MARCHJ U L Y
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REP RETURNS!
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Meet our Rep Season company Box Office: 01782 717962
SUMMER 2011
contents Plays 10 12 14 16 18 20 22
Hamlet The Rivals Proof April in Paris After Miss Julie Spring and Port Wine The Admirable Crichton
Events One Nighters
36 30 30 Fringe 36 31 25 Satirists in Silk Dresses 36 25 Lending Library 31 25 Mad Hatter’s Tea Party 32 26 Drive In 32 26 A Celebration of 33 Arthur Berry 34 26 Easter Soiree 34 27 Clowning Workshop 35 35 27 Creative Puppetry 27
Workshop Outdoor Performance Workshop
The Leibniz Piano Trio The Battlefield Band Barry Cryer Cropper, Welsh, Roscoe Blues Band Elias Quartet Four Men and a Dog Goodmen Orchestra Guy Davis Jackie Trent Three Bonzos Sonia Sabri Kimber’s Men Richard Digance
Community
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New Vic Friends Building Futures New Vic Borderlines New Vic Education
37 Exhibitions 37 Craft Fair
Information 28 45 46 47 48 49 50 50 52
Ticket packages Borderlines Services Costume and Prop Hire Food and drink / Shop Under 26 Tickets Booking / Access Ticket prices Calendar How to get here
Features 4 Rep Season 24 Fringe Benefits 42 Chapter 2
Welcome 2010 was a tremendous year for the New Vic. More people than ever saw more shows than ever; we created more work with and for young people than ever and made an international impact with our Borderlines programme. This season there are more thrilling and adventurous nights out at the theatre. Old friends Hull Truck and Northern Broadsides will be back, and London Classic Theatre will make their New Vic debut. But, the big departure this summer is our Rep Season of four plays performed by the same company of eleven actors – it will be a real treat to follow them through their six month New Vic journey. Joining me for the adventure will be designer Michael Holt whose work you will recognise from productions at the New Vic and the Stephen Joseph Theatre, Scarborough. And anyone who’s seen The Woman in Black during its long West End run will have marvelled at his stage trickery. My predecessor Gwenda Hughes will be directing two of the four shows. Before Christmas we battled snow and ice – not to mention some dishevelled B&Bs - to travel the country casting the ensemble, and now we’re looking forward to getting into the rehearsal room and exploring these plays further. We were joined earlier this year by a young director who is studying at Birkbeck University. Paschale Straiton is already an experienced creator of outdoor theatre and devised theatre, and she has a background in clowning and circus. She’ll be using her unusual range of skills to create the New Vic’s first ever Fringe Season. Expect something a little bit different. Finally, this summer we’ll bid a sad goodbye to Nick Jones. As Managing Director, Nick has worked tirelessly behind the scenes making the New Vic more successful year on year. This year has been the most successful ever, so it’s a fitting time for him to choose to step down. We wish him well for a quieter future, though I’m sure he’ll miss the Vic as much as we’ll miss him.
March-July Theresa Heskins Artistic Director
A Vic Rep Season from 1970 six plays over four months.
Back
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Artistic Director, Theresa Heskins, introduces our new Rep Season . . .
to the
Future?
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Flying sequences in the New Vic's Peter Pan
feature I’m always looking for a new adventure. Last year’s Bleak House promenade, where we invited audiences to turn detective as they walked through Dickens’ world, was memorable. So was working with an aerial dance company to create horseriding sequences for The Wicked Lady and the spectacular flying for Peter Pan. Beginning in March, our latest adventure is a journey ‘back to the future’, as we invite an ensemble of 11 actors to join us for our six month Rep Season. As an idea, repertoire is centuries old: a group of actors rehearse a play, perform it, rehearse another play, perform both side-by-side, then keep adding work. Shakespeare did it; Henry Irving did it; Laurence Olivier did it. The New Vic, like most other theatres in the country, did it. It went out of fashion for a bit, but the idea’s having something of a renaissance.
can’t leave town ‘till I’ve seen the actors in that company run the whole gamut of roles and stories. On occasion I’ve even found myself sitting in a play I hadn’t any real desire to see but, to my surprise, enjoying it immensely because the context of a rep season adds a whole new dimension. Part of the challenge of selecting the plays for this Rep Season was finding four pieces that would stretch the acting company in different directions and give audiences a variety of theatrical experiences. I’m sure we’ve achieved that with four very varied plays – The Rivals, Sheridan’s 18th century comic masterpiece; Proof, a Pulitzer Prizewinning contemporary American drama; workingclass life in 1950s Bolton with Spring
Shakespeare did it; Olivier did it – the New Vic’s doing it!
I can see why it’s so popular. Rep focuses on the special alchemy of theatre – an actor, a text, a costume coming together to create something greater than the sum of its parts. The next night, the same actor in a different costume performing a different text creates something entirely different.
Rep is compelling. Once I’ve seen one show in a rep season, my curiosity is aroused; I
and Port Wine; and the upstairs downstairs mishaps of aristocratic Edwardians and their servants in J M Barrie’s The Admirable Crichton. Moving from Georgian Bath to post-war Bolton, and from modern Chicago to Edwardian high society, the actors must jump cities, cultures and centuries. They play
Getting to know you - the Rep Season’s Company Joanna Brookes Playing: Mrs Malaprop (The Rivals), Daisy (Spring and Port Wine) and Lady Brocklehurst (The Admirable Crichton). Amongst a mass of stage and TV roles, Joanna has played Evie Curdle in John Mortimer's Titmuss Regained, won rave reviews for her role as Mrs Biggleswade in The Biggleswades at London’s Southwark Playhouse and played Margaret Hollis in BBC 2 comedy,Taking the Flak. Joanna also is a keen swimmer and has circumnavigated the Isles of Scilly twice – without a wetsuit! Matt Connor Playing: Fag (The Rivals), Harold (Spring and Port Wine) and Treherne (The Admirable Crichton). A regular with Northern Broadsides, Matt appeared in the hugely popular tour of Othello, which consequently transferred to the West End. Part-time drummer Matt was last seen at our sister
theatre, the Stephen Joseph, Scarborough, where he played one of Edward Lear’s ‘Jumblies’ in The Hunt for the Scroobuious Pip! Richard Elfyn Playing: Sir Anthony Absolute (The Rivals), Rafe (Spring and Port Wine) and Rolleston (The Admirable Crichton). Richard’s work on the silver screen has included a role alongside Robert de Niro. A well known face on Welsh TV, Richard has starred in various TV dramas and BBC series, winning the BAFTA Cymru Best Actor award in 1996 for his role in Yn Gymysg Oll I Gyd (‘All Mixed Up’). When he’s not winning BAFTAs, Richard might be found horse-riding, rowing or skiing. Victoria Gee Playing: David (The Rivals), Claire (Proof), Betsy-Jane (Spring and Port Wine) and Tweeny (The Admirable Crichton) Victoria’s theatre credits include Country Magic and The Lower
extravagance in another season. But in rep, I know that the actor playing Countess Brocklehurst will have been working hard as Mrs Malaprop and Daisy Crompton, and will probably benefit from a bit of a rest.
When it come to rep, Shakespeare did it, the Victorian actor-manager Sir Henry Irving did it.
cultivated Right Honourables, factory lads, and preppy maths geniuses. Family relationships change almost daily – a husband-and-wife team are cousins in one play, brother and sister in another, and fall in
Having the same actors in the building for an extended period also gives us the opportunity to mount our very first New Vic Fringe Season. We have a raft of events planned, from a lending library of live stories available in the bar to a Mad Hatter’s tea party in a local park. It will be an opportunity to savour some entirely new theatrical experiences – a real adventure for audiences, actors, and the New Vic team. Finally, one of the most exciting aspects of the Rep Season – there will be a different relationship between actors and audiences. Actors are used to pitching up a new town, settling into digs, finding the supermarket, the pub, the cinema and a good country walk, then disappearing to another town eight weeks later. The actors joining us for the Rep Season will be here for a whole six months, so will really get to know the New Vic and our local community.
The context of a rep season adds a whole new dimension. love with a variety of people – though never with each other! It’s also an opportunity for us to stage plays that were written to be performed in rep. I’m parsimonious when it comes to using the New Vic’s resources, I don’t like to see an actor languishing in the Green Room when they could be on stage: one reason why my productions often feature a busy ensemble playing everything from gravestones to wardrobe doors. So a play like The Admirable Crichton, where some characters only appear during the first or last scene, would be an 6 | www.newvictheatre.org.uk
I’m looking forward to seeing you at the New Vic for a summer of new and different theatrical adventures. The Rep Season opens on Friday 25 March and runs until Saturday 30 July.
Michael Hugo Playing: Bob Acres (The Rivals), Hal (Proof) and Lord Brocklehurst (The Admirable Crichton). A firm New Vic favourite, Michael has become part of the furniture here at the theatre-in-the-round appearing in no less than 14 productions since his debut with Kes in 2003. Unable to resist the allure of the New Vic’s bacon sandwiches, Mike was last seen here in January, scaling silks and swashbuckling with pirates as Peter Pan in the theatre’s record-breaking production. As well as being a wonderful actor, Mike also speaks German and plays the penny whistle. Louise Kempton Playing: Julia (The Rivals), Florence (Spring and Port Wine) and Lady Mary (The Admirable Crichton). Although a newcomer to the New Vic, this is not Louise’s first visit to Staffordshire; she was last here in 2009 for the UK tour of Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf, which subsequently transferred to the West End. Her other credits include the TMA Awardwinning Looking for JJ at York Theatre Royal and the Unicorn Theatre, Ladies Day for BBC Radio 4 and playing a ‘lady of the night’ in Ealing Studios film, Dorian Gray.
Emma Noakes Playing: Lucy (The Rivals), Catherine (Proof), Lady Catherine (The Admirable Crichton) Any avid listener of BBC Radio plays will have heard Emma’s dulcet tones. In 2006 she won the BBC Radio Carleton Hobbs Award and has since been involved in over 30 radio productions with the BBC’s Radio Drama Company. On stage, Emma’s credits include the Peter Hall Company production of Pygmalion, which our New Vic Friends may remember from their trip to Cheltenham. Andrew Pollard Playing: Faulkland (The Rivals), Arthur (Spring and Port Wine) and Crichton (The Admirable Crichton). Last seen at the New Vic in 2010’s Michael Frayn season, Andrew is another familiar face for Staffordshire theatregoers, both at the New Vic and with Northern Broadsides. A skilled writer as well as an actor, Andrew has written various plays for Northern Broadsides including the acclaimed Heidi: A Goat’s Tail - a re-telling of Johanna Spyri’s famous story seen through the eyes of a goat!
Depths at the Finborough Theatre, Billy Liar at the Liverpool Playhouse, and Hobson’s Choice at The Lowry. As well as appearing in the West End production of Othello with fellow Rep company member Matt,Victoria also went to drama school with Louise. It’s a small world!
in Mamma Mia. A graduate of Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, Oliver has worked with Theresa before, on her BBC Radio 4 play A Fine and Private Place. The Rep Season will be a New Vic first for Oliver, who has come a long way since his auspicious debut – as a singing Donkey in the school play!
Paul Greenwood Playing: Sir Lucius O’Trigger (The Rivals), Robert (Proof) and Lord Loam (The Admirable Crichton) Paul is probably best known for his role as PC Michael ‘Rosie’ Penrose in the successful ‘70s/’80s sitcom, Rosie. As well as appearing in over 25 TV productions and several films, Paul has also featured in numerous leading roles with the RSC He is also fondly remembered for his TV role as Adrian Mole’s neighbour (and secret inamorata to Mrs Mole), Mr Lucas, in A Secret Diary of Adrian Mole aged 13¾.
Joanna Higson Playing: Lydia Languish (The Rivals), Hilda (Spring) and Lady Agatha (The Admirable Crichton) Last seen at the New Vic in A Taste of Honey, Jo was recently on our screens as feisty nurse Maxine Donnelly in Channel 4’s Shameless. Attracting the attentions of both Channel 4 and the BBC after graduating from Salford University, she appeared in Jimmy McGovern’s multiaward winning drama The Street and recently guest-starred in his latest, Accused. In 2009, whilst rehearsing at the New Vic for A Taste of Honey, Jo saved the day when she became a last minute understudy for an off-colour actress appearing on stage in Othello, winning the eternal gratitude of Barrie Rutter!
Oliver J Hembrough Playing: Captain Jack Absolute (The Rivals), Wilfred (Spring and Port Wine), Ernest (The Admirable Crichton) For the last two years, Oliver has been belting out ABBA hits in the West End as Sophie’s fiancé, Sky, 8 | www.newvictheatre.org.uk
Northern Broadsides in partnership with the New Vic
Hamlet by William Shakespeare
With a way of doing Shakespeare that is revelatory, Northern Broadsides have become one of the most celebrated of theatre companies. Our fourth collaboration premieres at the New Vic before embarking on a nationwide tour. The production is directed by Conrad Nelson. A restless spirit haunts the grim battlements of Elsinore as the veil between the natural and the supernatural is ripped apart. And a tormented young man teeters on the brink of madness. His choices are stark: revenge or mercy; hope or despair; life or death.
Fri 25 Feb - Sat 19 March
Haunting and inventive, this production conjures ghosts of the dead and demons of the mind in a powerful and insightful interpretation of the tortured Danish Prince. “They can bring Shakespeare to life as gripping, accessible theatre for today” The Guardian “The sheer force and drive of the company take your breath away” The Daily Telegraph
Booking Information Tickets £9.50 - £18.50 Group Discounts £2.00 off for ten or more First Night Fever All seats £12.50 (no concessions) Fri 25 Feb Under 26s Go Free (see page 48) Concessions £2.00 off (see page 49)
See this play for just £12.50! (see page 28)
Interpreted Performances Captioned 7.30 pm Tues 15 March Audio described 2.15 pm Sat 19 March Talkback Tues 15 March
“What dreams may come . . .”
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a New Vic production
The Rivals by Richard Brinsley Sheridan Sheridan’s wildly funny masterpiece is, possibly, the original ‘rom-com’. Director Theresa Heskins plots our way through the love affairs, the secrets and the schemes of a group of men (and women) behaving badly in Bath, the 18th century’s hottest holiday destination.
Fri 25 March -Thurs 28 July
The verbally-challenged Mrs Malaprop is trying to get her niece married off to rich Captain Absolute. But the luscious Lydia’s got other ideas – she’s not interested in marrying for money. Inspired by the romance and heady passions of her favourite steamy novels, she’d rather elope with her broke young lover. Secret messages, mysterious liaisons, deceit, double-deceit, double-double-deceit and dueling at dawn. And all in the name of love! “A wonderful box of theatrical tricks . . . bursting with invention “ The Guardian (on Theresa Heskins’ The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe)
Booking Information Tickets £9.50 - £18.50 Group Discounts £2.00 off for ten or more First Night Fever All seats £12.50 (no concessions) Fri 25 March Under 26s Go Free (see page 48) Concessions £2.00 off (see page 49) Interpreted Performances Captioned 7.30 pm Tues 17 May Audio described 2.15 pm Sat 28 May Talkback Tues 17 May
See this play for just £12.50! (see page 28)
They’re all behaving badly in Bath!
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a New Vic production
Proof by David Auburn
The longest-running Broadway play of the last two decades and winner of both a Tony Award and a Pulitzer Prize. Directed by Gwenda Hughes, this remarkable play is both a tense family drama and a gripping whodunnit. Catherine gets her brains from her adored father, a brilliant but eccentric mathematician. She’s dropped out of college to look after him and is starting to think that maybe she’s inherited more than just his gift for numbers.
Fri 8 April - Sat 4 June
And, when geeky young maths student Hal arrives to look through her father’s notebooks, something just doesn’t add up. What’s Hal really after? Is it her? Or is it what’s in the notebooks? And how will she ever prove which? Pulitzer Prize for Drama Tony Award for Best Play
Booking Information Tickets £9.50 - £18.50 Group Discounts £2.00 off for ten or more First Night Fever All seats £12.50 (no concessions) Fri 8 April Under 26s Go Free (see page 48) Concessions £2.00 off (see page 49) Interpreted Performances Captioned 7.30 pm Thurs 2 June Audio described 2.15 pm Sat 21 May Talkback Thurs 2 June
See this play for just £12.50! (see page 28)
Sometimes life just doesn’t add up
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a Hull Truck Theatre Company production
April in Paris written and directed by John Godber
With Bouncers, Teechers and many more award-winning plays, John Godber’s brand of truly popular theatre has made him one of the world’s most performed playwrights. With Wendi Peters, April in Paris, is an irresistible dose of pathos and humour. It was nominated for the Olivier Comedy of the Year in 1994.
Mon 18 - Sat 23 April
Al and Bet aren’t what you’d call ‘love’s young dream’. Bet’s bored, Al spends his days in the garden shed. They’re stuck in a romance rut. Then out of the blue the passionless pair win a weekend for two in Paris! Will the city of love rekindle some life into this dying relationship? Or will it be battle-stations amongst the boulevards? Will they succumb to the allure of l’amour? Or is it the end of la rue for Al and Bet? “…brilliantly simple powerful piece of popular theatre” The Guardian
Booking Information Tickets £9.50 - £18.50 Group Discounts £2.00 off for ten or more First Night Fever All seats £12.50 (no concessions) Mon 18 April Concessions £2.00 off (see page 49)
See this play for just £12.50! (see page 28)
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a London Classic Theatre production
After Miss Julie a version of Strindberg’s Miss Julie
by Patrick Marber Patrick Marber is one of the most acclaimed of contemporary dramatists. With award-winning plays such as Dealer’s Choice and Closer, he has achieved that rare thing – both rave reviews from the critics and a real connection with audiences.
Weds 27 - Sat 30 April
July 1945. A country house near London. Celebrations for the Labour Party’s landslide election victory are in full swing. The lady of the house, Miss Julie, descends into the servants’ kitchen to seek out John, her father’s chauffeur. As the night draws in and flirtation turns to passion, the two lovers embark on a consuming and deadly dance of desire. Sex, class and ambition battle for centre stage as Patrick Marber relocates Strindberg’s shattering, sensual love story to post-war England. “An unforgettable night of white-hot theatrical intensity. . .“ Daily Telegraph
Booking Information Tickets £9.50 - £18.50 Group Discounts £2.00 off for ten or more First Night Fever All seats £12.50 (no concessions) Weds 27 April Concessions £2.00 off (see page 49)
See this play for just £12.50! (see page 28)
Contains adult material and sexual themes.
Seduction. Passion. Obsession.
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a New Vic production
Spring and Port Wine by Bill Naughton From the writer of classic 60s films, Alfie and A Kind of Loving, one of the great Northern comedy-dramas. Gwenda Huges directs as we spend an eventful weekend in the terraced Bolton home of the mill-working Crompton family. With the ’60s about to swing in, stiff-necked Dad discovers that the generation gap has just opened up around his kitchen table. There’s rebellion in the air. And it only needs a spark to turn tension into all-out war.
Sat 7 May - Tues 26 July
When something fishy sets off a ferocious battle of wills, Mum can’t decide who’s side she’s on – so blames the cat. Families. . . can’t live with ’em, can’t live without ’em!
Booking Information Tickets £9.50 - £18.50 Group Discounts £2.00 off for ten or more First Night Fever All seats £12.50 (no concessions) Sat 7 May Under 26s Go Free (see page 48) Concessions £2.00 off (see page 49) Interpreted Performances Captioned 7.30 pm Tues 5 July Audio described 2.15 pm Sat 23 July Talkback Tues 5 July
See this play for just £12.50! (see page 28)
A heartwarming tale of families, falling out and fish!
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a New Vic production
The Admirable Crichton by J M Barrie A huge hit of the Edwardian West End, this rare revival of Barrie’s superb comic fantasy finds the upstairs-downstairs world of an aristocratic family turned upside down when disaster strikes. Theresa Heskins directs.
Fri 17 June - Sat 30 July
Lord Loam has dangerously radical views. He insists that the servants take tea with the family once each month. Crichton, the family butler, respectfully begs to disagree. He finds that such familiarities disturb the etiquette of the servants’ hall. But, when a tropical holiday goes terribly wrong, they find themselves shipwrecked on a desert island. Survival becomes the order of the day and, as the months turn to years, improbable love affairs blossom over coconuts and turtle soup. Will they ever be rescued? And, if they are, will things ever be the same again?
Booking Information Tickets £9.50 - £18.50 Group Discounts £2.00 off for ten or more First Night Fever All seats £12.50 (no concessions) Fri 17 June Under 26s Go Free (see page 48) Concessions £2.00 off (see page 49) Interpreted Performances Captioned 7.30 pm Tues 19 July Audio described 2.15 pm Sat 30 July Talkback Tues 19 July
See this play for just £12.50! (see page 28)
Downton Abbey meets Lost!
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try something different! Directed by Paschale Straiton Frequently novel, often unusual, sometimes just downright different. Director Paschale Straiton has worked with our Rep Season actors to explore new ways of making and presenting theatre. Audiences were fascinated by the backstage world we created for Bleak House; they loved the aerial dance of The Wicked Lady and Peter Pan. And we’re sure you’ll enjoy this selection box of out-of-the-ordinary theatrical goodies.
Lending Library Mad Hatter’s Tea Party A Celebration of Arthur Berry Easter Soiree Satirists in Silk Dresses Drive In Clowning Workshop Outdoor Performance Workshop Creative Puppetry Workshop 24 | www.newvictheatre.org.uk
Weds 6 April A fun evening of dramatic readings from 18th century female playwrights, such as Hannah Cowley, Fanny Burney, Elizabeth Inchbald and Jane Austen, who managed to achieve successful writing careers against all the odds. Join us in cocking a snoop at all the sops, fops and hypocrites of Georgian England and learn a little more about these fabulous ladies of letters in the process. Time/Venue: 7.30 pm, the New Vic Bar £5.00
Fri 8 & Sat 9 April Sitting at the bar is a collection of men and women. All have their own stories. Find a seat and a librarian will ask you to select a story from the catalogue. A character will join your table to tell their tale – bitter, sweet, extraordinary or downright hilarious, you might weep into your G & T or giggle all the way to your seat. Who knows, you may wish to return them and borrow another. Time/Venue: from 6.00 pm, the New Vic Bar Free event; pre-booking not required.
Sat 16 April in Brampton Park Newcastle-u-Lyme Celebrate 300 years of hat making in Newcastle! Bring a hat, a picnic and a rug, then sit back while we entertain you with a series of delightfully curious and even curiouser performances. Activities, prizes and fun for all the family! Time/Venue: 1.00 pm – 4.00 pm , Brampton Park, Newcastle Free event; pre-booking not required. With Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Museum
Tues 19, Weds 20 & Thurs 21 April
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Got a taste for something a little different? Here’s a theatrical experience that might be right up your street! Three brief and intimate mini-performances about romance and intrigue. They’re for an audience of two-five people at a time. And, they’re set inside a vehicle on the New Vic car park. Book your tickets at the Box Office and be escorted to your vehicle for a very special journey! Time/Venue: from 6.00 pm, New Vic Box Office £2.50 per performance / see all three performances for just £5.00
Weds 27 April Join us in celebrating the memory of the extraordinary Arthur Berry (1925 – 1994), Potteries painter, poet, playwright and teacher. His creative life was deeply rooted in the culture, people and landscapes of North Staffordshire and he regularly collaborated with the New Vic which produced several of his plays. We will be reading his poems in places around the New Vic, so catch us if you want a personal rendition. Time/Venue: from 6.00 pm, New Vic bar Free event; pre-booking not required.
Thurs 28 April
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Join us after the show for a medley of short stories, poems, sketches and novelties from members of the Rep Season company and invited artists. A bit of frivolity and something of a hoot! Time/Venue: post show, New Vic bar Free event; pre-booking not required.
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Sat 9 & Sun 10 April with Paschale Straiton Think Morecombe and Wise or French and Saunders rather than red nose and big shoes. In this two-day, intensive workshop, we’ll test your funny bones and pass on some techniques invaluable in communicating with audiences and being honest on stage. Paschale Straiton trained as a theatrical clown with Circomedia Circus School in Bristol and has toured the length and breadth of the country with physical comedy companies. Time/venue: 10.00 am – 5.00 pm, New Vic Theatre Age: 18+ Cost: £25 (for two days) / £15 concessions
Mon 11 April
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Paschale Straiton and members of the Rep Season company will work with participants to bring to life objects from the theatre’s prop store. Together, we’ll create a memorable collection of fantastic creatures and tall tales ready for a 30 minute show-back. Time/venue: 10.00 am – 5.00 pm, New Vic Theatre Age: 13-16 Cost: £10 / £8 concessions
Thurs 14, Fri 15 and Sat 16 April There’s more to outdoor theatre than putting on Shakespeare in a park or pretending to be a statue. Many companies now present exciting and innovative street performance. This active and engaging workshop will explore modern outdoor performance techniques and, together, we’ll devise a series of walkabout or promenade performances to be presented alongside Rep Season actors at the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party on the Saturday following the workshop. Time/venue: workshops 10.00 am – 5.00 pm at New Vic Theatre; from 10.00 am for Saturday performance. Age: 16-18+ Cost: £40 (for three days) / £30 concessions
For further information on all Fringe Workshops: Tel: Lynn Parry 01782 381366 Email: lparry@newvictheatre.org.uk
Plays Packages
Rep Season Plays Four plays for £50! The Rivals, Proof, Spring and Port Wine,The Admirable Crichton
All FOUR plays just £50! Any THREE plays just £40! Any seat Any night And, when you book a season package, you can choose from all this too: Hamlet; April in Paris; After Miss Julie; £12.50 (Mon - Thurs) or £13.00 (Fri and Sat)
Four friends for £54! Four tickets for just £54 - a great value, great night out with friends.
Any play, any seats Monday - Friday
Matinees excluded; cannot be combined with other concessions or offers (inc First Night Fever); must be booked in a single transaction. 1 ticket per package. Change your performance any time, more than 3 days prior to the performance. All sales subject to availability and Box Office Manager’s discretion.
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One-Nighter Packages
One Night Events FOUR shows for £50! THREE shows for £40! Choose from these great acts: Barry Cryer*, Cropper/Welsh/Roscoe, Elias Quartet, Four Men and a Dog, Guy Davis, Three Bonzos And A Piano, Sonia Sabri, Kimber’s Men, Richard Digance*
And, when you book an event package, you can choose from all this too: • Any additional show for just £13.00 each • Under 16s tickets for one night events as indicated just £7.50 NB: Blues Band, Jackie Trent and Goodmen Orchestra not part of these offers.
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.
Friends Membership - got a friend who’s a real fan of theatre? Why not make them one of our Friends - from just £20 a year. See page 39 for New Vic Friends details. * £1 premium for this show; 1 ticket per package.
Come round for a
One Nighter! Mon 14 March
BATTLEFIELD BAND This is the band that others are measured against. Under the banner ‘Forward with Scotland’s Past’, Battlefield Band have been traveling the world for four decades, inspiring audiences with their rich heritage of Celtic music. With bagpipes, fiddle, keyboards, guitar and voice, they mix the old songs and tunes with newer material, played on a unique fusion of ancient and modern instruments. “a national treasure” Edinburgh Evening News “exhilarating music . . . ecstatic fans . . wild whoops of delight” The Observer
“exhilarating music . . . ecstatic fans . . wild whoops of delight” The Observer
£13.50 / £15.50 / cons / Under 16s Go Free
Weds 30 March The undisputed King of the One-Liner!
BARRY CRYER with his brand new show BUTTERFLY BRAIN A stream of unconscious and sit-down comedy with Colin Sell at the piano One of the country's greatest comic writers and star of Radio 4's top-rated comedy quiz show I'm Sorry I Haven't A Clue. Barry has written for such comedy greats as Frankie Howerd, Bruce Forsyth, The Two Ronnies, Tommy Cooper, Les Dawson and Morecambe and Wise in their heyday. "He's like a very generous jukebox - you put a penny in and get 10 songs back." The Independent. £17.00 / £18.50
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One Nighters Weds 11 May
THE BLUES BAND What’s left to say about The Blues Band? Paul Jones, Dave Kelly,Tom McGuinness, Rob Townsend and Gary Fletcher. They’ve played with some of the truly great bands – Manfred Mann, McGuinness Flint, Medicine Head, Family among them. Nearly 30 years on the road with the best Rhythm and Blues you’ll ever hear. Their New Vic visits are instant sell-outs. Book soon! £16.00 / £18.50 / £21.00
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Weds 25 May “The best party to be found anywhere in Ireland” Irish Music Magazine
FOUR MEN AND A DOG True legends of Irish music. Their fiery sets of traditional tunes are second to none for their precision and power. They are fine players and Cathal Hayden on fiddle and Gerry O'Connor on banjo are names that would appear in any list of the very finest Irish musicians. Frontman Gino Lupari is a real one-off and one of Irish Music’s genuine characters (which is saying something!). They seldom tours in England, so this is a rare chance to catch one of Ireland's most memorable bands. £13.50 / £15.50 / cons / Under 16s Go Free Performance in the round
Performance on three sides
Directional performance with some element of front and back
Tues 31 May THE BEST OF
BENNY GOODMAN AT CARNEGIE HALL sensationally recreated by The All-Star Goodmen Orchestra featuring Joan Viskant Benny Goodman’s 1938 Carnegie Hall concert is regarded as the finest jazz spectacle ever. With the cream of London’s big band players, the All-Star Goodmen Orchestra re-creates this legendary concert. All the music from that night is here and, as an added bonus, so will famed American singer Joan Viskant, described by Ray Charles as reminding him of Doris Day. £17.50 / £19.50 / cons Part of the Newcastle-under-Lyme Jazz and Blues Festival 2011
Try more, save more! See page 29 for our special ticket packages Weds 8 June “a voice like Howlin’ Wolf dipped in honey . . . he is fabulous” The Scotsman
GUY DAVIS After looking long and hard for a really great blues performer we finally found Guy Davis. His last New Vic visit in 2008 was one of the most electric nights we’ve had. New York born and a genuine bluesman, he’s worked with some of America’s greatest musicians – Bob Dylan, Bonnie Raitt, Jackson Browne and Bruce Springsteen among them! Stomping acoustic blues, heartfelt and entertaining songs. This man is the real thing. £15.50 / £17.00 / cons / Under 16s Go Free
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One Nighters
Weds 22 June North Staffordshire’s own international music sensation!
An Evening with JACKIE TRENT CELEBRATING 60 YEARS IN THE BUSINESS It’s a privilege to welcome a legendary singer, songwriter and musical star to the New Vic for her first home-town show in 60 years! Since winning a talent show at Hanley’s Theatre Royal in 1951, Newcastle-born Jackie has enjoyed an astonishing career. Often in partnership with Tony Hatch, she’s been a chart-topping singer, a songwriter for stars such as Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jnr, Scott Walker, Shirley Bassey and Dean Martin, a creator of West End musicals, and composer of legendary TV theme tunes – Neighbours among them. “I’ve toured the world, writing and singing my songs for soldiers and sovereigns; in palaces and pubs; in war-fronts and sea-fronts. I can’t wait to greet my home town audience at the New Vic” A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see a musical great. In aid of Signal Radio’s Help a Signal Child Every ticket holder will receive a copy of Jackie’s CD Trentquility £19.50
Mon 27 June
THREE BONZOS AND A PIANO
Bonzo Dog Doo Dah Band fans will be delighted to learn that Roger Ruskin Spear, Rodney Slater and Sam Spoons have teamed up with superpianist Dave Glasson to create more fun, music and subversive diversion. Expect diabolical mayhem with robots, smoke, unsuitable medical technology and the kitchen sink from the band born in a distant art school somewhere in the ’60s. Be amazed as they unleash their Bonzo Dog classics with energetic zip and palaver - Hunting Tigers Out In India, I’m Bored, Big Shot, Trouser Press, The Sheik of Araby, Monster Mash, Can Blue Men Sing The Whites?, The Head Ballet and many, many more. Addictive stuff! You have been warned! £15.50 / £17.00 / cons / Under 16s Go Free
Want to mix it up a bit? Why not pick a package! See page 29 for our special event offers Mon 4 July “one of the greatest talents of contemporary Indian dance"
SONIA SABRI COMPANY PRESENT KATHAKBOX
A bold, new, heart-pounding production from one of the UK’s most dynamic dance companies. Bringing together Indian Kathak dance’s grace and vigour and the rhythms and rhymes of Hip Hop culture, discovering the spirit and heartbeat of each. Sonia Sabri performs with three dancers including dynamic b-boy Nathan Geering, tabla maestro Sarvar Sabri, acclaimed spoken word artist & vocalist Marcina Arnold and beatboxer Shan Bansil. Hip Hop guru Jonzi D injects attitude as the production’s artistic consultant and the renowned vocalist Zena Edwards weaves her spell of poetry as guest composer. £13.50 / £15.50 / cons / Under 16s Go Free
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“…it was impossible not to gaze in wonder …an uplifting crescendo of music and dance” (Dance Europe)
Kathakbox UK tour is supported by Arts Council, England. Kathakbox is a co-production with mac and has also been commissioned by The Place, PRS Foundation, The Drum and Birmingham City Council. International residency is supported by ADACH, Abu Dhabi, and the British Council.
s e,
One Nighters Mon 11 July “absolutely awesome” Organiser - Swanage Folk Festival
KIMBER’S MEN
SHANTIES & SONGS OF THE SEA A sensation at festivals throughout Britain, Kimber’s Men are a very special group of close harmony, a capella singers. They sing maritime material and, whilst would be unfair to call them a 'shanty group', sea shanties form the bulk of their repertoire. They also range through nautical ballads and broadsides to modern songs. Audiences have been raving about Kimber’s men. We think the New Vic audience will love them too. £13.50 / £15.50 / cons / Under 16s Go Free
Mon 18 July
RICHARD DIGANCE A welcome back for one of the most entertaining acts you will ever see. His brilliant self-penned, comic songs provide an endearing, quirky commentary on life and are introduced with panache, style and outrageous humour. He’s a true original, being highly respected by fellow comedians for his original material; and by musicians as one of Britain's top acoustic guitarists. He has appeared in front of an audience of eight in The Falklands, half a million at Knebworth Festival and millions in his prime-time TV series. In between, he’s done thousands of shows as well as occasionally finding nine letter words on Countdown. In 2011, Richard will be celebrating 40 years in the business. £17.00 / £18.50
Concert Series MUSIC IN THE ROUND is the UK’s leading promoter of chamber music outside London, dedicated to presenting the best in small-scale music in an informal atmosphere.
Mon 7 March
THE LEIBNIZ PIANO TRIO Recent winners of the prestigious German Music Competition, Hwa-Won Pyun (violin), Lena Wignjosaputro (cello) and Nicholas Rimmer (piano) are praised for their honest and intelligent musical interpretations and expressivity. HAYDN Piano Trio No.14 in A flat RAVEL Piano Trio in A minor DVORÁK Piano Trio in F minor Op.65 Pre-concert talk (6.00 pm): ‘Three’s company’: Nicholas Rimmer introduces the programme and speaks about life as a part of a piano trio
Weds 13 April
CROPPER,WELSH, ROSCOE TRIO Peter Cropper (violin), Moray Welsh (cello), Martin Roscoe (piano).Three world-class chamber musicians come together to do what they love most: play music that is hugely entertaining and high in energy. HAYDN Piano Trio No.18 in A TCHAIKOVSKY Piano Trio in A minor Op.50 In Memory of a Great Artist MOZART Piano Trio in E K.542 Pre-Concert Talk (6.00 pm): join the trio as they chat about the music in the concert.
Weds 18 May
ELIAS STRING QUARTET Sara Bitlloch (violin), Donald Grant (violin), Martin Saving (viola) and Marie Bitlloch (cello) perform Beethoven, Bartok and Smetana. BEETHOVEN Quartet in F Op.18 No.1 BARTOK Quartet No.3 in C sharp SMETANA Quartet No.1 in E minor From My Life Pre-concert talk (6.00 pm): the Elias Quartet talks about the programme and what life as a quartet is like. BBC Music Magazine Newcomer of the Year 2010
All concerts £13.00 / £17.00 / £18.50 / cons / Under 16s Go Free
Exhibitions 18 April – 14 May
Joy in Colour Rita Banks This exhibition showcases both the artist’s love of colour and of the landscape.
13 June – 9 July
Different Lives Nicholas Hudson Paine
16 May – 11 June
Bottle Oven Skyline
An exhibition of new work which is a combination of collage-paintings about identity, emotion and place, and figurative paintings looking at the female form, fashion and style.
Micheal Pritchard Micheal is well known for his industrial heritage paintings and prints which interpret the unique symbol of the Potteries. His distinctive style uses a palette of shapes, patterns and structures.
11 July – 31 July
Journey Bridget Robertson The mystery of Morocco's Medinas is revealed in a series of montage images. A sense of time, reflected in ancient art and objects and their dazzling settings, has remained with the artist and inspired this work.
Craft Fair Sat 21 May 11.00 am – 4.00 pm • 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.
The best of contemporary and traditional crafts from North Staffs Guild of Craftsmen.
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Friends and New Vic Company enjoy their annual Twelfth Night Knees-up! It’s become something of a New Vic tradition for Friends, Front-of-House Vols, New Vic staff and actors from that year’s Christmas show to get together for a bit of bash. This year was no exception with around 100 people bringing along a picnic and enjoying an evening of rather different entertainment. You probably had to be there to understand but, suffice it to say, the
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Community
Why not make your friend a 'Friend'?
Charity Shop Fashion Show and German Cup-a-Soup will live in our memories for a very, very long time. A warm New Vic thanks to everyone who helped make the evening so memorable – see you there next year!
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 The Rivals: Thursday 24 March, 7.15 pm Proof: Thursday 7 April, 7.15 pm Spring and Port Wine: Friday 6 May, 7.15 pm The Admirable Crichton: Thursday 16 June, 7.15 pm Technical Rehearsal The Admirable Crichton: Wed 15 June, time tbc Open Rehearsal Join the cast and Director of Spring and Port Wine: week beginning 18 April, tbc Theatre Trip Weds 23 Mar, 3.00pm Derek Jacobi stars in Shakespeare’s King Lear at The Lowry. This trip has now sold out. For information on the New Vic Friends call 01782 717539 or email:kwilson@newvictheatre.org.uk website:www.newvictheatre.org.uk
Photos courtesy Al Orange.
Yizkor
New Vic Borderlines’ drama A special drama based on the lives of Holocaust survivors encouraged young people across the region to tackle racism and prejudice during November. More of the life-changing work enabled by the Building Futures Appeal. Following the lives of two Jewish teenagers during the Second World War, Yizkor toured to schools and communities across Staffordshire, Manchester and the West Midlands, with a special performance at the National Memorial Arboretum in Alrewas, Staffordshire. Devised by the New Vic’s award-winning community programme, Borderlines, the drama was inspired by two Holocaust survivors, Ibi and Waldemar Ginsburg, who have spent the last five years working with the Borderlines team as part of the theatre’s Holocaust education programme. Since 2005, Ibi, herself held at Auschwitz, and her husband Wal, who was also imprisoned by the Nazis, have been sharing their unique experiences with thousands of local children to help spread the message of tolerance. The drama has been dedicated to the memory of Ibi Ginsberg, who died earlier this year. Said Borderlines Director, Sue Moffat: “These two incredible
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Community
tours the region people have been at the centre of much of our work.They have inspired the theatre’s determination to ensure that Holocaust education and understanding remains an important part of our award-winning work, helping to combat intolerance, discrimination and hatred on a local, national and international level. “Sadly Ibi died earlier this year.We are dedicating the Yizkor project to her and Wal as a way of saying thank you for the commitment and inspiration that they have so generously given to us and continue to give.” In the New Vic’s documentary tradition, the play was built on a range of testimonies from survivors who were teenagers during the Holocaust, having to grow up through persecution. The project helped young people and communities understand, on a human scale, the lives and cultures devastated by the Holocaust, and the cost of prejudice. Added Sue:“Ibi always said that both she and Wal decided to tell younger generations their stories to warn them about the human capacity for inhuman behaviour. She felt it was important to speak to as many children as possible about prejudice and discrimination so that the next generation can learn from their experiences.”
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
“We hope Yizkor can continue to tell that story.” The project was in partnership with Staffordshire County Council.
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
Gladman Developments Ltd.
MAJOR SPONSORS Knights solicitors llp
Community
A new
Borderlines projects The World in Our Street - Working with communities in Staffordshire and Stokeon-Trent, exploring how people view themselves, their neighbours and their communities.
New Year may be the traditional time for making resolutions but, thanks to a New Vic Borderlines project, participants no longer have to restrict new starts to January.
Respect - Working with Newcastle schools exploring the themes of bullying and respect for young people and teachers. Diversity Week - A week of activities designed to develop respect and community cohesion. Chapter 2 Giving offenders the opportunity to reflect on their lives and engage in exercises designed to develop a sense of themselves as active members of society, able to make a positive contribution to their communities. In partnership with the Probation Service.
Working with offenders, Chapter 2 is a brand new project by the theatre’s awardwinning community programme, helping participants take responsibility for the past and take control of their future.
Becoming British Working with young people and those who have become part of Britain to ask ‘what does it mean to be British’? Projecting Dreams Working with an animator to inspire participants and to tell their stories. With Red Door animations and Staffordshire County Council. For further information on any New Vic Borderlines project, please contact the Borderlines office on 01782 381368. You can also find out more at www.newvictheatre.org.uk.
“
We want to encourage participants to think of themselves as accountable and not simply accidental players in their own stories. That way they can be proactive about what happens next.
Community
chapter for offenders The latest brainchild of Borderlines Director, Sue Moffat, the project has been devised with help from the Probation Service and other crime reduction partners. Involving a series of workshops for offenders completing their prison sentence, Chapter 2 aims to inspire a fresh start, helping participants break the cycle of crime and, instead, make a positive contribution to their communities. Explains Sue: “It can be easy for us to blame external factors when something goes wrong in our lives. But by not accepting responsibility for those actions we are actually disempowering ourselves. “We want to encourage participants to think of themselves as accountable and not simply accidental players in their own stories. That way they can be proactive about what happens next. “The workshops are an opportunity for them to explore ‘Chapter 1’ – which is effectively about reflecting on where their lives are now. Then participants can take control of ‘Chapter 2’ – where they go from here.” Twelve sessions will use a range of techniques, exercises and activities to help participants develop aspiration, responsibility and positive results. The
Education Projects FOR SCHOOLS Local Links Regular meetings for primary teachers working in Newcastle Borough. A chance to hear more about our work, learn new drama techniques to use in the classroom and network with other teachers. FOR CHILDREN & YOUNG PEOPLE Summer Holiday Projects Drama Club A chance to be creative, have fun and make new friends for children aged 6-10 Saturdays 10-11 or 11.15-12.15 (school term time) Youth Theatre Create, watch and explore theatre in weekly after-school sessions for 10-12s, 13-15s and 16-18s (during school term) Holiday Projects Exciting projects for young people during the school holidays: Snippets: When the puppets’ strings get cut! – (12-16s) 12-13 Apr, 10am-5pm Half-term holiday fun – (7-11s) 31 May2 Jun, 10am-4pm Play in a Week – (12-16s) 1-6 Aug, 10am-5pm Summer holiday drama fun – (7-11s) 810 Aug, 10am-4pm FOR ADULTS Revolve Our group for adults interested in gaining behind-the-scenes insights into our productions. To book contact Box Office 01782 717962 Check our web page for more information or contact Lynn Parry. Tel: 01782 381366 Email: lparry@newvictheatre.org.uk
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Creative conferences and training Organisations achieving change with award-winning New Vic Borderlines New Vic Borderlines develops, designs and, delivers creative conferences and training. They are events that make a real difference.
Special Matters: a conference for service providers, health practitioners and commissioners to develop practice and shape services for families.
We work regionally, nationally and internationally with HR professionals and those responsible for training and organisational development in voluntary and statutory organisations and in business. Our creative conferences and training are thought-provoking, innovative and purposeful. They help to identify the strengths and strategies which can make a real difference in working practice. And they empower individuals to be creative and innovative.
“I fully support the rolling out of this project across the UK” Director of the Crown Prosecution Service
“The work of New Vic Borderlines is outstanding” Chair of Citizenship Foundation
Key benefits of creative training with New Vic Borderlines include: • achieving meaningful consultation with service users; • improving customer/client relationships; • effective team-building and personal development; • achieving organisational change. To discuss creative conferences and training contact the Borderlines office on 01782 381368.
All Our Daughters?: training day for Local Education Authorities, Police Services housing and other statutory agencies on national guidelines for keeping children and young people safe.
Partners we have worked with include: British Crime Concern, British Muslim Welfare Society, Citizenship Foundation, Creative Partnerships, Crown Prosecution Service, Foreign & Commonwealth Office, Holocaust Memorial Day Trust, Home Office, Magistrates Association, Sure Start Special Matters, National Association for Youth Justice, Aspire Housing, Care Match, Cheshire Social Services, The Home Office, National Health Service Trusts, Staffordshire County Council, Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council, Stoke-on-Trent City Council, Warsaw University, international health consortiums in Latvia, Finland and Holland.
project will culminate in an original short film, publication or a piece of theatre devised by the group. Adds Sue: “The sessions will allow participants to explore and understand their past experiences, and the consequences of their actions and choices. “We want individuals to view themselves as active members of the community, able to make a positive contribution to their own lives, the lives of their families and the lives of their communities. “When these participants take to the stage for their performance, publish a leaflet or premiere their film, it will cap a remarkable turnaround for them – many of whom have lacked a sense of accomplishment and felt unable to make a positive contribution all their lives.” “It’s that confidence that can help participants access their own ambitions and potential to be able to create a 'map' to their futures and into their own Chapter 2.” The first Chapter 2 project will be in partnership with Stoke-on-Trent College, City Breaks and Safer City Partnership and funded through the European Social Fund.
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When these participants take to the stage for their performance, publish a leaflet or premiere their film, it will cap a remarkable turnaround for them
Community
Props & Costume Hire at the New Vic The New Vic Theatre houses an extensive collection of costumes, furniture and props from past productions. Most of what appears on the New Vic stage is created by our in-house craft departments. And working in the round means that attention to detail is paramount.That’s why props and costume, be it Sweeney Todd’s barber’s chair or the impressive gowns of 18th Century Paris, are often the stars of the show. We welcome enquiries from anyone wishing to hire New Vic props, furniture or costumes – other theatres, film and television companies, amateur societies and educational organisations throughout the UK and worldwide. To find out more, contact the relevant team: Costume: Costume Supervisor Pat Blenkarn on 01782 381365 or email pblenkarn@newvictheatre.org.uk Props and furniture: New Vic Props Hire on 01782 381361 or email propshire@newvictheatre.org.uk Sorry, our props and costumes cannot be hired for fancy dress or parties! 46 | www.newvictheatre.org.uk
Spoil yourself! t h e a t r e Home-made food at 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 Snacks - 10am - ’til 3.30pm supplied by Lunch - Noon ’til 2pm Closed - 3.30pm - 5.30pm Dinner - 5.30pm - 7.30pm Beverages - 5.30pm ’til interval (Bar ’til 11pm)
Wherever possible, the New Vic uses local produce and ingredients.
drink
Avoid the drinks rush! Pre-order drinks using the interval slips provided at the bar.
treat
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
Information
Helping young people visit the New Vic For more than ten years, in a unique scheme, children under 16 have been able to visit the New Vic for free. It’s meant that families have been able to socialise together for a reasonable price, and that youngsters can develop the theatre-going habit – a very good thing! For the last two years, the Arts Council England-funded scheme, A Night Less Ordinary, meant we could offer free tickets to under 26s. The scheme’s ended but, it’s been such a fantastic success with thousands of new, young faces in the theatre, we’ve decided to make our own arrangements. Enjoy!
Under 26s Go Free! We’ve got 50 free tickets to give away for every New Vic production to people under 26. They’re available on a first come first served basis. So make sure to book soon! But, don’t worry, when they’ve all gone, you can still get a ticket for just £7.50. Call our Box Office to find out more: 01782 717962 Under 26 Go Free tickets available for Mon – Fri performances; not available to book online For terms and conditions visit us online at www.newvictheatre.org.uk/v3_5w/freeu26.html
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Information
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 £9.00 any seat, any performance, unless otherwise stated.
First Night Fever All seats £12.50 (no concessions).
Audio Described Performances for New Vic Productions (please book min. 3 days in advance).
Content Productions may contain strong language and difficult content. Please check with Box Office prior to booking.
Large-print cast sheets available on request. Guide dogs welcome. Loan copies of play scripts available from the Box Office on request.
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 inconvenience. E & OE
Tickets £8.50 Mon – Thurs; £11.00 Fri and £13.00 Sat; 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.
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 48 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.
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 £1.50 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.
Ticket prices
Calendar
Hamlet,The Rivals , April in Paris, After Miss Julie, Proof, Spring and Port Wine, Admirable Crichton Row A&PartG Row B&PartG Rows C-F
Mon - Thurs Full Price Concessions Fri & Sat Eve* Full Price Concessions Matinees Full Price Concessions F N Fever all seats Groups (10+) Schools groups
£10.50 £8.50
£15.50 £13.50
£17.00 £15.00
£13.00 £11.00
£17.00 £15.00
£18.50 £16.50
£9.50 £9.50 £7.50 £7.50 £12.50 (no concessions) N/A £2.00 off £9.00 £9.00
£9.50 £7.50 £2.00 off £9.00
* Fridays only Any seat, any performance
Rep Season Plays Four plays for £50! The Rivals, Proof, Spring and Port Wine,The Admirable Crichton
All FOUR plays just £50! Any THREE plays just £40! Any seat Any night And, when you book a season package, you can choose from all this too: Hamlet £12.50 or £13.00; April in Paris £12.50 or £13.00; After Miss Julie £12.50 or £13.00.
One Night Events FOUR shows for £50! THREE shows for £40! Choose from these great acts: Barry Cryer*, Cropper/Welsh/Roscoe, Elias Quartet, Four Men and a Dog, Guy Davis, Three Bonzos And A Piano, Sonia Sabri, Kimber’s Men, Richard Digance* Any additional concert just £13. * £1 premium for this event. NB: Blues Band, Jackie Trent and Goodmen Orchestra not part of package.
February Fri 25 Hamlet Sat 26 Hamlet Mon 28 Hamlet March Tues 1 Weds 2 Thurs 3 Fri 4 Sat 5 Mon 7 Tues 8 Weds 9 Thurs 10 Fri 11 Sat 12 Mon 14 Tues 15 Weds 16 Thurs 17 Fri 18 Sat 19 Fri 25 Sat 26 Mon 28 Tues 29 Weds 30 Thurs 31 April Fri 1 Sat 2 Weds 6 Fri 8 Fri 8 Sat 9 Mon 11 Tues 12 Weds 13 Thurs 14 Fri 15 Sat 16 Sun 17 Mon 18 Tues 19
Hamlet Kit Downes Trio Hamlet Hamlet Hamlet Leibniz Piano Trio Hamlet Hamlet Hamlet Hamlet Hamlet Battlefield Band Hamlet Hamlet Hamlet Hamlet Hamlet The Rivals The Rivals The Rivals The Rivals Barry Cryer The Rivals The Rivals The Rivals Satirists in Silk Dresses Lending Library Proof Lending Library Proof Proof Proof Cropper, Welsh, Roscoe Proof Proof Proof The Froncysyllte Choir April in Paris Drive In
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7.30 7.30 7.30 from 6.00 7.30 from 6.00 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30 2.30 7.30 from 6.00
Price band map
Four friends for £54! Four tickets for just £54 - a great value, great night out with friends. Any play, any seats Monday - Friday
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Rows A & part G Row B & part G Rows C – F
Information April in Paris 7.30 Weds 20 Drive In from 6.00 April in Paris 7.30 Thurs 21 Drive In from 6.00 April in Paris 7.30 Fri 22 Theatre closed Sat 23 April in Paris 2.15 7.30 Mon 25 Theatre closed Weds 27 Celebration of Arthur Berry from 6.00 After Miss Julie 7.30 Thurs 28 After Miss Julie 7.30 Easter Soiree Post-show Fri 29 After Miss Julie 7.30 Sat 30 After Miss Julie 2.15 7.30 May Mon 2 Theatre closed Sat 7 Spring and Port Wine 7.30 Mon 9 Spring and Port Wine 7.30 Tues 10 Spring and Port Wine 7.30 Weds 11 Blues Band 7.30 Thurs 12 Spring and Port Wine 7.30 Fri 13 Spring and Port Wine 7.30 Sat 14 Spring and Port Wine 2.15 7.30 Mon 16 The Rivals 7.30 Tues 17 The Rivals 7.30 Weds 18 Elias Quartet 7.30 Thurs 19 Proof 7.30 Fri 20 Proof 7.30 Sat 21 Proof 2.15 7.30 Craft Fair 11.00 - 4.00 Mon 23 Spring and Port Wine 7.30 Tues 24 Spring and Port Wine 7.30 Weds 25 4 Men and a Dog 7.30 Thurs 26 The Rivals 7.30 Fri 27 The Rivals 7.30 Sat 28 The Rivals 2.15 7.30 Mon 30 Theatre closed Tues 31 Goodmen Orchestra 7.30 June Weds 1 Proof 7.30 Thurs 2 Proof 7.30 Fri 3 Proof 7.30 Sat 4 Proof 7.30 Mon 6 Spring and Port Wine 7.30 Tues 7 Spring and Port Wine 7.30
Talkback
Captioned Performances
First Night Fever
Audio Described Performances
Weds 8 Thurs 9 Fri 10 Sat 11 Fri 17 Sat 18 Mon 20 Tues 21 Weds 22 Thurs 23 Fri 24 Sat 25 Mon 27 Tues 28 Weds 29 Thurs 30 July Fri 1 Sat 2 Mon 4 Tues 5 Weds 6 Thurs 7 Fri 8 Sat 9 Mon 11 Tues 12 Weds 13 Thurs 14 Fri 15 Sat 16 Mon 18 Tues 19 Weds 20 Thurs 21 Fri 22 Sat 23 Mon 25 Tues 26 Weds 27 Thurs 28 Fri 29 Sat 30
Guy Davis The Rivals The Rivals The Rivals The Admirable Crichton The Admirable Crichton The Admirable Crichton The Admirable Crichton Jackie Trent The Admirable Crichton The Admirable Crichton The Admirable Crichton Three Bonzos The Rivals The Rivals The Rivals Spring and Port Wine Spring and Port Wine Sonia Sabri Spring and Port Wine Spring and Port Wine The Admirable Crichton The Admirable Crichton The Admirable Crichton Kimber’s Men The Admirable Crichton The Admirable Crichton The Admirable Crichton The Rivals The Rivals Richard Digance The Admirable Crichton The Admirable Crichton The Admirable Crichton Spring and Port Wine Spring and Port Wine Spring and Port Wine Spring and Port Wine The Rivals The Rivals The Admirable Crichton The Admirable Crichton
2.15
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How to get here
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Bus Bus stop outside theatre 34 & 34A: Newcastle & Hanley.
Rail
The nearest station is Stoke-on-Trent. Connections to Birmingham, Manchester, Derby, Stafford, Crewe. Enquiries: 08457 484950
Parking Disabled
Please contact Box Office to arrange reserved, free parking
Coach / Minibus
Please contact Box Office to arrange reserved, free parking
Car £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!
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
Cert no. SGS-COC-004224
Box Office: 01782 717962
New Vic Theatre, Etruria Road, Newcastle-Under-Lyme, Staffs, ST5 0JG