What’s On
Autumn / Winter 2019-20 Featuring...
Dave Spikey 42nd Street The Nutcracker Spirit of The Dance
The Empire Theatre & Cinema Front Street, Consett DH8 5AB 03000 262 400 | www.empireconsett.co.uk
@empiretheatreconsett
Welcome
The Empire Theatre & Cinema has a packed programme in store this Autumn / Winter season!
Visit www.empireconsett.co.uk for more information about The Empire and to book live shows and cinema screenings.
Empire
Café
Empire
Cinema
Friends
of The Empire
Our café offers the perfect place to eat and drink, with a wide selection of tasty snacks, cakes, pastries and Afternoon Tea.
Offering the latest blockbusters and outstanding Event Cinema from around the world, at great value prices.
Become a Friend of the Empire and support our fantastic venue. Benefits include discounts on selected shows and more.
Open 10am - 3pm Monday to Saturday.
Visit the website for film listings and details of our varied cinema programme.
Annual memberships start from only £6. Call the Box Office for details.
(pre-booking required for Afternoon Tea).
Cover photo: Russian National Ballet: The Nutcracker, page 9.
Live
03000 262 400 | www.empireconsett.co.uk
Wannabe: The Spice Girls Show Saturday 7 September, 7.30pm This energetic musical stage show celebrates the career of the world’s biggest girl band, the Spice Girls, and recreates the era of Girl Power! From the chart stomping Spice Up Your Life through to the hip shaking Who Do You Think You Are?, WANNABE takes you on a Spice World journey through the Spice Girls group and solo careers that will make you Zig-A-Zig-Ahhhh. Swing it, shake it, move it, make it down however you can. Costumes, groups & families all welcome for the biggest 90s party in town. £23
Mad About The Musicals Thursday 19 September, 7.30pm Taking you on a whistle stop tour from the heart of London’s theatre land to the glitz of Broadway, the critically acclaimed Mad About The Musicals is back – celebrating the very best songs from the shows we all know and love. With a host of your favourite numbers from the pen of Rodgers & Hammerstein, Andrew Lloyd Webber and Boublil & Schonberg, the talented cast of Mad About The Musicals evoke the true spirit of the stage to bring you the very best show in town! £19, £17.50 concs
Live
The Best of WHAM! Friday 20 September, 7.30pm A fantastic new show featuring the best of George, Andrew, Pepsi and Shirlie with sensational vocals, choreography, costumes and an awesome live band. In four short years WHAM! sold more than 28 million records, topping the charts with three albums, four number one singles and eleven top ten hits. The Best of WHAM! show includes all those hits, a few B side favourites and a couple of early George Michael bonus songs. This fun-loving, vibrant, mega-mix tribute to the pop sensation of the 80s will be loved by ‘Young Guns’ of all ages. £23.50
The Carpenters Story Saturday 28 September, 7.30pm This highly acclaimed concert style production continues to captivate audiences across the UK with its spectacular celebration of the classic songbook that made The Carpenters a legend in the world of popular music, selling over 100 million albums and singles. This brand new show for 2019 features the outstanding vocal talents of Claire Furley, with Musical Director Phil Aldridge leading The Carpenters Story Orchestra. £23.50 4
Live
03000 262 400 | www.empireconsett.co.uk
Dave Spikey: Juggling on a Motorbike Thursday 3 October, 7.30pm Dave had been working in the NHS for 19 years as a Biomedical Scientist when in 1987 someone uttered the immortal words, “You’re really funny, you should be a comedian” and for some reason, he took them seriously! So here in 2019 he celebrates the 32nd anniversary of his comedy career. In this show he will look back on his remarkable life and his incredible journey from working class lad to Chief Biomedical Scientist to much loved comedy performer and writer via Phoenix Nights, Eight out of Ten Cats, Bullseye, Dead Man Weds, Magnolia, The Royal Variety Show, Parkinson and many more. £17.50
The Bobby Thompson Story Friday 4 October, 7.30pm Written and performed by Pete Peverley. Bobby Thompson’s woodbine smoking ‘Little Waster’ alter ego became a folk hero across the North East, yet this hid a man troubled by drink, gambling debts and the tax man. Pete Peverley comes to the Empire Theatre for the first time with his touching, heartfelt and very funny celebration of the life and work of this comic legend. £17, £15 concs
Live
Classic Clapton Saturday 5 October, 7.30pm With a huge following in the North East built up over 34 years of performing, Classic Clapton – the No.1 Eric Clapton show visits Consett for the first time, with front man Mike Hall and the After Midnight band. Featuring songs including Wonderful Tonight, Tears in Heaven, Crossroads, I Shot The Sheriff, Lay Down Sally, and Layla. £16
There Was An Old Lady Who Swallowed A Fly Saturday 12 October, 2.30pm The Peoples Theatre Company bring one of the world’s best loved nursery rhymes to life just in time to celebrate the 45th anniversary of Pam Adams’ best-selling book! This magical show has been written especially for grown-ups to enjoy with their children, so come and relive the delights of this most charming of tales complete with a feast of sing along songs, colourful animal characters and heart-warming family fun. £12, £10 concs, £40 family (4 tickets, min 1 adult) 6
Live
03000 262 400 | www.empireconsett.co.uk
The Pitmen Poets Friday 18 October, 7.30pm From Billy Elliot to Close The Coalhouse Door, When The Boat Comes In to The Pitmen Painters – now hear the songs and stories of The Pitmen Poets. Ex-Lindisfarne singer and songwriter Billy Mitchell, Warhorse Songman Bob Fox, leading exponent of Tyneside song Benny Graham, and much-covered Durham songwriter Jez Lowe individually and collectively celebrate the triumphs, tragedy, humour and hard times of North-East England’s coal mining tradition in an evening of music, song and spoken word. £20
Barry Steele & Friends: The Roy Orbison Story Thursday 24 October, 7.30pm Following his West End debut at The Adelphi Theatre, the one and only Barry Steele is set to put the rock back into ‘The Big O’ as he takes to the stage to commemorate this legend in ‘The Roy Orbison Story’. Barry is joined on stage by a five-piece band and sensational guest pianist Boogie Williams as the production also presents original material written but never sung by Roy Orbison, and showcases elements of the symphonic orchestration first heard on the recently released albums. £23
Sing-a-long-a The Greatest Showman Saturday 26 October, 6.00pm Look out ‘cause here it comes…. Singalonga Productions bring you their newest show, the smash hit film musical that everyone can’t stop singing! Experience The Greatest Showman in the greatest way possible – with lyrics on the screen so you can join in as loud as you want. As they show you how to use your interactive prop bags, the live host will teach you a unique set of dance moves that will truly make you come alive. YOU the audience will rewrite the stars.
Please note this is a screening of the movie not a live stage show. PG certificate.
Fancy dress is strongly encouraged and
£16, £12 under 16s
Live
Les McKeown’s Bay City Rollers Saturday 1 November, 7.30pm Always a sell-out at the Empire, the legendary Bay City Roller Les McKeown returns with his award-winning ‘rollertastic’ show! Don’t miss this unique voyage back to the 1970s, when Les and his legendary band ruled the world’s pop charts and The Bay City Rollers’ music became the soundtrack for a generation of teenagers. Packed full of original hits including Bye Bye Baby, Shang-a-Lang, Remember, Summerlove Sensation, Give A Little Love and many more. £23.50 8
full audience participation essential. Great for groups and families.
Live
03000 262 400 | www.empireconsett.co.uk
Russian National Ballet: The Nutcracker Saturday 2 November, 2.30pm & 7.30pm After the sell-out performances of Swan Lake last year, Russian National Ballet returns to enchant you with the delightful production of The Nutcracker. The original Christmas story is based on The Nutcracker and the Mouse King written by E.T.A. Hoffmann. It tells the story of Marie, a sad little girl, whose godfather, Drosselmeyer, gives her a Nutcracker doll as a present on Christmas Eve. In her lively imagination it turns into a prince and the magic starts… A wonderful treat full of glitter for the whole family! £22, £20.50 concs, £17.50 under 16s
Live
£17 (£15 concession), £56 family ticket (four tickets, min. one adult) School & group discounts available 10
.
Early bird group booking before 30 September 2019
03000 262 400 | www.empireconsett.co.uk
Performance times Sat 30 Nov Sun 1 Dec
3.00pm 3.00pm
Tues 3 Dec Wed 4 Dec Thurs 5 Dec Fri 6 Dec Sat 7 Dec Sun 8 Dec
10.00am 10.00am 10.00am 10.00am 1.30pm 3.00pm 6.30pm 3.00pm
Tues 10 Dec Wed 11 Dec Thurs 12 Dec Fri 13 Dec Sat 14 Dec Sun 15 Dec
10.00am 10.00am 10.00am 10.00am 3.00pm 6.30pm 3.00pm
Mon 16 Dec Wed 18 Dec Thurs 19 Dec Fri 20 Dec Sat 21 Dec Sun 22 Dec
10.00am 10.00am 10.00am 1.30pm 6.30pm 11.00am 3.00pm 11.00am 3.00pm
Mon 23 Dec Tues 24 Dec Thurs 26 Dec Fri 27 Dec Sat 28 Dec Sun 29 Dec
1.00pm 4.30pm 1.00pm 4.30pm 3.00pm 3.00pm 6.30pm 3.00pm 3.00pm
Mon 30 Dec Tues 31 Dec
3.00pm 1.30pm
Live
Whitney: Queen of the Night Saturday 9 November, 7.30pm A stunning celebration of the music and life of one of the greatest singers of our time. This award- winning production features a sensational line-up of musicians, taking us through three decades of classic hits including I Wanna Dance With Somebody, One Moment In Time, I’m Every Woman, My Love is Your Love, So Emotional Baby, Run to You, Saving All My Love, I Will Always Love You and more. £24, £22.50 concs
Seven Drunken Nights – The Story of The Dubliners Thursday 14 November, 7.30pm Following its sold-out smash hit debut tour, Seven Drunken Nights – The Story of The Dubliners returns to theatres in 2019 with an even bigger production. Direct from the West End, the show brings to life the music of Ireland’s favourite sons The Dubliners. Telling the story of a career spanning 50 years and evoking the spirit of Ronnie Drew, Luke Kelly, Barney McKenna, Jim McCann, Ciaran Bourke and John Sheahan. This talented cast of musicians and singers bring the music of this iconic group to life. £22.50
12
Live
03000 262 400 | www.empireconsett.co.uk
The Johnny Cash Roadshow Friday 15 November, 7.30pm The only show to be endorsed by the Cash family is back on top form with a brand new production for 2019. Award-winning front man Clive John dedicates this year to a 50th anniversary tour of the legendary San Quentin State Prison recordings which was televised on Granada Television on February 24 1969, and later released on June 4 of that same year. Alongside Clive is his iconic wife June Carter played by Emily Heighway, a world class band (Spirit) and the JCR horns. All supported with full video projection. £22.50
Carole – The Music of Carole King Saturday 23 November, 7.30pm The story of the career of one of the most successful and admired songwriters in the history of popular music. With a cast of the UK’s finest musicians, singers and dancers, the show features not only songs from the Carole King songbook but also those written and recorded by some of the greatest artists and song writing partnerships such as Aretha Franklin, The Drifters, The Shirelles, The Monkees, The Beatles, The Everly Brothers, Dusty Springfield, Little Eva and James Taylor. £23.50, £22.50 concs
Live
The Story of Guitar Heroes Wednesday 22 January, 7.30pm The Story of Guitar Heroes is an awe-inspiring, dynamic show which transports you through time: from the 1950’s with artistes such as Chuck Berry and Hank Marvin from The Shadows, including gifted legends such as Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton and Jimmy Page, through to modern day players such as Brian May and Steve Vai, to name but a few! Presented by guitar virtuoso Phil Walker – this show’s extraordinarily talented band uses over 30 guitars to recreate and accurately reproduce the sound and ambiance of each guitar hero. £24, £22 concs
Big Girls Don’t Cry Friday 7 February, 7.30pm Celebrating a decade of Big Girls Don’t Cry featuring The East Coast Boys. Step back in time, to the era of romance. Where gents were gents, and gals were gals! Come and experience the iconic sounds of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons authentically recreated by a phenomenal cast and live band. After selling an incredible 100 million records worldwide, there’s a Four Seasons song that shares a special place in everyone’s heart. This internationally acclaimed show authentically revives the sublime harmonies of New Jersey’s finest. £23 14
Live
03000 262 400 | www.empireconsett.co.uk
The Bear
From the book by Raymond Briggs Adapted by Pins and Needles Sunday 16 February, 2.30pm Ever wondered what it would be like to sit on a polar bear’s lap? Or ride on its back? Have you ever tried to give a polar bear a bath, or clear up its poo? One night when she’s fast asleep, Tilly is visited by an enormous bear. It has a big black tongue and a yawn as big as your head. But Tilly’s not scared. The story of a little girl who befriends a mischievous polar bear, this playful, funny and heart-warming tale is one of imagination and growing up.
Spirit of the Dance Tuesday 25 February, 7.30pm This International smash hit celebrates 21 fabulous years as one of the most successful dance shows ever. Seen by more than 30 million people in 20 countries around the world, Spirit of the Dance is winner of nine Global Awards, including ‘Best Choreography’ and ‘Best International Production’. Irish in origin and bursting with raw energy, this explosive and powerful show combines heart-pounding Irish Dance with the sensual Latino rhythms of Flamenco and Red Hot Salsa in a thrilling production of strength and passion. £27
With dazzling puppetry, delicious music and dozens of laughs, The Bear is an unforgettable experience for the whole family. So bring a bear, and join Tilly and her great big white friend on a wild and magical adventure. “Move over War Horse this polar puppet is magic.” The Guardian £12.50, £46 family (4 tickets, min 1 adult)
Live
The Illegal Eagles Friday 28 February, 7.30pm The world’s official number one Eagles tribute returns for another outstanding show promising more of their trademark musical prowess, acute attention to detail, and incredible showmanship. Featuring the very best from the Eagles’ repertoire including Hotel California, Take it to the Limit, Life in the Fast Lane, Take It Easy, Lyin’ Eyes, Desperado and plenty more! £26.50
ALSO SHOWING Little Shop of Horrors Presented by Spotlight Community Theatre Productions
Tuesday 8 – Thursday 10 October, 7.15pm For the misfits of Skid Row, life is full of broken dreams, but there’s hope on the horizon for flower shop assistant, Seymour, when he discovers a mysterious new plant with killer potential. £9, £7 concs
16
Black Dyke Band in Concert Presented by Consett Salvation Army Band
Saturday 19 October, 7.00pm Consett Salvation Army band celebrates its 140th anniversary with a visit from the world-renowned Black Dyke Band. £12
Jack & The Beanstalk Presented by CBS Theatre Group
Monday 13 – Saturday 18 January, 7.15pm (2.15pm Sat Matinee) The much loved family pantomime is presented by a talented community cast. £10 (2 for £15 Monday)
Screening
03000 262 400 | www.empireconsett.co.uk
Westlife The Twenty Tour: Sing-Along Saturday 14 September, 7.30pm With on-screen lyrics, you can join in with Irish heartthrobs Shane, Nicky, Mark and Kian and their 80,000-strong crowd at Dublin’s Croke Park Stadium, as they perform all of their greatest hits. £15, £13 concs
42nd Street – The Musical Sunday 10 November, 3.00pm and Tuesday 12 November, 7.00pm Starring national treasure Bonnie Langford as Dorothy Brock and featuring iconic songs 42nd Street, We’re In The Money and Lullaby Of Broadway, this is pure musical magic on the big screen. £15, £13 concs
RSC: Timon of Athens Wednesday 20 November, 7.00pm In a world driven by greed, what do we truly value? Timon has it all money, influence, friends. But when the money runs out, Timon soon finds her influence and friends have also gone. Left alone, she flees Athens to take refuge in the woods. £14, £12 concs
André Rieu - 70 Years Young Saturday 4 January, 7.00pm André Rieu - 70 Years Young celebrates André’s 70th birthday, looking back at the most spectacular performances throughout his career from all over the word - remastered exclusively for cinema audiences. £15
Coming soon, book now
Steve Steinman’s Anything For Love: The Meat Loaf Story Saturday 14 March, 7.30pm 2,000 performances and over a million tickets sold worldwide! The highly acclaimed Steve Steinman, now in his 28th year of performing Meat Loaf’s incredible back catalogue, brings you his brand-new production featuring all of Meat Loaf’s greatest hits. £28
Soul Town USA featuring The Platters Friday 20 March, 7.30pm Performing their number one hits The Great Pretender, Only You and Smoke Gets in Your Eyes, true musical trailblazers The Platters bring you the authoritative story of soul and Motown in this brand-new stage show. £22.50
Bringing on Back The 60s Saturday 28 March, 7.30pm Back by popular demand! This fastmoving show starring the New Amen Corner and with a special guest appearance from multi award-winning performer Nancy Ann Lee ‘Little Miss Sixties’ is a must for lovers of 60s music. £20.50 18
Booking and visiting
03000 262 400 | www.empireconsett.co.uk
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Website Tickets can be booked online for most of our shows and films. Visit www.empireconsett.co.uk Box Office opening times Monday - Saturday 10am to 3pm, Tuesday -Saturday 6.30pm - 9.00pm. You can book in person at Empire Theatre, Front Street, Consett, DH8 5AB or telephone 03000 262 400. Reservations Reserved seats are held for 5 days from booking and will be released if payment is not made. No reservations taken from 5 days before the performance. Refunds Tickets cannot be refunded. Seat exchanges can be made for the same performance, at the management’s discretion, for a charge of £1 per ticket up to 24 hours before the performance. Discounts Concession prices for selected shows for Senior Citizens (65+) and under 16s. Proof of eligibility may be required. Carers are admitted free. Selected shows offer a group booking discount of 1 free ticket in every 10 booked. Access and facilities The ground floor is ramped in the relevant places. There are 6 dedicated wheelchair spaces in the auditorium. A disabled toilet is situated at ground level. A hearing loop is available. Disabled parking is situated at the front of the building – spaces limited. Children and families Children under 2 years are admitted free for suitable performances (if sitting on paying adult’s knee). Booster seats (limited amount) and children’s 3D glasses are available for use. With regret we are unable to provide storage for pushchairs and they are not permitted to enter the auditorium. Additional information Tickets booked via telephone, post or internet will incur an administration charge. Durham County Council reserves the right at all times, and without notice, to cancel any performances. This brochure was correct at the time of going to print, however some slight changes to the programme could occur.
Saturday 30 November - Tuesday 31 December 2019 £17 (£15 concession), £56 family ticket (four tickets, min. one adult) Early bird group booking before 30 September 2019. The Empire Theatre and Cinema, Front Street, Consett DH8 5AB 03000 262 400 www.empireconsett.co.uk