Alley Theatre 2016 Winter/Spring Programme

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THE ALLEY AT A GLANCE GUIDE WINTER/SPRING 2016

WINTER/SPRING EVENTS

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The Alley Theatre | Winter/Spring 2016

WINTER/SPRING AT A GLANCE EVENTS

TYPE

SHOW

DATE

Various Christmas at a Glance Music Golden Years Of Country Music

Childrens Mulan Pantomime

Drama The Two Loves Of Gabriel Foley Music A Night With The Stars

PAGE

Various

Various

6

Fri 15th Jan

8pm

8

Fri 22nd, Sat 23rd, Thurs 28th, Fri 29th & Sat 30th Jan

7.30pm

8

Sat 6th Feb

8pm

9

Thurs 11th Feb

8pm

9

Fri 12th Feb

8pm

10

Drama Lives Under the Radar

Sat 13th Feb

8pm

10

Drama Give My Head Peace

Thurs 18th Feb

8pm

11

Entertainment Michael Templar: Psychic Medium

Fri 19th Feb

8pm

11

Sat 20th Feb

2pm

12

Thurs 25th Feb

7.30pm

12

Fri 26th Feb

8pm

14

Entertainment David Meade Mind Reader Fake Believe! Sat 27th Feb

8pm

14

Music Blackie O’Connell, Cyril O’Donoghue and Davy Spillane

Fri 4th March

8pm

15

Comedy Al Porter is Yours

TIME

Childrens Goldilocks And The Three Bears Dance Let The Dance Begin Music A Musical Tribute to John Denver

Sat 5th March

8pm

16

Drama Drama Festival

Fri 11th March to Sat 19th March

8pm

17

Music High School Musical

Wed 30th, Thurs 31st March, Fri 1st & Sat 2nd April

7.30pm

21

Fri 8th April

8pm

21

Sat 9th April

8pm

22

Fri 15th April

8pm

22

10-6pm

22

Thurs 21st April

10am

23

Music Jim Reeves With Al Grant

Comedy Conal Gallen – A Laugh And A Half Drama The Factory Girls

Music Choral and Brass Band Classics

Music The Brass Band League Championships Sat 16th April

Childrens Wiggle Giggle

Music Musical Open Mic Night

Fri 22nd April

8pm

23

Music Kila

Sat 23rd April

8pm

24

Wed 27th and Thurs 28th April

7.30pm

24

Childrens Children of Lir and other Tales

Sun 1st May

8pm

25

Music Legends Of Country

Fri 6th May

8pm

25

Music Limavady Big Band

Sat 7th May

8pm

27

10am

27

Sat 14th May

8pm

28

Entertainment Dale Thomas

Fri 20th May

8pm

28

Sat 21St May

8pm

29

Thurs 21st, Fri 22nd, Sat 23rd July

8pm

29

Drama Spike Milligan’s Puckoon

Childrens The Curious Adventures Of Pinocchio Thurs 12th May Comedy Rich Hall Drama History Of The Peace

Entertainment Dance Kraze

All Details correct at time of going to print.

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EXHIBITIONS

Mystic Ireland by Malachi O’Doherty Monday 28th December to Friday 22nd January Malachi O’Doherty’s pictures of rural Ireland are unashamedly romantic without being sentimental.

Capturing a sense of the transcendent in landscape, ‘that moment when a vista makes you stop and take it in, because your soul needs it’.

Malachi says, ‘Where writing and journalism for me have been like an intervention in the world around me, photography is more like a passive response to it.’

Seaming And Teaming Grange Quilters Quilt Exhibition Monday 1st February to Friday 26th February “Seaming and teaming” is what defines Grange Quilters.

Seaming because sewing seams is fundamental to the process of patchwork. Teaming because Grange Quilters are a team of ladies passionate about patchwork and quilting.

What happens when sewing skills and passion unite results in the fine collection of work on display in this exhibition.

Abandoned Tyrone

by Jason McCartan Monday 7th March to Friday 1st April With old farmhouses and country cottages being demolished making way for new builds, Jason realising Ireland was losing a part of it’s history with many of these homes never to be seen again.

Combining his interest of derelict homes with photography, Jason’s has a growing collection of photographs that will leave you wondering, why was the house left in such condition? What where the circumstances? And who were the people?

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The Alley Theatre | Winter/Spring 2016

EXHIBITIONS

Weapons of Mass Induction Monday 11th April to Friday 6th May Delve into history with this collection of digital reproductions of iconic recruitment posters, specific to the island of Ireland, where Irish symbols such as the shamrock and wolfhound were used in an attempt to tailor the message to Irish sensibilities.

Conflict Textiles DCSDC Textile Archive Monday 16th May to Friday 15th July Conflict Textiles is a collection of international textiles which has been collected by curator and human rights advocate Roberta Bacic. It encompasses over 270 pieces which include arpilleras, quilts and wall hangings and depict conflict situations around the world. The arpilleras originated in Chile and became a powerful medium for women to denounce the human rights abuses and repression of the Pinochet dictatorship (1973-1990). Since 2008 this collection has been exhibited internationally and new pieces have been created.

Conflict Textiles is now in the process of moving to its permanent home at the Tower Museum, Derry ~ Londonderry.

For more information go to cain.ulster.ac.uk/conflicttextiles

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CHRISTMAS AT THE ALLEY Christmas Unwrapped with the

Ulster Orchestra

Tuesday 1st December at 8pm

// Tkts: £14, £12 (con)

St Joseph‘s Brass Band and Black Air Theatre Group presents:

Movies and Musicals Thursday 3rd December at 8pm // Tkts: £6, £5 (con)

Tokyo Empire Live + Guests Friday 4th December at 8pm // Tkts: £5

Lisa Richards Agency Presents:

Des Bishop

Saturday 5th December at 8pm // Tkts: £18

St Columba’s Primary School, Clady Presents

The Christmas Pageant Tuesday 15th & Wednesday 16th December at 7.30pm // Tkts: £5

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The Alley Theatre | Winter/Spring 2016

Encore Performing Arts Academy Presents:

A Christmas Wish Thursday 10th & Friday 11th December at 7.30pm, Saturday 12th December at 3pm & 7.30pm // Tkts: £8

CHRISTMAS AT THE ALLEY

Marie Curie Strabane Support Group Presents

Strabane Community Carol Service Thursday 17th December at 8pm // Tkts £7.50

John McNicholl Christmas Special Saturday 19th December at 8pm // Tkts: £20

It’s A Wonderful Life Tuesday 22nd December at 1pm // Tkts: Free - Booking required

Jazz Gazette Christmas Extravaganza Tuesday 29th December at 8.30pm // Tkts: £8

CHRISTMAS SPECIAL OFFER

WITH DRAMA FESTIVAL

Buy One Get One Free Valid until 24th December

The Logues New Year’s Eve Eve Party!

Wednesday 30th December at 8pm // Tkts: £12.50

• Single night tickets only - tickets must be for the same night.

• Paying price of the higher costing ticket.

• More information on page 17.

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WINTER/SPRING EVENTS

Golden Years of Country Music Friday 15th January at 8pm // Tkts: £15 Created by award-winning lyricist and country music star, Jimmy Hendry, ‘The Golden Years Of Country Music’ is an amazing 2½ hour show. Song after song, hit after hit from the past five decades, this is the most authentic pure country show of its kind.

The superb seven piece band and special guest Steven Lynch from Finn Valley FM, this is a show not to be missed!

Strabane Arts Academy Proudly Present:

Mulan Pantomime Friday 22nd, Saturday 23rd, Thursday 28th, Friday 29th & Saturday 30th January at 7.30pm // Tkts: £8, £6 (con), Family of Four £24 Strabane Arts Academy proudly presents their first panto of 2016.

A traditional Chinese story told within a pantomime format.

Mulan’s father is ill, but he has been summoned by the Emperor to fight for his country. In order that the family name is not dishonoured, Mulan disguises herself and goes off to war in her father’s place. Her adventures are many, before she is able to return home again to happy and well-deserved celebrations.

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The Alley Theatre | Winter/Spring 2016

WINTER/SPRING EVENTS Acorn Players Presents:

The Two Loves of Gabriel Foley

By Jimmy Keary Saturday 6th February at 8pm // Tkts: £12 & £10 This 3-Act Irish Comedy play is exceptionally funny that has had entertained audiences all over Ireland.

Set in Rural Ireland and unlucky in love, Gabriel, a middle-aged bachelor farmer living with his elderly mother finds himself caught between the love of two woman.

JMG Music Group Presents:

A Night with the Stars Thursday 11th February at 8pm // Tkts: £16.50 Join six of country music’s most popular stars all on one super show in the company of a live band.

Each performing their biggest hits, you will enjoy a night with top stars Ritchie Remo, John Hogan, Frank McCaffrey, Joe Moore, Chris Logue and Keelan.

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WINTER/SPRING EVENTS

The Peace, Love and Understanding Festival

Lives Under the Radar Saturday 13th February at 8pm // Free Admission Not Suitable for: children (may contain strong language and adult content)

Lisa Richards Agency Presents:

Al Porter is Yours Friday 12th February at 8pm in the Alley Cafe/Bar // Tkts: £12 At 22, Al falls in love twice daily, has ‘completed’ Tinder and is still a Mammy’s boy! A Parish Secretary’s son, Al was supposed to be a Priest – until he slept with one and changed his mind.

A socialite on a social welfare budget, Al has been on countless dates, gotten into debt and sued by a Presidential candidate all the while! In this candid hour he pours over the details of it all in his playful style that has been described as council-estate camp.

“Al is bleedin’ gas” Jason Byrne

This compelling production, which comes in the form of a dramatic reading, is the result of many testimonies and truths that have been sourced from members and supporters of the LGBT community in and around the Strabane area. The script itself, developed by LGBT writer and activist Hilary McCollum, is a unified gathering of tales of struggle and pride, often against the shadow of the Troubles and the rule of the gun.

Moving, poignant, and sometimes funny – come experience these lives under the radar. This production has been made possible through support from the Derry City and Strabane District Council Good Relations programme, and in association with the Derry Playhouse Community Relations outreach initiative.

“A 21st century Frankie Howerd and a future star” Sunday Times Further events on the Peace, Love and Understanding Festival will be updated on: www.derrystrabane.com

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The Alley Theatre | Winter/Spring 2016

WINTER/SPRING EVENTS

David Hull Promotions Presents:

Give My Head Peace Thursday 18th February at 8pm // Tkts: £22 Give My Head Peace Live! Northern Ireland’s favourite dysfunctional family returns to the Alley Theatre and they’ll all be there, Ma, Da, Cal, Dympna, Billy, Uncle Andy and the lovably menacing Pastor Begbie (Paddy Jenkins).

Da is planning a spectacular commemoration of the 1916 Rising unless Ma drags him over to London to meet the Queen to pick up her OBE. Uncle Andy digs in to Ulster’s glorious past only to find out that his greatgreat-Uncle Andy was known as the Coward of the Kneebreakers who spent the entire First World War hiding in the attic of Ulster’s dodgiest drinking den.

Expect a laugh out loud show with topical humour, up to the minute satire, and stand-up from Tim McGarry. Give My Head Peace - it’s like local politics, only funny.

Show contains adult references.

Responsibility for allowing under 12s to view lies with the accompanying adult.

Michael McCoy Presents:

Michael Templar: Psychic Medium With Guest Medium Maria Fry Friday 19th February at 8pm // Tkts: £15 Michael Templar is the seventh son with an amazing gift, “He can talk to the dead”. This gift has taken him all over the world, where in this show Michael will demonstrate that there is “life after death”. Joining Michael onstage will be international medium Miss Fry. The show will be inspirational, comforting and at times thought provoking.

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WINTER/SPRING EVENTS Jolly Promotions Ltd Presents:

Goldilocks and the Three Bears Sing-along Show

Saturday 20th February at 2pm // Tkts: £8 For the first time ever, the much loved fairy-tale, Goldilocks and the three bears, comes to life on an unforgettable live stage production of song and laugher.

Featuring fantastic costumes, an amazing stage set and colourful lighting it will be an experience for all the family to remember with interactive moments that children and parents alike can enjoy.

Arts Care Presents: Dance -

Let the Dance Begin Thursday 25th February at 7.30pm // Tkts: £3 An event that includes performances from all the participants and artists included in the ‘Let the Dance Begin Again Project’. This performance will showcase the Inclusion Dance Company in a spectacular performance of new work.

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The Alley Theatre | Winter/Spring 2016

POP-UP SHOP now opened in the Alley Theatre

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WINTER/SPRING EVENTS Tom Kelly Promotions Presents:

A Musical Tribute to John Denver Friday 26th February at 8pm // Tkts: £20 Representing Ireland in the 1997 Eurovision Song Contest with ‘Mysterious Woman’, Marc Roberts will perform his critically acclaimed and award winning show ‘A tribute to the music of John Denver’, with hits including ‘Annie’s Song’, ‘Leaving on a jet plane’, ‘Take me home country roads’, ‘Some days are diamonds’, ‘Calypso’, ‘Thank God I’m a country boy’...

An Evening of beautiful songs not to be missed with Marc and some of Ireland’s top musicians.

David Meade Mind Reader Fake Believe!

Saturday 27th February at 8pm // Tkts: £15.00 TV’s Million Dollar Mind Reader is back on stage with his amazing brand new show – FAKE BELIEVE! TV’s fastest rising star is returning to the stage following a SELL OUT 2015 Tour, with a show that is as hilarious as it is jaw dropping.

“An incredible talent – you’ve got to see him live to believe it” Daily Mirror “jaw dropping” Belfast Telegraph

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The Alley Theatre | Winter/Spring 2016

WINTER/SPRING EVENTS

Blackie O’Connell, Cyril O’Donoghue and Davy Spillane Friday 4th March at 8pm // Tkts: £15 An evening of Irish Traditional music and song on Uilleann Pipes, Low Whistle and Bouzouki, with particular focus on the legacy that has been handed down by the great Traveller musicians of the past 100 years. Two of County Clare’s finest musicians are joined by the Legendary Davy Spillane for a night that is sure to be magic!

Davy Spillane appeared in a BFT film called ‘The Traveller’ in which he played a lead role in a story about a travelling band of Gypsies. Shortly afterwards he teamed up with Christy Moore, Donal Lunny and others to form one of Ireland’s most influential groups Moving Hearts.

Following the demise of Moving Hearts, Davy was much in demand as a session musician appearing on albums by, Kate Bush, Van Morrison, Elvis Costello, Enya, Steve Winwood and Chris Rea. Such was the unmistakable power of Davy’s playing, that even dance sensation ‘London Beat’ wanted his unique sound on their recordings.

Michael “Blackie” O’Connell is one of the most exciting uilleann pipers in Traditional Music regularly tours Europe, the USA and the Far East, where he is very much at home at his local bars in Ennis or Doolin. At concerts and sessions, Michael O’Connell performs

with gusto, where audiences are swept away by his exuberant and fast flowing piping style.

Cyril O Donoghue (vocals, bouzouki, and guitar) has recorded with many musicians including Tola Custy, Alan Kelly, John Kelly, Michael Queally, The Mulcahy family, Fisherstreet, Birkintree(Italy) and Foolin in Doolin.

Currently a member of the Irish trad supergroup “Providence”, Cyril can be found touring in any part of the world.

With a number of top albums under his belt it will be interesting to hear what comes next from this amazing musician.

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WINTER/SPRING EVENTS

Tom Kelly Promotions Presents

Welcome to My World…

The Life and Music of Jim Reeves Saturday 5th March at 8pm // Tkts: £20 The brilliant Scottish singer, Gentleman Al Grant presents a unique insight into the Life and Music of the great Jim Reeves with a wonderful concert of classic ‘Hit’ songs. With narration and Video screen footage of Reeves life, this will be a classic evening of Song and Story. Backed by a band including some of Ireland’s finest musicians and special guest on the night, renowned singer/songwriter, Isla Grant.

If you are a Jim Reeves fan you will love this concert.

Don’t miss a very special evening.

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The Alley Theatre | Winter/Spring 2016

WINTER/SPRING EVENTS

Strabane Drama Festival 2016 From Friday 11th to Saturday 19th March Time of performances for each night: Fringe event in the Alley Bar from 7.15pm Main performance in the auditorium at 8pm Tickets: Individual Nights: £9, £7 (con) 4 Night Special*: £25, £20 (con) Season Tickets: £45, £35 (con) School Student Special**: 3 nights for £10*

*nights to be booked at time of purchase **under 18 only

A Walk in the Woods

Proof

by David Auburn

by Lee Blessing Friday 11th March at 8pm Group: Theatre 3 Newtownabbey It depicts the developing relationship between two arms limitation negotiators, one Russian and one American, over a year of negotiation.

The play was nominated for both a Tony award and a Pulitzer Prize.

Saturday 12th March at 8pm Group: Compantas Lir The daughter of a brilliant but mentally disturbed mathematician (recently deceased) tries to come to grips with her possible inheritance: his insanity.

Complicating matters are one of her father’s ex-students who wants to search through his papers and her estranged sister who shows up to help settle his affairs.

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WINTER/SPRING EVENTS

Da

by Hugh Leonard Sunday 13th March at 8pm Group: Pomeroy Players Dublin , the 1960s. After Da’s funeral, Charlie returns to his childhood home to find his father’s ghost stubbornly unwilling to leave the house. As the events of Charlie’s youth and Da’s troubled relationship with Mother are replayed, we discover the darkly comic, bittersweet relationship that existed between father and son.

Translations

by Brian Friel Monday 14th March at 8pm Group: Butt Drama Circle One of Brien Friels much loved plays, it is set in Baile Beag (Ballybeg), a Donegal village in 19th century agricultural Ireland. It tells of the struggle between England and Ireland during this 1800s. The play focusses mainly on (mis) communication and language to tell of the desperate situation between these two countries with an unsure and questionable outcome.

A Crucial Week in the life of a grocer’s Assistant

by Tom Murphy Tuesday 15th March at 8pm Group: Lifford Players Drama Group A Crucial Week in the Life of a Grocer’s Assistant is a comedy about an unfunny situation, where laughs are found in the saying (in dreams) of what goes unsaid in real life.

Old Times

by Harold Pinter Wednesday 16th March at 8pm Group: Ballyshannon Drama Circle Nobel Laureate Harold Pinter’s seductive and hypnotic dramaregarded by many as his best play.

A trip down memory lane becomes a seductive and haunting battle for power.

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The Alley Theatre | Spring 2016

WINTER/SPRING EVENTS

After Dresden

by Philip Orr Thursday 17th March at 8pm Group: Belvoir Players Belvior have been delighting audiences in Strabane for 30 years and now offer a new play, it interweaves the stories of the formation of the Ballycastle based Corrymeela Community for Peace and reconciliation with events in WW2.

One Man Two Guvnors

Greta Garbo comes to Donegal

by Frank McGuiness Saturday 19th March at 8pm Group: Coolgreany Amateur Dramatic Society The Play tells the nostalgic story of the great star’s visit to Glebe House, Donegal with warmth and wit; An Upstairs Downstairs tale with an Irish twist.

by Richard Bean Friday 18th March at 8pm Group: Prosperous Dramatic Society Prosperous Dramatic Society – the multi award winning group from Co. Kildare are delighted to present the famous and hilarious comedy “One Man Two Guvnors” in the FY16 Strabane festival. The play received amazing reviews, described as the best comedy ever to be in the West End! Prosperous have a strong history of producing amazing comedy and this one promises to be up there with their best work!

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WINTER/SPRING EVENTS

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The Alley Theatre | Winter/Spring 2016

WINTER/SPRING EVENTS

Encore Performing Arts Academy presents Disney Channel’s smash hit musical:

High School Musical

Wednesday 30th & Thursday 31st March, Friday 1st & Saturday 2nd, April at 7.30pm | Suitable for: ages 3+ // Tkts: £10 (Adult) £8 (Child) Join the very talented Encore Performing Arts Academy students as they bring this cult classic and Disney Channel’s smash hit movie musical to life on your stage! Troy, Gabriella, and the students of East High must deal with issues of first love, friends, and family while balancing their classes and extracurricular activities.

With classic sing a long songs such as ‘Breaking Free’, ‘When there was me and you’ ‘Start of something New’ and ‘We’re all in this together’ along with an unforgettable cast who will sing, dance and perform their hearts out, this classic disney show is the perfect family show.

Conal Gallen – A Laugh And A Half Friday 8th April at 8pm Suitable for: 16 years+ // Tkts: £20 Yes he is back! Ireland’s Ambassador of Comedy Conal Gallen is back on stage solo with his hilarious new one man stand up show A LAUGH AND A HALF. Jam-packed with over 2 hours of hilarious jokes, stories and songs which will have you in stitches from start to finish!

Tickets for Conal’s show can be “as scarce as hens teeth” so early booking is strongly advised.

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WINTER/SPRING EVENTS

NTC Newtownstewart Theatre Company

Newtownstewart Theatre Company presents:

The Factory Girls

by Frank McGuinness Saturday 9th April at 8pm // Tkts: £10 Set in a Donegal shirt factory, five women face threat of redundancy.

The play articulates their anger, courage and compassion. Previous performance of Christina Reid’s “Tea In A China Cup”, The Factory Girls is guaranteed to be Very funny, very engaging and very moving.

Spring Celebration of Choral and Brass Band Classics featuring Strabane Chamber Choir and Strabane Concert Brass Friday 15th April at 8pm // Tkts: £10 & £8 (con) Wide repertoire including pieces from the renaissance era through to modern day popular music, Strabane Chamber Choir will join Strabane Concert Brass this spring to celebrate Choral and Brass Band Classics.

The Brass Band League Championships Saturday 16th April at 10am-6pm // Tkts: £3 per morning or evening sessions - £5 full day pass Over 21 bands are set to perform on stage, in 4 section groups. Enjoy the Spring sunshine and join hundreds of bandsmen and women enjoying their now annual festival day in Strabane in the award winning Alley.

A must see for all lovers of brass music.

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The Alley Theatre | Winter/Spring 2016

WINTER/SPRING EVENTS

Replay Theatre Company Presents:

Wigglegiggle

Thursday 21st April at 10am Suitable for: 3-5 year olds // Tkts: £4 Friends are like magnets, They can’t be pulled apart, Their brains are joined with silly string, That starts inside their hearts…

WIGGLEGIGGLE is an energetic, wigglesome, gigglesome mashup of words and rhythms and nifty noises designed to engage children’s imaginations and to enchant their eyes and ears! But most of all, WIGGLEGIGGLE promises to delight its audience as it messes around with wonderful words, marvellous music, the silliest of sounds and some very interesting moves!

Black Air Theatre Company Presents:

Musical Theatre Open Mic Night Friday 22nd April at 8pm // Tkts: £7 & £5, Family of four £20

Cabaret Style

Event

Musical Theatre Open Mic is BACK! Join some of the North West’s best musical theatre performers as they take to the stage for this popular open mic event.

Previous nights have been a sell out and we are back due to the demand of both performers and audiences alike. To take part, contact the Alley on 028 7188 4760.

Action packed evening of sing-along tunes and stunning performances suitable for all the family

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WINTER/SPRING EVENTS

Kila

Cabaret Style

Event

Saturday 23rd April at 8pm // Tkts: £12 Following the success of their most recent album Suas Síos and their composition work with the Oscar nominated animated feature Song of the Sea and the Emmy nominated documentary Ireland’s Secret River, Kíla are back on the road and bringing their hip-shaking, smile-making funky brand of trad to the Alley Theatre.

St Marys PS Cloughcor Presents:

Children of Lir and other Tales

Wednesday 27th and Thursday 28th April at 7.30pm // Tkts: £5 From foundation and Key Stage 1 classes to Key Stage 2, the entire 188 pupils of St Mary’s PS, Cloughcor, invite you to come along and enjoy their presentations of drama, song and dance on the theme of Traditional Fairy Tales and the haunting Irish Folk Tale, the Children of Lir.

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The Alley Theatre | Winter/Spring 2016

WINTER/SPRING EVENTS Big Telly Theatre Company presents Spike Milligan’s

PUCKOON

Sunday 1st May at 8pm // Tkts: £8 Back by popular demand! Big Telly’s smash hit stage production of Spike Milligan’s PUCKOON. This comic masterpiece is an irreverent and hilarious story which takes the mick, celebrates the absurd, and paints a picture of a simple life that borders on the ridiculous.

Ireland 1922, and the Ulster Boundary Commission has drawn the new border straight through the small town of Puckoon. With the church separated from its own graveyard and drink now thirty percent cheaper in one corner of

the pub, life in the newly divided village will never be the same again. 2009 & 2011 sell out tours had audiences all across Ireland screaming with laughter at its Goonish blend of theatrical anarchy, musical wit, and impossible plot.

“Clever, fast-paced ... funny and highly entertaining” Irish Theatre Magazine, 2009 “... a PYTHONESQUE piece of oddball entertainment” Irish Times, Puckoon, 2009

JMG Music Group Presents:

The Legends of American Country Show Friday 6th May at 8pm // Tkts: £15 Following a sell-out tour last year we welcome back The Legends of American Country Show which is now firmly established as Irelands No.1 Country Music Tribute show featuring the music of the biggest icons on the American Country scene. Accompanied by a 6 piece band and authentic costume changes, this highly rated show includes 4 well known stars in Evan O Donnell, Joe Moore, Rod and Tracey Mc Auley who will create the atmosphere and give the audience that true American Experience.

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WINTER/SPRING

EVENTS

WINTER/SPRING EVENTS

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The Alley Theatre | Spring 2016

WINTER/SPRING EVENTS Marie Curie Strabane Support Group Presents:

A Night with Limavady Big Band Saturday 7th May at 8pm // Tkts: £10 After performing at the City of Derry Jazz & Big Band festival and the Jazz Festival in Dunfanaghy, Limavady Big Band group are making their way to the Alley Theatre.

25 musicians including a female vocalist will bring you music from the 1930’s & 40’s such as Glenn Miller, Count Basie, Benny Goodman, Etta James right up to big band arrangements of Van Morrison, Amy Winehouse, Caro Emerald & many more. This will be a great night of music & craic.

Lyngo Theatre presents:

The Curious Adventures Of Pinocchio Thursday 12th May at 10am, Suitable for: Ages 4+ // Tkts: £4 Adapting this epic tale into a unique retelling where the story of Pinocchio leaps off the page and onto the stage. Crickets, cats, foxes and, of course, the world-famous puppet, will spring out of our collection of dusty, old, magic books, while Patrick Lynch from CBeebies pulls all the strings and turns all the pages to bring you the true story of Pinocchio, no lie. Who nose?

He might even find his father and become a real boy. Come and join him on his incredible journey, you’ll have a whale of a time!

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WINTER/SPRING EVENTS Off the Kerb presents

Rich Hall

Saturday 14th May at 8pm // Tkts: £16 14+ (Parental Guidance). Likely to be swearing and adult content.

The award winning Rich Hall with his critically acclaimed grouchy, deadpan style will be entertaining the audience of the Alley with his expertly crafted tirades and quick fire banter and delightful musical sequences.

Reselling of tickets will result in cancellation of booking.

“Captivating and brilliant… ability to make the room guffaw was worthy of standing applause” Sunday Mirror “Rich Hall is a comedy phenomenon” The Sun

Dale Thomas Comedy Hypnosis Show Friday 20th May at 8pm // Tkts: £10.50, £8.00 (con) Dale Thomas introduces his new Eat, Sleep, Mind, and Repeat! tour along with his glamorous assistants the Hypnotic Girls for the 2016 touring season.

Carrying out some of the most fascinating mentalism using telepathy, with his magnetic personality and sharp sense of wit, a veritable feast of fun is guaranteed.

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The Alley Theatre | Spring 2016

WINTER/SPRING EVENTS

ADVANCE

TICKET

Greenshoot Productions presents

The History of the Peace (accordin’ to my Ma !)

by Martin Lynch and Grimes & McKee Saturday 21st May at 8pm // Tkts: £19 Featuring the return of Fireball! From the team that brought you The History Of The Troubles (accordin’ to my Da) comes the comedy sequel, The History Of The Peace (accordin’ to my Ma!).

A peaceful tale of street protests, riots, guns, bombings and more riots.

Karen Reid is a Belfast community worker struggling to keep house and family together in the face of Northern Ireland’s unique form of peace. Through the 1994 ceasefires, the Good Friday Agreement, the Chuckle Brothers and the ‘fleg’ protests, she fervently believes in a new Northern Ireland. Thankfully, Karen has the ‘total support’ of her loyal band of friends such as: Fireball - now working in Roselawn Crematorium her dingbat best friend, Stacy, flute band leader, Roberto, Pineapple the paramilitary, Claire, the secret lesbian, Aaron, the serial ‘fleg’ protester and many more.

Dance Kraze

NOTICE

Friday 29th & Saturday 30th July at 8pm // Tkts: £10 With its 5th show in the space of 3 years, Dance Kraze has taken the North West by storm. With a cast of over 100 local talents, Dance Kraze hosts a variety of dance and comedy routines, and has attracted acts from TV hit shows such as Britain’s got Talent and obtained Hollywood seal of approval from David Hasselhoff!

No two shows will ever be the same and you will leave the auditorium wanting to be part of the Kraze!

Contains some strong language.

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WINTER/SPRING EVENTS ADULTS WORKSHOPS ARTS DEVELOPMENT

Through the eye of the Needle workshops

Stump work with Yvonne Rogers

Thursday 7th April · 10.30am-12.30pm In The Stables, Sion Mills // Cost: £25 (4 weeks)

Stump work is a traditional form of fine coloured stitching with raised elements of embroidery work. Learn new stitches, embellishments to develop your stitches making skills at basic and intermediate level. Participants must provide their own sewing equipment but materials are provided.

Sing out Loud Classes with Aideen Davis Friday 8th January, further sessions commencing 12th February Strabane Library Room 4, 10.30am-12.30pm // Cost £10 (5 sessions)

Community singing workshops work with a professional musician. These community singing sessions attract folks of all ages and ability and this workshop is about participating in the arts for your own health & wellbeing.

Mastering Animals painting Workshop with Marina Hamilton Saturday 5th March, 10am-1pm · Strabane Library Rooms // Cost £20

Marina‘s greatest inspiration is animals, in this workshop she will offer guidance on how to drawing animals in a structured, yet informal class using pastel medium. Participants should bring their own pencils, pastel paper and pastels.

Sculptural Workshop with Marina Hamilton Saturday 5th March, 2pm-4pm Strabane Library Rooms // Cost: £25

Marina is a well know sculptural artist who employs a variety of ceramic techniques to create pieces taking her inspiration from the natural world. Participants will be guided through her workshop and create their own unique piece. Costs include firing and glazing of your finished product. Come along and realize your creative potential! Materials supplied.

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The Alley Theatre | Winter/Spring 2016

IAL SPEC R £40 for 2 OFFE Save Workshops. u book £5 when yo astering onto both M ting Animals pain al ur pt ul & Sc Workshops

CHILDREN’S WORKSHOPS

ARTS DEVELOPMENT

Easter Workshops Saturday 26th March, Strabane Library Rooms · 10am-11am age 5 to 7yrs · 11am - 12noon age 8yrs + // Cost £3 per session

Easter based craft activity for young children. Essential to book for these workshops

Origami Workshops Saturday 26th March, Strabane Library Rooms 10.30am-11.30am age 5 to 7yrs 11.30am–12.30pm age · 8yrs + // Cost £3 per session

Origami is a popular Japanese craft which creates beautiful objects from one single sheet of origami paper. These workshops teach a number of simple designs for participants to take home. This is suitable for any age group although very young children may require parental help.

Strabane Library

Storytelling for younger children Saturday 26th March, 3pm Strabane Library Rooms // FREE All part of the fun and games so kids get into the magic of Easter!

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WINTER/SPRING EVENTS CHILDREN’S WORKSHOPS ARTS DEVELOPMENT

Creative writing and craft workshop

By Ink–Wing Academy · Thursday 31st March, 10am-3pm Age 8yrs+ · Strabane Library Rooms // Cost £5 A fun up-cycling project that unleashes both the poet and craftiness within you! We will up-cycle or recycle jam jars, tins, tattered books, music sheets material, picture frames and anything else you may want to reuse to give unloved items a new use: a new picture to be framed, pen jars, candle jars or a flower vase. But that’s not it... You will use your powers of word play and imagery to create inspirational poems on your chosen project, to help brighten up your home or to give as a gift.

April Fool’s Day Make your own taiko instruments!

Thursday 1st April, 10am-2pm · Age 8yrs+ Strabane Library Rooms // Cost £5 An instrument-making workshop facilitated by the director of Ibuki Taiko, Fiona Umetsu. Not all instruments need to be expensive! Participants will work together to make a variety of taiko percussion instruments and drums and then create some taiko beats together.

Theatre Summer Camps | Are you interested?

9 to 12yrs: Monday 4th to Friday 8th July · 13 to 16yrs: Monday 8th to Friday 12th August For further information, contact Jacqui Doherty on Jacqueline.Doherty@derrystrabane.com

Council’s Child Protection Policy

Further Information

Workshops for children require the children to be 7years+ unless accompanied with an adult.

Children must be escorted to and from events by a responsible Adult. Parents are required to register their child for each workshop.

For further information on course content contact Jean Smyth Arts Development Officer 02871253253 ext 4295 Email jean.smyth@derrystrabane.com

All courses are booked through Box office.

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The Alley Theatre | Winter/Spring 2016

GENERAL INFORMATION

HOW TO BOOK

All bookings can be made through The Alley Box office by calling in person, online at www.alley-theatre.com or by telephoning (028) 7138 4444.

The Box Office is open Monday to Saturday 10:00am to 4:30pm and will be open one hour before performances.

If a performance is scheduled the box office opens on Sunday and Bank holidays one hour before performance.

Tickets cannot be reserved but can only be confirmed on receipt of payment.

Payment can be made by cash, cheque, debit and credit card. Once purchased, tickets cannot be exchanged or money refunded under any circumstances.

All information detailed within The Alley programme of events is correct at time of print. However, from time to time additional performances may be added at any point throughout the season.

The management reserves the right to alter or cancel performances without prior notice if a circumstance makes this unavoidable.

may also be available for school groups.

Schools should contact the box office for more information.

CHILDREN

Children under two years will only be admitted to productions aimed at children. All children must have a ticket for a seat in order to comply with our fire regulations, no exceptions. For safety reasons, buggies or carrycots are not permitted in the auditorium.

DISABLED ACCESS

The Alley offers facilities for people with disabilities including designated seating in the auditorium, lift and specially adapted WC. There is also an induction loop hearing system in the auditorium (seats in Rows E-K are most suitable) and at the box office. Hearing aids should be set to the “T” feature. In order that staff can best assist you please make your requirements known at the time of booking.

CONCESSIONS Where applicable, concession rates are available for specific shows and are detailed within the relevant performance information. Concession rates apply to those under 16 years and over 60 years of age. For concession tickets, photo identification will be required for proof of age at the performance. Depending on the performance, concession rates

Please note that a wheelchair is onsite if required. Lower gallery seats are suitable for wheelchair users. Disabled Access Guidelines are available from the box office or online www.alley-theatre.com

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WINTER/SPRING EVENTS

STROBE LIGHTING & SMOKE EFFECTS Some performances may use specials effects such as strobe lighting and smoke effects.

LATECOMERS All evening performances commence at 8pm unless otherwise stated. Shows start on time, please do not be late.

Latecomers will only be admitted if there is a suitable break in the performance, which may not be until the interval. Please note that this rule will be strictly enforced.

AUDITORIUM Cameras, tape recorders and video cameras are not permitted in the Auditorium without the expressed permission of The Alley management.

All mobile phones must be switched off. Food and drink is not allowed in the auditorium at any time.

ALLEY CAFÉ BAR Performances & Cabaret Style Events Performances in the Alley Café Bar have a limited capacity and patrons are advised to book in advance to avoid disappointment. Seating is allocated on a first come first serve basis.

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The Alley Theatre | Winter/Spring 2016

SMOKING POLICY The Alley is a non-smoking facility.

HIRING OF FACILITIES The Main Auditorium, Resource Rooms and Gallery areas can be hired for functions. Specific rates apply for Community, Charitable, Amateur Dramatic groups and Private Sector customers. If your event is a staged performance The Alley will include details in the programme of events.

SUPPORT ACTS If information on support acts is available The Alley management will inform customers of these in advance but on occasions this may not be possible.

DATA PROTECTION The personal details required to administer your booking will be securely stored on an internal database. Please tell us if you do not wish to join our free mailing list and receive information about The Alley and related events. We will not pass on your details to other theatre organisations, unless you have given your permission to do so.

SEATING PLAN

This information is available upon request in a number of formats including large print, Braille, PDF, audio formats (CD, MP3, DAISY) and minority languages. For further information on alternative formats please contact: Tel: 028 71 253 253, Text Phone: 028 71 376 646 or E-mail equality@derrystrabane.com

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BOX OFFICE: 028 7138 4444 www.alley-theatre.com The Alley Arts & Conference Centre Railway Street, Strabane, Co.Tyrone BT82 8EF Administration: +44 (0) 28 7188 4760 Email: alleytheatre@derrycityandstrabanedistrict.com

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