Liverpool Empire Winter 2015/Spring 2016 Season Guide by Liverpool Empire Theatre

RICHARD O’BRIEN’S

WINTER 2015/ SPRING 2016 BOX OFFICE 0844 871 3017 GROUPS 0844 871 3037

COMING TO LIVERPOOL MON 1- SAT 6 FEBRUARY

atgtickets.com/liverpool

Bkg fees apply

ACCESSIBLE PERFORMANCES

WELCOME

DICK WHITTINGTON

Welcome to the autumn edition of our season brochure. You’ll find it packed full of exciting productions coming to the Empire over the coming months.

AUDIO DESCRIBED THU 17 DEC 7pm SIGNED FRI 18 DEC 7pm CAPTIONED TUE 29 DEC 7pm

LAST NIGHT A DJ SAVED MY LIFE AUDIO DESCRIBED WED 20 JAN 7.30pm SIGNED THU 21 JAN 7.30pm

THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW SIGNED THU 4 FEB 8pm

MATTHEW BOURNE’S

SLEEPING BEAUTY AUDIO DESCRIBED THU 18 FEB 7.30pm

THE GLENN MILLER STORY SIGNED TUE 1 MAR 7.30pm

ANNIE SIGNED WED 9 MAR 7.30pm AUDIO DESCRIBED SAT 12 MAR 2.30pm

THE MOUSETRAP AUDIO DESCRIBED THU 21 APR 7.30pm SIGNED FRI 22 APR 7.30pm

THE BODYGUARD CAPTIONED MON 2 MAY 7.30pm AUDIO DESCRIBED TUE 3 MAY 7.30pm SIGNED WED 4 MAY 7.30pm

SCOTTISH BALLET SWAN LAKE AUDIO DESCRIBED SAT 4 JUN 2.30pm

ACCESS BOOKINGS

To make a booking with specific Access requirements please call 0844 871 7677 (Mon - Sat 9am - 10pm, Sun 10am - 8pm) For Audio, Captioned and Signed performances please call 0151 7027346. (Mon - Fri 10am - 6pm)

Why not organise a group visit and take advantage of our fantastic group discounts? As well as making huge savings you can reserve now and pay later and there are no booking fees! Turn to page 38 where there’s details of how to contact our friendly venue-based sales team. If you’re aged 11 - 21 and love performing, you could take part in next year’s exciting Creative Learning Summer Project 2016, check out page 42, where there’s information on how you can audition. Whilst you’re with us, make sure to visit our stylish, recently refurbished Piano Bar. Relax, enjoy a drink or two and take in the impressive view through our floor to ceiling windows. Visit our newly opened Lime St Bistro where you can enjoy a selection of light bites and meals before curtain up. Turn to page 39 to find out more. Whether you’ve got something extra special to celebrate or just fancy an evening of total luxury, make it a night to remember by booking into our VIP Ambassador Lounge. You can indulge in a glass of bubbly and feast on savoury snacks in stylish surroundings both pre-show and during the interval. We’re delighted to introduce Ordertorium - the revolutionary new way to order refreshments from the comfort of your theatre seat. Choose from our varied selection of drinks, snacks and sweets which your dedicated member of staff will deliver straight to you - no more queuing! We are announcing new shows on a regular basis so be sure to follow us on Twitter @liverpoolempire and ‘like’ our Facebook page for all of the latest videos, announcements, previews and backstage gossip. On behalf of the whole team at the Empire, I thank you for your continued support of our venue. We do hope to welcome you back very soon. Diane Belding General Manager @liverpoolempire Facebook.com/liverpoolempire

DIARY DECEMBER

APRIL

DICK WHITTINGTON SAT 12 DEC - SUN 3 JAN

THE LAST TANGO MON 4 - WED 6 APR

JANUARY 2016

ILLEGAL EAGLES THU 7 APR

THE SIMON & GARFUNKEL STORY FRI 8 JAN

A VISION OF ELVIS FRI 8 APR ONE NIGHT OF ROCK SAT 9 APR

THE DREAMBOYS THU 26 MAY PEPPA PIG’S SURPRISE SAT 28 - SUN 29 MAY

JUNE SCOTTISH BALLET SWAN LAKE WED 1 - SAT 4 JUN

HOZIER TUE 12 JAN

THRILLER LIVE MON 11 - SAT 16 APR

SAVE THE LAST DANCE FOR ME MON 6 - SAT 11 JUN

CIRCUS OF HORRORS WED 13 JAN

SHOWSTOPPERS 2016 MON 18 - TUE 19 APR

THAT’S ENTERTAINMENT TUE 14 - SAT 18 JUN

LAST NIGHT A DJ SAVED MY LIFE TUE 19 - SAT 23 JAN

THE MOUSETRAP THU 21 - SAT 23 APR

JACKIE THE MUSICAL TUE 28 JUN - SAT 2 JUL

PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT MON 25 - SAT 30 JAN

THE BODYGUARD TUE 26 APR - SAT 7 MAY

JULY

ABBA MANIA SAT 9 JAN

FEBRUARY THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW MON 1 - SAT 6 FEB IMPOSSIBLE TUE 9 - SAT 13 FEB MATTHEW BOURNE’S SLEEPING BEAUTY TUE 16 - SAT 20 FEB LEONA LEWIS SUN 21 FEB AVENUE Q MON 22 - SAT 27 FEB

MAY FOOTLOOSE MON 9 - SAT 14 MAY BARRY STEELE & FRIENDS THE ORBISON STORY TUE 17 MAY MENOPAUSE THE MUSICAL WED 18 MAY ONE NIGHT OF QUEEN THU 19 MAY

THE GLENN MILLER STORY MON 29 FEB - SAT 5 MAR

AN EVENING WITH GORDON LIGHTFOOT FRI 20 MAY

MARCH

SOUL LEGENDS SAT 21 MAY

ANNIE MON 7 - SAT 12 MAR

TELL ME ON A SUNDAY MON 23 MAY

GUYS & DOLLS WED 16 - SAT 19 MAR

CATS MON 11 - SAT 16 JUL

ELLEN KENT PRESENTS TOSCA TUE 22 MAR CARMEN WED 23 MAR THE JOHNNY CASH ROADSHOW FRI 25 MAR MOTOWN’S GREATEST HITS HOW SWEET IT IS SAT 26 MAR HORRIBLE HISTORIES WED 30 MAR - SAT 2 APR

MATTHEW BOURNE’S SLEEPING BEAUTY TUE 16 - SAT 20 FEB

THE PURR-FECT PANTO FOR ALL THE FAMILY! FEATURING A

MAGICAL

SCENE

SALLY LINDSAY AS FAIRY FAZAKERLEY

LEANNE CAMPBELL ERIC POTTS AS ALICE FITZWARREN

PETE PRICE

AS ALDERMAN FITZWARREN

AS SARAH THE COOK

KURTIS STACEY

AS DICK WHITTINGTON

THE BEST VALUE PANTO IN TOWN -TICKETS FROM £10! This year’s spectacular pantomime is the rags-to-riches tale of Dick Whittington. Dick Whittington features an all-star cast including Sally Lindsay (Coronation St, Ordinary Lies) as the magical Fairy Fazakerley, Radio City 96.7’s Leanne Campbell as Alice Fitzwarren, Eric Potts (Coronation St) as our hilarious dame, Sarah the Cook, and motormouth DJ Pete Price (City Talk) as Alderman Fitzwarren and Kurtis Stacey (Emmerdale) as Dick Whittington. Join Dick and his feline friend Tommy on his fun-filled quest for fame and fortune! Will the streets really be paved with gold? Will he win the hand of the lovely Alice - and will he defeat the dastardly King Rat? There’s only one way to find out - join us for Panto this Christmas! From the producers of Peter Pan and Aladdin, the Liverpool Empire pantomime is a must-see Christmas tradition featuring all of your favourite pantomime ingredients - sensational songs, a live band, dazzling dance routines, slapstick comedy, and plenty of audience participation. Dick Whittington features a magical 3D scene, and is set to be one of the most jaw-dropping shows that the Empire has ever seen! With tickets from just £10, book now for the best value panto in town!

‘GLITZY SCENERY, STUNNING COSTUMES AND BRILLIANT DANCE CHOREOGRAPHY MAKE FOR A SPECTACULAR VISUAL SHOW’ YOUR MOVE MAGAZINE (ALADDIN 2014/15)

‘THE MOST LAVISH-LOOKING ANNUAL PANTO’ LIVERPOOL ECHO (ALADDIN 2014/15)

FAMILY TICKET FAMI £55/45* £55/45* in person at the Box Office plus £4 trans fee, £62.60/£52.60* plus £2.85 trans fee online and phone (4 tickets, incl. at least 1 child, on A and B/C* only, selected perfs

SENIORS HALF PRICE (Mon 14 Dec morn, Tue 15 Dec morn, Thu 17, Fri 18, Tue 29, Thu 31 Dec mats) Bands A - B

SAT 12 DEC 2015 SUN 3 JAN 2016 DECEMBER 2015 Sat 12

2pm

7pm

Sun 13

1pm

5pm

Mon 14 11am

7pm

Tue 15

7pm

11am

Wed 16 -

Thu 17

11am

7pm

Fri 18

2pm

7pm

Sat 19

2pm

7pm

Sun 20 1pm

5pm

Mon 21 1pm

5pm

Tue 22 1pm

5pm

Wed 23 1pm

5pm

Thu 24 2pm

Fri 25

MERRY CHRISTMAS

Sat 26

1pm

5pm

Sun 27 1pm

5pm

Mon 28 1pm

5pm

Tue 29 2pm

7pm

Wed 30 2pm

7pm

Thu 31

1pm

JANUARY 2016 Fri 1

HAPPY NEW YEAR

Sat 2

1pm

5pm

Sun 3

1pm

G F S E Details page 43 TICKETS FROM £10 A £2.85 transaction fee applies to bookings made on line and over the phone. Bookings at the Box Office carry a transaction fee of £4 excl Band D, Theatre Card and Groups. Per ticket booking fees may also apply

SAVE WITH YOUR E Half price excl. Sat 19 Sun 27871 Dec (Prem, A & B) 0844 3017

atgtickets.com/liverpool atgtickets.com/theatrecard Bkg fees apply

DAVID HASSELHOFF AND A CAST OF 18 PERFORMERS AND MUSICIANS

DAVID HASSELHOFF STARS IN

TUE 19 - SAT 23 JAN Tue - Sat eves 7.30pm Sat mat 2.30pm C G Details page 43 A DJ Dad, a wild child daughter and a trip to the party island of Ibiza with hits from the 80s and 90s. It’s going to be Hofftastic! The Hoff, plays Ross, a hilarious hedonist. He’s Ibiza’s top 80s DJ who doesn’t realise a new decade has dawned, disco is out, a new club scene is in. He tries to keep up with the times and with Mandy, his new younger girlfriend (Kim Tiddy, from The Bill, Hollyoaks), but matters are complicated when his teenage daughter Penny (Stephanie Webber From TV’s The Voice) arrives to stay. Father and daughter haven’t seen each other for three years, since a messy divorce. No longer a demure school girl, but a wild child who quickly falls for Rik, the holiday rep (Shane Richie Junior).

www.lastnight.dj

TICKETS FROM £10 Online and phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups). Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

SAVE WITH YOUR E Half price opening night (Prem, A & B), £5 off Wed, Thu & Sat mat (Prem, A - C)

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Get ready for the ride of your life as the ultimate party, Priscilla Queen Of The Desert The Musical, returns to Liverpool due to overwhelming popular demand - starring original West End star Jason Donovan as Tick! Based on the smash-hit movie, the feel-good international hit sensation Priscilla is the heart-warming, uplifting adventure of three friends who hop aboard a battered old bus searching for love and friendship and end up finding more than they could have ever dreamed of. With a dazzling array of outrageous costumes and a hit parade of dance floor classics including I Will Survive, Hot Stuff, Finally, Boogie Wonderland, Go West, Girls Just Wanna Have Fun, and I Love The Nightlife, rush to get your tickets today for this wildly fresh and funny hit musical that will take you on a journey to the heart of fabulous! Priscilla is

‘HUGELY ENTERTAINING. INSANELY GLITZY’ DAILY TELEGRAPH

MON 25 - SAT 30 JAN Mon - Sat eves 7.30pm Wed & Sat mats 2.30pm C G Details page 43 TICKETS FROM £10 Online and phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups). Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

SAVE WITH YOUR E £10 off opening night (Prem, A & B), thereafter £5 off Tue - Thu (Prem, A & B)

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& T S E I X E S E H T L L I T S H HH

T S E I N N FU HH

SHOW IN

T OWN

E V ENING S TA NDA RD

IT’S TIME TO RE-START THE PARTY!

THE WORLD’S FAVOURITE ROCK N ROLL MUSICAL

RICHARD O’BRIEN’S

★★★★★ ‘FRESH, SUBVERSIVE, ESSENTIAL’ DAILY TELEGRAPH SEP 2015

★★★★★

‘IT ROCKS!’

STARRING

DAILY STAR SUNDAY

DIANA VICKERS

BEN FREEMAN

PAUL CATTERMOLE

(Little Voice, X Factor) AS JANET

(Wicked, Emmerdale) AS BRAD

(S Club 7) AS EDDIE/DR SCOTT

LIAM TAMNE

WITH (Phantom of the Opera, The Voice) AS FRANK N FURTER

MON 1 - SAT 6 FEB Mon - Thu 8pm Fri & Sat 5.30pm & 8.30pm

DIRECTED BY CHRISTOPHER LUSCOMBE

C G Details page 43

Following a record-breaking tour, live cinema screening and television broadcasts around the world, Richard O’Brien’s classic is ready to thrill you once again.

TICKETS FROM £10

Bursting at the seams with timeless classics, including Sweet Transvestite, Damn it Janet, and of course, the pelvic-thrusting Time Warp, Richard O’Brien’s Rocky Horror Show is a non-stop party! Be warned, this show has rude parts!

DON’T DREAM IT BE IT!

Online and phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups). Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

SAVE WITH YOUR E Half price opening night (Prem, A & B), £5 off early Fri

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THE WORLD’S GREATEST ILLUSIONISTS LIVE ON STAGE

Impossible, the most dangerous show Liverpool has ever seen, arrives at the Liverpool Empire this spring. See the world’s greatest illusionists live on stage in a magic spectacular that will thrill and amaze audiences of all ages. Fusing death-defying stunts, technological trickery, grand stage illusions and close-up magic in a fast-paced breath-taking performance, Impossible charts the evolution of magic through the past 100 years culminating in slick contemporary street magic. Fresh from its ground-breaking run in the West End, prepare to be mesmerized and baffled as Impossible brings together world-class performers showing off a stunning range of magical artistry; from astonishing acts of epic proportions to dumbfounding sleight of hand. Whatever you do, don’t try this at home!

‘THIS MAGIC SHOW IS SO MINDBLOWINGLY SPECTACULAR IT WILL KNOCK YOUR SOCKS OFF’ EVENING STANDARD

‘AN ILLUSION-PACKED JAW-DROPPER OF A SHOW’ OFFICIAL LONDON THEATRE *Half price ticket for under 16s, up to 2 children’s tickets with one full price paying adult. Premium Bands A - C (Tue -Thu).Impossible is suitable for all ages 6+

‘THIS SHOW DOESN’T MISS A TRICK!’ THE DAILY TELEGRAPH

TUE 9 - SAT 13 FEB Tue - Sat eves 7.30pm Thu & Sat mats 2.30pm C G S Details page 43 TICKETS FROM £12 Online and phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups). Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

SAVE WITH YOUR E Half price opening night and Thu mat, thereafter £5 off midweek performance

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‘EXTRAORDINARY. DAZZLING. MASTERFUL’ SUNDAY EXPRESS

★★★★★ ★★★★★ SCOTTISH HERALD

‘WONDERFUL. BOURNE’S GOTHIC RE-WRITE. BEGUILING AND TRUE’ THE GUARDIAN

Matthew Bourne’s dazzling production of Sleeping Beauty has won the hearts of thousands and smashed box office records across the UK and the USA since its premiere. New Adventures have revived this new classic in the repertoire to give audiences one more chance to see the final piece in the trio of Tchaikovsky masterpieces. If you loved Nutcracker! and the famous Swan Lake with a menacing all-male ensemble, this production will hopefully become another firm favourite. With sumptuous sets and costumes, evocative lighting and masterly storytelling you will be transported in time from the halcyon days of the late Edwardian era through to the modern day. In a world full of magic, fairies, vampires, love and romance, all bought to life by our uniquely talented dancers - will Princess Aurora ever find her true love again?

Supported using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England

TUE 16 - SAT 20 FEB Tue - Sat eves 7.30pm Wed & Sat mats 2.30pm C G S E Details page 43 TICKETS FROM £10 Online and phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups). Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

SAVE WITH YOUR E £10 off opening night (Prem & A), £5 off Wed & Thu (Prem, A & B)

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‘THE BEST MUSICAL OF THE DECADE!’ SUNDAY TIMES

★★★★★ ‘THE FUNNIEST THING I HAVE EVER SEEN’ KISS FM

★★★★★ SUNDAY TIMES | MAGIC FM | SMOOTH FM | SUNDAY EXPRESS | ABSOLUTE RADIO

MUSIC & LYRICS BY ROBERT LOPEZ & JEFF MARX

BOOK BY BASED ON AN ORIGINAL CONCEPT BY JEFF WHITTY ROBERT LOPEZ & JEFF MARX

This production is given by permission of JOSEF WEINBERGER LTD on behalf of MUSIC THEATRE INTERNATIONAL of New York

Following five years in the West End, sell-out runs worldwide and 2 smash-hit UK tours (packed with mischief, bad behaviour and political incorrectness), Avenue Q is hitting the road again in 2016! Winner of the Tony Awards ‘Triple Crown’ for Best Musical, Best Score and Best Book, Avenue Q is part flesh, part felt and packed with heart. Created by Jeff Marx and Robert Lopez (co-creator of The Book of Mormon), this hilarious, cheeky and irresistibly entertaining musical is truly like nothing else you have seen!

AVENUEQ WAS AMAZEBALLS FACE STILL HURTS FROM LAUGHING SO MUCH KICKING OURSELVES FOR NOT SEEING IT YEARS AGO! So don’t let your life suck – book your tickets today! www.avenuequk.com @avenuequktour Avenue Q has not been authorised or approved by the Jim Henson Company or Sesame Workshop, which have no responsibility for its content. Suitable for audiences 14+.

MON 22 - SAT 27 FEB Mon - Thu eves 7.30pm Fri 5pm & 8.30pm Sat 2.30pm & 7.30pm C G E Details page 43 TICKETS FROM £10 Online and phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups). Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

SAVE WITH YOUR E Half price opening night (Prem, A - C), £5 off Wed & Thu (Prem, A - C)

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BRITAIN’S GREATEST SONG AND DANCE MAN RETURNS IN A WONDERFUL NEW MUSICAL! BILL KENWRIGHT PRESENTS

‘HE REMAINS A VERY GREAT STAR’ DAILY EXPRESS

THE LONDON PALLADIUM’S ALL-TIME RECORD-BREAKING PERFORMER It’s been seventy years since Glenn Miller vanished over the English Channel as he flew to Paris to entertain the troops during the Second World War. Did he crash? Was he shot down? Will the mystery ever be solved? Brought to the stage in a brand new musical spectacular, is the life, fame and vanishing of America’s most famous big band leader.

FEATURING A SPECTACULAR

16 PIECE ORCHESTRA

PLUS SENSATIONAL PERFORMERS AND DAZZLING CHOREOGRAPHY

PLAYING THE BIG BAND ERA HITS

IN THE MOOD MOONLIGHT SERENADE TUXEDO JUNCTION CHATTANOOGA CHOO CHOO LITTLE BROWN JUG GET HAPPY THE VERY THOUGHT OF YOU PENNSYLVANIA 6-5000 AND MANY, MANY MORE DIRECTED BY BOB TOMSON AND BILL KENWRIGHT CHOREOGRAPHED BY OLIVIER AWARD-WINNER BILL DEAMER DESIGNED BY MARK BAILEY MUSIC PRODUCED BY KEITH STRACHAN MON 29 FEB - SAT 5 MAR Mon - Sat eves 7.30pm Wed, Thu & Sat mats 2.30pm C G S Details page 43

Music legend Tommy Steele, Britain’s first rock n’ roll icon who became our greatest ever song and dance man, commands the stage as only a very great star can in this extraordinary tale of the world’s most famous big band leader, featuring a spectacular 16 piece orchestra plus a full supporting company of sensational performers and dazzling choreography. Tommy’s legendary career boasts countless hit singles, Hollywood movie hits and award-winning stage musical hits such as Half a Sixpence, Hans Andersen and Singin’ in the Rain at the London Palladium, where he was recently honoured with a prestigious plaque celebrating the fact that he remains the theatre’s most successful ever star.

TICKETS FROM £12 Online and phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups). Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

SAVE WITH YOUR E £10 off opening night (Prem, A & B), £5 off all other perfs excl. Fri/Sat eve (A - B)

atgtickets.com/theatrecard 15

STARRING

LESLEY JOSEPH ‘A CRACKING NEW PRODUCTION’ (NEWCASTLE CHRONICLE) of Annie, the world’s favourite family musical, comes to Liverpool for one week only, starring Birds of a Feather’s Lesley Joseph as the tyrannical Miss Hannigan! Set in 1930s New York during The Great Depression, brave young Annie is forced to live a life of misery and torment at Miss Hannigan’s orphanage. Determined to find her real parents, her luck changes when she is chosen to spend Christmas at the residence of famous billionaire, Oliver Warbucks. Spiteful Miss Hannigan has other ideas and hatches a plan to spoil Annie’s search. With its award winning book and score, this stunning musical ‘PULLS OUT ALL THE STOPS’ (THE NORTHERN ECHO) and includes the unforgettable songs Hard Knock Life, Easy Street, I Don’t Need Anything But You and Tomorrow. ‘A SHOW NO ONE SHOULD MISS’ (DAILY POST)

YOU CAN BET YOUR BOTTOM DOLLAR THAT YOU’LL LOVE IT! 16

MON 7 - SAT 12 MAR Mon - Sat eves 7.30pm Wed & Sat mats 2.30pm SENIORS SPECIAL £25 (Bands A - C, Wed mat) G F S E Details page 43 TICKETS FROM £10 Online and phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups). Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

SAVE WITH YOUR E £10 off opening night, £5 off Tue - Thu (Prem, A & B)

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OPERA AND BALLET INTERNATIONAL PRESENT TWO ELLEN KENT PRODUCTIONS WITH INTERNATIONAL SOLOISTS, A HIGHLY PRAISED CHORUS AND FULL ORCHESTRA

‘IMPASSIONED AND SULTRY’

THE OBSERVER (ON CARMEN)

‘HOT-BLOODED, A JOY’ THE INDEPENDENT (ON CARMEN)

‘BRILLIANTLY SUNG’

THE TIMES, ROYAL ALBERT HALL (ON TOSCA)

BIZET CARMEN

STARRING THE CRITICALLY ACCLAIMED ROMANIAN MEZZO LIZA KADELNIK* One of the most famous and seductive operas of all time, Bizet’s irresistibly emotional Carmen guarantees an evening of passion and romance. With an impressive horse-show, this dazzling production features Bizet’s unforgettable melodies including the best known baritone aria of all, The Toreador’s Song. The brand new set reflects the stunning architecture of Seville and its main square with Roman and Moorish influences. Featuring a rescue donkey.

TUE 22 - WED 23 MAR Tosca Tue 7.30pm Carmen Wed 7.30pm

SUNG IN FRENCH WITH ENGLISH SURTITLES. HORSE SUPPLIED BY ABFILMS

PUCCINI TOSCA

STARRING THE INTERNATIONAL SOPRANOS MARIA TONINA AND ALYONA KISTENYOVA* This traditional production is a heady mixture of true love, torture and treachery, with two of the best roles for tenor and soprano, plus a truly blood curdling villain. A magnificent new set with towering marble pillars, with fabulous costumes, and featuring a boys’ choir with a shepherd boy’s solo, this most popular of operas is sure to delight with its tender, moving arias Vissi d’arte and E Lucevan le Stelle. SUNG IN ITALIAN WITH ENGLISH SURTITLES *Cast subject to change

C G S Details page 43 TICKETS FROM £10 Online and phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups). Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

SAVE WITH YOUR E £5 off (Prem & A)

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GUYS AND DOLLS BRISTOL LEADING Direct from the Savoy Theatre in London’s West End, this highly-acclaimed and ‘EXHILARATING’ (THE GUARDIAN) production hailed as ‘THE GREATEST GOLDEN-AGE MUSICAL OF THEM ALL’ (THE TIMES) heads to Liverpool. The sizzling New York tale of gamblers, gangsters and nightclub singers will leave you ‘WALKING ON AIR’ (DAILY TELEGRAPH) with a glorious evening featuring some of Broadway’s greatest show-stopping tunes, including Luck be a Lady, Sit Down You’re Rockin’ the Boat and My Time of Day. With dazzling choreography by world-renowned Cuban ballet star Carlos Acosta and Andrew Wright (Singin’ In the Rain and Barnum), and direction from New York’s Gordon Greenberg, this ‘PRODUCTION LEAVES THE WHOLE AUDIENCE PURRING WITH PLEASURE’ (THE TIMES). Don’t leave it to lady luck! Guys and Dolls plays at the Liverpool Empire for 6 performances only. Book now!

WED 16 - SAT 19 MAR Eves 7.30pm Thu & Sat mats 2.30pm C G S E Details page 43 TICKETS FROM £10 Online and phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups). Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

SAVE WITH YOUR E £10 off Wed eve (Prem, A & B), thereafter £5 off Thu & Fri (Prem, A & B)

atgtickets.com/theatrecard Chichester Festival Theatre production photography by Johan Persson

HISTORY WITH THE NASTY BITS LEFT IN!

We all want to meet people from history. The trouble is everyone is dead! So it’s time to prepare yourselves for Horrible Histories Live On Stage. Using actors and 3D special effects, these two world premieres are guaranteed to thrill you and your children. Historical figures and events will come alive on stage and hover at your fingertips.

GROOVY GREEKS From savage Sparta to angry Athens, discover the truth about growing up in Greece. Take on the Trojans and pummel the Persians! Compete in the first ever Olympic Games and appear in the very first play. Meet your match with the Minotaur and be zapped by Zeus!

INCREDIBLE INVADERS The Celts are crunched when the Ruthless Romans invade Britain. Can crazy Caratacus save the nation? Hide behind Hadrian’s Wall. See the Savage Saxons smash their way in. Find out who’s at Sutton Hoo. Will you survive the Vicious Vikings as they sail into the audience? Stop King Alfred burning his buns!

WED 30 MAR - SAT 2 APR Groovy Greeks Wed 2pm, Thu 2pm, Fri 7pm, Sat 10.30am Incredible Invaders Wed 7pm, Thu 10.30am, Sat 2.30pm C G F S E Details page 43 TICKETS FROM £10 Online and phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups). Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

SAVE WITH YOUR E £10 off opening night (A)

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THE LEGEND LIVES ON! PAUL WALDEN & DEREK NICOL FOR FLYING MUSIC IN ASSOCIATION WITH ADRIAN GRANT FOR KEY CONCERTS PRESENT

★★★★

‘A TOTAL BLAST. THE STAGING AND CONSTANT BRILLIANCE OF THE MUSICIANS KEEP US RIVETED. A WONDERFUL SHOW’ WHATSONSTAGE.COM

★★★★ ‘YOU CAN’T BEAT IT!’

EVENING STANDARD

‘IMMENSELY ENJOYABLE’ THE INDEPENDENT

Direct from London’s West End where it is now in its record breaking 7th year, Thriller Live is a spectacular concert created to celebrate the career of the world’s greatest entertainer. Seen by over 3 million people in 30 countries, Thriller Live continues to moonwalk around the world, taking you on a visual, audio and electrifying journey through the magic of Michael’s 45 year musical history. Experience over two hours of non-stop hits from pop to rock, soul to disco in a show that pays homage to Jackson’s legendary live performances and innovative dance moves executed with flair, precision and passion in a show that you will never forget. Expect your favourite songs delivered by an exceptionally talented cast and band, 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, Bad, Rock With You, They Don’t Care About Us, Dangerous, Heal The World and Thriller, plus many more! Photo of previous cast member

MON 11 - SAT 16 APR Mon - Fri eves 7.30pm Sat 4pm & 8pm C G E B Details page 43 TICKETS FROM £10 Online and phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups). Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

SAVE WITH YOUR E £10 off Mon - Wed (A - C)

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THE NATION’S FAVOURITESTRICTLY COME DANCING STARS IN THEIR ULTIMATE FAREWELL SHOW

★★★★★ ★★★★★ SUNDAY EXPRESS

SMOOTH RADIO

Fresh from their sell-out hit shows Midnight Tango and Dance ’Til Dawn, Strictly superstars Vincent Simone and Flavia Cacace have created their most moving production yet as they prepare to dance in their final ever theatre tour. Twenty years of dancing together has seen them become Strictly Come Dancing favourites, World Dance title-holders, create and star in their own West End productions - but now it is finally time for the nation’s best loved Argentine Tango Champions to say goodbye to the stage in a thrilling new live performance. Don’t miss your last chance to see this beautiful couple do what they do best live, in an intimate, passionate and explosive experience - it’s time for The Last Tango.

‘STAR PRESENCE AND POISEDANCED WITH EXUBERANT DELIGHT’ THE INDEPENDENT

Photo by Hugo Glendinning. *Reviews from Midnight Tango and Dance ’Til Dawn.

‘A TRIUMPH’ DAILY TELEGRAPH*

MON 4 - WED 6 APR Mon - Wed eves 7.30pm Wed mat 2.30pm C G E Details page 43 TICKETS FROM £10 Online and phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups). Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

SAVE WITH YOUR E Half price opening night, thereafter £6 off (Prem, A - B)

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A SPECTACULAR SHOWCASE OF LOCAL TALENT

PEPPA IS BACK IN HER BRAND NEW SHOW!

LIVERPOOL EMPIRE CREATIVE LEARNING PRESENTS

The Liverpool Empire Creative Learning team is proud to present its bi-annual showcase - Showstoppers 2016! This exciting production is packed with talent, involving up to 100 adults and young people from the local community and dance schools including the Liverpool Empire Youth Musical Theatre Company, Junior Youth Theatre, Mini Musical Stars and Mature Movers. Showstoppers features sections from some of the most popular musicals of all-time, and with the same creative team as Liverpool Empire Youth Theatre Legally Blonde and Sister Act, it’s set to be a sensational production, filled with show-stopping numbers!

MON 18 - TUE 19 APR Eves 7.30pm G B Details page 43

Surprise! Peppa Pig, George and their friends are back in Liverpool in a brand new live stage show. It’s a lovely day and Peppa is playing outside with her friends. Mummy Pig and Daddy Pig have got a surprise for her and George can you guess what it is? Enjoy fun, games and of course, surprises in this charming, colourful new show with new songs and new life size puppets, Peppa Pig’s Surprise promises to be the perfect theatre show for all pre-schoolers!

TICKETS FROM £13.25

EARLY BOOKING OFFER £1.50 off if booked

Online and phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups). Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

SAT 28 - SUN 29 MAY Sat 1pm & 4pm Sun 10am & 1pm

and paid for by 19 Mar 2016

SAVE WITH YOUR E £1.50 off

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C G F E Details page 43 TICKETS FROM £15.25 Online and phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups). Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

THE WORLD’S FAVOURITE MURDER MYSTERY

STARRING

‘THE CLEVEREST MURDER MYSTERY OF BRITISH THEATRE’ THE TELEGRAPH

‘A TRULY ENTERTAINING CLASSIC THRILLER’ THE SUNDAY TIMES

‘DESERVEDLY A CLASSIC AMONG MURDER THRILLERS’ THE OBSERVER

The Mousetrap is famous around the world for being the longest running show of any kind in the history of theatre, with over 25,000 performances. This record-breaking 60th anniversary production is back by popular demand in 2016 starring Louise Jameson (Doctor Who, EastEnders, Doc Martin) as Mrs Boyle. The scene is set when a group of people gathered in a country house cut off by the snow discover, to their horror, that there is a murderer in their midst. Who can it be? One by one the suspicious characters reveal their sordid pasts until at the last, nerveshredding moment the identity and the motive are finally revealed. In her own inimitable style, Dame Agatha Christie has created an atmosphere of shuddering suspense and a brilliantly intricate plot where murder lurks around every corner. www.MousetrapOnTour.com

THU 21 - SAT 23 APR Thu - Sat eves 7.30pm Sat mat 2.30pm C G S E Details page 43 TICKETS FROM £10 Online and phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups). Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

SAVE WITH YOUR E £10 off Thu eve & Sat mat (Prem, A & B)

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PORTSMOUTH NEWS

SOUTHERN DAILY ECHO

HEART | MAGIC FM The Bodyguard, the award-winning musical based on the blockbuster film, is heading to Liverpool in 2016 starring threetime Brit nominee and X-Factor winner, Alexandra Burke* as Rachel Marron. Direct from its smash-hit West End run, the show is coming to the Liverpool Empire for 2 weeks only! Former Secret Service agent turned bodyguard, Frank Farmer, is hired to protect superstar Rachel Marron from an unknown stalker. Each expects to be in charge - what they don’t expect is to fall in love. A ‘BRILLIANT!’ (THE TIMES), breathtakingly romantic thriller, The Bodyguard features a whole host of Whitney Houston’s greatest hits including Queen Of The Night, So Emotional, One Moment In Time, Saving All My Love, Run To You, I Have Nothing, Jesus Loves Me, I Wanna Dance With Somebody and one of the greatest hit songs of all time - I Will Always Love You.

★★★★ ★★★★ ★★★★

‘STUNNING’ ‘BRILLIANT’ ‘HEAVENLY’ THE EXPRESS

THE TIMES

EVENING STANDARD

*Alexandra Burke is not scheduled to perform at midweek or Saturday matinees including any revised matinee performances. The producers of The Bodyguard cannot guarantee the appearance of any particular artist, which is always subject to illness and holidays. Please check website for full performance schedule.

TUE 26 APR - SAT 7 MAY Mon - Sat eves 7.30pm Wed & Sat mats 2.30pm Thu 28 Apr mat 2.30pm C G S E Details page 43 TICKETS FROM £10 Online and phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups). Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

SAVE WITH YOUR E £10 off opening night and Wed 27 Apr (Prem, A - C), £5 off Mon - Thu (A - B)

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THE LEGENDARY 80S MUSICAL SENSATION RETURNS

★★★★

‘IT’S A BLAST’ METRO

★★★★

‘OUTSTANDING’ BIRMINGHAM MAIL

@FOOTLOOSETOUR Everybody Cut Loose as the explosive Rock ’n’ Roll musical Footloose bursts on to the stage in 2016. Based on the 1980s riveting screen sensation, which took the world by storm with its youthful spirit, dazzling dance and electrifying music, Footloose tells the story of city boy Ren who has to move to a rural backwater in America where dancing is banned. All hell breaks out as Ren breaks loose and soon has the whole town up on its feet. With a dynamic cast, this fast-paced show is not only packed full of amazing dance but serves up some classic 80s hits, including Holding Out for a Hero, Almost Paradise, Let’s Hear It for the Boy and of course the unforgettable title track Footloose. This four-time Tony Award nominee musical is not to be missed. Produced by David Hutchinson and Phillip Rowntree for Sell A Door Theatre Company and Tristan Baker and Charlie Parsons for Runaway Entertainment. It is presented by arrangement with R&H Theatricals Europe.

‘THE HAPPIEST, MOST ELECTRIFYING HIT SHOW - GO NOW’ SKY NEWS

(All reviews from previous tour)

MON 9 - SAT 14 MAY Mon - Sat eves 7.30pm Wed & Sat mats 2.30pm SENIOR SPECIAL Wed 11 May mat £20 Band A C G F S E Details page 43 TICKETS FROM £12 Online and phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups). Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

SAVE WITH YOUR E Half price opening night and Tue, £5 off midweek perfs

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WORLD PREMIERE

‘DAWSON SHOWS HIS SOPHISTICATION OF CRAFT, HIS EYE FOR BEAUTY AND HIS ABILITY TO GIVE BALLET A CONTEMPORARY RESONANCE’ NEW YORK TIMES ON DAVID DAWSON

‘A COMPANY OF REMARKABLE VERSATILITY AND INTERNATIONAL STATURE’ THE TIMES ON SCOTTISH BALLET Scottish Ballet’s breathtaking production of Swan Lake is set to enchant a whole new generation with an imaginative re-telling of the timeless tale.

WED 1 - SAT 4 JUN Wed - Sat eves 7.30pm Thu & Sat mats 2.30pm

Swan Lake portrays the love story of Siegfried and the beautiful swan queen Odette. As fate has it, Siegfried betrays Odette as he mistakenly declares his love for Odile, the dark seductress. Eventually Odette forgives Siegfried, but the trust between them has been broken and Siegfried is forced to face life without her forever.

TICKETS FROM £12

Choreographed by the award-winning British dance maker David Dawson, Swan Lake will demonstrate his visceral and daring work which has made him one of the most innovative dance makers working in classical ballet today.

SAVE WITH YOUR

With ethereal and stylish sets and costumes, and Tchaikovsky’s iconic score performed by the Scottish Ballet Orchestra, don’t miss the award-winning Company’s first ever performance in Liverpool.

C G F S E Details page 43 Online and phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups). Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

E Half price opening night, thereafter £7 off excl. Thu mat & Sat eve (A - C)

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FROM THE TEAM THAT BROUGHT YOU DREAMBOATS & PETTICOATS

THE GREATEST SUMMER HOLIDAY OF THEIR LIVES!

BILL KENWRIGHT AND LAURIE MANSFIELD PRESENT

SAVE THE LAST DANCE FOR ME BY LAURENCE MARKS & MAURICE GRAN FEATURING THE CLASSIC HITS OF DOC POMUS AND MORT SHUMAN

A TEENAGER IN LOVE, HIS LATEST FLAME, VIVA LAS VEGAS, HERE I GO AGAIN, SUSPICION, SAVE THE LAST DANCE FOR ME AND MANY MORE

Save the Last Dance for Me will take you back through the ‘music and magic’ of the early 60s, a time when each passing week brought another Rock ‘n’ Roll classic. This nostalgic, feel-good journey will transport you back to music’s golden era as we follow two teenage sisters through the summer of ’63. For the first time without their parents the sisters embark on a holiday to the seaside. Full of freedom and high spirits they meet a handsome young American who invites them to a dance at the local U.S. Air Force base. But young love and holiday romance is never as simple as it sounds, and the sisters soon realise that while the world around them is still watching itself in black and white, life and love can be much more colourful.

‘A FEEL-GOOD ‘JUKEBOX’ MUSICAL DELIVERED IN RIP-ROARING STYLE’ THE TELEGRAPH

Photos include previous cast

MON 6 - SAT 11 JUN Mon - Sat eves 7.30pm Wed & Sat mats 2.30pm C G S Details page 43 TICKETS FROM £12 Online and phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups). Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

SAVE WITH YOUR E Half price opening night (Prem, A & B), thereafter £5 off Tue - Thu (A & B)

atgtickets.com/theatrecard

THE GREATEST HITS OF THE 30s, 40s & 50s

PACKED WITH 70s HITS

Jackie ® © DC Thomson & Co. Ltd. 2016

FROM THE PRODUCERS OF PUTTIN’ ON THE RITZ The sell out smash hit That’s Entertainment is a dazzling song and dance extravaganza paying homage to the greatest composers of our time including music by Lerner and Loewe, Rodgers and Hammerstein, as well as Irving Berlin and Cole Porter from films such as High Society, Singin’ in the Rain, Some Like it Hot, South Pacific and many more. With glorious costumes, sumptuous music and an award-winning cast of singers and dancers, this is sure to be the feel good show of the summer.

EXCITING STAR CAST TO BE ANNOUNCED SOON!

Once there was a time with no mobiles, no online dating and no Facebook, when teenage girls waited with bated breath for their weekly issue of Jackie Magazine. In Jackie The Musical we revisit those heady days, and tell the story of a recent divorcée who seeks advice once more from the pages of her old Jackie annuals. Starring Janet Dibley, Olivier Award nominee Graham Bickley (Ragtime, Bread) and Nicholas Bailey (EastEnders), Jackie The Musical features a pulsating sound track of 70s hits. Thrill once more to the unmistakable sounds of pop idols Donny Osmond, David Cassidy and more. Written by Mike James, directed by Anna Linstrum, with original choreography by Arlene Phillips.

TUE 14 - SAT 18 JUN Tue - Sat eves 7.30pm Wed & Sat mats 2.30pm

TUE 28 JUN - SAT 2 JUL Tue - Sat eves 7.30pm Wed & Sat mats 2.30pm

G S Details page 43

G F S E Details page 43

TICKETS FROM £12

Online and phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups). Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

STARRING

JANET DIBLEY SAVE WITH YOUR E Half price opening night (Prem, A & B), thereafter £5 off Wed - Fri

atgtickets.com/theatrecard

(The Two of Us, EastEnders, Fat Friends) Age guidance 12+ Running time 2 hours, 15 mins including interval

SAVE WITH YOUR E Half price opening night. £5 off all midweek performances

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LET THE MEMORY LIVE AGAIN

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s record-breaking 2015 Olivier award nominated musical Cats returns to Liverpool, direct from its sell-out seasons at the London Palladium. Adapted from TS Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats, this ‘GROUNDBREAKING MUSICAL’ (DAILY EXPRESS) is set on the night that the Jellicle Cats meet for the Jellicle Ball and comes together in a sparkling fusion of music, dance and verse. With ‘TIMELESS MUSIC, SPECTACULAR SETS AND A SUPERB CAST’ (DAILY MIRROR), breathtaking choreography and of course the unforgettable Memory, Cats is a magical musical like no other. Let Cats thrill you once again, but don’t miss out on a seat - act fast and book your tickets today! ‘IT’S THE CAT’S WHISKERS’ (THE TIMES).

MON 11 - SAT 16 JUL Mon - Sat eves 7.30pm Wed & Sat mats 2.30pm SENIOR SPECIAL Best available seats for £25 on Wed mat C G E E Details page 43 TICKETS FROM £15 Online and phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups). Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

SAVE WITH YOUR E £10 off Mon & Tue (Prem, A & B), £5 off Wed & Thu (A & B)

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SING OUT AND DANCE FOR THE ALL NEW PRODUCTION

The smash hit musical comedy returns to the UK with a brand new production. Directed and choreographed by Craig Revel Horwood, Sister Act is the feelamazing musical comedy based on the smash hit movie starring Whoopi Goldberg and Maggie Smith. Featuring original music by Tony® and 8-time Oscar® winner Alan Menken (Disney’s Aladdin, Beauty and the Beast, Newsies, Enchanted), dazzling dance routines and songs inspired by Motown, Soul and Disco, Sister Act is the funniest and funkiest musical around.

PAY BY THU 31 DEC 2015 FOR EARLYBIRD DISCOUNT*

MON 10 - SAT 15 OCT Mon - Sat eves 7.30pm Wed & Sat mats 2.30pm C G S E B Details page 43 TICKETS FROM £10 Online and phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups). Per ticket booking fees may also apply.

SAVE WITH YOUR E £10 off opening night (Prem, A) £5 off Tue & Wed (Prem, A & B)

atgtickets.com/theatrecard Restrictions apply

E N H A N C E YO U R V I S I T WI T H A D R I N K I N O U R S P E C TACU L A R P I A N O B A R , A R E L A XI N G E N V I R O N M E N T WI T H FA N TA S T I C V I E W S O F T H E C I T Y Photography by Ben Fisher

LIVERPOOL EMPIRE PROUDLY SUPPORTS ThIS LIVERPOOL APP

E DOWNLOAD THE FPRPE ThIS Liverpool A DINING REDEEM EXCLUSIVE TODAY RS FE & SHOPPING OF

★★★★★

‘LOVING THIS APP!’ ANDROID USER

★★★★★

‘ONE OF CITY’S BEST’ LIVERPOOL ECHO

★★★★★ ★★★★ ‘BRILLIANT APP!’ IPHONE USER

‘GREAT OFFERS!’ IPHONE USER

DON’T MISS LIVERPOOL’S LATEST BLOCKBUSTER Get the ThIS Liverpool app and enjoy show-stopping offers and events galore in the city centre. From award-winning independent boutiques to High Street fashion favourites, cosy cafés to high class restaurants, Liverpool city centre has it all. And with ThIS Liverpool app you’ll enjoy the best it has to offer. Plus discover what’s on in the city centre with its events and trails. Available for Android and iPhone users. Download for FREE today!

THISLIVERPOOL.COM

Featuring: Independents

BOLD STREET CAVERN QUARTER Bargains

ST JOHN’S CLAYTON HQ Boutiques

METQUARTER CAVERN WALKS

High Street

CHURCH STREET LORD STREET Eateries

CASTLE STREET QUEEN SQUARE BOND STREET EXCHANGE FLAGS Theatre

LIVERPOOL EMPIRE

SPECIAL EVENTS THE SIMON AND GARFUNKEL STORY

CIRCUS OF HORRORS

50TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR FRI 8 JAN 7.30pm C G ATG THEATRE CARD £3 off Direct from London’s West End and using huge projection photos and film footage, this 50th Anniversary Celebration features all the hits including Mrs Robinson, Cecilia, Homeward Bound and many more.

ABBA MANIA SAT 9 JAN 7.30pm C ATG THEATRE CARD £2 off If you’re looking for an excuse to party, reminisce or simply be entertained by the best music ever, then ABBA MANIA is for you! So dig out those platforms, dust down those flares, join in and enjoy all of your favourites including: Mamma Mia, Voulez Vous, Dancing Queen, Super Trouper and many more.

LEONA LEWIS

MOTOWN’S GREATEST HITS

SUN 21 FEB 7.30pm Since her a meteoric rise to global fame, Leona’s incredible voice has captivated millions of people across the world. Performing tracks taken from her brand new album as well as some her biggest hits including; Bleeding Love, Run, Better In Time and Happy.

WED 13 JAN 7.30pm C B ATG THEATRE CARD £3 off ‘Welcome to the Carnevil’ The story twists and turns with grisly murders and sensational shocks all interwoven with some of the greatest and most bizarre circus acts on earth, performed by an almighty cast with a forked tongue firmly in each cheek and the devil drivern rock ‘n’ roll of Dr Haze & The Interceptors from Hell.

HOW SWEET IT IS

SAT 26 MAR 7.30pm C G ATG THEATRE CARD £1 off

JOHNNY CASH ROADSHOW FRI 25 MAR 7.30pm G ATG THEATRE CARD £4 off

Now in its 14th successive year, this stunning 100% live show combines first class music together with the slickest choreography, and an amazing band, to deliver a truly outstanding performance.

The only show to be endorsed by the Cash family! Featuring Clive John, introducing the Carter Sisters and brass section the JC Horns accompanied by emotive screen visuals. This is simply the best celebration of Johnny Cash in the world.

atgtickets.com/liverpool (Bkg/trns fees apply) Online and phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 or £4; events with an * carry a 1% per tickets booking charge when booking by credit or debit card in person.

SPECIAL EVENTS ILLEGAL EAGLES

ONE NIGHT OF ROCK

THU 7 APR 7.30pm C G ATG THEATRE CARD £5 off

SAT 9 APR 7.30pm C G ATG THEATRE CARD £2 off

The World’s Official No.1 Eagles tribute continue to amaze crowds everywhere. The Illegal Eagles’ ability to capture the emotion of Henley’s vocal deliveries have won mass audience acclaim. Featuring classics - Hotel California, Take It Easy, Take it to the Limit, Lyin’ Eyes, and many more!

Four frontmen, a superb band and an awesome laser show bring you 48 air-punching anthems from: Bon Jovi, Queen, Led Zep, Meat Loaf, Guns n Roses, Iron Maiden, The Stones, Who, AC/DC, Quo, Dire Straits, Hendrix, Whitesnake and more.

A VISION OF ELVIS FRI 8 APR 7.30pm C G B ATG THEATRE CARD £2 off The award winning, Rob Kingsley and his spectacular live 10 piece band, this show leaves the audience in no doubt that they are witnessing a truly authentic Elvis show. So if you’re looking for an excuse to party, reminisce or simply be entertained by some of the best music ever, then A Vision Of Elvis is definitely for you!

BARRY STEELE AND FRIENDS

AN EVENING WITH GORDON LIGHTFOOT

TUE 17 MAY 7.30pm ATG THEATRE CARD £2 off

Featuring his well known hits as well as some deep album cuts for the die-hard fanatics, all of which are woven together with some of Lightfoot’s own behind the scenes stories and personal anecdotes about his 50 year career.

THE ORBISON STORY Recognised as one of the world’s leading tributes to legend Roy Orbison, Barry Steele stuns audiences with his uncanny ability to recreate the exquisite sounds of this musical giant, as he and his guests celebrate the Big O’s 80th Birthday.

FRI 20 MAY 8pm

ONE NIGHT OF QUEEN THU 19 MAY 7.30pm C G ATG THEATRE CARD £2 off In 2000, Gary Mullen won ITV’s Stars In Their Eyes Live Grand Final, with the largest number of votes ever received. Since May 2002, Gary Mullen & The Works have performed throughout the world to sell-out audiences. This show will rock you!

www.easytheatres.com

MENOPAUSE THE MUSICAL

THE HILARIOUS CELEBRATION OF WOMEN AND ‘THE CHANGE’ WED 18 MAY 7.30pm C G ATG THEATRE CARD £4.50 off STARRING LINDA NOLAN The hysterical and uplifting show is heading on another tour this Spring. Packed full of one-liners about hot flushes and memory loss backed by an instantly recognisable soundtrack of parody versions of pop classics.

SOUL LEGENDS SAT 21 MAY 7.30pm C G ATG THEATRE CARD £2 off Special guest George McCrae performs his No.1 hits Rock Your Baby, I Can’t Leave You Alone and more. A huge cast of singers and musicians perform Aretha Franklin, James Brown, Michael Jackson, Tina Turner, Lionel Richie & Barry White hits. ‘EXCELLENT MUSICIANS. GENUINE STAR QUALITY’ LIVERPOOL ECHO

This all-singing, all-dancing comedy is set in a department store, where four women with seemingly nothing in common meet by chance at a lingerie sale.

ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER AND DON BLACK’S WEST END & BROADWAY HIT STARRING JODIE PRENGER

THE DREAMBOYS

TELL ME ON A SUNDAY

If you’re looking for the very best girls night out in the UK, look no further than these incredible stripping hunks. An action packed 2 hour show, these boys will literally have you begging for more! A night full of music, muscle, magic and mayhem that will leave you breathless which you simply cannot afford to miss!

MON 23 MAY 7.30pm C G ATG THEATRE CARD £2 off Following her acclaimed performance in the Watermill Theatre’s 2014 production of Calamity Jane, Jodie Prenger now steps into Andrew Lloyd Webber and Don Black’s classic musical, Tell Me on a Sunday. Charting the romantic misadventures of an English girl in New York during the heady days of the 1980s, this iconic musical features a wonderful original score including the chart-topping Take That Look Off Your Face.

THU 26 MAY 7.30pm ATG THEATRE CARD £3 off G

ORGANISE A GROUP AND RECEIVE HUGE SAVINGS

Reserve now, pay later (no deposit required) Avoid booking and transaction fees on most shows Tickets posted to your door at no extra charge Receive brochures and emails for upcoming shows and events Pre ordering of discounted ice creams & confectionery

Here’s a selection of some of the fantastic group discounts we offer for our shows. Call our dedicated and friendly venue-based sales team on 0844 871 3037 (Mon - Fri, 10am - 6pm) or visit atgtickets.com/groups

MATTHEW BOURNE’S SLEEPING BEAUTY

TUE 16 - SAT 20 FEB Groups 6+ £5 off Bands A - B Groups 20+ £6 off Bands A - B, plus 1 in 10 free Groups 40+ £7 off Bands A - B, plus 1 in 10 free

Students (6th form onwards) Tue/Wed eves £15.50 (Band B) £9 (Band C)

ANNIE

MON 7 - SAT 12 MAR Groups 10+ £5 off Bands A - C Groups 20+ £6 off Bands A - C Groups 50+ £7 off Bands A - C Schools Groups Wed mat/Wed eve £19.25, plus 1 teacher free for every 10 booked (circle only). No concessions available Fri/Sat performances

GUYS AND DOLLS

WED 16 - SAT 19 MAR Groups 10+ £5 off Bands A - B plus 1 free ticket Groups 20+ £6 off Bands A - B plus 1 free ticket Groups 40+ £7 off Bands A - B plus 1 free ticket

THE LAST TANGO

MON 4 - WED 6 APR Groups 10+ £5 off Bands A - B Groups 20+ £5 off Bands A - B, plus 1 in 20 free

Excluding Fri/Sat both performances.

School Groups Tue - Thu eves, £14 plus 1 teacher free for every 10 booked, Bands B - E. Wed mat £12.50 plus 1 teacher free for every 10 booked, Bands B - E

AVENUE Q

MON 22 - SAT 27 FEB Groups 10+ £5 off Bands A - B, plus 1 free ticket Groups 20+ £6 off Bands A - B, plus 2 free tickets Excludes Mon/Fri late and Sat both performances.

THRILLER LIVE

MON 11 - SAT 16 APR Groups 10+ £7.50 off Bands A - B Groups 20+ £9.50 off Bands A- B

THE MOUSETRAP

THU 21 - SAT 23 APR Groups 10+ Band A tickets £20, Band B tickets £15 (excl Sat evening) Schools Groups Band A tickets for £15, Band B - D tickets for £10, plus 1 free teacher for every 10 booked Excludes Sat both performances

THE BODYGUARD

TUE 26 APR - SAT 7 MAY Groups 10+ £5 off Bands A- C Groups 20+ £6 off Bands A- C Groups 40+ £7 off Bands A- C, plus 2 free tickets in every 40 booked (excludes Fri/Sat) School Groups Mon/Tue eves and Wed/Thu mats only, £17, plus 1 teacher free for every 10 booked Bands C - D only

FOOTLOOSE

MON 9 - SAT 14 MAY Groups 10+ Band A tickets £29.50 including a variety box (worth £6), Band B tickets £25 including a variety box each. Band C tickets £15. School Groups 10+ Band C/D seats £10, plus 1 teacher in every 10 booked

Excl Fri & Sat performances

ENHANCE YOUR VISIT WITH

A MBA SSA D O R EX P ER I EN CE GROUP DISCOUNTS SEE PAGE 38

RED PACKAGE NORMALLY £15 GROUP RATE £10 PURPLE PACKAGE NORMALLY £45 GROUP RATE £40 VARIETY BOXES BLUE LABEL NORMALLY £15 GROUP RATE £13 YELLOW LABEL £25

BOOK NOW FOR PRE-THEATRE OFFERS 2 COURSES FOR ÂŁ12.95* KIDS EAT FREE AT DICK WHITTINGTON *

limestbistro@theambassadors.com 0151 702 7354 atgtickets.com/limestbistro EMPIRE THEATRE LIME STREET LIVERPOOL L1 1JE *Terms and conditions apply, subject to availability, see website for info.

GREEN L ABEL A DRINK AT THE BAR* BLUE L ABEL

THE AMBASSADOR EXPERIENCE

A DRINK AT THE BAR*

BE S T £5 VA L UE BE S T £15 VA L UE

VARIETY BOX which includes: BOTTLE OF WINE (187ml) or WATER (330ml) CORKERS CRISPS CADBURY BUTTONS BEECHDEAN ICE-CREAM†

T H E A M B A S S A D O R T H E AT R E G R O U P I S P R O U D T O O F F E R A N E XC I T I N G

A HOUSE PROGRAMME (or theatre gift if not available)

R A N G E O F B E S P O K E PAC K AG E S T O YO U, O U R T H E AT R E G O E R .

YELLOW L ABEL

THE A MBASSADOR EXPERIENCE

A HALF BOTTLE OF CHILLED PERRIER JOUET CHAMPAGNE

G I V E S YO U T H E O P P O R T U N I T Y T O M A K E YO U R E V E N I N G AT

BE S T £2 5 VA L UE

A DELICIOUS BOX OF CHOCOLATES

T H E T H E AT R E E V E N M O R E SPECIAL AND REL A XING BY O R D E R I N G I N A DVA N C E . LU X U R Y, S T Y L E A N D S E R V I C E. RED L ABEL

B O O K N OW AT T H E B OX O F F I C E

0844 871 3017

WELCOME DRINK

W W W. AT G T I C K E T S .C O M /

SAVOURY SNACKS

A MBASSADOREXPERIENCE

CLOAKROOM PURPLE L ABEL ENTRY TO THE AMBASSADOR LOUNGE HALF A BOTTLE OF CHILLED PERRIER JOUET CHAMPAGNE A DELICIOUS BOX OF CHOCOLATES A HOUSE PROGRAMME (or theatre gift if not available) SAVOURY SNACKS CLOAKROOM *Glass of house wine (175ml) House spirit and mixer †

£15

ENTRY TO THE AMBASSADOR LOUNGE

Only in Variety Boxes with water

£45

D O YO U WA N T T O B E A S TA R F O R T H E N I G H T ?

YO U W I L L H AV E G UA R A N T E E D TA B L E

T H E L I V E R P O O L E M P I R E T H E AT R E I S

SERVICE BY A HOST WHO WILL BE ON

DELIGHTED TO OFFER A SPECIAL RANGE OF

H A N D T O C AT E R T O YO U R E V E R Y N E E D.

PAC K AG E S F O R O U R C U S T O M E R S I N T H E AMBASSADOR LOUNGE . PA M P E R YO U R S E L F W I T H A L L T H E L U X U R Y AND GL AMOUR OF THE RED L ABEL AND P U R P L E L A B E L PAC K AG E S . YO U W I L L B E O N

G O O N S P O I L YO U R S E L F ! I F YO U W O U L D L I K E T O B O O K A N Y O F T H E A M B A S S A D O R PAC K AG E S P L E A S E C A L L 08 4 4 87 1 3017.

T H E E XC LU S I V E G U E S T L I S T A N D E S C O R T E D T O T H E A M B A S S A D O R L O U N G E O N A R R I VA L .

Photography by Brian Slater

THE MAGIC OF THEATRE DOESNâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T END WHEN THE CURTAIN FALLS!

GET INVOLVED Liverpool Empire Theatre can do more than just what appears on the stage; we have an active and forward thinking Creative Learning Department who proactively strive to generate educational opportunities for local people to engage creatively with the theatre and the performing arts. We regularly work with schools, colleges and universities from Liverpool and surrounding areas, educating and inspiring the local community through theatre.

Here are just some of the activities we can offer: Show-related workshops Theatrical workshops Theatre Tours Theatre Talks Work Related Learning Career Days School Holiday Projects Arts Weeks After School Clubs Youth Dance Youth Theatre Mature Movers Dawn Chorus Choir

Photography by Jo Forrest

Lauren Taylor Creative Learning Officer laurentaylor@ theambassadors.com 0151 702 7339 The Empire Theatre (Merseyside) Trust Ltd. Reg Charity No: 509458 (England)

PERFORMANCE OPPORTUNITY!

Creative Learning Summer Project 2016

WEST SIDE STORY A company of 120 young people will work with a professional creative team to stage the production (performing 18-20 August 2016). Male and female roles are available for those aged 11 to 21. Auditions are free and take place Sun 10 and Sun 24 Jan. Application form and further info can be found at bit.ly/CreativeLearningLiv. Application form return deadline: 6pm Mon 4 Jan 2016. Participation cost: ÂŁ210 (funded places available)

http://creativelearning.atg. co.uk/eventsworkshops /liverpool-events/

BOOKING INFORMATION ONLINE Book all shows 24hrs a day at www.atgtickets.com/liverpool (secure online bookings). All bookings are subject to fees. Payment Methods: Credit Card/ Debit Cards BY PHONE All telephone calls are received through ATG Tickets on 0844 871 3017 (bkg fee) Calls cost 7p per minute, plus your phone company’s access charge.

Open Mon - Sat 9am- 10pm, Sun 10am - 8pm. All bookings are subject to fees. Payment methods: Credit card/Debit cards. All calls are charged at national rate. BOOK IN PERSON Call into our Box Office at the Empire on the corner of London Road and Lime Street, Monday to Saturday 10am to 6pm (closes 15mins after performance starts on show nights, and opens 2 hours prior to performances on Sunday). Payment Methods: Cash, Credit Card/Debit Cards and Gift Vouchers. Booking/Transaction fees may apply BY POST Postal bookings are accepted and should be sent to the following address: The Box Office, Empire Theatre, Lime Street, Liverpool,L1 1JE. Payment Methods: Cheque, Postal Order, Credit Card/Debit Cards and Gift Vouchers. Cheques should be made payable to ATG London Ltd. Cheques must be received 3 weeks prior to the performance date. GROUPS OF 10+ Call our Groups Hotline on 0844 871 3037 Mon - Fri 10am - 6pm for more information. Please note we operate a book now, pay later facility. Visit our website specifically designed for the groups market www.atgtickets.com/groups THEATRE TOKENS We sell and accept national Theatre Tokens. They are unique theatre vouchers and can be used to see shows at over 230 theatres nationwide. Available in values of £5, £10 & £20 with no expiry date. Tokens can also be purchased at most Tourist Information Centres and branches of WHSmith, or by

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calling Tokenline on 0870 164 8800. www.theatretokens.com CONCESSIONS We offer discounts for senior citizens, people with special access requirements, students, children, the unemployed, and people with hearing, visual and mobility impairments for the majority of shows, on production of relevant ID. Always ask the Box Office at the time of booking as we cannot discount on tickets already purchased. Shows with these symbols have the following concessions available C General concessions G Group discounts F Family discounts S Schools discounts B Early booking offers E Workshops and creative activity

Only one concession is applicable at any one time, please check for restrictions on special offers. All concessions are subject to availability and conditions and can be withdrawn at any time. ATG THEATRE CARD ATG Theatre Card offers are subject to availability on selected seat prices and for a max. 4 tickets per Card. Please book early to avoid disappointment. RESTORATION FUND The ticket price for certain shows may include a contribution of up to £1.50 to the theatre’s restoration fund. We are very grateful to our patrons for the financial help we receive through our restoration levy. This year it has enabled the replacement of the carpet and seats in the stalls, as well as the creation of the new Piano Bar and Ambassador Lounge spaces. EMPIRE THEATRE TRUST The Empire Theatre is managed by The Ambassador Theatre Group (Venues) Limited on behalf of The Empire Theatre (Merseyside) Trust Ltd The Trustees are Terry Smith (Chairman) Lesley Marshall Prof. John Last CBE Tony Ensor Tony Thompson David Morgan (Secretary) The Trust is a registered Charity. No. 509458

All information in this brochure is correct at time of printing, and is subject to change. Due to the varying nature of the shows and sets we cannot guarantee an unrestricted view from all seats at all times. MEDIUM/THERAPIST/ CLAIRVOYANT By attending this event you agree that you have sought the services provided of your own accord and understand that it is a holistic experiment and experience. The medium/therapist/ clairvoyant may give you information that could bring about a positive change in your life, but any changes that you make are your personal and legal responsibility. This brochure is printed on responsibly sourced FSC® paper. Please continue to help the environment by recycling it.

AMBASSADOR THEATRE GROUP LTD Co-founded by Sir Howard Panter and Rosemary Squire OBE in 1992, the Ambassador Theatre Group Ltd (ATG) is the world’s number one live-theatre company with 45 venues in Britain, the US and Australia. ATG is among the most prolific and internationally recognised award-winning theatre producers in the world with co-productions in the UK, New York, across North America, Europe, Asia and Australia. ATG is the market leader in theatre ticketing services through ATG Tickets, LOVETheatre and Group Line. ATG’s portfolio of West End theatres includes the Apollo Victoria, Donmar Warehouse, Duke of York’s, Fortune, Harold Pinter, Lyceum, Phoenix, Piccadilly, Playhouse, Savoy and Trafalgar Studios 1 and 2. In New York, ATG owns The Lyric Theatre, the largest theatre on Broadway. ATG owns ACE Theatrical Group (ACE), which specialises in the operation, design, development and construction of world class, live performance venues throughout North America. ATG is leaseholder of and manages the Theatre Royal, Sydney, one of the city’s premier venues and ATG’s first theatre in the Asia Pacific region. ATG has regional theatres in Aylesbury, Birmingham, Brighton, Bristol, Bromley, Edinburgh, Folkestone, Glasgow, Liverpool, Manchester, Milton Keynes, Oxford, Richmond, Southport, Stoke-on-Trent, Sunderland, Torquay, Wimbledon, Woking and York. ATG currently has offices in London, New York, Sydney, Mannheim and Cologne. Current and recent ATG co-productions include The Ruling Class, Oresteia, Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown, East is East, Richard III, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, Jersey Boys, Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Inala, Love Me Tender, Macbeth, The Hothouse, Passion Play, Posh, Jumpy and Constellations (Royal Court at the Duke of York’s), Dolly Parton’s 9 to 5 The Musical, Legally Blonde the Musical, Monty Python’s Spamalot, The Rocky Horror Show, South Pacific, All New People, Ghost the Musical, Matthew Bourne’s Nutcracker!, Being Shakespeare, The Misanthrope, West Side Story, Elling and Guys and Dolls. ATG has various production company initiatives/partnerships including Jerry Mitchell Productions, Theatre Royal Brighton Productions and Jamie Lloyd Productions. ATG also owns family entertainment and pantomime company, First Family Entertainment (FFE). ATG has a group partner company Sonia Friedman Productions (SFP), a West End and Broadway production company responsible for some of the most successful theatre productions in London and on Broadway in recent years. ATG is the majority shareholder of BB Group, a leading producer and promoter of premium live entertainment in Europe with a particular strength in touring musicals and dance productions throughout Germany, Austria and Switzerland.

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*ATG Theatre Card benefits are subject to availability, please check with the venue or call 0844 871 7633. Calls cost 7p per minute, plus your phone company’s access charge. Members can purchase up to 4 tickets at the Theatre Card price per performance and up to 4 drinks at UK venues in the Ambassador Theatre Group. Offers are subject to availability and cannot be used in conjunction with other promotions or offers. Additional booking fees may apply on selected music, comedy and named act events and on tickets to events at non ATG and ATG international venues. ATG reserve the right to withdraw benefits or related offers and without notice. ATG Theatre Card current price is valid until 31/12/2016. For full Terms and Conditions please visit atgtickets.com