Winter 2010/ spring 2011 0844 847 2322 (bkg fee) Groups hotline 0844 372 7272 access bookings 01904 678 703 www.grandoperahouseyork.org.uk
chinese state circus
Dave spikey
lisa riley
Welcome Welcome to our wonderful new brochure! Specially designed to give you cheer during the winter months. Bringing 2010 to a sensational end is our wonderful family pantomime, the magical Cinderella. Starring Lisa Riley, Syd Little, Stuart Wade, and Jen Pringle, there are sure to be some silly moments throughout! Following the festive season we still have more treats in store. Music lovers will be excited about Richard Thompson, Fairport Convention and Gilbert O’Sullivan. For fans of musicals we have York Stage Musical’s production of Jesus Christ Superstar and in April 2011 the brilliant Bill Kenwright production of Blood Brothers. Stars of comedy continue to grace our stage including Punt and Dennis, Mark Watson and Milton Jones. We are also introducing a new monthly comedy night on the last Thursday of every month in conjunction with The Last Laugh Comedy Club who will be bringing the very best of working comedians to York for you to enjoy. For young people wishing to take part in our 2011
Diary November Barclay James Harvest Sun 28 Nov 6 The Ladyboys Of Bangkok Mon 29 Nov 6 december An Evening of Clairvoyance with Tony Stockwell Wed 1 Dec 6 The Chuckle Brothers in Twelve Days of Christmas Fri 3 Dec 6 Mostly Autumn Sat 4 Dec
6
Cinderella Fri 10 Dec - Sun 2 Jan
4
january Rumours of Fleetwood Mac Sat 15 Jan 6 Richard Thompson Band Sun 16 Jan 7 Chinese State Circus Thu 20 & Fri 21 Jan
7
Huge Sat 22 & Sat 29 Jan
7
DiRECT FROM THE WEST END Sun 23 Jan 7
Stage Experience, West Side Story, the audition date is set – Sunday 6th March. Finally, a new exciting addition to our extra curricular clubs for children is the Magic Hatter’s School of Wizardry. Read on to find out more! We look forward to welcoming you to the Grand Opera House York soon. Best regards.
Lizzie Richards General Manager
Ambassador Theatre Group (ATG) is the largest theatre operator in the world combining its international stature with core local values. As a successful and respected theatre provider, ATG has years of experience helping millions of customers enjoy the very best theatre and live entertainment - and now it’s your turn to be part of it.
Jethro Wed 26 Jan
8
let’s hang on Tue 22 Feb
Punt and Dennis Fri 28 Jan
8
angelos epithemiou Wed 23 Feb
Feb Fairport Convention Tue 1 Feb
8
9 12
John Beatty’s Wild Vision Tue 29 Mar 13 April Back for Good Fri 1 Apr
13
Fireman Sam Thu 24 Feb
12
vikings of comedy Last Thu of each month
Tim Vine Sun 3 Apr
15
10
Cinderella Tue 5 Apr
15
Milton Jones Wed 2 Feb & Mon 11 Apr
8
Micky Flanagan Sat 5 Feb
8
Flawless Wed 9 Feb
8
March Horrible Histories Tue 1 - Sat 5 Mar
andy parsons Fri 11 Feb
9
Barbara Dickson Mon 7 Mar
The Naked Truth Sat 12 Feb
9
Mark Watson Tue 15 Feb
10cc Sat 26 Feb
12
drumchasers Wed 6 Apr
9
11
Dave Spikey Sat 9 Apr
15
12
Dan clark Sun 10 Apr
15
The Fureys & Davey Arthur Wed 9 Mar 12
The Big Ballet Tue 12 Apr
15
9
joe brown Fri 11 Mar
12
The Solid Silver 60s Show Wed 13 Apr 15
Superslam Wrestling Fri 18 Feb
9
Count Arthur Strong Sat 12 Mar
12
sally morgan Thu 14 Apr
gilbert o’sullivan Sat 19 Feb
9
The Bootleg Beatles Sun 20 Mar
13
Jesus Christ Superstar Mon 18 - Sat 23 Apr 14
Abba Forever Fri 25 Mar
12
lenny henry Fri 29 Apr
16
The Magic of Motown Sat 26 Mar
13
ken dodd Sat 30 Apr
16
may verdict Mon 2 - Sat 7 May
17
blood brothers Mon 16 - Sat 21 May
18
john cleese Sat 28 & Sun 29 May
16
the chuckle brothers in ghostly shadows Sun 27 Mar 13
thriller Mon 20 May - Sat 4 Jun June shaun’s big show Wed 8 - Sun 12 Jun
16
20
19
lisa riley
syd little
STUART WADE
4
paul critchlow
Milkshake’s
JEN PRINGLE
michael fordred
a spectacular family panto for christmas New Pantomime Productions return this Christmas with their spectacular family pantomime Cinderella! Don’t miss this wonderful festive treat, perfect for the whole family.
Friday 10 December 2010 Sunday 2 January 2011
Starring Stuart Wade (Emmerdale and last year’s panto Snow White) as Buttons, Lisa Riley (Emmerdale, Fat Friends) as the Wicked Stepmother, Syd Little as Cinderella’s father Baron Hardup plus Jen Pringle (Milkshake) as the Fairy Godmother.
Fri 10 1.00 7.00 Sat 11 2.30 7.00 Sun 12 2.30 6.30 Mon 13 1.00 7.00 Tue 14 1.00 7.00 Wed 15 1.00 7.00 Thu 16 No performances Fri 17 7.00 Sat 18 2.30 7.00 Sun 19 2.30 6.30 Mon 20 2.30 7.00 Tue 21 2.30 7.00 Wed 22 2.30 7.00 Thu 23 2.30 7.00 Fri 24 2.00 Sat 25 No performances Sun 26 2.30 6.30 Mon 27 2.30 7.00 Tue 28 2.30 7.00 Wed 29 2.30 7.00 Thu 30 2.30 7.00
‘A very funny, captivating panto with all the usual slapstick comedy, had the whole audience laughing throughout’ ‘Ex Emmerdale star Stuart Wade was brilliant as Muddles - the children laughed and sang along. It was entertainment at its best’ audience reviews from last year’s snow white
December
Fri 31 2.30
preview shows all seats £11
children only £12off peak £13peak
school groups £11 off peak only
January Sat 1 No performances Sun 2 2.30 6.30 Key Red
jason lee scott
Andrew Fitch
Preview
Green
Peak performances
Black
Off peak performances
Audio Described Perfs Sat 18 Dec 2.30pm & 7pm Captioned Performance Tue 21 Dec 7pm G school groups 10+ £11. Call 0844 372 7272 l livecard best discount £10 tickets, off peak only.
0844 847 2322 (bkg fee) www.grandoperahouseyork.org.uk
5
one night shows
John Lees’ Barclay James Harvest
The Ladyboys Of Bangkok
sun 28 nov 7.30pm
mon 29 nov 7.30pm C G l
From forming in 1967, this band was progressive and experimental, using orchestral ensembles and breaking away from standard methods of songwriting. They enjoyed wide commercial success, earning them a place in the prog hall of fame and numerous world tours. Founder members John Lees and Stuart ‘Woolly’ Wolstenholme tour with their five piece band.
Seen by over 1 million people. Following fantastic success in 2009 this party night returns with a brand new production with 400 costumes in an exciting stage production. This spectacular and flamboyant show is performed by 16 of the world’s most beautiful showgirls, every single one of them a Thai male, in a glamorous and funny revue show.
The Chuckle Brothers in Twelve
Mostly Autumn
Days of Christmas fri 3 dec 4.30pm & 7.15pm Come and meet all your favourite characters as Santa Claus and Paul and Barry Elf do battle to stop Jack Frost from ruining Christmas. Don’t miss this spectacular, comedy Christmas special adventure of The Chuckle Brothers in Twelve Days of Christmas. Guaranteed fun for all the family from ages 3 to 103.
6
sat 4 dec 7.30pm ‘The best band you have never heard’ They have built a loyal and cult following with such luminaries as the late Richard Wright of Pink Floyd, Deep Purple’s Jon Lord and the BBC’s own Bob Harris amongst their many fans. They have toured with Blackmore’s Night, Uriah Heep, Jethro Tull and Bryan Adams. This band will enthrall you and awaken memories of what real music is really about.
an evening of clairvoyance with psychic medium
Tony Stockwell wed 1 dec 7.30pm C l Tony Stockwell has been working for 20 years, constantly striving to push the boundaries of his communication. He has had umpteen TV shows and taught at the most respected schools for mediumistic development. Tony Stockwell: Giving a voice to those in the unseen world without voices.
Rumours of Fleetwood Mac SAT 15 JAN 7.30pm Greatest Hits World Tour 2011. The ultimate tribute to one of rock and roll’s most truly remarkable stories. In this brilliant live anthology of all the crucial moments in the band’s eventful evolution which has received Mick Fleetwood’s golden seal of approval no less, this show is a must-see for any discerning disciple of this rock institution.
RICHARD THOMPSON BAND
huge
direct from the west end
The Dream Attic Tour
The ultimate party band
SUN 16 JAN 7.30pm
sat 22 & sat 29 jan 7.30pm
One of this country’s greatest songwriters and most distinctive of guitar virtuosos, capable of breathtaking drama and sublime delicacy, returns to the UK to tour with a powerful electric band. ‘riveting, enlightening, witty, moving, provocative and entertaining’ Time Out
sun 23 jan 7.30pm
C G l Big Ian and the boys return with their brand of musical mayhem, playing music from Amy Winehouse to Queen and Abba to Take That. Returning to the Grand Opera House York for their annual gigs, book now as they will sell out!
A journey through some of the world’s greatest musicals. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to see the best of the West End starring Samantha Barks (BBC’s I’d Do Anything), Lucie Jones (X Factor) and a cast of leading West End performers. ‘In a class of its own - the audience simply loved it’ THEATREVIEW
chinese state circus mulan THU 20 & FRI 21 JAN Thu 8pm, Fri 5pm & 8pm C g l From the land of legends and warrior Shaolin monks comes the incredible new Chinese State Circus production – the live acrobatic spectacular - Mulan. A breathtaking fusion of precision acrobatics, Shaolin martial arts, dazzling circus skills, colourful characters from Peking Opera, physical theatre and drama choreographed to an original music score, Mulan is based on the legend of one of China’s greatest heroines. Entertainment for all the family - from the world’s leading Chinese acrobats. From gravity-defying gymnastics to the seemingly impossible body manipulations of the hand-balancer; from the leaping, rolling somersaulting repertoire of the hoop divers to the lavish tradition of the Lion Dance – the undisputed masters of physical theatre will have the audience on the edge of their seats.
7
one night shows
jethro
punt and dennis
wed 26 jan 7.30pm G
they should get out more
tue 1 feb 7.30pm
Jethro will be performing armed with nothing more than a microphone, a stand and a small table with his favourite drink to hand. You’ll hear hilarious antics of rural comedy delivered to you in a warm, Cornish accent. Selling over 4 million stand-up comedy DVDs to date, isn’t it about time you came and experienced some serious nonsensical twaddle?! Contains adult material.
It’s 20 years since The Mary Whitehouse Experience began; 12 years since The Now Show; 5 years since Mock the Week; and 3 years since the last tour. So, there is no excuse for not writing a brand-new show and getting out on the road. We’re gonna tear this place apart! (Well, we’re not, obviously. We’re going to do some jokes.)
milton jones
micky flanagan
flawless
lion whisperer
sat 5 feb 8pm
wed 9 feb 7.30pm g
As seen on BBC 1’s Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow, Micky draws on his East End background as he ruthlessly deconstructs the Cockney Myth with razor sharp observational wit. He tells a comic tale of a working class upbringing, where alphabetti spaghetti is a luxury.
Now’s your chance to see Flawless, the stars of StreetDance 3D and Britain’s Got Talent, as never before as they fuse stunning street with jazz and ballet in a show that is breathtaking, funny and moving. Then it’s your turn as you journey through time and space to chase the dream!
‘The rising star’ the Sunday times
HHHHH ‘Dazzling… Don’t miss it’ News Of The World
wed 2 feb & mon 11 apr 8pm You know the weird bloke with the shirts from Mock the Week. As well as star of the Michael McIntyre Roadshow, the voice of 8 series for Radio 4 (including The Very World of Milton Jones and Another Case of Milton Jones) and all sorts of other radio and telly. Awards too. Well it’s his new show with new stuff, not in his last show. Youtube him or something. 8
fairport convention
fri 28 jan 8pm c l
Hailed as the originators of British folk-rock music, Fairport Convention remains one of the most entertaining bands on today’s concert circuit. As well as showcasing brand new songs from their latest album, the show will also feature a suite of songs from their groundbreaking ‘folk opera’ Babbacombe Lee.
andy parsons gruntled
the naked truth
mark watson
sat 12 feb 7.30pm C G l
tue 15 feb 7.30pm
fri 11 feb 8pm
Tailor-made for women, this is the hit comedy play starring Maureen Nolan and Claire King (Emmerdale), Michelle Heaton (Liberty X) and Leanne Jones (Olivier award winning star of Hairspray). Set in a pole dancing class, they share laughter and tears in this hilarious and ultimately moving play. Now in its fifth fantastic tour, this show has had people on their feet all over the UK.
The multi-award winning comedian and host of BBC’s We Need Answers, Never Mind The Buzzcocks, a Mock The Week regular and star of cult Radio 4 series Mark Watson Makes The World Substantially Better, Mark Watson finally returns to the road in the UK, with his most personal, most surprising, and funniest show yet.
gilbert o’sullivan
let’s hang on
sat 19 feb 8pm
tue 22 feb 7.30pm
Gilbert O’Sullivan has accumulated no less than fourteen top-40 hits, including Clair, Alone Again (Naturally), Get Down and Nothing Rhymed, with number one singles on both sides of the Atlantic, as well as four top-5 UK albums. His live performances showcase his tremendous musical abilities as he is joined on stage by his 12 piece band, including a string quartet.
An outstanding tribute to Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons. Four guys, four voices, one sensational sound. Performing all your favourite hits; Sherry, Big Girl’s Don’t Cry, Rag Doll, Walk Like A Man and many more. Don’t miss this exciting show, guaranteed to have you singing at the top of your voices and dancing in the aisles!
Andy Parsons once found some underpants in a jar of mayonnaise. He may talk about it. Or he may not. This is his third tour around the country. It may be his last. There’s only so much of the UK a man needs to see. Star of BBC’s Mock The Week and Live At The Apollo.
All Star American Superslam Wrestling Spectacular fri 18 feb 7.30pm f All Star Wrestling celebrates a 40 year reign as Britain’s No1 wrestling presenters at major venues in the UK. Bringing you former WWE favourites and Best of British Wrestlers in a 2 hour family friendly action packed show with a brand new lineup of top stars. This show is a must for all ages - the best value show in town.
9
york’s very own comedy invasion
stage experience 2011
VI ) 24 feb brian higgins ian Moore andy askins
31 Mar justin moorhouse Alun cochrane sol bernstein
28 Apr Mick ferry tom wrigglesworth steve royle Compered by Toby Foster (Peter Kay’s Phoenix Nights, BBC Radio Sheffield) ViKings of Comedy launches in 2011 bringing some of the biggest names on the touring circuit to the Grand Opera House York. The Last Laugh Comedy Club have chosen the best acts from the Edinburgh Festival, BBC1’s Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow and Live at the Apollo for an evening of topclass comedy each month. Please note as some comics are a bunch of workshy layabouts, all bills are subject to change.
The last thursday of each month 7.30pm £17.50 each or any two shows for £30
0844 847 2322 (bkg fee) www.grandoperahouseyork.org.uk
10
west side story auditions Are you aged 10-21? Would you like to take part in a full scale musical production of West Side Story during the summer holidays? If the answer is yes, please come along to our open auditions, here at the Grand Opera House York, on Sunday 6 March at 10am. We are looking for singers, dancers and actors to take part in this exciting two week project, working with a professional director and choreographer. Stage Experience runs from Friday 22 July to Saturday 6 August, culminating in 4 public performances. To request an application pack: visit www.yorkstageexperience.co.uk email katesmithson@theambassadors.com or call 01904 678704
Great Fun for all the Family
★★★★ ‘the auditorium seems fit to combust spontaneously in an explosion of joy and excitement’ the times
It’s time to prepare yourselves for Horrible Histories live on stage! Using actors and ground-breaking 3D special effects, these two astounding shows - The Awful Egyptians and The Ruthless Romans - are guaranteed to thrill you and your children. Historical figures and events will come alive on stage and hover at your fingertips. THE AWFUL EGYPTIANS From the fascinating Pharaohs to the power of the pyramids, discover the foul facts of death and decay with the meanest mummies in Egypt. Are you ready to rumble with Ramesses the Great? Dare you enter through the Gates of the Afterlife? THE RUTHLESS ROMANS From the evil Emperors to the gruesome gladiators, find out why there’s no place like Rome! Experience the terrible tactics of the Roman army, hold on tight for a jaw-dropping journey into Roman Britain and prepare to meet sword-slaying Spartacus! See a trailer of the shows at www.birminghamstage.com
tue 1 - sat 5 mar The Awful Egyptians Tue 7pm, Wed 10.30am, Thu 1.30pm, Fri 10.30am, and Sat 7pm The Ruthless Romans Wed 1.30pm, Thu 10.30am, Fri 7pm, Sat 2.30pm C F G school groups £7 L livecard best discount Tickets just £12
0844 847 2322 (bkg fee) www.grandoperahouseyork.org.uk
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one night shows
angelos epithemiou
fireman sam
10cc
pontypandy rocks!
sat 26 feb 7.30pm
Wed 23 feb 7.30pm
thu 24 feb 1.30pm f
The award-winning burger van owner and star of BBC’s Shooting Stars.
The hero next door is back, in a brand new show live on stage Pontypandy Rocks! Join Fireman Sam, and all his friends, as Pontypandy hosts its first ever music festival! With great new songs, daring new rescues, and more adventure than ever before, you won’t want to miss this brand new live show!
‘Come and see me do my show called Angelos Epithemiou And Friends. It’ll be jokes and questions and magic and songs and stuff like that dragged out for an hour and a half I think. Come along.’ Angelos Epithemiou
barbara dickson mon 7 mar 8pm For over four decades Barbara Dickson OBE has continued to deliver songs in her own incomparable fashion. Globally known for hits including Another Suitcase and I Know Him So Well, she is also an Olivier Awardwinning actress. She now brings her sensational show to York, performing her classic hits, as well as other material in her own inimitable style. 12
One of the most successful groups of the 70’s embark on a nationwide tour to coincide with the release of their album, The Greatest Hits and More on Universal. Join 10cc as they perform hit after hit with over 10 top ten hits including 3 No 1s. 10cc are Graham Gouldman, Rick Fenn, Paul Burgess, Mick Wilson and Mike Stevens.
© 2010 Prism Art & Design Ltd
the fureys & davey arthur
Joe brown
wed 9 mar 8pm c g l
This country’s premier rock & roll legend Joe Brown comes to us after another remarkable year. 2008 marked Joe’s 50th year as a professional entertainer and he truly is one of this country’s best loved, enduring, and most acclaimed musicians. Joe, along with his band is back at this theatre by popular demand in another two-hour musical celebration.
These legends of Irish music have thrilled audiences around the world with their songs, music and stories for more than 30 years. Don’t miss another one of their concerts when you can hear them sing all their hits including I Will Love You, When You Were Sweet 16, The Green Fields of France, Red Rose Cafe and many more.
fri 11 mar 7.30pm
count arthur strong
the bootleg beatles
abba forever
sat 12 mar 8pm c g l
sun 20 mar 8pm c g
Count Arthur Strong’s new show, Command Performance, is so new, not even he knows he’s doing it yet. Don’t worry about that though, it’s never stopped him before! So get your Maltesers out, roll your trouser legs up and sit back and enjoy this potentially wonderful show. I can guarantee, you’ll have never seen anything like it, whatever it is.
Re-live the sights and sounds of the sixties as the world’s premier Beatle band returns to York with their spectacular two hour multi-media stage production featuring all the classic Beatle hits. Using film footage of the period and ‘with a little help from’ their regular brass and string ensemble, it’s not the Beatles but you simply won’t believe it!
The unique Abba look and sound is replicated with an incredible attention to detail as the beautiful lyrics penned by Benny and Bjorn are sung in wonderful harmony. Dynamic non-stop choreography, stunning visuals, top-class musicianship and an all live performance ensures that the Abba Forever show captivates audiences in this two-hour spectacular.
the magic of motown
barry potty and his full blood brother paul in the ghostly shadows
sat 26 mar 7.30pm c l Get ready for the smash hit concert show from the States authentically recreating the harmonies, slick moves and legendary musicianship that were the making of Motown. A super-talented cast, fresh from sell-out shows in London’s O2 perform hits from The Supremes, Temptations, Four Tops, Jackson 5, Stevie Wonder and many more. www.easytheatres.com
sun 27 mar 2.30pm Join Paul and Barry Chuckle in their latest hilarious adventure. Barry Potty and his full blood brother, Paul, arrive accidentally at Pigsnorts School of Magic where the evil Lord Fonterall is plotting to take over the school! Featuring ghosts, ghouls and spectacular magic in this exhilarating brand new show.
fri 25 mar 7.30pm c g l
john beatty’s
wild vision tue 29 mar 7.30pm c g l Images and stories from the wilderness. One of the most exciting and stimulating nature, travel and adventure photographers to have emerged in recent years, John is a captivating and inspiring storyteller. A fantastic audio-visual presentation which will leave audiences infused with energy and wonder at the beauty of our planet. 13
Celebrating its fortieth anniversary year
Lyrics by Tim Rice Music by Andrew Lloyd Webber Presented by York Stage Musicals in association with The Really Useful Group Director Robert Readman Musical Director Adam Tomlinson Inspired by the political and personal struggles between Judas Iscariot and Jesus Christ, this spectacular musical follows the last seven days in the life of Jesus Christ, beginning with the preparations for his arrival in Jerusalem and ending with his crucifixion. Originally written as a concept rock-opera album by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, Jesus Christ Superstar exploded onto the Broadway stage in 1971 earning itself five Tony Award nominations by the following year. Now celebrating its fortieth anniversary, the show has gone on to become one of the greatest and most enduring musicals of all time. From the classic Lloyd Webber score, songs include: Hosanna, Gethsemane, Everything’s Alright, I Don’t Know How To Love Him, Heaven On Their Minds and the title song itself Superstar.
‘A groundbreaking masterpiece’ 14
mon 18 - sat 23 apr Mon - Sat eves 7.30pm Sat mat 2.30pm C L
0844 847 2322 (bkg fee) www.grandoperahouseyork.org.uk
one night shows
back for good
Tim vine
cinderella
fri 1 apr 7.30pm
the joke-amotive
tue 5 apr 7.30pm c l
Recreating the magic of Take That. If you like Take That you will LOVE Back For Good! With their amazing dance routines, numerous costume changes and phenomenal live performances, adoring fans will be singing and dancing within minutes and left with little doubt that they are watching ‘The Greatest Boy Band Of All Time’.
drumchasers wed 6 apr 7.30pm f DrumChasers is a vibrant and exciting show with a fully original contemporary orchestral score. The show features many percussion instruments, from marimbas and vibraphones to triangles and tambourines. These instruments are used to tell the story of the Chasers through nothing but music and movement. The power of percussion their only voice.
sun 3 apr 8pm The king of the one-liner and star of BBC1’s Live at The Apollo and Not Going Out. After a sell-out UK tour and the Edinburgh Festival, here he comes over the brow of hilarity. Stand back from the platform in case you get hit by a prop. Every carriage is packed full of gags. ‘vine is a supreme punmeister’ Time Out
dave spikey words don’t come easy sat 9 apr 7.30pm c g l Inspired by the audience reaction to his deconstruction of song lyrics in his Best Medicine Tour, plus his fascination with the vagaries of the English Language, Dave’s hilarious new show examines situations in life where words really don’t come easy. From tongue-tied parents explaining the facts of life, to pathetic adolescent chat-up lines and more!
The story of Cinderella is one of the best known fairytales, and Vienna Festival Ballet’s full length version has all the familiar ingredients; a downtrodden young girl, a glass slipper, two comical ugly step-sisters and a handsome prince. A specially commissioned score, with music from Rossini’s most famous operas, adds to the magical fantasy world of the ballet Cinderella.
dan clark sun 10 apr 8pm Dan Clark, star of BBC2’s How Not To Live Your Life, brings his unique brand of live comedy on a national tour. The show will feature some of Dan’s acclaimed stand-up but will mostly consist of his comedy songs, performed with his band (including regular collaborator and composer of HNTLYL - Ben Parker) HHHH ‘uninterrupted comic ecstasy’ METRO
15
one night shows
The big ballet tue 12 apr 7.30pm A ballet like no other, The Big Ballet is an ensemble of 16 dancers, each weighing no less than 16 stone and united in a common cause; not to lose a single pound. These ladies enchant their audiences with different classical and modern ballet pieces in a hilarious comedy show full of fun and astonishing choreography, proving that you shouldn’t take life, or yourself, too seriously.
lenny henry in cradle to rave: a Musical journey fri 29 apr 7.30pm Age 12+ The brand new show fresh from his award winning stint in Northern Broadside’s Othello. Lenny returns to his roots with a funny and touching show about the thing he loves most: music. A musical journey, exploring the role that music has played and will play at every stage of Lenny’s life from the womb to the tomb. 16
The solid silver 60s show
Sally morgan
wed 13 apr 7.30pm
Fresh from her new TV Series Psychic Sally On The Road on LIVING TV, Britain’s best loved celebrity psychic returns by overwhelming public demand. Famous for her work with the late Princess Diana, Sally now brings her amazing abilities and her tremendous personality to the stage with a unique theatrical experience. www.sallymorgan.tv
Now in its 26th year the show features the unforgettable talents of Dave Berry, Chris Farlowe, Wayne Fontana, Terry Sylvester (formerly of The Hollies) all backed by Vanity Fare and The Merseybeats. Hear the classic hits performed by the original hitmakers. The Crying Game, Handbags and Gladrags, Game of Love and more!
ken dodd sat 30 apr 7pm g One of Britain’s funniest comedians, a comedy legend, icon and national treasure who has been entertaining audiences for over 50 years. Come and enjoy his famous Happiness Show and you’ll be absolutely discumknockerated (that’s Knotty Ash for ‘over the moon’) by a truly tattifelarius evening of laughter and songs presented by a comic genius.
thu 14 apr 7.30pm g
john cleese’s Alimony tour sat 28 & sun 29 may 7.30pm For the first time ever, in the spring of 2011, comedy legend and the most senile member of Monty Python will be bringing his Alimony Tour to the UK. Best known for his idiosyncratic turns in Monty Python’s Flying Circus and Fawlty Towers, John Cleese will bring his unique comedic perspective to audiences across the UK next year.
the most GRIPPING and powerful DRAMA FROM THE ‘QUEEN OF CRIME’ AGATHA CHRISTIE Bill Kenwright by special arrangement with the Agatha Christie Theatre Company presents
‘The Agatha Christie Company always delivers a thrilling night out’ The Herald
STAR CASTING TO BE ANNOUNCED SOON!
tbc Awaiting copy.
Directed by Joe Harmston Designed by Simon Scullion Following the huge success of The Hollow, The Unexpected Guest, And Then There Were None, Spider’s Web, and most recently Witness For The Prosecution, The Agatha Christie Theatre Company, now in its sixth outstanding year, is proud to present a brand new production written by the undisputed ‘Queen of Crime,’ the riveting and compelling stage play Verdict. Having been forced to flee persecution in his home country, the brilliant Professor Hendryk leads a content and morally upstanding life caring for his invalid wife. His world is turned upside-down however when the prospect of life-saving treatment for Anya persuades him to take on a new pupil against his better judgement; the spoilt, conniving minx Helen who will stop at nothing to get her way. With murderous intentions afoot, it only remains to be seen what verdict will be delivered, and if justice will prevail. AGATHA CHRISTIE® Copyright © 2010 Agatha Christie Limited (a Chorion company). All rights reserved.
mon 2 - sat 7 may Mon - Sat eves 7.30pm Wed & Sat mats 2.30pm C g L livecard best discount 2 for 1 on opening night
0844 847 2322 (bkg fee) www.grandoperahouseyork.org.uk
17
the musical for all time returns by popular demand ‘a triumphant evening unmissable and unbeatable’ the spectator
Bill Kenwright presents
‘DEVASTATING. A MASTERPIECE. IF YOU HAVEN’T SEEN IT GO. IF YOU HAVE, GO AGAIN’ NEWS OF THE WORLD
‘THE MUSICAL OF THE DECADE’ INTERNATIONAL HERALD TRIBUNE
‘BRINGS THE AUDIENCE CHEERING TO ITS FEET AND ROARING ITS APPROVAL’ daily mail
starring x factor’s
niki evans as Mrs Johnstone Written by Willy Russell, the legendary Blood Brothers tells the captivating and moving tale of twins who, separated at birth, grow up on opposite sides of the tracks, only to meet again with tragic consequences. Starring X Factor’s Niki Evans as Mrs Johnstone, the superb score includes Bright New Day, Marilyn Monroe and the emotionally charged hit Tell Me It’s Not True. Few musicals have received quite such acclaim as the multi-award-winning Blood Brothers, and this production, having recently celebrated its 21st phenomenal year in London, continues to enjoy standing ovations at every devastating performance. No wonder Blood Brothers is now ‘The musical for all time’. 18
mon 16 - sat 21 may Mon - Sat eves 7.30pm Wed & Sat mats 2.30pm c g l livecard best discount 2 for 1 on opening night
0844 847 2322 (bkg fee) www.grandoperahouseyork.org.uk
GET A FLEECE OF THE ACTION! from the creators of wallace and gromit best children’s series british animation awards 2008
winner children and young people award emmy awards 2008
By Arrangement with Aardman Ltd Shaun the Sheep in Shaun’s Big Show A music and dance extravaganza Come and join Shaun and his friends in their very own live show. All your favourite characters from the hit BBC show will be here including Bitzer, Shirley, Timmy and the rest of the flock in this magical, fully choreographed music and dance extravaganza. Shaun is stage struck and has decided to put on a very special show for all his friends, so get ready for some fabulous madcap mayhem as they dance and prance their way through a series of wonderful adventures under the nose of the short-sighted Farmer. This EMMY award-winning BBC family favourite has been specially adapted for the stage by the ‘National Children’s Dramatist’ David Wood (BFG, The Witches).
wed 8 - sun 12 jun Wed 7pm Thu 11am & 5pm Fri 2pm & 7pm Sat 11am, 2pm & 7pm Sun 11am, 2pm & 5pm C g F L livecard best discount £3.50 off top two prices
0844 847 2322 (bkg fee) www.grandoperahouseyork.org.uk
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stop press: thriller returns to york Presented by paul walden & derek nicol for flying music in association with adrian grant for key concerts
premium package For a VIP experience why not purchase our premium package, available on selected top shows for just £20. The Premium Package includes:
TBC
FEATURING THE SONGS OF
MICHAEL AND THE
JACKSON 5
■ VIP hospitality Awaiting copy. ■ Access to top price seats for sold out shows ■ Private access to The Empire Room pre show and during the interval ■ Express bar facilities ■ A glass of wine, beer or soft drink on arrival ■ Complimentary nibbles ■ Free house programme (when available) For a list of participating shows visit our Box Office or email yorkboxoffice@theambassadors.com Please note, cost does not include the show ticket which must be purchased at the same time
Thriller Live is a spectacular, high-octane show celebrating the career of the world’s undisputed King of Pop - Michael and the Jackson 5. Thriller Live marks the first Jackson’s dedicated live theatrical experience ever! Featuring over two hours of hit songs including I Want You Back, ABC, Can You Feel It, Off the Wall, The Way You Make Me Feel, Smooth Criminal, Beat It, Billie Jean, Dirty Diana, They Don’t Care About Us and Thriller plus many more!
mon 30 may - sat 4 jun Mon - Thu 7.30pm Fri eve 5pm & 8.30pm Sat eves 4pm & 8pm C g L Livecard best dicount Just £16 on opening night
0844 847 2322 (bkg fee) www.grandoperahouseyork.org.uk
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open day Explore our historic building and see the parts of the venue that only the stars on stage (and the ghosts!) usually get to see! Discover the dressing rooms, see the stage from above from the fly floor, hear about the history of the theatre and of course step into the limelight on stage. There will be activities, workshops and performances happening throughout the day including dressing up, face painting, wine tasting and lots more events still to be confirmed! No need to book, just turn up!
Sun 30 jan 2011 12 - 4pm £2 per person, under 16s free
wonder and wizardry with the magic hatter
The Magic Hatter’s Christmas Parties
The Magic Hatter’s School of Wizardry
Do you have children aged 5-9 years old? Why not let them come and enjoy some festive fun at the Grand Opera House, as you catch up on your Christmas shopping?
With wands at the ready, we invite budding young wizards to join this spellbinding weekly magic course!
A brand new Christmas Magic Show performed by The Magic Hatter with great games (with prizes), lots of laughs and plenty of participation. With the wave of a wand, presents appear in an empty stocking, water instantly freezes into snow, decorations pour out of a top hat and much more - plus every child will receive a FREE seasonal balloon model to take home. The perfect pre-Christmas treat, bursting with more magic than Santa’s sleigh! Parties will take place at the theatre, 5.30-6.30pm every Thursday from 18 November – 16 December. Tickets just £7.50 per person. Please note: Parties are limited to 20 people per date, so early booking is strongly recommended.
Working with professional writer, director and children’s magician The Magic Hatter, our brand new School of Wizardry will teach children amazing magic tricks to dazzle friends and family. Each young sorcerer will receive their own mini magic set to practice with during lessons and at home and will graduate with a special certificate. The first 10 week term starts on Wednesday 26 January at 4pm and costs £90 per child. Lessons are suitable for complete beginners, and aimed at children aged 7 to 10. Please note: The school is strictly limited to 15 children per term - and places are allocated on a first come first served basis.
To book a place visit our friendly Box Office, call 01904 678 701 or email LizzieRichards@theambassadors.com. The Magic Hatter (aka Dan Wood) runs a busy children’s birthday party and events business. For more information visit www.magichatterbirthdays.co.uk
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booking information
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telephone 0844 847 2322 is a combined 24hr Box Office and Ticketmaster number (bkg fee)
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online www.GrandOperaHouseYork.org.uk (bkg fee)
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Book in person Box Office, Grand Opera House York, Cumberland Street, York YO1 9SW Mon-Sat 12noon-5.30pm. On performance days we close 15 minutes after the show starts and on Sundays and Bank Holidays we’re open 1 hour prior to performance times.
by post Send us a cheque (with your card details on the back) made payable to The Ambassador Theatre Group Venues with a SAE to our address above with details of the performance and choice of seats (we’ll try our best to meet your requirements) plus your contact details. CONCESSIONS Shows with these symbols have the following concessions available: C Under 16s, Senior Citizens, full time students, Reg Unemployed. g Groups of 10 or more.
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Concessions may be restricted to certain
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* Different seating plan applies. ** Premium Seats available at an extra £3 per ticket.
price levels and performances and can be withdrawn by management without notice. Only one concession can be applied at any one time and proof of status is required. Please call the box office for more information on different show discounts. restoration fund £1 from every ticket sold (excluding schools) goes towards the restoration of the Grand Opera House York. The fund has so far paid for essential backstage improvements and repairs. Plans are in hand to improve on the the heating and cooling in the auditorium. CARD CHARGES & TICKET COLLECTION Shows may have a credit/debit card fee applied in addition to the usual transaction and booking fees. For security, when purchasing tickets by card, the card used to pay must be presented on collection from the Box Office. access for all Grand Opera House York welcomes and strives to offer equal access for all. Please advise us of your access requirements at the time of booking.
Wheelchair spaces and level access available in the stalls
Audio Described performances offered on selected shows -
LiveCard holders. Family (4 tickets max 2 adults)
AT PG
Prices are correct at the time of going to press, however we reserve the right to change or vary prices at any time. Please note that many of the lower priced seats are restricted view.
CLIFFORDS TOWER
see show pages for details.
A Sennheiser Infra Red Hearing System is available for people with hearing impairments. Please collect a headset from Front of House staff. Guide dogs are welcome. Captioned performance.
For further information or assistance please call our admin line on 01904 678 700 (Mon-Fri, 9.30am - 5.30pm) or email yorkboxoffice@theambassadors.com CONDITIONS OF SALE Tickets cannot be exchanged or money refunded. FINDING US & PARKING The Grand Opera House York is situated in the centre of York, close to the river. The theatre is a 10 minute walk from the train station and a few minutes from the closest car park at Clifford’s Tower (marked on map above). The information in this brochure was correct at time of going to press. We reserve the right to make alterations to the published programme of events and their prices and concessions. Ticketmaster Group Bookings call 0844 844 2121 This brochure is printed on responsibly sourced FSC paper. Please continue to help the environment by recycling it.
PRICE BAND
A
B
Barclay James Harvest The Ladyboys of Bangkok
C
£20
Adults £17 Children £16
Mostly Autumn
All tickets £21 £11 £16.50 £17.50
£11 £18.50 £19.50
Richard Thompson*
£25.50
£20.50
Chinese State Circus
£31
£24
£19
Direct From The West End*
£21.10
£17.10
Jethro*
£19.50
£18.50
Punt & Dennis*
£20
£18
Fairport Convention*
£20
£19
Milton Jones
All tickets £16
Micky Flanagan
All tickets £16
Flawless
All tickets £21
Andy Parsons
All tickets £16 £17.50
£16 All tickets £17.50
Mark Watson
£18.50
All tickets £17.50 £26
£23
£21 £14
Horrible Histories
£16
£14
Barbara Dickson*
£25
£22.50
£12
All tickets £18.50
The Fureys £23.50
£21.50 All tickets £18
Count Arthur Strong
All tickets £24.50
Bootleg Beatles £18.50
£17.50 All tickets £21
Magic of Motown The Chuckle Brothers in Ghostly Shadows
All tickets £13.50
John Beatty
All tickets £14.50 Adults £19.50, children £12 All tickets £18
Tim Vine Vienna Festival Ballet’s Cinderella
£21 £22 All tickets £22.50
£19 £18 £20 £21
£17 £16 £18 £19
£15 £14 £16 £17
All tickets £24.50
Lenny Henry Ken Dodd
£20
£19
£17
£17
Verdict** Mon - Thu eves & Sat mat Wed mat Fri & Sat eves
£21 £19 £23
£18 £16 £20
£15 £13 £17
£12 £10 £14
Blood Brothers** Mon - Thu eves & Sat mat Wed mat Fri & Sat eves
£30.50 £27.50 £32.50
£27.50 £24.50 £29.50
£24.50 £21.50 £23.50
£16.50 £15.50 £18.50
John Cheese*
£33.50
£30.50
£21
Thriller** Mon - Thu eves & Sat mat Fri early Fri & Sat eves
£27.50 £24.50 £30.50
£24.50 £21.50 £27.50
£21.50 £18.50 £24.50
£18.50 £15.50 £21.50
Shaun’s Big Show
£16.50
£14.50
£14.50
£11.50
Adults £14, children £12
FiFireman Sam
Back For Good
£23 £24
£17
ViKing’s of Comedy
Abba Forever*
D
All tickets £17.50
Angelos Epithemiou
Joe Brown*
The Big Ballet* Solid Silver 60’s*
Jesus Christ Superstar* Tue - Wed eves Mon eve Thu eve & Sat mat Fri & Sat eves
C
All tickets £28.50
Gilbert O’Sullivan
10CC*
B
All tickets £16
Adults £15, children £12
Wrestling
Let’s Hang On*
£13
All tickets £17
Huge
The Naked Truth*
£11 £14 £15
£11 £16.50 £17.50
All tickets £23.50
Rumours
A
Sally Morgan
All tickets £19.50
Christmas Chuckle Brothers
PRICE BAND Dan Clark
£18
Tony Stockwell
Cinderella Previews Off peak Peak
D
All tickets £21
£22.50
£17.50
£14.50
Drumchasers
All tickets £17
Dave Spikey
All tickets £18.50
£12.50
Ambassador theatre group Grand Opera House, York is operated by the Ambassador Theatre Group (ATG), who have a total of 39 venues across the UK, including 12 in the West End, and 27 regionally. ATG’s impressive portfolio of West End theatres includes Apollo Victoria, Comedy, Donmar Warehouse, Duke of York’s, Fortune, Lyceum, Phoenix, Piccadilly, Playhouse, Savoy, Trafalgar Studio 1 and Trafalgar Studio 2. ATG’s regional theatres include The Ambassadors Woking encompassing the New Victoria and Rhoda McGaw Theatres and the award-winning Ambassador Cinemas; Alexandra Theatre, Aylesbury Waterside Theatre; Birmingham; Theatre Royal Brighton; Bristol Hippodrome; Churchill Theatre Bromley; Edinburgh Playhouse; Leas Cliff Hall, Folkestone; King’s Theatre and Theatre Royal, Glasgow; Grimsby Auditorium; Liverpool Empire; Palace Theatre and Opera House, Manchester; Milton Keynes Theatre; New Theatre, Oxford; Richmond Theatre; Southport Theatre; Regent Theatre and Victoria Hall, Stokeon-Trent; Sunderland Empire; Princess Theatre, Torquay; New Wimbledon Theatre and New Wimbledon Studio; Grand Opera House, York. ATG is also one of the country’s foremost theatre producers, in Britain and internationally. Current and recent ATG co-productions include The Misanthrope starring Damian Lewis and Keira Knightley; Legally Blonde, West Side Story, Guys and Dolls, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Sunset Boulevard and Spamalot.
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More Shows More Theatres More Savings All for £30
You can now access great ticket offers online in up to 39 Ambassador Theatre Group venues across the UK. From Glasgow to London, Milton Keynes to Brighton, Wimbledon to Woking LiveCard now gives you;
Your Livecard now brings you special WEST END offers including: ★★★★★‘perfection. ridiculously enjoyable’ the independent
Ticket offers in up to 39 venues across the UK Exclusive priority booking at your home venue
special friends rate best seat & glass of champagne £44.50
10% discount at bars in selected theatres
Book on 0844 871 7633 or online at www.ambassadortickets.com/friends and select London tab Savoy Theatre, London
For more information visit www.atgv.co.uk/livecard
special offers at the grand opera house york
cinderella
blood brothers
verdict
ONLY £10
2 FOR 1
2 FOR 1
Book on 0844 847 2322 or online at www.atgv.co.uk/livecard
Book on 0844 847 2322 or online at www.atgv.co.uk/livecard
Book on 0844 847 2322 or online at www.atgv.co.uk/livecard