SUMMER 2013
SEASON GUIDE
Image Š The Royal Microscopical Society
www.cornerstone-arts.org
WHAT’S ON AT A GLANCE... MAY. Thu 2
Didcot Sixth Form College Awards Evening
Hiring
Fri 3
Robin Ince: The Importance of Being Interested
Comedy
7.30pm 8pm
Sat 4
The Count of Monte Cristo
Theatre
8pm
Sun 5
Rumpelstiltskin and the Wheel of Fortune
Family
2pm
Fri 10
Bella Hardy and the Midnight Watch
Music
8pm
Sat 11
Alistair McGowan: Not Just a Pretty Voice
Comedy
8pm
Fri 17
Eska
Music
8pm
Sat 18
Bridget Christie: A Bic for Her
Comedy
8pm
Sun 19
Tiffin Concert: Valotti String Quartet
Music
2pm
Wed 22
Didcot Film Club
Film
8pm
Sat 25
Luke Daniels and John Dipper
Music
8pm
Sun 26
Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus
Family
2pm
Thu 30
The Incredible Book Eating Boy
Family
from 10.30am & 2pm
Fri 31
Conservatoire Folk Ensemble
Music
8pm
Sat 1
The Trench
Theatre
7.30pm
Mon 3
Fairport Acoustic Convention
Music
7.30pm
Thu 6
The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde
Theatre
7.30pm
Fri 7
Alfie Moore: I Predicted a Riot, and Other Work
Comedy
8pm
Sat 8
The Charleston Chasers
Music
8pm
Sun 9
Bin Men
Family
2pm
Fri 14
Daniel Bye: The Price of Everything
Talk
8pm
Sat 15
Four Farces
Theatre
7.30pm
Sat 22
Finding Joy
Theatre
7.30pm
Sun 23
Blazin’ Fiddles
Music
7.30pm
Wed 26
Didcot Film Club
Film
Thu 27
Moonfleet
Family
7.30pm
Fri 28
OSJ: Classic Jazz Duo
Music
2pm & 7.30pm
Sat 29
Flamenco, Flamenco, Flamenco
Hiring
6pm
JUNE.
8pm
KEY. Members’ discounted rate available
Family friendly performance
CORNERSTONE IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY SOUTH OXFORDSHIRE DISTRICT COUNCIL
WHAT’S ON AT A GLANCE... JULY. Fri 5
Slapdash Galaxy
Family
7pm
Sat 6
Tony Jacobs Duo
Music
2pm
Fri 12
Dance Connection: A World of Possibilities
Hiring
7.30pm
Sat 13
Dance Connection: A World of Possibilities
Hiring
2.30pm & 7.30pm
Sun 14
Cushion Concert: Drums
Family
2pm
Wed 17
Didcot Girls’ School: Girls on Tour
Hiring
7.30pm
Sun 21
My Brother the Robot
Family
2pm
Fri 26
Matt Richardson: Hometown Hero
Comedy
8pm
Wed 31
Didcot Film Club
Film
8pm
Beer and Music Festival
Music
AUGUST. Fri 2, Sat 3, Sun 4
BAR GIGS.
all day
FREE
Fri 24 May
Simon Kempston
Folk
8pm
Fri 21 Jun
Polly and the Billets Doux
Folk
8pm
GALLERY.
FREE
11 Apr – 19 May
Joshua Rose: The Art of Ply
Exhibition
23 May – 30 Jun
Rachel Barbaresi and Susanna Round: Where Clouds Are Made ...
Exhibition
11 Jul – 17 Aug
Open Exhibition: The Colour Green
Exhibition
BOOKING. MEMBERS’ BOOKING OPENS:
PUBLIC BOOKING OPENS:
SATURDAY 30 MARCH 10AM IN PERSON 11AM BY TELEPHONE
SATURDAY 6 APRIL 10AM IN PERSON 12 NOON BY TELEPHONE AND ONLINE
SUMMER HOLIDAYS... FOR A WEEK OR TWO! From Monday 19 to Friday 30 August inclusive, the arts centre will go dark for essential planned maintenance, so our building and café bar will be closed. During this period, the Box Office will be open for telephone sales every Tuesday – Friday from 10am to 4pm on 01235 515144 or tickets can be purchased 24 hours a day online from www.cornerstone-arts.org. Cornerstone will open again on Saturday 31 August from 10am, when we’ll be looking forward to a packed Autumn season of performances and classes starting in September. FAMILY TICKETS. We’ve added discounted family ticket prices for a wide selection of performances this season. Look for the in the performance guide. One family ticket admits a party of four. At least one in each party of four must be under 16. Please call or visit our Box Office to book family tickets. Cover image by Steve Lowry
SUBLIME SUMMER. MAKE A RAINFOREST VINE Tue 6 – Fri 16 Aug
SUMMER CREATIVES COURSES MAKE A PLAY n Tue 13 – Fri 16 Aug
We’re looking for contributions to make our rainforest vine as long as we can! Come and make a leaf, a flower, or even a monkey to give Cornerstone a tropical feeling!
A new and exciting project for the summer! Join in and create a new play based on the theme of Imagined Worlds, where there may be time travellers, mechanics of the future and inventions that change the world. Expect flash mobs, hidden performances and sound installations…
All ages (unsupervised activity, children must be accompanied by an adult) n 10am-4pm n FREE SCI-ART SCHOOL
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Tue 13 – Thu 15 Aug
Back by popular demand! After sell-out workshops last year, the Sci-Art School is back. Discover chemistry, geometry, physics, biology and how to use the scientific method – all while painting, sculpting and drawing. 5-7 years n 10.30am-12.00 noon 8-10 years n 1-2.30pm n £20 11-13 years n 3-5pm n £27
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CLAY SCULPTURE – SEASIDE
£20
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PERFORMANCE COURSE A week of devising, experimentation and performance for all young people wishing to explore theatre and performance skills. THEATRE DESIGN COURSE For those who prefer making and designing – work alongside the performers to create the mixed media, visual design and puppetry elements of the play.
No experience necessary – just enthusiasm and energy!
Fri 16 Aug
The week will finish with a showing of the piece for family and friends, by invitation.
Take your imagination to the seaside this summer with our ever popular clay sculpture course.
Summer Creatives: Performance Course 12-16 years n 10am-4.30pm n £99
5-10 years n 10.30-12.30pm or 1.30-3.30pm £14 (adult goes free when accompanied by a child)
Summer Creatives: Theatre Design Course 12-16 years n 10am-4.30pm n £99
PICK ‘N’ MIX – ART AND DANCE TASTER WEEK
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Tue 6 – Fri 9 Aug
We’re introducing a brand new format this summer to allow you to have a go at lots of activities! Each session will offer something different. Dance: all kinds of movement from ballet to hip hop. Art: felt-making, festival masks or modelling shapes.
10.30-11.00am 11.15-11.45am 1.15-3.00pm
TUE 6 AUG
WED 7 AUG
THU 8 AUG
FRI 9 AUG
ART
DANCE
ART
DANCE
18 mths-3 yrs 18 mths-3 yrs 7-10 yrs
18 mths-3 yrs 18 mths-3 yrs 7-10 yrs
18 months-3 years 7-10 years
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£3 per session or £5 for two
£7 (includes two activities)
10.30-11.15am 4-7 yrs 11.30am-12.15pm 4-7 yrs 1.15-3.30pm 10-13 yrs
4-7 years
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10-13 years
4-7 yrs 4-7 yrs 10-13 yrs
£4 per session or £7 for two n
£8 (includes two activities)
GALLERY AND VISUAL ARTS. ENTRY TO THE VISUAL ARTS GALLERY IS ABSOLUTELY FREE SO YOU CAN DROP IN ANY TIME DURING OPENING HOURS. We also have a selection of beautiful crafts made by local artists for sale in our craft boxes. Don’t forget to peruse the jewellery, fashion and other unique designs when you’re here as we have regular new exhibitors. We also display a range of work in our window wall on the west side of our building. See the website for information about applying to exhibit or sell your work.
JOSHUA ROSE: THE ART OF PLY 11 April – 19 May
Joshua Rose combines his background in both Fine Art and furniture making to create unique and original, printed plywood furniture. A range of prints and artworks are also exhibited which have influenced the design of his flat-pack furniture, sometimes being printed directly on to it. This exhibition is part of Artweeks. Cornerstone will host an Artweeks Taster Open Day on Saturday 27 April, showing the work of selected Artweeks artists from Southern Oxfordshire. We will also display selected artists’ work in our window wall during May.
www.artweeks.org
RACHEL BARBARESI AND SUSANNA ROUND: WHERE CLOUDS ARE MADE... 23 May – 30 June
‘What?! No more Didcot cooling towers?! But that’s where clouds are made! (Or so generations of Oxfordshire children are told.)’ Will Wiles on Twitter 19.11.12 This exhibition explores the power station’s role over the last 40 years in people’s memories and imagination. The gallery hosts an interactive installation which responds to archive material, conversations with employees, ex-employees and residents, and is inspired by the relations of scale between the town and power plant. Barbaresi and Round are working in residence at Didcot Power Station A during the first part of 2013, in a project funded by RWE Npower and managed by South Oxfordshire District Council’s Arts Development Officer. EXTRA EVENTS Free tours of the exhibition, with the artists, on 8 June & 22 June at 2pm, and a themed creative workshop for children on 28 May from 1-3pm (see Half Term for details).
OPEN EXHIBITION: THE COLOUR GREEN 11 July – 17 August
This year’s open exhibition takes a colour for inspiration. The colour green has many associations, some in conflict with each other. Linked with nature and also sustainable living, it can also be the colour of fantastical creatures, or even the poisonous potion of a wicked witch, who might be green with envy. We give you the green light to experiment with this theme – you can submit artwork of any size or genre. Don’t miss this opportunity to see your work on our walls! The closing date for applications is Sunday 19 May, see our website for details.
MAY DIDCOT SIXTH FORM COLLEGE AWARDS EVENING HIRING: INVITATION ONLY This annual celebration event is to recognise the hard work, dedication and talent of pupils at Didcot Sixth Form College. Bringing together St. Birinus and Didcot Girls’ School at Cornerstone symbolises a great partnership.
Thu 2 May 7pm Tickets by invitation only
ROBIN INCE: THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING INTERESTED COMEDY: STAND-UP Our best loved super comedian and science enthusiast Robin Ince explains why we have eyebrows, why bald dogs have bad teeth and why spaghetti snaps into four pieces. Robin takes a loving look into the minds of his two favourite scientists, Charles Darwin and Richard Feynman – two giants of the human imagination who changed our worldview. Fascinating. Bizarre. And fun! Robin is also spreading the word with a special schools’ show in the afternoon – see website for details. Fri 3 May 8pm £14.50, £13 (concs), £12 (members) Ages 14+
THE COUNT OF MONTE CRISTO THEATRE: CONTEMPORARY CLASSIC The tale starts in a cigar rolling factory, told to us by the workers, who read Dumas’ epic book every day… Falsely imprisoned in a castle by his jealous rivals, Edmund escapes, re-invents himself as the Count, using tales of a secret stash of treasure to exact his revenge. Thrilling, fast paced, with great stage production, this is a fabulous night out at the theatre. Presented by Company Boudin Sat 4 May 8pm £14.50, £13 (concs), £12 (members), £45 (family ticket)
RUMPELSTILTSKIN AND THE WHEEL OF FORTUNE THEATRE: CHILDREN’S Poor Polly Buckwheat, the Miller’s daughter, is in a bit of a pickle! If she doesn’t turn a roomful of straw into gold by morning, the greedy King will turn a bit nasty. But should she accept the kind help of eccentric dwarf Rumpelstiltskin who mysteriously appears in her prison cell? Presented by Theatre of Widdershins – fabulous Cornerstone favourites!
Sun 5 May 2pm £8, £6 (concs) Ages 4+
BELLA HARDY AND THE MIDNIGHT WATCH MUSIC: FOLK Bella’s songwriting has been compared to Lennon and McCartney in sophistication, Kate Bush in fantasy and Carole King in lovelorn tenderness. Performing songs from Bella’s new album battleplan, her five piece band includes Bella on fiddle, with double bass, drums and percussion, keyboards and Anna Massie on guitar. You saw Bella here with Carthy, Hardy, Farrell and Young. ‘We persevered to get this gig – she is simply stunning’ Emma, Centre Director Fri 10 May 8pm £14.50, £13 (concs), £12 (members)
01235 515144
ALISTAIR MCGOWAN: NOT JUST A PRETTY VOICE COMEDY: STAND-UP Classic impressionist Alistair McGowan goes back to his stand-up roots for a new two-hour show. Expect to hear everyone from Andy Murray to Colin Murray, musings on Ed Milliband and Shakespeare, and a song about butter.
‘Wickedly funny mimicry’ Sunday Mirror Sat 11 May 8pm £15, £13.50 (concs), £12.50 (members) Ages 14+
ESKA MUSIC: JAZZ FOLK Eska is phenomenal. A world class vocalist, writer and arranger, she has been the voice of mainstream band Zero 7 as well as working with The Cinematic Orchestra, Bobby McFerrin and Grace Jones. Grace, Giles Peterson and Courtney Pine are massive fans. And so will you be.
Zimbabwe born and London raised, Eska has been a secret weapon of the music industry, but now reveals an outstanding debut solo album with ‘Gatekeeper’, released in March 2013. Here in a duo with Robin Mullarky on bass and cello they play us music from Eska’s new album. Folk with influences of jazz and choral music. ‘It was beautiful, classy and emotional in the extreme. There were so many occasions I was totally overwhelmed I couldn’t pick one, all I can say is that I was very grateful to be there’ Put Me on It audience member Fri 17 May 8pm £14.50, £13 (concs), £12 (members)
BRIDGET CHRISTIE: A BIC FOR HER COMEDY: STAND-UP Star of Radio 4 series Bridget Christie Minds The Gap and soon to be seen in Anna and Katy on Channel 4, Bridget Christie is a very funny woman. Last year, she noticed that misogyny, like shiny leggings, had made an unexpected comeback. Why did Bic launch the 'Bic for Her' - a pen specifically designed for a woman's hand? Do we really need a Smooth Groove camel toe solution? These and many more serious questions will be asked – and, if we’re lucky, partly answered! Sat 18 May 8pm £14.50, £13 (concs), £12 (members)
SUNDAY AFTERNOON TIFFIN CONCERT VALOTTI STRING QUARTET MUSIC: CLASSICAL MATINEE The easy way to enjoy classical music. One hour straight through. Just £10. England’s top quality, young, professional musicians. Relax and enjoy a free cup of tea from the Café Bar when you show your ticket.
Sun 19 May 2pm £10 all tickets
MAY
MAY – JUNE
www.cornerstone-arts.org
LUKE DANIELS AND JOHN DIPPER: ON DROVER TRACKS MUSIC: FOLK This is a brand new suite of beautiful music by fabulous folk musicians commissioned to celebrate tradition right on our doorsteps. Sure to appeal to lovers of folk as well as lovers of the landscape and our history.
The many drove roads, or tracks, set deeply into the Wiltshire, West Berkshire and Oxfordshire countryside were used to drive livestock, much of which originated in Ireland. These musicians have literally walked these roads to make this music. Anna Rice from Dublin has composed a new suite of songs, and the musicians playing them are top class folksters who play with the very best on the national scene. Luke Daniels is on melodeon, Ceri Rees Matthews on pibgorn and flute, Ceri Owen Jones on welsh single harp Matheu Watson on guitar and fiddle – all joined by members of the Southern Sinfonia. A superb and unique evening is ensured. Sat 25 May 8pm £14.50, £13 (concs), £12 (members)
DON’T LET THE PIGEON DRIVE THE BUS THEATRE: CHILDREN’S The friendly bus driver leaves us with one simple instruction, ‘Don’t let the pigeon drive the bus!’ However pigeon is very clever and bribes, pleads and even sings a song to get his own way… Based on the award-winning book by Mo Willems, writer and animator for Sesame Street, this lively show is full of fun, feathers, laughter and excitement, featuring original music and lots of audience participation! Presented by Big Wooden Horse Sun 26 May 2pm £8, £6 (concs) Ages 3+ and adults
THE INCREDIBLE BOOK EATING BOY INTERACTIVE THEATRE FOR HALF TERM: FAMILY Henry’s got such an appetite for books that he literally eats them! The more he eats the smarter he gets. But boy cannot live on books alone! See this unique performance for two at a time in a tent theatre in our auditorium. Based on the book by Oliver Jeffers. Presented by House and Bootworks Theatre Thu 30 May, 30 x 5 minute performances 10.30am – 12 noon and 2 – 3.30pm £5 per performance Ages 4+ Each performance is 5 minutes long performed for a maximum of one adult and one child at a time.
CONSERVATOIRE FOLK ENSEMBLE MUSIC: FOLK Joe Broughton of the Albion band set up this funky folk orchestra sixteen years ago and has taught many of the big stars of today. We’ve heard the CFE might be taking a break soon so we had to get them back this year – especially as you come from as far as the Isle of Wight to see them! Up to 45 musicians from the Birmingham Conservatoire playing folk, funk, classical, ska, reggae, jazz hip hop... and more folk! Fri 31 May 8pm £14.50, £13 (concs), £12 (members)
THE TRENCH THEATRE: NEW WRITING ‘Razor sharp theatre company’ The Telegraph Les Enfants Terribles present a play inspired by the true story of a miner who became entombed in a tunnel during World War One. He soon learns though that not everything in the darkness is what it seems as he discovers a strange world beneath the mud. ‘Total triumph...this production uses theatre to its full potential’ Edinburgh Evening News Sat 1 Jun 7.30pm £14.50, £13 (concs), £12 (members)
FAIRPORT ACOUSTIC CONVENTION MUSIC: FOLK You know we have them every year – because we know you love them. Fairport are folk royalty, Oxfordshire is their home county, and they love playing at Cornerstone. Expect all the classics and new songs too.
Audience participation is encouraged! Mon 3 Jun 7.30pm £17.50, £15.50 (concs), £14.50 (members)
THE STRANGE CASE OF DR JEKYLL & MR HYDE THEATRE: CLASSIC While the good Dr Jekyll goes about his quiet business healing the sick in Victorian London, the evil Mr Hyde runs around at night doing frankly disgraceful things. What is the connection between them and why does Dr Jekyll seem so anxious to protect Mr Hyde? Rhum and Clay, the acclaimed all male company from the Watermill Theatre, bring their comic sense of the absurd to this classic story – luring us down a dark Victorian alley to the underbelly of London. Thur 6 Jun 7.30pm £14.50, £13 (concs), £12 (members), £45 (family ticket) Ages 12+
ALFIE MOORE: I PREDICTED A RIOT, AND OTHER WORK COMEDY: STAND-UP Brilliant, intelligent and refreshing comedy. Alfie Moore has been a policeman for many years and at 44 performed his first ten minute stand-up slot. He is now doing so well he’s on a sabbatical from Humberside constabulary! The show is a comedic meditation on the sometimes absurd, dangerous and misunderstood world of modern policing. And it is very funny. A native of Sheffield, based in Scunthorpe, Moore describes himself as a ‘cheeky chappie’ and his Edinburgh 2012 debut established him as a unique voice on the comedy circuit. He uses his act to comment on the modern day force, using his insider knowledge to increase understanding – whilst pulling no punches and having a good laugh. Hear about the force that were so keen to bring their burglary rates down that they convinced a homeowner his break-in had been carried out by a gang of badgers. Come along if you are a police person, know a police person, or have ever met a police person! Although Alfie’s joke topics encompass much more than policing, it is a riot!
Fri 7 Jun 8pm £14.50, £13 (concs), £12 (members) Ages 14+
MAY – JUNE
01235 515144
JUNE – JULY
@CORNERSTONEfun
THE CHARLESTON CHASERS MUSIC: SWING Downton Abbey in music! The most authentic and entertaining ‘hot vintage’ group playing today. Ten fine musicians and vocalists create the fun and excitement of the art deco era of the 1920’s and 30’s. A toe-tapping tonic to lift our spirits. We’ve had customer requests for this band, so we have secured them for your pleasure! ‘The band that peddles happiness’ BBC Radio 2 Sat 8 Jun 8pm £16, £14.50 (concs), £13.50 (members)
BIN MEN THEATRE: CHILDREN’S A charming play with music, all about bin men with big dreams. The bin men see everything we throw away and they can find a use for anything. So they want to help us to do that, and have fun – and, in the mean time, save the world! Written by Mike Kenny, one of the Independent on Sunday’s Top Ten Living UK Playwrights. Presented by ajtc theatre company Sun 9 Jun 2pm £8, £6 (concs) Ages 5 + and adults
DANIEL BYE: THE PRICE OF EVERYTHING COMEDY/THEATRE: TALK How much is beauty worth? What will people pay for a guitar on eBay? Called the future of British Theatre by The Times, Daniel takes us on a tour of bizarre facts and impassioned arguments about the difference between the price of an object and its value. He then tells a beautiful story about an act of kindness he carried out and its unexpected consequences. Comic, provocative and enlightening. Fri 14 Jun 8pm £14.50, £13 (concs), £12 (members) Ages 14+
FOUR FARCES THEATRE: CLASSIC COMEDY An evening of delicious farces from the Victorian stage. There’s more than a hint of Monty Python and The Goons in these four plays: Wanted – A Young Lady, Box and Cox, An Unwarrantable Intrusion and Duel in the Dark. ‘...takes the audience by storm...surreal, witty and hilarious’ Culture Guide Presented by the European Arts Company Sat 15 Jun 7.30pm £14.50, £13 (concs), £12 (members), £45 (family ticket) Ages 10+ and adults
FINDING JOY THEATRE: NEW WRITING A comic, touching and heroic adventure based on a lovely true story. Joy is creative, funny, loves to dance and is losing her memory. Her grandson Danny is fearless and bright and always getting into trouble. This play beautifully portrays their relationship and their bond. Humorous, touching and inventive. Presented by Vamos Theatre in a co-production with The Courtyard Sat 22 Jun 7.30pm £14.50, £13 (concs), £12 (members), £45 (family ticket) Ages 12+
BLAZIN’ FIDDLES MUSIC: FOLK From remote village halls to the Royal Albert ‘Village’ Hall, Blazin’ Fiddles have delighted audiences with their highlands and islands fiddle music and tales. Fiddles and bows blaze away with guitar and piano for one of the most exciting and memorable fiddle ensembles ever to take to the stage. One of Scotland’s top traditional bands brings us the excitement, passion and sensitivity of Scottish music and will have us dancing in the aisles. Sun 23 Jun 7.30pm £16, £14.50 (concs), £13.50 (members)
MOONFLEET THEATRE: FAMILY CLASSIC Smugglers, shipwrecks, a haunted crypt, hidden treasure, vengeance and enduring love. Set in the Dorset village of Moonfleet, orphan John Trenchard is embroiled in high adventure and breathtaking drama with smugglers and the revenue men. Specially adapted with an original score by Tim Laycock, it will transport us back to the gripping yarns of childhood. Presented by Bristol Old Vic Theatre School Thur 27 Jun 7.30pm £14.50, £13 (concs), £12 (members), £45 (family ticket) Ages 12+
ORCHESTRA OF ST JOHN’S: CLASSIC JAZZ DUO MUSIC: CLASSICAL MATINEE AND EVENING Derek Paravicini on piano and soprano Hannah Davey present a programme of sublime jazz classics. Derek was born at 25 weeks, is blind and has severe autism. He is also a musical savant with perfect pitch and something of a piano genius, with a huge repertoire, which he shares by taking requests from the audience and playing them during the concert. Fri 28 Jun 2pm Concert for adults with special needs £5, essential carers go free Fri 28 Jun 7.30pm Open public concert £14.50, £13 (concs), £12 (members)
FLAMENCO, FLAMENCO, FLAMENCO HIRING: DANCE This passionate Spanish art form has taken the world by storm. The biggest flamenco dance school in Oxfordshire presents their annual dance showcase. Over 65 dancers bring the beautiful costumes and driving hot rhythms to life. The students are accompanied by a line-up of professional Spanish flamenco artists including West End star Ramon Ruiz and the wonderful Anita la Maltesa. Presented by Camino del Flamenco Sat 29 Jun 6pm £12.50, £11 (concs)
SLAPDASH GALAXY THEATRE: FAMILY Amazing. Amazing. Everyone who came to see Swamp Juice last year thought it was the best the thing since sliced bread. This new show is another beautiful puppetry extravaganza – which won the Total Theatre Award for Innovation. Two brothers go on a fantastical journey into outer space and gasp with wonder! ‘The best thing I’ve seen here. My seven year old loved it’ Paula, Cornerstone mum. Presented by Bunk Puppets Fri 5 Jul 7pm £10, £8 (concs and members), £32 (family ticket) Ages 7+
JUNE – JULY
www.cornerstone-arts.org
JULY – AUGUST
CornerstoneDidcot
TONY JACOBS DUO MUSIC: SONGS FROM THE SHOWS MATINEE Tony Jacobs and his piano accompanist Jim Barry are ‘two gentlemen and a piano’ who perform some of the greatest songs of the twentieth century from Gershwin, Porter, Sondheim, Irving Berlin, Hoagy Carmichael and more. Come along for a magical couple of hours and sing along to Puttin’ On the Ritz, As Time Goes By, Feed the Birds and more lovely classics. Presented as an afternoon matinee, with free cup of tea afterwards. Sat 6 Jul 2pm £10 all tickets
DANCE CONNECTION – A WORLD OF POSSIBILITIES HIRING: DANCE This year’s production by award winning, local performing arts training centre Dance Connection sees over 100 local youngsters take to the stage and delight you with a high energy, fast paced myriad of dance. Prepare to be entertained!
Fri 12 Jul 7.30pm £15, £12 (concs, up to 16 years) Sat 13 Jul 2.30pm & 7.30pm £15, £12 (concs, up to 16 years)
CUSHION CONCERT: DRUMS MUSIC: CHILDREN’S Come and see Rozzy and Mr Cello. Each concert they’re joined by another new instrument. This time it’s the drums. Snare drum, bass drum, high hat, tom-tom, cymbals. Do you like bashing on drums? Come and see a professional do it and you might want to be a drummer too! Our cushion concerts are a friendly, fun way to introduce your little ones to music. Sun 14 Jul 2pm £8, £6 (concs)
DIDCOT GIRLS’ SCHOOL – GIRLS ON TOUR HIRING: DANCE The pupils of Didcot Girls School present an evening of musical hits from Broadway and the West End. Come and enjoy sing-a-long classics alongside some less well known songs. An evening not to be missed, grab your ticket fast to avoid disappointment.
Wed 17 Jul 7.30pm £7, £4 (concs)
MY BROTHER THE ROBOT THEATRE: CHILDREN’S Once upon a time in the future... there will be a little girl called Bobbie. She will live with her inventor dad in a house full of technology. They will be very happy until one day Bobbie will announce she wishes she had a little brother. So dad makes Bobbie a robot brother, she loves him and tells him all about the world. And then one day Bobbie’s robot brother is called on to save her... Presented by Tall Stories Sun 21 Jul 2pm £8, £6 (concs) Ages 4+ and adults
MATT RICHARDSON: HOMETOWN HERO COMEDY: STAND-UP With support from Ellie Taylor Join multi award winning comedian (and Didcot native) Matt Richardson for this warm up show before he takes it to Edinburgh and on a national tour. Matt has spent the last couple of years gigging all over world, and supporting Mark Watson and Andi Osho on tour and now he is being unleashed as top of the bill. Hometown Hero is a high energy, confessional stand up show from the ‘next bright young sensation’ The Guardian Fri 26 Jul 8pm £14.50, £13 (concs), £12 (members) Ages 16+
BEER AND MUSIC FESTIVAL Didcot’s premium Beer and Music Festival takes centre stage inside and outside Cornerstone featuring three days of live music, DJ sets, a sumptuous barbeque and of course, star of show… 20 local beers and ciders! Kick back and relax with a glass or two of Oxfordshire’s finest ales. Acts to be announced, check our website for details, including times. Presented in association with Loose Cannon Brewery
Fri 2, Sat 3 & Sun 4 Aug FREE
SOMETHING FOR THE WEEKEND Join us from 19-23 June, to celebrate Cornerstone’s accessibility for people with learning disabilities! We are opening the doors wide with a programme of inclusive, creative workshops and stalls showcasing opportunities for and information about people with learning disabilities. Cornerstone is fully accessible for people with limited mobility, with lift access to all levels, wide entrance doors to all rooms and disabled toilets on all levels. If it’s your first time, we hope you’ll come back!
CAFÉ BAR AND BAR GIGS. n n
FREE BAR GIGS FRIDAY 24 MAY AND FRIDAY 21 JUNE CAFÉ SCIENTIFIQUE 3RD TUESDAY OF EVERY MONTH
SIMON KEMPSTON
POLLY AND THE BILLETS DOUX
Friday 24 May 8pm FREE
Friday 21 June 8pm FREE
Award winning performer and an incredibly talented musician Simon returns to Cornerstone with more beautifully crafted folk-tinged songs to transport the listener on a uniquely Scottish journey. www.simonkempston.co.uk
Polly and the Billets Doux are a stunning four-piece band from Bristol and Winchester. Don’t miss this! ‘a harmonious blend of folk, rock, blues, soul and gospel’ The Sunday Times www.pollyandthebilletsdoux.co.uk
JULY – AUGUST
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CLASSES & WORKSHOPS FOR ALL AGES. I’m excited to offer you a summer buzzing with creative things to do! Our regular programme continues, with most of our popular classes carrying on throughout the summer season. We’ve also got a few juicy new things on offer, including: n n n n
a one-day photography workshop for adults taster sessions for children in the holidays a very exciting, creative, summer youth theatre course for aspiring young performers and designers a fantastic dance-based fitness class, Enhance Through Dance – one third dance, one third strength, one third flexibility for a fully fun packed class with three times the workout!
Don’t miss out this summer – come along, be creative and have fun. Read on... Miranda Laurence, Arts Development Officer MIRANDA’S GUIDE TO BOOKING CLASSES: n
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Unless otherwise specified, all classes run for one or two 5-week blocks and the price given is per block. To guarantee your place all term, book both blocks together at the beginning of term! Please book in advance for each block Please fill in an enrolment form when first booking, available from the Box Office or on the website Half term break for all classes is 27 May – 2 June Adult classes are 18+ unless otherwise indicated For more information about the classes and information about clothing, materials or equipment please visit our website www.cornerstone-arts.org
ONE OFF WORKSHOPS FOR ADULTS RAISE YOUR VOICES!
Saturday 27 April n 10.30am-1.30pm n £17, £15 (concs) Saturday 22 June n 10.30am-4pm n £36, £32 (concs) An uplifting workshop of harmony singing led by Janet Stansfeld and Liz Hodgson of Joined up Singing. Singing together is a great feel-good activity that anyone can take part in – yes, even if you were thrown out of your school choir! Learn songs from a variety of traditions, including gospel, African and contemporary. All material will be taught by ear – no music-reading skills are required. All welcome, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced singer – just come along prepared to enjoy yourself! PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP Saturday 18 May n 11am-4.30pm n £30, £27 (concs) A workshop for all those who would like to experiment with new ways of taking photos in a fun and relaxed environment! Centred around a photographic ‘scavenger hunt’, you’ll go on a search for interesting objects and new angles around a given theme. You’ll then look at the resulting work and learn about photographic techniques, composition ideas and developing knowledge about how to use your camera. Please bring your own digital camera of any type.
REGULAR CLASSES TIMETABLE TUESDAY
(START DATES 23 APR, 4 JuN)
YOUTH THEATRE 6-10 years n 4.30-5.30pm (10 week course)
YOUTH THEATRE 11-15 years n 5.45-7.15pm (10 week course) STREET DANCE Adult (16+) n 6-7pm
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WEST END DANCE Adult n 7.15-8.15pm n £33, £30 (concs)
£50
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CABARET DANCE Adult, ladies only n 8.30-9.30pm (concs)
£72
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LIFE DRAWING Adult n 7-9pm n £63, £57 (concs)
(START DATES 24 APR, 5 JuN)
MATURE MOVEMENT Adult (50+) n 11.30am-12.30pm (concs) BABY BOOGIE Parent & tot (0-18months)
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£33, £30
1-1.30pm
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£14
THURSDAY
CREATIVE WRITING Adult n 7.30-9pm n £48, £43 (concs)
Privately run class: PILATES MATWORK – ALL LEVELS 6-7pm n £8 per class payable termly Contact Nicky Dower on 07877 691359 or email nicola_dower@yahoo.co.uk. Classes run from 3 April to 31 July
BALLET 3-4 years n 3.15-3.45pm n £14 4-6 years n 4-4.45pm n £19
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CONTEMPORARY DANCE Adult n 6-7.15pm n £41, £36 (concs) BALLET – BEGINNERS Adult n 7.30-8.30pm n £33, £30 (concs)
PARENT AND TODDLER BALLET 18 months-3 years n 2.30-3pm n £14
YOUTH HIP HOP 7-11 years n 5-5.45pm
£33, £30
Privately run class: PLAY MUSIC 1TO1 Ages 6+ n 4-4.30pm & 4.30-5pm Keyboard classes for children. Call: 07515410429 or email: playmusic1to1@gmail.com
£33, £30 (concs)
WEDNESDAY
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£19
(START DATES 25 APR, 6 JuN)
PARENT AND TODDLER BALLET 18 months-3 years n 11.45am-12.15pm
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£14
TAP BEGINNERS Adult n 7-8pm n £33, £30 (concs)
BALLET – NEW STARTERS 3-4 years n 1.15-1.45pm n £14
TAP INTERMEDIATE Adult n 8.15-9.15pm n £33, £30 (concs)
BALLET 3-4 years n 3.15-3.45pm n £14 4-6 years n 4-4.45pm n £19 6-9 years n 6-6.45pm n £19
Privately run class: CAMINO DEL FLAMENCO Spanish Flamenco dance classes for children and adults n Various from 4pm n Thursdays during term time call: 01295 738869 or email: production@caminodelflamenco.co.uk
YOUTH DANCE 4-6 years n 5-5.45pm
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£19
ENHANCE THROUGH DANCE Adult n 7-8.15pm n £41, £36 (concs)
FRIDAY
(START DATES 26 APR, 7 JuN)
YOGA Adult n 6-7.15pm
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£41, £36 (concs)
BALLROOM Some evenings include an extra hour for social dancing (both levels) – check with the tutor!
Intermediate Adult n 7.30-8.30pm
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£42, £38 (concs)
Beginners Adult n 8.30-9.30pm
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£42, £38 (concs)
SATURDAY
Privately run class: MUSIC & MOVEMENT FOR UNDER 5s 10-11am n Every Friday during term time Call Edna Hemmings 01491 652693 or 0780 2181450 Privately run class: PHOENIX TAE KWONDO 6.30-7pm (ages 4-6 ), 7-8pm (ages 7+), 8-9pm (adults) n Every Friday Enquire at phoenix.taekwon@gmail.com or call 07725 525173.
(START DATES 27 APR, 8 JuN)
STREET DANCE (10 week course) 8-10 years n 10-10.45am n £36 11-12 years
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11am-12pm
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£47 13-15 years
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12.15-1.15pm
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£47
REGULAR GROUPS BOOK GROUP
2 April, 7 May, 4 June, 2 July
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7-8.30pm
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£2.50 (includes free tea or coffee)
If you love to read but have no one to share your enthusiasm with, come along to this informal and friendly monthly session. Book lists are advertised in advance, please check the website. CURIOUS ARTS Tuesdays during term time n 10.45-12.45pm n £12 per session ‘Say-so’ drama workshops for adults with learning disabilities. For more information contact Curious Arts, info@curiousarts.co.uk or 0845 371 1313.
WE’VE ADDED EXTRA BENEFITS FOR CORNERSTONE CLASS MEMBERS! n
PRIORITY BOOKING Existing participants can book the same class for the next season 7 days ahead of other bookers
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LIVE FOR A FIVER Each class participant can buy a £5 ticket for one of this season’s shows
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TASTER CLASSES If you’re new to a class, try the first one without paying for the full five or ten weeks
All offers subject to availability. Terms and Conditions apply, please see our website or call the Box Office for further information.
SUMMER SPORTS. The Participation Team at South and Vale run a wide variety of activities across both districts throughout the school holidays. During the Summer holidays these will include athletics, badminton, balloon model making, hockey, kayaking, music, sailing and tennis.
The team work with local clubs and leisure facilities to provide high class coaching. More details of courses will be on www.whitehorse.gov.uk or www.southoxon.gov.uk from mid June. To register to receive information electronically as soon as it is available please email participation@southandvale.gov.uk, putting ‘brochure request’ in the subject box.
HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES. FOR UNDER 16s Make sure to book in advance for these workshops, and bring a packed lunch if it goes on all day! When booking check on our website or ask a member of staff about clothing and materials.
HALF TERM FUN. FINGER PUPPETS
CLAY SCULPTURE
Tuesday 28 – Friday 31 May
Thursday 30 May and Friday 31 May
Drop in to Cornerstone to make yourself some new little friends. Once made, you could even stage a finger puppet show!
Celebrate 60 years since the coronation by making your own coronation crockery! 5-10 years
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Thursday 30 May, 1.30-3.30pm
All ages (unsupervised activity, children must be accompanied by an adult) 10am-4pm n FREE
5-10 years
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Friday 31 May, 10.30am-12.30pm
£14 (adult goes free when accompanied by a child) AMAZING ANIMATION – YOUNG LIGHTS
Thursday 30 May
WORKSHOP – WHERE CLOUDS ARE MADE….
Animation Station leads this ever-popular introduction to the world of animated films, for younger children. What wacky ideas will you make come alive on screen? 6-9 years
1-3.30pm
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£22
Tuesday 28 May Ever wondered what those cooling towers really look like up close? Led by the artists who created our gallery exhibition ‘Where clouds are made’, this will be an opportunity to respond creatively to Didcot Power Station, using archive material, maps and plans. 5-12 years
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1-3pm
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£10
MAKE A FILM IN A DAY
Friday 31 May Get the buzz of devising, directing and shooting a movie in one day. Could this be your future? 9-13 years
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10am-4pm
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£30
KEEP DANCING! DANCE TASTER DAY
Wednesday 29 May Always wanted your children to try out dance classes, but not sure what to pick? Now they can have a go at our taster sessions – maybe this will start a life-long passion! At this bargain price, they could try a couple. £3 per session, £5 for any two! 10.00-10.45am Parent and Toddler dance 11.00-11.45am Ballet
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12.00-12.45pm Youth Dance 13.30-14.30pm Ballet
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18 months – 3 years
4-7 years n
4-7 years
8-11 years
14.45-15.45pm Tap n 8-11 years (no tap shoes required, pumps or school shoes fine)
HOW TO BOOK.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS.
Box Office: Book tickets in person or by telephone by calling 01235 515144 during opening hours.
Tickets are non-refundable and exchanges are discretionary.
Online: Visit www.cornerstone-arts.org and find your event in the What’s On or Classes and Workshops section.
See website for concessions and special ticket offers; full information on booking, refunds and exchanges; and venue accessibility.
BOX OFFICE OPENING HOURS. n Monday: closed n Tuesday to Saturday: 10am – 6pm
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.
n Sunday: 11am – 4pm On performance days the Box Office is open until 30 minutes after curtain up.
SPECIAL OFFERS. n Group Bookings Discount One free ticket for every 10 booked. Group bookings are available for most performances, please call or visit the Box Office. n Family Tickets One ticket to admit a party of four, to include at least one under 16. n Schools Groups Essential teachers go free. n Personal Carers go free.
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. SAT NAV To reach the nearest car park (Edinburgh Drive) to Cornerstone, please use this postcode: OX11 7LE ACCESSIBILITY Cornerstone is fully accessible for patrons with wheelchairs. We have a lift to all floors, spaces for wheelchairs in the auditorium and accessible toilets on all floors.
01235 515144 Cornerstone, 25 Station Road, Didcot, OX11 7NE cornerstone@southoxon.gov.uk