The Central Theatre autumn 2009 brochure by Medway Council

The Central Theatre Including

Brook Theatre highlights

Box office: 01634 338338 www.thecentraltheatre.co.uk

Autumn 2009

Box office 01634 338338

THE CENTRAL THEATRE, CHATHAM MAKE IT YOURS THIS AUTUMN

Once you’ve seen a live show, it becomes your story to tell. There are no repeats to refer friends to, just your memories. You become part of the performance, setting the scene, editing the standout highlights and passing on the buzz of a fantastic night out. At The Central Theatre the stage is set. This beautiful 966-seat venue is already home to a myriad of memories and it’s waiting, with open arms, for you to come along and make more unforgettable memories of your own.

Autumn 2009

Now booking... Before you delve into our exciting autumn season, make a note in your diary for the following shows also coming to your Central Theatre in spring 2010…

Sun, 24 Jan 7.30pm

Lee Mack – Going Out Derek Acorah

Making The Central Theatre yours is at the heart of our programming, carefully putting together a season of shows to reflect the tastes of the area and excite as many people as possible. "If you haven’t been for a while you might have forgotten what a delightful theatre Chatham has in its centre." Kent on Sunday

Critically acclaimed BAFTA-winning star of BBC1’s Not Going Out and Would I Lie To You? returns to the live stage with a hotly anticipated new show. Lee will be bringing his trademark brand of high-energy banter, well-crafted gags and sharp one-liners to The Central Theatre as part of his biggest ever live stand-up tour. Tickets: £18.50

A season of great classics, with the

City of London Sinfonia Thu, 11 Feb – featuring rising star Chloe Hanslip on violin in the Mendelssohn Violin Concerto Thu, 25 Mar – with Barber’s haunting Adagio for Strings as the centrepiece Sun, 6 Jun – featuring classic symphonies by Mozart and Haydn Tickets for each concert £15 and £18 Make it yours for less – buy tickets for two concerts and get the third free

Front cover focus – Aladdin Take a magical carpet ride this Christmas in what promises to be our funniest and most spectacular panto yet. Starring George Takei (Star Trek and I’m a Celebrity), Shaun Williamson (EastEnders and Extras) and Phil Gallagher (CBeebies’ Mister Maker). The Brook Theatre autumn highlights - page 23

01634 338338 www.thecentraltheatre.co.uk

The Gruffalo ai

r-c No on w di wit tio h ni Whether you are shopping in Chatham High Street, looking for a ng quick working lunch or coming to see a show at The Central Theatre,

Now even more choice at The Sandwich Cellar

The Sandwich Cellar is now fully accessible for customers with disabilities.

Sun, 21 Feb

Dramatically good food

Noddy in Toyland

The Sandwich Cellar is open to all. Alongside our selection of freshly made-to-order sandwiches, baguettes and jacket potatoes we have added an extended range of coffees, freshly baked treats and pasta salads. Teas and cold drinks also available and a fully licensed bar.

Join Noddy and his favourite friends for an exciting adventure in Toy Town. A great way to celebrate 60 years of Noddy.

Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, 11am - 2.30pm Take away available - please phone 01634 338301 to place your order.

www.thecentraltheatre.co.uk

Pre-show orders can be placed in advance. For evening performances please phone by 2pm.

Join us for a monthly journey through the vaults of timeless cinema, in the stylish comfort of our auditorium. Includes a brief scene-setting introduction from our host and programmer Nick Walker.

Autumn 2009

Box office 01634 338338

Autumn 2009

www.thecentraltheatre.co.uk

Tue, 8 Sep 7.30pm

(1942, PG) Director: Michael Curtiz

Joe Brown Live in Concert

Tickets: £5, or £4 if you book online. Students £3.50 See four Screen Classics and get a fifth free

Starring: Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman Rick Blaine (Bogart) is a cynical American expatriate, running a bar in Casablanca during the Second World War. When he comes into possession of two letters of transit, gold dust for those looking for safe passage across occupied Europe, and meets his ex lover Ilsa (Bergman), life becomes complicated. Originally seen by producers as just one of a number of Hollywood films in production at the time, Casablanca’s unforgettable dialogue, characters and music has made it one of the most iconic films of the last century.

The UK’s premier rock and roller returns on the back of his most successful year of an illustrious career. In 2008 Joe celebrated 50 years in the business, selling out every show and firmly planting himself back in the top 20 of the album charts. Since then his latest album, Down to Earth, has been a BBC Radio 2 favourite with Jools Holland, Johnny Walker, Janice Long and Mark Lamarr. Now he’s back on the road with The Bruvvers and special guest Pete Brown. Expect an unforgettable night of timeless classics, rockabilly, gospel, country, folk and rock and roll, all interwoven with Joe’s effervescent delivery and humour.

THE BIG PICTURE: The film’s famous last line was written after the end of filming. Bogart was called back a month later to dub it.

Medway Folk Cellar presents

Wed, 16 Sep 7pm Tickets: £7, concessions avilable

Sat, 26 Sep 7.30pm Tickets: £10

Casablanca

McManigans School of Dance presents

Granuaile, the Pirate Queen Have you ever believed that there was one true story, one true fate? Granuaile believed. She believed in magic lands and mystic legends. The story of Granuaile, the Pirate Queen (daughter of The O’Malley chief) is told through the art of Irish dance.

Gillingham Male Voice Choir 21st birthday concert, with The Central Band of the Royal British Legion An evening of music, entertainment and celebration from the Gillingham Male Voice Choir and its guests. The local choir has a rich history that includes touring Germany, singing at the opening of the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge and performing, as part of a 1,000-strong choir, at the Royal Albert Hall In 2006.

Sun, 27 Sep 7.30pm

With The Bruvvers

Allan Taylor

Tickets: Band – A: £21 Band – B: £19

If you like this try: Marty Wilde Sat, 14 Nov

– support from Skinner’s Rats

For over 35 years Taylor has been the consummate folk troubadour, charting the lives of unsung heroes with grace and realism. In the late seventies his album The Traveller won best European Album of the Year at the Grand Prix du Disc de Montreux, while his 2004 longplayer prompted Folker magazine to proclaim “After one of Allan Taylor’s CDs, the world seems unnaturally harsh and loud. No one writes these songs with more feeling, depth and authenticity.” A skilfully intricate guitar player who sings from the heart of experience.

Tue, 29 Sep 8pm Tickets: £9, folk mailing list members and Friends of The Central Theatre, £8

Save money on folk and jazz If you enjoy the monthly folk and jazz evenings at The Central and Brook theatres, join our free folk or jazz mailing list and save £1 on each folk or jazz ticket. Folkus and Jazzbase members also benefit from this discount. Simply fill in a form at our box office, or email your name and address to:

folk@medway.gov.uk or jazz@medway.gov.uk As well as the saving, we will keep you up-to-date on forthcoming shows. For more details, phone the box office on 01634 338338. Please note: Seating not guaranteed at busy folk events at The Central Theatre’s Cellar Bar.

Autumn 2009 Fri, 2 Oct 1.30pm Sat, 3 Oct 12noon &2.30pm Tickets: £10 Schools: £6.50, with one teacher free per 10 tickets paid for. Family of four £36

If you like this try: Rainbow Live! Sun, 11 Oct

Sun, 4 Oct 7.30pm Tickets: Band – A: £17.50 Band – B: £16 Friends of the Central Theatre and groups of eight plus, £2 off top ticket prices

If you like this try: Maximum R’n’B Sat, 17 Oct

Box office 01634 338338

www.thecentraltheatre.co.uk

Kenny Wax Ltd & Nick Brooke Ltd present

London Classic Theatre presents

The Gruffalo

The Beauty Queen of Leenane

Based on the award-winning picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler Having delighted thousands of youngsters worldwide, this smash hit production of The Gruffalo is back in the UK by popular demand. Join Mouse on an adventurous journey through the deep dark wood in this magical, musical adaptation of the award-winning picture book The Gruffalo. Meet a wheeler-dealer fox, an eccentric old owl, a maraca-shaking, party-mad snake… and, of course, The Gruffalo. “Irresistibly charming”. The Times Watch a sneak preview online www.gruffalolive.com

Set in the mountains of Connemara, County Galway, The Beauty Queen of Leenane tells the darkly comic tale of Maureen Folan, a plain, lonely woman in her early forties, and Mag, her manipulative, ageing mother. When Mag interferes in Maureen’s first and possibly final chance of a loving relationship, a train of events is set in motion that leads inexorably towards the play’s terrifying finale. Martin McDonagh’s multi award-winning play is a gripping blend of dark comedy, melodrama, horror and tragedy. “…wildly funny, deeply affecting and grotesquely macabre…an absolute cracker.” The Daily Telegraph Warning – adult content. Not suitable for under 14s.

Oh Boy! It’s the Non Oh Boy! It’s the Non Stop Sixties PJ Proby and Friends It’s said that if you remember the sixties you weren’t there. Strange, then, that tonight’s stars are among the best-remembered artists of the decade. PJ Proby skirted controversy and scored a string of hits including Somewhere, Maria and Hold Me. Brian Poole set the charts alight with Twist & Shout, Do You Love Me and Candyman. Hailing from Rochester and Gravesend, Vanity Fare shot to billboard fame with their millionselling single Hitchin’ A Ride. It’s the sixties, it’s non-stop and it’s unforgettable.

London Classic Theatre

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Autumn 2009

Just ask at the box office or email your contact details to boxoffice@medway.gov.uk

by Martin McDonagh

Mon, 5 – Wed, 7 Oct 7.30pm Tickets: Band – A: £16 Band – B: £14 £9 if you aCT now! and book for three of this season’s four plays. See below for details.

TalkBack Meet the people behind the plays Mon, 5 Oct, after show

Kevin Bloody Wilson

Thu, 8 Oct 7.30pm

The Dilligaf Café World Tour 2009

Tickets: Band – A: £18 Band – B: £17

The Outback Outlaw returns to Chatham for a night of politically incorrect dirty ditties. Wilson has been strumming the funny bone for 25 years now, in that time selling over three million albums. Tonight’s show will also feature the outrageous Jenny Talia, also from down under.

Groups of eight plus, £2 off top ticket prices

Warning – adult content. Not suitable for under 16s.

aCT now! and TalkBack Subscribe to a great season of drama and each play costs just £9 Book tickets for three plays (The Beauty Queen of Leenane, Shirley Valentine and either Romeo and Juliet or A Taste of Honey) and each ticket will cost just £9 - a cracking season of drama for just £27. If you do this, you can also see the remaining fourth play for just £9.

TalkBack – your chance to chat with the cast after the curtain falls. Hosted by Nick Walker, who will review the play and pose questions to the cast. An informal and revealing insight. See individual listings for TalkBack dates.

Autumn 2009 Sat, 10 Oct 7.30pm Tickets: Band – A: £18 Band – B: £16 Friends of the Central Theatre and groups of eight plus, £2 off top ticket prices

Sun, 11 Oct 2.30pm Tickets: Band – A: Adults: £9 Children £8 Family of four £30 (Maximum two adults) Band – B: Adults: £8 Children £7

If you like this try: The Gruffalo Fri, 2 - Sat, 3 Oct

Box office 01634 338338

www.thecentraltheatre.co.uk

Chas and Dave in Concert

Taxi Driver

The legendary Cockney duo return for a barnstorming knees-up through their Greatest Hits album. The boys are cutting back on live dates, so this could be your last chance for a while to soak up classic tracks including Rabbit, Ain’t No Pleasing You, Gertcha, Sideboard Song and many more.

Director: Michael Scorsese Starring: Robert De Niro and Jodie Foster Scorsese’s hard-hitting and tense thriller, about Vietnam veteran Travis Bickle, was nominated for four Academy awards and cemented DeNiro’s reputation as a silver screen heavyweight. Lonely, depressed and suffering from chronic insomnia, Bickle (DeNiro) spends hours trawling the streets of New York as a taxi driver. Driven to the edge and increasingly alienated, he sets out to address the problems that are troubling him. The film famously features Jodie Foster as a young prostitute and also stars Cybill Shepherd and Harvey Keitel. THE BIG PICTURE: For the climactic and bloody final scenes, Scorsese desaturated the film’s colours, to ensure an R rating.

Rainbow Live! – Zippy, Superstar DJ Zippy, George and Bungle take to the stage for an afternoon of rainbowcoloured fun. In this new show Zippy’s life suddenly changes, when he wins a recording contract with Yellow Peril Records. With only a few hours to go the gang pulls together to help turn him into a pop star. Classic entertainment for all the family, from the stars of Rainbow, recently voted Best Children’s TV Show of All Time in a BBC survey.

Support acts Support acts are regularly used by production companies to start a show and warm up the audience for the main act. The Central Theatre does not always know if a support act is being used, or what the support act will be, at the time of going to press. Customers are advised that support acts may be used at the discretion of the producing management. For further information please ask at the box office on the day of the performance.

Autumn 2009

(1976, Cert 18)

Joe Pasquale King of the visual gag, King of the Jungle and king of the most distinctive voice in comedy, Joe Pasquale returns to The Central Theatre. Take a trip into the irreverent recesses of his mind and come out crying with laughter.

Tue, 13 Oct 7.30pm Tickets: £5, or £4 if you book online, Students £3.50 See four Screen Classics and get a fifth free

Fri, 16 Oct 7.30pm Tickets: Band – A: £18.50 Band – B: £17

ells Always s kly, so out quic ly. book ear

Autumn 2009 Sat, 17 Oct 7.30pm

Box office 01634 338338

Maximum Rhythm ‘N’ Blues The Alan Price Set, featuring Zoot Money and Bobby Tench

Tickets: Band – A: £19.50 Band – B: £18

Includes special guests Chris Farlowe and Maggie Bell

If you like this try: Oh Boy! It’s the Non Stop Sixties Sun, 4 Oct

Come with us, back to the legendary Flamingo Club, home to some of the world’s biggest names in R’n’B and rock. Live on stage, for you tonight, is The Alan Price Set, featuring Zoot Money and Bobby Tench. Price made his name with The Animals before going solo and securing a string of hits including I Put a Spell on You and The House That Jack Built. Money and Tench were big names in the 60s R’n’B scene and have been playing partners with Price for many years. Includes special guests Chris Farlowe, who hit the top with Out of Time, and Maggie Bell, the former Stone the Crowes vocalist.

Sun, 18 Oct 7.30pm Tickets: Band – A: £17.50 Band – B: £16

www.thecentraltheatre.co.uk

Two classic tales of teenage angst Presented by Love&Madness

Romeo and Juliet By William Shakespeare, directed by Owen Horsley Separated by their fathers' bitter rivalry, Juliet and Romeo experience a first love that is truly forbidden. In the long hot summer they pray for the private night to be alone; away from the blistering passions of masculine honour and the vicious cycle of violence brought on by their families' ongoing feud. In this cruel adult world of pride, envy and greed, youth and innocence have no place and Romeo and Juliet must go to desperate measures to be together.

Mon, 19 Oct 7.30pm and Tue, 20 Oct 2.30pm Tickets: Band – A: £16 Band – B: £14

Don’t forget... If you aCT now! you can see both of these plays for just £9 - see page 7 for details

An Evening with Derek Acorah TalkBack Derek is undoubtedly the UK’s number one spirit medium. The star of Living TV’s Paranormal Egypt, Ghost Towns, Most Haunted and most recently Sky Real Lives’ Derek Acorah returns to Chatham with his hugely entertaining evening of psychic abilities. Derek’s shows at the theatre are hugely popular, so early booking recommended. Please note: An evening with Derek Acorah is experimental/ investigational. There are no guaranteed or certain results and the show is for the purposes of amusement/entertainment.

Autumn 2009

Meet the people behind the plays after show Romeo and Juliet Mon, 19 Oct A Taste of Honey Tue, 20 Oct

A Taste of Honey By Shelagh Delaney, directed by Neil Sheppeck Shelagh Delaney was just 19 when she wrote A Taste of Honey, first performed by Joan Littlewood's Theatre Workshop in 1958 and filmed in 1961. Jo's relationship with her irresponsible mother, the Nigerian sailor who leaves her pregnant and the homosexual art student who moves in to take care of her while she waits for the baby to be born, are chronicled in this tale that has become a modern classic. Kitchen-sink drama that is poignant, funny and ultimately heart-wrenching. Not suitable for under 12s

Tue, 20 – Wed, 21 Oct 7.30pm Tickets: Band – A: £16 Band – B: £14

Autumn 2009 Fri, 23 – Thu, 29 Oct

Box office 01634 338338

Autumn break family film Please visit www.thecentraltheatre.co.uk or see local press for details.

FILM

Medway African Caribbean Association presents

Tickets: £8 adults and £4 for under 17s

A night of music and entertainment, celebrating young black achievers. Starring the Grammy award-winning Junior Granscombe. In 1982, billed simply as Junior, Granscombe scored a top ten hit both sides of the Atlantic with Mamma Used to Say. He went on to feature on the Beverly Hills Cop soundtrack and, with Paul Weller, became a leading figure in the formation of Red Wedge. Featuring surprise VIP guests and a host of local talent. Compered by African Simba.

Tickets: Band – A: £16.50 Band – B: £15 Friends of the Central Theatre and groups of eight plus, £2 off top ticket prices

Sankofa – a celebration of black achievers

Katy Setterfield in Concert: Here Come the Girls! A new show direct from Las Vegas. As the winner of BBC1’s The One And Only, Katy is acknowledged as the UK’s ultimate tribute act for her incredible Dusty Springfield impression. Here Come the Girls! also features Katy’s mesmerising impersonations of Cher, Tina Turner and Annie Lennox, as well as the best songs from the last 50 years, including the greatest hits from Motown, rock’n’roll, soul, pop and much more. All performed with Katy’s exceptional band and backing singers. Regulars to The Central Theatre will also remember Katy from her eight years with the hit show That’ll Be The Day.

Buxton

Shine Pupils of all ages strut their stuff in a performance that showcases variety and versatility. From ballet to street jazz with tap, modern dance, musical theatre and singing thrown in for good measure. Come and watch the pupils of Buxton Dance Studios shine.

Vampires Rock Starring Toyah Willcox and Steve Steinman A Halloween night to remember. Vampires Rock is the smash musical that has the whole of Hades airguitaring on the highway to hell. A great chance to see Willcox in leather and Steinman and his band unleash a molten torrent of classic hits. Featuring songs made famous by Led Zeppelin, AC/DC, Queen, Guns N’ Roses, Meat Loaf, Suzi Quatro and many more. Packed with fantastic anthems, devilish comedy, beautiful dancers and the powerful and unmistakable vocals of Willcox and Steinman.

Medway Folk Cellar presents

Megson

Become a friend and enjoy exclusive benefits

www.thecentraltheatre.co.uk

Buxton Dance and Drama Studios presents

Sat, 24 Oct 7pm

Sun, 25 Oct 7.30pm

Autumn 2009

Are you a theatre lover? Are you interested in saving money on a wide variety of shows? Friends of The Central Theatre receive lots of exclusive benefits including discounted tickets for selected shows and films, two free tickets to the pantomime, a saving of up to £37, and regular newsletters. Membership is just £10 a year. For more information contact box office on 01634 338338 or email boxoffice@medway.gov.uk

– support from Skinner’s Rats

With the release of their third album, Take Yourself a Wife, Megson have taken the step from an exciting nu-folk duo to red-hot property. Mercury-nominated star Seth Lakeman dug Megson’s debut album so much that he produced the second. Recently nominated for Best Duo at the 2009 BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards, Megson bring to traditional treasures and their own songs a harmonic understanding and instrumental ability that warrants all the plaudits. "For my money Megson are amongst the most exciting trailblazers of british contemporary folk." Seth Lakeman

Thu, 29 – Sat, 31 Oct 7.30pm Tickets: £11 £10 and £9

Sun, 1 Nov 7.30pm Tickets: Band – A: £20 Band – B: £18.50 Groups of eight plus, £2 off top ticket prices £2 off top ticket prices, if booked and paid for by Wed, 30 September.

Tue, 3 Nov 8pm Tickets: £8, folk mailing list members and Friends of The Central Theatre, £7

Autumn 2009 Wed, 4 Nov 7.30pm Tickets: Adults Band – A: £17 Band – B: £16 Children Band – A: £8.50 Band – B: £8 Senior citizens Band – A: £16 Band – B: £15

Box office 01634 338338 Amande Concerts UK presents

The Nutcracker Performed by the Russian State Ballet Academy of Perm A beautiful and spellbinding version of Tchaikovsky’s most famous of all fairytale ballets, The Nutcracker. On the stroke of midnight toy dolls come to life and an army of soldiers faces a gang of mice. Then, suddenly, a wooden nutcracker changes into a handsome prince who escorts young Clara on a fantastical journey to the Kingdom of Sweets. A delightful treat for the whole family that perfectly captures the magical spirit of Christmas Eve. Founded more than 65 years ago, the Russian academy boasts a host of internationally-acclaimed dancers. Premier UK tour.

Autumn 2009

www.thecentraltheatre.co.uk

The Magic of Motown

Sun, 8 Nov 7.30pm

Reach Out – 50th Anniversary Tour Direct from the USA, this stunning show celebrates 50 years since Berry Gordy Jnr created the Tamla record label. Boasting an incredible cast and live band, dazzling costume changes and superb choreography, The Magic of Motown features the music of the label’s greatest stars including Diana Ross and the Supremes, The Jackson Five, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Lionel Richie, Smokey Robinson, The Isley Brothers and many more. The show has already appeared live onstage with Jools Holland and Lulu and the score was nominated for a Queens Award.

Tickets: Band – A: £19.50 Band – B: £18.50 Friends of the Central Theatre and groups of eight plus, £2 off top ticket prices

Friends of the Central Theatre £2 off top ticket prices

Medway Media Conference 10: Great Beginnings Thu, 5 – Sat, 7 Nov 7.30pm

Tabs Productions presents

Tickets: Band – A: £16 Band – B: £14

Shirley Valentine takes the form of a monologue by a housewife, before and after a transforming holiday in Greece. Shirley’s middle-aged and finds herself talking to the wall while she prepares her husband’s chips ‘n’ egg, wondering what happened to her life. She compares scenes in her current life with what she used to be like and feels she’s stagnated and in a rut. So, when her best friend wins an all-expensespaid vacation to Greece for two, she leaves the drudgery of cooking dinner for her husband, packs her bags and heads for the sun. The note on the kitchen table reads “Gone to Greece back in two weeks.” Shirley begins to see the world, and herself in a different light.

£9 if you aCT now! and book for three of this season’s four plays. See page 7 for details.

TalkBack Meet the people behind the plays Thu, 5 Nov, after show

Shirley Valentine by Willie Russell

A chance for local media and film students, teachers and anyone else interested in the media to get together and discuss the ways the media shapes our lives. This year’s focus is beginnings, including great debuts, opening sequences, one-hit wonders, credit scenes and theme tunes. An enlightening and thought-provoking day of talks, presentations and a screening.

Tue, 10 Nov 9.30am – 3.30pm Tickets: £7 (teachers free when accompanying students). Available from the box office or by phoning MEBP on 01634 204633

Assisted Access Scheme We operate a membership scheme for customers needing assistance in accessing the theatre and its services. Under the scheme, members who need an assistant to help them access our facilities will be able to buy an additional ticket at half the standard ticket price. For full details on individual and organisation membership please

phone the box office on 01634 338338. For a summary of our facilities for customers with disabilities, please see our booking information on page 27. If you would like further information, please ask a member of our box office staff for a copy of the leaflet How to Access Our Services or email boxoffice@medway.gov.uk 15

Autumn 2009

Box office 01634 338338

Tue, 8 10Sep Nov 7.30pm

Singin’ in the Rain

Tickets: £5, or £4 if you book onlne, Students £3.50

Starring: Gene Kelly and Debbie Reynolds Often regarded as the best musical ever made, this romantic comedy depicts Hollywood’s transition from silent movies to the talkies. Don Lockwood (Kelly) is a successful silent movie star, whose already fragile relationship with his onscreen partner is further strained when the studio tries to make its first talking picture. However, a chance meeting with chorus girl Kathy Selden (Reynolds) changes everything, as the green shoots of love begin to show…but will they blossom? An iconic masterpiece. THE BIG PICTURE: While filming the famous umbrella dance routine, Kelly was sick with a 103-degree fever.

See four Screen Classics and get a fifth free

Sat, 14 Nov 7.30pm Tickets: Band – A: £18 Band – B: £17 Tickets: £10 Groups of eight Veteran plus, £2 off top£5 badgeholders: ticket prices

If you like this try: Joe Brown Sun, 27 Sep

Tickets: £7.50, students £4.50

(1952, U)

Autumn 2009

www.thecentraltheatre.co.uk

The Stylistics

Sun, 15 Nov 7.30pm

One of the best selling soul groups ever return to perform live at The Central Theatre. Since the early seventies The Stylistics have been at the forefront of the Philadelphia sound, achieving a remarkable 12 consecutive top ten hits. The line up features two of the original band members, Herbert Murrell and Airrion Love, with the help of Van Fields and Harold Brown. Hear classic hits including You’re a Big Girl Now and You Make Me Feel Brand New.

Tickets: Band – A: £19 Band – B: £17.50

Directors: Gene Kelly and Stanley Donen

Marty Wilde and The Wildcats One of the greatest names of fifties and sixties music revisits a career spanning more than fifty years of rock’n’roll. Join Marty as he presents a stunning evening of memories from his own vaults, and also pays homage to friends who helped shape the nature of British rock‘n’roll. Including his personal favourites Bad Boy, Jesamine, Teenager in Love, Rubber Ball, Jezabel, Sea of Love and many more.

Grumpy Old Women Live 2 – Chin Up Britain

Fri, 20 Nov 7.30pm

Starring Jenny Eclair, Wendi Peters and Susie Blake Jenny Eclair, the original grump and star of many grumpy shows including the West End run and the tour of Australia; Wendi Peters, the all singing, all dancing ex Corrie grump and finally the queen of soap, stage and taking things back to Marks and Spencers, Ms Susie Blake. Ninety minutes of advanced grumping, plus vital tips on getting through these gloomy days the grumpy way. Special offer: For this tour only, the indispensable Grumpy Rumpy Pumpy Guide to Safe Sex – the grumpy Karma Sutra. Sold out quickly last time around, so book early.

Tickets: £20

Autumn 2009

Box office 01634 338338

Sat, 21 Nov 7.30pm

City of Rochester Symphony Orchestra

Tickets: £13, £11 and £9 Save money and buy a season ticket, covering three concerts. Ask box office for details. Concessions available on single and season tickets.

The City of Rochester Symphony Orchestra celebrates its 40th anniversary with a wonderful all-English programme of music, linked to its first concert in 1969. Rising violin star Jeanine Thorpe joins the orchestra in Walton’s wonderfully poetic Violin Concerto. Britten's Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra and Elgar’s unforgettable 1st Symphony complete a very special concert.

Sun, 22 Nov 7.30pm Tickets: Band – A: £19 Band – B: £17.50

That’ll Be The Day – new 2009 Christmas Show Prepare for a party this Christmas as the legendary That’ll Be The Day, the UK’s most successful touring rock ‘n’ roll production, returns with a new 2009 Christmas show. Trevor, Gary and the gang celebrate the festive season by bringing on back the good times. A fantastic combination of unique comedy routines, mixed with all the best non-stop Christmas hits, means a show with a real feel good party atmosphere. Join in and treat yourself to an early Christmas pressie. “What a great value-formoney show That’ll Be The Day is. Not to be missed!!” The Daily Mail

Sat, 28 Nov 3pm and 7pm

Chatham Citadel Corps of the Salvation Army presents

Tickets: £5

Join in with gusto as the Salvation Army hosts its annual Christmas carol concerts. You can get in the spirit as part of the audience, by contributing to the toy appeal or by throwing caution to the wind and joining the community gospel choir. The choir is being put together especially for this concert. Visit www.chathamsa.org.uk and get involved.

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Autumn 2009

T t m o fi n son ore v d me isi

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Festivals in Medway Sat, 5 - Sun, 6 Dec

Fri, 4 – Sun, 6 Jun

Dickensian Christmas 2009

Dickens Festival 2010

Street entertainment, readings, parades, song and dance in Rochester High Street. Sat, 1 – Mon, 3 May

Sweeps Festival 2010 Three days of folk music, Morris dancing and real ale. Fun for all the family in Rochester.

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Rochester was the inspiration for many of Dickens’ greatest works. A celebration of the celebrated author.

Sat, 5 – Sat, 19 Jun

Fuse Medway Festival 2010 Every summer, Medway's streets, open spaces and arts venues are filled with some of the world's most exciting, innovative and inspiring artists.

Nativity – the Word on the Street

Autumn 2009

Box office 01634 338338

Autumn 2009

www.thecentraltheatre.co.uk

BALCONY

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The Brook Theatre Highlights autumn 2009

1 A

Just five minutes up the road is our sister venue, The Brook Theatre. Stunning Victorian architecture provides an unforgettable and intimate backdrop for shows and performances that will be very

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Mon, 5 Oct 8pm Terry Alderton plus support Described as “sensational and hilarious” by The Sun and with a celebrity fan club that includes Eddie Izzard and Joan Rivers, Terry Alderton is on the comedy fast train to success. Tickets: £10, Medway Comedy Club members £9

Mon, 2 Nov 8pm Shappi Khorsandi support from Christian Reilly Following the sell-out run of her one-woman show, Asylum Speaker, Khorsandi has appeared on Friday Night with Jonathan Ross, Mock the Week, Have I Got News For You and Live at The Apollo. A Medway Comedy Club coup, so book early. “Britain’s best young female comic by any yardstick” The Guardian Tickets: £12, Medway Comedy Club members £11

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Presenting comedians who are on the cusp of going interstellar. This could be your last chance to see these rising stars in intimate surroundings. Strictly for over 18s.

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familiar to many of you. From stand-out stand-up comedy to folk, jazz and world music. It’s a vibrant and vital part of The Central Theatre family and if you haven’t already, why not make it yours too.

Medway Comedy Club

STAGE A

See page 27 for booking information

Box office 01634 338338

Mon, 30 Nov 8pm Lee Nelson and Friends Meet Lee Nelson, the chav philosophiser and one of the stars of ITV1’s Al Murray’s Multiple Personality Disorder. The creation of Simon Brodkin, who has been described by The Times as “a prodigious talent.” Tickets: £10, Medway Comedy Club members £9

The Brook Theatre, Chatham Highlights, Autumn 09

Autumn 2009

Take in the broad spectrum of jazz in a theatre that gives notes and voices room to soar.

Thu, 24 Sep 8pm

Tue, 6 Oct 8pm

Cajun Dance Night with Jumbo Gumbo

Gwyneth Herbert

Arguably Kent’s finest purveyors of Zydeco music, or as the band put it - Louisiana-get-up-and-dance-goodtime-party-music. Featuring accordion king and vocalist Kevin Henty, the five-piece play the most modern form of Creole music with controlled abandon. Tickets: £10, folk mailing list members £9

Tue, 3 Nov 8pm

D-n-K The Brook Theatre, Chatham Highlights, Autumn 09

A singer-songwriter, inspired as much by Joni Mitchell, as by Billie Holliday or Nina Simone. Herbert is back In Medway with a new album, All The Ghosts, which The Telegraph described as "one of this year’s word-of-mouth hits, with Herbert poised as one of Britain’s brightest young talents." With Al Cherry on guitar. Tickets: £11, jazz mailing list members £10

Box office 01634 338338

The new, the great and the legendary play in intimate surroundings. Cabaret seating and licensed bar.

Thu, 15 Oct 8pm

at The Brook

A stand-out season in a theatre that is ideal for jazz, where the beautiful, high ceiling gives notes and voices toom to fly. Programmed by John Levett.

Blending folk, pop and rock The Rochester-based duo showcase their album, No XCUSES. Dan Insley and Keith Waterfield’s debut long player features established stars including Outkast’s Jef Van Veen on drums and folk legend Mick Beer. Tickets: £9, folk mailing list members £8

The Derek Nash Acoustic Quartet

Thu, 12 Nov 8pm

Already well know for his playing in the front line of The Jools Holland R&B Orchestra, Derek will feature jazz standards such as Li'l Darlin, Polka Dots & Moonbeams and Falling in Love with Love. An evening in true Blue Note style that combines freshness with a high level of musicality. Tickets: £10, jazz mailing list members £9

The Acoustic Heartbeat of Strawbs

Tue, 1 Dec 8pm

David Cousins, Dave Lambert and Chas Cronk return to The Brook Theatre to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the band’s debut album. “Carefully selecting their repertoire from less than obvious sources they invest the rarely performed material with considerable energy and thoughtful arrangements.” Record Collector Tickets: £12, folk mailing list members £11 Blunderbus Theatre Company and The Brook Theatre presents

THE

RAILWAY CHILDREN

The Jive Aces The UK’s number one jive and swing band returns to The Brook Theatre for a night of high-energy music and spectacular showmanship. The Jive Aces have performed for royalty and played with John Travolta, Isaac Hayes and Van Morrison. Tickets: £12, jazz mailing list members £11

Thu, 10 – Wed, 30 Dec Edith Nesbit’s classic children’s book is brought to life on stage by a team has spent over a decade leaving young children wide-eyed with wonder. Combining music, stunning scenery, puppetry and a joyful helping of audience interaction, The Railway Children is an ideal Christmas treat for four to eight-year-olds. Tickets from £8, school performances £7

The Brook Theatre, Chatham Highlights, Autumn 09

Box office 01634 338338

at The Brook

Box office 01634 338338

Autumn 2009

World music at The Brook As the popularity of world music grows, The Brook Theatre offers you a choice of the best and most interesting sounds from all corners of the globe. Explore music that reflects the culture and history of lands and peoples, some you may already know and some you may never have realised existed. Fri, 9 Oct 8pm

Gong Myoung Based on ancient Korean rhythms, the music of Gong Myoung draws on Latin percussion styles, western film music, and even hints of rock. Traditional it most definitely is not. The quartet combine the youth and dynamism of a boy band. However, unlike most of their western peers, Gong Myoung are authors of their own musical destiny and definitely play all of their own instruments, often up to 30 different types per gig. Tickets £10 Book now to save money – first 100 tickets cost just £5 each

www.thecentraltheatre.co.uk

Booking information Box office hours

Gift vouchers

The box office is open Monday to Saturday 10am to 5pm or until 15 minutes after curtain up on performance nights. Please be patient when phoning the box office during busy periods (for example around show times) as calls are answered in strict rotation.

Central Theatre and Brook Theatre gift vouchers are available in denominations of £1, £5, £10 and £20. Vouchers are valid for 18 months from date of purchase. Where to find The Central Theatre

By credit/debit card Phone the box office after 10am and pay for your tickets by credit/debit card. Tickets can be posted to you on the same day for a 75p charge or kept at the box office for collection on the day.

Sir John Hawkins Way flyover is now demolished

Postal bookings When booking by post, please enclose a stamped addressed envelope so that tickets can be forwarded to you. Cheques should be made payable to Medway Council. Please print your name, address, daytime phone number and cheque card number on the reverse. Reservations

The Brook Theatre, Chatham Highlights, Autumn 09

Tickets must be paid for in person, by phone, credit card or by post within three days of reservation or 30 minutes before curtain up, whichever is the sooner. Seats not paid for after this time will be released.

Exchange and resale of tickets Tickets should be considered as non-exchangeable and nonrefundable and we advise patrons to check their tickets upon receipt. However when a show has more than one performance, tickets may be exchanged from one performance to another. Unwanted tickets may be left with the box office for resale. However, The Central and Brook theatres cannot guarantee their sale and will only offer them for resale once all of the theatre's own seats have been sold. There is an administration charge of £1 per ticket for each of these services. Discounts and concessions

Global Voices A unique opportunity to sing your heart out with songs from southern Africa, the Balkans and India. No experience necessary, just a have-a-go attitude. Over two days Global Voices will take you on a magical vocal journey across the world in fun, easy-going workshops, with some of the world’s best vocal artists. On the evening of the second day you will perform with these amazing artists. A chance to show off your talents to family and friends but don’t worry…no solos. Email stephen.coole@medway.gov.uk for more information.

The Central and Brook theatres reserve the right to introduce special offers and discounts without notice. Concessions, where offered, are available for under 16s or over 60s. Single concessions only apply. Please note concessionary and special offer tickets must be requested at time of purchase and discounts cannot be applied retrospectively. Talks and tours If you group or organisation is interested in finding out what goes on behind the scenes at The Central Theatre, we are happy to arrange talks or tours of the building. These are most effective when linked to a planned visit to a performance. Hires The Central Theatre facilities are available for hire by local businesses and organisations. For further information please phone 01634 338300. Doors open Thirty minutes before curtain up. The licensed bar is open during performances and interval drinks can be ordered before the performance.

Postcode for sat nav users only: ME4 4RG While every effort is made to ensure that all advertised events take place and that prices are correct; this programme is subject to alteration without prior notice. Management reserves the right to refuse admission THE CENTRAL THEATRE* Facilities for customers with disabilities There are wheelchair spaces available in a variety of areas of the stalls (please advise box office staff when booking). There is car parking for blue badge holders adjacent to the theatre (access via Best Street). Entry for customers in wheelchairs is via the front entrance where a platform lift provides access to the stalls. There is an alternative entrance for customers in wheelchairs, as well as those with mobility problems, at the side of the building next to the blue badge car park. Please note that this entrance is only open 30 minutes before a performance and closes when the performance commences. A lift has been installed at the rear of the Stalls to provide further access to the balcony (not suitable for customers in wheelchairs) and to the Cellar Bar. Facilities for customers with hearing difficulties There is an infra-red system suitable for use either through earphones (obtainable at box office) or via the T setting on your hearing aid. To access either service an adaptor needs to be obtained from the box office, or by asking a member of the front of house staff. There is no charge for this service but you will be asked for your name and seat number. A Minicom system is available at the box office on 01634 880969. * See The Brook Theatre brochure for variations of its facilities.

At a glance September Tue, 8 Wed, 16 Sat, 26 Sun, 27 Tue, 29

Casablanca Granuaile, the Pirate Queen Gillingham Male Voice Choir Joe Brown Live in Concert Allan Taylor

7.30pm 7pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 8pm

Fri, 2 – Sat, 3 Sun, 4 Mon, 5 – Wed, 7 Thu, 8 Sat, 10 Sun, 11 Tue, 13 Fri, 16 Sat, 17 Sun, 18 Mon, 19 – Tue, 20 Tue, 20 – Wed, 21 Fri, 23 – Thu, 29 Sat, 24 Sun, 25 Thu, 29 – Sat, 31

The Gruffalo 1.30pm (Fri), 12noon and 2.30pm (Sat) Oh Boy! It’s the Non Stop Sixties 7.30pm The Beauty Queen of Leenane 7.30pm Kevin Bloody Wilson 7.30pm Chas and Dave in Concert 7.30pm `Rainbow Live! – Zippy, Superstar DJ 2.30pm Taxi Driver 7.30pm Joe Pasquale 7.30pm Maximum Rhythm ‘N’ Blues 7.30pm An Evening with Derek Acorah 7.30pm Romeo and Juliet 7.30pm (Mon) and 2.30pm (Tue) A Taste of Honey 7.30pm Autumn break family film Sankofa 7pm Katy Setterfield in Concert 7.30pm Shine 7.30pm

Sun, 1 Tue, 3 Wed, 4 Thu, 5 – Sat, 7 Sun, 8 Tue, 10 Tue, 10 Sat, 14 Sun, 15 Fri, 20 Sat, 21 Sun, 22 Sat, 28

Vampires Rock Megson The Nutcracker Shirley Valentine The Magic of Motown Medway Media Conference Singin’ in the Rain Marty Wilde and The Wildcats The Stylistics Grumpy Old Women Live 2 City of Rochester Symphony Orchestra That’ll Be The Day Nativity – the Word on the Street

October

November 7.30pm 8pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 9.30am – 3.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 3pm and 7pm

Book online at www.thecentraltheatre.co.uk The Central Theatre, 170 High Street, Chatham, Kent ME4 4AS

G4574

Box office: 01634 338338 Opening hours Mon – Sat 10am to 5pm, and up to 15 minutes after performances begin. Minicom Service (for people with hearing disabilities) 01634 880969