What's On brochure - April to May 2012 by Medway Council

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Welcome www.celebratemedway2012.co.uk

Welcome After a successful start to our Year of Celebration, this, the second edition of the What’s On guide continues to highlight just how much is happening in Medway. Inline with the warmer weather approaching, I’m pleased to see a number of events are based outside, making the most of our country parks and town centres. This year marks the 200th anniversary of the Royal School of Military Engineering in Brompton. To celebrate, special guest talks share the important history of Brompton and the Royal Engineers. Britain from the Air, a free street gallery showcasing a collection of exceptional images from the Royal Geographical Society, arrives in Chatham leading a journey across some of Britain’s most impressive landscapes. And from the air to the sea. Ocelot 50, an event at the Historic Dockyard, Chatham commemorates the 50th anniversary of the launch of HM Submarine Ocelot, the last submarine built in Chatham for the Royal Navy. Of course, these are just a selection of events and I would encourage you to take a moment to look through this guide to find out what else is happening on your doorstep this spring.

Cllr Rodney Chambers Leader of Medway Council

Contents Special events

Theatres

Arts

Libraries

Sport

Outdoors

All events are free of charge unless stated otherwise.

Guide to symbols Book in advance/register interest in advance Professional hire

Community hire

Productions and events which are hires at The Central and The Brook Theatres by professional and community organisations and groups are identified with these flags.

Join the Theatres’ Loyalty Scheme and start saving straight away For £10 a year you will get: • a discount on the adult price for shows marked with this symbol • 15 per cent discount in the Sandwich Cellar at The Central Theatre, and The Brook Café. And, once you have booked three events through the theatres’ box office during the course of any 12-month period, you will automatically qualify for two free tickets for the pantomime at The Central Theatre. For further details, please contact the box office on 01643 338338, email boxoffice@medway.gov.uk, or go to www.medwayticketslive.co.uk Terms and conditions apply.

Special events

Special events Share in the wonderful array of events that are on around Medway.

The English Festival 31 Mar to 14 May

Britain from the Air street gallery See Britain as you’ve never seen it before A stunning collection of 80 large-scale aerial images of Britain’s most breathtaking and unusual landscapes by the nation’s foremost photographers. The free street gallery, brought to you by Medway Council, will provide a rare perspective of some of the UK’s most unique landscapes and landmarks. “The size and scale of Britain from the Air will, I’m sure, appeal to the widest possible audience in the most exciting and powerful way. The scale of the huge images that make up this spectacular street gallery is breathtaking.” Michael Palin CBE, President of The Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)

Celebrate all things English with culture, history and tradition in this free family fun day. There’s all sorts of fun to be had in our four themed zones: • Countryside experience • Village green • Medieval • Seaside Riverside Country Park, Rainham

www.celebratemedway2012.co.uk

Sat, 21 Apr, 11am – 5pm

Chatham Town Centre

Special events www.celebratemedway2012.co.uk

Bicentenary

200

Rochester

Dickens

Sat, 5 to Mon, 7 May

Sweeps Festival Enjoy one of the largest May Day celebrations of its kind as it returns with a fantastic array of festivities.

Rochester

Festival highlights include: • More than 50 Morris dancing sides; • Free music in pubs and bars; • Fun children’s activities; • Jack-in-the Green. Rochester

Fri, 8 to Sun, 10 June Join as we celebrate the 200th birthday of one of Britain’s greatest novelists. Spanning three days, the festival features fantastic new attractions, as well as crowd favourites. There will be special events on the Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings including our first-night ball, the Hard Times Circus and an evening with Gerald Dickens.

This year marks the 200th Anniversary of the Royal School of Military Engineering in Brompton. To celebrate, the Royal Engineers Museum will be hosting 12 months of special guest talks about the history of Brompton and the Royal Engineers.

Special events

The Royal Engineers 200th anniversary

Tickets: £10 each (Book 3 for £25, 6 for £45) 01634 822839

Royal Engineers Museum, Gillingham

Thu, 17 May, 7pm

Gordon & Tolstoy at Sevastopol

Winning the Military Cross Speaker - Corporal James Bedford MC

Speaker - Major General (Retd.) Mungo Melvin

10th Anniversary Sun, 8 and Mon, 9 April, 10am – 6pm

Medway Festival of Steam & Transport Joining the varied assortment of specialist vehicles that visitors have come to know and love over the past 10 years, will be a new Steampunk village, a folk and blues music stage and an Airfix Make and Take activity. 01634 323807 www.thedockyard.co.uk/steamandtransport Tickets: £13 adults and £8.50 children, concessions available

The Historic Dockyard, Chatham

www.celebratemedway2012.co.uk

Thu, 19 Apr, 7pm

Sat, 12 May

Ocelot 50 A day to commemorate and celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the launch of HM Submarine Ocelot, the last warship built for the Royal Navy at Chatham, marking the end of over 400 years of shipbuilding for the Royal Navy at Chatham Dockyard. 01634 823816, aalmond@chdt.org.uk

The Historic Dockyard, Chatham

Theatres

There's nothing like seeing a live show: the anticipation, the atmosphere, the connection with the performer. The Central and Brook theatres provide an exciting programme of performances this season.

www.medwayticketslive.co.uk

Mon, 2 Apr, 8pm

Carey Marx Since Carey’s first appearance at the Edinburgh Fringe in 2003, his unique style of dark humour and mischievous, gleeful delivery has continued to win over the critics and audiences. Carey has a natural ability to find joy in the most unexpected places and his shows have always differed from the last, highlighting his aptitude for originality. Warning – adult content, not suitable for under 18s Tickets: £12, comedy club members £11 © Steve Ullathorn

The Brook Theatre

Tue, 3 and Wed, 4 Apr, 7.30pm An evening of song and dance showing the versatility of the pupils ranging from 3 to 18-years-old. Tickets: £10.50 and £9.50

The Central Theatre

at The Brook

phone 01634 338338

Toni Moss presents Pick Up The Pace

Community hire

Tue, 3 Apr, 8pm

King Pleasure & the Biscuit Boys One of the world's greatest swing bands are back at The Brook Theatre for a night of high-energy fun and fantastic musicianship. “Behind the fun and rollicking good times lies an outfit skilled enough for the horns to come on with the bite and precision of the Basie Band.” The Guardian Tickets: £13, jazz mailing list £12

The Brook Theatre

Theatres

Sat, 7 April, 7.30pm

Jimmy Carr – Gagging Order Brand new show, brand new jokes, same old Jimmy. Gagging Order promises to be an hilarious night out...let’s see shall we. Just leave your conscience, sense of common decency and moral compass at home and come on out for a laugh. Warning – adult content, not suitable for under 18s Tickets: £25

The Central Theatre

Sun, 15 Apr, 7.30pm

Feast of Fiddles Six of the UK’s finest fiddle players in a band of 11, which includes Dave Mattacks the grandfather of folk rock drumming, Peter Knight (Steeleye Span), Chris Leslie (Fairport Convention), Brian McNeill, Ian Cutler, Tom Leary and Garry Blakeley bring their own individual styles together in a show that will have you dancing in the aisles and perhaps even shedding a tear. “Absolutely awesome!” Sue Marchant, BBC East

www.medwayticketslive.co.uk

Extra date added - Tue, 26 June

Tickets: £16.50

The Brook Theatre

Professional hire

Brigadoon (1954, U) Tommy Albright (Gene Kelly) and Jeff Douglas (Van Johnson) are in Scotland when they encounter a small village, not on the map, called Brigadoon. It appears once every hundred years and disappears again. Find out just what’s going on. Tickets: £6, or £5 if you book online. Students £3.50

phone 01634 338338

Mon, 16 Apr, 7.30pm

The Central Theatre

Wed, 18 Apr, 1.30pm and 7.30pm

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Join Brompton Academy for the sixth consecutive year in collaboration with the Brook Theatre for their latest production of the enchanting story of Beauty and the Beast. Ticket: £8.50, concessions available

The Brook Theatre

Community hire

The Amazing Mr Smith

at The Brook

Theatres

Thu,19 April, 8pm The Amazing Mr. Smith has been described as Monty Python's answer to John Williams, a sort of one-man Bonzo-Dog DooDah Band. His combination of mad musical inventions and brilliant acoustic guitar playing make him one of the funniest and most original entertainers around. “Delightfully eccentric comic musician” Time Out. Tickets: £10, folk mailing list £9

www.medwayticketslive.co.uk

The Brook Theatre

Sat, 21 Apr, 3pm and 7.30pm

Solid Silver 60s Relive the 60s with original artists singing their greatest hits. Now in its 27th year, the show features the talents of Peter Noone, Chris Montez, Brian Hyland with Brian Poole and all backed by Vanity Fare. Hear the classic hits performed by the original hit makers. Tickets:Band – A: £22, Band – B: £21 (3pm) Band – A: £24, Band – B: £23 (7.30pm)

The Central Theatre

phone 01634 338338

Wed, 25 – Thu, 26 Apr, 7.30pm

Cirque Du Ciel’s ‘ShangHi’ This marvellous extravaganza, combines acrobatics, modern dance, martial arts, original music and many other traditional and modern Chinese elements in an amazing fantasy adventure, the next generation of Cirque du Soleil. Tickets: Band – A: £22, Band – B: £19.50, Children £15

The Central Theatre

Fri, 27 Apr, 7.30pm

Rich Hall Rich Hall’s renowned grouchy, deadpan style has established him as a master of absurdist irony and king of rapid-fire wit. Fans can see the comic genius from Montana discuss a variety of topics all delivered in his own hilarious unique way. Tickets: Band – A: £17, Band – B: £16

The Central Theatre

Medway Young Musicians Awards Produced by the local rotary clubs, the event gives the best young musical talent in Medway a chance to perform on stage.

Theatres

Fri, 27 Apr, 7pm

Tickets: Adult £8, students £4

The Brook Theatre

Community hire

Sat, 28 Apr, 7.30pm

International ice skaters, award winning magicians and contortionists, take you on a glamorous, exciting and magical journey suitable for all the family. Tickets: £17.50, children £12

The Central Theatre

28 (TBC), 29 April, 5,6,12 and 13 May CAM productions presents

Medway Stage Festival 2012

Tickets: Adult £5.50, concessions available

The Brook Theatre

Community hire

Thu, 3 May, 7.30pm

WildBoyz Starring Alex Reid (reality TV star) Marcus Patrick (Hollyoaks) Danny Young (Coronation Street, Dancing on Ice) and Dale Howard (Big Brother) Billed as The Full Monty meets Ibiza, this saucy show is the perfect ladies night out. Our four beefy hunks are cock-a-hoop about heading to Bali for a friend’s stag do. However, an ash cloud grounds their plane in a cheap Spanish resort and when the renowned male strip group Wildboyz fail to turn up for a hen do our muscle-mad heroes step into the breach. Will they rise to the occasion?

phone 01634 338338

A celebration of music and dance, performed by talented youngsters from Medway and the south-east of England. Participants perform in front of a professional adjudicator as they hope to become stars of tomorrow.

www.medwayticketslive.co.uk

Magical Extravaganza on Ice

Tickets: Band – A: £21.50 and Band – B: £19.50 Groups of eight plus get £2 off top ticket price.

The Central Theatre

Theatres

Sat,12 May, 2.30 and 7.30pm

One Night Only Duets Dance School’s 6th show at the theatre will be performed for one night only with all 200 pupils involved. Tickets: £9, concessions available

The Central Theatre

Community hire

Sun, 13 May, 7.30pm

www.medwayticketslive.co.uk

Rumours of Fleetwood Mac With Mick Fleetwood’s golden seal of approval, Rumours of Fleetwood Mac is a must-see for any discerning disciple of this most iconic of rock institutions. A musical journey of quite epic proportions. Replicating perfectly the power and subtlety of Fleetwood Mac at their brilliant best, let timeless classics such as Black Magic Woman, Albatross, Go Your Own Way, Dreams, Say You Love Me, Little Lies and many more, take you on a nostalgic evening of breathtakingly outstanding musicianship, all performed in the context where the songs work best – a live stage. “An extraordinary emotive performance of Fleetwood Mac” Mick Fleetwood Tickets: Band – A: £22.50 and Band – B: £20.50

The Central Theatre

phone 01634 338338

Mon, 14 May, 8pm

Comedy Club An evening with some of the best stand-up comics on the UK circuit, performing for you right here at the Brook. Sometimes irreverent, often controversial but always a great night out. Please note: Medway Comedy Club is strictly for over 18s only. Tickets: £10, Comedy Club members £9

The Brook Theatre

Mon, 14 May, 7.30pm

To Have and Have Not Cash strapped fishing boat captain Harry Morgan (Humphrey Bogart) is forced to help the French Resistance smuggle people into Martinique. However, juggling his love for Marie Browning (Lauren Bacall) while avoiding the authorities is tougher then he thought. Tickets: £6, or £5 if you book online. Students £3.50

The Central Theatre

at The Brook

Buster plays Buster A very special concert featuring a screening of the classic silent movie Sherlock Jr by Buster Keaton with live jazz accompaniment by the Buster Birch Quartet, featuring Jo Fooks on saxophone.

Theatres

Tue, 15 May, 8pm

Tickets: £11, jazz mailing list members £10

The Brook Theatre

Thu, 17 May, 7.30pm The star of Sky LIVING’s Psychic Sally On The Road, returns for another phenomenal nationwide tour. Although the show is extremely entertaining due to Sally’s warm and bubbly personality, the evening is about witnessing mediumship in its rawest form. Audiences have been left amazed. Often referred to as the Psychic to the Stars, Sally has read for many celebrities over the years including George Michael, Uma Thurman and more recently Alesha Dixon and The Only Way Is Essex heartthrob Mark Wright. Please note: There are no guaranteed or certain results and the show is for the purposes of amusement/entertainment.

www.medwayticketslive.co.uk

Sally Morgan

Tickets: Band – A: £24 and Band – B: £22.50

Thu, 17 May, 8pm

Jim Causley Causley has become renowned for his warm, rich and mature singing voice his natural gift for interpreting song and his wry and cheeky stage presence. Tickets: £10, folk mailing list £9

The Brook Theatre

phone 01634 338338

at The Brook

The Central Theatre

Fri, 18 May, 8pm

Cabaret of Curiosities Spanning enthralling indoor circus, dancing, cheeky burlesque, music and much more. These events are packed with colour and the unexpected. Warning – adult content, not suitable for under 16s. Tickets: £11, cabaret mailing list £10

The Brook Theatre

Theatres

Sat, 19 May, 7.30pm

City of Rochester Symphony Orchestra For the City of Rochester Symphony Orchestra's last concert of the season, we are delighted to be joined once again by local pianist Jerome Sadler for a performance of Beethoven's last and most famous piano concerto. This evening will start and finish with two old favourites; Mendelssohn's Dream overture and Dvorak's symphony.

www.medwayticketslive.co.uk

Tickets: Band - A: £15, Band - B: £12, children and students £1, concessions available

The Central Theatre

Community hire

Sat,19 May, 7.30pm

Coco Xpress Coco Xpress is a lively and entertaining Latin band, playing popular modern salsa, merengue, bugaloo, bachata, cha cha cha, and more - representing all the popular Latin rhythms and countries, from Cuba to Colombia via Santo Domingo, this band will guarantee an excellent night's entertainment. Tickets: £10, £4 children, £7 students and senior citizens

phone 01634 338338

The Brook Theatre

Sun, 20 May, 11am and 2pm

The Owl Who Was Afraid of the Dark

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Based on the classic children’s book by Jill Tomlinson, this funny, gentle and reassuring tale is written especially for children aged three to seven years. With an irresistible blend of live music, puppetry and storytelling, this beautiful new show introduces an old friend to a new generation of theatre-goers. “Packs charm in bucketloads.” The Stage Tickets: Adults £6, children £5, four for £20

The Brook Theatre

Fri, 25 May, 7.30pm

A classic rock extravaganza Featuring Stray, one of Britain’s most enduring guitar-led rock bands, with the legendary Del Bromham, the recently reformed 70s cult rockers, Leafhound, and the brilliant upcoming young rock band Black Water. Tickets: £12, concessions available

The Brook Theatre

Professional hire

Paul Merton – Out of my Head With Paul Merton, Lee Simpson, Richard Vranch and Suki Webster. Discover the bizarre workings of Paul Merton's brain, as he muses on the mighty behemoth that is his noggin. Paul returns to his stand-up roots for the first time this century. Away from the Have I got News For You desk Paul Merton proves he's got legs. A night of sketches, music, magic, variety and dancing girls (two of them aren’t girls).

Theatres

Sat, 26 May, 7.30pm

Tickets: Band – A: £23 and Band – B: £21.50

The Central Theatre

Beauty & The Hip Hop Beats Beauty and the Hip Hop Beats is a very different story with a twist. An exciting mix of musical theatre meets the urban commercial world. Tickets: £13 and £10

The Brook Theatre

Community hire

Sun, 27 May, 7.30pm

www.medwayticketslive.co.uk

Sat, 26 May, 7.30pm and Sun, 27 May, 4pm Razzamatazz presents

That’ll Be The Day

Tickets: Band – A: £21 and Band – B: £19.50

The Central Theatre

phone 01634 338338

Prepare yourself for a party as the legendary That’ll Be The Day returns with a brand new production. This hugely entertaining rock ‘n’ roll spectacular features an all new line up of knock-out hits from the 1950s, 60s and 70s, mixed with loads of new zany comedy routines to produce a show with a real feel good party atmosphere.

Mon, 28 May, 8pm Icon Theatre presents

Release At a time when two thirds of UK prisoners re-offend within two years, Release fuses high energy physical theatre, an original score and mixed media to create an explosive insight into just how hard it is to go straight. “A sharp, impeccably performed and blazingly impassioned piece of theatre…simply terrific” – The Times Tickets: £10, concessions £8

The Brook Theatre

Theatres www.medwayticketslive.co.uk

Tue, 29 May, 7.30pm

The Sounds of The Supremes Since 1989 The Sounds of the Supremes, led by Kaaren Ragland, a former member of original 70s/80s Supreme, have achieved a remarkable degree of worldwide success. Joined by Kathy Merrick and Althea Burkhalter, these three American women possess a wealth of experience, deliver a fantastic vocal blend on Motown songs blended with stylish choreography and unrivalled glamour. London's What's On described their incomparable energy packed show featuring more than 20 hit songs as "a non-stop bravura performance of immense vitality" Ticket: Band – A: £20 and Band – B: £18.50

The Central Theatre

Fri, 1 June, 7.30pm

David Copperfield Mad Dogs & Englishmen bring Charles Dickens’ classic tale to the stage with a twist and a flourish in their new adaptation. Touring nationally as part of the Dickens bicentennial, this fastpaced and dynamic production is faithful to the book and captures all the hilarity and pathos of Dickens’ writing. With a cast of two this will be an evening of pure theatre.

phone 01634 338338

Tickets: £10, children and senior citizens £8

The Brook Theatre

Sat, 2 and Sun, 3 Jun, 7.30pm

Guilty Pleasures Laugh out loud comedy play from the producers of the UK Smash Hit Comedy: The Naked Truth. With an all star cast including Eastenders’ Mark Bannerman as hunky heartthrob Gordon alongside Egghead’s CJ De Mooi as passionate intellectual Simon and, also, star of Joseph Craig Chalmers. Set in a ladies only health spa, this riotous play follows the comedic misadventures of GC – the bold and brazen spa owner, and his hilarious staff of fantasy men, with their sizzling spa specials. Tickets: Band – A: £19.50 and Band – B: £17.50

The Central Theatre

★

Alternate shadows present:

The Life & Times Of Stanley Crumpet by Chris Brake

S SHO TUDIO WC ★ ASE

Theatres

Wed, 6 Jun, 7.45pm

At times it will be fascinating; occasionally it will be inaudible; but it will certainly be shambolic. “Obvious talent... A keen eye for untapped sources of funny... perfectly performed” - Chortle

Tickets: £6.50, concessions available.

The Brook Theatre

Community hire

Mon, 11 Jun, 8pm

Comedy club – Edinburgh special An evening with some of the best stand-up comics on the UK circuit, performing for you right here at the Brook. Sometimes irreverent, often controversial but always a great night out. Please note: Medway Comedy Club is strictly for over 18s only. Tickets: £10, Comedy Club members £9

www.medwayticketslive.co.uk

It’s Only A Game – Or Is It? By Owen Beesley In this touchline comedy the boys of Troy Town Triers battle the Tideway Terrors while their mums and dads are battling each other.

The Brook Theatre

at The Brook

Derek Paravicini Blind from birth and with severe learning difficulties, Derek is an exceptionally gifted pianist. Marvel at loving re-creations of jazz piano gems from Errol Garner to George Shearing and beyond, with Frank Holder vocals and congas, Shane Hill on guitar, Val Manix on bass and Ann Odell, MD and vocal. "... Derek ... has found an expression that gives amazement and delight to his listeners." National Review

phone 01634 338338

Tue, 12 Jun, 8pm

Tickets: £11, jazz mailing list members £10

The Brook Theatre

at The Brook

Theatres

Thu, 14 Jun, 8pm

Hobo Jones & The Junkyard Dogs Dressed in tattered suits and top hats, they grab your attention wherever they go and their tongue in cheek comedy, brilliant blend of originals and reworked covers, will have you tapping your feet, laughing and singing along in no time. 'Brilliant, they're like my long lost family' - Bill Bailey Tickets: £10, folk mailing list £9

www.medwayticketslive.co.uk

The Brook Theatre

Sat, 23 Jun, 7.30pm

Jaipur Maharaja Brass Band Listen to a mix of Indian melodies, driving brass rhythms and traditional Rajasthani folk music with popular themes from Bollywood, jazz, funk, pop, reggae and even a touch of Hindustani classical music. All enhanced by their gypsy dancer, famous all over India for her cobra dance, and the fire-eating fakir who juggles with knives and walks barefoot on nails and broken glass. A dazzling display not to be missed. Tickets: £10, £4 children, £7 students and senior citizen

The Brook Theatre

Sun, 24 Jun, 2pm Kipper Tie presents phone 01634 338338

The Ugly Duckling

heatre

From the creators of The Mole Who Knew It Was None of His Business. The tale of the unhappy duckling who grows into a beautiful swan. Catchy tunes, magical story telling and a whole heap of farmyard fun. “Perfectly Pitched” The Guardian Tickets: £6, children £5, four for £20

The Brook Theatre

Theatre information More details at www.medwayticketslive.co.uk • The box office is open Monday to Saturday, 10am to 5pm or until 15 minutes after curtain up on performance nights. Doors open 30 minutes before curtain up. • 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. • Tickets should be considered non-exchangeable and non-refundable and we advise customers to check their tickets upon receipt. • The Central and Brook Theatre reserve the right to introduce, remove or alter special offers and discounts without notice. Discounts can’t be applied retrospectively. • Become a member of the Assisted Access Scheme and buy an additional ticket for your assistant at half price.

Sun days are for ki ds at The Br ook T

• Wheelchair access and spaces are available at both theatres. Please advise staff of your requirements when booking. Access at The Brook Theatre by the electronic platform on the front steps or via the ramped entrance at Whiffens Avenue. • A Minicom system is available at the box office on 01634 880969. • An infra-red loop hearing system is fitted in the main theatre at the Brook and you should collect a hearing device from box office. • There’s also an infra-red system suitable for use either through earphones, or via the T setting on your hearing aid at The Central Theatre. • Management reserves the right to refuse admission.

Arts

Arts There’s a mix of drama, dance, exhibitions, children’s workshops and more for you to see and take part in. Dance for Life

Fun, friendly dance classes and events

Stay fit and active, and help improve your flexibility, mobility and co-ordination. For all levels; beginners especially welcome. Cost: £4 per class

Every Tue, 17 Apr to 26 Jun, 10 - 11am (no class 5 Jun) Hook Meadow Community Centre, Walderslade

Every Wed, 18 Apr to 27 Jun, 9.30 - 10.30am (no class 6 Jun) St Thomas Church Hall, Rainham

Every Fri, 20 April to 29 June, 2 - 3pm (no class 8 Jun)

Every Thu, 19 Apr to 28 Jun, 8 - 9pm (no class 7 Jun)

Adult Ballet Strengthen your physique, tone the muscles and learn a traditional technique in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Beginners welcome. Limited places. Cost: £38 for 10-week course or £4 per class

The Brook Theatre

Loop Dance Company Phone 01634 831531 or email info@loop dancecompany.co.uk for more information

www.celebratemedway2012.co.uk

50+ Dance Classes

Lordswood Healthy Living Centre

Strood Library Hall

Every Thu, 19 Apr to 28 Jun, 6.45 - 7.45pm (no class 7 June)

Adult Tap A fun and lively class which will get your heart racing. Cost: £38 for a 10-week course or £4 per class

The Brook Theatre

Open Professional class

phone 01634 338338

Every Thu, 19 Apr to 12 Jul, 10.30 - 11.30am (no class 7 Jun) Cost: £2 per class

Thu, every week, 10am - 12noon Cost: £55 for 10-week course or £5.50 per class

Youth Dance Company class Mon, every week, 5 - 6.30pm Cost: £5.50 per class

Flow class Open group for adults with learning difficulties. Wed, every week, 11am – 12noon Cost: £4 per class.

The Brook Theatre

Arts

Dance

Drama

Circus

Art and craft

Festival fun

Spring break workshops for under 18s

Mon, 2 Apr, 10am - 3.30pm

One Direction

Free family craft workshops in partnership with Medway Council’s library service

Tue, 3 Apr, 10am - 3.30pm

Hairspray

(8-16yrs) A one-day dance workshop Learn original Broadway choreography and fun 60s style moves. Dance and sing-along to hits from this ultimate feel-good show – don’t forget to bring along 60s costumes for the showcase at 3.15pm. The Brook Theatre Cost: £14 per workshop, or save £4 and pay £24 when you book for both dance workshops at the same time.

phone 01634 338338

www.celebratemedway2012.co.uk

(8-16yrs) A one-day dance workshop Dance to your favourite One Direction hits and perform an amazing routine for family and friends at the end of the day.

A Right Royal Exhibition (4-10yrs) Wed, 4 Apr 10am – 12noon 2.15 – 4.15pm Thu, 5 Apr 10am – 12noon 2.15 – 4.15pm

Walderslade Hook Meadow Library* Chatham Community Hub* Lordswood Library* Cuxton Library*

Make your own crown, create a giant postage stamp and dress up in costume before posing for professional artist Wendy Daws as she draws your silhouette. Your stamp will be displayed in a special exhibition at libraries and The Brook Theatre Art Gallery from 21 May to 22 June. All children must be accompanied by an adult. * To book phone or visit the library where the workshop is taking place.

Advance booking essential

Parental permission may be required

Wed, 6 to Fri, 8 Jun, 10am - 4pm

Arts

Tue, 10 to Fri, 13 Apr, 10am - 4pm

Alice In Wonderland (8-16yrs) Free circus fun and A four-day drama workshop T-shirt printing (8-16yrs)

Create your own stage version of this popular story. With a variety of quirky characters to play and the chance to create your own costumes, this workshop is an adventure not to be missed. Cost: £47 The Brook Theatre

To book for this workshop please phone 01634 338319 or email arts@medway.gov.uk.

The Brook Theatre

Free project thanks to special funding - visit www.medway.gov.uk/arts for details

Arts Team term-time classes

The Brook Theatre

Every Fri, 4 May to 13 Jul, 7 - 9pm

Young People’s Musical Theatre (9-18yrs)

Play On Words – Young Actors’ Studio (18-25yrs)

Learn songs and dances from the musicals. Improve your vocals, drama skills and create an end of term showcase for family and friends. Cost: £38.50 for 10-week term.

Perfect for those who have outgrown youth theatre.Valuable experience for those applying for performing arts courses at college or university, but also suited to newcomers. Cost: £44 for 10-week term.

Every Wed, 18 Apr to 27 Jun, 7 - 9pm

Brook Youth Theatre (13-18yrs) Explore plays, improvisation, scripted drama, songs and movement, but most of all have fun. This term we’ll be creating a new piece of theatre to be performed at the Dickens Festival from 8 – 10 June. Cost: £44 for 10-week term.

Every Fri, 20 Apr to 29 Jun, 6.30 - 8pm

Brook Circus School with Dizzy O’Dare Presents (8-16yrs) Learn from professional circus performers, discover hidden talents and perfect your skills in the free workshop. This term participants will be invited to perform to audiences at Fuse Medway Festival.

phone 01634 338338

Every Sat, 5 May to 14 Jul, 4 - 5.30pm

www.celebratemedway2012.co.uk

A three-day workshop leading to a performance at Fuse Medway Festival Print a t-shirt to wear for your performance, then work with Dizzy O’Dare and No Fit State Circus to learn a circus routine for a special pre-show before Barricade – an outdoor circus extravaganza. Please bring a plain white t-shirt. Participants must be available for both the workshop and the rehearsal and performance on Saturday, 16 June.

Left it too late to book for this term? Is the class you wanted already full? Add your name to the waiting list – we may run a second class if there is demand. Alternatively join our database for advance booking information.

For booking forms phone 01634 338338 or email boxoffice@medway.gov.uk

For information phone 01634 338319

Arts

Art exhibitions

www.celebratemedway2012.co.uk

Far Hope 1, Andrew Mackenzie, 2011

Indian Pot 5, Bud Latven, 2011

Fri, 27 Apr to Fri, 29 Jun

The Evaluation of Space

Thu, 26 Apr, 6.30 - 8.30pm

- Andrew Mackenzier, Oliver Barratt, Rosie Lesso, Lesley Risby, Dan Stafford, Bud Latven The Evaluation of Space explores transformation within the context of interior and exterior space and how this translates between the imagined and the experimental. The exhibition brings together painting, drawing, sculpture and applied arts that provoke curiosity and question ideas surrounding space and the built environment.

Opening reception

Rochester Art Gallery and Craft Case, High Street, Rochester

Sat, 9 Jun, 12.30 - 3.30pm

Free Family Workshop Create your own artworks, using a variety of materials and techniques, inspired by the exhibition. Suitable for ages six-years-old and over. Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult. All materials will be provided.

To book for the workshop or RSVP to the opening reception phone 01634 338319 or email arts@medway.gov.uk

Mon, 21 May to Fri, 22 Jun

A Right Royal Exhibition by children of Medway and artist Wendy Daws A colourful, giant stamp collection created at family workshops delivered by local artist Wendy Daws, to celebrate Her Majesty the Queenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Diamond Jubilee. The young people created their own regal headwear, dressed in fine robes and posed for Wendy, who created their right royal silhouettes. The Brook Theatre Gallery

Find out what exciting events and activities are going on at your library.

Medway libraries run regular events for children of all ages. To find out where and when these events are happening, visit www.celebratemedway2012.co.uk or phone your local library.

Advance booking essential

• Baby bounce and rhyme Babies can enjoy knee bouncing and nursery rhymes. • Toddler shake and boogie Rhymes, songs and movement for pre-schoolers. • Pop in and play Parents and children drop-in to meet, chat and play. • Storytime Stories and rhymes for pre-schoolers. • Teatime Storytime (3-8yrs) After school storytime.

www.celebratemedway2012.co.uk

Regular events for children and families

Libraries

Find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/medwaylibraries

• Chatterbooks (8-12yrs) Readers’ groups. • Homework clubs Drop-in homework help for all ages.

Stay up-to-date Sign up to receive Medway Council's monthly email newsletter. Bringing updates on council news, events and entertainment straight to your inbox. Visit www.medway.gov.uk/signup

Libraries

Special events - children and families

www.celebratemedway2012.co.uk

Mon, 2 Apr, 10.30 - 11.30am

Origami boats (3-8yrs) Stories and craft. Chatham Community Hub

Wed, 4 Apr, 2 - 3pm

Chirpy chirpy chick chick (3-8yrs) Stories and craft. Walderslade Hook Meadow

Thu, 5 Apr, 2.30 - 3pm

Comic art master class (12-18yrs) Create your own comic strips with comic book writer and artist of over 20 years Kev Sutherland. Tue, 10 Apr, 11am - 1.30pm Thomas Aveling School and Community Library

Tue, 10 Apr, 2.30 - 5pm Strood Library

Gone fishing (4-10yrs) Stories and craft. Rochester Community Hub

Tue, 10 Apr, 2.15 - 3.15pm

Nature all around (4-10yrs) Stories and craft.

Thu, 5 Apr, 3.45 - 4.30pm

In the garden (3-8yrs)

Twydall Library

Stories and craft. Thomas Aveling School and Community Library

Tue, 10 Apr, 3.30 - 4.30pm

The world outside (3-8yrs) Stories and craft.

Tue, 10 Apr, 2 - 3pm

Hempstead Library

Spring into action (4-10yrs) Stories and craft. Strood Library

Wed, 11 Apr, 2 - 3pm

Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leap into the pond (3-8yrs) Stories and craft. Walderslade Hook Meadow

Thu, 12 Apr, 3.45 - 4.30pm

Camp out at Wigmore library (3-8yrs)

Down by the sea (3-8yrs)

Stories and craft.

Wigmore Library

Libraries

Thu, 12 Apr, 10.30 - 11.30am

Thomas Aveling School and Community Library

Fri, 13 Apr, 2.15 - 3pm

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going on an adventure (3-8yrs) Spring lambs (3-8yrs)

Stories and craft. Rainham Library

Stories and craft. Lordswood Library

Thu, 12 Apr, 2.15 - 3pm

What a wonderful world (4-10yrs) Stories and craft.

Fri, 13 Apr, 2 - 3pm

Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leap into the pond (3-8yrs) Stories and craft. Walderslade Village Library

Luton Library

Thu, 12 Apr, 2.15 - 3.15pm

www.celebratemedway2012.co.uk

Thu, 12 Apr, 11 - 11.45am

Nature all around (4-10yrs) Stories and craft. Gillingham Library

Thu, 12 Apr, 2.30 - 3.15pm

Great outdoors (4-10yrs) Card making. Cuxton Library

Thu, 24 May, 4pm

Day of the Cyrillic alphabet and Bulgarian culture and education Come and share stories, music and view an exhibition of beautiful objects from the Bulgarian community. Activities for all ages. Light refreshments available. Rochester Community Hub

Libraries

Regular events for adults There are lots of regular groups, classes and activities for adults at libraries throughout Medway. To find out which events are in each library visit www.celebratemedway2012.co.uk or phone your local library.

www.celebratemedway2012.co.uk

• Hempstead Family History group Get help researching your family history. • Hard-of-Hearing readers’ group For people with impaired hearing who enjoy talking about books. • Kent Family History Society Help with family tree and genealogy research. • Knit and natter Bring your knitting and enjoy a chat. • Knitting for charity For anyone who enjoys knitting or wants to learn. Needles and wool available if required. • New to computers Free one hour introduction sessions available in all libraries on request. • Poetry readers’ group For people who love to read and discuss poetry. • Readers’ groups For people who love to read and want to discuss books with others. • Visually impaired readers’ group For visually impaired people who listen to talking books and enjoy discussing them.

Courses in partnership with Medway Adult and Community Learning Service Mon, 16 Apr for 5 weeks, 10am Computing – moving on Cost: £85 (£65 concessions)

Rainham Library

Wed, 18 Apr for 6 weeks, 2.15pm Getting online – Internet and email Cost: £78 (£58 concessions)

Walderslade Village Library

Fri, 20 Apr for 6 weeks, 9.30am Computing – first steps Cost: £78 (£58 concessions)

Strood Library

• ESOL course - learning English as a second language

Phone 01634 338400 to book these courses.

Libraries for Life www.medway.gov.uk/libraries

Thu, 1 Mar to Tue, 24 Apr

Libraries

Special events - adult Exhibition: Medway artists Dadd, Spencelayh, Wyllie, Maxwell, Dunbar. Medway Archives and Local Studies Centre

Wed, 18 Apr, 2.30pm

Tue, 24 Apr, 7.30pm

A talk by Dr. Chris Cornish-Lawrence.

Toulouse-Lautrec and Bohemian Paris

Rainham Library

Wed, 18 Apr, 7pm

Chasing small mammals A talk on the wildlife of the Cuxton area with Ian Grey. Cuxton Library

An illustrated talk by Martin Heard about the popular French painter and his world of cafés, dance halls, and the popular entertainment of fin-de-siècle Paris, particularly Montmartre. Chatham Community Hub

Wed, 25 Apr, 2pm

Luton village history

www.celebratemedway2012.co.uk

Allotments in Medway, Rainham and Gillingham

A talk on the history of Luton by Brian Joyce. Wed, 18 Apr, 7.30-9pm

Luton Library

Rochester library quiz night A general knowledge quiz where 10 teams of six will compete for a small prize. Rochester Community Hub

Thu, 19 Apr, 7.30pm

Andrew Martin Author talk Talking about the whole Jim Stringer series, how he came to write the books, his research and a short reading from the latest. Gillingham Library

Thu, 26 Apr to Tue, 3 Jul

Exhibition: 50 years after Ship repair at Sheerness with photos by Martin Verrier. Medway Archives and Local Studies Centre

Tue, 15 May, 7.30pm

Jack the Ripper, the Nemesis of Neglect by Ian Porter The talk will cover how he wrote the novel, the legend of Jack the Ripper, poverty, women’s employment options and prostitution in 1888, newspaper reportage on the crimes and the real facts about Jack the Ripper. Rochester Community Hub

Libraries

Wed, 16 May, 2.30pm

The complete works of Charles Dickens with Gerald Dickens The afternoon will include the talk by Gerald Dickens, questions and answers and special refreshments. Tickets: ÂŁ15

www.celebratemedway2012.co.uk

Historic Dockyard, Chatham

Wed, 16 May, 7.30 - 9pm

Rochester library quiz night A general knowledge quiz where 10 teams of six will compete for a small prize. Rochester Community Hub

Thu, 24 May, 7.30pm

Thu, 3 May to Tue, 23 May

A road of marvels Chatham-based author, poet and storyteller Philip Kane argues for the continuing importance of myth and folktale to our imaginations and to our everyday lives. His engaging talk is interspersed with retellings of several traditional stories. Philip is author of The Wildwood King, and a founding member of the London Surrealist Group.

Exhibition: Roll out the red carpet, royal visits to Medway An illustrated exhibition focussing on visits made by Monarchs and members of the royal family to Medway from earliest times to the 21st century. Rochester Community Hub

Chatham Community Hub

Library contact details Chatham Cuxton Gillingham Grain Hempstead Hoo Lordswood Luton

01634 337799 01634 711391 01634 337340 01634 338727 01634 361544 01634 250640 01634 862096 01634 406923

Rainham Rochester Strood Thomas Aveling School Twydall Walderslade Hook Meadow

For opening times go to www.medway.gov.uk/ libraries or phone your local library.

01634 333854 01634 337411 01634 335890

Walderslade Village 01634 686467 Wigmore 01634 235576

01634 338728 01634 232488

Medway Mobile Library For routes and times visit www.medway.gov.uk/libraries

01634 861531

Medway Archives and Local Studies Centre, Strood 01634 332714 www.medway.gov.uk/archives malsc@medway.gov.uk www.facebook.com/medwayarchivesandlocalstudies

Sport

Sport The world’s most prestigious sporting event comes to London later this year, but before then there's plenty of sporting action taking place right here on your doorstep. Sat, 14 Apr

Open Day special

England Basketball

All of the following activities will be free of charge - swimming, badminton, squash, spinning, SHOKK youth gym, running track. Special offer – Join Echoes at Medway Park during the open day, there’ll be no joining fee and you receive the rest of the month free of charge. 01634 336655

National League play-off finals See eight teams from four national league divisions fight for league play-off glory in one day of high-octane competition. Tickets (on the door): Adults £6, concessions £3

Medway Park, Gillingham

Medway Rugby League Stampede Fri, 18 May

Sat, 19 May

Wheelchair Rugby League

Masters Rugby League

Medway Dragons v Mersey Storm

Dragons v RAF v London v British Army

Sat, 19 May

Challenge Cup Finals London RL Junior League Under 12, 14, 16 and 18 Sun, 20 May

London RL Mini League Medway Festival Medway Park, Gillingham

www.celebratemedway2012.co.uk

Fri, 6 Apr, 9.30am – 3.30pm

The Garrison Stadium, Gillingham

Sun, 20 May, 2pm

Stobart Super League London Broncos v Hull FC Tickets: Adults £10, under 16s £1

Priestfields Stadium, Gillingham

For more information on how to come and see these events phone 01634 338764.

Let the fun times roll at Gillingham FC There are lots of other events going on at Priestfield, from laugh out loud comedy to funky tribute nights. Find out what’s going on at www.priestfield.com

Gillingham FC home fixtures: Mon, 9 Apr Dagenham Sat, 21 Apr Swindon Sat, 5 May Morecambe

Outdoors

If indoor activities are not for you then have a look at what's on at our parks and open spaces.

www.celebratemedway2012.co.uk

Volunteer Task Days Come and help the park volunteers for the day. An ideal opportunity to learn what we do and to talk to volunteers. Refreshment will be provided. Riverside Country Park

Sun, 1 Apr and 13 May, 10am – 2pm 01634 337432 Capstone Farm Country Park

Track the bunny through the park with a fun quiz trail. There will be a small prize for every child who enters. Suitable for children aged five to 12-years old. Must be accompanied by an adult. Riverside Country Park

Sun, 15 Apr and 13 May, 10am – 2pm 01634 338191

Wed, 4 Apr, 11am – 3pm £2 per child. 01634 337432

Sun, 1 Apr, 11am - 1pm

Fri, 6 Apr, 11am – 3pm £2 per child. 01634 338191

Capstone Farm Country Park

Litter Pick Help the Friends of Broomhill keep Broomhill Park picturesque and free of litter. Please bring any equipment you may need and a drink. Broomhill Park

Wed, 4 Apr, 10am – 12noon

Junior Ranger Team Become a junior ranger for the morning and study the nature that can be found at the park. The group meets during school holidays and runs through the year. Activities range from pond dipping, mini-beast hunting, mammal surveying, habitat building and bird watching. For children aged eight to 12years-old. £2.50 per child. 01634 338191 Capstone Farm Country Park

Easter Bunny Hunt

Sun, 8 and Mon, 9 Apr, 10am – 6pm

Teddy Bears’ Picnic Calling all children and their teddy bears, come and have a great time around this beautiful castle with storytelling and fun and games. Children need to be supervised. One free child and teddy with every paying adult. £5.50 entrance fee. Upnor Castle

Outdoors

Mon, 9 Apr, 10am – 12noon

Orienteering Family Fun Test your orienteering skills around Capstone. Suitable for groups, families and individuals who are after a bit of an adventure. £1.50 per person. 01634 338191 Capstone Farm Country Park

Junior Ranger Club

Riverside Country Park

Tue, 10 Apr, 10 – 11am Riverside Country Park

Sat, 5 May, 10 – 11am

Sun, 22 Apr, 11am – 12noon (classroom based), 1 – 3pm (field based)

Beginners Birdwatching (spring) This introductory course will help you identify the most common birds seen or heard on the estuary or within the surrounding areas. No experience necessary. £1.50 per person. 01634 337432 Riverside Country Park

Sun, 29 Apr, 10am – 12noon

www.celebratemedway2012.co.uk

Become a ranger for the morning and study the nature that can be found at the park. Activities range from arts and crafts to walks, pond dipping and bird watching. Suitable for children aged five to 12-years old. Must be accompanied by an adult. £1.50 per child. 01634 337432

Bluebell Walk Come and ramble with the rangers to see the wonderful bluebells in our stunning woodlands. £1.50 per person. Book in advance on 01634 338191 Capstone Farm Country Park

Thu, 12 Apr, 9 – 11am or 12noon – 2pm

Parent and Child Fishing Teaching Learn the basics of course fishing at Capstone with our park rangers. Aimed at beginners and those wanting to improve. All equipment and bait will be supplied. Book early to avoid disappointment. Suitable for children aged eight to 12-years-old. £8 per child. 01634 338191 Capstone Farm Country Park

Outdoors

Volunteer Task Day

www.celebratemedway2012.co.uk

Sat, 12 and Sun, 13 May, 10am – 5pm

Medway Flower Fair at Cozenton Park Specialist nurseries and garden-related suppliers, children’s activities and refreshments; all brought together for a weekend of floristic entertainment. Cozenton Park, Rainham

Come and help the park volunteers for the day. An ideal opportunity to learn what they do and to talk to volunteers. Refreshments will be provided. Capstone Farm Country Park

Sun, 13 May, 10am – 2pm Free. 01634 338191 Riverside Country Park

Sun, 13 May, 10am – 2pm Free. Register interest on 01634 337432

Mini Beast Hunt A must for those interested in insect life. Learn to identify the creatures that can be found at Capstone in the ponds and wildflower meadows. Suitable for children aged five to 12-years-old. Must be accompanied by an adult. Capstone Farm Country Park

Sun, 13 May, 10am – 12noon or 1 – 3pm £1.50 per child. 01634 338191 Riverside Country Park

Sat, 19 May, 10am – 12noon or 1 – 3pm £1.50 per child. 01634 337432

Sat, 19 May, 2 – 4pm

It’s A Bugs Life Come dressed as your favourite bug and join Kent Wildlife Trust and The Friends of The Vines as they explore the garden looking for insects on a minibeast hunt. Inspect the park’s special stag beetle colony and new Bug Hotel. Children must be accompanied by an adult. There will be a prize for the best bug fancy dress. The Vines, Rochester

Sun, 20 May, 10am – 12noon

Capstone Tree Walk Walk with one of the rangers and learn to identify the different tree species that grow in the park, their uses and the different management practices. Suitable for all ages. £1.50 per person. 01634 338191 Capstone Farm Country Park