BACK TO LIVE by EVERYMAN & PLAYHOUSE THEATRES

BACK TO LIVE

W H AT’S GUIDE

ON 2021

Hello “We face the future with a renewed sense of determination and optimism” As Chief Executive, I began my role just as the global pandemic took hold, but have been with these theatres since 2016 and living in the UK since I emigrated from New Zealand in 2002. I often draw on my experiences from growing up half a world away in a country, similar but different. “He waka eke noa” is a Māori proverb which loosely translates as “a canoe which we are all in with no exception” and over the past eighteen months, this saying has felt particularly relevant as we have grappled as a sector and a city with a range of shared challenges. 2

Now as the country emerges from the grips of a global pandemic, we face the future with a renewed sense of determination and optimism. Our mission — to entertain and inspire, creating unforgettable experiences built through nurturing talent, artistic innovation and a passion for social change — feels more urgent than ever and we look forward to playing our part in the city region’s recovery. From September, we will present work to full capacity auditoriums with no restrictions (unless guidance changes). So this new what’s on guide is packed with exciting shows and events, across all our theatre spaces including re-launching the Playhouse Studio. We hope there’s something to tempt you back whenever you feel comfortable.

“We look forward to playing our part in the city region’s recovery” We are indebted to all of those who have supported us throughout the year. As well as government and city support, it has been your generosity as our audiences that has kept us going. To every one of you who has donated, returned your tickets as a donation, kept tickets as credit on your account, bought a ticket in the darkest of months or who has liked and shared our posts on social media, we say a heartfelt thank you. We look forward to seeing you soon. A safe and warm welcome awaits you.

Mark

Mark Da Vanzo Chief Executive, Everyman & Playhouse theatres Book with confidence — see page 42 Photograph L1 Photography

FRI

SEP

BY JONATHAN HARVE

DIRECTOR

NICK BAGNALL

SET & COSTUME DESIGNER

JANET BIRD

An Everyman & Playhouse Production

LIGHTING DESIGNER

CHRIS DAVEY FRI S AT MON TUE WED THU FRI

17 18 20 21 22 23 24

SEP SEP SEP SEP SEP SEP SEP

7:3 0 P M 7:3 0 P M 7:3 0 P M 7:3 0 P M 7:3 0 P M 7:3 0 P M 7:3 0 P M

SOUND DESIGNER

IAN DAVIES S AT TUE WED THU FRI S AT TUE

S AT

OCT

CASTING DIRECTOR

SOPHIE PARROTT CDG

2 5 S E P 2 P M + 7:3 0 P M 2 8 S E P 7:3 0 P M 2 9 S E P 7:3 0 P M 3 0 S E P 2 P M + 7:3 0 P M AD 1 O C T 7:3 0 P M 2 O C T 2 P M + 7.3 0 P M 5 O C T 7:3 0 P M

After Our Lady of Blundellsands was paused in March 2020, we’re thrilled to bring it back, as we all enjoy live theatre again! In a Blundellsands house full of secrets, two sisters throw a birthday party. The whole family is back town. It’s not going to be pretty… This hilariously twisted comic drama was written for the Everyman by Jonathan Harvey, award-winning creator of Gimme Gimme Gimme and Beautiful Thing. It’s about families and fantasies, honesty and lies — and about how heart-breaking great comedy can be. ★★★★★ “Tears, laughter and acid wit” The Stage

WED THU FRI S AT

6 7 8 9

OCT OCT OCT OCT

7:3 0 P M 7:3 0 P M 7:3 0 P M 2 P M + 7:3 0 P M

Tickets: £10 — £35 + £2 booking fee on all online and phone orders over £6

Cast shown above left to right Nana Amoo-Gottfried Gemma Brodrick Joanne Howarth Mickey Jones Josie Lawrence Nathan McMullen

Photographs from the 2020 production by Marc Brenner

WED

SEP

TO S AT

A co-production between Everyman & Playhouse, Curve Leicester and English Touring Theatre

WED THU FRI S AT TUE WED THU

22 23 24 25 28 29 30

SEP SEP SEP SEP SEP SEP SEP

7:3 0 P M 1:3 0 P M + 7:3 0 P M 7:3 0 P M 2 P M + 7:3 0 P M 7:3 0 P M 7:3 0 P M 1:3 0 P M + 7:3 0 P M

OCT

F R I 1 O C T 7:3 0 P M S AT 2 O C T 2 P M + 7:3 0 P M

Tickets: £10 — £40 + £2 booking fee on all online and phone orders over £6

DIRECTOR ANTHONY ALMEIDA

Winner of The RTST Sir Peter Hall Director Award 2019

DESIGNER ROSANNA VIZE LIGHTING DESIGNER JOSHUA GADSBY COMPOSER AND SOUND DESIGNER GILES THOMAS ASSOCIATE DESIGNER & COSTUME DESIGNER SARAH MERCADÉ

On a sweltering Mississippi night, the lies are as stifling as the heat. Maggie has fought up from poverty, only to find herself in a passionless, burning marriage. Her husband Brick Pollitt, a former pro footballer, drinks to drown out the hurt he has bottled up inside. When the entire Pollitt family meet for Big Daddy’s 65th birthday, the claws are out. As shattering truths threaten to spiral out of control, the family set out to protect themselves, and each other, from falling apart. This bold new revival of Tennessee Williams’ lyrical Pulitzer Prize-winning masterpiece is a blazing portrayal of what it takes to survive in a society where we’re all desperate to feel free. Directed by Anthony Almeida, winner of the 2019 RTST Sir Peter Hall Director Award.

MOVEMENT DIRECTOR GEMMA PAYNE CASTING DIRECTOR GINNY SCHILLER CDG

Cast in alphabetical order: Sam Alexander Teresa Banham Peter Forbes Oliver Johnstone

Siena Kelly Suzette Llewellyn Minal Patel Shanaya Rafaat

Supported by grant funding from the

T U ES DAY

SEPTEMBER

S AT U R DAY

SEPTEMBER

Al Murray: Landlord All Singing! of Hope & Glory All Swinging! The year is 2021. The world stands on the brink. Turmoil is the norm. Questions have been asked and none answered. What we need is one man to step forward, one man with all the answers. Well you’re in luck, ladies and gentlemen — he’s here and touring the nation.

This concert spectacular celebrates the fabulous music and tells the incredible story of the world-famous Rat Pack. Led by bona fide star of swing music, Ray Quinn. Featuring all the greatest hits of Sammy Davis Jnr, Dean Martin, Frank Sinatra… with a large dash of wit, charm and charisma thrown in for good measure!

T U E 9 S E P 7:3 0 P M

S AT 1 1 S E P 7:3 0 P M

Tickets: £15 — £27.50

Suitable for 18+ Tickets: £15 — £24

Dial M for Murder

TUE

SEP

TO S AT

Can you ever get away with the perfect crime? A brand-new production of the blueprint for the modern thriller is back. Tom Chambers, (Strictly Come Dancing) stars as the charismatic and manipulative Tony Wendice, a jaded ex-tennis pro who has given it all up for his wife Margo played by Diana Vickers (X Factor). When he discovers she has been unfaithful his mind turns to revenge and the pursuit of the ‘perfect crime’. Dial M for Murder is the definitive seat-gripping drama that is not to be missed!

T U E 1 4 S E P 7:3 0 P M W E D 1 5 S E P 1:3 0 P M + 7:3 0 P M T H U 1 6 S E P 1:3 0 P M + 7:3 0 P M

F R I 17 S E P 7:3 0 P M S AT 1 8 S E P 2 P M + 7:3 0 P M

Tickets: £10 — £40 9

It’s Bold, It’s Boss & It’s Back! The Playhouse Studio returns as a space for the development and experimentation of new work by theatre-makers originally from and based in Liverpool City Region.

Supported by the Granada Foundation, we provide seed funding and in-kind support bespoke to each production’s needs, giving ideas and artists a safe space for making mistakes and making magic. As well as theatre-makers nurtured through our Talent Development streams (such as scratch studio, writers’ programmes, YEP and script submissions), we’ll be on the lookout for artists with new work ready to take to the next stage.

“We want the studio to be a kitchen in which local theatre makers are empowered and to cook you up new stories and showcase their skills. Showing what the world looks like through a Liverpool lens, we’ll celebrate new voices and encourage audiences to try something new. Who knows, you might just find your new favourite artist, or at very least will have something exciting to talk about in the bar afterwards!” Frank Peschier, New Works Associate

New Works Showcase Writers from our 2019/20 Playwrights’ Programme collaborate with local professional actors and directors to present 20 minutes extracts from plays they’ve been developing since they graduated. Tickets £5 WED 15 THU 16 F R I 17 S AT 1 8

SEP SEP SEP SEP

7PM 7PM 7PM 7PM

BlackFest Writers Room Liverpool’s leading Black Arts Festival. Working with us and Liverpool’s Royal Court, this is the rehearsed reading culmination of their first ever Writers Room, led by renowned local writer Maurice Bessman. Tickets £12 THU 23 SEP 7PM FRI 24 SEP 7P M S AT 2 5 S E P 2.3 0 P M

An Evening With Nana Funk Nana Funk (Angie Waller) is a Cabaret and Burlesque performer who shows that being awesome transcends age. Tickets £12 FRI 1 OCT 7PM S AT 2 O C T 7 P M

QueerCore Showcase Two days of new cutting-edge performances from emerging queer artists supported by Homotopia, Liverpool’s LGBTQIA Festival. Tickets £7 or £10 for both shows FRI 12 NOV 7PM S AT 1 3 N O V 2.3 0 P M

Excited to see what gets cooked up in the Studio? Find out more about our supported artists and companies. everymanplayhouse.com/playhouse-studio

FR I DAY

OCTOBER

S AT U R DAY

Bridget Christie: Who am I? Brand new show from the Edinburgh Comedy Award, Rose d’Or and South Bank Sky Arts Award winner, star of her own Netflix special and acclaimed BBC Radio 4 series, Bridget Christie Minds the Gap and Mortal.

OCTOBER

Michael Spicer: The Room Next Door Tour

Join Michael Spicer, creator of internet sensation The Room Next Door, as he talks about his life making comedy under the radar, his viral hits of the past and of course, brand new Room Next Door sketches on his highly anticipated first live tour.

F R I 8 O C T 7:3 0 P M

S AT 9 O C T 7:3 0 P M

Suitable for 14+ Tickets: £15 — £20

Suitable for 12+ Tickets: £15 — £18

Dracula: The Untold Story I M I TAT I N G

THE

DOG

PRESENTS

TUE

OCT

TO S AT

New Year’s Eve, 1965, London, England. Just before midnight, as revellers celebrate the beginning of another year, a young woman enters Marylebone Police Station and confesses to a brutal murder…Unfolding on stage as a live graphic novel, Dracula: The Untold Story is a chilling new version of the classic gothic vampire tale. Using the latest digital technologies, imitating the dog engage with the dark landscape of the gothic with a renewed energy and political insight.

TUE WED THU FRI S AT

12 13 14 15 16

OCT OCT OCT OCT OCT

7:3 0 P M 7:3 0 P M 1:3 0 P M + 7:3 0 P M 7:3 0 P M 2 P M + 7:3 0 P M

An imitating the dog and Leeds Playhouse Co-production

Suitable for 14+ Tickets: £10 — £35 13

T H U R S DAY

Hiya Loves! RuPaul did an amazing job beaming constant episodes of Drag Race into our homes to keep us going lately, so how lucky are we having the opportunity to see them live?! Bimini, Ben and my all-time favourite Jinkx will be gracing the Playhouse stage whilst I’ll be Downstairs at the Everyman.

OCTOBER

Bimini Bon Boulash: Release the Beast Don’t miss this unique opportunity to hear from Bimini Bon Boulash, the nation’s sweetheart who captured hearts as the gag-inducing breakout star of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK Season 2. You can expect Bimini to use all their wit, charm and kindness to show you how to lead the lives you wish you could lead.

T H U 7 O C T 7:3 0 P M

Suitable for 14+ Tickets: £12 — £18 14

S AT U R DAY

NOVEMBER

FRI

OCT

S AT

DEC

WED

DEC

The Jinkx & DeLa Filla Crack’s Holiday Show, Live! Drag Cabaret Your favourite queens are heading back to the UK and bringing as much festive cheer as they can pack in their carry-on bags. Join Jinkx Monsoon and BenDeLaCreme for their eggnog fuelled Christmas extravaganza this November. The RuPaul’s Drag Race stars will once again be bringing you a festive show like only they know how.

S AT 1 3 N O V 8 P M

Suitable for 16+ Tickets: £15 — £30

Liverpool’s first lady Miss Filla Crack presents her Halloween and Christmas Drag Cabaret specials, bringing you a night full of fun, comedy, burlesque, dance and all round silliness with the best local cabaret stars. So, Whatsapp the group, order your glitter and book a table ASAP because it’s always a sell out when Miss Crack announces her return.

F R I 2 9 O C T 7:3 0 P M S AT 1 8 D E C 7:3 0 P M W E D 2 2 D E C 7:3 0 P M

Tickets: £20 15

MY WHITE BEST FRIEND — NORTH

BASED ON THE ORIGINAL CONCEPT BY RACHEL DE-LAHAY WITH

LETTERS

FROM

BRODIE YA S M I N

ALI

LEVI

A R T H U R,

TA FA R I, KIARA

M O H A M M A D,

M O R E.

OCT

TO S AT

A series of personal letters by writers of colour from Liverpool, explore the personal and political of the things we don’t dare say. These new letters will be performed alongside Rachel De-Lahay’s original letter, building on her ground-breaking My White Best

Friend (and other letters left unsaid), first performed at The Bunker and the Royal Court in London to critical acclaim. Black and writers of colour across the North have been commissioned to give over the stage to these moments left unsaid.

A collaboration between Everyman & Playhouse, Eclipse and Manchester Royal Exchange

F R I 1 5 O C T 7:3 0 P M S AT 1 6 O C T 7:3 0 P M

Tickets: £12 — £16 16

FRI

R H U M A N D C L AY T H E AT R E COMPANY PRESENTS

TUE

OCT

The War Of The Worlds TO

S AT

No-one would have believed in the early years of the twentieth century that this world was being watched... But we did believe. We believed that Martians landed in New Jersey. We believed a water tower was an alien war machine. We believed a man walked on the moon. Now we believe everything the internet tells us and the end of the world is being broadcast live... Inspired by H.G. Wells’ sci-fi novel and Orson Welles’ classic radio play, this legendary science fiction thriller is playfully reimagined for our era of Fake News and ‘alternative facts’.

TUE WED THU FRI S AT

19 20 21 22 23

OCT OCT OCT OCT OCT

7:3 0 P M 5:3 0 P M 7:3 0 P M 7:3 0 P M 2 P M + 7:3 0 P M

Tickets: £10 — £25

Written with Isley Lynn

Suitable for 12+

Originally commissioned by New Diorama Theatre and co-produced by Brighton Festival and HOME Manchester 17

Matthew Bourne’s

The Midnight Bell I N TOX IC ATE D FROM

TUE

OCT

TO S AT

TA LES

DARKEST

SOHO

Matthew Bourne’s new world premiere for New Adventures explores the underbelly of 1930s London life where ordinary people emerge from cheap boarding houses nightly to pour out their passions, hopes and dreams in the pubs and bars of fog-bound Soho and Fitzrovia. Step inside The Midnight Bell, a tavern where one particular lonely-hearts club gather to play out their lovelorn affairs of the heart. This is a dance theatre event not to be missed.

Presented by New Adventures. Supported by Arts Council England

TUE WED THU FRI S AT

19 20 21 22 23

OCT OCT OCT OCT OCT

7:3 0 P M 7:3 0 P M 1:3 0 P M + 7:3 0 P M 7:3 0 P M 2 P M + 7:3 0 P M

Tickets: £15 — £45 18

Devised by Matthew Bourne Music by Terry Davies Inspired by the novels of Patrick Hamilton

David Suchet

Poirot And More, A Retrospective THU

NOV

FRI

A retrospective look at David Suchet’s career will have you witness some of his most beloved performances in a new and intimate light. Meet the actor behind the detective and the many faces he’s portrayed on stage and screen over a career spanning five decades. Discover why David Suchet is renowned for not only becoming the role, but also taking on the personalities of some of television, film and theatre’s most fascinating characters.

Presented by Liza McLean, Andrew Kay and Jonathan Church Theatre Productions

T H U 4 N O V 7:3 0 P M F R I 5 N O V 2 P M + 7:3 0 P M

Tickets: £15 — £25 19

ONLINE

UNTIL

SEP

How To Use A Den Hello! I love going to the theatre to see shows, particularly when they’re funny and when the audience is asked to get involved. I like looking to see how it all works and that you don’t know what’s going to happen next, especially when you get to the interval.

Amelie (aged 7) xx

A solo, audio play for adventurous and mischievous 5-7 year olds. Dens are great aren’t they? A safe place to be all by yourself! Except we’d like to come to. This is an adventure for the best storytellers and makers. Along the way we’ll meet some magical creatures and treasure seekers.

Tickets: £5 include a link to audio play + instructions on how to build a den

Created by All Things Considered Theatre, commissioned by Everyman & Playhouse New Works

DIGITAL

TUE

WED

OCT

FRI

S AT

OCT

Stick Man

Fireman Sam

Touching, funny and utterly original, Freckle Productions’ delightful adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s Stick Man is in town! What starts off as a morning jog becomes quite the misadventure for Stick Man: a dog wants to play fetch with him, a swan builds a nest with him, and he even ends up on a fire! How will Stick Man ever get back to the family tree? This award-winning production is full of puppetry, songs, live music and funky moves.

When all of his friends go away, Norman Price decides to find adventure in Pontypandy and become the star of a visiting circus. But with a tiger on the loose and faulty lights, the adventure soon turns to danger. Can Fireman Sam come to the rescue and save the circus? Join Sam, Penny, Elvis, Station Officer Steele and Norman in an all singing, dancing, action-packed show. Come along to Pontypandy and watch the adventures unfold!

Tickets: £10 — £14

Tickets: £15 — £16

T U E 2 6 O C T 3:3 0 P M W E D 2 7 O C T 1 0:3 0 A M W E D 2 7 O C T 1:3 0 P M Stick Man ©2008 Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Published by Alison Green Books, an imprint of Scholastic Children’s Books

FRI FRI S AT S AT S AT

29 29 30 30 30

OCT OCT OCT OCT OCT

1PM 3:3 0 P M 1 0:3 0 A M 1PM 3:3 0 P M

S AT U R DAY

NOVEMBER

T U ES DAY

NOVEMBER

Sindhu Vee: Alphabet

Adam Buxton Rambles…

A brand-new show about the hair we want, the friends we have, and living the vast difference between virus and viral. As seen on Live at the Apollo, QI, Have I Got News for You and Sex Education and heard on Radio 4’s Things My Mother Never Told Me (...About Lockdown) and The Guilty Feminist podcast.

Comedian and podcast host Adam Buxton reads from his new book which incorporates rambles on topics including parenthood, formative cultural influences of the 80s, confrontations on trains, wet dreams, boarding school trauma, The Adam & Joe Show, dead Dads and David Bowie.

S AT 6 N O V 7:3 0 P M

T U E 9 N O V 7:3 0 P M

Suitable for 14+ Tickets: £15 — £16.50

Tickets: £18

Ian Ashpitel & Jonty Stephens as

THU

NOV

Eric & Ern

S AT

For all the family from 8 to 108 Eric and Ern is a brilliant homage to Morecambe and Wise crammed full of those famous comedy sketches, from Grieg’s Piano Concerto, Mr Memory…’Arsenal’, to the paper bag trick! From the Olivier Award nominated duo Ian Ashpitel and Jonty Stephens, this nostalgic show evokes memories of a time when whole families would huddle around the telly on Sunday evenings.

T H U 1 8 N O V 7:3 0 P M F R I 1 9 N O V 7:3 0 P M S AT 2 0 N O V 7:3 0 P M

Suitable for 8+ Tickets: £15—£25 23

Downstairs At The Everyman Join us for a host of regular and occasional events downstairs at the Everyman, including…

A Lovely Word An open spoken word poetry night. Whether you’re a first timer or a practised poet, you’re invited to sign up for a five minute slot on the night and read a poem or two before the headline act. Sign up from 7.30pm for an 8pm start. Alternatively, you can simply sit back and listen. On the first Thursday of the month, the event is completely free.

Reel Tours: Mega Movie Quiz in a Theatre If you’re a lover of all things cinematic, why not test your knowledge with Reel Tours Mega Movie Quiz in a Theatre? Whatever your area of expertise, there’s questions covering all genres, eras and talent. There’s even prizes to be won! On the third Thursday of every month, entry is £3 per person.

Murder Mystery Evenings Immersive. Exciting. Experiential… Murder Mystery events presented by DBY Interactive urge you to move beyond your role as spectator and become part of the experience! Using a range of tricks, multi-Media, music, singing and special effects, you and your host will be immersed into the story, brought to life by a team of crafted, professional actors who will embody fantastical characters — the fate of whom belongs to YOU! Trained to Kill S AT 1 8 S E P Jack’s Back S AT 3 0 O C T Have Yourself A Merry Little Murder F R I 17 D E C Tickets cost £20. Sharing boards are available to purchase on the night.

Liverpool Cheese Company: Cheese School School was never this much fun! join Liverpool Cheese Company for their monthly cheese school. Learn everything you ever wanted to know about cheese, how it tastes, how it is made, what to eat it with and what wine, beer, cider — or even tea to drink with it. Summer Cheese and Wine (a taste of holidays in the sun) TUE 21 SEP 7PM TUE 28 SEP 7PM Autumn Cheese and Wine TUE 19 OCT 7PM WED 20 OCT 7PM Christmas is Coming TUE 16 NOV 7PM W E D 17 N O V 7 P M TUE 30 NOV 7PM You do not have to sign up for every session, each individual one will cost £30 per person. Learn more and book your place at: liverpoolcheesecompany.com/cheese-school

What We’ve Been Up To… While our doors may have been closed for much of the past year or so, our desire to innovate and bring new theatrical experiences to our audiences, care for our staff and reach out to our community continued. Here’s a taster… Love, Liverpool This award-winning digital project began in lockdown and recently became a full stage show. Originally a series of love letters to the city, it was created with commissioned artists, friends and the people of Liverpool. It’s been a joyous celebration of our city region, its stories and its talent. Theatre for Good We financially supported local freelance theatre -makers to be creative in their communities. Actor, DJ and activist Gaia Ahuja led DJ 26

workshops with young people in L8; Drag queen, theatre maker and actor Andrew McKay, mentored an artist onto Liverpool’s cabaret scene; Actor and writer Paislie Reid ran a creative meet up for kids in Princes Park; and Actor, director and writer Ellis Howard helped tell stories with his community in Norris Green Life Rooms Went Digital With partners Mersey Care we took our pilot Life Room at the Playhouse online, with creative writing and confidence through drama sessions. Now Mersey Care have launched Life Rooms Learning On-Line as a permanent on-line platform with pre-recorded sessions, resources and a live interactive zoom programme with us as a creative partner.

“Life Rooms at the Playhouse and online has been my life blood and has really helped me.” Created a Diversity Action Group (DAG) To take forward our commitment to diversity, equality, inclusion and social justice, the DAG are supporting us to actively begin to implement long-term changes to reflect the communities we serve. Commitments to change so far include allocating 1% of our annual turn-over to initiatives that promote diversity, inclusion and social progression; joining the allyship programme of Inc Arts; anti-racist training for our Board and staff; developing an emergent leaders course for individuals from ethnically diverse backgrounds; supporting the Anthony Walker Foundation as a corporate partner to further our work in being an anti-racist organisation. Spreading Christmas Joy We opened both theatres at Christmas, bringing festive spirit to over 6,000 people with our shows in person and digitally, including sharing

A Christmas Carol at Alder Hey. Together with Mersey Care, staff volunteers spread some yuletide joy to NHS teams of staff and carers, refugee and asylum seeker groups, and to those feeling isolated or struggling with their mental health. “Thanks to the Everyman theatre for their performance it made our Joe’s day surprising him on his doorstep #AutismAwareness.” Young Everyman Playhouse (YEP) See what YEP have been up over the past year on page 39. So What’s Next… We’re fuelled by big stories, big ideas and big ambitions, as we bring artists and audiences together in a celebration of what great theatre can achieve. As we take a bold step into the future, we want to continue to make a difference, using the power of theatre to inspire, entertain and nurture positive social change in our theatres, communities, schools and outside Liverpool. You can find out more on our website and if you’d like to help us make a difference, please do get in touch at development@ everymanplayhouse.com

Rock ‘n' Roll Panto: Robin Hood WRITERS

DIRECTOR

Sarah A. Nixon and Mark Chatterton

Mark Chatterton

NOV

JAN

TO S AT 2022

SET & COSTUME DESIGNER

MUSICAL DIRECTOR & ARRANGER

Dinah England

Jamie Noar

See page 32 for performance diary

Suitable for 3+ Tickets: £15 — £35 + £2 booking fee on all online and phone orders over £6 28

S AT

We couldn’t be more thrilled to be welcoming back the Rock ‘n’ Roll Panto to the Everyman stage this Christmas after unfortunately having to cancel last year. We hope you’ll join us for the long-awaited return of what is always a magical festive event for the whole family. Regular writers Sarah A Nixon and Mark Chatterton have put their own marvellously mischievous spin on the classic tale of heroism, social justice and… tights! ★★★★★ “Christmas begins with the launch of the famous Everyman rock ‘n’ roll panto.” Liverpool ECHO Cast to be announced, check our website for details.

LIGHTING DESIGNER

SOUND DESIGNER

CASTING DIRECTOR

Douglas Kuhrt

Ian Davies

Kay Magson CDG

An Everyman & Playhouse Production

Photographs from the Everyman Rock ‘n’ Roll panto Sleeping Beauty 2019 by Robert Day

WED

DEC

JAN

TO SUN 2022

ADAPTED BY CHRIS BUSH LYRICS CHRIS BUSH & MIRANDA COOPER

MUSIC MIRANDA COOPER & JENNIFER DECILVEO ORCHESTRATIONS & MUSIC PRODUCTION JENNIFER DECILVEO DIRECTOR AMY HODGE SET & COSTUME DESIGN

JOANNA SCOTCHER

LIGHTING DESIGN ZOE SPURR SOUND DESIGN CAROLYN DOWNING

CHOREOGRAPHER DANNIELLE LECOINTE

CASTING ROSIE PEARSON OF PEARSON CASTING

A Kenny Wax Family Entertainment & MAST Mayflower Studios co-production

BASED ON THE BOOK BY

K AT E PA N K H U R S T AND PUBLISHED BY BLOOMSBURY

CAN

HAVE

YOUR

AT TE N T IO N

P L E A S E ? !!

A brand new kickass-pirational pop musical will burst into life this Christmas as the Fantastically Great Women take to the stage to tell their stories. Be one of the first to see the follow up show by the producer of the international hit musical SIX. Join our inquisitive heroine Jade as she breaks away from her class to take a peek behind the scenes at the not yet open Gallery of Greatness in the local museum. Along her journey she is surprised to meet the original and incredible Wonder Women: Frida Kahlo, Rosa Parks, Amelia Earhart, Marie Curie, Emmeline Pankhurst to name just a few. From explorers to artists, scientists to secret agents, hear the stories of some of history’s strongest mothers, sisters and daughters; all independent icons who really did change the world. Celebrated dramatist Chris Bush and Number 1 hit songwriter Miranda Cooper (Girls Aloud, Kylie Minogue) adapt suffragette descendent Kate Pankhurst’s awardwinning picture book. Fantastically Great Women Who Changed The World is an empowering new stage show which will be celebrated by anyone who is prepared to move and be moved, with characters and songs that pack a popstar punch!

See page 32 for performance diary

Suitable for 6+ Tickets: £10 — £25 31

Christmas Diary D AT E S AT MON TUE WED THU FRI S AT MON TUE WED THU FRI S AT MON TUE WED THU FRI S AT SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI 32

ROBIN HOOD 2O NOV 22 NOV 23 NOV 24 N OV 25 N OV 26 N OV 27 N OV 29 N OV 30 NOV 1 DEC 2 DEC 3 DEC 4 DEC 6 DEC 7 DEC 8 DEC 9 DEC 10 DEC 11 DEC 12 DEC 13 DEC 14 DEC 15 DEC 16 DEC 17 D E C

7PM 7PM 7PM 7PM 7PM 7PM 1:3 0 P M 5:3 0 P M 7PM 7PM 1:3 0 P M 7PM 1:3 0 P M 5:3 0 P M 10AM + 7PM 1:3 0 P M 7PM 1:3 0 P M

FA N TA S T I C A L LY G R E AT W O M E N …

+ 7PM

+ 7PM + 7PM 2:3 0 P M + 7PM + 7PM

5:3 0 P M 1 0 A M + 2:3 0 P M 1:3 0 P M + 7 P M 1:3 0 P M + 7 P M 7PM

7PM 7PM 1:3 0 P M + 7 P M 3PM + 7PM 3PM 10:30AM + 1:30PM 10:30AM + 1:30PM 7PM 7PM

D AT E S AT SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI MON TUE WED THU FRI SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI S AT MON TUE WED THU FRI S AT

ROBIN HOOD 18 DEC 19 DEC 20 DEC 21 DEC 22 DEC 23 DEC 24 DEC 27 DEC 28 DEC 29 DEC 30 DEC 31 DEC 2 JA N 3 JA N 4 JA N 5 JA N 6 JA N 7 JA N 8 JA N 10 JA N 11 JA N 12 JA N 13 JA N 14 JA N 15 JA N

1:3 0 P M + 7 P M 1:3 0 P M 1:3 0 P M 1:3 0 P M 1:3 0 P M 10AM +

+ 7PM + 7PM + 7PM + 7PM 2:3 0 P M

1:3 0 P M 1:3 0 P M 1:3 0 P M 10AM +

+ 7PM + 7PM + 7PM 2:3 0 P M

1:3 0 P M 1:3 0 P M 7PM 1:3 0 P M 7PM 1:3 0 P M 5:3 0 P M 7PM 7PM 1:3 0 P M 7PM 1:3 0 P M

+ 7PM AD + 7 P M AD + 7PM + 7PM CAP RLX

+ 7P M BSL + 7PM

FA N TA S T I C A L LY G R E AT W O M E N … 3PM + 7PM 3PM 1:3 0 P M + 7 P M 3PM + 7PM 3PM + 7PM 3PM 7PM 3PM + 7PM 3PM + 7PM 3PM + 7PM 3PM 3PM

Cheers! Drinks and Treats Did you know that when you eat and drink with us, you’re directly supporting our work on stage, nurturing new talent and making a difference in our communities. Our bars are open pre-show for drinks and treats and you can pre-order your interval drinks too. We’d like you to pay by card when you can. Making events and celebrations to remember Create an event or celebration to remember in one of our beautiful theatres. With unique spaces for intimate gatherings to large scale conferences or even a dinner on stage, our dedicated events team will always be on hand to ensure everything runs smoothly — from the early planning stages through to event delivery.

You can even get hitched with us Summer is wedding season at the Everyman, where you can stage your ceremony on the stage itself, before hosting the wedding breakfast in our intimate downstairs basement and your evening knee-up in our theatre bar. We help you create a truly bespoke experience, making every wedding at the Everyman a unique show stopper of a day. Visit our website: everymanplayhouse.com/hires for more details or email: events@everymanplayhouse.com

“The venue is beautiful and lends itself perfectly to a wedding.”

Photograph by Matt Crockett

WED

FEB

AND

THU

FEB

2022

FEB

2022

Nina Conti: The Dating Show

Reginald D Hunter: Bombe Shuffleur

The British Comedy Award-winning queen of ventriloquism has stormed TV and theatres across the globe, all without moving her lips! And in her “gut-bustlingly funny” (Telegraph) new show she’s turning match-maker. “Put simply, Nina Conti is a genius.” ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (Daily Mirror).

Climate change. Mass unemployment. Economic pandemics. The rise of global fascism. So what the f*** could this man POSSIBLY say to upset you? Welcome to the world of the Bombe Shuffleur. Reginald D Hunter is back with a brand-new show, and there’s no time for niceties.

W E D 2 F E B 7:3 0 P M T H U 3 F E B 7:3 0 P M

Tickets: £15 — £26 34

THU

T H U 1 0 F E B 7:3 0 P M

Suitable for 18+ Tickets: £15 — £23

Photograph by Paul Thompson

Photograph by Allan Melia

FRI

FEB

2022

WED

APR

2022

Roger McGough: Safety in Numbers

John Shuttleworth’s Back Again!

Roger returns home with new collection Safety in Numbers, bringing down to earth the strangeness of a time put on hold. Staycations, ghosts, gamblers, unexpected voices, a nature trail, adultery in lockdown, time to stand and stare and how not to write verse about Liverpool. “The godfather of modern British poetry” Metro

John’s bad back is much better now, thank you, so he can safely punch the air once more as he performs all the faves from his prelockdown tour: ‘Blue Light Kettle’, Rapidly Downhill’ and ‘I Covet Joan’s Berlingo’, not to mention classics like ‘Y Reg’, ‘I Can’t Go Back To Savoury’ and ‘Pigeons in Flight’.

F R I 1 1 F E B 7:3 0 P M

W E D 2 0 A P R 7:3 0 P M

Suitable for 12+ Tickets: £15 — £25

Suitable for 12+ Tickets: £15 — £20 35

WED

M AY

2022

THU

M AY

2022

Count Arthur Strong: And This Is Me!

Craig Revel-Horwood: The All Balls & Glitter Tour

After many years of giving his wonderful lecture talks as he does, Count Arthur Strong has at last bowed to substantial public demand and allowed himself be talked into making the show about himself for once. And that had never occurred to him before because of him being highly magnanimous.

The star of BBC1’s Strictly Come Dancing is taking to the road with his debut solo tour! Craig talks about his life from Australia to the West End to Strictly, reveals a wealth of backstage gossip with his trademark wit and candour, and gives a special performance of some of the music which has been the soundtrack to his career.

W E D 4 M AY 7:3 0 P M

T H U 5 M AY 7:3 0 P M

Tickets: £15 — £21.50

Tickets: £15 — £24

Hot Off The Press!

New shows for 2022 at the Playhouse on sale in September 2021

A C H I L D R E N ’ S T H E AT R E PA R T N E R S H I P P R O D U C T I O N I N A S S O C I AT I O N W I T H B I R M I N G H A M R E P

Adapted & Directed by Set and Costume Designer

BUNNY CHRISTIE

ROBERT ICKE Puppet Designer and Director

TOBY OLIÉ

The Children’s Theatre Partnership presents George Orwell’s world-famous fable of a revolution and its aftermath. Re-imagined by an award-winning creative team, Animal Farm is a dynamic, daring and contemporary take on a timeless story.

Jim Cartwright’s Olivier-Award winning comedy-drama starring Shobna Gulati, Ian Kelsey and Christina Bianco. With humour, heart and countless powerhouse ballads all performed live, Cartwright’s iconic Northern fairy-tale explores the highs and the lows of small-town dreams, family rivalry and finding your voice in a noisy world.

Based on Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s bestselling sequel, Freckle Productions bring the creative team behind Zog, Emma Kilbey and Joe Stilgoe, back together for this truly modern take on the classic fairy tale.

T U E 2 6 A P R T O S AT 3 0 A P R

M O N 1 6 M AY T O S AT 2 1 M AY

T H U 2 J U N T O S AT 4 J U N 37

Help Us Be A Force for Good Many of you have generously supported us during these difficult times through your donations and purchases. We send you our heartfelt thanks. Now we’d like to do more with your help.

We’re driven by a belief that theatre is a force for good. Now more than ever we want to provide opportunities for young people, nurture new ideas and theatre-makers, empower our communities and inspire and entertain audiences. To do that we have to raise £400,000 in addition to the funds we kindly receive from Arts Council England and Liverpool City Council. It would mean the world to us if you would consider making a one off or regular donation or topping up when you buy your tickets. 38

Every bit helps and as a registered charity we claim Gift Aid which makes every £1 raised go further. Playing your part couldn’t be easier Pay a visit to our website and choose to make a one off donation: bit.ly/LivEveryPlay-Donate Or a regular gift bit.ly/LivEveryPlay-CAFonline To discuss leaving a legacy in the future, please email development@everymanplayhouse.com

Young Everyman Playhouse KNOWN

A F F E C T I O N AT E LY AS

YEP

It was important for our young people to connect, create and feel supported during the pandemic. They developed a radio drama — The Visit — recorded at home during lockdown and made in collaboration with the team at Liverpool Arts Bar, our neighbours on Hope St and graduates of YEP. It also gave us the opportunity to employ a number of local freelancers on the project. Sessions for as many of the programmes as possible continued online, culminating in the Directors Festival re-opening the Everyman in May and a brave and bold new production of Macbeth which took the Bombed Out Church by storm in July.

“After the year we had all had and not really having any creative output and being around others and in a rehearsal room, it felt amazing to be back.” Melissa Ratcliffe, YEP Director 20/21 So what’s up next… Membership for anyone aged 14 to 25 remains open to all and offers £5 for many of the shows at both theatres. Recruitment for the various programmes — actors, directors, producers, writers, technicians and marketers — begins in September. Keep an eye on our social media channels or email yep@everymanplayhouse.com for info. YEP will be back on the Everyman stage this November. More details soon.

Thank You

We are a registered charity (1081229) and gratefully acknowledge the support of our funders, donors and audiences. For their ongoing financial support, we would like to thank:

THE ELEANOR RATHBONE CHARITABLE TRUST

FENTON ARTS TRUST

IDLEWILD TRUST

THE KEN DODD FOUNDATION

STAGE ONE

Our Principle H.E. Partner EDGE HILL UNIVERSITY

Our Business Members and Sponsors Benson Signs Bolland & Lowe Bruntwood Duncan Sheard Glass HA Civils Hope Street Hotel Knowsley Chamber of Commerce Liverpool Growth Platform Liverpool and Sefton Chamber of Commerce Make UK Professional Liverpool Rathbone Investment Management

Synergy Wirral Chamber of Commerce Wrightsure Insurance Group Our Alumni supporters Jim Broadbent Matthew Kelly Sir Ian McKellen David Morrissey Bill Nighy Eddie Redmayne Willy Russell Julie Walters

Our Patrons Hilary Banner John & Mary Belchem John Birkenhead Robin Bloxsidge & Nick Riddle Hilary Fass Paul Herbert Brian Higgins Simon Inch Ian Meadows Richie and Lara Pearn Anne Pope Daniel Ralston Alan Sprince

Those who have left a legacy or an In Memory gift Dorothy Smellie Anni Parker & Brian Barry Malcolm & Roger Frood in memory of Graham & Joan Frood, Michael Key Fanchon Frolich The Dunham Family in loving memory of Matthew Dunham, Board Member and friend

And to those who give monthly or annually for their continued support and to everyone who donated during the pandemic.

The Essentials Book with confidence We want your visit to be safe, comfortable and enjoyable and continue with the following: – Enhanced cleaning and ventilation – Cashless sales – Flexible refunds and exchanges should you have a positive COVID test* As we head into autumn and winter, things may change but be assured we will follow the most up to date legislation for the performing arts and local guidance to ensure you can enjoy a visit with confidence. The latest information will always be on our website and pre-visit emails will deliver you the most current information on your visit a few days ahead. everymanplayhouse.com/ taking-steps 42

A warm welcome to all At our theatres you can be who you are and who you want to be. Dress up, dress down. Wear a ball gown or your pyjamas. We don’t mind, we just want you to be you. Be free to use the toilets you feel most comfortable using and please respect the choices of others. There are toilets which are designated (men, women, disabled access, Changing Place) and some which are undesignated. The choice is up to you. If this is your first visit or your twenty first visit, don’t be shy in asking our staff to help. Booking your tickets We recommend you book online at everyman playhouse.com. If you’re booking for a group, have access support needs or questions about booking please call our information line on 0151 709 4776, open from 10am to 5pm Monday to Saturday. If you’d prefer to book in person, Box Office will open for at least 2 hours before the start of a performance. You can check everymanplayhouse.com/box-office for the most up to date opening hours at each theatre. We’re encouraging everyone to book online and working towards making this easy for all, but if you find you’re unable to do so, please call our information line and they’ll be able to help.

How much are tickets? Ticket prices range from £10 to £45 and are subject to change. Prices may go up or with demand, so for current prices visit our website or call our information line. Do book early to ensure the best seats at the best prices. Eligible for a discount? Discounts are limited and available at selected performances for YEP members, education and youth groups, families with children 16 and under, disabled people, students, unwaged persons (in receipt of jobseekers allowance), Equity, BECTU, Musicians Union, Writers Guild and Independent Liverpool card holders. All discounts are subject to availability, and proof of eligibility may be required. Please note: Only one discount applies. Visiting as a group? For groups of 10+ we offer £3 off each full price ticket for most productions in most price zones and we can help with your planning and arrangements. Education and youth groups are entitled to one free supervisory seat for every 10 tickets purchased. Email groups@ everymanplayhouse.com or call 0151 709 4776. Need a bit more help when you visit? Both the Everyman and the Playhouse are wheelchair accessible. There’s a hearing loop

at our bars and Box Office, and we offer assisted hearing support in our auditorium, Audio Described (AD), BSL interpreted (BSL), Captioned (CAP) and Relaxed (RLX) performances when we can. If there’s anything we can do to help please let us know by calling or emailing access@everymanplayhouse.com The fine print Whilst every effort has been made to ensure that the information in this brochure is as accurate as possible, it may be subject to alteration. Our website will always have the latest information on our shows, terms and conditions and privacy policy. If you’ve any questions, please do email boxoffice@everymanplayhouse.com or call our information line on 0151 709 4776. At the Everyman & Playhouse, we promise to treat all our audiences and visitors with dignity and respect, expecting the same in return for our staff. Aggressive behaviour towards our staff and volunteers will not be tolerated and you may be asked to leave. *If you have a positive COVID-19 test we can offer an exchange or refund [proof may be required]. Since guidance may change we will reflect these in our terms & conditions, which you can read in full on our website everymanplayhouse.com/termsand-conditions

Everyman & Playhouse photographs by Maria Correa, Robert Day, Emma Hillier, John Middleton, Brian Roberts.

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Information line: 0151 709 4776 everymanplayhouse.com boxoffice@everymanplayhouse.com /everymanplayhouse Hope Street Liverpool L1 9BH

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