Oxford Playhouse What's On Guide Autumn 2018 by Oxford Playhouse

JANUARY TO APRIL 2019 On sale November 2018

Oxford Playhouse

LOOK OUT FOR OUR NEXT SEASON...

July 2018 to January 2019

Oxford Playhouse Trust gratefully acknowledges the support of its core funders:

www.oxfordplayhouse.com Registered Company No. 2397373 • Registered Charity No. 900039 • VAT No. 537166534

WHAT’S ON GUIDE AUTUMN 2018

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2018

Family Friendly Shows and activities designed especially for families, plus: Free booster seats. Free toys and games in the circle bar. Baby change on ground floor. Babies are welcome to family shows for free. Please book a free lap ticket at the Ticket Office. 18 months and under for Main Stage shows, 6 months and under for BT shows. Picnic bags available for many family shows, so your little ones can enjoy lunch whilst watching the show. Book in advance. Made in Oxford Shows which have been created here in the county. Access Read more about the access facilities available at the Playhouse on page 60-61. Age guidelines Age guidelines are listed against as many events as possible. The suggested minimum ages are recommendations only based on potential content and information available at the time of printing. If you are booking tickets for other people you are to take responsibility for whether a show is appropriate for everyone within your party. If you would like any more details about any production, please contact the Ticket Office. 12+ May include themes of a more adult nature and/or occasional mild swearing. 14+ May include violent scenes, swearing, sexual innuendo and/or partial nudity. 16+ May include graphic scenes of violence, nudity, drugs imagery and/or prolific swearing. 18+ Content will contain scenes which may be disturbing and are unsuitable for children. Stay in touch Be the first to find out what's happening at the Playhouse • Follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram • Sign up to our weekly e-newsletter at www.oxfordplayhouse.com • Tell us what you think! We welcome all feedback, it's your theatre Email feedback@oxfordplayhouse.com Data Protection: Oxford Playhouse is committed to being transparent about the information we hold on our audiences and users and making sure it is safe. Oxford Playhouse Privacy Policy has been written with reference to the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) law 2016, and the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulation (PECR), 2003. Please see www.oxfordplayhouse.com/privacy-policy/ for full information. Printed June 2018. All details correct at time of printing. Design: www.dnal.co.uk

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

01865 305305

Welcome to Oxford Playhouse... Happy Birthday to us! This season kicks off our 80th anniversary year, with a once-in-a-decade Gala performance on the 21st October, exactly 80 years since the Playhouse opened its handsome doors on Beaumont St. The evening will be a fun (and champagne) filled gallop through the theatre’s finest moments, performed by some of the greatest talents to appear on our stage. Every generation will be with us – and anyone who has enjoyed a night in this special theatre is welcome to come too. Alongside celebrating the glories of the past, this seems like a good time to commit to the kind of work we want to see at the Playhouse in the future. So we have invested in some truly world-class co-productions which come to Oxford as part of national and international tours. We are working with some of the best companies in the country – companies with whom we share a history and a mission to make great theatre accessible to all no matter where you live. Out of Joint, English Touring Theatre, Southampton and Northampton Theatres are regulars to the Playhouse – joined by Kneehigh founder Emma Rice’s new company, Wise Children. These productions herald our intention to produce more work on our mainstage, and ensure Oxford audiences get to see the best. I would like to take this opportunity to thank some of the people and institutions who enable the Playhouse to thrive. Top of that list is St John’s College, the most supportive and generous landlords. The University of Oxford and Arts Council England provide the ‘cushion’ of funding which allows us to present the range and scale of work we do, both on and offstage. Their support is felt in many other ways too, as is the loyal patience of the City Council’s Cultural Partners and Culture team, who regularly get asked to stretch the rules and waive the fees to allow our work to happen. The Playhouse Family includes all our brilliantly talented staff; our trustees who give up so much of their time and brain-power to steer the ship; all the extraordinary Friends and Members who make it possible to plan for as exciting a future for this theatre as we have enjoyed in the past; and of course all our loyal audience members too. But remember – use it or lose it. The Playhouse is your theatre. Here’s looking to the future, and three cheers to another successful 80 years!

Louise Chantal Director/CEO

Theatre and events especially for These shows have been created families. Come and play in the foyer here in the county, either by area before and after the show. Oxford Playhouse or by local artists, amateur and professional.

Join Michael Palin and Sally Phillips as they kick off our birthday season on Tuesday 10 July – read more online at www.oxfordplayhouse.com • Join our 80th Anniversary Circle and receive a limited edition Korky Paul print. Visit www.oxfordplayhouse.com/OP80 for more information. • Name a seat with our special anniversary seat plaques, for you or a loved one. • Send us your stories! We’re collecting audience memories and anecdotes from the past 80 years. Just pin yours to the board in our foyer or email it to OP80@oxfordplayhouse.com. • If you were also born in 1938 then let our Ticket Office know and we will give you a FREE ticket to every Thursday matinee in 2018, plus a special discount for one companion.

For more information email OP80@oxfordplayhouse.com or call 01865 305305

SPEND A NIGHT WITH THE STARS… Sunday 21 October is our 80th Anniversary Gala Performance. A black tie event directed by award-winning film producer Victor Glynn, presented in association with Macdonald Randolph Hotel. Tickets are now on sale at £90, or £180 including exclusive access to the star-studded After-Party at the Macdonald Randolph Hotel. Look out for more information on VIP performers coming soon.

01865 305305

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

We’re marking our Big Birthday by co-producing four thrilling new productions, touring nationally: reimagining classics and creating new ones of our own. Othello - co-produced with English Touring Theatre and Bristol Tobacco Factory, this is a stunning version of Shakespeare’s most daring political thriller. Read more on page 15.

Women in Power - directed by Oxford alumnus Blanche McIntyre, this raucous new musical comedy is based on Aristophanes’ Assemblywomen. Read more on page 19.

We couldn’t be more excited about this World Premiere stage adaptation of Angela Carter’s beautiful story, Wise Children, brought to life by Kneehigh founder Emma Rice. Read more on page 39.

Kazuo Ishiguro’s Booker Prize-winning novel and Oscar-winning film, The Remains of the Day, has been adapted for stage in this World Premiere production by OP Associate Artist, Barney Norris. Not to be missed. Read more on page 48.

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

01865 305305

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

Image: Bob Marsden Globe Theatre on Tourâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s production of The Taming of the Shrew

– P L AY H O U S E P L AY S O U T – Shakespeare’s Globe on Tour presents

TWELFTH NIGHT THE TAMING OR OF THE SHREW THE MERCHANT OR OF VENICE An unmissable cultural highlight of Oxford’s summer, Oxford Playhouse and the Bodleian Library welcome back the Globe on Tour to the stunning setting of the Old Schools Quadrangle, one of the UK’s most glorious locations. In the Elizabethan era, when the theatres closed, a small group of actors, juggling a variety of roles from their extensive repertoire, would leave London and head off on tour. The choice of play performed was left to the most powerful person in the household. So, in a first for Shakespeare’s Globe, eight actors will ask you to follow in the tradition of a Shakespearean audience and raise your hands and shout out loud to cast your vote for which play you’d like them to perform at each show: The Merchant of Venice, The Taming of the Shrew or Twelfth Night.

★★★★★ “The perfect setting for an outdoor play, with a gentle breeze shifting the warm air.”

Mon 16 to Sun 29 Jul Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat & Sun 7.45pm Mon 16 8.00pm Sun 2.30pm (No shows Tue 17 & Mon 23 Jul No eve show 29 Jul) Tickets £10 to £26 FULL CIRCLE AND ENJOY

20% OFF Age guideline 12+ Location Bodleian Library Quad Catte Street OX1 3BG

Directed by Brendan O’Hea Designed by Andrew D Edwards Choreographed by Siân Williams Composed by Bill Barclay

Stage Talk

“On a scale of one to ten of spectacular venues, the Bodleian Library Quad has to score eleven.” Oxford Times

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

Why not book a tour? Guided tours of the Bodleian Library are available daily. For more info or to book visit www.Bodleian.ox.ac.uk/ whats-on/visit

01865 305305

Mon 16 to Sat 21 Jul Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu & Sat 7.30pm Fri 8pm Thu & Sat 2.30pm Tickets £10 to £37.50 No discounts Fri & Sat eves FULL CIRCLE AND ENJOY

25% OFF Age guideline 12+ Post show talk Wed

Birdsong Productions Ltd in association with The Original Theatre Company

BIRDSONG Directed by Alastair Whatley with Charlotte Peters Designed by Victoria Spearing Marking the 100th anniversary of the end of the First World War, Birdsong is the critically acclaimed hit stage show based on the world-famous novel by Sebastian Faulks. In pre-war France, a young Englishman, Stephen Wraysford, embarks on a passionate and dangerous affair with the beautiful Isabelle Azaire that turns their world upside down. As the war breaks out over the idyll of his former life, Stephen must lead his men through the carnage of the Battle of the Somme and through the sprawling tunnels that lie deep underground. Faced with the unprecedented horror of the war Stephen clings to the memory of Isabelle as his world explodes around him. A mesmerising story of love and courage.

Access performances

★★★★

See page 60-61

Times

01865 305305

“Moving, gripping, dramatically electrifying and outstanding.” www.oxfordplayhouse.com

Photo credit: Previous cast photo, credit: Steve Ullathorne

Freckle Productions presents

TIDDLER & OTHER TERRIFIC TALES Based on the stories by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler Four terrific tales – one superb show! Under the sea, out on the farm and into the jungle, these terrific tales are woven together with live music, puppetry and a whole host of colourful characters from Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s best-loved titles: Tiddler, Monkey Puzzle, The Smartest Giant in Town and A Squash and a Squeeze. Funky moves, toe-tapping tunes and giggles are guaranteed! Is Tiddler telling the truth? Will Monkey find his Mummy? Will George The Giant make lots of friends? Can the old lady really squash and squeeze all those animals in?

Wed 22 to Sat 25 Aug Wed 3.30pm Thu, Fri & Sat 11am & 2pm Tickets £10 to £14.50 No discounts

★★★★ “A delight from start to finish. A room of children laughing hysterically, all totally mesmerised by the action.” Time Out

This delightful production is brought to you by the team behind Stick Man Live, and is the perfect treat for all ages.

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

01865 305305

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

DUET FOR ONE Following an acclaimed West End run, Tom Kempinski’s multi award-winning play Duet For One comes to Oxford Playhouse. In this powerful, deeply moving and poignantly funny play, Stephanie Abrahams (Belinda Lang), a brilliant concert violinist who seemingly has it all, is forced to re-evaluate her life when struck by an unforeseen tragedy. Faced with a truth too difficult to comprehend, she consults psychiatrist Dr Feldmann (Jonathan Coy). And through a series of highly charged encounters, Stephanie is led to examine her deepest emotions and face a future without music. Two of British theatre’s finest actors rise to the challenge of portraying this duel between two razor-sharp minds and the humour that underlines their relationship. Tom Kempinski’s dazzling play emerges as a gripping, witty and ultimately life-enhancing tribute to the human spirit.

★★★★★ “Tom Kempinski’s play is a masterpiece.”

Tue 28 Aug to Sat 1 Sep Evenings Tue, Wed, Thu & Sat 7.30pm Fri 8pm Matinees Thu & Sat 2.30pm Tickets £10 to £37.50 No discounts Fri & Sat eves FULL CIRCLE AND ENJOY

25% OFF Age guideline 12+

Directed by Robin Lefevre Starring Belinda Lang and Jonathan Coy

Times

★★★★ “No one seriously interested in the theatre can afford not to see this. A joy to watch.” Financial Times

★★★★ “A gripping psychological thriller. Compelling, brilliant, sublime.” Daily Telegraph Access performances

See page 60-61

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

01865 305305

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

A Trademark Touring and Watermill Theatre production

THE WIPERS TIMES Back by popular demand after record-breaking sell-out runs in Oxford and in the West End, Ian Hislop and Nick Newman’s The Wipers Times tells the true and extraordinary story of the satirical newspaper created in the mud and mayhem of the Somme. In a bombed out building during the First World War in the Belgian town of Ypres (mis-pronounced Wipers by British soldiers), two officers discover a printing press and create a newspaper for the troops. Defying both authority and gas attacks, it proves a huge success with the troops on the Western Front.

Mon 3 to Sat 8 Sep Evenings Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu & Sat 7.30pm Fri 8pm Matinees Thu & Sat 2.30pm Tickets £10 to £37.50 No discounts Fri & Sat eves FULL CIRCLE AND ENJOY

25% OFF Age guideline 12+ Post show talk Tue

Book soon to secure your tickets for this moving comedy.

★★★★★ “There is no better tribute to those who served, fought and, incredibly, laughed in the war to end all wars.” Oxford Times

★★★★ “What this play brilliantly conveys, without any sentimentality and with copious gags, is that the production of a few fragile pieces of paper came almost to matter more to those chaps involved than life itself.”

By Ian Hislop and Nick Newman Directed by Caroline Leslie Designed by Dora Schweitzer

Daily Telegraph

★★★★ “Even at its silliest, the play has a respect

for its subject matter which is deadly serious and decidedly affecting.”

Access performances

Times

See page 60-61

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

01865 305305

HAVE YOUR SPECIAL

CELEBRATION

AT OXFORD PLAYHOUSE... Hold your party at OP and enjoy: Delicious homemade food, plus beverages sourced by local Oxford companies. A range of inviting rooms that can accommodate intimate gatherings or groups of up to 80. Pre-show parties – have a drink and a nibble before enjoying a show. A convenient, historic location right in the heart of Oxford. Catering for all ages (from children’s parties to office gatherings), why not make your special event a bit more theatrical?

Booking enquiries:

noel.mccarthy@oxfordplayhouse.com www.oxfordplayhouse.com

01865 305305

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

Photo: Gregory Batardon

Barely Methodical Troupe presents

SHIFT SHIFT is the latest jaw-dropping show from award-winning contemporary circus company Barely Methodical Troupe. Following their sell-out smash hits, Bromance and Kin, SHIFT’s four extraordinary performers test their physical limits in an explosive display of power-based acrobatics. Altering perspectives, challenging gravity and spinning your head around, BMT’s unique blend of circus, acrobatic skills and contemporary dance features Cyr wheels, breakdance and hand balance to create an inspirational performance. Commissioned by Norfolk & Norwich Festival; co-produced by Norfolk & Norwich Festival and DREAM.

★★★★

Tue 11 & Wed 12 Sep Tue & Wed 7.30pm Tickets £10 - £21 Discounts available

Age guideline 8+ OPINION Inventive, skillful and a little bit cheeky... an absolute must-see. Louise Chantal Director/CEO

“Real invention... mesmerizing...” Guardian

★★★★ “...daring, beautiful, breathtaking.” Whatsonstage.com

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

01865 305305

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

An English Touring Theatre, Oxford Playhouse and Shakespeare at the Tobacco Factory production

OTHELLO Othello is one of Shakespeare’s most startlingly contemporary plays – an electrifying thriller and masterful depiction of a life torn apart by prejudice. Venice: a western colonial power employs the newlymarried Othello, a Muslim general, to lead their army against the impending Turkish invasion. In a society torn apart by discrimination, fear and mistrust soon take their toll on Othello. Manipulated by Iago, his life quickly unravels as he turns on everything he holds dear. Following a critically acclaimed tour and London run, Richard Twyman’s vital production of Othello is brought to the stage by UK Theatre Award winners English Touring Theatre in a co-production with Oxford Playhouse and Shakespeare at the Tobacco Factory.

★★★★ “One of the best I have seen.” Observer

★★★★ “An astute and powerful production.” Times

★★★★ “Articulate, dynamic and thrilling.” Stage

Tue 18 to Sat 22 Sep Evenings Tue, Wed, Thu & Sat 7.30pm Fri 8pm Matinee Sat 2.30pm Tickets £10 to £30 Discounts available FULL CIRCLE AND ENJOY

50% OFF Age guideline 12+ Post show talk Wed OPINION We are delighted to have ETT’s Othello as our first OP80 co-production. ETT first visited the Playhouse with their acclaimed production of Hamlet starring a young Alan Cummings and have been a cornerstone of our theatre programming over the last 25 years. Laura Elliot Programme Director

★★★★ “This riveting production excels at depicting the racial and religious tensions underlying Othello and Desdemona’s peril.” Guardian

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

01865 305305

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

The Original Theatre Company and York Theatre Royal present

Alan Bennett’s

THE HABIT OF ART Directed by Philip Franks Starring Matthew Kelly, David Yelland & Veronica Roberts Alan Bennett is one of our greatest, most celebrated playwrights, with blockbusters including The History Boys, The Madness of King George and Talking Heads. He is applauded as a genius for his sharp character observations and treasured for the way he beautifully balances wit, wistfulness and compassion. In The Habit of Art, Bennett portrays a meeting between the poet WH Auden and the composer Benjamin Britten. Exploring friendship, rivalry and heartache this multi-layered masterpiece examines the joy, pain and emotional cost of creativity. This production directed by Philip Franks marks the first revival of the play since its opening at the National Theatre and stars the Olivier Award-winning Matthew Kelly (Toast and Educating Rita), David Yelland (Chariots of Fire and The Crown) and Veronica Roberts (Peak Practice).

★★★★★ “I thought it unlikely that he would be able to equal the success of The History Boys but The Habit of Art is another absolute cracker, often wonderfully and sometimes filthily funny, but also deeply and unexpectedly moving.”

Mon 24 to Sat 29 Sep Evenings Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu & Sat 7.30pm Fri 8pm Matinees Thu & Sat 2.30pm Tickets £10 to £37.50 No discounts Fri & Sat eves FULL CIRCLE AND ENJOY

25% OFF Age guideline 12+

OPINION Alan Bennett’s celebrated writing has always been a favourite at OP. We are delighted to welcome a new production of this smash hit play. Laura Elliot Programme Director

Daily Telegraph

★★★★ “Deeply moving.” Guardian

“Hilariously provocative.” Independent www.oxfordplayhouse.com

Access performances

See page 60-61

01865 305305

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

Wed 3 to Sat 6 Oct

A Nuffield Southampton Theatres production in association with Oxford Playhouse

Evenings Wed, Thu, Fri & Sat 7.30pm

WOMEN IN POWER

Matinee Sat 2.30pm

350 BC. Athens. The country is in political turmoil. Recent wars and alliances have left Athenians no option but to take radical action: a government of women!

Tickets £10 to £30 Discounts available

Praxagora masterminds and leads a daring coup d’état, outlining her utopian vision of total equality to her crowd of cross-dressing collaborators: a world where power imbalance is eradicated and with it debt, greed and theft. But this has unintended and hilarious consequences.

FULL CIRCLE AND ENJOY

50%OFF Age guideline 12+

Based on Aristophanes’ Assemblywomen, this raucous new musical comedy has been created by celebrated writers Wendy Cope, Jenny Eclair, Suhayla El-Bushra, Natalie Haynes, Shappi Khorsandi and Brona C Titley with dramaturgy by Clare Slater. Combined with an exceptional comic cast, and directed by Blanche McIntyre (Tonight at 8.30, Arcadia), this is a celebration of sketches with songs, dance, music and women taking the lead.

2018 marks 100 years since the Representation of the People Act 1918 – the act which allowed some women in the UK the right to vote.

Post show talk Wed

OPINION To culminate our VOTE100 programme, our second OP80 co-production brings together six leading female playwrights and a memorably funny comic cast, creating something fast, funny and fiercely political.

Oxford Playhouse has marked this with a festival of events and talks throughout 2018, celebrating women’s voices and stories. Look out for the Vote logo to catch the shows in this programme.

Laura Elliot Programme Director 1918-2018

The series will culminate on Thursday 4 October from 11.30am with our Inspiring Women Symposium. Join us for a FREE day of panels and debate with today’s most inspiring women, celebrating and questioning rights and roles in the arts and further afield.

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

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Keep an eye on our website for more info, or email vote100@oxfordplayhouse.com if you’d like to get involved. 1918-2018

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Access performances

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Tue 9 Oct

RHONDDA RIPS IT UP!

7.30pm Tickets £10 to £30

Composer Elena Langer Librettist Emma Jenkins

Discounts available

Age guideline 14+

Performance supported by Sian Thomas Marshall

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My Ladies, Lords and Gentlemen! Welsh National Opera cordially invites you to the World Premiere of this rip-roaring, uproarious musical comedy, starring Madeleine Shaw and Lesley Garrett. Join us on an unforgettable journey through the life and adventures of the unsung heroine of the Welsh Suffrage movement, Margaret Haig Thomas, the Viscountess Rhondda. In this thigh-slapping romp through the world of suffrage and song, told through the lens of music hall, you will be guided through the story by our very own Emcee (Lesley Garrett) following the escapades of Lady Rhondda (Madeleine Shaw) and her brave battalion of suffragettes as they fearlessly take on peers, politicians and post-boxes in their struggle for women’s rights.

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

AUSTENTATIOUS After six sell-out runs at the Edinburgh Fringe comes Austentatious starring a cast of the country’s quickest comic performers. In each show the cast conjure up a brand new ‘lost’ Jane Austen novel based on nothing more than a title suggested by the audience. Previous ‘lost’ masterpieces have included Sixth Sense & Sensibility, Double 0 Darcy and Mansfield Shark, and no two shows are ever the same. Performed in period costume with live musical accompaniment, this is a Regency treat guaranteed to delight Austen novices and die-hard fans alike.

Wed 10 Oct 7.30pm Tickets £18.50 Discounts available

Age guideline 12+

★★★★★ “Ridiculously silly... wickedly funny.” Times

★★★★ “Super-smart and terrifically funny.” Scotsman

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

01865 305305

Science Oxford presents

SUMMITING THE SCIENCE OF EVEREST

SIMON STEPHENS Fri 19 Oct

Fri 5 Oct Mount Everest - the highest point on our planet and the ultimate achievement for any climber - has long been a fascination for physicist and adventurer Melanie Windridge. Once the preserve of the world’s elite mountaineers, it has become ever more accessible to ordinary people. Fresh from conquering the summit, Melanie joins us to share her experiences, describing how advances in science, technology and training make it increasingly possible for the human body to undergo such feats of extreme endurance.

Simon Stephens is one of the UK’s most exciting playwrights. His plays include Punk Rock, A Thousand Stars Explode in the Sky, and the stage adaptation of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time. Most recently, he wrote the National Theatre’s adaptation of Bertolt Brecht’s The Threepenny Opera, which is being produced by students from the University of Oxford this autumn (see page 29). Ahead of the students’ production, Simon joins us to chat about his life and work.

Fri 5pm

Fri 5pm Tickets £7 Discounts available Age guideline 14+

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Tickets £5 or FREE with a ticket to see The 2018 Threepenny Opera Age guideline 12+

01865 305305

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

Photographer: Nik Strangelove

THE ANNUAL CHARLES SIMONYI LECTURE Fri 26 Oct Join Marcus du Sautoy and a specially invited guest lecturer for this year’s annual Simonyi Lecture. Each year the Simonyi lecture presents a story of cutting-edge science and how it impacts on modern society. From consciousness to quarks, from autism to the future of the planet, the Simonyi lecture tackles some of the most exciting ideas of science. Aimed at the general public, the lecture is the highlight of the University’s programme to engage the public in the excitement and wonder of science.

EMMA RICE Fri 16 Nov Emma Rice is one the UK’s most well-loved and distinctive theatre directors. As the former Artistic Director of Kneehigh and then Shakespeare’s Globe, she has spent decades creating shows which are filled with her trademark mix of joy, wonder and magic. And we’ve been lucky enough to have many of them visit our stage: from the melancholy beauty of The Flying Lovers of Vitebsk to the fire-side storytelling of The Little Matchgirl (and other happier tales) and her bold adaptation of Daphne Du Maurier’s Rebecca. Come and join us, as Emma chats about her career to date, as well as discussing her new company, Wise Children, and their first show, very proudly co-produced by OP.

Fri 5pm

Tickets £7 Discounts available

Tickets Free but must be booked in advance

Age guideline 12+

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

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01865 305305

Photo: Johan Persson

01865 305305

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

Sat 13 Oct A Sadler’s Wells commission, co-commissioned by DanceEast and Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance. Presented in association with IF Oxford

8 MINUTES It takes just eight minutes for sunlight to travel 93 million miles to earth. In this unique collaboration with scientists from STFC RAL Space, choreographer Alexander Whitley takes inspiration from the stunning imagery of solar research. Dance, film and music take us on a journey through the universe, revealing the drama of the burning ball of plasma that illuminates our planet and exploring our relationship with the star that gives us life. With an installation of high-definition imagery from visual artist Tal Rosner and a specially created score by the electroacoustic music innovator Daniel Wohl, 8 Minutes captures our curiosity and wonder for this unimaginably vast subject.

3pm & 7.30pm Tickets £10 to £20 Discounts available

Age guideline 8+

Artistic Director and Choreographer Alexander Whitley Video Artist Tal Rosner Composer Daniel Wohl Lead Scientist Dr Hugh Mortimer

★★★★ “8 Minutes merges dance, visuals and music as equal partners. Whitley’s choreography is sinuous, sensuous and elemental. Solar-powered beauty.” Evening Standard

★★★★ “Poetic and playful… Dancers and scientists make a stunning cosmic voyage.” Guardian

“Seven exceptional dancers... quite simply, beautiful to watch.” Daily Express

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

01865 305305

COMEDY & MUSIC Sun 30 Sep 7.30pm

Photo: Jiksaw

TOM ALLEN Absolutely Tom Allen’s unique style of sharp, acerbic wit and camp, riotous storytelling has seen him sell out shows all over the country.

Tickets £17

As seen on Mock the Week, 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown and Radio 4’s Just A Minute.

“Beguiling... the sky dexterity of his delivery has you hooked.” The Telegraph

No discounts

Age guideline 16+

“Riotous stuff, perfectly delivered.” ★★★★ The Scotsman

IAIN STIRLING U OK hun?

Mon 8 Oct 7.30pm

Bafta-winning stand-up and voice of Love Island, Iain Stirling, brings his brilliant observations of modern millennial life to the stage in his sellout tour. Join the “star of comedy” (The i) as he explores dinner party etiquette and the pressures on a generation brought up in a world of instant gratification.

Tickets £18.50 No discounts

Age guideline 16+

Thu 11 Oct 8pm

MARCUS BRIGSTOCKE Devil May Care The Devil has retired but is still on the board of The Underworld and advises on how to make eternal damnation sustainably hot, how to keep a thousand minions on zero hours contracts, and what to do about Jacob Rees-Mogg. A new stand-up show from multi award-winning comedian Marcus Brigstocke.

01865 305305

Tickets £18 No discounts

Age guideline 16+

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

COMEDY & MUSIC SARA PASCOE LadsLadsLads

Thu 8 Nov 7.30pm

Always honest, always regretting it later, multi award-winning Sara Pascoe opens her heart and mouth again to share the adventures of the last year. Full of jokes, hope and white wine, LadsLadsLads is the thinking person’s stag do.

Tickets £20 Discounts available

Age guideline 16+

Fri 9 Nov 7.30pm

DAVID O’DOHERTY YOU HAVE TO LAUGH Unhook your mindbras. David O’Doherty is back on tour with a brand-new show made up of talking and songs played on a crappy keyboard from 1986.

Tickets £21 Max. 8 tickets per household

Age guideline 16+

As seen on BBC2’s Live At The Apollo and Channel 4’s 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown.

FISHERMAN’S FRIENDS

Sat 10 Nov 7.30pm

The original sole men, Cornwall’s tightest band of brothers and its best-known musical export, the Fisherman’s Friends are heading back on the road. In a show that’s guaranteed to warm the cockles, the group’s eight good men brew up a heady mix of hearty songs, salty banter and tall tales from the high seas that involves the audience at every turn.

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

Tickets £27 No discounts "Deserving winners of the BBC Radio Folk Award." Kate Rusby

01865 305305

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

University of Oxford Student Company: SLAM! Theatre presents

THE THREEPENNY OPERA The coronation is approaching, London is restless, and no-one is safe from the corrupt Mr and Mrs Peachum. But their daughter is nowhere to be found, the police are stuffing their pockets, and rumour has it that a certain crook has come home: Mack the Knife is back in town. In the 90th year since its premiere, prepare yourself for an arresting display of grit, wit, blood, sex and politics, punctuated with Weill’s timeless score and Simon Stephens’ bold new adaptation of Brecht’s libretto. Expect no arias in this larger-than-life production, full of cynicism, fun, and anarchic choreography by University of Oxford students. See page 22 for details of Simon Stephens’ in conversation.

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

Wed 17 to Sat 20 Oct Evenings Wed, Thu & Sat 7.30pm Fri 8pm Matinees Thu & Sat 2.30pm Tickets £10 to £20 Discounts available Student and under 18 tickets £11.50 until Sun before show FULL CIRCLE AND ENJOY

50%OFF Age guideline 14+

By Bertolt Brecht and Kurt Weill in a new adaption by Simon Stephens

01865 305305

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

Illustrations copyright Â© kerr-kneale productions ltd 1968

A musical play adapted and directed by David Wood, based on the book by Judith Kerr

THE TIGER WHO CAME TO TEA Direct from a smash hit West End season, The Tiger Who Came to Tea returns to the stage, celebrating 50 years of Britain’s best-loved picture book. The doorbell rings just as Sophie and her mummy are sitting down to tea. Who could it possibly be? What they certainly don’t expect to see at the door is a big, stripy tiger. Join the tea-guzzling tiger in this delightful family show; packed with oodles of magic, sing-a-long songs and clumsy chaos. A stunning stage adaptation of the classic tale of teatime mayhem... expect to be surprised!

Wed 24 to Sat 27 Oct Wed 2pm & 4.30pm Thu, Fri & Sat 11am & 2pm Tickets £10 to £14 Discounts available for groups 10+

Age guideline 3+ Running time approx 55 minutes (no interval)

★★★★★ “Delightful.” Whatsonstage.com

★★★★ “This Tiger is the cat’s meow.” Times

★★★★ “Roar talent.” Sunday Telegraph

★★★★ “Perfectly pitched.” Daily Telegraph

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

01865 305305

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

Eleanor Lloyd Productions and Theatre Royal Bath Productions by arrangement with Disney Theatrical Productions and Sonia Friedman Productions present

SHAKESPEARE IN LOVE Winning no less than seven Oscars, the film of Shakespeare in Love, starring Judi Dench, Joseph Fiennes and Gwyneth Paltrow, became an instant classic. Adapted by Lee Hall for a triumphant West End run, this epic Elizabethan extravaganza is exuberant, witty, funny, and a beautiful homage to love, art, and theatre itself. Young Will Shakespeare has writer’s block... the deadline for his new play - a comedy called Romeo and Ethel, the Pirate’s Daughter - is fast approaching, he’s struggling to finish the first line of a sonnet and he’s in dire need of inspiration. Then he meets the beguiling Viola de Lesseps, the beautiful daughter of a wealthy merchant. Viola is prepared to do anything – including risking the frosty disapproval of Queen Elizabeth I - to fulfil her illicit dream of performing on the London stage and pursuing a passionate affair with the greatest playwright of the age. Book now for this unmissable, 5-star theatrical treat.

★★★★★ “The best British comedy since One Man, Two Guvnors.” Daily Telegraph

Tue 30 Oct to Sat 3 Nov Evenings Tue, Wed, Thu & Sat 7.30pm Fri 8pm Matinees Wed, Thu & Sat 2.30pm Tickets £10 to £37.50 No discounts Fri & Sat eves FULL CIRCLE AND ENJOY

25% OFF Age guideline 12+ Post show talk Wed eve

Based on the screenplay by Marc Norman and Tom Stoppard Adapted for the stage by Lee Hall Directed by Philip Breen Music by Paddy Cunneen

★★★★★ “A riotously enjoyable evening in the theatre.” Sunday Times

★★★★★ “Deliciously funny... makes you grateful to be alive.”

Access performances

Independent

See page 60-61

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

01865 305305

Photo: Stoo Metz

01865 305305

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

DTP presents 2b theatre company

OLD STOCK: A REFUGEE LOVE STORY Herald Angel Award & Scotsman Fringe First Award-winner Old Stock: A Refugee Love Story by Canadian 2b theatre company is a humorously dark folktale woven together with a high-energy concert. This Klezmer-folk music-theatre hybrid starring genre-bending sensation Ben Caplan is inspired by the true stories of two Jewish Romanian refugees immigrating to Canada in 1908. It’s about how to love after being broken by the horrors of war. It’s about refugees who get out before it’s too late, and those who get out after it’s too late, and it’s about hope.

★★★★★ “A thing of raw and unmissable beauty.” Herald Scotland

★★★★ “Bewitching.”

Mon 5 & Tue 6 Nov Mon & Tue 7.30pm Tickets £10 to £21 Discounts available

Age guideline 14+ Post show talk Mon

Created by Hannah Moscovitch Ben Caplan and Christian Barry

OPINION A gloriously bonkers musical delight - the most fun I had at the Edinburgh Fringe last year. Louise Chantal Director/CEO

Time Out NY Critic’s Pick

★★★★★ “Astonishingly captivating.” Musical Theatre Review

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

01865 305305

Photographer: Bill Cooper

Wed 7 Nov

BALLET BLACK

7.30pm Tickets £10 to £25

Audiences can’t resist the “joyously unpredictable” (Guardian) programmes danced by Ballet Black, back for their third year here. Led by Artistic Director Cassa Pancho, this company celebrates dancers of black and Asian descent, showcasing technique, precision and grace in specially commissioned pieces. As part of their latest double bill, Cathy Marston, renowned for her expressive and beautifully crafted work, choreographs a new narrative ballet for the Company. Inspired by Can Themba’s South African fable The Suit, this is the first dance adaptation of the affecting short story. Completing the evening is Arthur Pita’s Olivier nominated A Dream Within A Midsummer Night’s Dream, a heady piece of dance-theatre for which Pita also earned a Critics’ Circle and South Bank Award nomination following its premiere in 2014.

01865 305305

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

PLAYHOUSE PLAYS OUT Theatres are great, but every now and then we get an itch to get out into the city, and take shows to other interesting and exciting places in Oxford. This autumn we’ve got some very special shows that are going to leap out of the theatre and into the city. The venues are top secret at the moment, but keep an eye on our website or join our mailing list to be the first to find out where our adventures are off to next. Visit www.oxfordplayhouse.com to sign up.

STANDARD:ELITE Early September A playful, interactive theatre experience about class, privilege, and social mobility that’s accessible and, above all, fun.

USER NOT FOUND Fri 12 Oct A show about what’s left of our digital identities after we die. This new play by celebrated site-specific company Dante or Die and pioneering writer Chris Goode is told using smartphones and headphones.

OXFORD CHRISTMAS LIGHT FESTIVAL Fri 16 Nov It’s nearly Christmas but no-one is ready, there are still gifts to wrap and decorations to hang. There’s only one thing that can help now... magic. Join us for the story of Jack Frost at this year’s Oxford Christmas Light Festival.

01865 305305

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

Oxford Playhouse presents The Old Vic and Wise Children production. Co-produced by Oxford Playhouse with Belgrade Theatre Coventry and York Theatre Royal

WISE CHILDREN By Angela Carter Adapted and directed by Emma Rice

‘Let’s have all the skeletons out of the closet, today, of all days!’ It’s 23 April, Shakespeare’s birthday. In Brixton, Nora and Dora Chance - twin chorus girls born and bred south of the river – are celebrating their 70th birthday. Over the river in Chelsea, their father and greatest actor of his generation Melchior Hazard turns 100 on the same day. As does his twin brother Peregrine. If, in fact, he’s still alive. And if, in truth, Melchior is their real father after all... A big, bawdy tangle of theatrical joy and pain, Wise Children is a celebration of show business, family, forgiveness and hope. Expect show girls and Shakespeare, sex and scandal, mischief and mistaken identity - and butterflies by the thousand. Emma Rice (The Flying Lovers of Vitebsk, Rebecca and Brief Encounter) brings her uniquely musical and exuberantly impish vision to Angela Carter’s great last novel, Wise Children. What a joy it is to dance and sing!

Tue 13 to Sat 17 Nov Evenings Tue, Wed, Thu & Sat 7.30pm Fri 8pm Matinees Thu & Sat 2.30pm Tickets £10 to £30 Discounts available FULL CIRCLE AND ENJOY

50% OFF Age guideline 12+ Post show talk Wed

OPINION In our third OP80 co-production, we are delighted to welcome Emma Rice, one of today’s most iconic theatre directors, with her very first show with new company Wise Children. Expect spectacle and theatrical beauty in all its forms. Laura Elliot Programme Director

Access performances

See page 60-61

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

01865 305305

Â© Illustration: www.korkypaul.com

AN OXFORD PLAYHOUSE PRODUCTION Fri 23 Nov 2018 to Sun 6 Jan 2019

Written and directed by Steve Marmion

Following the huge success of Jack and the Beanstalk, join us for a pirate, pussycat and rat-packed panto party! Dick Whittington’s heading to town to seek his fortune – he’s heard the streets are paved with gold. But when he gets there, it’s hard to see the gold beneath the grime. And King Rat is out to get him! With his trusty cat in tow and pirate ships on the horizon, Dick’s going to need a little help from you if he’s going to win the day. Book now for this fabulous festive treat - it’ll be a Whitting-tonne of fun!

★★★★★

★★★★

“Sensational.”

“Brilliantly engaging.”

Oxford Times on Jack and the Beanstalk 2017

Stage on Jack and the Beanstalk 2017

“A ‘triumph-est’ knickerbocker glory of laughter, joy and wonder. Please can I go again?” OX Magazine on Stage on Jack and the Beanstalk 2017

For everyone aged 5 to 105!

Tickets £10 to £32 Discounts available

PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE November Fri Sat Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri

10am

December Sat Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun Mon

11am

23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

2pm

3pm

4pm

6pm

7pm

NO PERFORMANCES

FULL CIRCLE AND ENJOY

25% OFF

NO PERFORMANCES

10am

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

11am

2pm

3pm

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6pm

7pm

January Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun

10am

11am

1 2 3 4 5 6

2pm

3pm

4pm

6pm

7pm

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Ticket Prices

NO PERFORMANCES

Seasonal Special

Low

£10 | £15 | £18 | £22

High

£10 | £16 | £21 | £27

Premium

£10 | £18 | £25 | £32

£10 | £15

NO PERFORMANCES

01865 305305

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

BOOKING INFORMATION Book now… it’s going to be purrrfect! Full Circle & Enjoy members 25% off Wed 28 Nov at 7pm, Sat 1 Dec at 4pm or Sat 8 Dec at 7pm

British Sign Language interpreted performance Wed 2 Jan at 4pm

Friends and Family Ticket (4 best available tickets, max. 3 adults) High: £90 Premium: £105

Relaxed performance Thu 3 Jan at 11am

GREAT rates for Schools and Groups Group 20+ rates / Low/Seasonal Special £12.50 / High/Premium 20% off Schools tickets From £12.50 plus every 16th ticket FREE

Captioned performance Sat 5 Jan at 7pm Audio described performances Sun 9 Dec at 4pm (Touch Tour 2.30pm) Sat 29 Dec at 6pm (Touch Tour 4.30pm)

Age guideline and baby tickets We recommend 5+ for our pantomimes, brave children under 5 are more than welcome but may find some scenes loud and others scary. Babies under 18 months old must have a free lap ticket booked via the ticket office. Don’t forget Oxford Playhouse is the perfect place to have some festive fun with the whole family, we have... ★ FREE toys and games in the circle bar – before, after or even during the show. ★ FREE booster seats for children so everyone can see the action. ★ Picnic bags for children to take into the show! Pre-order yours online or via the ticket office for £4.50 (includes your choice of sandwich plus a drink, apple, Pom Bears and Haribo). ★ Lots of locally sourced drinks and treats for grown-ups including coffees, teas and Christmas bubbly.

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

01865 305305

An Oxford Playhouse and Reading Rep production, in association with Reading Libraries

ALBY THE PENGUIN SAVES CHRISTMAS Thu 6 Dec 2018 to Sat 5 Jan 2019 Written and directed by Helen Eastman from an original idea by Hannah Groombridge. Alby isn’t just any penguin. Alby is a very special penguin. Alby is a snow-white penguin... Cast off by his fellow penguins, Alby finds himself all alone at the South Pole. When he stumbles across Santa’s list of presents left behind in the snow, Alby realises that Christmas isn’t going to happen unless the list is reunited with its owner. But it’s going to take one very brave penguin to save the day...

Tickets Low £9 Children £7

Thu 6 Dec

12pm 3pm

Fri 7 Dec

10am 12pm 3pm

Sat 8 Dec

10am 12pm 3pm

Medium £10 Children £8

Sun 9 Dec

10am 12pm 3pm

High £11 Children £9

Wed 12 Dec

10am

2pm

Thu 13 Dec

10am

2pm

Age guideline 3 to 6

Fri 14 Dec

10am

2pm

Sat 15 Dec

10am 12pm 3pm

Sun 16 Dec

10am 12pm 3pm

Tue 18 Dec

10am

2pm

Wed 19 Dec

10am

2pm

Thu 20 Dec

10am

2pm

Sat 22 Dec

10am 12pm 3pm

Sun 23 Dec

10am 12pm 3pm

Mon 24 Dec

10am 12pm 3pm

Fri 28 Dec

10am 12pm 3pm

Sat 29 Dec

10am 12pm 3pm

Sun 30 Dec

10am 12pm 3pm

Mon 31 Dec

10am 12pm

Wed 2 Jan

Thu 3 Jan

10am

Fri 4 Jan

10am 12pm 3pm

Sat 5 Jan

10am 12pm 3pm

All dates/times are relaxed performances

Alby the Penguin Saves Christmas is an enchanting story full of music, puppetry and one very special penguin. The perfect festive treat for children aged 3 to 6 and their families. Helen Eastman has written and directed our trilogy of Christmas shows for little ones: Dear Father Christmas, Father Christmas & the Icicle Bicycle and Hurry Up, Father Christmas!

12pm 3pm 2pm

Coming soon... now on sale

Tue 15 to Sat 19 Jan Tue, Wed, Thu & Sat 7.30pm Fri 8pm Thu & Sat 2.30pm Tickets £10 to £37.50 No discounts Fri & Sat eves FULL CIRCLE AND ENJOY

25% OFF Age guideline 12+

Access performances

See page 60-61

01865 305305

THE COMEDY ABOUT A BANK ROBBERY Ocean’s Eleven meets the Marx Brothers in this dynamite new comedy direct from the West End! A priceless diamond has been entrusted to the city bank, an institution so corrupt that even the security guards are on the take. Can it be safely stored or will it all go horribly wrong? Following their sell-out hits The Play That Goes Wrong and Mischief Movie Night, Mischief Theatre returns with this smash-and-grab hit comedy, guaranteed to deliver swag loads of laughter!

★★★★★ “The funniest show in the West End.”

★★★★★ “A fast and fabulous comedy caper.”

Daily Telegraph

Times

★★★★★ “A night of spectacular madness.” Whatsonstage.com

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

Coming soon... now on sale

Oxford Operatic Society (OXOPS) presents

SISTER ACT When aspiring singer Deloris Van Cartier witnesses a murder by her boyfriend, she is taken into a Witness Protection Programme and hidden in the least-likely place she’d ever be found - a convent! Whilst there, Deloris breathes new life into the nuns’ choir turning them into gospel superstars and learns there’s more to life than fame and fortune. Based on the 1992 megahit film starring Whoopi Goldberg, Sister Act - The Musical has a powerful gospel and disco-inspired score by 8-time Oscar winner Alan Menken.

Mon 21 to Sat 26 Jan Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri & Sat 7.30pm Sat 2.30pm Tickets £10 to £24 Discounts available

Age guideline 6+

Oxford’s award-winning society, OXOPS, returns to the Oxford Playhouse with this moving and feel-good musical after their 5-star production of Fiddler on the Roof earlier this year.

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

01865 305305

Coming soon... now on sale

Tue 16 to Sat 20 Apr Tue, Wed, Thu & Sat 7.30pm Fri 8pm Thu & Sat 2.30pm Tickets £10 to £30 Discounts available FULL CIRCLE AND ENJOY

50% OFF Age guideline 12+ OPINION An unmissable theatrical and literary treat. Louise Chantal Director/CEO

01865 305305

A Royal & Derngate, Northampton and Out of Joint co-production in association with Oxford Playhouse

THE REMAINS OF THE DAY Based on the book by Kazuo Ishiguro Adapted by Barney Norris Directed by Christopher Haydon 2017 Nobel Prize winner Kazuo Ishiguro’s literary masterpiece of undeclared love has entranced generations as a novel and film. Oxford Playhouse is delighted to be co-producing this World Premiere stage production, adapted by one of Britain’s most exciting young writers, Barney Norris. A deeply atmospheric drama about time and memory, loneliness and longing, The Remains of the Day depicts the morally-compromised truth behind a world of manicured gardens, formal dinners and grand houses. As the fires rage through England during and after the Second World War, we get an intimate glimpse into one man’s half-lived life, realised too late.

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

BURTON TAYLOR STUDIO

COMEDY DRAMA POETRY FAMILY These shows have been created here in the county, either by Oxford Playhouse or by local artists, amateur and professional.

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

Theatre and events especially for families. Come and play in the foyer area before and after the show.

01865 305305

BURTON TAYLOR STUDIO China Plate and Audible present

ON THE EXHALE by Martín Zimmerman

Tue 28 Aug to Sat 1 Sep 7.30pm

After a devastating school shooting, a woman develops an obsession that begins to take over her existence. The UK premiere of Martín Zimmerman’s “startlingly original” (New York Times) play is a compulsive and visceral examination of American gun violence directed by double Fringe First awardwinner Christopher Haydon (Grounded & The Christians).

Tickets £10 | £8 Age guideline 14+

1918-2018

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1918

2018

1918

2018

1918

2018

1918

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1918 2018

Marvellous Machine presents

VIRGINIA WOOLF’S ORLANDO

Tue 4 to Sat 8 Sep

Adapted by Sarah Ruhl

Following their sell-out hit The Tiger’s Bride, Marvellous Machine return to the BT with their adaptation of Virginia Woolf’s high-spirited romp.

Tickets £10 | £8 concessions

Age guideline 14+

Expect live music, comedy and drag.

1918-2018

ThisEgg & Stefanie Mueller in collaboration with Hoipolloi present

UNCONDITIONAL

1918 2018

Mon 17 to Wed 19 Sep 7.30pm

What Josie wants for her mother, and Steffi wants for her daughter is the same - a better world.

Tickets £10 | £8

Both touching and laugh-outloud hilarious, this show is a joyous celebration of equality and liberation between a mother and her grown-up daughter.

“Deliciously eccentric.” Guardian on ThisEgg

Age guideline 14+

1918-2018

01865 305305

1918 2018

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

BURTON TAYLOR STUDIO Thu 20 Sep 7.30pm

SHAKESPEARE’S MAD WOMEN Juliet is about to kill herself. All Lady Macbeth and Ophelia can do is wait for her to arrive. Together they play cards, drink moonshine from teacups, and piece together the remnants of their pasts. This hit dark comedy from Lady Garden Theatre explores the ‘what if’ behind three of Shakespeare’s most famous female characters, why female characters are reduced to no more than ‘mad women’, and why was Hamlet so obsessed with himself?

Tickets £10 | £8 Age guideline 14+ “An intelligently satirical look into Shakespearean tropes.” ★★★★ Voice Mag 1918-2018

1918

1918 2018

Tue 25 Sep 7.30pm

Milk Presents

BULLISH Written and Directed by Lucy J Skilbeck Meet Asterion, better known as the bloodthirsty Minotaur of Ancient Crete. Follow them through one cabaret odyssey, one strapping search for the man they might want to be. From the makers of smash hit JOAN comes BULLISH, a mythical play with songs, negotiating ancient and new territories in trans-masculine gender and identity. BULLISH is a story about packing, passing, and gambling your way out of the labyrinth.

Tickets £10 Age guideline 12+ “A triumphant piece of theatre that is entertaining and thought-provoking in equal measure.” ★★★★ Everything Theatre 1918-2018

1918 2018

SALT. A journey to the bottom of the Atlantic Ocean. In 2016, two artists retraced one of the routes of the Transatlantic Slave Triangle - from the UK to Ghana to Jamaica, and back. It was a long journey backwards, in order to go forwards.

Thu 4 & Fri 5 Oct 7.30pm Tickets £10 | £8 Age guideline 12+ Winner of the The Stage Edinburgh award

This show is what they brought back. 1918-2018

1918 2018

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

01865 305305

1918

BURTON TAYLOR STUDIO HOW TO HIDE A LION

Sat 22 & Sun 23 Sep

Don’t miss Oxford Playhouse’s and Polka Theatre’s own production of Helen Stephens’ rip-roaring story as it returns to the BT. When a lion is chased out of town, a young girl helps him find somewhere to hide. It’s not easy – lions are too big, too fluffy and too heavy! Join Iris on a mission to squeeze and squash her furry new friend into a variety of sneaky spots, as Helen Stephens’ magical book comes to life this with playful humour, dazzling puppetry and original songs.

PLINK AND BOO

Showtimes Sat 2pm & 4pm Sun 11am & 2pm Tickets £8 | £6 Age guideline 3-6

Sat 29 Sep 11am, 1.30pm & 3.30pm

Welcome to the topsy turvy world of Plink and Boo. Using acrobatics, live music and mountains of toys, join us in an interactive circus theatre adventure to explore what happens when people don’t fit into boxes (even if it is the neatest place to put them).

Tickets £8 | £6 Age guideline 2-5

Can't Sit Still creates new, devised circus theatre performances. They tell stories, start conversations, and try to change the world.

Sat 6 Oct 11am to 3pm

OXFORD FUN PALACE Everyone an Artist, Everyone a Scientist. Come and join in with Fun Palaces 2018 - a fun, FREE nationwide family festival of arts and science. Make your own rocket, complete a treasure hunt and much more, including workshops and performances, Oxford will become the starting point for a whole world of adventures. Don’t miss this exciting family fun day and get hands-on with the science behind theatre.

01865 305305

Tickets free just drop in Age guideline 5+ (younger siblings welcome)

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

JOIN IN AT OP YOUNG COMPANIES HOLIDAY WORKSHOPS ADULTS

To book a place on any participatory workshop, course or young company, call the Box Office 01865 305305. Oxford Playhouse has a bursary scheme for anyone who wants to take part but may need help with fees. To apply, email learning@oxfordplayhouse.com

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

01865 305305

Photo: Geraint Lewis

YOUNG COMPANIES

12|16 YOUNG COMPANY

17|25 YOUNG COMPANY

Tue 4 Sep to Tue 13 Nov

Wed 26 Sep to Wed 14 Nov

(no session Tue 23 Oct)

Aged 12 to 16 years with a passion for theatre? These sessions offer you the opportunity to work on various techniques to improve devising skills, develop your voice and movement vocabulary, explore text and create a character. This term, 12|16 Young Company will devise their own piece, adapted from world stories and fables, to be performed for our new 7|10 Young Company.

If you’ve an enthusiasm for theatre-making and improving your acting skills, join the 17|25 Young Company. You will work intensively in an ensemble company that will perform on the Oxford Playhouse main stage in April 2019. All this whilst having fun and making new friends. “It has pushed me in a personal and professional level. Meeting new people and making new friends has been great.” 17|25 participant

YOUNG PLAYMAKER

Oxford Playhouse in partnership with Oxford Playmaker

Thu 6 Sep to Thu 21 Mar (no sessions 25 Oct and 21 Feb)

These weekly workshops are for young writers keen to write a short play, led by professional playwright Renata Allen. Writers will acquire the skills needed to develop their ideas and write a play. A selection of completed plays will be staged in the Burton Taylor Studio in July 2019. “It was a fantastic experience; I learnt a lot, produced something I never thought I would be able to, and had great fun along the way.” Young Playmaker participant

Time 5 - 7.30pm

Location Top Room

Location Gladstone Room

Tickets £60

Tickets £70

Tickets £150 for two terms

Age 12 to 16

Age 17 to 25

Age 15 to 20

Please note, the Top Room and Burton Taylor Studio are not accessible in a wheelchair.

01865 305305

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

HOLIDAY WORKSHOPS

PLAY IN A WEEK: COMEDY AND RAGS TO RICHES CLOWNING

7|10 YOUNG COMPANY

Mon 6 to Fri 10 Aug

Mon 20 to Fri 24 Aug

Tue 4 Sep to Tue 16 Oct

Join Dick Whittington and his (or her) cat, a few kittens and some rats – on a landlubbering and seafaring adventure – for a fun-filled week with our Playhouse Practitioners.

This workshop is packed full of improvisation games and techniques, basic clown and physical comedy alongside devising and storytelling.

The 7|10 Young Company is a series of fun after-school activity sessions that will build your child’s confidence and support their creative development.

Inspired by this year’s pantomime Dick Whittington and His Cat, we encourage your child’s imagination to set sail! This high-energy week will use improvisation, slapstick and rhyming to create a performance for friends and family at the end of the week. “It has been a fantastic experience. I have loved every minute of it.” Workshop participant Time 10am to 4pm (drop off from 9am) Location Burton Taylor Studio Tickets £125

During this fun-filled week, where mistakes are an absolute must, Mark Curtis will guide you through a series of games and exercises; exploring improvisation, game play and slapstick skills, to discover your silly self. Be prepared to work hard, play hard and laugh hard whilst making new friends. There will be an informal sharing at the end of the week, for family and friends. Time 10am to 4pm Location Burton Taylor Studio Tickets £150 Age 11 to 16

Age 7 to 10

During these weekly sessions your child will play games and explore devising and storytelling skills using the story of Dick Whittington and His Cat. There will be a short performance at the end of the final session, for the children to share their work with family and friends.

Time 4.30 to 6pm (drop off from 4pm) Location and booking The Mill Arts Centre, Banbury OX16 5QE 01295 279002 Tickets £5 per session Age 7 to 10

Please note, the Top Room and Burton Taylor Studio are not accessible in a wheelchair.

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

01865 305305

ADULTS

ADULT WORKSHOPS Whether you’re attending drama school, starting your career, retired and seeking new challenges or just looking to develop new skills, come along and try a day or spend the week with us. Stage Combat Tue 14 Aug | Led by Tom Jordan Voice and Text Wed 15 Aug | Led by Michael Corbidge Directing Thu 16 Aug | Led by James Farrell Acting Sat 18 Aug | Led by Stan Hodgson Clowning Sun 19 Aug | Led by Mark Curtis

AUDITIONING FOR DRAMA SCHOOL Wed 24 Oct This workshop explores everything you need to prepare for applying for theatre and performing arts courses. Covering voice, movement and text exercises, this is an essential intensive day for anyone planning to, or in the process of, applying for drama school. You will have the opportunity to discuss drama schools and courses. There’s no need to prepare a speech for this practical workshop but book early to avoid disappointment. “A well structured and enjoyable workshop. It was challenging and rewarding, I learned a lot.” Participant

Time 10am to 4pm

Location Burton Taylor Studio

Location Top Room

Tickets Day £30 | Five Sessions £130

Tickets £30 Age 16+

Age 16+ Please note, the Top Room and Burton Taylor Studio are not accessible in a wheelchair.

01865 305305

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

ADULTS

40+ ACTING COMPANY

SPOTLIGHT

Thursdays 6, 13 & 27 Sep 4, 11 & 18 Oct

Thu 20 Sep | Othello Thu 15 Nov | Wise Children

This is a company for anyone aged 40 or over with an enthusiasm to play and explore text on your feet. During these sessions you will work through technical exercises to develop your performance skills and explore different genres of theatre, looking at play extracts, discussing themes and characters and working through monologues and duologues. “I thoroughly enjoy these sessions and feel inspired after each one.” Participant

Spotlight is for anyone aged 50 or over with an interest in theatre. Each session is a friendly and relaxed lunchtime meet-up to socialise and talk all things theatre. Spotlight is led by a member of OP staff, joined by a guest to talk more about their role in the current show, or themes and issues explored in this season’s productions. Enjoy interesting conversation and a sandwich lunch before taking in the matinee performance. New Spotlighters are always welcome, why not bring a friend? “I love these sessions. Always very interesting and some really excellent speakers.” Spotlight member

Time 5.30 to 7.30pm

Time 12.30 to 2pm

Location Top Room

Tickets £20 including refreshments and ticket to the matinee at 2.30pm

Tickets £10 per session

Age 50+

Age 40+ Please note, the Top Room and Burton Taylor Studio are not accessible in a wheelchair.

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

01865 305305

THANK YOU TO ALL OUR SUPPORTERS Trusts Ammco Trust Anonymous The Arts Society Oxford CHK Charities Ltd Doris Field Charitable Trust The Ernest Cook Trust The Foyle Foundation The Gannett Foundation The Garrick Charitable Trust The Late Mrs Margaret Guido’s Charitable Trust The Lord Faringdon Charitable Trust The Mactaggart Third Fund Mr & Mrs J A Pye’s Charitable Settlement The Pharsalia Charitable Trust Roundton Trust The Souldern Trust University of Oxford College Members All Souls College Campion Hall Lincoln College St Hilda’s College The Queen’s College Pembroke College

Learning and Productions Support

12|16 Young Company Sponsors

Equipment and Technical Support

Building Support

OP Business Club

Platinum

Gold

Silver

Bronze

01865 305305

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

THANK YOU At Oxford Playhouse we are passionate about what we do and hope that you are too. By coming to the Playhouse, you help to keep the theatre thriving. If you can, please consider making a gift to support our future. Gifts of all sizes are greatly appreciated. Trusts Ammco Trust Anonymous The Arts Society Oxford CHK Charities Ltd Doris Field Charitable Trust The Ernest Cook Trust The Foyle Foundation The Gannett Foundation The Garrick Charitable Trust The Late Mrs Margaret Guido’s Charitable Trust The Lord Faringdon Charitable Trust The Mactaggart Third Fund Mr & Mrs J A Pye’s Charitable Settlement The Pharsalia Charitable Trust Roundton Trust The Souldern Trust University of Oxford College Members All Souls College Campion Hall Lincoln College St Hilda’s College The Queen’s College Pembroke College Friends of Oxford Playhouse Applause Rev Charlotte & Mr William Bannister-Parker Mr & Mrs David Barnett Prof Sir Clive & Lady Margaret Booth John P H Bradley Prof Sir Richard & Lady Elizabeth Brook Anthony W Budgen Liesl Elder David & Julia Harland Simon & Alison Jeffreys Deborah Laidlaw Keith McCullagh Elizabeth Paris Sue Staunton Timothy & Marion Stevenson

Jens Tholstrup Dr Trudy Watt Frank Webster Ovation Debbie Dance Dr Sos Eltis Richard Gladstone John & Margaret Leighfield Prof & Mrs Colin Mayer John Parrott Standing Ovation Anonymous Edward & Anna Bernard Sandy & Danby Bloch Lucy Group Ltd. David & Sue Jackson Donors £100+ Joan Aitken C S & D Alexander Mary E Allen P G Angel Edwin Antill Louise Armstrong B Attley Lady Helen M Baker Andy Beaumont Jonny M Bell Dr B J Birch Prof Jonathan & Mrs Nicola Black John Bleach Valerie Boasten A J & N Boughton Dr Julie Bowdler Robert Campbell Prof John & Mrs Gillian Carey Helen M Chinner Richard Clapham Brendan Coffey P John Coulter Elizabeth A Dalziel Beverly Davies Valerie Davies Prof Paul Davies & Ms Saphieh Ashtiany Ron & Bridget Doole

Catherine Eddy Mr & Mrs John Edmond Gill Emberson Kathleen Emmens G B Fox Michael Gillibrand Sheila & Peter Glazebrook Prof Richard F Gombrich S M Goodwin Prof Alan Grafen Diana Griffin Alison Gunn & Tony Walton Heywood Hadfield Richard & S Hayes Neil Hicks Geraldine Hodson Dr Leofranc Holford-Strevens & Dr Bonnie Blackburn Ronald Howes Dr Jane Impey R J Isaac Sarah Jones Anthony M Joyce Dr & Mrs Frank E Kenyon Timothy Kidd Elizabeth M Knowles Owen Kyffin Susannah M Lankester Geoffrey B Lescott John F Luke Ann Magnani John C May Julia Miles Dr David W Millard M J Morris Elaine O’Driscoll Sue J O’Hare Mike & Jane O’Regan Richard Osmond Brian W Plater Robert Vernon Porter Yvonne Rainey Mr & Mrs P Rippon David W Rischmiller Dr A G & Mrs S Searle Joan M Swindells Edward D J Thomas

Mark R Tolley S Trott Peter Vandermin Margarida Velozo de Melo Bento Dr Catherine Walter George A Webb Colin & Susan Webster P G & P A Wells The Whitchurch and District Theatre Club Jane Wilson June R Wright Anthony T Young A special thank you to all Patrons Volunteers Trustees Donors Anonymous Donors

We would also like to thank our anonymous supporters, donors who have given less than £100 in the past year, and donors who have supported us in previous years whose names we are unable to list here but whose help makes such a difference at the Playhouse.

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01865 305305

ACCESS FACILITIES Oxford Playhouse offers a range of access facilities. To find out more call the Ticket Office on 01865 305305 or email access@oxfordplayhouse.com Sennheiser infrared headset system for those who are hard of hearing. Please ask the Ticket Office staff at the time of booking to advise you on the best places to sit for using the Sennheiser headsets. Level access from the street to the auditorium. Low level counters at the Ticket Office and Bar. Wheelchair spaces (Stalls end of rows E and L and centre of row T). Unfortunately the Top Room cannot be accessed by wheelchair users. The BT Studio is accessed via two flights of stairs. If you require a stair climber please let the Ticket Office know at least three days in advance. Captioned performances for those who are deaf, deafened and hard of hearing, or who find it useful to follow the text during a show. British Sign Language (BSL) signed performances where an interpreter stands at the side of the stage for people who use BSL. Audio described performances where (via headphones) a live narrator describes the action in the pauses between the onstage dialogue for those are blind or partially sighted. Audio recordings of our Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s On Guide are available on request. Free touch tours accompany audio described performances and are a chance to explore the set before the show begins. Relaxed performances are aimed at anyone who would benefit from a laid-back environment, including people with Autistic Spectrum condition, a learning disability or young children. The house lights will be partially on, audience members can come and go as they please and make noise if they want to.

01865 305305

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ACCESS DIARY... Date Day

Production

July 18 Wed Birdsong

Time(s)

Venue

Access Page

7.30pm

21 Sat Birdsong August

2.30pm Touch Tour 1pm

29 Wed Duet for One

7.30pm

September 5

7.30pm

26 Wed The Habit of Art

Wed The Wipers Times

7.30pm

29 Sat

2.30pm

The Habit of Art

Touch Tour 1pm

25 Tue Bullish

7.30pm

2.30pm Touch Tour 1pm 2.30pm Touch Tour 1pm

Alby the Penguin Saves Christmas

All Performances from 6 Dec to 5 Jan

9 Sun Dick Whittington and his Cat 29 Sat Dick Whittington and his Cat

4pm Touch Tour 2.30pm 6pm Touch Tour 4.30pm

October 3

Wed Women in Power

31 Wed Shakespeare in Love November 3 Sat Shakespeare in Love 17 Sat Wise Children December

January 2

Wed Dick Whittington and his Cat

4pm

Thu Dick Whittington and his Cat

11am

Sat

7pm

Dick Whittington and his Cat

16 Wed The Comedy About a Bank Robbery 7.30pm

19 Sat The Comedy About a Bank Robbery 2.30pm OP Touch Tour 12.30pm

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01865 305305

TICKETS AND DISCOUNTS All week-long professional shows have an allocation of £10 tickets to ensure that everyone can experience our productions, but these seats may sell quickly. We always recommend that you book early to secure the best seats at the best price. To ensure the best experience for our audiences and performers, some seats are not offered for sale until the rows nearest the stage are full. If you have any specific access requirements please contact our Ticket Office Staff, who will do their best to ensure you get the seat you want when it is available. Exchanges and reselling tickets To exchange your tickets for another event you must inform the Ticket Office and the tickets must be returned so that the box office have the tickets in hand at least 24 hours prior to the advertised start time of the event. If an event is sold out we can try and resell your tickets (not guaranteed). You must let the Ticket Office know as soon as possible before the start of the event. Discount Group

Ticket Price

Up to 50% off opening night or Saturday matinees for week-long shows. Bonus discounts of 25% or 50% on most shorter runs. Free, £5 or £10 subject to availability.

Conditions Available on up to two tickets, on either the opening night or the Saturday matinee, for almost every production, for all Full Circle & Enjoy members. Membership starts from £50 a year. For more information, visit www.oxfordplayhouse.com/become-a-member You must be aged 14 to 25 and a member of OPT in! Membership costs £5. Join at the Ticket Office or visit www.oxfordplayhouse.com/opt-in for more details.

In Advance

£4 off each ticket. Available for most shows on full priced tickets of more than £10 for people 18 and under, Full Time University/College Students (must provide ID on collection), JSAs, BECTU and Equity members. No further discounts available. £11.50 tickets for students and under 18s are available for student shows, and must be booked by the Sunday before the show starts.

Access Users

£11.50 or £15 per ticket. Available for most shows for access facility users, wheelchair users and one companion.

Schools & Colleges

£11.50 or £15 per ticket plus one free teacher seat for every 10 seats booked.

An allocation of tickets is available Monday to Thursday for most shows. School tickets for Dick Whittington and his Cat are from £12.50.

Group Rate 20% off full priced For all groups of 10 or more. Not available online, tickets for most email james.ousley@oxfordplayhouse.com for group performances. bookings. Payment must be made as one transaction. Over 60s Matinee £14 Limited number available to anyone over 60 for most Thu & Sat matinee performances. Must be booked before the week of the show. Max 4 tickets per person for The Wipers Times, The Habit of Art, Shakespeare In Love and The Comedy About A Bank Robbery. Conditions: All discounts are subject to availability and at the discretion of the Duty Ticket Office Manager and may not be available for all shows. Discounted tickets cannot be booked in conjunction with any other reductions or offers. Proof of status is required. Please note that not all discounts are available with online booking.

01865 305305

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BOOKING INFORMATION Seating Plan Possible limited view. Please call the Ticket Office for further information. These seats can be removed to accommodate wheelchairs. Please call the Ticket Office for further information. Rows AA to C are sometimes removed for staging and are therefore not always available â&#x20AC;&#x201C; please check with the Ticket Office when booking.

G23 G27

FIRST FLOOR

G5 G1

F27

E27

D27

C27

B27

A27

View from Row A Circle

W22 W27

U23

U26

GROUND FLOOR

U18

U6 U7

T27

S27

R26

Q27

P26

N27

M26

L27

K26

J27

H26

View from Row K, Stalls

G26

F25

E25

D24

C23

B22

A21 AA20

A8 AA9

View from Row A, Stalls

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01865 305305

USEFUL INFORMATION

Our address Oxford Playhouse, Beaumont Street, Oxford OX1 2LW Ticket Office: 01865 305305 www.oxfordplayhouse.com Opening hours Monday to Saturday 10am to 6pm, or until 30 minutes after the start of the evening show. We open at 10.30am on Wednesdays. Sundays and Bank Holidays we open two hours before the show. How to get to us Park and Ride: Using one of Oxford’s five Park and Ride services is probably the easiest way to get around the city. For more information visit www.parkandride.net. Car Parking: Nearby car parks include Gloucester Green (closest), Worcester Street, Abbey Place, Oxpens and Oxford Rail Station. There are on-street pay-and-display metres on Broad Street, St Giles and in Jericho. Train: Oxford Rail Station is a 10 minute walk. For Oxford Parkway use the Park and Ride. Bus and Coach: The main Bus and Coach Station is two minutes’ walk away on Gloucester Green.

01865 305305

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

01865 305305

JANUARY TO APRIL 2019 On sale November 2018

Oxford Playhouse

LOOK OUT FOR OUR NEXT SEASON...

July 2018 to January 2019

Oxford Playhouse Trust gratefully acknowledges the support of its core funders:

www.oxfordplayhouse.com Registered Company No. 2397373 • Registered Charity No. 900039 • VAT No. 537166534

WHAT’S ON GUIDE AUTUMN 2018

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