SHARE YOUR LOVE OF THE NEW VIC AND MAKE A DONATION TO GIFT A TICKET!
At the New Vic, we believe theatre should be as accessible as possible to everyone, and we’re doing everything we can to help remove barriers that might stop people experiencing great theatre.
But even with the work we’re doing, we know that for some, a visit to the theatre is still not possible without support.
And that’s where you can help!
Help us provide tickets and activities for members of the community who would otherwise not be able to attend the New Vic, by making a donation to our Gift A Ticket appeal.
A donation of any amount will support us to share the love of theatre with audience members who, without your help, would otherwise miss out on experiencing the joy of live theatre.
Join our Gift A Ticket campaign and give someone an experience they’ll cherish forever.
Donate online at newvictheatre.org.uk/donate or call our Box Office team on 01782 717962
Photography in this brochure by Andrew Billington, Ian Dearman, Pauline Ozynska, Jenny Harper, Foteini Christofilopoulou
Welcome
How uplifting to hear the news that Stoke-onTrent has become a World Craft City.
Awarded by the World Crafts Council, this status sees Stoke become part of a global network of cities across India, West Asia, Europe and South America recognised for their craft expertise.
For centuries the Potteries has been a hub for ceramics production. We’re all proud to be a part of that continuing tradition, and also of a wider tradition of craft and creativity that thrives here.
Most of the shows you see on the New Vic stage have been made here in the New Vic building, where we’re lucky to have a team of local craftspeople who work to make world class shows for our local audiences and beyond. The costumiers in one workshop create the amazing costumes you see on our stage, which have to look good from 360 degrees but also move well enough for the actors to fly or fight or dance. In another workshop, our scenic constructors use their carpentry and welding skills to build steps and traps and platforms. In a third workshop, scenic artists paint and plaster effects onto wood or metal, and make breathtaking props and puppets. Lighting, sound and stage management are provided by others with their own special skillset.
All these crafts come together to create work that entertains our local audiences yearround but also celebrates the Potteries’ craft expertise across other parts of the UK and the world, such as when our The Princess and The Pea recently transferred to New York. Later this year, our production of Whatever Happened to Pheobe Salt will be part of a
programme of theatre, poetry, exhibitions and films celebrating a local hero: poet, playwright, painter, broadcaster and oatcake enthusiast Arthur Berry. This programme will link in with the Stoke-on-Trent centenary celebrations, highlighting the contribution craft and culture has made to our heritage and continues as part of making our future.
Together, we make the City.
Theresa Heskins Artistic Director
@theresaheskins.bsky.social
The New Vic Theatre operates thanks to a unique partnership between Arts Council England, Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council, Staffordshire County Council and Stoke-on-Trent City Council.
It’s been a busy year for the New Vic!
Our work has been seen at home in Newcastleunder-Lyme, across Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire and across borders nationally. International audiences got the chance to enjoy our work too, when we landed on Broadway, New York, with The Princess and The Pea – a co-production with Upswing and the Unicorn Theatre, that delighted young children and their families!
Our work for young people is something we take huge pride in. 25% of our audiences were young people throughout the year: alongside , young theatregoers also enjoyed – an interactive show that visited libraries and community spaces across the city; our Tale Trail production – our interactive Tale Trail story-time adventure for age 3-5 that offers children their first experience of theatre; and our regular Youth Theatre groups continued to offer young people aged from 5-19 the chance to build their creative skills and confidence.
We believe that everyone should be able to access and enjoy the highest quality theatre and theatre-making experiences, no matter their age and regardless of their circumstances so we are constantly working to ensure more people have the chance to experience and engage in the arts on a regular basis.
1,445 children took part in holiday activity and were provided with food as part of a project aimed at tackling food poverty
20,422 young people under 20 years participated in our Education and Borderlines community programmes
35,408 children and their families came to see our Christmas shows
We welcomed
183,133 visitors through our doors
1,050
school children had the opportunity to perform Shakespeare at the New Vic as part of our festivals We worked with 143
Young Carers across Staffordshire 206
nursery and reception pupils from schools across Stoke-onTrent took part in our Schools programme designed to improve school readiness and progression
Appetite, our Creative People and Places programme, hosted the Big Feast Festival on the streets of Hanley and welcomed an audience of
9,401 people of all ages for performances, music and dance During the year
110 exceptional volunteers gave
11,061 hours of their time to work with us – a vital support for the New Vic, our audiences and participants
Our touring work was enjoyed by an audience of
15,586 people nationally, across 12 venues
Keep up-to-date with all our news and find out what we have coming up this year at newvictheatre.org.uk or follow us at:
TICKET PRICES
The Last Quiz Night on Earth; A Matter of Life and Death; Just Between Ourselves; Do I Love You?; Whatever Happened to Phoebe Salt
Fri & Sat Eves
Mon – Thu Eves
Matinees
The Three Musketeers
Purple Performances
Blue Performances
£33.00
£31.50
£28.50
£31.50
£30.00
£26.50
£26.00
£25.00
£24.00
£35.50
£33.00
£32.50
£26.00
£30.50 £23.50
Family of Four Ticket Save up to £32.00
(must include min of one adult and one child; max. 2 family tickets per booking)
See it first for £15!
Be one of the first to see the show – get tickets for just £15.00 on the following performances:
The Last Quiz Night on Earth
Sat 8 & Tue 11 February 7.30pm A Matter of Life and Death Fri 28 March & Tue 1 April 7.30pm
Just Between Ourselves Tue 29 April Do I Love You? Wed 14 May 7.30pm
Whatever Happened To Phoebe Salt Sat 31 May & Tue 3 June 7.30pm
Discounts/Concessions
£2.00 off top two price bands on Monday – Friday performances for Under 16s, Over 65s, Students, Disabled Patrons and Individuals in receipt of Universal Credit.
• Concession discount also applies to NHS Staff.
• In addition, individuals in receipt of Universal Credit are also eligible for tickets at £2.00 on Monday and Tuesday performances of selected New Vic productions (max. two tickets per person, per production).
• Disabled Patrons in receipt of Disability Living Allowance (DLA), Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Attendance Allowance (AA) can claim a free companion ticket. For Disabled Patrons not in receipt of DLA, PIP or AA, companion tickets are available at the lowest advertised price.
• Only one discount can be applied per ticket and all discounts are subject to availability.
Group Bookings
• £2.00 off top two prices for Groups of 10+
• Plus, get the 11th ticket free for the group organiser
Free Theatre Tickets for Under 16s
• Under 16s can go free with a paying adult to selected New Vic Productions. Speak to Box Office at the time of booking.
Book for all three New Vic produced shows in our Spring season at the same time and pay just £84.00 - a saving of up to £15 off the total cost of your tickets. See more great theatre for fantastic value this year!
Terms and Conditions
Prices accurate at time of publishing; ticket prices may rise, book early to secure your seats at the best price! We reserve the right to make alterations to the programme, performance times, prices and opening hours as published here. Should any changes occur, we will endeavour to advertise these via our website and social media channels. All concessions are subject to availability. For our full Ticketing Ts&Cs, visit newvictheatre.org.uk/booktickets/terms-conditions SAVE UP TO £15 WHEN YOU BOOK A SEASON TICKET
Accessible performances
The New Vic believes that theatre is for everyone and is committed to providing access to the arts for all. We offer the following accessible performances:
Captioning
Captioning is like television subtitles that give audience members who are d/Deaf, deafened, or hearing-impaired access to live performances. The actor’s words are shown on a screen as they speak so you can follow what is said and who says it. Sound effects are also described. Captions can also be useful for anyone whose first language is not English.
The Three Musketeers Sat 11 Jan 2.15pm Sat 18 Jan 7.30pm
The Last Quiz Night on Earth Tue 25 Feb 7.30pm
A Matter of Life and Death Tue 15 Apr 7.30pm
Whatever Happened to Phoebe Salt Tue 17 Jun 7.30pm
Relaxed Performances
Relaxed performances are ideal for people with autism or learning disabilities or anyone that might feel anxious about attending the theatre and would benefit from a more relaxed environment.
The Three Musketeers Sat 11 Jan 2.15pm
Audio Described
Audio description is a verbal commentary that explains what is happening on the stage in between the dialogue. Touch Tours are available for most New Vic productions which enable audience members with sight loss an opportunity to familiarise themselves with the set, costumes, and props.
The Three Musketeers Sat 21 Dec 2.15pm Sat 18 Jan 2.15pm
The Last Quiz Night on Earth Sat 1 Mar 2.15pm
A Matter of Life and Death Sat 19 Apr 2.15pm
Whatever Happened to Phoebe Salt Sat 21 Jun 2.15pm
Our knowledgeable Sales Officers can advise on the best seats for your needs and book an accessible parking space for you*
Call us on 01782 717962 or visit us in person. *Subject to availability
See it first for £15!
Be one of the first to see the show – get tickets for just £15.00 on selected performances
Plays
New Vic Productions and Touring Productions
The Last Quiz Night on Earth
Tickets from £23.50
See page 6 for details
Audio Described
Sat 21 Dec 2.15pm Sat 18 Jan 2.15pm
Captioned
Sat 11 Jan 2.15pm
Sat 18 Jan 7.30pm
Relaxed
Performance
Sat 11 Jan 2.15pm
The Three Musketeers
By Alexandre Dumas
Adapted and directed by Theresa Heskins
Until Sat 25 January 2025
A spirited country boy arrives in the big city with big dreams
A streetwise city girl spies her chance to steal the greatest prize of all
When d’Artagnan arrives in Paris with hopes of joining the Royal guard, he soon discovers he’ll need all of his courage to help the legendary Musketeers – Athos, Porthos and Aramis – defeat a cunning secret agent and their villainous employer.
Can the four friends discover who the mysterious spy is and defend the King and Queen from treachery before it’s too late?
A story about friendship, courage and doing what is right, The Three Musketeers is one of the greatest adventures ever told! Brought to life in the New Vic’s spectacular style, this show will be filled with fast-paced action, swashbuckling adventure, music and lots of fun. A perfect festive treat for all ages!
The Daily Mail What’s On Staffordshire Hits Radio Stoke Is Where the Heart Is
Tickets £15.00 (Concessions £10.00)
Voices From
By Susan Moffat
Mon 27 January 7.30pm
Presented as part of United Nations Holocaust Memorial Day 2025
Monday 27 January 2025 is the 80 th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz and the 30 th anniversary of the genocide in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Voices From is a creative exploration of conflict and peace through the eyes of children caught in history’s darkest moments. From the Holocaust to the Srebrenica Genocide and current conflicts, Voices From amplifies the voices of young lives often unheard, guiding audiences through moving stories of reflection and responsibility.
As a part of the experience audiences are invited to explore their own roles in creating peace through contributing to an art installation by Ukrainian artist Yuliia Holovatiuk-Ungureanu. Alongside professional actors, community members with lived experiences bridge the distance between past and present, asking us all: how will we unite ‘For A Better Future’
Voices From was created through a partnership with Keele Institute for Social Inclusion and Nobel Peace Prize Nominees Professor Bulent Gokay and Dr Lily Hamourtziadou.
Tickets from £15.00 See page 6 for details
Audio Described Sat 1 March 2.15pm
Captioned Tue 25 Feb 7.30pm
The Last Quiz Night on Earth
By Alison Carr
Directed by Anna Marsland
Sat 8 February – Sat 1 March
What would you do if the world was ending tomorrow? How about a pub quiz?
As a massive meteor hurtles towards Earth, Kathy, the eccentric landlady of The Four Horsemen is determined to host the best (and last!) quiz night in the pub’s history. As her quizmaster extraordinaire makes final preparations, a lively group of regulars gather for one final round.
But it soon becomes clear people are there for more than just the quiz, with secrets to reveal and confessions to make! With the clock ticking, tensions rising and the meteor drawing ever nearer, will these last moments bring about a sense of closure, or will disaster strike before the final question gets asked?
The Last Quiz Night on Earth is a hilarious and heartfelt play that explores how we cope with the inevitable. Expect laughs, tears and a few surprises as the quiz to end all quizzes gets underway!
Tickets £15.00 (Concessions £10.00)
The Miner Birds
By Lisa Blower
Thu 6 March 2.15pm & 7.30pm
A play inspired by the experiences and ongoing action of North Staffs Miners’ Wives Association Group (NSMWAG) and its Chair Rose Hunter.
The Miner Birds is written by award-winning local writer and academic Lisa Blower, with contributions from NSMWAG, and celebrates the voices of women mobilised during the 1984 Miner’s Strike and their determination to continue fighting for their communities to this day.
Three actors through song, storytelling and poetry, breathe life into the experiences of miners’ wives past, present and looking to the future.
The 45-minute play will be performed on an inventive set as we transform our main stage into a replica of the pit camp that the NSMWAG set up at Trentham Colliery.
Staged with support from Keele University Institute for Social Inclusion.
Previous production photos by Andrew Billington Main photograph by Kevin Hayes
Tickets from £15.00
See page 6 for details
Audio Described Sat 19 April 2.15pm
Captioned Tue 15 April 7.30pm
A Matter of Life and Death
By Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger
Adapted and directed by
Theresa Heskins
Fri 28 March – Sat 19 April
A new staging of an iconic British film
It’s 1945. When British Pilot Peter Carter’s plane goes down just off the coast of England, he doesn’t expect to survive. Miraculously, after leaping from his burning plane without a parachute, he finds himself face-to-face with June, the American radio operator who kept him company on his final journey. As the pair fall instantly and deeply in love, Peter discovers an error has occurred – he was supposed to die but the heavenly conductor missed him as he fell through the fog.
Caught in a limbo between life and death, Peter is called by the celestial court to answer for his survival and defend his right to live. Can he convince the judge he deserves a second chance at life and prove that love truly can conquer all?
With an amazing live swing-band, A Matter of Life and Death seamlessly blends together romance, drama and fantasy, and will take audiences on an emotional journey, exploring what happens when love, fate and the laws of the universe collide.
Tickets from £15.00
See page 6 for details
Just Between Ourselves
By Alan Ayckbourn Directed by Michael Cabot
Tue 29 April – Sat 3 May
Five birthdays. Two unhappy marriages. One possessive mother. It is 1976. Dennis tinkers in his garage, cheerfully indifferent to wife Vera’s impending breakdown. Marjorie hovers in the background, making tea and finding fault. Neil has planned a birthday surprise for his wife, but Pam doesn’t share his enthusiasm, preoccupied by frustrations of her own.
In perhaps his most emotionally charged play, Alan Ayckbourn masterfully evokes a world of hidden tensions and suppressed hostility. He skilfully navigates the tightrope between comedy and tragedy, guiding us towards a hilarious, yet chilling finale.
An Olivier and Tony Award winning playwright, Alan Ayckbourn’s 90 plays have been produced worldwide. Notable successes include The Norman Conquests, Relatively Speaking, Bedroom Farce, A Chorus of Disapproval and Communicating Doors.
Following successful tours of Absent Friends (2015) and Absurd Person Singular (2020-21), Alan Ayckbourn’s 1976 masterclass in suburban comedy and heartbreak will form the centrepiece of London Classic Theatre’s 25th Anniversary celebrations.
‘A master of comic ingenuity’ The Guardian
Tickets £28.00
£26.50 / £24.00 (Concessions £2.00 off)
Under 16s £15.00
Under 26 scheme members £15.00
Showdown
Thu 8 – Sat 10 May
Six extraordinary acrobats but only one winner! Who will be the ‘New Face of Circus’?
Part talent show, part beauty pageant with a touch of The Hunger Games, Showdown combines the thrill and risk-taking of contemporary circus with irreverent humour. The audience will choose a winner as six contestants battle it out to reach the top.
But choices are never easy, and as the game unfolds, audiences question their role in ensuring the winner is the right one. Through audience interaction and sharp comedy, the show unpacks the complexity of the unwritten rules of the social games we all play.
BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND…
Do I Love You?
Written and directed by John Godber
Wed 14 – Sat 24 May
Tickets from £15.00
See page 6 for details
Age guidance: 14+
Please note: This performance contains some strong language
Join twenty somethings Sally, Nat and Kyle in this hilarious comedy as they develop a love for, and the people involved with, Northern Soul.
What started as a College project has grown into a passion, but the dance steps are exhausting. Far beyond their home city of Hull our trio find excitement, purpose and the tribe they’ve been looking for. Now they can’t get enough; from Brid Spa to Stoke, from Chesterfield to the Tower Ballroom our young soulies are determined to keep the faith!
This is Northern Soul for a new generation, but with rising costs, unemployment, and small town blues, has anything really changed? Is this England 1973 or 2025? The pubs are closing, hospitality has gone, and strikes are everywhere; but when you’re out on the floor …
Spread the talc and grab your loafers, our trio are heading for a weekender!
Multi award-winning playwright John Godber has been a fan of Northern Soul since 1972. Here the author of the iconic Bouncers helps keep the faith with a nod to Frank Wilson!
Do I love you; indeed I do!
Tickets from £15.00 See page 6 for details
Audio Described Sat 21 June 2.15pm
Captioned Tue 17 June 7.30pm
Whatever Happened to Phoebe Salt
By Arthur Berry
Directed by Abbey Wright
Sat 31 May – Sat 21 June
A world premiere production
Born and raised in the industrial heartland of Stoke-on-Trent, Phoebe Salt spends her days working in the meat market, trapped in a daily grind of blood and bone.
After work, yearning for glamour and adventure, she rehearses her role as a showman’s assistant with the local town entertainer and soon, opportunity knocks.
Will a talent show appearance help her finally escape the trials and tribulations of working life or does her fate have other plans?
Arthur Berry, a master of capturing the soul of working-class life, brings to life the grit and resilience of the people of Stoke-on-Trent in this striking drama. Part of the Arthur Berry 100 and Stoke-on-Trent centenary celebrations happening all across the city in 2025 to recognise the work of this unsung local hero, Whatever Happened to Phoebe Salt is filled with vivid storytelling and rich characters.
2025 marks the 100th anniversary of the birth of Arthur Berry, Stoke-on-Trent’s most famous poet, painter, playwright and oatcake extoller.
Arthur Berry: 100 is a major retrospective of this cultural icon, celebrating his contribution to our culture. Events across the year will include fine art exhibitions, a heritage trail, film screenings, the publication of a children’s book and the world premiere of his last play – never seen before!
Keep an eye-out-for:
Whatever Happened To Phoebe Salt
See the first ever production of Arthur Berry’s final play, filled with vivid storytelling and rich characters. See page 26 for more details.
BERRY – RAW Thu 30 January – Sat 1 March
RAW is an important exhibition of Arthur Berry paintings showing BERRY at his most authentic, honest self, rooted in expressing the human condition in is raw state. The exhibition will include artwork never seen before, shown alongside original sketches and items from the Berry archive.
More details of what audiences can look forward to can be found at arthurberry100.co.uk
Arthur Berry 100 is being delivered in partnership by New Vic Theatre, Barewall Gallery, Arthur Wood Estate, Victoria Theatre Archive, Claybody Theatre, Keele University, Three Counties Open Art Exhibition, Staffordshire Film Archive and Appetite Stoke.
Arthur Berry: 100 will take place alongside Stokeon-Trent’s Centenary celebrations. SOT100 will celebrate a century since the city received its welldeserved status, honouring the rich history, vibrant culture and unique identity that have made Stoke-onTrent a global name. Find out more about how you can join in the celebrations at sot100.org.uk
Arthur Berry with cast, on stage at the Victoria Theatre. Photo published with permission from Victoria Theatre Archive.
The Pasadena Roof Orchestra
Wed 8 January 7.30pm
With an unparalleled reputation across the UK, Europe and beyond, for over 50 years The Pasadena Roof Orchestra have been re-creating the sounds of a golden era of music from the 1920s and 1930s to widespread acclaim.
In this beautifully crafted new concert for 2024 the orchestra return with a sparkling selection of the their best-loved music and songs. Expect to hear classics from the pens of Irving Berlin, Ray Noble and Cole Porter, as well as electrifying hot jazz from the likes of Fletcher Henderson and Duke Ellington.
Presenting the show, and putting on his top hat and tails, is the suave singer and band leader Duncan Galloway. So pack up your troubles, come on get happy, and experience an evening of superlative live music, with more than a dash of wit and humour.
In conjunction with Keele Concerts United Strings of Europe
Through the Night
Wed 15 January 7.30pm
United Strings of Europe creates profound musical experiences that celebrate diversity and bridge cultural divides. Bringing together players from across Europe, the group is led by Artistic Director Julian Azkoul.
With a focus on new commissions and unique arrangements of music from a variety of cultures, their playing is acclaimed as ‘virtuosically expressive’ (The Times).
Programme: Shaw Entr’acte
Purcell Dido’s Lament
Boccherini Musica Notturna delle Strade di Madrid Interval
Gesualdo Tristis est anima mea Schönberg Verklärte Nacht
Tickets
£24.50 / £22.50
Cons available
Cloudbusting
The Kate Bush Songbook
Wed 22 January 7.30pm
Cloudbusting have been touring theatres and music venues across the UK and Europe since 2012, exploring the intricacies and nuance of Kate’s stunning albums.
The Kate Bush Songbook ensemble features Matthew Bowers at the piano and Dave Roberts on bass backing the hauntingly beautiful vocals of Mandy Watson
Featuring many of the well-known hits including Wuthering Heights, Babooshka, Hounds of Love, This Woman’s Work, The Man with the Child in His Eyes and Cloudbusting, alongside stunning arrangements of some lesser-known tracks and interspersed with personal reflections and insights to many of the songs from Mandy, Matt and Dave, this promises to be an enchanting evening of live music.
The Bluejays
Wed 29 January 7.30pm
Tickets
£25.00
Tickets
£18.00
The Bluejays are back at the New Vic!
Prepare to be enthralled with an evening of back-to-back hits and vibrant vintage costumes. Featuring note perfect renditions of the most loved songs from the ‘50s and ‘60s,The Bluejays are an incredibly talented, era-obsessed group of young musicians.
Featuring hits from the likes of Elvis Presley, Buddy Holly, Chuck Berry, The Beatles, Connie Francis, Neil Sedaka, Little Richard, Roy Orbison, Lulu, The Beach Boys and many more, this is a night not to be missed!
Daliso Chaponda
Feed This Black Man Again
Thu 30 January 7.30pm
Widely-loved stand-up comedian Daliso Chaponda returns to the New Vic with a brand new show, Feed This Black Man Again
During his 20 year career, Daliso has performed on the Royal Variety Performance, written and performed four series of Citizen of Nowhere on BBC Radio 4, been a Britain’s Got Talent finalist and toured nationwide and abroad.
Feed This Black Man Again revisits the themes of his debut show with the considerably enhanced comic talents that two decades’ experience brings you. Along the way he’ll examine the huge differences between the way you think life will be at 20, and the reality!
Fairport Convention plus support
Wed 12 February 7.30pm
Fairport Convention have been entertaining music lovers for over half a century, having formed in 1967. This year’s Winter Tour will present a mix of long-established Fairport favourites and some surprises from albums old and new.
The band features founding member Simon Nicol on guitar and vocals, Dave Pegg on bass guitar, Ric Sanders on violin, Chris Leslie on fiddle, mandolin and vocals. Fairport will be joined on stage by former member Dave Mattacks on Drums.
Paul Jones and Dave Kelly
Mon 17 February 7.30pm
Founder members of The Blues Band, Paul Jones and Dave Kelly return with a new a live acoustic set.
After over a quarter century as presenter of his BBC Radio 2 R&B show, as a thrilling singer and harmonica maestro, what Paul Jones doesn’t know about the Blues can be written on a pinhead. Europe’s leading bluesman, Dave Kelly has played with them all, including legends such as James Burton and Buddy Guy. Superb blues vocals combined with guitar virtuosity have elevated Dave Kelly into the higher echelon of international blues performers, where he truly belongs.
Don’t miss this exceptional evening of entertainment with two bona fide music legends!
John Shuttleworth
Raise The Oof
Mon 24 February 7.30pm
Celebrating 40 years in showbiz, Radio 4 favourite, comedy legend, and ‘the 42nd best reason to love Britain’, (The Telegraph) John Shuttleworth is back with more hilarious stories and songs performed on his trusty Yamaha organ (with built-in auto accompaniment!)
So come along and join him in punching the air, and helping – in an orderly and controlled fashion – to RAISE THE OOF!
‘His stand up is second to none, his timing is impeccable, and you can practically warm your hands on his good nature’ The Guardian
Zoe Lyons Werewolf
Mon 3 March 7.30pm
VisitingEvents
Performance
The host of BBC’s Lightning, a regular on Have I Got News For You, QI, and Mock The Week – and a survivor of Celebrity SAS Who Dares Wins and World’s Most Dangerous Roads on Dave – Zoe Lyons is one of the country’s bestloved comedians.
If life is a journey, Zoe’s has had more than its share of potholes and diversions. Navigating the road to happiness can be exhausting and baffling; Zoe’s begun to think that even Wim Hof would prefer to be tucked up with a nice hot water bottle every now and then. But Zoe’s been on that road long enough now that she’s felt a change – not as in the menopause. A real change. If happiness is ending up the best version of yourself, Zoe is finally getting there. She is where she needs to be. She is… werewolf.
An Evening with The Tap Chaps
Fri 7 March 7.30pm
From West End stages and UK tours to stages in South Africa, Canada, USA, China, Europe and many more, The Tap Chaps are back with this fast paced, high energy show that will leave you breathless and wanting more!
Old classics with a modern twist, The Tap Chaps invite you to join them on a walk down memory lane with classic show numbers and songs from 42nd Street, I Got Rhythm and Mr Bojangles. The Tap Chaps and their percussive feet will have you stomping and clapping in your seats.
Directional performance with some element of front, sidefacing and behind views
Performance with facing and side-facing views
10CC’s Graham Gouldman & Heart Full Of Songs
Sat 8 March 7.30pm
10CC’s Graham Gouldman’s status as one of the world’s leading songwriters was acknowledged in 2014 with his induction into the Songwriter’s Hall of Fame. As well as writing countless hits for 10CC, he has also produced work for and with The Hollies, Herman’s Hermits, the Yardbirds and from his time in Wax with Andrew Gold.
He makes his debut on our stage with his semi-acoustic four-piece band performing a broad range of his song-writing catalogue, including chart hits I’m Not In Love, The Things We Do For Love, Bridge To Your Heart, No Milk Today and many more!
Andy Fairweather Low & The Low Riders
Tue 11 March 7.30pm
Having shot to fame as Lead Singer in Amen Corner singing massive hits like Bend Me Shape Me, Hello Suzy and (If Paradise is) Half As Nice, Andy has gone on to have a hugely successful solo career with Wide Eyed And Legless being the biggest international hit from his three albums.
One of the most respected musicians in the world, Andy has played guitar with more legendary artists than most people can name – Eric Clapton, George Harrison, Bob Dylan, Jimi Hendrix, The Band, Roger Waters and many more!
Rick Buckler A Night of Memories & Music
Fri 14 March 7.30pm
Featuring the legendary drummer of The Jam, Rick Buckler, this is your chance to witness history in the making.
Join Rick for a night that’ll make you feel like you’re in the heart of the Mod revival, as Rick takes you back to 1977 and guides you right through to 1982. Transport yourself to the days when vinyl records were king, and Fred Perry was the uniform of cool. It’s all about the music, the style, and the timeless appeal of The Jam.
Get lost in the soulful sounds that defined a generation as he recalls past memories, sharing photos, videos and music!
The evening will also feature a Q&A and book and memorabilia signing.
Tickets
£32.50
Tickets
£10.50
Under 16s
£5.00
Phil McIntyre Entertainments present
Milton Jones - HA!Milton
Plus support from Tom Houghton Sat 15 March 7.30pm
This is not a musical. Milton Jones is tone deaf and has no sense of rhythm, but at least he doesn’t make a song and dance about it.
He has more important things to discuss. Like giraffes…and there’s a bit about tomatoes. You might know him from Mock the Week, Live at the Apollo or Radio 4. Or that time he stood for the Scottish National Party, fought a hard campaign, but in the end had to respect the wishes of the people of Cardiff.
A whole new show of daftness. You know it makes sense.
WARNING *contains jokes from the start!
RSC First Encounters The Tempest Mon 31 March 6.00pm At Springhead Primary School
Tickets
£27.50
As part of the Associate School Programme and partnership with New Vic Education, the RSC return to Springhead Primary School, Stoke-on-Trent, to bring their First Encounters production of The Tempest
A perfect storm brings a feuding family and a king together on a magical island, but will all be forgiven and forgotten? This 80-minute version of The Tempest uses an edited version of the original play to create the perfect first introduction for young people aged 7-13 and their families.
Aly Bain & Phil Cunningham
Wed 2 April 7.30pm
Together, Aly Bain and Phil Cunningham are simply the best traditional musicians you are ever likely to hear.
Having toured together since 1986 to packed concert halls all over the world, they continue to charm audiences with their stunning music and on-stage charisma that defies description.
Witty and humorous banter sits alongside tunes that tug the heartstrings, and joyous reels and melodies that have feet tapping along at their ever-popular concerts.
Hue & Cry
Electro/Acoustic
Mon 7 April 7.30pm
Over their 40 year career, 80s pop legends Hue & Cry have sold more than two million records worldwide. They first made a huge impact on the charts in 1987 with the release of their debut album Seduced and Abandoned which featured their first top 10 single Labour of Love and their follow-up album Remote continued the trend and produced the huge hits and Violently Widely-acclaimed as incredible live performers, Hue and Cry have sold tens of thousands of concert tickets worldwide and have performed alongside some of the greatest artists in music history such as U2, James Brown, Madonna, Al Green and Van Morrison.
Acceler8 Band
Fri 25 April 7.30pm
Acceler8 Band (formerly TCTC Group Band and the Co-operative Band, Crewe) have been a well-established group since 1955. Since 2000 the band have competed in the prestigious Championship Section, in the Northwest of England and have taken part in tours of Austria and Holland, on several occasions.
Entertaining an audience with a variety of musical styles has been key to the band’s success and in 2019, they featured in the acclaimed New Vic production of Brassed Off and in the 2023 smash-hit The Card.
A real treat for all music lovers, this concert will be a hugely entertaining evening that will leave you on a high!
Magical Bones Bonefide Magic
Sat 26 April 7.30pm
The hottest British talent from the magic scene, Magical Bones, brings their action-packed illusion show to our stage.
A Britain’s Got Talent Finalist and ITV Ultimate Magician 2nd place runner-up, Bones’ originality stands alone. Expect to be taken on an awe-inspiring journey that just so happens to include the coolest break-dance moves, back flipping card tricks and of course jaw dropping street magic.
‘What’s happening on stage really is magic’ The Telegraph
Tickets
£24.50
Tickets £29.00
Edge Street Live presents
Brian Bilston and Henry Normal
Mon 12 May 7.30pm
Brian Bilston has been described as the Banksy of poetry and X’s unofficial Poet Laureate; with over 400,000 followers on social media, Brian has become truly beloved by the online community.
Writer, poet, TV & Film producer Henry Normal co-wrote and script edited the multi award-winning Mrs Merton Show and the spin off series Mrs Merton and Malcolm. He also co-created and co-wrote the first series of The Royle Family
Appearing together for the first time in a show which one critic has described as ‘two people reading some poems’ Brian and Henry will be drawing on their vast catalogue of crowd favourites – and throwing in new poems, to prevent becoming their own tribute bands.
An evening of poems to be enjoyed not endured.
By Arrangement with Selective Agency
China Crisis
The Y Stop Now Tour Mon 19 May 7.30pm
For more than four decades Gary Daly and Eddie Lundon, collectively better known as China Crisis, have been writing and performing some of the most catchy and sophisticated pop songs out there, from Wishful Thinking, Black Man Ray, and Catholic Style to Christian, Arizona Sky and Down Here on Earth
This will be an unforgettable night of music, laughter, and perhaps just a bit of nostalgia that will leave you answering the question of ‘Why stop now? ’ with ‘Why stop, ever?! ’
Lee Martin for Gag Reflex presents Alex Mitchell
Tics Towards Puffection
Wed 4 June 7.30pm
Britain’s Got Talent 2024 finalist Alex Mitchell is an autistic comic with functional neurological disorder (FND). He uses self-deprecating humour - laughing at himself, his neurodivergence, disability and sexuality - to reflect on some of the most difficult subjects within his own life and wider society.
His debut show tackles his desperate obsession for perfection and being ‘the best version’ of himself. He explores how and if he’ll ever achieve this, and how this has and continues to impact his life. Reflecting on society’s perception of queer, disabled, and neurodiverse communities, as well as his own perception of himself, Mitchell creates a heartwarming, emotional but always hilarious show.
Send in The ClownsC*ck of
Ages
Mon 9 June 7.30pm
Send In The Clowns is a raucous, wild, and tantalising drag revue show celebrating the magic and madness of musical theatre. Packed with outrageous comedy, spine-tingling live vocals, camp cabaret, lip-syncs and sing-a-longs, each show ends with an unmissable ‘twenty minute musical’ - a drag recreation of a legendary musical rehearsed in two days and performed in 20 minutes or lesswhat could possibly go wrong?!
Tickets £18.00
Expect unique takes on RENT, Rock Of Ages, The Rocky Horror Show, Jesus Christ Superstar, We Will Rock You, Hair & Grease amongst others, as your host - cabaret superstar and ‘incredible vocal powerhouse’ (West End Best Friend), as seen on The Voice, Fatt Butcher is joined by a stellar line-up of the midlands’ finest drag & cabaret talents including Dahliah Rivers, Blü Romantic, and Alanna Boden.
Ballet Cymru presents Giselle
Mon 16 June 7.30pm
Award-winning and innovative Ballet Cymru presents an unforgettable journey filled with passion, betrayal, and forgiveness. A brand-new interpretation of this ghost-filled ballet tells the tragic, romantic story of a young Welsh girl named Giselle, who falls in love but dies of heartbreak.
Featuring Adolph Adam’s original and hauntingly classical score, innovative choreography by Darius James OBE and Amy Doughty, exceptional and distinctive costumes and immersive video projections. Don’t miss this exceptional and groundbreaking company featuring an outstanding and diverse ensemble of brilliant dancers.
This production is created in Wales in partnership with The Riverfront Newport.
Buddy Holly and The Cricketers
33 Years of Rock ‘n’ Rolling The World!
Mon 14 July 7.30pm
Age guidance: 18+ Includes strong language and sexual references
/ £24.00
16s
All Holly’s hits and classics from his rock ’n’ roll pals are played live on stage by five amazing young actor-musicians, who always delight crowds with their fabulous show. Featuring raw rock ’n’ roll, beautifully haunting ballads, energetic performances – and some genuinely hilarious moments – there is no live event that delivers a better Buddy experience.
So, whether you’re young in years or young at heart, this night with Buddy and the boys really is guaranteed to have everyone singing along!
Photograph by Siân Trenberth Photography
The New Vic Community
At the New Vic, we pride ourselves on being a theatre very much for our local community. Our Borderlines, Education and Appetite teams work across all corners of Newcastleunder-Lyme, Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire inviting people from all walks of life and of all ages to participate in, watch and enjoy the arts!
Denise Coates Foundation supports Borderlines’ work with disadvantaged young people.
Our Borderlines team work locally, nationally and internationally to bring the power of creativity to innovative and challenging projects, dealing with the issues our community face, to help make a positive difference to our local communities.
Look out for…
Borderlines will celebrate the life and work of Arthur Berry next year, as part of Arthur Berry: 100 – a year of events to mark the 100th anniversary of the Stoke-on-Trent born poet, playwright and artist. A Pie, A Poem and A Portrait will inspire budding painters and poets to celebrate where they live using their authentic voices to tell their own stories.
For more information about Borderlines’ work and projects contact Adhia Mahmood on amahmood@newvictheatre.org.uk
New Vic Education is here to make learning through theatre a life-long adventure.
Want to create, watch and explore theatre? New Vic Youth Theatre could be for you! At the New Vic our artistic, craft and creative teams are making theatre every day.
As well as bringing scripts to life and performing pieces of original, devised theatre, at Youth Theatre you can learn about the roles behind the scenes and have expert support. If you’ve ever wanted to tread the boards of the New Vic stage, you’ll enjoy showcasing your skills to an audience at the end of the Summer term!
Young Company
Young Company is a programme for 16 – 19-yearolds who are interested in furthering their skills in performance.
Members will work with professionals to stage contemporary and classic texts. Each year the Young Company members will be cast in their own production and perform at the New Vic Theatre.
For enquires about any of these exciting projects please email education@ newvictheatre.org.uk
Appetite is the Creative People and Places programme for Newcastle-under-Lyme and Stoke-on-Trent. Led by the New Vic, Appetite aims to encourage more people in the area to experience and be inspired by the arts.
In 2024, Appetite celebrated the 10th Edition of The Big Feast with Luminarium by Architects of Air in Hanley Park which saw almost 3,000 people enjoy the sculpture, and over 9,000 people attend the two-day extravaganza on the streets of Stoke-on-Trent City Centre (Hanley). The event was co-curated by Appetite’s community decision-makers, volunteers, suppliers, artists and funding partners: Arts Council England, Smithfield/Genr8, Stokeon-Trent City Council, and Stoke-on-Trent City Centre BID.
We’re working with our community partners to develop new projects, to stay up-to-date sign up to the Appetite newsletter on our website or follow us on Facebook or Instagram.
We’re also planning projects for next year to celebrate the City’s centenary and local hero Arthur Berry - watch this space! We hope to see you there!
To find out more about Appetite, what events are on the horizon and to stay up-to-date with all their news, visit: appetite.org.uk or email askus@appetite.org.uk
May
How to book
Call us on: 01782 717962
Book online at: newvictheatre.org.uk
Or visit us in person - we’re open MondaySaturday from 10.00am until the beginning of the show on performance nights (6.00pm if there is no evening show).
Ticket Delivery
We’ll send your tickets to you by email, ready for you to show on your phone on entry to the performance, or for you to print-at-home and bring along with you. If you’d prefer, we can keep your tickets at the Box Office for collection, or, for a small charge of £1.00, we can post your tickets out to you.
Conditions of Sale
We operate a flexible ticket refund policy. In the event you are unwell and unable to attend your booked performance, let our Box Office team know and they will be able to advise on your options.
Getting Here
We are happy to exchange your tickets to another performance of the same production, add a credit to your account for future use, or issue a full refund if you are unable to attend. For reservations, we hold tickets for three working days or until an hour before the performance (whichever is earliest).
Stay In Touch
On making a booking, our Box Office and website will ask if you wish to receive further information from us about future events, activities and fundraising initiatives. You can update these preferences at any time by contacting us on 01782 717962, or by logging into your account via our website. To read our full privacy policy visit www. newvictheatre.org.uk/privacy-policy
New Vic Theatre, Etruria Road, Newcastle-under-Lyme, ST5 0JG
Our unique in-the-round theatre is located in Newcastle-under-Lyme, two minutes from the A500 – the main route through the area connecting to routes into the city from all directions. The postcode for SAT NAV devices is ST5 0JG.
Our onsite carpark is open until the end of the final performance of the day; a charge of £2.20 applies from 6.00pm. Blue Badge holders can reserve a space in our car park, free of charge –spaces are limited, and pre-booking is essential. Call 01782 717962 to reserve your space.
The closest alternative parking is located at King Street Car Park, approx. a five minute walk uphill to the theatre, charges apply.
Travelling by public transport?
We are situated approx. 10 minutes drive from Stoke-on-Trent Train Station. There is a taxi rank directly outside the train station, to the left of the main entrance as you exit. First Potteries bus routes 4 and 4a, serving Newcastle and Hanley, stop directly outside the theatre.
Our Business Supporters
We’ve been creating excellent theatre-in-the-round for over 30 years at our home in Newcastle-under-Lyme and, as a registered charity, our Supporters, Sponsors and Business Friends are crucial to our continued success.
Charitable Donation
The New Vic Theatre would like to gratefully acknowledge the generous donation given by:
Sponsors
The New Vic Theatre gratefully acknowledges the following for their generous support:
Business
Friends
Become a New Vic Business Friend – Put your corporate social responsibility aims centre stage
Your corporate support can help make a real difference to the lives of people who live in this region. Support the New Vic and help us to:
Provide free, first-time theatre experiences for children and vulnerable people who wouldn’t otherwise be able to attend
Create innovative community programmes for people at any age, enhancing health and wellbeing
Expand our education programmes to reach more schools in Newcastle-under-Lyme, Stoke-onTrent and Staffordshire, raising aspiration and attainment for our local young people
Demonstrate your commitment to the local community and help us make a real difference to the lives of local people – join the New Vic Business Friends today.
Find out more info at newvictheatre.org.uk/support-us/corporate-support/ business-friends
Email: fundraising@newvictheatre.org.uk
Theatre Café
Dine Relax Enjoy
Join us for delicious homemade food, hot and cold snacks, scrumptious homemade cakes and delicious beverages, all served in a welcoming environment by our friendly team.
With a range of meals to tempt your tastebuds, whether you’re popping in for a quick lunch or to enjoy a pre-show meal, our café is the perfect place to relax with friends during your visit to the New Vic!
Our Bar, open from 5.30pm pre-performance, offers an excellent choice of drinks to enjoy – from draft lagers and craft gins to a range of tempting non-alcholic options, this is a great place to catch up with fellow theatregoers before, during and after the show! Want to avoid the queue? You can pre-order your interval drinks from our Bar on arrival – simply speak to a member of our team.
Open Mon – Sat from 10.00am – 3.00pm, and from 5.30pm for evening meals. Call 01782 717954, visit newvictheatre.org.uk/ cafe-and-shop/cafe or email: catering@ newvictheatre.org.uk to reserve a table for your pre-show meal.
