Cambridge Arts Theatre Spring 2024 Brochure by Cambridge Arts Theatre

JANUARY – JUNE 2024 BOX OFFICE: 01223 503333 Book online and select your own seats: www.cambridgeartstheatre.com

A GHOST STORY

diary

Post-show PS

Relaxed Performance

Audio-described A BSL

Education

PAGE DATE

SHOW

Wed 17 - Sat 20 Jan

9 TO 5 THE MUSICAL

Tue 23 - Sat 27 Jan

THE CIRCLE

Wed 31 Jan - Sat 3 Feb

ROMEO AND JULIET

Tue 6 - Sat 10 Feb

MURDER IN THE DARK

Tue 13 - Sat 17 Feb

THE TIME MACHINE

Tue 20 - Thu 22 Feb

PROTEST

Sat 24 Feb

THE CLARE TEAL SEVEN

Tue 27 Feb - Sat 2 Mar

DROP THE DEAD DONKEY: THE REAWAKENING!

Sun 3 Mar

MILES JUPP: ON I BANG

Tue 5 - Sat 9 Mar

2:22 A GHOST STORY

Sun 10 & Sun 17 Mar

CAMBRIDGE FOOTLIGHTS

Tue 12 - Sat 16 Mar

THE BOY AT THE BACK OF THE CLASS

Mon 18 - Sat 23 Mar

SLEUTH

Sun 24 Mar

DOM JOLY: THE CONSPIRACY TOUR

Mon 25 - Sat 30 Mar

CLUEDO 2: THE NEXT CHAPTER

Tue 23 - Sat 27 Apr

TWELVE ANGRY MEN

Wed 1 - Sat 4 May

ENGLISH TOURING OPERA

Tue 7 - Sat 11 May

THE 39 STEPS

Wed 29 May - Sun 2 Jun

AWFUL AUNTIE

RP E

A E

ASSISTED PERFORMANCES AND TALKS

EDUCATION

HOW TO BOOK

ACCESS

BOX OFFICE: 01223 503333

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

Pre-show PR Captioned

JOIN THE CONVERSATION @cartstheatre @camartstheatre @cambridgeartstheatre

www.cambridgeartstheatre.com

welcome Welcome to our Spring/ Summer 2024 season brochure. As I write, our panto Mother Goose is still in full swing. I want to say a huge thank you, on behalf of everyone at the Arts Theatre, to all of you who have come along and joined in the fun. It has been brilliant to see so many panto-goers from across generations coming together to cheer on Gertie Goose! One of the joys of my job is that I get to see the show multiple times, from the auditorium and backstage. It is truly inspirational to see the commitment and craft that the company and crew of the panto put in for every performance, whether it is for a packed Christmas Eve show or an accessible Relaxed Performance. It’s also very special to watch audience reactions from the wings. To see a full house singing or laughing along, leaving the troubles of the world (and their mobile phones!) behind them for a few hours, and revelling in the unique British panto tradition makes all our work worthwhile. Thank you. Let the work on next year’s extravaganza begin! I’ve been running the Theatre for twenty years now and I’ve programmed over sixty seasons but it’s still nerve-racking when we finalise the season and send the brochure to the printers. Is there something for everyone, old and young? Is there a good blend of classic plays, musicals, murder mysteries, opera, jazz, new writing, modern plays, crowd pleasers and plays that will live on in the memory? Have we managed to find the best plays the UK touring market can offer? Have we successfully navigated the continuing postpandemic difficulties in our industry? Will all the productions sell as well as we hope and need them to? Given our desire to be affordable yet still balance our books, have we set the ticket prices appropriately?

BOX OFFICE: 01223 503333

It is often difficult to see the wood for the trees but I do hope you like what you find in these pages. However, the one thing we do feel certain about is the loyalty and discernment of you, our brilliant audience. Our overall ticket sales are now back at pre-pandemic levels and, thanks to your incredible support, we can attract the very best plays available to Cambridge. Thank you, please give us your feedback and rest assured we won’t be taking your support or the future of our Theatre for granted. Finally, I want to thank the individuals and companies who go the extra mile and give us additional financial support on a regular basis, over and above supporting us through buying tickets to our shows. As an independent theatrical charity we are critically reliant on this additional support to keep our Theatre open, keep ticket prices down, reach out to local children and schools and provide a full range of performances for those with additional needs. It need not be expensive for you, or your business, to get more involved with our Theatre in this way and it can be great fun to understand more about the workings of our charity. If you would like to talk to us about getting more involved please get in touch, either directly with me or with our Development team. 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

www.cambridgeartstheatre.com

Cambridge Arts Theatre

‘Cambridge Arts Theatre is one of the most important theatres in the United Kingdom.’ SIR IAN MCKELLEN

JOIN OUR SUPPORTERS’ CIRCLE Access exciting benefits & play your part in keeping our great theatre alive.

Call us now on: 01223 578935

or email: development@cambridgeartstheatre.com Cambridge Arts Theatre Trust Ltd is a registered charity, no. 1069912

BOX OFFICE: 01223 503333

www.cambridgeartstheatre.com

THANK YOU TO ALL OUR DONORS, FUNDERS & SUPPORTERS SUPPORTERS’ CIRCLE MEMBERS PRODUCER

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

DIRECTOR

Phil & Ruth Blundell; Mark Bush; Ian & Anne Carter; 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

PRINCIPAL

Matti Aijala; Simon & Jennifer Aldridge; Lord Archer & Dame Mary Archer; 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; Anthony Harris; Gavin & Lucinda Howard; Tim Jones; Roger & Susan May; Rory Morrison-Smith; Councillor Keith and Mrs Linda Prentice; 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; Trevor Babbs; Peter Baker; Mr & Mrs Ballisat; Mr & Mrs Bates; Martin Bedwell; Penny Belcher; 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; Glen & Julie Gadsby; Keith Gentle; Emma Giddings; Gyles Glover; Victoria Goodbody; Martin Harmer & Wendy Lamb; Pamela Harris; Fran Hester; Katherine Hlalat; Joanna Hulme; Leisa Hunt; John and Maureen Hunter; C Jenkins; David & Michelle King; Lauren Kisser; Christiane Krueger; Francesca & Gareth Lane; Patrick Lavelle; Brandi Leach; Hester LeesJeffries; Mr S & Mrs J Leslie; Ian & Annette Lines; Gillian Littlewood; Janet Luck; Caleb & Anna Marchent; Michael McConville; Julia Money; Joanna Morgan; Lorna Morgan; Mark Newstead; Carolyn Parsons; John Pell; Helen Pemberton; Chris Potter; John Prestage; Susan Richards; Allison Richardson; Anthony Roberts; Anne Sam; Christopher Schwick; John Shields; John Short; Pippa Simou; Ian Sims; Christopher & Cherrill Skey; Brian Sloan; Martin Taylor; Steve Thompson; Michael Topham & Iris Chang; Paul & Eileen Treadwell; Gerry Tucker; Jo Tunmer; Mariana Vaschetto; Amanda Wharrier; Astrid Whiskin; Eva Whitton; David & Jennifer Wilby; Tim Wingfield; Anonymous

The Atkin Foundation

Waitrose Fitzroy Street The Wixamtree Community Trust Matters

ANN D

FOUNDATION

CAMBRIDGE ARTS THEATRE TRUST LTD IS A REGISTERED CHARITY, NO.1069912 To find out more about the work we do and how you can support us, contact the Development Department 0n 01223 578935 or development@cambridgeartstheatre.com

BOX OFFICE: 01223 503333

www.cambridgeartstheatre.com

For One Night Only SATURDAY 24 FEBRUARY

THE CLARE TEAL SEVEN She’s back! Expect exhilarating swing from award-winning jazz vocalist and long-time BBC Radio 2 and Jazz FM broadcaster Clare Teal, who returns with a fabulous new show. The Clare Teal Seven is a truly exciting collaboration between Clare, her regular trio and superstar soloists of the British jazz scene. The concert will also include favourites from her acclaimed DVD The Fireside Sessions. Teal’s live shows are constantly evolving, always richly infused with jazz and critically renowned across the country for their fabulous arrangements, interspersed with Clare’s warm and witty storytelling. As one of the UK’s greatest interpreters of popular songs and much-loved performers, Clare and her band guarantee an evening of inspirational, uplifting music and unbridled entertainment performed by the very best.

7.30PM: 7.30PM:£25/£30 £28/£33 ALL ALLTICKET TICKETPRICES PRICESINCLUDE INCLUDEAA £3 £3PER PERTICKET TICKETBOOKING BOOKINGFEE FEE

SUNDAY 3 MARCH

MILES JUPP: ON I BANG

Join comedian and actor Miles Jupp in Cambridge, as he embarks on his first stand-up tour since 2017. His brand new show, On I Bang, is a tale about surprise, fear, love, luck and qualified medical practitioners.

Miles Jupp is known for recent roles in The Full Monty on Disney+, ITV’s The Durrells and Why Didn’t They Ask Evans?, Frankie Boyle’s New World Order and Have I Got News for You. In 2021 Miles published his debut novel, History, and has made an award-nominated radio podcast series, Middle Please, Umpire.

7.30PM: 7.30PM:£25/£30 £28

BOX OFFICE: 01223 503333

www.cambridgeartstheatre.com

ALL ALLTICKET TICKETPRICES PRICESINCLUDE INCLUDEAA £3 £3PER PERTICKET TICKETBOOKING BOOKINGFEE FEE

For One Night Only SUNDAY 24 MARCH

DOM JOLY: THE CONSPIRACY TOUR “Just because you’re paranoid, doesn’t mean you’re not being followed!” Dom Joly has been off travelling the globe again. This time, he’s been looking into some of the strangest and weirdest conspiracy theories in existence. Now, he’s set to embark on a rather unique theatre tour, where Dom will be providing a hilarious, fascinating, and slightly anarchic guide to the wacky world of conspiracies. 1. Is the earth flat? 2. Does Finland exist? 3. Did JFK commit suicide? 4. Are Q Anon mentally ill? 5. Is Bill Gates using vaccines to take control of your mind? 6. Is Denver Airport a massive panic room for the Illuminati? 7. Are UFOs piloted by lizards? In the spirit of fairness, Dom will also be inviting a well-known and highly respected conspiracy theorist, Dr Julian Northcote, to take the stage and defend the alternate view. Due to the extremely controversial views aired in the show, security will be at an optimum and audiences are warned that angry demonstrations are very likely–or is that just another conspiracy?!

BOX OFFICE: 01223 503333

7.30PM: £25/£30 ALL TICKET PRICES INCLUDE A £3 PER TICKET BOOKING FEE

www.cambridgeartstheatre.com

WEDNESDAY 17 – SATURDAY 20 JANUARY CAMBRIDGE OPERATIC SOCIETY PRESENTS

Inspired by the ‘Queen of Country’ Dolly Parton’s 1980 award-winning film, amateur dramatics group Cambridge Operatic Society are back after the sell-out success of Legally Blonde with 9 to 5 the Musical. Three female colleagues are sick and tired of their egotistical boss and sexist workplace, finding themselves fantasising about sweet revenge. Fantastic friendships soon form as they devise a cunning strategy to turn the tables, but plans soon turn awry… with hilarious results! Will Violet, Judy and Doralee succeed in obliterating the misogyny so established in their careers? Or will they remain stuck in their dead end 9 to 5s? What a way to make a livin’ ! Featuring a sensational soundtrack including Dolly’s smash hit 9 to 5, this laugh-out-loud musical comedy about standing up to the patriarchy will have you dancing all the way home (blonde wig optional!).

BOX OFFICE: 01223 503333

access

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

There are parking spaces for customers with disabilities in four locations Peas Hill; two on Wheeler Street; seven on King’s Parade and thirty six in park. If you have mobility requirements, please advise the Box Office whe are able to allocate you the correct space. Mobility scooters cannot be ac building. We have four house wheelchairs (including one electric) availab formances, subject to availability.

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

We have a Sennheiser infra-red hearing enhancement system, designed OF HEARING patrons both without hearing aids, and for those who have

ALL TICKETsetting. PRICES INCLUDE A We are also able to provide headsets and personal induction loo £3 PER TICKET BOOKING FEE arriving at the Theatre early so that our used one before, we recommend can explain how they work.

Some of our performances are BSL INTERPRETED. The British Sign Langua

BSLtoPERFORMANCE, SEE PAGE 28 the right of the stage, where they will interpret dialogue, as it is spoke

CAPTIONED PERFORMANCES; words will appear, as they are spoken or wh 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 Bo booking, so that they can allocate the relevant ticket. We programme a n AUDIO DESCRIBED PERFORMANCES throughout the year; the describer w happening, visually, on stage throughout the performance and this is rel A pre-show touch tour of the set is often available.

www.cambridgeartstheatre.com

TUESDAY 23 – SATURDAY 27 JANUARY THEATRE ROYAL BATH PRODUCTIONS PRESENT THE ORANGE TREE THEATRE PRODUCTION OF

THE CIRCLE JANE ASHER, CLIVE FRANCIS & NICHOLAS LE PREVOST IN

SOMERSET MAUGHAM

̒An exceptional cast. Thrilling to watch. A comic treat ̓ WhatsOnStage

Will history come full circle? Or can one generation learn from their parents’ mistakes? Jane Asher (Alfie, Deep End) plays Lady Kitty, a society beauty who notoriously abandoned her stuffy husband Clive (Clive Francis, The Crown), and eloped with the handsome Lord Porteous (Nicholas Le Prevost, Shakespeare in Love, Testament of Youth). Thirty years later, love’s young dream has descended into non-stop squabbling... Meanwhile Clive and Lady Kitty’s son Arnold faces the same marital fate, as his wife Elizabeth threatens to elope with the dashing Teddie Luton. Somerset Maugham’s sparky comedy of manners was first staged in 1921 and has remained a firm favourite with audiences ever since. Maugham was among the most successful novelists and playwrights of the inter-war years. Many of his novels, including The Painted Veil, Theatre, Up At The Villa and Of Human Bondage have been adapted for the screen.

BOX OFFICE: 01223 503333

TUESDAY – SATURDAY, 7.30PM AND WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY & SATURDAY, 2.30PM: £25/£35/£40/£45 ALL TICKET PRICES INCLUDE A £3 PER TICKET BOOKING FEE

www.cambridgeartstheatre.com

WEDNESDAY 31 JANUARY – SATURDAY 3 FEBRUARY THE MARLOWE SOCIETY PRESENT

By William Shakespeare Directed by Josh Seymour

“These violent delights have violent ends...” The Marlowe Society return to Arts Theatre stage to present a brand new production of William Shakespeare’s great tragedy, Romeo and Juliet. A tale of star-crossed lovers, family feuds and forbidden passion, Shakespeare’s story is stripped back to reveal a society where love and intimacy are dangerously prohibited... As one of Cambridge University’s most prestigious drama groups, the Marlowe Society’s recent acclaimed productions include Othello, Much Ado About Nothing and A Midsummer Night’s Dream. The Marlowe Society has launched the careers of some of Britain’s greatest actors including Ian McKellen, Derek Jacobi, Emma Thompson and Rachel Weisz, and continues its tradition of showcasing the best theatrical talent at the university. Director Josh Seymour’s recent productions include That Face (Orange Tree Theatre), Suddenly Last Summer (English Theatre Frankfurt) and The Narcissist (Chichester Festival Theatre).

BOX OFFICE: 01223 503333

Set Design Jack Valentine Lighting Design Jamie Platt Sound Design Anna Wood Movement, Intimacy and Fight Direction Chi-San Howard

WEDNESDAY – SATURDAY, 7.30PM THURSDAY AND SATURDAY, 2.30PM: £20/£25/£30 STUDENTS: £15 ALL TICKET PRICES INCLUDE A £3 PER TICKET BOOKING FEE

www.cambridgeartstheatre.com

TUESDAY 6 – SATURDAY 10 FEBRUARY ORIGINAL THEATRE, TRAFALGAR THEATRE PRODUCTIONS AND JAS THEATRICALS PRESENT THE WORLD PREMIERE OF

‘Gripping... a ticking time-bomb with things that go bump in the night’ SALISBURY JOURNAL

A spine-chilling ghost story, turned psychological thriller starring TV and stage favourites Tom Chambers (Holby City, Casualty, Waterloo Road, Father Brown and Strictly Come Dancing champion) and Susie Blake (Victoria Wood’s As Seen on TV). What happens when the lights go out? It’s New Year’s Eve, when a car crash on a deserted road brings famous but troubled singer Danny Sierra and his dysfunctional family to an isolated holiday cottage in rural England. From the moment they arrive, a sequence of inexplicable events begin to occur... and then the lights go out... As the tension rises and deeply buried secrets come to light, you’ll find nothing is quite as it seems. From the mind of acclaimed writer Torben Betts and produced by the award-winning Original Theatre, who brought you the smash hit production of The Mirror Crack’d by Agatha Christie, Murder in the Dark will have you on the edge of your seats until the final chilling twist. Are you brave enough to uncover the truth? Book your tickets and join us for a theatrical experience like no other. Cast includes Rebecca Charles (The Dresser), Jonny Green (It’s a Sin), Owen Oakeshott (Witness for the Prosecution) and Laura White (Doctors).

BOX OFFICE: 01223 503333

TUESDAY – 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 28

www.cambridgeartstheatre.com 11

TUESDAY 13 - SATURDAY 17 FEBRUARY

BOX OFFICE: 01223 503333

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Direct from its London run, the must-see comedy of 2023 hits the road this Spring! Join George, Amy and Michael for the premiere of their brandnew version of The Time Machine. H G Wells’ comic deadly serious masterpiece will never be the same again as this hapless highly skilled group of actors embark on a journey of a lifetime! Will George persuade the others to stick to the script he’s worked so hard on? Will Michael be able to explain time travel without the help of excessive props? Will Amy get to sing her Cher tribute? And ultimately... will they be able to defeat the space time paradox – or at least get through the second half? All to be revealed…* *(no nudity!) Starring Michael Dylan (Wilf), George Kemp (Jack Absolute Flies Again) and Amy Revelle (Offside). From the team behind the smash hit comedy The Hound of the Baskervilles and the award-winning Original Theatre (Murder in the Dark, The Mirror Crack’d, Caroline’s Kitchen, Invincible, The Habit of Art). Warning: may contain Cher tunes. Age guidance 10+

BOX OFFICE: 01223 503333

TUESDAY - SATURDAY, 7.30PM & THURSDAY AND SATURDAY, 2.30PM: £20/£25/£30/£35 ALL TICKET PRICES INCLUDE A £3 PER TICKET BOOKING FEE AUDIO DESCRIBED PERFORMANCE, SEE PAGE 28 POST SHOW TALK, SEE PAGE 28

www.cambridgeartstheatre.com 13

TUESDAY 20 – THURSDAY 22 FEBRUARY FUEL, IMAGINATE AND NORTHERN STAGE IN ASSOCIATION WITH NATIONAL THEATRE OF SCOTLAND PRESENT

WRITTEN BY

HANNAH LAVERY

DIRECTED BY

NATALIE IBU

Running is Alice’s happy place. She’s the best runner at her school and can outrun everyone, even the boys... but she’s struggling to prove her worth. Jade is being tested. Racist bullying and history classes that tell a one-sided story sets her on a mission to find out about her heritage and those who came before her. Meanwhile, litter is piling up in the local forest. All over the world an environmental crisis is looming, the threat of disorder and division is growing. Chloe is determined to make a change, starting with the town. Three girls prepare to challenge the status quo and tackle injustices in this new play exploring the power of friendship, activism and believing in your own voice.

BOX OFFICE: 01223 503333

TUESDAY: 6.30PM WEDNESDAY: 2PM & 6.30PM THURSDAY: 2PM & 6.30PM: £15/£20/£25 CHILDREN & STUDENTS: £15 ALL TICKET PRICES INCLUDE A £3 PER TICKET BOOKING FEE

www.cambridgeartstheatre.com

TUESDAY 27 FEBRUARY – SATURDAY 2 MARCH

BREAKING NEWS: 30 years since the launch of the trailblazing, smash-hit TV series, the Globelink News team are back, and now live on stage for the very first time. Starring the original cast members Susannah Doyle, Robert Duncan, Ingrid Lacey, Neil Pearson, Jeff Rawle, Stephen Tompkinson and Victoria Wicks, the iconic BAFTA and EMMY award-winning comedy is reimagined in this brand-new topical commentary on the cutthroat world of 24 hours news. Bursting with razor-sharp wit and classic British humour, this hot off the press production will leave you in stitches. Written by the same award-winning writing team Andy Hamilton and Guy Jenkin (Outnumbered), Drop the Dead Donkey: The Reawakening! exposes the underside of the broadcasting industry in all its riotous glory. Whether you’re one of the legions of die-hard fans of the TV sitcom that was watched by millions at its peak, or a British comedy fanatic, come and experience this hilarious revival of an all-time comedy classic.

BOX OFFICE: 01223 503333

‘GLORIOUS’ TELEGRAPH

TUESDAY – SATURDAY, 7.30PM AND WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY & SATURDAY, 2.30PM: £25/£30/£40/£50 ALL TICKET PRICES INCLUDE A £3 PER TICKET BOOKING FEE

www.cambridgeartstheatre.com 15

TUESDAY 5 – SATURDAY 9 MARCH

The Hit Play by

DANNY ROBINS

A GHOST STORY

The stage phenomenon that has taken the West End by storm now comes to Cambridge. Winner of BEST NEW PLAY at the Whatsonstage Awards, this edge-ofyour-seat, supernatural thriller stars Vera Chok (Hollyoaks, Cobra), Jay McGuiness (The Wanted, BIG! The Musical, Rip It Up), George Rainsford (Call the Midwife, Casualty) and Fiona Wade (Emmerdale, Silent Witness). Written by Danny Robins, creator of the hit BBC podcasts Uncanny and The Battersea Poltergeist, 2:22 A Ghost Story comes fresh from recordbreaking seasons at five West End theatres with a host of acclaimed star performances. It’s a brilliantly funny and adrenaline-filled night where secrets emerge and ghosts may or may not appear... What do you believe? And do you dare discover the truth? “There’s something in our house. I hear it every night, at the same time.” Jenny believes her new home is haunted, but her husband Sam isn’t having any of it. They argue with their first dinner guests, old friend Lauren and new partner Ben. Can the dead really walk again? Belief and scepticism clash, but something feels strange and frightening, and that something is getting closer, so they’re going to stay up… until 2:22... and then they’ll know. Age guidance 12+

BOX OFFICE: 01223 503333

Directed by

MATTHEW DUNSTER & ISABEL MARR

‘A MODERN CLASSIC’ SUNDAY TIMES

‘A SENSATIONAL EVENT’ EVENING STANDARD

‘SHEER NERVE-SHREDDING ESCAPISM! I JUMPED OUT OF MY SKIN SEVERAL TIMES’ MAIL ON SUNDAY

TUESDAY – SATURDAY, 7.30PM AND WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY & SATURDAY, 2.30PM: £25/£30/£40/£49 ALL TICKET PRICES INCLUDE A £3 PER TICKET BOOKING FEE AUDIO DESCRIBED PERFORMANCE, SEE PAGE 28

www.cambridgeartstheatre.com

SUNDAY 10 & SUNDAY 17 MARCH

CAMBRIDGE FOOTLIGHTS Following a string of successful performances, Cambridge Footlights are back by popular demand with two nights of hilarious 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 1880, this university drama society boasts an impressive alumni including Stephen Fry, Hugh Laurie, Trevor Nunn and Peter Shaffer. Join Footlights as they showcase the finest sketches, songs and standup from some of the country’s finest student comedians. Early booking is highly recommended!

BOX OFFICE: 01223 503333

SUNDAY 10 & SUNDAY 17, 7.30PM: £16/£20/£25 ALL TICKET PRICES INCLUDE A £3 PER TICKET BOOKING FEE

www.cambridgeartstheatre.com 17

TUESDAY 12 – SATURDAY 16 MARCH A CHILDREN’S PARTNERSHIP AND ROSE THEATRE CO-PRODUCTION

WINNER

Blue Peter Book Award 2019

WINNER

Waterstones Children’s Book Prize 2019

BOX OFFICE: 01223 503333

www.cambridgeartstheatre.com

“THIS IS A BEAUTIFUL, OPEN-HEARTED DEBUT THAT SHOULD HELP CHILDREN BE THE BEST THEY CAN BE AND REALISE THE POWER OF KINDNESS.” Book Trust

There used to be an empty chair at the back of the class, but now a new boy called Ahmet is sitting in it. He’s nine years old (just like me), but he’s very strange. He never talks and never smiles and doesn’t like sweets – not even lemon sherbets, which are my favourite! After learning that he has fled his own war-torn country, Ahmet’s classmates have ‘The Greatest Idea in the World’ – a magnificent plan to reunite Ahmet with his family. An unexpected and often hilarious adventure follows, all topped off with a terrific twist. Told from a child’s perspective, balancing heart and humour, The Boy at the Back of the Class highlights the power of friendship and kindness in a world that doesn’t always make sense and reminds us that everyone needs a place to call home. Age guidance 7+

BOX OFFICE: 01223 503333

TUESDAY: 7PM WEDNESDAY: 10.30AM & 2PM THURSDAY: 10.30AM & 2PM FRIDAY: 7PM SATURDAY: 2PM & 7PM ADULT: £25 CHILD: £20 ALL TICKET PRICES INCLUDE A £3 PER TICKET BOOKING FEE

www.cambridgeartstheatre.com 19

MONDAY 18 MARCH – SATURDAY 23 MARCH

BILL KENWRIGHT LTD PRESENTS

TODD BOYCE NEIL McDERMOTT IN

DIRECTOR

DESIGNER

RACHEL KAVANAUGH

JULIE GODFREY

‘Shaffer’s sublime thriller is a masterpiece of plots... cracking entertainment that will appeal to everyone’ THE ADVERTISER Todd Boyce (Coronation Street’s notorious baddie, Stephen Reid) and Neil McDermott (EastEnders, The Royal) star in Anthony Shaffer’s masterpiece, directed by award winning Rachel Kavanaugh (The RSC/Chichester Festival Theatre). A young man (McDermott) arrives at the impressive home of a famous mystery writer (Boyce), only to be unwittingly drawn into a tangled web of intrigue and gamesmanship, where nothing is quite as it seems... This dark psychological ‘thriller about thrillers’ makes for an intriguing study of human conflict, jealousy, and manipulation. Proving to be far more than a ‘whodunnit’, it promises to baffle even the most proficient sleuth! Sleuth is one of the greatest ever stage thrillers and played for a total of 12 years in both London and New York. Winning the Tony Award for Best Play, it also became the inspiration for the hugely successful film starring Laurence Olivier and Michael Caine. Age guidance 12+

BOX OFFICE: 01223 503333

access

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

MONDAY – SATURDAY, 7.30PM AND THURSDAY AND SATURDAY, 2.30PM: £20/£25/£35/£40

We have a Sennheiser infra-red hearing enhancement system, designed OF HEARING patrons both without hearing aids, and for those who have

Some of our performances are BSL INTERPRETED. The British Sign Langua

BSLtoPERFORMANCE, SEE PAGE 28 the right of the stage, where they will interpret dialogue, as it is spoke

CAPTIONED PERFORMANCES; words will appear, as they are spoken or wh on a screen positioned above or to the side of the stage.

www.cambridgeartstheatre.com

MONDAY 25 – SATURDAY 30 MARCH From the director of Cluedo and The Play That Goes Wrong

JASON DURR and HELEN FLANAGAN as Colonel Mustard as Miss Scarlett

A brand new story by LAURENCE MARKS and MAURICE GRAN Directed by MARK BELL

Following the huge success of the smash hit original play, Cluedo is back on stage in 2024, with a brand new hilarious whodunnit Cluedo 2: The Next Chapter! Starring Heartbeat and Casualty’s Jason Durr and Helen Flanagan, Cluedo 2 is set in the swinging 1960s and introduces a new house, new suspects, and lots of new bodies, in this all new tale of murder, mystery and secret passageways. Written by BAFTA winners Laurence Marks and Maurice Gran, and directed by Mark Bell - director of the original Cluedo and The Play That Goes Wrong, Cluedo 2: The Next Chapter, is a rollicking spoof of a comedy for all ages, that will keep you guessing right up to the final twist. Guess along as the bodies pile up, the colourful characters dart around as they try to escape the killer, survive the night and work out whodunnit... with what... and where!

BOX OFFICE: 01223 503333

MONDAY – SATURDAY, 7.30PM AND THURSDAY & SATURDAY, 2.30PM: £25/£30/£40/£49 ALL TICKET PRICES INCLUDE A £3 PER TICKET BOOKING FEE

www.cambridgeartstheatre.com 21

TUESDAY 23 – SATURDAY 27 APRIL

THE RECORD-BREAKING WEST END PRODUCTION IS BACK IN SESSION!

BOX OFFICE: 01223 503333

www.cambridgeartstheatre.com

Production Photography – Jack Merriman

WEDNESDAY 4 – SATURDAY 7 MARCH

THE RECORD-BREAKING PRODUCTION RETURNS! A life in the balance. Twelve men. One verdict. Following a recording-breaking West End season, this powerful production of Twelve Angry Men is back in session! Reginald Rose’s gripping courtroom thriller stars Jason Merrells (Casualty, Emmerdale), Gray O’Brien (Coronation Street, Peak Practice), Tristan Gemmill (Coronation Street, Casualty), Michael Greco (EastEnders), Ben Nealon (Soldier Soldier) and Gary Webster (Minder, Family Affairs). Twelve Angry Men has been hailed ‘the classiest, most intelligent drama playing on the West End’. It brings the 1957 three-time Academy Award-nominated film, considered one of the great ‘mustsees’ of all time, to the stage. A jury has murder on their minds and a life in their hands as they decide the fate of a young delinquent accused of killing his father. But what appears to be an open and shut case soon becomes a huge dilemma, as prejudices and preconceived ideas about the accused, the trial, and each other turn the tables every which way, until the nail-biting climax… Now it’s your turn to witness a ‘brilliant’, ‘riveting’, ‘triumph’ of a show.

BOX OFFICE: 01223 503333

TUESDAY – SATURDAY, 7.30PM AND THURSDAY & SATURDAY, 2.30PM: £20/£25/£35/£40 ALL TICKET PRICES INCLUDE A £3 PER TICKET BOOKING FEE

www.cambridgeartstheatre.com 23

WEDNESDAY 1 & FRIDAY 3 MAY

BY PUCCINI Performed in English with English surtitles.

Manon Lescaut is a devastating depiction of a woman wrestling with her desire for love on her own terms, and the rigid double standards imposed on her by society. The opera was a breakthrough hit for its composer, Giacomo Puccini, packed with memorable music and heartbreaking drama. Jude Christian, fresh from a critically acclaimed Titus Andronicus at London’s Sam Wanamaker Playhouse, brings incisive direction and a sharp, poetic new translation to her radical new production, while ETO Music Director Gerry Cornelius conducts.

BOX OFFICE: 01223 503333

7.30PM: £25/£35/£45 ALL TICKET PRICES INCLUDE A £3 PER TICKET BOOKING FEE PRE-SHOW TALKS, SEE PAGE 28

www.cambridgeartstheatre.com

THURSDAY 2 & SATURDAY 4 MAY

BY STRAVINSKY Performed in English with English surtitles.

Igor Stravinsky’s brilliantly inventive The Rake’s Progress charts young Tom Rakewell’s journey from an unexpected riches to ruin at the hands of his own naivety and a devilish new friend. One of Stravinsky’s crowning achievements in his pioneering career, the opera is a cynical but humanistic depiction of loss, love and how the devil finds work for idle hands. The production is helmed by Polly Graham, Artistic Director of Longborough Festival Opera, and the up-and-coming conductor and composer Jack Sheen.

BOX OFFICE: 01223 503333

7.30PM: £25/£35/£45 ALL TICKET PRICES INCLUDE A £3 PER TICKET BOOKING FEE PRE-SHOW TALKS, SEE PAGE 28

www.cambridgeartstheatre.com 25

TUESDAY 7 – SATURDAY 11 MAY

'A JOYOUS VERSION OF THE HITCHCOCK CLASSIC’ THE SUNDAY TIMES

‘HILARIOUS’ SUNDAY EXPRESS

FROM AN ORIGINAL CONCEPT BY SIMON CORBLE AND NOBBY DIMON

‘DIZZYINGLY ENTERTAINING’ THE TELEGRAPH

Alfred Hitchcock’s classic spy thriller, The 39 Steps, hilariously adapted for the stage by Patrick Barlow as the smash hit Olivier and Tony Award Winning Comedy, is back after nearly 10 years in London’s West End, taking Broadway by storm, playing 39 different countries and delighting over 3 million people worldwide with its quintessentially plucky spirit and dashing sense of fun. Follow the incredible adventures of our handsome hero Richard Hannay, complete with stiff-upper-lip, British gung-ho and pencil moustache as he encounters dastardly murders, double-crossing secret agents, and, of course, devastatingly beautiful women. This wonderfully inventive and gripping comedy thriller features four fearless actors, playing 139 roles in 100 minutes of fast-paced fun and thrilling action.

BOX OFFICE: 01223 503333

access

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

There are parking spaces for customers with disabilities in four locations n Peas Hill; two on Wheeler Street; seven on King’s Parade and thirty six in th park. If you have mobility requirements, please advise the Box Office when are able to allocate you the correct space. Mobility scooters cannot be acco building. We have four house wheelchairs (including one electric) available formances, subject to availability.

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

We have a Sennheiser infra-red hearing enhancement system, designed to

HEARING patrons both without hearing aids, and for those who have he ALL TICKETOFPRICES INCLUDE setting. We are also able to provide headsets and personal induction loops A £3 PER TICKET BOOKING FEE arriving at the Theatre early so that o used one before, we recommendww can explain how they work.

of our performances are BSL INTERPRETED. The British Sign Language BSLSome PERFORMANCE, SEE PAGE 28 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 whe on a screen positioned above or to the side of the stage.

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

www.cambridgeartstheatre.com

WEDNESDAY 29 MAY – SUNDAY 2 JUNE

M HALF TIELYR FAM ! FUN

access

Illustrations © Tony Ross, 2014. Lettering of author’s name © Quentin Blake, 2010. Licensed by HarperCollins Publishers Ltd

LIVE ON STAGE!

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

There are parking spaces for customers with disabilities in four loca Peas Hill; two on Wheeler Street; seven on King’s Parade and thirty park. If you have mobility requirements, please advise the Box Offic are able to allocate you the correct space. Mobility scooters cannot building. We have four house wheelchairs (including one electric) av formances, subject to availability.

When Stella sets off to visit London with her parents, she has no idea her life is in danger! When Stella wakes up three months later, only her Aunt Alberta can tell her what has happened. But not everything Alberta tells her turns out to be true and Stella quickly discovers she’s in for the fight of her life against her very own awful Auntie! Following their acclaimed productions of Gangsta Granny, Billionaire Boy and Demon Dentist, Birmingham Stage Company are proud to present a fabulous new production of David Walliams’ amazing adventure, featuring a small ghost, a huge owl and a very awful Auntie! “The BSC’s live shows of my books are always brilliant - I can’t wait for the fun to begin again! It’s going to be a hoot!” David Walliams

BOX OFFICE: 01223 503333

We have a Sennheiser infra-red hearing enhancement system, desig OF HEARING patrons both without hearing aids, and for those who setting. We are also able to provide headsets and personal inductio used one before, we recommend arriving at the Theatre early so tha WEDNESDAY: 6.30PM can explain how they work.

THURSDAY: 11AM & 3PM Some of our performances are BSL INTERPRETED. The British Sign La FRIDAY: 2PM & 6.30PM to the right of the stage, where they will interpret dialogue, as it is SATURDAY:CAPTIONED 2PM & 6.30PM PERFORMANCES; words will appear, as they are spoken on a screen positioned above or to the side of the stage. SUNDAY: 11AM For patrons who are BLIND OR VISUALLY-IMPAIRED, we can provide

ADULTS: £25, CHILDREN: £20 request. Guide dogs are welcome in the auditorium, please inform t

booking, so that they can allocate the relevant ticket. We programm ALL TICKETAUDIO PRICES INCLUDE A DESCRIBED PERFORMANCES throughout the year; the descri happening, visually, onFEE stage throughout the performance and this £3 PER TICKET BOOKING A pre-show touch tour of the set is often available.

We also offer RELAXED PERFORMANCES, specifically designed to we

RELAXED PERFORMANCE spectrum condition, learning disability and sensory or communicati SEE with PAGE very 28 young children.

Details of accessible performances are highlighted on Page 32 and on the relevant s Further information on access provision is available online at www.cambridgeartsth

The Management reserves the right of admission and the right to offer alternative seating 27 www.cambridgeartstheatre.com be held responsible for changes to programmes and casting made by touring companies. L

into the auditorium at the absolute discretion of the Theatre, in consultation with the tour at time of going to print. For full terms and conditions of sale visit www.cambridgeartsthe

assisted performances 9 TO 5

BSL Interpreted

THE TIME MACHINE

Audio Described

2:22 A GHOST STORY Audio Described

SLEUTH

BSL Interpreted

THE 39 STEPS

BSL Interpreted

AWFUL AUNTIE

Relaxed Performance

Thursday 18 January, 7.30pm Saturday 17 February, 2.30pm (Touch Tour available) Saturday 9 March, 2.30pm (Touch Tour available) Thursday 21 March, 7.30pm Wednesday 8 May, 7.30pm Sunday 2 June, 11am

pre-show talks

post-show talks

ENGLISH TOURING OPERA Wednesday 1 - Saturday 4 May, all at 6.30pm

MURDER IN THE DARK Wednesday 7 February, 7.30pm THE TIME MACHINE Thursday 15 February, 7.30pm

More talks may be added after publication – please check our website for an up-to-date list.

BOX OFFICE: 01223 503333

www.cambridgeartstheatre.com

Cambridge Arts Theatre programmes a diverse range of shows supplement and support all stages of the national curriculum. We offer a variety of activities and materials designed to complement performances and provide classroom resources so that your students’ educational experience doesn’t end with the final curtain. ROMEO AND JULIET

Wednesday 31 January – Saturday 3 February Cambridge University’s most prestigious drama group The Marlowe Society present a brand-new adaptation of Romeo and Juliet. A tale of star-crossed lovers, family feuds and forbidden passion, the iconic tale is stripped back to reveal a society where love and intimacy are dangerously prohibited – a perfect opportunity for English and Drama students studying Shakespeare’s great tragedy. Age guidance 12+

PROTEST

Tuesday 20 – Thursday 22 February Three girls prepare to challenge the status quo and tackle injustices in Fuel Theatre, Imaginate and Northen Stage’s bold new play Protest, exploring the power of friendship, activism and believing in your own voice. Focussing on themes including racism and environmentalism, Protest will encourage students to view and question their place in the world differently. Education resource pack available. Age guidance 8+

THE BOY AT THE BACK OF THE CLASS

Tuesday 12 – Saturday 16 March Onjali Q. Raúf’s heartwarming story of friendship, hope and kindness is brought to life on stage. When schoolchildren learn that their new classmate Ahmet has fled his war-torn country to join them at school, a magnificent plan is hatched to reunite him with his family. Education resource pack available. Age guidance 7+

THE 39 STEPS

Tuesday 7 – Saturday 11 May Alfred Hitchcock’s classic spy thriller The 39 Steps is an incredibly inventive example of fast-paced live theatre and world-class performances which Drama students will love. Four fearless actors play 139 roles in 100 minutes in the Olivier and Tony Award-winning comedy that has played in 39 countries across the globe.

LIVE ON STAGE!

Illustrations © Tony Ross, 2014. Lettering of author’s name © Quentin Blake, 2010. Licensed by HarperCollins Publishers Ltd

ERM ILY N!

education

AWFUL AUNTIE

Wednesday 29 May – Sunday 2 June Although David Walliams’ Awful Auntie visits Cambridge during half-term, school pupils will enjoy the laugh-out-loud adventure adapted straight from the best-selling children’s novel. Age guidance 5+

BOX OFFICE: 01223 503333

www.cambridgeartstheatre.com 29

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

Book online at www.cambridgeartstheatre.com

IN PERSON

Monday - Saturday, 12noon - 8pm

BY TELEPHONE

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

BOOKING FEE

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

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

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.

& EXCHANGES

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.

BOX OFFICE: 01223 503333

www.cambridgeartstheatre.com

access access

The Arts Theatre aims to care for every patron as an individual, on a one-to-one basis. 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 four 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 28 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. CIRCLE

G F

E D

THE CIRCLE BAR

↵

THE MAYNARD BAR Third Floor

B A

↵

Third Floor Fifth Floor

↵ THE MARLOWE ROOM ↵

THE STALLS BAR

Fifth Floor

H G F E D

↵ S R Q P O N STALLS

M L

F E

D C

A B

B A

↵ S R Q P O N

M L

H G

Cloakroom

U T

First Floor

K J H G F E D C

Ground Floor Second Floor Ground Floor

STALLS

STAGE

BOX OFFICE: 01223 503333