Stage Directions 49 by Mousetrap Theatre Projects

for members of the Teachersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Preview Club

Stage directions Issue 49 Feb/March/April 2012 www.mousetrap.org.uk

We hope that 2012 is proving an exciting and happy year for you thus far, with many a theatre visit ahead. Thank you to all of you that took part in our survey at the end of 2011, and congratulations to TPC member Marie MacDonald who won tickets to The Lion King for taking part. It is vital for us to find out how you use your membership and what we can do to make it even better. We were especially delighted to find that lots of you are using your membership to preview shows before taking your students. When booking group deals, do check in with our partners at GroupLine, who often have the best rates around. As ever, we want to hear what you would like to see in the magazine – why not drop me a line, ‘like’ Teachers’ Preview Club on Facebook and follow MousetrapTP on Twitter. Very best wishes for the next few months, Elly

how to book

DEAR TEACHERS

• Y ou are entitled to book two tickets to preview productions. • W hen booking your tickets, you will be asked for your TPC membership number on your membership card. • Y ou can preview as many or as few productions as you wish. • All tickets are subject to availability. • T ickets CANNOT be transferred or bought on behalf of others. • M ost West End theatre offers can be booked through Group Line on 020 7907 7069 or by logging in at www.mousetrap.org.uk* • G roup Line also offer reasonable Group Rates if you plan to take your students - call 020 7580 6793. • O ther productions can be booked via their own box office telephone number. which will appear under the production listing or venue name. • W hen collecting your tickets at the box office, you may be asked to show your TPC membership card. • I f there are any changes in production dates or booking details after this magazine’s publication, you will receive an email with the updated information. • T o log on to the website you will need your username – firstname. surname and a password. Unless you otherwise specify your password will be automatically be set to ‘mousetrap’. • I f we have your email, you will also receive additional theatre offers during the quarter. • Y our membership will expire exactly one year after you join, when we will write to you to remind you to renew.

* For lost membership cards, to register your email, reset your password, or renew your membership, call the TPC on 020 7240 1248 or email nancy@mousetrap.org.uk

@ PHOENIX

THEATRE

MOUSETRAP THEATRE PROJECTS ...inspiring young people

The captivating and moving tale of twins who, separated at birth, grow up on opposite sides of the tracks, only to meet again with tragic consequences. The incredible score includes ‘Bright New Day’, ‘Marilyn Monroe’ and the emotionally charged hit ‘Tell Me It’s Not True’. Presented by Bill Kenwright. TICKETS £15 / Mon–Thurs 7.45pm & Weds 3pm / Until end April (excl. 10th–17th Feb) / To book call 020 7907 7069 or login at www.mousetrap.org.uk

CHICAGO

@ GARRICK

THEATRE

Chicago is one of London’s most popular and thrilling smash hit musicals. A nightclub dancer...a smooth talking lawyer...and a cell block of sin. It would be a crime to miss it. TICKETS £20 / Ages 12+ / Mon-Thurs 8pm & Fri 5pm / Until End April (Excl. w/c 13 Feb, 2 Apr & 9 Apr) To book call 020 7907 7069 or login at www.mousetrap.org.uk

LEGALLY BLONDE @ THE

SAVOY THEATRE

College sweetheart and homecoming queen Elle Woods doesn’t take no for an answer. So when her boyfriend dumps her for someone ‘serious’, Elle puts down the credit card, hits the books, and heads for Harvard Law School! Winner of 7 awards in London and now in its third fabulous year, Legally Blonde is the award-winning sensation that has taken the West End by storm. TICKETS £20 / Ages 4+ / Mon-Thu eves / until 31st March / Call 0844 871 7687 or book online www.legallyblondethemusical.co.uk and quote ‘STAGE20’ (note that to book online it must all be caps with no spacing)

WEST END

BLOOD BROTHERS

“A new West End hit has landed” Time Out Recognising the importance of introducing young people to the world of high quality theatre, GHOST offers a thrilling insight into classic drama themes: loss, betrayal, love, ambition, the supernatural and death. Teachers are invited to preview GHOST with a view to using this thrilling production to engage and stimulate students in their core curriculum studies, and develop vital skills. Suitable for Key Stage 3, GSCE, A Level students of English Language, English Literature, as well as extension ideas in RE, PSHE, media and Theatre Studies. TICKETS £20 / Mon – Wed at 7.30pm / 6 Feb – 2 May (Exc. 13-15 Feb & 2-11 April, subject to avail) / To book call 020 7478 8806 (10.30am-5.30pm)

STAGE DIRECTIONS mousetrap.org.uk

WEST END

GHOST THE MUSICAL  @ PICCADILLY THEATRE

THE PITMEN PAINTERS @ Duchess Theatre

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DREAMBOATS AND PETTICOATS @ PLAYHOUSE

THEATRE

Inspired by the smash hit albums, Dreamboats and Petticoats the musical features all the greatest hits of the rock ‘n’ roll era! TICKETS £15 / All Ages / Mon–Thurs 7.30pm / Until End April (excl. 10th–17th Feb) / To book call 020 7907 7069 or login at www.mousetrap.org.uk

Written by Lee Hall, creator of the worldwide sensation Billy Elliot, The Pitmen Painters is a humorous, deeply moving and timely look at art, class and politics and won the Evening Standard award for Best New Play. In 1934, a group of Ashington miners hired a professor to teach an art appreciation evening class. Rapidly abandoning theory in favour of practice, the pitmen began to paint – prolifically. Within a few years avant-garde artists became their friends and their work was acquired by prestigious collectors; but every day they continued to work, as before, down the mine… TICKETS £15 / All Ages / Mon–Thurs 7.30pm / Until end April (Excl. 10th–17th Feb) / To book call 020 7907 7069 or login at www.mousetrap.org.uk

SHREK

@ THEATRE

ROYAL DRURY LANE

Shrek the Musical brings the characters loved by all ages to life in this spectacular new production based on the Oscar®-winning DreamWorks Animation film, which turns the world of fairytales upside down. Starring Nigel Lindsay, Richard Blackwood, Nigel Harman and Kimberley Walsh, Shrek the Musical is taking ogre the West End! TICKETS £20/ Ages 5+ / Mon-Thu perfs / Until end March / To book call 0844 412 4649

THE WIZARD OF OZ @ London

Palladium

Follow the yellow brick road over the rainbow and into The London Palladium for Andrew Lloyd Webber’s hit production of The Wizard of Oz. Starring Russell Grant as The Wizard for 12 weeks from 14 Feb, alongside Sophie Evans as Dorothy. (Michael Crawford and Danielle Hope continue as The Wizard and Dorothy until 5 Feb.) TICKETS £15 (upper circle) / Tue to Thu at 7.30pm and Wed at 2.30pm / Until 30 Apr (Excl. w/c 13 Feb, w/c 2 Apr & w/c 9 Apr) / To book call 020 7907 7069 or login at www.mousetrap.org.uk

THE WOMAN IN BLACK

@ AMBASSADORS

THEATRE

This multi-award winning show has a universal language of rhythm, theatre, comedy and dance. Eight performers use everything from Zippo lighters, plastic bags, bin lids and even the kitchen sink to hammer out an explosively feel good rhythm. TICKETS £15 (+ £2.50 booking fee) / Mon at 8pm, Thurs at 3pm / Until end April / to book call 0844 8112 334 and quote ‘Teachers Preview Club’. Two tickets per cardholder. All tickets to be collected at the Box Office and strictly only released upon production of a valid TPC membership card.

WICKED

@ APOLLO

VICTORIA

Was the Wicked Witch of the West really wicked or the victim of a corrupt regime? You might think you know the whole story about the Land of Oz, but this awardwinning stage production skillfully and accessibly encourages pupils to look at things very differently. Watch the trailer and download FREE lesson plans at WickedPreview.co.uk TICKETS £15 / Ages 7+/ Mon-Thu at 7.30pm and Wed at 2.30pm / Until 30 Apr (Excl. w/c 13 Feb, w/c 2 Apr & w/c 9 Apr) / To book call 020 7907 7069 or login at www.mousetrap.org.uk

THE 39 STEPS @ CRITERION

THEATRE

Take a daring leap into the world of espionage, high drama and rip-roaring comedy with The 39 Steps. The wonderfully inventive Olivier Award winning show is a brilliant stage recreation of Alfred Hitchcock’s classic spy thriller and features just 4 fearless actors playing 139 roles in 100 minutes of fast-paced fun and thrilling action. Workshops available and 46-page education pack downloadable at www.love39steps.com TICKETS £15 / Ages 7+ / Mon–Thu at 8pm and Wed at 3pm / Until 26 April (Excl. w/c 13 Feb and 2-13 April)/ To book call 020 7907 7069 or login at www.mousetrap.org.uk

WEST END

STOMP

THEATRE

The most terrifying live theatre experience in the world. Celebrating over 23 years in the West End with over 7 million people having lived to tell the tale The Woman in Black is of one of the most exciting, gripping and successful theatre events ever staged. OFFER: 2 for 1, £45.50 for 2 tickets Tues-Thurs performances or £48 for 2 tickets Friday & Saturday performances / Until 28 April / To book Call 0844 871 7626 and quote ‘Stage Directions’ / Ages 12+

STAGE DIRECTIONS mousetrap.org.uk

WEST END

@ FORTUNE

3 DAYS IN MAY @

TRAFALGAR STUDIOS

Bill Kenwright presents Warren Clarke playing Winston Churchill in the World Premiere of Ben Brown’s thrilling political drama. May 1940… Downing Street… Three days that will change the course of history… Forever. Taking us behind the doors of Number Ten during three of the most pivotal days in British History, when, extraordinarily, giving in to Hitler was considered by some to be a ‘viable option’. TICKETS £15 / Mon–Thurs / Until end April (Excl. 10th–17th Feb) / Ages 12 + / To book call 020 7907 7069 or login at www.mousetrap.org.uk

for more information visit www.polkatheatre.com/whats-on/ twist-of-gold

by Fiddler Donnelly on board the ship to America – and onstage this will be played live. Composer Olly Fox and I have been drawing on Irish folk, as well as Shaker rhythms and American bluegrass, to evoke the sound of the time and to echo the journey, as taken by many emigrants, through music. You’re about to start rehearsals, what do you imagine your greatest challenges will be? Well, we’ve got a lot to do in a relatively short period! It’s an epic journey, with lots of scenes. And as my answer above suggests, I’ve complicated the situation further by making the music live. Plus there’s all the accents to master (we’re having help from a Voice Coach on those). But I have a multi-talented cast and a terrific team, so I am also really excited about starting. Not least, we have been planning this for so long, I just can’t wait to get into the rehearsal room! Does making work for younger audiences alter your process as director? No. Michael’s writing avoids any sense of looking down at children – and often his stories are quite tough. Similarly, my job as I see it is to retell the story in the best way I can: and hopefully that will appeal to audiences old and young. I find that young theatregoers can be the harshest critics, so I need to make sure the story is clear, but also truthful – and exciting. But I have also found that these audiences are the most inventive, so in design terms, we offer up enough to place us in the various

locations, but encourage the audience to complete them with their imaginations. The story is set in the Irish potato famine, how much of the historical context of the play are you intending to illuminate? The famine is the context which Sean, Annie and their mother find themselves; indeed the play starts with them tending the graves of their three siblings who have died. And Will the Dragoon is there because of the English presence in Ireland….but then again it’s a play not a documentary. I love the way that Michael taps into key historical events of the past – yet he does not seek to teach; rather, I think he inspires readers to go and find out more once they’ve read the books (or seen the plays). So we’ll be reflecting the period, in costume and design. But then the journey surges on, to the docks at Cork, and across the Atlantic to America!

STAGE DIRECTIONS mousetrap.org.uk

Can you tell us a bit about Twist of Gold, the original novel and Simon Reade’s adaptation? Nowadays, Michael Morpurgo is internationally renowned as a writer, both through the success of his books and from adaptations of his work – including the play (and now film) of War Horse. But Twist of Gold is a much earlier story, written back in 1993. Canvassing opinion I have heard from several parents and young readers that for Morpurgo fans, it is well-known, but perhaps less so outside that field. Simon Reade has adapted a number of Michael’s books before, including Private Peaceful – which he also just filmed, and which will be released later this year. Another, Toro! Toro!, I directed while I was the Artistic Director of Salisbury Playhouse. I chose Toro! Toro! because I thought it was a wonderful story, brilliantly retold as a play. And audiences clearly approved, since we were nominated for a TMA Award for Best Show for Children and Young People that year. With Twist of Gold – commissioned by Johnathon Lloyd, Artistic Director of Polka, Simon has created another boldly dramatic adaptation, which remains faithful to the book, yet makes Sean and Annie’s journey an unmistakably theatrical one. The two children are on stage throughout (quite an ask for our young performers), and then there are four other performers who play all the other characters (which is quite an ask for them, and for Polka’s wardrobe department!). Music and dance play a key part in the production, too. In the book, Michael writes of Sean being taught the violin

FEATURED SHOW

We speak to Philip Wilson, director of Twist of Gold at the Polka Theatre

What do you hope younger audiences will learn from seeing Twist of Gold? A number of characters in the story may seem kind at first, but actually have darker motives; while others can TPC seem bluff and tough, and yet look o ff er o after Sean and Annie. So perhaps page 1 n younger audiences may think about 2 who one’s friends are (and how you can’t always tell at first). Plus, Sean and Annie have a special bond, so the story touches on the strength one can draw from one’s family. Above all, I hope they will be transported by the storytelling – and perhaps be inspired to write their own stories; either as books, or plays! 9

To book call 020 7503 1646, Mon-Sat, 12.30-6.30pm, and quote TEACHPC or enter the code at www.arcolatheatre.com Dalston Kingsland/Dalston Junction

The Prosecution; And Then There Were None; The Unexpected Guest; The Hollow; Verdict; and Spider’s Web, the latest instalment from The Agatha Christie Theatre Company promises an all star cast, a host of colourful characters, and all the twists and turns of classic Christie, to keep you guessing to the final shattering climax. TICKETS £18 / Mon 5 Mar eve perf / Quote ‘AGATHAMTP’

Monty Python’s Spamalot

The show features the hilarious songs He Is Not Dead Yet, Knights Of The Round Table, Find Your Grail and of course the Nation’s Favourite Comedy Song Always Look On The Bright Side Of Life and features Eric Idle himself as God (see small print)*. Bonnie Langford stars as Lady of the Lake and Todd Carty aka Tucker, expert ice-skater and EastEnders stalwart stars as Patsy. TICKETS £19 / Mon 30 April eve perf / Quote ‘SPAMMTP’ / Ages 8+

To book call 0844 847 1652 or book online at www.finboroughtheatre.co.uk West Brompton/Earls Court

Outward Bound

PURGE

Zara in on the run. Aliide wants to stay hidden. Deep in an Estonian forest their worlds collide. Revealing the dark history of a small nation, Sofi Oksanen weaves together history, politics and suspense in an award-winning story that rivals the best of Ian McEwan and Stieg Larsson. TICKETS £10 / 22 Feb - 3 Mar / Mon - Sat 8pm (24 Feb 7pm), 3 March 3pm / Ages 15+ (contains nudity and an interrogation scene)

CHURCHILL THEATRE BROMLEY 0844 871 7620 (bkg fee) or visit www.atgtickets.com/bromley (bkg fee) Bromley South

Science Museum Live

by Sutton Vane Directed by Louise Hill Once the biggest hit of the 1923 season, going on to play for many years in the West End as well as being a huge hit on Broadway, Outward Bound now returns to London for the first time in more than fifty years. TICKETS £9 for the first two perfs; £5 for under 30s in the first week of the run when booked online / Tues 31 Jan – Sat 25 Feb / Ages 12+

Unleash your inner Einstein - explosive fun for all the family! Experience spectacular science, dangerous demonstrations and extraordinary experiments as the Science Museum takes to the stage with a fantastic live show to blow your mind and challenge your brain! TICKET OFFER: 2 for 1 / Wed 14 Mar eve perf (adult tickets only) / Quote ‘SCIENCEMTP’

AROUND TOWN

FINBOROUGH THEATRE

STAGE DIRECTIONS mousetrap.org.uk

MOUSETRAP THEATRE PROJECTS ...inspiring young people

AROUND TOWN

ARCOLA Theatre

Please note: Offer is subject to availability and cannot be used in conjunction with any other discount, for premium seats or redeemed against tickets already purchased. Booking and transaction fees will apply. All ticket prices are subject to terms and conditions as stated in the Churchill Theatre Bromley season brochure.

Chinese State Circus – Yin Yang

Featuring the amazing legendary Bicycle Act which will keep the audience on the edge of their seats as 12 artistes manoeuvre onto a single bicycle. Witness the unpredictable and exhilarating twists of foot juggling with drums, the famous swinging poles, the sensational contortionist and the dynamic hoop divers with their amazing somersaults, leaps and jumps. TICKET OFFER: 2 for 1 / Mon 20 – Wed 22 Feb eve perfs / Quote ‘CHINESEMTP’

Agatha Christie’s Murder On The Nile

Following on from the hugely successful: Witness For

The Crowstarver

Written by Dick King-Smith, The Crowstarver is a gripping and moving story set in a close-knit rural community in the early days of the Second World War. Combining an action-packed and heart-warming story with powerful performances, beguiling animal puppets and a stunning live score, the show follows successful Theatre Alibi productions of Michael Morpurgo’s Why The Whales Came which transferred to the West End and Michael Frayn’s Spies. TICKET OFFER: 2 for 1 / Tue 24 – Fri 28 eve perfs (adult tickets only) / Quote ‘CROWMTP’

Don Juan Comes Back from the War

by Ödön von Horváth in a new version by Duncan Macmillan Ödön von Horváth’s startling tale of displacement and isolation in the aftermath of the Great War is presented in a bold new adaptation by award-winning playwright Duncan Macmillan. TICKETS £9 for the first two perfs; £5 for under 30s in the first week of the run when booked online / Tues 28 Feb - Sat 24 Mar / Ages 16+

Aimed at 9 – 13 year olds (KS2 & KS3 students)

RICHMOND THEATRE

To book please call the Box Office on 0844 871 7651* and quote ‘StageDirections Offer’. * fees apply Richmond

LYRIC HAMMERSMITH

A range of schools’ workshops are available, call 0871 22 117 22 for more details. TICKETS £5 / 13-15 and 17 Feb 7.30pm/ Teachers go FREE with school group bookings / Ages 14+

POLKA THEATRE WIMBLEDON

To book call 020 8543 4888 and quote ‘Teachers’ Preview’ Wimbledon

Funny Peculiar Neighbourhood Watch

Things are not right on The Bluebell Hill Development. Theft, petty crime, vandalism – all the ills of modern suburban existence are on the increase. Alan Ayckbourn’s hilarious cautionary tale of the dangers of taking the law into your own hands is his seventyfifth play. TICKETS £15 / Mon 6 – Fri 10 Feb

To book call 0871 221 1729 or www.lyric.co.uk and quote ‘Mousetrap’ Hammersmith

Oedipussy

ROUNDHOUSE To book your tickets please call 020 7424 6776 and quote ‘Stage Directions’ Chalk Farm / Camden Town

Michael Morpurgo’s Twist of Gold

Kneehigh’s Artistic Director Emma Rice (Brief Encounter, The Red Shoes, The Wild Bride) joins forces with the irreverent Spymonkey to create an outrageous subversion of Sophocles’ mythical tale at the Lyric Hammersmith from 10 – 21 April. TICKETS £5 (ltd avail) / 11 Apr at 7pm & 12 Apr at 7.30pm

Trevor Tinsley is a small-town grocer with a devoted wife - but his desire to taste the forbidden fruit of free love leads him astray. Hilarious misadventures ensue, revealing a host of comic characters, as Trevor’s actions lead him into conflict and provoke his narrowminded wife into a surprising reaction of her own! TICKETS £10 / Mon 23 – Sat 28 Apr

STAGE DIRECTIONS mousetrap.org.uk

AROUND TOWN DIRECTIONS .org.uk

by Arthur Miller The American Clock is a panoramic ‘dramatic vaudeville’ about the Great Depression of the 1930s by great American dramatist, Arthur Miller. When the stock market crashes, a well-to-do family loses everything and is forced to move from their plush penthouse apartment to the modest home of a relative in Brooklyn... TICKETS £9 for the first two perfs; tickets £5 for under 30s in the first week of the run when booked online / Tues 27 Mar – Sat 21 Apr / Ages 14+

Following the success of Three Sisters and Twelfth Night, Filter returns to collaborate with Lyric Artistic Director Sean Holmes to remix and rework Shakespeare’s classic play from 11 Feb – 17 Mar. With school tickets just £12.50, this is a unique opportunity for education audiences to see the play in a whole new light.

TOWN

See the world premiere of David Seidler’s original play which inspired his famous Oscar® winning film about King Edward VIII and his oddball therapist Lionel Logue’s journey to correct his debilitating stammer and deliver the radio address that will inspire his country on the brink of World War II. TICKETS £10 / Mon 5 – Sat 10 Mar

A Midsummer Night’s Dream

The American Clock

The King’s Speech

Join Polka for an epic adventure as this classic novel by the masterful storyteller and author of War Horse brought to life on stage. With famine gripping Ireland, Sean and Annie have just one chance of survival – they must find their father. Travelling across rough seas to America and meeting plenty of characters along the way, they embark on a long and dangerous journey. But will they ever be reunited with their family? 1 FREE ticket per teacher / Valid during the first week of perfs (16 – 24 Feb, subject to availability) /

Cirque Mandingue: Foté Foré The Rat Pack – Live From Las Vegas

The boys are back in town to take you to the glamorous, glitzy nights of Las Vegas in the late 50s and early 60s. The fabulous Burrelli Sisters and The Rat Pack Big Band join Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr and Dean Martin performing at the famous Sands Hotel. TICKETS £10 / Mon 13 – Fri 17 Feb

Trailblazing Guinean circus troupe Cirque Mandingue open CircusFest 2012 with an infectious mix of high-energy acrobatics and street dance set against a backdrop of live West African drumming and hip hop beats. Featuring an amazing ensemble of performers, blending traditional and contemporary circus, dance and music and bringing the Guinean streets to the stage in this high octane show. TICKETS £15 / Weds 28 – Fri 30 Mar @ 7.30pm / All ages. Running time : 1 hour.

The Bee

ROYAL COURT THEATRE

When an ordinary office worker returns home to find his wife and child kidnapped, he is drawn into a dark and dangerous game of revenge. The Bee comes back to Soho as part of an acclaimed international tour. For any students of theatre or drama, this is a rare opportunity to see Japanese theatre legend Hideki Noda at work. Ltd number of £10 tickets available for all perfs / 24 Jan – 11 Feb, 7.30pm (3pm mats)

DIRECTIONS .org.uk

In Basildon

by David Eldridge   Len’s on his death bed and the family gather to say their final farewells. His sisters still aren’t speaking after nearly 20 years, his nephew’s trying for a baby – and a bigger house, while his best mate Ken remembers ‘Bas-vegas’ when it was a village. As the spread is laid out and the ham sandwiches sit next to the wreaths, it’s hard to see who’s hungry and who’s just greedy. An epic family drama exploring inheritance and the myth of place.  TICKETS £15 / Thu 16 – Sat 25 Feb 7.30pm and mat Sat 25 Feb 2.30pm. (excl. 20, 22) / Ages 14+

SADLERS WELLS To book call 0844 412 4300 and quote ‘Teachers Preview Club’ Angel

Richard Alston Dance Company:

Roughcut, A Ceremony of Carols & Lie of the Land

This ridiculously fun 3D puppet show was a sell-out success and Fringe First Winner at the Edinburgh Festival last year. Using shadow puppetry and bits of rubbish, acclaimed Canadian performer Jeff Achtem debuts a gurgling new adventure about life in a swamp with bickering snails, opera singing mice and a rather spineless swamp monster ending in a stunning 3D finale. Come play in the dark!  Ltd number of £10 tickets available for all perfs / 17 April – 5 May, 7pm (3pm matinees)

Richard Alston Dance Company presents a triple bill of works from throughout his career; Roughcut, first performed in 1990 and rarely revived since. The UK premiere of A Ceremony of Carols - a Sadler’s Wells co-commission - accompanied by Canterbury Cathedral Choir, and completing the bill, Lie of the Land. TICKETS £10 / Wed 29 Feb & Thu 1 Mar 7.30pm and schools mat Thu 1 Mar at 1.30pm

Fuenteovejuna

Famed for his ‘’gusty authenticity’’ Time Out, the company of the late Antonio Gades present a folkdance-drama interpretation of Lope de Vega’s play, Fuenteovejuna.  TICKETS £15 / 14 - 16 Feb at 7.30pm/ Ages 14+

SOHO Theatre

To book call 020 7478 0100 for availability Tottenham Court Road/Leicester Square

A WALK ON PART: The Fall of New Labour

From the critically acclaimed diaries of Chris Mullin, former MP for Sunderland South, A Walk On Part provides a fascinating and entertaining insight into the inner workings of Westminster, the lives of our MPs and 13 years that changed British politics forever. Witty; irreverent; insightful: this is a must-see for any student of politics, history or citizenship. Ltd number of £10 tickets available for all perfs / 14 April – 21 March, 7.15pm (3pm matinees)

Theatre 503

To book – quote “mousetrap” when calling box office 020 7978 7040 Clapham Junction

Mathematics of the Heart

Transferring after great acclaim at Brighton Fringe 2011, this funny and tender play about the unpredictability of love finds Professor of Chaos Theory Dr Paul MacMillan’s life grinding to a halt a month after the death of his father. “A poignant and tender story…as funny as it was moving.” Sunday Times TICKET OFFER: 2 tickets for £12 / 7th to 15th / Ages 12+

TRICYCLE Theatre The Girl With the Iron Claws

To book call the Box Office on 020 7328 1000 or book online at www.tricycle.co.uk and use promotional code MOUSETRAP Kilburn Brondesbury

Growing up isn’t easy, especially when you’re in love with a bear. From a sell-out run at the Edinburgh Festival comes a Nordic Myth told in an innovative and entertaining way. Fusing puppetry, physical theatre and beautiful storytelling, this critically acclaimed show will engage and delight children and grown-ups alike. Ltd number of £10 tickets available for all perfs / 22 April – 5 May, 7.30pm (4.30pm mats)

AROUND TOWN

Swamp Juice

STAGE DIRECTIONS mousetrap.org.uk

To Book online www.royalcourttheatre.com select “Teachers” offer or call the Box Office on 020 7565 5000 Sloane Square

The Bomb – a partial history (in two parts)

9 Feb – 1 April A historical, satirical and engaging look at the history of the Nuclear Bomb from its beginnings in the 1940s, to the dangers we face today. Presented in two parts and consisting of 10 short plays by internationally acclaimed playwrights, The Bomb offers a contemporary take on one of the most important debates for mankind. TICKETS £8.50 throughout Feb (excl. 20 Feb) (Limited offer, Advanced booking only)

StageBusiness

After attending a top West End production, students then take part in a ‘how to’ workshop with the industry professionals responsible for the marketing campaign for that show. Using the knowledge gained, they then set about developing a marketing strategy for a new West End show. Last year, the students were given an opportunity to develop ideas for upcoming West End musical Loserville. The project culminates in a ‘Dragon’s Den’ style presentation, where the students’ pitch their innovative ideas, which are ‘judged’ and critiqued by three industry professionals – last year the panel included Kevin Wallace, the real-life producer of Loserville! The winning team receive free theatre ticket vouchers.

STAGE DIRECTIONS mousetrap.org.uk

The programme starts with an INSET day for teachers, run by theatre marketing consultants and producers, to provide insights into their professional roles and methodology, as well as a comprehensive overview of the programme.

StageBusiness

StageBusiness is one of Mousetrap Theatre Projects’ ground-breaking theatre education programmes and is designed for both Performing Arts and Business Studies BTec students to support their understanding of Theatre Marketing, Budgeting and Management. Like all our programmes for young people, StageBusiness includes a subsidised trip to a West End show as a catalyst for the work.

‘This was a brilliant project which brought a very dry module completely to life for the students, who learned how the world of ‘marketing in the arts’ works in the real world. They developed the skills needed to present their ideas effectively, professionally and as a team.’ Debbie Bailey, Head of Drama, Hemel Hempstead School who took part in last year’s StageBusiness.

StageBusiness will take part in the summer term. If you would like to find out more, email Linda@mousetrap.org.uk or read more at www.mousetrap.org.uk

STAGE DIRECTIONS mousetrap.org.uk

MOUSETRAP THEATRE PROJECTS ...inspiring young people

ON TOUR

Horrible Histories: Terrible Tudors & Vile Victorians

On tour again in 2012 using actors & amazing 3D effects to show audiences (ages 5+) what it was really like to live in these times. Free teachers notes on www.birminghamstage.com/education Horrible Histories Terrible Tudors Tuesday 14 Feb at 7pm Ashcroft Theatre, Fairfield Halls Croydon box office 020 8688 9291 Friday 16 March at 7pm Congress Theatre Eastbourne box office 01323 412000 Tuesday 3 April at 7pm New Theatre Oxford box office 0844 871 3020

Horrible Histories Vile Victorians Wed 11 April at 7pm New Victoria Theatre Woking box office 0844 871 7645

Where are yo Get in touch to u? let us know which re giona theatres you wo l uld like to see in StageDirection s

SPECIAL EVENT

STAGE DIRECTIONS mousetrap.org.uk

Special Event

Billy Elliot the Musical follows the inspirational journey of one boy with an incredible talent who pursues his dreams and changes his life forever. Set in 1984/’85, during one of the most damaging strikes in Britain’s industrial history, Billy Elliot the Musical provides both a wealth of historical context and stimulus for cross-curricular activities. Suitable for KS3 to KS5, covering elements of Dance, Drama, Music, English, History, Citizenship, PSHE and SWAL. Monday 5th March at 7.30pm TICKETS £22.50 (includes show and pre-show talk) Further information and booking details will be emailed to TPC members in February

The Riots workshop Mousetrapper

Theatreland was full of “Mousetrappers” in 2011

Celia Imrie, Janie Dee and Paul Ready in Noises Off

inspiring young people 22

Mousetrap Theatre Projects’ latest NEWS

We’ve just finished counting and are proud to report that last year we gave nearly 11,000 young people the chance to participate in our theatregoing and dramabased education programmes. Add to this the 850 teachers, carers and parents who supported them; the 800 adult family members who took their children to the theatre through our Family First Nights programme; and the 2,000 young people and their family members who went to the theatre through the many extra theatre offers we send them regularly by email and post. With only 9 of us in the office, we couldn’t do this without all the help we receive from our Youth Forum, funders, volunteers, producers and theatre staff.

TheatreOpeners opening doors for 4,000 students

Feathers in our Cap • Sedos, one of London’s top amateur theatre groups, has chosen Mousetrap Theatre Projects as its charity for 2012. During the year, Sedos will designate one performance for each of its productions as a fundraiser for Mousetrap. We’re also planning more ways to work together, using some of the outstanding theatrical skills Sedos members have. • As a guest on Radio 4’s Midweek, hosted by Libby Purves, our chairman, Sir Stephen Waley-Cohen, spoke about the 60th anniversary of The Mousetrap but also mentioned the education work of our charity, something Libby knows well as she recently mentored 6th Form students in our signature Play the Critic programme. • Congratulations to our Trustee Phyllida Lloyd, who has been receiving kudos for directing Meryl Streep in The Iron Lady following directing her in the film Mamma Mia! • Two of our Patrons, Janie Dee and Celia Imrie, are starring in Noises Off, the hit production playing at the Old Vic and will meet our WestEnd4£10 participants at a pre-show talk next month.

Susan Whiddington, Director

Venture to a mid-week matinee of Totem at the Royal Albert Hall and you might find yourself sitting with a few hundred of our young people. This is just one of the productions we have on offer this term to state secondary mainstream schools through our largest theatre access programme, TheatreOpeners. We have already taken 206 students to see The Riots. 50 of them took part in a thought-provoking Insight session with the Assistant Director Ben Bennett. Students were encouraged to put their own views and reactions to last summer’s rioting and why it happened in a wider context, using the verbatim theatre technique. With Lovesong, One Man Two Guvnors, The Lion King and Singin’ in the Rain yet to come, we are geared up for an exciting and busy spring term.

StageSeen theatre experiences for deaf and hard of hearing young people Modelled on our successful Envision programme for blind and partially-sighted young people, we are thrilled to launch StageSeen - special days at the theatre for deaf and hard of hearing young people. Pupils will attend a signed or captioned performance of The Lion King in March, take part in 90-minute workshops led by deaf practitioners and interpreters and have a chance to walk on stage and meet some of the performers in costume. This is the only theatre education programme of its kind in the UK for deaf and hard of hearing young people.

Superbreak is pleased to offer members of TPC a 10% discount on all Uk and European short breaks This includes great low prices at over 5000 hotels and discounts on a full range of London theatre and event breaks. Too see the huge range of options available to members, please visit www.superbreak.com To book call 0871 221 1199 and quote ‘Teachers’ Preview Club’ to claim savings

GROUP LINE EDUCATION Winner! Best Ticket Agent 2011 Best Ticket Agent 14 times in the last 11 years 020 7580 6793 tix@groupline.com www.groupline.com Group Line Education - official ticketing partner for Teachers Preview Club, Mousetrap Theatre Projects. Contact us today and receive our latest Teacher’s Guide. Group Line offers the very best school group rates for top West End musicals and plays, plus teachers can go for free on selected West End shows.

Teachers’ Preview Club

MOUSETRAP THEATRE PROJECTS 23–24 Henrietta Street, Covent Garden, London WC2E 8ND T. 020 72401248 F. 020 7632 4111 E. tpc@mousetrap.org.uk www.mousetrap.org.uk Registered Charity no: 1053434

cover image: Dreamboats and Petticoats at the Playhouse Theatre

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