Gala brochure autumn 2014 by DCC Design and Print

gala theatre & cinema Autumn 2014

WelcOMe At Gala, we don’t just present our own eclectic and entertaining programme of work. We are also the focal point for a number of exciting festivals which take place around the County. Durham Book Festival brings books to life through a whole host of talks, activities and special commissions. From internationally known authors, to creative writing projects with young people, the festival brings artists, writers and audiences together for some wonderful events. We are also delighted to be the centre of activity for the TakeOff Festival, a week-long celebration of world-class theatre for children and young people. Performed by some of the best companies from the UK and abroad at venues and schools across the region, there are loads of great shows for our smallest audiences. A small selection from these festivals is included in this brochure, but I would urge you to visit their websites to find out more about what’s on offer. And whether you’re visiting Durham for the Book Festival, TakeOff, or one of the terrific events on offer at Gala, we look forward to welcoming you.

Robin Byers Programming & Operations Manager Gala Theatre

gala Online…

There are many ways to engage with Gala online. Booking online is the quickest and easiest way to get tickets for your favourite event. And whether for a theatre or cinema performance, you can select your own seat when booking. Just go to our website. Being one of our Facebook friends is the most direct way of keeping up-to-date with everything that’s happening at Gala, with regular updates of all our events and activities and some exclusive Facebook ticket oﬀers. Go to: www.facebook.com/galadurham Our Facebook account also links to Twitter, so if you’re more of a tweeter then you can follow us at: www.twitter.com/galadurham

The Royal Shakespeare Company, Live From Stratford-upon-Avon present:

The TWO GenTleMen Of VeROna Valentine and Proteus are best friends in search of adventure, until they fall in love with the same girl. With friendship forgotten, their affections quickly get out of hand as the young lovers find themselves on a wild chase through the woods, confused by mistaken identity and threatened by outlaws. Simon Godwin, Associate Director of the Royal Court, makes his RSC debut directing Shakespeare’s exuberant romantic comedy. This is the first time in 45 years that a full production of the play has been performed on the RSC stage.

Thursday 4 September 7.00pm | £15 (£13 conc), £10 Gala Friends NT Live present:

By Euripides in a new version by Ben Power Medea is a wife and a mother. For the sake of her husband, she’s left her home and borne two sons in exile. But when he abandons his family for a new life, Medea faces banishment and separation from her children. She begs for one day’s grace. It’s time enough. She exacts an appalling revenge and destroys everything she holds dear. Helen McCrory (The Last of the Haussmans) returns to the National Theatre to take the title role in Euripides’ powerful tragedy, in a new version by Ben Power, directed by Carrie Cracknell. The best of British theatre broadcast live to the big screen at Gala.

3 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Wednesday 3 September 7.00pm | £15 (£13 conc), £10 Gala Friends

4 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

£11 (£9 conc), (£8 Students and Gala Friends). Please ask about our Comedy Treble booking offer.

The cOMeDy STORe The Comedy Store staged one of the first ever live shows at Gala. Bottom of the bill that day was an Irish comedian called Dara O’Briain. Since then a whole host of comics have passed through. Some have gone on to become household names (Michael McIntyre, Jimmy Carr, Milton Jones, Micky Flanagan). Others are just regulars on the touring circuit, performing night after night around the country. The Comedy Store is still at the centre of Gala’s live programme and still packing them in. Once a month, every month, the format hasn’t changed much over the years, but if it ain’t broke… If you fancy a cracking evening of laughter, why not come and join the fun. This season’s shows are on the following dates: Sunday 7 September Sunday 5 October Sunday 2 november Sunday 16 november With all shows starting at 7.30pm, why not join us for a pre-show drink between 6pm-7pm, when all beer and lager has 10% off. Or get a show ticket and a main meal with our friends Chiquito’s for just £15. Ask Box Office for details. Contains strong language, recommended age 16+. Saturday 6 September 8.00pm | £7.50 (£5.50 conc)

nORTh ROaD eP launch WiTh SPecial GueSTS Fresh from supporting Example and Lawson at the Metro Radio Arena, North Road are back at Gala. The local acoustic trio are performing a special gig to launch their new EP, while also raising money for local charity Cash For Kids. Supported by Claypath and hosted by Metro Radio’s Stuart Elmore, it promises to be a great evening’s music, in support of a great cause. Friday 12 September 7.30pm | £10 (£8 conc) MiXiT Days present:

One OR TWO ThinGS aBOuT uS Performing their own brand of issue-driven drama, lively and inclusive theatre group MiXiT Days have a great reputation for engaging, inspiring musical drama which has attracted audiences from all over the world. From adversity to triumph, this is a funny, poignant, challenging and inspirational take on the issues people with disabilities and their families face.

STOP PReSS… just conﬁrmed as brochure went to print… NT Live present a screening of a Streetcar named Desire live from the Young Vic on Tuesday 16 September, starring Gillian Anderson. See our website for more details.

Following a sell-out run on Broadway, four and a half years in the West End and on tour, the worldwide sensation returns with original director Ian McElhinney at the helm. Seen by over two million people, don’t miss this hilarious and moving tale of a quiet Irish community turned upside down by the arrival of a Hollywood movie shoot. Universally loved by all who see it, Stones in His Pockets is brought to life by two highly talented actors who play 15 characters between them from the two cheeky lads intent on stardom to a Hollywood goddess. “outstanding and ﬂawless” irish independent “hilarious and irresistible” Sunday Times

5 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Wednesday 10 & Thursday 11 September 7.30pm | £20 (£18 Groups 10+)

6 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Saturday 13 September 7.30pm | £20 (£18 Groups 10+)

The Funniest Farce in the Forest Starring Su Pollard & cannon & Ball The Ha Ha team are back with a brand new and outrageous comic romp. Ten years after a messy divorce Robin and Marian are forced back together to ﬁght the Sheriﬀ once more. Little John and Friar Tuck, now considerably older and rougher around the edges, join the merry pair to try to save the citizens of Nottingham. Ha Ha Hood stars comedy queen Su Pollard (Hi-De-Hi, You Rang, M’Lord?), comedy duo Cannon and Ball and sees the return of Ha Ha favourite Ben Langley and Andy Pickering on piano. With the team’s innovative and unique story-telling style, this is original, clever and laugh-out-loud funny. Wednesday 17 September 7.30pm | £25

JOe BROWn British rock ‘n’ roll royalty, Joe has over 50 years in the business, and shows no sign of stopping. He’s still at the top of his game and recently received Mojo Magazine’s coveted Outstanding Contribution to Music Award as well as a much deserved MBE. Together with his five piece band, Joe plays a show packed with timeless classics, rockabilly, gospel, country, folk and rock ‘n’ roll, all interwoven with his effervescent delivery and humorous reminiscences. He’s a terrific talent, who is at his best live, and this is a show as unique as the man himself.

Alan Barnes & Paul Edis Friday 19 September 1.00pm | £4

Alan is a virtuoso performer on saxophone, clarinet and ﬂute and one of the most in demand performers on the British jazz scene. He has performed alongside Humphrey Lyttelton, Van Morrison, Jamie Cullum and Bryan Ferry, and for this concert he teams up with the brilliant young pianist who has been described as a new voice in jazz.

The Graeme Wilson Quartet Friday 17 October 1.00pm | £4

Graeme is the most versatile saxophonist on the North East scene, equally at home from swing to free improv, playing every style with absolute commitment. Paul Edis (piano), Andy Champion (bass) and Adam Sinclair (drums) complete the line-up, which has ﬁrmly established a reputation for exciting performances of Graeme’s original music.

New York Brass Band Friday 28 November 1.00pm | £4

This band are North Yorkshire’s only contemporary New Orleans-inspired brass band and are part of a funky brass revolution that is sweeping the UK. Inspired by Rebirth Brass Band, Soul Rebels and Hot 8, they pack a powerful punch… nothing kicks a party into gear like the sound of a smokin’ New Orleans Mardi Gras jazz band.

The Zoe Gilby Quartet Friday 19 December 1.00pm | £4

Zoë is a sophisticated jazz vocalist who sings a constantly expanding repertoire from The Great American Songbook and a range of more contemporary and original material. Inﬂuences include Carmen McRae, Nancy Wilson, Sheila Jordan and Roberta Gambarini. She tours the UK regularly as well as playing gigs in Europe and China. “deserves wider recognition and a major record deal” courtney Pine Supporting BRaSS: Durham international festival

Friday 19 September 7.30pm | £20

Blake Blake are back and better than ever, with a new sound, new songs and their biggest UK tour to date. Inspired by the classic trio harmonies of The Three Tenors, The Bee Gees and Boyz-II-Men, the Brit Award winners return to the UK after touring the world. Expect some wonderful banter alongside the trio’s vocal brilliance, with the most eclectic vocal mix of classical, pop, rock and musicals. Supporting this spectacular show is beautiful Brit Award-nominated soprano Camilla Kerslake, performing her own songs and joining the boys for some breathtaking duets.

7 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Gala Lunchtime Concert Series

8 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Friday 19 September 7.45pm | £8.50

funny BOneS cOMeDy cluB With the World Cup long forgotten, we can no longer get our laughs watching England’s performance. So cheer yourself up with unstoppable MC Howard Smith introducing the chatty, cheeky style of Dave Twentyman, the Northern charm of Chris Washington and hilarious Sammy Dobson. It’s only another four years! Contains strong language, recommended age 16+. Saturday 20 September 8.00pm | £14.50

henninG Wehn einS, ZWei, Diy After more than a decade in Britain, the German Comedy Ambassador has ‘groan’ to like puns... though he still couldn't eat a whole one. As Henning’s assimilation is not yet complete he hasn't lost his sense of wonderment at the foibles of British society. Why does everybody want to be owned by a house? What’s wrong with having the Euro? And why hold society and government responsible for personal underachievement… you’ve only got yourself to blame for not being born into a better social class. Expect an evening-long crash course in personal accountability and have a right old laugh at the same time. Wunderbar. “a diplomatic master class” The Scotsman Sunday 21 September 7.30pm £18.50 (£16.50 conc)

BeyOnD The BaRRicaDe Back by public demand and celebrating its 15th fantastic year, this is a sensational new show, re-creating original West End and Broadway hit songs with amazing authenticity and a cast of past principal performers from the West End production of Les Miserables. The production looks back over their amazing fifteen years and includes many of the shows that have made it the UK’s leading concert of its kind, including: Miss Saigon, Wicked, Phantom Of The Opera, West Side Story and Blood Brothers, climaxing with a spectacular finale from Les Miserables. “fight to get a ticket for this dazzling show” What’s On Stage

MaRTin SiMPSOn, anDy cuTTinG & nancy keRR Comprising three of Britain’s ﬁnest musicians, Martin, Andy and Nancy have come together for the joy of playing and exploring the possibilities of music together. A multi-instrumentalist of rare and astonishing talent and a beautiful and joyful singer, Nancy is one of the shining stars of British folk. Andy is an extraordinary master of the diatonic accordion and most other squeeze-boxes. Martin is a multi-award winning musician, singer and songwriter and world-renowned virtuoso guitarist and banjo player. Together they are a mighty musical force. “virtuoso instrumentalists of the English music scene” The Guardian

Monday 22 September 7.30pm | £20

STeVe hOWe Steve has been active in the guitar world for over 50 years, performing and recording with Yes, Asia, GTR, ABWH, Tomorrow and his own trio. He co-wrote Roundabout, Close To The Edge, Tales of Topographic Oceans and Awaken with Yes, and has embraced blues, rock, psychedelia, prog rock, jazz and classical. Following a successful tour in 2013, Steve plays some of his best known work in this solo show. With a few stories thrown in, this is a chance to spend an evening with this world-class guitar player. Tuesday 23 September 7.30pm | £20

fROM The JaM The PuBlic GeTS WhaT The PuBlic WanTS TOuR The Jam exploded onto the music scene in 1977 with their ferocious debut single. With a catalogue that includes 18 Top 40 singles, they became the sound of British youth and one of the greatest bands in UK history. From The Jam, featuring former Jam bassist Bruce Foxton and Russell Hastings, have a reputation for the kind of incendiary live performances that sealed the reputation of The Jam all those years ago. Rescheduled from Friday 20 June.

9 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Wednesday 24 September 7.30pm | £15 (£13 conc), £12 Gala Friends

10 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Friday 26 September 8.00pm | £15 (£13 conc)

claSSic claPTOn The world's number one Eric Clapton tribute band make a welcome return to Gala. Featuring Durham-born frontman Mike Hall, who’s a dead ringer for the great man, with the guitar skills to match. Formed in 1985 long before the term tribute band was invented, they are now a rock institution. A band of excellent musicians, they stunningly recreate Eric’s stage performances from his entire career, including: Cream, The Bluesbreakers, The Yardbirds, Blind Faith, Derek & The Dominos and the solo years, including all the hits and more. Saturday 27 September 8.00pm | £15 (£13 conc)

SuSan calMan laDy like Award-winning comedian Susan Calman is embarking on her ﬁrst ever UK tour. If you’ve seen her before, Lady Like will be a reassuring couple of hours spent with the woman her neighbours call ‘the mad cat lady’. If you don’t know who she is, this show will, at the very least, make you feel better about your own life. A show about being older, wiser and liking yourself, whatever anyone might say. Susan is a regular on BBC Radio 4’s News Quiz, QI, Have I Got News For You, Fresh Meat and Would I Lie To You. “conﬁdent, compact…cracking” evening Standard

Sunday 28 September 7.30pm | £17 (£15 conc)

The SyD laWRence ORcheSTRa A zesty show full of ﬁne music. Chris Dean leads the Orchestra, showcasing their ﬁnely blended sound and conjuring memories of the glittering and glamorous days of the Big Band era. The atmosphere is exciting, the music dynamic and vibrant and Chris’ spontaneous, wry humour adds a little spice to the occasion. Don’t miss this spectacular show full of pulsating energy from the best band in the land.

11 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Sunday 28 September 2.00pm & 7.00pm £15 (£13 conc), £10 Gala Friends

Broadcast live from London’s West End, this is a special screening of the multi-award winning musical. Based on the Academy Award nominated ﬁlm, the musical has won the hearts of millions since it opened, and has captivated audiences around the world, winning over 80 theatre awards, including Tony Awards and 5 Olivier Awards. Set in a Northern mining town, against the background of the 1984-85 miners’ strike, Billy’s journey takes him out of the boxing ring and into a ballet class where he discovers a passion for dance that inspires his family and whole community and changes his life forever. The original creative team behind the ﬁlm, including writer Lee Hall, director Stephen Daldry, and choreographer Peter Darling, is joined by music legend Elton John to produce a funny, uplifting and spectacular theatrical experience. Saturday 27 & Sunday 28 September 7.30pm | £12 (£10 conc), £9 Gala Friends

i lefT My heaRT in ROkeR PaRk… anD exTRa TiMe aT The STaDiuM Of liGhT Kevin Halliday, a die-hard Sunderland supporter, recalls the demolition of Roker Park, during the summer of 1997 and compares his life and loves with the fortunes of Sunderland Football Club. Written by local playwright and life-long Sunderland supporter Tom Kelly, and performed by Sunderland actor and supporter Paul Dunn, the play was staged three times at The Customs House in South Shields and is now updated to include the League Cup Final and that man Di Canio. “the next best thing to going to the match… the writing is elegant “ Sunderland echo

12 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Monday 29 September 8.00pm | £22.50

fiSh MOVeaBle feaST TOuR The critically acclaimed progressive rock singer-songwriter, and former lead singer of Marillion, embarks on this extensive British tour. The UK trek, named after his latest album A Feast of Consequences, sees Fish perform songs from the new album, as well as his solo album tracks, and early Marillion classics. Rescheduled from Sunday 4 May. Wednesday 1 October 7.30pm | £15 (£13 conc), £10 Gala Friends

STePhen fRy liVe MORe fOOl Me This is a rare opportunity to see the celebrated comedian, actor, presenter, writer and raconteur, giving a one-man comic tour de force. This event is to mark the publication of Stephen's brand new volume of memoirs More Fool Me, and will be broadcast live to Gala from the Royal Festival Hall. Get a sneak preview of the book: a heady tale of the late ‘80s and early ‘90s in which Stephen - driven to create, perform and entertain burned bright and partied hard - and damn the consequences. Thursday 2 October 7.45pm | £10

The ReVOluTiOnaiReS & SPecial GueSTS celeBRaTinG kaTy chaRiTy eVeninG The Revs brothers, Ed and Rich introduce their own brand of jumpin' hot rhythm and blues alongside some special guests. This line-up is being brought together by the brothers in memory of their cousin Katy, who would have been 30 this year. These are also the boys who brought the sell-out show, At The Hop to Gala in recent years. The money raised is in aid of Epilepsy Action, who continue to improve the services for those with epilepsy. The Revs will be rocking a storm on the night with their music and sheer energy. Support: Jason Burt. Friday 3 October 8.00pm | £12 (£10 conc)

JaSOn cOOk BROken Award winning comedian, writer, creator and star of BBC2’s Hebburn and BBC Radio 4’s Jason Cook’s School of Hard Knocks returns to the road with a show about… well, being broken. Having gained fans for his work in television and radio, Jason is back touring the country doing what he does best, lightning-fast stand up in front of a live audience. Always welcoming, never bullying, the selfdeprecating Geordie idiot has found himself in situations he never dreamed of. Come and see how he’s mucked them all up this time. “carves a rich, deep, consistent groove of humour at the Fringe” The Scotsman

al MuRRay - The PuB lanDlORD One Man, One GuVnOR Twenty years ago Britain’s favourite publican embarked on his one man mission as the King Cnut of Common Sense, holding back a tide of bottled beer and ninny state nonsense. To celebrate this milestone - 20 years at the lager top - join this icon with his brand new show. The October date has already sold out, another date has been added due to popular demand. “Al Murray has become a bona ﬁde British institution” The independent Tuesday 7 October 7.30pm £18.50 (£16 conc), £13 Gala Friends

SiR chRiS BOninGTOn life & TiMeS Sir Chris is Britain's best known mountaineer and one of the most successful expedition leaders in history. Beginning climbing at the age of 16, he has undertaken 19 Himalayan expeditions, including four to Everest and made many ﬁrst ascents of the greatest ranges of the world. In this show, Chris presents an account of his sixty years spent in the mountains. With original images and raw footage, it’s a rare opportunity to hear about some of the greatest expeditions of the twentieth century. Wednesday 8 October 8.00pm | £16.50 (£14.50 conc)

JiMeOin iS iT…?! Hilarious world-class stand-up from one of live comedy’s internationally acclaimed masters. Jimeoin returns with his ever-evolving live show… a ﬂuid mixture of his signature observations and razor-sharp take on the absurdities of everyday life. You’ve seen him on TV in shows including Live at the Apollo, The Royal Variety Performance, Channel 4’s O2 Comedy Gala and Michael McIntyre's Comedy Roadshow, but nothing beats seeing the great man live. No gimmicks, just big laughs and live stand-up at its best. Recommended: 14+ “comedy of the highest order… inspired” The independent

13 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Saturday 4 October & Monday 9 February 2015 7.30pm | £25.50

14 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Monday 6 October 7.30pm | £23

Prepare for a party as the nation's favourite rock ‘n’ roll variety show makes its debut appearance in Durham. This year’s production features a fresh line-up of all your favourite classic gold hits from the 1950s, 60s and 70s, plus more hilarious comedy. Prepare for an unforgettable night of nostalgia, laughs and rock ‘n’ roll. “what a great value show… not to be missed” Daily Mail Friday 10 October 7.45pm | £8.50

funny BOneS cOMeDy cluB Do you think you’re funny? Well, so do these guys: lively Scouser Brendan Riley, genuinely inventive Rahul Kohil and the force of nature that is Andy Watson. Your MC for the evening is the tiny, feisty and funny Catherine Scott. Laugh? You can bet on it. Contains strong language, recommended age 16+. Saturday 11 October 6.00pm | £12 (£10 conc)

One DiRecTiOn WheRe We aRe One Direction are coming to venues across the globe with their first ever concert movie. Join the world’s biggest band on stage during their record breaking tour. Filmed live at the San Siro Stadium, Milan, this stunning 75 minute concert film also features an additional never before seen 15 minute cinema segment filmed with the boys themselves. It is the ultimate cinematic experience for all 1D fans.

keRRy elliS Kerry quickly established herself as a star of musical theatre with lead roles in the West End and Broadway, and chart-topping success as a recording artist. She originated the role of Meat, in We Will Rock You and performed the lead in the West End and Broadway smash Wicked. She has also played the leading roles of Nancy in Oliver; Eliza Doolittle in My Fair Lady; Ellen in Miss Saigon and Fantine in Les Miserables, and this show includes hits from all her biggest musical shows.

Sunday 12 October 7.30pm £17.50 (£15 conc)

claRe Teal The DiVaS & Me Our very own Queen of Swing celebrates the music of her heroines: Ella Fitzgerald, Peggy Lee, Judy Garland, Doris Day and many other leading lights of the jazz world. With wit and warmth Clare tells outrageous anecdotes of their extraordinary lives and points to the future of Diva-dom with a few originals and modern day covers. The multiaward winning singer and BBC Radio 2 broadcaster performs with her top ﬂight musicians, led by pianist and musical director Grant Windsor. A superb evening of feelgood music inspired by the greats and played by the best. Monday 13 October 7.30pm £7 (£5 conc), FREE for Gala Friends

The Paul eDiS SexTeT Led by a brilliant young pianist, this sextet is steeped in tradition but with an original and contemporary edge. With a front line of trumpet, tenor sax and trombone, the sound is reminiscent of the great Art Blakey ensemble. With some intricate arrangements, solid grooves and exquisite melodies, this music has its roots in the 1960s, but a sound which is absolutely of today. The group has wowed audiences and critics alike and this concert is in support of their brand new album Mr Hipster.

15 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Friday 10 October 7.30pm | £20

16 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Monday 6 - Monday 20 October Durham Book Festival returns with a packed programme of exciting authors and speakers. The 2014 Festival will host a variety of events with leading authors, historians, thinkers, poets and politicians, for audiences of all ages, in libraries, community venues and historic locations throughout County Durham.

Tuesday 14 October 7.00pm | £10 (£8 conc & Festival Friends)

Sheila hancOck MiSS caRTeR’S WaR The acclaimed actor and writer visits Durham to talk about her debut novel. It is a powerful, panoramic portrait of post-war Britain, told through the life of one woman, Marguerite Carter. Her journey takes us from the ﬁrst Aldermaston march in the 1950s, through the rise of the Labour Party and the Swinging Sixties to the AIDS epidemic of the 80s and the spectre of a new war - in Iraq. Sheila has had a successful career in acting, both on stage and screen. Her memoir of her late husband John Thaw, The Two of Us, was a number one bestseller, and she is also the author of the acclaimed memoir Just Me. Chaired by Caroline Beck.

Friday 17 October 6.30pm £10 (£8 conc & Festival Friends)

JunG chanG eMPReSS DOWaGeR cixi The bestselling author of Wild Swans and Mao: The Unknown Story comes to Durham to talk about her latest book. Empress Dowager Cixi tells the extraordinary story of the eponymous Empress, the most important woman in Chinese history, who ruled China for decades and brought a medieval empire into the modern age. Jung Chang’s books have been translated into more than 40 languages and have sold more than 15 million copies outside mainland China, where they are both banned. Chaired by Professor Ludmilla Jordanova.

for the full programme, please vis

STuaRT MacOnie The DaleS TO DuRhaM caTheDRal Writer and broadcaster Stuart Maconie returns. This time he’s been specially commissioned by Durham Book Festival to explore County Durham and report back about his experiences, chronicling the beauty of the landscape and the people he meets along the way. Stuart is familiar to millions from his work in print, on radio and on TV. He currently hosts the afternoon show on BBC 6 Music with Mark Radcliﬀe. A regular columnist for a diverse range of publications, his bestselling books include Pies and Prejudice, Adventures on the High Teas and most recently The People’s Songs: The Story of Modern Britain in 50 Records. Friday 17 October 8.15pm | £10 (£8 conc & Festival Friends)

kaTe TeMPeST hOlD yOuR OWn One of the most exciting young voices in British spoken word performance presents her brand new collection. Hold Your Own is an ambitious multi-voiced work based around the mythical ﬁgure of Tiresias, the blind Greek prophet who spent seven years transformed into a woman. A vastly popular and accomplished performance poet, Kate commands a huge and dedicated following on the performance and rap circuit. Her last collection, Brand New Ancients, won the Ted Hughes Award for New Work in Poetry and has played to packed concert halls on both sides of the Atlantic.

also taking place, are these two fascinating events in Durham cathedral nave. Wednesday 15 October 7.00pm

kaTe aDie fiGhTinG On The hOMe fROnT Kate returns to her native North East to talk about her latest book, which tells the story of the First World War through the eyes of women. Growing up in Sunderland, Kate became the BBC's chief news correspondent in 1989, and has reported from war zones around the world. Wednesday 15 October 8.15pm

helen chaDWick SOnG TheaTRe WaR cORReSPOnDenTS Testimonies, music and physicality fuse into a powerful, multi-disciplined song cycle performance, depicting the extraordinary stories and life-changing experiences of war journalists. Created by composer Helen Chadwick and choreographer Steven Hoggett. Commissioned by Greenwich and Docklands International Festival, Sage Gateshead and New Writing North. Tickets for each Durham Cathedral event are: £10 (£8 conc & Festival Friends). See both events for: £15 (£13 conc & Festival Friends)

sit www.durhambookfestival.com

17 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

18 October 7.00pm | £10 (£8 conc & Festival Friends)

18 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Tuesday 14 October 8.00pm | £12.50

Paul fOOT hOVeRcRafT SyMPhOny in GaMMOn # MaJOR Heralded by critics, Paul’s previous tours have been showered with ﬁve-star reviews and nominations, credited as ‘masterful’ and ‘ingenious’. His subversive, insightful absurdity constantly challenges and delights his faithful connoisseurs, and gathers new fans. His most recent TV credits include Would I Lie To You, Never Mind The Buzzcocks and 8 Out Of 10 Cats. Don’t miss your chance to see what the Daily Express called ‘a cult classic, a relic from the past, a rare exotic bird’. "it's baﬄing to me that Paul is not a household name in this country" noel fielding

Wednesday 15 October 7.30pm | £20

anDy faiRWeaTheR lOW & The lOW RiDeRS ZOne-O-TOne TOuR Andy’s pedigree is the stuﬀ of rock dreams. As lead singer in 60's pop heart throbs Amen Corner, he clocked-up hit after pop hit (Bend Me Shape Me, If Paradise is Half As Nice); a successful solo career followed, including the hit Wide Eyed & Legless. Since then, as a top-drawer session player he has worked with Eric Clapton (for 20 years), George Harrison, Bob Dylan, Jimi Hendrix, Elton John, The Who... and hundreds more household names. Now following a solo path, together with a top-notch band, his show is a riot of blues, country, surf, gospel, his own solo material and a bunch of the old hits. Thursday 16 October 7.30pm | £22.50

eDDi ReaDeR From busking in Glasgow to the huge success of Fairground Attraction, Eddi has effortlessly developed into one of popular music’s most thrilling and affecting performers. Constant touring with her band has created a magical organic chemistry between them, and what sets her apart is the depth and quality of her emotional performance. From the traditional to the contemporary, Eddi brings joyous life to all forms of song and her rare blend of heart-stopping vocals and great romanticism make her a passionate and magnificent performer.

JOhn eTheRiDGe Special Guest: kit holmes John is one of the world’s most respected guitarists spanning many styles and inﬂuences. The guitarist for jazz violinist Stephane Grappelli, he’s also performed with Pat Metheny, Dizzy Gillespie, Nigel Kennedy and is currently in a duo with the eminent classical guitarist John Williams. This is a rare opportunity to see John performing a solo concert. Special guest Kit Holmes’ trademark sultry vocals and virtuoso guitar playing have wowed audiences across the UK. An uplifting evening of blues, folk, jazz, African grooves and more from two outstanding musicians. “I never wanted to be a star, just a highly respected musician like John Etheridge” Sting Sunday 19 October 8.00pm | £15

MaRk STeel’S Back in TOWn This show is based on the BBC Radio 4 series in which Mark writes a show around each town he visits. It’s a sparkling verdict on humanity that he’s mocked them all and somehow is still alive. For this show Mark has found dozens more towns to humiliate, as well as pledging to discover what makes Durham ridiculous. There will be pictures, and ranting, some people will call things out, and you’ll be a far better audience than the miserable bunch in those other towns. “a man with a passionate desire to communicate his ideas, who is also very funny” The Guardian

19 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Friday 17 October 7.30pm | £15

20 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Monday 20 - Sunday 26 October TakeOﬀ festival is a week-long celebration of theatre for children and young people, performed by some of the best theatre-makers in the uk for children. TakeOﬀ festival takes over the north east with many fantastic events happening across venues and schools, with lots to join in with right here in Durham. Tap Tap Theatre present:

hanDMaDe TaleS

Wednesday 22 October 1.00pm & 6.30pm £7 (£5 conc), £20 Family Ticket

Handmade Tales is brimming with enchanting stories that will inspire and delight. Let live music and cracking characters whisk you on a hilarious, touching journey into the heart of storytelling. From a couple of cardboard boxes whole worlds burst out, as the lively ensemble inspire you to start writing your own stories. Embrace the power of your imagination. Running Time: 60 minutes. Suitable for ages: 6+. An Ailie Cohen Puppet Maker / Unicorn production:

The SecReT life Of SuiTcaSeS

Friday 24 October 10.30am & 1.00pm Saturday 25 October 11.30am & 4.00pm £7 (£5 conc), £20 Family Ticket

Larry’s got no time for fun, but that’s all about to change… Larry works in an oﬃce and he likes it very much. He likes sorting and tidying and generally putting things in order. Everything in its place, a place for everything. But one day, a suitcase suddenly appears at his door. A suitcase with a tiny label. A tiny label with Larry’s name on it. And this suitcase has a mission... Running Time: 45 minutes. Suitable for ages: 4+.

for the full TakeOﬀ festival programme,

hanSel & GReTel

Saturday 25 October 11.00am & 2.00pm | £7 (£5 conc), £20 Family Ticket

Hunger. Gnaws at the stomach like a dog on a bone. If only... if only there were a cake... a cake as big as a house. Sometimes, if you want something badly enough, it might just happen. But getting what you want isn’t always all it’s cracked up to be. With succulent music and ﬁlm, puppets and masks, this is a delicious treat of a show. Running Time: 75 minutes. Suitable for ages: 5+.

also part of TakeOﬀ festival… Replay Theatre Company present:

Tiny @ alington house, Durham

Friday 24 October 10.00am, 11.00am, 1.00pm, 2.00pm Saturday 25 October 10.00am, 11.00am, 2.00pm & 3.00pm £10 adult & baby, £5 additional baby / adult

Building on the enormous success of their last baby show, Babble, comes TiNY. Full of magical sounds, lights and textures, TiNY takes the very youngest of audience members on a fantastical journey full of wonder and surprises. Running Time: 30 minutes. Suitable for ages: 0-12 months.

faMily fun Day in DuRhaM ciTy

Saturday 25 October

Come and play with shows, street theatre, face painting, teepees and lots more! Combined theatre and bus tickets available for schools with subsidised transport. For more information, contact Theatre hullabaloo on 01325 352 004. Gala is proud to be part of TakeOﬀ festival of Theatre for children and young People.

please visit www.takeoﬀfestival.org.uk

21 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Horse & Bamboo present:

22 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Friday 24 October 8.00pm | £17.50

JaSOn ByRne yOu naMe The ShOW “It’s January and I’m asked as I’m asked each year ‘what’s the name of your show Jason?’ I say do you mean the one that will be on in October and by the time I get there my show content will have changed at least 546 times? Yes they say. So I’m asking the audiences to name the show, and that’s exactly what they’ll do over the course of the year, the best name will win £500, there will be a leader board on stage each night and by the end of the tour my show will have a name, thanks to you lot”. As featured on Live at the Apollo, The Royal Variety Show and BBC1’s Father Figure of which he is the creator and star. Recommended 14+ “the outright king of live comedy” The Times Saturday 25 October 8.00pm £14 (£5 conc)

JeReMy haRDy Jeremy has been a stand-up comic since 1984 and will be one until he dies… or wins the lottery. He best known for his work on Radio 4, notably on News Quiz, I’m Sorry I Haven’t a Clue and Jeremy Hardy Speaks to the Nation. In 2010, he published a book, My Family and Other Strangers, chronicling his desperate search for interesting ancestors. “a comic genius” Sandi Toksvig Sunday 26 October 7.00pm | £10 (£8 conc)

The ReD cROSS chaRiTy cOnceRT The County Durham and Teesside branch of the British Red Cross is delighted to welcome back Murton Colliery Band and Youth Connection Singers from Chester Le Street with their junior choir, Drama Tree. Headlining the show is Teesside-born opera singer Suzannah Clarke whose versatile voice has won her international acclaim. Together they provide a wonderful evening of music, with all proceeds used by the British Red Cross (this year celebrating 150 years of humanitarian action) to fund their work caring for people in crisis.

Wednesday 29 October - Saturday 1 November 7.15pm (+ Sat 2.15pm) £18.50, £16.50 First Night & Concessions (Matinee Only), Group Discounts available

Music & lyrics by Stephen Sondheim. Book by Burt Shevelove & larry Gelbart Join DMTC on a journey back in time - to Rome, with its Roman legions, eunuchs and virgins, soldiers and slaves, stunning surprises, cunning disguises, panderers, philanderers, mistakes, fakes, rhymes, mimes - and a happy ending, of course. It’s something amazing, something amusing, something for everyone: musical comedy tonight.

A Roman slave strikes a bargain with his love-struck young master. In exchange for his freedom, the scheming servant will let the young man meet the beautiful maiden he’s admired from afar. So what if she’s been promised to a jealous (and gigantic) warrior? He will try anything to be free, and the result according to the New York Post is ‘one of those few terriﬁc evenings which really can send you home dancing… you’ll laugh your togas oﬀ’. Durham Musical Theatre Company brings Broadway’s funniest musical comedy to Gala. This uproarious romp will contrast with recent successes, A Tale of Two Cities and Sweeney Todd.

23 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

DMTC present:

24 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Thursday 30 & Friday 31 October 7.00pm | £15 (£13 conc), £10 Gala Friends NT Live present:

fRankenSTein Due to unprecedented audience demand, this thrilling National Theatre broadcast returns for a limited time to celebrate Halloween. Directed by Oscar-winner Danny Boyle (Trainspotting, Slumdog Millionaire), with Benedict Cumberbatch (Sherlock) and Jonny Lee Miller (Trainspotting) alternating roles as Victor Frankenstein and his creation. A sell-out hit in 2011, the broadcast has since become an international sensation, experienced by almost half a million people across the world. Childlike in his innocence but grotesque in form, Frankenstein’s creature is cast out into a hostile world by his horror-struck maker. Meeting cruelty wherever he goes, the friendless creature determines to track down his creator. Thursday’s performance has Jonny Lee Miller as the Creature and the roles are reversed for the Friday performance. Friday 31 October 8.00pm | £12

anDy ZalTZMan SaTiRiST fOR hiRe The British-based half of the global hit topical podcast The Bugle, takes his uniquely interactive new show on the road, giving audiences the chance to have the issues they care about satirised to order by one of Britain’s leading political comedians. Whether a general grumble or a speciﬁc bleat, audience members are invited to send in their satirico-queries in advance (to satirisethis@satiristforhire.com) including the date and venue of the show). Andy will butter your political hot potato to order, and then serve it back to you in the show. “one of the ﬁnest satirical stand-ups in the land” Time Out

Monday 3 November 7.30pm | £15 (£13 conc), £12 Gala Friends, £8 Schools Blackeyed Theatre in association South Hill Park present:

nOT aBOuT heROeS By Stephen MacDonald An unforgettable story of two of the ﬁnest Great War poets, Wilfred Owen and Siegfried Sassoon, their friendship, their inter-dependency, their poetry. Through the letters and poems of the two men, this acclaimed play paints a vivid and moving picture of their friendship and the conﬂict that brought them together. One hundred years on from the beginning of the First World War, the play is exhilarating and uncompromising in its exploration of love, war and a friendship that changed the face of British poetry. Suitable for age 13+ “one of the most innovative, audacious companies working in contemporary English theatre” The Stage

Tuesday 4 November 7.30pm £26, (£24.50 conc), £23 Friends £45 Double Ticket, £10 Restricted View

life On The MOOn / hayDn Cal McCrystal, the comedy director behind the National Theatre’s smash hit One Man, Two Guvnors, directs this new production. In its day, this fast-moving comedy was the most popular of Haydn’s many operas, matching the composer’s virtuosic music with the mischievous wit of playwright Carlo Goldoni. To trick a lecherous scrooge, an ‘astronomer’ sets up an elaborate charade and tricks him into believing he has ﬂown to the moon. Wednesday 5 November 7.30pm £26, (£24.50 conc), £23 Friends £45 Double Ticket, £10 Restricted View

OTTOne / hanDel Handel’s sophisticated comedy Agrippina was a hit for ETO in Durham last year. Now the company presents one of the composer’s most successful serious operas. Written for the greatest Italian singers of the day, Ottone dazzled London with its brilliant arias. This romantic and tragic tale of a German Emperor in Rome, overcoming battles on land and sea to wed his Byzantine bride, features unusual psychological complexity and a dramatic sea cave setting.

“Flawless from start to ﬁnish” ★★★★★ The independent (on ETO’s 2014 production of Paul Bunyan).

25 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Fresh from beating Placido Domingo and Joyce DiDonato to win the 2014 Olivier Award for Outstanding Achievement in Opera, English Touring Opera returns to Durham with a season of Georgian splendour. These two masterpieces are wildly diﬀerent. One is lofty and heartbreaking, the other a razor-sharp comedy. Both are performed in English, with The Old Street Band, ETO’s acclaimed baroque period orchestra.

26 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Thursday 6 November 8.00pm | £15 (£12 conc)

Lakin McCarthy in association with Traverse Theatre present:

cuckOOeD Written and performed by Mark Thomas Mark tells the true story of how Britain’s biggest arms manufacturer came to spy on a comedian. It’s a personal and timely tale of planes, demos and undercover deceit told by this award-winning performer. Ten years ago an activist and close friend of Mark's was exposed as a spy for BAE Systems. Now Mark wants to ﬁnd him and has some questions to ask. With plenty of laughs, some weird characters and the vague possibility that Mark might get beaten up, he ﬁnds out if he wants revenge or if he can forgive the betrayal of a friend. Director, Emma Callander. Friday 7 November 7.30pm | £23

leT’S hanG On The MuSic Of fRankie Valli & The fOuR SeaSOnS This award-winning production takes you on a musical journey through the prolific career of one of the most successful bands of all time. From their beginnings in the early 50’s, the show takes you through hits such as Grease, Can’t Take My Eyes Off You, December 1963 (Oh What a Night!), Working My Way Back To You and many more, climaxing with a spectacular finale of Let’s Hang On. Having last year been invited to the Royal Albert Hall by Frankie Valli himself, the band are proud to present this recently revamped production of the hit show. “you guys are dynamite!” frankie Valli Saturday 8 November 8.00pm | SOLD OUT

DaVe GORMan GeTS STRaiGhT TO The POinT* (* The POWeRPOinT) The wonderfully innovative comedy mind behind Modern Life Is Goodish, Are You Dave Gorman? and Googlewhack Adventure is back with a brand new live show that promises more of his unique blend of stand-up comedy and visual story-telling. That’s right. It’s a PowerPoint presentation. We know what you’re thinking. But don’t worry… you’re in safe (and funny) hands. You won’t need to take notes and you almost certainly won’t be tested on it later.

JOan aRMaTRaDinG Over her 42 years of touring Joan has never done a solo world tour. For her last major tour she has decided this is the perfect time to perform her ﬁrst ever solo concerts. Her performances will include songs spanning her entire career, including Love and Aﬀection, Willow, Drop The Pilot and Me, Myself, I. During her long and illustrious career, Joan has been successful in musical genres from pop, blues and folk, to reggae and jazz. Three times Grammy nominated, a Brit Award nominee and Ivor Novello Award winner, Joan is an MBE and recognised as one of the world’s leading singer, songwriters. Monday 10 November 7.30pm £18 (£16 conc), £15 Students, £14 Gala Friends. Pay before end of September and all tickets are just £15.

BuDDy hOlly & The cRickeTeRS hOlly aT chRiSTMaS Make an early start heralding the Yuletide festivities with Buddy’s greatest hits and a few Christmas crackers all wrapped up in a fast and funny feast of entertainment. The hits just keep on coming with That’ll Be The Day, Peggy Sue, Heartbeat, Oh Boy and much more, in this breathtaking show which stars some of the ﬁnest actormusicians in the business. With West End credits including Buddy, Lennon, Forbidden Planet and Jailhouse Rock, these guys have rock ’n’ rolled audiences across the globe. “the audience were dancing in the aisles and roaring for more” The Stage Tuesday 11 November 8.00pm | £15

MaRcuS BRiGSTOcke Je M’accuSe - i aM MaRcuS Podium dancer, oil rig worker, food addict, musical theatre enthusiast, posh, eco-hypocrite, ex-Goth, muppet fan, award winning comedian and chief beverages operator at the Little Chef - screw politics, let’s talk about me. “if you haven't seen him live, then you haven't seen him at his very best” The Mirror

27 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Sunday 9 November 7.30pm | SOLD OUT

28 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Thursday 13 November 7.30pm | £16

MaRk WaTSOn flaWS The winner of ﬁve major comedy awards, a 24hour-show luminary and novelist, Mark hosts BBC's We Need Answers, Never Mind The Buzzcocks, Mock The Week and is the star of cult Radio 4 series Mark Watson Makes The World Substantially Better. This is his darkest, most personal show yet. Luckily, it’s also his funniest. Recommended age: 14+. “the highest achiever the Edinburgh Festival has seen this decade. A huge comic presence” The Times

Friday 14 November 7.30pm | £23

The illeGal eaGleS Following a number of critically acclaimed UK and European tours, The Illegal Eagles have established themselves as the ultimate tribute to The Eagles. Extremely tight harmonies and an acute attention to detail are now synonymous with the band, and their ability to capture the emotion of Don Henley’s vocals and the band’s deﬁning sound, have ensured great critical and audience acclaim. These are real musicians bringing you all the classics hits: Take It Easy, Hotel California, Take It To The Limit, Lyin’ Eyes and a whole lot more. “the band were ﬂawless in their delivery both musically and vocally” The express Saturday 15 November 7.30pm | £18.50

The linDiSfaRne STORy Lindisfarne were Tyneside's best-loved band for over thirty years and this show is a celebration of their music and achievements. It is devised, written and performed by drummer/founder member Ray Laidlaw and Billy Mitchell, front man for the band’s ﬁnal eight years. Ray and Billy perform acoustic versions of Lindisfarne classics and tell the inside story of the group's rise to fame, from Whitley Bay to San Francisco Bay. Ray says: “it's a product of ﬁfty years of friendship and musical collaboration that tells the tale of a bunch of Geordie lads who followed their dream and shared a lot of laughs, a few tears, and a barrow load of fantastic music”.

ShakeSPeaRe SchOOlS feSTiVal We welcome the UK’s largest Youth Drama Festival to the Gala stage. The Shakespeare Schools Festival works with over 1000 secondary, primary and special schools all over the UK, making it possible for them to stage abridged Shakespeare productions in their local professional theatre. Each night four schools will perform four diﬀerent Shakespeare plays. Come and celebrate the achievements of our local schools in a wonderful evening of entertainment. Details of participating schools can be obtained from the Box Oﬃce.

Tuesday 18 November 8.00pm | £14 (£12 conc)

GaRy Delaney PuRiST Gary is back on the road and thinks that most shows don’t contain enough jokes, so is trying single-handedly to redress the balance. So… expect jokes. Don’t expect narrative, themes or a voyage of self-discovery. A star of Mock The Week and a double Sony Award Winner, Gary is a razor-sharp one-liner comedian, widely regarded as being the most quotable comic around. “I laughed and I laughed and I laughed… a master craftsman” The Times

Sunday 23 November 7.30pm | £10

kaTe fOx POeT in ReSiDence Stand-up poet Kate Fox has been Poet in Residence for a half marathon, a BBC Radio 4 show, Glastonbury Festival... and a colostomy nurse’s conference. When did we start giving poets residencies, and where will it end? Kate shares some of her funniest poems and stories from her residencies which have seen her writing a poem while running 13 miles, and being very tempted to test out a catheter in the name of true poetic reportage. She also explores the idea of home and how words can make us ﬁt in or stand out, in a funny, thought-provoking show from someone making her living on poetry’s frontline. “funny, endearing with a journalistic cynicism that cuts through the whimsy” Sunday Telegraph

29 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Monday 17 November 7.00pm | £10 (£8 conc)

30 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Friday 28 November 7.45pm | £8.50

funny BOneS cOMeDy cluB From the dead-pan to the dead funny, sit back with a beer and enjoy our regular residency from Funny Bones. Featuring snappy and sharp Mike Milligan, charming and conﬁdent Danny Deegan, legendary actor and Roman-Greco wrestling champion Sir Dickie Benson and rapid-ﬁre gagmeister and MC Lee Kyle. Contains strong language, recommended age 16+.

Tuesday 9 December 8.00pm | £15 (£13 conc), £10 Gala Friends

Internationally renowned DV8 Physical Theatre bring their powerful new production to the National Theatre, broadcast live to the big screen at Gala. John, authentically depicts real-life stories, combining movement and spoken word to create an intense and moving theatrical experience. Lloyd Newson, DV8’s Artistic Director, interviewed more than 50 men, asking them frank questions, initially about love and sex. One of those men was John. What emerged was a story that is both extraordinary and touching. Years of crime, drug use and struggling to survive lead John on a search in which his life converges with others, in an unexpected place, unknown by most. DV8 Physical Theatre has produced 18 highly acclaimed dance-theatre works and four ﬁlms for TV, which have garnered over 50 national and international awards. John contains adult themes, strong language and nudity. Suitable for age 18+.

kaTheRine Ryan GlaM ROle MODel A dude who is fast becoming a recognisable face on British TV with appearances on Live At The Apollo, Let's Dance for Comic Relief, Mock The Week, QI, Never Mind The Buzzcocks, 8 Out of 10 Cats and more, Katherine embarks on her second UK stand-up tour. The fresh, often dangerously fierce pop-culture obsessed Canadian, was unaffected by publicised death threats and survived the world's first crack-smoking mayor. Recommended age 16+ “warped wit...striking presence...killer lines...calm confidence” The Scotsman

Sunday 14 December 7.30pm | £15

chRiS WOOD Chris has converted many an anti-folk fan with his blend of traditional and modern songwriting. Often compared to Richard Thompson, his music explores the history of the English-speaking world alongside tales of modern life. He has worked and collaborated with a long list of artists, from Billy Bragg to Eliza Carthy and The Imagined Village and was nominated for Best Original Song at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards 2014. He is an intimate storyteller, and the ﬁnest and most original singersongwriter to have emerged in years. Friday 12 December 7.45pm | £8.50

funny BOneS cOMeDy cluB So, it’s almost Christmas, and you want something to take your mind oﬀ the shopping, which is still to be done. Let fast-paced Georgie MC Christian Steel introduce a bunch of the best comics around, who will do just that. They are funny and likable Jay Handley, the inspired and sparkling punchlines of Karen Bayley and quick-witted Aussie, Pam Ford. Contains strong language, recommended age 16+.

31 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Wednesday 10 December 8.00pm | £12 (£10 conc)

32 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

A Gala Theatre Production

Written by Ben crocker Directed by Gareth Tudor Price Thursday 27 November - Saturday 3 January We are delighted to announce that our spectacular pantomime is the mystical and madcap tale of Aladdin, a show full of North Eastern promise. Telling the story of poor Widow Twankey (Chris Connel), her hunky son Aladdin (Matt McGoldrick) and daft laundry lad Wishee Washee (Paul Hartley). Meanwhile, evil baddie Abanazar (Neil Armstrong) is trying to get beautiful Princess Jasmine (Christina Andrew) away from her Emperor father (Robert Hudson) and the inept PC Pingpong (Viktoria Kay). He also wants to get his hands on the magic lamp and its crazy old Genie Created in the heart of Durham, Gala’s fabulous family pantomime comes complete with a terriﬁc mix of mayhem and live music, laughter and surprises. Let Durham’s pantomime family make your festive season complete. It’s a wild, magical carpet ride of a show and tickets are already selling well, so book early to avoid disappointment.

Previews Bargain Shows adults children concessions friends Groups (10+) Schools family Ticket Baby

£8.50 £11.00 £14.50 £12.50 £12.50 £12.50 £12.50 £8.00 £48.00 £1.00

£16.50 £14.50 £14.50 £14.50 £14.50 £9.00 £56.00 £1.00

STaRRinG... Neil Armstrong abanazar Paul Hartley Wishee Washee Chris Connel Widow Twankey Matt McGoldrick aladdin Christina Andrew Princess Jasmine Robert Hudson The emperor Viktoria Kay Pc Pingpong

Musical Director Mark Thompson choreographer kay Shepherd With full supporting company and the GTSS dancers.

Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Friday Saturday

27 Nov 2014 28 Nov 2014 29 Nov 2014 30 Nov 2014 02 Dec 2014 03 Dec 2014 04-Dec 2014 06 Dec 2014 07 Dec 2014 08 Dec 2014 09 Dec 2014 10 Dec 2014 12 Dec 2014 13 Dec 2014 14 Dec 2014 15 Dec 2014 16 Dec 2014 17 Dec 2014 19 Dec 2014 20 Dec 2014 21 Dec 2014 22 Dec 2014 23 Dec 2014 24 Dec 2014 26 Dec 2014 27 Dec 2014 28 Dec 2014 29 Dec 2014 30 Dec 2014 31 Dec 2014 02 Jan 2015 03 Jan 2015

7.00pm 1.30pm & 7.00pm 2.00pm & 7.00pm 2.00pm & 7.00pm 10.00am & 1.30pm 10.00am & 1.30pm 10.00am & 1.30pm 1.30pm & 5.00pm 1.30pm & 5.00pm 10.00am & 1.30pm 10.00am & 1.30pm 10.00am & 1.30pm 10.00am & 1.30pm 1.30pm & 5.00pm 1.30pm & 5.00pm 10.00am & 1.30pm 1.30pm & 7.00pm 1.30pm & 7.00pm 7.00pm 2.00pm & 7.00pm 2.00pm & 7.00pm 2.00pm & 7.00pm 2.00pm & 7.00pm 11.00am & 3.00pm 5.00pm 2.00pm & 7.00pm 2.00pm & 7.00pm 2.00pm & 7.00pm 2.00pm & 7.00pm 2.00pm 1.30pm & 5.00pm 2.00pm & 7.00pm

Treat the family book your tickets today!

33 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Booking Now!

PRiceS

34 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

fORThcOMinG aTTRacTiOnS Wednesday 4 February 7.30pm | £16 (£14 conc) The Reduced Shakespeare Company in

The cOMPleTe hiSTORy Of cOMeDy (aBRiDGeD) They’ve skewered history, the Bible and the world’s most celebrated playwright, now the Reduced Shakespeare Company tackles the subject it was born to reduce. From the high-brow to the low, these 90 rollicking minutes cover comedy through the ages, from Aristophanes and Moliere (is Moliere funny!?) to Vaudeville, Charlie Chaplin and Nick Clegg (is Nick Clegg funny!?) Tickets to the show are far more aﬀordable than tickets to an amusement park, but you’ll come away with the same feeling of nausea and motion sickness. The bad boys of abridgment leave no joke untold as they deconstruct the entire history of comedy.

cOMinG SOOn… anD On Sale nOW

Sunday 18 January Thursday 22 January Thursday 29 January Saturday 7 February Monday 9 February Wednesday 11 February Friday 13 & Saturday 14 February Thursday 19 February Wednesday 4 March Sat 7 & Sun 8 March Wednesday 11 March Thursday 26 March Sunday 29 March Thursday 9 April Saturday 11 & Sunday 12 April Sunday 12 April Saturday 13 June Wednesday 1 July

T. Rextasy NT Live: Treasure Island The Rat Pack Vegas Spectacular Show Elkie Brooks Al Murray – The Pub Landlord RSC Live: Love’s Labour’s Lost The Snail & The Whale Simon Amstell RSC Live: Love’s Labour’s Won Moscow State Circus ENO Screening: La Traviata The Elves & The Shoemaker The Grimethorpe Colliery Band The Blues Band Octonauts and the Deep Sea Volcano Adventure Lee Nelson The Paul Merton Impro Chums ENO Screening: Carmen

Gala are setting up our very own Big Band, and we would love YOU to be part of it. This is a brand new opportunity for North East musicians of all ages and backgrounds to meet and play music together. From the big band repertoire to new pieces written specifically for the band, develop your musicianship in a friendly and supportive environment. We hope the band will become a permanent feature at Gala, rehearsing and performing throughout the year. Starting on 16 September, with sessions running once a fortnight, we would love to see you there. To find out more, call the Box Office or email bigband@galadurham.co.uk

35 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

The Gala Big Band

36 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Celebrating Great Film Our regular series of special movie events, where old favourites and mainstream blockbusters rub shoulders, in a celebration of masterful movie making.

Thursday 18 December | £10

iT’S a WOnDeRful life Complete with built-in Christmassy warmth, set yourself up for the festive season with the big screen experience of this Jimmy Stewart classic. 7.30pm

It’s A Wonderful Life (U), 1946, 130 mins

WORlD WaR i aniMaTeD ShORT filMS As part of our commemorations of the 100th Anniversary of the First World War, we will be screening a short animated ﬁlm, before each mainstream ﬁlm screening from Friday 22 August through to Thursday 6 November. There will then a screening of all the shorts, back to back on Armistice Day on Tuesday 11 November. Made by our colleagues in Amiens, France, these 5 minute features are a poignant and imaginative take on the anniversary commemorations, and are a chance to witness some real creative storytelling. More details can be found on our website.

Pic: Paddington

cinema

Join our e-mailing list

Student Day

Sign up to our weekly e-listings flyer and get film times (or information on any of Gala’s activities) delivered straight to your inbox. Go to www.galadurham.co.uk/mailinglist

If it’s a Monday, and you can show a valid student card at the Box Office, tickets for all our films are just £5 each. Simple as that.

for all enquiries, comments or suggestions regarding Gala’s ﬁlm programme, please contact us on info@galadurham.co.uk.

37 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

gala

Gala houses a two-screen cinema screening a mix of blockbusters and independent films. We have state-of-the-art digital projection equipment, and can also screen in 3D. for screening times, please see our website or contact the Box Office. We also accept Orange Wednesdays 2 for 1 offer.

38 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

inTeRValS café BaR Take a break from your busy day and relax at Gala. Drop in for a cuppa and a cake, to meet friends, or bring the little ‘uns because we’re the most buggy-friendly café in Durham. Our café bar is open from 10am - 3pm on Monday to Friday (5pm on Saturday) oﬀering tea, coﬀee and snacks, plus light lunches daily from 12.00pm - 2.30pm.

heRe fOR a ShOW? Fancy a drink in the interval but don’t want to queue? Beat the rush and pre-order before the show starts, and your drinks will be ready and waiting for you.

hiRe OuR STuDiO If you’re looking for a wonderful city centre venue perfect for your private celebrations, then give our Studio a try. Whether it’s a graduation celebration, a special birthday, or a wedding ‘do’, we have a full bar, a dance ﬂoor and a huge range of catering options. So why not let us take the stress out of your big day? Please contact our Hospitality Manager, Carol Scullion on cscullion@galadurham.co.uk or 03000 266615.

gala corporate

Our Corporate Partners include New College Durham and the North East Chamber of Commerce. We thank them for their valued support. for more details of our corporate scheme, please contact 03000 266600.

BOX OFFICE 03000 266 600 OPENING HOURS

Monday-Saturday 10.00am8.30pm, Sunday 2.30pm-8.30pm. Times may vary on public holidays.

BOOKING METHODS

Online Available 24 hours a day at: www.galadurham.co.uk in person at Gala during the above times By phone 03000 266 600 Reservations are held for 3 days. Group bookings of 10+ must be paid two months before the show. Ticket exchanges/Refunds Tickets may be exchanged for other performances (for a fee of £1 per ticket) up to 24 hours before a performance, at the management’s discretion. Unless an event is cancelled, all tickets are non-refundable. By purchasing our tickets you agree that these can not be re-sold for proﬁt through any means. This will result in tickets being declared void. national Theatre Tokens are sold and redeemed at Gala. See www.theatretokens.com concessions are available for selected events - please check at time of booking, and proof may be required upon ticket collection. Only one concession applies.

INFORMATION

latecomers will be seated at a suitable point in the performance, to minimise inconvenience to others. family friendly Gala aspire to make all of our customers welcome, no matter how small and we really hope that our younger visitors become regulars at our theatre and cinema. In consideration of our audience and performers, we just ask that those under the age of 3 are only admitted to shows aimed at the very young. If in doubt, you can check with Box Oﬃce. For those under one year old, babes-in-arms tickets are available for selected shows. Find more information on our website about visiting Gala with your younger family members.

access Gala has lifts to all levels and accessible toilets located throughout. Our Main Auditorium and both cinemas have wheelchair spaces available. If using a wheelchair, please advise the Box Office when booking to ensure your seats/spaces are allocated accordingly. We request that our disabled patrons attend with an ablebodied companion whose ticket is free of charge. Guide Dogs are welcome in all parts of the theatre. We operate the Sennheiser infrared amplification system in our Main Auditorium. Headsets for the hard of hearing are available at Box Office. Mothers & Babies Our café staff are trained to be aware of the needs of breast-feeding mothers, and we also have baby changing facilities on all levels.

Smoking is not permitted anywhere within Gala Travel There is parking on-site at Walkergate (DH1 1SQ), which is easily reached via the slip road under Milburngate Bridge or via Freeman Place. An evening tariﬀ is available. Prince Bishops car park (DH1 3UJ) is also nearby. A list of all bus routes can be found on our website.

Gala Theatre & cinema, Millennium Place, Durham, Dh1 1Wa

info@galadurham.co.uk

03000 266 600

EVENT DIARY SEPTEMBER Wed 3 Thur 4 Sat 6 Sun 7 Wed 10 Thur 11 Fri 12 Sat 13 Tues 16 Wed 17 Fri19 Fri 19 Fri 19 Sat 20 Sun 21 Mon 22 Wed 24 Fri 26 Sat 27 Sat 27 Sun 28 Sun 28 Sun 28 Mon 29

RSC: The Two Gentlemen of Verona 7.00pm NT Live: Medea 7.00pm North Road EP Launch 8.00pm The Comedy Store 7.30pm Stones In His Pockets 7.30pm Stones In His Pockets 7.30pm One Or Two Things About Us 7.30pm Ha Ha Hood 7.30pm NT Live: A Street Car Named Desire 7.00pm Joe Brown 7.30pm Gala Lunchtime Concert Series 1.00pm Blake 7.30pm Funny Bones Comedy Club 7.45pm Henning Wehn 8.00pm Beyond The Barricade 7.30pm Steve Howe 7.30pm Simpson, Cutting & Kerr 7.30pm Classic Clapton 8.00pm Susan Calman 8.00pm I Left My Heart in Roker Park… 7.30pm Billy Elliot The Musical 2.00pm & 7.00pm The Syd Lawrence Orchestra 7.30pm I Left My Heart in Roker Park… 7.30pm Fish 8.00pm

OCTOBER Wed 1 Thur 2 Fri 3 Sat 4 Sun 5 Mon 6 Tues 7 Wed 8 Fri 10 Fri 10 Sat 11 Sun 12 Mon 13 Tues 14 Tues 14 Wed 15 Thur 16 Fri 17 Fri 17 Fri 17 Fri 17 Sat 18

Stephen Fry Live The Revolutionaires & Friends Jason Cook Al Murray - The Pub Landlord The Comedy Store That’ll Be The Day Sir Chris Bonington Jimeoin Kerry Ellis Funny Bones Comedy Club One Direction – Where We Are Clare Teal The Paul Edis Sextet Sheila Hancock Paul Foot Andy Fairweather Low Eddi Reader Gala Lunchtime Concert Series Jung Chang John Etheridge / Kit Holmes Kate Tempest Stuart Maconie

7.30pm 7.45pm 8.00pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 8.00pm 7.30pm 7.45pm 6.00pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.00pm 8.00pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 1.00pm 6.30pm 7.30pm 8.15pm 4.00pm

Sun 19 Wed 22 Fri 24 Fri 24 Sat 25 Sat 25 Sat 25 Sun 26 Wed 29 Thur 30 Thur 30 Fri 31 Fri 31 Fri 31

Mark Steel’s Back In Town 8.00pm Handmade Tales 1.00pm & 6.30pm Secret Life of Suitcases 10.30am & 1.00pm Jason Byrne 8.00pm Secret Life of Suitcases 10.30am & 4.00pm Hansel & Gretel 11.00am & 2.00pm Jeremy Hardy 8.00pm The Red Cross Charity Concert 7.00pm DMTC: A Funny Thing Happened… 7.15pm NT Live: Frankenstein 7.00pm DMTC: A Funny Thing Happened… 7.15pm DMTC: A Funny Thing Happened… 7.15pm Andy Zaltzman 8.00pm NT Live: Frankenstein 7.00pm

NOVEMBER Sat 1 DMTC: A Funny Thing… 2.15pm & 7.15pm Sun 2 The Comedy Store 7.30pm Mon 3 Not About Heroes 7.30pm Tues 4 ETO: Life On The Moon 7.30pm Wed 5 ETO: Ottone 7.30pm Thur 6 Cuckooed 8.00pm Fri 7 Let’s Hang On 7.30pm Sat 8 Dave Gorman 8.00pm Sun 9 Joan Armatrading 7.30pm Mon10 Buddy Holly & The Cricketers 7.30pm Tues 11 Marcus Brigstocke 8.00pm Thur 13 Mark Watson 7.30pm Fri 14 The Illegal Eagles 7.30pm Sat 15 The Lindisfarne Story 7.30pm Sun 16 The Comedy Store 7.30pm Mon 17 Shakespeare Schools Festival 7.00pm Tues 18 Gary Delaney 8.00pm Sun 23 Kate Fox 7.30pm Thur 27 to 3 Jan Aladdin Various Fri 28 Gala Lunchtime Concert Series 1.00pm Fri 28 Funny Bones Comedy Club 7.45pm

DECEMBER Tues 9 Wed 10 Fri 12 Sun 14 Thur 18 Fri 19

NT Live: John Katherine Ryan Funny Bones Comedy Club Chris Wood G:Film - It’s A Wonderful Life Gala Lunchtime Concert Series

8.00pm 8.00pm 7.45pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 1.00pm

BOX OFFICE 03000 266 600