Curve Summer 2017 Brochure by Curve Theatre

SUMMER 2017

TICKET OFFICE: 0116 242 3595

Join now to start saving and seeing more shows today!

2-For-1 tickets 15% discount on selected tickets Priority booking No transaction fees 20% off at Curve Bar & Café Discounts across the city To join or renew visit www.curveonline.co.uk/membership Email members@curvetheatre.co.uk or call the Ticket Office on *Terms and conditions apply, see website for details.

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This is our most ambitious season in our eight year history. Alongside our visiting programme, we have more Made At Curve productions than ever before, bringing a diverse, talented and world-class group of artists and production teams to Leicester. We believe there truly is something for everyone and we hope you will find something to inspire, challenge and entertain you. After our tremendous Twits and vermicious Witches in Leeds, we are thrilled to present another Roald Dahl classic. With our friends at Nuffield Southampton Theatres, we are proud to be producing a brand new production of Fantastic Mr Fox, a treat for the entire family, brimming with colour and life. And at the end of the year, we present David Wood's magical adaptation of George's Marvellous Medicine. We are delighted to be producing the world premiere of Pink Sari Revolution at Curve this autumn. Pink Sari Revolution is a call to arms based on the real life story of Sampat Pal who, with 400,000 Indian women, has made a stand for gender equality and equal rights. Our Associate Director Suba Das and a team of award-winning artists have just returned from a research trip in India, where they have been working with the Gulabi gang and writer Purva Naresh, to create a stage play based on Amana Fontanella-Khan's internationally acclaimed book. Great drama continues across the season and acclaimed director Lucy Bailey will bring California cool to Curve with her stunning production of The Graduate. In a co-production with West Yorkshire Playhouse, Hollywood actress Catherine McCormack leads a tremendous cast in this stage adaptation of the iconic film from 1967. The National Theatre also make a welcome return with their stunning production of Ibsen's masterpiece Hedda Gabler. In addition, they present My Country, a brand new work by Carol Ann Duffy, created in response to Brexit and including contributions from the people of Leicester. Dance continues to play a vital part of our work and Curve favourites Northern Ballet and Matthew Bourne return to Leicester this season with The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas and The Red Shoes. Also Sadler's Wells' acclaimed celebration of hip hop culture Breakin' Convention will arrive at Curve for the first time bringing performances, workshops and events for all the family. We are proud to have a reputation for producing and presenting some of the finest musicals around and we are honoured Cameron Mackintosh has chosen Leicester to open his earth-shattering production of Boublil & Schönberg's Miss Saigon. And looking ahead to the autumn, we are delighted to be working alongside another great composer, Andrew Lloyd Webber, to produce a brand new production of his masterpiece Sunset Boulevard, featuring the incomparable Ria Jones. After the cool summer vibes of Grease, we present a festive favourite for all the family this Christmas. Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol is one of the greatest stories of charity and redemption of all time; the source material has enjoyed reinvention across generations and we are thrilled to present one of the most magical and captivating adaptations of them all – Leslie Bricusse's family, musical version Scrooge. Following the phenomenal success of Bugsy Malone last year, Associate Artist Nick Winston will stage Shakespeare's magical comedy A Midsummer Night's Dream. In a Curve first, our Curve Young Company will join forces with our Community players, creating our most ambitious and epic production of its type, to date. Mixing Shakespeare's verse, pop music and dance, it is set to be an explosion of the best our city and county has to offer. The flag for Curve and our great city continues to be flown far and wide, with What the Butler Saw playing at Bath Theatre Royal, Sister Act and Fantastic Mr Fox continuing to tour the UK, our award-winning production of Legally Blonde about to play a season in Seoul and our critically acclaimed production of Grease about to open in Dubai. As ever, thank you for your continued support. Chris Stafford Chief Executive Nikolai Foster Artistic Director

is pleased to offer discount pricing on many of our shows. If you are:

• Under 16 • Between 16 – 26 • Over 60 • Registered unemployed • Making a school booking • Booking a group of over 10 …please ask about our concession tickets. Front Cover Photography Creative By Wren

We also offer complimentary carer tickets for those with a disability, please see our booking page for more information. Availability of discount rates can be limited so we advise booking early to secure your discount. Our up to date concession prices are listed on our website or available from Ticket Office or Curve’s Highcross kiosk. Availability may vary according to the show and the area in which you have selected tickets. Please ask about concessions and discounts at the time of booking as they cannot be applied later.

Put your business centre stage this Christmas

Support our Christmas productions and work with us to raise your brand profile and engage with over 60,000 visitors. We build bespoke packages to suit your needs.

To find out see page 39, call 0116 242 3597 or email development@curvetheatre.co.uk

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DRAMA

A HEADLONG, NUFFIELD SOUTHAMPTON THEATRES AND WEST YORKSHIRE PLAYHOUSE CO-PRODUCTION

DRAMA

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MUSICAL

A NORTHERN STAGE AND GREYSCALE CO-PRODUCTION

 “Higgins the hipster bleeps Shaw into the 21st century” The Guardian

SUPPORTED BY ARTS COUNCIL ENGLAND

BASED ON THE NOVEL BY MARY WOLLSTONECRAFT SHELLEY ADAPTED BY SELMA DIMITRIJEVIC DIRECTED BY LORNE CAMPBELL

BY BERNARD SHAW DIRECTOR: SAM PRITCHARD DESIGNER: ALEX LOWDE

TUE 21 – SAT 25 MAR • STUDIO



“An absorbing two-hour version of Mary Shelley’s story, with fine performances throughout.”

One flower girl. Two experts. Free lessons. Six months. Duchess required. Over one hundred years after it was written, this radical new co-production explores one of the most celebrated comedies of the 20th Century, Bernard Shaw’s Pygmalion. Witness the transformation of Eliza Doolittle in a world where we can be digitally altered within seconds. Through video and sound technology, director Sam Pritchard’s fearless new staging interrogates class identity and social mobility in Britain today and asks us – how much do our voices still define who we are?

The Times

PERFORMANCE TIMES Tue – Sat 7.45pm • Thu & Sat 2.30pm

PERFORMANCE TIMES Tue – Sat 7.45pm • Thu & Sat 2.15pm

TICKETS £24* – £18*

TICKETS £22* – £16*

TUE 28 MAR – SAT 1 APR • STUDIO A new adaptation of the classic novel, brought to life in a tense and engrossing performance. In the dark of night, a creature is given life and Victoria Frankenstein has to deal with the consequences. A story almost 200 years old, Dr Frankenstein is still resonant today: about fear and revenge, the creative possibility and the terrible destructive power of humans. Recommended for ages 14+

*Transaction fee is £3 for all card payments. Excludes Members, Groups 10+ and customers printing tickets at home. For more information about ticket discounts, visit www.curveonline.co.uk design:feastcreative.com

Presented by Robert Mackintosh and Idili Theatricals Limited for Rent 20th Anniversary Production Ltd

TUE 28 MAR – SAT 1 APR • THEATRE Don’t miss Bruce Guthrie’s brand-new production of the legendary, multi awardwinning rock musical Rent as it celebrates its incredible 20th anniversary. This exhilarating, landmark musical tells the thrilling story of a group of impoverished young artists struggling to survive in New York City’s East Village in the thriving days of Bohemian excess. Inspired by Puccini’s classic opera La Bohème and starring Lucie Jones (Curve’s Legally Blonde) and Layton Williams (Curve’s Hairspray), Rent features unforgettable music and lyrics by Jonathan Larson, including the much-loved songs Seasons of Love, Take Me or Leave Me and La Vie Bohème. Winner of 4 Tony® Awards, 6 Drama Desk Awards and the hugely prestigious Pulitzer Prize for Drama, it ran on Broadway for an astonishing 12 years.

 The Times

PERFORMANCE TIMES Tue – Thu & Sat 7.30pm Sat 2.15pm Fri 31 Mar 5pm & 8.30pm TICKETS £32.50* – £14.50*

Presented by arrangement with Music Theatre International (Europe) Ltd. In association with Theatr Clwyd. *Transaction fee is £3 for all card payments. Excludes Members, Groups 10+ and customers printing tickets at home. For more information about ticket discounts, visit www.curveonline.co.uk

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DRAMA

FAMILY FAMILY 6

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FAMILY

A CURVE AND NUFFIELD SOUTHAMPTON THEATRES PRODUCTION IN ASSOCIATION WITH LYRIC HAMMERSMITH

 “A whiskerlicking treat”

Direct from a smash-hit West End season

The Times

“A perfect miniadventure... ingenious” Daily Mail

 “Classic Dahl. Great fun” Mail On Sunday

WED 5 & THU 6 APR, 7PM • STUDIO Connections is the National Theatre’s annual festival of new plays for youth theatres and schools. Over the last 20 years, the National Theatre has published more than 150 plays for young theatre companies to perform all over the UK. This year Curve Young Company will be producing one of these plays; Status Update by Tim Etchells, directed by John Berkavitch, Curve Youth Theatre Director. We know facts. We know secrets. We have opinions, we have intuition and we have the stage. Status Update is an unflinching and funny catalogue of the things teenagers learn, believe and have sussed out about the world. From the ridiculous to the highly-charged, all these truths and half-truths are laid bare before us, without the safety net of character or fiction. TICKETS £10*

Adapted for the stage by Sam Holcroft www.fantasticmrfoxlive.com

MON 3 – SUN 9 APR • THEATRE TUE 11 – SAT 15 APR • STUDIO Michael Rosen’s award-winning book We’re Going On A Bear Hunt is brought vividly and noisily to the stage in director Sally Cookson’s fun-filled adaptation set to Benji Bower’s versatile, lively score. Join our intrepid family of adventurers and their musical dog on their quest to find a bear; as they wade through the gigantic swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the thick oozy, squelchy mud! Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes and plenty of hands-on adventure, plus a few special surprises! Adapted for the stage from the modern classic written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury. PERFORMANCE TIMES Tue – Sat 1.30pm Wed – Sat 10.30am Tue 11 Apr 4.30pm TICKETS £14*

*Transaction fee is £3 for all card payments. Excludes Members, Groups 10+ and customers printing tickets at home. For more information about ticket discounts, visit www.curveonline.co.uk

Boggis, Bunce and Bean, three greedy, smelly, horrid farmers, hate the cunning Mr Fox. Mr Fox is smart, clever and rather fantastic, but he doesn’t realise how determined the farmers are to get revenge. Can he hatch a plan to save his family and friends? Can they outrun the diggers and outsmart the farmers, and can Rabbit shut up long enough not to give the game away? Roald Dahl’s Fantastic Mr Fox is family fun at its finest. A juicy tale of greed, pride and the power of friendship, this world premiere and flagship production for the Roald Dahl centenary celebrations, promises a dahlicious theatrical feast with live music and songs, and gloriumptious designs. A wondercrump treat for the whole family! Recommended for ages 5+ PERFORMANCE TIMES Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri & Sat 7pm Tue 10am • Wed & Thu 1.30pm Sat & Sun 11am & 3pm TICKETS £20* – £10* £70* – £60* for families of 4

FAMILY DAY Join us on Sat 8 Apr for our Fantastic Mr Fox Family Day! Please see page 36 for more details.

 “Full of gusto and glee” Independent

 “Fantastic!” The Observer

*Transaction fee is £3 for all card payments. Excludes Members, Groups 10+ and customers printing tickets at home. For more information about ticket discounts, visit www.curveonline.co.uk

Photography Manuel Harlan

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DANCE

MUSIC

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CIRCUS

“Playful and poetic – this is a class act.” The Times

SAT 15 APR, 7.30PM • THEATRE Winner of the UK Theatre Award for Achievement in Dance and a Critics’ Circle National Dance Award. Marking the 30th anniversary of the end of the 1984/5 British miners’ strike, award-winning choreographer Gary Clarke proudly presents Coal, a riveting dance theatre show which takes a nostalgic look at the hard-hitting realities of life at the coal face. Strong, powerful and emotive, Coal explores the darker underbelly of the mining industry unearthing the true nature and body-wrecking demands of a working class industry now almost forgotten. Bringing together Clarke’s striking physical language performed by a company of 7 stunning professional dancers, a local community cast of women and featuring members of the Carlton Main Frickley Colliery Band, Coal is an emotional, moving and ever-relevant exploration of community, solidarity and survival.

by Ockham’s Razor Produced by Turtle Key Arts

Shruti Arts presents

KAUSHIKI CHAKRABORTY SAT 22 APR, 6PM • THEATRE Join Shruti Arts for a unique double event with Hindustani vocalist, Kaushiki Chakraborty. Kaushiki is the leading female vocalist of her generation, having performed at all the leading music festivals in India, and on several international tours.

Mulakaat: In Conversation with Kaushiki

6pm – 6.45pm This is a rare pre-concert opportunity to hear Kaushiki talk about her musical roots, inspiration and her efforts in empowering young talent.

 “Outstanding”

Ehsaas

7.30pm – 10pm Continue your evening with a sublime concert performance by Kaushiki, one of the most soughtafter vocalists in India.

THE TIMES

TICKETS £22* – £12.50*

TICKETS £20* – £15*

*Transaction fee is £3 for all card payments. Excludes Members, Groups 10+ and customers printing tickets at home. For more information about ticket discounts, visit www.curveonline.co.uk

FRI 21 & SAT 22 APR, 7.45PM • STUDIO Ockham’s Razor come to Curve with their new show Tipping Point, winner of the Total Theatre & Jacksons Lane Circus Award at Edinburgh Festival 2016. Tipping Point is set in the round with the audience drawn in close to the action. The five performers are enclosed within the circle of the stage, transforming simple metal poles into a rich landscape of images. Together they face a series of challenges as poles are balanced on fingertips, hung from the roof, swung, lashed, climbed up and clung to, the action veering from catastrophe to mastery. Within this teetering world, they push and support each other as they wrestle with the moment when things begin to shift. They must decide whether to rail against the chaos or ride it out, allowing life to tilt towards the tipping point. Tipping Point features a multi-layered, surround sound musical landscape especially composed by Adem Ilhan and Quinta, who have previously worked with Philip Selway of Radiohead, Hot Chip and Bat For Lashes. Co-commissioned by London International Mime Festival and The Lowry, Salford Quays. www.ockhamsrazor.co.uk/tipping-point

TICKETS £18* – £10*

*Transaction fee is £3 for all card payments. Excludes Members, Groups 10+ and customers printing tickets at home. For more information about ticket discounts, visit www.curveonline.co.uk

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DRAMA

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OPERA

THE ROYAL OPERA, LONDON PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA AND CURVE PRESENT

WORLD

PREMIERE

THE OPERA

A mythical love story told through music & dance CONDUCTOR DAVID MURPHY DIRECTOR SUBA DAS LONDON PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA BBC SINGERS AAKASH ODEDRA COMPANY 59 PRODUCTIONS

In the words of people across the UK and Carol Ann Duffy

TUE 25 – SAT 29 APR • STUDIO In the days following the Brexit vote, a team from the National Theatre spoke to people nationwide, aged 9 to 97, to hear their views on the country we call home. In a series of deeply personal interviews, they heard opinions that were honest, emotional, funny and sometimes extreme. My Country puts their words centre stage. Britannia calls a meeting, to listen to her people. Caledonia, Cymru, East Midlands, North East, Northern Ireland and the South West bring the voices of their regions. The debate is passionate, the darts are sharp, stereotypes nailed and opinions divided. Can there ever be a United Kingdom? These real testimonials are interwoven with speeches from party leaders of the time in this groundbreaking new play by Carol Ann Duffy, Poet Laureate, and Director Rufus Norris. Created in collaboration with Curve and seven UK arts organisations, in association with Cusack Projects Limited. Recommended for ages 14+ Contains strong language.

PERFORMANCE TIMES Tue – Sat 7.30pm Thu & Sat 2.15pm TICKETS £28* – £22*

*Transaction fee is £3 for all card payments. Excludes Members, Groups 10+ and customers printing tickets at home. For more information about ticket discounts, visit www.curveonline.co.uk

Susanna Hurrell as Sukanya

Alok Kumar as Chyavana

FRI 12 MAY, 7.30PM • THEATRE

TICKETS £32.50* – £10*

After a terrible mistake leaves the ancient sage Chyavana blinded, the beautiful princess Sukanya finds herself marrying for the sake of her kingdom. As a pair of swaggering, meddling gods watch this unlikely union blossom, will love grow in the strangest of circumstances? Taken from the legendary Sanskrit texts of the Mahābhārata, the story of Sukanya has been brought to life in this innovative production with music by Indian music legend Ravi Shankar and combines traditional Indian instruments with Western orchestra and singers. This performance is directed by Curve Associate Director Suba Das and unites dance choreographed by the Aakash Odedra Company, production by The Royal Opera and the musicians of the London Philharmonic Orchestra. Come and experience this special event combining myth, music and dance, bringing Ravi Shankar’s opera to life for the very first time.

Limited tickets available. Please call Ticket Office for details

sukanyaopera.com #sukanyaopera This opera is sung in English. Sukanya is a co-production between The Royal Opera, London Philharmonic Orchestra and Curve. Sukanya score completed by Ravi Shankar’s long-time collaborator David Murphy. Generous philanthropic support from Arts Council England and the Bagri Foundation. Print media partner: Songlines. Selected musicians generously supported by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations.

*Transaction fee is £3 for all card payments. Excludes Members, Groups 10+ and customers printing tickets at home. For more information about ticket discounts, visit www.curveonline.co.uk

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SIGNATURES

DANCE

THU 4 MAY, 7PM • RR2 Signatures, in partnership with Serendipity and Dance4 is an innovative showcase of diverse and engaging work. Now in its seventh year, it is an exciting platform for emerging dancers and choreographers. Yellow, from Adriano Bolognino and Rosaria Di Maro, is an inner search and a desire to dance without inhibitions and fears. Elisha Hamilton Dance present Retale, a poetic and moving representation of the everyday in a time of instability. Papillion by Ella Mesma is inspired by a personal exploration of heritage, race and identity. Mac Daniel V. Palima in Sekseneutraal questions the code of gender in movement and vulnerability in contrast to physical strength. Bringing three hip hop artists together from around the world Si Rawlinson’s Inherent seeks to find a voice in the protest against Black oppression. Hayley Young’s piece interrogates the impact that words and ideas have on response and isolation within the body.

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DRAMA

A CURVE & DE MONTFORT UNIVERSITY CO-PRODUCTION

TICKETS £10* Si Rawlinson by Marso Riviere

DANCE

DIRECTOR JULIA THOMAS

PHILADANCO

THU 18 – SAT 20 MAY • STUDIO

FRI 12 – SAT 13 MAY, 7.45PM • STUDIO Founded in 1970 out of a need for training and opportunities for African American dancers, and led by trailblazer Joan Myers Brown, Philadanco is at the forefront of innovative dance. It brings a creative merger of dance styles including classical ballet and modern dance whilst preserving African-American traditions. Presenting an amalgamation of dancers from diverse communities, their talent and technical skills make Philadanco one of the most sought after modern American dance companies. In 2013, Joan was awarded National Medal of the Arts by President Barack Obama. The company present an exciting mixed bill of acclaimed work. Between The Lines, choreographed by Francisco Gella, draws on the classical idiom with more than a hint of romanticism. Super 8!, from choreographer Ray Mercer, is an acknowledgement of everyday experiences and relationships. Movement For 5, by choreographer Dawn Marie Bazemore, is inspired by the events surrounding the false accusation and imprisonment of ‘The Central Park Five’. Enemy Behind The Gates is a furioso of movement, choreographed by Christopher L. Huggins; who is enemy and who is friend?

Courtney Robinson by Lois Greenfield

‘Goodness is something chosen. When a man cannot choose, he ceases to be a man.’ Anthony Burgess’ dystopian masterpiece, A Clockwork Orange (1962), takes place sometime in the foreseeable future in a capital city where Nadsat (the language of the teenager) resounds and the urge to destroy, beat, steal and commit mayhem is rife. Alex commits one act of violence too far and his fate is in the hands of his prisoners. The price of freedom is to be brainwashed, but is this ethical and can a person really be reformed without choice? A frenetic re-telling of a cult contemporary classic, fusing Beethoven with balletic violence, this stage adaptation is directed by Curve Resident Director Julia Thomas (RTYDS Director Our Day Out), and performed by students from De Montfort University. Running time: 1hr 40mins including an interval.

A Clockwork Orange will be performed in promenade. Audiences in the stalls will be expected to stand throughout. Seated stools are available in the balcony and there may be a restricted view for selected parts of the show. Please contact Ticket Office if you are unsure or have any questions regarding how this performance is being presented. Recommended for ages 16+ Expect scenes of an adult nature and violence. PERFORMANCE TIMES Thu & Sat 7.45pm Fri 7pm & 9.15pm Sat 2.30pm TICKETS £12*

TICKETS £16* – £12*

*Transaction fee is £3 for all card payments. Excludes Members, Groups 10+ and customers printing tickets at home. For more information about ticket discounts, visit www.curveonline.co.uk

TICKET OFFICE: 0116 242 3595

COMEDY

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DANCE

COUNT ARTHUR STRONG:

THE SOUND OF MUCUS SAT 13 MAY, 8PM • THEATRE Using stories and other things that are secret, Count Arthur Strong, showbiz legend, pays tribute to one of the best musicals he can remember. Uniquely recreating the salient and poignant moments for your enjoyment. Plus something else. Don’t miss this amazing event.



“One of the world's leading showcases of hip hop dance and dance theatre”

TICKETS £21.50*

Y KB R C BA ULA P PO MAND DE

The Guardian

“Just gets funnier and funnier”

“Breakin' Convention never fails to deliver thrills, surprises and a stonking good time”

The Guardian

The Times

COMEDY

AL MURRAY THE PUB LANDLORD:

This year’s acts include Just Dance (South Korea)

Soweto Skeleton Movers (S. Africa) Tentacle Tribe (Canada)

LET’S GO BACKWARDS TOGETHER

Plus local talent…

The Collective, Code Crew and Tozer Dance Studios (Tue 23 May)

Hibword & SuperCedric, Take 1 Dance and Wayward Thread (Wed 24 May)

TUE 30 MAY, 7.30PM • THEATRE Publican. Politician. Other thing beginning with P. Philosopher, yeah, that. The nation’s critically acclaimed bar-based-braveheart, Al Murray – The Pub Landlord embarks on a common sense campaign to re-Great Britain. We live in troubling times. Europe. The NHS. Whatever the hell is going on in the Middle East. The gathering storm of fortnightly bin collections? Who knows where it will all end? Watch the one man who will answer the call of destiny even though it’s an unlisted number. Watch the one man who will call time on tyranny even though he isn’t quite sure what it means. Watch the one man who isn’t afraid to say no to women ordering anything other than a glass of white wine (or fruit based drink). TICKETS £27.50*



“A supremely polished performer”

TUE 23 & WED 24 MAY • THEATRE

PERFORMANCE TIMES Tue & Wed 7.30pm

Breakin’ Convention is Sadler’s Wells’ ground-breaking festival of hip hop dance theatre. Hosted and curated by hip hop theatre legend Jonzi D, this show brings together some of the world’s best poppers, lockers, b-boys and b-girls with local dance crews. Breakin’ Convention is more than just a show – it’s an experience! Join us from 5.30pm as DJs, dancers, live aerosol artists, MCs and freestyle sessions take over the building in the ultimate celebration of hip hop culture.

TICKETS £12.50*

Mail on Sunday

*Transaction fee is £3 for all card payments. Excludes Members, Groups 10+ and customers printing tickets at home. For more information about ticket discounts, visit www.curveonline.co.uk

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FAMILY FAMILY

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FAMILY

18 17

Become part of the fabric of Curve and directly support our work with young people. From just £150* you can name a seat in our iconic theatre, enabling us to reach out to even more young people and give them the opportunity to experience every aspect of live theatre. In return for your support you will receive • An engraved plaque on the back of your chosen seat, including a message of your choice.** • A personal thank you on our website. • A one year complimentary Curve Membership.

To help us inspire young people thorough arts and culture by naming a seat, please get in touch with our Development Team on 0116 242 3571 or by email at development@ curvetheatre.co.uk

• A certificate and photo opportunity with your seat. Introducing

RIA JONES

NORMA DESMOND in SUNSET BOULEVARD

WED 31 MAY • THEATRE Starring Milkshake! favourites Bob the Builder, Little Princess, Noddy, Fireman Sam, Shimmer & Shine, Pip from Pip Ahoy!, Winnie and Wilbur, Wissper, Milkshake!’s very own Milkshake! Monkey and two Milkshake! presenters, this all-singing, all-dancing, musical masterpiece will take audiences on a journey through the world’s favourite fairy tales. Set amongst Milkshake!’s magical bookcase, this brand new live show is sure to amaze and delight! The Milkshake! cast will be singing songs and sharing stories that audience members, young and old, will know and love.

PERFORMANCE TIMES 11am & 2.30pm TICKETS £15* £53* for families of 4

*The Milkshake Live show will feature 2 Milkshake! Presenters. Jen, Derek, Kemi, Amy, Olivia, Curtis and Sita may only appear at certain venues. © Channel 5 Broadcasting Limited 2017. All Rights Reserved. ©2017 DreamWorks Distribution Limited. All Rights Reserved. Bob the Builder™©2017 Hit Entertainment Limited and Keith Chapman. Fireman Sam™©2017 Prism Art & Design Limited. “Little Princess” derived from the television series by The Illuminated Film Company and based upon the books by Tony Ross (published by Andersen Press). © 2017 The Illuminated Film Company. All Rights Reserved. © CHF Pip! Plc 2013-2016, All Rights Reserved. © Wissper LTD. ©Winduna Enterprises Ltd. 2017. © 2017 Viacom International Inc. All Rights Reserved.

*Transaction fee is £3 for all card payments. Excludes Members, Groups 10+ and customers printing tickets at home. For more information about ticket discounts, visit www.curveonline.co.uk

“I think Curve is an amazing place and it means a lot to me. I will always remember it as the place where I got my start.” Vicky Gogana, 14

*£300 for seats in the stalls. **Terms and conditions apply.

“Give young people an opportunity of a lifetime – Name your seat at Curve.” Chris Stafford, CEO Curve

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TOM DALE COMPANY PRESENTS

DIGITOPIA

A DANCING DIGITAL WONDERLAND

TUE 23 & WED 24 MAY • STUDIO Join Dotty and Hex in this fantastical wonderland for a rollercoaster ride of digital surprises. Dotty’s friend Hex is a simple two-dimensional line. One day, he really wants to make a curve. With lots of effort he learns to bend, then multiply, and he can turn into anything he wants to, eventually popping into three dimensions. Tom Dale Company create extraordinary performances that bring together urban contemporary dance, electronic music and digital art. Recommended for ages 6+ Running time: 45 minutes (plus 20 mins show and tell)

“Handsomely designed attempt to explore the capabilities of digital media for young audiences.”

MUZIEKVOORSTELLING.NL AND FESTIVAL 2 TURVEN HOOG PRESENT

WHOOSH!

TUE 23 & WED 24 MAY • RR2 Nominated for Small Ensemble for Young Audiences at The Young Audiences Music Awards. Three musicians will enchantingly blow you to a warm world of breath and wind. A world where the only spoken language is music and where every breeze turns into beautiful sounds. Whoosh! is a performance in which the power of the music and the narrative of the movement are central. Whoosh! will stimulate your skin and hair, eyes and ears. Recommended for ages 1-4 years Running time: 50 minutes including play time Whoosh! is supported by the Embassy of the Netherlands.

“Genius ideas to grab the attention of little ones.” Audience Member

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MONKEYSHINE THEATRE PRESENTS

LOSHA

SAT 27 & SUN 28 MAY • RR2 Where do things go when you forget them? Losha is a magical creature that likes to collect things, small things, important things, things that have been forgotten. She shares the memories of half-remembered stories and explores unexpected worlds where only secret dreams can take you. Set in a delicate world of light and shadows with objects and poetic dance, Losha is a sensitive tale made for family audiences. Recommended for ages 5+ Running time: 45 minutes

“An amazing, thought-provoking show. The children were engrossed from start to finish” Audience Member

PERFORMANCE TIMES Sat 10.30am & 1pm • Sun 10.30am, 1pm & 3pm

The Times

PERFORMANCE TIMES 10.30am & 1pm

PERFORMANCE TIMES Tue 7pm • Wed 10.15am & 1.30pm

RELAXED PERFORMANCE Sun 28 May, 10.30am

TICKETS £7*

FAMILY

MASHI THEATRE, IN ASSOCIATION WITH THE SPARK ARTS FOR CHILDREN AND SUPPORTED BY Z-ARTS, PRESENTS

TALES OF BIRBAL SAT 27 MAY • STUDIO

How many crows are there in this land? Which came first, the chicken or the egg? Only Birbal knows... Whatever the question, Birbal, the cunning advisor to Mogul Emperor Akbar has the answer! Mashi Theatre’s travelling storytellers stop by to share their colourful, ancient Indian stories akin to Aesop’s Fables. Enjoy these tales of adventure and problem solving, and even learn a song on the way. Put your thinking cap on and join us to step into the world of Akbar and Birbal. Recommended for ages 6+ Running time: 50 minutes

“What a great show. If you want laughter, to go into the imagination and connect with your inner child, then this play has it all!” Audience Member

PERFORMANCE TIMES 1.30pm & 3.30pm TICKETS £8*

TICKETS £8* DANCE & TECHNOLOGY SHOW AND TELL Stay on after the performance and meet the artists as they reveal some of the technology and processes involved in creating Digitopia. Suitable for ages 9+

FAMILY DAY

Join us on 27 May for free workshops and drop-in activity, plus the return of the Toy Swap Shop. For more information see page 36.

*Transaction fee is £3 for all card payments. Excludes Members, Groups 10+ and customers printing tickets at home. For more information about ticket discounts, visit www.curveonline.co.uk

TICKET OFFICE: 0116 242 3595

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DRAMA

TUE 30 MAY – SAT 10 JUN • STUDIO Iconic characters from Charles Webb’s novel and the classic film are brought to life in this hilarious black comedy and moving coming-of-age story. Benjamin returns from college to high expectations of a bright future in aspirational, middleclass America. The only trouble is, the thought of that future makes him sick to his stomach. When he meets another disillusioned soul in his parents’ best friend Mrs Robinson, their illicit relationship takes them on a thrillingly destructive course that threatens everyone’s future happiness. Catherine McCormack, playing Mrs Robinson, has worked extensively in film, television and theatre. She is best known for her starring roles in the multiple Academy Award-winning film Braveheart with Mel Gibson and Spy Game with Brad Pitt, as well as receiving an Olivier Award nomination for her role in All My Sons at the National Theatre, alongside Julie Walters. Starring opposite her is Jack Monaghan as Benjamin, who has played the lead role in the record-breaking West End production of War Horse, as well as featuring in Charlie Brooker’s Black Mirror and Richard Curtis’ film About Time. Featuring a memorable soundtrack of sixties songs, don't miss this stylish new production by acclaimed director Lucy Bailey (Great Expectations, The Postman Always Rings Twice, West Yorkshire Playhouse; Taming of the Shrew, RSC; Titus Andronicus, Shakespeare’s Globe). The Graduate is presented by special arrangement with SAMUEL FRENCH, LTD PERFORMANCE TIMES Tue – Sat 7.15pm • Wed 31 May 7pm • Thu & Sat 2.30pm TICKETS £28.50* – £10* ACCESS PERFORMANCES For more information about Access Performances, visit www.curveonline.co.uk

CURVE AND WEST YORKSHIRE PLAYHOUSE IN ASSOCIATION WITH SIMON FRIEND AND GAVIN KALIN PRODUCTIONS PRESENT

Catherine McCormack as Mrs Robinson Jack Monaghan as Benjamin

Directed by Lucy Bailey Adapted by Terry Johnson

Based on the novel by Charles Webb and the motion picture screenplay by Calder Willingham and Buck Henry *Transaction fee is £3 for all card payments. Excludes Members, Groups 10+ and customers printing tickets at home. For more information about ticket discounts, visit www.curveonline.co.uk Photograph: Alex James

by special arrangement with Studio

Canal

DANCE

The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas A ballet by Daniel de Andrade

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FAMILY

DANCE

A musical play adapted and directed by DAVID WOOD Based on the book by JUDITH KERR

Illustrations © Kerr-Kneale Productions Ltd 1968

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goldilocks & the three bears a ballet for children

MON 3 – FRI 7 JUL • STUDIO

Goldilocks is a mischievous little girl with hair as bright as gold. Always on the look-out for an adventure, one day her curiosity leads her to a house full of many surprises. With a family of friendly bears, a beautiful blue bird and bowls of delicious porridge, this ballet is just right! With sell-out performances and hugely successful CBeebies TV adaptations, including Ugly Duckling and Tortoise & The Hare, Northern Ballet’s productions especially for children are not to be missed. Goldilocks & the Three Bears is the perfect opportunity for your little ones to enjoy live ballet, music and theatre for the first time. This child-friendly performance lasts approximately 40 minutes.

FRI 2 – SAT 3 JUN • THEATRE Divided by a barbed wire fence, Bruno doesn’t understand anything about where Shmuel lives, or who he is. To him, he’s just a new friend – a boy wearing striped pyjamas. As this unlikely friendship blossoms against the backdrop of the unthinkable events of World War II, Bruno’s childlike curiosity leads this poignant story to a devastating conclusion. The UK’s foremost narrative ballet company, Northern Ballet, present this heart-breaking story through dance for the very first time. Based upon The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas by John Boyne, by special arrangement with Miramax.

PERFORMANCE TIMES Fri & Sat 7.30pm

PERFORMANCE TIMES 12.30pm & 2.30pm

TICKETS £35* – £10*

TICKETS £10* – £6*

*Transaction fee is £3 for all card payments. Excludes Members, Groups 10+ and customers printing tickets at home. For more information about ticket discounts, visit www.curveonline.co.uk

The doorbell rings just as Sophie and her mummy are sitting down to tea. Who could it possibly be? What they certainly don’t expect to see at the door is a big, stripy tiger! Following a record-breaking West End season, the tea-guzzling tiger returns to Curve with this delightful, family show packed with oodles of magic, sing-a-long songs and clumsy chaos! This stunning stage adaptation of the classic tale of teatime mayhem is for children aged 3 and above. Running time: approximately 55 minutes. Photographs: Michael Jean-Marain

SAT 3 JUN • THEATRE



“A rare and grrreat achievement.” Mail on Sunday PERFORMANCE TIMES Mon – Fri 1.30pm • Tue – Fri 10.30am • Fri 7 Jul 4.30pm TICKETS £14*

TICKET OFFICE: 0116 242 3595

DRAMA

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Barely Methodical Troupe presents

KIN

FRI 30 JUN – SAT 1 JUL, 7.45PM • STUDIO The boys from the 2015 smash Bromance are back in this red-hot, five star piece of circus about camaraderie and affection. AND they’ve brought friends! The performers’ physical prowess is deftly deployed, as tumbling, flying and catching become challenges and opportunities for individual bids for recognition. One of the UK’s hottest circus companies Barely Methodical Troupe are at the forefront of a new kind of physical performance, creating highly entertaining shows that mix the show-stopping acrobatics of circus with the emotional punch of theatre. Kin is produced by DREAM and funded by Arts Council England, with support from Lawrence Batley Huddersfield, the National Centre for Circus Arts and the Roundhouse.

CIRCUS



“A beautiful, sad, funny complicated thing... blossoms into something visually arresting and emotionally vast” The Stage

TICKETS £16* – £10*

DANCE

National Youth Dance Company & Damien Jalet presents

TARANTISEISMIC TUE 20 – SAT 24 JUN • STUDIO This punchy production recaptures the passion and controversy of the famous novel and globally successful film, and repackages it into an immersive production – the audience are literally part of the show, including the notorious ‘Worst Toilet in Scotland’ scene. Trainspotting is the story of Mark Renton and his friends, living through the Edinburgh heroin scene of the ‘80s. For this 21st anniversary production, In Your Face Theatre’s Scottish cast have created a snappy and vibrant affirmation of the power and humour of the piece. This is a no-holds-barred immersive, in-yer-face theatre production; this is your ticket to a ride you won’t soon forget. Choose life.



“A must see for fans of the novel and film alike.” Daily Telegraph

by Irvine Welsh Adapted by Harry Gibson Directed by Adam Spreadbury-Maher with Greg Esplin Lighting by Clancy Flynn Sound by Tom Lishman

Running time: 75 minutes Recommended for ages 16+

PERFORMANCE TIMES Tue – Sat 7pm • Thu – Sat 8.45pm

WARNING: This immersive production contains nudity, strong language, sex, violence, drug/needle use and lots of mess. May induce claustrophobia.

TICKETS £22* – £18*

*Transaction fee is £3 for all card payments. Excludes Members, Groups 10+ and customers printing tickets at home. For more information about ticket discounts, visit www.curveonline.co.uk

“They are strong, skilful and ready for anything” Daily Telegraph

SAT 8 JUL, 7.30PM • STUDIO National Youth Dance Company bring their latest production to Curve, created by 2016-2017 Guest Artistic Director Damien Jalet. NYDC has established a reputation for producing performances with a range of dancers who are expressive, brave and shaping the future of dance in this country. This new commission sees Jalet and the company of 40 young dancers present a unique piece of theatre which addresses themes of melancholia, ritual, control and abandon. Jalet’s revered choreographic style combined with the young dancers’ energy and talent is set to produce a mesmerising experience that shifts the consciousness of the audience. TICKETS £12*

*Transaction fee is £3 for all card payments. Excludes Members, Groups 10+ and customers printing tickets at home. For more information about ticket discounts, visit www.curveonline.co.uk

TICKET OFFICE: 0116 242 3595

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MUSICAL

Magic FM

C A M E R O N M AC K I N TO S H’S NEW PRODUCTION OF

BO U B L I L & S C H Ö N B E R G’S

SATURDAY 1 – SATURDAY 22 JULY

PERFORMANCE TIMES: Mon - Sat 7.30pm, Thu & Sat 2.15pm | TICKETS: £57.50*- £10* *Transaction fee is £3 for all card payments. Excludes Members, Groups 10+ and customers printing tickets at home. For more information about ticket discounts, visit www.curveonline.co.uk

35 27

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FAMILY

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MUSICAL

Commissioned and produced by National Youth Music Theatre

World Première

A CURVE YOUNG COMPANY AND COMMUNITY PRODUCTION Director NICK WINSTON

WED 23 – SAT 26 AUG • STUDIO

THU 10 – SUN 20 AUG • THEATRE Under the light of the moon, we follow the story of four young lovers as they become ensnared by the magic of the forest and the trickery of mischievous sprite Puck. Throw in the warring King and Queen of the fairies and a misfit band of actors performing a play within a play, and the lines between fantasy and reality soon become blurred… This Summer, journey with us into the enchanted forest for our vibrant new production of William Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, directed by Curve Associate Artist Nick Winston (Director of Bugsy Malone, Choreographer Grease and Legally Blonde). This magical Made At Curve production will be a fun mix of contemporary pop songs and dance, married with the Bard’s beautiful language. For the first time ever, we will be bringing together our Curve Young Company and Community actors to create this bold and ambitious reimagining, in true celebration of local and emerging talent.

PERFORMANCE TIMES Tue – Sun 7pm Sat & Sun 2pm TICKETS £26* – £10*

*Transaction fee is £3 for all card payments. Excludes Members, Groups 10+ and customers printing tickets at home. For more information about ticket discounts, visit www.curveonline.co.uk

Following last year’s performance of Spring Awakening, Associate Artists National Youth Music Theatre return to Curve with this blockbuster new musical for all ages. William Antrim is small for his age; he’s quiet and shy, which makes him an easy target for lazy bullies. But in his dreams, William Antrim is Billy the Kid, a courageous cowboy, riding the range with the sun in his eyes. An all-American hero. Now, if only his dreams could become a reality… Billy the Kid is an adventure story, a magical, musical comedy set in a colourful world of cowboys and bandits, cactus trees and caballeros. Saddle-up for a journey back in time, to a land where the bravest heroes are only a whip-crack away! This is a show for all the family, smart enough for the most demanding young audience and silly enough for the grumpiest grown-ups. For 40 years, the award-winning National Youth Music Theatre has represented the very best work with young people in musical theatre, leading Andrew Lloyd Webber to describe it as “the best youth music theatre in the world.”

PERFORMANCE TIMES Wed – Sat 7pm Fri & Sat 2.30pm TICKETS £20* – £14*

*Transaction fee is £3 for all card payments. Excludes Members, Groups 10+ and customers printing tickets at home. For more information about ticket discounts, visit www.curveonline.co.uk

TICKET OFFICE: 0116 242 3595

MUSICAL

DRAMA

WWW.CURVEONLINE.CO.UK A CURVE, BELGRADE THEATRE COVENTRY AND WEST YORKSHIRE PLAYHOUSE CO-PRODUCTION IN ASSOCIATION WITH ENGLISH TOURING THEATRE

CURVE IN ASSOCIATION WITH MICHAEL HARRISON AND DAVID IAN PRESENT THE CURVE PRODUCTION OF

Sponsored by

‘ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER’S MUSICAL IS A GLORIOUS, THRILL A MINUTE TRIUMPH’ DAILY TELEGRAPH

BASED ON THE BOOK BY

AMANA FONTANELLA-KHAN

MUSIC BY

DIRECTED BY

ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER

SUBA DAS

BOOK & LYRICS BY

WED 27 SEP – SAT 7 OCT • STUDIO

DON BLACK & CHRISTOPHER HAMPTON BASED ON THE

DIRECTOR

NIKOLAI FOSTER

BILLY WILDER film

SAT 16 SEP – SAT 30 SEP • THEATRE Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Tony Award®-winning masterpiece. One of the all-time great musicals, Sunset Boulevard is a story of romance and obsession, starring acclaimed musical theatre star Ria Jones as Norma Desmond. In her mansion, faded silent screen goddess Norma Desmond lives in a fantasy world. Impoverished writer Joe Gillis stumbles into her reclusive world and is seduced by her lifestyle, becoming trapped until his love for another woman leads him to try and break free. With its much-loved score (Sunset Boulevard, With One Look, The Greatest Star of All and The Perfect Year), this production promises to be a spectacular evening. *Transaction fee is £3 for all card payments. Excludes Members, Groups 10+ and customers printing tickets at home. For more information about ticket discounts, visit www.curveonline.co.uk

ADAPTED FOR THE STAGE BY

PURVA NARESH

RIA JONES is

NORMA DESMOND PERFORMANCE TIMES Mon – Sat 7.30pm Wed & Sat 2.15pm Thu 28 Sep 7pm TICKETS £40* – £10*

“When you grow up in this place, the violence becomes a part of you” In the ‘Badlands’ of Uttar Pradesh, where violence against women can be traced back into Indian mythology, one woman has raised an army to say “no more.” She is Sampat Pal, the formidable and fearless leader of the Gulabi Gang, a movement of over 400,000 women fighting for their rights in a uniform of blazing pink saris. One winter’s day, Sampat learns of Sheelu Nishad, a young girl thrown into prison in the dead of night. As Sampat investigates, a chain of events is set in motion that reveals the real cost of making a stand. This Made At Curve production will receive its world premiere at Curve and will be created by a unique collaboration of award-winning Indian and British Asian artists led by Curve Associate Director Suba Das (Ravi Shankar's Sukanya, Wipers, Abigail's Party). Fusing together drama, music and movement, Pink Sari Revolution is a true story based on the book by internationally renowned journalist Amana FontanellaKhan and meetings with Sampat Pal. Recommended for ages 13+ Some scenes contain references to sexual and domestic violence. *Transaction fee is £3 for all card payments. Excludes Members, Groups 10+ and customers printing tickets at home. For more information about ticket discounts, visit www.curveonline.co.uk

PERFORMANCE TIMES Mon – Sat 7.15pm Thu 5 Oct 7pm Thu & Sat 2.30pm TICKETS £18* – £10* Previews (27 – 28 Sep) £10* ACCESS PERFORMANCES For more information about Access Performances, visit www.curveonline.co.uk After Show Discussions will take place after every performance. Guest hosts to be announced.

TICKET OFFICE: 0116 242 3595

DRAMA

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MUSICAL

THE WEST END & BROADWAY HIT MUSICAL

HHHHH What’s On Stage

‘

TERRIFIC FUN’ Leicester Mercury

MON 16 – SAT 21 OCT • THEATRE

MON 23 – SAT 28 OCT • THEATRE Just married. Bored already. Hedda longs to be free… Following a sold-out run at the National Theatre, this modern production of Ibsen’s masterpiece Hedda Gabler comes to Curve. This vital new version by Olivier Award-winning playwright Patrick Marber (Closer, Three Days in the Country) is directed by Olivier and Tony Award®-winning director Ivo van Hove (A View from the Bridge) who made his National Theatre debut with this acclaimed new production.

Paul Kerryson’s smash-hit Made At Curve musical Hairspray is back! After a sell-out run in 2015, the all-singing, all-dancing production returns to Leicester this Autumn! It’s Baltimore 1962, where Tracy Turnblad, a big girl with big hair and an even bigger heart, is on a mission to follow her dreams and dance her way onto national TV. Tracy’s audition makes her a local star and soon she is using her new-found fame to fight for equality, bagging local heartthrob Link Larkin along the way! Featuring the hit songs Welcome To The ‘60s, You Can’t Stop The Beat, The Nicest Kids In Town and many more. This irresistible feel-good show is a perfect treat for all the family – let your hair down and book now!

PERFORMANCE TIMES Mon – Sat 7.30pm Wed & Sat 2.15pm

TICKETS £32.50* – £14.50*

 ‘ A Hedda unlike any I have seen. Devastating.’ WhatsOnStage

*Transaction fee is £3 for all card payments. Excludes Members, Groups 10+ and customers printing tickets at home. For more information about ticket discounts, visit www.curveonline.co.uk

TICKETS £38* – £18.50*

‘

AS LIGHT AND BOUNCY AS A BUBBLE OF GUM!’ The Observer

*Transaction fee is £3 for all card payments. Excludes Members, Groups 10+ and customers printing tickets at home. For more information about ticket discounts, visit www.curveonline.co.uk

TICKET OFFICE: 0116 242 3595

FAMILY

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MUSICAL

CURVE IN ASSOCIATION WITH MICHAEL HARRISON ENTERTAINMENT AND DAVID IAN PRODUCTIONS

A CURVE AND ROSE THEATRE KINGSTON PRODUCTION

ADAPTOR

DAVID WOOD

BOOK, MUSIC & LYRICS

DIRECTOR

LESLIE BRICUSSE

NIKOLAI FOSTER

SAT 9 DEC – SUN 14 JAN • STUDIO SAT 18 NOV – SUN 7 JAN • THEATRE

PERFORMANCE TIMES 10am, 11am, 12pm, 1.30pm and 7pm Times vary by day, please visit www.curveonline.co.uk for availability, or call the Ticket Office on 0116 242 3595 to find out more. TICKETS £18* – £12* Previews (9 – 13 Dec) £10* ACCESS PERFORMANCES For more information about Access Performances, visit www.curveonline.co.uk

*Transaction fee is £3 for all card payments. Excludes Members, Groups 10+ and customers printing tickets at home. For more information about ticket discounts, visit www.curveonline.co.uk

Most grandmothers are lovely, kind, helpful old ladies. Not George’s Grandmother. George’s Grandmother likes to gobble up slugs and bugs, and is always telling George what to do. But one day, when his parents leave him alone with the grizzly old grunion, George takes his chance and sets about creating a brand new medicine to cure her of her cruelty. Little does he know that his perilous potion will be the start of a rather marvellous adventure… Following the success of Fantastic Mr Fox, The Twits and The Witches, Curve’s magnificent new co-production with Rose Theatre Kingston promises to be yet another hugely imaginative and entertaining stage adaptation, bursting with growing grannies, feathery farm animals and bags of frothbuggling family fun. Join us this Christmas to see Roald Dahl’s treasured tale brought to phizz-whizzing life! Recommended for ages 5+ www.roalddahl.com www.davidwood.org.uk

This Christmas, Curve Artistic Director Nikolai Foster will direct a magical new version of Academy Award-winning composer Leslie Bricusse’s festive family musical, Scrooge the Musical. Featuring songs I Hate Christmas, A Better Life and, of course, Thank You Very Much. Based on Charles Dickens’ classic story A Christmas Carol and the movie musical starring Albert Finney, Scrooge is the perfect family treat. In 1843, Dickens created one of the most powerful and enduring stories of all time, with the plight of the poor and their children during the boom decades of the industrial revolution brought into startling focus. A timeless story of the perils of greed and the transformative power of charity over capitalism, Curve’s 40th anniversary production of this great British musical is a treat for all. Join Ebenezer, Bob Cratchit, Tiny Tim and a host of Dickens’ other famous characters as Scrooge journeys with the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future in this spectacular retelling of the famous story. Recommended for ages 8+

PERFORMANCE TIMES Tue – Sat and Mon 20 Nov 7.30pm Wed & Sat and Tue 26 Dec 2.30pm Sun (excl. Sun 26 Nov) 1pm Thu 23 Nov 7pm TICKETS £42* – £10* Previews (18 – 22 Nov) £20* – £5* ACCESS PERFORMANCES For more information about Access Performances, visit www.curveonline.co.uk

*Transaction fee is £3 for all card payments. Excludes Members, Groups 10+ and customers printing tickets at home. For more information about ticket discounts, visit www.curveonline.co.uk

TICKET OFFICE: 0116 242 3595

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WEEKLY CLASSES AT LED BY OUR COMMUNITY AFFILIATE GROUPS

FAMILY DAYS SUMMER 2017 FANTASTIC MR FOX FAMILY DAY

THE SPARK FESTIVAL FAMILY DAY

SUMMER READING CHALLENGE FAMILY DAY

Have fantastic fun with Mr Fox and friends at our Roald Dahl-themed Family Day! Includes fox-themed dance and movement workshops, live music, dressing up, crafts and more!

Come play and explore in and around our theatre spaces and foyer. There will be free workshops and drop-in activity including The Poetry Take-Away, live music, shadow puppetry, dressing up and the return of the Toy Swap Shop.

Join Leicester Libraries for this year’s Animal Agents-themed, Summer Reading Challenge Family Day! Features performances from Curve Young Company and Community Groups, a buildingwide mystery trail, crafts, storytelling, live music and more.

Sat 8 Apr, 11am – 3pm

Sat 27 May, 11am – 4pm

Tue 1 Aug, 11am – 4pm

For more information on Family Days, please visit www.curveonline.co.uk/get-involved/family-days

Curve is committed to free and low-cost creative experiences for people of all ages, all year round. Over 16,000 people participated last year alone. Why not join us for one of the classes detailed below. For more information please email communityengagement@curvetheatre.co.uk or visit www.curveonline.co.uk/workshops

SIDEKICK DANCE

OVER 55S DANCE CLASS

Suitable for ages 19+ years. These sessions offer a place where people with disabilities can come together to explore movement and dance, have fun, feel comfortable and achieve.

Learn a variety of dance styles in these fun classes that provide a great opportunity to keep fit and meet new people.

Led by Sidekick Wed 1pm – 2.30pm (term time only) £5 per participant

BOLLYWOOD DANCE CLASS FOR ADULTS Led by Nupur Arts Tue 6pm – 7pm (term time only) £6 per participant

Come on down and get your dancing feet on, you’re never too old to have some fun! Our Bollywood moves are suitable for all ages, abilities and needs, and are sure to make you work up a sweat.

KAINÉ CHOIR

Led by Kainé Management £2 per child • £3 per adult Mon 4.30pm – 6pm (Children’s Choir) Mon 6.30pm – 8pm (Women’s Choir) Wed 6.30pm – 8pm (Gospel Choir)

Curve is proud to be an Arts Award Supporter. Are you a school or community group working with young people studying Arts Award? If so, we woud love to hear from you. Our Learning team at Curve can offer tailor made activities for all ages that contribute towards any level of the Arts Award. Our activities include: • Seeing and reviewing shows • Meetings with casts, creatives and theatre professionals • Educational workshops (eg. Drama, writing, dance, musical) • Behind-the-scenes days • Learning resources To find out more about our learning opportunities or to discuss how we can assist in your delivery of Arts Award, please email Emma Ling at e.ling@curvetheatre.co.uk

LITTLE MOVERS

Led by Liz Clark Tue 10.15am – 11.15am (term time only) £5 per family group 25 Apr – 23 May Term Block £20 6 Jun – 10 Jul Term Block £25 Little Movers is a creative movement class for children aged 18 months to 4 years and their parent or carer. The class makes space for your little one to explore moving and dancing with exciting multi-sensory props and great music.

CURVE YOUNG WRITERS

Led by Writing East Midlands & Jess Green Tue fortnightly 6pm – 8pm (from 29 Aug – 20 Dec) £30 in advance for the term £3.50 for weekly drop in sessions Curve Young Writers is a creative writing group for young writers between the ages of 14 and 17. The next term will explore poetry, fiction and playwriting skills in a friendly group led by professional poet and theatre-maker Jess Green. For more information contact Writing East Midlands at info@www.writingeastmidlands.co.uk

SCHOOLS Curve’s Learning team works extensively with both Primary and Secondary Schools, linking productions in our theatre with your curriculum needs. During this summer term why not book one of our amazing artist educators to deliver a workshop based on A Midsummer Night’s Dream or give your young people a learning experience around our visiting work, The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas and Miss Saigon. We will come to your school or can host you in a visit to the theatre. In September we are planning an extensive programme of work around Pink Sari Revolution. Get in touch with Emma Ling at e.ling@curvetheatre.co.uk if you are interested in our learning opportunities.

Led by Moving Together Tue 1pm – 2.30pm £6 per participant

This season, our Curve Young Companies will be continuing with their creative projects and performances for young people aged 12-26 years. You can see CYC Drama performing Status Update in April as part of the National Theatre Connections festival. Our CYC Musical Theatre, Dance and Devised groups will also be taking to our Studio stage from 12 – 15 Jul for their CYC Take 1 Showcase. Take one song. Take one style. Take one play. Take one dance. Take one night out of your week to see our young companies showcase the work they have made over this year. Tickets will be on sale from April.

CYC Kids will also be returning for 7 – 11 year olds, with regular Saturday sessions in dance, drama and musical theatre. Interested in joining our Curve Young Company? Then please email cyc@curvetheatre.co.uk for more details on how to apply, or see the CYC pages on our website. We will also be running a selection of intensive projects and short courses inspired by our Made At Curve produced shows, plus a whole host of one-off free workshops and opportunities. Please visit www.curveonline.co.uk for full details.

TICKET OFFICE: 0116 242 3595

FESTIVAL

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THANK YOU TO OUR CURRENT SUPPORTERS

CURVE APPRECIATES THE ONGOING SUPPORT OF

SPONSORS MEMBERS EVENT SPONSOR

PARTNERS

BUSINESS ASSOCIATES

EXPERIENCE PARTNERS

CREATE PARTNERS

SUSTAIN PARTNERS

Daphne Tucker Glyn Tucker

Diana & Richard Brooks Linda Fox David Hill Janie Martin Jean Roberts Aubrey & Mary Rodgers David & Diane Statham

Aatin Anadkat Annie Bannister Anthony & Lisa Clare Jane Harris-Lock Jonathan Kerry Barbara Matthews Chris Stafford

TRUSTS & FOUNDATIONS The Mackintosh Foundation The Foyle Foundation Garfield Weston Foundation John Ellerman Foundation The Travers Foundation The Wolfson Foundation

Talk to us about our exciting sponsorship and partnership opportunities available at Curve. We’re more than a theatre – we put your business centre stage.

Call us on 0116 242 3597 Email development@curvetheatre.co.uk or visit www.curveonline.co.uk/business

TICKET OFFICE: 0116 242 3595

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We warmly welcome customers with all disabilities requiring particular assistance, and our building and facilities are accessible for everyone.

OPENING HOURS & TICKET SALES OUTLETS

Open Mon – Sat from 10am. When there is no evening performance, the building closes at 6pm. Sunday and Bank Holiday opening times vary, please check www.curveonline.co.uk for more information. Did you know… you can also book tickets at Visit Leicester and our kiosk in Highcross? For all other enquires please contact Curve Reception on 0116 242 3560.

GROUP AND SCHOOL BOOKINGS

We warmly welcome groups and school bookings, offering special prices and benefits for groups of 10+ for most shows. For more information, please call the Ticket Office or contact our dedicated Group Sales team by emailing groupbookings@curvetheatre.co.uk

CHILDREN IN ATTENDANCE

Children under 18 months are not permitted in the auditoria unless the event is aimed at children under 7 years old. Children of all ages require a ticket to enter the auditoria at any time. If no specific discount is available for children, the full ticket rate will apply. Please call the Ticket Office for the age guidance for each production.

THE SMALL PRINT (PLEASE READ ME CAREFULLY) • A transaction charge of £3 is applied to all transactions, except cash purchases made in person at the Ticket Office or Highcross. Members and Groups 10+ are not subject to transaction charges when purchasing tickets. Customers printing tickets at home will also be exempt from this fee, however tickets must be presented on arrival. Re-printing of tickets at the Ticket Office may incur the £3 transaction charge. • Concessions and discounts are not available for preview performances. • All tickets, prices, concessions, offers and discounts are subject to availability and can be changed and/or withdrawn at any time, without prior notice. • Only one concession or discount can be applied per ticket purchased and cannot be applied retrospectively. The only exception is when applying a membership discount. • Tickets are not refundable except in the case of a cancelled or rescheduled performance. • Changes to the cast for a performance (including any star casting) will not entitle you to a refund. • All tickets are sold in accordance with the Data Protection Act 1998.

• All performance details and content descriptions are correct at the time of going to print and are subject to change and interpretation. • We are not responsible for the content of any third party website. • Tickets are not transferable to other shows and cannot be sold, resold or offered for sale by customers. Only tickets purchased via our Ticket Office or our approved agents are valid for admission. • For the protection of children, on selected performances and at our sole discretion, children and infants may not be permitted to attend. Performances where an age restriction applies are indicated during the booking process. Please ensure that you read all the information that applies to the ticket you are booking, and carry proof of age if appropriate. Public Dress Rehearsals The decision to invite the public to our Dress Rehearsal will be taken on the morning of that performance and tickets will go on sale at 12 noon the same day. Tickets are limited to four per person and are available on a first come, first served basis.

JOIN OUR FREE ACCESS REGISTER Our Access Register Scheme is designed to assist customers with additional needs. We store information on your personal requirements so that you don’t need to resubmit evidence each time you book. Once registered, you will be entitled to one free essential carer ticket with the standard ticket you purchase for each show. To become an Access Register Member, please visit our website or call the Ticket Office on 0116 242 3595.

ACCESS PERFORMANCES CAPTIONED PERFORMANCES (CAP)

Screens are displayed in the auditorium running the text (just like subtitles). There is usually a ‘Captioner’ who will make adjustments to the live dialogue as the performance happens.

SIGNED PERFORMANCES IN BRITISH SIGN LANGUAGE (BSL)

A sign language interpreter stands at the front of the auditorium/forestage to translate the dialogue into BSL during the performance.

AUDIO-DESCRIBED PERFORMANCES (AD)

An ‘audio describer’ describes what is happening on stage to customers who have collected an audio-describing headset from the Ticket Office.

DEMENTIA FRIENDLY PERFORMANCES (DF)

Dementia friendly performances are tailored to meet the specific needs of people living with dementia. They include adaptations to the show, clearer visual markers and signage in the physical environment, and a relaxed attitude to movement and audience responses during the show.

RELAXED PERFORMANCES (RP)

Tailored for customers who would benefit from a more relaxed performance environment. Audience members are free to make noise and, while the theatre doors will close, audience members can come and go as they please. We also reserve a quiet zone and set up a screening of the performance for anybody needing time out of the show.

ADDITIONAL SERVICES TOUCH TOURS (TT)

Explore the auditorium, set and characters through touch prior to the performance to get a sense of what will be happening on stage, and experience the different voices you will hear.

INFRA-RED & INDUCTION LOOP HEARING SYSTEMS

Available in our Theatre and Studio. Please ask at the Ticket Office for a headset.

ASSISTANCE DOGS

Dog spaces are available upon request; please let us know during the booking process and a seat next to the aisle will be reserved for you. Alternatively, a member of staff will care for your dog during the performance. We can also provide drinking water for your dog.

WHEELCHAIR SPACES IN ALL OF OUR PERFORMANCE AREAS

All public areas are accessible to wheelchair users, including lift access to the circle level. We have allocated wheelchair spaces for every performance, both in the Theatre and Studio. If you wish to transfer to a theatre seat we can store the wheelchair upon request.

ACCESSIBLE TOILETS

Available on both the stalls and circle levels. We also have a Changing Places accessible toilet with adult hoist on the foyer level, next to door 4 of the Theatre.

ACCESSIBLE PARKING

Available on Southampton Street, in the NCP Rutland Centre Car Park adjacent to Curve, and we have a drop-off point on Rutland Street.

Winner 2011 & 2014

Access for All Tourism Award Leicester and Leicestershire

Winner 2013

Large Visitor Attraction of the Year

TICKET OFFICE: 0116 242 3595

KEY

GETTING TO

Public Dress Rehearsal To be confirmed on the day Preview After-show Discussion Audio Described

MARCH

Fri 3 What the Butler Saw 2.30 7.30 Sat 4 What the Butler Saw 2.15 7.30 Tue 7 What the Butler Saw 7.30 Wed 8 What the Butler Saw 7.00 Thu 9 What the Butler Saw 7.30 Fri 10 What the Butler Saw 7.30 Sat 11 What the Butler Saw 2.15 7.30 The Gospel Variety Showcase 7.00 Mon 13 What the Butler Saw 7.30 Tue 14 What the Butler Saw 7.30 Room on the Broom 1.30 Wed 15 What the Butler Saw 2.15 7.30 Room on the Broom 10.30 1.30 Thu 16 What the Butler Saw 7.00 Room on the Broom 10.30 1.30 Fri 17 What the Butler Saw 7.30 Room on the Broom 10.30 1.30 Sat 18 What the Butler Saw 2.15 7.30 Room on the Broom 10.30 1.30 4.30 Sun 19 Room on the Broom 10.30 1.30 Tue 21 Pygmalion 7.45 Wed 22 Pygmalion 7.45 Thu 23 Pygmalion 2.30 7.45 Fri 24 Pygmalion 7.45 Sat 25 Pygmalion 2.30 7.45 The Girl & the Giraffe 11.00 1.00 Sun 26 White Lily & Night Rider 7.30 Tue 28 Rent 7.30 Dr Frankenstein 7.45 Wed 29 Rent 7.30 Dr Frankenstein 7.45 Thu 30 Rent 7.30 Dr Frankenstein 2.15 7.45 Fri 31 Rent 5.00 8.30 Dr Frankenstein 7.45

APRIL

Sat 1 Rent 2.15 7.30 Dr Frankenstein 2.15 7.45 Mon 3 Fantastic Mr Fox 7.00 Tue 4 Fantastic Mr Fox 10.00 Oh Happy Days 6.00 Wed 5 Fantastic Mr Fox 1.30 7.00 NT Connections: Status Update 7.00 Thu 6 Fantastic Mr Fox 1.30 7.00 NT Connections: Status Update 7.00 Fri 7 Fantastic Mr Fox 7.00 Sat 8 Fantastic Mr Fox 11.00 3.00 7.00 Fantastic Mr Fox Family Day 11.00 Sun 9 Fantastic Mr Fox 11.00 3.00 Mon 10 Champions of Magic 7.00 Tue 11 We’re Going On A Bear Hunt 1.30 4.30 Wed 12 Patience 7.30 We’re Going On A Bear Hunt 10.30 1.30

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Touch Tour Start 1 hour 30 minutes prior to performance Captioned Relaxed Performance

Dementia Friendly Signed Members’ Event Theatre Day Pre-show Discussion

Thu 13 Tosca 7.30 We’re Going On A Bear Hunt 10.30 1.30 Silver Electra 11.00 Fri 14 We’re Going On A Bear Hunt 10.30 1.30 Sat 15 Coal 7.30 We’re Going On A Bear Hunt 10.30 1.30 Fri 21 Tipping Point 7.45 Sat 22 Kaushiki Chakraborty 7.30 Tipping Point 7.45 Peter & the Wolf 11.00 1.00 Tue 25 My Country 7.30 Wed 26 My Country 7.30 Thu 27 My Country 2.15 7.30 Fri 28 My Country 7.30 Sat 29 My Country 2.15 7.30

MAY

Thu 4 Signatures Sat 6 Midlands Best Dance Crew Fri 12 Sukanya Philadanco Sat 13 Count Arthur Strong: The Sound of Mucus Philadanco Thu 18 A Clockwork Orange Fri 19 A Clockwork Orange 7.00 Sat 20 A Clockwork Orange 2.30 Sun 21 Henning Wehn: Westphalia is Not an Option Tue 23 Breakin’ Convention Digitopia Whoosh! 10.30 Wed 24 Breakin’ Convention Digitopia 10.15 Whoosh! 10.30 Sat 27 The Spark Festival Family Day Tales of Birbal 1.30 Losha 10.30 Sun 28 Losha 10.30 1.00 Tue 30 Al Murray: Let’s Go Backwards Together The Graduate Wed 31 Milkshake Live! 11.00 The Graduate

JUNE

Thu 1 Fri 2 Sat 3 Mon 5 Tue 6 Wed 7 Thu 8 Fri 9 Sat 10

The Graduate 2.30 The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas The Graduate Goldilocks and the Three Bears 12.30 The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas The Graduate 2.30 The Graduate The Graduate The Graduate The Graduate 2.30 The Graduate The Graduate 2.30

7.00 7.00 7.30 7.45 8.00 7.45 7.45 9.15 7.45 7.30 7.30 7.00 1.00 7.30 1.30 1.00 11.00 3.30 1.00 3.00 7.30 7.15 2.30 7.00

7.15 7.30 7.15 2.30 7.30 7.15 7.15 7.15 7.15 7.15 7.15 7.15

Curve is in the heart of Leicester City Centre in the Cultural Quarter. Parking at the NCP next door is just £4.70 for Curve customers. Simply validate your ticket at Curve during your visit or pre-order when booking tickets online. For sat navs, use post code LE1 1TQ. Alternative parking is also available at the Queen Street Car Park, Queen Street, Leicester LE1 1QW.

Tue 20 Wed 21 Thu 22 Fri 23 Sat 24 Fri 30

JULY

Sat 1 Mon 3 Tue 4 Wed 5 Thu 6 Fri 7 Sat 8 Sun 9 Mon 10 Tue 11 Wed 12 Thu 13 Fri 14 Sat 15 Mon 17 Tue 18 Wed 19 Thu 20 Fri 21 Sat 22

East Midlands Trains run regular services to Leicester and the train station is just a 10 minute walk away. City centre bus services also have stops within a 10 minute walk away. For further information visit www.curveonline.co.uk/plan-your-visit or call the Ticket Office on 0116 242 3595.

Trainspotting Trainspotting Trainspotting 7.00 Trainspotting 7.00 Trainspotting 7.00 Kin

7.00 7.00 8.45 8.45 8.45 7.45

Miss Saigon Kin Miss Saigon The Tiger Who Came to Tea Miss Saigon The Tiger Who Came to Tea 10.30 Miss Saigon The Tiger Who Came to Tea 10.30 Miss Saigon The Tiger Who Came to Tea 10.30 Miss Saigon The Tiger Who Came to Tea 10.30 1.30 Miss Saigon 2.15 Tarantiseismic Moving Together Showcase 4.00 Miss Saigon Miss Saigon Miss Saigon CYC Take 1 Showcase Miss Saigon 2.15 CYC Take 1 Showcase Miss Saigon CYC Take 1 Showcase Miss Saigon 2.15 CYC Take 1 Showcase Miss Saigon Miss Saigon Miss Saigon Miss Saigon 2.15 Miss Saigon Miss Saigon 2.15

7.30 7.45 7.30 1.30 7.30 1.30 7.30 1.30 7.30 1.30 7.30 4.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 TBC 7.30 TBC 7.30 TBC 7.30 TBC 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30

AUGUST

Tue 1 Thu 10 Fri 11 Sat 12 Sun 13 Tue 15 Wed 16 Thu 17 Fri 18 Sat 19

Summer Reading Challenge Family Day A Midsummer Night’s Dream A Midsummer Night’s Dream A Midsummer Night’s Dream 2.00 A Midsummer Night’s Dream 2.00 A Midsummer Night’s Dream A Midsummer Night’s Dream A Midsummer Night’s Dream A Midsummer Night’s Dream A Midsummer Night’s Dream 2.00

11.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00

Sun 20 A Midsummer Night’s Dream 2.00 Wed 23 Billy the Kid Thu 24 Billy the Kid Fri 25 Billy the Kid 2.30 Sat 26 Billy the Kid 2.30

SEPTEMBER

Fri 15 Sunset Boulevard Sat 16 Sunset Boulevard Mon 18 Sunset Boulevard Tue 19 Sunset Boulevard Wed 20 Sunset Boulevard 2.15 Thu 21 Sunset Boulevard Fri 22 Sunset Boulevard Sat 23 Sunset Boulevard 2.15 Mon 25 Sunset Boulevard Tue 26 Sunset Boulevard Pink Sari Revolution Wed 27 Sunset Boulevard 2.15 Pink Sari Revolution Thu 28 Sunset Boulevard Pink Sari Revolution 2.30 Fri 29 Sunset Boulevard Pink Sari Revolution Sat 30 Sunset Boulevard 2.15 Pink Sari Revolution 2.30

OCTOBER

Mon 2 Pink Sari Revolution Tue 3 Pink Sari Revolution Wed 4 Pink Sari Revolution Thu 5 Pink Sari Revolution 2.30 Fri 6 Pink Sari Revolution Sat 7 Pink Sari Revolution 2.30 Mon 16 Hairspray Tue 17 Hairspray Wed 18 Hairspray 2.15 Thu 19 Hairspray Fri 20 Hairspray Sat 21 Hairspray 2.15 Mon 23 Hedda Gabler Tue 24 Hedda Gabler Wed 25 Hedda Gabler 2.15 Thu 26 Hedda Gabler Fri 27 Hedda Gabler Sat 28 Hedda Gabler 2.15

7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00

7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.15 7.30 7.15 7.00 7.15 7.30 7.15 7.30 7.15

7.15 7.15 7.15 7.00 7.15 7.15 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30

To ﬁnd the NCP car park next to Curve using a Sat Nav, please use postcode: LE1 1TQ

CURVE THEATRE 60 RUTLAND STREET LEICESTER LE1 1SB

JOIN US ON…

/CurvetheatreLeicester Curvetheatre

@CurveLeicester curve_leicester

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SAT 1 – SAT 22 JULY TICKETS: 0116 242 3595 WWW.CURVEONLINE.CO.UK