welcome to The Stables
Located in the village of Wavendon, Buckinghamshire and only a few minutes’ drive from the centre of Milton Keynes, The Stables is one the UK’s best-loved music venues.
Founded by the world-famous jazz musicians Sir John Dankworth and Dame Cleo Laine in 1970, the venue now presents more than 400 performances each year across all musical genres in our two venue spaces – the Jim Marshall Auditorium (capacity 398) and Stage 2 (capacity 80) – and welcomes more than 100,000 customers through its doors.
A year-round programme of music-related workshops and courses for all ages and abilities to develop their musical skills is also available –for full details, turn to page 42.
We look forward to seeing you soon!
Turn Up The Volume! is The Stables’ new monthly podcast. Each month we’ll bring you lively conversations with upcoming Stables artists and bands, exclusive looks behind the scenes, along with news and updates on what’s coming up.
Visit stables.org to take a listen to the later episode.
contents
front cover artists
information key
Friends and Founders are entitled to a 10% discount. Please notify the box office when making your reservation.
New shows which are open for public booking from Wednesday 13 September prior to which Stables Friends have priority
Denotes an education event or a concert with an associated education event. Ask Box Office for details.
This event takes place in Stage 2.
This event takes place in Mancini Forum.
Saturday 21 October page 11
Monday 6 November page 18
Wednesday 22 November page 22
Christmas Fun at The Stables
Box
Tale Soup present Hansel & Gretel
Monday 18 - Saturday 23 December, performances daily 11am & 2pm (18 Dec, 4pm only)
Relaxed performance on Wednesday 20 December, 2pm
Hansel & Gretel are so excited, it’s their favourite time of year – Christmas! But when they get lost deep in the woods, it seems they’ll never make it back in time for Christmas dinner… until they discover a whole host of new friends willing to help them out! And perhaps the Witch living in that delicious gingerbread house isn’t quite what she seems…
Join award-winning Box Tale Soup for a brand-new festive take on this classic fairy tale adventure, with beautiful puppets, innovative theatre and magical original music.
A co-production with the Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham.
*RELAXED PERFORMANCE ON WEDNESDAY 20 DECEMBER AT 2PM: This performance is designed for people who will benefit from a more relaxed environment, including those with an autism spectrum condition, sensory and communication disorders or a learning disability.
Would you like to hear the story?
It begins two days before Christmas, with a Witch and a magic spell… ”
Last few tickets
Last few tickets
Last few tickets
16+ 16+
Axel Blake
Sunday 1 October, 8pm £22.50
Britain’s Got Talent 2022 winner Axel Blake is heading out on the road with his new show. From the wilds of Dunstable, Axel arrived on the country’s living-room screens in style as Simon Cowell’s golden buzzer on BGT. His observational comedy paired with his witty charm captivated the audience, propelling him to be crowned 2022 champion of the hit show.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Stephen K. Amos 4 Nov
Brian Bilston
Tuesday 3 October, 8pm £16.50
Brian Bilston has been described as the Banksy of poetry and Twitter’s unofficial poet laureate – with more than 200,000 followers on social media, he has become truly beloved by the online community. Brian has published two collections of poetry, You Took the Last Bus Home (Unbound, 2016) and Alexa, what is there to know about love? (Picador, 2021), and his novel Diary of a Somebody (Picador, 2019) was shortlisted for the Costa first novel award.
Judy Collins + support from Blanid
Wednesday 4 October, 8pm £33.50
Cultural treasure Judy Collins performs her 29th studio album, Spellbound, alongside material from a career spanning more than 50 years. Her latest album demonstrates an artistic renaissance and features 12 modern folk songs and a reworking of her much-loved track The Blizzard.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Martha Tilston 1 Dec
Ed Byrne: Tragedy Plus Time
Thursday 5 October, 8pm £31
As attributed to Mark Twain, humour is defined as Tragedy Plus Time. Come and join Ed as he tests that formula by mining the most tragic event in his life for laughs.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Jason Byrne 16 Nov
gift ideas
The Enid
Friday 6 October, 8pm £25
The Enid was founded by Robert John Godfrey, Francis Lickerish and Stephen Stewart in 1973, recording their debut album In The Region Of The Summer Stars the following year. 2023 sees the expansion of The Enid’s touring line-up with the introduction of virtuoso guitarist Alfredo Randazzo and renowned bassist Tim Harries. The show will feature new music from the band.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The Dark Side of the Moon 8 Dec
Brother Strut
Saturday 7 October, 8pm £30.50
Brother Strut are a funk and soul band made up of top session musicians who’ve sold over half a billion records between them. The band’s upcoming album features guest appearances by Cory Wong, Elkie Brooks and John Thirkell. Celebrating their 10th anniversary, they’re returning to the road for a UK tour!
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Funk Soul Orchestra 29 Feb 2024
Ronnie Scott’s All Star Band
Sunday 8 October, 8pm £25
Direct from London’s famous jazz club and combining worldclass live jazz, narration and rare archive images and footage, the Ronnie Scott’s All Stars take to the stage to celebrate The Ronnie Scott’s Soho Songbook.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The Clare Teal Four 11 Nov
Your support helps us to continue providing music and music-making opportunities for children and adults alike.
For more information contact box office on 01908 280800 or email development@stables.org
The Overtones
Tuesday 10 October, 8pm £35
The Overtones are best known for their exquisite vocals, pitchperfect harmonies, effortless dance moves and their charming style. With a mix of originality and classic nostalgia, their showstopping performances have made them one of the UK’s most in-demand live acts.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Tenors UnLimited 7 Dec
Gary & Robbie Live in Concert
Wednesday 11 October, 8pm £30
Two of the finest international tribute artists come together for a truly unforgettable evening of Barlow, Williams and Take That classics. Jon Fisher and Dan Budd each have an astonishing likeness to the artists they portray, and their stage performances and vocals are breathtaking. Jon and Dan are joined by their live band for a show that will leave you imagining the real deal is right in front of your eyes.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Coldplace 22 Feb 2024
feeling peckish?
Our snack bar is open from 7pm serving a variety of snacks, soft drinks, teas and coffees. Or why not enjoy a luxury Marshfield Farm ice-cream during the interval?
Save time at the bar! Place your interval drinks order at the bar before the show starts.
Best of Queen
For more information on eatingand drinking at The Stables visit stables.org
Thursday 12 October, 8pm Standing only available £30
Get ready to Break Free with Majesty, the UK’s biggest Queen tribute band. Join Freddie, Brian, Roger and John as they take you on a magical journey, performing the music of the UK’s favourite rock band.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Nights on Broadway 26 Apr 2024
Returns Only
Lindisfarne
Friday 13 October, 8pm £33
Legendary Tyneside 70s folk-rock pioneers Lindisfarne return to form with a classic five-piece line-up of long-time members fronted by original founder-member Rod Clements on vocals, mandolin, fiddle and slide guitar. The band’s power to galvanise festival and concert audiences remains undimmed and is guaranteed to get the crowd on its feet and singing along.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Churchfitters 8 Dec
Last few tickets
Nearly Dan
Saturday 14 October, 8pm £23.50
Less tribute, more homage, Nearly Dan are saviours to the growing legions of Dan fans desperate to hear the meticulously crafted grooves and allusive lyrical style of Donald Fagen and Walter Becker. Nearly Dan’s approach is faithful though not reverential, and relaxed but as tight as their namesakes.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Talon 17 & 18 Nov
Last few tickets
Limehouse Lizzy
Monday 16 October, 8pm £26
Limehouse Lizzy continue to keep the spirit of Celtic rock icon Phil Lynott alive and well. From receiving their official PRS award, performing for Virgin Atlantic in Barbados and TV appearances (BBC2’s Arena among others), to being recruited to record and tour by members of the original Thin Lizzy band, Limehouse Lizzy enter their 25th year with their most explosive show and critically acclaimed line-up yet.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: T.Rextasy 26 Jan 2024
Kathryn Tickell & The Darkening
Tuesday 17 October, 8pm £23.50
‘The Darkening’ is the Northumbrian name for twilight, but this band’s music blazes fiercely. Pipes, fiddle, lyre, drums and voices conjure spirits from ancient Northumbria, bringing them to life with a new resonance for the modern world.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Eliza Carthy & Jon Boden 26 Nov
Ligeti Quartet: WeCompose Schools Concert
Wednesday 18 October, 11am
For Key Stage 3 pupils from participating schools
An introductory concert for schools taking part in the WeCompose project. WeCompose is a project, developed by Music in the Round and hosted by The Stables, which introduces KS3 students from all backgrounds to composition, creativity and collaboration. Students will be supported by visits from emerging and professional composers to help create their own music, which will be performed with the internationally renowned Ligeti Quartet in an end-of-project concert at The Stables in March 2024.
This introductory concert includes a diverse range of classic and new compositions to provide inspiration and jumping off points for students to help create their own work. For more information, contact education@stables.org
Ligeti Quartet: Nuc
Wednesday 18 October, 8pm
£20
Anna Meredith has achieved incredible success straddling many musical worlds, never compromising her raw, individual style. This concert showcases the Ligeti Quartet’s new album, Nuc, providing a survey of her career to date, heard through her original works for string quartet. The result is a joyful, occasionally furious, never too serious collection of tracks which dazzle with Anna’s signature compulsive harmonies, rhythmic shifts of gear and sparkling textures.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Alina Orchestra 29 Oct
Free tickets for Under-25s
As a member of the Cavatina Trust ticket scheme, which enables young people to enjoy live chamber music, we are able to offer a limited number of free tickets to eight- to 25-year-olds for this concert. To book these tickets, contact the box office.
Albert Lee
Thursday 19 October, 8pm £29.50
Albert Lee is one of the world’s greatest guitarists, as well as an accomplished piano player blessed with a soulful voice. He has appeared and recorded with many of the finest performers in the music industry, including Glen Campbell, Dave Edmunds, Joan Armatrading and Joe Cocker. Albert was a member of The Everly Brothers, Emmylou Harris’s band and Bill Wyman’s Rhythm Kings and toured extensively with all of them.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Billy Joel Albums Show 22 Oct
Syd Lawrence Orchestra
Friday 20 October, 8pm £26.50 & £24.50
This is a big band extravaganza not to be missed – a rip-roaring swing journey performed by the finest musicians in the country and featuring the music of Glenn Miller, Count Basie, Tommy Dorsey, Neal Hefti, Billy May, Frank Sinatra and Ella Fitzgerald. Expect to hear all your favourites, including In The Mood, The Peanut Vendor and Moonlight Serenade.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Dankworth Family Christmas Show 9 Dec
Släpstick: Scherzo
Saturday 21 October, 8pm £31 & £27.50 (under-16s £13.50)
Släpstick’s Scherzo is a clown-esque concerto for the ages, in which a seemingly highbrow evening of classical repertoire glissandos into a bacchanal of comical mishaps and absurdity. Gasp in amazement as the ghost of George Gershwin accompanies a flotilla of rolling instruments and an entire symphony orchestra is recreated by only five musicians and an inflatable conductor. It’s Chaplin meets Tchaikovsky, Buster versus Bernstein and Groucho Marx does Mozart!
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Grafitti Classic 27 Mar 2024
Dario Napoli Trio
Sunday 22 October, 11.30am £16.50
Bandleader and guitarist Dario Napoli includes elements of modern musical styles such as bebop, funk and modern jazz in his version of gypsy swing. The result is an unpredictable and exuberant sound, leading you through a rich and vibrant sonic experience, without ever totally abandoning the gypsy imprint of Django Reinhardt.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Moscow Drug Club 26 Oct
Enjoy some fabulous Sunday-morning jazz in the Mancini Forum (The Stables’ main foyer). We’ll be presenting an enticing mix of established names and rising stars of the UK jazz scene – the perfect way to start the day.
Dario Napoli Trio
Sunday 22 October, 11.30am £16.50
Bandleader and guitarist Dario Napoli includes elements of modern musical styles such as bebop, funk and modern jazz in his version of gypsy swing. The result is an exuberant sound, leading you through a rich and vibrant sonic experience, without ever totally abandoning the gypsy imprint of Django Reinhardt.
Paul Higgs Quartet: Cult TV Jazz Themes
Sunday 19 November, 11.30am £16.50
Trumpeter Paul Higgs and his Quartet present a concert of cult TV jazz themes, including Spider-Man, Star Trek, Pink Panther and Doctor Who. Some of the world’s best jazz composers were commissioned to write these memorable and much-loved themes including Neal Hefti, Henry Mancini, Johnny Dankworth and Ron Grainer.
L’esprit du Jazz
Sunday 17 December, 11.30am £16.50
Led by accordionist Karen Street, L’esprit du Jazz explore French Musette, Brazilian tunes and original compositions, alongside favourite jazz standards. Featuring Sam Dunn on guitar, Charlie Pyne on bass and vocals and Katie Patterson on drums.
Ben Holder Trio
Sunday 21 January 2024, 11.30am £16.50
Ben Holder is the UK’s most exciting young jazz violinist. His Trio is a stellar line-up of incredible musicians, performing an energetic mix of traditional jazz and Gypsy swing alongside Ben’s own infectious originals, which hark back to the fun and swing of the 1920s and 1930s.
Doors open at 11am. Coffee, tea and light snacks will be available before each concert.
THAT LAZY SUNDAY MORNING FEELING ENJOY
Family Fun Day
Monday 23 October
Come and take part in our free day of music-related performances and activities for young people.
Tickets for all events are free, but must be booked in advance.
Alina Orchestra
Band In A Van
Performances at 11am & 2pm (each performance lasts approximately one hour)
Ideal for ages 4-12 and their families, but young families and toddlers very welcome. (All children must be accompanied by an adult)
Alina Orchestra take their musicians on the road and put a Band In A Van to get to the heart of local communities. Don’t miss this family-friendly, interactive concert where the audience is part of the event!
The ensemble plays anything from Disney to classical and there’s plenty of opportunity for the audience to sing and play along – and all in a fun, friendly and relaxed atmosphere.
Milton Keynes Play Association
Make & Decorate Your Own
Musical Instrument
Sessions at 10am, 12.15pm & 3.15pm (each workshop last approximately one hour)
Ideal for ages 3+ and their families. (All children must be accompanied by an adult)
It’s your chance to get creative by taking part in this music-themed art and craft workshop. All materials will be supplied.
A range of food and drink will be available throughout the day.
Last few tickets Returns Only
The Billy Joel Albums Show
starring Elio Pace with special guests Rhys Clark & Don Evans
Sunday 22 October, 8pm £33.50
The Albums Show is back... for a sixth and final time! Poised to become the first artist in the world to play all 12 of Billy Joel’s studio albums live on stage, the award-winning Elio Pace and his sensational band perform the final two albums of the 12 in their entirety – Cold Spring Harbor from 1971 and 1993’s River Of Dreams.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Talon 17 & 18 Nov
Viggo Venn
Monday 23 October, 8pm £22.50
Norwegian clown Viggo Venn moved to this country with one dream – to be a British comedian. The rest, you already know about. After blowing away the competition in an explosion of hivis jackets, balloons and joyous idiocy, Viggo became the most talked-about new entertainer in the country by winning Britain’s Got Talent earlier this year.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Släpstick 21 Oct
Oysterband
Tuesday 24 October, 8pm £25
Oysterband make modern, folk-based British music, acoustic at heart, sometimes intense, sometimes rocking. Since 1978 they’ve toured in 35 countries – festivals, concerts, bars, rallies, jails, bring ‘em on! Oysterband have won five BBC Folk Awards and made 13 studio albums and one DVD. They are still full of ideas!
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Steeleye Span 11 Dec
Hayley Griffiths Band
Wednesday 25 October, 8pm £16.50
The Hayley Griffiths Band are thrilled to be returning to The Stables (previously as members of prog band Karnataka) with an eclectic evening of classic Celtic songs and uplifting, foot-tapping progressive rock. As former lead singer of the international phenomenon Riverdance and Michael Flatley’s Lord of the Dance, Hayley has enchanted audiences across the globe.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Mostly Autumn 6 Dec
PG
Roald Dahl’s Matilda The Musical
Thursday 26 October, 2pm £5 & £3
A brand new take on the Tony and Olivier award-winning musical. Roald Dahl’s Matilda The Musical tells the story of an extraordinary girl with a vivid imagination, who dares to take a stand to change her story with miraculous results. (117 minutes)
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Hansel & Gretel 18 - 24 Dec Returns
Rev Richard Coles: Borderline National Trinket
Thursday 26 October, 8pm £25.50
Reverend Richard Coles is the only British vicar to have had a number-one hit single and to have appeared on Strictly Come Dancing. He is also a Sunday Times bestselling author, Twitter phenomenon and enormously loved broadcaster. Sex, drugs, pop stardom, religious epiphany, love, a dream job and the madness of grief. Some or all of this may come out as Richard lifts the lid on a life truly and truthfully lived.
Rave On: The Ultimate 50s & 60s Experience starring The Bluejays
Friday 27 October, 8pm £26.50
Charting the meteoric rise of rock’n’roll, Rave On is a thrilling tour through music’s most revolutionary decade. Prepare to be enthralled by an evening of back-to-back hits, vibrant vintage costumes and colourful staging. Featuring note-perfect renditions of the most-loved songs from the 1950s and 60s, Rave On is performed by an incredibly talented band.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Bye Bye Baby 24 Nov
China Crisis: Celebrating Working with Fire and Steel at 40
Saturday 28 October, 8pm £31
China Crisis were never your run-of-the-mill 1980s pop band. Formed in Liverpool by singer Gary Daly and guitarist Eddi Lundon, they distilled their love of David Bowie and Steely Dan into an exquisitely melancholy post-punk sound that saw them win their just chart rewards, with hits such as Christian, Black Man Ray and King In A Catholic Style all making their way into the UK’s Top 20.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Go West 17 Dec
Alina Orchestra: Golden Strings
Sunday 29 October, 8pm £27.50, £22.50 (under-16s £6)
Elgar Introduction & Allegro
Shostakovich Concerto no.1 in C minor for Piano, Trumpet and Strings, Op.35 Holst St Paul’s Suite
Tchaikovsky Serenade for Strings, Op.48
Join Alina Orchestra and their musical director Hilary Davan Wetton as they present their first concert at The Stables, featuring a celebration of some fantastic works for string orchestra.
The evening will feature a performance of Shostakovich’s light-hearted and muchloved Concerto, written for the unusual combination of trumpet, piano and strings, a piece full of excitement, energy and moments of virtuosic skill.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Ligeti String Quartet 18 Oct
Amazing Grace
Monday 30 October, 7.30pm £10 & £8
No one who loves music will want to miss this thrilling film, which is both a revealing look at a key moment in American musical and social history, and an invaluable record of one of America’s greatest artists – Aretha Franklin – doing what she did best.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Funk Soul Orchestral 29 Feb 2024
An Evening of Laurel and Hardy
presented by Neil Brand
Tuesday 31 October, 8pm £25 & £22.50
World expert on silent film, Neil Brand returns with an all-new show about the immortal comedy duo portrayed in the hit film Stan and Ollie. Fully illustrated with stills, clips (both silent and sound) and Neil’s superlative piano accompaniment, this is a show that promises gales of laughter throughout, as well as getting under the skin of two warm, funny men who continue to make the world laugh when it needs it most.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Viggo Venn 23 Oct
Gordon Giltrap
Wednesday 1 November, 8pm £22.50
Over five decades, Gordon Giltrap has graced the music business with his dedication to his craft and his affection for his audience. As one of the UK’s most respected guitarists, he has consistently proved the adage that respect cannot be bought –it must be earned. Gordon is back out on the road performing many of his incredible songs in what promises to be an electrifying solo acoustic show.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Wilson & Wakeman 18 Jan 2024
keep up to date
All details are correct at time of going to print. For latest programme and other updates from The Stables, please visit www.stables.org and keep an eye on our social media channels.
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Rosie Jones: Triple Threat
Thursday 2 November, 8pm £16.50
Rosie Jones is on the road for a UK tour and, boy, she is excited. Join Rosie as she ponders whether she is a national treasure, a little pr**k, or somewhere in between! This show is guaranteed to be full of unapologetic cheekiness, nonsensical fun and unadulterated JOY from the triple threat herself. Rosie is best known for numerous appearances on shows such as The Last Leg, 8 Out of 10 Cats, Cats Does Countdown and Joe Lycett’s Got Your Back.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Janey Godley 14 Feb 2024
Classic Clapton
Friday 3 November, 8pm £22.50
The world’s number one Eric Clapton tribute band make a welcome return to The Stables, celebrating 38 years on the road! The show is a two-hour journey through Clapton’s back catalogue, including all of his hits including Wonderful Tonight, I Shot The Sheriff, Lay Down Sally, Tears In Heaven and Layla, and even an unplugged segment.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Dire Streets 19 Jan 2024
Returns Only
Stephen K Amos: Oxymoron
Saturday 4 November, 8pm £20.50
Luverly! Stephen K Amos is back with a new show, after treading the boards of London’s West End in the smash hit musical My Fair Lady, playing the iconic role of Alfred P. Doolittle. What a mad couple of years it’s been! How did you get through it all? Stephen’s solution... find the funny. The opportunity in the crisis, the joy in the sadness, the wisdom of fools – after all, comedy equals tragedy. Join him for an hour of solid jokes and guaranteed belly laughs.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Reginald D Hunter 14 Mar 2024
Cavern Beatles
Sunday 5 November, 8pm £26
On 9 February 1961, The Beatles made the first of their 292 appearances at the now legendary Cavern Club in Liverpool. More than 50 years on, The Cavern Beatles, a band fully endorsed and licensed by the same club, are coming to The Stables with their remarkable show. Get ready for a Magical History Tour through the works of the world’s greatest ever pop music phenomenon.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Nights on Broadway 26 Apr 2024
Damian Lewis
Monday 6 November, 8pm £29.50
Damian Lewis has added extra dates to his band’s first ever UK tour to meet demand, following the release of his widely praised debut album Mission Creep in June. Backed by his band of stellar musicians, Damian’s tour follows a run of sold-out shows at London venues Omeara, KOKO, Union Chapel, The Tabernacle and Hoxton Hall.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Chantel McGregor & The Cinelli Brothers 4 Feb 2024
Marti Pellow: Pellow Talk – The Lost Chapter
Tuesday 7 November, 8pm £36.50
“I’ve been thrilled with the response to Pellow Talk. It has been the most intimate show I’ve done… I wanted to do some more shows in this way and The Lost Chapter is a reimagined show that connects you, the audience, with me, the songwriter. It’s Pellow Talk – The Lost Chapter, an exploration of the songwriter, and the songs that make the man.” Marti
PellowLIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Go West 17 Dec
The Sound Of Springsteen
Wednesday 8 November, 8pm £27.50
The Sound Of Springsteen bring to life some of the greatest hits and deep cuts from Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band. This fantastic eight-piece tribute to The Boss is ready to rock The Stables with classics such as Born In The USA, Glory Days and Dancing In The Dark as well as some of Bruce’s more recent hits.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Roy Orbison & the Traveling Wilburys 21 Jun 2024
Terje Isungset Ice Quartet
Thursday 9 November, 8pm £31 (under-16s £13.50)
The inventor of ice music, Terje Isungset, returns to the UK with his exquisite new quartet featuring voice, ice harp, ice horn, iceophone, ice percussion and ice bass. This ice concert is based on music from his albums Winter Songs and Beauty of Winter, alongside new material. The instruments are made during Terje’s annual Ice Music Festival in Norway and are carved and crafted using only natural frozen ice from the lakes.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Ligeti String Quartet 18 Oct
The Real Thing
Friday 10 November, 8pm £37
The Real Thing enjoyed success in both the 1970s and 80s with three top 10 singles. Now they’re back with original vocalists Chris Amoo and Dave Smith and a five-piece band, promoting A Brand New Day, their first new album of original material in 44 years, along with their new soulful single Hang On Never Let Go
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Tony Momrelle 5 Dec
The Clare Teal Four
Saturday 11 November, 8pm £31.50
She’s back! Expect exhilarating swing from award-winning jazz vocalist and long-time Radio 2 and Jazz FM broadcaster Clare Teal and her marvellous band who return with a fabulous new show. Clare will celebrate the hits and hidden gems of the Great American and British Songbooks and perform contemporary covers and originals.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Ronnie Scotts All Star Band 8 Oct
Cara Dillon: Coming Home Tour
Sunday 12 November, 8pm £25
Ahead of an official release in 2024, this autumn sees Cara unveiling Coming Home, her first new material in almost six years, in which she effortlessly blurs the lines between spoken word and song to stunning effect. Join Cara and her band as she shares this truly unique and inspiring collection accompanied by original music written by Sam Lakeman.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Eliza Carthy & Jon Boden 26 Nov
John Robins: Howl
Monday 13 November, 8pm £24
Edinburgh Comedy Award-winning comedian John Robins embarks on his first stand-up tour since 2019. If you’ve seen him before you know what to expect: rage, anxiety and a lot of laughs. If you haven’t seen him before, strap the f**k in.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Iain Stirling 10 Apr 2024
Soft Machine
Tuesday 14 November, 8pm £21
Soft Machine are one of the greatest UK avant/jazz-rock bands of all time. Their work has influenced several generations of bands and continues to be namechecked by today’s hip experimentalists. The current line-up features John Etheridge on guitar, Asaf Sirkis on drums, Theo Travis on saxophones and Fred Thelonius Baker on bass. Soft Machine will perform material from throughout the band’s illustrious career.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Focus 29 May 2024
O’Hooley & Tidow
Wednesday 15 November, 8pm £22.50
Much-loved Yorkshire folk duo Belinda O’Hooley and Heidi Tidow have been propelled into new-found fame for penning the theme tune to Sally Wainwright’s hit BBC1/HBO drama Gentleman Jack. Cloudheads, their first full studio album in seven years, delves into the mindscapes, passions and inner worlds of two highly individual autistic women: Belinda and Heidi.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Sound of the Sirens 28 Oct
Last few tickets
Jason Byrne: The Ironic Bionic Man
Thursday 16 November, 8pm £27
We can rebuild him! Jason is officially bionic, ironically of course, as Jason, the accident-prone, general unfortunate gobshite is now half man, half machine. Don’t miss The Ironic Bionic Man as he brings us through his one-man, half-machine show. It’s painfully hilarious.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Ed Byrne 5 Oct
Last few tickets
Talon: Hotel California Tour 2023
Friday 17 & Saturday 18 November, 8pm £29.50
In their latest spectacular show, Talon perform the Eagles’ iconic Hotel California album from beginning to end, plus all of the band’s greatest hits including Take It Easy, One Of These Nights, Take It To The Limit and many more. This world-class seven-piece band have, over the past 25 years, completely transcended the tag of ‘tribute’ and become not only revered by their peers but dearly loved by their fans.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Billy Joel Albums Show 22 Oct
Paul Higgs Quartet: Cult TV Jazz Themes
Sunday 19 November, 11.30am £16.50
Trumpeter Paul Higgs and his Quartet present a concert of cult TV jazz themes, including Spider-Man, Star Trek, Pink Panther and Doctor Who. Some of the world’s best jazz composers were commissioned to write these memorable and much-loved themes including Neal Hefti, Henry Mancini, Johnny Dankworth and Ron Grainer.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: L’esprit du Jazz 17 Dec
Mark Steel: An Evening and a Little Bit of a Morning
Sunday 19 November, 8pm £19.50
“I’ve come to terms with the fact I’m a heap of contradictions, trying to stay young while being unable to log into any website. And 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.”
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Gryff Rhys Jones 11 & 12 May 2024
support our work
The success of our music and education programme depends on the generous support of many individuals and organisations.
Become a Friend of The Stables –benefits include priority booking and ticket discounts.
Name a Seat – your chosen name on a seat in the auditorium.
Leave a gift in your will to help nurture the next generation of musicians.
Tár
Monday 20 November, 7.30pm £10 & £8
Tar, set in the international world of classical music, centres on Lydia Tár, widely considered one of the greatest living composer/conductors and first-ever female chief conductor of a major German orchestra. Starring Cate Blanchett, Nina Hoss and Noemie Merlant.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Alina Orchestra 29 Oct
Blue Rose Code
Tuesday 21 November, 8pm £22.50
Ross Wilson – aka Blue Rose Code – writes songs straight from, and to, the heart. They address universal themes of love, loss, home and faith in a deeply personal way, seamlessly blending folk, Americana, jazz, soul and pop influences into something truly unique. A magnetic performer who loves to connect with his audience, Blue Rose Code are now firmly established as one of Scotland’s most uplifting and powerful live acts.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Siobhan Miller 10 Oct
YolanDa Brown
Wednesday 22 November, 8pm £25
Double MOBO award-winner, broadcaster and passionate advocate for music education, the multi-talented saxophonist
YolanDa Brown is one of the most dynamic and high-profile characters on the UK music scene. Her music is a delicious fusion of reggae, jazz and soul. Join YolanDa for an evening of sunshine music.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Kanda Bongo Man 13 Dec
Ben Poole and Catfish Double Headliner
Thursday 23 November, 8pm £22
An internationally recognised touring and recording artist, Ben Poole has received critical acclaim from some of the world’s most renowned blues and rock musicians, including Jeff Beck, Gary Moore and John Mayall. Catfish are making waves on the music scene in the UK and Europe, and have now won five UK Blues Awards.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Laurence Jones 14 Dec
Bye Bye Baby: A Celebration of Frankie Valli
Friday 24 November, 8pm £31.50
Bye Bye Baby is a jaw-dropping tribute to the musical phenomenon ‘Jersey Boys’ and the timeless, iconic music of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons. Enjoy a night to remember with incredible four-part harmonies, roof-raising falsetto and energetic and stylish choreography, all backed by an excellent live band. The show includes over 30 of Valli’s greatest hits including Sherry, December ’63 (Oh What A Night), Grease and many more!
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Rave On 27 Oct
Beverley Craven & Judie Tzuke: Strings Attached
Saturday 25 November, 8pm £39.50
Fresh from the highly acclaimed, sold-out Woman To Woman UK tour with fellow artists Julia Fordham and Rumer, Beverley Craven and Judie Tzuke make a welcome return to the stage. Featuring the Gabriella Swallow string quartet, this intimate acoustic show includes songs and stories spanning their careers as singer-songwriters.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Barbara Dickson 21 Feb 2024
Eliza Carthy & Jon Boden: The Wassail Tour
Sunday 26 November, 8pm £27.50
Before there was carolling, there was wassailing, where seasonal songs were exchanged for money, food and ale. Presenting seasonal, traditional material, Jon Boden and Eliza Carthy will take audiences back to some of the oldest songs in the English canon, telling Christmas tales, spreading good cheer and lighting up the darkest days of the year.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Cara Dillon 12 Nov
The Stables would like to give a special thanks to the following for their valuable support:
• Arts Council England
• Cavatina Trust
• Dame Cleo Laine
• Dentons
• FCC Communities Foundation
Laura Veirs
+ support from Karl Blau
• Garfield Weston
• MK Community Foundation
• PMC
• The Wavendon Foundation
Monday 27 November, 8pm £22.50
Laura Veirs is promoting the release of her 13th album, Phone Orphans. Laura scrolled through more than 900 voice memos on her phone to curate these 14 songs, which she recorded in her living room over the past eight years, straight into her phone. The digital-only album comes out internationally on her own label Raven Marching Band later this year.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Josienne Clarke 7 Oct
Buddy Holly & The Cricketers
Tuesday 28 November, 8pm £26
Buddy Holly & The Cricketers once again herald in the Yuletide festivities with Holly at Christmas, the show that’s now as traditional as mulled wine and mince pies! Holly’s hits, other contemporary classics and some Christmas crackers are all wrapped up in a fast, furious and funny feast of entertainment to make the perfect gift for all the family.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Rave On 27 Oct
Last few tickets 16+
Geoff Norcott: Basic Bloke
Wednesday 29 November, 8pm £18.50
On this, his sixth UK tour, Geoff Norcott will be trying to make sense of the current cultural and political scene with his playfully provocative brand of humour. Whether it’s the dire blandness of the two main parties or the shamelessly shoe-horned, right-on messages in adverts and films, Geoff will continue to tread in areas much of comedy leaves well alone.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Jimeoin 7 Feb 2024
David Graham & the Eskimo Brothers
with special guest Ben Waters
Thursday 30 November, 8pm £27.50
Don’t miss this celebration of early country, blues and rock’n’roll from two of the world’s greatest exponents of the genre. When Ben Waters was touring the US, he stumbled across the Eskimo Brothers playing on Beale Street and was blown away. Expect fireworks when the two bands join forces at the end of the show.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Albert Lee 19 Oct
become a friend
Enjoy some great benefits including priority booking, discounted tickets and the What’s On Brochure four times a year!
Becoming a Friend also plays a vital role in the funding of The Stables’ live music, entertainment and education activities.
Jo Caulfield: Here Comes Trouble
Join
Friday 1 December, 8pm £20
Voted Comedians’ Comedian of the Year 2021/2022, Jo Caulfield is quite simply one of the most consistently funny and creative comics in the country. Hot on the heels of her sell-out Edinburgh Fringe run, Here Comes Trouble! is packed with brilliant routines and fantastically embarrassing stories. Expect razor-sharp observations and scandalous one-liners as Jo gets her claws into everything and everyone.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Rachel Fairburn
8 Oct
No Jacket Required: Tribute to Phil Collins
Saturday 2 December, 8pm £22
Join the UK’s leading Phil Collins tribute as No Jacket Required return to celebrate their 20th anniversary. A spectacular twohour show from this fantastic 11-piece band features tracks from Phil’s solo career and his time with Genesis. Expect to be transported back to the 1980s to relive those hit-packed concerts in the company of this acclaimed band, making its 10th appearance at The Stables.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Lionel: The Music of Lionel Richie 30 Mar 2024
Woburn Sands Band
Sunday 3 December, 4pm £12, £5 for under-18s
Set the scene and mood for the season! Our programme will run the gamut from big band sounds to classical, jazz to pop and include arrangements of some of your best-loved and very seasonal melodies, all in one show. Come along to this earlyevening event for some true family entertainment from your favourite local brass band, with soloists from the band featured in this, the 69th concert in the Drakeloe series.
Promoted by Woburn Sands Band
Tony Momrelle: A Soulful Christmas
Tuesday 5 December, 8pm £22.50
Tony Momrelle is one of the most exciting and significant soul musicians on the modern British stage. In a music career spanning more than 10 years, he has performed with some of the greatest artists in the world including Incognito, Gloria Estefan, Celine Dion, Janet Jackson, Whitney Houston, Chaka Khan, Sade, Gary Barlow and many more.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The Real Thing 10 Nov
Mostly Autumn
Wednesday 6 December, 8pm £22.50 in advance £24.50 on the door
Mostly Autumn have built their fan base the old-fashioned but highly effective way of playing live at every opportunity. Their musical palette is diverse – and while they draw on influences from the golden age of 70s rock, they have developed their own unique sound and style that captures some of the essence of that era and yet looks forward into the future.
Promoted by Mostly Autumn
Tenors UnLimited Christmas Show
Thursday 7 December, 8pm £25
Tenors UnLimited return to The Stables to perform their Christmas show. The gents will perform a selection of your seasonal favourites, including O Holy Night, Leonard Cohen’s Hallelujah, O Come All Ye Faithful and their number one selling Christmas single Who Is He?. The show will also feature popular classical hits such as Nessun Dorma, The Pearl Fishers duet, The Prayer and You Raise Me Up and ELO’s Mr Blue Sky to name but a few.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The Overtones 10 Oct
Dark Side of the Moon
performed by the Bristol Ensemble
Friday 8 December, 8pm £31
Celebrating 50 years since the release of Pink Floyd’s The Dark Side of the Moon, the Bristol Ensemble have commissioned a chamber orchestral arrangement of this iconic album. Dark Side of the Moon sits as a cultural heavyweight of British music and resonates across all sections of society. The album has sold over 45 million copies worldwide and is the fourth bestselling album in history.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The Enid 6 Oct
The Dankworth Family Christmas Show
Saturday 9 December, 8pm £31 & £27.50
Started by the legendary Sir John Dankworth and Dame Cleo more than 50 years ago, this seasonal celebration led by Alec Dankworth features a host of family, friends and special guests. Expect a show packed with great music, seasonal fun and surprises along the way.
This performance is a VAT fundraiser for The Stables.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Syd Lawrence Orchestra 20 Oct
Legend: Tribute to Bob Marley
Sunday 10 December, 8pm £23.50
When you think reggae, only one name comes to mind – Bob Marley. Legend is an unforgettable evening celebrating this musical icon. Combining superb, distinctive vocals with flawless musicianship, a supremely talented cast recreate the timeless hits Could You Be Loved, Is This Love, One Love, No Woman No Cry, Get Up Stand Up and many more reggae classics.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Limehouse Lizzy 16 Oct
Steeleye Span
Monday 11 December, 8pm £35
Folk rock pioneers Steeleye Span changed the face of folk music forever, taking it out of small clubs and into the world of gold discs and international tours. Five decades on and this six-piece line-up celebrate more than 50 years of this wonderful music, playing all the favourite songs and tunes from their long and glittering career.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Oysterband 24 Oct
The Mediaeval Baebes
Tuesday 12 December, 8pm £25
With lush, ethereal harmonies and a dazzling array of exotic and period instruments, The Mediaeval Baebes will be weaving their storytelling magic once again. In this glorious festive concert, the classical chart-topping choir’s joyous music will showcase tracks from their latest seasonal album MydWynter, alongside wellknown Christmas carols, traditional folk songs and innovative settings of ancient and romantic poetry.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Eliza Carthy & Jon Boden 26 Nov
gift ideas
Gift Vouchers
treat
to a great night of entertainment.
Your support helps us to continue providing music and music-making opportunities for children and adults alike.
For more information contact box office on 01908 280800 or email
development@stables.org
Kanda Bongo Man and Kasai Masai
Wednesday 13 December, 8pm £16.50
Kanda Bongo Man is one of the biggest stars in world music. Championed by John Peel and Andy Kershaw in the late 80s, Kanda played a key role in introducing African and world music to the mainstream. With his incredible seven-piece band behind him, don’t miss Kanda Bongo Man bring the joyous music and dance of central Africa for an unforgettable sunshine experience.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: YolanDa Brown 22 Nov
Laurence Jones + support from Blue Nation
Thursday 14 December, 8pm £20.50
Laurence Jones has developed into one of the UK’s hottest guitar players. He’s got several accolades and awards to his name, winning Young Artist of the Year in the British Blues Awards three years in a row, a feat which saw him inducted him into the British Blues Hall of Fame. Laurence and his band have supported and toured with Van Morrison, Ringo Starr, Joe Bonamassa, Status Quo and Buddy Guy.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Ben Poole & Catfish 23 Nov
Cats in Space: Kickstart The Sun Tour 2023
Friday 15 December, 8pm £25
Imagine, if you will, a heady mix of Queen, ELO, Elton John and all things 70s… then you have Cats In Space, a band brimming with majestic songs, soaring vocal harmonies, power chord guitars, thundering drums and bass and huge, symphonic keyboards.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The Best of Queen 12 Oct
keep up to date
All details are correct at time of going to print. For latest programme and other updates from The Stables, please visit www.stables.org and keep an eye on our social media channels.
Stay connected!
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Mari Wilson & The New Wilsations: A Very Mari Christmas Party
Saturday 16 December, 8pm £33.50
Nymphette of the Nail Varnish and High Priestess of Hair Spray, acclaimed songstress Mari Wilson presents a Christmas cracker of a show featuring her eight-piece band The New Wilsations. Mari will be performing her much-loved hits, Just What I’ve Always Wanted, Cry Me A River and Beat the Beat, along with tunes of yuletide yesterdays. Dressing up is encouraged – it’s Christmas after all!
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Go West 17 Dec
L’esprit du Jazz
Sunday 17 December, 11.30am
£16.50
Led by accordionist Karen Street, L’esprit du Jazz explore French Musette, Brazilian tunes and original compositions, alongside favourite jazz standards. Featuring Sam Dunn on guitar, Charlie Pyne on bass and vocals and Katie Patterson on drums.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Ben Holder Trio 21 Jan 2024
Go West
Sunday 17 December, 8pm £38.50
Peter Cox and Richard Drummie first met in 1974. Six albums and 20 million sales later, Go West are stronger than ever. They have enjoyed many chart singles worldwide, notably King Of Wishful Thinking, the opening song in the hit film Pretty Woman Go West have played live around the world continuously and have earned their reputation as an outstanding, exciting live act.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Marti Pellow 7 Nov
The Albion Band
Tuesday 19 December, 8pm £26
The Albion Band’s Christmas show is widely regarded as a premier seasonal event and attracts sell-out audiences across the UK. Featuring the combined talents of Simon Nicol (Fairport Convention), Kellie While (Albion Band), Simon Care (Edward II) and the Guvnor himself, Ashley Hutchings MBE, the show takes you on a guided tour through the Christmas customs of Britain.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Eliza Carthy & Jon Boden 26 Nov
Christmas Fun at The Stables
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become a Friend of The Stables
Membership starts at just £30 per year THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!
By becoming a Friend of The Stables you’ll be helping to support one of the UK’s favourite concert venues. You’ll also be entitled to a range of benefits designed to make your visits to us even more enjoyable.
Your support will enable us to plan for the future with greater confidence and ensure we can continue to develop our world-class music and education programmes.
To become a Friend please call The Stables box office on 01908 280800.
Alternatively, pick up a membership form from the box office or join online at stables.org
Wavendon Allmusic Plan Ltd (Registered charity number 261645)
The Stables Bar
The Stables Bar is open from 7pm on concert nights, serving a wide range of drinks for you to enjoy during the evening.
Beers & Lagers
Our well stocked bar has a selection of quality draught and bottled beers, lagers and cider. Our Guest beers are back by popular demand so look out for the latest cask offering.
Drivers Drinks
We now have several low alcohol options for the driver in your party –Adnams Ghostship, Heineken Zero and Old Mout Berries & Cherries Cider. For the gin drinker we have alcohol-free Seedlip spiced gin. These are in addition to our wide range of soft drinks, still & sparkling.
Interval Orders
Beat the queue in the interval by pre-ordering your drinks. Collect and enjoy at your leisure, either in our foyer or back in your seat.
Snack Bar
Hot and cold drinks are available – treat yourself to a hot chocolate or latte accompanied by a sweet treat from our tempting selection. Watch out for our festive favourites from December – mulled wine and mince pies.
Supporting our Local Distilleries
Wolverton Gin – very popular at IF: 2023 and now available at The Stables bar – a spicy gin with notes of fennel, cardamom and pink peppercorns offering a peppery finish. New Town Spiced Rum from the Wharf Distillery in Towcester – guaranteed to offer some warmth on those cool autumn evenings.
stage 2
The Stables’ second performance space: intimate, relaxed and informal
Stage 2 is the ideal place to catch a star of tomorrow on their way up or enjoy more established artists experimenting with new material. With a capacity of just 80 for most gigs, there’s always an intimate and relaxed feel to proceedings.
Stage 2 hosts around 120 concerts each year of all shapes and sizes – folk, rock, blues and much more besides – along with a good smattering of comedy and theatre nights.
So come and hear the latest new music and comedy, relax and enjoy a drink with friends!
Maz O’Connor
Thursday 5 October, 8.45pm
£15
Described by The Observer as “a highly individual singersongwriter’, Maz O’Connor is a unique artist. Known for their haunting, emotive vocals and poetic lyricism, her songs are most often short stories inspired by her love of literature, folklore and mythology. Her Irish roots, she suspects, inform her love of darker tales, those of heartbreak, longing and loss. Her latest album, What I Wanted, has been widely praised.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: O’Hooley & Tidow 15 Nov
Winter Mountain
Friday 6 October, 8.45pm
£13.50
Hailing from the northern shores of Cornwall, Americana/ folk singer-songwriter Joe Francis is Winter Mountain. He has released two albums and toured with Cara Dillon, Seth Lakeman and Guy Garvey. Winter Mountain will perform new material, including a showcase of his latest project From The Beacon To The Brea, a collection of songs inspired by the myths and legends of Cornwall, as well as his back catalogue of folk/pop tracks.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Cara Dillon 12 Nov
Josienne Clarke
Saturday 7 October, 8.45pm
£16.50
Indie-folk singer, songwriter, guitarist and producer Josienne Clarke is often said to draw on traditional British folk inspirations, but she is a thoroughly modern, multi-faceted artist who follows her own compass. Blessed with a voice of crystalline beauty and clarity that has been compared to Sandy Denny, her myriad talents translate effortlessly to the live space in performances that are all her own.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Martha Tilston
Rachel Fairburn: Showgirl
1 Dec
Sunday 8 October, 8.45pm £18
Comedian Rachel Fairburn is back with a new touring show. She’ll be casting her acerbic eye over everything from your children to her pretentious new alcohol-free life (accurate at time of writing). She’s worried though. Has she mellowed a bit? She carries a lucky crystal now. Catch her before she disappears to the countryside with only joss sticks and taxidermy for company.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Jo Caulfield 1 Dec
Siobhan Miller
Tuesday 10 October, 8.45pm £18.50
One of Scotland’s most celebrated folk singer-songwriters, Siobhan Miller embarks upon an intimate trio tour this autumn joined by two of Scotland’s finest musicians, Innes White on guitar and Charlie Stewart on fiddle. This acoustic setting is the perfect opportunity to hear Siobhan’s richly celebrated Scottish folk songs performed up close and personal.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Blue Rose Code 21 Nov
become a friend
Enjoy some great benefits including priority booking, discounted tickets and the What’s On Brochure four times a year!
Becoming a Friend also plays a vital role in the funding of The Stables’ live music, entertainment and education activities.
Christina Alden and Alex Patterson
Thursday 12 October, 8.45pm £11 in advance £13.50 on the door
Christina Alden and Alex Patterson are multi-instrumentalists and songwriters from Norwich. Their music is rich with intertwining harmony, sensitive accomplished musicianship and a creative song-writing style that is both delicate and moving. Deeply inspired by the world around them, they have a keen environmental eye for crafting stories with the natural world at their heart.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Hannah James & Toby Kuhn
Long Road Home
13 Mar 2024
Saturday 14 October, 8.45pm £13.50
Long Road Home have their roots firmly planted in the blues/ rock genre and have created a unique sound amalgamating various musical styles. Expect to hear fresh original rockers and blues-influenced tunes taken from their debut album, combined with some classic blues and rock numbers. The band features Storm Warning founding members bassist Derek White and keyboard player Ian Salisbury, plus guitarist Steve Summers.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Dom Martin 20 Oct
Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club
Wednesday 18 October, 8.45pm £11 in advance £13.50 on the door
Compere Andrew Bird introduces comedians Russell Hicks and Karen Bayley. (Line-up is subject to change.)
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Andrew Bird 26 Nov
support our work
The success of our music and education programme depends on the generous support of many individuals and organisations.
Become a Friend of The Stables –benefits include priority booking and ticket discounts.
Name a Seat – your chosen name on a seat in the auditorium. Leave a gift in your will to help nurture the next generation of musicians.
Standing Gig
For further information please call 01908 280800 or email development@stables.org
Join our group of volunteers and become a Stablemate.
Purchase Gift Vouchers which can be exchanged for tickets at The Stables.
Dom Martin: Buried In The Hail Tour +
support from Delta Fuse
Friday 20 October, 8.45pm £20
Dom Martin is a Belfast-born multi-award-winning artist inspired, but not constrained, by the blues. In 2019 he burst onto the music scene with a unique guitar style and voice, captivating audiences everywhere. Primarily known as a solo acoustic artist, Dom is very capable of holding a large audience on his own with his mesmerising finger-picking techniques and strong vocals.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Ben Poole & Catfish 23 Nov
Max ZT and Dan Whitehouse
Sunday 22 October, 8.45pm £14.50
Brooklyn’s celebrated hammered dulcimer player Max ZT and singer-songwriter and poet Dan Whitehouse step out on their second live tour together. The duo perform an evening of spoken word interwoven with music and song, drawing on a shared belief in the healing power of music.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Blue Rose Code 21 Nov
Moscow Drug Club
Thursday 26 October, 8.45pm £22.50
Imagine having a few to drink and staggering arm in arm into the darkness of an eastern European cobbled street and into a bar where Django Reinhardt and Tom Waits are having an after-hours jam with the local Tziganes. Combining their original material with songs by Waits, Jacques Brel, Leonard Cohen and Eartha Kitt, Moscow Drug Club deliver an intoxicating and intimate musical experience.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Dario Napoli Trio 22 Oct
Michele Stodart
Friday 27 October, 8.45pm £16.50
Caribbean-born Michele Stodart is an award-winning solo artist, singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist. She is best known as bassist, vocalist and co-songwriter of Mercury-nominated, doubleplatinum selling band The Magic Numbers with whom she continues to play and tour worldwide. Michele has always pursued her own writing alongside her band and has nurtured a love for folk/Americana artists such as Joni Mitchell, Leonard Cohen and Gillian Welch.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The Coral 23 Mar 2024
Sound of the Sirens
Saturday 28 October, 8.45pm £16.50
Sound of the Sirens – Abbe Martin and Hannah Wood – are a singer-songwriting duo who have established themselves as one of the finest folk acts on the UK and international scene. The pair’s musical and vocal dexterity dovetail beautifully on co-written songs, which range from emotive ballads to upbeat, hands in the air, sing-along anthems. Their album Damage Control was released last year.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: O’Hooley & Tidow 15 Nov
feeling peckish?
Our snack bar is open from 7pm serving a variety of snacks, soft drinks, teas and coffees. Or why not enjoy a luxury Marshfield Farm ice-cream during the interval? Save time at the bar! Place your interval drinks order at the bar before the show starts.
For more information on eatingand drinking at The Stables visit stables.org
Faith I Branko
Wednesday 1 November, 8.45pm £16.50
Named as Serbian Romani ambassadors in 2021, Faith I Branko present their fiery brand of virtuosic, Balkan-influenced jazz, folk and classical fusion. The Guardian describes their music as “language for the soul”. Their debut album Gypsy Lover made it into the Top 10 on the World Music Charts and since then they have toured all over the UK, Europe, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Dario Napoli Trio 22 Oct
Clive Carroll plays John Renbourn plus special guest Dariush Kanani
Friday 3 November, 8.45pm £16.50
Here is a rare, one-off opportunity to hear some of John Renbourn’s greatest compositions performed by one of the world’s finest guitarists who regularly shared the same stage. Clive Carroll was recently described by Total Guitar Magazine as “... arguably the most accomplished fingerstylist in the world today…”.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Gordon Giltrap 1 Nov
stage 2 Blues Rock Weekender
Susan Santos
Book both shows for £29.50!
Saturday 4 November, 8.45pm £18.50
A great passion for the music led Susan Santos to teach herself how to play guitar and to sing. She has performed in many famous clubs and at numerous festivals around Europe, Mexico and the US. Susan won the Best Musician Performance 2018 in The European Blues Awards and Best Female Album 2019 in The-LA Critics Awards.
Alastair Greene
Sunday 5 November, 8.45pm £18.50
Alastair Greene’s rock credentials include eight years of international touring on guitar and vocals with the Alan Parsons Project, and major dates with Starship featuring Mickey Thomas. The Alastair Greene Band, which has drawn comparisons to Gov’t Mule, ZZ Top and Cream, recently celebrated their 20th anniversary with a two-disc live album.
Sarah Gillespie
Tuesday 7 November, 8.45pm £11 in advance
£13.50 on the door
Sarah Gillespie performs an intimate set with her bandmate
Chris Montague. They will be debuting songs from Sarah’s soonto-be-released album, recorded in Berlin’s legendary Hansa studio. The music is a mix of wonky narrative folk, Americana and jazz, punctuated by Sarah’s trademark poetic lyricism.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Bella Hardy 10 Dec
Hannah Moule & The Moulettes String Ensemble: Moulettes Acoustic
Wednesday 8 November, 8.45pm £20.50
Moulettes are delighted to announce a UK acoustic tour in continued celebration of their gigantic and groundbreaking fifth album project, Xenolalia. Be prepared to question all you think you know about the traditional chamber ensemble! This is eclectic music for indie, experimental, folk and classical lovers alike.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Martha Tilston 1 Dec
Isabella Coulstock
Saturday 11 November, 8.45pm £11
Isabella Coulstock is a singer-songwriter wise beyond her years, with a voice as sweet as it is powerful, and bristling with youthful enthusiasm and an emotional maturity. From being the youngest artist to play a live Under The Apple Tree session for Bob Harris, Isabella has gone on to perform at some of the most iconic music venues across the country.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Josienne Clarke 7 Oct
Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club
Wednesday 15 November, 8.45pm £11 in advance
£13.50 on the door
Compere Andrew Bird introduces Kate Lucas and Aaron Simmonds. (Line-up is subject to change.)
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Clinton Baptiste 4 Apr 2024
Last few tickets
16+
Luke Jackson
Friday 17 November, 8.45pm £16
Canterbury-based singer-songwriter Luke Jackson has been touring and recording for over 10 years, steadily developing an enviable reputation for himself in the folk, roots, Americana and acoustic circuits. Luke continues to tour relentlessly in his own right, either solo or as a trio with bassist and drummer.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Maz O’Connor 5 Oct
Ward Knutur Townes
Friday 24 November, 8.45pm £15.50
Ward Knutur Townes found their sound when the world fell silent. In 2020, these three singer-songwriters were selected to take part in a virtual global music-sharing experiment called Global Music Match. Teamed up together, they spent several lockdowns turning their stories into soft harmonies and intricate melodies. With more than a dozen albums between them, Ward Knutur Townes are releasing their highly anticipated debut record in October.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Bella Hardy 10 Dec
Edgar Broughton
Saturday 25 November, 8.45pm £13.50
Edgar Broughton was a founder member of the Edgar Broughton Band in the 1960s. He is well known as one of the most strident of protest singers, but at times one of the most accessible – with a surprisingly diverse repertoire of self-penned material, including some truly thoughtful and beautiful music of great originality. His solo performance is an emotive, entertaining tour de force containing both old favourites and new songs from the heart.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The Enid 6 Oct
Andrew Bird: Taken Seriously
Sunday 26 November, 8.45pm £13.50
Eveything is taken so seriously now. If it’s going to be up to Andrew Bird to point out how ridiculous it all is, then he’s willing to take that job on. From race and religion to deodorant adverts, being diagnosed with sleep apnea and people that have a flag on their house.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club 13 Dec
Sarah Smout
Tuesday 28 November, 8.45pm £14
Sarah Smout is a cellist-singer and environmental activist, creating music and poetry deeply rooted in nature and place. Yearning for adventure, she embarked on a month-long odyssey to Iceland, travelling by boat via Orkney, Shetland and the Faroes. These experiences have inspired an entrancing solo show called Eyjar (Old Norse for ‘islands’) which explores our connections to place.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Max ZT & Dan Whitmore 22 Oct
Angie Palmer
Thursday 30 November, 8.45pm £13.50
Bob Harris has called Angie Palmer “one of Britain’s greatest singer-songwriters” and she has played on his shows many times. A talented guitarist and vocalist with a range that can go from Joni Mitchell clarity to Janis Joplin growl, Angie is joined by virtuoso multi-instrumentalist Richard Curran on violin, mandolin and guitar. His fabulous playing has been heard with the likes of Bert Jansch and Steve Tilston.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Martyn Joseph 27 Jan 2024
Martha Tilston
Friday 1 December, 8.45pm £19
With a pure silken voice and lyrics that inspire and captivate, Martha Tilston has performed countless prestigious festival slots, enjoyed a spell as guest vocalist for Zero 7 and released several critically albums. The past few years have seen her venture into the world of film making, recently releasing The Tapeis, her first feature film. She performs tonight as a trio with long-time collaborators Matt Tweed and Matt Kelly.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Josienne Clark 7 Oct
Daniel Champagne
Saturday 2 December, 8.45pm £15.50
Daniel Champagne has been described as the “finest guitar player of this generation”, “a leading light in acoustic music” and “a performer that must be seen to be believed”. Now on the back of sell-out shows around the world, the young Australian virtuoso brings his tour to the UK with a new album.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Clive Carroll 3 Nov
Sons of Town Hall
Wednesday 6 December, 8.45pm £16.50
Introducing the Sons of Town Hall, the international waterborne duo of George ‘Ulysses’ Brown (UK) and Josiah ‘Chester’ Jones (US). Their performance is a masterclass in songwriting, poetic turns of phrase sung with voices so perfectly matched it is impossible to tell them apart, harmonies so sublime they will seem the work of witchcraft, and intricately finger-picked guitar parts worthy of Apollo himself. But it is the Sons of Town Hall’s presentation that sets them apart from every other guitar-slinging songwriting team out there.
The Churchfitters
Friday 8 December, 8.45pm £20.50
The Churchfitters are a folk group like no other. A double bass made out of scrap metal. Heart-wrenching vocals accompanied by a musical saw. Foot-stomping fiddle mixed with infectious funk-rock rhythms. Their Christmas Cracker show is a mouthwatering selection of traditional and original festive season songs that will see Christmas in with a bang.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Lindisfarne 13 Oct
Bella Hardy Christmas Show
Sunday 10 December, 8.45pm £16.50
Celebrate the festive season in song with the BBC Radio 2 Folk Singer of the Year. Featuring local carols and classics such as Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree and Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas, the show rings out with traditional favourites, and even a bit of Shakin’ Stevens, all of which feature on Bella’s much-loved Christmas record Bright Morning Star.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Eliza Carthy & Jon Boden 26 Nov
Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club
Wednesday 13 December, 8.45pm £11 in advance £13.50 on the door
Compere Andrew Bird introduces Mary Bourke and Sol Bernstein. (Line-up is subject to change.)
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Clinton Baptiste 4 Apr 2024
workshops & courses learn and take part
YOUNG PEOPLE’S BURSARIES
We don’t want anyone to miss out because of their family circumstances, so we offer means-tested bursaries for those needing financial help to attend. If a workshop or course says Bursaries Available, visit www.stables.org/learning/youthbursaries for more information.
Saxophone Beginners Course Adult/15+ Course
Saturdays 9 September, 7 October, 4 November, 2 December, 9.30am-12.30pm
(four session course)
£69
This course offers beginner saxophonists the opportunity to learn as part of a group. Through practical musical activities and exploring tunes you’ll start to build confidence and develop some of the technical and musical skills to play the saxophone. The course is suitable for beginners who have attended our Sax from Scratch or Refresher workshops or had another basic introduction to the saxophone. Participants will need to bring their own tenor, alto or baritone sax.
Saxophone Improving Beginners Course Adult/15+ Course
Saturdays 9 September, 7 October, 4 November, 2 December, 1-4pm
(four session course)
£69
This course offers returning saxophonists the opportunity to learn as part of a group through a fun programme of practical musical activities and performance. It aims to help students develop core technical, performance and improvisation skills and build confidence. Students must have their own instruments and ideally have attended previous Stables Saxophone from Scratch, Refresher and Improving Beginners workshops. If you have any other recent playing experience and are interested in joining the course, contact education@stables.org
Harmonica Beginners Part 1 Adult/15+ Workshop
Saturday 9 September, 10am-3pm £34
Learn the basics of playing harmonica in this popular workshop, where you’ll be introduced to tune playing, chord-playing and blues improvisation. No previous harmonica experience is necessary, but you’ll need to bring a 10-hole harmonica in C. (The follow-on Harmonica Beginners Part 2 workshop takes place on Saturday 21 October)
Saxophone from Scratch Adult/15+ Workshop
Saturday 23 September, 9.30am-12.30pm OR 1pm-4pm £26
Have you ever wanted to try the saxophone but didn’t know where to start? Do you want to try it for the first time or have a go before buying one? Starting with the absolute basics, this workshop takes you on a on a step-by-step approach to making your first sounds, breathing tips, exercises, learning fingerings and scale patterns and playing simple melodies from those scales. No previous musical experience is required. You’ll be in a small group of beginners and in a friendly and supportive learning environment. Instruments are provided for use in the workshop, but if you have your own you are welcome to bring it along for advice and comparison, especially if it is one you may be practicing on after the workshop.
Saxophone Study Group Adult/15+ Course
Saturdays 16 September, 14 October, 11 November, 9 December (four session course) Group 1 9.30am-12.30pm OR Group 2 1-4pm £69
This course is for saxophonists with more than two years’ experience and looking to reach an intermediate standard (equivalent to Grade 3 plus) on their instrument. You will have the opportunity to learn through a structured programme of study, incorporating a mixture of scale and study work, duet and group performance and improvisation activities.
The focus is on having fun, building confidence and competence in a supportive environment which enables students to progress in their musical development.
Contact us on education@stables.org to find out availability of places, and also so we can advise you which of the two groups is suitable to join and if your recent sax playing experience is suitable for the course.
Blues Guitar Beginners Part 1 Adult/15+ Workshop
Saturday 30 September, 10am-3pm £36
This practical workshop introduces the blues, looking at playing techniques such as turnarounds, shuffles and basic basslines, demystifying ‘V-IV-I’ blues chord sequences. We’ll also explore fundamental blues techniques such as finger picking, hammerons and pull-offs, using examples from classic Blues recordings. You’ll need to be comfortable with E, A and B7 chords and be able to change confidently between them. It will also be helpful if you have some knowledge of the E minor pentatonic scale.
Ukulele Beginners Part 1 Adult/15+ Workshop
Saturday 14 October, 10am-3pm £36
The ukulele is a fun and accessible instrument making a big comeback in popular music and in education. This workshop is ideal for beginners to learn the basics of playing, how to accompany songs and ukulele techniques. Come and take part in the ukulele revival! No prior experience necessary! Participants will need to bring a soprano-, concert- or tenor-sized ukulele.
The Jazz Experience for Beginners Adult/15+ Course
Sundays 15, 22, 29 October; 5, 19, 26 November, 10am-12.30pm; end of course performance 2pm Sunday 26 November
(six session course)
£92 (£72 over-18 students)
For instrumental players new to jazz, this course will help introduce you the language and repertoire of jazz. With the help of expert tutors you’ll work through activities and play in both small and large groups, all designed to help you begin to understand the roots of jazz and how to begin playing it.
You’ll also work towards learning a selection of wellknown jazz tunes from memory, in preparation for an informal performance on the final afternoon. The course is open to players of piano, guitar, bass, drum kit, brass, reed or woodwind, but numbers of rhythm section instruments (bass, drums, guitar, piano) are limited in order to balance the bands.
You’ll also be directed to some listening examples before the course and will need to be familiar with the following scales and chords: Concert pitch instruments: Bb, C, G ‘Blues’ scales; C, Eb, F major scales. Bb instruments: D, C, A ‘Blues’ scales; D, F, G Major scales Eb instruments: A,G, E ‘Blues’ scales; A, C, D Major scales. Chords (rhythm section): Major7: Eb, Ab; Min7: Cm7, Fm7, Gm7, Am7 ; G7, C7, F7, Bb7, Eb7, Ab7, D7.
Harmonica Beginners Part 2 Adult/15+ Workshop
Saturday 21 October, 10am-3pm £34
Learn more of the basics of harmonica playing in this Beginners Part 2 workshop. This session will consolidate the work you have already done on improvisation, tune playing and chugging at Part 1 and move on to the fundamental blues technique of note bending. Participants will need a 10-hole harmonica in C. Prior attendance on Beginners Part 1 is recommended.
Mandolin Beginners Adult/15+ Workshop
Saturday 21 October, 10am-3pm £37
The mandolin is used in a range of styles and is great as a melody or rhythm instrument and this workshop introduces both styles of playing. Exploring basic technique, simple tunes, chord shapes and progressions and playing as a group, the workshop is suitable for anyone who has some basic experience of stringed instruments (such as guitar, ukulele, banjo, bouzouki, violin) and who can play basic open chords and a few scales of tunes. An ability to read tablature is useful but not essential. Please bring a mandolin if you have one or contact education@stables.org if you need to borrow one (limited numbers available).
Latin Percussion for Beginners Adult/15+ Course
Sundays 22 October, 19 November, 10 December, 1.30pm-4.30pm
(three session course) £53
This introductory course is a chance to enjoy the experience of playing percussion in an ensemble, to develop your playing skills and an understanding of latin rhythms, instruments and styles. You’ll look at how the percussion is built up for a salsa band and how that can develop to play in other latin and popular music styles. You’ll use instruments including congas, bongos, timbales, maracas, guiro, claves and cowbells, and learn how different percussion patterns interlock and work together to create energetic and infectious rhythms. Instruments are provided, but you are welcome to bring your own if you have them and would like to try playing them in a group.
The course is suitable for anyone who has a basic technique in hand drumming from playing conga or other hand drums (able to play basic patterns with bass, slap and open tone) and has some basic rhythm skills gained from playing drumkit or other percussion.
(Contact education@ stables.org if you need further advice.)
Folk Experience Day
Singing Lead Vocals & Microphone Technique
Adult/15+ Workshop
Sunday 29 October, 1.30pm-5pm £27
For singers who want to explore some of the technical, artistic and practical aspects of singing with a microphone. Perhaps you already sing in a choir, or play in a band, and want to try solo or lead vocals? You’ll look at equipment essentials, microphone technique and which mic to use, understanding monitoring, fold back and live mixing to get the best out of your sound, how to approach different styles of music such as rock, pop or jazz and how to tackle the challenges of fronting a band, whatever the size. You’ll also look at how ‘phrasing’ can help with the challenges of some songs and have a go at singing with backing tracks and stripped-down guitar accompaniment.
Introduction to Music Recording & Production Part 1
Adult/15+ Workshop
Saturday 11 November, 10am-4pm £48
This popular workshop is for anyone who would like a basic introduction to recording and production using music technology, looking at microphone techniques, recording different instruments and production techniques. The workshop uses MAC computer and Logic Software, but uses them to look at the principles that apply generally across Digital Audio Workstations software such as Ableton, Cubase and Sonar. You will focus on recording and production rather than just creating within the software and you’ll be able to take away audio files of tracks produced to further practice the skills you’ve learned. If you play an instrument, please bring it along for the afternoon recording session to learn how best to record it.
For young players aged 12-18 from Milton Keynes and surrounding areas
Sunday 12 November, 10am-4pm Free please contact Milton Keynes Music Hub for more information and to apply for a place music@milton-keynes.gov.uk
This is a great opportunity for young instrumentalists of all backgrounds – young people who are new to folk, already playing folk and any young players interested in creative music making and learning and playing music by ear.
You will have the chance to get a positive introduction to folk music, gain skills in learning and playing music by ear, develop creative arrangement ideas and experience playing in a band. The day will be led by highly skilled folk artist-educators from the National Youth Folk Ensemble programme.
Presented in partnership with Milton Keynes Music Hub and the English Folk Dance and Song Society.
Blues Guitar Beginners Part 2 Adult/15+ Workshop
Saturday 18 November, 10am-3pm £36
Improve your blues playing with this workshop designed to help you move on with your technique. By looking at tunes by Muddy Waters, Howlin’ Wolf and John Lee Hooker, you’ll learn about 12-bar progressions, the blues scale and shuffle rhythms in more depth. Please bring a six-string acoustic guitar with you; prior attendance on the Beginners Part 1 workshop is recommended.
Ukulele Beginners Part 2 Adult/15+ Workshop
Saturday 18 November, 10am-3pm £36
Building on Beginners Part 1, this workshop is ideal for beginner ukulele players to develop their playing further and will help you to develop your rhythm and melody playing skills, add new chords and combine different strokes for rhythmic effects. Using a mix of contemporary and vintage material, you’ll also get the chance to practice as a ukulele band and try out playing the melody, accompanying and adding colour to the musical arrangements. Previous attendance at Ukulele Beginners Part 1 is recommended and you will need to bring a soprano-, tenor- or concert-sized ukulele.
Refresher Sax from Scratch
Adult/15+ Workshop
Saturday 25 November, 9.30am-12.30pm £26
Following on from the absolute beginners Sax from Scratch workshop, this Refresher workshop will enable students to have more fun playing on one of our saxophones, or bring their own sax, with a view to developing their skills and techniques. Ideal for those that have attended previous Sax from Scratch workshops, or for early beginners who would like to develop their playing.
Introduction to Music Recording & Production Part 2
Adult/15+ Workshop
Saturday 2 December, 10am-4pm £48
Aimed at those who have attended the Intro to Music Recording & Production Part 1 workshop or who already have some experience of recording and music technology, this follow-up session looks in more depth at microphone technique, effects and processors, synthesis, MIDI, mixing and mastering and the techniques you need to create great recordings in your own home or DIY studio. The workshop uses MAC computer and Logic Software, but in a way that applies generally across Digital Audio Workstations software such as Ableton, Cubase and Sonar. If you play an instrument, please bring it along for the afternoon recording session. This course follows on from the Introduction to Music Recording & Production Part 1 on 11 November.
Concertina Beginners Part 1 Adult/15+ Workshop
Saturday 2 December, 10am-3pm
£42
What has six sides, buttons and could once be found in almost every home in the country? The answer: the Anglo concertina. Join squeezebox expert Cohen Braithwaite-Kilcoyne to discover the fundamentals of this wonderful instrument and explore its rich history and repertoire in this day-long workshop. Participants will be taken through the absolute basics of Anglo concertina playing, from finding notes, to putting together full tunes, through to making chords. No previous knowledge of concertina playing or music theory is required for this workshop and concertinas are available for participants to borrow.
Funky Folk Rhythm Guitar Adult/15+ Workshop
Sunday 3 December, 10am-1pm
£26
Ever wondered how to spice up your strumming and get more variety in your ‘rhythm guitar’ playing – especially when accompanying other instruments or singers? This workshop explores right hand techniques and patterns to make your playing more funky and exciting, with a focus on learning and adapting different rhythmic styles to accompany traditional tunes. Suitable for guitarists who can already play a few different chord sequences and strumming patterns. Please bring a steel-strung acoustic guitar.
Ukulele Part 3: Jazz Up Your Ukulele Adult/15+ Workshop
Sunday 10 December, 10am-3pm
£36
We’re currently in the ‘third wave’ of the ukulele, but the last time just about everyone had one was in the 1920s and 1930s – the ‘Jazz Age’. In this course we’ll go from basic three- and fourchord pop songs and start to explore ‘Jazz Age’ style of playing, with the emphasis on making it swing and having fun. We’ll look at fancy sounding jazz chords, ways of linking chords together, some classic intros and endings, and turn our strumming into something you can dance to. Ideally you will have completed the beginners parts 1 and 2 courses, be able to play a couple of common barre chords and have played some simple tablature.
Melodeon Beginners Part 1 Adult/15+ Workshop
Sunday 10 December, 10am-3pm
£42
A rare chance for beginners to pick up and play the small but mighty melodeon (aka button accordion/squeezebox) with expert guidance from tutor Mel Biggs. Drawing on traditional English dance tunes, the workshop introduces learning the instrument left hand first to develop effective rhythmical control and coordination, before learning your first tune with both hands (the bit most people find tricky at first!). This workshop is for anyone interested in English folk music, folk dance, or trying a squeezebox for the first time. You don’t need to read music notation, and no previous melodeon or folk music experience is required, but a basic knowledge of music (scales, chords, time signatures) will help. This workshop is for instruments tuned in D/G with a minimum of 2-rows and 8-basses. If you don’t have your own, some loan boxes will be available on the day. (Limited number available so please contact us at education@stables.org if you need to borrow one.)
and not forgetting...
Tickets are still available for the following Stables shows in September:
SEPTEMBER Date
SEPTEMBER
When you rightsize and buy an Adlington retirement apartment, purpose built for later life, you also open up new opportunities within a thriving community of like-minded people. With access to a host of facilities and an on-site team available 24/7, 365 days a year, you can spend more quality time doing the things you love, free from everyday worries.
“If I’d have known how good life can be, I’d have moved years ago’’ Adlington homeowner
• 1, 2 and 3-bedroom retirement apartments for sale
• On-site restaurant*, coffee lounge, hair salon*, and therapy suite*
• Beautiful, private landscaped gardens
• Tailored personal care packages* available
also on sale
Indicates a new show which is open for public booking from Wednesday 13 September, prior to which Stables Friends have priority.
The Beggs Sisters Sun 28 Jan 2024
JIM
JANUARY 2024
Fri 12 The Christians
£35.50
Sat 13 Tom Robinson Band
£24
Thu 18 Wilson & Wakeman
£20
Fri 19 Dire Streets
£32
Sat 20 80s Mania from £29.50
Sun 21 Bob Harris & Colin Hall
£22.50
Wed 24 Paul Jones & Dave Kelly
£27.50
Fri 26 T.Rextasy
£33
Sat 27 Martyn Joseph
£23.50
Sun 28 The Beggs Sisters
£16.50
Chantel McGregor Sun 4 Feb 2024
Pete Firman Sat 24 Feb 2024
FEBRUARY 2024
Fri 2 The Freddie & Queen Experience
£26.50
Sat 3 Dr Feelgood
£31
Sun 4 Chantel McGregor & The Cinelli Brothers
£23.50
Wed 7 Jimeoin: The Craic!
£20
Thu 8 Thea Gilmore
£25
Fri 9 & Sat 10 The Ultimate Classic Rock Show
£27.50
Wed 14 Janey Godley £27
Thu 15 Cregan & Co
£27
Sat 17 Nine Below Zero
£25
Mon 19 The Amazing Bubble Man from £14
Wed 21 Barbara Dickson Farewell Tour
£48
Thu 22 Coldplace: Tribute to Coldplay
£27
Fri 23 ELO Again
£31.50
Sat 24 Pete Firman
£20.50
Thu 29 James Brown v Prince £27.50
MARCH 2024
Sat 9 Kast Off Kinks
£27.50
Thu 14 Reginald D Hunter
£26.50
Sat 16 Never The Bride
£22.50
Thu 21 The Dublin Legends £31.50
also on sale
Iain Stirling Wed 10 April 2024
The Manfreds Sat 20 April 2024
JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM
Sat 23 The Coral: The Making Of The Debut Album
£29.50
Sun 24 The Story of Guitar Heroes
£30
Tue 26 Aly Bain & Phil Cunningham
£20
Wed 27 Graffiti Classics
£27
Sat 30 Lionel: Tribute to Lionel Richie
£24.50
APRIL 2024
Thu 4 Clinton Baptiste £31
Wed 10 Iain Stirling: Relevant £25
Thu 11 Richard Digance
£20
Fri 12 Royal South
£18.50
Fri 19 Paul Foot: Dissolve
£18.50
Sat 20 The Manfreds £31
Wed 24 Feast of Fiddles
£26
Thu 25 UK Blues Awards
£22.50
Fri 26 Nights on Broadway: Tribute to the Bee Gees
£27
MAY 2024
Sun 5 Focus
£26.50
Wed 8 Count Arthur Strong
£26.50
Thu 9 Simon & Garfunkel Story
£29.50
Fri 10 Alina Orchestra: Summer Nights from £22.50
Sat 11 & Sun 12 Griff Rhys Jones – The Cat’s Pyjamas
£26
Fleetwood Bac Fri 30 & Sat 31 Aug 2024
Wed 15 Mugenkyo 30th Anniversary Tour
£32
Fri 17 Swinging at the Cotton Club
£26
Sat 18 Ultimate Bowie
£25
JUNE 2024
Fri 7 Quo Connection £21
Sat 8 Len Phillips Swing Orchestra: Frank & Ella £30
Fri 21 Roy Orbison & the Traveling Wilburys Experience £26
Sat 29 Logical Tramp £25
JULY 2024
Sat 6 Northern Soul Tour Live £30
Indicates a new show which is open for public booking from Wednesday 13 September, prior to which Stables Friends have priority.
Holder Trio Sun 21 Jan 2024
Thu 29 Feb 2024
Thu 14 Mar 2024
STAGE 2 ALL SHOWS START AT 8.45PM , EXCEPT WHERE STATED
AUGUST 2024
Fri 30 & Sat 31 Fleetwood Bac from £26
SEPTEMBER 2024
Sun 8 What Now My Love? Herb Alpert Tribute £25
Sat 14 Gary Meikle £31
SUNDAY SESSIONS IN THE MANCINI FORUM 11.30AM
JANUARY 2024
Sun 21 Ben Holder Trio
£16.50
MARCH 2024
Sun 17 Dean Stockdale Quartet –Celebrating Oscar Peterson
£16.50
FEBRUARY 2024
Sat 3 Edwina Hayes
£16.50
Sat 17 Carrie Martin
£13.50
Wed 21 Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club
£12.50 adv
£14 otd
Thu 29 Christina Martin
£16.50
MARCH 2024
Sat 9 Jinder £11
Wed 13 Hannah James & Toby Kuhn
£15.50
Thu 14 The Blackheart Orchestra
£18.50
Wed 20 Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club
£12.50 adv £14 otd
APRIL 2024
Thu 4 Emma Stevens
£14.50
Sat 6 Hannah Rarity
£16.50
Wed 17 Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club
£12.50 adv £14 otd
MAY 2024
Wed 15 Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club
£12.50
Sat 25 Jenny Colquitt £15
booking information
How to book
Core box office opening hours: Please visit www.stables.org for details of current opening hours
IN PERSON: please refer to our website for current arrangements regarding in-person booking
BY PHONE: 01908 280800 during opening hours; text phone users please call 18001 01908 280800.
ONLINE: www.stables.org
COLLECTING YOUR TICKETS:
E-tickets: You can choose to receive your tickets via email. You can either print these out at home or show them on your phone to our front of house staff when entering the auditorium.
Ticket collection: from The Stables box office during opening hours.
Postal tickets: At an extra cost of £2, we can send your tickets to you by post.
Payment options
You can pay by cash if booking in person; we accept all major debit and credit cards.
Reservations
Ticket reservations must be paid for within three days of booking (excluding groups and Friends of The Stables who can reserve for up to seven days). We are unable to reserve tickets without payment within seven days prior to the performance.
Terms & Conditions
For full terms and conditions, please visit www.stables.org
seating plan
Shaded areas represent seating levels not prices. Each show is individually priced.
This seating plan gives a general overview of The Stables main auditorium. Please ask a member of our box office staff at time of booking if you have questions regarding the choice of your seats
Booking Fees
Prices published in this brochure include all booking commission fees.
For tickets up to £10: a commission fee of £1 per ticket will be charged
For tickets between £10.01 and £15: a commission fee of £1.50 per ticket will be charged
For tickets between £15.01 and £25: a commission fee of £2.50 per ticket will be charged
For tickets more than £25: a commission fee of £3.50 per ticket will be charged These fees apply to all booking channels - in person, by phone and online.
Concessions/discounts
Concessions are available on selected performances and where they apply are indicated on the ticket pricing details.
Gift Vouchers
Gift vouchers for The Stables are available to purchase online and from the box office.
Data protection
We would like to add or retain your details to keep you informed about future events promoted by The Stables. When you make your first booking with us, you will be asked whether you want to receive such information. To be removed from our mailing lists at any time, please call or email the box office boxoffice@stables.org
For large print brochures, please call our Box Office on 01908 280800
How to find us
The Stables is situated to the south east of Milton Keynes in the village of Wavendon. Please note that the approach to The Stables has changed recently and there is no access via either end of Stockwell Lane.
From M1 Junction 14
• Head towards Milton Keynes
• At the first roundabout take the 2nd exit
• At the next roundabout, take the 1st exit. Follow the road through to the Kingston roundabout
• At the Kingston roundabout take the second exit signposted Wavendon/Woburn Sands, onto the A5130 (Newport Road)
• Take the second right (Dankworth Way) by the traffic lights onto the new approach road, signposted The Stables. The Stables entrance is straight ahead.
From M1 Junction 13
• Head towards Milton Keynes on A421
• At the Kingston roundabout take the first exit signposted Wavendon/Woburn Sands, onto the A5130 (Newport Road)
• Take the second right (Dankworth Way) by the traffic lights onto the new approach road, signposted The Stables. The Stables entrance is straight ahead.
Parking
The Stables has free car-parking on site (vehicles and contents are left entirely at owner’s own risk). At busy times, your exit from the car park may be slightly delayed – thank you for your patience. There are a limited amount of disabled parking spaces available (not bookable in advance). We also have a small bicycle rack available to the left of the main public entrance.
Access information
The Stables welcomes people with disabilities. For full access information, please refer to the Your Visit section on our website at www.stables.org The Stables is accessible to wheelchair users and other customers with limited mobility. There is a lift available giving access to seats on lower accessible levels. We can accommodate eight people in wheelchairs per performance, subject to availability. We have volunteer customer assistants available at the majority of events to provide assistance. Please ask a member of our box office team at the time of booking if you have any questions or concerns about your access around the building
Accessible Toilets
There are three accessible public toilets – one as part of the main toilet area situated in the foyer; further toilets are located next to the ladies and within the gents, both accessible from the auditorium.
Facilities for Hearing Impaired Customers
The main auditorium is fitted with an Ampetronic system. To use this system you must have a hearing aid with either a switchable or auto-detect T-Setting built in. Stage 2 customers will need to wear a hearing necklace, available from the box office. If you wear a hearing device please inform a member of the box office team when booking your tickets so that they can seat you in the area of the auditorium where the signal is strongest.
Assistance Dogs
Assistance dogs are welcome, but please advise us when you book so that we can allocate appropriate seats and inform you of any special effects that might affect your dog’s comfort.
Eating and drinking at The Stables
Our in-house restaurant Café in2 remains closed for the foreseeable future.
The Stables bar will be available for pre-show and interval drinks on performance nights.
diary at a glance
OCTOBER
Sun 1 Axel Blake
Tue 3 Brian Bilston
Wed 4 Judy Collins
Thu 5 Ed Byrne
Thu 5 Maz O’Connor
Fri 6 The Enid
Fri 6 Winter Mountain
Sat 7 Brother Strut
Sat 7 Josienne Clarke
Sun 8 Ronnie Scott’s All Star Band
Sun 8 Rachel Fairburn
Tue 10 The Overtones
Tue 10 Siobhan Miller
Wed 11 Gary & Robbie Live In Concert
Thu 12 Best of Queen
Thu 12 Christina Alden and Alex Patterson
Fri 13 Lindisfarne
Sat 14 Nearly Dan
Sat 14 Long Road Home
Mon 16 Limehouse Lizzy
Tue 17 Kathryn Tickell & The Darkening
Wed 18 Ligeti Quartet
Wed 18 Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club
Thu 19 Albert Lee
Fri 20 Syd Lawrence Orchestra
Fri 20 Dom Martin
Sat 21 Släpstick: Scherzo
Sun 22 Sunday Sessions: Dario Napoli Trio
Sun 22 The Billy Joel Albums Show
Sun 22 Max ZT and Dan Whitehouse
Mon 23 Family Fun Day
Mon 23 Viggo Venn
Tue 24 Oysterband
Wed 25 Hayley Griffiths Band
Thu 26 Stables Screening: Matilda The Musical (PG)
Thu 26 Rev. Richard Coles
Thu 26 Moscow Drug Club
Fri 27 Rave On
Fri 27 Michele Stodart
Sat 28 China Crisis
Sat 28 Sound of the Sirens
Sun 29 Alina Orchestra
Mon 30 Stables Screening: Amazing Grace (U)
Tue 31 An Evening of Laurel & Hardy
NOVEMBER
Wed 1 Gordon Giltrap
Wed 1 Faith I Branko
Thu 2 Rosie Jones
Fri 3 Classic Clapton
Fri 3 Clive Carroll
Sat 4 Stephen K. Amos
Sat 4 Susan Santos
Sun 5 Cavern Beatles
Sun 5 Alastair Greene
Mon 6 Damian Lewis
Tue 7 Marti Pellow
Tue 7 Sarah Gillespie
Wed 8 The Sound of Springsteen
Wed 8 Hannah Moule & The Moulettes
Indicates a new show which is open for public booking from Wednesday 13 September, prior to which Stables Friends have priority.
Educational Friends and Founders discount applies
For more information see page 3
Thu 9 Terje Isungset Ice Quartet
Fri 10 The Real Thing
Sat 11 The Clare Teal Four
Sat 11 Isabella Coulstock
Sun 12 Cara Dillon
Mon 13 John Robins
Tue 14 Soft Machine
Wed 15 O’Hooley & Tidow
Wed 15 Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club
Thu 16 Jason Byrne
Fri 17 Talon
Fri 17 Luke Jackson
Sat 18 Talon
Sun 19 Sunday Sessions: Paul Higgs Quartet
Sun 19 Mark Steel
Mon 20 Stables Screening: Tár (15)
Tue 21 Blue Rose Code
Wed 22 YolanDa Brown
Thu 23 Ben Poole & Catfish
Fri 24 Bye Bye Baby: A Celebration of Frankie Valli
Fri 24 Ward Knutur Townes
Sat 25 Beverley Craven & Judie Tzuke
Sat 25 Edgar Broughton
Sun 26 Eliza Carthy & Jon Boden’s Wassail
Sun 26 Andrew Bird
Mon 27 Laura Veirs
Tue 28 Buddy Holly & the Cricketers
Tue 28 Sarah Smout
Wed 29 Geoff Norcott
Thu 30 David Graham & the Eskimo Brothers
Thu 30 Angie Palmer
DECEMBER
Fri 1 Jo Caulfield
Fri 1 Martha Tilston
Sat 2 No Jacket Required
Sat 2 Daniel Champagne
Sun 3 Woburn Sands Band
Tue 5 Tony Momrelle
Wed 6 Mostly Autumn
Wed 6 Sons of Town Hall
Thu 7 Tenors UnLimited
Fri 8 Dark Side of the Moon
Fri 8 The Churchfitters
Sat 9 The Dankworth Family Christmas Show
Sun 10 Legend: Tribute to Bob Marley
Sun 10 Bella Hardy
Mon 11 Steeleye Span
Tue 12 Mediaeval Baebes
Wed 13 Kanda Bongo Man & Kasai Masai
Wed 13 Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club
Thu 14 Laurence Jones
Fri 15 Cats In Space
Sat 16 Mari Wilson & The Wilsations
Sun 17 Sunday Sessions: L’esprit du Jazz
Sun 17 Go West
Mon 18 - Sat 23 Box Tale Soup: Hansel & Gretel Christmas Fun at The Stables - see pages 4-5
Tue 19 The Albion Band
The Stables… available for hire!
The Stables is a world class music and entertainment venue offering accessible and cost-effective solutions for a wide range of events – from conferences, meetings, away-days, car and product launches to wedding receptions, charity galas, graduation ceremonies, private dining and much more besides.
Located close to the M1 and Milton Keynes station, The Stables offers free car parking, a range of flexible indoor & outdoor spaces, good accessibility, catering and free Wi-Fi – all supported by our experienced event and technical teams.
“MKu3a wanted somewhere special to celebrate its 35th anniversary. A special day made possible by the support, professional advice and help from wonderful staff and volunteers.”
Lynne Button, Chair, MKu3a
“The Stables team bent over backwards to accommodate our needs and support for our annual employee conference. I couldn’t ask for a better team and wouldn’t hesitate to use The Stables again.”
Fairhive Homes
For further details please contact the Development Office on 01908 280816 or development@stables.org