Chequer Mead Brochure - October 2011 to January 2012

Theatre and Arts

CHEQUER MEAD EAST GRINSTEAD

THEATRE GUIDE

Whats on?

OCTOBER 2011 JANUARY 2012

CHEQUER MEAD COMMUNITY ARTS CENTRE

THEATRE SEATING PLAN Stalls

KEY:

Circle

Wheelchair

Overflow Seating

Not Available

CHEQUER MEAD COMMUNITY ARTS CENTRE De La Warr Road, East Grinstead, West Sussex RH19 3BS Box Office: Administration: Cuisine Studio: Web: Email:

01342 302000 01342 325577 01342 324860 www.chequermead.org.uk info@chequermead.org.uk

Registered Charity Number: 1108890 Registered Office: East Court Mansion, College Lane, East Grinstead, West Sussex RH19 3LT

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box office: 01342 302000 www.chequermead.org.uk

WELCOME... ...to our new season at Chequer Mead! I hope that you will enjoy the many shows and events in the coming months. A registered charity, Chequer Mead is the only purpose-built arts centre between London and the South Coast, fulfilling the needs of theatre goers and the arts in the south east. Many shows sell out quickly so be sure to contact the Box Office as soon as possible to secure the best seats.

Happy theatre going!

Hannah Kester – Centre Manager As a charity (Charity no: 1108890) Chequer Mead gratefully acknowledges the generous financial support it receives from its sponsor, East Grinstead Town Council.

Join us on Facebook and Twitter!

www.facebook.com/chequermead www.twitter.com/chequermead

HOW TO FIND US To London & Crawley

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To Tunbridge Wells

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D ROA ON ND

B21

DE L A

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HIGH STREET

REET SHIP STREET

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WE ARE HERE!

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Train & Bus Station

COLLEGE LANE

A2 64

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A2 2 To Lewes & Eastbourne

PARKING There is ample and convenient parking immediately opposite Chequer Mead, which is free-of-charge after 6pm and all day Sundays.

PUBLIC TRANSPORT East Grinstead railway station is a 10-minute walk, with regular services to London and connections to the South Coast and Thames Link Services.

All buses stop at the High Street; 2 minutes walk from the Centre.

For further information on timetables, telephone 0870 608 2608.

Chequer Mead acts as an agent for all events

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL ARTS CENTRE!

CHEQUER MEAD FRIENDS POSITIVELY SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL ARTS CENTRE

• Receive regular newsletters including early information on forthcoming events • Take part in exclusive social events • Receive concessions on many show tickets • Chances to win FREE show tickets Pick up a leaflet and application form at the Chequer Mead Box Office or visit www.chequermead.org.uk.

CHEQUER MEAD E-NEWSLETTER! Sign up for our free monthly e-newsletter so you can keep up to date with upcoming events and special offers. Please email details to info@chequermead.org.uk.

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box office: 01342 302000 www.chequermead.org.uk Would you like to sponsor a seat in the theatre?

For just £75.00 for three years, or £150.00 for 10 years, you can choose a seat (subject to availability) which will carry a plaque acknowledging your support.

The plaque will carry your name or that of a loved one or the name of your business if it is a corporate sponsorship. For more information please contact the CMF Chairman, David Bridle c/o Chequer Mead.

Corporate Sponsorship and Advertising.

We have a number of sponsorship and advertising opportunities for the business community to support their local arts centre. For more information, contact the Centre Manager on 01342 325577.

Meridian FM Your Radio, your Station is also your voice in your Community!

Tune in to hear from local people about local issues contact us on 01342 328825 or call the studio direct 01342 325222

www.meridianfm.com See our website for up to date info on all that’s happening around town!

Chequer Mead acts as an agent for all events

There’s a lot more to enjoy when you drop into the

CUISINE STUDIO Mouth watering cakes and gateaux all baked here in our own kitchen, delicious lunches, freshly made sandwiches, daily specials. Make your trip to the theatre even more special with one of our 2 course pre-show meals which are available for certain events and by prior booking.

To reserve a table please telephone Mandy, Paul or Roger on 01342 324860.

For Outside and Conference Catering we are the experts.

JazzCafé Sit back, relax and enjoy the best of live Jazz Cafe combined with the finest bistro menus at our regular Jazz Cafe evenings.

Open from 7.00pm.

Tuesday 25th October

The Sussex Jazz Kings

Wednesday 30th November

To be advised

Tickets: Entry £5. Please reserve a table for a meal by calling Mandy, Roger or Paul on 01342 324860.

Bistro menu available.

JazzCafé at 6

box office: 01342 302000 www.chequermead.org.uk YOUTH PRODUCTION

Chequer Mead acts as an agent for all events

CHEQUER MEAD YOUTH THEATRE

here’s nothing more exciting than performing…

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There’s nothing that can build your confidence, test your abilities and stretch your imagination in quite the way theatre can…

The Chequer Mead Youth Theatre is an exciting youth theatre company, based at The Chequer Mead Arts Centre, dedicated to giving young people the opportunity to experience all aspects of contemporary theatre arts.

AUTUMN TERM 2011 Term Dates Wednesdays 12th September – 7th December (no session half term 26th October) - 12 sessions Early Bird Promotion - PAY on the FIRST session of term to take advantage of our early bird discount. Fees paid after the first session will be at the normal term fee rate.

Juniors

ages 7-11 4.00-5.00 pm

Term Fees £ 120.00 Early Bird £ 75.60

Inters

ages 11-13 5.00-6.00 pm

Term Fees £ 120.00 Early Bird £ 75.60

Seniors

ages 14-18 6.00-7.30 pm

Term Fees £180.00 Early Bird £113.40

Term Fees payable to WhirlyGigArts Ltd - cheques or cash only.

SPRING TERM 2012 The term will commence Wednesday 11th January. Please call for prices and info Chequer Mead Youth Theatre is part of

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For further information please contact Pete Allen 07786 803660 or Sue Palmer-Jones 07725 022 132 Email: enquiries@wgarts.co.uk

box office: 01342 302000 www.chequermead.org.uk Chequer Mead Fancy Dress and Costume Hire The costume store at Chequer Mead is open every Saturday morning, 10am – 1pm for viewings of their extensive range of fancy dress and theatre costumes. For more information and to make appointments with the staff, please phone Sandie on 01342 325134 or Barbara 01342 322944.

Facilities for Hire Whether it’s a musical or a school production, from a conference for 320 people to a breakfast meeting for 10 people we have the service and state of the art equipment to ensure your event is the best it can be.

Meeting and rehearsal rooms are available to hire at competitive rates starting at £10.00 per hour.

East Grinstead is one hours train journey from London Victoria and opposite the venue is a public car park for over 300 cars. There are three disabled parking spaces on site. We also have an infrared induction hearing loop system in the Theatre.

Our caterers Cuisine Studio (Best Restaurant 2009 – Best of East Grinstead) can fulfil all your catering needs with morning coffees, finger buffet and evening dining among their wide range of catering options. For more information, please call Mandy or Paul on 01342 324860.

For all booking enquiries, please call the administration office on 01342 325577.

Technical Hire Our technical department has a wide range of lighting, sound, audio visual and stage equipment available to hire outside of Chequer Mead at competitive daily and weekly rates. For more information, please email info@chequermead.org.uk or phone our Technical department on 01342 325577.

Special schools rate Do you know that schools in East Grinstead are able to hire the theatre for just £100 for three hours? Perfect for that end of year prize giving or school production and a great opportunity for young people to experience performing on a professional stage for the first time – please contact the administration office on 01342 325577 for more information.

Chequer Mead acts as an agent for all events

Magical Family Panto!

COMPANY OF FRIENDS PRESENTS

BY PETER DENYER

Saturday December 17th Friday December 30th

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box office: 01342 302000 www.chequermead.org.uk SUP PO RTE D

BY Don't miss this spectacular family pantomime featuring ABBIE LOMAX as Snow White and MICHAEL SPENCER as Queen Morgiana, Snow White’s wicked stepmother.

Comedy in abundance, stunning sets and costumes and great entertainment for kids of all ages! Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs promises to be yet another fantastic Chequer Mead pantomime from Company of Friends!

TICKETS: £15.00 CONCESSIONS: £13.50 FAMILY: £52.00 EARLY BIRD SPECIAL OFFER – ALL TICKETS BOUGHT BY 1ST OCTOBER £13.00

PERFORMANCES Saturday December 17th Sunday December 18th Monday December 19th Tuesday December 20th Wednesday December 21st Thursday December 22nd Friday December 23rd Saturday December 24th Christmas Day Boxing Day Tuesday December 27th Wednesday December 28th Thursday December 29th Friday December 30th

1.30pm 5.30pm 1.30pm 5.30pm No Performances No Performances 5.30pm only 1.30pm 5.30pm 1.30pm 5.30pm 11.00am 2.30pm No Performances No Performances 5.30pm only 1.30pm 5.30pm 1.30pm 5.30pm 1.30pm only

Chequer Mead acts as an agent for all events

EVENTS OVERVIEW AUTUMN 2011 ACOUSTIC SUSSEX PRESENTS

IAIN MORRISON BAND SUPPORT WALLIS BIRD SATURDAY 1ST OCTOBER AT 8.00PM

In January 2010, Iain Morrison came all the way from West Scotland to support a show by Anais Mitchell - and wowed the audience with his unique singing, song-writing and piping skills. Since then, he's appeared at major venues, on TV and radio. In this special one-off show, Iain appears with his full band, and we can guarantee an evening of exhilarating, contemporary roots music that you'll love. With special guest, Wallis Bird.

All tickets: £12.50 Cuisine Studio: To reserve a table for a pre–theatre meal please ring 01342 324860

THE ELECTRIC LIGHT ORCHESTRA GREATEST HITS TOUR

FEATURING THE FABULOUS

ELO EXPERIENCE

WEDNESDAY 5TH OCTOBER AT 7.30PM The Electric Light Orchestra’s greatest hits performed live: Livin’ Thing, Sweet Talking Woman, Mr. Blue Sky and many more. Not to be missed! www.elotribute.com Tickets: £16.00 Concessions: £15.00

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box office: 01342 302000 www.chequermead.org.uk

Cuisine Studio: To reserve a table for a pre–theatre meal please ring 01342 324860 Chequer Mead acts as an agent for all events

CHEQUER MEAD EVENTS GUIDE

CONCHORD BIG BAND CHARITY CONCERT IN AID OF ST CATHERINE'S HOSPICE FRIDAY 14TH OCTOBER AT 8.00PM The sensational ConChord Big Band returns with classics, swing, ballads and show songs - tributes to yesteryear and today from a 18-strong line up under Musical Director Phil Laybourn along with vocalists Pam Dabell, Katrina Clark and Nigel Tostevin. Enjoy a great night out whilst supporting the outstanding work of St Catherine’s Hospice!

Further Info: www.schci.co.uk www.conchordbigband.com www.chequermead.org.uk Tickets £17.00 Concessions: £15.00 Family Ticket: £50.00 including programme Cuisine Studio: To reserve a table for a pre–theatre meal please ring 01342 324860

YOUTH PRODUCTION CHEQUER MEAD LUNCHTIME CONCERTS SERIES PRESENTS

THE HAWTHORNS GUITAR ENSEMBLE TUESDAY 18TH OCTOBER 1.30PM – 2.30PM Talented students from the Hawthorns School will be performing a variety of pieces from Baroque to Pop and from the Scottish Highlands to the African Plains.

Tickets: £4.00 Concessions: £3.50 £3.00 each when buying 3 concerts in the series

ROTARY YOUTH SPEAKS WEDNESDAY 19TH OCTOBER AT 7.00PM East Grinstead area heat of the Public Speaking Competition for local schools run by the Rotary Club.

Free Entry

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Rotary International in Great Britain & Ireland

box office: 01342 302000 www.chequermead.org.uk ACE THEATRE COMPANY PRESENTS

HABEAS CORPUS BY ALAN BENNETT FRIDAY 21ST OCTOBER 7.30PM SATURDAY 22ND OCTOBER 2.30PM AND 7.30PM Alan Bennett’s comedy shows a household in Hove (actually) containing sexual intrigue.

Canon Throbbing lusts after women, Constance wants bigger breasts (and will buy them) and the charlady knows everything!

For more information: www.acetheatre.co.uk Tickets: £11.00 Concessions: £9.00 Cuisine Studio: To reserve a table for a pre–theatre meal please ring 01342 324860

PRIVATE COLLECTION CLOTHES SALE! SATURDAY 22ND OCTOBER 10.00AM – 2.00PM For one day only - fantastic discounts on Autumn/Winter ladieswear.

Shoes and clothing from £5! Cash/credit cards only.

KEITH JAMES IN CONCERT

THE SONGS OF LEONARD COHEN MONDAY 24TH OCTOBER AT 8.00PM Keith James; with a lifetime reputation of performing and an undying love of the pure song gives you a concert of this amazing material in the most intimate and sensitive way imaginable.

“Some of the most atmospheric and emotive music you will ever hear” THE INDEPENDENT. www.keith-james.com All Tickets: £14.00 Chequer Mead acts as an agent for all events

CHEQUER MEAD EVENTS GUIDE

CUISINE STUDIO PRESENTS

JazzCafé

THE SUSSEX JAZZ KINGS

TUESDAY 25TH OCTOBER See page 6 for details YOUTH PRODUCTION ACT ONE BEGINNERS PRESENTS

FOOTLOOSE THE MUSICAL THURSDAY 27TH OCTOBER AT 7.30PM FRIDAY AND SATURDAY 28TH AND 29TH OCTOBER AT 2.30PM AND 7.30PM

Footloose is an exciting, colourful and fast paced musical with classic ‘80s anthems including Holding Out For a Hero, Let’s Hear It For The Boy and of course the title track, Footloose. Its story has everything – loss, passion, love, fear, anger friendship and comedy.

Following their excellent previous productions of Alice in Wonderland and West Side Story, Act One Beginners promises their best show yet.

With a cast of 62 teenagers from this leading local drama school, Footloose is a ‘must see’ for all ages. www.actonebeginners.co.uk Tickets: £14:00 Concessions: £11:00 Family: £46.00 Cuisine Studio: To reserve a table for a pre–theatre meal please ring 01342 324860

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box office: 01342 302000 www.chequermead.org.uk THE SPIRES HAIRDRESSING ARTISTIC TEAM PRESENTS

HAIRDRESSING AROUND EUROPE MONDAY 31ST OCTOBER AT 7.30PM European Hairdressing on your doorstep!

Milan; Paris; London; Barcelona - and yes… right here in East Grinstead! Traditional – Contemporary – Avant Garde – Every Day – Special Day! Proceeds will go to The Melanoma Foundation at St Georges Hospital.

Tickets: £ 10.00 Concessions: £ 5.00

VIENNA FESTIVAL BALLET PRESENTS

THE NUTCRACKER WEDNESDAY 2ND NOVEMBER AT 5.00PM & 8.00PM

The enchanting tale of The Nutcracker is one of the best-loved ballets and centres around Clara and her nutcracker doll, which magically transforms into a princely soldier. Their adventures see the Prince and Clara combat the Mouse King and join the Sugar Plum Fairy for a wonderful trip to a Kingdom made entirely of sweets. www.viennafestivalballet.com Tickets: £18.50 Senior Citizens: £15.50 Children and Students: £12.50 Cuisine Studio: To reserve a table for a pre–theatre meal please ring 01342 324860 Chequer Mead acts as an agent for all events

CHEQUER MEAD EVENTS GUIDE

HRH ENTERTAINMENTS IN ASSOCIATION WITH PAUL ROBERTS PRODUCTIONS PRESENTS

DANCING QUEEN THURSDAY 3RD NOVEMBER AT 7.30PM

Formerly known as Abba Magic, the three shows in one feature hits from the seventies, a superb Grease tribute surrounded by the best ABBA show in the country.

Tickets: Adults £15.00 First Child up to 12 years old FREE Additional Children up to 12 years old £6.00 Cuisine Studio: To reserve a table for a pre–theatre meal please ring 01342 324860

BRITISH AIRWAVES PRODUCTIONS PRESENTS

THE FABULOUS SHADOWS

GOLDEN GREATS TOUR FRIDAY 4TH NOVEMBER AT 8.00PM This Superb live tribute show features all The Shadows classic instrumental hits from the 1960s, Apache to Wonderful Land and many more all recaptured with authentic Fender Stratocaster guitars and Vox amplification. Take a nostalgic trip back to the swinging sixties!

Tickets: £14.50 Family: £50.00 Concessions: Children, Students, Senior Citizens, £12.50: Wheelchair users, Chequer Mead Friends £12.00

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box office: 01342 302000 www.chequermead.org.uk ACOUSTIC SUSSEX PRESENTS

KATE WALSH SATURDAY NOVEMBER 5TH AT 8.00PM Calling 26-year-old Kate a singer songwriter is like saying Van Gogh was a cartoonist. Kate is, er, different.

A classically-trained pianist, she adores Debussy, studies cello, listens constantly to Classic FM (and little else) and bemoans the demise of vinyl and CDs. But when she sits down to write a song you’d better lock up your hearts for you instantly become Kate’s close personal confidante as she bares her soul with shocking candour.

Tickets: £13.00 Concessions: £11.00 Cuisine Studio: To reserve a table for a pre–theatre meal please ring 01342 324860 FORTITUDE ACADEMY PRESENTS

TAEKWON-DO EXTRAVAGANZA SUNDAY 6TH NOVEMBER Private Function OUTLOUD PRODUCTIONS PRESENTS

PASSING STRANGERS MONDAY 7TH NOVEMBER AT 7.45PM

When Malcolm and his unhappy friend, Clive attend a singles evening they meet the upwardly mobile Julie and cynical Liz. Will love happen or are they just Passing Strangers?

Tickets: £12.00 Concessions: £10.00 Family: £39.00 Chequer Mead acts as an agent for all events

CHEQUER MEAD EVENTS GUIDE

MARKS AND KENNARD A COUPLE OF JOBSWORTHS TUESDAY 8TH NOVEMBER AT 7.30PM FOR 8.00PM Musical comedy duo Marks and Kennard will bring laughs aplenty with their performance of lighthearted comedy songs and ditties. Great live entertainment in the Pavilion, guaranteed to send you home smiling. £10.00 All tickets to include a free glass of wine and nibbles A. M. PRODUCTIONS PRESENTS

WE THREE KINGS OF ROCK AND ROLL FRIDAY 11TH NOVEMBER AT 7.30PM A show full of music to show the music did not die!

Billy Fury by west end stage and screen actor Gavin Stanley . Marc Robinson from 'stars in their eyes' pays tribute to Buddy Holly and ELVIS ... the king himself - Steve Halliday from 'stars in their eyes' Three west end performers who will pay tribute to THREE KINGS OF ROCK N ROLL! Tickets: £15.00 Concessions: Senior Citizens, Wheelchair users £14.00 Children, Students and Chequer Mead Friends: £10.00 Cuisine Studio: To reserve a table for a pre–theatre meal please ring 01342 324860

YOUTH PRODUCTION IMBERHORNE SCHOOL PRESENTS

OLIVER! THURSDAY 17TH – SATURDAY 19TH NOVEMBER AT 7.30PM By arrangement with Musicscope and Stage Musicals Ltd of New York, Imberhorne School presents their biggest show in decades as they bring their first full-length, whole school musical to Chequer Mead.

Tickets: £9.00 Concessions £7.00 Imberhorne Students: £5.00 Cuisine Studio: To reserve a table for a pre–theatre meal please ring 01342 324860

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box office: 01342 302000 www.chequermead.org.uk AN AUDIENCE WITH

TONY STRUDWICK

& HIS BAND AND SINGERS SUNDAY 20TH NOVEMBER AT 7.00PM Tony Strudwick’ s band and singers, known as one of the UK’s most versatile bands, make a welcome return to Chequer Mead. During the evening there will be an opportunity for a question and answer session with Tony and the band, many of whom have played with some of the leading bands in the country. East Grinstead is Tony’s home town and he remembers time in the Queen Vic as a small boy during the last war. Who remembers the Peanut club?

Tickets: £12.00 Concessions £10.00 CHEQUER MEAD LUNCHTIME CONCERTS SERIES PRESENTS

THE WOOLMER MUSIC GROUP – PIANO AND VIOLIN TUESDAY 22 NOVEMBER AT 1.30PM – 2.30PM Hannah Woolmer studied at Trinity College of Music and London College of Music.

In 2007 Hannah performed the solo in Vivaldi’s Four Seasons in London and Southend with The Woolmer Music Group String Orchestra. She has recorded tracks for films and has performed with Benjamin Grosvenor and Jeanine Thorpe. Belinda Jones studied at the Royal Academy of Music and has won numerous competitions and awards including The Jacqueline Du Pres Music Prize and The Brahms Duo Prize.

Tickets: £4.00 Concessions: £3.50 £3.00 each when buying 3 concerts in the series COPTHORNE PLAYERS PRESENTS

‘ALLO ALLO! THURSDAY 24TH – SATURDAY 26TH NOVEMBER AT 7.30PM "Listen very carefully, we shall say zis only once!"

René Artois, a hapless café owner, is hiding two British airmen for the Resistance and the priceless painting of 'The Fallen Madonna' for the Germans. Can René meet the demands of the German occupiers, the Resistance, his wife Edith and his waitresses whilst keeping at bay the attentions of Lieutenant Gruber?

All Tickets: £13.00

Cuisine Studio: To reserve a table for a pre–theatre meal please ring 01342 324860

Chequer Mead acts as an agent for all events

CHEQUER MEAD EVENTS GUIDE

YOUTH PRODUCTION ARIEL DRAMA ACADEMY PRESENTS

ARIEL DRAMA SHOWCASE – CRAWLEY ACADEMY MONDAY 28TH NOVEMBER AT 7.30PM

Ariel Drama Academy is proud to present an evening of Song, Drama, and Dance, celebrating a selection of the Academies work throughout the year. LAMDA to Hip Hop to Contemporary dance, this evening will entertain all. For full details of the Academy go to www.arielct.co.uk.

Tickets: £11.00 Concessions: Senior Citizens, Children, Students £9.00 Chequer Mead Friends £10.00: Wheelchair Users £8.00 Cuisine Studio: To reserve a table for a pre–theatre meal please ring 01342 324860 A LOS ENDOS PRODUCTION

ULTIMATE GENESIS TUESDAY 29TH NOVEMBER AT 7.30PM Ultimate Genesis captures the excitement of a live ‘70s Genesis concert. Featuring music from the band’s early heyday, this is a must see for Genesis fans. Featuring all the great albums up to Wind & Wuthering. For more information: www.losendos.co.uk.

Tickets: £15.00 Chequer Mead Friends: £14.00 Cuisine Studio: To reserve a table for a pre–theatre meal please ring 01342 324860

CUISINE STUDIO PRESENTS

JazzCafé WEDNESDAY 30TH NOVEMBER See page 6 for details

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box office: 01342 302000 www.chequermead.org.uk THE BAND OF THE BLUES AND ROYALS PRESENTS

A WINTER CONCERT - IN AID OF SSAFA./FORCES HELP (SOLDIERS, SAILORS, AIRMAN AND FAMILIES ASSOCIATION/ FORCES HELP)

FRIDAY 2ND DECEMBER AT 7.30PM

Christmas starts here! We are delighted to welcome The Band of The Blues and Royals who will perform a variety of music at this very popular annual concert. A rare treat indeed! Book early to avoid disappointment and support this very worthy cause giving essential assistance to our armed forces (both past and present) and their families.

Tickets: £16.00 Concessions: £14.00 Cuisine Studio: To reserve a table for a pre–theatre meal please ring 01342 324860 THE JACKIE GENERATION

70’S CHRISTMAS SPECIAL SATURDAY 3RD DECEMBER AT 7.45PM “…The ultimate tribute to the sensational 70’s!

When pop was at its peak...” All your favourite 70’s chart hits performed by this amazing 6 piece band who are storming the UK. ‘The Jackie Generation’ perform a two hour show so mouth watering, even a ‘Curlywurly’ couldn’t out chew it!

Tickets: £14.00 Concessions: £12.00

CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR SUNDAY 4TH DECEMBER - 10AM UNTIL 4PM. Over 50 stalls selling high quality gifts and crafts just in time for Christmas! Come along and meet the stall holders and the artists who will be here on the day.

Cuisine Studio will be open and selling teas and lunches – to pre-book, please call 01342 324860.

FREE ENTRY To join our craft fair e-mailing list, please email your details to info@chequermead.org.uk.

Chequer Mead acts as an agent for all events

CHEQUER MEAD EVENTS GUIDE

CHEQUER MEAD LUNCHTIME CONCERTS SERIES PRESENTS

MERIDIAN VOICES TUESDAY 6TH DECEMBER AT 1.30PM – 2.30PM

A new & exciting choir for Southern England, with Musical Director RICHARD JENKINSON, makes its Chequer Mead debut! Join them for an enjoyable pre-Xmas lunchtime programme! Other recent and future bookings include performing for The National Trust, Hereford Cathedral, Finchcocks (Kent) and in Mindelheim (Germany.)

For further information: richard@meridianvoices.org Tickets: £4.00 Concessions: £3.50 £3.00 each when buying 3 concerts in the series

YOUTH PRODUCTION

SUSSEX ROCK SCHOOL WEDNESDAY 7TH DECEMBER AT 7.45PM

The Sussex Rock School annual Xmas Concert features exceptional students of all ages, taught and supported by experienced musicians performing their choice of rock and pop music. Great talent and fantastic music!

Tickets: £10.00 Students and children £5.00

YOUTH PRODUCTION CROCKHAM HILL SCHOOL

CHRISTMAS SHOW THURSDAY 8TH DECEMBER AT 7.30PM Crockham Hill CE Primary School presents their annual Christmas Production.

Further details available nearer the time.

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box office: 01342 302000 www.chequermead.org.uk YOUTH PRODUCTION PIROUETTE PERFORMERS PRESENTS

MEDLEYS BY NIGHT FRIDAY 9TH DECEMBER AT 6.30PM A night to remember- Pirouette Performers in ballet, tap, street and singing surprises along the way.

Tickets: £8.00 Concessions: £5.00

Cuisine Studio: To reserve a table for a pre–theatre meal please ring 01342 324860

EAST GRINSTEAD CHORAL SOCIETY PRESENTS

LAST NIGHT AT THE CHRISTMAS PROMS SATURDAY 10TH DECEMBER AT 7.30PM Begin your festive season with East Grinstead Choral Society and children’s choir, directed by Richard Jenkinson, in their Christmas Concert. Accompanied by organ and the brilliant Chameleon Brass, they sing beautiful and evocative Christmas pieces arranged by Peter Skellern. Plenty of opportunities for the audience to join in and raise the roof by singing everyone’s favourite carols.

Tickets: All adults £13.00 Concessions: Children and students £6.00 Family Tickets: £35.00 Cuisine Studio: To reserve a table for a pre–theatre meal please ring 01342 324860 CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS WITH

CHOIRPOWER TUESDAY 13TH AND WEDNESDAY 14TH DECEMBER 6.30PM – 7.30PM

Join in with your favourite carols and Christmas songs around the Chequer Mead Christmas tree in the Pavilion. Book early to avoid disappointment after last year’s sell out. Mandy and Roger’s homemade strudel and mulled wine will be available from the Cuisine Studio.

Tickets: £4.00 Concessions: £3.50 Chequer Mead acts as an agent for all events

MAGICAL Family Panto!

SUPPORTED BY

BY PETER DENYER

COMPANY OF FRIENDS PRESENTS

Saturday December 17th Sunday December 18th Monday December 19th Tuesday December 20th Wednesday December 21st Thursday December 22nd Friday December 23rd Saturday December 24th Christmas Day Boxing Day Tuesday December 27th Wednesday December 28th Thursday December 29th Friday December 30th

1.30pm 5.30pm 1.30pm 5.30pm No Performances No Performances 5.30pm only 1.30pm 5.30pm 1.30pm 5.30pm 11.00am 2.30pm No Performances No Performances 5.30pm only 1.30pm 5.30pm 1.30pm 5.30pm 1.30pm only

Queen Morgiana, the vain, wicked Queen asks her Magic Mirror “Who is the Fairest in the Land?” When the mirror replies that her step-daughter, Snow White, is the most beautiful in the Land, the Queen flies into a jealous rage and Snow White hides in the forest with the Seven Dwarfs. Will the Wicked Queen find her and feed her the apple she has poisoned?

Will the handsome Prince find Snow White in time to save her?

Don't miss this spectacular family pantomime featuring Abbie Lomax as Snow White and Michael Spencer as Snow White’s wicked stepmother.

Comedy in abundance, stunning sets and costumes and great entertainment for kids of all ages! Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs promises to be yet another fantastic Chequer Mead pantomime from Company of Friends!

TICKETS: £15.00 CONCESSIONS: £13.50 FAMILY: £52.00 EARLY BIRD SPECIAL OFFER – ALL TICKETS BOUGHT BY 1ST OCTOBER £13.00

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box office: 01342 302000 www.chequermead.org.uk

CHRISTMAS CRAFT MARKET SATURDAY 17TH – THURSDAY 22ND DECEMBER OPEN 11.00AM – 6.00PM In the Greenstede Gallery the week before Christmas! Wonderful for those last minute gifts!

Admission Free

LDN WRESTLING WEDNESDAY 25TH JANUARY DOORS 7PM, BELL TIME 7.30PM IT'S BACK! Championship wrestling, full of sparkly costumes and audience participation, is back in East Grinstead for its 2012 show. On the exciting bill will be new British Heavyweight Champion Alan Lee Travis, Capital Wrestling Champion Richard Parliament, Rob Cage & so many more!

Tickets: £12.00 Concessions: £10.00 Family: £36.00

WEEKLY DROP-IN Life Drawing Classes MONDAYS 19th September - 5th December

Our aim is to offer artists of all levels and abilities the facility to drop in without prior arrangement for a two hour life drawing session.

Drawing boards and easels are available and artists should bring their own art materials.

Models may be clothed or unclothed participants should be 18 and over. £10 per session

Chequer Mead acts as an agent for all events

WHAT’S ON IN THE GREENSTEDE GALLERY

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OPEN MONDAY TO SATURDAY

ADMISSION FREE

CLOSED SUNDAYS

ROBERT MELDRUM FRIDAY 23RD SEPTEMBER – WEDNESDAY 5TH OCTOBER

A series of paintings from around Crawley and Croydon. The approach has been founded on my favourite American painters, Rauschenberg, Johns, Guston and Basquiat, using house hold paint and Spray cans. John-Luc Godard said once you only needed a girl and a gun to make a film and my aims have been to try and paint traditional English landscapes, using the most basic clichéd subjects to find complexity within them. I have tried to be as open to my environment as possible, be it the light on a pool or the glow of the Sky lit from the Airport.

ZERO3 FRIDAY 7TH OCTOBER – WEDNESDAY 19TH OCTOBER

Zero3 returns to The Greenstede Gallery with their third touring exhibition Signature III. The exhibition will feature innovative contemporary work, offering an insight and understanding of modern textiles and techniques that are occurring within the Arts today. Each day of the exhibition two members of the group will be available for discussion in the gallery.

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box office: 01342 302000 www.chequermead.org.uk RETROSPECTION - MY 38 YEAR JOURNEY THROUGH ART FRIDAY 21ST OCTOBER – WEDNESDAY 26TH OCTOBER

Stephen Cox started attending art evening classes with a practicing professional artist Mary King. She specialized in a particular form of mixed media, using paste and water colour agents together with fine muslin, which Stephen immediately related to and developed into his own unique style. He loved the development process which has run through the last 38 years. Following on from Mary's influence, he struck lucky once again when, although having been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 2004, he attended regular weekly art therapy sessions with the well respected professional artist Ursula Stone.

Stephen has not looked back since; he is an art addict!!!

BEND ONE’S STEPS FRIDAY 28TH OCTOBER – WEDNESDAY 2ND NOVEMBER

In their first joint exhibition, textile artists Jude Kingshott and Penny Watts invite you to share their individual love of mixed media textiles.

LOSING THE THREAD THURSDAY 3RD NOVEMBER – WEDNESDAY 9TH NOVEMBER

Focusing on two year’s work by the Wednesday Workshop Group of the Tunbridge Wells Embroiderers’ Guild, the exhibition includes the following colourful projects: small quilts; 3D pieces inspired by Gavin Fry; abstract gardens; take a piece of Thai embroidery; and many more.

CHEQUER MEAD’S CRYSTAL ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION! FRIDAY 11TH NOVEMBER - WEDNESDAY 16TH NOVEMBER

An exhibition to celebrate the first 15 years of the area’s leading community Theatre and Arts Centre! With contributions from all the diverse groups that call Chequer Mead home!

SHEDART FRIDAY 18TH NOVEMBER – WEDNESDAY 30TH NOVEMBER

ShedArt works in a wide variety of media. Our exhibition presents painting, prints, drawings and textile art that is eclectic, contemporary and vital.

HEROES AND VILLAINS FRIDAY 9TH DECEMBER – WEDNESDAY 14TH DECEMBER

Heroes and Villains is a study in portraiture of some of the most influential political poets in America’s urban rap culture. It consists of 12 paintings, oil on canvas, and sees Joe Caprani return to classical realism.

Chequer Mead acts as an agent for all events

OTHER INFORMATION OPENING HOURS Monday – Saturday: 9.00am – 6.00pm. Box Office is also open until the interval on performance evenings. Check the website for Sunday openings.

EMAIL US ON info@chequermead.org.uk!

Please email us with the name, date and time of performance(s), number of tickets required and, if you wish, a seating preference – also include your daytime phone number.

One of our staff will call you to finalise arrangements.

METHODS OF PAYMENT Cheques are no longer accepted as payment for tickets

By Telephone: We accept most credit and debit cards – please note that we charge a £1.50 Booking Fee per transaction. Please inform the Box Office at time of booking if you wish to have your tickets posted, for which there is an additional charge of 50p, otherwise we are happy to keep your tickets at the Box Office to be collected at your convenience.

In Person: There is no booking fee for cash and debit card payments made in person at the Box Office. Once purchased, regrettably tickets cannot be exchanged nor can money be refunded in any circumstances other than an event being cancelled. In event of a sell out we will attempt to resell your tickets, but we cannot guarantee a resale.

SOLT THEATRE VOUCHERS SOLT Theatre Vouchers are accepted and can also be purchased at our Box Office.

Theatre tokens can now be used when making telephone bookings as well as in person.

DISABLED PATRONS Guide and assistance dogs are welcome throughout the Centre. There are three disabled parking bays available in the Centre car park and also a disabled bathroom available.

Chequer Mead operates a Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan Procedure (PEEP) for its disabled patrons – please speak to a member of staff for more information’.

WHEELCHAIR PATRONS We ask that wheelchair patrons book in advance so that we can help you during your visit.

Please discuss your needs with Box Office staff when making your booking, especially if you are using a large wheelchair. We are pleased to offer concessionary priced tickets to wheelchairs users where available and complimentary tickets to carers whose presence is essential. There is level access to the front and throughout the building.

Regretfully there is no access to the first floor seats in the circle.

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box office: 01342 302000 www.chequermead.org.uk HEARING IMPAIRED PATRONS The auditorium has an infrared induction loop system.

Headsets are available at the Box Office free of charge.

VISUALLY IMPAIRED PATRONS A large print of events listings is available on request. Please telephone the Marketing Department 01342 325577.

AUDIENCE LATECOMERS At the discretion of the Duty Manager, patrons arriving late may be held back, or seated in the most easily accessible seat if appropriate, until a suitable break in the performance.

PERFORMANCE CONTENT Whilst we attempt at all times to safeguard customer’s interests, Chequer Mead can accept no responsibility for the content and pricing of events. Chequer Mead will give guidance where possible on extreme content.

BULLFROG

c i s u M

For all your Musical Needs from Rock to the Classics

15 – 17 Ship Street East Grinstead West Sussex Tel: 01342 315602

www.bullfrogmusic.co.uk Chequer Mead acts as an agent for all events

REGULAR HIRERS ARGENTINE TANGO Starts Monday 5th September, 7.30-8.30pm in the meeting room. Join us for authentic Argentine Tango. Learn the elegant moves of Tango in this Beginners class. Limited places.

Singles and couples welcome. Please call regarding the start of an intermediate class.

For more information and to book a place: Vanessa King 07973 113793 or email vanessa.king@btconnect.com

BEGINNERS PILATES CLASSES Every Thursday (term-time) 11.00am – 12 noon. Pilates offers strengthening of the back and abdominals, It improves posture, flexibility, balance and helps reduce stress.

Contact Marion Watson on 01342 322644

BELLY DANCING The fun way to keep fit – great for all ages and sizes.

Classes every Monday. Beginners 7-8pm; Level 2 8-9pm.

Contact Lea Smith on 01342 850423

BULLFROG PRODUCTIONS YOUTH GROUP Bullfrog Productions Youth Group is a performance specific group for 6 – 20 year olds, producing musicals throughout the year at Chequer Mead.

Optional dance and singing classes on Saturdays.

Contact 01342 322411 or download application form www.bullfrogproductions.co.uk

BULLFROG FROGGIES Bullfrog also run ballet and tap classes for 3 to 7 year olds on a Saturday morning from 10am to 12pm. They will be performing in our next production “The Rhythm Of Life” and have many opportunities to join our main productions during the year.

Contact 01342 322411 or download application form www.bullfrogproductions.co.uk

CHEQUER MEAD YOUTH THEATRE The Chequer Mead Youth Theatre is an exciting youth theatre company, based at the Chequer Mead Arts Centre, dedicated to giving young people the opportunity to experience all aspects of contemporary theatre arts.

Classes on Wednesdays:

Juniors aged 7 – 11 years: 4.00pm – 5.00pm Inters aged 11 – 14 years: 5.00pm – 6.00pm Seniors aged 14 – 18 years: 6.00pm – 7.30pm

Contact Pete Allen 07786 803660 or Sue Palmer-Jones 07725 022132 or email: enquiries@wgarts.co.uk For further info visit www.wgarts.co.uk

CHOIRPOWER “Choirpower” sings for serious fun. Repertoire ranges from musicals to pop – classical to jazz. New members are always welcome. Rehearsals are on Thursdays at 8.00pm.

For further information 07767 832049 or email: leighwheatley@btinternet.com

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box office: 01342 302000 www.chequermead.org.uk COMPANY OF FRIENDS Producing major shows, pantomimes, plays and Music Halls, COF welcomes anyone to their regular open auditions.

For information on future productions: www.theatrefriends.com or 01342 529115.

EAST GRINSTEAD DECORATIVE AND FINE ARTS SOCIETY A wide variety of lectures held in the theatre each month at Chequer Mead.

For further information on these and on becoming a member, contact 01342 832589

EAST GRINSTEAD STAMP CLUB Regular meets with a varied programme of speakers. Visitors are always welcome.

For further details call Mr. Malcolm Green 01342 327554

HATHA YOGA AND RELAXATION CLASS Every Tuesday 7.45-9.15pm. All levels are welcome including beginners.

Wear comfortable layered clothing, with socks.

Feel free to call Tracey on 07885 285294 with any questions.

KAMON MARTIAL ARTS FEDERATION Wing Chun Kung Fu is on offer on a Thursday evening between 7.30pm & 9pm.

For further details Tel: 020 8123 5768 or visit www.KamonWingChun.com

LIFE DRAWING SESSIONS Mondays: 11am – 1pm in the Studio during term time only. No pre-booking required – why not just drop in? Models may be clothed or unclothed. Bring your own art materials.

Admission £10.00 per session.

For further details Tel: Box Office 01342 302000

Sustainable and stylish clothes, hats & memorabilia VINTAGE EVENING WEAR HIRE 2 OLD STONE LINK • SHIP STREET • EAST GRINSTEAD • RH19 4EF (parking at Waitrose or Iceland car parks 2 mins walk)

e: fiona@friendandco.com t: 01342 410496 w: www.wearitagainsam.co.uk

Open 9.30 -5pm Monday to Saturday. Late night shopping Tuesday

Chequer Mead acts as an agent for all events

REGULAR HIRERS CONTINUED MEDITATION CLASSES Mondays 7:30-9pm (drop-in) Meditation is medicine for the mind.

Becoming more peaceful and positive brings great benefits and enables us to transform our life by changing our mind. All welcome! Fees: £5 per class.

For further details Tel: 01273 732917 or www.meditateinbrighton.com/eastgrinstead

NARCOTICS ANONYMOUS If you feel you have a drug problem, we meet regularly on Thursday evenings at 7.30pm.

Contact Keith on 07939 559359

RSK KARATE Classes every Wednesday from 6.30pm to 8.00pm.

Contact Rhys Williams Tel: 01444 241625 or 07812 834112

SLIMMING WORLD Slimming Club every Wednesday 7.00pm – 8.30pm 52 weeks a year.

For further information please phone Brigitte Lipiatt on 07772 147369

TAICHI QI GONG Classes every Tuesday (from 13th September term time) 6.30pm - 7.30pm. A relaxing but energising work out suitable for any age and any level of fitness. Qi Gong helps to reduce stress and anxiety, increase your health and fitness levels, balance and concentration.

Contact Dawn Bradley on 01342 302099 or email dawn@energise-me.co.uk

TAPPIN’ TIME Fun Adult tap dancing classes. Mondays in the Studio. 7.30pm – 8.30pm For more info call 07825 568337

TATTY BUMPKIN Yoga for children aged 2-6 with stories, fun, music & movement.

Wednesdays 10.00am – 10.45am.

For more information call: 0845 680 5157 or email classes@midsussex.tattybumpkin.com

WEIGHT WATCHERS Meetings every Thursday 6pm – 7.30pm For more information: please contact Sally Davison 01342 718603

THE ZUMBA Tuesdays 7.00pm – 8.00pm. Classes are suitable for everyone, any ability.

The Zumba® class fuses hypnotic Latin rhythms and easy-to-follow moves to create a one-of-a-kind fitness program that will blow you away. We want you to want to work out, to love working out, to get hooked.

For more info: email Vhayeszumba@googlemail.com or call 07974 105554. www.vickyhayesworkouts.co.uk

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box office: 01342 302000 www.chequermead.org.uk

CHEQUER MEAD

Fancy Dress& STAGE COSTUME

H I R E Be the best dressed at the party!

With an amazing array of period and fancy dress costumes for every occasion.

Pop into Chequer Mead any Saturday morning between 10am – 1pm For more information call Sandie 01342 325134 or Barbara 01342 322944

Chequer Mead acts as an agent for all events

WHAT’S ON AT A GLANCE! OCTOBER Acoustic Sussex : Iain Morrison Band ELO Experience Lee Hurst ConChord Big Band Charity Concert The Hawthorns Guitar Ensemble Rotary Youth Speaks Habeas Corpus by Alan Bennett

Hairdressing Around Europe

Saturday 1st October at 8.00pm Wednesday 5th October at 7.30pm Thursday 13th October at 7.30pm Friday 14 October at 8.00pm Tuesday 18th October 1.30pm – 2.30pm Wednesday 19th October at 7.00pm Friday 21st October 7.30pm Saturday 22nd October 2.30pm and 7.30pm Saturday 22nd October 10.00am – 2.00pm Monday 24th October at 8.00pm Tuesday 25th October Thursday 27th October at 7.30pm. Friday 28th and Saturday 29th October at 2.30pm and 7.30pm Monday 31st October at 7.30pm

NOVEMBER Vienna Festival Ballet: The Nutcracker Dancing Queen The Fabulous Shadows Golden Greats Tour Acoustic Sussex presents Kate Walsh Fortitude academy: Taekwon-do extravaganza Outloud Productions : Passing Strangers Marks and Kennard: A Couple of Jobsworths A. M. Productions : We Three Kings of Rock and Roll Imberhorne School : Oliver!

An Audience with Tony Strudwick, his band and singers The Woolmer Music Group – Piano and Violin Copthorne Players : ‘Allo Allo!

Ariel Drama Showcase – Crawley Academy A Los Endos: Ultimate Genesis Cuisine Studio: Jazz Cafe

Wednesday 2nd November at 5.00pm and 8.00pm Thursday 3rd November at 7.30pm Friday 4th November at 8.00pm Saturday November 5th at 8.00pm Sunday 6th November Monday 7th November at 7.45pm Tuesday 8th November at 7.30pm for 8.00pm Friday 11th November at 7.30pm Thursday 17th – Saturday 19th November at 7.30pm Sunday 20th November at 7.00pm Tuesday 22 November at 1.30pm – 2.30pm Thursday 24th – Saturday 26th November at 7.30pm Monday 28th November at 7.30pm Tuesday 29th November at 7.30pm Wednesday 30th November

Private Collection Clothes Sale The songs of Leonard Cohen Jazz Cafe The Sussex Jazz Kings Act One Beginners presents Footloose the Musical

DECEMBER / JANUARY The Band of the Blues and Royals: A Winter Concert The Jackie Generation 70’s Christmas Special Christmas Craft Fair Meridian Voices Sussex Rock School Crockham Hill School Christmas Show Pirouette Performers : Medleys by Night EG Choral Society: Last Night at the Christmas Proms Celebrate Christmas with Choirpower!

Company of Friends : Snow White Christmas Craft Market LDN Wrestling

Friday 2nd December at 7.30pm Saturday 3rd December at 7.45pm Sunday 4th December - 10am until 4pm.

Tuesday 6th December at 1.30pm – 2.30pm Wednesday 7th December at 7.45pm Thursday 8th December at 7.30pm Friday 9th December at 6.30pm Saturday 10th December at 7.30pm Tues & Weds 13th &14th December 6.30pm Saturday December 17th – Friday December 30th Saturday 17th – Thursday 22nd December Open 11.00am – 6.00pm Wednesday 25th January Doors 7pm, Bell time 7.30pm

Chequer Mead acts as an agent for all events