New Vic Theatre Autumn 2010 by New Vic Theatre

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

11:20

Page 1

AUTUMN SEASON

How to get here

2 0 1 0

Bus stop outside theatre 34 & 34A: Newcastle & Hanley.

Bus

The nearest station is Stoke-on-Trent. Connections to Birmingham, Manchester, Derby, Stafford, Crewe. Enquiries: 08457 484950

Rail

THE BOY WHO NEVER GREW UP

Parking

Please contact Box Office to arrange reserved, free parking

Disabled

Please contact Box Office to arrange reserved, free parking

Coach / Minibus

£1 (free before 6.30pm and for four-in-a-car). Theatre is in residential area. Use car parks indicated. Theatre car park can be full at busy times! Leave time to use alternative parking approx 500 yards from theatre (see map). Cars parked at owners’ risk. N.B. don’t park at Polite Vicar wheel-clamping in force!

Car

The New Vic gratefully acknowledges the following for their generous support:

The New Vic Theatre operates thanks to a unique partnership between Arts Council England, Staffordshire County Council, Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council and Stoke-on-Trent City Council

Charity Registration Number: 253242 Company Registration Number: 911924 Registered Office: Etruria Road, Newcastle under Lyme, Staffordshire, ST5 0JG

Box Office: 01782 717962

New Vic Theatre, Etruria Road, Newcastle-Under-Lyme, Staffs, ST5 0JG

Michael Hugo on playing Peter Pan

Box Office: 01782 717962

contents AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

11:20

AUTUMN 2010

Plays

Page 3

One Nighters

Events

33 Giselle 16 Bleak House 39 18 Uncle Eric’s Italian Job 33 Ludwig String Trio 39 34 Tangomotion 32 Don’t Turn My Life Into a Musical 34 International Guitar Night 39 20 The Mikado 39 36 Mongrian & Brozman 22 Desire Under the Elms 36 Lúnasa 40 24 The Game 37 Albion Band Christmas 26 Life of Riley Male Voice 37 Froncysyllte Choir 28 Peter Pan 38 Pasadena Roof Orchestra 35 Uncle Eric’s White Christmas 38 Ensemble 360

2 | newvictheatre.org.uk

Peter Cheeseman Celebration

Tale Trail to Neverland Monkey Music Craft Fair

Exhibitions

do we have your email address? We're trying to use less paper and send more information by email. The next time you speak with our Box Office, make sure to give them your email address.

Features 4 Collaborators and creatives

6 High flyer 10 Peter Cheeseman 12 Imagine this 44 From the mouths of Teens . . .

48 The Questionnaire

Community 44 45 41 47 42 43

Information

New Vic Borderlines diary

30 Ticket packages New Vic Education diary 41 Food & drink / Shop Be a New Vic Volunteer 49 Booking / Access Under 26s Go Free 50 Ticket prices Building Futures 50 Calendar Absent friends 52 How to get here

Cover picture: Michael Hugo in Kes, photo by Robert Day

contents AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

11:20

AUTUMN 2010

Plays

Page 3

One Nighters

Events

2 | newvictheatre.org.uk

Peter Cheeseman Celebration

Tale Trail to Neverland Monkey Music Craft Fair

Exhibitions

do we have your email address? We're trying to use less paper and send more information by email. The next time you speak with our Box Office, make sure to give them your email address.

Features 4 Collaborators and creatives

6 High flyer 10 Peter Cheeseman 12 Imagine this 44 From the mouths of Teens . . .

48 The Questionnaire

Community 44 45 41 47 42 43

Information

New Vic Borderlines diary

Cover picture: Michael Hugo in Kes, photo by Robert Day

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

& 11:20

Page 5

From the Artistic Director

Collaborators

ere are some of the many creatives who will be coming from all over the country to work with us this season:

4 | newvictheatre.org.uk

Composer Mary Keith worked with me on Jamaica Inn and Great Expectations: two epics brought to life with bags of imagination and her dynamic music. I’m glad she’s going to help me bring a third extraordinary novel to our stage in this summer’s production of Bleak House, which will feature a very special event prior to each performance. We’ll be turning some of the New Vic’s secret backstage areas into locations from the novel, and audiences will be invited to join Detective Inspector Bucket on a walk through Dickens’ world, meeting characters and collecting clues to solve the mystery at the heart of the story.

Having joined us as Trainee Director last year, James Dacre remains with us, now as Artistic Associate. We were delighted when his production of Katori Hall’s The Mountaintop, which James directed just before joining us, won the Olivier Award for Best New Play. He has a glittering career before him, and we’re fortunate to see its first fruits here at the New Vic. His production of Copenhagen was a summer highlight; this autumn he directs a long-time favourite of mine, Eugene O’Neill’s remarkable Desire Under the Elms.

Creatives

Last summer, aerialist Vicki Amedume taught us how to fly for our production of The Wicked Lady. Immediately after, we decided to team up again to embark on an awfully big adventure: Peter Pan. We’ve been working on it for almost a year already, and look forward to bringing it not only to the stage but also to the space above your head! Vicki is such an interesting woman – she’s been a weightlifter, a lion tamer, and now jets all around the world staging aerial pieces in theatres and outdoors.

Theresa Heskins

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

& 11:20

Page 5

From the Artistic Director

Collaborators

ere are some of the many creatives who will be coming from all over the country to work with us this season:

4 | newvictheatre.org.uk

Creatives

Theresa Heskins

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

11:20

Page 7

Michael as an exhuberant Caliban in the Northern Broadsides/New Vic Theatre co-production of The Tempest

feature Coming across Peter Pan as a precocious and somewhat militant youngster, J M Barrie’s novel confirmed what I had been suspecting for some time. Growing up was far from inevitable. In fact, if you had your wits about you and something called Oil of Olay, you could avoid it entirely. Adults were essentially kids who had ‘sold out’ and children, therefore, occupied the moral high ground. In Peter we had a champion; an infallible imp with an aversion to responsibility, threatening grisly ends to adults who made us eat peas and laughing in the face of pre-watershed bedtime. Mercifully, whilst my aversion to responsibility has been replaced with direct debits for council tax, The Boy Who Never Grew Up continues to enjoy immortality amongst the iGeneration. Indeed, my 11-year old niece rarely pays any attention to what I'm doing but when I tell her that I'm interviewing Peter Pan, there's something akin to interest. Our swashbuckling hero is flying into the round this Christmas and here’s the chance to chat to the show’s leading man-boy. It’s just enough to warrant a heartening glance over the laptop.

We talk to New Vic favourite Michael Hugo about becoming J M Barrie’s immortal hero and being a real life boy who never grew up…

6 | newvictheatre.org.uk

Michael is a fellow who is terribly good on the minutiae of Victorian lyrics, able to speak fluent German, - and, incidentally, hates peas - but one suspects when it comes to ordinary stuff like crossing the road, less good. A vocation in acting was inevitable. “I’ve tried my hand at selling bikes, and working in factories. But an inherent knack for mischief, rule breaking and being able to fall over at any given moment means I can’t be around anything too expensive. I’m just seeing how far I can push my luck with this acting lark. It’s dangerously close to becoming a career now.” As he adopts the kind of grin that says I’m about to become the latest target for his slingshot, it’s clear that Hugo and Pan are perfect partners. A level of prankster terrorism clearly seeps into Hugo’s world, whether it is onstage, as in his remarkable performance as the Maniac in Northern Broadsides’ Accidental Death of an Anarchist, or indeed, offstage.

Happily, this level of enthusiasm is justified when I catch up with the chap himself – our Peter Pan, and New Vic favourite, actor Michael Hugo. Practically effervescent after spending the last 15 weeks ‘swyveing’ up pear trees on tour with New Vic and Northern Broadsides production, The Canterbury Tales, he gusts into the room like an E number-fuelled hurricane.

“The last joke I played was on Barrie Rutter (the formidable Broadsides founder),” he recalls, with a wistful fondness usually reserved for Grandpa’s favourite pigeon.“I spent 40 minutes putting Blu Tack all over the tiny cymbals of his tambourine so that not one would ring.When he came to play it onstage, it was just silent.We were all falling about as it slowly dawned on him. We thought it was brilliant – Barrie wasn’t as impressed..”

“There must be a new policy that it’s costing too much to get new carpets in theatre green rooms – we’re rarely offstage!” he starts, on the Tales mega marathon.“But at least it keeps me out of trouble. At school I was the kid that was given one piece of wood in percussion class so I couldn’t be too noisy. And I wasn’t allowed to do javelin because I called it a spear...”

Hugo’s jocular demeanour makes it easy to forget that the man is a fine actor. Making a moving New Vic debut as Billy in 2003’s Kes, he has since become a much-loved part of the furniture with both New Vic and Northern Broadsides companies. We talk about some of his performances – a Poltergeist in Smoke, Pip in Great Expectations, Caliban in The Tempest. And there was the oddball

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

11:20

Page 7

Michael as an exhuberant Caliban in the Northern Broadsides/New Vic Theatre co-production of The Tempest

We talk to New Vic favourite Michael Hugo about becoming J M Barrie’s immortal hero and being a real life boy who never grew up…

6 | newvictheatre.org.uk

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

11:21

Page 9

Michael as a charismatic Billy in Kes, his first role for the New Vic

“...I love Christmas shows very truthful...To tell a more truthful Peter, I kids really believe in you. As The Maniac in Northern Broadsides’ Accidental Death of an Anarchist

Man and boy - as Pip in the New Vic’s Great Expectations

shop owner in Deborah McAndrew’s Vacuum. He acts like a lad who's proud you've noticed a fine but often overlooked engine in his train set. “It was a new play and it didn’t get much recognition, but I loved that story for its simplicity; two blokes in a vacuum repair shop, just chewing the fat. It was sort of beautiful. But there’s not been one role I haven’t enjoyed.And of course, I’m itching to play Peter…” The actor is typically boyish in his excitement about his latest project. He has prepared a myriad of Peter Pan facts - Did you know that it was a play before it was a book? - and with his tousled brown curls, doe eyes and a nose for mischief, Hugo is the embodiment of Barrie’s original hero,‘as delicate as a butterfly and as dangerous as a bomb’. Not that physicality has ever been much of a consideration when casting Pan. I remark that, until recently, the role was more likely to be played by a woman, or as in the film, Hook, a portly 40-something Robin Williams. “Well I’ve been launching into a character study of a 40-year old woman to cover all bases,” he grins.“But that’s why I love Christmas shows at the New Vic.They are very truthful – not just slapstick ‘he’s behind you’ style routines.To tell a more honest story, play a more truthful Peter, I think, is fantastic.The kids really believe in you. It’s wonderful!" he beams. Hugo seems genuinely moved when I ask what his 6-year old daughter, Molly, thinks of his latest venture. It is perhaps testament to the actor’s skill that being a 12-year old elf is just as plausible as his real life role – a 31-year old devoted dad.

8 | newvictheatre.org.uk

The Tempest, Accidental Death of an Anarchist,The Canterbury Tales images; Nobby Clark, Kes image; Robert Day, The Wicked Lady, The Lion,The Witch and The Wardrobe images; Andrew Billington.

at the New Vic. They are more honest story, play a think, is fantastic. The It’s wonderful!” “She loves the idea that there’s a whole world where kids rule.They can hunt and fly, talk to mermaids, and bedtime is when they want to go to bed.The grown ups are always on the back foot. In normal life, kids always play second fiddle to adults – in Never Never Land, the tables get turned.”

feature

Michael literally learned the ropes for his role in The Wicked Lady

As the ever-popular Mr Tumnus in last year’s Christmas show, The Lion,The Witch and The Wardrobe.

“Plus I get to fly, which she thinks is ‘amazing’. Luckily, I had a taste of it in The Wicked Lady so I know the reality, which is, essentially, getting swung through mid-air by your groin.” It is a visual image for which I am less prepared. After a quick whiff of the smelling salts, I report back to my doting niece.The resolve to defy mortality reignited, I tell her about a fellow who almost never grew up. I explain about the swashbuckling and the fairies and the stage magic that means our Peter Pan, by jingo, will be able to fly! And did she know that it was a play before it was a book? She casts me a gloriously patronising look of pity and sighs before flicking back to J M Barrie:The Biography - apparently something called an ebook, conveyed via something called an iPad. I now realise at the heart of Peter’s adventure is the saddest truth ever told. Not that childhood slips through our fingers, but rather that the enforcement of legume-eating has very little to do with growing up, and instead rather resembles the urge to administer a particularly nasty Chinese burn. It’s called ‘pea back’. And tonight, I’m cracking open the Marrowfats. Peter Pan runs from Saturday 20 November to Sat 22 January

‘Swyving’ away in Northern Broadsides’ and The New Vic’s co-production of The Canterbury Tales

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

11:21

Page 9

Michael as a charismatic Billy in Kes, his first role for the New Vic

“...I love Christmas shows very truthful...To tell a more truthful Peter, I kids really believe in you. As The Maniac in Northern Broadsides’ Accidental Death of an Anarchist

Man and boy - as Pip in the New Vic’s Great Expectations

8 | newvictheatre.org.uk

The Tempest, Accidental Death of an Anarchist,The Canterbury Tales images; Nobby Clark, Kes image; Robert Day, The Wicked Lady, The Lion,The Witch and The Wardrobe images; Andrew Billington.

feature

Michael literally learned the ropes for his role in The Wicked Lady

As the ever-popular Mr Tumnus in last year’s Christmas show, The Lion,The Witch and The Wardrobe.

‘Swyving’ away in Northern Broadsides’ and The New Vic’s co-production of The Canterbury Tales

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

11:21

Page 11

Peter Cheeseman was born in Portsmouth in 1932. His father, a communications officer with the Air Ministry, was posted around the country and Peter attended ten schools, finishing at Quarry Bank in Liverpool. Here he saw Unity Theatre and their ‘living newspaper’ productions - improvised drama based on current events.They made a marked impression on Peter.

Hem Heath miners arrive at the Vic with their donation to the new theatre fund.

Photo: Horace Wetton

Peter Cheeseman

It’s said that familiarity breeds contempt - or a lack of appreciation at least. So, how many people locally will have been surprised by the full pages in national newspapers and the household names paying tribute when the New Vic’s founding director, Peter Cheeseman, died in April? Others know it was the least he deserved.

Any regular visitor to the original Victoria Theatre or to The New Vic would certainly have been familiar with Peter. Small, stocky, with trademark woolly jumper, he was a permanent presence, hurrying

10 | newvictheatre.org.uk

about the building, mixing with audiences before shows, sharing a drink in the pub afterwards.

But ‘familiarity’ - making theatre a part of the local community with actors, writers, designers and musicians living in the locality and making work that reflected local life - was a fundamental part of Peter’s revolutionary vision for theatre. And it was to make him one of the most influential theatre directors of the last 50 years and earn a small theatre in a converted street corner cinema an international reputation.

After university, national service and a stint at Derby Playhouse, in 1961 he joined Stephen Joseph’s Studio Theatre Company. Joseph was a passionate advocate of theatre-in-the-round, believing it was the way to re-invigorate British theatre. Peter became a disciple.

remains one of the most successful 20th century theatre designs in the UK and, without Peter, would never have been built.

Peter produced 393 plays, directing 147 of them himself. He remained a passionate advocate of theatre-in-the-round and of a ‘people’s theatre’; he encouraged writers and actors such as Alan Ayckbourn, Ben Kingsley, Mike Leigh, Robert Powell

“He was a genius, a vagabond, a facilitator. What he achieved is colossal.”

The company visited Newcastle-under-Lyme regularly and North Staffordshire became a permanent home when, for less than £5,000, they converted an abandoned cinema into a theatre. Peter became artistic director. His vision was to combine the intimacy of Joseph’s theatre-in-the-round with his own belief in a theatre rooted in the community. For him, this meant a permanent company of actors living in the town, making work that,“springs from our contact with this community”. Alan Ayckbourn, who joined Peter at the new theatre, recalls: “Everyone except Peter booked digs for three weeks. We were all looking for our return tickets. Peter bought a house”.

“I felt I had to stay there”, Peter explained.“I don’t think it’s any good turning one’s back on the realities of 20th century industrial life . . .You’ve got to live with what’s there and make sense of it”.

Stay he did. Refusing work for the Royal Shakespeare Company and in London, for an unprecedented 36 years, Peter was Director of the Victoria Theatre and, from 1986, of the New Vic. Europe’s first purpose-built, theatre-in-the-round, it

Mike Leigh

and Alan Plater; and made North Staffordshire an unlikely creative hothouse.

His most significant contribution to theatre was his ‘documentaries’, starting with Jolly Potters (1964). Made by sending out his actors to research original material and shaping pieces of theatre using the words spoken or written by the people involved in the actual events.

Film director Mike Leigh, was an actor with the Vic company in the 1960s.“Working with Peter”, he says, “was a special and creative time. The spirit in which we worked – to be political and truthful – was down to him. He was a genius, a vagabond, a facilitator. What he achieved is colossal”. In July, the New Vic helps celebrate Peter’s life and achievements. New Vic friends and comrades past and present will perform and read inspiring words associated with Peter’s long life in the theatre.

The event also marks the start of a fund to continue work on the Victoria Theatre Cheeseman Archive, housed at Staffordshire University.

A Celebration for Peter Cheeseman, 2.30 pm, Sunday 18 July.Tickets: £10.00 (minimum) donation to the Cheeseman Archive Fund

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

11:21

Page 11

Hem Heath miners arrive at the Vic with their donation to the new theatre fund.

Photo: Horace Wetton

Peter Cheeseman

10 | newvictheatre.org.uk

about the building, mixing with audiences before shows, sharing a drink in the pub afterwards.

remains one of the most successful 20th century theatre designs in the UK and, without Peter, would never have been built.

“He was a genius, a vagabond, a facilitator. What he achieved is colossal.”

Mike Leigh

and Alan Plater; and made North Staffordshire an unlikely creative hothouse.

The event also marks the start of a fund to continue work on the Victoria Theatre Cheeseman Archive, housed at Staffordshire University.

A Celebration for Peter Cheeseman, 2.30 pm, Sunday 18 July.Tickets: £10.00 (minimum) donation to the Cheeseman Archive Fund

Imagine This. . .

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

11:21

Page 13

New Vic Artistic Director, Theresa Heskins, explores Dickens, theatre and the power of possibilities.

I’ve always felt an affinity with Dickens’ Bleak House, ever since I read it a quarter of a century ago. Returning to it more recently, I wonder that teenage me ever had the patience: a monumental piece of work, it belongs to an infinitely more patient age. Dickens’ first readership met Bleak House in one instalment per month over a period of 19 months in 1852 to 1853. A tremendous commitment: something closer to the dedication demanded by a modern TV soap opera, where viewers have to be in it for the long run. How satisfying yet how devastating it must have been, finally to come to the end of a story you’d lived with for the best part of two years! The modern reader, who can access the whole thing in a book shop or online, still has to make a long-term engagement with this brick of a novel. It’s no light read, and gives an interesting insight into how much more slowly our forbears’

12 | newvictheatre.org.uk

lives moved. There is no quick development of plot here; no driving the narrative. Instead plots and subplots unfold; move into the background; prod us with a gentle reminder; eventually come back into focus. Even watching on television, in one of the two BBC adaptations that have been made during my lifetime, takes a commitment of many hours.

So why did it exercise such a hold on me back then? A hold that hasn’t weakened in the intervening years. Perhaps because this novel full of dysfunctional families, outraged by the living conditions of the labouring poor, deeply concerned with social justice, resonated with my own experiences, and particularly with the family stories my grandparents told. My great-grandfather was raised in a slum tenement off London’s Strand, the building having been condemned some years before he was born there. It was to remain standing for some years more, despite the District Medical Officer’s declaration that it was unfit for human habitation. His father Oliver, orphaned at an early age, had grown up in Seven Dials, the slum on which Dickens based Tom-All-Alone’s. Like Poor Jo, Oliver didn’t know who his parents were. Unlike Poor Jo, he sacrificed virtue for survival: in

keeping with the generally criminal character of Seven Dials, as described by contemporary commentators, my ancestor was a wheeler-dealer, ducking and diving in search of a living, eventually arrested for embezzlement. In later life, moved on by the slum clearance programme to a salubrious model dwelling erected with philanthropic zeal on the south side of the River, Oliver reformed and made an honest living. At a time when, however desperate you were, begging was illegal, my great-great-grandmother Esther Heskins was imprisoned for what the judge described as ‘one of the worst cases of begging’ he had ever tried. Her husband having walked out, leaving her with five children including a sick baby and the rent to be paid the next day, Esther identified local philanthropist Huldah Harriet Frith (Mrs Pardiggle’s real-life cousin, I imagine), as a potential saviour. Esther told Mrs Frith the husband was dead, and that a child was dying at home. When Mrs Frith later discovered this to be a parcel of lies, she reported the matter to the police. A week after Esther began hard labour at the Clerkenwell House of Correction the sick baby died; a year later Esther herself was dead from tuberculosis. All these ancestors of mine had ended up struggling for survival in London’s slums because of a Chancery case. Back in the mid-eighteenth century in leafy Chiswick a father died without leaving a will. His heirs fought it out in Chancery, disputing not only the market gardens, the cottage rentals and the wheelwright’s shop but also old fruit tree prunings fit only for firewood and a set of wooden tableware. After all the costs of lawyers, clerks, scribes and travel to court, the estate was worn away and the litigants with it: they died within four years of bringing the case, relatively young men in their early thirties, leaving penniless children behind who had no choice but to seek a meagre living in London.

feature

Imagine This. . .

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

11:21

Page 13

New Vic Artistic Director, Theresa Heskins, explores Dickens, theatre and the power of possibilities.

12 | newvictheatre.org.uk

feature

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

11:21

Page 15

change

something, we

The world has come such a long way since then. The great Victorian movement for improvement wiped away most of the slums, eradicated many contagious diseases, sanitised our environment, made education compulsory. The twentieth century rose to the challenge by creating a welfare state, providing support from the cradle to the grave, including the opportunity for an excellent education, from which I personally benefited. But the fractured communities, the dysfunctional families, persist. The concrete tower blocks and sink estates on which I grew up still exist. There was then, and still is, a lawlessness which the police readily admitted: they ignored the minor crimes which made daily life fraught with danger, preferring to concentrate on bigger crimes which they hoped would get through the courts to secure a conviction. The New Vic’s Borderlines department works to improve what we nowadays refer to as social

14 | newvictheatre.org.uk

cohesion.Through partners in the magistracy, Youth Offending Teams, the Domestic Violence Unit, the Home Office, the constabulary, the fire service and social services we reach and work with people who are on the margins of our society – young adults with learning disabilities; refugees and asylums seekers; teenage mothers; young people leaving care; young offenders. We try not to label them, as I’ve just done, but instead to raise aspiration and achievement; to reduce criminal and anti-social behaviour; to make our communities better, healthier, happier, safer places to live. And we’re very successful at it. In ten years, only one young offender participating in our programmes has reoffended; we’ve seen the statistics of arson based crimes drop after our intervention; young people experiencing domestic violence or being forced into marriage have welcomed being shown not only where to go for help, but also that it’s all right to need that help.

imagine

Images for Borderlines projects by Andy Billington

must first

In many ways, working within the theatre sector gives us a freedom our partners don’t have, because the tool with which we work isn’t complex criminal law, or the intricacies of the benefits system. It’s simply the imagination. It’s exactly the same tool Dickens took up and worked with a century and a half ago. Like us, he knew that entering into other worlds through the imagination can transform our own lives or those of others.To change something, we must first imagine it. Dickens inspired his readers to

begin to imagine a world where the weak and vulnerable in their society were cared for humanely; and law-makers, social reformers, responsible individuals, once they had imagined a better world, began to take the necessary giant steps to improve it. Today, with the right opportunities in place, the step between imagining another life and having the courage actually to live it can be a very small one indeed. Bleak House runs from Sat 3 - Sat 24 July

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

11:21

Page 15

change

something, we

14 | newvictheatre.org.uk

imagine

Images for Borderlines projects by Andy Billington

must first

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

11:21

Page 17

plays

a New Vic production

Sat 3 - Sat 24 July

Bleak House

by Charles Dickens

adapted by Theresa Heskins With an intricately woven plot and an unforgettable cast of characters, Bleak House is widely regarded as Dickens’ masterpiece.This new stage adaptation is a fast-moving, witty and ingenious production in the style of Jamaica Inn and Great Expectations. An endless lawsuit, a dangerous mystery and an illegitimate child form the backdrop to a brutal murder. As the enquiries of Inspector Bucket take him from aristocratic drawing rooms to the slums of London, he uncovers the secrets of the menacing

lawyer Tulkinghorn; of the beautiful Lady Dedlock; and of Esther Summerson, a young woman who slowly learns the truth about her past. Filled with comedy and angry satire, Bleak House is a tale of loss and love and a savage indictment of a society that is rotten to the core. In an exciting first for the New Vic, the audience is invited to a Walk-Through of the world of the play before the performance begins.

The law, lost love and a journey through Dickens’ London

Booking Information Tickets £8.50 - £17.50 Group Discounts £2.00 off for ten or more First Night Fever All seats £11.50 (no cons) Sat 3 July Under 26s Go Free (see page 47) Concessions £2.00 off (see page 49)

Pre-show Walk-Through from 7.00pm

16 | newvictheatre.org.uk

Interpreted Performances Captioned 7.30 pm Tues 20 July Audio described 2.15 pm Sat 24 July Talkback Tues 20 July

Best seats for just £12.00! (see p 30)

If you love Dickens and whodunnits, this epic mystery is for you.

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

11:21

Page 17

plays

a New Vic production

Sat 3 - Sat 24 July

Bleak House

by Charles Dickens

The law, lost love and a journey through Dickens’ London

Pre-show Walk-Through from 7.00pm

16 | newvictheatre.org.uk

Interpreted Performances Captioned 7.30 pm Tues 20 July Audio described 2.15 pm Sat 24 July Talkback Tues 20 July

Best seats for just £12.00! (see p 30)

If you love Dickens and whodunnits, this epic mystery is for you.

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

11:21

Page 19

plays

a David Graham production

Tues 17 - Sat 28 August

the 60s musical that’s guaranteed to blow the ****** doors off!

Uncle Eric’s Italian Job What are Uncle Eric, Madge and the rest of the gang doing in beautiful Rome? And how have they found themselves in a world of fast cars, crime and hot money? It’s the latest misadventures of the ultimate dysfunctional family, back with a non-stop night of comedy, nostalgia and the greatest music of the 1960s. It's 19 August 1963.The country is buzzing with the news that £2.6 million has been stolen in the Great Train Robbery. Most of the gang have been captured but Buster Edwards and Bruce Reynolds are still on the run. There was only one witness to the robbery - Eric Smith, whose van had broken down on the way back from a DJ job in Leighton Buzzard! Convinced that Reynolds

Booking Information Tickets: £12.50 - £17.50 Group Discount: £2.00 off for ten or more First Night Fever All seats £11.50 (no cons) Tues 17 Aug Under 26s Go Free: (see page 47) Concessions: £2.00 off (see page 49)

18 | newvictheatre.org.uk

and Edwards are in hiding in Italy, the police send Eric there to identify them. He’s soon on the plane with Madge but, when they arrive, they’re caught up in an even bigger heist - The Italian Job. Car chases, explosions, a bus hanging over a sheer mountain pass - you're probably not expecting any of that! Will Eric be a national hero and catch the Great Train Robbers? Will Michael Caine be making a guest appearance in the show? How do the cast know a load of great 60s hits that weren't even written in 1963? The answers to all these questions and many more will be studiously avoided in Uncle Eric’s Italian Job. And not alot of people know that!

Best seats for just £12.00! (see p 30)

Uncle Eric’s back again for another helping of mirth, music and merriment!

Uncle Eric’s Italian Job

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

11:21

Page 19

plays

a David Graham production

Tues 17 - Sat 28 August

the 60s musical that’s guaranteed to blow the ****** doors off!

18 | newvictheatre.org.uk

Best seats for just £12.00! (see p 30)

Uncle Eric’s back again for another helping of mirth, music and merriment!

Uncle Eric’s Italian Job

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

11:21

Page 21

plays

a Stephen Joseph Theatre, Scarborough production

Tues 7 - Sat 18 Sept

The Mikado by W S Gilbert and Arthur Sullivan adapted and directed by Chris Monks Booking Information Tickets £8.50 - £17.50 Group Discounts £2.00 off for ten or more First Night Fever: All seats £11.50 (no cons) Tues 7 Sept Under 26s Go Free: (see page 47) Concessions: £2.00 off (see page 49)

Buy two plays get another free! (see p 30) Talkback:

Tues 14 Sept

Director Chris Monks at his brilliant best: if you enjoyed Don Giovanni you’ll love this

20 | newvictheatre.org.uk

Artistic Director of the Stephen Joseph Theatre and long-time New Vic favourite Chris Monks is back with his uproariously popular version of the Gilbert and Sullivan masterpiece! For some strange reason, local klutz Koko has risen to the highest rank a citizen can attain – Lord High Executioner. He’s lusting after the delicious Yum-Yum but, sadly, she’s firmly set her cap at the freewheeling Nanki-Poo. And, if he didn’t have enough problems, he’s just discovered that the Mikado is about to arrive to find out why there have been no executions for over a year! Prepare to be bowled over as Japan is swapped for the idyllic setting of Titipu Cricket Club. All Sullivan’s superb melodies are here, along with Gilbert’s biting satire on capital punishment. And, in the end, love conquers all. “This is unquestionably the funniest version of any G & S you are ever likely to see. Possibly the funniest anything you are likely to see.” The Times

“the funniest version of any G & S you are ever likely to see” The Times

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

11:21

Page 21

plays

a Stephen Joseph Theatre, Scarborough production

Tues 7 - Sat 18 Sept

Buy two plays get another free! (see p 30) Talkback:

Tues 14 Sept

Director Chris Monks at his brilliant best: if you enjoyed Don Giovanni you’ll love this

20 | newvictheatre.org.uk

“the funniest version of any G & S you are ever likely to see” The Times

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

11:21

Page 23

plays

a New Vic production

Fri 24 Sept - Sat 9 Oct

Desire Under the Elms by Eugene O’Neill

America’s classic tale of forbidden love Booking Information Tickets £8.50 - £17.50 Group Discounts £2.00 off for ten or more First Night Fever: All seats £11.50 (no cons) Fri 24 Sept Under 26s Go Free: (see page 47) Concessions: £2.00 off (see page 49) Interpreted Performances: Captioned 7.30 pm Tues 5 Oct Audio described 2.15 pm Sat 9 Oct Talkback: Tues 5 Oct

22 | newvictheatre.org.uk

Buy two plays get another free! (see p 30)

This epic tale of ambition, love and passion in nineteenth century New England is a great American classic. It confirmed Nobel Prize winning Eugene O’Neill’s reputation as the,‘father’ of American drama. Our production is directed by James Dacre.

Powerful family drama: if you enjoy great American theatre this is for you.

Ephraim Cabot and his three grown-up sons lead a life of hard work and loneliness on the remote family farm. In his 70s, a widower who has worked two wives into early graves, he rules over his children with Old Testament

By arrangement with Josef Weinberger Plays Ltd

harshness. The Cabot boys hate him, waiting only for his death and the chance to claim their inheritance. But when the old man brings home a seductive new wife, their schemes for escape and revenge are thrown into confusion.The alluring Abbie, half his age and twice as calculating, has plans of her own. And, as passions run high, she’ll use any weapon in her fight for a home, for security, and for love.

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

11:21

Page 23

plays

a New Vic production

Fri 24 Sept - Sat 9 Oct

Desire Under the Elms by Eugene O’Neill

22 | newvictheatre.org.uk

Buy two plays get another free! (see p 30)

Powerful family drama: if you enjoy great American theatre this is for you.

By arrangement with Josef Weinberger Plays Ltd

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

11:22

Page 25

a Northern Broadsides production

Mon 11- Sat 16 Oct

THE GAME by Harold Brighouse (author of Hobson’s Choice) directed by Barrie Rutter From the halcyon days of professional football where players were working class heroes and people were supposed to ‘know their place’ comes a spirited comedy that combines broad northern humour with the passion, pride, prejudice and principles of two football families. Lancashire. 1913. Match Day! Blackton Rovers is in need of money. Owner, Austin Whitworth, sells his star centre forward – local football hero Jack Metherell – to a rival club on the eve of a crucial match that could see Rovers

Booking Information Tickets: £8.50 - £17.50 Group Discount: £2.00 off for ten or more First Night Fever:All seats £11.50 (no cons) Mon 11 Oct Under 26s Go Free: (see page 47) Concessions: £2.00 off (see page 49) Talkback:

Tues 12 Oct

24 | newvictheatre.org.uk

relegated to the 2nd Division. Will honest Jack do Austin’s bidding and throw the match? Or will he put his professional honour above loyalty to his old club? Austin’s daughter Elsie, and Jack, are in love – or so they think. But Jack still lives at home, firmly tied to his mother’s apron strings.Will Elsie’s modern ways and feisty temperament win over his domineering mam? Or is this tryst between the classes doomed from the start?

Best seats for just £12.00! (see p 30)

Pure Northern Broadsides; a classic northern comedy!

plays

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

11:22

Page 25

a Northern Broadsides production

Mon 11- Sat 16 Oct

Tues 12 Oct

24 | newvictheatre.org.uk

Best seats for just £12.00! (see p 30)

Pure Northern Broadsides; a classic northern comedy!

plays

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

11:22

Page 27

a Stephen Joseph Theatre, Scarborough production

plays

Tues 19 Oct - Sat 6 Nov

Life of Riley written and directed by

Alan Ayckbourn Booking Information Tickets £8.50 - £17.50 Group Discounts £2.00 off for ten or more First Night Fever: All seats £11.50 (no cons) Tues 19 Oct Under 26s Go Free: (see page 47) Concessions: £2.00 off (see page 49)

Buy two plays get another free! (see p 30)

Interpreted Performances: Captioned 7.30 pm Tues 2 Nov Audio described 7.30 pm Weds 3 Nov Talkback: Tues 2 Nov

Ayckbourn at his hilarious best: if you enjoyed How The Other Half Loves you must see this

26 | newvictheatre.org.uk

Master of comedy Alan Ayckbourn and the Stephen Joseph Company. We’re delighted to welcome back Liza Goddard following her first visit with the 2008 Things That Go Bump season. With a few months of his life remaining, George Riley’s closest friends remember with love, nostalgia and occasional bursts of downright fury, how deeply he has affected all their past lives. George, though, is plotting a final farewell which threatens to upset all their future lives.What exactly is the eccentric maverick playing at? Alan Ayckbourn’s latest play looks backwards, forwards and, now and then, sideways with wry comic affection at the lives we lived or might have lived. “Ayckbourn can bring the house down with a single word”The Times A WORLD PREMIERE PRODUCTION Life of Riley Cast: Laura Doddington, Liza Goddard, Laura Howard, Jamie Kenna, Ben Porter, Kim Wall

Alan Ayckbourn’s hilarious new play!

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

11:22

Page 27

a Stephen Joseph Theatre, Scarborough production

plays

Tues 19 Oct - Sat 6 Nov

Life of Riley written and directed by

Buy two plays get another free! (see p 30)

Interpreted Performances: Captioned 7.30 pm Tues 2 Nov Audio described 7.30 pm Weds 3 Nov Talkback: Tues 2 Nov

Ayckbourn at his hilarious best: if you enjoyed How The Other Half Loves you must see this

26 | newvictheatre.org.uk

Alan Ayckbourn’s hilarious new play!

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

11:22

Page 29

plays

a New Vic production

Booking Information Tickets £10.50 - £18.50 Group Discounts £2.00 off for ten or more Concessions: £2.00 off (see page 49)

Save up to £18 with our Family-of-four ticket Interpreted Performances: Captioned 2.15 pm Sat 11 Dec 2.15 pm Tues 14 Dec Audio described 2.15 pm Sat 18 Dec 10.30 am Weds 12 Jan Sign Language 10.30 am Weds 1 Dec

Classic family entertainment: if you enjoyed The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, you’ll love this

Back by popular demand! Especially for young children Tues 7 - Fri 24 December (various dates see calendar)

Join us on a magical journey!

Tale Trail toNeverland

An exciting, interactive story-time event for children aged 3 – 5 and their families. Imagine stepping through the wardrobe into the mysterious land of Narnia. Join Lucy under the lamppost to explore the world of Mr Tumnus and lots of other wonderful characters. See page 39 for details of booking and ticket prices.

28 | newvictheatre.org.uk

Sat 20 Nov - Sat 22 Jan

Peter Pan J M Barrie adapted by Theresa Heskins by

Celebrating the 150th anniversary of the author’s birth and already over a year in the planning, we sprinkle some New Vic fairy dust on J M Barrie’s great classic of children’s literature.

Second to the right, and then straight on ’til morning - that’s the way to Never Never Land. Fly away with the boy who would not grow up to a magical island filled with adventure. Meet a real fairy, mermaids, Wendy and the lost boys. Beware the wicked Captain Hook. And don’t forget to listen out for the ‘tick tock’ of a very hungry crocodile.

The same artistic team that created our dazzling The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is producing Peter Pan especially for New Vic audiences. Join us for our most spectacular Christmas yet!

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

11:22

Page 29

plays

a New Vic production

Booking Information Tickets £10.50 - £18.50 Group Discounts £2.00 off for ten or more Concessions: £2.00 off (see page 49)

Classic family entertainment: if you enjoyed The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, you’ll love this

Back by popular demand! Especially for young children Tues 7 - Fri 24 December (various dates see calendar)

Join us on a magical journey!

Tale Trail toNeverland

28 | newvictheatre.org.uk

Sat 20 Nov - Sat 22 Jan

Peter Pan J M Barrie adapted by Theresa Heskins by

Celebrating the 150th anniversary of the author’s birth and already over a year in the planning, we sprinkle some New Vic fairy dust on J M Barrie’s great classic of children’s literature.

The same artistic team that created our dazzling The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is producing Peter Pan especially for New Vic audiences. Join us for our most spectacular Christmas yet!

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

11:22

Page 31

Plays Packages

One-Nighter Packages

Autumn Savings! See more; save more! Buy one PLAY, get another HALF PRICE! Buy two PLAYS get another FREE!

Buy one EVENT, get another HALF PRICE! Buy two EVENTS get another FREE!

Choose from any of these great plays:

The Mikado, Desire Under the Elms, Life of Riley Any seat, any night, change your performance at any timeD = And, if you book our Buy Two Get Another Free play package, you can choose from all this as well:W

• • • • •

Bleak House £12.00 (Mon - Thurs) or £12.50 (Fri - Sat) Uncle Eric’s Italian Job £12.00 (Mon - Thurs) or £12.50 (Fri - Sat) The Game £12.00 (Mon - Thurs) or £12.50 (Fri - Sat) Peter Pan £12.50 (Mon - Thurs) or £13.00 (Fri - Sat) Uncle Eric’s White Christmas £12.50 (Mon or Tues) or £13.00 (Weds - Sat)

Four friends for £50! Four tickets for just £50 - a great value, great night out with friends.

Any play, any seats Monday - Friday

(not Uncle Eric’s Italian Job;The Game ; Peter Pan, Uncle Eric’s White Christmas)

D Package price based on top price band only; free or half-price tickets to be same value or less than paid-for tickets; matinees excluded; cannot be combined with other concessions or offers (inc First Night Fever); must be booked in a single transaction. W1 ticket per package. =More than 3 days prior to the performance. All sales subject to availability and Box Office Manager’s discretion.

30 | newvictheatre.org.uk

Choose from these great acts:

International Guitar Night; Mongrian and Brozman; Lunasa; Albion Band;The Fron; Pasadena; Ensemble 360D (see page 30 for conditions)

Book our ‘Buy two get another free’ event package and choose from all this too!W

• Any additional concert for just £13.00 each (Pasadena Roof Orchestra £15.00) • Under 16s tickets for one night events as indicated just £6.50 (1 ticket per event per package)

Special nights out make special presents! Gift Vouchers - why not give someone special nights at the theatre with a New Vic Gift Voucher? Just ask our Box Office.

- got a friend who’s a real fan of theatre? Why not make them one of our Friends - from just £15 a year. See page 43 for New Vic Friends details.

Friends Membership

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

11:22

Page 31

Plays Packages

One-Nighter Packages

Autumn Savings! See more; save more! Buy one PLAY, get another HALF PRICE! Buy two PLAYS get another FREE!

Buy one EVENT, get another HALF PRICE! Buy two EVENTS get another FREE!

Choose from any of these great plays:

• • • • •

Four friends for £50! Four tickets for just £50 - a great value, great night out with friends.

Any play, any seats Monday - Friday

(not Uncle Eric’s Italian Job;The Game ; Peter Pan, Uncle Eric’s White Christmas)

30 | newvictheatre.org.uk

Choose from these great acts:

International Guitar Night; Mongrian and Brozman; Lunasa; Albion Band;The Fron; Pasadena; Ensemble 360D (see page 30 for conditions)

Book our ‘Buy two get another free’ event package and choose from all this too!W

• Any additional concert for just £13.00 each (Pasadena Roof Orchestra £15.00) • Under 16s tickets for one night events as indicated just £6.50 (1 ticket per event per package)

Special nights out make special presents! Gift Vouchers - why not give someone special nights at the theatre with a New Vic Gift Voucher? Just ask our Box Office.

- got a friend who’s a real fan of theatre? Why not make them one of our Friends - from just £15 a year. See page 43 for New Vic Friends details.

Friends Membership

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

11:22

Page 33

Youth Theatre Show A New Vic Youth Theatre production

Fri 3 - Sat 4 Sept An extraordinary new musical!

Don’t Turn my Life into a Musical - The Musical

Come round for a

One Nighters

One Nighter! Weds 7 July

Written and composed by Sarah Nelson and James Atherton

“These young ballet pioneers deserve wider support. Catch them if you can.” Dancing Times

After the success of last year’s production of The Garden, New Vic Youth Theatre is back with another Midlands musical premiere.

The Critics Circle Award-winning company returns with a breathtaking version of one of the most famous ballets of all time.

Darkly funny and deeply moving this extraordinary new musical features real life stories from a world in which the line between private and public is increasingly blurred. Don’t Turn My Life Into A Musical - The Musical highlights the sometimes damaging results of media glamour and misrepresentation. £6.00 / £4.00 cons

32| newvictheatre.org.uk

Dance

GISELLE

Peasant girl Giselle kills herself when she discovers that her young lover is, in reality, the married Count Albrecht. Seeking revenge, she rises from the dead but, as a repentent Albrecht visits her moonlit grave, protects him until the dawn sees him safe once more. With the original stunning score by Adolphe Adam, outstanding classical dancers and expansive choreography by award-winner Darius James, expect a thrilling and entertaining night of dance. £12.00 / £14.50 / £16.00 / cons / Under 16s Go Free

Photo Peter Tiegan

You’ve made it. Everyone knows your name! Your story is frontpage news and the musical extravaganza that is your life is about to begin.The music swells, the lights go down, and the chorus strike up an irresistibly catchy number. It’s curtain up on your life and the hottest ticket in town . . . but you’re not invited.

INDEPENDENT BALLET WALES

Weds 14 July

LUDWIG STRING TRIO

There’s nothing like watching good friends doing what they love most: playing music. If those friends also happen to be world class musicians, magic happens.We’re delighted to welcome the Ludwig String Trio again with a programme that includes possibly Mozart’s greatest piece of chamber music, his Divertimento.

Classical Performance in the round

MOZART Duo for violin and viola in B flat K.424 BEETHOVEN String Trio in E flat Op.3 MOZART Divertimento in E flat K.563

Pre-Concert Talk: Cellist John Myerscough takes a more in-depth look at the music in tonight’s programme and shares the reasons behind the quartet’s great affinity to Haydn’s music.

Performance on three sides

Directional performance with some element of front and back

£12.00 / £16.00 / £17.50 / cons / Under 16s Go Free

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

11:22

Page 33

Youth Theatre Show A New Vic Youth Theatre production

Fri 3 - Sat 4 Sept An extraordinary new musical!

Don’t Turn my Life into a Musical - The Musical

Come round for a

One Nighters

One Nighter! Weds 7 July

Written and composed by Sarah Nelson and James Atherton

“These young ballet pioneers deserve wider support. Catch them if you can.” Dancing Times

After the success of last year’s production of The Garden, New Vic Youth Theatre is back with another Midlands musical premiere.

The Critics Circle Award-winning company returns with a breathtaking version of one of the most famous ballets of all time.

32| newvictheatre.org.uk

Dance

GISELLE

Photo Peter Tiegan

INDEPENDENT BALLET WALES

Weds 14 July

LUDWIG STRING TRIO

Classical Performance in the round

MOZART Duo for violin and viola in B flat K.424 BEETHOVEN String Trio in E flat Op.3 MOZART Divertimento in E flat K.563

Pre-Concert Talk: Cellist John Myerscough takes a more in-depth look at the music in tonight’s programme and shares the reasons behind the quartet’s great affinity to Haydn’s music.

Performance on three sides

Directional performance with some element of front and back

£12.00 / £16.00 / £17.50 / cons / Under 16s Go Free

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

11:22

Page 35

Tues 30 Nov - Weds 15 Dec

Mon 19 July

David Graham Productions presents

"simply electrifying”The Scotsman

TANGOMOTION

With virtuoso displays of traditional tango dance and the exquisite sounds of 1930s Buenos Aires,Tangomotion captures the authentic, passion and soul of Tango Argentino.

Dance

A breathtaking journey into the heart of Tango with four outstanding dancers, the brilliant musicians of Tango Siempre, and the stunning Argentinean singer Guillermo Rozenthuler!

The Tangomotion dancers have appeared in the film, Evita, a Covent Garden production of Carmen, and the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing. £14.50 / £16.00 / cons / Under 16s Go Free

“intense, epic and beautiful” Independent on Sunday

Want to mix it up a bit? Why not pick a package!

See page 31 for our special event offers Weds 29 Sept

“spellbinding”Acoustic Guitar Magazine

INTERNATIONAL GUITAR NIGHT

Three of the world’s greatest acoustic guitarists share the New Vic stage in an evening showcasing the extraordinary diversity of acoustic guitar music around the world. International Guitar Night founder and influential finger-style player, Brian Gore, is joined by young Brazilian virtuoso Alexandre Gismonti, and Pino Forastiere from Italy, whose dazzling combination of slapping, tapping, strumming and altered tunings with addictive melodies have made him one of the leading players of contemporary steel string guitar.

34 | newvictheatre.org.uk

£12.50 / £14.50 / cons / Under 16s Go Free

One Nighters

UNCLE ERIC’S WHITE CHRISTMAS1

Christmas 1969 looks like it’s going to be a white one. By December, the snow lies deep and crisp and even.The forecast is for plenty more to come. And Eric thinks the Festive Season has arrived early when Madge inherits a sackload of money. The only problem is how to get his hands on it. So it’s tidings of comfort and joy when Eric finds a bookmaker still prepared to take bets on whether it will snow on Christmas Day. He puts all Madge’s money on a white Christmas and, when he wins, will keep the profits – with Madge none the wiser! It’s a foolproof plan and what could possibly go wrong?

But then the freak heatwave arrives and Eric’s not a merry gentleman! Amid the quickest thaw in history, he’s got just three days to find a way to win his bet, get Madge her money back, and save his own skin. He starts by getting a seasonal job at the Met Office . . . Join Eric, Madge and our favourite musical misfits for some comic Christmas mayhem and twenty-three of the greatest songs of the 1960s. Comedy, nostalgia and, hopefully, at least one flake of snow!

A fantastic night of comedy and great ‘60s music!

the ultimate ’60s Christmas Party

Money off and FREE champagne for groups! Mon & Tues: Weds – Sat: Groups:

all seats £13.50 £15.50 / £17.00 / £18.50 £2.00 off for groups of 10 or more (Weds – Sat; top two price bands only) And a FREE bottle of champagne for every group of ten or more!

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

11:22

Page 35

Tues 30 Nov - Weds 15 Dec

Mon 19 July

David Graham Productions presents

"simply electrifying”The Scotsman

TANGOMOTION

With virtuoso displays of traditional tango dance and the exquisite sounds of 1930s Buenos Aires,Tangomotion captures the authentic, passion and soul of Tango Argentino.

Dance

A breathtaking journey into the heart of Tango with four outstanding dancers, the brilliant musicians of Tango Siempre, and the stunning Argentinean singer Guillermo Rozenthuler!

The Tangomotion dancers have appeared in the film, Evita, a Covent Garden production of Carmen, and the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing. £14.50 / £16.00 / cons / Under 16s Go Free

“intense, epic and beautiful” Independent on Sunday

Want to mix it up a bit? Why not pick a package!

See page 31 for our special event offers Weds 29 Sept

“spellbinding”Acoustic Guitar Magazine

INTERNATIONAL GUITAR NIGHT

34 | newvictheatre.org.uk

£12.50 / £14.50 / cons / Under 16s Go Free

One Nighters

UNCLE ERIC’S WHITE CHRISTMAS1

A fantastic night of comedy and great ‘60s music!

the ultimate ’60s Christmas Party

Money off and FREE champagne for groups! Mon & Tues: Weds – Sat: Groups:

all seats £13.50 £15.50 / £17.00 / £18.50 £2.00 off for groups of 10 or more (Weds – Sat; top two price bands only) And a FREE bottle of champagne for every group of ten or more!

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

11:22

Page 37

Mon 4 Oct

MONGRIAN AND BROZMAN Self-taught Canadian guitar-phenomenon Erik Mongrian first started performing as a teenager in Montreal subway stations. He soon attracted a legion of fans and appeared on the stages of clubs and festivals around North America and Europe. He has a style of playing all his own,‘lap-tapping’ with the guitar flat on his knees.“Can play circles around most guitarists” is the opinion of Guitar Edge Magazine, USA. Bob Brozman is a guitarist like no other. A prolific recording artist, performer, producer, and author, he is a non-stop world traveller and tireless researcher in world music. His work with musicians from around the world in the past several years has marked him as not only a virtuoso musician and slide guitarist, but also as a pioneer in finding a common thread among global musical cultures. Best World Guitarist, Guitar Player Magazine 2010 Readers' Choice Awards Best Acoustic Slide Guitarist, Acoustic Guitar Magazine 2009 Players' Choice Awards £12.50 / £14.50 / cons / Under 16s Go Free

Thurs 25 Nov

LÚNASA

With a global reputation as the most stunning group in Irish music, this ‘dream-team’ of virtuoso musicians includes All Ireland Fiddle Champion Sean Smyth, piper Cillian Vallely and flautist Kevin Crawford. A night of ‘moving, pulsating, thrilling’ music! £12.50 / £14.50 / cons / Under 16s Go Free

Albion Band

Folk

One Nighters Thurs 16 Dec

THE ALBION BAND

with a special Christmas concert Back for their third New Vic visit, the Albion Band take us on a guided tour through the Christmas customs of Britain. With the combined talents of Simon Nicol (Fairport Convention), Kellie While (Albion Band) Simon Care (Edward II) and the Guv’nor himself, Ashley Hutchings, this is a seasonal mixture of carols, spoken word, humorous readings and dance. The perfect way to start the festivities.

£13.50 / £15.50 / £17.00 / cons / Under 16s Go Free

Try more, save more!

See page 31 for our special ticket packages

“The hottest Irish acoustic group on the planet” Irish Voice, USA

An evening of extraordinary music with the finest Irish band you will ever see. Since their last New Vic visit, they’ve been winning awards and headlining major festivals around the world. This will be a sell-out night.

36 | newvictheatre.org.uk

The

Two truly unique guitarists share the stage!

Jazz

"The playing is dazzling, the dexterity and complexity is without parallel” Folk Roots Magazine

“the perfect antidote to the corporate Christmas” The Guardian

Sat 18 Dec

THE FRONCYSYLLTE MALE VOICE CHOIR

Folk

‘The Fron’ have appeared at the New Vic every Christmas for well over 20 years. Their eagerly anticipated annual visit is one of the highlights of the year and a part of the New Vic tradition. Last year, this concert was sold out by October - please make sure to book early!

£13.50 / £15.50 / £17.00 / cons / Under 16s Go Free

Choral 37 | newvictheatre.org.uk

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

11:22

Page 37

Mon 4 Oct

Thurs 25 Nov

LÚNASA

Albion Band

Folk

One Nighters Thurs 16 Dec

THE ALBION BAND

£13.50 / £15.50 / £17.00 / cons / Under 16s Go Free

Try more, save more!

See page 31 for our special ticket packages

“The hottest Irish acoustic group on the planet” Irish Voice, USA

36 | newvictheatre.org.uk

The

Two truly unique guitarists share the stage!

Jazz

"The playing is dazzling, the dexterity and complexity is without parallel” Folk Roots Magazine

“the perfect antidote to the corporate Christmas” The Guardian

Sat 18 Dec

THE FRONCYSYLLTE MALE VOICE CHOIR

Folk

£13.50 / £15.50 / £17.00 / cons / Under 16s Go Free

Choral 37 | newvictheatre.org.uk

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

11:23

Page 39

Events

Thurs 6 Jan

PASADENA ROOF ORCHESTRA

Syncopated sophistication, toe-tapping fun in an infectious celebration of the stylish era when swing was king. The music of the great entertainers – Louis Armstrong, Bing Crosby, Fred Astaire, Duke Ellington, Bix Beiderbecke, Billie Holliday and many more. The Orchestra has travelled the world and whether you love hot jazz classics, the thrill of swing or the evergreens of the 20s and 30s, this evening is for you.

Jazz

£14.00 / 17.00 / £18.50 / cons / Under 16s Go Free

Back by popular demand! Especially for young children 7 - 24 December 11.15am and 1.00pm (various dates see calendar)

Join us on a magical journey!

Tale Trail to Neverland

MOZART Quintet in E flat K.407 HOWELLS Rhapsodic quintet Op.31 STANFORD Fantasy in A minor

ENSEMBLE 360

Concerts at Keele is celebrating its 40th year bringing the finest chamber music to North Staffordshire. We are delighted to jointly present this concert as part of their anniversary season. £13.00 / 17.00 / £18.50 / cons / Under 16s Go Free

38 | newvictheatre.org.uk

Creative performance and inspiring words associated with Peter Cheeseman’s life in the theatre presented by New Vic friends and comrades past and present.

Monkey music

Weekly Term-time Classes

Formed in 2005 as the resident ensemble with Music in the Round, Ensemble 360 brings together world-class musicians to form one versatile group.

HOWELLS Fantasy String Quartet Op. 25 WEBER Clarinet Quintet in B flat

Peter Cheeseman

Tickets:£10.00 (minimum) donation to The Victoria Theatre Cheeseman Archive Fund

Concerts at Keele & the New Vic present

The ensemble presents an unusual programme of quintets and quartets. Along with two much-loved quintets by Mozart and Weber are three lesserknown works by British composers. Stanford taught some great composers, including Holst and Vaughan Williams. Howells was also Stanford’s pupil and his music continues the trends of the great English composers before him.

A Celebration for

The event will also mark the start of a new fund to be used to continue work on the Victoria Theatre Cheeseman Archive, which is housed at Staffordshire University. All proceeds will help us realise Peter’s vision of making the Archive accessible and useful to future generations.

Weds 19 Jan

Classical

2.30pm, Sun 18 July

An exciting, interactive story-time event for children aged 3 – 5 and their families. Imagine journeying with Peter to the fabulous world of Neverland . . . This 45 minute magical event is suitable for children aged 3 – 5 along with their parents, grandparents, carers or teachers. Families: £3.00 per person Schools: £85.00 for a class-sized group

Half-hour music classes for babies and youngsters aged 6 months to 4 years - action songs and rhymes, musical games, music movement and percussion fun - will run on Weds and Fri mornings from10am onwards during term-time at the New Vic Theatre. Please contact 01785 814077

Craft Fair

Sat 6 Nov 11.00 am – 4.00 pm

The best of contemporary and traditional crafts from North Staffs Guild of Craftsmen.

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

11:23

Page 39

Events

Thurs 6 Jan

PASADENA ROOF ORCHESTRA

Jazz

£14.00 / 17.00 / £18.50 / cons / Under 16s Go Free

Back by popular demand! Especially for young children 7 - 24 December 11.15am and 1.00pm (various dates see calendar)

Join us on a magical journey!

Tale Trail to Neverland

MOZART Quintet in E flat K.407 HOWELLS Rhapsodic quintet Op.31 STANFORD Fantasy in A minor

ENSEMBLE 360

38 | newvictheatre.org.uk

Creative performance and inspiring words associated with Peter Cheeseman’s life in the theatre presented by New Vic friends and comrades past and present.

Monkey music

Weekly Term-time Classes

Formed in 2005 as the resident ensemble with Music in the Round, Ensemble 360 brings together world-class musicians to form one versatile group.

HOWELLS Fantasy String Quartet Op. 25 WEBER Clarinet Quintet in B flat

Peter Cheeseman

Tickets:£10.00 (minimum) donation to The Victoria Theatre Cheeseman Archive Fund

Concerts at Keele & the New Vic present

A Celebration for

Weds 19 Jan

Classical

2.30pm, Sun 18 July

Craft Fair

Sat 6 Nov 11.00 am – 4.00 pm

The best of contemporary and traditional crafts from North Staffs Guild of Craftsmen.

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

11:23

Page 41

Exhibitions 11 Oct - 13 Nov

Watercolour Landscapes Elizabeth Cadd

Watercolour paintings from a winter in Italy capturing the transient moods of the weather and colours of the land.

31 August - 18 September

Decontruction/Reconstruction -

Staffordshire University Fine Art Students

An exhibition of works by level one Fine Art students from Staffordshire University.The works reveal the different approaches taken by these burgeoning artists - taking things apart and reassembling then to make sense of the world through artistic processes.

restaurant

value for money prices.

Enjoy lunch or a pre-show meal with friends. Have a drink at the bar. Or simply spoil yourself with a cuppa and a delicious cake. If you’re coming for a pre-show dinner, why not call 01782 717954 ext. 325 and reserve a table? Tableware generously

Wherever possible, the New Vic uses local produce and ingredients.

15 Nov - 22 Jan

Our annual exhibition of artwork from local children based on the Christmas show.

drink

treat

Avoid the drinks rush!

Pre-order drinks using the interval slips provided at the bar.

Little extras

The Theatre Shop is a treasure trove of unusual greetings cards, handmade jewellery and unique gifts. Just right for your birthday gifts, special occasions or even just to treat yourself.

theatre shop

Enjoy theatre?

20 Sept - 9 Oct

Newcastle in Bloom - Organised

Volunteering

Like to get more involved?

by Newcastle Borough Council

40 | newvictheatre.org.uk

t h e a t r e Home-made food at

supplied by Snacks - 10am - ’til 3.30pm Lunch - Noon ’til 2pm Closed - 3.30pm - 5.30pm Dinner - 5.30pm - 7.30pm Beverages - 5.30pm ’til interval (Bar ’til 11pm)

Peter Pan Schools Exhibition

This year's 'Newcastle in Bloom' photo exhibition features award-winning gardens, allotments and community projects from around the Borough, proudly showcasing the creativity and horticultural skill of our 'green-fingered' residents.

Spoil yourself!

Information

Why not join the New Vic Vols?

• Check with Front of House department for dates of exclusive preview nights for any of our exhibitions. • To exhibit your work here, receive Preview Night invitations, please contact Front of House on: 01782 717954 ext 311.

As a New Vic Vol you’d be joining like-minded, local people who love theatre and give their time freely as part of our Front of House Department.

You might welcome patrons and show them to their seats, sell programmes and sweets, or help deliver publicity. You’d learn a lot about theatre, meet people and make a real contribution to the New Vic. Interested? For more information contact David Sunnuck: Tel: 01782 717954 (ext 311) email: dsunnuck@newvictheatre.org.uk

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

11:23

Page 41

Exhibitions 11 Oct - 13 Nov

Watercolour Landscapes Elizabeth Cadd

Watercolour paintings from a winter in Italy capturing the transient moods of the weather and colours of the land.

31 August - 18 September

Decontruction/Reconstruction -

Staffordshire University Fine Art Students

restaurant

value for money prices.

Wherever possible, the New Vic uses local produce and ingredients.

15 Nov - 22 Jan

Our annual exhibition of artwork from local children based on the Christmas show.

drink

treat

Avoid the drinks rush!

Pre-order drinks using the interval slips provided at the bar.

Little extras

The Theatre Shop is a treasure trove of unusual greetings cards, handmade jewellery and unique gifts. Just right for your birthday gifts, special occasions or even just to treat yourself.

theatre shop

Enjoy theatre?

20 Sept - 9 Oct

Newcastle in Bloom - Organised

Volunteering

Like to get more involved?

by Newcastle Borough Council

40 | newvictheatre.org.uk

t h e a t r e Home-made food at

supplied by Snacks - 10am - ’til 3.30pm Lunch - Noon ’til 2pm Closed - 3.30pm - 5.30pm Dinner - 5.30pm - 7.30pm Beverages - 5.30pm ’til interval (Bar ’til 11pm)

Peter Pan Schools Exhibition

Spoil yourself!

Information

Why not join the New Vic Vols?

As a New Vic Vol you’d be joining like-minded, local people who love theatre and give their time freely as part of our Front of House Department.

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

Community

APPEAL PATRONS

Sir Alan Ayckbourn CBE Playwright & Theatre Director Sir Brian Fender CMG Chair of Trustees Nick Hancock Comedian & TV Presenter Gwenda Hughes Theatre Director Sue Johnston Actress Mike Leigh OBE Playwright & Film Director Jon Moulton Former Stoke Inhabitant Barrie Rutter Actor Manager Graham Stow CBE Company Director Kevin Whately Actor We gratefully acknowledge support from The Foyle Foundation Arts Council England Garfield Weston Foundation Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council The Rayne Foundation Staffordshire Environmental Fund Staffordshire County Council The Moulton Charitable Foundation PRINCIPAL SPONSORS Gladman Developments Ltd. MAJOR SPONSORS Knights solicitors llp FOUNDATION SPONSORS hacking ashton LLP Wardell Armstrong

Engineering & Environmental Solutions

Howsons Chartered Accountants Waterworld

11:23

Page 43

Life-saving work in

Wo r k S p a c e Our new community building is the venue for important work.

Earlier this year, a groundbreaking New Vic Borderlines drama, All Our Daughters?, was housed in the building. Described as 'life saving' by Scotland Yard, it dealt with the issues surrounding forced marriage and socalled ‘honour’ violence.

All Our Daughters? was based on the testimonies of real women. It was made in WorkSpace before travelling to schools, colleges and community venues across Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire with more than 5,000 young people getting involved.

The aim is to increase understanding of the problem so that children, teachers and other professionals are more prepared to spot tell-tale signs and help those who may be vulnerable. The project was launched at a national conference held at the New Vic with best-selling authors, a Crown Prosecution Service Director, and an expert in ‘honour’ crimes from the Metropolitan Police.

Supported by the Government’s Forced Marriage Unit and the Department for Children, Families and Schools and the first scheme of its kind in the UK, All Our Daughters? will pilot in Staffordshire with the potential to tour nationally.

Help us build a better future We’re grateful for every gift, whether for £50, £500 or £5,000. Every penny makes a difference and takes us closer to our target.

For more information on how you can help the Building Futures Appeal please contact: Nick Jones on 01782 717954

Absent friends Earlier this year, many of you will have been saddened to hear the news that New Vic founder, Peter Cheeseman, had passed away. No doubt there are those of you who have your own personal memories of Peter and his work at the theatre – whether it is as an audience member enjoying one of Peter’s famous drama documentaries, or as a member of the New Vic company itself.

In July, we are hosting a special event celebrating the life and achievements of the theatre pioneer – and we would be delighted if our Friends could join us. New Vic comrades past and present will perform and read inspiring words associated with Peter’s long life in the theatre and mark a remarkable creative life uniquely dedicated to a single place. The event will also mark the start of a new fund to be used to continue work on the Victoria Theatre Cheeseman Archive, which is housed at Staffordshire University. All proceeds will help us realise Peter’s vision of making the Archive accessible and useful to future generations. With only one performance, we expect the demand for tickets to greatly exceed the number available. If you haven’t already done so, be sure to book your ticket soon.

A Dream date for your diary!

Those of you who joined us to watch The Globe company at the Bodleian Library Quad last year will remember one of our most popular Friends trips ever.The summer sunshine, dreaming Oxford spires and fabulous show made for a very memorable Friends outing! Thankfully, for those Friends who may have missed out (or are eager to do it all again!) we’re paying the Bodleian and The Globe company another visit. And this time, it’s a real treat – one of Shakespeare’s best-loved plays, A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Last year’s event sold out in a flash so we advise you to book early!

As ever we have a full calendar of events to keep our Friends fizzing this season, so don’t forget to check the Events Diary for dates and details…

Community

Why not make your friend a 'Friend'?

Do you know someone who would enjoy being a New Vic Friend? A Friends membership is a thoughtful gift they can enjoy all through the year. For details of how to make your friend a Friend contact Marketing on 01782 717539. Events Diary

Dress Rehearsal Desire Under The Elms :Thurs 23 Sept Spotlight Head of Workshop and Designer Laura Clarkson Weds 13 Oct Laura will be taking Friends into the auditorium in a ‘hands on’ Spotlight discussing her design for the Northern Broadsides production of The Game. Technical Rehearsal Weds 22 Sept Theatre Trip Sat 7 Aug 9.00am A Midsummer Night’s Dream by Shakespeare’s Globe on Tour presented by Oxford Playhouse at the Bodleian Library Quad Cost £32.00 For information on the New Vic Friends call 01782 717539 or email:kwilson@newvictheatre.org.uk website:www.newvictheatre.org.uk

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

Community

APPEAL PATRONS

Engineering & Environmental Solutions

Howsons Chartered Accountants Waterworld

11:23

Page 43

Life-saving work in

Wo r k S p a c e Our new community building is the venue for important work.

Help us build a better future We’re grateful for every gift, whether for £50, £500 or £5,000. Every penny makes a difference and takes us closer to our target.

For more information on how you can help the Building Futures Appeal please contact: Nick Jones on 01782 717954

A Dream date for your diary!

As ever we have a full calendar of events to keep our Friends fizzing this season, so don’t forget to check the Events Diary for dates and details…

Community

Why not make your friend a 'Friend'?

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

11:23

Page 45

Community

Community Borderlines projects JULY The World in Our Street - Working with communities in Staffordshire,The World in Our Street is a creative project exploring how people view themselves, their neighbours and their communities AUGUST STREET PARTY - Full Day Summer Activities for the whole community. What does it mean to belong to a community, who are the characters you might meet ‘Up Our Street’ who’s going to come to the party? Make a play in a day and bring the street party alive.

SEPTEMBER UNHMD 2011 Foundation Workshops New Vic Borderlines will be working with Staffordshire schools to explore the themes of Holocaust Memorial Day 2011 OCTOBER National Inside Justice Week - An event which encourages the public to explore the Criminal Justice System

From the mouths

New Vic Youth Theatre take on a musical for the MySpacers

If you’ve encountered any teenagers recently, you’ll recognise the alarming speed at which you can find yourself ‘out of touch’. Not so long ago, it was me who smelled like teen spirit, engaging in hardcore house-ravaging revelry and generally being the cutting edge of cool. Now, even saying ‘cutting edge’ or ‘cool’ is probably extremely uncool. Observing rehearsals for the New Vic Youth Theatre’s latest musical, I’m practically an anachronism. It’s like the Fonz has wandered on to the set of Skins. The Youth Theatre is in full flow for their latest production – Don’t Turn My Life Into a Musical:The Musical. And the fact the

cast know their OMG’s from their LOL’s is entirely apt for a musical that has been devised, written and cast with My Spacers in mind. “The show is unique in that it has been written as a result of real testimonies from real teenagers,” enthuses Youth Theatre Director Cathryn Baker.“This isn’t just some middle-aged version of what being a teenager is like. It’s trying to get to the truth of how teenagers feel and examine the issues that affect them.” Brilliantly, the musical is amongst a trickle of shows being programmed by the New Vic’s community departments written specifically for young people and, as in this production, created with their input.The basic principle of Don’t Turn My Life… is to treat teenagers as sentient, intellectual people who aren't just Hoodies drinking cider in bus shelters.

Education Projects FOR SCHOOLS

Education activities to support our production of Peter Pan

In–school Workshops Duration:1 hour Cost: £40 + VAT Class-sized group Key stages 1-3

Activity Pack – Cost £5 (+ VAT) – free with workshops Filled with resources for exploring the themes of the play, its historical roots and developing literacy FOR CHILDREN & YOUNG PEOPLE

Summer Holiday Projects Exciting projects for young people during July and August: “Are we nearly there yet?” (Mon 26 - Weds 28 July; 10 am - 4 pm; 7-10s), Play in a Week (Mon 2 - Sat 10 August; 10 am - 5 pm [7 pm Sat]; 10-16s). Tale Trail Interactive storytime session for preschool children aged three and over and their parents or carers.

Drama Club Saturday morning drama sessions for children aged 6-10. (school term time)

NOVEMBER CRUSH/And He Brought me Red Roses National Domestic Violence week activities raising awareness of issues and support around domestic abuse

Youth Theatre Create, watch and explore theatre in weekly after-school sessions for 10-12s, 13-15s and 16-18s

Break the Silence - National Anti-Bullying week activities for young people and teachers and parents

FOR ADULTS

Revolve Our group for adults interested in gaining behind-the-scenes insights into our productions.

DECEMBER World AIDS Day 2010 - In partnership with Staffordshire Buddies, an evening raising awareness of HIV & AIDS and celebrating positive lives

For further information about any New Vic Borderlines project contact Charlotte Moulder on: 01782 717954 Ext 309 or email cmoulder@newvictheatre.org.uk

of Teens…

To book contact Box Office 01782 717962

Oldham Theatre Workshop’s production of Don’t Turn My Life Into a Musical:The Musical. Photo by Lewis Wileman

Check our web page for more information or contact Lynn Parry. Tel: 01782 717954 Ext 356 Email: lparry@newvictheatre.org.uk

45 | newvictheatre.org.uk

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

11:23

Page 45

Community

From the mouths

New Vic Youth Theatre take on a musical for the MySpacers

Education Projects FOR SCHOOLS

Education activities to support our production of Peter Pan

In–school Workshops Duration:1 hour Cost: £40 + VAT Class-sized group Key stages 1-3

Activity Pack – Cost £5 (+ VAT) – free with workshops Filled with resources for exploring the themes of the play, its historical roots and developing literacy FOR CHILDREN & YOUNG PEOPLE

Drama Club Saturday morning drama sessions for children aged 6-10. (school term time)

NOVEMBER CRUSH/And He Brought me Red Roses National Domestic Violence week activities raising awareness of issues and support around domestic abuse

Youth Theatre Create, watch and explore theatre in weekly after-school sessions for 10-12s, 13-15s and 16-18s

Break the Silence - National Anti-Bullying week activities for young people and teachers and parents

FOR ADULTS

Revolve Our group for adults interested in gaining behind-the-scenes insights into our productions.

DECEMBER World AIDS Day 2010 - In partnership with Staffordshire Buddies, an evening raising awareness of HIV & AIDS and celebrating positive lives

For further information about any New Vic Borderlines project contact Charlotte Moulder on: 01782 717954 Ext 309 or email cmoulder@newvictheatre.org.uk

of Teens…

To book contact Box Office 01782 717962

Oldham Theatre Workshop’s production of Don’t Turn My Life Into a Musical:The Musical. Photo by Lewis Wileman

Check our web page for more information or contact Lynn Parry. Tel: 01782 717954 Ext 356 Email: lparry@newvictheatre.org.uk

45 | newvictheatre.org.uk

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

11:23

Page 47

“Storylines have been devised through the real stories of teenagers themselves”, adds Cathryn.“And the students are portrayed by teenagers, not 20-somethings playing it young.That gives it a voice and a level of authenticity that wouldn't otherwise be there.”

2009 Youth Theatre Show: The Garden

“

Although, being completely truthful doesn’t tie the production to realism.The scene being rehearsed in front of me features a 17year old footballer, who also happens to be gay. He is wrestling with confessing all to his friends, whilst a Greek chorus of football fans sing ‘He’s playing for the other side…’. It demonstrates the postmodern tone of the production, which sets real issues affecting teenagers against a trivialising, sensationalising mob. It attacks the ‘bitch culture’ that, through blogging and the media, is becoming particularly popular amongst young people.

Storylines have been devised through the real stories of teenagers themselves

“Appetite for gossip has always been around, but social networking and the likes of Heat magazine mean that it is fashionable. Don’t Turn My Life…both acknowledges and questions the point. But it also validates the views and real problems of teenagers, as people in their own right, not just grownups in training.” Observing rehearsals, it’s clear that this is not simply teenage cynicism, but full of heart – a piece of theatre that is totally, powerfully their own. Surely that makes it worth watching. For me and the Space Invaders generation as well as the MySpacers.

Don’t Turn My Life Into a Musical: The Musical plays on Fri 3 Sept at 7.30 pm and Sat 4 Sept at 2.15 and 7.30 pm

46 | newvictheatre.org.uk

”

2008 Youth Theatre Show: Cuba

Community

FREE

THEATRE TICKETS FOR UNDER 26S

FIND OUT MORE ON

01782 717962

Terms and conditions apply, see the website for full details

47 | newvictheatre.org.uk

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

11:23

Page 47

2009 Youth Theatre Show: The Garden

“

Storylines have been devised through the real stories of teenagers themselves

Don’t Turn My Life Into a Musical: The Musical plays on Fri 3 Sept at 7.30 pm and Sat 4 Sept at 2.15 and 7.30 pm

46 | newvictheatre.org.uk

”

2008 Youth Theatre Show: Cuba

Community

FREE

THEATRE TICKETS FOR UNDER 26S

FIND OUT MORE ON

01782 717962

Terms and conditions apply, see the website for full details

47 | newvictheatre.org.uk

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

11:23

Page 49

Features

The Questionnaire What’s the one item you couldn’t live with out? Cheese! I have it with almost everything which is probably really bad for me but I love it. I blame the restaurant and their tasty selection of oatcakes…

What’s your ideal night out? Working in Stage Management, nights out can be a bit of a rarity. But when I get the chance, it’s a cool Raspberry Martini and a boogie on the dancefloor with my mates. What are you working on at the moment? I’ve just finished working on props for Alphabetical Order and Copenhagen, which largely consists of cutting up hundreds of newspapers. As Director Gwenda Hughes says,“they also serve who stand and snip!” I’m also getting excited about Bleak House – I clearly have a penchant for projects that revolve around bits of paper.

Detailing her love of cocktails, cheese and Kiefer Sutherland is Deputy Stage Manager, Katie Bevan.When not ensuring everything is running smoothly backstage, Katie is most likely to be found shopping for shoes and trying not to panic… 48 | newvictheatre.org.uk

What’s your philosophy? All will be well in the end. Although, working in the theatre, it’s less of a philosophy and more of a therapy.

What's your guiltiest shopping secret? Shoes! I love shoes at the moment. I was given a beautiful book about them for Christmas and it’s given me lots of inspiration to buy, buy, buy! Next Christmas I need a beautiful book about saving. What’s your most unappealing feature? I’m a worrier and have a tendency to panic needlessly. I’m getting better at engaging my brain and thinking logically about things, but I still have my moments. Hence my line in therapeutic mottos (see above)…

Who would be your ideal partner for a night at the theatre? I have a huge crush on Kiefer Sutherland! If he could squeeze in a Raspberry Martini and a boogie too, that would be perfect.

Bookings /Access /Concessions

Bookings

In Person Box Office open Mon - Sat 10.00am to start of performance. Closes 6pm on non-performance nights. By Phone 24 hour booking service - 01782 717962 (answerphone out of Box Office hours). By Post Cheques payable to New Vic Theatre (cheque guarantee card number & expiry date on reverse), include SAE and send to: New Vic Theatre, Etruria Road, Newcastle-under-Lyme,Staffs,ST5 0JG. By Credit / Debit Card Quote number by telephone; show card on collection. Tickets booked by credit card are guaranteed sold and can be collected at any time or posted to you for 60p. Reservations held for 3 working days or 1 hr before performance whichever is earliest.We no longer accept Electron,Amex or Diners cards. Online Book online at www.newvictheatre.org.uk (£1 booking fee per ticket.) Exchanging Tickets We are sorry that no refunds can be made. 50p per ticket to exchange for another performance of same production - at least 3 days prior to date of original performance. Service free for package buyers.

New Vic Value

Groups & Schools Groups of ten or more £2.00 off top two price bands for New Vic productions unless otherwise stated. School groups £8.50 (£9.00 Peter Pan) any seat, any performance, unless otherwise stated.

First Night Fever All seats £11.50 (no concessions).

Content

Productions may contain strong language and difficult content. Please check with Box Office prior to booking.

Late Admissions

Please note that latecomers will not be admitted until a suitable break in the performance. The New Vic reserves the right to vary the advertised programme and facilities if necessary and apologises for any in convenience. E & OE

Access

Committed to providing access to the arts for all. U16s Go Free For nominated events, an under 16 admitted free with an adult paying full or concessionary price. U26s Go Free See page 47 for details. Some events have adult content. Check when booking. Disabled Patrons Free parking close to entrance (please call to reserve a space), automatic doors, lift to 1st floor, ramped access to auditorium, disabled toilets. Magnetic induction loop in auditorium (not available for amplified performances). Infra-red assisted hearing system.

Captioned Performances for New Vic Productions.

Information

Audio Described Performances for New Vic Productions (please book min. 3 days in advance). Large-print cast sheets available on request. Guide dogs welcome.

Loan copies of play scripts available from the Box Office on request. Tickets £7.50 Mon – Thurs; £10.00 Fri; £12.00 Sat for New Vic Productions; tickets £8.50 Mon – Thurs; £11.00 Fri and Sat for Peter Pan; lowest advertised price less £2.00 concession (if available) for all other events. A Companion ticket at lowest advertised price (less concession if eligible) per disabled patron. A free Carer’s ticket for patrons in receipt of Disability Living Allowance or Attendance Allowance. Concessions* £2.00 off ticket prices for all New Vic productions for the following: Children / Full Time Students / Over 60s / People in Receipt of Means-Tested Benefits / Disabled Patrons In addition, if you are in receipt of Income Support, Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance or Social Fund, tickets are only £1 for Monday and Tuesday performances of New Vic productions**. *Conditions All concessionary tickets subject to availability; only one discount per ticket; proof of status may be required; no concessions for matinees or Saturday performances unless otherwise stated. **Maximum 2 tickets per person.

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

11:23

Page 49

Features

What’s your philosophy? All will be well in the end. Although, working in the theatre, it’s less of a philosophy and more of a therapy.

Who would be your ideal partner for a night at the theatre? I have a huge crush on Kiefer Sutherland! If he could squeeze in a Raspberry Martini and a boogie too, that would be perfect.

Bookings /Access /Concessions

Bookings

New Vic Value

First Night Fever All seats £11.50 (no concessions).

Content

Productions may contain strong language and difficult content. Please check with Box Office prior to booking.

Late Admissions

Access

Captioned Performances for New Vic Productions.

Information

Audio Described Performances for New Vic Productions (please book min. 3 days in advance). Large-print cast sheets available on request. Guide dogs welcome.

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

11:23

Page 51

Ticket prices

Bleak House,The Mikado, Desire Under the Elms, The Game, Life of Riley

Row A&PartG Row B&PartG Rows C-F

Mon - Thurs Full Price £9.50 £14.50 Concessions £7.50 £12.50 Fri & Sat Eve Full Price £12.00 £16.00 Concessions* £10.00 £14.00 Matinees Full Price £8.50 £8.50 Concessions £6.50 £6.50 F N Fever all seats £11.50 (no consessions) Groups (10+) N/A £2.00 off Schools groups= £8.50 £8.50

Uncle Eric’s Italian Job

£16.00 £14.00 £17.50 £15.50 £8.50 £6.50

£2.00 off £8.50

Row A&PartG Row B&PartG Rows C-F

Mon - Thurs Full Price £12.50 £14.50 £16.00 Concessions £10.50 £12.50 £14.00 Fri & Sat Eve Full Price £14.00 £16.00 £17.50 Concessions* £12.00 £14.00 £15.50 F N Fever all seats £11.50 (no consessions) Groups (10+) N/A £2.00 off £2.00 off

Peter Pan

Row A&PartG Row B&PartG Rows C-F

Mon - Thurs & Matinees Full Price £10.50 £15.50 £17.00 Concessions £8.50 £13.50 £15.00 Child Group N/A £12.00 £12.00 Fri & Sat Eve Full Price £13.00 £17.00 £18.50 Concessions £11.00 £15.00 £16.50 Child Group N/A £12.00 £12.00 Groups (10+) N/A £2.00 off £2.00 off Family of 4 £54.00(must include one adult and one child) Schools’ perf Full Price £15.00 £15.00 £15.00 Concessions £13.00 £13.00 £13.00 Child Group £9.00 £9.00 £9.00

* Fridays only = Any seat, any performance

Price band map

Talkback First Night Fever

* Schools’ performance

Rows A & part G Row B & part G Rows C – F

Captioned Performances

Audio Described Performances Sign Language Interpreted Performances

50 | newvictheatre.org.uk

Information

Calendar

July Sat 3 Mon 5 Tues 6 Weds 7 Thurs 8 Fri 9 Sat 10 Mon 12 Tues 13 Weds 14 Thurs 15 Fri 16 Sat 17 Sun 18 Mon 19 Tues 20 Weds 21 Thurs 22 Fri 23 Sat 24

Bleak House Bleak House Bleak House Ballet Wales Bleak House Bleak House Bleak House Bleak House Bleak House Ludwig String Trio Bleak House Bleak House Bleak House Cheeseman Celebration Tangomotion Bleak House Bleak House Bleak House Bleak House Bleak House

August Tues 17 Weds 18 Thurs 19 Fri 20 Sat 21 Mon 23 Tues 24 Weds 25 Thurs 26 Fri 27 Sat 28 Mon 30

Uncle Eric’s Italian Job Uncle Eric’s Italian Job Uncle Eric’s Italian Job Uncle Eric’s Italian Job Uncle Eric’s Italian Job Uncle Eric’s Italian Job Uncle Eric’s Italian Job Uncle Eric’s Italian Job Uncle Eric’s Italian Job Uncle Eric’s Italian Job Uncle Eric’s Italian Job Theatre closed

September Fri 3 Don’t Turn . . .The Musical Sat 4 Don’t Turn . . .The Musical Tues 7 The Mikado Weds 8 The Mikado Thurs 9 The Mikado Fri 10 The Mikado Sat 11 The Mikado Mon 13 The Mikado Tues 14 The Mikado Weds 15 The Mikado Thurs 16 The Mikado Fri 17 The Mikado Sat 18 The Mikado Fri 24 Desire Under the Elms Sat 25 Desire Under the Elms Mon 27 Desire Under the Elms Tues 28 Desire Under the Elms Weds 29 International Guitar Night Thurs 30 Desire Under the Elms October Fri 1 Desire Under the Elms Sat 2 Desire Under the Elms

2.30

2.15

7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30

7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30

2.15

7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30

Mon 4 Tues 5 Weds 6 Thurs 7 Fri 8 Sat 9 Mon 11 Tues 12 Weds 13 Thurs 14 Fri 15 Sat 16 Tues 19 Weds 20 Thurs 21 Fri 22 Sat 23 Mon 25 Tues 26 Weds 27 Thurs 28 Fri 29 Sat 30

Mongrian & Brozman Desire Under the Elms Desire Under the Elms Desire Under the Elms Desire Under the Elms Desire Under the Elms The Game The Game The Game The Game The Game The Game Life of Riley Life of Riley Life of Riley Life of Riley Life of Riley Life of Riley Life of Riley Life of Riley Life of Riley Life of Riley Life of Riley

2.15

November Mon 1 Life of Riley Tues 2 Life of Riley Weds 3 Life of Riley Thurs 4 Life of Riley Fri 5 Life of Riley Sat 6 Life of Riley Sat 20 Peter Pan Mon 22 Peter Pan 2.15* Tues 23 Peter Pan 10.30* Weds 24 Peter Pan 10.30* Thurs 25 Peter Pan 10.30* Lunasa Fri 26 Peter Pan 10.30* Sat 27 Peter Pan 2.15 Mon 29 Peter Pan 2.15* Tues 30 Peter Pan 10.30* Uncle Eric’s White Christmas December Weds 1 Peter Pan 10.30* Uncle Eric’s White Christmas Thurs 2 Peter Pan 10.30* Uncle Eric’s White Christmas Fri 3 Peter Pan 10.30* Uncle Eric’s White Christmas Sat 4 Peter Pan Uncle Eric’s White Christmas Mon 6 Peter Pan Uncle Eric’s White Christmas Tues 7 Peter Pan 10.30* Tale Trail to Neverland 11.15 Uncle Eric’s White Christmas Weds 8 Peter Pan 10.30* Tale Trail to Neverland 11.15

7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30

7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30

2.15* 7.30 2.15* 7.30 2.15

2.15*

2.15* 1.00

7.30 7.30 7.30

7.30

Uncle Eric’s White Christmas Thurs 9 Peter Pan 10.30* Tale Trail to Neverland 11.15 Uncle Eric’s White Christmas Fri 10 Peter Pan 10.30* Tale Trail to Neverland 11.15 Uncle Eric’s White Christmas Sat 11 Peter Pan Tale Trail to Neverland 11.15 Uncle Eric’s White Christmas Mon 13 Peter Pan Uncle Eric’s White Christmas Tues 14 Peter Pan 10.30* Uncle Eric’s White Christmas Weds 15 Peter Pan 10.30* Uncle Eric’s White Christmas Thurs 16 Peter Pan 10.30* Albion Band Christmas Fri 17 Peter Pan 10.30* Sat 18 Peter Pan Froncysyllte Choir Mon 20 Peter Pan Tale Trail to Neverland 11.15 Tues 21 Peter Pan Tale Trail to Neverland 11.15 Weds 22 Peter Pan Tale Trail to Neverland 11.15 Thurs 23 Peter Pan Tale Trail to Neverland 11.15 Fri 24 Peter Pan Tale Trail to Neverland 11.15 Sat 25 Theatre closed Mon 27 Peter Pan Tues 28 Peter Pan Weds 29 Peter Pan Thurs 30 Peter Pan Fri 31 Peter Pan January Sat 1 Mon 3 Tues 4 Weds 5 Thurs 6

Fri 7 Sat 8 Tues 11 Weds 12 Thurs 13 Fri 14 Sat 15 Tues 18 Weds 19 Thurs 20 Fri 21 Sat 22

2.15* 1.00 1.00

2.15 1.00

2.15*

7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30

2.15

2.15 1.00 2.15 1.00 2.15 1.00 2.15 1.00 2.15 1.00 2.15 2.15 2.15 2.15

7.30 7.30 7.30

7.30

7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30

Theatre closed Peter Pan 7.30 Peter Pan 2.15* Peter Pan 10.30* Peter Pan 10.30* Pasadena Roof Orchestra 7.30 Peter Pan 10.30* 7.30 Peter Pan 2.15 7.30 Peter Pan 10.30* Peter Pan 10.30 * 2.15* Peter Pan 10.30* Peter Pan 10.30* 7.30 Peter Pan 2.15 7.30 Peter Pan 10.30* 2.15* Peter Pan 10.30* Ensemble 360 7.30 Peter Pan 10.30* Peter Pan 10.30* 7.30 Peter Pan 2.15 7.30

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

11:23

Page 51

Ticket prices

Bleak House,The Mikado, Desire Under the Elms, The Game, Life of Riley

Row A&PartG Row B&PartG Rows C-F

Uncle Eric’s Italian Job

£16.00 £14.00 £17.50 £15.50 £8.50 £6.50

£2.00 off £8.50

Row A&PartG Row B&PartG Rows C-F

Peter Pan

Row A&PartG Row B&PartG Rows C-F

* Fridays only = Any seat, any performance

Price band map

Talkback First Night Fever

* Schools’ performance

Rows A & part G Row B & part G Rows C – F

Captioned Performances

Audio Described Performances Sign Language Interpreted Performances

50 | newvictheatre.org.uk

Information

Calendar

July Sat 3 Mon 5 Tues 6 Weds 7 Thurs 8 Fri 9 Sat 10 Mon 12 Tues 13 Weds 14 Thurs 15 Fri 16 Sat 17 Sun 18 Mon 19 Tues 20 Weds 21 Thurs 22 Fri 23 Sat 24

August Tues 17 Weds 18 Thurs 19 Fri 20 Sat 21 Mon 23 Tues 24 Weds 25 Thurs 26 Fri 27 Sat 28 Mon 30

2.30

2.15

7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30

7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30

2.15

7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30

Mon 4 Tues 5 Weds 6 Thurs 7 Fri 8 Sat 9 Mon 11 Tues 12 Weds 13 Thurs 14 Fri 15 Sat 16 Tues 19 Weds 20 Thurs 21 Fri 22 Sat 23 Mon 25 Tues 26 Weds 27 Thurs 28 Fri 29 Sat 30

2.15

7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30

7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30

2.15* 7.30 2.15* 7.30 2.15

2.15*

2.15* 1.00

7.30 7.30 7.30

7.30

Fri 7 Sat 8 Tues 11 Weds 12 Thurs 13 Fri 14 Sat 15 Tues 18 Weds 19 Thurs 20 Fri 21 Sat 22

2.15* 1.00 1.00

2.15 1.00

2.15*

7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30

2.15

2.15 1.00 2.15 1.00 2.15 1.00 2.15 1.00 2.15 1.00 2.15 2.15 2.15 2.15

7.30 7.30 7.30

7.30

7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30

AUTUMN2010MagArt

25/6/10

11:20

Page 1

AUTUMN SEASON

How to get here

2 0 1 0

Bus stop outside theatre 34 & 34A: Newcastle & Hanley.

Bus

The nearest station is Stoke-on-Trent. Connections to Birmingham, Manchester, Derby, Stafford, Crewe. Enquiries: 08457 484950

Rail

THE BOY WHO NEVER GREW UP

Parking

Please contact Box Office to arrange reserved, free parking

Disabled

Please contact Box Office to arrange reserved, free parking

Coach / Minibus

Car

The New Vic gratefully acknowledges the following for their generous support:

The New Vic Theatre operates thanks to a unique partnership between Arts Council England, Staffordshire County Council, Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council and Stoke-on-Trent City Council

Charity Registration Number: 253242 Company Registration Number: 911924 Registered Office: Etruria Road, Newcastle under Lyme, Staffordshire, ST5 0JG

Box Office: 01782 717962

New Vic Theatre, Etruria Road, Newcastle-Under-Lyme, Staffs, ST5 0JG

Michael Hugo on playing Peter Pan

Box Office: 01782 717962