Tue 14 June to Sat 30 July
01473 295900 wolseytheatre.co.uk
Welcome There’s rarely a slow week at the New Wolsey Theatre with a year round programme of work that stretches from contemporary theatre to pantomime with pretty much everything in between, and the annual Open Season is no exception. In this year’s season we’ll see four big musicals to rival the West End - one at the atmospheric Hush House at Bentwaters Parks! An adaptation of P 2 | a TV favourite, the behaviours of Hollywood divas laid bare, students from our local schools exploring what it is to be a real superhero, and our young company will be working with theatre makers METIS. Following on from our epic production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, we’d like to thank all our Open Season companies for their flexibility and grace, and as always for presenting the very best of community and youth theatre on and around our stages. We couldn’t start the summer without them! So come and find us at the New Wolsey Theatre, New Wolsey Studio, DanceEast, St Peters Church, and the Hush House to see the fantastic range of performances and events on offer for 2016!
Rob Salmon ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR NEW WOLSEY THEATRE
If you would like to take part next year, contact Marcus at: mneal@wolseytheatre.co.uk
Access Info The New Wolsey Theatre is accessible to all who come and enjoy our diverse programme of events, or just fancy coming in for a coffee. For more info on our accessible performances, please visit:
wolseytheatre.co.uk/access
Accessible Performances
9 TO 5 BSL Interpreted Performance on Fri 15 July at 7.45pm
LEGALLY BLONDE Audio Described Performance on Sat 23 July at 2.30pm
A ZIMMER OF HOPE All performances will be Audio Described BSL interpreted performance Saturday 4.30pm
Book Seasons Tickets and
SAVE
Wed 15 to Sun 19 June
15%
The Co-op Juniors Theatre Company by arrangement with The Really Useful Group presents
© 2013 RUG
see page 11
|P3
N P PRODUCTIO YOUTH GROU Music by Andrew Lloyd Webber, Lyrics by Richard Stilgoe, Additional Lyrics by David Yazbek
The race is on! The smash-hit rock musical, seen by over 20 million people worldwide, hits the rails this June in a remarkable new venue near Woodbridge. The audience surrounds our roller-skating cast on three sides as they glide round the rail tracks in a breath-taking visual adventure of love, hope and a desire to win at any cost. A child’s train set magically comes to life as the engines compete to become the fastest in the world. The underdog, Rusty, has little chance until he’s inspired by the legend of the ‘Starlight Express’. Will he defeat his arch-rivals Greaseball and Electra, before winning the love of first-class coach, Pearl? Get your locomotion on and head to the amazing Hush House! Hush House, Bentwaters Parks, Rendlesham, IP12 2TW Evenings 7.30pm / Matinee 2.30pm, Sat 18 & Sun 19 June 6
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Hush House Seating Plan Prices start at: Premium £19.50 Band A £15.50
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┲ RAILWAY TUNNEL ┲
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Free Parking plus pre-show BBQ, bar & café available
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Tue 14 to Fri 17 June
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YOUTH PERFORM! 2016 presents
Sandition Productions presents
HEROES & VILLAINS
GUARDIAN ANGELS THE MUSICAL
P4|
Book and lyrics by Chris Brindle Music by local composers Fern Teather, Vicky Clubb, Daniel J. Rutter and David Booth
Billy Thompson is no ordinary kid – by day he’s a mild mannered school boy, but by night he is… T-Boy! Superhero Saviour of the World! No Danger to Dangerous, No Trouble too Troublesome, No Building too Buildingy… But Billy’s Dad is worried that if he spends much more time with his pants over his trousers there’ll be no going back, and anyway the real world is full of some amazing Hero’s and terrible Villains if you only look. So Mr Thompson has turned to children and young people from school and community groups all over Suffolk for their help. Come and support the annual Youth Perform Festival. DanceEast • 7.30pm Tickets £5
Twenty original ballads, anthems, and funny songs, including Holiday In Harwich, Stereotype, Starmaker, Screening One Week in LA and I Want a Panto for Christmas. Starring Izzy Roy, Corinne Willson, and Lucy-Jane Quinlan as the three Musical Theatre actresses who, with no success at auditions, enlist Fern Teather to help them write and record the music for their own semi-biographical musical about success and failure in the creative arts. The musical premiered at The Headgate Theatre Colchester in October last year as Auditions and is back bigger and better for its 2016 run. New Wolsey Studio • 7.45pm Matinee • Sat 18 June 2.30pm
Wed 22 to Sat 25 June
Thu 30 June to Sat 2 July
Horizon Theatre presents
Kesgrave Amateur Theatre Society presents
BETTE & JOAN
|P5
By Anton Burge
Once grande dames of Hollywood, by 1962 arch-rivals Bette Davis and Joan Crawford were in danger of becoming has-beens. Then an opportunity came along: to appear together in a new movie called Whatever Happened To Baby Jane? Bette & Joan depicts the two stars, in adjacent dressing rooms, between takes on the set of Baby Jane. While Joan manages her anxiety by lacing her Pepsi with vodka and signing photographs for her beloved fans, Bette chain smokes and muses on her love life, and her ability to pick a decent script, never a decent man. Behind the bitching and practical jokes we see each woman’s insecurities and regrets, and their rivalry is revealed to be underpinned by grudging respect as they attempt to identify their new roles in life as well as in their careers. New Wolsey Studio • 7.45pm Horizon Theatre presents this amateur production by special arrangement with Samuel French Ltd.
From the popular TV show and adapted for the stage, KATS bring you the hilarious events of The Vicar of Dibley. Geraldine Granger, a woman vicar, in need of a church and an endless supply of chocolate is sent to the sleepy village of Dibley, populated by parishioners of the maddest variety. Can she win over the grumpy councillor David Horton? Ever get Alice the verger to understand a joke? Lovable characters and endless laughter, one not to miss! New Wolsey Studio • 7.45pm
Wed 6 to Thu 7 July
Wed 6 to Sat 9 July
BRIDGE OVER OBLIVION
Black&White Productions and Quay Place Wellbeing and Heritage Centre (supported by Suffolk Mind & the Churches Conservation Trust) presents
CHANGING FACES, HIDDEN LIVES P6|
A New Play by Suzanne Hawkes Concept and music by Charlie Pittman Lyrics by Rhiannon Culley Book by Ashley Milne
A new musical written by three students. The production features a rock/pop score and a predominantly youth cast, exploring themes of love, music and mental health in 1960’s New York City. Two young artists from contrasting backgrounds find themselves thrown together but, under the pressures of their separate lives, struggle with the threat of being pulled apart. This story of survival, fame and ambition within the struggles of city life raises the question of whether carrying on, in spite of adversity, can always be an option, even when others are fighting to save you. New Wolsey Studio • 7.45pm @BOONewMusical /Bridge-Over-Oblivion-A-NewMusical
A dramatic focus on St Mary At The Quay on Ipswich’s Waterfront, and mental wellbeing. From its earliest days this medieval church has gone through many stages, overseeing the changing face of Ipswich waterfront from bustling medieval port to the emerging café and cultural area it is today. Meet some of the characters, both mortal and mythological, that have shaped the destiny of St Mary at the Quay and Ipswich Waterfront, and the challenges of people past and present in maintaining their mental wellbeing, as we take a journey through the ever shifting landscape of time, place and community. St Peters by the Waterfront Wed 6 & Thu 7 July 7.30pm New Wolsey Studio 8 & 9 July 7.30pm
Wed 13 to Sat 16 July
Fri 15 to Sat 16 July
Appeal Theatre Group presents
Unscene Suffolk presents
A ZIMMER OF HOPE
Music and lyrics by Dolly Parton and book by Patricia Resnick, based on the 1980 hit movie
|P7
Three unlikely friends take control of their office and learn there is nothing they can’t do, even in a man’s world. Pushed to the boiling point, three female co-workers concoct a plan to get even with the sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot they call their boss. In a hilarious turn of events, Violet, Judy and Doralee live out their wildest fantasy - giving their boss the boot! While Hart remains “otherwise engaged,” the women give their workplace a dream makeover, taking control of the company that had always kept them down. Hey, a girl can scheme, can’t she?
Expect the unexpected as Unscene Suffolk delves into the murky world of tartan slippers, false teeth and bus pass bust-ups. Part theatre, part gameshow*, part Lessons in Life – from people who know (and people who don’t). Unscene Suffolk is a community company of adults with visual impairment, whose performances are accessible to blind and sighted audiences. “Adored it, love it, my face hurts from smiling” – Audience member, Through the Magnifying Glass (2015).
Supporting Fresh Start-New Beginnings in 2016
New Wolsey Studio • 7.30pm Matinee • Sat 16 July 4.30pm
*Audience participation optional.
New Wolsey Theatre • 7.45pm Matinee • Sat 16 July 2.30pm
BSL Interpreted Performance Fri 15 July 7.45pm An amateur production by arrangement with Josef Weinberger Limited on behalf of Music Theatre International, New York
All performances are Audio Described BSL Interpreted Performance Sat 16 July 4.30pm Funded by Arts Council England, Suffolk Community Foundation and the Henry Smith Charity. Supported by the New Wolsey Theatre and Sensing Change.
Wed 20 to Sat 23 July The Award Winning Children’s Theatre Company presents
Sat 23 July A Magical Middle Eastern Dance Show with Zahara Belly Dance presents
UNDER THE ARABIAN SKY
P8|
‘OMIGOD YOU GUYS!’ This show is so much fun it should be illegal! Based on the smash hit film starring Reese Witherspoon, this fabulously fun award-winning musical is big, bold and above all blonde! This hilarious and heart-warming show follows the transformation of Elle Woods as she tackles stereotypes, snobbery, and scandal in pursuit of her dreams - with chihuahua, Bruiser by her side every step of the way. New Wolsey Theatre • 7.45pm Matinees Thu 21 July 2.30pm & Sat 23 July 2.30pm www.thectc.co.uk @theCTC_Ipswich /The Children’s Theatre Company – CTC
Audio Described Performance Sat 23 July • 2.30pm
Once there was a land of camels, of silks, of fabulously wealthy palaces, Sultans and princes, Grand Viziers, guards with turbans and gleaming, polished scimitars, where women were scented, had kohl under their eyes and lounged on cushions or danced. Most importantly there was magic. There were snake charmers, flying carpets, angry djinns and helpful genies stuck in bottles and lanterns, who would do the will of their masters. Here the storytellers wove their magic to beguile all who listened and watched, as one tale after another unfolded. A magical dance show suitable for all the family to enjoy. New Wolsey Studio 2.30pm & 7.45pm
Wed 27 to Sat 30 July The Gallery Players are proud to present a Regional Premiere of
CAFÉ BAR BOOK EARLY AND SAVE!
We offer a limited number of Pre Show meals at a special discounted rate of £12.50.
Based on Frank Wedekind’s groundbreaking and controversial play, Steven Sater and Duncan Sheik’s brilliant rock score and searingly emotional book take the story of sexual awakening, youth revolt, and self-discovery into a new century. It’s 1891, and grown-ups hold all the cards. Headstrong Melchior and naive Wendla stumble into each others’ arms, passionate and curious, while anxious Moritz struggles to live up to the stringent expectations of his parents and society. With only each other for guidance, this group of young men and women travel the fraught and rocky path of adolescence, discovering their bodies, their minds, and themselves along the way. Contains strong language and sexual content. New Wolsey Theatre • 7.45pm Matinee • Sat 30 July 2.30pm galleryplayers.co.uk This amateur production is presented by permission of Josef Weinberger Ltd on behalf of Music Theatre International of New York.
Choose 2 courses from our Performance Menu and don’t forget to book your show tickets too! Find out more at wolseytheatre.co.uk/ performancemenu
|P9
Sat 30 July 22 July
8P
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The New Wolsey Theatre Young Company and METIS presents
* £2
P 10 |
It’s the 1940s. It’s Los Angeles. It is another run-of-the-mill job for private detective Philip Marlowe. Or is it? Blackmail, murder, and brainwashing are just some of the dark secrets that Marlowe brings to light.
Jam is a new night for young performance makers to share their work, theatre, dance, music, poetry, mime*, sword swallowing** and more. A night of contemporary culture from the artists of the future today. (*probably no mime) (**hopefully sword swallowing) New Wolsey Studio • 8pm • £2
Working with METIS (World Factory, 3rd Ring Out), participants will explore mashing up film Noir with music theatre. Investigating 1940s hard-boiled detective novels for the contemporary stage, they will explore different ways of using music and cinematic techniques to shape live performance. With NWT Artistic Associate, director Zoë Svendsen, and award-winning Scottish composer, David Paul Jones. Just 5 days to make the play, 5 days to change the future of theatre for young people, by young people, with young people – forever. New Wolsey Studio 2.30pm & 7.30pm Tickets £5
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Accessible seating which can also be removed for a wheelchair user C/K
Step free seating is in row C and K
New Wolsey Theatre and Hush House
Season Tickets save 15%
Book for Starlight Express, 9 to 5, Legally Blonde and Spring Awakening
Prices start at Premium £19.50, Band A £15.50, Band B £12.50, Band C £10 Booking a group? 15% off Groups 15+ 25% off Groups 35+ Under 26 or Assisting Companion? Your tickets are always £10 The not-so-small print: Season Tickets (when you book 4 or more shows in one transaction) and Group Discounts include shows at the New Wolsey Theatre only in Premium, Band A and Band B seats.
New Wolsey Studio and St Peters by the Waterfront
Prices start at £10
Under 26 or Assisting Companion? Your tickets start at £5 You don’t need to choose your seats at the New Wolsey Studio and other venues ahead of time. Just pick where you would like to sit when you arrive.
Book online:
wolseytheatre.co.uk Call us: 01473 295900 or to book a group call 01473 295902.
Visit us: We’re open 10am - 8pm, Mon to Sat. When there is no performance we close at 3pm.
Performance Schedule 2016 DATE PERFORMANCE Tue 14 June HEROES & VILLAINS: YOUTH PERFORM! 2016 Wed 15 June STARLIGHT EXPRESS HEROES & VILLAINS: YOUTH PERFORM! 2016 Thu 16 June STARLIGHT EXPRESS HEROES & VILLAINS: YOUTH PERFORM! 2016 GUARDIAN ANGELS THE MUSICAL Fri 17 June STARLIGHT EXPRESS HEROES & VILLAINS: YOUTH PERFORM! 2016 GUARDIAN ANGELS THE MUSICAL Sat 18 June STARLIGHT EXPRESS GUARDIAN ANGELS THE MUSICAL Sun 19 June STARLIGHT EXPRESS GUARDIAN ANGELS THE MUSICAL Wed 22 June BETTE & JOAN Thu 23 June BETTE & JOAN Fri 24 June BETTE & JOAN Sat 25 June BETTE & JOAN Thu 30 June THE VICAR OF DIBLEY Fri 1 July THE VICAR OF DIBLEY Sat 2 July THE VICAR OF DIBLEY Wed 6 July BRIDGE OVER OBLIVION Thu 7 July BRIDGE OVER OBLIVION Fri 8 July CHANGING FACES, HIDDEN LIVES Sat 9 July CHANGING FACES, HIDDEN LIVES Wed 13 July 9 TO 5 Thu 14 July 9 TO 5 Fri 15 July A ZIMMER OF HOPE 9 TO 5 Sat 16 July 9 TO 5 A ZIMMER OF HOPE Wed 20 July LEGALLY BLONDE Thu 21 July LEGALLY BLONDE Fri 22 July LEGALLY BLONDE JAM NO 3 Sat 23 July LEGALLY BLONDE UNDER THE ARABIAN SKY Wed 27 July SPRING AWAKENING Thu 28 July SPRING AWAKENING Fri 29 July SPRING AWAKENING Sat 30 July SPRING AWAKENING BIG IDEAS 8: INVESTIGATING NOIR New Wolsey Theatre, Civic Drive, Ipswich IP1 2AS New Wolsey Studio, St Georges Street IP1 3NF 5 minutes walk from the New Wolsey Theatre
TIME 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.45pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.45pm 2.30pm & 7.30pm 2.30pm & 7.45pm 2.30pm 7.45pm 7.45pm 7.45pm 7.45pm 7.45pm 7.45pm 7.45pm 7.45pm 7.45pm 7.45pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.45pm 7.45pm 7.30pm 7.45pm 2.30pm & 7.45pm 4.30pm & 7.30pm 7.45pm 2.30pm & 7.45pm 7.45pm 8pm 2.30pm & 7.45pm 2.30pm & 7.45pm 7.45pm 7.45pm 7.45pm 2.30pm & 7.45pm 2.30pm & 7.30pm
VENUE
DE HH DE HH DE HH DE HH HH
PG 4 3 4 3 4 4 3 4 4 3 4 3 4 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 6 6 6 6 7 7 7 7 7 7 8 8 8 10 8 8 9 9 9 9 10
HH Hush House, Bentwaters Parks IP12 2TW DE DanceEast, Jerwood DanceHouse, Foundry Ln IP4 1DW
The not-so-small print: Ticket sales are subject to our current Terms and Conditions which can be viewed at www.wolseytheatre.co.uk/termsandconditions. All details in this brochure were correct at the time of going to print but we reserve the right to make alterations where necessary. Please visit our website for the most up to date information. New Wolsey Theatre Company Ltd Chief Executive: Sarah Holmes. Reg in England: 03982202. Reg Charity No: 1082016