WHAT’S ON MAR – AUG 20
THEATRE IS LIVE. www.live.org.uk1
CONTENTS
What’s On
P3 - P23
Get Involved
P24 - P31
Plan Your Visit
P32 - P37
What’s On Calendar
P38 - P39
Live Theatre is supported by Funders
The Squires Foundation
The Lucy Winskell Fund at the Community Foundation
Corporate Partners
Education Partners
Capital Funders
Live Theatre Broad Chare, Quayside, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 3DQ
Admin (0191) 261 2694 Type Relay 18001 (0191) 232 1232
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Cover photo Von Fox Promotions
Box Office (0191) 232 1232 Email tickets@live.org.uk
www.live.org.uk
WHAT’S ON
Written by MEL PENNANT Directed by ANASTASIA OSEI-KUFFOUR
SEEDS
‘What would you do to save your son? Everything? Anything? Lie?’
Tue 3 – Wed 4 Mar | 7.30pm PRICE
On Michael Thomas’ birthday, his cake sits in his mother’s living room, its candles burning undisturbed. Jackie wants to clear her conscience, whilst Evelyn’s got a big speech to deliver on the 15th anniversary of Michael’s fatal stabbing. Are some things better left unsaid? Seeds tells the story of two mothers united in sorrow, sharing the hardship of protecting their sons—one in life, and one in death. Seeds explores the human story behind a tragedy through the eyes of those left behind.
Box Office (0191) 232 1232
Concessions Age Rating
£12 – £15
from £6
14+
THEATRE
Approx. 1hr 30mins, no interval Contains some strong language
FREE Post Show Talk Meet the Cast & Director Tue 3 Mar (after the 7.30pm show) Post show talks are recorded and available to listen again at www.live.org.uk/talks
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ELEVATOR FESTIVAL 5 Supported by JOHN ELLERMAN FOUNDATION
FIVE YEARS OF NEW PLAYS BY RISING TALENT March 2020 marks the fifth year of Elevator Festival. Since 2014 we have launched 25 brand new plays, worked with 17 Associate Artists and awarded 16 bursaries. Now for its fifth year we are presenting seven brand new plays all made possible by the Live Theatre Bursary and a key part of Live Elevator, our Talent Development programme. We invite you to celebrate with us and share a first look at the future theatre makers from the North East and beyond.
DOUBLE BILL
Thu 12, Fri 13 & Sat 14 Mar | 7.30pm
LAST SEEN BENSHAM ROAD
PRICE Concessions Age Rating £10
£8
Approx. 2hrs with interval
THEATRE
Written by SAMANTHA NEALE Directed by HOLLY GALLAGHER
Struggling to get her two children to school, Tanya has to navigate the morning rush and run shopping errands on an unfeasibly tight budget. It feels like everything Tanya tries fails. She longs to disappear from the wall of judging eyes and spiralling anxiety. Tanya didn't bargain for a literal disappearance.
14+
REDCOAT
Written by LEWIS JOBSON Directed by MELANIE RASHBROOKE Produced by THE SIX TWENTY
Meet Lewis. He’s a Redcoat. Living the dream and living it large in Bognor Regis. He loves to make you smile and show you a good time. But what happens when you’re having an ‘off day’? And you tell Barney the Dinosaur to p*ss off (in front of a load of kids)?
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www.live.org.uk/elevator
WORK-IN-PROGRESS READING
FASTER THAN BOLT
DOUBLE BILL
Tue 17, Wed 18 & Thu 19 Mar | 7.30pm
GETTING AWAY WITH IT
PRICE Concessions Age Rating £8
Written by JULIANA MENSAH Directed by ROSA STOURAC MCCREERY
2012. The Olympics. England is welcoming the world. Meanwhile the UK government is also ‘dispersing’ asylumseekers, out of London and into the ‘regions’. Faizah is not a British citizen, but if she hitchhikes from Newcastle to London and can outrun Usain Bolt, maybe she will become one.
FREE – Booking essential Approx. 1hr
£10
STUDIO
Sat 14 Mar | 5.30pm
THEATRE
Written by ED EDWARDS Directed by CRESSIDA BROWN
1981. Hunger strikes in Ireland, mass uprisings in Britain. Rebellion everywhere. The stakes couldn’t be higher as two individuals engage in very different military-style operations on the same day. Belfast. Manchester. How are they connected? Who’s gonna get it? And who’s gonna get away with it?
14+
Approx. 2hrs with interval
DAWN
Written by RACHAEL MCGILL Directed by RUTH MARY JOHNSON Music Direction by CALUM HOWARD
Dawn is a hairdresser who likes to rap. Her life changes after an unexpected encounter and the discovery of a surprising skill. Join her as she shares her journey, via New York, Paris and Glasgow, all the way to a nuclear bunker in the Nevada Desert.
Box Office (0191) 232 1232
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DOUBLE BILL
Fri 20 Mar | 7.30pm & Sat 21 Mar | 2.30pm & 7.30pm
SNATCHED
PRICE Concessions Age Rating £10
£8
14+
THEATRE
Lead performer/co-deviser MELISSA JOHNS Director/co-deviser LILY LEVIN Developed with THE LOWRY
In 2018, disabled actor, Melissa Johns’ icloud was hacked and explicit photos of her released online. A young disabled woman with a history of body dysmorphia comes to terms with her body becoming public property. This humorous and revealing show mixes verbatim monologues with melodrama, vulgar news headlines and musical storytelling, refusing to display embarrassment or remorse in order to champion female sexuality, fight body shaming and the taboo of sex and disability.
Approx. 2hrs with interval
MAGIC BUS
Written and performed by SIAN ARMSTRONG Directed by EMILIE LAHOUEL Music by ZIAD JABERO
It’s 1978. Simon, a 17-year-old lad from Yorkshire is running away from home, on the Magic Bus; a pirate bus service that travels the world. This is a moving, energetic, hilariously honest story about family, hope, the coming together of different cultures, and a life changing adventure. With live music and original songs.
EVENTS & WORKSHOPS Wed 11 Mar | 7pm – 8.30pm
THEATRE
NORTHERN GENERIC?
£3
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What are the characteristics of Northern new plays? Does the North have a specific character, and what is general Northern? Playwrights and industry professionals discuss Northern theatre making. Followed by a Q&A.
www.live.org.uk/elevator
Sat 14 Mar | 11am – 2pm
REHEARSAL ROOM
DIRECTOR’S MASTERCLASS
Live Theatre’s Artistic Director Joe Douglas leads a session on directing new plays for the stage. £10
Sat 14 Mar | 2.30pm – 4pm
THEATRE
INDEPENDENT PRODUCERS / PRODUCING YOUR OWN WORK
FREE – Booking Essential
Join a panel of producers and artists from the independent sector discussing self-produced work. Followed by a Q&A and networking event.
Mon 16 Mar | 7pm – 8.30pm
THEATRE
THE ART OF WELLBEING
FREE – Booking Essential
Artists and practitioners discuss the pressures faced by individuals in the theatre industry. As well as self-care methods and how to work towards a caring reflective practice.
Sat 21 Mar | 6pm – 6.30pm
BAR
WORDPLAY
Live Theatre’s young people’s spoken word group perform their words to be heard.
FREE – Booking Essential
Box Office (0191) 232 1232
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LIVE THEATRE production
TIME TO A
TAKE A STAND A stand against what? Young people decide.
We live in a beautiful world, where decisions are often out of our hands and the future is uncertain. We now have a platform to make our voices heard, now more than ever, it’s our time to take a stand.
Live Youth Theatre share untold stories in a chaotic three-day weekender of performances celebrating the climax of Live Youth Theatre’s 21st birthday.
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Fri 3 Apr | 7.30pm Sat 4 Apr | 7.30pm Sun 5 Apr | 2pm PRICE £8
THEATRE
Concessions Age Rating £6
8+
Youth Theatre Members £3 Approx. 2hrs with interval
www.live.org.uk
WHOSE LIVE
IS IT ANYWAY? Unplanned! Unscripted! Spontaneously hilarious! It’s only Live Youth Theatre’s improv comedy show.
Our young performers have been working with acclaimed improviser Rachel Glover in a series of workshops focusing on quick thinking comedy skills and improvisation. Expect an hour of non stop laughs.
Sat 4 Apr | 5pm Sun 5 Apr | 5pm PRICE £8
STUDIO
Concessions Age Rating £6
8+
Youth Theatre Members £3 Approx. 1hr, no interval
Box Office (0191) 232 1232
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A
LIVE THEATRE production
DOUBLE BILL: BRAIDS
Written by OLIVIA HANNAH Directed by CHINONYEREM ODIMBA Designed by ANNA ORTON
BRAIDS ‘Don’t you ever get sick of it?’ ‘Being the only one?’ ‘Yeah. Being the Ambassador of Blackness?’
Thu 16 – Sat 25 Apr | 7.30pm Matinees: Sat 18 & 25, Thu 23 | 2.30pm Abeni is new to college. She’s putting purple braids in Jasmine’s hair and giving her ‘the talk’, opening Jasmine’s mind to new ways of seeing the world - and the world seeing both of them. A new play by Olivia Hannah, about fitting in and standing out.
PRICE £10 - £20
THEATRE
Concessions Age Rating from £6
14+
Approx. 2hrs with interval
10
PART OF
Longlisted for the Alfred Fagon Award 2018.
LIVE ELEVATOR
www.live.org.uk
+ CHEER UP SLUG
CHEER UP SLUG
Written by TAMSIN DAISY REES Directed by ANNA RYDER Designed by ANNA ORTON ‘It’s like everyone’s forgotten. Like on the telly when they talk about the North: there’s Yorkshire. Then there’s Scotland. Where the bloody hell do we fit?!’
Box Office (0191) 232 1232
A double bill of debut plays about growing up in County Durham
FREE Post Show Talks Meet the Creative Team Sat 18 Apr (after 2.30pm show) Meet the Cast Tue 21 Apr (after 7.30pm show) Post show talks are recorded and available to listen again at www.live.org.uk/talks
Will and Bean have been friends forever. But they’re not kids anymore and the adult world is a scary place. In a tent in County Durham, a Duke of Edinburgh Award trip becomes more complicated than either of them planned. A new play by Tamsin Daisy Rees, about boundaries and behaviour.
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Written by JOHN RWOTH-OMACK Directed by MOJI ELUFOWOJU
FAR GONE Fri 1 & Sat 2 May | 7.30pm PRICE
Concessions Age Rating
£10 - £15
from £6
14+
THEATRE
Approx. 1hr 10mins, no interval Contains distressing themes and violence
‘If I invited you to come with me on a journey, a story, will you come with me?’ Far Gone is a gut kicking physical performance with humour, poetry, and the horrors of being a child soldier. It follows the life of Okumu, an innocent boy living with a good family in Northern Uganda. When his village is attacked by Joseph Kony’s Lords Resistance Army (LRA), he and his brother are captured and their lives are forever changed. Seen through the eyes of those that love him and those that betray him, Okumu’s experience strikes straight at the heart through a powerful one-man performance.
FREE Post Show Q&A Fri 1 & Sat 2 May (after the 7.30pm Show)
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www.live.org.uk
A SCENE CHANGE PRODUCTIONS & GREENWICH THEATRE co-production in association with NOREL PRODUCTIONS
ONE JEWISH BOY A bittersweet tale of inherited trauma, raging anti-Semitism, the end of youth and staying in love... Jesse is paranoid and he’s frightened and it’s messing up his relationship, his job, his daughter and his life, but Jesse has every reason to be frightened. Anti-Semitism rears its ugly head in a horrific way every 70-or so years, the last time it killed six million Jews, the time before that it resulted in their complete expulsion from Eastern Europe – and with a 34% rise in violent assaults against Jewish people in the last year alone, Jesse can’t bear to think where we’ll end up this time. Not with a nine-month-old daughter to protect. Then there’s Alex. The absolute love of his life, his everything, his greatest love of all.
Box Office (0191) 232 1232
In a visceral biting play that captures key-moments over a ten-year relationship between a nice Jewish boy from North London and the woman he falls desperately in love with, One Jewish Boy is a bittersweet comedy fuelled by anti-Semitism. focussing squarely on the inheritances that haunt us. Asking if the fear of hatred, could be worse than hate itself…?
Thu 14 & Fri 15 May | 7.30pm PRICE
Concessions Age Rating
£10 - £15
from £6
14+
THEATRE
Approx. 1hr 30mins with interval Contains flashing lights, haze, loud noises and strong language
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Supported by JOHN ELLERMAN FOUNDATION
10 MINUTES TO...
CALL HOME
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PART OF
Over the course of one action packed weekend, a selection of 10 Minute plays are produced and performed based on the theme of Call Home. 10 Minutes to... is a fantastic showcase of North East theatre talent and a vital part of Live Elevator, Live Theatre’s artist development programme. The plays presented will be from an open call out – see page 25.
LIVE ELEVATOR
Sun 17 May | 8pm PRICE £10
THEATRE
Concessions Age Rating £8
14+
Approx. 1hr 30mins with interval May contain some strong language
www.live.org.uk
Performed by BA (HONS) DRAMA (ACTING AND PERFORMANCE) UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS Directed by FIONA MACPHERSON | Lighting by KEV TWEEDY
NORTHUMBRIA UNIVERSITY: BA SHOWCASE PERFORMANCE Three years of work and study culminate in the presentation of a new production at Live Theatre, performed by the graduating students from Northumbria University’s Drama degree. This is an opportunity to both showcase and celebrate their achievements as final year students, and to announce themselves as emerging young artists. Many Northumbria Drama graduates go on to become professional theatre artists, working across the North East of England, nationally and internationally. Look out for announcements of talks, presentations and seminars at Live Theatre, by academics, undergraduate and postgraduate students from Northumbria University, reflecting excellence in teaching and research.
Box Office (0191) 232 1232
Part of the partnership between Northumbria University and Live Theatre.
Thu 21 – Sat 23 May | 7.30pm Matinee: Sat | 2.30pm PRICE £8
THEATRE
Concessions Age Rating £6
14+
Approx. 2hrs with interval
15
SLUTTY LITTLE GOLDFISH ‘Glorious performer’ SHAPPI KHORSANDI
‘Light years beyond other comedians’ SUNDAY MAIL
Last seen at Live Theatre in five star reviewed and Edinburgh hit Bunny Boiler, award winning Scottish actress and comedian Rachel Jackson debuts her brand new stand up show. In Slutty Little Goldfish Rachel tears into Harvey Weinstein and the Times Up and Me Too movements that followed. The show also Includes fun facts about goldfish and reveals some horror stories of her own experiences in show business! Rachel is the star of films such as Beats and The Party’s Just Beginning and shows such as Two Doors Down, Still Game and Outlander.
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‘Unstoppable tour de force’ DAILY RECORD
Fri 29 May | 7.30pm PRICE
Concessions Age Rating
£10 - £15
from £6
16+
THEATRE
Approx. 1hr, no interval Contains strong language and sexual content
www.live.org.uk
MUGABE,
MY DAD
An ENGLISH TOURING THEATRE & YORK THEATRE ROYAL co-production Written and performed by TONDERAI MUNYEVU Directed by JOHN R. WILKINSON
A high voltage one man show. Tonderai Munyevu was born in 1982 Zimbabwe, what they call the “born frees” – one of the generation born in the 1980s after independence. He tells us how the first cracks of prosperous Zimbabwe’s decline began to appear in the 1990s, and how he emigrated with his mother to England, where he has since remained. How his father lost his job at the hands of a white man, and how this changed both their lives irrevocably, until his father’s death prompted Tonderai to question his identity and what it means to return ‘home’.
Box Office (0191) 232 1232
& ME
Interspersing his dialogue with the audience are Robert Mugabe’s speeches: ranging from the 1980s figure in a Savile Row suit to the bitter and derisive missives from the 1990s, up until 2017 when Mugabe was ousted by a political coup.
Shortlisted for The Alfred Fagon Award 2019
Tue 2 & Wed 3 Jun | 7.30pm PRICE
Concessions Age Rating
£10 - £15
from £6
14+
THEATRE
Approx. 1hr 30mins, no interval Contains some strong language
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Written by CHRISTINA CASTLING Directed by JONLUKE MCKIE
A WAY HOME The fight for a place to belong.
‘This house isn’t unfit for habitation. We’re inhabiting it. It’s been habitated for 100 years!’ It’s 1951 and a third of County Durham’s villages have been classified as ‘D’. No longer deemed worthy of investment, they’re expected to die quietly. But they refuse to go without a fight. A Way Home is a new play rooted in the stories and memories of the people who called those D villages home. A county wide fight lasting over 25 years becomes a 12 month journey at Bet’s kitchen table as she and her family grapple with what identity, loss and belonging really look like. With humour, tenderness and not a small amount of grit, A Way Home tells a story just as relevant today as it was 70 years ago. It speaks of fighting to be heard when no one’s listening, of grappling to hold onto the past and of finding a place to belong.
Fri 5 & Sat 6 Jun | 7.30pm Matinee: Sat | 2.30pm PRICE
Concessions Age Rating
£10 - £15
from £6
THEATRE
Approx. 2hrs 10mins with interval
18
12+
A RICH SEAM Passions run high and memories do not fade on the subject of County Durham’s Category D villages - a panel discussion on the facts and fictionalisation of their story. Sat 6 June | 5pm - 6pm FREE - Booking essential 12+
THEATRE
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WORLD PREMIERE
FREE Post Show Talk Meet the Creative Team Sat 20 Jun (after 2.30pm show) Meet the Cast Wed 24 Jun (after 7.30pm show) Meet acclaimed photographer Sirkka-Liisa Konttinen Thu 25 Jun (after 2.30pm show) Meet the Writing Team Wed 1 Jul (afer 7.30pm show) Post show talks are recorded and available to
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PART OF
listen again at www.live.org.uk/talks
LIVE ELEVATOR
www.live.org.uk
Thu 18 Jun – Sat 11 Jul | 7.30pm Matinees: Thu 25 Jun, 2 & 9 Jul l 2.30pm Sat 20 & 27 Jun, 4 & 11 Jul l 2.30pm Sun 28 Jun & 5 Jul l 4pm PRICE
A
Concessions Age Rating
£10 - £24
from £6
14+
THEATRE
Approx. 1hr 30mins, no interval
LIVE THEATRE production
A new play set in Byker, featuring the music of QFX The Byker Wall. 1994. Thatcherism has taken jobs from the Tyne, Andy Cole is scoring goals for fun at St. James’ Park and Let’s Get Ready to Rhumble is top of the pops – but the cool kids are into Rave music. A young lad goes missing. The only clue left behind is a brand-new trainer covered in blood. Running around the estate, knocking door to door and creating chaos, Jam and Gash race to find their best mate, before Mam finds out he’s missing.
Box Office (0191) 232 1232
Children of the Night is a quest through the streets of the Wall and the lives of the children that pound them.
Featuring brand new music from happy hardcore legends QFX, expect a show that’ll make you want to dance all night. Written by LEE MATTINSON Based on an original idea and dramaturgy by CHRISTINA BERRIMAN DAWSON Directed by CHRISTINA BERRIMAN DAWSON & JOE DOUGLAS Music by QFX Designed by NATASHA JENKINS
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Written and performed by VICTOR ESSES Developed and in association with CASA FESTIVAL & RICH MIX
WHERE TO
BELONG
What makes a home? What does belonging mean to you? Can we ever learn from personal and universal history?
In January 2017, Victor visited his parents’ homeland of Lebanon for the first time – the country his mother fled as a refugee of the civil war in 1975. In Where To Belong, he recounts this journey. In navigating through his and his family’s history via the different points of his identity as a Jewish Lebanese Brazilian gay man, he assembles a tender moving hour of storytelling, multimedia, and future planning. An hour for us all to feel hopeful, challenged and transformed.
Shortlisted for the Emerge Performance Prize A YOUNGER THEATRE
Tue 23 & Wed 24 Jun | 8pm PRICE
Concessions Age Rating
£10 - £15
from £6
STUDIO
Approx. 1hr, no interval
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FREE Panel Discussion in association with COUNTERPOINT ARTS Tue 23 Jun (after the 8pm show)
14+
Post show talks are recorded and available to listen again at www.live.org.uk/talks
www.live.org.uk
Written and performed by YOUR AUNT FANNY in association with LIVE THEATRE
MUFF SAID
Your Aunt Fanny are back! Lock up your sons, your dads and your valuables. Muff Said.
Muff Said is their latest offering, a comedy sketch show celebrating all things fabulous, ridiculous and thoroughly inappropriate. Catch an exclusive preview before they head to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2020! Founded in 2013 through Live Youth Theatre, Your Aunt Fanny reunited in 2018 and toured their debut sketch show Minge Unhinged to rave reviews; selling out to audiences across the North East at venues including The Stand Comedy Club and Alphabetti Theatre as well as the Vault Festival in London.
Box Office (0191) 232 1232
In 2019, Your Aunt Fanny were commissioned by Channel 4 to create a sketch for their social media outlets. In the same year, they were also commissioned by Live Theatre to write and perform Bonnie and Fanny’s Christmas Spectacular another sell out hit with local theatre company Bonnie and the Bonnettes.
Thu 23 – Sat 25 Jul | 8pm PRICE
Concessions Age Rating
£10
from £6
THEATRE
Approx. 1hr, no interval Contains strong language
PART OF
Your Aunt Fanny are an all-female theatre company made up of young women from the North East of England. Their shows vividly capture a night out on the town with your wildest, oldest, filthiest friend.
16+
LIVE ELEVATOR 23
Supported by the John Ellerman Foundation
ARTIST DEVELOPMENT
GET INVOLVED
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Live Elevator is an ambitious artist development programme. It is dedicated to increasing the opportunity and support for early career theatre artists in the North East and across the UK. It is an investment in long-term, meaningful relationships with artists, enabling pathways into the sector and the creation of bold, diverse, contemporary new plays. It is an accessible and inclusive home for new ideas and a community of support where artistic risk and experiment can take off.
www.live.org.uk/artistdevelopment www.live.org.uk
WRITERS FOR 10 MINUTES TO… CALL HOME Deadline: Fri 3 Apr | 10am Suitable 16+
LIVE THEATRE BURSARIES Deadline: Thu 30 Apr | 10am Suitable 16+
Are you a writer? Do you have an idea of how to respond to our theme? 10 Minutes To... is a 10 Minute short-play event where we ask writers to respond to our theme-this time Call Home. Selected scripts will be rehearsed over the weekend of Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 May and will be performed in front of a live audience on Sunday evening. See page 14.
Submissions are now open for Live Theatre’s Bursary of £2000. This bursary is open to artists, companies, collaborations and anyone with exciting and innovative approaches to story led theatre making. The bursary also includes dramaturgical and producing support as well as the opportunity to perform at Live Theatre’s Elevator Festival.
OPEN UNDERCROFT The Undercroft is a space for everyone to use – to work, write, have meetings, use the WiFi, read a play… whenever Live Theatre is open. There is a desk and growing collection of plays and theatre books on the bookshelf – please feel free to borrow a book if you need to, we just ask that you bring it back when you’re done.
The Undercroft opening hours are 10am – 5.30pm or later if there’s a show on. Order drinks from the bar during show times, or from St. Vincent’s at any time, to take into The Undercroft.
SCRIPT SUBMISSIONS
Live Theatre is a home for new plays, and we want to read your script. The window for accepting unsolicited scripts will be open throughout the month of May 2020. Submissions open: Fri 1 - Sun 31 May Suitable 16+
Box Office (0191) 232 1232
PART OF
For more information go to www.live.org.uk/artistdevelopment and sign up to Live Theatre’s Creative Opportunities newsletter at www.live.org.uk/mailinglist
LIVE ELEVATOR 25
CHILDREN &YOUNG PEOPLE
LIVE YOUTH THEATRE Live Youth Theatre is the largest free theatre and drama programme for young people between the ages of 10 - 25 in the North East of England. Through regular weekly workshops young people meet new friends, develop self-confidence and create original plays that reflect their views. Youth Theatre sessions are delivered by some of the most exciting theatre makers in the region.
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FREE, limited places. Applications for 2020/21 academic year open on 3 Aug for current members and on 17 Aug for new members. Term starts 28 Sep. Suitable for ages 10 - 25 years (academic year 6 upwards)
www.live.org.uk/cypp
LIVE TALES
LIVE TALES STORY WRITING WORKSHOPS FOR KS3 Pupils craft a story, develop character and explore playwriting. Fun, fast paced activities guide young people’s creative writing ability and build their skills: delving into character creation, dialogue, conflict and playwriting. Through a series of playful exercises, young people work individually and in groups to make stories and scenes, learning from Live Theatre’s expert storytellers and brilliant writing volunteers.
LIVE TALES STORY WRITING WORKSHOPS FOR KS2 This action packed, fun filled workshop, unlocks the incredible imagination of children, enabling them to embrace their creativity and craft a totally new and original story. Even the most reluctant of writers will be inspired and every child will leave with their own illustrated story.
‘An amazing workshop which encourages students’ creativity and sparks imagination on another level.’ Sheetal Patel, St Thomas Moore RC Academy, North Shields. FREE
Booking essential
100% of teachers attending in 2019/20 would recommend Live Tales to another teacher.
‘An engaging, exciting and exhilarating writing workshop where all children WANT to write and write and write.’ Jessica Butler, The Drive Primary School, Gateshead. FREE
Day Tuesday Wednesday
Booking essential
Session Time
Venue
Age
10am - 12noon
Live Tales Studio, The Fire Station, Sunderland
KS2
1pm - 3pm
Live Tales Studio, The Fire Station, Sunderland
KS2
9.30am - 12noon
Live Tales, Live Theatre, Newcastle
KS3
10am - 12noon
Live Tales, Live Theatre, Newcastle
KS2
Thursday
10am - 12noon
Live Tales Studio, The Fire Station, Sunderland
KS2
1pm - 3pm
Live Tales, Live Theatre, Newcastle
KS2
Friday
10am - 12noon
Live Tales, Live Theatre, Newcastle
KS2
Box Office (0191) 232 1232
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FAMILY FABLES
Playful story writing workshops for families in which they help rescue the writer from writer’s block and help them create an original story. Children under the age of seven and their grown ups work together to create a story and most importantly have fun together as a family. Date: Sat 23 May 10am – 11.30am & 12.30pm – 2pm Suitable for ages 3 - 7 and their families.
FREE
Limited places Booking essential
WORDPLAY Young people can explore the world of spoken word, tapping into the things they are passionate about and turning their words into a performance. It’s not typical poetry in an English class, these are words to be heard.
For more information on Live Theatre’s work with Children and Young people see www.live.org.uk/cypp
All young people aged between 10 - 25 are welcome.
Dates: Sat 14 Mar, Sat 11 Apr, Sat 9 May, Sat 13 Jun, Sat 11 Jul | 11am - 3pm Suitable for ages 10 – 25 years (academic year 6 upwards) FREE, booking essential
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www.live.org.uk/cypp
SUMMER WORKSHOPS
WORK EXPERIENCE
Working with different artists for a range of creative disciplines, young people can explore new ways of making theatre and learn new skills during the summer holidays.
Live Theatre offers work experience opportunities for young people aged between 14 - 18 during our Creative Careers Weeks in June and November. See the website for more information.
Week 1: Mon 27 – Fri 31 Jul | 10am - 2pm Week 2: Mon 3 – Fri 7 Aug | 10am - 2pm
Throughout the week participants will be introduced to the work of all departments and teams in Live Theatre and will work collectively to devise a 10 – 15 minute performance.
Current Youth Theatre Members can book from Tue 19 May. Open to the general public from Tue 26 May, when more details will be announced. Suitable for ages 10 – 25 years
FREE
Booking essential
Box Office (0191) 232 1232
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VOLUNTEER
Live Theatre’s volunteers are an incredible group of people who give a wealth of energy and enthusiasm to the work of the theatre. Volunteer roles are varied and available in Live Tales, our children and young people’s writing centres, and in other areas of Live Theatre’s work. They include supporting and encouraging children and young people to write, illustrating their stories, or leading tours of our buildings.
All volunteers receive ongoing training and support, a programme of social events and some discounts at Live Theatre. There are opportunities in Live Theatre itself and in Live Tales in both Newcastle and Sunderland.
‘It’s so exciting to see the children’s ideas flourish in this environment, and the way they work together to create brilliantly original stories.’ Live Tales Volunteer.
To join Live Theatre’s thriving group of volunteers, email volunteer@live.org.uk, call (0191) 229 2379 or download information from: www.live.org.uk/volunteer
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www.live.org.uk
FRIENDS
Join our Friends and get closer to the drama. Friends of Live Theatre play an important role in the work of the Theatre. Their support helps us to produce new plays and offer free drama activities to children and young people. Best Friends, Good Friends and Friends receive amazing benefits throughout the year, including EXCLUSIVE: • Pre-Show Receptions • Priority Booking • Invitations to our Season Launch PLUS • 2-4-1 tickets on selected performances • 10% discount at Live Theatre’s bar • Free ticket exchanges From as little as £5 a month. Best Friends: Anthony Atkinson, Jim Beirne, Michael & Pat Brown, Paul Callaghan & Dorothy Braithwaite, George Caulkin, Michael & Susan Chaplin, Sue & Simon Clugson, H. Coyne Christine Elton, David & Gitta Faulkner, Chris Foy, Robson Green, Lee Hall, Brenna Hobson, Graham Maddick, Madelaine Newton, Dianne Sharpe, Shelagh Stephenson, Sting, Alan Tailford, Graeme & Aly Thompson, Paul & Julie Tomlinson, Alison Walton, Lucy Winskell and others that choose to remain anonymous.
To find out more and join see www.live.org.uk/friends email friends@live.org.uk or call (0191) 2693493
Box Office (0191) 232 1232
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PLAN YOUR VISIT Cabaret & fixed seating
Side Seats*
Concession
GREEN
£28
£20
£20
Peak demand
PURPLE
£24
£18
£18
High demand
PINK
£20
£14
£12
Mid-week/mid-demand/ some matinees
BLUE
£15
£10
from £6
Some previews/early matinees, off-peak/shorter performances
*where available
BOX OFFICE & TICKETS Box Office is open for in person and telephone bookings from Tuesday to Friday between 12noon and 4pm and until 8pm when there is an evening performance. Saturday and Sunday opening hours may vary depending on the performance schedule. Live Theatre is normally closed on Bank Holidays. Theatre performances have a colour classification on different nights with a range of prices depending on the type of seat that you choose. When booking by phone or in person, Box Office staff will discuss your choice of seating and ticket prices with you. There are also a limited number of lower priced side seats available for theatre performances in the main theatre, which may have a restricted view.
Carer Companions: A free ticket is available for a carer companion when they are essential to enable an individual to access the theatre, available from Box office in person or by phone. Equity Card Holders: Receive £2 off selected theatre performances (excludes PURPLE and GREEN priced performances). Group/teacher/tutor discount: For every ten tickets bought for the same performance get one additional ticket free.
Concession tickets*: Students, those aged 25 and under, those on unemployment or disability benefits and freelance art sector workers can get concession discounts on theatre performances.
Exchanges: All tickets and vouchers are nonrefundable. Tickets can only be exchanged for another performance of the same show up to 48 hours before the performance. A fee of £1 per ticket (up to a maximum of £5 per transaction) applies. All tickets must be produced before an exchange can be processed. Exchanges are subject to availability and at Live Theatre’s discretion.
Live’s Youth Theatre Members & Family Max Card holders: Get one £3 ticket for the young person for selected performances subject to age suitability.
Collection: Tickets can be mailed out, at an extra charge of £1, or can be collected from the Box Office free of charge.
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*Only one concession per ticket applies. Proof of eligibility for any concession will be required on collection of tickets.
www.live.org.uk
THEATRE SEATING PLAN
The Theatre, with a capacity of up to 170, offers unique surroundings in which to enjoy a performance – no one is ever far from the action. When booking tickets choose to sit in one of the three designated areas: Cabaret seating: Chairs around tables are closer to the actors with a social atmosphere. The Cabaret area is situated directly in front of the stage and is unreserved. Arrive at least 20 minutes before the start of the show to pick your seats.
Ground Floor and Balcony: More traditional rows of fixed theatre seating. Selected seats at the end of each row on the ground floor may have a restricted view and are offered at slightly lower prices. Access to the balcony is on the first floor via the lift or stairs.
STUDIO The Studio accommodates 60 people, either in seats and cabaret tables, or a raised bank of fixed seating. It is an intimate setting to see new plays or live music.
Seats are unreserved, allocated on a first-come-firstserved basis when the doors open. It is recommended to arrive at least 20 minutes before the start of the show to choose your seat. Located on the third floor, the Studio can be accessed via the lift and stairs.
When making a booking please let our Box Office staff know of any access needs you have, so they can allocate the most appropriate seats.
Box Office (0191) 232 1232
33
ASSISTED PERFORMANCES Live Theatre offers a range of assisted performances aimed at improving the theatre experience for all our audience members. These services are marked with the appropriate symbol on the What’s On Calendar on pages P38 & P39 and are offered at no extra cost for service users and should not affect the performance for other audience members. British Sign Language A BSL interpreter is positioned on or next to the stage to communicate in a non-verbal language. Captioned The words spoken by the performers are displayed as text on a screen, on or next to the stage, similar to television subtitles. Audio Described A verbal commentary (through headphones) that tells visually imparied theatre-goers what is happening on the stage when there is no dialogue. Touch Tours To complement an audio described show, this is a hands-on tour of the set, describing props, costumes, characters and the visual style of the show, especially for visitors with visual impairments. Touch Tours are a separate event and have to be booked separately. They usually take place an hour before the main performance. Internal Hearing Aid Systems An induction hearing loop system is available for all shows in the theatre for use with a visitor’s own hearing aid. The Theatre can also provide in ear monitors and receiver to amplify the sound on stage.
Join Live Theatre’s Access Support Club If you are D/ deaf, hard of hearing, visually impaired or disabled, have specific access needs, or require a carer companion join Live Theatre’s Access Support Club so that we can give you the best support to enjoy Live Theatre’s plays, events and buildings to the full. Your information will be kept securely and will save you time when booking in future. We also have a specific access mailing list which you can opt into if you wish to receive information about our Access interpreted performances. We’d also be very grateful for your feedback on what we do. To join ask for a form from Box Office in person or by calling (0191) 232 1232 or email tickets@live.org.uk
OUR FACILITIES
Please let Box Office know when booking that you plan to use the assisted interpretation, so they can ensure that you are seated in the most appropriate place. To find out more about assisted performances, or if you have any other questions, call Box Office on (0191) 232 1232 (Typetalk on 18001 232 1232), email tickets@live.org.uk or speak to a member of the Customer Services team.
See P38 & P39 to find out dates of assisted performances this season.
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www.live.org.uk
HOW TO FIND US Live Theatre is based on Broad Chare, just off Newcastle’s Quayside and behind Newcastle Law Courts. Live Theatre Broad Chare, Quayside Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 3DQ (0191) 232 1232 The Q3 Quaylink bus stops just two minutes walk away outside the Law Courts. The Theatre is a ten minutes walk from the Metro at Monument, Central Station or Manors. There is free parking after 5pm (6pm Sundays) in nearby car parks at Quayside, Trinity Gardens and Sandgate.
MAP
Box Office (0191) 232 1232
35
EATING & DRINKING Live Theatre’s Bar Enjoy a leisurely drink before or after the performance in Live Theatre’s Bar and Undercroft. Drinks from the bar can be taken into the theatre and drinks and ice creams can be ordered for the interval. Head of Steam Quayside A great range of craft, local cask and world beers, ciders and wines, accompany great cuisine with vegetarian and vegan options. A proportion of its revenue is invested back into the work of Live Theatre. 11 - 17 Broad Chare, (0191) 261 7385 www.theheadofsteam.co.uk
The Broad Chare A proper pub, serving great beer and fantastic food. Awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand for eight years running, The Broad Chare is the only pub in the city to feature in the Great Britain and Ireland Michelin Guide 2020. A partnership between Live Theatre and 21 Hospitality Group, a proportion of its revenue is invested back into the work of Live Theatre. 25 Broad Chare, (0191) 211 2144 www.thebroadchare.co.uk
St. Vincent A relaxed restaurant and wine bar, inspired by the places in France and Italy that open for breakfast and close late. Choose from coffee and pastries, small plates for sharing, charcuterie and cheeses, wines from small producers and classic cocktails.
Charts Located in one of the Quayside’s most iconic buildings, with stunning views across the Tyne, Charts offers an exciting international food menu, a wide selection of spirits, wines and beers. It also has great live music on Wednesday nights and Sunday afternoons, art on the walls and a function space.
29 Broad Chare, (0191) 232 1331 www.saintvincentncl.co.uk
63 Quayside, (0191) 228 7989 www.pubculture.com
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www.live.org.uk
HIRE A SPACE
Live Theatre’s five Grade II listed buildings combine to create a series of unique and flexible spaces ideal for any special occasion, formal or informal events and meetings. Dating back over 500 years, the venue has an intimate atmosphere with hidden history in every corner. Spaces to hire include our two theatres seating 170 and 60, historic meeting rooms, bar, Undercroft and outdoor Live Garden. With a dedicated team of event, technical and front of house staff on hand to help you every step of the way, and catering options for your needs and budgets, your vision can be turned into reality.
BE OUR NEIGHBOUR
If you are looking for characterful office space in a prime Quayside location then look no further than Live Theatre. We have a number of flexible options available for short and long term lease.
Call (0191) 269 3493 or email hires@live.org.uk to find out more
Box Office (0191) 232 1232
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS MARCH 2020
Event
Matinée
Evening
Location
Page
Tuesday 3 March
Seeds
-
7.30pm
Theatre
P3
Wednesday 4 March
Seeds
-
7.30pm
Theatre
P3
Wednesday 11 March
Northern Generic?
-
7pm
Theatre
P6
Thursday 12 March
Last Seen Bensham Road + Redcoat
-
7.30pm
Theatre
P4
Friday 13 March
Last Seen Bensham Road + Redcoat
-
7.30pm
Theatre
P4
Saturday 14 March
Director’s Masterclass
11am
-
Rehearsal Room
P7
Saturday 14 March
Independent Producers/Producing Your Own Work
2.30pm
-
Theatre
P7
Saturday 14 March
Faster Than Bolt
-
5.30pm
Studio
P5
Saturday 14 March
Last Seen Bensham Road + Redcoat
-
7.30pm
Theatre
P4
Monday 16 March
The Art of Wellbeing
-
7pm
Theatre
P7
Tuesday 17 March
Getting Away With It + Dawn
-
7.30pm
Theatre
P5
Wednesday 18 March
Getting Away With It + Dawn
-
7.30pm
Theatre
P5
Thursday 19 March
Getting Away With It + Dawn
-
7.30pm
Theatre
P5
Friday 20 March
Snatched + Magic Bus
-
7.30pm
Theatre
P6
Saturday 21 March
Snatched + Magic Bus
2.30pm
7.30pm
Theatre
P6
Saturday 21 March
Wordplay
6pm
Bar
P7
P8
APRIL 2020 Friday 3 April
Time to Take a Stand
-
7.30pm
Theatre
Saturday 4 April
Whose Live Is It Anyway
-
5pm
Studio
P9
Saturday 4 April
Time to Take a Stand
-
7.30pm
Theatre
P8
Sunday 5 April
Time to Take a Stand
2pm
-
Theatre
P8
Sunday 5 April
Whose Live Is It Anyway
5pm
Studio
P9
Thursday 16 April
Cheer Up Slug + Braids
-
7.30pm
Theatre
P10/11
Friday 17 April
Cheer Up Slug + Braids
-
7.30pm
Theatre
P10/11
Saturday 18 April
Cheer Up Slug + Braids
2.30pm
7.30pm
Theatre
P10/11
Tuesday 21 April
Cheer Up Slug + Braids
-
7.30pm
Theatre
P10/11
Wednesday 22 April
Cheer Up Slug + Braids
-
7.30pm
Theatre
P10/11
Thursday 23 April
Cheer Up Slug + Braids
2.30pm
7.30pm
Theatre
P10/11
Friday 24 April
Cheer Up Slug + Braids
-
7.30pm
Theatre
P10/11
Saturday 25 April
Cheer Up Slug + Braids
2.30pm
7.30pm
Theatre
P10/11
MAY 2020
Event
Matinée
Evening
Location
Page
Friday 1 May
Far Gone
-
7.30pm
Theatre
P12
Saturday 2 May
Far Gone
-
7.30pm
Theatre
P12
Thursday 14 May
One Jewish Boy
-
7.30pm
Theatre
P13
Friday 15 May
One Jewish Boy
-
7.30pm
Theatre
P13
Sunday 17 May
10 Minutes To…Call Home
-
8pm
Theatre
P14
Thursday 21 May
Northumbria University: BA Showcase Performance -
7.30pm
Theatre
P15
Friday 22 May
Northumbria University: BA Showcase Performance -
7.30pm
Theatre
P15
Saturday 23 May
Northumbria University: BA Showcase Performance 2.30pm
7.30pm
Theatre
P15
Friday 29 May
Slutty Little Goldfish
7.30pm
Theatre
P16
KEY: 38
Audio Described
British Sign Language Interpretation
Opening Night
Post Show Talk
Preview
Captioned
Friends 241 Tickets
Touch Tour
MARCH - AUGUST 2020 JUNE 2020 Tue 2 June
Mugabe, My Dad and Me
-
7.30pm
Theatre
P17
Wed 3 June
Mugabe, My Dad and Me
-
7.30pm
Theatre
P17
Friday 5 June
A Way Home
-
7.30pm
Theatre
P18/19
Saturday 6 June
A Way Home
2.30pm
7.30pm
Theatre
P18/19
Saturday 6 June
A Rich Seam
5pm
Theatre
P18/19
Thursday 18 June
Children of the Night
-
7.30pm
Theatre
P19/20
Friday 19 June
Children of the Night
2.30pm
7.30pm
Theatre
P19/20
Saturday 20 June
Children of the Night
2.30pm
7.30pm
Theatre
P19/20
Tuesday 23 June
Children of the Night
-
7.30pm
Theatre
P19/20
Tuesday 23 June
Where to Belong
-
8pm
Studio
P22
Wednesday 24 June
Children of the Night
-
7.30pm
Theatre
P19/20
Wednesday 24 June
Where to Belong
-
8pm
Studio
P22
Thursday 25 June
Children of the Night
2.30pm
7.30pm
Theatre
P19/20
Friday 26 June
Children of the Night
-
7.30pm
Theatre
P19/20
Saturday 27 June
Children of the Night
2.30pm
7.30pm
Theatre
P19/20
Sunday 28 June
Children of the Night
4pm
Tuesday 30 June
Children of the Night
-
7.30pm
JULY 2020
Event
Matinée
Evening
Location
Page
Wednesday 1 July
Children of the Night
-
7.30pm
Theatre
P19/20
Thursday 2 July
Children of the Night
1.30pm 2.30pm
Friday 3 July
Children of the Night
-
7.30pm
Theatre
P19/20
Saturday 4 July
Children of the Night
2.30pm
7.30pm
Theatre
P19/20
Sunday 5 July
Children of the Night
4pm
-
Theatre
P19/20
Tuesday 7 July
Children of the Night
-
7.30pm
Theatre
P19/20
Wednesday 8 July
Children of the Night
-
7.30pm
Theatre
P19/20
Thursday 9 July
Children of the Night
2.30pm
7.30pm
Theatre
P19/20
Friday 10 July
Children of the Night
-
7.30pm
Theatre
P19/20
Saturday 11 July
Children of the Night
2.30pm
7.30pm
Theatre
P19/20
Thursday 23 July
Muff Said
-
8pm
Theatre
P23
Friday 24 July
Muff Said
-
8pm
Theatre
P23
Saturday 25 July
Muff Said
-
8pm
Theatre
P23
A Very British Coup
More details announced soon
,
Theatre
P19/20
Theatre
P19/20
P19/20
7.30pm
September and October
TICKETS: BLUE £10 – £15, concs from £6 PINK £14 – £20, concs from £12
PURPLE £18 – £24 GREEN £20 - £28 See page 32 for pricing information.
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LIVE THEATRE. NEW STORIES. NEWCASTLE. Box Office: (0191) 232 1232 Sign up to our mailing list: www.live.org.uk/mailinglist Follow Live Theatre on: Facebook twitter instagram Live Theatre is operated by North East Theatre Trust Limited, a registered charity number 513771, company registration number 1697756. 40 www.live.org.uk