Cambridge Arts Theatre Spring 2023 season brochure

‘A JOYFUL, HEART-WARMING MUSICAL’

THE TIMES

PAGE DATE SHOW

8 Wed 1 – Sun 5 Mar

9 Tue 7 – Sat 11 Mar

6 Sun 12 & Sun 19 Mar

10 Mon 13 – Sat 18 Mar

12 Tue 21 – Sat 25 Mar

14 Mon 27 Mar – Sat 1 Apr

6 Sun 2 Apr

15 Tue 4 – Sat 8 Apr

MOG THE FORGETFUL CAT

WISH YOU WERE DEAD

CAMBRIDGE FOOTLIGHTS

THE SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION

ABIGAIL'S PARTY

CHARLOTTE AND THEODORE

GORDON BUCHANAN: 30 YEARS IN THE WILD

MRS WARREN'S PROFESSION

ENGLISH TOURING OPERA 18 Wed 19 – Sat 22 Apr OF MICE AND MEN

16 Thu 13 – Sat 15 Apr

20 Tue 25 – Sat 29 Apr

22 Tue 2 – Sat 6 May

FISHERMAN'S FRIENDS: THE MUSICAL

HOME, I'M DARLING

LEGALLY BLONDE 24 Tue 16 – Sat 20 May

23 Wed 10 – Sat 13 May

7 Sun 28 May

THE BEEKEEPER OF ALEPPO

RHYMES WITH

ON

THE SMEDS AND THE SMOOS 28 Tue 1 – Sat 5 Aug BLOOD BROTHERS

29 Fri 11 – Sun 13 Aug

30 Mon 21 – Sat 26 Aug

31 Wed 25 – Sun 29 Oct

32 Wed 8 – Sat 11 Nov

33 Mon 13 – Sat 18 Nov

DRAGONS AND MYTHICAL BEASTS

THE BIRDS AND THE BEES

HORRIBLE HISTORIES: BARMY BRITAIN

MACBETH

AND THEN THERE WERE NONE

HOW TO BOOK 35 ACCESS

assisted performances pre-show talks

MOG THE FORGETFUL CAT

Relaxed Performance

WISH YOU WERE DEAD

Sunday 5 March, 10.30am

Audio Described Saturday 11 March, 2.30pm

LEGALLY BLONDE

BSL

Thursday 11 May, 7.30pm

THE BEEKEEPER OF ALEPPO

BSL

Wednesday 17 May, 7.30pm

THE SMEDS AND THE SMOOS

BSL

Relaxed Performance

Friday 23 June, 1pm

Saturday 24 June, 10.30am

HORRIBLE HISTORIES: BARMY BRITAIN

Relaxed Performance

MACBETH

Sunday 29 October, 11am

Audio Described Saturday 11 November, 2.30pm

Cambridge Arts Theatre is managed by The Cambridge Arts Theatre Trust Ltd.

Registered in England No. 03536370

Registered Charity No. 1069912. Registered Office: 6 St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge CB2 3PJ.

VAT Registration No. 229 1368 04

ENGLISH TOURING OPERA

Thursday 13 – Saturday 15 April, all at 6.30pm OF MICE AND MEN

Thursday 20 April, 6.30pm

THE BEEKEEPER OF ALEPPO

Tuesday 16 May, 6.30pm

MACBETH

Wednesday 8 November, 6.30pm

post-show talks

LEGALLY BLONDE

Thursday 11 May, 7.30pm

STUMPED

Tuesday 6 June, 7.30pm

Welcome to our Spring 2023 season. It was brilliant to see so many of you at Dick Whittington and his Cat over Christmas. Our Theatre seemed well and truly back to its old self. I can’t believe it’s been nearly three years since we had to shut our doors but I continue to feel very proud that we are now fully alive and kicking again. Thank you to all of you for continuing to come to see our shows and supporting us. We truly couldn’t have done it without you.

Everyone at our Theatre is passionate about inspiring a love of the theatre in everyone who comes through our doors whether that is through respecting the traditions and history of theatre, or looking forward to its future role in society. I’m really pleased to be able to provide you with a season that celebrates each of these possibilities.

Appreciating the classics is just as important to theatre as it has always been and I feel familiar shows have provided comfort for many of us over these past few difficult years. You’ll find many memorable classic stories on our stage this season. From Caroline Quentin in Mrs Warren’s Profession, Agatha Christie’s popular thriller And Then There Were None, to the legendary musical Blood Brothers as it makes its return to our Theatre for the first time in nearly ten years. Stephen Tomkinson in Stumped will be a witty tribute to the great playwrights Harold Pinter and Samuel Beckett.

But theatre needs to remain relevant to the events and sentiments of current society and so the new play by Ryan Craig, Charlotte and Theodore, offers a great chance to explore the challenging culture wars hotly debated today. The popular novel The Beekeeper of Aleppo has been adapted into an exciting new and timely production and the winner of the Olivier Award for Best New Comedy Home, I’m Darling is both a thought-provoking and witty reflection on 1950’s society from today’s vantage point.

One of our fundamental aims is to inspire and nurture a lifelong love of the performing arts across all age groups but especially amongst our younger audience members.

We are all pleased to be able to offer a truly varied programme this season for young people, with the return of favourites like Dragons and Mythical Beasts, Horrible Histories and the everpopular Julia Donaldson with the wonderful story of The Smeds and The Smoos. Judith Kerr’s Mog the Forgetful Cat will be coming to Cambridge which I’m sure will take many parents back to reading bedtime stories to their children. It seems 5 minutes since I read about Mog and her many adventures to my boys.

It’s also important to us that we continue to welcome school children back to the theatre after the pandemic. This season we will be presenting a brand-new stage adaptation of Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Men and also English Touring Theatre’s new production of Macbeth. For many of us a lifetime’s theatregoing habit started at school and I hope these two productions will win a few new converts to the theatre.

Finally, you will all want to don your Aran sweaters and fisherman’s caps and start practising your sea shanties. The phenomena that is Fishermans Friends the Musical will be coming to Cambridge in April. It promises to be the feel-good hit of the Spring.

Thank you as ever for your steadfast support and I look forward to seeing you again very soon at Cambridge Arts Theatre.

Dave Murphy Chief Executive

Cambridge Arts Theatre

6 St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge CB2 3PJ

Administration: 01223 578933

THANK YOU TO ALL OUR DONORS, FUNDERS & SUPPORTERS

SUPPORTERS’ CIRCLE MEMBERS

PRODUCER

DIRECTOR

PRINCIPAL

Lily Bacon & Andy Harter; Baroness Cohen & Mr Jim Cohen; Adam Glinsman; John & Jenny Robson; William & Wendy Topham

Phil & Ruth Blundell; Ian & Anne Carter; James & Helen Goddin; Tom Howat & Tom Amraoui; Jeff Iliffe & Keren Williams; David J H Jones; Darren Jones-Molyneux; Dave & Adrienne Murphy; Menelas & Kelly Pangalos; Gregory & Rachel Sinfield; Andy Swarbrick; Paul Taylor; Anonymous

Matti Aijala; Simon & Jennifer Aldridge; Lord Archer & Dame Mary Archer; Penny Belcher; Mark Bush; Sir Geoffrey & Lady Olwen Cass; Charles & Angela Chadwyck-Healey; John & Charlotte Chambers; David Charters & Penny Morris; Michael Colantuono; Tim Cribb; John & Jennifer Crompton; Sir Richard Dearlove; Stuart & Brenda Evans; Shaun & Pauline Grady; Margaret Grass; Mark & Abby Green; Gavin & Lucinda Howard; Tim Jones; Roger & Susan May; Rory Morrison-Smith; Geraldine Plunkett; Matthew & Sally Punshon; David & Susan Rapley; Mary Rayner; Alan & Barbara Richardson; Colin & Cora Roberts; Brian Shaffer; Audrey Thomas; Anthony Upshall & Lisa Gibson; Anonymous

ACTOR

Marie Allan; Steve Alsop; Ann Austen; Chris & Margaret Baker; Peter Baker; Mr & Mrs Ballisat; Mr & Mrs Bates; Martin Bedwell; Sarah Bradfield; Paul & Amanda Brooker; Francis & Jo Burkitt; Gordon & Julie Campbell; Christine Carpenter; Adrian & Siobhan Cassidy; Ursula Cheyne; Isabel Clare; Timothy Clarke; Geoffrey Cook; Fiona Cornish; Richard & Caroline Crane; David & Jane Dandy; Peter & Viv Dee; Maria Dod; Shirley Ellis; Ilaria Falciatori; Mr J & Mrs S Farmer; Amanda Farnsworth; Bernard Farrant; Barry Fuchs & Lauren Kisser; Glen & Julie Gadsby; Rachel Gardner; Keith Gentle; Emma Giddings; Gyles Glover; Victoria Goodbody; Martin Harmer & Wendy Lamb; Anthony Harris; Pamela Harris; Stuart Henderson; Fran Hester; Alice Hodkinson; Joanna Hulme; Leisa Hunt; C Jenkins; Gillian Kiddy; David & Michelle King; Christiane Krueger; Francesca & Gareth Lane; Patrick Lavelle; Brandi Leach; Hester Lees-Jeffries; Mr S & Mrs J Leslie; Ian & Annette Lines; Gillian Littlewood; Janet Luck; Caleb & Anna Marchent; Michael McConville; Julia Money; Lorna Morgan; Mark Newstead; Alistair Oatey; Carolyn Parsons; John Pell; Helen Pemberton; Chris Potter; John Prestage; Susan Richards; Anthony Roberts; Christopher Schwick; John Short; Ian Sims; Christopher & Cherrill Skey; Brian Sloan; Robert Tansley; Martin Taylor; Michael Topham & Iris Chang; Paul & Eileen Treadwell; Gerry Tucker; Jo Tunmer; Mariana Vaschetto; Astrid Whiskin; Eva Whitton; David & Jennifer Wilby; Alexander Wright; Anonymous

The Public Interest Foundation

For One Night Only

SUNDAY 12 & SUNDAY 19 MARCH

CAMBRIDGE FOOTLIGHTS

Following the success of 2022, Cambridge Footlights are back by popular demand with two nights of hilarious new comedy!

Cambridge Footlights are the world-famous comedy troupe who first aired the talents of some of the foremost British comedians and actors of this century. Founded in 1883, this university drama society boasts an impressive alumni including Stephen Fry, Hugh Laurie, Trevor Nunn and Peter Shaffer.

Join Footlights for two nights showcasing the finest sketches, songs and stand-up from some of the country’s finest student comedians. Early booking is highly recommended!

7.30PM: £16/£20/£25

ALL TICKET PRICES INCLUDE A £3 PER TICKET BOOKING FEE

SUNDAY 2 APRIL

GORDON BUCHANAN 30 YEARS IN THE WILD

After a sell-out run in 2022, Gordon Buchanan is back on tour. One of the most prominent wildlife presenters and filmmakers working today, Gordon’s journey is a remarkable story to tell. Having produced some of the most popular wildlife programmes on the BBC, we have been able to see his incredible passion for the animal kingdom and the unique ability he has for presenting such hidden animal worlds to an audience.

Gordon will be taking a look back at his incredible 30 years working both behind and in front of the camera. This will be a rare opportunity to discover what has driven his career and what are his most favourite wildlife encounters.

7.30PM: £25/£30

ALL TICKET PRICES INCLUDE A £3 PER TICKET BOOKING FEE

For One Night Only

SUNDAY 28 MAY

TILTED PRESENTS IN ASSOCIATION WITH SOMETHIN’ ELSE

Delve into a world of words with Something Rhymes with Purple on Stage based on Gyles Brandreth and Susie Dent’s award-winning podcast.

Expect theatrical antics from the show’s affable hosts as they bring their infectious love of words to the stage with all the trademark repartee and wordplay of the podcast.

Combining much-loved podcast segments including ‘Susie’s Trio’, Gyles’ poetry, the bizarre origins of sayings, lots of myth busting and a deep dive into our language and expressions, each show will focus on a different theme and will be recorded to make up special live episodes of the podcast.

7.30PM: £25/£30

ALL TICKET PRICES INCLUDE A £3 PER TICKET BOOKING FEE

Uncover the hidden origins of language, understand how and why we use the words we use, enhance your vocabulary, and test your knowledge with two of the wittiest and finest wordsmiths.

2.30PM: £25/£30/£35

ALL TICKET PRICES INCLUDE A £3 PER TICKET BOOKING FEE

WEDNESDAY 1 – SUNDAY 5 MARCH

‘A MIAOW-VELLOUS MUSICAL TREAT’ GUARDIAN

Mog is a very forgetful cat. She forgets that she has a cat flap, she forgets that she’s already eaten her supper, and she forgets that cats don’t have eggs for breakfast every day. Bother that cat!

But Mog’s forgetfulness can come in handy...

Join Mog and the Thomas family, on a journey through one year in the life of a really remarkable cat, as she catches a burglar, gatecrashes a cat show, goes to the V.E.T. and gets to eat lots and lots of eggs. Everyone’s favourite cat might be forgetful, but she certainly has a lot of adventures, and she loves her family very much.

Based on the bestselling Mog picture book series by Judith Kerr, published by HarperCollins Children’s Books.

WEDNESDAY: 10.30AM & 1.30PM

THURSDAY: 1.30PM & 4.30PM

FRIDAY: 10.30AM & 1.30PM

SATURDAY: 10.30AM & 1.30PM

SUNDAY: 10.30AM & 1.30PM

ALL TICKETS: £16

ALL TICKET PRICES INCLUDE A £3 PER TICKET BOOKING FEE

RELAXED PERFORMANCE, SEE PAGE 2

WARDROBE ENSEMBLE, THE OLD VIC AND ROYAL & DERNGATE, NORTHAMPTON PRESENT

Following five hit stage shows and the new acclaimed ITV series Grace, the work of best-selling author Peter James returns to Cambridge with the world premiere stage adaption of Wish You Were Dead.

An all star cast includes George Rainsford, who returns to the stage after eight years as Ethan Hardy in BBC One’s Casualty, Clive Mantle, much loved for many roles including Casualty, Game of Thrones and the iconic ‘puddle’ scene in The Vicar of Dibley and the multi-talented actress, novelist, podcaster and winner of I’m A Celebrity, Giovanna Fletcher.

When Detective Superintendent Roy Grace and Cleo Morey take their first holiday together, they hope for a few days away from their dark worlds of murder and the mortuary. But their dream escape turns out to be the holiday from hell.

Adapted exclusively for the stage, Wish You Were Dead is the latest thrilling instalment of the Grace Series – the most successful modern day crime stage franchise, since Agatha Christie.

TUESDAY – SATURDAY, 7.30PM

AND THURSDAY & SATURDAY, 2.30PM: £25/£37/£42/£47

ALL TICKET PRICES INCLUDE A £3 PER TICKET BOOKING FEE

AUDIO DESCRIBED PERFORMANCE, SEE PAGE 2

GIOVANNA FLETCHER CLIVE MANTLE AND GEORGE RAINSFORD

STANDARD

MANCHESTER THEATRES

Despite protests of his innocence, Andy Dufresne is handed a double life sentence for the brutal murders of his wife and her lover. Incarcerated in the notorious Shawshank facility, he quickly learns that no one can survive alone.

Richard O’Brien’s legendary rock ‘n’ roll musical comes to Cambridge Arts Theatre for the first time as part of a sell-out worldwide tour, having now been seen by over 30 million theatregoers.

Andy strikes up an unlikely friendship with the prison fixer Red, and things start to take a slight turn for the better. However, when Warden Stammas decides to bully Andy into subservience and exploit his talents for accountancy, a desperate plan is quietly hatched...

Directed by Christopher Luscombe and featuring timeless classics including Sweet Transvestite, Damn It Janet and of course, the pelvicthrusting Time Warp, The Rocky Horror Show is the story of two squeaky clean college kids – Brad and his fiancée Janet. When, by a twist of fate, their car breaks down outside a creepy mansion whilst on their way to visit their former college professor, they meet the charismatic Dr Frank’n’Furter.

Based on Stephen King's 1982 novella Rita Hayworth and the Shawshank Redemption, this thrilling stage production examines desperation, injustice, friendship and hope behind the claustrophobic bars of a maximum-security facility. The 1994 feature film starred Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman and was nominated for seven Academy Awards.

MONDAY – THURSDAY, 7.45PM

FRIDAY, 8.30PM

AND SATURDAY, 5.30PM & 8.30PM: £25/£35/£40/£45

MONDAY – SATURDAY, 7.30PM AND THURSDAY & SATURDAY, 2.30PM: £25/£35/£40/£45

FRIDAY, 5.30PM: £25/£35/£40

It’s an adventure they’ll never forget…

Age guidance 12+ (strong language, scenes of a sexual nature, sexual violence and nudity)

Age guidance 12+ (this show contains rude parts!)

ALL TICKET PRICES INCLUDE A £3 PER TICKET BOOKING FEE

ALL TICKET PRICES INCLUDE A £3 PER-TICKET BOOKING FEE

‘STILL THE SEXIEST, FUNNIEST SHOW IN TOWN’ EVENING

‘FRESH, SUBVERSIVE, ESSENTIAL’

‘ELECTRIFYINGIT TRULY IS A MUST-SEE SHOW’ THE OBSERVER

‘IT CAPTURES ONE OF THE BEST STORIES EVER TOLD FOR A NEW GENERATION’

DIRECTED BY MICHAEL CABOT

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

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

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

Abigail’s Party premiered at Hampstead Theatre in 1977, with the role of Beverly being immortalised by Alison Steadman. A record sixteen million people watched its broadcast on Play for Today, underlining its status as a true modern classic and national treasure.

Age guidance 14+ (contains strong language)

TUESDAY – SATURDAY, 7.30PM

AND THURSDAY & SATURDAY, 2.30PM: £20/£25/£30/£35

ALL TICKET PRICES INCLUDE A £3 PER TICKET BOOKING FEE

This funny, timely and thought-provoking new play will have you talking long after the curtain comes down.

Kris Marshall stars as Teddy, a charming, idealistic university professor at the top of his game, in Ryan Craig's witty and challenging new play.

Together with his wife and colleague Lotty, Teddy is determined to make a difference in their academic world and keep the spark in their relationship alive. As they pick their way through the minefield that is their very modern workplace and even more modern relationship, differences of opinion start to challenge even their more deeply held ideals.

Teddy is played by television favourite Kris Marshall. Kris has starred in some of the most popular films and television series of the last twenty years, with lead roles in Love Actually, My Family and Death in Paradise. His stage roles include Treats opposite Billie Piper, Fat Pig in the West End with Robert Webb and Joanna Page, and the London revival of Glengarry Glen Ross opposite Christian Slater and Robert Glenister.

CAROLINE QUENTIN, SIMON SHEPHERD, MATTHEW COTTLE AND ROSE QUENTIN

What is Mrs Warren’s profession?

Mrs Warren’s daughter Vivie has never really known much about her mother. A sensible young woman, she has enjoyed a comfortable upbringing, a Cambridge education, a generous monthly allowance and now has ambitions to go into The Law. Is it conceivable that her privilege and respectability has been financed from the profits of the world’s oldest profession? How will Vivie react when she finds out the startling truth about her mother’s business empire and that freedom comes at an emotional price?

Shaw’s acid test of a mother-daughter relationship is one of his wittiest and most provocative plays. Written in 1894 but banned for thirty years by a Lord Chamberlain who found it “immoral and improper”, Mrs Warren’s Profession is a ripe attack on English hypocrisy and its “fashionable morality”.

Starring the twice winner of the British Comedy Award for Best Comedy Actress Caroline Quentin (Men Behaving Badly), Simon Shepherd (Alex Rider, Peak Practice), Matthew Cottle (Game On) and Caroline’s real-life daughter Rose Quentin.

‘A Chance To Watch Caroline Be Brilliant’ THE STAGE

‘EXCELLENT’ THE TIMES

‘A Barn Storming Play… Refreshing’ LIBBY PURVES

TUESDAY – SATURDAY, 7.30PM AND WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY & SATURDAY, 2.30PM: £20/£25/£35/£45

ALL TICKET PRICES INCLUDE A £3 PER TICKET BOOKING FEE

by George Bernard Shaw. Directed by Anthony Banks

English Touring Opera returns to Cambridge Arts Theatre with three great operas encompassing love and war, comedy and epic tragedy.

Giulio Cesare is a tale of passion and revenge packed with great arias of immense dramatic intensity. Handel's celebrated opera follows Julius Caesar's conquest of Egypt and his uneasy alliance and romance with Cleopatra, updated to the great power struggles of 18th century Europe in James Conway's acclaimed 2020 production.

Sublime music and riotous comedy with a satirical edge combine in Il viaggio a Reims, Rossini’s masterful comic opera. A group of the pampered and privileged arrive in a spa town on their way to a fabulous coronation, but lost luggage, politics, posturing and romance ensure that even the best-laid plans can go wrong.

Lucrezia Borgia is a tragedy of great pathos. Donizetti created in Lucrezia one of his greatest roles - a complex woman in a dangerous situation, a cunning strategist and loving mother at the same time. Each opera is performed on period instruments in partnership with the much-praised Old Street Band.

GIULIO CESARE BY HANDEL

SUNG IN ITALIAN WITH ENGLISH SURTITLES

Thursday 13 April

IL VIAGGIO A REIMS BY ROSSINI

SUNG IN ITALIAN WITH ENGLISH SURTITLES

Friday 14 April

LUCREZIA BORGIA BY DONIZETTI

SUNG IN ITALIAN WITH ENGLISH SURTITLES

Saturday 15 April

THURSDAY – SATURDAY, 7.30PM: £25/£35/£45

ALL TICKET PRICES INCLUDE A £3 PER TICKET BOOKING FEE

PRE-SHOW TALKS, SEE PAGE 2

WEDNESDAY 19 – SATURDAY 22 APRIL

A BIRMINGHAM REP, LEEDS PLAYHOUSE AND FIERY ANGEL PRODUCTION PRESENTED IN ARRANGEMENT WITH JOSEF WEINBERGER LTD

“I got you, and we got each other.”

George and Lennie are migrants with a dream; a dream of a better life, a place where they can belong, where Lennie feels safe and George can be somebody. But this is the Great Depression, not many dreams come true in a time where a few have plenty but most have nothing. When the friends take a job on Curley’s farm, tragedy unfolds leading to a heart-breaking decision.

John Steinbeck’s classic novel is more than 80 years old, but with themes of economic migration, racism and prejudice, it remains a parable for our times.

A story of enduring friendship, this new production from Rep Associate Director and Commonwealth Games Opening Ceremony Director, Iqbal Khan, focuses a 2023 lens on Steinbeck’s affecting tale of the crumbling American dream. His recent Rep productions include East is East and Tartuffe

WEDNESDAY – SATURDAY, 7.30PM AND WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY & SATURDAY, 2.30PM: £25/£35/£40

CHILD: £20

ALL TICKET PRICES INCLUDE A £3 PER TICKET BOOKING FEE

PRE-SHOW TALK, SEE PAGE 2

‘A JOYFUL, HEART-WARMING MUSICAL’

THE TIMES

THE TRUE STORY OF THE CORNISH BUOY BAND

‘I LOVED IT, ME HEARTIES!’

THE SUNDAY TIMES

Based on the true story of the chart-topping Cornish singing sensations and their hit 2019 movie, Fisherman’s Friends: The Musical is a feel-good voyage about friendship, community and music which smashed box office records in Cornwall.

When a group of Cornish fishermen came together to sing the traditional working songs they’d sung for generations, nobody, least of all the fishermen, expected the story to end on the Pyramid Stage at Glastonbury. They are spotted by a fish-out-of-water music manager on a trip from London, who must learn that there is more to life than selling your sole for fifteen minutes of fame.

A star cast includes James Gaddas (Coronation Street, Billy Elliot the Musical), Parisa Shahmir (Mamma Mia!), Robert Duncan (Drop the Dead Donkey) and Susan Penhaligon (Bouquet of Barbed Wire).

So, climb aboard, find your sea legs and allow yourself to fall for this critically acclaimed musical – hook, line and sinker!

BOX OFFICE RADIO

TUESDAY – SATURDAY, 7.30PM AND WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY & SATURDAY, 2.30PM: £25/£35/£45/£55

ALL TICKET PRICES INCLUDE A £3 PER TICKET BOOKING FEE

‘MOVING, UPLIFTING AND CAPTIVATING... OUTSTANDING!’

HHHHH

The Times

Winnerof the Olivier Award for BEST COMEDY!NEW

by Laura Wade

by Stephen Wyatt

The Peaceful brothers, Tommo and Charlie, have a tough rural childhood facing the loss of their father, financial hardship and a cruel landlord.

Their fierce loyalty to each other pulls them through, until one day they both fall for the same girl. And then the Great War comes.

How happily married are the happily married?

Every couple needs a little fantasy to keep their marriage sparkling. But behind the gingham curtains, things start to unravel, and being a domestic goddess is not as easy as it seems...

Set against the epic backdrop of WWI, we join 18 year old Private Tommo Peaceful in the trenches as he takes us on a journey through his most cherished memories and tells his story of courage, devotion, family and friendship.

BAFTA-winner Jessica Ransom (Doc Martin, Armstrong and Miller, Horrible Histories), Diane Keen (Doctors, The Cuckoo Waltz) and Neil McDermott (EastEnders, The Royal) lead the cast in this thought-provoking new comedy by Laura Wade (Posh/The Riot Club) about one woman’s quest to be the perfect 1950s housewife.

Award-winning Private Peaceful was shortlisted for the Carnegie Medal, won the Red House Children’s Book Award and the Blue Peter Book Award. Acknowledged by Michael Morpurgo (War Horse, The Butterfly Lion) as his favourite work, this thrilling new ensemble retelling by Simon Reade and directed by Elle While, explores the lengths a young soldier will go to, to fight for what is right.

XXDAY – SATURDAY, 7.30PM

AND THURSDAY & SATURDAY, 2.30PM: £20/£25/£30/£35

TUESDAY – SATURDAY, 7.30PM

Home, I’m Darling received its world premiere at Theatr Clwyd in 2018 before running at the National Theatre, and transferred to the Duke of York’s Theatre in the West End, winning the 2019 Olivier Award for Best New Comedy.

Age guidance 9+

AND WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY & SATURDAY, 2.30PM: £25/£35/£40/£45

ALL TICKET PRICES INCLUDE A £3 PER TICKET BOOKING FEE

ALL TICKET PRICES INCLUDE A £3 PER TICKET BOOKING FEE

PRE-SHOW TALK, SEE PAGE 40

Bill Kenwright presents a Theatr Clwyd and National Theatre production

‘An amusing, affecting, inspiring evening of soft gingham and hard truths’

‘Sharp, funny and sad’

Belleabouttown

‘BAFTA winner Jessica Ransom is outstanding’

MUSIC AND LYRICS BY Laurence O’Keefe and Nell Benjamin

BOOK BY Heather Hach

Based on the novel by Amanda Brown and the Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer motion picture

Bend… and snap! Cambridge Operatic Society, the award-winning amateur dramatics group, are back painting the stage pink with the fabulously fun musical Legally Blonde

Elle Woods has her pampered life planned to perfection, until her boyfriend Warner heads to Harvard Law School, unceremoniously dumping her in the process. Armed with Bruiser the dog and a killer wardrobe, Elle follows suit to win Warner back. Fellow students, professors and Ivy League life threaten to dampen her spirits, but Elle soon discovers she’s stronger (and smarter!) than she’s given credit for, proving herself and smashing stereotypes in the process.

Adapted from the iconic 2001 film starring Reese Witherspoon and featuring a jam-packed musical score. Omigod You Guys – don your stilettos and mortarboard and book a ticket today!

This amateur production is presented by arrangement with Music Theatre International. All authorised performance materials are also supplied by MTI www.mtishows.co.uk

access

The Arts Theatre aims to care for every patron as an individual, on a one

There are parking spaces for customers with disabilities in 4 locations near Peas Hill; 2 on Wheeler Street; 7 on King’s Parade and 36 in the Grand Arcade mobility requirements, please advise the Box Office when booking tickets allocate you the correct space. Mobility scooters cannot be accommodated

WEDNESDAY – SATURDAY, 7.30PM AND THURSDAY & SATURDAY, 2.30PM: £20/£25/£30/£35

We have five house wheelchairs (including one electric) available for use subject to availability.

ALL TICKET PRICES INCLUDE A £3 PER TICKET BOOKING FEE

We have a Sennheiser infra-red hearing enhancement system, designed OF HEARING patrons both without hearing aids, and for those who have setting. We are also able to provide headsets and personal induction loops. used one before, we recommend arriving at the Theatre early so that our can explain how they work.

BSL PERFORMANCE, SEE PAGE 2

POST-SHOW TALK, SEE PAGE 2

Some of our performances are BSL INTERPRETED. The British Sign Language to the right of the stage, where they will interpret dialogue, as it is spoken. CAPTIONED PERFORMANCES; words will appear, as they are spoken or whenever on a screen positioned above or to the side of the stage. For patrons who are BLIND OR VISUALLY-IMPAIRED, we can provide large request. Guide dogs are welcome in the auditorium, please inform the Box booking, so that they can allocate the relevant ticket. We programme a number AUDIO DESCRIBED PERFORMANCES throughout the year; the describer will happening, visually, on stage throughout the performance and this is relayed A pre-show touch tour of the set is often available. We also offer RELAXED PERFORMANCES, specifically designed to welcome spectrum condition, learning disability and sensory or communication disorders, with very young children.

THE TELEGRAPH

Nuri is a beekeeper, his wife, Afra, an artist. They live a simple life, rich in family and friends, in the beautiful Syrian city of Aleppo - until the unthinkable happens. When all they care for is destroyed by war, they are forced to escape. On their terrifying journey, they must face the pain of their own unbearable loss alongside incredible danger. Above all, they must journey to find each other again.

This compassionate and beautiful play is a story of connectionbetween friends, families and strangers.

Winner of the Aspen Words Award, runner up for the Dayton Literary Peace Prize, and one of The Times top three bestselling books of 2020, Christy Lefteri’s best-selling novel has its world premiere in a brand new adaptation by Nesrin Alrefaai and Matthew Spangler who adapted The Kite Runner. The production is directed by Olivier Awardwinning Miranda Cromwell (Death of a Salesman Young Vic, Piccadilly Theatre, Broadway).

access

The Arts Theatre aims to care for every patron as an individual, on a one

‘I was scared of the bees at first, but now, they make me feel alive. They are like a society in complete harmony with itself. Not like people at all, but maybe what people have the potential to be.’

There are parking spaces for customers with disabilities in 4 locations near Peas Hill; 2 on Wheeler Street; 7 on King’s Parade and 36 in the Grand Arcade mobility requirements, please advise the Box Office when booking tickets allocate you the correct space. Mobility scooters cannot be accommodated We have five house wheelchairs (including one electric) available for use during subject to availability.

TUESDAY – SATURDAY, 7.30PM AND THURSDAY & SATURDAY, 2.30PM: £20/£30/£35/£40

ALL TICKET PRICES INCLUDE A £3 PER TICKET BOOKING FEE

We have a Sennheiser infra-red hearing enhancement system, designed to OF HEARING patrons both without hearing aids, and for those who have hearing setting. We are also able to provide headsets and personal induction loops. used one before, we recommend arriving at the Theatre early so that our Front can explain how they work.

BSL PERFORMANCE, SEE PAGE 2

PRE-SHOW TALK, SEE PAGE 2

Some of our performances are BSL INTERPRETED. The British Sign Language to the right of the stage, where they will interpret dialogue, as it is spoken. CAPTIONED PERFORMANCES; words will appear, as they are spoken or whenever on a screen positioned above or to the side of the stage. For patrons who are BLIND OR VISUALLY-IMPAIRED, we can provide large print request. Guide dogs are welcome in the auditorium, please inform the Box booking, so that they can allocate the relevant ticket. We programme a number AUDIO DESCRIBED PERFORMANCES throughout the year; the describer will happening, visually, on stage throughout the performance and this is relayed A pre-show touch tour of the set is often available. We also offer RELAXED PERFORMANCES, specifically designed to welcome spectrum condition, learning disability and sensory or communication disorders, with very young children.

‘Sparklingly assured’

BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT WITH FUN!

Join Alfie and Gabz on this fabulous adventure, as they investigate the strange events happening in their hometown. Children are leaving their teeth for the tooth fairy and waking up to find odd things under their pillows! Alfie and Gabz are determined to get to the bottom of the mystery – but no-one could have dreamed what they’ll discover when they come face to face with the demon dentist herself, in this hilarious and thrilling story.

Don't miss this terrific tale from the West End producers of David Walliams' Gangsta Granny and Billionaire Boy, which were both nominated for an Olivier Award. It's the funniest and most exciting show yet!

Age guidance: 5+

WEDNESDAY: 2PM & 6.30PM

THURSDAY: 11AM & 3PM

FRIDAY: 2PM & 6.30PM

SATURDAY: 2PM & 6.30PM

SUNDAY: 11AM

ADULT: £25

CHILD: £20

ALL TICKET PRICES INCLUDE A £3 PER TICKET BOOKING FEE

Illustrations © Tony Ross 2013. Cover lettering of author's name © Quentin Blake, 2010.

Photos: Mark Douet.

MONDAY 5 – SATURDAY 10 JUNE

ORIGINAL THEATRE PRESENTS

‘For God’s sake, let us sit upon the green and tell sad stories of the fall of batsmen…’

A game of cricket. Two of the greatest playwrights. And maybe even time for some tea.

Before Samuel Beckett became the playwright universally known for Waiting for Godot, he was a cricketer. He is still the only Nobel Prize-winner to feature in the pages of Wisden as a first-class player. His friend and fellow Nobel Prize-winner, Harold Pinter, whose best known works include The Birthday Party and Betrayal, described cricket as ‘the greatest thing that God created on earth’.

Stumped is a brilliantly witty new play by Shomit Dutta which explores what the friendship between these two playwrights may have looked like. Starring Stephen Tompkinson as Samuel Beckett (Brassed Off, Drop the Dead Donkey, DCI Banks, Wild at Heart) and Andrew Lancel (The Bill, Coronation Street) as Harold Pinter.

MONDAY – SATURDAY, 7.30PM

AND THURSDAY & SATURDAY, 2.30PM: £20/£25/£35/£40

ALL TICKET PRICES INCLUDE A £3 PER TICKET BOOKING FEE

POST-SHOW TALK, SEE PAGE 2

A joyful tale of star-crossed aliens.

Soar into space with this exciting adaptation of the awardwinning book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler.

On a far-off planet, Smeds and Smoos can’t be friends. So when a young Smed and Smoo fall in love and zoom off into space together, how will their families get them back?

Music, laughs and interplanetary adventures for everyone aged 3 and up, from Tall Stories – the company that brought you The Gruffalo and Room on the Broom live on stage.

Age guidance 3+

access

TUESDAY: 4.30PM

The Arts Theatre aims to care for every patron as an individual,

WEDNESDAY: 10.30AM & 1PM

THURSDAY: 10.30AM & 1PM

FRIDAY: 10.30AM & 1PM

SATURDAY: 10.30AM & 1PM

There are parking spaces for customers with disabilities in 4 Peas Hill; 2 on Wheeler Street; 7 on King’s Parade and 36 in the mobility requirements, please advise the Box Office when booking allocate you the correct space. Mobility scooters cannot be accommodated We have five house wheelchairs (including one electric) available subject to availability.

ALL TICKETS: £16

ALL TICKET PRICES INCLUDE A £3 PER TICKET BOOKING FEE

We have a Sennheiser infra-red hearing enhancement system, OF HEARING patrons both without hearing aids, and for those setting. We are also able to provide headsets and personal used one before, we recommend arriving at the Theatre early can explain how they work.

RELAXED

& BSL PERFORMANCE, SEE PAGE 2

Some of our performances are BSL INTERPRETED. The British to the right of the stage, where they will interpret dialogue, CAPTIONED PERFORMANCES; words will appear, as they are on a screen positioned above or to the side of the stage. For patrons who are BLIND OR VISUALLY-IMPAIRED, we can request. Guide dogs are welcome in the auditorium, please booking, so that they can allocate the relevant ticket. We programme AUDIO DESCRIBED PERFORMANCES throughout the year; the happening, visually, on stage throughout the performance and A pre-show touch tour of the set is often available.

The Smeds and The Smoos © Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler 2019, published by Scholastic

BILL KENWRIGHT PRESENTS

‘BRINGS THE AUDIENCE CHEERING TO ITS FEET AND ROARING APPROVAL’

One of the best musicals ever written’

SUNDAY TIMES

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

ensemble retelling by Simon Reade and directed by Elle While, explores the lengths a young soldier will go to, to fight for what is right.

Age guidance 9+

Few musicals have received quite such acclaim as the multi award-winning Blood Brothers. Bill Kenwright’s production surpassed 10,000 performances in London’s West End, one of only three musicals ever to achieve that milestone. It has been affectionately christened the Standing Ovation Musical, as inevitably it ‘brings the audience cheering to its feet and roaring its approval’ (Daily Mail).

ALL TICKET PRICES INCLUDE A £3 PER TICKET BOOKING FEE

TUESDAY – SATURDAY, 7.30PM

PRE-SHOW TALK, SEE PAGE 40

AND WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY & SATURDAY, 2.30PM: £25/£35/£45/£50

ensemble retelling by Simon Reade and directed by Elle While, explores the lengths a young soldier will go to, to fight for what is right.

The superb score includes Bright New Day, Marilyn Monroe and the emotionally charged hit Tell Me It’s Not True.

BOX OFFICE: 01223 503333

Age guidance 9+

OFFICE: 01223 503333

BOX OFFICE: 01223 503333

ALL TICKET PRICES INCLUDE A £3 PER TICKET BOOKING FEE

ALL TICKET PRICES INCLUDE A £3 PER TICKET BOOKING FEE PRE-SHOW TALK, SEE PAGE 40

Photograph of previous cast

Photograph of previous cast

Written by Willy Russell, the legendary Blood Brothers tells the captivating and moving tale of twins who, separated at birth, grow up on opposite sides of the tracks, only to meet again with fateful consequences.

‘Exhilarating...

Calling all brave heroes! Enter into a magical world of myths and legends in this fantastical new show for all the family.

Unveil a myriad of dark secrets and come face to face with some of the most magnificent monsters and terrifying beasts ever to walk the earth. Discover the colossal Stone Troll, the mysterious Indrik and Japanese Baku; the Tooth Fairy (not as sweet as you'd think), an adorable Unicorn and majestic Griffin. Take your place among legendary heroes, just don't wake the Dragon…

This award-winning show is back on tour direct from the West End, from the creators of the international smash hit Dinosaur World Live, who bring spectacular puppets to life.

Don’t miss this brand-new spell-binding adventure, live on stage!

Age guidance 3+

FRIDAY: 2PM & 4.30PM

SATURDAY: 11AM, 2PM & 4.30PM

SUNDAY: 11AM & 2PM

ALL TICKETS: £20

ALL TICKET PRICES INCLUDE A £3 PER TICKET BOOKING FEE

IPSWICH

WHATSONSTAGE

By Mark Crawford with additional material by James McDermott, Directed by Peter Rowe

Starring Helen Lederer and Michael Starke

On Gail’s East Anglian farm, the honeybees are dropping like flies –just like her love life. She hasn’t slept with anyone since her husband bolted years ago. Her daughter’s marriage is going bust just like her turkey farm. Neighbour Earl is fighting a losing battle with his sugar beet yield and his ‘no strings’ relationships. Can bio-student Ben perk up the pollinators and give the turkeys a helping hand? Perhaps all they need is some local mead and the annual Turkey Day’s Dance to help them discover that the best way out of a crisis is to commit to those closest to you. Just don’t get stung!

This hilarious comedy romp has a heart as big as the laughs it brings. Starring comic genius, writer and actress Helen Lederer (Absolutely Fabulous, Bottom, French & Saunders) and Michael Starke, known and loved from his role as Sinbad in Brookside to TV’s The Royal and Benidorm and countless major leads on stage including Hairspray and Waitress.

Book now for The Birds and the Bees - it’s the bees’ knees!

Age guidance 14+ (Contains strong language, adult themes and partial nudity)

‘A razor sharp, steamy new comedy’

‘A laugh out loud comedy’

24

‘Sweet as honey’ THE TIMES

STALKER FOR BIRDS&BEES LIMITED PRESENTS A NEW WOLSEY THEATRE IPSWICH, NORWICH THEATRE AND THEATRE ROYAL BURY ST EDMUNDS CO-PRODUCTION OF

We all want to meet people from history. The trouble is everyone is dead!

So Barmy Britain is back with the hit West End show, full of crazy new characters and rude new rulers from Britain's barmy past!

Will you be conquered by William? Will you sink or swim with King Henry I? Go house hunting with Henry VIII! Join the gorgeous Georgians as they take over England! Break into Buckingham Palace and hide from the Queen Victoria! Britain's favourite history show is back!

It’s history with the nasty bits left in!

HALF-TERM FUN!

WEDNESDAY: 2PM & 7PM

THURSDAY: 2PM & 7PM

FRIDAY: 2PM & 7PM

SATURDAY: 2PM & 7PM

SUNDAY: 11AM & 2PM

ADULTS: £23

CHILDREN: £18

ALL TICKET PRICES INCLUDE A £3 PER TICKET BOOKING FEE

RELAXED PERFORMANCE, SEE PAGE 2

WEDNESDAY 8 – SATURDAY 11 NOVEMBER

ETT, SHAKESPEARE NORTH PLAYHOUSE, NORTHERN STAGE AND THÉÂTRES DE LA VILLE DE LUXEMBOURG PRESENT

Directed by Richard Twyman

A struggling and divided nation, tearing itself apart. So, when the Macbeths see their chance at the crown, why shouldn't they take it?

But things don’t go according to plan. Dreams quickly turn to nightmares, humanity erodes, nature stirs. As society strives to make sense of the darkness that sits inside it, how long will it take for people to fight back against the endless cycle of violence and corruption?

A visceral and contemporary new production that speaks to a world we find ourselves living in now, and asks why has Macbeth haunted our fears and nightmares for centuries. What lesson is this cautionary tale still urgently trying to communicate to us?

WEDNESDAY – SATURDAY, 7.30PM

WEDNESDAY, 3PM AND THURSDAY & SATURDAY, 2.30PM: £20/£25/£30/£35

ALL TICKET PRICES INCLUDE A £3 PER TICKET BOOKING FEE

AUDIO DESCRIBED PERFORMANCE, SEE PAGE 2

PRE-SHOW TALK, SEE PAGE 2

Ten strangers are lured to a solitary mansion off the coast of Devon. When a storm cuts them off from the mainland, the true reason for their presence on the island becomes horribly clear.

“None of us will ever leave this island.”

Directed by Lucy Bailey (Witness for the Prosecution, now in its 6th year in London), this brand-new production of the bestselling crime novel of all time will keep you on the edge of your seat… Genuinely terrifying….

Don’t miss Agatha Christie’s And Then There Were None, coming to Cambridge this autumn.

MONDAY – SATURDAY, 7.30PM AND THURSDAY & SATURDAY, 2.30PM: £25/£35/£40/£45

ALL TICKET PRICES INCLUDE A £3 PER TICKET BOOKING FEE

how to book

The Arts Theatre Box Office can be found at our entrance on St Edward’s Passage. Please visit us during opening hours to pick up tickets, book for future performances or talk to us about the season.

ONLINE

IN PERSON

BY TELEPHONE

BOOKING FEE

Book online at www.cambridgeartstheatre.com

Monday - Saturday, 12noon - 8pm including Bank Holidays.

Monday - Saturday, 12noon - 8pm on 01223 503333

All tickets for the Arts Theatre include a £3 per-ticket booking fee. The booking fee is essential direct income for the Theatre. Because ticket revenue is divided between many different parties, an increase in ticket prices would not necessarily benefit the Theatre. By charging a booking fee, we can ensure that every penny goes directly to the Theatre to help us protect its growth and longevity.

REFUNDS

& EXCHANGES

DISCOUNTS

Tickets are not refundable unless a performance is cancelled.

Other exchanges may be made under certain conditions, with at least 48 hours prior notice; please contact the Box Office for details as policy is subject to change.

Discounts for customers with disabilities apply to most performances. We also offer discounts on certain performances for students, groups and schools. Please note there are no discounts on the lowest price seats and only one discount applies and all discounts are subject to availability.

Please check with the Box Office at time of booking for available discounts.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR YOUR VISIT

BAG AND CLOAKROOM POLICY

In the interest of customer safety the following items cannot be taken into the auditorium: Rucksacks or backpacks in any form and of any size (including children’s rucksacks, handbags that can be worn as backpacks), bags larger than 25cm x 35cm, shopping bags, larger items such as holdalls / suitcases and umbrellas longer than 25cm.

We strongly urge you to leave all bags at home or in your car, where it is practical. If you bring them to the Theatre you will be asked to check them in to the cloakroom which is situated on the first floor past the Stalls Bar (Peas Hill entrance).

Please allow sufficient time to travel to the Theatre and to allow for the additional delays this may cause. We recommend that you arrive at least 30 minutes before the start of the performance.

There are parking spaces for customers with disabilities in four locations near the Theatre: four on Peas Hill; two on Wheeler Street; seven on King’s Parade and thirty six in the Grand Arcade car park. If you have mobility requirements, please advise the Box Office when booking tickets so we are able to allocate you the correct space. Mobility scooters cannot be accommodated inside the building. We have five house wheelchairs (including one electric) available for use during all performances, subject to availability.

We have a Sennheiser infra-red hearing enhancement system, designed to help DEAF AND HARD OF HEARING patrons both without hearing aids, and for those who have hearing aids with a ‘T’ setting. We are also able to provide headsets and personal induction loops. If you have never used one before, we recommend arriving at the Theatre early so that our Front of House staff can explain how they work.

Some of our performances are BSL INTERPRETED. The British Sign Language interpreter will stand to the right of the stage, where they will interpret dialogue, as it is spoken. We also programme CAPTIONED PERFORMANCES; words will appear, as they are spoken or whenever a sound is made, on a screen positioned above or to the side of the stage.

For patrons who are BLIND OR VISUALLY-IMPAIRED, we can provide large print cast lists on request. Guide dogs are welcome in the auditorium, please inform the Box Office at time of booking, so that they can allocate the relevant ticket. We programme a number of AUDIO DESCRIBED PERFORMANCES throughout the year; the describer will explain what is happening, visually, on stage throughout the performance and this is relayed through a headset. A pre-show touch tour of the set is often available.

We also offer RELAXED PERFORMANCES, specifically designed to welcome people with an autism spectrum condition, learning disability and sensory or communication disorders, and families with very young children.

Details of accessible performances are highlighted on Page 2 and on the relevant show pages. Further information on access provision is available online at www.cambridgeartstheatre.com

The Management reserves the right of admission and the right to offer alternative seating. Cambridge Arts Theatre cannot be held responsible for changes to programmes and casting made by touring companies. Latecomers will only be allowed into the auditorium at the absolute discretion of the Theatre, in consultation with the touring company. All prices correct at time of going to print. For full terms and conditions of sale visit www.cambridgeartstheatre.com/terms-and-conditions.

The Arts Theatre aims to care for every patron as an individual, on a one-to-one basis.