Spring into Summer 2023 Season Brochure

Theatre Café and Bar

Theatre Café

We offer a wide range of snacks, delicious hot and cold homemade food and beverages, served to your table with a smile!

NEW MENU:

Our brand-new menu includes favourites such as our freshly made toasties, sandwiches and paninis, plus a range of homemade cakes, soups, jacket potatoes and salads. We cater for all dietary requirements including vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free.

If you are concerned about an allergy, our ingredients, or have any questions regarding food or drink, please don't hesitate to ask one of our friendly catering team – they'll be happy to help. We adhere to all government hospitality guidelines. There are several hand sanitisation stations around the Theatre and we continue to encourage the wearing of face masks where possible.

THEATRE CAFÉ OPENING TIMES: Monday – Saturday, 10am-3pm and 90 minutes before show times.

The Bar

The Bar in our upper foyer opens 45 minutes before the show, offering a range of beverages and snacks. We serve a selection of ales (Dancing Duck); hot drinks (coffees/teas); spirits (whisky, gin and vodka), and bottled beers/ciders (Budweiser, Peroni, Red Stripe, Bulmers and Rekorderlig), as well as a diverse range of wines (Stowells – Merlot, Shiraz, Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, and Zinfandel) and soft drinks (Coke, Diet Coke, Fanta orange/lemon, Sprite, and orange/apple juice). We also offer a selection of locally sourced ice cream. (Bluebell Dairy Ice Cream), available before, after or during the show.

THE BAR OPENING TIMES: Open on the days where there is a performance/event only, 45 minutes prior to the start time.

Photo credit: Lee Johnson

Hello…

Welcome to our next what’s on brochure, giving you details of everything we have on our stages over Christmas, spring and into the summer.

After the winter warmers of our two Christmas shows, The Wind in the Willows and The Ugly Duckling, we also invite you to start planning your next family treat for Easter 2023! We bring you the local legend of Robin Hood with Robin Hood and the Major Oak – expect arrows to fly and the deep dark forest to take hold as the Sheriff and Robin Hood fight it out! This is another show where we integrate British Sign Language, meaning our unique family offer, which is fully accessible to everyone, can take centre stage.

Alongside this, we have lots more on offer for a great night out. I’m particularly excited to be presenting Home, I’m Darling by the National Theatre and Theatr Clwyd – bringing the best in national drama to Derby. Another highlight is Charlie and Stan by Told by an Idiot. I’m a huge fan of their work and this is set to be sensational.

As always, we have lots of ways to get involved beyond buying a ticket – whether it’s engaging in our Youth Theatre or coming to our regular Carers' Café, for those looking after people with dementia, or even just popping in to rest your feet, keep warm and have a chat with our friendly staff team... you are always welcome here at Derby Theatre.

Brigham Artistic Director, Chief Executive

Sarah

@derbytheatre

Join our ever-growing circle of Friends to receive priority booking, fantastic discounts on selected performances and much more. Your membership includes a voluntary donation to the Support Derby Theatre fund. Becoming a Friend, you will also be helping to secure our future and support our work in schools, in the community and on our stages. Our most popular levels of memberships are below, which offer discounts and benefits for one person, two people or up to six people.

Priority booking and discounts on selected performances for one person and £10 contribution to Support Derby Theatre.

Become a Friend today for £25, or just £20 Direct Debit a year.

Priority booking and discounts on selected performances for two people and £15 contribution to Support Derby Theatre.

Become a Joint Friend today for £35, or just £30 Direct Debit a year.

Priority booking and discounts on selected performances for up to six people plus 10% off in the Theatre Café and £20 contribution to Support Derby Theatre.

Become a family friend today for £40, or just £36 a year direct debit (or £3 per month).

Ladies of Letters

Photo credit: Craig Fuller

Jekyll and Hyde

Photo credit: Grant Archer

Extra Time

Photo credit: Graeme Braidwood

The Emperor's New Clothes.

Photo credit: Pamela Raith

Qasim Afsar, Anaya Barnes, Charlotte Keira Bennett, Lotty Bricklebank, William Brown, Eesha Chohan, Jaylei Brooke Dean, Evan Gore, Rahul Gandabhai, Poppy Harvey, Takoda Liverman, Kian Lucas, Amelie Mae Parkin, Freddie Phillips, Georgina Salwey, Olivia Simpson, Ted Staley and Lily Stals.

Charlotte Dowding John Holt Roberts April Nerissa Hudson

Ines Sampaio

Ivan Stott Isobel Witcomb

A Derby Theatre Production

The Wind in the Willows

Adapted by Toby Hulse from Kenneth Grahame’s classic story

FRI 25 NOV – SAT 31 DEC

MAIN HOUSE

This Christmas, join Toad, Ratty, Mole, Badger and their animal friends for an exciting whirlwind adventure amidst the English countryside.

The Wind in the Willows is a funny, timeless tale of friendship, courage, consequences and bravery.

When Mole forfeits his seasonal cleaning for the lure of the luscious riverbank, he has no idea of the thrilling journey that he and his friends are all about to embark on.

Featuring live music, songs and a talented company of actor-musicians, this charming and delightful adaptation by Toby Hulse of Kenneth Grahame’s classic story remains a firm family favourite and is sure to be a treat for audiences of all ages.

SCHOOLS’ PERFORMANCES:

Only £11.50 per ticket, plus one free teacher ticket with every 10 purchased

For The Wind in the Willows-related workshops and opportunities for schools and colleges, see page 44.

Sat 17 Dec, 7.15pm Mon 19 Dec, 10.15am Thu 29 Dec, 2.30pm CAP

Fri 2 Dec 7.15pm, Sat 17 Dec, 2.30pm, Mon 19 Dec, 10.15am

Wed 14 and Wed 21 Dec, 2.30pm Touch Tours at 1.15pm

Fri 9 Dec, 11am, Sat 17 Dec, 2.30pm

Thu 29 Dec, 2.30pm

Sat 17 and Thu 29 Dec, 2.30pm D Distanced Seating Performance

TICKETS: £13.50 – £30.50, under 26s £13.50 – £28.50, schools £11.50, groups (10+) £21.50

Photo credit: Brian Slater

tutti frutti productions in association with Derby Theatre present

THU 1 – SAT 31 DEC

STUDIO

Meet the most unusual duckling the pond has ever seen! In their nest at the edge of a pond, the baby ducklings wait impatiently for Mummy’s enormous egg to hatch. But their new brother doesn’t look like everyone else. He doesn’t even quack like a proper duckling!

Teased and called Ugly by his siblings, our hero goes on an adventure in search of a place to fit in. As the seasons change the woodland trees from dark weathered branches to silver sticks of frost, the lost and lonely fledgling meets a menagerie of mischievous animals… But where does he really belong?

tutti frutti brings to life Hans Christian Andersen’s well-known tale with inventive physicality and live music that quacks and trills. This charming production plays with the importance of identity, self-worth and takes us on a journey to discover inner beauty.

Sat 10 Dec, 1.30pm

Fri 23 Dec, 10.30am

Sat 10 Dec, 1.30pm

Fri 23 Dec, 10.30am

MEMBERSHIP DEAL

50% off on Sat 25 Mar, 1.30pm and 7pm; Mon 27, Tue 28 Mar and Thu 30 Mar, 7pm (bands A, B and C only).

£5 off all other performances (bands A and B only).

A Derby Theatre Production

Robin Hood and the Major Oak

A new version by Deborah McAndrew

SAT 25 MAR – SAT 8 APR

MAIN HOUSE

For Easter 2023, join Robin, Tuck, Marian, Little John and their Sherwood Forest friends (and foes) for a thrilling new adventure: Robin Hood and The Major Oak, a merry new adaptation by Deborah McAndrew based on the classic, much-loved story.

When the Sheriff of Nottingham hears an ancient prophecy, he is sure he can defeat Robin Hood once and for all. Now the merry band must defend their leader, the legend, and the forest itself!

Robin Hood and The Major Oak follows on from previous Derby Theatre smash-hit family shows and will be a high-energy, hilarious production featuring live music and a talented company of actor-musicians, Deaf, hearing and interpreting actors. This family-friendly production promises to be bang on target for audiences of all ages looking to embark on a spectacular theatrical journey Sherwood Forest-style.

See Theatre Unwrapped dates and info on page 43.

PERFORMANCE TIMES: Performance times vary – See Diary on pages 50-51.

Wed 5 and Sat 8 Apr, 1.30pm

Tours at 12.15pm Sun 2 Apr, 2pm

Thu 6 Apr, 1.30pm

Thu 6 Apr, 7pm D Distanced Seating Performance

CAP All performances will be BSL integrated and captioned. Best and recommended view for

TICKETS: £8 – £26, 16-25 year olds £5 on Friday evenings

Home, I'm Darling

TUE 7 – SAT 11 FEB

MAIN HOUSE

Every couple needs a little fantasy to keep their marriage sparkling. But behind the gingham curtains, things start to unravel, and being a domestic goddess is not as easy as it seems…

How happily married are the happily married?

Home, I’m Darling received its World Premiere at Theatr Clwyd in 2018, before playing at the National Theatre, transferring to the Duke of York’s in the West End and winning Best New Comedy at the 2019 Olivier Awards. BAFTA-winner Jessica Ransom (Doc Martin, Armstrong and Miller, Horrible Histories); Diane Keen (Doctors, The Cuckoo Waltz) and Neil McDermott (EastEnders, The Royal) lead the cast in this production reuniting the entire original creative team including Theatre Clwyd Artistic Director and Co-Artistic Director Designate of the RSC, Tamara Harvey and Co-Director Hannah Noon.

PERFORMANCE TIMES:

Tue – Sat, 7.30pm

Wed, Thu and Sat, 2.30pm

Thu 9 Feb, 7.30pm

TICKETS: £25 – 45

MEMBERSHIP DEAL

amusing, affecting, inspiring evening of soft gingham and hard truths" The Times

"Sharp, funny and sad." The Independent

Bill Kenwright Productions, Theatr Clwyd and National Theatre present

Wodehouse in Wonderland

MON 13 – WED 15 FEB MAIN HOUSE

P. G. Wodehouse, or Plum as he’s known to his nearest and dearest, is trying to write the latest instalment of Jeeves and Wooster. However, a would-be biographer, his wife, his daughter, and even his two Pekingese have other ideas!

Join the famous writer for marvellous tales and spectacular tunes! Hear stories of first meeting Jeeves, an addiction to soap operas, and why he wrote books that were ‘like musical comedies without music’. Listen to songs composed by Broadway legends with lyrics written by himself and be entertained with characters such as Lord Emsworth, Gussie Fink-Nottle and the squashily romantic Madeline Bassett. But beneath all the fun and laughter is there a darker story to be told?

Emmy award-winning writer William Humble’s play is based on the life and writings of P.G. Wodehouse, set in the 1950s it takes us into the author's New York State home. Starring Robert Daws (Jeeves and Wooster, Poldark, The Royal, Rock and Chips, How the Other Half Loves), directed by Robin Herford and with songs by Jerome Kern, George Gershwin, Cole Porter and Ivor Novello.

The play is performed by arrangement with the Wodehouse Estate.

PERFORMANCE TIMES: Mon – Wed, 7.30pm Wed, 2.30pm

TICKETS: £24 – £28

Cahoots Theatre Company Ltd in association with Jamie Clark Theatre

A Told by an Idiot Production

Charlie and Stan

TUE 28 FEB – SAT 4 MAR

MAIN HOUSE

PERFORMANCE TIMES: Tue – Sat, 7.30pm, Wed and Sat, 2.30pm TICKETS: £21.50

Sat 4 Mar, 2.30pm Touch Tours at 1.15pm

MEMBERSHIP DEAL £5 off opening night, bands A and B only

"noisy mime that tells a thousand comic words" Daily Mail

The Time Machine

TUE 7 – SAT 11 MAR

MAIN HOUSE

Join us for a hilarious roller-coaster ride of a show and a brilliant new take on H.G. Wells classic science fiction novella.

Fast-paced, wise-cracking, this an adaptation like no other. Expect the most surprising and unforeseen consequences as we go on a journey through time as we travel to the end of the earth's life in order to reflect on our own.

Strap yourself in as you’re taken on a fast and funny journey with plenty of twists and turns along the way, just make sure to note down the time and date on your way in…

Warning: may contain show tunes.

From the team behind the smash hit comedy The Hound of the Baskervilles and the award-winning Original Theatre who brought you Agatha Christie’s The Mirror Crack’d and Alan Bennett’s The Habit of Art.

"The show bursts with imagination, intelligence and twinkling irreverence"

The Guardian Productions on The Hound of the Baskervilles

"Rib-Bustlingly Hilarious"

The Times Productions on The Hound of the Baskervilles

"The laughs kept coming" Reviews Hub Productions on The Hound of the Baskervilles

Original Theatre in association with New Wolsey Theatre

By Manjeet Mann

Amber is trapped – by her family’s rules, by their expectations, by her own fears. But on the running track she is completely free. As her body speeds up, the world slows down. And the tangled, mixed-up lines in her head get s t r a i g h t e r . . .

It’s time to start a revolution: for her mother, for her sister, for herself. Run, Rebel is a world premier adaptation of Manjeet Mann’s celebrated novel. Following the acclaimed productions of Noughts and Crosses, Crongton Knights and The Bone Sparrow, Pilot Theatre brings another spellbinding adaptation of the very best of recent young adult fiction to Derby Theatre. Combining physical theatre and mesmerising visuals, and performed by a multi-talented ensemble, this promises to be another landmark co-production made especially for audiences of 11+.

For Run, Rebel workshops, see page 44.

CO-PRODUCED WITH Mercury Theatre Colchester, Belgrade Theatre Coventry, Derby Theatre and York Theatre Royal.

DIRECTED BY: Tessa Walker AGE GUIDANCE: 11+ PERFORMANCE TIMES: Tue – Thu, 6pm, Wed, 10.30am, Thu, 1.30pm, Fri, 7pm, Sat, 2.30pm

For BSL performance date, see the Derby Theatre website

TICKETS: £21.50, under 26s £16.50, schools £11.50

MEMBERSHIP DEAL

National Dance Company Wales presents

Pulse

THU 4 MAY

MAIN HOUSE

Two physically thrilling dance works to set your pulse racing WALTZ by Marcos Morau

A haunting waltz plays in the distance. From the ashes a tangle of shining creatures emerge to inhabit a new world. In the chaos and turbulence their only hope is to remain united. If you enjoyed the electrifying choreographic world of Tundra in 2017, this is another chance to experience work by trailblazing Spanish choreographer Marcos Morau.

SAY SOMETHING by Sarah Golding, Yukiko Masui (SAY)

Say Something explores what it means to 'represent', and the ever-growing expectation to have a voice. Working with beatboxers MC Zani and Dean Yhnell, this new work is a relentlessly physical, visual and sonic feast. SAY have a passion for music that makes them want to move. Say Something will make you want to get up and groove.

POST-SHOW DISCUSSION: Thu 4 May

WATCH DANCE CLASS: Thu 4 May, 1pm

See website for more details

Joss Arnott Dance presents

Tin Man

TUE 2 MAY

MAIN HOUSE

Joss Arnott Dance presents a magical new retelling of a classic story, seen through the rusty eyes of the Tin Man and their journey to finding their heart and happiness. This visually stunning dance production for families and children age 7+ explores a re-imagined story of this much-loved character’s encounters with the Witch in the deep dark wood, and the new friendships the Tin Man forms with a Scarecrow and a Lion along the way.

Told with brilliant humour and touching pathos, Tin Man entertains both children and adults alike with its enchanting storytelling, dramatic choreography, stunning costume and lighting designs, all accompanied by newly commissioned music by award-winning composer Anna Appleby.

Supported using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England, the Royal Philharmonic Society with funding from the RPS Drummond Fund and PRS Foundation’s The Open Fund for Organisations.

Co-commissioned by DanceEast, Swindon Dance, Pavilion Dance South West and Kala Sangam. Supported by the University of Sheffield Enable US Project and the University of Salford.

PERFORMANCE TIME: Thu, 7.30pm

TICKETS: £17, under 26s £15, young person group rate (6 or more) £8

£2 off

PERFORMANCE TIME: Tue, 6pm

TICKETS: £12, under 16s £10

ages

Photo credit: Josh Hawkins

The Smartest Giant in Town

FRI 27 – SAT 28 JAN

MAIN HOUSE

Based on the best-selling book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. George wishes he wasn’t the scruffiest giant in town. So when he sees a new shop selling giant-sized clothes, he decides it’s time for a new look: smart trousers, smart shirt, stripy tie, shiny shoes. Now he’s the smartest giant in town… until he bumps into some animals who desperately need his help – and his clothes!

This heart-warming tale about friendship and helping those in need is brought to life in a musical, puppet filled adventure, following on from Little Angel Theatre’s best-selling adaptations of Julia Donaldson’s picture books including The Singing Mermaid and The Everywhere Bear

MEMBERSHIP DEAL: £2 off first performance

Tales from Acorn Wood

MON 20 – WED 22 FEB

MAIN HOUSE

Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s beloved Tales from Acorn Wood stories are brought to life on stage for the first time in an enchanting lift-the-flap experience.

Poor old Fox has lost his socks! Are they in the kitchen or inside the clock? And Rat-a-tat-tat! Who’s that keeping tired Rabbit awake? You can also join in with Pig and Hen’s game of hide-and-seek and discover the special surprise Postman Bear is planning for his friends.

Packed full of toe-tapping songs, puppetry, and all the friends from Acorn Wood, this beautiful show from the team that brought you Dear Zoo Live and Dear Santa.

Tales from Acorn Wood © Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler 2000, 2022– Macmillan Children’s Books

MEMBERSHIP DEAL: £2 off first performance

PERFORMANCE TIMES: Fri, 4.30pm, Sat, 10.30am

TICKETS: £14.50, under 16s £11

PERFORMANCE TIMES: Mon – Wed, 1.30pm, Tue and Wed 10.30am

TICKETS: £16.50, under 16s £14.50

Norwell Lapley Productions presents

A Little Angel Theatre and Fierylight Theatre Co-Production

Ugly Duckling

TUE 11 – WED 12 APR MAIN HOUSE

Duckling is lonely and fed-up, ignored by those around her who think she is too ugly to fit in. She tries to make friends with fellow ducklings as well as with frogs, cats and even a fox, but realising she is not like any of these animals, she is left sad and alone.

Follow the duckling on her journey as she overcomes her troubles and learns to love herself and those around her. Re-telling the famous Hans Christian Andersen fairytale, Ugly Duckling is the perfect opportunity for your little ones to enjoy live ballet, music and theatre for the first time.

MEMBERSHIP DEAL: £2 off first performance

Dinosaur Adventure Live

THU 1 – FRI 2 JUN

MAIN HOUSE

The Greatest Prehistoric Show on Earth 65 million years in the making... Are you ready for the adventure? Join our intrepid rangers on a quest to recover the data crystal, restore power to the island and save the Dinosaurs!

Stomp, Roar and Swish your tail as we introduce you to some of the most incredible species ever to have lived on planet Earth. An unforgettable Jurassic experience for all the family to enjoy. Learn their history with our amazing Dino-facts, meet our beautiful baby dinosaurs and even feed them, but watch out... you could be on the menu. Feel the excitement as you come face-to-face with a T-Rex and hear it's roooooooarrrrrr!

You won't want to miss this adventure of a lifetime, so hold onto your kids as this show will blow them away!

PERFORMANCE TIMES: Tue, 2pm and 4pm, Wed 12pm, 2pm and 4pm

TICKETS: £13, restricted view £10

PERFORMANCE TIMES: Thu, 2pm and 4.30pm, Fri, 11.30am and 2pm

TICKETS: £14.50

Red Entertainment presents

Northern Ballet presents

Club Origami

SAT 18 MAR

STUDIO

Rip, fold and scrumple!

Shall we see what we can make with a single square of paper? As you scrunch the paper, see how your imagination begins to dance... Dive into the magical world of Club Origami, an immersive and interactive dance show inviting family audiences to create, imagine and explore whole new ways of thinking, playing and moving. Dance, fashion and live music meet the magic of origami to sweep us up on a spirited and inspiring adventure in a land made purely of paper and play. This show is presented as part of Making and Believing, an Early Years arts project, led by Take Art in partnership with Surrey Arts and Derby Theatre, funded by Paul Hamlyn Foundation. Club Origami is completely non-verbal. Perfect for children aged 2 - 5 and their families and friends.

Photo credit: Summer Dean

Takeshi Matsumoto as part of Making and Believing

Abigail’s Party

TUE 25 – SAT 29 APR

MAIN HOUSE

It was 1977, the year of skin-tight polyester, the Queen’s Silver Jubilee and Saturday Night Fever. The Sex Pistols were storming up the charts, skateboarding was the latest craze and Angela Rippon danced with Morecambe and Wise.

And at Hampstead Theatre in London, Mike Leigh and his cast were putting the finishing touches to Abigail’s Party, ferocious black comedy and landmark of twentieth century theatre.

In her suburban living room, Beverly prepares for the arrival of her guests. She and husband Laurence will play host to neighbours Angela, Tony and Sue. As the alcohol flows and the ‘nibbles’ are handed around, Mike Leigh’s ruthless, achingly funny examination of 1970s British life begins… Abigail’s Party was premièred at the Hampstead Theatre in 1977, with the role of Beverly being immortalized by Alison Steadman. A record sixteen million people watched its broadcast as Play for Today, underlining its status as a true modern classic and national treasure.

AGE GUIDANCE: 14+ Contains strong language PERFORMANCE TIMES:

Tue – Sat, 7.30pm Wed and Sat, 2.30pm TICKETS: £24 – £28

London Classic Theatre

The King of Reggae: The Man, The Music

SAT 15 APR MAIN HOUSE

'Let's Get Together And Feel Alright' as Rush Theatre Company, the company that brought you the critically acclaimed RUSH – A Joyous Jamaican Journey, bring you their brand-new production.

Get ready to enjoy songs like One Love, No Woman No Cry and Is This Love all played live on stage by the incredible JA Reggae Band, as they tell the story of the man who brought Reggae music to the world.

From a Government yard in Trenchtown, to Rastafari Icon, this brand-new narrated musical charts the life and times of the King of Reggae, touching every aspect of the Jamaican superstar’s musical, spiritual and political life and the impact his music was to have worldwide. Featuring over 20 of his iconic hits, hear the story of man and enjoy the music that made the world ‘Get Up, Stand Up’!

Rush Theatre Company presents

The Verdict

By Barry Reed

TUE 20 – SAT 24 JUN

MAIN HOUSE

The powerful best-selling courtroom thriller that inspired a multi Academy Award-Nominated film starring Paul Newman.

Frank Galvin is a washed up veteran lawyer and an alcoholic. He is presented with one last chance to redeem himself when he is given an open-andshut medical malpractice case that no one thinks he can win. Up against the unforgiving medical establishment, he courageously refuses an out of court settlement, believing it is negligence that has condemned a young mother. Smelling a cover up, he instead takes the case and the entire legal system to court...

Jason Merrells is known to millions for his roles in Agatha Raisin, Emmerdale, Casualty, Waterloo Road and many more. He is joined by Richard Walsh (London's Burning) and Reanne Farley (River City) in a full cast of fifteen.

This phenomenal and gripping courtroom thriller has been a huge success at theatres across the UK and Ireland.

“Outstanding. The best performance we've seen in a very long time. You'll be crazy to miss it” Cardiff Times

Middle Ground Theatre Company Ltd presents

Around The World in 80 Days

By Jules Verne

TUE 6 – SAT 10 JUN

MAIN HOUSE

Join our raggle-taggle band of travelling circus performers as they embark on their most daring feat yet: to recreate the adventures of Phileas Fogg as he sets off on his race around the world. But wait...who is this Nellie Bly biting at his heels? We can’t have an actual real-life woman win this race!

£5 off on opening night (Bands A and B only) Thu 8 Jun, 7pm Sat 10 Jun, 2pm Touch Tours at 12.45pm

MEMBERSHIP DEAL

The Mousetrap

MON 17 – SAT 22 JUL

MAIN HOUSE

The world’s longest-running play and THE genre-defining murder mystery from Agatha Christie, the best-selling novelist of all time… case closed! Don’t Just See It – Solve It

As news spreads of a murder in London, a group of seven strangers find themselves snowed in at a stately countryside guesthouse. When a police sergeant arrives, the guests discover – to their horror – that a killer is in their midst!

One by one, the suspicious characters reveal their sordid pasts. Which one is the murderer? Who will be their next victim? Can you solve the mystery before another “mouse” goes SNAP?

For 70 years, Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap has kept millions of people from every corner of the globe on the edge of their seats.

COULD YOU BE NEXT?

PERFORMANCE TIMES: Mon – Sat, 7.30pm, Wed, Thu and Sat, 2.30pm

Thu 20 Jul, 7.30pm Sat 22 Jul, 2.30pm Touch Tours at 1.15pm

70th Anniversary Tour

The Lindy Hop Dance Company and The Harry Strutters Hot Rhythm Orchestra present

Swinging at the Cotton Club

FRI 13 JAN

MAIN HOUSE

Take a step back into 1920s, ’30s New York City and through the doors of Harlem's hottest nightclub, 'The Cotton Club'! Swinging at The Cotton Club is the action-packed show celebrating the music and dance of the Cotton Club – New York’s most celebrated nightclub of the 1920s and ‘30s. Performances by Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, Cab Calloway, Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, and Fats Waller would have had the club swinging – whilst dancers such as Bojangles Robinson and the Nicholas Brothers lit-up the stage with their breathtaking routines.

In this show, the exhilarating dance and music of the Cotton Club is recreated by the fabulous Lindy Hop Dance Company, alongside The Harry Strutters Hot Rhythm Orchestra, featuring American vocalist Marlene Hill and compere/ vocalist Megs Etherington.

King for a Day:

The Nat King Cole Story

SAT 28 JAN

MAIN HOUSE

Featuring world-class live music, alongside narration and projected archive images and footage, this is the unique concert celebrating one the greatest vocalists and entertainers of the Twentieth Century: Nat King Cole.

Featuring acclaimed vocalist, Atila, alongside a world-class group of musicians, this thoughtful and entertaining new show takes a fresh look at the life and work of the timeless Nat King Cole, whose vocal styling in songs such as Nature Boy, Unforgettable and When I Fall in Love defined a golden era of music and earned him a place in the history of American music as one of the most iconic vocalists of all time.

Following sell out shows at London’s Hippodrome and Ronnie Scott’s, and featuring many of Nat King Cole’s most celebrated songs, stylish reworkings of his lesser-known gems, as well as rare archive images and footage, this is a unique evening of music celebrating one of music’s all-time greats!

PERFORMANCE TIME: Fri, 8pm

TICKETS: £22 | £2 off

PERFORMANCE TIME: Sat, 7.30pm

TICKETS: £21.50 | £2 off

JBA Concerts presents

Maureen Lipman

SAT 18 FEB

MAIN HOUSE

Dame Maureen Diane Lipman DBE is an English actress, writer, and comedian. She trained at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art and her stage work has included many many appearances with the National Theatre, and the Royal Shakespeare Company and has continued to work in the theatre for over thirty years all over the UK. She was made a dame in the 2020 Queen's Birthday Honours for services to charity, entertainment, and the arts.

Her career is one of the greats in theatre, television, film, and books. Her most recent theatre work In 2018, she starred with Martin Shaw in The Best Man at the Playhouse Theatre, as well as returning to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe for the first time in fifty years with a one-woman show of jokes and storytelling called Up For It and she has just completed her one-woman show 'Rose' which has been muchly acclaimed.

Maureen's television work is equally as plentiful, on Just a Minute, The News Quiz, That Reminds Me, This Week and Have I Got News for You. In 2007, she appeared as a celebrity contestant on Comic Relief Does The Apprentice. She has also appeared in Casualty and Holby City and currently starring in Coronation Street as Evelyn, the long-lost grandmother of Tyrone Dobbs. Enjoy an evening in the company of a British great.

Photo credit: NEIL SPENCE / Alamy Stock Photo

Clive Conway Productions

HEAR ME NOW: This is How We Thrive

SAT 21 JAN

MAIN HOUSE

Join us for an evening celebrating new monologues from writers and actors who contributed to the book, Hear Me Now Audition Monologues for Actors of Colour Volume Two. The book is a unique collection of over 100 brand new monologues written by and for actors and writers who are either from the Global Majority and/or deaf and disabled. After the success of the first collection, Co-creators Titilola Dawudu and Tamasha came together with ten theatres and regions across England to create a new volume. Featuring performances of some of the monologues, a panel discussion highlighting how Black and global majority creatives are thriving in this sector, HEAR ME NOW: This is How We Thrive, is an invitation to be inspired!

An Evening and a Little Bit of a Morning with Mark Steel

SAT 4 FEB

MAIN HOUSE

There is so much to yell about. There’s the modern world in which you spend so long trying to work out iTunes, that it’s easier to form a band and learn the songs. But there’s also so much to be delighted with. Like the fact that everyone in Northampton knows the sign that says ‘Family Planning Advice – Use Rear Entrance’. This is stand-up, so whatever has happened in the room, in the town or in the world that day, will almost certainly be in the show. So, I’ll try to keep it to a decent length, but it could so easily end up as an evening and part of the next day.

The critically acclaimed Mark Steel’s in Town was voted the 6th best radio comedy ever and Mark is a regular on the BBC’s Have I Got News For You, QI and BBCR4’s News Quiz. He has been named newspaper columnist of the year and is author of the award-winning audiobook Who Do I Think I Am.

Live Nation and UTC presents

Babatunde Aléshé: Babahood

THU 23 FEB

MAIN HOUSE

Get ready for a night of comedy with one of the fastest rising stars in British comedy

Join the multi award-winning star of Celebrity Googlebox as he talks family and fatherhood in this highly anticipated debut tour.

As seen on ITV's I'm a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here 2022.

Body Politic

THEM

FRI 14 APR

MAIN HOUSE

"It wasn't that bad... He didn't really mean it... Did he tell my friends?"

Nina's boyfriend dumped her. After he slept with her. She was a bit drunk. She didn't say 'yes'. She only remembers fragments. And now, the whole school knows.

Set to a driving, electronic score by acclaimed composer C. Bickley, and featuring three compelling dancers, THEM is a dynamic hip hop dance theatre show about consent, validation, and finding your way back to a beginning. THEM follows the stories of three young women as they shift through time and space, finding healing from the pages of their journal.

Directed by Emma-Jane Greig and choreographed by Jackie Kibuka, featuring stunning choreography and exceptional performers, THEM is an emotional portrayal of dehumanisation, and the arduous journey back to your self.

THEM includes a short performance by 14-19 year olds following hip hop dance workshops in the Easter holidays. To get involved in the workshops (free of charge), email reimagine@derby.ac.uk

Photographer credit: Camilla Greenwell

Rinkoo Barpaga: Made in India Britain

WED 10 MAY

MAIN HOUSE

Roo is a deaf Punjabi boy from Birmingham, living in a world that wasn't made for him. With pain and laughter, Roo narrates the impact of ableism and racism throughout his childhood and adult life, leading him to confront one key question: "Where do I belong?"  "Confident and Charismatic" The Stage "Barpaga is a remarkable storyteller" FestMagazine "Powerful Physicality" The Limping Chicken

CAP

All performances will be in BSL, Spoken English and Closed Captions

Kate Rusby

THU 11 MAY

MAIN HOUSE

Kate Rusby, hailed as the ‘First Lady of Folk’ and a Mercury Music Prize to her name, has forged an impressive 30-year, headlining career.

Kate rounds off a year of 30th celebrations in spring 2023 with songs from her new album 30: Happy Returns released in 2022.

Audiences will be treated to Kate’s @ 30 interpretations of her songs. As ever, joined on stage by her band, each a virtuoso in their own right including her husband and producer Damien O’Kane.

PERFORMANCE TIME: Wed, 8pm TICKETS: £12, under 26s £10

PERFORMANCE TIME: Thu, 7.30pm

Dreamcoat Stars

TUE 30 MAY

MAIN HOUSE

Experience the powerful star vocals of four Josephs, coming together for a magical evening of West End and Broadway musical classics. Featuring stars from the hit production Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. This colourful production is packed with vibrant and energetic songs from the nation’s most loved musicals including Joseph, Jesus Christ Superstar, SIX, Wicked, Phantom of the Opera, Mamma Mia, We Will Rock You, Jersey Boys, Les Misérables, Moulin Rouge and more. Draw back the curtains, sing along and relive all your favourite productions in one epic show. The Dreamcoat Stars celebrate the life and work of legendary composers in this brand-new mega mix production, with exciting vocal arrangements, incredible four-part harmonies, slick choreography and memorable anecdotes from the star’s time in the role of Joseph. Grab your coat of many colours and join our Josephs on an emotional journey where Any Dream Will Do. With some of the biggest musical songs of a generation, this is a show that will raise your spirits and a night of theatre you’ll never forget.

RUSH : A Joyous Jamaican Journey

WED 31 MAY

MAIN HOUSE

Join us for the narrated musical as we tell the story of Reggae music and the Windrush Generation and hear how this music took the world by storm. Featuring ska, rock steady, calypso, gospel, lovers rock, dancehall and Reggae played live by the JA Reggae Band. Get ready to enjoy the music of Desmond Dekker, Jimmy Cliff, Bob Marley, Millie Small and many more.

"This is a fantastic show, informative, hugely entertaining and the music – WOW!!! ........ the two vocalists were outstanding, gave me chills with their amazing voices." "This is unmissable" Stage Talk Magazine

Rush Theatre Company presents

FRI 10 FEB STUDIO

Being a father in the 21st century is complicated. Being the father of a young son of mixed South Indian, Turkish, Austrian heritage, even more so.

Bringing together physical theatre, multilingual spoken text and sign languages, this dynamic and original new work explores the complexities of fatherhood across generations with humour and sensitivity.

PERFORMANCE TIME: Fri, 8pm TICKETS: £12, under 26s £10 | £2 off

FRI 10 MAR STUDIO

A show about outdoor swimming, community and holding each other.

When her new community is rocked by tragedy, Liz rediscovers outdoor swimming and how it can keep both her and her new friends afloat. Filled with humour and heart, live music and projection, SWIM is a tender tale based on a true story.

PERFORMANCE TIME: Fri, 8pm | AGE GUIDANCE: 14+ TICKETS: £12, under 26s £10 | £2 off

SAT 11 MAR STUDIO

Derbyshire Scriptwriters and local actors (with script in hand); will present and read aloud six one act plays written by members of the group with performances throughout the day. During each time slot, the audience will hear two different plays, each introduced by the writers. Each session will be followed by a Q&A.

Derbyshire Scriptwriters are a local collective who develop scripts for various genres, including film, television, theatre and radio.

PERFORMANCE TIME: Sat, 2.30pm, 5.30pm, 7.30pm TICKETS: £5 (per slot)

FRI 9 JUN STUDIO

An intimate piece of new writing exploring themes of sexuality, queer privilege, and cultural expectation. A story directed and performed by women from the queer community. Laugh, cry and dance along with Jasreena, Saffy, and Gia; three queer young women who may be close, but whose worlds couldn't be further apart. Can these young women step into their power, or will they be shrunk by secrecy and expectation?

PERFORMANCE TIME: Fri, 8pm

TICKETS: £12, under 26s £10 | £2 off

Taking Up Space

SAT 10 JUN STUDIO

Would you exchange five years of your life for the perfect body?

Yasmin has decided that she would. She is about to undertake a radical procedure that promises to deliver the perfect body and the happiness that seems just out of reach. But at what cost? 5 Years is a new comedy-drama that asks, ‘what do we lose in the pursuit of perfection?’

PERFORMANCE TIME: Sat, 8pm

TICKETS: £12, under 26s £10

FRI 14 – SAT 15 JUL STUDIO

The not-to-distant future. Society has collapsed. A group of survivors have gathered around a fire, and are attempting to piece together an episode of The Simpsons from memory. What follows is a journey spanning nearly a century, exploring how humanity attempts to rebuild civilisation in a post-apocalyptic world.

Mr Burns blurs the lines between pop culture, art, and mythology. A dark comedy that serves as a love letter to theatre, and – of course – The Simpsons.

PERFORMANCE TIME: Fri – Sat, 8pm, Sat, 2.30pm

TICKETS: £12, under 26s £10 | £2 off

Inside Theatre

5 Years by Bec Gadsby

The Empathy Club

Omar Khan with support from Derby Theatre

Mr Burns

Pioneers

THU 2 FEB

MAIN HOUSE

Award-winning orchestra Sinfonia Viva celebrate the thinkers, doers, innovators, and creators, who aimed high and blazed a trail in the world of aviation.

Joined on stage by young participants from Derbyshire schools and Derby College, Pioneers showcases new songs written by the young people, thinking about those exceptional human beings who shaped the world and inspiring the young people to become the pioneers of our future.

PERFORMANCE TIME: Fri, 7pm TICKETS: £10, under 26s £6

A Fifth Word and New Perspectives co-production

We Need New Names

By NoViolet Bulawayo. A new adaptation by Mufaro Makubika. Directed by Monique Touko.

FRI 12 - SAT 13 MAY

MAIN HOUSE

Paradise. Home of 10-year-old Darling and her friends. A playground overflowing with mischief and games where they imagine countries a luxurious life away from theirs in Mugabe’s Zimbabwe. But when Darling moves to Michigan, the western world she encounters as a teenager is far from the American utopia of her dreams…

Based on the novel by the first Black African woman and Zimbabwean to be Booker Prize-shortlisted, this defiant coming-of-age story is full of exuberance, humour and humanity.

"Gripping...a great piece of theatrical storytelling" The Times The Fishermen (New Perspectives)

"Compassionate, emotionally astute" The Stage on LAVA (Fifth Word)

PERFORMANCE TIMES: Fri - Sat, 7.30pm Sat, 2.30pm | TICKETS: £12, under 26s £10 AGE GUIDANCE: 14+

Sinfonia ViVA

A leading professional producing and learning theatre

Study alongside the professionals at Derby Theatre, owned by the University of Derby: the first Learning Theatre; recognised regionally, nationally and internationally as a pioneering and transformative model.

BA (Hons) Theatre Arts

Derby Theatre will be your ‘home’, offering you valuable industry experience and contacts. This course is unique; no other university level course is housed in a professional producing theatre.

You will be at the centre of this professional environment, developing skills in acting, devising and directing for your career as a professional theatre artist.

For more information visit: derby.ac.uk/theatre

MA Applied Theatre and Education

Develop your skills and confidence as an educational practitioner using theatre and drama to bring about social change, working in areas such as schools, prisons, communities and the care system.

You’ll work and study alongside theatre professionals and specialist academics at Derby Theatre for an inspirational learning experience.

Photo credit: Chris Webb

Photo credit: Leann Dawkes

Remote

by Stef Smith

MAIN HOUSE FRI 26 – SAT 27 MAY

Fri, 1.30pm and 7.30pm, Sat, 7.30pm

‘My name is Antler. And I will not be part of the world. Not this world. Not anymore.’

The world is in a mess. Something needs to be done. But what? And how? Lost for what to do, Antler smashes her phone, and climbs an isolated tree in the park. A protest? An escape? But from up high, as she watches her friends navigate the brutalities of the world down below, it seems that there is no opting out.

Created and performed by BA (Hons) Costume and Set Design, Technical Theatre, and Theatre Arts students.

TICKETS: £12, under 26s £8, University of Derby students £5

New Work from New Theatre Makers

STUDIO

FRI 5, SAT 6, FRI 12 AND SAT 13 MAY

Fri and Sat, 8pm

Don’t miss this chance to see the theatre makers of tomorrow.

Third year Theatre Arts students will be showing brand new work in these end-of-year performances. The culmination of three years of training, experimentation, research and play promise some exciting work for audiences. Come along to see the end of one journey and the beginning of many others. You’ll be able to say: “I was there”.

TICKETS: £8, under 26s £5

University of Derby Third Year Theatre Arts Students present

University of Derby Theatre students present

Photo credit: Sarah Blanford

THU 20 – SUN 23 APR

A festival of new writing, performances and workshops for young people aged 11–25.

The National Theatre Connections festival celebrates and showcases youth talent across the UK and each year, the National Theatre commissions high profile and up-and-coming writers to create new plays for performance by young companies all over the country. Connections 2023 will once again see Derby Theatre become a vibrant artistic hub where young people will take over the building. On offer throughout the week will be the chance for young people to see their peers perform and to participate in a wide range of events and exciting workshops led by leading creative professionals.

National Theatre Connections is perfect for young people who have a passion for, and interest in, theatre, arts, writing and performance. Ideal for like-minded young people to share and enjoy together. See Derby Theatre website for more details in Jan 2023.

Derby Youth Theatre presents our latest range of wonderful productions, selected, created and produced by our young people. Be prepared for exciting stories full of twists, turns, fantastic performances from talented young actors, and a good dose of fun!

Photography by Lillie Eiger. Design by National Theatre Graphic Design Studio

Derby CAN (Creative Arts Network) is a producing hub for the city (meaning you get to choose what happens) and for the community age 18+ to get involved.

Derby CAN is made up of several partners who work together to create a wealth of exciting opportunities, access to events and mentoring and training, available to anyone in Derby aged 18+ from performers to creatives and communities and audiences.

The Derby CAN consists of the following partners: Derby Theatre, Déda, Baby People and QUAD, China Plate, Crying Out Loud and In Good Company, Purple Theatre, Not Too Tame, Maison Foo and Wild Rumpus, University of Derby, Derby County Community Trust, Derby City Council and EMBAA.

Local Derby Talent

We want to hear from you! Digital artists, dancers, theatre makers, facilitators, poets, hip hop, music, skateboarders, poets, film makers and more.

We want to support you to make co-created projects (which means your voice shapes the work) to perform/exhibit in one of our local venues like Derby Theatre, Déda, Quad, local outdoor places or our hubs.

"I wanted to develop my writing and saw a social media post about Derby CAN. Since then, I have been on trips, met with other people at Derby Theatre, and now I am a published writer and performed in public! I cannot believe how far I have come...this is amazing" Hub member and participant on a co-creation project

"I feel it can inspire, empower and mentally strengthen people and help to change perspectives not only for the people seeing it but all who have worked on it and been a part of it." 4 Walls performer

Hubs

Not interested in making work, but would like to see more arts and cultural events that represent your interests? Get in touch! We run 3 hubs in the city and we want you to programme them with what you want. PLUS, we will take you on free trips too.

"Thank you to Derby CAN and I hope these projects continue to support local people of all ages and gender."

CAN commission participant: Retro Feva 80s

Play Labs

Want to try a new skill or develop an existing one? Come and take part in adult acting sessions, script readings, performing, lighting, sound, improvisation sessions and more. These are about discovery and playing with possibilities. No experience necessary just a curiosity to try, so come and join us!

Events

Check out the Derby Theatre website (Get involved; for everyone) and our CAN socials for our current and up & coming performance opportunities, workshops, creative chatter and FREE events!

During 2023 we will be revisiting 4 Walls (our co-production with Derby Theatre written by local artist, Rukus) working on projects outdoors from skateboarding to hip hop, spoken word to singing. PLUS running training and skills development workshops. Derby is your city and we want to work in partnership with you to represent that, so get in touch!

Photo credit: Grant Archer

Reimagine

Reimagine is an ambitious collaboration between arts organisations to develop young people’s life skills through artistic activities. 11 – 25 yearolds, especially in Abbey, Sinfin, Derwent, Chaddesden, Normanton and those at SEND schools, can be supported to produce their own creative work, guided by professionals. The emphasis is on performance and on combining art forms to create something new.

We work with community groups, schools and these cultural partners (amongst many others) to run the programme.

Baby People is the UK’s first dedicated hip hop school, using hip hop culture (music, break dancing, graffiti arts) to support the needs of the most deprived in our communities.

Artcore is an international centre for contemporary art and creativity, home to a gallery and studios, it uses arts and crafts to celebrate the creativity and diversity of Derby.

Follow

DMs are open if you just want to find out more. Call or whatsapp 07775018123. Email reimagine@derby.ac.uk to register your interest or sign up for our newsletter. This number is not monitored every day, but we will get back to you as soon as we can.

"This is something I will never forget"

Performer, Home Girl

Future Creatives

Our Future Creatives have been working behind the scenes to help run the programme, produce events and to develop their own skills and careers. Watch our socials or join the mailing list to see their work emerging and to hear about any further opportunities.

"I’m excited to see my piece of creative art on stage and thinking, I did that" Future Creatives Set Designer

Teachers’ Academy

We are also supporting teachers in Derby schools to feel more confident, skilled and excited to deliver arts activity in their schools. We can offer bespoke workshops and 1:1s in things like performance skills, movement, music technology, set design, production.

It depends on what you need. It could be specialised CPD or you could be learning a new artistic skill for the first time alongside your students.

If you are a teacher in Derby who would like to discuss any of this with us, or would like to join our teachers’ networking meeting, please get in touch.

Deda is a centre for dance, contemporary circus and outdoor performance Sinfonia Viva is a professional orchestra connecting with communities across the UK aiming to improve peoples’ lives through music

Hubbub is an ensemble of disabled and non-disabled people creating engaging and accessible physical theatre using music and movement to tell original human stories.

Quad is an international centre for film, art and the creative use of emergent technologies.

@reimaginederby on social media for announcements or call-outs.

Photo credit: Chris Webb

A theatre for everyone to come and find out more!

SEE THEATRE | MAKE THEATRE | LEARN ABOUT THEATRE

Our dynamic programme for communities, schools, young people and artists means that we work with a really diverse range of people and our entire staff team is trained to share their skills with learners of all ages.

You can study a number of theatre-related degrees with us right here in the building. Working in partnership with the University of Derby, we offer the opportunity to learn alongside professional theatre practitioners to get a real hands-on experience.

We also take our work out into communities, touring shows and delivering projects in new places and spaces where perhaps theatre isn’t normally seen. Our approach ensures that our work is relevant, exciting and genuinely reflects people’s stories and lived experiences. Our Learning Theatre model is unique.

For Children and Young People

Please see our website for more details.

Robin Hood Family Afternoon

Tuesday 4 April, 4.30pm–6pm Enjoy a special backstage insight into the making of the production before seeing the show at 7pm. You can even learn how to sword fight!

COST: £7.50 per person

DT Ambassadors

A free group who work with all departments from technical to marketing, whilst helping us programme events, see shows and write reviews and blogs.

A great chance to find out about everywhere from behind the scenes to front of house. Come and make your mark.

COST: Free

17 – 25s Theatre Makers

A free group for those who would like to enter the industry and learn more about theatre making, but who may face financial or other barriers to getting the training they would like.

Youth Theatre

A wonderful place to meet friends and gain new skills and confidence.

We are particularly keen to hear from people who are currently under represented in our programmes, including disabled people and those from black and global majority ethnicities. We run a group for deaf and hard of hearing young people too.

AGE: Academic Years 4 – 13/FE (various groups)

COST: £100 a term*

We currently have spaces available on our Year 4 – 6 group.

* For all our youth groups there are a limited number of half price and free places available for families with limited financial means.

For Everyone Theatre

Unwrapped

Our FREE Theatre Unwrapped sessions give you the chance to find out more about the theatremaking process. Come behind the scenes and join us as we prepare for the opening night of a Derby Theatre production. 12+

Hard Hat Sessions

Put your hard hat on and join us as the set goes up, with our expert technical team on hand to give you the low down on the process.

Robin Hood: Sun 19 Mar, 2-3.30pm

Final Stages

An opportunity to listen in on headphones at the technical rehearsal for a unique insight into the final stages of a production.

Robin Hood: Wed 22 Mar, 6pm, 7pm and 8pm

The Carers’ Café

A welcoming group for unpaid carers to take a break and share experiences of caring for someone living with dementia. Derby Theatre, together with Universal Services for Carers and theatre practitioner Nicky Bellenger, host a FREE monthly café in a friendly and relaxed environment. Each month there is an opportunity to take part in something creative as well as chat over a cuppa.

JAN – MAY 2023 DATES: Fri 27 Jan, 2-4pm, Fri 24 Feb, 2-4pm, Fri 31 Mar, 2-4pm, Fri 28 Apr, 2-4pm , Fri 26 May 20, 2-4pm

For later dates in the year, please see the Derby Theatre website. To book, call the Box Office on 01332 593939 or email Donna Mullings at: d.mullings@derby.ac.uk

derbytheatre.co.uk | Box Office: 01332 593939

For more information or to book a place contact: learning@derbytheatre.co.uk or call the Box Office

For Schools and Colleges

SHOW-RELATED OPPORTUNITIES SCHOOL OR THEATRE-BASED

The Wind in the Willows

Meet The Cast

DATE: After the 10.15am performance on Tue 13 Dec

Literacy through Drama Workshops

Explore the themes and characters of this classic story through drama and play. This session helps the children to infer deeper meaning and is brilliant for developing communication, social skills, self-confidence, self-expression and group work.

SUITABLE FOR: KS1 and 2

Reimagine – Learning Spaces

Working with a theatre designer, using recycling and found objects to help children create an immersive learning space in your school. Exploring the themes of the environment and habitats in The Wind In the Willows, this is a wonderful chance for children to learn through making.

SUITABLE FOR: KS1 and 2

Robin Hood End of Term Treat

An exciting array of workshops available, including drama and stage combat workshops to suit your needs following the morning performance.

AVAILABLE DATES: Thu 23 and Fri 24 Mar

All workshops can be tailored to suit your school’s needs. We don’t want practicalities to be a barrier.

Please drop us a line on learning@derbytheatre.co.uk or call us on 01332 593913.

Run, Rebel

Run, Rebel is a trailblazing verse novel that thunders with rhythm, heart and soul. This workshop uses performance poetry techniques to give an insight in Manjeet Mann’s extraordinary work.

Delivered by a professional spoken word artist and exploring the themes (including bullying, girls’ confidence and arranged marriages), your students will gain confidence in their self-expression and develop their own creative writing. The workshop can be tailored to your learning aims, and can be scheduled pre- or post-performance.

Each session can accommodate up to 35 students for up to 2 hours.

MOST SUITABLE FOR: KS3 English classes, Drama or PSHE

2 SESSIONS OR A FULL DAY: £275 + VAT

1 SESSION (UP TO 2 HOURS): £200 + VAT

Run, Rebel: Girls’ Mental Health Project

Following on from the success of See Me (a mental health project for boys); we are offering 12 (Year 9 or 10) girls from two schools the opportunity to explore their inner strengths through a series of creative workshops. Inspired by the themes of Run Rebel, participants will work with experienced artists, share their work at the theatre and see the show.

JAN TO MAR 2023

OTHER EXCITING OPPORTUNITIES FOR SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES

Production Workshops

Events for all key stages, with on-stage talks, masterclasses and school-based workshops by creative teams, company members and academics. Please see website for further details or contact us at learning@derbytheatre.co.uk.

Discover Days

Spend a day at the theatre and learn new skills with the professionals. Discover everything from costume and set design to lighting. Accessible and fun! See backstage and make your own mini production to be performed on stage.

SUITABLE FOR: KS1 – 2

DURATION: Whole day

MAX PUPILS: 60

Careers Days

See backstage and meet the professionals who work across all the departments.

Learn about the broad range of career paths in theatre, experience what our staff do and find out how they became involved in professional theatre work.

SUITABLE FOR: KS3 – 5

DURATION: Whole day

MAX: 60 students

Photo credit: Grant Archer

Photo credit: Chris Webb

Photo credit: Chris Webb

Booking and Your Visit

Box Office Opening Hours

Derby Theatre’s Box Office counter service is open to welcome visitors and customers at the following times to make bookings and enquiries in person and over the phone: Monday – Saturday: 10am – 4pm (and later on performance days)

On Sundays and Bank Holidays: 90 minutes before a performance Box Office telephone number: 01332 593939

Phone lines will be open until half an hour before the first evening performance

Booking Online

Online booking is available 24/7.

You can select your preferred ticket delivery option when booking online: e-ticket or collect from Box Office.

E-Tickets

After booking events, you will be sent a confirmation of your booking and an e-ticket via email, so please ensure your Theatre account details are up to date.

If the show/event you are seeing/taking part in is at the Theatre, simply show your e-ticket to a member of our team before entering the auditorium and they will scan the e-ticket directly from your phone.

If your event is online, your e-ticket will contain any links or passwords you need to access the event. Your e-tickets are accessible from your Theatre account at any time.

Email Enquiries

For email enquiries, please email DerbyTheatreTickets@derby.ac.uk

We endeavour to respond as quickly as possible, within five working days.

Ticket Collection

If you are unable to be sent an e-ticket via email, you may wish to collect your tickets from the Box Office, you can select this option when booking.

Please arrive in plenty of time before the start of the show to collect your tickets.

Payment Options

Please be ready to make any on-site payments via a contactless bank card, rather than cash, where possible. We accept: All types of card payment (except American Express); cash and theatre tokens.

Cancellations,

Refunds

and Exchanges

In the unfortunate event of a performance being cancelled, we will automatically offer you: to exchange tickets to another performance during the run (if available); theatre credit (to be used on a future production at Derby Theatre, valid for 12 months); a full refund (via the original payment method) or the option to donate, or part donate, to Derby Theatre.

If you are unable to attend a performance for any reason, including Covid 19-related symptoms, we will happily exchange tickets to another performance during the run (if available) at a charge of £1 per ticket - with any price difference, additional payment may be required, or if the ticket price performance you would like to change to is less, the difference will be returned to theatre credit. We are unfortunately unable to offer refunds.

Covid-19: Return with Confidence

The safety and confidence of our audiences continues to be of great importance to us. Therefore, the following will remain in place: hand sanitising stations and enhanced cleaning schedules. For those wishing to continue wearing a face mask, please do.

Schools and Groups

Derby Theatre welcomes groups and schools of all sizes.

To ensure an enjoyable, affordable and hassle-free visit, we offer the following to schools and groups:

Schools

Special discounts on selected shows: Tickets from only £10 each, with every eleventh ticket free.

Reserve now, pay later: Secure your booking by making an unpaid reservation whilst you discuss and finalise plans with your school. We will send you booking reminders, with final numbers and final payment required one month before the performance date (or one week before if a booking is made within one month of the show).

Familiarisation visit:

If you would like to come and see us in advance of your visit, to familiarise yourself with the Theatre, spaces and facilities, please get in touch.

Payment methods for schools: Card, cash, cheque or invoice (BACS payment).

For more information about prices, reservations, and familiarisation visits for schools, please email: DerbyTheatreGroups@derby.ac.uk

Groups

Special discounts on selected shows.

Reserve now, pay later. (See Schools) Familiarisation visit (See Schools)

Space hire: We can offer our Community Hub in the upper foyer for you and your group to meet pre and post-show.

Payment methods for groups: Card, cash, cheque or invoice (BACS payment)

For more information about schools’ and groups’ discounts, reservations and familiarisation visits (and space hire for groups); please email DerbyTheatreGroups@derby.ac.uk

Data Protection

Finding Us

By car

If you are travelling by car, Derby Theatre is located just off the A601 in the centre of Derby. Car parking at Derbion Basement Derby Theatre is directly above Derbion Basement Car Park, the most convenient, safe and secure city centre parking all under one roof, accessed from Traffic Street. The postcode for the car park is DE1 2PL

There are also convenient car parks opposite the Theatre: ƒ Copeland Street, Derby, DE1 2PY. Payable by cash, card or Connect App. ƒ Siddals Road NCP Car Park, DE1 2PY. Payable by card or app.

By train

We are very close to Derby Railway Station, approx. 10 minutes’ walk from the station. Follow signs to Derbion after leaving the station.

By bus

Trent Barton run several frequent routes serving Derby and the surrounding areas. Most buses stop at Derby Bus Station, a 5-minute walk to and from the entrance to Derbion Shopping Centre.

By taxi

If arriving by taxi, please request to be dropped off at the Derbion Basement Car Park (which will allow you 20 minutes free drop-off time). For your return journey, we are more than happy to order a taxi to be waiting for you after the performance, please ask at Box Office on arrival.

Derby Theatre is committed to upholding the data protection principles of good information-handling practices. When processing your booking the Box Office will ask you your name, address, telephone number and email address. This information may be used to keep you informed about forthcoming events at Derby Theatre. With your permission we may also pass on your name and address to other arts organisations who may send you information of a similar nature. You’ll be asked if your details can be used in this way at the time of booking. Prices and information correct at the time of going to print but are subject to change.

Access Performances

Derby Theatre welcomes all customers and has an extensive range of services to ensure you have an enjoyable and comfortable visit.

If you require any assistance, information or support before, during or after your visit with us, please inform the Box Office when booking your tickets, this way we can find the best seats for you and ensure you have a great experience with us.

We have a list of services and more detailed information available in our accessible brochure which is available in our foyers or we can post/email this out to you.

This information is also available online: www.derbytheatre.co.uk/your-visit/accessibility

Across our season we offer (where possible) a range of accessible performances. These include Audio Described, British Sign Language Interpreted and Captioned Performances. On some performances we also offer Relaxed and Dementia-Friendly Performances.

More information about these performances and listings are available in our accessible brochure, online: www.derbytheatre.co.uk/your-visit/accessibleperformances and at the back of this brochure through the access symbols.

Derby Theatre supports anyone living with dementia and their friends, families and carers. Derby Theatre often run Dementia Friends information sessions. Please get in touch with A.Tinley@derby.ac.uk for more information.

Accessible Performances

BSL Performances

Hear Me Now

Home, I’m Darling

The Time Machine*

Sat 21 Jan, 7pm

Thu 9 Feb, 7.30pm

Thu 9 Mar, 7.30pm

*We are hoping to provide BSL interpretation on this performance, we are awaiting confirmation. Please do reserve your tickets with your box office team in the meantime

Abigail’s Party

Thu 27 Apr, 7.30pm

Robin Hood & The Major Oak All performances will have integrated BSL

Around the World in 80 Days

The Verdict

The Mousetrap

Thu 8 Jun, 7pm

Thu 22 Jun, 7.30pm

Thu 20 Jul, 7.30pm

Run, Rebel See the Derby Theatre website

Captioned Performances

Robin Hood & The Major Oak

All performances will have integrated creative captioning.

5 Years

Sat 10 Jun, 8pm

Audio Described Performances

The Time Machine* Sat 11 Mar, 2pm (TT 12.45pm)

*We are hoping to provide BSL interpretation on this performance, we are awaiting confirmation. Please do reserve your tickets with your box office team in the meantime.

Robin Hood Wed 5 Apr, 1.30pm (TT 12.15pm) & The Major Oak Sat 8 Apr, 1.30pm (TT 12.15pm)

Tin Man Tue 2 May, 7.30pm (pre-recorded)

Around the World Sat 10 Jun, 2pm (TT 12.45pm) in 80 Days

5 Years

Sat 10 Jun, 8pm (integrated)

The Verdict Sat 24 Jun, 2.30pm (TT 1.15pm)

The Mousetrap

Sat 22 Jul, 2.30pm (TT 1.15pm)

Relaxed Performances

Robin Hood & The Major Oak Sun 2 Apr, 2pm

Dementia-Friendly Performances

Robin Hood & The Major Oak Thu 6 Apr, 1.30pm

STAGEST AG E

Please get in touch with us if you require any further information or wish to book tickets.

Phone: 01332 593939 Email: DerbyTheatreTickets@derby.ac.uk Text Number: 07717346964 (text enquiries only) Website: www.derbytheatre.co.uk

DECEMBER

Thu 1 The Wind in the Willows 10.15am

Thu 1 The Ugly Ducking 10.30am, 1.30pm

Fri 2 The Wind in the Willows 10.15am 7.15pm

Fri 2 The Ugly Duckling 10.30am, 1.30pm

Sat 3 The Wind in the Willows 2.30pm, 7.15pm

Sat 3 The Ugly Duckling 10.30am, 1.30pm

Mon 5 The Ugly Duckling 10.30am, 1.30pm

Tue 6 The Wind in the Willows 10.15am

Tue 6 The Ugly Duckling 10.30am, 1.30pm

Wed 7 The Wind in the Willows 10.15am

Wed 7 The Ugly Duckling 10.30am, 1.30pm

Thu 8 The Wind in the Willows 10.15am

Fri 9 The Wind in the Willows 11am , 7.15pm

Fri 9 The Ugly Duckling 10.30am, 1.30pm

Sat 10 The Wind in the Willows 2.30pm, 7.15pm

Sat 10 The Ugly Duckling 10.30am, 1.30pm

Sun 11 The Wind in the Willows 2.30pm

Sun 11 The Ugly Duckling 10.30am, 1.30pm

Tue 13 The Wind in the Willows 10.15am

Tue 13 The Ugly Duckling 10.30am, 1.30pm

Wed 14 The Wind in the Willows 10.15am 2.30pm

Wed 14 The Ugly Duckling 10.30am, 1.30pm

Thu 15 The Wind in the Willows 10.15am , 2.30pm

Thu 15 The Ugly Duckling 10.30am, 1.30pm

Fri 16 The Wind in the Willows 7.15pm

Sat 17 The Wind in the Willows 2.30pm D 7.15pm

Sat 17 The Ugly Duckling 10.30am, 1.30pm

Sun 18 The Ugly Duckling 10.30am, 1.30pm

Mon 19 The Wind in the Willows 10.15am

Tue 20 The Wind in the Willows 10.15am

Tue 20 The Ugly Duckling 10.30am, 1.30pm

Wed 21 The Wind in the Willows 10.15am 2.30pm

Wed 21 The Ugly Duckling 10.30am, 2.30pm

Thu 22 The Wind in the Willows 10.15am , 7.15pm

Thu 22 The Ugly Duckling 10.30am, 1.30pm

Fri 23 The Wind in the Willows 2.30pm, 7.15pm

Fri 23 The Ugly Duckling 10.30am , 1.30pm

Sat 24 The Wind in the Willows 2.30pm

Sat 24 The Ugly Duckling 10.30am, 1.30pm

Mon 26 The Wind in the Willows 3pm

Mon 26 The Ugly Duckling 1.30pm

Tue 27 The Wind in the Willows 3pm

Tue 27 The Ugly Duckling 10.30am, 1.30pm

Wed 28 The Wind in the Willows 2.30pm, 7.15pm

Wed 28 The Ugly Duckling 10.30am, 1.30pm

Thu 29 The Wind in the Willows 2.30pm D 7.15pm

Thu 29 The Ugly Duckling 10.30am, 1.30pm

Fri 30 The Wind in the Willows 2.30pm, 7.15pm

Fri 30 The Ugly Duckling 10.30am, 1.30pm

Sat 31 The Wind in the Willows 2.30pm

Sat 31 The Ugly Duckling 10.30am, 1.30pm

JANUARY

Fri 13 Swinging at the Cotton Club 8pm

Sat 21 Hear Me Now: This is How We Thrive 7pm

Fri 27 The Smartest Giant 4.30pm

Sat 28 The Smartest Giant 10.30am

Sat 28 King for A Day: The Nat King Cole Story 7.30pm

FEBRUARY

Thu 2 Pioneers 7pm

Sat 4 Mark Steele 8pm

Tue 7 Home, I’m Darling 7.30pm

Wed 8 Home, I’m Darling 2.30pm, 7.30pm

Thu 9 Home, I’m Darling 2.30pm, 7.30pm

Fri 10 Home, I’m Darling 7.30pm

Fri 10 Fatherhood 8pm

Sat 11 Home, I’m Darling 2.30pm, 7.30pm

Mon 13 Wodehouse in Wonderland 7.30pm

Tue 14 Wodehouse in Wonderland 7.30pm

Wed 15 Wodehouse in Wonderland 2.30pm, 7.30pm

Sat 18 Maureen Lipman 6pm

Mon 20

Tales from Acorn Wood 1.30pm

Tue 21 Tales from Acorn Wood 10.30am, 1.30pm

Wed 22 Tales from Acorn Wood 10.30am, 1.30pm

Thu 23 Babatunde Aleshe: Babahood 8pm

Tue 28 Charlie and Stan 7.30pm

MARCH

Wed 1 Charlie and Stan 2.30pm, 7.30pm

Thu 2 Charlie and Stan 7.30pm

Fri 3 Charlie and Stan 7.30pm

Sat 4 Charlie and Stan 2.30pm , 7.30pm

Tue 7 The Time Machine 7.30pm

Wed 8 The Time Machine 7.30pm

Thu 9 The Time Machine 2pm, 7.30pm

Fri 10 The Time Machine 7.30pm

Fri 10 Swim 8pm

Sat 11 The Time Machine 2pm , 7.30pm

Sat 11 Derby Script Writers 2.30pm, 5.30pm, 7.30pm

Tue 14 Run, Rebel 6pm

Wed 15 Run, Rebel 10.30am, 6pm

Thu 16 Run, Rebel 1.30pm, 6pm

Fri 17 Run, Rebel 7pm

Sat 18 Club Origami 11.30am, 2pm

Sat 18 Run, Rebel 1.30pm

Sat 25 Robin Hood 1.30pm , 7pm

Mon 27 Robin Hood 7pm

Tue 28 Robin Hood 7pm

Thu 30 Robin Hood 10.15am , 7pm

Fri 31 Robin Hood 10.15am , 7pm

APRIL

Sat 1 Robin Hood 1.30pm, 7pm

Sun 2 Robin Hood 2pm

Tue 4 Robin Hood 7pm

Wed 5 Robin Hood 1.30pm , 7pm

Thu 6 Robin Hood 1.30pm , 7pm D

Fri 7 Robin Hood 11am, 3pm

Sat 8 Robin Hood 1.30pm , 7pm

Tue 11 Ugly Duckling 2pm, 4pm

Wed 12 Ugly Duckling 12pm, 2pm, 4pm

Fri 14 THEM 7pm

Sat 15 The King of Reggae: The Man, The Music 7.30pm

Tue 25 Abigail's Party 7.30pm

Wed 26 Abigail’s Party 2.30pm, 7.30pm

Thu 27 Abigail’s Party 7.30pm

Fri 28 Abigail’s Party 7.30pm

Sat 29 Abigail’s Party 2.30pm, 7.30pm

MAY

Tue 2 Tin Man 6pm

Thu 4 Pulse 7.30pm

Wed 10

Fri 12 We Need New Names 7.30pm

Sat 13 We Need New Names 2.30pm, 7.30pm

Fri 26 Remote 1.30pm, 7pm

Sat 27 Remote 7pm

Tue 30 Dreamcoat Stars 7.30pm

Wed 31 Rush: A Joyous Jamaican Journey 7.30pm

JUNE

Thu 1

Fri 2

Tue 6

Wed 7

Thu 8

Dinosaur Adventure Live 2pm, 4.30pm

Dinosaur Adventure Live 11.30am, 2pm

Around The World in 80 Days 7pm

Around The World in 80 Days 2pm, 7pm

Around The World in 80 Days 7pm

Fri 9 Around The World in 80 Days 7pm

Fri 9 Taking up Space 8pm

Sat 10 Around The World in 80 Days 2pm , 7pm

Sat 10 5 Years by Gadsby 8pm

Tue 20 The Verdict 7.30pm

Wed 21 The Verdict 2.30pm, 7.30pm

Thu 22 The Verdict 7.30pm

Fri 23 The Verdict 7.30pm

Sat 24 The Verdict 2.30pm , 7.30pm

JULY

Fri 14 Mr Burns 8pm

Sat 15 Mr Burns 2.30pm, 8pm

Mon 17 The Mousetrap 7.30pm

Tue 18 The Mousetrap 7.30pm

Wed 19 The Mousetrap 2.30pm, 7.30pm

Thu 20 The Mousetrap 7.30pm

Fri 21 The Mousetrap 7.30pm

Sat 22 The Mousetrap 2.30pm , 7.30pm Studio

Main House

Rinkoo Barpaga: Made in India Britain 8pm

Thu 11 Kate Rusby 7.30pm

With special thanks to our Diamond Patrons John and Laura Howarth. University of Derby Theatre Limited is a registered charity (No: 1129005)

We would like to thank the following organisations for their generous support:

Photo credit: Josh Hawkins