.
ABBA Reunion gives ABBA fans, old and new, the opportunity to once again re-live the addictive ABBA phenomenon that swept the airwaves and discos of the 70s and 80s in a truly feel-good party-style tribute concert. From Waterloo to Dancing Queen, all of the hits are performed with unrivalled authenticity from both an audio and visual perspective. Superbly accurate vocals, harmony, guitar and keyboards combined with replica costumes and authentic choreography to produce one of the most requested tribute shows in the world today. Tickets: £17.50, £19.50 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £1.75 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £2.25 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5
With countless hours of spirit contact, Derek’s friendly and sincere delivery, down-to-earth charm and obvious dedication to his work has endeared him to tens of thousands of people, many of whom regularly attend his amazing live events. ‘The model of the modern medium’ – The Guardian ‘I did not know what to expect. The experience was exhilarating’ – John (audience member) We are asked to remind you that evenings of mediumship are not scientifically proven and are presented for education and entertainment purposes only. Tickets: £16.50, £18.50 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £1.75 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £2.25 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5
Opera House Monday 27 to Wednesday 29 January 7.30pm Matinee: Wednesday 2.30pm
Based on a famous murder which actually took place at the end of the last century and set in the 1880s, this play has become one of the most successful and most frequently performed in the modern repertoire.
ID Plays presents
Starring Katy Manning (Doctor Who) and Shirley Anne Field (Where The Heart Is).
LADIES IN RETIREMENT By Edward Percy and Reginald Denham In this taut, creepy melodrama, a housemaid works as the companion of an aging, retired British actress. One day the maid is visited by her two looney half-sisters. The actress finds the slightly mad sisters intolerable and demands that they leave. Unfortunately, the maid realizes that if the sisters are sent away they will end up being involuntarily committed to an insane asylum and so the maid kills the actress and lets the sisters stay.
Tickets: £13, £15, £17 Discounts: Senior Citizens: £10 (Matinees only), £1.50 off all other performances (not Dress Circle). Groups of 8 or more/Disabled: £1.50 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): ½ price Wed, £2 off all other perfs. Standby Tickets (see p83): £5 PlayLink (see p83).
Katy Manning
Shirley Anne Field
BOX OFFICE 0845 127 2190 or 01298 72190
www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk 12
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Pavilion Arts Centre Sunday 2 February 7.30pm
Opera House Friday 31 January 7.30pm
SEAN HUGHES
THE KING OF POP
- PENGUINS
- THE LEGEND CONTINUES
Sean Hughes is back on tour following a critically acclaimed, audience packed run of his new show Penguins at the Edinburgh Fringe. Sean was awarded the Herald Angels Award for Best Comedy show.
There are several tribute shows to Michael Jackson currently performing around the world, but only one production will have you believing that just for a moment... The Legend Continues. This superb production stars Navi who is officially recognised as the world’s No.1 MJ impersonator. He is also the only tribute ever to be chosen by Michael Jackson himself. Michael selected Navi to perform at two of his birthday parties and actually gave him a standing ovation after one of his performances. Michael also invited Navi to spend a day at his home ‘Neverland’. The pair remained close and due to Navi’s uncanny resemblance to the star, he was often hired to act as Michael’s decoy/body double. Navi has since continued to work at the highest level and has performed in a whopping 57 different countries. Along with his incredible live band and dancers, he is back in the UK for a national theatre tour that is set to raise the bar in the MJ tribute world. Don’t miss this incredible show as Navi brilliantly recreates all the magical classics from the early Jackson 5 songs to mega-hits such as Thriller and Smooth Criminal in a night out the whole family will enjoy. Tickets: £16, £18 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £1.50 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £2 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5
Opera House Sunday 2 February 7.30pm Mid Wales Opera presents
ACIS AND GALATEA Following their 2013 tour of Albert Herring, Mid Wales Opera present another operatic gem. Possibly the most famous pastoral operas ever written, Acis… is a masterpiece by George Frederic Handel, with words by John Gay, best known for The Beggar’s Opera. It tells an enchanting story from ancient mythology: Acis is the son of the spirit Pan, Galatea a nymph of the sea. They fall in love, only to be thwarted by the monstrous Cyclops, Polyphemus. In a jealous rage he murders Acis, leaving Galatea bereft. In her despair, she turns the blood of her dead lover into a river, forever flowing into the sea.
This is a show so full of surprises, hidden twists and recurring themes that you find yourself mapping it out hours later. Sean takes us back to his Dublin upbringing and the, at times, utter awkwardness of teenage life. Weaving in his family, his school days and the business of friendship and tying it all in to the present, it’s brilliant and multi-layered – and it really is up there with his Perrier award winning show A One Night Stand. Why does society tell us how to behave and react? What does it have to do with penguins? Buy a ticket and all will be revealed. ‘At his funniest and most profound’ – Sunday Herald ‘For quick laughs look elsewhere, but for something that leaves more of an impression, Hughes is your man’ – Chortle For ages 16 & over only. May contain strong language. Tickets: £13, £15 No discounts
Opera House Thursday 6 & Friday 7 February 7.30pm Matinee: Friday 1.30pm Icarus Theatre Collective presents
OTHELLO A tempestuous journey from scandal and intrigue to lust and vengeance. Othello’s world is brought vividly to life as a live string quartet and a stunning ensemble cast combine with some of literature’s most vibrant language and characters. A dangerous tale of ambition, jealousy and love will unfurl as Shakespeare’s classic tale of deception hurtles to its dramatic conclusion. Icarus launched in 2004, and are lauded as one of the UK’s most fearless and dynamic companies, with a reputation for punchy and vibrant productions of contemporary and classic theatre. Schools workshops available: Contact participation@boh.org.uk or 01298 72050 Free after-show Q&A on Thurs 6 with the company in the Stalls. Tickets: £16 Discounts: Senior Citizens: £10 (matinee only), £1.50 off all other perfs (not Dress Circle). Groups of 8 or more/Disabled: £1.50 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £2 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5 PlayLink (see p83)
MWO and co-production partners the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama are joined by worldrenowned violinist Rachel Podger and members of her Brecon Baroque ensemble to bring you a very special production of this beautiful opera, featuring RWCMD students performing alongside the professional company. Acis & Galatea will be followed by a free postperformance talk with the company in the stalls after a short interval. ‘The ever-adventurous Mid Wales Opera’ – The Guardian Tickets: £15, £19, £23 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £2 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £2.50 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5
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BOX OFFICE 0845 127 2190 or 01298 72190
www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk 15
Opera House Sunday 9 February 2pm
POSTMAN PAT - IT’S SHOWTIME! Premier Stage Productions & Classic Media present a brand new, fun-filled show featuring everyone's favourite postman. See Pat and his friends live on stage in their exciting new story. It's the day of the Great Greendale Talent Show and there’s much excitement as a top talent scout will be on the lookout for a rising star. Pat has a new karaoke machine to deliver for the show – but when the machine breaks down it looks like the talent show might be in jeopardy. Can Pat save the day? With songs, laughs and audience participation, Postman Pat Live is this year’s must-see show for 3 to 6 year olds!
Opera House Saturday 8 February 7.30pm
NIGHTS ON BROADWAY - A TRIBUTE TO THE BEE GEES The Bee Gees were three brothers who, from singing close harmonies as children, grew to become world superstars by their early twenties. They went on to be acknowledged among the greatest popular songwriters in history. Nights On Broadway present a tribute to The Bee Gees through a fantastic live concert, featuring the Gibb brothers’ incredible songs from over four decades from the 60s to the 90s. The show features a 7-piece band and gives the audience the experience of being at a Bee Gees concert, with a unique blend of classic hits, acoustic medleys and dance floor favourites. Tickets: £16.50, £18.50 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £1.75 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £2.25 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5
Tickets: Adults £13, Children £11 Family Tickets: £44 (4 people incl at least 2 children) or £33 (3 people incl at least 1 child). Children 2 or under: £2.50 (on parent’s knee). Babies under 12 months: Free (on parent’s knee)
Opera House Wednesday 12 February 7.30pm Michael Friend Productions presents
THE MAN OF DESTINY By George Bernard Shaw It is the year 1796. Napoleon waits in an Italian inn for urgent despatches. Instead he is confronted by a very attractive Strange Lady who seems to know him better than he knows himself. In the highly entertaining battle of wills and wits which ensues (ironically interrupted by the innkeeper) the fate of the future ruler of Europe hangs in the balance. This production of Shaw’s witty attack on empty heroism and political expediency was revived at Pentameters Theatre in Hampstead early in 2013 and now transfers to Buxton as part of a short Spring 2014 tour. Tickets: £14 Groups of 8 or more/ Senior Citizens/Disabled: £1.25 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/ Students/Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £1.75 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5 PlayLink (see p83).
Pavilion Arts Centre Saturday 8 February 7.30pm
MARK THOMAS - 100 ACTS OF MINOR DISSENT Mark goes back to what he does best - mischief. The show is his quest to commit 100 Acts of Minor Dissent in the space of one year. Mark catalogues everything from the smallest and silliest gesture to the grandest confrontations and the results are subversive, hilarious, mainly legal and occasionally inspiring. For ages 14 & over only. Tickets: £14, £16 Students: £10
BOX OFFICE 0845 127 2190 or 01298 72190
www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk 16
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Opera House Thursday 13 February 7.30pm
Pavilion Arts Centre Studio Thursday 13 February 7.30pm
Opera House Friday 14 February 7.30pm
Russian State Ballet & Opera House presents
Uncontained Arts presents
PUNT & DENNIS
LA TRAVIATA By Verdi After the popular performance of Madame Butterfly in March 2013, here is another world class opera from the same production team. La Traviata is a love story shrouded in sacrifice and misunderstanding. Courtesan Violetta is stuck in a round of endless parties until writer Alfredo convinces her to live in the country. Deeply in love, all is blissful contentment until some home truths convince her to leave Alfredo and head back into the arms of another... Performed with a large live orchestra. Sung in Italian with English surtitles (please note: surtitles may not be visible from some seats - check when booking).
SONGS FROM THE SHOWS Uncontained Arts present Songs from the Shows, an evening of show tunes, featuring the well-known songs from the West End and Broadway. This is an unmissable night for all fans of musical theatre and will include songs from hit shows such as Cabaret, Rent, Les Misérables, Dream Girls, Cats, The Phantom of the Opera, Matilda… and many more! Don’t miss out on a musical event which will promise to have you humming the songs all the way home. Tickets: £8.50 Discounts: Matcham Card holders/Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled/JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: £1 off
Tickets: £20, £30, £33, £36 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £3.25 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £3.75 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5
- LIFE ON THE ROAD Steve & Hugh (Mary Whitehouse Experience, Outnumbered, Mock The Week, The Now Show) live the dream as they cruise the contraflow lanes, follow the oneway systems, unwrap the pasties and sip the service-station coffees of Britain in their quest to find somewhere to park that’s vaguely near your local theatre. ‘The kings of satirical comedy’ – The Guardian ‘Unbelievably funny...a real class act’ – The Scotsman For ages 16 & over only. Tickets: £20.50, £22.50 Discounts available Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £2 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/Students: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £2.50 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5
Pavilion Arts Centre Sunday 23 February 7.30pm
LAUREL & HARDY Laurel & Hardy invented the modern comedy doubleact and are still as influential today as they ever were. Affectionately regarded by millions, they made over 100 films together and the iconic moments they created still live long in the memory. Set in the ‘afterlife’, Tom McGrath’s play takes an intimate and hilarious journey through the rise and demise of this incredible partnership. Through laughter and tears, the fat guy and the skinny guy relive the most important moments in their careers and introduce the key players who helped to shape and influence their lives. Performed by Lee Pace and Dan James, a comic double act with a wealth of pantomime experience behind them, Laurel & Hardy seamlessly mixes live action with video footage to tell the heartwarming story of a legendary partnership. A not to be missed half-term treat featuring a feast of slapstick family fun! ‘Dan James and Lee Pace are a true comic find in the best slapstick tradition of Laurel and Hardy. James’ character’s face is priceless’ – Mike Martin, The Stage Tickets: £12, £14 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £1 off JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £1.50 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5 PlayLink (see p83).
BOX OFFICE 0845 127 2190 or 01298 72190
Opera House Supported by
www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk 18
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The 12Th BuxTon FesTIval oF lIve musIC saTurDay 15 To sunDay 22 FeBruary 2014 Opera House Saturday 15 February 7.30pm
I
mIKe I The meChanICs The Living Years – 25th Anniversary Tour Mike Rutherford, a founder member of one of the most successful groups of all time, Genesis, formed Mike + The Mechanics in 1984 and created a side project that would go on to sell 10m records worldwide. Globally known for hits including The Living Years, All I Need Is a Miracle, Over My Shoulder and Another Cup of Coffee.
Special guests Sadie & The Hotheads Downton Abbey star and Hollywood actress Elizabeth McGovern has teamed up with the multifaceted Nelson Brothers and an array of musicians, with a line-up that includes electric guitar, acoustic guitar and bouzouki along with a drum kit played like percussion, an extra percussionist for good measure, a bass player and backing singer. They play music that is somewhere between country and pop. Tickets: £29.50 (No discounts)
Pavilion Arts Centre Saturday 15 February 7.30pm
Opera House Sunday 16 February 7.30pm
Pavilion Arts Centre Sunday 16 February 7.30pm
Opera House Monday 17 February 7.30pm
KIKI Dee anD Carmelo luggerI
ToploaDer
sons oF Cream
alexanDer o’neal
Cream were undeniably the first rock supergroup. Although they were together for less than 3 years, Jack Bruce, Ginger Baker and Eric Clapton left a gigantic impression on the world of rock music forever. Ginger’s son Kofi along with Jack’s son Malcolm and Will Johns, the son of legendary record producer/ engineer Andy Johns, team up to pay tribute to the world’s greatest power trio.
Reputedly the best pure singer to come from the 80s soul era releasing a ‘string of memorable hits’ that are still broadcast as radio requests and played at thousands of events around the world including Fake, Criticize, If You Were Here Tonight, Saturday Love, Never Knew Love Like This, Sunshine, Secret Lovers and many more. His album Hearsay sold nearly a million copies in the UK alone, and to this day he still holds the record as the only performer to sell out for six consecutive nights at London’s Wembley Arena. This soul legend still has an undying passion to perform... and his live shows reflect that.
Yorkshire born Kiki began her singing career with a local dance band and then went to London to record with Fontana Records. She also worked live in cabaret around the UK and appeared on Radio and TV guest spots such as the Morecambe and Wise Show. After turning professional, she was signed to Elton John’s label Rocket Records and went on to have hits with songs like Amoureuse and I’ve Got The Music In Me and in 1976 Don’t Go Breaking My Heart with the man himself. Apart from her solo career, Kiki has worked on the West End Stage and was nominated for Laurence Olivier award for her performance in Willie Russell’s Blood Brothers. For the last decade Kiki has been collaborating with guitarist, writer and producer Carmelo Luggeri on their own music which is more experimental than ever before. In this semi acoustic setting she has found more expression than ever.
Toploader returned in 2011 from an eight year hiatus with third studio album Only Human, produced by Danton Supple (Morrissey, Coldplay). Since the release of the album, the band have been working their way around venues and festivals across the UK, as well as spreading their wings into Europe. In June 2011, lead singer Joseph Washbourn took to our screens to compete in ITV’s Popstar to Operastar where his outstanding voice took him right through to the semi finals. Toploader’s live set continues to impress, as the band revisit all of their singles including Dancing in the Moonlight, Achilles Heel and Time of My Life as well as introducing fans to their brand new material. ‘Their best album yet!’ – Mojo ‘Melodies that soar to the heavens’ – Q Magazine Plus support: John King
Kofi & Malcolm capture the mood and energy of their fathers, adding their own distinctive styles. Malcolm plays strong and innovative bass-lines complimenting Kofi’s complex polyrhythms, learned from his father. Will taught himself guitar when 15, encouraged by his uncle Eric Clapton. Kofi, Malcolm and Will have music deep in their veins and this is why all three are able to interpret the legacy of their fathers and do them proud.
Tickets: £21 (No discounts)
Tickets: £15 (No discounts)
Tickets: £18 (No discounts)
Tickets: £15 (No discounts)
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Opera House Tuesday 18 February 7.30pm
Pavilion Arts Centre Tuesday 18 February 7.30pm
Opera House Wednesday 19 February 7.30pm
Pavilion Arts Centre Wednesday 19 February 7.30pm
Opera House Thursday 20 February 7.30pm
Pavilion Arts Centre Thursday 20 February 7.30pm
The Blow monKeys
TrIo valore
BrIan may & Kerry ellIs
Toyah
Jahmene Douglas
graeme ClarK
Due to the phenomenal success of their previous tours, legendry Queen Guitarist Brian May and singing sensation Kerry Ellis are to perform together once again, in a brand new show, The Candlelight Concerts. This is a chance to see one of the world’s greatest guitar players, Brian May and Britain’s newest First Lady of Song, Kerry Ellis take to stage. Join them for a magical evening of world class acoustic music, performed by candlelight at Buxton Opera House for Four Four Time 2014.
From punk princess to high priestess of TV, Toyah Willcox is a uniquely gifted performer. Charismatic, outspoken and impossible to categorise, she is one of Britain’s iconic household names – an award-winning rock legend as well as a much-loved actress and music composer. In a career spanning thirty-five years Toyah has had thirteen top 40 singles, recorded twenty five albums, written two books, appeared in over forty stage plays, made ten feature films and presented countless television programmes.
With Joyful Soundz Gospel Choir
Good songs, performed in an intimate acoustic setting. Venues cherry picked as the perfect environment to listen to the wonderful eclectic styles of GC. It’s a real chance to see Graeme where he thrives – performing to an audience he can see and hear. The show revolves around Graeme’s solo material and WetWetWet’s lengthy hits catalogue. With Iain Duff’s piano and accordion and Graeme Duffin’s guitars, the set creates exciting musical atmospheres giving some old classics a new and original twist. People who know both Graemes and Iain from the previous tours over last 2 years will be aware that they are in for a treat. Sure, we all love the arena shows usually associated with Graeme but these are performances where there is a different kind of musical skill required. As GC puts it: ‘Playing these songs, stripped back to their bare essentials and showing them in a different light, it put me back in touch with what I loved about music – singing and performing.’ It’s difficult to argue with that.
With worldwide hits such as Digging Your Scene and It Doesn’t Have To Be This Way, The Blow Monkeys blazed an iconic trail across the 1980s. Led by the charismatic singer songwriter Robert Howard (aka Dr Robert), they further cemented their reputation with hits such as Choice?, Wait (a UK top five with soul diva Kym Mazelle) and Celebrate (The Day After You), a duet with soul legend Curtis Mayfield – all this plus a song You Don’t Own Me on the multi platinum selling soundtrack to the film Dirty Dancing. The Blow Monkeys reformed in 2008 and released their first new album in 18 years Devils Tavern followed by Staring At The Sea in 2011. Their renaissance continued in 2013 with the release of their highly acclaimed album Feels Like A New Morning... As if this wasn’t enough Sony released the beautifully packaged 3CD career retrospective Halfway To Heaven. With a formidable live reputation and a career spanning more than 30 years, The Blow Monkeys continue to grow and evolve musically on a journey that shows no sign of slowing.
Formed originally from Paul Weller’s formidable live band of the mid-2000s the Trio’s original line-up featured Steve White on drums (The Style Council, Paul Weller, Oasis, Dr John, The Who) and original Ocean Colour Scene founder Damon Minchella on bass with Seamus Beaghan on Hammond organ. After releasing a widely acclaimed album in 2008, the trio toured the UK and Europe playing festivals and live shows extensively through 2009. In 2013 the band were asked to reform on the 10th anniversary of the Italian label Record Kicks and started off in Naples with their new line up, featuring Manchester based rising star Justin Shearn (Sam Gray) on keyboards. Since the debut Italian shows, the band has gone from strength to strength with a diary of live shows that stretches into 2014. Trio Valore features some of the best musicians this country has to offer, with drummer Steve White voted by readers of Rhythm Magazine in their top poll of all time drummers and with Damon Minchella in partnership have played in some of the most influential bands and recording of the last 20 years. Tickets: £15 (No discounts)
Brian and Kerry will perform stripped down versions of Queen classics alongside a number of their personal favourite songs, showcasing Kerry’s extraordinary voice with Brian accompanying her on both guitar and vocals. ‘Ellis’ huge voice and May’s scorching guitar riffs pack enough energy to blow the roof off’ – The Sun Tickets: £40 (No discounts)
Acoustic, Up Close & Personal: Stories & Songs
Acoustic, Up Close & Personal is an intimate show and a chance to hear Toyah perform a selection of songs acoustically, including her classic hits, and recount stories from her colourful career to date. With musical accompaniment from Chris Wong and Colin Hinds. Tickets: £15 (No discounts)
There is something extraordinary about Jahméne Douglas. It’s not just his soul skimming voice that reaches from the very core of him to cause tingles in your heart. The beautiful voice comes from a beautiful soul. When he first hit The X Factor screens in 2012 there was a quietness about him but the former shelf stacker was not so much shy as quietly strong. As he explains ‘I know I seem shy, but singing was my therapy, my outlet, my release. It was how I could be just me. It’s a way of zoning out and making you strong. The singing became my sanctuary when I was growing up’. His chart topping, debut album Love Never Fails is a collection of songs that he has flavoured with his own soul and has guest appearances from his incredible X Factor mentor Nicole Scherzinger and the legendary Stevie Wonder. Jahméne will be joined by the Joyful Soundz Gospel Choir, a cutting edge group of gospel and contemporary singers.
Tickets: £15 (No discounts)
Tickets: £21 (No discounts)
Tickets: £18 (No discounts)
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Opera House Friday 21 February 7.30pm
Pavilion Arts Centre Friday 21 February 7.30pm
Opera House Saturday 22 February 7.30pm
Pavilion Arts Centre Saturday 22 February 7.30pm
BranD new heavIes
The IDle hanDs
The souTh
The Brand New Heavies are a British music institution whose unique mix of jazz, funk and soul has lit up the UK music scene for well over two decades.
Nominated British Blues Award finalists The Idle Hands are a gritty 4-piece blues rock band championed as ‘Britain’s best unsigned blues-rockers’ by Classic Rock Blues Magazine and featured on their sampler disc. Phil Allen charismatically leads the band with passionately powerful vocal performances alongside Dave Robinson’s raw and exquisitely skilful world class guitar dynamics.
ChrIs CorCoran TrIo
In the wake of the 25th anniversary of Acid Jazz (the label that signed ‘The Heavies’ in 1990), 2013 sees the release of their first full studio album in nearly seven years, Forward, featuring original vocal collaborator N’ Dea Davenport and introducing new vocalist Dawn Joseph. Over the years The Brand New Heavies have been responsible for some of the UK’s biggest R & B/soul tracks, scoring 16 top 40 singles including Dream On Dreamer and You’ve Got A Friend, as well as over two million album sales. Tickets: £21 (No discounts)
Heavily influenced by the blues as well as iconic bands such as Zeppelin, Free and Hendrix, they receive consistently high praise for their albums, captivating live shows, musicianship and stage craft. With 6 highly acclaimed albums, a host of high profile support slots and festival appearances behind them, they’re in big demand on the live circuit. Promoting their eagerly anticipated 2014 album, the national rock and blues music press consistently remind us that this is ‘definitely a band not to be missed’! Tickets: £12 (No discounts)
When great British pop institution, The Beautiful South split in 2006, several members of the band weren’t ready to let it go. So 2 years later, singers Dave Hemingway and Alison Wheeler, alongside life long members Damon Butcher (keys), Gaz Birtles (sax) and Tony Robinson (trumpet), came out of retirement and formed the 9 piece band, The South. With the realisation that if the fans didn’t want it, they wouldn’t do it, The South embarked on their journey. But boy, did the fans want it! And still do. Those classic songs live on. Songs such as A Little Time – the band’s number one single – sung by Dave Hemingway, just one of the many highlights in a 20 year career. Perfect 10, Rotterdam, Old Red Eyes, Good as Gold, Don’t Marry Her – all performed again live, as they have been doing since 1989! A few years further down the line The South now have their debut album under their belt. A self financed labour of love, Sweet Refrains unveils their own brand of irresistible pop melodies laced with twists of caustic wit and opens another new chapter started by The Beautiful South. Tickets: £21 (No discounts)
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Chris Corcoran Trio are a dynamic instrumental group who perform across the UK. They have appeared for 3 consecutive years at both the International Guitar Festival of Great Britain and the UK Boogie Woogie Festival. They are also the only instrumental group ever to be given their own show in the 20 year history of the UK’s finest blues bar, the Ain’t Nothin’ But in Soho. Catch them live bringing this year’s Four Four Time at the Arts Centre to an end with lots of fun, guitar stunts, audience participation and rollicking blues numbers! Tickets: £12 (No discounts)
FesTIval BooKIng InFormaTIon How to Book Tickets for Four Four Time 2014 can be purchased in advance from the Opera House Box Office in person or call 0845 127 2190 (local rate from anywhere in the UK) or 01298 72190. To book online, visit our website at www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk for full booking information see page 83. Booking for Pavilion Arts Centre concerts Access to concerts in the Pavilion Arts Centre is via the main Pavilion Gardens entrance on St John’s Rd. Tickets for Arts Centre concerts can be purchased at the Opera House Box Office until one hour before each Arts Centre performance, and then at the Arts Centre Box Office (at the main St Johns Rd entrance) after that. 25
Opera House Friday 28 February to Sunday 2 March Fri 7.30pm, Sat 2.30 & 7.30pm, Sun 2pm & 5pm An awe inspiring new show from the ‘worlds, most famous circus’. A place where dreams become reality... The Moscow State Circus returns to the UK with its latest & greatest production to date, Park Gorkogo. Set in the mystical centre of Moscow’s cultural & artistic quarter, ‘Gorky Park’ is the perfect back drop for what is undoubtedly the greatest and most famous circus on earth. Superstar clowns Splendid Pavlik & Klava invite the audience to this wondrous & mysterious place, a place to romance, a place to stroll and take in Moscow at sunset and a place to see magnificent feats of human achievement, the like of which have never been witnessed in Great Britain before. As our loveable buffoons reminisce about past times in one of the most famous cities on earth they are surrounded by a multitude of flying, back flipping, juggling & roller skating performers.
Opera House Thursday 27 February 7.30pm Opera House Tuesday 25 February 7.30pm
BLAKE IN CONCERT
SALLY MORGAN
Combining the vocal grandeur of The Three Tenors, the infectious harmonies of The Bee Gees and the comedy of the Rat Pack, the exclusive new trio sound of BRITAward winners Blake is revealed in their exciting 2014 Live in Concert tour. Fresh back from major tours in Asia, America and Europe, the boys have got hilarious stories to tell and a host of new songs to share, including exclusive numbers from their brand new album Start Over. In a visual feast featuring spectacular video projections, the boys combine classical, pop, rock and musicals in a 2 hour show that amazes with its variety and class. Also joining the boys is the stunning classical soprano Natalie Coyle as their special support artist for this tour.
- PSYCHIC SALLY: ON THE ROAD Britain's best-loved psychic and international star Sally Morgan returns with her outstanding 2014 nationwide tour. Sally is best well known for being the star of Sky Living’s Psychic Sally On The Road! Sally has built up an extensive client list reading for celebrities and royalty alike including Katie Price, the late Princess Diana and George Michael, which is what has lead her to be referred to as the ‘Psychic to the Stars’. Sally’s one of a kind, bubbly yet down to earth personality attracts a whole new audience to the spiritual world but it’s her astounding accuracy that keeps audiences coming back for more. People travel from all over the country to witness Sally’s incredible gift and Sally has even taken her show as far afield as Australia where she played to sell out venues! This unique theatrical experience should leave you feeling uplifted and enlightened…you’ve got to see it to believe it! Sally Morgan is investigational and the show is for the purpose of entertainment. Tickets: £23, £25 No discounts 26
Don't miss this amazing show, created especially for its first ever European tour. Tickets: Eves: £19, £22, £25 Discounts: Family Tickets : £56, £68, £80 (4 people incl at least 2 children), £45, £54, £63 (3 people incl at least 1 child), £42, £51, £60 (3 people incl 2 children). Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled/JSA/Income Support/ Students/Children: £3 off Children 2 or under: £2.50 (on parent’s knee) Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £4 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5
Tickets: £19, £21 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £2 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £2.50 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5
BOX OFFICE 0845 127 2190 or 01298 72190
Opera House Supported by
www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk 27
Opera House The Russian State Ballet of Siberia presents
Opera House Tuesday 4 March 7.30pm
DON QUIXOTE
ANDY KIRKPATRICK
Thursday 6 March 7.30pm
- INAPPROPRIATE CLIMBING
No ballet can equal this Russian showpiece of thrilling technique, pure panache and explosive balletic fireworks. This is the enchanting story of an eccentric, yet noble, old gentlemen Don Quixote. His dreams of a fantasy world full of brave knights and beautiful ladies take us on a chivalrous adventure with his trusty servant. Love, duels and spectacular choreography combine with a dash of Spanish passion in one of the most beautiful and moving of all ballets.
Hugely entertaining - and still the only ‘stand-up mountaineer’ in the UK - author & mountaineer Andy Kirkpatrick returns with his fifth theatre tour. Since the last one in 2011 Andy has been busy climbing all over the world and has tons of new stories to tell. This time the maverick mountaineer will be talking about climbing El Cap with his 13-year-old daughter (as featured in CBBC’s My Life series), revisiting Norway’s Troll Wall and his latest winter expedition to attempt the North Face of the Eiger.
‘Sumptuous costumes and superb performances’ – Hull Daily Mail
‘Gut-wrenching, entertaining and challenging’ – The Guardian
GISELLE
May contain strong language. Tickets: £11, £13 Discounts available Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £1 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £1.50 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5
Friday 7 March 7.30pm Opera House Wednesday 5 March 7.30pm Starring Crissy Rock (Benidorm, I’m A Celebrity…), Leah Bell (Six of a Kind) and Pat Dunn (Emmerdale, Coronation Street), Dirty Dusting is a heart warming laugh out loud comedy that will have you rolling in the aisles and smiling every time you answer the phone! Gladys, Elsie and Olive are three cleaning ladies who are about to be “put out to pasture” by their overzealous office manager Dave. Feeling they have little chance of gaining employment elsewhere, the ladies try to think of a way of boosting their falling income! One evening, a chance wrong number ringing into the office gives them a great idea… why not run a sex chat line? After all, no one will know what they look like or indeed who they are, so providing they can keep this a secret from their boss they could be onto a winner! Needless to say things don’t go entirely according to plan as they launch Dirty Dusting Telephone Sex – a chat line that really cleans up! A must-see play with a feel good factor. An evening not to be missed! For ages 16 & over. Tickets: £20 No discounts
BOX OFFICE 0845 127 2190 or 01298 72190
www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk 28
The most poignant of all classical ballets combines powerful emotions and visual splendour in a chilling and heart-rending tale of love, treachery and forgiveness from beyond the grave. The story of Giselle and her aristocratic but duplicitous lover Albrecht is set to a glorious score and brought to life by the magnificent costumes and virtuoso performances of the Russian State Ballet of Siberia. ‘The whole company of nearly 40 dancers are arrayed in the most stunningly colourful costumes’ – East Anglian Daily Times
SWAN LAKE
Saturday 8 March 2.30pm & 7.30pm The greatest romantic ballet of all time is brought to life by Tchaikovsky’s haunting and unforgettable score. From the impressive splendour of the palace ballroom to the moon-lit lake where swans glide in perfect formation, this compelling tale of tragic romance has it all. ‘This production is a triumph’ – Plymouth Evening Herald Tickets: £21, £30, £33, £36 (eves), £19, £25, £28, £31 (mat). Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £3 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £3.50 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5
Opera House Supported by
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Pavilion Arts Centre Wednesday 5 March 7.30pm
Opera House Sunday 9 March 7.30pm
Opera House Monday 10 March 7pm
Opera House Tuesday 11 March 7.30pm
SEANN WALSH
Opera & Ballet International presents
DÉDA & U.Dance Derbyshire present
RICH HALL LIVE
INTERFACE 14
-THE LIE-IN KING
Interface 14 will showcase the best of the county’s youth dance talent from schools and community groups across Derby City and Derbyshire.
Comedy’s fastest rising star Seann Walsh is returning with an all-new show to prove to world that he’s The Lie-in King!
It promises to be an evening of inspirational performances, where young people aged 11-19 have a fantastic opportunity to showcase their energy, creativity and skill in a professional venue.
Star of Channel 4’s Stand Up For The Week, BBC1’s Live At The Apollo and Dave’s Argumental, Seann is a charming and charismatic natural born observational storyteller, and one of the most frighteningly precocious talents to emerge from the UK comedy circuit in years.
Interface 14 is a Stage 2 U.Dance platform framed within a national programme which enables young people in England to take part in an annual dance performance.
With support from Romesh Ranganathan - this year’s winner of Leicester Mercury Comedian of the Year award at Dave’s Leicester Comedy Festival.
Tickets: £6, £8 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £1 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £1.50 off
‘Walsh is well on his way to becoming a star attraction’ – Independent ‘See him now, before the stadium tour’ – Sunday Times ‘Slick, funny observational comedy’ – chortle.co.uk May contain strong language. Tickets: £13 No discounts
Ellen Kent returns with a new production of her first opera, Nabucco, a powerful tale laced with revenge, destruction and jealousy. Featuring the celebrated Chisinau National Opera and National Philharmonic with International guest soloists, Verdi’s haunting and melodic Chorus of the Hebrew Slaves follows the plight of the Hebrews as they are forced from their homeland into exile by the Babylonian King Nabucco.
Rich Hall’s critically acclaimed grouchy, deadpan style has established him as a master of absurdist irony and king of rapid-fire wit. The award-winning Montana native, renowned for his expertly crafted tirades and quick fire banter with audiences and delightful musical sequences, saddles up and hitches his wagon to tour the British Isles once again. His plain spoken growling indignation and acerbic observations have an unerring talent for hitting his targets with precision every time, leaving his audience hanging on every word and winning him fans all over the globe. The Perrier Award winner has been described as a transatlantic messenger lampooning each country he visits with his common sense, and he is no less harsh to his homeland. Rich has also become well known for his television and radio work. Notable UK appearances include Stand Up For The Week, QI, Live At The Apollo, Have I Got News For You, Rich Hall’s Cattle Drive and Never Mind The Buzzcocks. ‘Rich Hall is a comedy phenomenon’ – The Sun ‘Now is the time to grab this chance to see the great man at work’ – Guardian Contains strong language. Tickets: £17 No discounts
A spectacular traditionally staged production featuring magnificent sets and costumes with amazing lighting and stage effects, Nabucco promises to be an evening to remember. Sung in Italian with English surtitles (please note: surtitles may not be visible from some seats – check when booking). ‘Worth going a long way to hear‘ - Manchester Evening News ‘A terrific production of Verdi’s epic tale’ – Liverpool Daily Post
BOX OFFICE 0845 127 2190 or 01298 72190
www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk 30
Tickets: £21, £30, £33, £36 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £3.25 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £3.75 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5
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Pavilion Arts Centre Friday 14 March 7.30pm
Pavilion Arts Centre Sunday 16 March 7.30pm
Seabright Productions presents
MILES JUPP
THE ONLY WAY IS DOWNTON
Miles Jupp – actor, writer and comedian – is making a return to stand-up and going on his first live UK tour since the hugely successful Fibber In The Heat with which he toured the UK twice and performed in London’s West End in 2012. He’s not been all that idle since – regularly appearing on Have I Got News For You, The News Quiz, Mock The Week as well as an assortment of other shows of that ilk and acting in Alan Bennett’s People at the National Theatre for 8 months.
Written and performed by Luke Kempner Direct from a West End season comes this first national tour of Luke Kempner’s tour-de-force impressions comedy, in an extended version featuring exclusive new material. Having made his name with YouTube hit Downstairs At Downton, and appearances in musicals including Les Misérables and Avenue Q, Kempner’s debut solo show won critical acclaim and sell-out audiences at the Edinburgh Fringe last year. As celebrities start appearing at the Abbey, cultures clash and eras hilariously collide in this brilliant new parody, which takes in many other popular TV shows and familiar modern voices to help the cast of Downton save the estate from financial ruin – again! “A tightly written and performed mash-up of the saga with modern TV hits… an affectionate spoof” - Independent on Sunday “A fine impressionist, giving a splendid display of Downtonry” - Stephen Fry Tickets: £12, £14 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £1 off JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £1.50 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5
In this show Miles will be discussing/ranting/describing: himself, you, domestic imprisonment, fatherhood, having to have opinions, hot drinks, the bloody government, bad balance, housing, ill health, the ageing process, navigation, other people’s pants and, inevitably, a number of other things. It’s a man, standing on a stage, facing an audience, talking about some things and ultimately aiming to cover the cost of his white goods.
Opera House Saturday 15 March 7.30pm
JOE LONGTHORNE This talented artist began his career over three decades ago with appearances on Junior Showtime, followed by a grounding on the tough Northern club circuit. His big break came in 1981 when he was a finalist on London Weekend Television’s Search for a Star – this lead to appearances at the London Palladium with Bob Hope and The Talk of the Town. A short time later, Joe received the Variety Club of Britain award as Most Promising Artiste of the Year. Television specials in the UK and USA followed. Joe’s repertoire of voices is endless and includes hundreds of the world’s top singers, however, he is perhaps best known for his impersonation of Shirley Bassey who has commented, ‘Joe can do me better than I can do myself’. During his career, Joe has received gold and platinum discs for his albums, enjoyed sell-out concerts at the Royal Albert Hall, as well as touring Australia several times. Now, Joe is looking forward to new challenges, new songs to sing and new audiences to thrill. Tickets: £21 No discounts
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Pavilion Arts Centre Saturday 15 March 1.30pm & 3.30pm Peaceful Lion Productions present
HEY, PRESTO!
‘Someone you could listen to forever on almost any subject’ – British Comedy Guide May contain strong language. Tickets: £13, £15 No discounts
From the producers of last year’s smash hit Bringing Down the Moon comes a brand new production Hey, Presto! based on the book by Nadia Shireen. Presto the Cat is a very talented magician, so when he and his best friend Monty the Dog join a funfair and start a magic show things look good for the duo. But fame goes to Monty’s head and soon Presto loses his friend and his show! Will true friendship prevail? Is there a touch of magic in the air? A heart-warming tale of aspiration, friendship, adventure and a little bit of mischief accompanied by catchy songs, this is the perfect treat for everyone aged 3 and up. ‘Engaging and entertaining’ – Salisbury Journal Tickets: Adults £7, Children £6 Family tickets: £24 (4 people incl at least 2 children), £18 (3 people incl at least 1 child). Children 2 or under: £2.50 (on parent’s knee)
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Opera House Monday 17 March 7.30pm
Pavilion Arts Centre Friday 21 March 7.30pm
CHRIS PACKHAM
ADAIRE TO DANCE:
- WILD NIGHT OUT!
COFFEE SHOP CULTURE
Chris Packham goes wild across the country with an entertaining and informative look at some of nature’s most popular and interesting species. Illustrated with his superb photographs from around the world and from his beloved UK, he explains the fascinating ecologies and behaviours of a range of creatures from Leopards to Barn Owls, from Cheetahs to Pond Skaters, from Polar Bears to Peregrines. His conversational style, irreverent humour and sometimes controversial opinions make for a hugely rewarding evening’s entertainment. He tells of close shaves and the often bizarre lengths he’ll go to getting the picture, challenging people to think again about the conventions of conservation. Suitable for ages 8 to 80, there is always time for questions at the end… so long as you don’t mind a candid or frank answer and there are sure to be a couple of poodles in there somewhere! Tickets: £16, £18 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £1.50 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £2 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5
Coffee Shop Culture – the bitter sweet taste of life in a coffee shop … Join Adaire to Dance in a coffee shop like you have never seen before. Laugh, cry and gasp as you follow the characters through their day! Coffee Shop Culture explores themes of social interaction, lifestyle and routine, through innovative contemporary choreography and digital projection created by digital artists Illuminos.
Opera House Thursday 20 March 7.30pm
This production is supported by Arts Council England and Déda.
THE MEAT LOAF STORY Steve Steinman returns with his epic adventure delivering the best of the best from Meat Loaf’s incredible catalogue of albums. Known the world over for his performance in the hit show Vampires Rock, Steve has a fan base most rock stars would be proud of. Discarding the pretence of wigs and make up for his new show, Steve lets his voice and the performance do the talking. With its video projected scenes, incredible stage set, superb band and Steve Steinman’s unique sense of humour and stage presence, the show will have you up on your feet and dancing in the aisles to all the greatest Meat Loaf hits – Paradise by the Dashboard Light, Took the Words Right Out Of My Mouth, Anything For Love, Dead Ringer For Love and Bat Out of Hell, to name just a few. Tickets: £22.50, £24.50 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £2.25 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £2.75 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5
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Opera House Friday 21 March 7.30pm
The show is designed to impress, captivate and entertain everyone from dance enthusiasts to audience members who are new to contemporary dance. This performance will be unique to Buxton as local young dance artists take the parts of ‘Coffee Frantics’.
Tickets: £8, £10 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £1 off JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £1.50 off
After 10 years performing around the world, Jamie Allan is set to astound you in his first UK tour of a brand new show, iMagician. Working along side BAFTA award-winning director Anthony Owen (Derren Brown) and never seen in the UK before, iMagician blends technology with incredible magic and illusion, enhanced by cutting-edge projection technology and world-class sleight of hand. Jamie Allan is one of the finest magicians the UK has ever produced. He has worked in all facets of the entertainment industry, as a performer as well as a producer, writer and director for innovative and ambitious projects for the European television and theatre markets. Jamie has worked alongside and designed effects for many top stars including: Sting, Tim Minchin, Katherine Jenkins, Lulu, Blue, Leona Lewis, Billy Ocean and Jools Holland. Tickets: £16, £18 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £1.50 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £2 off. Standby Tickets (see p83): £5 35
The Octagon, Pavilion Gardens Friday 21 March 8pm to 1am
Opera House Tuesday 25 March 7.30pm
THE 7TH BUXTON SOUL NIGHT
BARRY CRYER - TWITTER TITTERS In yet another farewell tour, Baz returns this time with Colin Sell, having been charged with persistent joking, and asks for 20 other shows to be taken into consideration. You are the judge and jury. Be merciful to the aged accused, he merely seeks to bring a ray of sunshine amid the dark clouds of life. He’ll be enjoying himself… do join him!
Returning for another great night of Northern Soul & Motown at the outstanding Octagon in the Pavilion Gardens is the 7th Buxton Soul Night, with classic oldies all the way. With some of the country’s best DJs playing the music that made Wigan Casino famous, this is an evening never to be missed! Large dance floor and bar until 1am. Record sellers welcome by arrangement. Contact phil@soulovereasy.co.uk
Tickets: £14, £16 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £1.50 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £2 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5
Tickets: £7 (No discounts)
Opera House Saturday 22 March 7.30pm
BEYOND THE BARRICADE Back by overwhelming public demand and celebrating it’s 15th fantastic year with a sensational new show for 2014. The UK’s longest running musical theatre concert, Beyond the Barricade re-creates original West End/Broadway musical hit songs performed with amazing authenticity by principle performers from the West End productions of Les Misérables, and the 25th Anniversary Concert at the 02 Arena. This production will look back over the show’s amazing fifteen years and include many of the musicals that have made it the UK’s leading concert of its kind, including Miss Saigon, The Lion King, The Phantom Of The Opera, West Side Story, Jesus Christ Superstar, Blood Brothers, The Jersey Boys and many more hit musical productions, climaxing with a spectacular finale from, of course, Les Misérables! Don’t miss the musicals event of the Year! ‘5 star rated show… fight to get a ticket for this dazzling show!’ – Whatsonstage ‘An evening of musical paradise’ – What’s On North East
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Tickets: £18, £20 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £1.75 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £2.25 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5
Opera House Sunday 23 March 7.30pm
TAP FACTORY Dance at its stomping best! Stomp meets Tap Dogs in this tremendously visual, and highly exciting show, featuring the world’s best tap dancers and international musicians as they blend the art of percussion, with dance and acrobatics. This dynamic work was created by Vincent Pausanias and comes to the UK direct from sell out tours in Europe and South America as part of a world tour. This amazing fully choreographed spectacular features mind blowing live percussion, and gorgeous male dancers and acrobats to set your pulses racing. With urban, tap dance, hip hop, comedy, and aerial acrobatics, audiences will be amazed and thrilled by this high octane spectacular! Tickets: £18, £20 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £1.75 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £2.25 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5
BOX OFFICE 0845 127 2190 or 01298 72190
www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk 37
Opera House Wednesday 26 March 7.30pm
BALLETBOYZ
Tuesday 25 to 30 March
- THE TALENT
Buxton Opera House & Pavilion Arts Centre, in conjunction with Buxton Film, presents the
Make some room. Make some noise. Here come the BalletBoyz®. Following triumphant UK and international appearances on stage and screen, this phenomenally popular company featuring 10 exceptional young dancers presents an exhilarating evening of exciting and explosive dance. the TALENT features two stunning dance pieces by internationally celebrated choreographers Russell Maliphant and Liam Scarlett.
BuxTon FesTIval oF worlD CInema 2014 6 Days – 2 Venues – 17 Movies A feast of passion, comedy, colour, action, suspense, documentary and music for lovers of film from every corner of the globe. Tuesday 25 March Paupers Pit Theatre 7pm The 400 Blows (PG) France 9pm Where Is The Friend’s Home? (U) Iran Wednesday 26 March Paupers Pit Theatre 7pm Lore (15) Aus, Ger, UK 9pm Elena (12) Russia Thurday 27 March Paupers Pit Theatre 7pm The Bicycle Thieves (U) Italy 9pm The World of Apu (U) Bangladesh Friday 28 March Pavilion Arts Centre Studio 2.30pm Blue Jasmine (12A) USA 5pm Wadjda (PG) Saudi Arabia 7.30pm Le Week-end (15) UK
Saturday 29 March Pavilion Arts Centre Studio 2.30pm Frances Ha (15) USA 5.00pm Like Father, Like Son (PG) Japan 7.30pm Philomena (12A) UK Saturday 29 March Paupers Pit Theatre 2.30pm The Red Balloon (U) France plus A Cat In Paris (PG) France Sunday 30 March Pavilion Arts Centre Studio 2.30pm Nothing But A Man (12) USA 5.00pm Monsoon Wedding (15) India 7.30pm Sunshine On Leith (PG) UK
BalletBoyz® is one of the most cheekily original and innovative forces in modern dance. Led by former Royal Ballet lead dancers Michael Nunn and William Trevitt, the company thrills audiences and critics the world over with its distinctive style, fusing spectacular dance both energetic and graceful, with stunning music and film. ‘BalletBoyz occupies boyband territory’ – Times ‘The performance is whole-hearted, whole-bodied, splendid’ – Financial Times ‘The body beautiful meets serious talent’ – London Evening Standard ‘It took the entire train ride home for my adrenaline to stop pumping. Wow!’ – Daily Express Tickets: £13, £16 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled/ JSA/Income Support/Students/Children/ Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £2 off School Groups of 10 or more: £10 (1 adult free per 10 children) Standby Tickets (see p83): £5
All tickets: £4 (Discounts: 50p off) Special Paupers Pit double-bill tickets: £6 (Discounts: £1 off)
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www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk 38
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Pavilion Arts Centre Wednesday 26 March 7.30pm
Opera House Saturday 29 March 7.30pm
The Pantaloons presents
THE SOLID SILVER 60s SHOW 2014
SHERLOCK HOLMES How can one show with just four actors possibly contain so much action and adventure? Elementary, my dear! The critically-acclaimed Pantaloons Theatre Company put dynamic detective duo Holmes and Watson through their paces as they tackle their most fiendish cases yet. This delightfully inventive and hilarious show for all ages features live music, audience interaction and more mystery than you can shake a magnifying glass at. ‘A production of ingenuity, verve and wit… hilarious!’ – Oxford Times ‘So much fun you can hardly imagine!’ – Sheffield Star Tickets: £11, £13 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £1 off JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £1.50 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5
They say that if you remember the ‘60s you weren’t there! Fill that gap in your memory with The Solid Silver ‘60s Show and relive the ‘60s with original artists singing the original hits!
Opera House Thursday 27 March 7.30pm
THE BOOTLEG BEATLES In the 50 years since the Beatles had their first No.1, their music has never been eclipsed, their image has never faded, and they continue to attract new fans with each coming generation. For over thirty of those years, The Bootleg Beatles have been performing these classic pop songs to audiences across the globe, winning over even the most hardened sceptics with their stunning recreation of The Beatles’ sound and look. With a little help from their orchestral ensemble, they even manage to reproduce live on stage songs The Fab Four never actually performed themselves. Every tiny detail is meticulously covered from costumes to authentic period instruments; from their witty Scouse banter to their ‘inflection perfect’ vocal mimicry. Tickets: £25.50, £27.50 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £2.50 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £3 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5
Now in its 29th year the show reunites Brian Poole and The Tremeloes and features the unforgettable talents of Chris Farlowe, Chris Montez and Wayne Fontana, all backed by Vanity Fare.
Opera House Friday 28 March 7.30pm
Tickets: £25, £27 Discounts: Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £1.50 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5
Icarus Theatre Collective presents
HEDDA GABLER By Henrik Ibsen ‘These impulses come over me all of a sudden, and I just can’t resist them’ Icarus brings you one of the earliest challenges to modern patriarchy, a brazen precursor to feminism and gender equality. Recession and economic boom sit side by side in Hedda’s world, antiquated by patriarchal society and made vibrant by Hedda’s lust for life. Hedda Gabler, one of the most notorious heroes (antiheroes?) of theatre, was born into a legacy of aristocracy. Though she lived a pampered life, Hedda’s time as a single girl ran out and she married George Tesman, a man she clearly no longer loves - if, indeed, she ever did. Now Hedda is driven to diabolical ends trying to discover purpose in her life as she increasingly finds the world closing in on her. Schools workshops available: Contact participation@boh.org.uk or 01298 72050 Free after-show Q&A with the company in the stalls. Tickets: £16 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £1.50 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £2 off. Standby Tickets (see p83): £5 PlayLink (see p83).
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BOX OFFICE 0845 127 2190 OR 01298 72190
Opera House Sunday 30 March 7.30pm
www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk
DOWN TO EARTH - AN EVENING WITH MONTY DON Monty Don is a renowned gardening writer and BBC television presenter and the nation’s favourite and most respected gardener. Hear him speak about his life and travels visiting gardens all over the world and what really happens behind the scenes when filming, Monty describes making his own organic garden from a bare field and how understanding and working with nature enriches and empowers us all. Monty’s TV credits include Gardeners’ World, Real Gardens, Lost Gardens, Fork to Fork, Growing Out of trouble, Around The World In 80 Gardens, My Dream Farm and Mastercrafts. Last year Monty presented the popular Italian Gardens on BBC Two which was followed earlier this year by French Gardens. Tickets: £16, £18 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £1.50 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £2 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5
IN THE PAVILION ARTS CENTRE STUDIO
Opera House Sunday 6 April 7.30pm
LET’S HANG ON
studioseason
Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons, their music and everlasting popularity spanning many decades, were finally brought to iconic status with the Broadway hit musical Jersey Boys. Today, Let’s Hang On truly captures the original magic of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons. The atmosphere created is not only from their music but also their own unique sound, nostalgic mood, and electric feeling! We are very proud to have the opportunity to present this award winning show. Definitely not a night to be missed! ‘You guys are dynamite!’ - Frankie Valli ‘An authentic masterpiece’ - The BBC ‘These guys are absolutely brilliant’ - The Paul O’Grady Show Tickets: £19.50, £21.50 Discounts Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £2 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £2.50 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5
JANUARY JUNE 2014
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Pavilion Arts Centre Studio Friday 14 February 7.30pm
Pavilion Arts Centre Studio Saturday 8 March 7.30pm
Crimes Against Taste present
Library Theatre presents
TALES OF LUST, LOVE AND HEARTBREAK
2 TALKING HEADS
‘The performance was slick and well paced and of a quality that immediately puts the audience at their ease’ – Carol Bowns, Buxton Fringe Festival 2013
Black Box Theatre Company presents
LADY OF LETTERS
ROMEO AND JULIET
Miss Ruddock’s civil liberties are dear to her, and writing letters is how she likes to assert those rights. One of these missives pushes her to the brink, with unexpected, but liberating consequences.
Crimes Against Taste are, without question, Sheffield’s finest classicalcomedy-cabaret-crossover-act! Fresh from their memorable performances at the Buxton Fringe Festival in July, this tremendous trio present their fabulous new show, Tales of Lust, Love and Heartbreak. Jon Openshaw, Peter Taylor and Robert Webb reveal their romantic secrets, recall the extraordinary dalliances of their youth, and look ahead to years of contented matrimonial bliss (possibly). The show features a delicious menu of your favourite comedy classics by artists such as Flanders & Swann, Tom Lehrer, Monty Python and Flight of The Conchords. This will be a truly memorable way to spend your Valentine’s Day!
Pavilion Arts Centre Studio Tuesday 1 & Wednesday 2 April 7.30pm Matinee: Wednesday 1.30pm
BED AMONG THE LENTILS Pavilion Arts Centre Studio Friday 28 February & Saturday 1 March 7.30pm Crowd of 2 Theatre presents
THE CROSSING By Russell Kennedy In the aftermath of the car crash, things are getting on top of Harry and to make matters worse his consultant has just referred him to a shrink. Who was driving that night? Are your dreams that important? And can jelly babies really help? You learn a lot about yourself in circumstances like these and sometimes you wish you hadn’t.
N.B Contains adult themes, but is probably not much ruder than something you might hear on Radio 4!
For ages 13 & over.
Tickets: £10 (Discounts: £2 off)
Tickets: £6.50 (Discounts: £1 off)
Susan, an alcoholic, nervous vicar’s wife who has to travel into Leeds to go to the off-licence because of her debts with the local shop keeper, distracts herself from her ambitious, and, as she sees him, vainly insensitive husband and his doting parishioners by conducting an affair with a nearby grocer, Ramesh, discovering something about herself and God in the process. Alan Bennett sealed his reputation as the master of observation with this series of 12 ground-breaking monologues. Darkly comic, tragically poignant and wonderfully uplifting the series of Talking Heads is widely regarded as a modern classic. Tickets: £8.50 (Discounts: £1 off)
‘Violent delights have violent ends … ’
Pavilion Arts Centre Studio Saturday 22 March Cotton Grass Theatre presents
THE UNKNOWN LAND by Caroline Small The Unknown Land (by Buxton playwright Caroline Small) is a play for one actor and many characters. It is a compelling tale of extreme survival; the tale of one man’s journey to the end of the earth and deep inside his own mind; a story inspired by true accounts of 19th century Arctic exploration, Inuit mythology and the fatal attraction of the polar region. David is joined by the superb folk voice and concertina-playing of Keith Kendrick, singing some of the songs from his recent CD, Songs from the Derbyshire Coast. ‘A terrific performance by David Frederickson in a really fascinating play full of wit and love... Absolutely gripping, multi-layered, wonderfully acted and very, very moving. See it if you can!’ – Rony Robinson, BBC Radio Sheffield
Following the success of Othello, award winning Black Box Theatre Company presents a bold and exciting new production of Shakespeare’s most tragic tale Romeo & Juliet. In defiance of their families and in secrecy from their closest friends, hopeful young lives burn amidst a celestial and cataclysmic backdrop. Impulsively two star-crossed lovers marry in secret, but in divided times their innocent union is threatened by a bloody family feud. Misadventure, family pride, and ancient quarrels abort and bury the most joyous of beginnings, the most hopeful of love stories as Romeo and Juliet, driven apart, find their world becoming a constricting, single mausoleum of fate and death. Acclaimed as one of the most dynamic theatre companies in the UK, Black Box’s reputation for punchy and vibrant productions of contemporary and classic theatre continues to grow. Over the years the company has toured across the UK and internationally.
Pavilion Arts Centre Studio Saturday 5 April 7.30pm Black Toffee presents
HIDDEN By Laura Lindsay & Peter Carruthers A darkly comic story. The intriguing puzzle of how six people’s lives interweave and unravel. They have one thing in common: they’re all hiding something. Hilarious and poignant in equal measure, Hidden peels back the skin and explores the inside. The sell-out success of Edinburgh 2013 comes to Buxton for one night only as part of a national tour. ‘A true gem’ – The Guardian For ages 16 & over. A free Q&A with the company will follow the performance. Tickets: £6.50 (Discounts: £1 off)
‘A fantastic performance from a talented production company – truly compelling to watch!’ – LSMedia Tickets: £8.50 (Discounts: £1 off)
For ages 12 & over. Tickets: £8.50 (Discounts: £1 off)
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Pavilion Arts Centre Studio Saturday 3 May 7.30pm Breathe Out Theatre presents
AN EXTRAORDINARY LIGHT By Rob Johnston A one-act play based on the life and work of scientist Rosalind Franklin who was instrumental in the 1953 discovery of the structure of DNA. The play celebrates Franklin’s struggles and achievements in a world where women were not expected to be successful, as she dedicated her life to science at great personal cost. Writer Rob Johnston, winner of The King’s Cross Award for New writing for Einstein’s Daughter. Tickets: £6.50 (Discounts: £1 off)
Pavilion Arts Centre Studio Sunday 1 June 7.30pm Matt Pritchard presents
EXTRA SENSORY DECEPTION Magic tricks and science tips can turn you into a Jedi master. Learn to read minds, influence thinking and make objects vanish from sight. Family friendly entertainment full of deception, magic and silliness that will stretch the boundaries of believability. Dr Matt Pritchard is an Associate of the Inner Magic Circle and a Previous Fringe Comedy Award winner. For ages 6 & over. ‘A glorious blend of showmanship and science’ – FringeGuru.com Tickets: £6.50 (Discounts: £1 off)
Opera House Friday 4 & Saturday 5 April 7.30pm Matinee: Saturday 2.30pm Present Company presents
THE MERRY WIDOW By Franz Lehár The champagne sparkle of Paris in the naughty 90s, the romance of the Viennese waltz, the breathtaking exuberance of the can-can and the political intrigues and liaisons of Embassy soirées are all brought to life by the magic of Lehár’s delightful melodies you know and love… Merry Widow Waltz, Women! Women! Women!, You’ll Find Me at Maxim’s, Driving in the Park with You, Vilia! and Flowers Are Awakened in Maytime. For over 25 years Present Company has presented lavish revivals of musicals and operettas, making large casts of singers and dancers its speciality, using professional principals & orchestra with a non-professional chorus.
Discounts on tickets for Studio Season productions apply to: Matcham Card holders, Buxton Breaks, Senior Citizens, Groups of 8 or more, Disabled customers, JSA or Income Support claimants, Children 16 or under (where admitted) & Full-time Students.
Tickets: £14, £16, £18 (eves), £12.50, £14.50, £16.50 (matinee). Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £1.50 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £2 off Standby tickets (see p83): £5
Pavilion Art Centre, St John’s Rd, Buxton, SK17 6BE 46
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Opera House Monday 7 April 7.30pm
THE ILLEGAL EAGLES The Illegal Eagles are back this year with their Heaven Heats Up tour. The classic line-up of Phil Aldridge, Keith Atack, Al Vosper and Darin Murphy was completed with the addition of Garreth Hicklin, whose ability to capture the emotion of Don Henley’s vocal delivery has ensured that critical and audience acclaim has been unanimously positive. Bringing you all the classic songs – Hotel California, The Last Resort, Life in the Fast Lane, Tequila Sunrise, One of These Nights, Lyin’ Eyes, New Kid in Town, Take it to the Limit, Rocky Mountain Way, Witchy Woman, Heartache Tonight and songs from The Long Road out of Eden. ‘The Illegal Eagles have established themselves not only as the ultimate tribute to The Eagles, but as one of the foremost authentic and talented Tribute Shows in the world’ - Independent Tickets: £22.50, £24.50 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £2.25 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £2.75 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5
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Opera House Wednesday 9 April 7.30pm Newbury Productions presents
REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY THE BIBLE: THE COMPLETE WORKS OF GOD (ABRIDGED) From Fig Leaves to Final Judgment… The Good Book Just Got Better! It’s apocalypse now as the three cultural guerrillas of The Reduced Shakespeare Company set their reductive sites on the good book with The Bible: The Complete Word of God (abridged). Can bolts of lightning be far behind? Yes, it’s an affectionate, irreverent roller coaster ride from fig leaves to Final Judgment as the boys tackle the great theological questions: Did Adam and Eve have navels? Did Moses really look like Charlton Heston? And why isn’t the word ‘phonetic’ spelled the way it sounds? Whether you are Catholic or Atheist, Muslim or Jew, Protestant or Purple People Eater, you will be tickled by the RSC’s romp through old time religion. Remember… someone is watching. Tickets: £14, £16 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £1.50 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £2 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5
Opera House Thursday 10 & Friday 11 March 7.30pm Regan De Wynter presents
HMS PINAFORE Regan De Wynter are excited to announce their Spring 2014 tour with an all-male production of Gilbert & Sullivan’s blockbuster HMS Pinafore or The Lass That Loved a Sailor. Inspired by a scrapbook of POWs performing G&S during World War 2, the award-winning team that brought Pirates to Cate Blanchett’s Sydney Theatre, take Gilbert & Sullivan below deck, where the troops set out a distraction from the goings on above board with a production of one of their most popular tales, HMS
Pinafore. With infectious tunes and a beautifully constructed libretto it deals with the age-old conundrum of love between social classes. Joyful, witty and fun for all the family! For ages 8 & over. ‘It looks superb, sounds divine and ends happily. Who could ask for more?’ – The Evening Standard Tickets: £16, £18 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £1.50 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: £2 off (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £2 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5 49
Kaleidoscope Youth Theatre Company presents
Buxton Opera House Sunday 13 April 7.30pm
Opera House Monday 14 April 2pm
Swansea City Opera presents
Blunderbus Theatre Company presents
THE MARRIAGE OF FIGARO By Mozart
Opera House Saturday 12 April 7.30pm Pavilion Arts Centre Friday 11 & Saturday 12 April 7.30pm It’s citizenship class at Wootton Bassett School and the supply teacher has gone a bit nuts, doing a runner and locking the pupils in. That’s bad enough, but tensions are higher today than normal, a day when only yards from their confinement a repatriation of fallen British soldiers is happening along the high street – as it has over a hundred times before through this quiet Wiltshire town. And this one is more personal than most… Dean needs the toilet, Aimee needs a coffee, Amid needs to pray, and Leo… well, Leo really, really wants to be at the repat and is determined to escape. As factions form and secrets are revealed, maybe he’s not the only one who’ll want to get away. Bassett is a pacy, funny and exhausting look at young people who have inherited a world at war; who, as they grow older, are starting to ask questions about these conflicts, their country, and themselves. Suitable for ages 11 & over. Tickets: £7 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senor Citizens/Disabled/JSA/Income Support/Students/Children/Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks: £1 off
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BOBBY SOCKS & BLUE JEANS Bobby Socks & Blue Jeans is a sensational and exciting live music production featuring over 40 smash hits of the fabulous 50s & 60s. This dynamic show stars the outstanding talents of Kytsun Wolfe, along with The PonyTails and The 5 Pennies, some of the most celebrated and talented musicians and performers in the world of professional entertainment, who, with incredible accuracy, recreate the most popular time in music. This electrifying show lights up the stage for over two magical hours with hit after hit after hit, bringing back all those amazing and wonderful memories that every Bobby Socks Girl & Blue Jeans Boy cherish and never want to forget. This is ‘The Show of Shows’ that brings audiences to their feet and inspires them to want to sing, dance and be young again forever! Tickets: £18.50, £20.50 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £1.75 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £2.25 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5
The Marriage of Figaro is a wonderful opera, Mozart’s most famous, and the music is incredible! Swansea City Opera are known throughout the UK for their sparkling performances of comic opera and their Marriage of Figaro will be no exception. Beautifully staged in English with elegant 18th century costumes, and performed by some of the finest singers and orchestral players in the country, Marriage of Figaro will give you an enchanting and hilarious evening’s entertainment – a feast for the eyes and ears. The Marriage of Figaro takes place after the events in The Barber of Seville and recounts a single day in the palace of the Count Almaviva in Spain. The Count has designs on one of his maids, Susanna, who is going to be married to Figaro, the Count’s valet. Figaro, Susanna, and the Countess conspire to embarrass the Count and expose his infidelity. At night, all find themselves on the palace grounds, where a comic series of mistaken identity results in... well you must come and find out! There will be a pre-performance talk about the opera and production at 6.15pm, given by the Artistic Director of Swansea City Opera, Brendan Wheatley. Tickets: £18, £21, £24 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £2 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £2.50 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5
Written by Bill Davies, with music and lyrics by Frank Goodhind. Dotty is a baby fire dragon. She lives at the top of a mountain with her grumpy dad, Mr Dragon. In the village below, everyone fears for their lives, for dragons eat children! Or so they believe. But, Dotty would never eat children! Not ever... Instead, she loves to gaze down and watch the children playing in the orchard, and one day, she decides to pay them a surprise visit. After all, everyone loves surprises, don’t they? Blunderbus is proud to present this enchanting fairytale adventure with a very happy ending. This clever new show comes to life with an irresistible blend of live music, fabulous puppets and high energy storytelling. Little people aged 3 to 7 will love this funny, heartwarming tale. But, big people will have lots of fun, too. You can’t help but fall in love with Dotty the baby fire dragon... Tickets: Adults £8, Children £7 Family tickets: £28 (4 people incl at least 2 children), £21 (3 people incl at least 1 child). Children 2 or under: £2.50 (on parent’s knee) Babies under 12 months: Free (on parent’s knee)
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Friday 18 & Saturday 19 April 7.30pm Pavilion Arts Centre Studio Goofus Theatre Company presents
TAKING CHARLIE Opera House Tuesday 15 & Wednesday 16 April 7.30pm Rumpus Theatre Company presents
WHO’S WHO By Keith Waterhouse and Willis Hall In this fast-moving comedy of mistaken identity, old friends Bernard and Timothy find themselves staying in a posh hotel, one to have an affair with girlfriend Helen, the other to help him cover it up... but when wife Joanna turns up, events spiral inevitably towards unexpected and hilarious conclusions! 52
Who’s Who is written by Keith Waterhouse and Willis Hall (Billy Liar, Worzel Gummidge and Jeffrey Barnard Is Unwell) and promises to be a knock-about farce with a bit of class! “Stand out funny lines” – The Public Reviews on Neville’s Island Tickets: £13, £15, £17 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £1.50 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): ½ price Tues, £2 off Wed Standby Tickets (see p83): £5 PlayLink (see p83).
Opera House Tuesday 22 April 11am & 2.30pm Back in Buxton by popular demand, Izzy Wizzy let’s get busy - it‘s The Sooty Show!
Taking Charlie is a dark comedic fantasy, based on a true story, about the abduction of Charlie Chaplin’s body by two hapless kidnappers in 1978. A tale full of bad ideas and dead comics, the play uses puppetry, physical theatre and shadow play to create the world the characters inhabit.
Direct from CITV, Sooty heads into town in a fabulous new show to delight the whole family. Joining the nations favourite bear will be Sweep, Soo and Sooty’s TV Partner Richard Cadell – who will be attempting to keep Sooty from getting up to mischief! Boy will he have his hands full!
This is Goofus’ first tour and the production is supported using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England.
Special guest stars include legendary Sooty favourites Butch the bulldog and Ramsbottom the snake. There’s also a chance to meet Richard and Sooty after the show – so don’t forget to bring your camera. A spectacular mix of magic, music and mess – guaranteed giggles for Sooty fans old and new!
‘It was clear we were in the company of consumate story-tellers, unafraid to take risks in pursuit of a laugh - or a tear’ – Gordon Hamlyn, Public Review Tickets: £8.50 Discounts: Matcham Card holders/Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled/JSA/Income Support/Students/ Children: £1 off
BOX OFFICE 0845 127 2190 or 01298 72190
www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk
‘A real treat for the children and a dose of nostalgia for the parents’ – The Stage ‘Richard Cadell is as close to a Corbett as you will ever get – Sooty is on the right hands!’ – Matthew Corbett Tickets: Adults £11.50, Children £9.50 Family Tickets: £38 (4 people incl at least 2 children) or £28.50 (3 people incl at least 1 child).
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Opera House Friday 18 & Saturday 19 April 7pm Matinee: Saturday 2pm
SCIENCE MUSEUM LIVE - THE ENERGY SHOW Science Museum Live presents The Energy Show: explosive family theatre for curious minds. Methane bubbles are set alight to make fireballs, hydrogen balloons explode and rockets are fired into the audience. Stand back and cover your ears – theatre just got dangerously exciting! Two futuristic science students race against time to prove their knowledge of energy. With help from the incredible virtual lab-assistant, i-nstein, and a steampunk workshop full of gadgets and chemicals, they explore, experiment and explode anything and everything they can find, live on stage.
Opera House Thursday 24 April 7.30pm
THE KEN DODD HAPPINESS SHOW A tattifelarious evening of laughter and song with a true comic genius and showbiz legend. Treat yourself to a funfilled variety show for all the family with guests, jokes and songs celebrating over 50 years of ‘happiness’ with The King of Comedy! Tickets: £20, £22 No discounts
Pavilion Arts Centre Friday 25 April 3pm Get Involved presents
SHLOMO’S BEATBOX ADVENTURE FOR KIDS
Produced by the world famous Science Museum in London, this show is suitable for everyone aged 7 & over. Tickets: Adults £16, Children £13 Family Tickets: £52 (4 people incl at least 2 children), £39 (3 people incl at least 1 child). School or Children’s groups of 10 or more: £11 (1 adult free per 10 children)
Hi kids! Roll up for a beatbox adventure like no other! I, Shlomo, your sonic superhero, invite you to become one of my sidekicks as I show you how to create a world of funny sound effects, brilliant noises and cool music, all made using just your mouth! ‘He’s like a one-man Hollywood film soundtrack’ - The Times Tickets: £6 No discounts
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Pavilion Arts Centre Saturday 26 April 1.30pm & 3.30pm
Opera House Sunday 27 April 2pm
Opera House Tuesday 29 April 7.30pm
Red Table Theatre presents
Cheeky Chap Productions presents
THE SIMON & GARFUNKEL STORY
THE JUST SO STORIES
Direct from London’s West End, award-winning actor Dean Elliott (Buddy Holly in Buddy – The Buddy Holly Story) and a full cast of performers tell the compelling story of the greatest music duo of all time in this 50th anniversary celebration.
In their highly-acclaimed production of The Just So Stories, Red Table Theatre brings four of Rudyard Kipling’s bestbeloved tales to vivid life. Everyday items from a dusty attic transmogrify into fantastical creatures and places, bringing these classic stories to life through discovered play. A blue sheet turns into a great whale which swallows a Scottish mariner, a slinky and glove become the Elephant’s Child’s ever-expanding nose, and four red umbrellas come together to form Pau Amma, a crab taller than the smoke from three volcanoes.
Using both original photos and film footage, The Simon and Garfunkel Story also features a full live band performing all their hits including Mrs Robinson, Cecilia, Bridge Over Troubled Water, Homeward Bound and many more. If you’re a fan of beautiful music then this is an evening not to be missed! ‘Fantastic’ – BBC Radio 2.
Four talented young actors use umbrellas, pots, pans, socks, cushions, tennis balls, lampshades, and much more to create fantastical creatures and worlds, leading their audience on an unforgettable and song-filled journey from Pusat Tasek - the Heart of the Sea - to the banks of the great grey-green Limpopo river.
‘An exceptional piece of theatre’ – Choice Radio Tickets: £17.50, £19.50 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £1.75 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £2.25 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5
Bring your children and find out from The Just So Stories why the moon pulls the tides, why the camel has a hump, why the whale no longer eats men (or women, or little boys and girls) and the reason why the elephant’s nose is so long. Tickets: £8 No discounts
Following their smash-hit show, Andy and Mike’s… Big Box of Bananas, the dynamic duo brings you another brilliant adventure, and this time they have a time machine! Whilst playing in the garden of their ‘fun pad’ – they discover a door that was locked many years ago by their great, great, great grandfather Wally Bum. Inside they find his workshop with many inventions and a mysterious Time Machine. The Time Machine sends them on a quest to collect the things they need from the past to help a very Old Andy in the future. Will they make it back to the here and now or be trapped in the mists of a time forever? One thing’s for sure; they haven’t a chance without your help!
Opera House Sunday 2 May 7.30pm
SOUL LEGENDS Featuring timeless soul classics from Aretha Franklin, James Brown, Tina Turner, Luther Vandross and Michael Jackson plus many more, it’s all aboard the sensational soul train show of the year, embarking from soul’s heady 60s origins steaming, non-stop, through to the present day via everyone’s favourite 70s and 80s dance hits. Only a production featuring an all-star cast, truly gifted musicians, elaborately authentic costumes and jawdropping choreography could do justice to the passion and fervour of everyone’s favourite soul records: I Feel Good, Respect, Midnight Hour, Natural Woman, Papa Was A Rolling Stone, Best Of My Love, I’m So Excited… and many, many more. Get the feel good factor today and book your tickets for Soul Legends at Buxton Opera House. Tickets: £21 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled/JSA/Income Support/Students/: £2 off (not Dress Circle). Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £2.50 off
Andy and Mike hope you’ll think their show is so good, you will want to travel back in time as soon as you’ve seen it to and see it all over again. Suitable for anyone over three and their families. Tickets: Adults £12, Children £10 Family tickets: £40 (4 people incl at least 2 children), £30 (3 people inc at least 1 child). Children 2 or under: £2.50 (on parent’s knee). 56
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Opera House Saturday 3 May 7.30pm Co-Opera Co. presents
MADAMA BUTTERFLY By Puccini One of the world’s best loved masterpieces, Madama Butterfly is a gloriously passionate tale of misplaced love and betrayal. A young Japanese girl, Cio Cio San, catches the eye of B.F. Pinkerton, an American Naval Officer. Secretly she converts to Christianity, crossing cultural boundaries and alienating her family, to become his bride. This is Puccini at his best – a story of tradition, romance, yearning and sacrifice and has become one of the world’s most beloved operas since it was first heard in 1904. Its timeless human story is sure to stir the hearts of opera aficionados and novices alike in director Jacopo Spirei’s inspired production which combines unfailing beauty with unflinching passionate honesty. Sung in Italian and accompanied by the Co-Opera Co. Orchestra. (No surtitles).
Pavilion Arts Centre Friday 2 May 7.30pm
RUBY WAX - SANE NEW WORLD Ruby Wax – comedian, writer, mental health campaigner – shows us just how our minds can send us mad as our internal critics play on a permanent loop tape. Ruby knows this only too well. She has been on a tough but enlightening journey through depression which has taken her from The Priory through to an MA from Oxford University in Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy.
‘Whether you are an incurable opera lover or an innocent opera virgin – Co-Opera Co has something for you – a fresh, youthful take on beloved operatic gems’ – George Hall, Opera Now Tickets: £18, £21 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £1.75 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £2.25 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5
Opera House Sunday 4th May 2pm & 7pm
PEAK DISTRICT MUSIC CENTRES GALA CONCERT The Peak District Music Centre’s bands and orchestras return to the Opera House for their hugely popular annual Gala Concerts. Over 300 of the area’s top young musicians perform well known classics, movie hits and even a touch of jazz. Renowned for their standards of excellence, the ensembles range from elementary level through to the more advanced players involved in Derbyshire City & County Youth Orchestra and Wind Band. Their precision and youthful exuberance are guaranteed to lift the spirit. Tickets: Matinee £5, £6 & £7 (2pm); £6.50, £8, £9.50 (7pm) Discounts: Students/Children: £1 off
This show helps us all understand why we sabotage our sanity, how our brains work and how we can rewire our thinking to find calm in a frenetic world. Helping you become the master, not the slave, of your mind, this show is your route to saner living. ‘Wax has an extraordinary mind, and she has brought it to bear with her trademark wit… a ruby beyond price’ – Stephen Fry Tickets: £17.50 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £1.75 off JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £2.25 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5 58
Pavilion Arts Centre Studio Monday 5 May 2.30pm The People’s Theatre Company presents
OLD MACDONALD HAS A FARM Old MacDonald had a farm E-I-E-I-O. But Old MacDonald’s animals have gone missing! Can you help a friendly scientist and his amazing time machine get them back for him? Presented by the team behind There Was An Old Lady Who Swallowed A Fly and written especially for parents to enjoy with their children, this fun filled farmyard tale brings to life all the best loved characters from the original nursery rhyme along with a magical medley of games, giggles and sing along songs including Heads, Shoulders, Knees and Toes, She’ll Be Coming Round The Mountain and of course Old MacDonald Had A Farm. So come and relive the delights of this most charming of tales told with a captivating combination of live action, puppetry and animation by one of the UK’s leading theatre companies. ‘A brilliant production that adults and older children will love just as much as the young ones’ – The Guide
BOX OFFICE 0845 127 2190 or 01298 72190
www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk
Tickets: Adults £9, Children £8 Family tickets: £32 (4 people incl at least 2 children) or £24 (3 people incl at least 1 child).
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Opera House Tuesday 6 & Wednesday 7 May 7.30pm Matinee: Wednesday 2.30pm Talking Scarlet presents
Opera House Friday 9 May 7.30pm
Opera House Saturday 10 May 7.30pm
JOE BROWN IN CONCERT
RAT PACK LIVE
Premier rock ‘n’ roll legend Joe Brown returns to Buxton for 2014. His contemporary achievements continue to gather momentum – his Very Best Of album in 2008 achieved a massive 120,000 sales and in the same year his 50th anniversary was celebrated with a sell-out show at the Royal Albert Hall. Joe continues to break box office records and received MOJO magazine’s coveted Outstanding Contribution To Music Award and an MBE. Joe, with his five piece band, will be on stage all evening and the musical styles incorporated into this new show are as unique as the man himself. Packed with timeless classics, rockabilly, gospel, country, folk and rock ‘n’ roll, all interwoven with Joe’s effervescent delivery and humorous reminiscences, this sensational show is a musical journey not to be missed.
They were the definition of cool during their 50s and 60s Vegas heyday – Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jnr and Frank Sinatra. Combining the full sound of big band swing with charisma, panache and swagger, the trio – collectively known as The Rat Pack – had attitude to spare. Now, join the UK’s best Rat Pack concert show… Featuring all the patter and razzamatazz of the Rat Pack’s infamous live stage show, join the UK’s number one Dean, Sammy and Frank live concert extravaganza. Prepare to experience the definition of cool. Together the talented trio combine superbly, spectacularly, ‘swingsationally’ in Rat Pack Live. ‘…sings the hits with style and captures Sinatra’s domineering personality’ – Daily Telegraph Tickets: £22 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled/JSA/Income Support/Students/: £2 off (not Dress Circle). Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £2.50 off
Tickets: £24.50, £26.50 No discounts
Liz Burns, a psychoanalyst, receives an unexpected visitor – Nicki, a deeply troubled young woman who is visited in her dreams by a bearded devil who carries her away to a lonely, terrifying old house. Liz sees immediately what her visitor is a victim of and, as the details of Nicki’s past life emerge, clues mount up that point to Liz’s husband Jack being involved. Nicki is out for revenge and, with her brother Billy, she attacks the Burnses; eventually, fully convinced of his guilt, Liz
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turns on her husband too. The truth is finally revealed as this gripping play reaches its shattering conclusion. Free after-show Q&A with the company in the Stalls. For ages 11 & over. Tickets: £12, £14 Discounts: Senior Citizens: £10 (Matinees only), £1.25 off all other performances (not Dress Circle). Groups of 8 or more/Disabled: £1.25 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £1.75 Standby Tickets (see p83): £5 PlayLink (see p83).
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Pavilion Arts Centre Thursday 8 to Saturday 10 May Dinner: 7.30pm (Doors open: 7pm) Lunch: (Sat only) 1pm (Doors open: 12.30pm) Interactive Theatre International presents
Following a tremendous year of sold-out seasons from Edinburgh Fringe to Sydney Opera House, Australia’s much fêted tribute to the BBC’s best-loved sitcom continues to tour the world – and it’s coming to Buxton in May! Only one third of the show is scripted, so anything can happen as guests become diners in the ‘Fawlty Towers’ restaurant. Waited upon by Basil, Sybil and Manuel, this is fully immersive, highly improvised and site-specific comedy theatre at its best. Expect all the best gags, shambolic service and a 70s style 3-course meal in ‘top end entertainment that will knock you for six’ (What’s on London). Just don’t mention the war! Internationally acclaimed by audiences and critics alike. ‘Hilarious, delicious… a legend’ – The Skinny, Edinburgh Fringe 2013 ‘Truly an experience… a fantastic evening’ - Whatsonstage ‘Outstanding’ – FringeReview Tickets: £36 (Thurs, includes meal) £39.50 (Fri & Sat, includes meal) No discounts
Menu:
Opera House Monday 12 May 7.30pm
Opera House Wednesday 14 May 7.30pm
Theatrical Niche presents
Singalonga Productions Ltd in association with Park Circus presents
BLOOD WEDDING by Federico García Lorca Loyalty and passion duel to the death in this world-famous triangle of the heart and dagger. A bride-to-be promises herself to a good and loving fiancé, but the sound of horse hooves at her gate tell of a previous love not yet forgotten. Theatrical Niche breathe fresh fire into Lorca’s famed tragedy this Spring with a stunning new adaptation. A unique blend of puppetry, mask work and movement illustrate this revered Spanish work, harking back both to the renegade intentions of the playwright, whilst drawing on modern theatre-craft from critically-acclaimed director, Alice Sillett. Celebrating the poetry and ardour of Lorca’s writing whilst bringing the play into the 21st century, this new work is adapted as a multi-disciplinary piece, and showcases an original musical score and lighting from an award-winning designer. ‘To burn with desire and keep quiet about it is the greatest punishment we can bring on ourselves’ – Federico Garcia Lorca Schools workshops available: Contact participation@boh.org.uk or 01298 72050 Free after-show Q&A with the company in the Stalls Tickets: £13.50 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £1.25 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £1.75 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5 PlayLink (see p83).
Stilton Soup eme with hicken Supr Pan fried C d Button an on aby Oni Pancetta, B Fresh Sauce with Mushroom es to ta Po & Vegetables Tagliatelle Three Bean e (v)* Tomato and Goats Chees topped with Fudge Cake Chocolate late Sauce with Choco
SING-A-LONG-A GREASE The brand new singalong screening of the classic film starring John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John. Ever wanted to know what it’s like to be a T-bird or a Pink Lady but never quite felt cool enough to pull it off? Well, now is your chance to don those pink jackets, grease up those quiffs and let your inhibitions go for an evening where you are the stars and remember Grease is the word... The evening begins with your host leading a vocal warmup before they show you how to use your free fun pack during the film and suggest some appropriate heckles and accompanying actions. You’ll even get a chance to learn how to hand jive. Then just sit back and watch Danny & Sandy and the gang, while singing along (and dancing along) to the lyrics as shown on the screen. It couldn’t be easier... or more fun! Fancy dress is strongly encouraged and full audience participation essential. www.singalonga.net Tickets: £13.50, £15 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £1.25 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £1.75 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5
Broccoli &
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Pavilion Arts Centre Sunday 18 May 7.30pm
Kaleidoscope Intermediate Theatre Company presents
JOSH WIDDICOMBE - INCIDENTALLY… Star of Channel 4’s The Last Leg, BBC1’s Live At The Apollo and Mock The Week, Josh Widdicombe returns to the road this autumn touring his brand new show Incidentally... The last twelve months have been incredible for the Edinburgh Comedy Awards Best Newcomer nominee 2011 Josh Widdicombe, with the hit Channel 4 show The Last Leg being commissioned for two series after its success during the Paralympics Games. Josh also picked up the coveted Saturday breakfast slot on XFM and his much-loved show features regularly in the iTunes Podcast Top 10.
Opera House Thursday 15 May 7.30pm
Opera House Saturday 17 May 7.30pm
THAT’LL BE THE DAY Prepare yourself for a party as the legendary That’ll Be The Day, the nations favourite rock ‘n’ roll variety show returns by popular demand with a brand new production for 2014. This hugely entertaining rock ‘n’ roll spectacular features an all new line up of knock-out hits from the 1950s, 60s and 70s, mixed with loads of new zany comedy routines to produce a show with a real feel good party atmosphere. Now in its 28th year of touring continuously in the UK and Europe, That’ll Be The Day is living proof that rock ‘n’ roll will never die ‘What great value for money. Not to be missed!’ – Daily Mail Tickets: £23.50, £25.50 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £2.25 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £2.75 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5
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Pavilion Arts Centre Friday 16 & Saturday 17 May 7.30pm by Roald Dahl, adapted for the stage by David Wood A young boy, recently orphaned, is taken to England by his grandmother. At the hotel in which they are staying, a group of witches have gathered to prepare a plot to rid the world of children. Together with his friend, they are discovered, transformed into rodents, yet escape and now must stop the evil plan at all cost. Join our hero, his friend and his grandmother as they take on a gruesome gang of witches and face the most repulsive, terrifying and powerful villain of them all – the Grand High Witch herself. Will the witches triumph? Are the children of England doomed? Can two small boys and an elderly lady save the day? Roald Dahl’s award-winning tale has all the answers. Suitable for ages 5 & over. Tickets: £7 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senor Citizens/Disabled/JSA/Income Support/Students/Children/Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks: £1 off
MUGENKYO TAIKO DRUMMERS
‘This is one of the most individual, accomplished, hilarious and unforgettable hours I have had this year’ – The Scotsman ‘His talent for comedy is priceless’ – Evening Standard May contain strong language. Tickets: £15 No discounts
Thundering rhythms on huge taiko drums, mysterious masked choreography with inventive lighting, muscular synchronisation timed to perfection, post-apocalyptic martial imagery and infectious belly laugh humour – all in a spellbinding display of sheer athleticism. Feel the energy and experience the power of this unique performance. As the most successful touring taiko drum group on this continent, Mugenkyo have developed a spectacular passionate style with music for the soul, fusing the traditional spirit with a contemporary look & sound, creating a modern stage performance that has captivated audiences everywhere… ‘Just when you think it could not get any more powerful, it doubles in intensity. This show is not one to be missed’ – Edinburgh Evening News Tickets: £18, £20 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £1.75 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £2.25 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5
Opera House Sunday 18 May 2014 7.30pm
SARAH MILLICAN - HOME BIRD
T U O D L O S NS RETUR
ILABLE A V A E MAY B 65
NEW KIT HOLDER BALLET An exciting new piece by Birmingham Royal Ballet’s own dancer and choreographer Kit Holder, set to music from cult tango/classical fusion composer Astor Piazzolla.
BITESIZED BALLET Opera House Tuesday 20 & Wednesday 21 May 7.30pm Matinee: Wednesday 2.30pm Birmingham Royal Ballet presents
A MIXED BILL Birmingham Royal Ballet returns to Buxton Opera House with an eclectic programme of dance that shows the skill and diversity of this world class company.
Includes excerpts from Beauty and The Beast. Birmingham Royal Ballet presents highlights of some of our most loved ballets, giving audiences a chance to delight in some of the the best bits from our world-renowned classical ballet repertory.
FAÇADE (Choreography: Frederick Ashton. Music: William Walton) The piece which launched Frederick Ashton’s career, Façade is a hilarious comic ballet based on Edith Sitwell’s deliciously nonsensical poetry. Enjoy a break from the sanity of everyday life with this series of delightful characters.
Opera House Thursday 22 to Saturday 24 May 7.30pm Matinee: Thursday 2.30pm
MORECAMBE This Olivier Award winning play stars Bob Golding as comedy icon, Eric Morecambe. Don’t miss this moving, often hilarious tale about one of Britain’s best-loved entertainers; a heart-warming story of the man what brought us the sunshine. What do you think of it so far? Brilliant! ‘…will bring sunshine into the lives of all who see it’ – Daily Telegraph ‘Wonderful. Exceptional. Incredibly emotional. Hilarious’ – The Times
Tickets: £17, £21, £25 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £2 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £2.50 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5 66
Tickets: £16, £18 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £1.50 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £2 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5 PlayLink (see p83)
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Pavilion Arts Centre Friday 23 & Saturday 24 May 7.30pm Matinee: Saturday 2.30pm
Opera House Monday 26 May 2.30pm Image Musical Theatre presents
Buxton Drama League presents
THE JUNGLE BOOK
OH! WHAT A LOVELY WAR
Set in the vibrant tropical jungle of India and adapted from the original Rudyard Kipling story, this production dramatises the journey to maturity of Mowgli the man cub. With loving care from his adopted wolf family and much advice from Bagheera the panther and Baloo the bear, Mowgli stands firm against the manipulation of Shere Khan the tiger.
Most of us know something about the background to World War I but did you know that all the fuses for the shells were made in Britain and bought from us by Germany? And at Passchendale alone, 13,000 men were lost in three hours? They’d gained 100 yards… This ground-breaking theatrical experience chronicles the absurdity, courage and poignancy and absurdity of the war through the songs and documents of the period, using the medium of an ‘end of the pier’ show. Expect to be moved, angered, challenged and entertained. Do not expect to leave the theatre unchanged by the experience. Tickets: £11, £13 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £1 off JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £1.50 off PlayLink (see p83)
Pavilion Arts Centre Sunday 25 May 7.30pm European Arts Company presents
THE TRIALS OF OSCAR WILDE ‘I am one of those who are made for exceptions, not for laws’ - Oscar Wilde Thursday 14 February 1895 was the triumphant opening night of The Importance of Being Earnest and the zenith of Oscar Wilde’s career. Four days later, he arrived at his club to find a card from the Marquis of Queensbury which famously said ‘To Oscar Wilde - posing as a Somdimite’. Egged on by his lover (and Queensbury’s son) Lord Alfred Douglas, Wilde took legal action against the marquis who was arrested for criminal libel. So began a dizzying series of events which saw Wilde go from toast of the town to indignant prosecutor to disgraced prisoner in less than 100 days. But what happened during the trials and what did Wilde say? Was he harshly treated or was he the author of his own downfall? Using transcripts from the original trials and Wilde’s own sparkling words, we can feel what it was like to be in the company of a genius, and to see this less than ideal husband tragically become a man of no importance...
During the light hearted half hour rehearsal, some children are chosen and rehearsed into their parts while the rest of the audience is taught the choruses of four songs. During the interval the actors and children are costumed and the show, lasting 1 hour, runs seamlessly with everyone taking part as rehearsed. For ages 5 to 11 and their families. Tickets: Adults £8.50, Children £7.50 Family Tickets: £30 (4 people incl at least 2 children), £22.50 (3 people incl at least 1 child).
Opera House Wednesday 28 May 1.30pm Aracaladanza in association with MOKO Dance presents
CONSTELLATIONS Multi-award winning international company Aracaladanza consistently delights audiences throughout Europe with their extraordinarily magical dance theatre made especially for children and families. In Constellations, choreographer Enrique Cabrera has taken the brilliantly abstract work of artist Joan Miró as his starting point and repeatedly fills his imaginary blank canvas with vivid colours, shape and movement. Wonderful dance, ingenious puppetry, and terrific digital visuals are delivered with the trademark playfulness, creativity and style which mark this company out as one of the most accessible, and one of the best. ‘Breathtakingly beautiful My 4 year old commented Wow it’s magic’ – Audience Member on Nubes (Clouds), Aracaladanza 2012 Suitable for ages 4+ and their families. This performance will last for 55 minutes without an interval. Tickets: Adults: £10, Children £7.50 Family Tickets: £25 (4 people incl at least 2 children) £20 (3 people incl at least 1 child). School & children’s groups of 10 or more: £7.50 (1 adult free per 10 children).
‘The truth is rarely pure and never simple’
BOX OFFICE 0845 127 2190 or 01298 72190
www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk 68
Tickets: £11 Discounts: /Groups of 8 ormore/Senior Citizens/Disabled/JSA/Income Support/Students/Children/ Matcham Cards: £1 off 69
Pavilion Arts Centre Friday 30 May 7.30pm Pavilion Arts Centre Thursday 29 May 11.30am (ages 4 and under) & 2.30pm (ages 4 to 8) Tell Tale Hearts presents
YUMMM! A dance theatre show that celebrates all that is messy at meal times! Crunchy, sweet, tart, gooey, runny, sour, thick, yummy! Yummm! is a celebration of food seen through children’s eyes using dance, live music, quirky design & some amusing eating utensils. A highly imaginative production where tables can dance; plates spin; and the audience have a chance to contribute to the dinner time rituals! Seating the audience around the dinner table, this performance is a celebration of food and eating together. An energetic and fun dance show where the utensils of dinner are interwoven into beautifully choreographed and quirky meal time rituals. Performances are followed by a short play activity for audiences, where the children get their own utensils to play with! ‘A unique form of interactive theatre for the very young’ – The Guardian Tickets: £4.50 No discounts 70
YOUNG-CHOON PARK
Pavilion Arts Centre Saturday 31 May 7.30pm
Opera House Sunday 1 June 7.30pm
BILLY PEARCE
JOE McELDERRY
National Treasure, and without doubt one of Britain’s most talented and best loved comedians, British comedy award-winner Billy Pearce appears on stage as part of his latest national tour in a night of adult comedy not to be missed! Billy’s jokes flow one after another, with such velocity that it’s like being on the receiving end of a machine gun. Although many of the themes Billy jokes about are of an adult nature, unlike other comedians, he never descends into the quagmire of crudity, nor does he rely on obscene language.
For fans of Joe McElderry and X Factor this is one night not to miss!
Tickets: £18.50 No discounts
There is only one Joe McElderry, and there is only one night for you to see this incredible singer with his band performing songs from rock and pop to classical.
Joe rose to fame when he won the sixth series of the ITV show The X Factor in 2009. Joe’s first single The Climb reached number one in the UK and Irish singles chart and was soon followed by the release of his debut album titled Wide Awake. Joe returned to our TV screens where he was the triumphant winner of the second series of ITV show Pop Star to Opera Star in 2011, where he had received 80% of the voting throughout the series.
This is one night not to miss with Joe having sold in excess of 2 million records worldwide and with over 350,000 Twitter followers – expect his tickets to go fast! Tickets: £20, £22 No discounts
South Korean born pianist Young-Choon Park was a child prodigy and by the age of nine was playing Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No.1 with the Seoul Symphony Orchestra. Now resident in England, she has established a commanding presence in the upper echelon of keyboard artists. Her intellectual and intuitive interpretations combined with her power and passion has enchanted audiences all over the world. This year’s programme includes Beethoven Pathétique and Appassionata sonatas – two of the composer’s greatest and best-known works – followed by the Schumann sonata No 2, always enjoyed by audiences and the performer alike for its great variety and pianistic virtuosity, and finally Liszt’s Venezia e Napoli that paints a musical picture of Venice floating on the glittering and sleepy waters of the lagoon. ‘…individually refreshing, while demonstrating real passion and style as well as outstanding technical proficiency…’ – Sunday Times Tickets: £10, £12 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £1 off JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £1.50 off
BOX OFFICE 0845 127 2190 or 01298 72190
www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk 71
London Classic Theatre presents
KW & NB Ltd present
fox, an eccentric old owl and a maraca-shaking, party mad snake! Mouse can scare these hungry animals away with tall stories of the terrifying Gruffalo, but what happens when he comes face to face with the very creature he imagined...?
THE GRUFFALO
Voted the nation’s number one bedtime story by BBC Radio 2 listeners, The Gruffalo has been performed to well over a million people worldwide and has even hit the small screens in a star-studded TV animation.
Opera House Friday 6 June 1.30pm Saturday 7 & Sunday 8 June 11am & 2pm
Hit monster family show, direct from a West End season! Don’t miss Tall Stories’ hit musical stage adaptation of the award-winning picture book, The Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Meet a wheeler-dealer
Opera House Wednesday 4 & Thursday 5 June 7.30pm Matinee: Thursday 2.30pm Kath and her elderly father, Kemp, live in a house on the outskirts of a rubbish dump. Their drab existence is interrupted by the arrival of a new lodger, the enigmatic Mr Sloane. Provocative and sexually ambiguous, Sloane soon has both Kath and her brother Ed competing for his favours. But all is not as it seems. Behind Sloane’s nonchalant demeanour lies a calculating psychopath with a dark and secretive past. Seduction, blackmail and murder lie waiting in the wings. Entertaining Mr Sloane was first staged at the Arts Theatre in London in 1964, winning the London Critics Variety Award for Best Play of the Year. Its unique blend of farce and black comedy beautifully captures the suppressed desires of the period. Joe Orton was born in Leicester in 1933 and was battered to death by his lover, Kenneth Halliwell, in 1967. His plays include Loot, The Erpingham Camp, The Ruffian On The Stair and What The Butler Saw. 72
The Gruffalo is the perfect family treat with plenty of songs, laughs and scary fun for children aged 3+ and their grown-ups. ‘A fine piece of children’s theatre’ - Sunday Times ‘Monstrous fun!’ – Daily Mail
With thirty critically-acclaimed productions since their touring debut in April 2000, London Classic Theatre have established a reputation for producing bold, imaginative theatre of the highest quality. This revival of their 2003 production of the play celebrates the 50th Anniversary of Orton’s classic black comedy. Free after-show Q&A with the company in the Stalls on Wednesday 4th Tickets: £12.50, £14.50, £16.50 Discounts: Senior Citizens: £10 (Matinee only), £1.50 off all other performances (not Dress Circle). Groups of 8 or more/Disabled: £1.50 off (not Dress Circle) JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £2 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5 PlayLink (see p83).
BOX OFFICE 0845 127 2190 or 01298 72190
www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk
Tickets: £12 Family tickets: £44 (4 people incl at least 2 children), £33 (3 people incl at least 1 child). Children’s groups of 10 or more: £8.50 (accompanying adults 1 in 10 free). All illustrations copyright © Axel Scheffler 2004, published by Macmillan Children’s Books. 73
Pavilion Arts Centre Saturday 7 June 7.30pm
Opera House Thursday 12 June 7.30pm
SIMON EVANS
AN EVENING OF DIRTY DANCING
- FRIENDLY FIRE ‘Do you know what? I don’t care what everyone says. The Emperor’s New Clothes is not that great a story’
THE TRIBUTE SHOW
Fearsome iconoclast Simon Evans is back with a brand new show, and nothing and no-one is safe from the critical glint of his tiny, tiny eyes. Join him as he dismantles the lies from fairy tales to post-match analysis - that confound us all.
Back by popular demand, An Evening of Dirty Dancing: The Tribute Show is the original tribute to the greatest movie soundtrack of all time. Now in its 4th smash hit year, it’s the ultimate celebration of the iconic music from the classic movie. Dirty Dancing boasts a multi award-winning soundtrack and all the hits are here, superbly performed in this fast moving, slickly choreographed treat. Songs include Big Girls Don’t Cry, Hey Baby, Wipeout, Do You Love Me, Hungry Eyes and the Oscar-winning (I’ve Had) The Time of My Life.
‘Sizzlingly entertaining… beautifully crafted, devastatingly funny gags… deliciously haughty contempt’ – The Guardian ‘Magnificent… sardonic wit dripping disdain from every perfectly pronounced word’ – Chortle ‘Demonically dry’ – Metro
This sexy song and dance spectacular is an interactive roller coaster, featuring a dynamic cast of incredible performers sure to show you the time of your life!
For ages 14 & over only.
Pavilion Arts Centre Thursday 5 June 1.30pm Hiccup Theatre presents
PINOCCHIO By Michael Rosen Follow Pinocchio and his grasshopper friend as they set out on an adventure to find some fun. Now... if only his nose would just stay still! Hiccup Theatre have joined forces with acclaimed writer Michael Rosen (We’re Going On A Bear Hunt) to bring Carlo Collodi’s timeless tale to life. Live music, puppetry, storytelling, and of course longer and longer noses, combine in a magical combination which promises to become a new theatre classic for families. An East Midlands Children’s Theatre and Dance Network touring production. Running time is approximately 55 minutes. Suitable for 4+ and families Tickets: £7.50 Family Tickets: £24 (4 people incl at least 2 children), £18 (3 people incl at least 1 child).
Tickets: £13 No discounts
Pavilion Arts Centre Sunday 8 June 7.30pm
Please note this production is not affiliated with Dirty Dancing: The Classic Story On Stage in the West End or on tour in the UK and worldwide.
THE REFLECTIONS
‘90-minutes of high-energy, colourful outfits and a goodlooking cast who left you wanting more’ – North West Evening Mail
Five world class musicians, singers and songwriters who, after years of touring and recording with some of the most iconic bands in the world, bring you a great new show highlighting some of the best British Rock and Pop music of a generation.
‘All singing, all dancing, highly watchable entertainment’ – The Stage
This all-star band comprises drummer Gordy Marshall of The Moody Blues, keyboardist Paul Bliss of The Moody Blues and The Hollies, bassist Marcus Cliffe from The Manfreds, guitarist Huw Davies from The War of the Worlds and current lead singer of 10cc, Mick Wilson. Hits include Nights in White Satin, He Ain’t Heavy (He’s My Brother), We Don’t Talk Anymore, Forever Autumn, Do Wah Diddy, I’m Not In Love… and many more!
Tickets: £17.50, £19.50 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £1.75 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £2.25 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5
Tickets: £18.50 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £1.75 off JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £2.25 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5
BOX OFFICE 0845 127 2190 or 01298 72190
www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk 74
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Pavilion Arts Centre Thursday 19 June 7.30pm
Kaleidoscope Junior Theatre Company presents
Baroque Theatre Company presents
Opera House Sunday 15 June 7.30pm Ballet Theatre UK presents
THE LITTLE MERMAID Pavilion Arts Centre Friday 13 June at 7pm & Saturday 14 June at 3pm Anchors away and set sail for swashbuckling pirate adventure on the high seas in this piratical musical that’s sure to shake your booty! Young twins Jack & Liza Periwinkle yearn for adventure, so imagine their joy at discovering a real life treasure map! But when the infamous Redbeard and his pungent Pirates of the Curry Bean steal the map and kidnap their mother, the race is on to rescue her, reclaim the map and find the treasure! Accompanied by their faithful cat Fiddlesticks, the twins join a mad admiral and his crazy crew on a voyage of adventure that takes them from Old London Docks to the mysterious island of Lumbago in the sea of Sciatica! Will they be first to find the treasure chest, or is a surprise awaiting them that’s even better than gold? With colourful characters, sparkling songs and a witty script as sharp as a cutlass, this show is dripping with piratical style! Suitable for ages 5 & over. Tickets: £7 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senor Citizens/Disabled/JSA/Income Support/Students/Children/Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks: £1 off 76
Join Ballet Theatre UK on this dramatic re-telling of Hans Christian Andersen’s all-time favourite story of the Little Mermaid, who falls in love with a human Prince and gives up everything to win his love. The kind hearted Little Mermaid rescues the Prince during a storm at sea, and begins a journey that takes her far from her home beneath the waves. Determined to pursue her love on to the shore she makes a bargain with an evil Sea Witch, but it comes at a heavy price. Ballet Theatre UK’s charming and poignant ballet explores the nature of longing, how making choices have lasting consequences and how goodness can be rewarded in unexpected ways. Join Ballet Theatre UK for this new production touring the UK and Ireland Spring 2014. ‘Glittering costumes, expressive dancers...a pleasure to witness a production of this calibre’ – Dance Europe ‘Top Five Dance Productions Touring the UK’ – The Independent ‘A ballet company of great achievement’ – The Dancing Times Tickets: £17, £21, £25 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £2 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £2.50 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5
Opera House Sunday 22 June 6.30pm The Performance Academy presents by Miles Tredinnick Based on the original characters devised by Talbot Rothwell and Sid Colin for the Frankie Howerd BBC comedy, this hilarious romp through ancient Pompeii brings back all the television favourites in this full-length play. As Lurcio attempts to deliver his prologue and begin proceedings, he’s quickly caught up in the myriad of liaisons in all quarters of his master’s house. Why does Ludicrus not leave for the Senate meeting in Rome? Why does his wife return so quickly from the country? Who will take care of the escaped slave girl, Voluptua, and will Nausius’s love poetry improve? Whilst growing chaos ensues, an increasing rumbling is heard in the distance – what could that possibly be? A riot from start to finish! Suitable for ages 14 & over. Tickets: £11, £13 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £1 off JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £1.50 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5
YOU CAN’T STOP THE BEAT Come and see The Performance Academy from New Mills and Buxton, as they showcase their debut stage show You Can’t Stop the Beat. The show features a variety of acts from our ever so popular street dancers, ballet, tap, modern and our amazing adult tappers as well extracts from hit Broadway and West End shows such as Oliver, Mary Poppins, and Hairspray to name but a few. A feel good, good old fashioned variety show with something for everyone! Not to be missed! Tickets: Adults £12.50, Children £8 No discounts
BOX OFFICE 0845 127 2190 or 01298 72190
www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk 77
Classic Comedy Productions presents
ITV’s top comedy of all time, Rising Damp, comes to the stage in a brand-new production from the Comedy Theatre Company, producers of the stage versions of Victoria Wood’s dinnerladies and BBC TV’s Birds Of A Feather. An un-named northern university town is home to Rupert Rigsby, landlord of arguably the seediest, most run-down boarding house that England has to offer. His unlucky tenants include Ruth Jones, an administrator at the university, Alan, a medical student and Philip, who is studying town and country planning. Between them, Alan and Philip are the focus and foil of the majority of Rigsby’s many prejudices, usually at the expense of his dignity and standing in the eyes of Miss Jones, with whom he is hopelessly and pathetically in love. ‘The stage version of ITV’s best and certainly most highlyrespected sitcom to date, Rising Damp shines as a masterwork and is a real highlight. Writer Eric Chappell’s fabulous dialogue sparkles to this day. There’s really not much more we can say – it’s just a fantastic night out all-round’ – British Comedy Guide Tickets: £15 & £17 (mat), £18 & £20 (eves) Discounts: Senior Citizens: £12 (matinee only), £1.75 off all other perfs (not Dress Circle) Groups of 8 or more/Disabled: £1.75 off (not Dress Circle). JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle). Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £2.25 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5 PlayLink (see p83).
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Tues 29 Jul
JIMMY CARR
Opera House Saturday 28 June 7.30pm
Sun 28 Sep Mid-Wales Opera:
KINDER CHOIRS SUMMER CONCERT Five times finalists in the BBC Choir of the Year competition, the 100 young singing stars of the Kinder Choirs, under Choir Director Joyce Ellis, once again light up a summer night at the Opera House with their youthful vitality and vocal skills. Over nearly 20 years, the Kinder Choirs have gained an enviable reputation and high profile, with appearance on Songs of Praise, Celebration of Christmas, Lent in the Park, My Favourite Hymns and Friday Night is Music Night. This year’s Summer Concert will be another wonderful mix of classical works, ballads and popular songs. Tickets: £14.50, £16.50 Discounts: Groups of 8 or more/Senior Citizens/Disabled: £1.50 off (not Dress Circle) JSA/Income Support/Students/Children: ½ price (not Dress Circle) Matcham Cards/Buxton Breaks (see p83): £2 off Standby Tickets (see p83): £5
BOX OFFICE 0845 127 2190 or 01298 72190
www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk
CARMEN Fri 12 Sep to Sat 14 Sep
PEPPA PIG Fri 31 Oct
ALAN DAVIES Mon 3 Nov
COMING SOON
Opera House Monday 23 to Wednesday 25 June 7.30pm Matinee: Wednesday 2.30pm
JOAN ARMATRADING Wed 5 Nov
NOT ABOUT HEROES Call the Box Office on 0845 127 2190 for tickets or to check on-sale dates. 79
CINEMA
JAZZ
RECITALS
ARTS
ARTS
ARTS
CENTRE
CENTRE
CENTRE
Pavilion Arts Centre 1pm to 2pm
Friday Lunchtime Recitals by prize-winning students from Manchester’s internationallyrenowned conservatoire, the Royal Northern College of Music (except 10 Jan).
Lunches available in the Arts Centre bar from 12.30pm
Friday 10 January
Sunday 12 January
Sunday 4 May
A team of illusionists pull off bank heists during their performances, rewarding audiences with the money. 115m.
SARAH DOUGLAS & AMY WAKEFIELD
BARRY DALMAN’S WHITE CANVAS
BEN MARTIN TRIO
Wednesday 29 January 7.30pm
A virtuosic stream of consciousness improvisation alongside carefully crafted arrangements and reflective tender moments.
WORLD WAR Z (15)
Sunday lunchtime jazz concerts from the cream of Manchester and North West jazz scene, from trad to contemporary.
RABIGA DYUSSEMBAYEVA
Exciting new quartet formed in 2012 by pianist Barry Dallman with compositions influenced by EST, Michel Petrucciani and Miles Davis.
Solo piano recital
Sunday 9 February
Friday 7 March
THE TAME VALLEY STOMPERS
BOREALIS SAXOPHONE QUARTET
A traditional Dixieland 5-piece based in Aston-under-Lyne.
Friday 7 February
Sunday 8 June
DAKHLA BRASS
Sunday 9 March
Unique horns-and-drums quartet playing original tunes blending evocative harmonies, intricate rhythms and absorbing soundscapes.
Friday 4 April
THE WEAVE
PETHER STRING TRIO
Sunday 6 July
Liverpool based Jazz musicians play a repertoire of warm, melodious and largely friendly home grown tunes.
Alastair Penman (soprano), Mélina Zéleniuc (alto), Gillian Blair (tenor) and Daniel White (baritone )
Edward Pether (violin), Alexander Mitchell (violin) & Richard Isaac (cello)
Friday 2 May
DEVENTER ENSEMBLE Check our leaflet/website for programme details
Friday 6 June
VOCAL & PIANO RECITAL Given by students from the Royal Northern College of Music
GIANT CASH BONANZA Giant Cash Bonanza is a lottery run on the theatre’s behalf by the Giant Cash Bonanza Society, and all proceeds from the subscriptions paid by Buxton Opera House members go solely and directly towards the upkeep, improvement and running of the theatre.
Pavilion Arts Centre 1pm to 2pm
Clarinet & Piano. Includes works by Schumann, Pierne, Gershwin & Vaughan Williams
BUXTON OPERA HOUSE IS A MEMBER OF
Sunday 13 April
MART RODGER MANCHESTER JAZZ A return visit from the popular 7piece line-up with their Trad and Dixieland favourites.
THE ORIGINAL PANAMA JAZZBAND Clean crisp Dixieland and New Orleans jazz from the Wirral based quintet. Tickets: £5 (No discounts)
Pavilion Arts Centre Wednesday 15 January 7.30pm
NOW YOU SEE ME (12A)
A Zombie pandemic threatens to destroy humanity itself. Starring Brad Pitt. 116m.
Wednesday 12 February 7.30pm
THE WORLD’S END (15) Five friends on an epic pub crawl unwittingly become humankind’s only hope for survival. Starring Simon Pegg and Martin Freeman. 109m.
Wednesday 16 April 3pm
THERE IS ONE ANNUAL JACKPOT PRIZE OF £10,000 PLUS… WEEKLY CASH PRIZES £10, £25, £50, £100 JACKPORT: £1,000 FREE PRIZE DRAW EVERY MONTH WIN ONE OF THE FOLLOWING GREAT PRIZES ONE YEAR MATCHAM PREMIER MEMBERSHIP TO GET DISCOUNTS OFF MANY SHOWS (TWO TO BE WON) FAMILY PANTOMIME TICKET FOR 4 WITH A CHANCE TO MEET THE STARS AFTERWARDS (TWO TO BE WON) ONE OF EIGHT PAIRS OF TICKETS TO A PERFORMANCE AT THE OPERA HOUSE (SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY)
MONSTERS UNIVERSITY (U) Kids’ adventure telling the tail of Mike & Sully’s days university days. 104m.
Wednesday 28 May 7.30pm
ALAN PARTRIDGE: ALPHA PAPA (15) Alan Partridge’s radio station becomes the centre potentially violent siege. Starring Steve Coogan. 90m.
IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO BE PART OF THE GIANT CASH BONANZA LOTTERY AND SUPPORT THE FUTURE OF THE OPERA HOUSE, CALL THE GIANT CASH BONANZA SOCIETY ON 01484 484130 QUOTING BUXTON OPERA HOUSE. IF YOU’RE ALREADY A MEMBER, THEN… THANK YOU & GOOD LUCK!
Wednesday 18 June 7.30pm
CAPTAIN PHILLIPS (12) True story about the hijacking of the Maersk Alabama, the first US cargo ship to be hijacked in 200 years. Starring Tom Hanks. 143m.
The Giant Cash Bonanza Society is registered with the Gambling Commission, reg 28662. Promoter: Giant Cash Bonanza Society. Person of Trust: Mr R Thewlis. Minimum age of participation: 16 yeasr old.
Tickets: £4 (Discounts: 50p off)
Tickets: £6 (No discounts) 80
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BUZZ
ARTS
Pavilion Arts Centre 8pm
BUXTON BUZZ COMEDY CLUB
A Comedy Club especially for kids and their mums & dads! Cracking entertainment for everyone over 6 years old and under 400 years old (no vampires or Highlanders – that’s a movie joke, which, if you’re only 6, you may not get – sorry! We’ll cut that bit from the show!). We have the best comedians from the UK and world circuit doing what they do best… but without the rude bits! ‘A highlight for children… giving them a taste of some of the biggest names in comedy with the fun & feel of a real comedy club’ – The Guardian ‘The perfect way to entertain the whole family’ – Three Weeks Tickets: £5 (No discounts) 82
PLAYLINK
IN PERSON:
CHILDREN
If you love everything from powerful thrillers and favourite classics to hilarious comedies and contemporary tales, book for any 3 plays at once and get your ticket(s) for the third (in date order) for just £5 each with PlayLink.
The Box Office opens Monday to Saturday 10am to 8pm (6pm when there is no performance) Sunday 4 to 8pm depending on performance times (Closed if no performance). Hours may vary. Tickets for the Pavilion Arts Centre can be bought at the Arts Centre Box Office one hour before the show or bought in advance from the main Box Office. Cash only for studio tickets bought on the door. Call 0845 127 2190 (Local rate from any UK landline) or 01298 72190. Please see Box Office opening times above.
We welcome children to the theatre and include a varied programme of children’s shows and events throughout the year. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Groups should have one adult per 10 children. Children under 3 and Babies less than 12 months are welcome at family shows where the £2.50 discounted price or ‘Babies Free’ is shown. The Studio Theatre is not suitable for under 3s. For safety reasons, Upper Circle side seats & boxes are not suitable for families with children under 10 years. A family safety leaflet is available from the Box Office.
ONLINE:
DANCING
Please visit: buxtonoperahouse.org.uk. Some discounts are not available online. There is a small (non-refundable) internet fee for online bookings. We accept most major debit/credit cards and National Theatre Tokens. All ticket prices include a £1 Booking Fee (50p for tickets under £10) which goes towards the cost of operating and maintaining the Opera House & Arts Centre. There is no Booking Fee for workshops and participatory events.
Dancing is not allowed in the upper levels, so if you want to dance, please book Stall seats. For your safety, no standing is allowed in the Upper Circle sides and boxes.
MATCHAM CARD Matcham Card holders get great benefits including: • Half price tickets to the first nights of some shows • Discounts on most shows (not available online) • Priority booking for some events
Friday 10 January
• Reservations held until one week before a performance, or two weeks for very busy or sold out performances
Friday 7 February
Thursday 17 April 3pm and Saturday 26 October 3pm
HOW TO BOOK
More first-Friday-of-the-month stand-up from some new and not-so-new faces on the comedy club circuit.
DUNCAN OAKLEY PHIL PAGETT MEIR FRANK COMPERE: FREDDIE FARRELL
COMEDY CLUB 4 KIDS PAVILION ARTS CENTRE
CENTRE
DISCOUNTS & SPECIAL OFFERS
ARCHIE KELLY ANTHONY KING STEVE BUGEJA COMPERE: PETE OTWAY Friday 7 March (in the Pavilion Gardens Café)
NICK REVELL SEAN MORAN NICK PARRY COMPERE: BEN VAN DER VELDE Friday 4 April
JAMES ALDERSON JONNY GREATREX SUSAN HANKS COMPERE: BEN LAWES Friday 2 May
NICK PAGE MIKE NEWALL DANIEL KENNEDY COMPERE: RORY O’HANLON Friday 6 June
GARY DELANEY CAIMH MCDONNELL EDDIE FRENCH COMPERE: JAMES ANFIELD Tickets: £6 (No discounts) Shows may contain strong language & adult material.
• Advance email notification about new shows
Premier Membership – £35 Up to 4 discounted tickets per show. Great for families! Individual Membership – £18 One discounted ticket per show Senior Membership – £13 One discounted ticket per show for those over 60 (proof of eligibility may be required)
BUXTON BREAKS Get discounted tickets for most shows when you stay at any holiday accommodation in the Buxton area. A list of hotels and guest houses is available from Buxton Tourist Information Centre on 01298 25106 or on-line at www.visitpeakdistrict.com You will be asked for confirmation of your accommodation, such as booking form, hotel compliment slip or key when you collect your tickets.
GROUP DISCOUNTS In addition to our standard groups rate we can sometimes offer a more generous discount for groups of 20+ and larger school groups. Free Teacher places are available with some group bookings.
STANDBY TICKETS £5 Standby Tickets are sometimes available to full time students aged 16+ and people in receipt of JSA/Income Support. These are available one hour before the performance, subject to availability. Proof of eligibility is required.
OTHER DISCOUNTS Discounts are available on most shows - please see individual entries. You may be asked to provide proof or eligibility and only one discount is available per ticket.
SPECIAL OFFERS We’d like to send you information about special offers and events. To join our mailing list, please send your email address to: marketingofficer@boh.org.uk
BY PHONE:
RELOCATION OF SHOWS: Occasionally, we may need to relocate a show from the Opera House to the Arts Centre or from the Arts Centre to the studio (or vice versa). Numbered tickets may change to general admittance, in which case we are unable to offer refunds.
DISABLED CUSTOMERS & COMPANIONS Registered Disabled customers receive discounts to many performances, please see individual entries. Accompanying customers in receipt of Carer's allowance are admitted free of charge (proof of eligibility is required) other companions not in receipt of this allowance can receive a 50% discount if discounts are available.
TICKET EXCHANGE If you are unable to attend a show, please give us 48 hours notice and we can exchange your tickets for another performance of the same show if one is available. We cannot transfer tickets or money to another show. Tickets will not be refunded unless the performance is cancelled. Postage charges are non-refundable.
RESERVATIONS Reservations are held for seven working days. If you book on the day of a show, your tickets will be held until 30 minutes before the start of the performance. For very popular shows, tickets booked within 7 days of the performance must be paid for when you book.
PERSONAL DATA Any personal information given to our Box Office during booking is held securely and confidentially and we, or our visiting companies, may use it to contact you for marketing purposes. If you prefer not to receive information regarding future events, please let us know. 83
DIARY
THEATRE INFORMATION
Buxton Opera House
ACCESS
GETTING HERE
The Opera House is an Edwardian building and only partially accessible to wheelchair users. The wheelchair entrance is 72cms at its narrowest point. We have three wheelchair spaces in the Stalls at ground floor level and an adapted toilet. We are happy to help you transfer from your wheelchair to the theatre seats. If you will be transferring from a wheelchair to theatre seating, even if you don’t need any help, please let us know when booking. The Stalls Bar is not accessible, but a member of staff will gladly bring refreshments to your seat.
Buxton is easy to reach via the A6, A515 and A53. The theatre is sign-posted from the town centre. There is free parking after 6pm on the upper level of the Pavilion Gardens car park (don’t use the downstairs car park as it closes early) or in some streets close to the theatre which are not covered by the Residents Parking Scheme.
DECEMBER
A train service is available from Manchester Piccadilly to Buxton. For more information on services and connections call 08457 484950.
Friday 13
Kaleidoscope Junior Theatre Company: Alice’s Adventures In Wonderland
Friday 13
Although the Opera House Foyer and Box Office counter are not accessible, there is wheelchair access to the Box Office side door in Water Street, where there is an intercom system. The building cannot be accessed by motorised scooter. All parts of the Pavilion Arts Centre, except the Main Room balcony, are accessible by wheelchair. For your safety, we advise that you bring a companion if you would have difficulty making your own way out of the building in an emergency.
CUSTOMER SERVICE
Don’t Go Into The Cellar Theatre Co: The Singular Exploits of Sherlock Holmes
Saturday 14
Kaleidoscope Junior Theatre Company: Alice’s Adventures In Wonderland
We have passive infra-red (PIR) systems in both venues for customers with hearing impairments. This works through a headset rather than your hearing aid, please reserve a headset when you book your tickets (£10 cash deposit required). There is an induction loop system at both Box Offices. Audio & Braille copies of the brochure are available, call 01298 72050. Assistance dogs are welcome.
REFRESHMENTS Pre-show and interval drinks are available in the bars which are open 45 minutes before each show. You can beat the queues by ordering interval drinks in advance. Please note both venues are no smoking buildings.
LATECOMERS If you miss the start of a show, you will only be admitted where there is a suitable break in the performance and at the discretion of the performers or management.
THEATRE TOURS & COFFEE MORNINGS The Fundraising Friends of Buxton Opera House hold open coffee mornings most Saturdays between 10am and 12 noon. They also offer tours of the theatre on the same days at £2.50 per person. Private group tours can also be arranged at £5 per person, contact 01298 72050 for details.
WILLOUGHBY LUNCHEON CLUB To raise funds for the Opera House, the Willoughby Club host a luncheon at The Lee Wood Hotel on the last Thursday of every month between March and November. Call 01298 813464 for details.
Our staff and volunteers work hard to provide a high standard of customer service and make your visit as enjoyable as possible. Please treat them with the respect that they deserve. If you have any queries, complaints or comments, please write to the Chief Executive at Buxton Opera House, Water Street, Buxton, SK17 6XN. A copy of the theatre’s Comments & Complaints Policy is available on request.
VOLUNTEER Make new friends, learn new skills and contribute to the life of this wonderful theatre by becoming one of our friendly volunteers. Volunteers help with selling programmes and refreshments and showing people to their seats. A full induction and on-going training is provided. For more information call Rachel Taylor on: 01298 72050, email: housemanager@boh.org.uk or write to Opera House, Water Street, Buxton, SK17 6XN.
For more information please visit: buxtonoperahouse.org.uk or call: 0845 127 2190.
Other
FEBRUARY
Thursday 12 December to Wednesday 1 January Cinderella (see p6)
Saturday 14
Pavilion Arts Centre
7pm 7.30pm 3pm
Sunday 2
Mid Wales Opera: Acis and Galatea
7.30pm
Sunday 2
Sean Hughes
7.30pm
Thursday 6
Icarus Theatre Collective: Othello
7.30pm
Friday 7
Recitals at the Arts Centre: Rabiga Dyussembayeva
Friday 7
Icarus Theatre Collective: Othello
1pm
1.30pm & 7.30pm
Friday 7
Buxton Buzz Comedy Club
Saturday 8
Nights On Broadway – The Bee Gees Story
7.30pm
Saturday 8
Mark Thomas – 100 Acts of Minor Dissent
7.30pm
Sunday 9
Jazz at the Arts Centre – The Tame Valley Stompers
Sunday 9
Postman Pat
Don’t Go Into The Cellar Theatre Company: The Singular Exploits of Sherlock Holmes
7.30pm
Wednesday 12
Michael Friend Productions: The Man of Destiny
Sunday 15
Ballet Theatre UK: The Nutcracker
7.30pm
Monday 16
Steeleye Span
Thursday 19 Friday 20 Saturday 21
8pm
1pm 2pm 7.30pm
Wednesday 12
Film: The World’s End
7.30pm
8pm
Thursday 13
Russian State Ballet & Opera House: La Traviata
7.30pm
Christmas Crooners
7.30pm
Thursday 13
Uncontained Arts: Songs from the Shows
7.30pm
Distraction Theatre: Once Upon A Christmas Day
7.30pm
Friday 14
Punt and Dennis – Life On The Road
7.30pm
Distraction Theatre: Once Upon A Christmas Day
7.30pm
Friday 14
Crimes Against Taste: Tales of Lust, Love & Heartbreak
7.30pm
Sunday 22
The Very Best of Best of Brass & Comedy
7.30pm
Saturday 15
Mike + The Mechanics
7.30pm
Tuesday 31
New Year’s Eve Gala Concert
9.30pm
Saturday 15
Kiki Dee & Carmelo Luggeri
7.30pm
Sunday 16
Toploader with support John King & His Band
7.30pm
Sunday 16
Sons of Cream
7.30pm
Monday 17
Alexander O’Neal
7.30pm
JANUARY Saturday 4
Ultimate Bowie
7.30pm
Tuesday 18
The Blow Monkeys
7.30pm
Sunday 5
Paul Carrack
7.30pm
Tuesday 18
Trio Valore
7.30pm
Friday 10
Recitals at the Arts Centre – Sarah Douglas & Amy Wakefield
Wednesday 19
Brian May & Kerry Ellis
7.30pm
1pm
Wednesday 19
Toyah
7.30pm
Friday 10
Buxton Buzz Comedy Club
8pm
Thursday 20
Jaheme with Gospel Choir
7.30pm
Sunday 12
Jazz at the Arts Centre – Barry Dallman’s White Canvas
1pm
Thursday 20
Graeme Clark
7.30pm
Sunday 12
Todd Miller & the Joe Loss Orchestra
7.30pm
Friday 21
Brand New Heavies
7.30pm
Wednesday 15
Film: Now You See Me
7.30pm
Friday 21
The Idle Hands
7.30pm
Friday 17
Sell A Door Theatre Company: Kidnapped
7.30pm
Saturday 22
The South
7.30pm
Saturday 18
Sell A Door Theatre Company: Kidnapped
2.30pm & 7.30pm
Saturday 22
Chris Corcoran Trio
7.30pm
Sunday 19
Magical Mozart by Candlelight
7.30pm
Sunday 23
Phoenix Theatre Arts: Laurel & Hardy
7.30pm
Sunday 18
Shappi Khorsandi
7.30pm
Tuesday 25
Sally Morgan – On The Road
7.30pm
Friday 24
The Johnny Cash Roadshow
7.30pm
Thursday 27
Blake
7.30pm
Saturday 25
Abba Reunion
7.30pm
Friday 28
The Moscow State Circus
7.30pm
Sunday 26
Derek Acorah
7.30pm
Friday 28
Crowd of 2 Theatre: The Crossing
7.30pm
Monday 27
ID Plays: Ladies In Retirement
7.30pm
Tuesday 28
ID Plays: Ladies In Retirement
7.30pm
Wednesday 29 ID Plays: Ladies In Retirement
2.30pm & 7.30pm
Wednesday 29 Film: World War Z
7.30pm
Friday 31
7.30pm
The King of Pop – The Legend Continues
BOX OFFICE 0845 127 2190 or 01298 72190
www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk 84
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DIARY
DIARY
MARCH Saturday 1
MAY
APRIL The Moscow State Circus
Saturday 1
Crowd of 2 Theatre: The Crossing
Sunday 2
The Moscow State Circus
Tuesday 4
2.30pm & 7.30pm 7.30pm
Tuesday 1
Buxton Opera House
Pavilion Arts Centre
Other
JUNE
7.30pm
Friday 2
Recitals at the Arts Centre: Deventer Ensemble
1pm
1.30pm & 7.30pm
Friday 2
Sunday 1
Joe McElderry
7.30pm
Legends of Soul
7.30pm
Sunday 1
Matt Pritchard: Extra Sensory Deception
1pm
7.30pm
Friday 2
Ruby Wax – Sane New World
7.30pm
Wednesday 4
London Classic Theatre: Entertaining Mr Sloan
7.30pm
7.30pm
Friday 2
Buxton Buzz Comedy Club
8pm
Thursday 5
Hiccup Theatre: Pinnochio
1.30pm
8pm
Saturday 3
Co-Opera Co: Madama Butterfly
7.30pm
Thursday 5
London Classic Theatre: Entertaining Mr Sloan
2.30pm & 7.30pm
Saturday 3
Breathe Out Theatre: An Extraordinary Light
7.30pm
Friday 6
Recitals at the Arts Centre: Vocal & Piano Recital
1pm
Friday 6
The Gruffalo
2pm & 7pm
Friday 6
Buxton Buzz Comedy Club
Saturday 7
The Gruffalo
Black Box Theatre Company: Romeo and Juliet
Wednesday 2
Black Box Theatre Company: Romeo and Juliet
2pm & 5pm
Friday 4
Recitals at the Arts Centre: Pether String Trio
Andy Kirkpatrick
7.30pm
Friday 4
Present Company: The Merry Widow
Wednesday 5
Dirty Dusting
7.30pm
Friday 4
Buxton Buzz Comedy Club
Wednesday 5
Seann Walsh
7.30pm
Saturday 5
Present Company: The Merry Widow
Thursday 6
Russian State Ballet of Siberia: Don Quixote
7.30pm
Saturday 5
Black Toffee: Hidden
7.30pm
Sunday 4
Jazz at the Arts Centre: Ben Martin Trio
Friday 7
Recitals at the Arts Centre: Borealis Saxophone Quartet
1pm
Sunday 6
Let’s Hang On
7.30pm
Sunday 4
Peak District Music Centres Gala Concert
Friday 7
Russian State Ballet of Siberia: Giselle
7.30pm
Monday 7
The Illegal Eagles
7.30pm
Monday 5
Wednesday 9
The Bible: The Complete Word of God (abridged)
7.30pm
People’s Theatre Compan: Old MacDonald Had A Farrm
2.30pm
Saturday 7
Simon Evans
Thursday 10
Regan De Wynter: HMS Pinafore
7.30pm
Tuesday 6
Talking Scarlet: The Devil at Midnight
7.30pm
Sunday 8
Gruffalo
Friday 11
Regan De Wynter: HMS Pinafore
7.30pm
Wednesday 7
Talking Scarlet: The Devil at Midnight
2.30pm & 7.30pm
Sunday 8
Jazz at the Arts Centre: Dakhla Brass
Faulty Towers The Dining Experience
7.30pm
Sunday 8
The Reflections
7.30pm 7.30pm
Friday 7
Buxton Buzz Comedy Club
Saturday 8
Russian State Ballet of Siberia: Swan Lake
Saturday 8
Library Theatre Touring Company: 2 Talking Heads
Sunday 9
8pm 2.30pm & 7.30pm
Jazz at the Arts Centre: The Weave Opera & Ballet International: Nabucco
Monday 10
DEDA: County Youth Dance Platform – Interface 14
Tuesday 11
Rich Hall’s Howdown Seabright Productions: The Only Way Is Downton
Saturday 15
Peaceful Lion Productions: Hey, Presto!
1pm 1.30pm 8pm 11am & 2pm 7.30pm 11am & 2pm 1pm
Friday 11
Kaleidoscope Youth Theatre Company: Bassett
7.30pm
Thursday 8
7.30pm
Saturday 12
Bobby Socks and Blue Jeans
7.30pm
Friday 9
Joe Brown in Concert
7.30pm
Thursday 12
An Evening of Dirty Dancing: The Tribute Show
7pm
Saturday 12
Kaleidoscope Youth Theatre Company: Bassett
7.30pm
Friday 9
Faulty Towers The Dining Experience
7.30pm
Friday 13
Sunday 13
Jazz at the Arts Centre: Mart Rodger Manchester Jazz
1pm
Saturday 10
The Rat Pack Live
Kaleidoscope Junior Company: Pirates of the Curry Bean
7.30pm
Saturday 10
Faulty Towers The Dining Experience
Saturday 14
2pm
Monday 12
Theatrical Niche: Blood Wedding
7.30pm
Kaleidoscope Junior Company: Pirates of the Curry Bean
Singalong Grease
7.30pm
Saturday 15
Ballet Theatre UK: The Little Mermaid
7.30pm 7.30pm
1pm
Sunday 9
Friday 14
7.30pm
2.30pm & 7.30pm
7.30pm 7.30pm
Sunday 13
Swansea City Opera: The Marriage of Figaro
1.30pm & 3.30pm
Monday 14
Blunderbus Theatre Company: Dotty the Dragon
7.30pm 1pm & 7.30pm
7pm 3pm
Saturday 15
Joe Longthorne
7.30pm
Tuesday 15
Rumpus Theatre Company: Who’s Who
7.30pm
Wednesday 14
Sunday 16
Miles Jupp
7.30pm
Wednesday 16
Rumpus Theatre Company: Who’s Who
7.30pm
Thursday 15
That’ll Be The Day
7.30pm
Wednesday 18
Film: Captain Phillips
Kaleidoscope Intermediate Theatre Company: Witches
7.30pm
Thursday 19
Baroque Theatre Company: Up Pompeii
7.30pm
The Performance Academy: You Can’t Stop The Beat
6.30pm 7.30pm
Film: Monsters University
3pm
Friday 16
Thursday 17
Comedy Club 4 Kids
3pm
Saturday 17
Mugenkyo Taiko Drummers
7.30pm
Sunday 22
Friday 18
Science Museum Live – The Energy Show
7pm
Saturday 17
Kaleidoscope Intermediate Theatre Company: Witches
7.30pm
Monday 23
Rising Damp
7.30pm
Sunday 18
Sarah Millican – Home Bird
7.30pm
Tuesday 24
Rising Damp
7.30pm
Josh Widdicombe
7.30pm
Wednesday 25 Rising Damp
2.30pm & 7.30pm
Saturday 28
Monday 17
Chris Packham – Wild Night Out!
7.30pm
Wednesday 16
Thursday 20
The Meat Loaf Story
7.30pm
Friday 21
Jamie Allan – iMagician
7.30pm
Friday 21
Adaire To Dance: Coffee Shop Culture
Friday 21
The 7th Buxton Soul Night
Saturday 22
Beyond The Barricade
7.30pm
Friday 18
Goofus Theatre Company: Taking Charlie
8pm
Saturday 19
Science Museum Live – The Energy Show
2pm & 7pm
Sunday 18
7.30pm
Saturday 19
Goofus Theatre Company: Taking Charlie
7.30pm
Tuesday 20
Birmingham Royal Ballet: A Mixed Bill
7.30pm
Wednesday 21
Birmingham Royal Ballet: A Mixed Bill
2.30pm & 7.30pm
Thursday 22
Morecambe Morecambe
7.30pm 7.30pm
Saturday 22
Cotton Grass Theatre: The Unknown Land
7.30pm
Tuesday 22
The Sooty Show
Sunday 23
Tap Factory
7.30pm
Thursday 24
Ken Dodd – Happiness Show
Tuesday 25
Barry Cryer – Twitter Titters
7.30pm
Tuesday 25 to Sunday 30 March Buxton Festival of World Cinema (see p39)
11am & 2.30pm 7.30pm
Friday 25
Get Involved: Schlomo’s Beatbox Adventure for Kids
3pm
Saturday 26
Red Table Theatre: The Just So Stories
1.30pm & 3.30pm
Friday 23
Buxton Drama League: Oh! What A Lovely War
Sunday 27
Cheeky Chap Productions: Andy & Mike’s Tick Tock Time Machine
Saturday 24
Morecambe
2pm
Saturday 24
Buxton Drama League: Oh! What A Lovely War 2.30pm & 7.30pm
2.30pm & 7.30pm
Sunday 25
European Arts Company: The Trials of Oscar Wilde
7.30pm
Wednesday 26 Ballet Boyz – The Talent
7.30pm
Monday 26
Image Musical Theatre: The Jungle Book
2.30pm
Wednesday 26 Pantaloon Productions: Sherlock Holmes
7.30pm
Wednesday 28 Aracaladanza
Thursday 27
The Bootleg Beatles
7.30pm
Wednesday 28 Film: Alan Partridge: Alpha Papa
Friday 28
Icarus Theatre Collective: Hedda Gabler
7.30pm
Thursday 29
Saturday 29
The Solid Silver 60s Show
7.30pm
Friday 30
Young-Choon Park
7.30pm
Sunday 30
Down To Earth – An Evening With Monty Don
7.30pm
Saturday 31
Billy Pearce
7.30pm
The Simon & Garfunkel Story
7.30pm
Tell Tale Hearts: Yummm!
7.30pm
7.30pm
Friday 23
Tuesday 29
Kinder Choirs Summer Concert
1.30pm 7.30pm 11.30am & 2.30pm
BOX OFFICE 0845 127 2190 or 01298 72190
www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk 86
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BUXTON OPERA HOUSE & PAVILION ARTS CENTRE Thank You to our Supporters Our current business and funding partners and other supporters include:
LomasDistribution
High Peak Borough Council Arts Council England Fundraising Friends of Buxton Opera House The Willoughby Luncheon Club 88