WHAT’S ON
September 2015 – January 2016
Hello and welcome to a very special Autumn season at the Lawrence Batley Theatre. This September we celebrate our coming of age, and to mark 21 years since the lbt first opened its doors we’ve programmed a season of many happy returns - and some spectacular surprises. At our 21st birthday gala (p4) we’ll welcome back some illustrious members of the theatre’s family for an evening of performance, reminiscence and future talent. As the season gets underway, we look forward to the return of old friends including Northern Broadsides (the winter’s tale, p6) and Phoenix Dance Theatre (p10). Our resident children’s company Tell Tale Hearts are back on the main stage for Christmas with an inventive, thrilling take on snow white (p12-13) and we’re excited to bring back the amazing hallowe’en happening (p8).
VICTORIA FIRTH Director
We’re also doing some new things in new ways. In conjunction with Slunglow, our Pay What You Decide series brings groundbreaking fringe theatre to the Syngenta Cellar (p18), a clever new staging of it’s a wonderful life (p11) will be a festive essential, and we welcome our newest resident artist, acclaimed choreographer joss arnott (p24). We hope that you’ll join us to help make our 21st birthday season an unforgettable one.
Deputy Director
LINDA LOPEZ, Admin Assistant, aka Keeper of the
Diary, Font of All Knowledge and one of the longest serving members of the lbt staff
I started here 15 years ago, a change in career after 30 years in the nursing profession. Before arriving here the only time I’d ever been in the building was when it was the Catacombs nightclub!
THE LAWRENCE BATLEY THEATRE WOULD LIKE TO THANK ITS FUNDERS AND BUSINESS PARTNERS 2
KIRKLEES PASSPORT HOLDERS
Under 26s are entitled to tickets for just £7 and Kirklees Passport holders can claim a discount of £3 off full price tickets for many shows in our Autumn season.* Simply look for the icons and give us a call on 01484 430528 or visit our website to book your tickets. *Ts & Cs apply. Please bring ID as you may be asked for proof of age. Please remember to bring your Passport with you to the performance as proof may be required. To apply for a Kirklees Passport, visit the Kirklees Council website or call 01484 221000.
SEASON PREVIEW
MON 7 SEPTEMBER
Join us for the unveiling of our 21st birthday season with Director of the lbt, Victoria Firth, and special guests from our forthcoming programme.
The evening will begin with a drinks reception courtesy of Barefoot Wines. Tickets are completely free of charge, but availability is limited – book yours now for a fascinating night in the company of some great theatrical talent. MAIN STAGE 6.15pm RECEPTION for 6.30pm START TICKETS FREE
WHAT’S THE BEST THING ABOUT WORKING HERE? I love the variety – everything from room bookings, contracts for performers and general enquiries to making sure the Admin department runs smoothly. Over the years I’ve seen some amazing performances here, particularly with my children. And of course I’ve had the pleasure of meeting many different people and making lifelong friends. COULD YOU DESCRIBE A HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR TIME HERE?
HOW LONG HAVE YOU WORKED AT THE LBT?
UNDER 26s
Northern Broadsides’ Conrad Nelson will be along to discuss the winter’s tale, and cast members from beryl will step down from their saddles for a chat. Proper Job’s James Beale talks terror on the high seas in nosferatu; Tell Tale Hearts give a sneak peak at snow white; and Creative Scene look forward to a season of unforgettable events in Kirklees.
KAREN O’NEILL
THE LBT PEOPLE
DISCOUNTS
Playing Mrs Rose in our community production of Kes in 2003 – the first and only time I’ve ever performed on stage. I was so nervous but I absolutely loved the experience.
SEASON TICKET CHOOSE FROM THE SIX PERFORMANCES BELOW AND ENJOY THREE SHOWS
FOR
£39
saving you up to £13!
OR
FOUR SHOWS
FOR
£48
saving you up to £18!
Our Season Ticket lets you hand-pick a selection from our latest programme of thrilling, inspiring performance for a much lower price.
WHAT ARE YOU MOST LOOKING FORWARD TO IN THE 21ST BIRTHDAY SEASON?
THE WINTER’S TALE Page 06
BERYL Page 09
The 21st birthday gala will be a great chance to catch up with old friends and celebrate the company I’ve been part of for 15 years.
DREAMING IN CODE Page 07
CIRCUS MAYHEM Page 09
NOSFERATU Page 07
PHOENIX DANCE THEATRE Page 10
All shows must be booked at the same time. Terms and conditions apply.
3
GUEST PROGRAMME
BOX OFFICE 01484 430528 | ONLINE www.thelbt.org
CAROLINE BOWDITCH
As Director of the lbt it is my great pleasure and privilege to be able to seek out the best in live performance and invite those companies and artists to bring their work to lbt.
FALLING IN LOVE WITH FRIDA THU 1 OCTOBER
Over the last 21 years the lbt has established Huddersfield as an essential destination for some of the UK’s most important companies and as such we often get to premiere new productions (12 last year), or bring you an ‘Only Yorkshire Date’ (8 last year) - giving you exclusive access to great work. We have become renowned for the range and quality of our programme and the warmth of our audiences - let’s continue this investment for the next 21 years.
‘Remarkable beauty and joyful humanity’
21
THE HERALD
YEARS
OF INSPIRING PERFORMANCE
‘The capital of contemporary dance in West Yorkshire’ NICK AHAD, BBC RADIO LEEDS ON THE LBT
‘The cultural leader for Kirklees’ ARTS COUNCIL ENGLAND ON THE LBT
After a sell-out, Herald Angel Award-winning run at the 2014 Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Caroline Bowditch presents her intimate and enticing performance exploring the life, loves and legacy of the Mexican painter Frida Kahlo. Wry, thought-provoking and frank, falling in love with frida is a reclaiming of a disabled artist, an obsessive love affair, and an enquiry into how we shape what we are remembered for. Combining monologue and dance – and opening with shots of tequila for all – it exposes many little-known facts about Kahlo, who called herself ‘the great concealer’. The performer’s own story is skilfully revealed through powerful yet fragile bodies, and affinities and parallels with the painter’s tale.
THE LBT’S 21ST BIRTHDAY GALA FRI 25 SEPTEMBER
MAIN STAGE (STUDIO FORMAT) 8.00pm TICKETS £12 BRITISH SIGN LANGUAGE INTERPRETED FREE POST-SHOW DISCUSSION
ONLY YORKSHIRE DATE
CURTIS PRODUCTIONS & THEATRE BY THE LAKE IN ASSOCIATION WITH MAMA QUILLA PRODUCTIONS
THE BOGUS WOMAN BY KAY ADSHEAD TUE 6 OCTOBER
Celebrate the lbt’s coming of age in style with a glittering evening of performances, music and appearances from distinguished friends. Join lbt’s founding Artistic Director, Ron McAllister, and lbt’s current Director, Victoria Firth, for an evening of great entertainment celebrating the whole life of a theatre. Enjoy guest performances from our friends and associate artists including Phoenix Dance Theatre, Opera North and Bolton Octagon. Tell Tale Hearts will grant us a sneak preview of their Main Stage Christmas production snow white and local legends High Jinx will provide a magical offering. All the artists are donating their performances as a gift, so all proceeds from this night will go towards our 21st birthday campaign (see p31). Please give us the gift of your company on this very special evening. 4
‘Essential watching... Krissi Bohn acts to vividly realised and blistering perfection’
MAIN STAGE 7.30pm TICKETS £21
THE INDEPENDENT
FUNDRAISING EVENT IN AID OF KIRKLEES THEATRE TRUST
Fleeing for her life, an African woman arrives in a strange country seeking safety and asylum. Despite having committed no crime she is indefinitely confined, interrogated, humiliated and abused. She witnesses the cruelty of the authorities and their casual disregard for an individual’s human rights. This strange country is England.
SYGENTA CELLAR 7.30pm TICKETS £12 FREE POST-SHOW DISCUSSION FUNDRAISING EVENT IN AID OF KIRKLEES THEATRE TRUST
Krissi Bohn (Coronation Street) performs this powerful, poetic and heart-wrenching play, bringing to life the 51 sharply etched characters who retell the experiences of this young woman. Drawing on real incidents including the riots at Campsfield detention centre, this is theatre at its utterly absorbing, emotionally-charged best. 5
GUEST PROGRAMME
BOX OFFICE 01484 430528 | ONLINE www.thelbt.org
2FACED DANCE
NORTHERN BROADSIDES IN PARTNERSHIP WITH HARROGATE THEATRE
DREAMING IN CODE
WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE’S
THE WINTER’S TALE
TUE 20 OCTOBER
DIRECTED BY CONRAD NELSON
TUE 13 – SAT 17 OCTOBER
‘A magnificent ensemble performance, with highly inventive choreography matched by equally experimental design’ CULTURE VULTURE 2Faced Dance make their Huddersfield debut with a new double bill of exhilarating, intricate works exploring the lives and minds of a group of men through a series of fast-paced snapshots performed by a company of six world-class dancers.
MAIN STAGE 7.30pm TICKETS £14 - £10 FREE POST-SHOW DISCUSSION
By turns gentle and frenzied, milk night by Frantic Assembly’s Eddie Kay finds a group of men struggling with the loss of the women in their lives. 2Faced Dance’s award-winning choreographer Tamsin Fitzgerald follows the phenomenal success of Out of His Skin and In the Dust with lucid grounds, a visceral exploration of emotional states set to a pounding soundtrack, with shades of The Matrix in its stylish design and relentless pace.
IN MOTION SAVER
ONLY YORKSHIRE DATE
BUY THIS AND CIRCUS MAYHEM (P9) OR PHOENIX DANCE THEATRE (P10) AND SAVE £4 OFF TOTAL TICKET PRICE
PROPER JOB THEATRE COMPANY
NOSFERATU WED 21 OCTOBER
‘Simply be advised that this is fantastic theatre’ Shakespeare’s rich, romantic fable of jealousy, love and redemption is brought to the stage by Northern Broadsides (An August Bank Holiday Lark, The Grand Gesture, She Stoops to Conquer), whose charismatic cast of actor-musicians will warm the heart and lift the spirits. King Leontes falsely accuses his Queen of infidelity with his closest friend. He proclaims their newborn daughter a bastard and condemns the innocent to death. But the child, Perdita, survives. What follows is a beautiful and beguiling love story where the cold hand of winter gives way to the joyful vibrancy of spring, culminating in forgiveness, love and happiness. Let Northern Broadsides’ daringly theatrical story-telling transport you from the dark court of a jealous king to the bright sunshine of a rustic festival, where country girls sing saucy songs and a prince can utter marriage vows to a lowly shepherd’s daughter.
6
THE LIST ON PROPER JOB’S 7 ASSILON PLACE MAIN STAGE 7.30pm SAT MATINEE 1pm NO EVENING PERFORMANCE ON SAT 17 OCTOBER TICKETS £19 - £10 ALL MATINEE TICKETS £12 FREE POST-SHOW DISCUSSION TUE 13 OCTOBER
It’s one hour before dawn. On the blood dark sea the ship is barely moving. There’s a sail as torn as a shattered shirt. Something is aboard the ship…
MAIN STAGE 7.30pm TICKETS £14 - £10
Inspired by Bram Stoker’s Dracula and F.W. Murnau’s iconic film adaptation, this dark and mysterious staging is an unforgettable exploration of fear and the unknown. It focuses on the psychological relationships between the sailors as they journey from Varna to Whitby with an unknown cargo - a cargo that holds the key to unlocking the terror that lurks within the sea of our unconscious minds. A libretto by acclaimed poet Ian McMillan, live original music and breathtaking illusions are brought together with Proper Job’s trademark physical invention. 7
GUEST PROGRAMME
BOX OFFICE 01484 430528 | ONLINE www.thelbt.org
FORCED ENTERTAINMENT
THE NOTEBOOK THU 29 OCTOBER
WEST YORKSHIRE PLAYHOUSE
BERYL
ONLY YORKSHIRE DATE
TUE 10 & WED 11 NOVEMBER BY MAXINE PEAKE
‘Burton’s story... brought to theatrically inventive and comically freewheeling life’
‘A reminder of the wide vocabulary of a company at the top of its game… Fascinating’
DAILY TELEGRAPH
THE GUARDIAN Based on the award-winning novel by Ágota Kristóf, THE NOTEBOOK tells the story of twin brothers evacuated to their impoverished grandmother’s farm in the Hungarian countryside during World War II. Kristóf’s bold and reduced narrational language provides the basis for a compelling performance about the impact of war from the perspective of those caught in its machinery - told by Forced Entertainment performers Richard Lowdon and Robin Arthur (Void Story, The Coming Storm) in an uncanny double act that traps two people in a single voice.
MAIN STAGE 7.30pm RUNNING TIME 2 hours 10 minutes, no interval TICKETS £14 - £10 FREE POST-SHOW DISCUSSION
the notebook is based on Le grand cahier by Ágota Kristóf, Éditions du Seuil, Paris, 1986. English translation (c) (1988) by Alan Sheridan.
Part of compass live art festival 2015.
Maxine Peake’s charming, witty play celebrates the life of Yorkshire’s unsung sporting legend Beryl Burton mbe, obe – the greatest woman on two wheels. When Beryl Charnock met keen cyclist Charlie Burton she was smitten, not only with Charlie but by the thrill and freedom found on her bike. She would outwork the men in the rhubarb fields, outclass the cyclists on the road, and still find time to knit young Denise a cycling jumper.
MAIN STAGE 7.30pm TICKETS £16 - £10 FREE POST-SHOW DISCUSSION TUE 10 NOVEMBER
With husband, daughter and cycling club at her side, Beryl became five times world pursuit champion, 13 times national pursuit champion, twice road-racing world champion - and still made it home in time for dinner.
CRYING OUT LOUD ON BEHALF OF CIRCUS EVOLUTION
HALLOWE’EN HAPPENING
CIRCUS MAYHEM
SAT 31 OCTOBER
MON 16 & TUE 17 NOVEMBER
IN MOTION SAVER BUY THIS AND DREAMING IN CODE (P7) OR PHOENIX DANCE THEATRE (P10) AND SAVE £4 OFF TOTAL TICKET PRICE
Huddersfield’s biggest Hallowe’en event is resurrected for the fourth time: a frightful feast of all things outlandish and macabre with live music, exhibitions, magic and performances materialising all over the lbt building, and a chance to party into the small hours with the best-dressed undead this side of the hereafter. After four years in a lead-lined coffin, the latest happening promises to be the most monstrous yet. Join the resident company of spirits roaming the cellars and corridors of our atmospheric Georgian theatre, share Sweeney Todd’s pie and pea supper and take in specially-themed performances, films, art and music in a crazy, convivial night to remember.
WHOLE BUILDING 7.00pm - Late TICKETS £15 including pie and pea supper DRESS CODE Fancy dress / funereal attire
From the producers of Bromance and Flown, an evening of absurd circus featuring an awesome speed painter, a spectacular slapstick clowning trio and a back-pedalling pianist. International Man of Artistry jon hicks ratchets up the ridiculous with humorous puppetry and speed painting set to a kicking musical score. With bags of wit and enthusiasm, slapstick comedy trio betticombo deliver optimum fun in a frenzied finale, creating a playground from countless white buckets and a towering Chinese pole. The world’s first cycling pianist rimski provides an oddball entrée to the Main Stage show, dazzling you with his flawless finger work in the lbt courtyard.
MAIN STAGE 7.30pm (PRECEDED BY RIMSKI’S PERFORMANCE AT 7.00PM)
TICKETS £14 - £10 FREE POST-SHOW DISCUSSION MON 16 NOVEMBER
Matchless in its madness, this is a circus variety show for all ages. 8
9
GUEST PROGRAMME
BOX OFFICE 01484 430528 | ONLINE www.thelbt.org
FRI 4 - SUN 6 DECEMBER
PILOT THEATRE
OUTSIDERS
BY EMTEAZ HUSSAIN, INSPIRED BY ALBERT CAMUS’ L’ETRANGER THU 19 NOVEMBER
‘Exciting and electrifying theatre truly connecting with a modern day audience’ THE BIG ISSUE ON ANTIGONE Marie was there when the shots rang out, she saw it all happen. In court she looked across the room to meet her boyfriend’s gaze, but he looked straight through her – his eyes seemed unfocused, distant. Written by acclaimed playwright and performance poet Emteaz Hussain (Blood), the latest production from Pilot (The Loneliness of the Long Distance Runner, Antigone), is a compelling re-imagining of Camus’ classic existentialist novel. outsiders is an account of a murder, seen through the eyes of a peripheral character from the original book, and an exploration of differing perspectives, dislocation and morality.
SYNGENTA CELLAR 7.45pm TICKETS £12 FREE POST-SHOW DISCUSSION FUNDRAISING EVENT IN AID OF KIRKLEES THEATRE TRUST
PHOENIX DANCE THEATRE: MIXED PROGRAMME 2015 THU 26 NOVEMBER
‘Exceptionally skilled dancing by a superbly talented cast’ THE PUBLIC REVIEWS
One of the UK’s leading contemporary dance companies presents four powerful works by some of the most innovative choreographers at work today.
MAIN STAGE 7.30pm TICKETS £17 - £10 FREE POST-SHOW DISCUSSION
One of the most influential figures in world dance, Christopher Bruce cbe’s sumptuous double bill comprises a brand new work, shadows, created especially for Phoenix Dance Theatre, and a restaging of his energetic study of life in the 1940s, shift. Two more new works complete the programme: Phoenix Artistic Director Sharon Watson’s tearfall builds on her exploration of science through dance using her mesmerising and athletic choreographic style. Finally, New Adventures Award winner Caroline Finn’s bloom offers playful, darkly comic and engaging expressions of life and humanity. 10
IN MOTION SAVER BUY THIS AND DREAMING IN CODE (P7) OR CIRCUS MAYHEM (P9) AND SAVE £4 OFF TOTAL TICKET PRICE
‘Inspired! A lovely adaptation that’s both cleverly witty and movingly heartfelt’ THE STAGE
Alone on a bridge on Christmas Eve, his dreams dashed by big business and small-town scandal, idealist George Bailey decides that the world would be better off without him. Or would it? It falls to hapless guardian angel Clarence Odbody to try and save him.
MAIN STAGE Friday 7.30pm, Saturday 2.15pm & 7.30pm, Sunday 2.15pm TICKETS £19 - £10
The magical story of Frank Capra’s iconic film is retold as a radio play, complete with sound effects created live on stage. This loving tribute to the golden era of the wireless is a fresh and timely take on a heartwarming festive classic. Its premiere in London last Christmas played to packed houses, and was a Guardian Critic’s Choice. 11
GUEST PROGRAMME
BOX OFFICE 01484 430528 | ONLINE www.thelbt.org
THE LAWRENCE BATLEY THEATRE PRESENTS TELL TALE HEARTS & PIF-PAF
FRI 11 – SUN 27 DECEMBER
FESTIVE SAVER 5 PEOPLE FOR
£55*
WORLD PREMIERE
A lonely child with an eye for adventure. A wronged stepmother. A magical mirror. A poisoned apple. A brass band of musical miners… This playful and hugely imaginative take on the Brothers Grimm fairy tale is set in our own Yorkshire landscape, with a pit wheel doubling as a musical stage for a group of trumpet-toting miners, and the scorned stepmother recast for the celebrity age as fading diva Mystique Stardust. Following national acclaim for The Snow Queen, the lbt’s resident children’s company Tell Tale Hearts return to the Main Stage in a playful, dynamic collaboration with maverick visual theatre pioneers Pif-Paf, weaving aerial feats, live music and comedy into an unforgettable Christmas treat for all ages.
MAIN STAGE TICKETS £15 - £10 FESTIVE SAVER £55, admits 5 people to the best available seats* AGE RECOMMENDATION 5+ years AUDIO DESCRIBED PERFORMANCE Monday 17 December 10.00am BRITISH SIGN LANGUAGE DESCRIBED PERFORMANCE Monday 21 December 7.00pm *FESTIVE SAVER NOT AVAILABLE FOR CHRISTMAS EVE PERFORMANCES
MORNING FRIDAY 11 DECEMBER
AFTERNOON
EVENING
1.30pm
7.00pm
SATURDAY 12 DECEMBER
11.00am
2.15pm
MONDAY 14 DECEMBER
10.00am
1.30pm
TUESDAY 15 DECEMBER
10.00am
1.30pm
WEDNESDAY 16 DECEMBER
10.00am
1.30pm
THURSDAY 17 DECEMBER
10.00am
1.30pm
SATURDAY 19 DECEMBER
11.00am
2.15pm
SUNDAY 20 DECEMBER
11.00am
2.15pm 2.15pm
7.00pm
TUESDAY 22 DECEMBER
2.15pm
7.00pm
2.15pm
7.00pm
THURSDAY 24 DECEMBER
11.00am
2.15pm 7.00pm
SATURDAY 26 DECEMBER SUNDAY 27 DECEMBER
12
Our Christmas Angels initiative offers tickets to local young people who would not normally have the opportunity to experience the magic and wonder of live theatre during the holiday season.
MONDAY 21 DECEMBER WEDNESDAY 23 DECEMBER
2.15pm
BE A CHRISTMAS ANGEL
If you or your company might be interested in becoming a Christmas Angel by making a donation, please contact rose@thelbt.org for more details.
7.00pm
13
HOME PROGRAMME
BOX OFFICE 01484 430528 | ONLINE www.thelbt.org
LONGWOOD AMATEUR OPERATIC SOCIETY
lbt was founded to provide Huddersfield with a dedicated venue for live performance, and work made locally, right here in Huddersfield, has always been at the heart of the theatre’s programme.
CAROUSEL TUE 6 - SAT 10 OCTOBER
These long established, and new, groups of volunteer artists, musicians, choreographers, directors and stage people have honed their craft and their unique knowledge of the lbt stages to bring you work that we just couldn’t show otherwise: big production musicals, a whole canon of well-loved plays and even a new story or two. We are extremely honoured at lbt to be home to such a large family of companies, and to host locally produced work of such exceptional quality.
‘A leading hub of creative activity’ KIRKLEES COUNCIL ON THE LBT
21
YEARS
OF INSPIRING PERFORMANCE
Longwood Amateur Operatic Society returns with the Rodgers & Hammerstein classic, including the much-loved songs You’ll Never Walk Alone, If I Loved You and June is Bustin’ Out All Over.
MAIN STAGE 7.15pm SATURDAY MATINEE 2.15pm TICKETS £17 - £8 + selected concessions
Headstrong carousel barker Billy Bigelow loses his job just as he learns that his new bride, millworker Julie Jordan, is pregnant. Desperate to provide for his family, he is coerced into being an accomplice to a robbery which goes terribly wrong. Fifteen years later, Billy hatches a plan to make amends to Julie and the daughter he never knew.
An amateur production by arrangement with R&H Theatricals Europe. Music by Richard Rodgers Book and Lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II Based on Ferenc Molnar’s Play “Liliom” As adapted by Benjamin F Glazer Original Dances by Anges de Mille
Richard Rodgers declared carousel his favourite of all his musicals, and Time named it the greatest musical of the twentieth century.
JAMROCK PRODUCTIONS
HUDDERSFIELD THESPIANS
SAT 19 SEPTEMBER
TUE 20 - SAT 24 OCTOBER
THY NEIGHBOURS
THE THRILL OF LOVE
BUY THIS SHOW AND APRIL IN PARIS (P16)
FOR ONLY
£20
Baby G thought that coming to live in England would be a bed of roses. But she hadn’t reckoned on the thorns in her side - her troublesome neighbours. As she prepares to move for the fifth time, Baby G makes a firm decision: “This is the last time me move and me nah move again”. Little does she know that her new neighbours - popularly known as the Dixons from Hell - are the worst yet. The latest unmissable production from acclaimed Huddersfield writer Angie Smith (Twice My Age, The Funeral) is a hilarious comedy of conflict in the community. 14
MAIN STAGE 7.30pm TICKETS £10
The dramatised true story of Ruth Ellis, the last woman to be hanged in Britain, takes a fresh look behind the headlines. A divorcee with a young child to care for, Ruth works in the kind of nightclubs where there’s more than just a drink on offer. The girls dream of movie-star lives, and when Ruth meets wealthy, womanising David, fame is just around the corner - but not in the way she had imagined.
SYNGENTA CELLAR 7.15pm SATURDAY MATINEE 2.00pm TICKETS £12
Why does she murder him? Why does she plead not guilty, yet offer no defence? Why does she show no remorse? And who is she trying to protect?
15
HOME PROGRAMME
BOX OFFICE 01484 430528 | ONLINE www.thelbt.org
HUDDERSFIELD MUSICAL THEATRE COMPANY
HUDDERSFIELD LIGHT OPERA COMPANY
THE BROADWAY MUSICAL TUE 3 - SAT 7 NOVEMBER
WRITTEN BY CHRIS BREARLEY AND PAUL BENNETT SAT 9 - SAT 16 JANUARY
HAIRSPRAY
UltraClutch
SLEEPING BEAUTY
p a s H i R rA y The Broadway Musical
Huddersfield Musical Theatre Company shakes and shimmies back to the dawn of the sixties with the toe-tapping, feelgood, multi award-winning musical adaptation of the classic John Waters film.
MAIN STAGE 7.15pm SATURDAY MATINEE 2.15pm TICKETS £18 - £5 + selected concessions
Huddersfield Light Opera Company return with another lavish pantomime, promising spectacular staging, side-splitting comedy, breathtaking costumes and popular songs.
Tracy Turnblad is a big girl with a big heart and even bigger hair. She dreams of becoming a dancing star on a local TV show and overturning its segregation policy. All without denting her ’do.
Book by Mark O’Donnell & Thomas Meehan Music by Marc Shaiman Lyrics by Scott Whittman & Marc Shaiman This amateur production is presented by arrangement with josef weinberger limited on behalf of music theatre international of New York
Once upon a time in a faraway land called Tiddletwist, a beautiful princess is born. The King and Queen throw a huge celebration, inviting guests from all across the land, and a trio of doting Fairy Godmothers gather to grant magical gifts for the child.
With songs like Good Morning Baltimore and You Can’t Stop the Beat, the music, dancing and sheer energy of this joyful show will have you twisting all the way home.
HUDDERSFIELD THESPIANS
APRIL IN PARIS TUE 8 - SAT 12 DECEMBER
£20
TICKETS £15 - £6 + selected concessions
But the King and Queen forgot to invite the wicked fairy Carabosse, and she’s not in the mood for celebrating…
NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH TUE 19 - SAT 23 JANUARY
Filled with brilliantly raucous dialogue, this delicatelywrought comedy by John Godber revolves around Al and Bet, a married couple living a monochrome life. Left half-broke by Al’s continuing unemployment, they bicker about everything from having no hot water, to Al’s uninspired black-and-white paintings, to Bet’s obsession with magazine competitions. When Bet finally wins one - the prize being a trip for two to Paris - it brings a glimmer of romantic hope into their lives, and a chance for both to learn new things not only about the world, but about their feelings for each other. SYNGENTA CELLAR 7.15pm SATURDAY MATINEE 2.00pm TICKETS £12
16
1.30pm & 5.30pm 1.30pm & 5.30pm 6.15pm 6.15pm 7.15pm 1.30pm & 5.30pm
DICK AND LOTTIE
BUY THIS SHOW AND THE THRILL OF LOVE (P15)
FOR ONLY
SAT 9 JAN SUN 10 JAN WED 13 JAN THU 14 JAN FRI 15 JAN SAT 16 JAN
After their national tour of Private Fears in Public Places, Dick & Lottie return to the lbt with Alan Ayckbourn’s subversive, sinister and wonderfully humorous play. An innocent mistake on Bluebell Hill leads to an alarming escalation of events, as residents take extreme measures to protect themselves by fortifying the estate into a private gated community. With stocks set up on the mini-roundabout to punish transgressors and security cards to gain access through the barbed wire, theirs is a tabloid vision of “Broken Britain” brought to life. SYNGENTA CELLAR 7.45pm SATURDAY MATINEE 2.00pm TICKETS £10 17
PAY WHAT YOU DECIDE
LAUGHS
As part of our 21st birthday celebrations we are proud to be working in partnership with Slung Low’s the HUB to bring you a series of brand new pieces.
The lbt is your place for a great night out. Nowhere is this better seen than in our comedy programme which features big names, exclusive previews and future talent.
Taking in the widest spectrum of styles and skills, this hand-picked selection of the most exciting new companies around demonstrates the creativity and innovation of today’s theatre makers. Both we and the artists are so passionate about this work that we invite you to try it on a ‘pay what you decide’ basis.
We start the season with our Comedy Cellars.
There is no ticket price - just book a place via Box Office and at the end of the night pay what you decide. All monies will go directly to the companies performing.
21 YEARS
OF INSPIRING PERFORMANCE
ALL SHOWS SYNGENTA CELLAR 7.45pm
POPELEI THEATRE
DUMBSHOW THEATRE
MON 21 SEPTEMBER
MON 12 OCTOBER
MANUELITA
ELECTRIC DREAMS
BOX OFFICE 01484 430528 | ONLINE www.thelbt.org
21
Intimate, atmospheric and relaxed, our perennially popular monthly Comedy Cellars are the perfect way to experience stand-up in all its spontaneous, electrifying glory.
YEARS
OF INSPIRING PERFORMANCE
RESIDENT COMPERE Anthony J Brown ALL SHOWS SYNGENTA CELLAR 8.00pm TICKETS £10 THU 10 SEPTEMBER
CHRISTIAN REILLY
JACK CARROLL
Musical sidekick of Rich Hall, Bill Bailey, Richard Herring and Conan O’Brien, a huge talent in his own right.
Runner-up in Britain’s Got Talent in 2013, as seen on Trollied and Big School. ‘Comedy genius’ david walliams
‘If you’re a fan of Bill Bailey or Rich Hall, you’re probably a Christian Reilly fan already’ the guardian
COMEDY CELLAR BEST NEW ACT 2015
THU 8 OCTOBER
Revolutionary, proto-feminist, underground spy and the beating heart of South American liberation, Manuela Saenz died in poverty, all but forgotten by history. Accompanied by award-winning Colombian guitarist Camilo Menjura, writer-performer Tamsin Clarke blends storytelling, physical theatre, comedy and live music to bring Manuela’s story of love, loss and revolution vibrantly to life. HANDHELD ARTS
GATED COMMUNITY MON 2 NOVEMBER
Rose can’t remember the first 18 years of her life. Something happened to her, but what?
Nine acts vie for the annual £100 prize and contract of paid gigs. Plus a headline set from...
MICKEY SHARMA
Inspired by the ideas in Naomi Klein’s book The Shock Doctrine, electric dreams uses live music and video to interweave fragmented memories in a thrilling story of personal and political intrigue.
Contagious vocal magic from the multi award-winning BBC Big Comedy Night favourite. ‘A laugh-a-minute rollercoaster ride’ the list
THU 12 NOVEMBER
JIM TAVARE
NICK BANKS
GARY KITCHING AND CO IN ASSOCIATION WITH GREYSCALE
Legendary deadpan, double bass-wielding, bafta award-winning charmer.
Razor-sharp Hartlepool humourist.
MON 23 NOVEMBER
‘Enormously talented’ the independent
ME AND MR C
‘Incisive observational humour’ bbc online
THU 14 JANUARY
Where once one house stood, there now stands eight, A whole new neighbourhood, secured behind a gate. Handheld Arts will buzz you in to this twisted cautionary tale playfully inspired by The Wicker Man and Rear Window, with ingenious shadow-puppetry, animation and original music. 18
He sits inside your head and watches. He sees all you see, knows all you know, and sometimes, if you are very unlucky, he tells you what he thinks of it all.
IAN COGNITO
JAY HAMPSON
Outspoken, opinionated and totally clued-up, a veritable legend of UK stand-up and an act every comedy fan should see at least once.
Crooked Smile Award-winner and Ten Feet City Comedian of the Year brings sharp observations, playful mockery and rib-tickling imagery.
‘If you want to know what’s wrong with New Britain, Cognito’s going to tell you. Just stunning’ the guardian
‘A strong, natural performer who’s so obviously got both funny bones and the love of the audience’ chortle
Actor and comedian Gary Kitching’s portrayal of life with a critical inner voice - in the form of a hideous ventriloquist’s dummy - is funny, disturbing and poignant. 19
LAUGHS
BOX OFFICE 01484 430528 | ONLINE www.thelbt.org
ED BYRNE: OUTSIDE LOOKING IN
JASON BYRNE: 20 YEARS A CLOWN
Following his 4,000 mile Great Big Adventure with Mock the Week pal Dara Ó Briain, and his traditional Edinburgh Fringe summer run, Ed’s on the road again.
Jason Byrne’s unique brand of verbose, organised chaos and legendary audience participation has seen him crowned ‘Outright king of live comedy’ by The Times.
After over 20 years in the business, his boyish enthusiasm and powers of observation remain undimmed, and critical consensus puts him at the top of his game.
Join the biggest selling comedian at the Edinburgh Fringe and star of bbc One’s Father Figure as he celebrates his 20th year of solo shows.
‘Comedy’s holy grail... Go see!’ the sunday times
‘Unmissable’ evening standard
MAIN STAGE 8.00pm TICKETS £19
MAIN STAGE 8.00pm TICKETS £17.50
SAT 17 OCTOBER
FRI 13 NOVEMBER
FUNDRAISING EVENT IN AID OF KIRKLEES THEATRE TRUST
ALL STARS OF COMEDY
PAUL SINHA: INTERNATIONAL POSTCARDS FROM THE Z LIST COMEDY SPECIAL FRI 27 NOVEMBER
CHRISTMAS COMEDY CELLAR It’s our regular Comedy Cellar, with bells on: three nights of ho-ho-hilarity with a festive sprinkling, perfect for an evening out with friends or an alternative office party. Our fully licensed bar will be open throughout the night, and you can even pre-order your drinks and have them brought to your table. Discounts are available for group bookings. TUE 15 & WED 16 DECEMBER
A double bill of comic characters from the wayward mind of Tom Binns, writer, comic, television and radio presenter and actor (The IT Crowd, Knowing Me, Knowing You... with Alan Partridge, and Fist of Fun).
IVAN BRACKENBURY
IAN D MONTFORT
Hilariously hapless hospital dj voted in the Top 50 most memorable gigs of the decade by Chortle.
Sunderland’s pseudo-psychic and star of his own bbc Radio 2 series.
‘Deliciously enjoyable’ the guardian
‘Spookily skilful, wonderfully observed and hysterically funny’ time out
SAT 30 JANUARY
THU 17 DECEMBER
Fast-rising observational genius Steve Shanyaski makes his Comedy Cellar debut, joined by the warped svengali behind Gein’s Family Gift Shop, Kiri Pritchard-McLean. The fearsomely clever former gp and star of itv’s The Chase returns from self-imposed exile with his critically-acclaimed new show.
Following a sold-out show in 2015, the international comedy clash returns to rock Huddersfield into the new year.
After years as a single “gaysian” delivering leftie-liberal jokes, Paul finds himself juggling being an uncle, being in a relationship for the first time in 20 years, and being that bloke, from that quiz, in that badly-fitting suit. It’s not easy.
This season’s all-star line-up features the people’s choice, the undisputed pound for pound champion of the UK comedy circuit, Slim; hilarious Bajan dance hall queen Wayne Dibbi Rollins; rising star Axel Blake; new comedienne on the block Judy Love and urban comedy sensation Smash. ‘Laugh after laugh… full to the brim with raucous and cheeky performances’ nottingham post
‘Masterful, seamless... explosive punchlines and laser-guided political asides’ the independent MAIN STAGE 8.00pm TICKETS £15 FUNDRAISING EVENT IN AID OF KIRKLEES THEATRE TRUST
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MAIN STAGE 7.45pm TICKETS £17.50 LIMITED EARLY BIRD £15
STEVE SHANYASKI
KIRI PRITCHARD-McLEAN
Rib-tickling feelgood wit from the lovable, high-energy Mancunian, as seen on The Royal Variety Performance and Comedy Rocks with Jason Manford.
The silent member of the Chortle Award-winning Gein’s Family Giftshop troupe turns out to be a charismatic and hugely gifted Welsh comedy wizard.
‘Uproariously funny’ chortle
‘Smart, instantly likeable... balances affection with an acute eye for the ridiculous’ three weeks
RESIDENT COMPERE FOR ALL SHOWS Anthony J Brown SYNGENTA CELLAR 8.00pm TICKETS £12 21
SOUNDS
BOX OFFICE 01484 430528 | ONLINE www.thelbt.org
Music is in the lifeblood of our region, and our programme wouldn’t be complete without sounds. This eclectic selection of events includes big band jazz, well-loved standards, music that moves us, award-winning artists and of course Huddersfield’s own international Contemporary Music Festival.
21 YEARS
SOUND WOMEN
RALPH McTELL
sound women comes early this year, bringing you some of the most talented up-and-coming female entertainers from the worlds of music, comedy and spoken word.
The quintessential English singer-songwriter-guitarist is back on the road and celebrating 50 years as a professional musician.
FRI 13 NOVEMBER
SAT 14 NOVEMBER
OF INSPIRING PERFORMANCE
‘A great night - one of the highlights of the tour!’ BRIDIE JACKSON AND THE ARBOUR ON APPEARING AT THE LBT
SK2 JAZZ ORCHESTRA FRI 23 OCTOBER
HUDDERSFIELD COMMUNITY GOSPEL CHOIR
5TH ANNIVERSARY CONCERT SAT 24 OCTOBER
BBC Radio Manchester’s News of the Week singer-songwriter Claire Mooney returns to host this passionate, playful evening, and to deliver some of her own humorous, heartfelt compositions. This year’s acts include performance poet, playwright and sound women favourite Alex Keelan. The SK2 Jazz Orchestra return for another blast through the swinging repertoire of ace arranger and band leader Stan Kenton. SK2 performs exclusively music originally played by the Stan Kenton Band, and band leader and drummer Dave Tyas has hand-picked the musicians to recreate their exhilarating sound. This concert will feature music spanning the length and breadth of Kenton’s career.
Huddersfield Community Gospel Choir and friends celebrate five years of bringing diverse audiences together through life-affirming roots and gospel music. The concert will show off the energy, enthusiasm, and talent of the Choir, and pay tribute to the people and organisations who have helped them since their inception.
MAIN STAGE 7.30pm TICKETS £12
MAIN STAGE 7.00pm TICKETS £10
CELLAR FOLK
The BBC Radio 2 Folk Award-winning singer, songwriter and guitarist brings his richly original take on British folk to the lbt.
BLAIR DUNLOP + NINA SCHOFIELD SAT 7 NOVEMBER
Blair Dunlop is one of folk’s brightest young stars, with an impeccable pedigree – his dad is folk luminary Ashley Hutchings – and enviable skills as a songwriter and guitarist. His second album, last year’s House of Jacks, won praise for its maturity and range, from modern murder ballads to songs about Italian football and philosophy.
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SYNGENTA CELLAR 8.00pm TICKETS £10
Ralph’s shows combine his beautifully crafted narrative songs with virtuoso, finger-style guitar playing and evocative storytelling. His Ivor Novello Award-winning Streets Of London is one of the most recorded songs of all time, and he remains a prolific and gifted songwriter: recent work includes a series of tribute songs for the centenary of Dylan Thomas’ birth. MAIN STAGE 8.00pm TICKETS £19
HUDDERSFIELD CONTEMPORARY THE ALBION CHRISTMAS BAND MUSIC FESTIVAL FRI 20 - SUN 29 NOVEMBER
THU 17 DECEMBER
The UK’s largest festival of new and experimental music brings an international mix of composers, performers and partners to Huddersfield.
A seasonal mixture of carols, spoken word, humorous readings and dance from an all-star line-up of folk greats, this show really is the perfect way to ease into the festive spirit.
Support comes from classically trained singer-songwriter Nina Schofield, whose epic, soulful piano-led pop has drawn comparisons with Kate Bush and Tori Amos.
The 38th Huddersfield Contemporary Music Festival presents a stunning ten day programme of over 50 world class events – including concerts, installations, multi-media presentations, exhibitions, workshops, talks and films – providing an international platform for new and cutting-edge music at the lbt and venues thoughout Huddersfield.
SYNGENTA CELLAR 8.00pm TICKETS £12
Full programme available at www.hcmf.co.uk
Take a guided tour through the Christmas customs of Britain with the combined talents of Simon Nicol (Fairport Convention), Simon Care (Edward II), Kellie While and the Guvnor himself, Ashley Hutchings (Fairport Convention/ Steeleye Span). MAIN STAGE 7.30pm TICKETS £18
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RESIDENT COMPANIES
LBT YOUNG COMPANY
The lbt’s Queen Street building is also home to four exceptional companies.
lbt believes that all children and young people should have access to creative opportunities.
This community of professional arts organisations of national standing, each with their own unique specialism, forms a creative hub where new performance is imagined and developed. The lbt provides them with a place to forge their work, and we benefit in turn from their creative output, hosting premieres of their work for you to see before they head off on national and international tours.
21 YEARS
OF INSPIRING PERFORMANCE
BOX OFFICE 01484 430528 | ONLINE www.thelbt.org
This is why we raise funds to lead free, open access activities across the district for children and young people, as well as running a resident Young Company here at Queen Street. All of our young people’s activities include a trip to the theatre so that they can experience the magic of live performance.
21
YEARS
OF INSPIRING PERFORMANCE
chol theatre focus on involving people in making art that responds to identity and place. From muddy fields to swimming pools, they create exciting, engaging projects with artists and communities. Look out for their new project Hudd100 in 2016. www.choltheatre.co.uk dark horse is a national touring theatre company with a reputation for excellence and innovation. Their ensemble of trained professional actors with learning disabilities work in film, television and theatre at the highest level, and produce world premiere productions featuring the best new writing and visual and physical theatre. www.darkhorsetheatre.co.uk As part of our commitment to dance, we are proud to welcome our newest resident, joss arnott. One of the uk’s most talented emerging choreographers, Joss leads a cutting-edge company producing work for an athletic, alpha female cast of extraordinary dancers.
Autumn term begins on Monday 14 September – for further information or to enrol, visit our website or contact letscreate@thelbt.org
www.jossarnottdance.com
Combining elements of design, performance, music, projection and puppetry, tell tale hearts put children at the heart of their highly visual productions. Their unique mix of creativity and interactivity gives children the opportunity to experience a magical and multi-sensory world of theatre. Working with Sheffield’s Pif-Paf, they will be bringing their talent for enchantment to this year’s Christmas show, snow white (p12-13). www.telltalehearts.co.uk
THE LBT SPARE ROOM
At the lbt we want to encourage creativity at all levels. We recognise the importance of provision for grass roots activities, because that’s how all of the work on our stages starts its life. spare room offers free last-minute spaces to any individual or group for the purposes of creative work. If you would like to be added to the mailing list, please email spareroom@thelbt.org
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PLAY IN A WEEK: A BIRTHDAY HULLABALOO! MON 26 - THU 29 OCTOBER
Celebrate the lbt’s 21st birthday with a fun and fabulous musical drama this October half term. There’ll be a feast of opportunities for acting, devising and designing over four days as we prepare for this exciting show. The workshops will be led by Slaithwaite’s Satellite Arts, who specialise in creating inventive, engaging plays with young people. SYNGENTA CELLAR 10.00am - 3.00pm daily PERFORMANCE Thu 29 October, 2.30pm PRICE £70 / Kirklees Passport Holders £46
ARTS AWARD AT THE LBT
The LBT offers opportunities for young people to earn Arts Award accreditations, recognised by Trinity College, London. Contact rose@thelbt.org for more information. 25
IMAGINE
BOX OFFICE 01484 430528 | ONLINE www.thelbt.org
TUTTI FRUTTI AND YORK THEATRE ROYAL
Our Imagine strand provides the first steps into live performance for children under 10 and their families. It’s a world of story and invention, promising the unforgettable experience of sharing in a child’s delight. Last year we had almost 9,000 attendances to our shows for children and families. The future of imagination starts here.
IMAGINE SAVER 18 S FOR £
3 S H OW 0* S FOROK£ED2 4 SHOUW O B ST BE *M
ER TOGE TH
SNOW CHILD
21 YEARS
BY EMMA REEVES SAT 14 NOVEMBER
OF INSPIRING PERFORMANCE
This winter wonderland of poignant, inventive storytelling and atmospheric music will enchant children and their families.
‘This is the best theatre ever!’
SYNGENTA CELLAR 11.00am & 2.00pm RUNNING TIME 60 minutes TICKETS £7 AGE RECOMMENDATION 3 - 7 yrs
PARENT
GARLIC THEATRE TELL TALE HEARTS
TRUNK TALES SAT 19 SEPTEMBER
A lady, a trunk and a collection of stories from around the globe unleash the imaginations of children (and their adults) in this interactive show.
OLD MOTHER HUBBARD AND HER CUPBOARD SAT 28 NOVEMBER
Using puppetry and the contents of her magical trunk, this well-travelled lady creates Arabic seas, towering mountains, fields of turnips and the tallest trees. Share in her tales of boastful toads, magical fish and fearsome beasts of the wild woods – and help create waves, find a suitor for the mouse bride or even act out a character or two from the stories.
WHERE CATERPILLARS GO
From a tree in a garden a seed falls. From under a leaf a caterpillar crawls. A time to play and a time to grow, a time to see where caterpillars go… Follow an inquisitive caterpillar into a beautiful garden where together we’ll explore life, growth and wonder through live music and playful movement in this fun, visually striking show. Watch seeds fly, fall and sprout, and shoots spiral and uncurl. Chase leaves and butterflies as they flutter by in this lively garden that pops up before your eyes! SYNGENTA CELLAR 11.00am, 1.00pm & 2.30pm TICKETS £7 RUNNING TIME 35 minutes + 15 minutes play AGE RECOMMENDATION 1 - 5 yrs
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Old Mother Hubbard went to the cupboard to fetch her poor dog a bone, but when she got there, the cupboard was bare… Or was it? A dotty old woman takes you on a nursery rhyme journey as she clatters about in her kitchen, and her dancing dog sniffs out trouble in the most unlikely places. Garlic Theatre delight children and adults alike with a spicy blend of slapstick and folk humour in this fresh and funny adaptation, with beautifully-crafted glove puppets, singing teapots and a feast of musical treats.
SYNGENTA CELLAR 11.00am & 2.00pm RUNNING TIME 45 minutes + meet the puppets TICKETS £7 AGE 3 - 7 yrs
SYNGENTA CELLAR 11.00am & 2.00pm RUNNING TIME 55 minutes TICKETS £7 AGE 4 - 10 yrs
SAT 3 OCTOBER
She’s a girl like no other. As she dances in the wild landscape and talks with the animals, she brings joy, fun and laughter to the whole village. But it’s not easy, raising a wild daughter of the blizzards and the wind.
‘Reasonably priced, fantastic productions… The imagine series is particularly wonderful and inspiring for children!’
HENRI, AGED 7
TRAVELLED COMPANIONS
Watching the village children play in the snow, a lonely couple yearn for a child of their own. They build a small figure from the ice and snow, and wish very, very hard…
NORWICH PUPPET THEATRE
There was once a girl so small that she could float on a lily pad and ride on the back of a dragonfly.
SAT 16 JANUARY
Hans Christian Andersen’s tale of a girl no bigger than a thumb, and her encounters with a frog, mouse, mole and swallow is played gently amongst gardening tools. With traditional glove and rod puppets handmade from wood and cloth, thumbelina is an enchanting introduction to the magic of theatre.
THUMBELINA
SYNGENTA CELLAR 11.00am & 2.00pm RUNNING TIME 40 minutes TICKETS £7 AGE 2 - 7 yrs FUNDRAISING EVENT IN AID OF KIRKLEES THEATRE TRUST
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SPOTLIGHT
BOX OFFICE 01484 430528 | ONLINE www.thelbt.org
Kirklees is alive with talented young people. Here they share what they have practised with family, friends and you. The lbt gives them a professional stage where they can show off their work with the support of our equipment and expertise. Over 21 years, tens of thousands of young people have pirouetted, bounced, strode and sparkled across our stage, taking away glowing memories of their time in the spotlight.
EXIT 25 THEATRE SCHOOL
21 YEARS
KAREN BINNS STAGE SCHOOL BEAUTY AND THE BEAST SHOWCASE SUN 15 NOVEMBER
SAT 28 NOVEMBER
Karen Binns Stage School students aged 18 months upwards show off their talents with spectacular routines in ballet, tap, modern, street, cheerleading and gymnastics.
Exit 25 Theatre School present their spectacular, fun-filled Christmas pantomime.
OF INSPIRING PERFORMANCE
HALIFAX DANCE ACADEMY
SPOTLIGHT 2015 SAT 26 & SUN 27 SEPTEMBER
Halifax Dance Academy, home of Barbara Peters School of Dance and Break Boys, presents a selection of children’s dance and musical theatre favourites. Come join the fun and celebrate the talent of students aged from four years to adult, as they show off their tap, ballet, jazz, musical theatre and breakdancing skills. MAIN STAGE 5.30pm TICKETS £12 / £10 concessions
SHAKESPEARE SCHOOLS FESTIVAL
MAIN STAGE 1.30pm & 5.00pm TICKETS £10 / £8 concessions
MAIN STAGE 3.00pm & 7.00pm TICKETS £10.50 / £8.50 concessions
KIRKLEES COUNCIL COMMUNITIES AND LEISURE SERVICES
HUDDERSFIELD NEW COLLEGE
MON 30 NOVEMBER - WED 2 DECEMBER
THU 28 JANUARY
A festival where performers aged three and above take centre stage and shine in the spotlight.
Huddersfield New College Performing Arts presents a spectacular showcase of dance and musical theatre.
The youngsters of Kirklees will be breaking out their fancy footwork with a variety of dance routines, gaining valuable experience and showing off their talent on the lbt stage.
Filled with lively entertainment suitable for the whole family, this all-singing, all-dancing extravaganza features routines from Anything Goes, Cats, Sweet Charity, Kiss Me Kate and much more.
MAIN STAGE 7.30pm TICKETS £6 / £4 concessions
MAIN STAGE 7.30pm TICKETS £5
JUMP AND SHOUT
MON 9 NOVEMBER
‘The Shakespeare Schools Festival is enabling new generations of young people to discover why he is still the world’s greatest playwright. I am very proud to be a patron’ DAME JUDI DENCH
Shakespeare is performed as you’ve never seen it before in the UK’s largest youth drama festival.
With a programme of dance, drama and singing, their showcase will keep you entertained with a selection of pop and classical music… and a trip to the Chocolate Factory. A show not to be missed!
MAIN STAGE 7.00pm TICKETS £8.50
This year’s enchanting production tells the story of Belle, who longs for romance and adventure, a bad mannered Prince who is transformed into a Beast, and a good fairy who will teach them both a lesson.
IT’S SHOWTIME
Come along and celebrate the achievements of four local schools whilst exploring the work of the Bard in new ways, with four abridged versions of his greatest plays. 28
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SUPPORT US
BOX OFFICE 01484 430528 | ONLINE www.thelbt.org
We couldn’t do it without you.
LBT 21st birthday campaign fund – donation form
For almost 20 years, community groups and other supporters campaigned for a professional theatre in Huddersfield. Their efforts brought about the opening of the Lawrence Batley Theatre in 1994.
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Now, as the theatre comes of age, we need your support to make sure we don’t just survive, but thrive, over the next 21 years. One way in which you can help is to buy tickets for the fantastic events on these pages, or tell your friends about us. You might like to join the Friends of the Lawrence Batley Theatre – for more information visit our website or drop in to box office. But we’d really like to ask if you could make a donation to support our ambitions for the future. We have three priorities. These are: PROGRAMME FUND As arts funding declines, help us to maintain the quality and range of our programme. This fund will support our dance, drama or opera events and ensure that the best companies keep coming back to Huddersfield.
CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE’S FUND Help us to ensure that local children and young people have access to the arts. This fund will support our young company, young people’s bursary scheme and outreach activity, enabling young people to grow their skills and confidence – whatever their circumstances.
THEATRE RENEWAL FUND After 21 years hard at work, our Grade II listed building is in need of maintenance, our auditorium needs renovating and our theatrical equipment needs replacing. We want to begin a comprehensive renewal programme to see our theatre fit for the next 21 years.
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I would like to pledge £21/ other amount …………………. (please specify) To be used for: PROGRAMME FUND
CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE’S FUND
THEATRE RENEWAL FUND
I would like to make this payment as a SINGLE DONATION
MONTHLY DONATION
ANNUAL DONATION
I would like to pay by CHEQUE Please enclose and make payable to Kirklees Theatre Trust.
CREDIT OR DEBIT CARD We will contact you to take payment or you can complete the secure payment form on our website.
GIFT AID DECLARATION I would like the lbt (Kirklees Theatre Trust, registered charity number 510693) to reclaim tax on all donations I make. I confirm that I am a UK taxpayer and that I pay sufficient Income/Capital Gains Tax to equal the tax that the lbt will claim against my donation. SIGNATURE
We’d like to ask if you could pledge a gift of £21, but any contribution would be welcome and a little help can go a long way. Thanks to Gift Aid, we can also claim 25p from the Inland Revenue on every pound that you donate. If you are able to pledge a donation please complete and return this form, contact our box office on 01484 430528 or complete our online form at www.thelbt.org. 30
DATE
Please send your completed form to the Lawrence Batley Theatre, Queen’s Square, Queen Street, Huddersfield HD1 2SP If you’d like more information on donating to the lbt please contact our Deputy Director Karen O’Neill on 01484 484404 / karen@thelbt.org
THANK YOU 31
YOUR VISIT
BOX OFFICE 01484 430528 | ONLINE www.thelbt.org
BOX OFFICE
ONLINE
POSTAL
ADMINISTRATION
01484 430528 boxoffice@thelbt.org Box Office opening hours: Monday to Saturday 9.30am - 5pm
www.thelbt.org The Lawrence Batley Theatre does not charge booking fees.
Lawrence Batley Theatre, Queen’s Square, Queen Street, Huddersfield HD1 2SP
Phone 01484 425282 Email theatre@thelbt.org Fax 01484 425336
(open later on performance nights)
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MAIN AUDITORIUM SEATING Seating is unreserved for the Syngenta Cellar and Main Stage in Studio Format.
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The lbt’s friendly welcome and town centre location makes us the ideal setting for your community meeting, book club, business conference or function. If you’re interested in hiring one of our rooms, please contact our House & Hospitality Manager Katrina Ward on 01484 484412 / katrina@thelbt.org.
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FOLLOW US ON TWITTER
The lbt’s range of versatile, convenient spaces is available for hire during the daytime and evenings throughout the week. Full technical support is provided, and we have a variety of furniture to enable your desired layout. Queenie’s offers a range of fresh, delicious catering options on site, and as a licensed premises we can serve a range of alcoholic beverages from one of two bars within our event spaces.
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Our grade II* listed building in the centre of Huddersfield is a unique venue for your meeting or event.
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ACCESS Please discuss your access requirements with our Box Office staff when making your booking and we will be happy to help. Carers may be entitled to a complimentary ticket. GROUP BOOKINGS Groups will normally be entitled to one complimentary ticket for every 10 purchased.
CONCESSIONS Where available, concessions apply to under 16s, over 60s, students, unemployed persons in receipt of benefits, Kirklees Passport holders and people who are registered disabled. Proof of entitlement is required.
This brochure is available in large print or braille formats upon request. SPECIAL OFFERS Where these apply they cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer including Friends of the Lawrence Batley Theatre discount. For full terms and information on joining the Friends go to www.thelbt.org
HOW TO FIND US We are located in Huddersfield Town Centre, close to the University and just a minute’s walk from the Kingsgate shopping centre. PARKING If you are arriving by car, follow the signage on the ring road to the Market Hall multi-storey car park in Alfred Street. There are a limited number of parking spaces for disabled badge holders on Queen Street. There is also an area on Queen Street for drop off only.
SAINSBURY’S KINGSGATE
Queenie’s seasonal menu includes a variety of freshly made to order foods. All our ingredients come from Kirklees suppliers, with indulgent cakes and sweet treats courtesy of Huddersfield’s own award-winning ProperMaid Bakers. We’re proud to be the only shop in Huddersfield serving Chartley’s fair trade coffee, as well as Yorkshire Tea and speciality teas from Teapigs. We also have the best outdoor seating in Huddersfield town centre!
UNIVERSITY
RAIL AND BUS The rail and bus stations are just a few minutes’ walk from the theatre. The Free Town Bus stops outside the theatre and runs until 7.00pm Monday to Friday and 5.30pm on Saturday.
THE SMALL PRINT
Queenie’s is the lbt’s own independent coffee shop, set in the Georgian splendour of the theatre’s courtyard.
Details of events are correct at the time of print. Please contact box office in advance to confirm listings and availability. All ticket purchases are non-refundable. Full terms and conditions available at www.thelbt.org
OPENING TIMES Monday to Saturday from 8.30am to 4.30pm. During the LBT’s 21st birthday season Queenie’s will also be open until the beginning of the show for all Main Stage evening performances.
/QueeniesCoffeeShopHuddersfield
@QueeniesHudds
For further information on age suitability, please ask.
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SEASON AT A GLANCE
BOX OFFICE 01484 430528 | ONLINE www.thelbt.org
PROGRAMME
STAGE
8.00PM
RALPH MCTELL
SUN 15
1.30PM, 5.00PM
SHOWCASE
KAREN BINNS STAGE SCHOOL
29
MON 16
7.30PM
CIRCUS MAYHEM
CRYING OUT LOUD / CIRCUS EVOLUTION
9
TUE 17
7.30PM
CIRCUS MAYHEM
CRYING OUT LOUD / CIRCUS EVOLUTION
9
THU 19
7.45PM
OUTSIDERS
PILOT THEATRE
10
FRI 20 – SUN 29
MAIN STAGE
SYNGENTA CELLAR
SEPTEMBER
WHOLE BUILDING
SHOW TITLE
COMPANY
23
HUDDERSFIELD CONTEMPORARY MUSIC FESTIVAL
23
MON 23
7.45PM
ME AND MR C
GARY KITCHING & CO / GREYSCALE
18
THU 26
7.30PM
MIXED PROGRAMME 2015
PHOENIX DANCE THEATRE
10 20
FRI 27
8.00PM
POSTCARDS FROM THE Z LIST
PAUL SINHA
PAGE
SAT 28
11.00AM, 2.00PM
OLD MOTHER HUBBARD AND HER CUPBOARD
GARLIC THEATRE
27
3
SAT 28
3.00PM, 7.00PM
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST
EXIT 25 THEATRE SCHOOL
29
MON 30
7.30PM
JUMP AND SHOUT
KIRKLEES COMMUNITIES AND LEISURE SERVICES
29
MON 7
6.30PM
SEASON PREVIEW
LBT
THU 10
8.00PM
SEPTEMBER COMEDY CELLAR
CHRISTIAN REILLY | JACK CARROLL
19
SAT 19
11.00AM, 2.00PM
TRUNK TALES
TELL TALE HEARTS
26
SAT 19
7.30PM
THY NEIGHBOURS
JAMROCK PRODUCTIONS
14
DECEMBER
SHOW TITLE
COMPANY
MON 21
7.45PM
MANUELITA
POPELEI THEATRE
18
TUE 1
7.30PM
JUMP AND SHOUT
KIRKLEES COMMUNITIES AND LEISURE SERVICES
29
FRI 25
7.30PM
THE LBT’S 21ST BIRTHDAY GALA
LBT
4
WED 2
7.30PM
JUMP AND SHOUT
KIRKLEES COMMUNITIES AND LEISURE SERVICES
29
SAT 26
5.30PM
SPOTLIGHT 2015
HALIFAX DANCE ACADEMY
28
FRI 4
7.30PM
IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE
SEABRIGHT/CLIMAR PRODUCTIONS
11
SUN 27
5.30PM
SPOTLIGHT 2015
HALIFAX DANCE ACADEMY
28
SAT 5
2.15PM, 7.30PM
IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE
SEABRIGHT/CLIMAR PRODUCTIONS
11
SUN 6
2.15PM
IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE
SEABRIGHT/CLIMAR PRODUCTIONS
11
PAGE
TUE 8
7.15PM
APRIL IN PARIS
HUDDERSFIELD THESPIANS
16
OCTOBER
SHOW TITLE
COMPANY
PAGE
THU 1
8.00PM
FALLING IN LOVE WITH FRIDA
CAROLINE BOWDITCH
5
WED 9
7.15PM
APRIL IN PARIS
HUDDERSFIELD THESPIANS
16
SAT 3
11.00AM, 1.00PM, 2.30PM
WHERE CATERPILLARS GO
TRAVELLED COMPANIONS
26
THU 10
7.15PM
APRIL IN PARIS
HUDDERSFIELD THESPIANS
16
TUE 6
7.15PM
CAROUSEL
LONGWOOD AMATEUR OPERATIC SOCIETY
15
FRI 11
1.30PM, 7.00PM
SNOW WHITE
LBT PRESENTS TELL TALE HEARTS & PIF-PAF
12
TUE 6
7.30PM
THE BOGUS WOMAN
CURTIS PRODUCTIONS/THEATRE BY THE LAKE
5
FRI 11
7.15PM
APRIL IN PARIS
HUDDERSFIELD THESPIANS
16
WED 7
7.15PM
CAROUSEL
LONGWOOD AMATEUR OPERATIC SOCIETY
15
SAT 12
11.00AM, 2.15PM
SNOW WHITE
LBT PRESENTS TELL TALE HEARTS & PIF-PAF
12
THU 8
7.15PM
CAROUSEL
LONGWOOD AMATEUR OPERATIC SOCIETY
15
SAT 12
2.00PM, 7.15PM
APRIL IN PARIS
HUDDERSFIELD THESPIANS
16
THU 8
8.00PM
OCTOBER COMEDY CELLAR
MICKEY SHARMA + BEST NEW ACT 2015
19
MON 14
10.00AM, 1.30PM
SNOW WHITE
LBT PRESENTS TELL TALE HEARTS & PIF-PAF
12
FRI 9
7.15PM
CAROUSEL
LONGWOOD AMATEUR OPERATIC SOCIETY
15
TUE 15
10.00AM, 1.30PM
SNOW WHITE
LBT PRESENTS TELL TALE HEARTS & PIF-PAF
12
SAT 10
2.15PM, 7.15PM
CAROUSEL
LONGWOOD AMATEUR OPERATIC SOCIETY
15
TUE 15
8.00PM
CHRISTMAS COMEDY CELLAR
IVAN BRACKENBURY | IAN D MONTFORT
21
MON 12
7.45PM
ELECTRIC DREAMS
DUMBSHOW THEATRE
18
WED 16
10.00AM, 1.30PM
SNOW WHITE
LBT PRESENTS TELL TALE HEARTS & PIF-PAF
12
TUE 13
7.30PM
THE WINTER’S TALE
NORTHERN BROADSIDES / HARROGATE THEATRE
6
WED 16
8.00PM
CHRISTMAS COMEDY CELLAR
IVAN BRACKENBURY | IAN D MONTFORT
21
WED 14
7.30PM
THE WINTER’S TALE
NORTHERN BROADSIDES / HARROGATE THEATRE
6
THU 17
10.00AM, 1.30PM
SNOW WHITE
LBT PRESENTS TELL TALE HEARTS & PIF-PAF
THU 15
7.30PM
THE WINTER’S TALE
NORTHERN BROADSIDES / HARROGATE THEATRE
6
THU 17
7.30PM
THE ALBION CHRISTMAS BAND
FRI 16
7.30PM
THE WINTER’S TALE
NORTHERN BROADSIDES / HARROGATE THEATRE
6
THU 17
8.00PM
CHRISTMAS COMEDY CELLAR
STEVE SHANYASKI | KIRI PRITCHARD-MCLEAN
21
SAT 17
1.00PM
THE WINTER’S TALE
NORTHERN BROADSIDES / HARROGATE THEATRE
6
SAT 19
11.00AM, 2.15PM
SNOW WHITE
LBT PRESENTS TELL TALE HEARTS & PIF-PAF
12
SAT 17
8.00PM
OUTSIDE LOOKING IN
ED BYRNE
20
SUN 20
11.00AM, 2.15PM
SNOW WHITE
LBT PRESENTS TELL TALE HEARTS & PIF-PAF
12
TUE 20
7.15PM
THE THRILL OF LOVE
HUDDERSFIELD THESPIANS
15
MON 21
2.15PM, 7.00PM
SNOW WHITE
LBT PRESENTS TELL TALE HEARTS & PIF-PAF
12
TUE 20
7.30PM
DREAMING IN CODE
2FACED DANCE
7
TUE 22
2.15PM, 7.00PM
SNOW WHITE
LBT PRESENTS TELL TALE HEARTS & PIF-PAF
12
WED 21
7.15PM
THE THRILL OF LOVE
HUDDERSFIELD THESPIANS
15
WED 23
2.15PM, 7.00PM
SNOW WHITE
LBT PRESENTS TELL TALE HEARTS & PIF-PAF
12
WED 21
7.30PM
NOSFERATU
PROPER JOB THEATRE COMPANY
7
THU 24
11.00AM, 2.15PM
SNOW WHITE
LBT PRESENTS TELL TALE HEARTS & PIF-PAF
12
THU 22
7.15PM
THE THRILL OF LOVE
HUDDERSFIELD THESPIANS
15
SAT 26
7.00PM
SNOW WHITE
LBT PRESENTS TELL TALE HEARTS & PIF-PAF
12
FRI 23
7.15PM
THE THRILL OF LOVE
HUDDERSFIELD THESPIANS
15
SUN 27
2.15PM, 7.00PM
SNOW WHITE
LBT PRESENTS TELL TALE HEARTS & PIF-PAF
12
FRI 23
7.30PM
SK2 JAZZ ORCHESTRA
SAT 24
2.00PM, 7.15PM
THE THRILL OF LOVE
HUDDERSFIELD THESPIANS
15
JANUARY
SHOW TITLE
COMPANY
SAT 24
7.00PM
5TH ANNIVERSARY CONCERT
HUDDERSFIELD COMMUNITY GOSPEL CHOIR
22
SAT 9
1.30PM, 5.30PM
SLEEPING BEAUTY
HUDDERSFIELD LIGHT OPERA COMPANY
17
THU 29
7.30PM
THE NOTEBOOK
FORCED ENTERTAINMENT
8
SUN 10
1.30PM, 5.30PM
SLEEPING BEAUTY
HUDDERSFIELD LIGHT OPERA COMPANY
17
SAT 31
7.00PM
HALLOWE’EN HAPPENING
LBT
8
WED 13
6.15PM
SLEEPING BEAUTY
HUDDERSFIELD LIGHT OPERA COMPANY
17
THU 14
6.15PM
SLEEPING BEAUTY
HUDDERSFIELD LIGHT OPERA COMPANY
17
PAGE
THU 14
8.00PM
JANUARY COMEDY CELLAR
IAN COGNITO | JAY HAMPSON
19
NOVEMBER
34
SAT 14
12 23
22
SHOW TITLE
COMPANY
PAGE
MON 2
7.45PM
GATED COMMUNITY
HANDHELD ARTS
18
FRI 15
7.15PM
SLEEPING BEAUTY
HUDDERSFIELD LIGHT OPERA COMPANY
17
TUE 3
7.15PM
HAIRSPRAY
HUDDERSFIELD MUSICAL THEATRE COMPANY
16
SAT 16
11.00AM, 2.00PM
THUMBELINA
NORWICH PUPPET THEATRE
27
WED 4
7.15PM
HAIRSPRAY
HUDDERSFIELD MUSICAL THEATRE COMPANY
16
SAT 16
1.30PM, 5.30PM
SLEEPING BEAUTY
HUDDERSFIELD LIGHT OPERA COMPANY
17
THU 5
7.15PM
HAIRSPRAY
HUDDERSFIELD MUSICAL THEATRE COMPANY
16
TUE 19
7.45PM
NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH
DICK AND LOTTIE
17
FRI 6
7.15PM
HAIRSPRAY
HUDDERSFIELD MUSICAL THEATRE COMPANY
16
WED 20
7.45PM
NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH
DICK AND LOTTIE
17
SAT 7
2.15PM, 7.15PM
HAIRSPRAY
HUDDERSFIELD MUSICAL THEATRE COMPANY
16
THU 21
7.45PM
NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH
DICK AND LOTTIE
17
SAT 7
8.00PM
BLAIR DUNLOP + NINA SCHOFIELD
CELLAR FOLK
22
FRI 22
7.45PM
NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH
DICK AND LOTTIE
17
MON 9
7.00PM
SHAKESPEARE SCHOOLS FESTIVAL
28
SAT 23
2.00PM, 7.45PM
NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH
DICK AND LOTTIE
17
TUE 10
7.30PM
BERYL
WEST YORKSHIRE PLAYHOUSE
9
THU 28
7.30PM
IT’S SHOWTIME
HUDDERSFIELD NEW COLLEGE
29
WED 11
7.30PM
BERYL
WEST YORKSHIRE PLAYHOUSE
9
SAT 30
7.45PM
INTERNATIONAL COMEDY SPECIAL
ALL STARS OF COMEDY
20
THU 12
8.00PM
NOVEMBER COMEDY CELLAR
JIM TAVARE | NICK BANKS
19
FRI 13
8.00PM
20 YEARS A CLOWN
JASON BYRNE
20
FRI 13
8.00PM
SOUND WOMEN
CLAIRE MOONEY
23
SAT 14
11.00AM, 2.00PM
SNOW CHILD
TUTTI FRUTTI / YORK THEATRE ROYAL
27
Designed by aye-creative.co.uk 35
In 2014 a consortium of organisations led by LBT was successful in a bid to Arts Council England’s Creative People and Places programme for a major new arts project in North Kirklees called Creative Scene. Creative Scene is a three year-long, £2 million initiative which sees artists working alongside local people and organisations to find new ways for people to engage with the arts. There are artists in residence where people live and work, touring productions, festivals, events and lots of opportunities to get involved. Here are a few tasters of Creative Scene’s programme of free twilight events:
SPELLBOUND
Saturday 28 September, Batley Market Square Part of the Batley Festival, Walk the Plank’s SPELLBOUND is a captivating night-time show using puppetry, dance and pyrotechnics to tell a classic Indian story of love, loyalty and friendship.
CARNIVAL OF LIGHT
Saturday 29 November, Green Park, Heckmondwike Heckmondwike’s reputation for illumination stretches back to the 1800s, arguably longer than Blackpool’s! This November the town will be lit up in new and spectacular fashion at the launch of its Christmas celebrations.
Thursday 3 December, Crow Nest Park, Dewsbury
Paul Floyd Bl
THERE WILL BE FIRE… AGAIN
For a complete schedule of forthcoming events and more information on how to get involved, visit our website at www.creativescene.org.uk
36
ake
After attracting over 2,000 people to the event at Crow Nest Park last year, pa-BOOM return with a spectacular fire display, warming the air and wowing the crowds from the newly restored lake.
/CreativeScene.uk @CreativeSceneWY