WHAT’S ON AUTUMN 2017
ARTS | ENTERTAINMENT | CULTURE BOX OFFICE: 01235 515 144 / WWW.CORNERSTONE-ARTS.ORG CORNERSTONE, 25 STATION ROAD, DIDCOT, OX11 7NE
a coffee lounge for food lovers
a wonderful place to meet
Imbalance p.22
WHAT'S ON SEPT 16 – OCT 28
4 – 16
KIDS COURSES & WORKSHOPS
17 – 20
WHAT’S ON OCT 31 – DEC 31
21 – 31
GALLERY
32 – 33
CALENDAR
34 – 35
BOOKING INFORMATION
Did you know that you can hire our new ground-floor room, the study @ nourish, for semi-private meetings and pre-show drinks receptions? The room holds up to 12 for a seated meeting or meal and around 25 people for a standing reception. Contact us at cornerstonehires@southoxon.gov.uk for more information.
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THEATRE DANCE MUSIC/OPERA
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COMEDY
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FAMILY AND CHILDREN
… eat, drink & nourish … Tuesday - saturday 10am–9pm · sunday 11am-4pm Open until later on show nights serving delicious wines and local ales
MUSIC/DANCE
THEATRE
A NIGHT OF DIRTY DANCING: THE ULTIMATE TRIBUTE SHOW
NOCTURNES
imitating the dog presents
Be part of the magic as A Night of Dirty Dancing arrives at Didcot
Nocturnes is a multi-media twist on a 50s spy thriller set during the height of the cold war
No film has captured the hearts of a generation like Dirty Dancing. Relive the passion, the romance and joy of the cult classic and celebrate the music of one of the greatest movie soundtracks of all time.
Two operatives holed up in a Berlin apartment in the Russian Zone await instructions. As time passes their relationship to each other and to the orders they receive from their superiors falls apart. Performed on what appears to be a film soundstage, two actors voice a film they can’t see and never acknowledge. But who is in control? And as the film gathers pace, can the past be changed by present-day actions?
Be part of the glorious summer of ‘63 and experience all your favourite songs such as She’s Like The Wind, Big Girls Don’t Cry, Hey Baby, Wipe-out and Hungry Eyes. And of course, the Oscar winning (I’ve Had) The Time of my Life. So put down that watermelon and get your tickets for A Night of Dirty Dancing: The Ultimate Tribute Show. It’s going to have you dancing dirty in the aisles. *Please note this show is not affiliated with ‘Dirty Dancing: The Classic Story on Stage’ currently on tour in the UK and worldwide.
Sat 16 Sept 7.30pm £19, Conc £17, Members £15.20
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Nocturnes asks important questions about truth and free will and about how we understand what’s real in this post-truth era. Nocturnes has been selected as part of the British Council Showcase 2017. Age guidance 14+. “imitating the dog is not only a company without imitators, it is currently without peer” Alfred Hickling, The Guardian. Thu 21 – Sat 23 Sept 7.30pm £14, Con £12, Members £11.20
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FAMILY
Half Moon presents
LEAF
A playful theatrical experience for the very young inspired by nature and the seasons A leaf is born… It grows and glows in the sunshine and the rain Then the wind blows and it becomes colder The leaf changes colour In the snow, the leaf falls... But when spring comes, a new leaf grows...
COMMUNITY
COMMUNITY
CREATIVE CLUSTER
DIDCOT FILM CLUB
11am, 1pm & 3pm. £7, Conc £5, Members £5.60, Family £20 (4 to incl at least 1 child)
Third Angel and Sheffield Theatres presents
PARTUS
DANCE
SPANISH NIGHT
A space for writers, actors and directors to meet
Showing the films you won’t see in mainstream cinema
Partus is a story of love, joy, resilience and bravery
A memorable night of top Spanish talent in a show rarely seen outside Spain
It’s a monthly opportunity for writers, actors and directors to meet like-minded people with a view to helping each other; whether you’re a script writer who needs to hear a group of people read your new script, an actor struggling with a monologue or generally artistically minded.
Didcot Film Club meets on the last Wednesday evening of the month at Cornerstone.
Lisa had been for a walk in the park Stacey had borrowed her best friend's dress Rachael was ready for a fight Linda was on call And Lucy only just made it
We are delighted to welcome back top Flamenco company Flamenco Express. With dancers La Joaquina and Alejandro Molinero (Madrid), guitarist Chris Clavo and singer Antonio el Pola (Jerez), this company will perform some of the most passionate and powerful Flamenco you will ever see.
There’s no fee; just a place you can drop in and be as involved as you like.
You can join Didcot Film Club really easily at didcotfilmclub.weebly.com for just £5 a year.
The film club shows the sort of films you won’t see in mainstream cinemas including Hollywood classics, foreign language films and British Independent films.
Join us as we tell the life story of a very special leaf in this intimate and playful new piece for under 3s. Sun 24 Sept
THEATRE
If you’ve had a baby, are planning to or know anyone who has, this is the show for you. This is the sex education they never mentioned at school. Age guidance: 15+ Baby-friendly performance on Fri 29 Sept. Babes in Arms Photo credit: JSP Photography
Last Tue of every month
Tue 26 Sept, Tue 31 Oct, Tue 28 Nov
7.30pm in our Nourish coffee shop
Free
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8pm £5
Please note: tickets are for Film Club members only. Each member is entitled to two tickets.
Thu 28 Sept, 7.30pm £12.50, Conc £10.50, Mems £10 Fri 29 Sept, 11am: (relaxed baby-friendly performance) £7, Conc £5
After a year of sold out nights in Cornerstone’s cafe bar, we are moving to the auditorium. We think everyone is going to love the show in its new home! Entrance is by ticket only. The auditorium will be set up cabaret style, with tables and chairs of various sizes, plus some chair only seating. We recommend buying your tickets as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
Sat 30 Sept 7.30pm £14.99. Ticket price includes a selection of complimentary Spanish bar snacks on each table
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GENRE FAMIL Y/DANCE
OWL AND THE PUSSYCAT
FAMILY/THEATRE
COMEDY
MUSIC
Ockham’s Razor produced by Turtle Key Arts presents
THE THINKING DRINKERS: HISTORY OF ALCOHOL
OPEN MIC NIGHT
TIPPING POINT
This gorgeous new ballet for family audiences takes a humorous look at the famous Lear poem
Ockham's Razor return with their new awardwinning show
An intoxicating journey through our drinkdrenched past
Join us for your monthly fix of musical talent at Cornerstone’s fabulous open mic night
Specially designed for children aged 2-11 years, including those with special needs, this magical production combines fantastic dancing, stunning visuals and much loved music.
Tipping Point is set in the round; the audience drawn in close, as the action veers from catastrophe to mastery. The five performers, enclosed within the circle of the stage, transform simple 5 metre metal poles into a rich landscape of images.
Enjoy five free drinks as these award-winning professional drink experts definitively prove that alcohol has influenced everything that has ever happened. Ever. Their brand new show is an intoxicating, hilarious time-travelling journey through our drink-drenched past, pouring the entire history of human civilisation into a shot glass. You’ll laugh a lot, you’ll learn a lot and, if that’s not enough, you get five free drinks. The perfect aperitif to any evening.
We have a great array of talent coming here covering many musical genres from gorgeous folk and sea shanties to small indie bands, old school jazz and beautiful singers. We aim to give performers a supportive atmosphere to play in and an opportunity to meet other performers and maybe even form new musical partnerships.
"They danced by the light of the moon, the moon…" Once again, Let’s All Dance combines fantastic dancing, beautiful costumes and crystal clear storytelling to engage and delight young audiences. “I thought it was amazing... It made me feel happy, I want to come again.” Florence, age 4, Guildford Please note this show has a running time of 40 minutes Photo opportunity with dancers after the show
Sun 1 Oct 1pm & 3pm £8, Conc £6, Members £6.40, Family ticket £24 (4 to incl at least 1 child)
Poles are balanced on fingertips, hung from the roof, lashed, climbed, swung from and walked along, they become forests, cross roads and pendulums. The performers balance, climb and cling to this teetering world, supporting each other as they wrestle with the moment when things begin to shift. They must decide whether to rail against the chaos, struggling to exert order on a disordered world, or ride it out, allowing life to tilt towards the tipping point. “playful and poetic - this is a class act.” The Times Thu 5 & Fri 6 Oct 7.30pm £14, Conc £12, Members £11.20, Family £48 (4 to incl at least 1 child)
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As seen on Channel 4 Sunday Brunch, Jamie Oliver’s Drinks Tube and in regular columns in The Guardian, The Daily Telegraph, Metro, The Spectator and… er… Off Licence News. Did we mention the FREE DRINKS?
We’ve had some beautiful moments and seen some lovely partnerships form, so come along and be part of it. For more info contact: cornerstoneopenmic@southoxon.gov.uk
“An intoxicating success… as interesting as it is hilarious” «««« Sunday Express Age guidance: 18+ Sat 7 Oct 8pm £14, Members £11.20
Tue 10 Oct, Tue 7 Nov & Tue 12 Dec 7.30pm in Nourish, our coffee shop Free
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GENRE THEATRE
COMEDY
MUSIC
FAMILY
A brilliant musical adventure for ages 4+
www.goblintheatre.co.uk
MARK THOMAS: Smoking Apples presents
IN OUR HANDS
Innovative puppetry, a striking set and an original score combine in this stunning show Alf is a trawler fisherman whose experience, camaraderie and loyalty have put him and his boat at the top of the game. But times are changing and so is the industry. How will Alf adapt in order to survive? Follow a fish’s journey from sea to plate, watch a seagull’s ridiculous attempt to find food and witness a father and son reunite. In Our Hands will transport you out to sea, under the ocean and onto the deck of the Catcher’s Fortune.
A SHOW THAT GAMBLES ON THE FUTURE Join us for a night of comedy with Mark Thomas Few predicted the events of 2016. And even fewer seem to know where we are going. Mark Thomas sets out to discover what the future has in store for us by collecting and examining his own predictions and those of his audiences before gambling on their outcome. By making futurologists of us all, he will create a fantastical, hilarious and possibly accurate vision of the world. And maybe even make a few quid on the side. Age guidance: 16+
Using innovative puppetry, a striking set and an original score, join Alf as he journeys from the depths of despair to rise again and rescue the life he loves.
BBC Radio 2 Folk Award for Best Duo – 2016 & 2013 Kathryn Roberts and Sean Lakeman have long established themselves as one of the UK folk scene’s most rewardingly enduring partnerships. Twice recent winners of the BBC Radio 2 Folk Award for Best Duo – 2016 & 2013 – the couple’s intimacy and strength of passion on stage have won them many fans and an enviable reputation as ‘Songwriters par excellence’- (fRoots), whose greatly varied original songs cover such subjects as wicked mermaids, Norwegian legends, and a lonely whale. Building upward from their last two highly praised albums ‘Hidden People’ &‘Tomorrow Will Follow Today’, fans of acoustic music can only wonder where this leading couple will choose to turn next.
“Clever and inventive” «««« British Theatre Guide
Wed 11 Oct 7.30pm £12.50, Conc £10.50, Members £10
KATHRYN ROBERTS & SEAN LAKEMAN
“An absolute masterclass in how to do it right.” Festivalsforall.com Thu 12 Oct 8pm £16, Conc £13, Members £12.80
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Fri 13 Oct 8pm £15, Members £12
GOBLIN’S PETER AND THE WOLF Peter and Grandad have gone camping for the weekend. Grandad says stick to the campsite but Peter has other ideas… Join Peter on a hilarious adventure through the fields and forest as he discovers new sounds and noises. Featuring animal antics of singing birds, waddling ducks, sneaky cats, and a rocking wolf. With new music lovingly inspired by Prokofiev’s classic, this is Peter and the Wolf as you’ve never seen it before. Goblin’s Peter and the Wolf is a brand new show with amazing music created live with a variety of instruments and objects, including real musical vegetables. Combined with imaginative puppetry, physical comedy and fun interaction, the show will have children ages 4+ jumping for joy. The show is an ideal and imaginative introduction to making music, and has a positive message about being kind to the world. Sun 15 Oct 2pm £8, Conc £6, Members £6.40, Family £24 (4 to incl at least 1 child)
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GENRE COMEDY
GRIFF RHYS JONES: WHERE WAS I? 90 minutes of comedy exploration The star of Not the Nine o'clock News, Smith & Jones and Three Men In A Boat is airing stories, anecdotes, reminiscences and outright lies – from forty years of travelling - down rivers and up mountains, into Africa, out of India, and across the arid wastes of the BBC canteen. It's a career, if you mean bouncing chaotically downhill without a map. This is a preview show “Great Comedy” «««« The Telegraph
COMMUNITY
COMEDY/THEATRE
THEATRE
CAFÉ SCIENTIFIQUE
AUSTENTATIOUS: AN IMPROVISED JANE AUSTEN NOVEL
Actors of Dionysus presents
ANTIGONE
Café Scientifque is a relaxed forum for debating science issues
Austentatious are saddling the horses and galloping into Didcot
A blistering new adaptation sees Sophocles’ tragedy reimagined in a dystopian landscape
As one of the most important areas in the UK for scientific research, there is a wealth of talent that can be drawn on to bring you the latest in scientific thinking.
Austentatious is an improvised comedy play starring a cast of the country’s quickest comic performers. Every single show the cast conjure up a brand new ‘lost’ Jane Austen novel based on nothing more than a title suggested by the audience.
A brother condemned to walk forever in the shadow of death.
Austentatious are fresh from six sellout runs at the Edinburgh Fringe, a monthly residency in London’s Leicester Square and a BBC Radio 4 special to mark the bicentenary of Austen’s death.
In a future where fate is written in code and where drones flock across the skies, Antigone is brought to life by innovative theatre company Actors of Dionysus in a production combining bold ideas with passionate and visceral physical theatre.
Meetings take place in our Nourish coffee shop and start with a 20-minute talk, followed by a break to replenish your drinks at the bar and then a discussion with audience members. Run by Didcot First, this engaging evening is always extremely popular and full of lively debate. Keep up to date with the latest news and topics taking place: www.didcotfirst.org.uk/news-cafe_scientifique.html
Previous ‘lost’ masterpieces have included Sixth Sense & Sensibility, Double 0 Darcy and Mansfield Shark, and no two shows are ever the same. Performed in period costume with live musical accompaniment, this is a Regency treat guaranteed to delight Austen novices and die-hard fans alike.
A family teetering on the brink of catastrophe. A world where one girl dares to take a stand.
“Let nothing stop you from seeing them” The Times Age Guidance: 14+
Age Guidance: 12+ Tue 17 Oct 8pm £15
Tue 19 Sep, Tue 24 Oct & Tue 21 Nov 7.30pm in Nourish, our coffee shop Free
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Thu 19 Oct 8pm £14, Conc £12
Fri 20 Oct 7.30pm £14, Conc £12, Members £11.20
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GENRE COMEDY
ELLIE TAYLOR: THIS GUY
FAMILY
FAMILY
Compagnie Animotion presents
Story Pocket Theatre presents
MUSICIANS OF BREMEN
Comedian Ellie Taylor’s new and unmissable show
A stunning family tale that shows we can be friends despite our differences
Following a sell-out Edinburgh Festival season and 2016 tour, the star of BBC's Live at the Apollo, Mock the Week and The John Bishop Show, Channel 4's 8 Out of 10 Cats, and BBC Radio 4's The Now Show presents an unmissable new stand-up show discussing whether or not she should breed.
This visually stunning adaptation from French company, Compagnie Animotion, for 3 to 7 years and family audiences, tells the tale of 4 animals put to pasture; a donkey, a cat, a cockerel and a dog.
“Radiates charisma... blessed with great flair” Guardian “She doesn't miss a beat” List
Too old to be of any use to their masters, this tumbling, musical adventure explores these extraordinary friendships, shows that despite our differences, we can be friends, and that we are never too old to live our dreams. With puppetry, movement and trapeze, all accompanied by live music, this show builds on their reputation of high quality, non-verbal work for young audiences.
MICHAEL MORPURGO’S KING ARTHUR An epic adventure of love, chivalry and magic A thrilling tale of magic, heroism, love and betrayal adapted from the novel Arthur: High King of Britain, by Michael Morpurgo, the author of War Horse and Private Peaceful.
A drowning boy is rescued by a mysterious figure who claims to be Arthur Pendragon. As the old man tells his stories, he is transported back to the heady days of Camelot, the Round Table, Merlin, Excalibur, Lancelot and Guinevere. Join award-winning Story Pocket Theatre as they tell exciting stories of brave chivalry, battles and the search for the Holy Grail in a fast-moving family adventure packed with physical theatre and outstanding storytelling. Age Guidance: 7 yrs +
Sat 21 Oct 8pm £13, Conc £11
Sun 22 Oct 2pm £8.50, Conc £6.50, Members £6.80, Family £26 (4 to incl at least 1 child)
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Mon 23 Oct 2pm £10.50, Conc £8.50, Members £8.40, Family £34 (to incl at least 1 child)
MUSIC
SWING TIME The unique “Swing Time” band show, as featured at London’s Leicester Square Theatre Swing-along with songs from Glenn Miller, Sinatra, Basie, Ella Fitzgerald, Jazz & Blues. “Superb - they swing like crazy!” says Sheila Tracy, BBC. As seen on BBC TV’s "Children in Need", Dame Vera Lynn’s Charity Ball & Blackpool Tower Ballroom. “Swing and Song of the highest order” Telegraph. Featuring Simone from the Ivy Benson Orchestra, and Chris Smith (Jnr) composer and arranger for the BBC Radio Big Band, Herb Miller Big Band (Glenn’s brother), plus Tony Bennett’s trombonist!
Thur 26 Oct 7.30pm £15, Conc £13.50, Members £12
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GENRE MUSIC
FAMILY/THEATRE
LEGEND - THE MUSIC OF BOB MARLEY
SHERLOCK HOLMES AND THE CRIMSON COBBLES
Reggae for the world When you think Reggae, there is only one name that comes to your mind. The legend that was Bob Marley. Legend, the music of Bob Marley is an unforgettable evening celebrating this musical icon in one fantastic stage show extravaganza. Combining his superb, distinctive vocals with flawless musicianship, and a supremely talented cast. Together they recreate the timeless hits Could You Be Loved, Is This Love, One Love, No Woman No Cry, Three Little Birds, Jammin’, Buffalo Soldier, Get Up Stand Up, I Shot the Sheriff and many more reggae classics. This two-hour rasta spectacular will leave audiences on a natural high. Legend – The Music of Bob Marley captures the charisma and culture of an icon gone too soon. Fri 27 Oct 8pm £19.50, Conc £17.50, Members £15.60
cLASSES FOR cHiLdREn & YOUnG PEOPLE
Chipping Norton Theatre presents a brand new riotous comedy featuring the greatest detective in history. Join us for the world premiere of a brand new Sherlock Holmes caper delivered at breakneck pace in a hilarious, deeply daft theatrical explosion for adults and family audiences. It’s Victorian London, and Holmes and Watson are called upon to investigate the Whitechapel murders. But when the evidence points to only one possible conclusion about the identity of Jack the Ripper, is our super sleuth prepared to believe the unbelievable? Aided by Inspector Lestrade, Mrs Hudson and the entire population of London, this witty, laugh-a-minute pastiche of Conan Doyle’s investigative pair is a fast paced, physical and raucous night at the theatre. Age Guidance: 12+ Sat 28 Oct 7.30pm £15, Conc £13.50, Members £12
Courses available during term time (10 x weeks) and half-term Autumn Term · From 18 September – 2 December Half Term · Monday 23 – Friday 27 October
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YOUTH THEATRE
Exploring theatre techniques and skills to help children and young people of all abilities to develop their creative, personal and social skills. Tuesdays
Thursdays
4–5pm, ages 5–7yrs 5.15–6.15pm, ages 8–11yrs
5.15–6.45pm, ages 12–15yrs 7–8.30pm, ages 16–21yrs
£55
£75
dAncE
Our dance sessions are extremely popular, offering participants a range of classes to learn a variety of techniques and skills.
cOnTEMPORARY dAncE
WEST End dAncE
A creative and energetic introduction to contemporary dance. Children will learn the basics of the technique through creative sequences and develop their own movement/choreography.
Learning new choreography, participants of all abilities will use street dance, jazz and musical theatre techniques to develop their dance skills and performance techniques.
Wednesdays 5–6pm, ages 8–11yrs £55
Fridays 4.45–5.45pm ages 10–18yrs £55
STREET dAncE
BALLET
Participants learn street dance routines to the latest tunes in these energetic classes. A great way to develop co-ordination, rhythm and build confidence.
A range of ballet classes which encourage children to learn a variety of ballet steps that develop dance skills and increase confidence.
Saturdays 10–10.45am, ages 8–11yrs, £45 11am–12pm, ages 12–15yrs, £55 12.15–1.15pm, ages 15–18yrs, £55
Wednesdays 4–4.45pm, ages 5–7yrs Thursdays 1.15–1.45pm, ages 3–4yrs 2–2.45pm, parent and toddler Fridays 4–4.45pm, ages 8–11yrs £45
OcTOBER HALF-TERM
cREATivE MOvEMEnT – FAMiLY WORkSHOP
cAMERA, ‘LinES’, AcTiOn…
Come and have fun moving and playing with your child in a creative workshop for parents and their children. The theme of the workshop will be focusing on and taking ideas from Autumn and Bonfire night.
Take a line for a walk though art, digital media, film, music and animation in this one-day, fun hands-on interactive session. Create a mash-up of digital art, words, photos, music and animation with professional filmmakers and musicians.
Tuesday 24 October
No experience necessary just a sense of fun, imagination and play.
10.30–11.30am Ages 4–7yrs with their grown-ups £8 (1 adult & 1 child) Extra children/adult £2 each
Wednesday 25 October 10.30am–4.30pm
THEATRE
MUSIC / THEATRE
NOT ABOUT HEROES
NO PETTICOATS HERE
Flying Bridge Theatre Company and Seabright Productions present the Theatr Clwyd production
Remembering First World War women through song
Stephen Macdonald’s Fringe First winning play about the unique friendship between celebrated World War One poets Wilfred Owen and Siegfried Sassoon. They met at Craiglockhart Hospital in 1917, and bonded over a mutual hatred of war and love of poetry.
Award winning singer, songwriter and musician Louise Jordan tells the stories of women who challenged expectations. From the woman who dressed as a soldier on the Western Front to the women football players banned by the FA, the ambulance drivers running the gauntlet of enemy fire in Flanders and the so-called ‘surplus million’ single women.
This production won a Best Actor accolade at the Wales Theatre Awards for Daniel Llewelyn Williams, who reprises his role here as Sassoon. The show is on the first part of a world tour commemorating the centenary of both the meeting depicted in the play, and of the Armistice. “Recreates the Great War as tangibly as if the theatre had filled with the smoke and stench of the battlefield. Compelling and superbly performed.” British Theatre Guide Tue 31 Oct 7.30pm £14, Conc £12, Members £11.20
Inspirational women, working in a time of conflict, leaving a legacy. “This is a gutsy and meticulously researched project… an arresting album and an important historical document.” Songlines, January 2017 “Compellingly sung, with expert, often classicallyinflected arrangements.” fRoots, December 2016 Wed 1 Nov 7.30pm £12, Conc £10, Members £10
Ages 7–14yrs £35 CORNERSTONE IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY SOUTH OXFORDSHIRE DISTRICT COUNCIL • 21
GENRE DANCE
COMEDY/MAGIC
Joli Vyann produced by Turtle Key Arts presents
ALI COOK: PRINCIPLES OF DECEPTION
IMBALANCE
A dance, circus & acrobatic fusion exploring our chaotic, digitally-obsessed lives
A masterclass in awe-inspiring magic
Combining exciting acrobatic skills and athletic dance, this energetic, thought-provoking performance explores our obsessive dependence with technology, asking whether our lives are ‘in’ or ‘out’ of balance?
Ali Cook, the star of West End magic marvels and big screen spectacles, brings his critically acclaimed Principles of Deception to Cornerstone featuring his own brand of awe-inspiring magic and off-beat comedy.
It’s rare nowadays not to ‘log in’ at every opportunitythe breakfast table, nights out with friends, even in bed! How well connected are you? When and how do we separate ourselves from the virtual chaos surrounding us?
Taking its name from Arthur Buckley’s seminal magic compendium Principles and Deceptions – the first book to categorize every magic trick – the show demonstrates Ali Cook’s skill as a historian of deception.
“Joli Vyann pushes aside the boundaries between acrobatics and dance with a graceful and elegant show” Lyn Gardner- The Guardian
In a masterclass of technique across a range of magic disciplines, including close up magic, mind reading, deception, sleight of hand, and escapology, expect an evening of magical invention and re-invention. Age guidance: 8+
Thu 2 Nov 7.30pm £14, Conc £12, Members £11.20
Fri 3 Nov 8pm £13, Conc £11, Members £10.40
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COMEDY/THEATRE
THEATRE
Milk presents
THE STRANGE CASE OF DR JEKYLL AND MR HYDE
JOAN
A fearless solo show, with uproarious songs, exploring what it means to stand out, stand up and stand alone What happens when a disguise soon becomes something a lot more real and you have to fight for who you really are? An earthy story of courage, conviction and hope, JOAN is a refreshing look at Joan of Arc – history’s greatest underdog. The latest daring fusion of lyrical new writing and anarchic cabaret from the multi-award winning Milk Presents and performed by drag king champion Lucy Jane Parkinson, Joan takes the stage as a gutsy gender warrior, dragging up as the men she’s defies.
A thrilling adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson’s dark psychological fantasy Doctor Henry Jekyll is a good man. Successful within his field and respected by his peers, he’s close to a neurological discovery that will change the face of medical science forever. However, his methods are less than ethical, and when a close friend and colleague threatens to expose and destroy his work, Jekyll is forced to experiment on himself, whereupon something goes very wrong…or very right. And suddenly Jekyll has a new friend, the brutal Edward Hyde.
Age guidance: 12+
The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll And Mr Hyde immerses you in the myth and mystery of 19th century London’s fog-bound streets where love, betrayal and murder lurk at every chilling twist and turn.
This tour is presented by housetheatre.org.uk
Produced by Blackeyed Theatre.
“Defiantly delightful” ««««The Stage
Age guidance: 11+
Sat 4 Nov 7.30pm £12.50, Conc £10.50, Members £10
Wed 8 Nov 7.30pm £15, Conc £13, Members £12, Schools £8.50
CORNERSTONE IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY SOUTH OXFORDSHIRE DISTRICT COUNCIL • 23
MUSIC
COMMUNITY
BACA AWARDS A celebration of local businesses and community groups
JON BODEN – THE AFTERGLOW TOUR Former lead singer of Bellowhead showcases material from his new album In November 2017 Jon Boden, former lead-singer of Bellowhead, will head out on his “Afterglow” Album Launch Tour, marking the release of his third solo album - his first new release since leaving Bellowhead in May 2016. In the solo leg of the tour audiences can enjoy a close-up, intimate performance with Jon showcasing his infectious new material in a stripped-down, high-octane, very personal show. Using fiddle, guitar, concertina and his trade mark stomp box Boden also draws on material from throughout his fifteen year career including hits from Bellowhead and selections from his www.afolksongaday.com project.
Thu 9 Nov 7.30pm £20, Conc £16
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Didcot’s Annual Business and Community Awards return to Cornerstone for their 9th year. Celebrating excellence and innovation within Didcot and the surrounding villages and business parks. Nominations are open and can be made via the Didcot First website: didcotfirst.org.uk and at Cornerstone and Soha offices. The gala is attended by shortlisted nominees and local dignitaries such as the Town Mayor. The evening is interspersed with entertainment from local acts and is proceeded by a reception in Nourish, Cornerstone’s coffee shop.
Fri 10 Nov 7.30pm Invite only
MUSIC
DANCE
ST GILES ORCHESTRA
DIDCOT GIRLS SCHOOL DANCE SHOW
An evening of music inspired by dance The popular Oxford-based St Giles Orchestra returns with a programme of music inspired by the theme of 'Dance'. Featuring well-known works by composers from different countries, the concert will include Slavonic dances by Dvorak, Hungarian dances by Brahms, as well as items with links to Spain, Norway and England. It promises to be another tuneful and enjoyable evening. Guest conductor: Gabriele Damiani Leader: Emily Ormerod
Sat 11 Nov 7.30pm £11, Conc £9, Under 16s £6
A showcase of dance from the talented students at Didcot Girls School Didcot Girls School’s Dance Department goes to from strength to strength. Each year the calibre of the dancing and the choreography gets higher and higher and their annual Dance Show is a celebration of the talent and dedication of these young dancers. This year’s show will consist of class work from their GCSE and A level classes and their choreographed pieces.
Tue 14, Wed 15 & Thu 16 Nov 7.30pm £6
CORNERSTONE IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY SOUTH OXFORDSHIRE DISTRICT COUNCIL • 25
GENRE COMEDY
MATT RICHARDSON / SLASH
COMMUNITY
LIGHT FESTIVAL
Matt Richardson returns to his home turf, Didcot
A magical fusion of art, light and culture
A lot has happened to Matt Richardson since his last tour in 2013. A lot of it is quite strange. Most comedians hope to win accolades and make people laugh, very few end up with Heat Magazine’s Weird Crush trophy.
Join us for a light and lantern parade through the streets of Didcot on November 18 accompanied by the amazing Noise Orchestra.
From interviewing millionaire dogs in LA, ghost hunting with Craig Revel Horwood and having his phone nicked by Kate Moss - it’s been an odd, but fun, few years. Now Matt can finally tell people about it, as well as talking about everything else on his mind. ‘High Wattage Charisma’ (Guardian) from the ‘hilarious and charming’ (The Mirror) host of Virgin Radio's Drive-time show, The Xtra Factor and Celebrity Haunted Hotel Live!
Fri 17 Nov 8pm £12
Children, young people and adults from the local community, schools and community groups will come together for this magical night of culture, light and art. The lanterns will be built in a series of workshops in the weeks leading up to the parade, where all those taking part will learn about lantern making and build their very own lanterns. The parade will culminate in the Cornerstone auditorium and lanterns will be displayed in our gallery. (See page 33)
If you are a community group that would like to participate please email cornerstone@southoxon.gov.uk.
Sat 18 Nov FREE
26 • BOX OFFICE: 01235 515144 | CORNERSTONE-ARTS.ORG
FAMILY
COMEDY
THE BUILDY-UPPY DANCE SHOW
FESTIVAL OF THE SPOKEN NERD: YOU CAN’T POLISH A NERD
Let your imagination run riot as hundreds of cardboard boxes are stacked, squashed and rebuilt Help create enticing caves, precarious castles and fabulous creatures as together we experience an incredible story. A story where we learn the strongest thing we can build is friendship. The Buildy-Uppy Dance Show is the sequel to Tom Roden and Anna Williams’ The Doodle Dance Show. It’s an interactive building and dancing, theatrical adventure for all the family; a magical, ever-changing playground constructed and inhabited by its audience. From the team that created The Doodle Dance Show, an innovative hour of building, music and dancing - a space for children to be children (and for grown-ups to be children too). Age guidance: 4+ Sun 19 Nov 2pm £8.50, Conc £6.50, Members £6.80, Family £26 (4 to incl at least 1 child)
The Nerds are back with a brand new UK tour Since their last tour, experiments guy Steve Mould, geek songstress Helen Arney and stand-up mathematician Matt Parker have featured on BBC2’s QI, created a genuinely “experimental” comedy show for BBC Radio 4 and played the Hammersmith Apollo with Professor Brian Cox. Together they’ll be buffing up a veritable Periodic Table of new songs, science and spreadsheets that will tickle your ribs and light your Bunsen burner. Full Frontal Nerdity guaranteed! “Charm and perky curiosity is in its DNA” Guardian “Great, funny, clever… even the heckles at this terrific show are smart” ««««The Scotsman
Thu 23 Nov 7.30pm £17.50, Conc £14
CORNERSTONE IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY SOUTH OXFORDSHIRE DISTRICT COUNCIL • 27
GENRE THEATRE
Zest Theatre & Half Moon presents
WHAT ONCE WAS OURS
FAMILY
COMEDY
LEAF BY NIGGLE
STEPHEN K AMOS – BREAD AND CIRCUSES
An immersive new show about identity and belonging
An enchanting family show based on the book by J.R.R Tolkien
Brexit. Trump. No more Mary Berry on the Great British Bake Off. Things are looking bleak, so wouldn’t it be better to just forget all about it?
Katie and Callum couldn’t be any more distant and disconnected: different heritage, different cities, different opportunities. Except there is one thing they’ll always have in common: Dad.
Niggle is a painter. Not a very successful one, partly because he has so many other things to do. For some time he has been obsessed with one particular canvas – a curious picture of a tree with a vast landscape stretching out behind it. The painting keeps getting bigger and bigger, but Niggle has a journey to make. He doesn’t want to go, but he cannot get out of it…
Leave your problems behind for the evening in the company of the ‘effusively charming’ Stephen K Amos and who knows, maybe the world will seem just a little bit brighter?
What happens when Callum suddenly turns up in desperate need of help? Created against the background of Brexit, What Once Was Ours has been developed in consultation with young people across the country and uses their direct words and opinions to explore how politics and national values impact on the complex lives of one family. Beautiful imagery, striking original music and immersive design combine to create this powerful new production for young people, which asks why we’ve become so fearful of anyone who is different from us. Fri 24 Nov 7.30pm £10, Conc £8, Members £8
In 1939 Tolkien was despairing of ever bringing his great work The Lord of the Rings to a conclusion. One morning he woke up with Leaf by Niggle complete in his mind and wrote it down. Surrounded by ladders, bicycles and heirlooms, Richard Medrington (Jean from The Man Who Planted Trees) recounts Tolkien’s miniature masterpiece, with soundtrack by Karine Polwart and MJ McCarthy.
After all, when Ancient Rome needed to distract itself from politics, a few solutions were suggested, but none hit the spot quite like the simple idea of giving the people cheap food and plentiful entertainment – ‘panem et circenses’ or ‘bread and circuses’. Our circuses might no longer involve gladiator fights to the death, but the same principle applies. Modern politics is a confusing mess, so no one can blame you for giving it a miss in favour of a night of laughs. “A note perfect hour” «««««Metro Age guidance: 16+
This tour is presented by housetheatre.org.uk Sat 25 Nov 2pm £8.50, Conc £6.50, Members £6.80, Family £268
28 • BOX OFFICE: 01235 515144 | CORNERSTONE-ARTS.ORG
Sat 25 Nov 8pm £17.50
CORNERSTONE IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY SOUTH OXFORDSHIRE DISTRICT COUNCIL • 29
Cornerstone in association with Goblin proudly present
by E.T.A. Hoffmann In a new musical version developed by Andrew Barry, Matt Borgatti, Will Dollard and Mary Erskine
Book by Matt Borgatti Music and lyrics by Will Dollard and Mary Erskine Directed by Andrew Barry
Join us for a magical Christmas story about the power of imagination
Fri 22 Dec
2pm & 7pm
Sat 9 Dec
2pm & 5pm
Sat 23 Dec
2pm & 5pm
for everyone.
Thu 14 Dec
1pm*
Sun 24 Dec
11am & 2pm
Fri 15 Dec
7pm
Tues 26 Dec 2pm
The world of the Nutcracker and
Sat 16 Dec
2pm & 5pm
Wed 27 Dec 2pm & 5pm
the Mouse King is vividly brought
Sun 17 Dec
2pm
Thu 28 Dec
2pm & 5pm
to life with new songs and music,
Tue 19 Dec
11am & 2pm
Fri 29 Dec
2pm & 7pm
performed live by actor musicians
Wed 20 Dec 2pm & 5pm
Sat 30 Dec
2pm
supported by a talented young
Thu 21 Dec
*relaxed performance
up at a dusty old toyshop on
lift the curse and save Christmas
Christmas Eve, full of raggedy old
But all is not as it seems – when everyone goes to bed the toys in the shop burst into life with music, singing and dancing. Maria meets the Nutcracker, a toy who has been cursed by the evil Mouse King.
Public Performances 7pm
Together they must find a way to
they’d rather be anywhere else.
School and Group rates available. Please contact the Box Office on 01235 515144 for more details
Fri 8 Dec
When Maria and her family turn
toys and a mysterious toymaker,
£15, Conc £13.50, Members £12
company ensemble from the local community.
11am & 2pm
GENRE GALLERY
GALLERY
MILITARY ART EXHIBITION & AUCTION
LASTING IMPRESSIONS
A unique exhibition of military related artwork raising funds for bomb disposal heroes Felix Fund – the bomb disposal charity based at Vauxhall Barracks, Didcot is very pleased to be holding our first art exhibition. All artwork has been produced by serving military or those with links to the bomb disposal community. An auction of everything on display will be taking place on 3 October 2017 with all proceeds going to Felix Fund. To place a bid or for more information about Felix Fund visit www.felixfund.org.uk or contact enquiries@ felixfund.org.uk.
GALLERY
Oxford Printmakers present a new and vibrant exhibition of handmade prints created mainly in their East Oxford based workshop The exhibition includes etching, collagraphs, lithography, screen-prints, relief prints, and monotypes. Oxford Printmakers is one of the longest established printmaking workshops in the UK, formed four decades ago in 1977 by a group of ex-Ruskin School of Drawing students and staff who wanted to continue their printmaking practice in a professional environment. As well as holding regular exhibitions, Oxford Printmakers’ Co-operative runs courses in many of the traditional printmaking processes and welcomes new members.
MAGICAL CORNERSTONE An exhibition of lanterns of theatre design This exhibition showcases the fantastic lanterns created by children, young people and adults from local schools and community groups. These magical lanterns will be illuminating the streets of Didcot on Saturday 18 November, accompanied by the talented Noise Orchestra, before being displayed in the gallery. Alongside the lanterns, visitors will be able to see costume and set designs of The Nutcracker and the Mouse King celebrating our Christmas show.
You can find them at: www.oxfordprintmakers.co.uk
Wed 6 Sep – Sun 8 Oct Free
Wed 11 Oct – Sun 12 Nov Free
32 • BOX OFFICE: 01235 515144 | CORNERSTONE-ARTS.ORG
Sat 18 Nov 2017 – Sun 7 Jan 2018 Free
CORNERSTONE IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY SOUTH OXFORDSHIRE DISTRICT COUNCIL • 33
CALENDAR: SEP-DEC
SEPTEMBER Sat 16
Dirty Dancing
Music/Dance
7.30pm
Tue 19
Café Scientifque
Bar
7.30pm
Thu 21 - Sat 23
Nocturnes
Theatre
7.30pm
Sun 24
Leaf
Family
11am, 1pm & 3pm
Tue 26
Creative Cluster
Community
7.30pm
Wed 27
Didcot Film Club
Film
8pm
Thu 28 - Fri 29
Partus
Theatre
11am & 7.30pm
Sat 30
Spanish Night
Community
7.30pm
Sun 1
Owl and The Pussycat
Family/Dance
2pm
Thu 5 - Fri 6
Tipping Point
Family/Theatre
Sat 7
Thinking Drinkers
Tue 10
WEEKLY CLASSES FOR YOUNG PEOPLE FROM SEPTEMBER Starts Tue 19
Youth Theatre
Ages 5 to 11 years
Various Times
Until 4 Jul
Starts Wed 20
Contemporary Dance
Ages 8 to 11 years
5pm - 6pm
Until 4 Jul
Starts Wed 20
Ballet
Age 5 to 7 years
3.45pm - 4.30pm
Starts Thu 21
Youth Theatre
Ages 12 to 21 years
Various Times
7.30pm
Starts Thu 21
Ballet
Ages 3 to 4 years
1.15pm - 1.45pm
Comedy
8pm
Open Mic
Community
7.30pm
Starts Thu 21
Ballet
Parent and Toddler
2pm - 2.45pm
Wed 11
In Our Hands
Theatre
7.30pm
Starts Fri 22
West End Dance
Ages 10 to 18 years
4.45pm - 5.45pm
Thu 12
Mark Thomas
Comedy
8pm
Starts Fri 22
Ballet
Ages 8-11 years
3.45pm - 4.30pm
Fri 13
Sean Lakeman & Kathryn Roberts
Music/Folk
8pm
Sun 15
Peter and the Wolf
Family
2pm
Starts Sat 23
Street Dance
Ages 8 to 18 years
Various Times
Tue 17
Griff Ryhs Jones
Comedy
8pm
Thu 19
Austentatious
Comedy
8pm
Fri 20
Antigone
Theatre
7.30pm
Sat 21
Ellie Taylor
Comedy
8pm
Sun 22
Musicians of Bremen
Family
2pm
Mon 23
Michael Morpurgo's King Arthur
Family
2pm
Tue 24
Café Scientifque
Community
7.30pm
Wed 25
Didcot Film Club
Film
8pm
Thu 26
Swing Time
Music/Jazz
7.30pm
Fri 27
Legend - The Music of Bob Marley
Music
8pm
Sat 28
Sherlock Holmes
Theatre
7.30pm
Tue 31
Not About Heroes
Theatre
7.30pm
Tue 31
Creative Cluster
Community
7.30pm
Wed 1
No Petticoats Allowed
Music
7.30pm
Thu 2
Imbalance
Dance
7.30pm
Fri 3
Ali Cook - Principles of Deception
Comedy
8pm
Sat 4
Milk presents Joan
Theatre
7.30pm
Tue 7
Open Mic
Community
7.30pm
Wed 8
Jekyll and Hyde
Theatre
7.30pm
Thu 9
Jon Boden
Music/Folk
7.30pm
Fri 19
BACA's
Community
7.30pm
Sat 11
St. Giles Orchestra
Music
7.30pm
Tue 14 - Fri 16
Didcot Girls School
Community
7.30pm
Fri 17
Matt Richardson
Comedy
8pm
Sat 18
Light Festival
Community
All Day
Sun 19
The Buildy-uppy Dance Show
Family
2pm
Tue 21
Café Scientifque
Bar
7.30pm
Wed 22
Didcot Film Club
Film
8pm
Thu 23
Festival of the Spoken Nerd
Comedy
7.30pm
Fri 24
What Once Was
Theatre
7.30pm
Sat 25
Leaf by Niggle
Family
2pm
Sat 25
Stephen K Amos
Comedy
8pm
Tue 28
Creative Cluster
Community
7.30pm
Wed 6 - Sat 30
Nutcracker
Christmas Show
Various Times
Tue 12
Open Mic
Bar
7.30pm
OCTOBER
CALENDAR: HALF TERM WORKSHOPS OCTOBER
Tue 24 October
Creative Movement - Family Workshop
Wed 25 October
Camera, Lines, Action
Ages 4 to 7 years and a grown up Ages 7 to 14 years
10.30am - 11.30am 10.30am - 4.30pm
NOVEMBER
Partus p.7
Griff Rhys Jones p.12
Musicians of Bremen p.14
Printed and bound by Artisan Print Solutions. Supporting local businesses.
Jon Boden p.24
DECEMBER
CORNERSTONE IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY SOUTH OXFORDSHIRE DISTRICT COUNCIL • 35
BOX OFFICE Cornerstone 25 Station Road Didcot OX11 7NE
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OPENING HOURS Tuesday – Saturday 10am – 6pm Sundays 11am – 4pm Mondays Closed
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NOURISH Tuesday – Saturday 10am – 9pm Sunday 11am – 4pm
BOOKING Members booking opens: Thu 20 July, 10am in person, 12 noon by phone and online Public booking opens: Tue 25 July, 10am in person, 12 noon by phone and online
EASY TO GET TO Didcot has great road and rail links. The A34 connects Didcot to Oxford, the M40, Newbury and the M4. Didcot Parkway is a major regional station and is only a short walk from Cornerstone. Parking is available five minutes away at Edinburgh Drive car park. Use the postcode OX11 7HS to navigate there by SatNav. The car park is FREE after 5pm and on a Sunday.
ACCESSIBILITY Cornerstone is fully accessible for patrons with wheelchairs. We have a lift to all floors, a Changing Places toilet on the first floor, spaces for wheelchairs in the auditorium and accessible toilets on all floors. Essential carers go free. If you require this brochure in an alternative format please contact us by phone or email to discuss your needs.
JOIN OUR MAILING LISTIT’S FAST AND IT'S FREE For monthly updates about everything going on at Cornerstone, including latest news and special offers, sign up on our website now: cornerstone-arts.org.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS Tickets are non-refundable and exchanges are discretionary. See website for concessions and special ticket offers; full information on booking, refunds and exchanges; and venue accessibility. PLEASE NOTE: Prices, times and details of the programme are correct at the time of going to press. WE reserve the right to make special offers after prices are published. cornerstone-arts.org
@CORNERSTONEfun
01235 515144
/CornerstoneDidcot