The Stables Brochure Issue 89

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 of 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 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.

Learning and participation are central to The Stables’ activities, and our year-round programme of music-related workshops and courses offers a wealth of opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to develop their skills and experience.

We look forward to seeing you soon!

keep up to date

All details in the brochure are correct at time of going to print. Visit our website at stables.org to keep up to date with all the latest news as well as details of all our new shows going on sale throughout the year.

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 Tuesday 14 May. Prior to this date Stables Friends have priority

This event takes place in Stage 2. Denotes an education event or a concert with an associated education event. Ask Box Office for details.

This event takes place in Mancini Forum.

Last remaining tickets

G2 Genesis

Friday 31 May & Saturday 1 June, 8pm £31.50; book for both shows in the same transaction and save on your tickets

G2 are celebrating their 24th year of playing classic 1970s Genesis. The Friday performance will feature a recreation of the band’s Duke tour performance at The Lyceum in May 1980, while Saturday’s show will be The Best Of The Rest – G2’s choice of some 1970s classics, with a few surprises thrown in along the way.

Promoted by G2 Genesis

RANT

Sunday 2 June, 8pm £20

With three acclaimed albums under their belt, RANT remain at the forefront of the Scottish fiddle scene. The quartet, featuring four of the country’s finest players, use just their fiddles to weave a tapestry of melodies, textures, layers and sounds. Their new album Spin is an album of reinterpretation – the band’s own take on influential tracks from their formative years.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The Shackleton Trio 13 Sep

Alina Orchestra Family Concert

Sunday 2 June, 3pm £13.50, under-18s £7

Prokofiev Peter and the Wolf, op.67

David Lyon Game: Football Variations for Audience and Orchestra

Conductor Hilary Davan Wetton

Narrator Susie Riddell

Alina Orchestra’s first-ever family concert features Peter and the Wolf, Prokofiev’s ever-popular symphonic folk tale for children. The piece introduces individual instruments in the orchestra, as a narrator tells the story of Peter’s encounter with a wolf. With quick thinking and the help of his friends – a bird, a duck and a cat – he manages to capture the wolf which is then taken to the zoo.

Peter and the Wolf is followed by a piece of music unlike any other. David Lyon’s Game takes the audience into the football arena where they become supporters of either ‘Rovers’ or ‘United’. Be part of a game, shout chants and celebrate goals!

Promoted by Alina Orchestra

Martin Taylor

Tuesday 4 June, 8pm £21

Multi-award-winning guitarist and composer Martin Taylor has established a unique career as an internationally acclaimed musician, and his inimitable style has seen him recognised as the world’s foremost exponent of solo jazz guitar playing. Completely self-taught, he has invented and developed a way of playing the guitar that is admired and often imitated by guitarists all over the world.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Lulo Reinhardt & Yuliya Lonskaya 17 Sep

Clive Anderson’s My Seven Wonders

Thursday 6 June, 8pm £22.50

Clive Anderson takes to the road as the live version of his hit podcast goes on tour for the first time. Join the host of Whose Line Is It Anyway, Talks Back and Loose Ends as he invites different guests to choose their own personal wonders of the world.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Henry Normal & Nigel Planer 22 Oct

Quo Connection

+ support from Fi Channon

Friday 7 June, 8pm £21

All former members of John Coghlan’s Quo – Mick Hughes, Rick Chase, Pete Mace and Russ Chadd – have reformed under the name Quo Connection to carry on the legacy of Status Quo and John Coghlan. Performing many of Quo’s hits plus some incredible album tracks, Quo Connection can’t wait to bring their high-octane show to The Stables!

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Wishbone Ash 14 Oct

Len Phillips Swing Orchestra: Frank & Ella

Saturday 8 June, 8pm £30

Featuring Stephen Triffitt and Nicola Emmanuelle, stars of the West End’s Rat Pack: Live From Las Vegas, the Len Phillips Swing Orchestra perform classic Sinatra and Fitzgerald hits including New York New York, Ev’ry Time We Say Goodbye, The Lady Is A Tramp, Manhattan and Fly Me To The Moon.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Ronnie Scott’s All Star Band 13 Oct

Last remaining tickets

Rich Hall: Shot From Cannons

Wednesday 12 June, 8pm £19.50

Fresh on the heels of his critically acclaimed memoir, Nailing It, Montana’s transatlantic messenger returns with new rants, knife-edge observations, thrilling musical interludes and an everformidable knack for laughs on the fly. You’ll pay for the whole seat, but you’ll only need the edge of it.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Ed Byrne 12 Dec

Six Chick Flicks

Thursday 13 June, 8pm £24.50

Two actors. Six beloved films. One hilarious parody! Fresh from a sold-out run at the Edinburgh Fringe, this smash-hit comedy parodies your favourite chick flicks in one hysterical, fast-paced show. From the deck of the Titanic to the glittery pink halls of Harvard Law, watch as New York City comedians Kerry Ipema and KK Apple transform the stage with songs, dance breaks and pop culture hilarity.

Johnny Hates Jazz

Friday 14 June, 8pm £27.50

Featuring Clark Datchler (songwriting, vocals, keyboards) and Mike Nocito (production, engineering, guitars), Johnny Hates Jazz achieved prominence in the late 1980s with a string of hits, notably Shattered Dreams. This year the band are embarking on their first-ever headline tour of the UK and overseas. With a brand new show, surrounded by world-class musicians, they’re ready to captivate audiences across the globe once more.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Peter Cox 21 Sep 14+

Carl Hutchinson: Today Years Old

Saturday 15 June, 7.30pm £20

Comedian Carl Hutchinson is back for a third UK tour. His storytelling skills and ability to hold an audience are second to none. Rich in observations and exaggerated physical comedy, a night out with this Geordie is guaranteed to have you belly laughing from start to finish.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Gary Meikle 14 Sep

Verity Bromham Band

Sunday 16 June, 8pm £20

With more than a century of recording and touring years between them, John Verity and Del Bromham have come together to bring something a little different to the table. The Verity Bromham Band features these two road warriors performing a broad selection of their favourite rock classics, carefully chosen to showcase their individual vocal and guitarplaying skills to the full.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Aynsley Lister 28 Jun

Karine Polwart & Dave Milligan: Still As Your Sleeping

Tuesday 18 June, 8pm £27.50

An evening of intimate, stripped-back songs performed entirely with voice and grand piano. Karine Polwart is a seven-time winner at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards and her acclaimed album Still As Your Sleeping is a collaboration with renowned jazz/folk pianist Dave Milligan. Deceptively simple yet devastatingly powerful, the album is threaded through with images of stillness and flux.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Eliza Carthy & The Restitution 26 Nov

Kossoff The Band Plays On presents Terry Slesser’s Back Street Crawler

Wednesday 19 June, 8pm £24.50

Don’t miss this special evening to celebrate the life and music of Paul Kossoff. It’s nearly 50 years since the guitar prodigy died, aged just 25 – but his music lives on. Renowned vocalist Terry Slesser has put together a fine ensemble of high-calibre musicians to pay tribute to Paul and their show features tracks from the very best of Free and Back Street Crawler’s back catalogue.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Wishbone Ash 14 Oct

Returns Only

Slambovian Circus of Dreams

Thursday 20 June, 8pm £21

Explore the depths of Americana ‘one trippy tune at a time’ with New York’s Slambovian Circus of Dreams. Voted Chronogram Magazine’s Best Band of 2022, the Slambovians’ exciting live shows are legendary. Woodstock-tinged psychedelia, a hint of southern rock and solid songwriting elevate this version of Americana to new heights.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Love 31 Jul

Roy Orbison & the Traveling Wilburys Experience

Friday 21 June, 8pm £26

Come and enjoy a fantastic evening of entertainment jam-packed with non-stop hits, big-screen action, expert narrative and a whole lot of fun. You’ll be taken on a journey through several decades of pop as the band celebrate the music of Jeff Lynne’s ELO, Roy Orbison, Bob Dylan, Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers and The Beatles’ George Harrison.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Buddy Holly & The Cricketers 28 Nov

La Voix

Saturday 22 June, 8pm £27.50

Britain’s funniest redhead is swinging into town with her most ambitious show yet! This brand new show promises an evening like no other, with huge vocals, a live band and side-splitting comedy. La Voix brings fans and first-timers a unique evening of entertainment in the company of a true legend, guaranteed to bring audiences to their feet with music and laughter.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Danny Beard 20 Sep

Grimethorpe Colliery Band

Sunday 23 June, 7pm £27.50

The world-famous Grimethorpe Colliery Band perform a programme of classic brass band repertoire and music from the film Brassed Off, alongside newer works and some entertaining solos. The band have been national and British Open Champions many times.

Freckle Productions

present

Zog & the Flying Doctors

Tuesday 25 June, 4.30pm Adults £16.50

Wednesday 26 June, 1.30pm & 4.30pm under-16s £14.50

Thursday 27 June, 10.30am & 1.30pm schools £11

Zog, super keen student turned air-ambulance, still lands with a bang-crashthump. Together with his Flying Doctor crew, Princess Pearl and Sir Gadabout, they tend to a sunburnt mermaid, a unicorn with one too many horns and a lion with the flu. However, Pearl’s uncle, the King, has other ideas about whether princesses should be doctors, and she’s soon locked up in the castle back in a crown and a silly frilly dress! With a bit of help from some friends and half a pound of cheese, can Pearl make her uncle better and prove princesses can be doctors too? Don’t miss this exciting stage adaptation based on Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s bestselling sequel.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Nick Cope 14 Sep

Returns Only

Curtis Stigers

Thursday 27 June, 8pm £38.50

Curtis Stigers returns to The Stables with a new show inspired by his weekly lockdown live-stream show, Songs From My Kitchen. You can expect songs from his entire catalogue – pop, jazz, soul, blues and even a little country/folk – delivered in an acoustic, up-close-and-personal style. He’ll bring his guitar, his sax and a couple of bandmates, along with 30+ years of entertaining stories (mostly true) about his long, winding career in show business.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The Best of Vonda Shepard 19 Oct

Aynsley Lister

Friday 28 June, 8pm £21.50

After the resounding success of last year’s sold-out show, Aynsley Lister is set to grace The Stables stage once again, promising another unforgettable night of soul-stirring blues and rock. Accompanied by his sensational band, Aynsley returns to captivate the audience with the best music from his remarkable 28-year recording career.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Verity Bromham Band 16 Jun

acknowledgements

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

• Garfield Weston

• M K Community Foundation

• PM C

• The Limb Family Endowment Fund

• The Wavendon Foundation

Logicaltramp

Saturday 29 June, 8pm £25

Logicaltramp bring their unique approach to the music of Supertramp – playing a full-on, two-hour rock show that includes all of the band’s greatest hits, all of their stand-out epic album tracks and even a few rarities for die-hard fans!

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Talon 6 & 7 Nov

Stand Together: The Concert for Matt Long

Sunday 30 June, 6pm £49.50

An amazing line up of friends and fellow musicians are donating their time to play this concert for Matt Long in aid of his fighting fund against his battle with cancer: Brave Rival, Kris Barras, When Rivers Meet, Will Wilde, Chantel McGregor, The Cinelli Brothers, Ben Poole and Alice Armstrong.

Produced by Solid Entertainments.

The Fugitives

Tuesday 2 July, 8pm £16.50

Canadian folk collective The Fugitives have earned a reputation for unforgettable live shows, brimming with complex harmonies, infectious storytelling and top-notch musicianship. The band’s 2020 album Trench Songs was nominated for a JUNO Award for Traditional Roots Album of the Year and two Canadian Folk Music Awards. Their latest album No Help Coming was released last year.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Tara MacLean 29 Jun

Spooky Men’s Chorale

Wednesday 3 July, 8pm £29.50

As thunderous as a herd of wildebeest, as sly as a wagonload of Spike Milligans and as sonorous as a cloister of monks, the Spooky Men’s Chorale are the gift that keeps on giving. Always renowned for a combination of Visigothic bravado, absurdist humour and eye-moistening tenderness, the Spookies, fortified by a new generation of wunderkids, are masters of their territory more than ever before.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Mediaeval Baebes 3 Dec

New Amen Corner: Bringing On Back The 60s

Thursday 4 July, 8pm £21.50

New Amen Corner have starred alongside some of the biggest artists to emerge from the 1960s, including Chris Farlowe, Cliff Bennett and Dave Berry. Join them for a fantastic evening as they perform more than two hours of the decade’s bestselling hits. With authentic visual accompaniment on the stunning large screen, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable night taking you back to the most iconic musical decade of all time.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Marty Wilde 6 Oct

Steampunk Orchestra

Friday 5 July, 8pm £22.50

Step into a realm where classical elegance converges with the pulsating energy of classic rock, indie and pop hits. The Steampunk Orchestra are not just an orchestra – they are an immersive experience that bridges the gap between musical genres and eras. Prepare to be transported into a fantastical world where gears, gadgets and innovation collide with the soul-stirring melodies of iconic songs.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Spooky Men’s Chorale 3 Jul

Northern Soul Live 2024: The Signatures

featuring Stefan Taylor with special guest Lorraine Silver

Saturday 6 July, 8pm £30

Don’t miss the U K’s premier Northern Soul show that’s sweeping the nation! This two-hour spectacular features an electrifying and highly talented 10-piece band performing in their own signature style, along with special guest vocalists from the Northern Soul scene.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The Real Thing 15 Nov

The National Youth Brass Band Ambassadors

Wednesday 10 July, 7.30pm £14.50 adult, £10 students/concessions,free for accompanied under-18s

Rock Experience Concert

Sunday 14 July, 7.30pm £7.50

This concert showcases the bands that have come together as part of The Stables’ 2024 Rock Experience course. All performers have taken part in a series of workshops and rehearsals to develop their technique and rehearse material for their set. Expect a wide range of rock and pop, from classics to modern hits, all chosen by the bands themselves.

Don’t miss this special concert from The Ambassador Band, drawn from the best players in The National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain, which will be performing an exciting selection of contemporary and traditional brass music. The Ambassadors have been leading workshops with local young players from Bedfordshire and Milton Keynes, and this concert will include young musicians from the Bedford Town Band Brass Academy and the Bradwell Silver Development Band. 14+

Mark Simmons: Quip Off The Mark

Thursday 18 July, 8pm £20

As seen on Mock The Week, BT Sport and ITV, master of oneliners and social media phenomenon Mark Simmons brings his sell-out tour show Quip Off The Mark to The Stables. This year Mark’s parents have sold the house he grew up in and he has to collect his box of stuff from the loft. Come and discover what’s in the box in this top-level, one-liner show structured in a way you’ve never seen before.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Carl Hutchinson 15 Jun

Live/Wire: Tribute to AC/DC

Friday 19 July, 8pm £29.50

Arguably the greatest rock band of all time, AC/DC are brought to life by Live/Wire with all the passion you would expect from professional musicians who share your love for this legendary live act. It’s a show that takes fans from one of the bestselling albums of all time, Back In Black, through to the band’s 2020 release PWR/UP, with a healthy dose of classics from the Bon Scott era along the way.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Best of Queen 4 Oct

Rubbish Shakespeare: Romeo & Juliet

Sunday 21 July, 2pm £13.50, under-16s £11 Enemies. Balconies. Kissing... Sausage rolls!? Three idiots perform Shakespeare’s famous tragedy using only a box of tatty wigs, a worn floral dress and a burst airbed they found by the bins. Featuring clowning, slapstick and mischievous storytelling, this ‘side-splittingly funny’ (The List) production is the perfect introduction to Shakespeare – or even theatre itself! Suitable for all ages.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Nick Cope 14 Sep

The Swing Cats

Friday 26 July, 8pm £16.50

The Swing Cats are one of the most versatile and seductive vocal bands to have appeared on the UK’s current jazz scene, evoking the great jazz voices and composers of the past century, such as Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, George Gershwin and Chet Baker. The band are delighted to present Used To Be Duke, their second album, dedicated to one of the greatest composers of the Swing era, Duke Ellington.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Len Phillips Swing Orchestra 8 Jun

Karnataka

Saturday 27 July, 8pm £16.50

Creating music that shifts effortlessly from powerful to ethereal and from breathtaking to haunting, Karnataka combine a widescreen cinematic vision with soaring melodies, lush harmonies and symphonic soundscapes, while also drawing on their Celtic roots. Last year the band released their critically acclaimed new album, Requiem For A Dream, supported by a nationwide UK tour.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Solstice 7 Sep

Sandi Thom

Sunday 28 July, 8pm £21

Renowned for her powerful vocals and captivating stage presence, Sandi Thom promises to deliver an unforgettable performance that will leave you wanting more. Join us for a night of soulful melodies and infectious energy as Sandi takes the stage to showcase her incredible talent. With her unique blend of folk, rock, and blues, this is an event that music lovers won’t want to miss.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Demi Marriner 27 Oct

Love with Johnny Echols

Wednesday 31 July, 8pm £27.50

Love with Johnny Echols sees Arthur Lee’s longest serving band return to the UK to perform classic songs from Love’s first three albums Love, Da Capo, Four Sail and Forever Changes alongside some special deep cuts. Joining Johnny Echols on stage is Baby Lemonade who from 1993 until Arthur’s death in 2006 became an essential part of the renaissance of Love’s music.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Slambovian Circus of Dreams 20 Jun 16+

Hello Again: The Neil Diamond Songbook

Sunday 25 August, 8pm £33

With evocative imagery, video and narration to enhance the magic, this great show takes you on a musical journey through Neil Diamond’s glittering 50-year career. From The Bang Years of the 1960s to the present day, you’ll soon find yourself singing along to all the hits including Sweet Caroline, Cracklin’ Rosie, Forever In Blue Jeans, Love On The Rocks, America and many more.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Elio Pace In Concert: My Songbook, My Life 9 Nov

Mànran

Wednesday 28 August, 8pm £22.50

Multi award-winning Scottish supergroup Mànran have been at the heart of the Scottish traditional music scene for more than a decade. Internationally recognised as one of the most iconic and respected Scottish bands on the road today, the seven-piece show no signs of slowing down as they continue to push boundaries and explore new musical and geographical territory, bringing their uplifting and unique live performances to stages across the world.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: RANT 2 Jun

Gary Delaney & Friends

Thursday 29 August, 8pm £24.50

Get ready for a night of pure hilarity – star of Live at the Apollo Gary Delaney is back for an extended headline set! And this time, he’s bringing two side-splitting friends along with him! Gary is one of the most sought after joke-writers in the country and a longstanding Mock The Week special guest. (Support artists are subject to change.)

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Geoff Norcott & Friends 12 Sep

Fleetwood Bac

Friday 30 & Saturday 31 August, 8pm £27.50

Book for both performances and save on the cost of your tickets.

Fleetwood Bac are the world’s first and best Fleetwood Mac tribute band. The sound, the look and the on-stage chemistry are all portrayed with the passion and energy that have won the seal of approval from Mac fans. Friday’s show will feature the Rumours album in its entirety. Saturday’s show will feature classic selections from the multi-million selling album Tango In The Night

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Talon 6 & 7 Nov

Go Now! Tribute to the Moody Blues

Sunday 1 September, 8pm £29.50

Go Now! is the brainchild of drummer Gordy Marshall, who toured with the Moody Blues for 25 years. Together with Mick Wilson (10cc), he has brought together some of the UK’s best musicians to create the ultimate tribute to the band. Hit songs such as Nights In White Satin, Go Now and Isn’t Life Strange are beautifully recreated live, and sound as close to the original recordings as you will ever hear.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: G2 Genesis 31 May & 1 Jun

Bootleg Blondie

Tuesday 3 September, 8pm £24

There aren’t many tribute bands that can say they’ve been endorsed by the original group, but Bootleg Blondie are one of them. They are the only Blondie tribute to play on some of the same stages as Debbie Harry and co. From the world-famous CBGBs in New York to the Isle of Wight Festival, Bootleg Blondie have earned their credentials on an international level.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Cloudbusting: The Music of Kate Bush 5 Sep

Camille O’Sullivan: Love Letter

Wednesday 4 September, 8pm £27.50

Chameleon-like on stage, Camille O’Sullivan performs songs and stories about loss, love, joy, light and darkness; some are hymnal while at other moments she rocks out, selecting music from her favourite writers including Nick Cave, Leonard Cohen and David Bowie along with some new originals. In this new show Camille also pays love and respect to dear departed friends Shane McGowan and Sinead O’Connor.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The Tiger Lilies 6 Sep

Cloudbusting: The Line, The Cross and The Curve

Thursday 5 September, 8pm £27.50 & £25

Cloudbusting are thrilled to bring their stunning The Line, The Cross and The Curve tour to The Stables. Featuring songs from the legendary short film of the same name which Kate Bush released in 1994, this spectacular new show offers audiences a fresh take on those tracks that first appeared on The Red Shoes album – all delivered with breathtaking vocals from Mandy Watson and superb musicianship from her live band.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS : Bootleg Blondie 3 Sep

The Tiger Lillies: Come on Down (The Nihilism Tour)

Friday 6 September, 8pm £27.50

Grammy-nominated post-punk pioneers The Tiger Lillies present a new show on a theme that has always run through their work –the meaninglessness and absurdity of existence. Brimming with wit, wisdom and humanity, they argue that our achievements will come to nothing – like throwing stones into a pond, the effects of our actions will ripple away into nothingness.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Camille O’Sullivan 4 Sep

Solstice

+ support from Ebony Buckle

Saturday 7 September, 8pm £20

With the beguiling presence of new vocalist Jess Holland, Solstice have become the band to catch live this year. With a string of high-profile festival appearances including Glastonbury and Milan, the band’s star continues its rapid ascendance. The 2023 album Light Up maintained this upward trajectory, bringing their music to an ever-growing audience.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Karnataka 27 Jul

What Now My Love? A Tribute to Herb Alpert & the Tijuana Brass

Sunday 8 September, 8pm £25

Dust off your dancing shoes! What Now My Love? A Tribute to Herb Alpert & the Tijuana Brass is bringing the fiesta to The Stables. This energetic live show recreates the sound of Herb’s iconic band, featuring hits including Spanish Flea, This Guy’s In Love With You and, of course, What Now My Love?

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Ronnie Scott’s All Stars 13 Oct

Hope & Social

Tuesday 10 September, 8pm £20

Hope & S ocial are a band who throw themselves wholeheartedly into every performance, perfectly bridging the gap between the stage and the audience. Expect anthemic songs, infectious melodies and a formidable live experience.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Turin Brakes Acoustic 16 Nov 16+

G4 20th Anniversary Tour 2024

Wednesday 11 September, 8pm £34.50 & £29.50; pre-show meet and greet £30.50 (must be bought in conjunction with concert ticket)

The UK’s number one vocal harmony group and original X Factor stars celebrate a double decade in the limelight with a spectacular anniversary show. G4’s unique blend of classical training alongside a pioneering approach to popular classics have seen them hailed as the ‘Kings of Popera’.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Papagena 17 Oct

Geoff Norcott & Friends

Thursday 12 September, 8pm £20

Top comic Geoff Norcott brings an extended headline set at this special evening of hilarity – and he’s got two side-splitting friends joining him for the ride! One of the hottest comics of the moment, Geoff’s many TV appearances include Live At The Apollo, Backstage with Katherine Ryan and Mock The Week. (Support artists are subject to change.)

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Simon Evans & Friends 22 Dec

Shakatak

Friday 13 September, 8pm £25

1980s hitmakers Shakatak return to one of their favourite UK venues. They’ll be playing songs you remember from over the years such as Night Birds and Down On The Street alongside new material. Join original members Bill Sharpe, Jill Saward, Roger Odell and George Anderson for a night of jazz funk at its very best.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: What Now My Love? 8 Sep

Returns Only

Nick Cope

Saturday 14 September, 11am & 2pm £18.50 & £15.50; under-16s £16.50 & £14.50

Nick Cope has been writing and recording his beautiful and totally unique songs for children and their families for over 10 years. Nick has a magical way of reaching into people’s hearts, igniting children’s imagination in an organic, unpatronising, educational and fun way. With his charming songs and humour, Nick engages, entertains and enthrals all generations of the family.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Rubbish Shakespeare: Romeo and Juliet 21 Jul

Gary Meikle: No Refunds

Saturday 14 September, 8pm £31

Ladies and gentleman! Gary Meikle is back with another self-written, self-deprecating show to leave you all short of breath again. Gary’s tour this year promises to deliver – he will reluctantly share his newer role in life of being a kept man, the lady being his ever-growing smarter granddaughter Gracie who essentially rips the piss out of her Papa daily!

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Larry Dean 22 Feb 2025

An Evening with Richard Carpenter

Sunday 15 September, 8pm £90

Richard Carpenter tours the UK for the first time, performing the hits of The Carpenters as well as telling some amazing stories about how the songs were made and how he and his sister Karen became one of the most successful duos of all time. During their 14-year career, The Carpenters won three Grammy awards and 15 nominations.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: An Evening with Merrill Osmond 26 Sep

WeCompose Schools Concerts

Tuesday 17 September, 11am: Key Stage 3 & 1pm: Key Stage

4

An introductory concert for schools taking part in the WeCompose project – a Music in the Round programme to support schools in developing young people’s creativity and composing skills. Students will be supported by visits from emerging and professional composers and extensive resources to help create their own music, which will be performed with renowned leading string quartets and ensembles in an end-of-project concert at The Stables in 2025. For more information contact education@stables.org

Lulo Reinhardt & Yuliya Lonskaya

Tuesday 17 September, 8pm £18.50

Two wonderful world-class guitarists, this musical pairing is definitely a cut above. Lulo Reinhardt, the grand-nephew of Django, performs the repertoire of gypsy swing you might expect, but he has also extended his musical horizons to include musical influences from North Africa and India. Yuliya Lonskaya performs an eclectic repertoire of folk, jazz, bossa nova, baroque, classical and romantic music.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Martin Taylor 4 Jun

India Electric Co.

Wednesday 18 September, 8pm £20

Blending traditional instruments, folk melodies and subtle electronic influences, India Electric Co. have performed extensively throughout Europe, Australia and New Zealand, and most recently at the Royal Albert Hall. After a mammoth 60+ date UK and European support tour with Midge Ure, and live sessions with BBC Radio 2 and 6 Music, they return with their long-awaited third studio album.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Jacob & Drinkwater 31 May

Aled Jones: Full Circle

Thursday 19 September, 8pm £33.50; VI P £53.50; Super VIP £73.50

Aled Jones, known for his angelic voice as a boy treble, is a multi-talented performer. A classical crossover star with over seven million albums sold, he’s graced the stages of the Royal Albert Hall and Sydney Opera House. Now, after 40 years, he shares his remarkable journey in a one-man show featuring new music and untold stories.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: G4 11 Sep

16+

Danny Beard: Straight Expectations

Friday 20 September, 8pm £24.50; pre-show meet-and-greet £22.50

Join Drag Race UK winner Danny Beard and their full live band for a five-star night of killer vocals, snappy comedy, put-downs and pick-me-ups. As the host of BBC3’s The After Shave takes to the road with this bran new international tour, get ready for an evening of scandalous behaviour, lots of laughs and an honest insight into what life’s really like as a Z-list ‘celeb’.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: La Voix 22 Jun

Peter Cox

Saturday 21 September, 8pm £29.50

As the singer, co-writer, and frontman of Go West, Peter Cox has enjoyed a career spanning four decades with a string of hits including We Close Our Eyes, Call Me, Don’t Look Down and Goodbye Girl. Alongside this, he has maintained a solo career and his eponymous debut in 1997 featured three UK top forty hits. He released his latest album Seaglass last year.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Johnny Hates Jazz 14 Jun

Stars From The Commitments

Sunday 22 September, 8pm £33

This outstanding show features an amazing live band and original Commitments cast members and musicians from Sir Alan Parker’s Golden Globe and Oscar-nominated smash hit film. You can expect two hours of sizzling soul music!

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Northern Soul Live 2024 6 Jul

Dom Joly: The Conspiracy Tour

Monday 23 September, 8pm £27.50

Dom Joly presents a hilarious, fascinating and slightly anarchic guide to the wacky world of conspiracies. So if you’ve ever been troubled by questions such as is the Earth flat, does Finland exist or are Q Anon mentally ill, then this is the show for you! In the spirt of fairness, Dom will also be inviting a well-known and highly respected conspiracy theorist, Dr Julian Northcote, to take the stage and defend the alternate view.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Omid Djalili 4 & 5 Nov

Returns Only

Big Big Train: The Likes of Us Tour 2024

Tuesday 24 September, 7.30pm £54 & £44

Big Big Train were formed by songwriter Gregory Spawton on the south coast of England in the early 1990s. Following the sudden tragic death of lead vocalist David Longdon, coupled with an enforced break due to COVID, Big Big Train took time to regroup. Now they’re back with a brand new studio album.

Promoted by Big Big Train Touring

The Wonder of Stevie

Wednesday 25 September, 8pm £32.50

Award-winning vocalist Noel McCalla and his world-class band present a diverse catalogue of back-to-back Stevie Wonder hits including Superstition, Signed, Sealed, Delivered, Isn’t She Lovely, Master Blaster and many more. The band features musicians who have performed with a host of music legends including Bill Withers, Amy Winehouse, Jools Holland, Martha Reeves, Jamiroquai and Alfie Boe.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Stars from The Commitments 22 Sep

Merrill Osmond

Thursday 26 September, 8pm £33 & £31

Merrill will be performing all The Osmonds’ biggest hits as well as talking about his experiences of growing up within one of the world’s most successful bands, the famous people he has met and how he wrote so many of the band’s famous tunes.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: An Evening with Richard Carpenter 15 Sep

Abba Forever

Friday 27 September, 8pm £33

The unique Abba sound is replicated with incredible attention to detail by this seven-piece band which features electric and acoustic guitars, keyboards and piano, bass and drums. Two outstanding Abba girls complete the line-up, adding the essential glitz and glamour to a well-polished and gently humorous show.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Bootleg Blondie 3 Sep

The Leo Green Experience

Saturday 28 September, 8pm £25

The Leo Green Experience guarantees a night of highenergy entertainment developed by Leo who has enjoyed a career playing alongside legends such as Van Morrison, Paul McCartney and Jerry Lee Lewis. Hear your favourite songs from the last 30 years or so, reworked into jazzy, soulful, saxdrenched brilliance, that will have you on your feet and singing along.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Ronnie Scott’s All Stars Band 13 Oct

Last remaining tickets

The Shires

Sunday 29 & Monday 30 September, 8pm £44.50

The Shires are one of the UK’s most popular and bestselling country acts. Having made huge waves both on home soil and across the pond, they became the first UK artists to win Best International Act at the prestigious Country Music Awards. Join Ben and Chrissie for an acoustic evening of their biggest hits and favourite tracks.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The Weeping Willows 6 Jul

Man of the World: The Music of Peter Green

Wednesday 2 October, 8pm £20

A celebration of the life and music of Peter Green, founder of the original Fleetwood Mac. Guitarist Remi Harris will be joined by vocalist Dave Small, bassist Tom Moore and Shane Dixon on drums to perform music from throughout Peter’s career, including such classics as Man Of The World, Black Magic Woman, Need Your Love So Bad, Albatross and The Green Manalishi (With The Two Prong Crown)

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Fleetwood Bac 30 & 31 August

Tom McRae: Étrange Hiver

Thursday 3 October, 8pm £26

Tom McRae’s ninth studio album Étrange Hiver is a collection of duets with some of his favourite French artists. Tom decided to collaborate on these 11 new songs as a way of deepening his relationship with mainland Europe, following the UK’s decision to leave the EU. “We’ve become politically, economically and culturally isolated since Brexit – and I want to show that I feel more of a European than simply just an English person,” says Tom.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Turin Brakes Acoustic 16 Nov

Best of Queen

Friday 4 October, 8pm £38.50

Get ready to Break Free with Majesty, the UK’s biggest Queen tribute. 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: Abba Forever 27 Sep

Van Morrison Alumni Band

Saturday 5 October, 8pm £35

Experience Van Morrison’s greatest hits live! The Van Morrison Alumni Band features his former touring and recording musicians who are reuniting to perform classics including Brown Eyed Girl and Moondance. Led by saxophonist Leo Green, a longtime friend and collaborator, this is a must-see for any Van Morrison fan.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Nearly Dan 12 Oct

Marty Wilde: Greatest Hits Tour 2024

Sunday 6 October, 8pm £33

Marty Wilde began his career in 1957 and was one of the first British singers to play a leading role in those formative and groundbreaking rock’n’roll years. Tonight Marty celebrates eight decades as a recording artist and songwriter, performing many of his greatest hits including Teenager In Love, Endless Sleep and Donna, alongside a host of other wonderful songs from the era.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: New Amen Corner 4 Jul

Henning Wehn: Acid Wehn

Tuesday 8 - Thursday 10 October, 8pm £31

Award-deserving German comedy ambassador Henning Wehn takes an unbiased look at climate change, a topic sure to delight audiences and no surprise. After all, everyone loves talking about the weather. Rain or shine, all will be fine. Or maybe it won’t. Who knows?! Come along. Or else.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Lucy Porter 8 Mar 2025

Rave On: The Ultimate 50s & 60s Experience

starring The Bluejays

Friday 11 October, 8pm £27.50

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: Marty Wilde 6 Oct

Last remaining tickets

Nearly Dan

Saturday 12 October, 8pm £24.50

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: Logicaltramp 29 Jun

Ronnie Scott’s All Star Band

Sunday 13 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: What Now My Love? 8 Sep

Wishbone Ash

Monday 14 October, 8pm £35.50

Discover for yourself why Wishbone Ash are one of the most enduring and popular bands in British rock. With millions of albums sold, their iconic twin-guitar sound inspired bands from Thin Lizzy to Iron Maiden and produced such classics tracks as The King Will Come, Throw Down The Sword and Blowin’ Free.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Terry Slesser’s Back Street Crawler 19 Jun

Afro Celt Sound System

Tuesday 15 October, 8pm £35

Afro Celt Sound System have been a leader in world music for more than 25 years. With millions in sales and several Grammy nods to their name, the band’s performances fuse African, Gaelic and bhangra influences in breathtaking fashion. Founder Simon Emmerson passed away in 2023, but the band have honoured his wish and will release a new album, OVA, in October. This is their first tour in five years.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Seckou Keita & the Homeland Band 27 Oct

Steve Knightley

Wednesday 16 October, 8pm

£22.50

Renowned West Country songwriter Steve Knightley, former Show of Hands frontman, sets out on a groundbreaking nationwide solo tour, his first since the iconic band disbanded. Steve has a reputation for haunting narrative songs and captivating storytelling and fans can anticipate a powerful and evocative continuation of his influential legacy in acoustic music.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Oysterband 13 Nov

Papagena: Love, Legends & Lullabies

Thursday 17 October, 8pm £20, under-16s £10

The UK’s flagship female voice ensemble, Papagena present a diverse programme ranging from sacred mediaeval works and contemporary madrigals to lilting Celtic ballads, folk legends and lullabies. Throw into the mix Purcell, Pentatonix, MacMillan, Monteverdi, Sandy Denny and Canadian mouth music and you have something for everyone!

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Mediaeval Baebes 3 Dec

Lady Nade Sings Nina Simone

Friday 18 October, 8pm

£25.50

Lady Nade pays tribute to the high priestess of soul Nina Simone, performing classic tracks with her band including I Wish I Knew How, Ain’t Got No, I Got Life and Mr Bojangles. Lady Nade possesses one of the most singular voices on the UK music scene and as a black woman, she acknowledges Simone’s trailblazing role in paving the way for artists of her generation and is honoured to celebrate her life and enduring legacy.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Tremaine Dawkins 14 Sep

The Best of Vonda Shepard: In Concert

Saturday 19 October, 8pm £34.50

Following the success of her recent barnstorming UK tours which sold out venues across the country, Vonda Shepard will be returning with her full band to play a set of greatest hits and favourites from her many albums, including her latest release Red Light, Green Light. Vonda first shot to fame through her long-running appearances, performances and musical accompaniment on the smash hit US TV show Ally McBeal.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Curtis Stigers 27 Jun

The Dime Notes

Sunday 20 October, 11.30am £16.50

The Dime Notes – small band, huge swing! You can expect an entertaining morning of blues-drenched, clarinet-driven 1920’s jazz. The band present a fresh take on this timeless style, emphasising the propulsive grooves and sultry melodies which made early jazz revolutionary, controversial and wildly popular.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Tad Newton’s Jazz Friends 12 Oct

Jason Byrne: No Show

Sunday 20 October, 8pm £30

There’s no show like a Jason Byrne No Show No Show is a show with no comedy safety net. By the end of No Show you’ll have experienced a once-in-a-lifetime show or No Show. Jason, along with the audience, will begin No Show with no show whatsoever. Witness Jason use his infamous audience interactions with a sprinkle of props, both on and off the stage, to create No Show!

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Ed Byrne 12 Dec

Henry Normal & Nigel Planer

Tuesday 22 October, 8pm £21

Nigel Planer is a comedy legend, an actor, writer and, more importantly for this show, a great poet. He joins Henry Normal, BBC Radio 4’s ‘poet in reticence’ to reunite a team that entertains, educates and informs (but mostly entertains, it must be said). Expect poetry, stories, jokes, a Q&A, fun, knitwear and a few surprises.

L IKE THIS? TRY THIS: Pam Ayres 24 Oct

Returns Only 16+

Urzila Carlson: Just Jokes

Wednesday 23 October, 8pm £19

S outh African-New Zealander comedian Urzila Carlson returns to the UK with her new show Just Jokes. Urzila has become one of the biggest names in comedy in Australia and New Zealand and her new tour arrives hot on the heels of her 2023 sold-out UK show, It’s Personal.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Sarah Keyworth 18 Nov

Pam Ayres

Thursday 24 October, 8pm £39.50

Pam Ayres has been making the nation laugh for almost 50 years. Her performance tonight includes poems and stories from across her long career, including Pam Ayres On Animals, which was the UK’s bestselling poetry book of 2021, and her latest book, Who Are You Calling Vermin?

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Clive Anderson 6 Jun

Maisie Adam: Appraisal

Friday 25 October, 8pm £23.50

Fresh from Live At The Apollo, A League Of Their Own and Have I Got News For You, Maisie Adam is heading back out on tour with a brand new show. She’s five years into her job as a comedian now, so she’s due an appraisal. Join her for the ultimate performance review, where you’ll either see just why she was awarded Best New Act and nominated Best Newcomer… or you’ll see someone who’s ready for “organisational restructure”.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Lucy Porter 8 Mar 2025

The Cavern Beatles

Saturday 26 October, 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 60 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: Best of Queen 4 Oct

Seckou Keita: Homeland Tour

Sunday 27 October, 8pm £20

S eckou Keita is a renowned Kora virtuoso who stands as a luminary amongst African traditional musicians. Hailing from Southern Senegal, his journey from a gifted child to a globally recognised musician has been nothing short of remarkable. Dubbed “the Hendrix of the Kora’’, Seckou’s innovative approach and exceptional skill constantly pushes the boundaries of what the instrument can achieve.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Afro Celt Sound System 15 Oct

Albert Lee: 80th Birthday Tour

Monday 28 October, 8pm £31

One of the most respected and renowned guitarists in music history, Grammy award-winning Albert Lee has worked with the likes of Eric Clapton, The Everly Brothers, The Crickets and Emmylou Harris over an illustrious career spanning 60 years. His unique picking style – performed at breakneck speeds that have to be seen to be believed – has earned him the title “the guitarist’s guitarist”.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Preston Reed 18 Jul

Lindisfarne

Tuesday 29 October, 8pm £34.50

Legendary 1970s 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. With a repertoire of unforgettable songs including Meet Me On The Corner, Fog On The Tyne, Lady Eleanor and Run For Home, Lindisfarne’s power to galvanise audiences remains undimmed and is guaranteed to get you on your feet, singing along.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Oysterband 13 Nov

Stewart Copeland: Have I Said Too Much?

Wednesday 30 October, 8pm £38.50; VI P tickets £54.50; Super VIP tickets £94.50

In this fascinating ‘Evening With’, Stewart Copeland talks about his incredible life as a performer, musician, entertainer and writer. Stewart enjoyed remarkable success with The Police and is one of the greatest drummers of all time, a multi-Grammy winner and a Rock’n’Roll Hall of Famer.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Peter Cox 21 Sep

Gary & Robbie Live in Concert

Thursday 31 October, 8pm £32.50

Two of the UK’s finest tribute artists come together for an unforgettable evening of Barlow, Williams and Take That classics. Jon Fisher and Dan Budd 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 21 Feb 2025

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 100 concerts each year of all shapes and sizes – folk, rock, blues and much more besides – along with a good smattering of comedy and spoken word.

So come and hear the latest new music and comedy, relax and enjoy a drink with friends!

Tremaine Dawkins

Look out for these Stage 2 artists making their headline debuts this season

Tara MacLean

Tom Waters Band

Miranda Sykes

Saturday 1 June, 8.45pm £15.50

“It feels like a lifetime ago that the world was in lockdown and the hugs and closeness of family and friends seemed a far-off dream. My new album Out Of The Woods is a collection of songs that have seen me through my own journey of isolation, illness and recovery, and I hope they bring you as much comfort as they did me over the past few turbulent years.”

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Steve Knightley 16 Oct

Banter

Friday 7 June, 8.45pm £13.50

Described by many as the future of folk, Banter take English traditional music to the next level with their iconic interpretations of classic songs and dance tunes. They’ll be touring material from their new studio album Heroes alongside some of their old favourites.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The Shackleton Trio 13 Sep

Wesson

Saturday 8 June, 8.45pm £13.50

Wesson are a Milton Keynes-based retro pop rock band, frequently likened to The Beatles and The Kinks. They’ve supported artists such as Space, The Bluetones, Callum Beattie and Lucy Spraggan, and have enjoyed recent success with their viral hit Stay The Same. Their infectious sound will worm its way into your ears and you’ll soon find yourself singing along to their storytelling lyrics. Here’s your chance to catch them on their way up!

Promoted by Wesson Music

15 Years of The Inbetweeners: In Conversation with Joe Thomas

Wednesday 12 June, 8.45pm £19.50

Joe Thomas will be in conversation about his time on The Inbetweeners and taking questions from the audience. Also touching on Joe’s other work including White Gold, Taskmaster and The Great Celebrity Bake Off, this promises to be a revealing and exciting evening. So come along, bring your friends (ooh, friends!), and enjoy an evening of hilarity and insight.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Sooz Kempner 31 Oct

Iain Matthews

with special guests Plumhall

Saturday 15 June, 8.45pm £22.50

Iain Matthews was a founding member of Fairport Convention and went on to front bands such as Plainsong, Hi-Fi, No Grey Faith, More Than a Song and Dutch jazz combo The Searing Quartet. These days Iain prefers to focus more on acoustic solo shows, where he can tells stories and perform fan favourites from his 50-year career.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Lindisfarne 29 Oct

Dean Owens & The Sinners

Friday 21 June, 8.45pm £16.50

The Sinners make a glorious, brass-infused driving sound with Craig Ross (electric guitar), Philip Cardwell (trumpet) and Adam McMillan (bass) all backing Dean Owen’s searingly soulful voice up front. Together they conjure the magical panoramic sweep of the US desert states, infused with grit and dust from Scotland’s post-industrial heartland. Expect songs of love and lust, sinners and saints, the displaced, the wanderers and the border ghosts.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Eddy Smith & The 507 27 Sep

Natasha Seale: Two Pigeons & a Pizza

Saturday 22 June, 8.45pm £16.50

Vocalist, songwriter and former West End leading lady Natasha Seale is delighted to return to The Stables. She’ll perform an intimate acoustic evening with a brand new set of original songs reflecting on life, motherhood, relationships, nature and finding the magic in the mundane. Deeply personal yet delivered with Natasha’s trademark warmth and wit, this intimate session will resonate, inspire and ultimately uplift.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The Best of Vonda Shepard 19 Oct

16+

Ashley Blaker: Normal Schmormal

Friday 28 June, 8.45pm

The star of BBC Radio 4’s hit comedy 6.5 Children takes to the road in a new stand-up show, based on the bestselling book of the same name, about the joys of raising children with special needs. Between endless meetings, countless therapists, public humiliations, failed playdates, surreal monologues and occasional violence, it’s certainly not what anyone would call a ‘normal’ household – but would Ashley want it any other way?

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Eshaan Akbar 6 Feb

£19.50

Tara MacLean

Saturday 29 June, 8.45pm £13.50

Tara MacLean is a multi-award-winning singer-songwriter and bestselling author from the east coast of Canada. She has written and recorded seven solo albums and two with her band Shaye. She has toured with Dido, Nelly Furtado, the Barenaked Ladies and Sarah McLachlan. Tara’s got invigorating new music coming this summer in conjunction with her first UK tour, so be sure to check her out.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The Fugitives 2 Jul

Diana Jones

Thursday 4 July, 8.45pm £14.50

Raised in New York, country singer Diana Jones discovered her musical roots in Tennessee after reuniting with her birth family. Her grandfather, a musician himself, introduced her to Appalachian music. Diana’s unique blend of traditional sounds and storytelling has garnered critical acclaim since the release of her 2006 debut album My Remembrance Of You.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Tara MacLean 29 Jun

Sukh Ojla: The Aunty Years

Friday 5 July, 8.45pm £16.50

Sukh Ojla keeps being told that she’s successful. She’s been on telly, had a book published and even been trolled on Twitter. So why does she still feel like a toddler who has lost their Mum in Tesco’s? Join Sukh as she approaches 40 and figures out middle age, pretending to be a grown up. Sukh is a comedian, actor and writer. Her first book, Sunny, was released in 2022.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club 16 Oct

The Weeping Willows

Saturday 6 July, 8.45pm £13.50

C MAA Golden Guitar, Australian Folk Music and Music Victoria Award winners, Australian duo The Weeping Willows make a welcome return to The Stables. Laura Coates and Andrew Wrigglesworth are a couple of old souls, steeped in bluegrass tradition and draped in Gothic Americana imagery. They regale their audiences with stories of sunshine and romance, God and the Devil, murder and decay. Real music.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The Shires 29 & 30 Sep

Otto & Astrid Play The Greatest Rock ‘N’ Roll Concert You’ve Ever Seen!

Wednesday 10 July, 8pm £21

Berlin’s Prince and Princess of Art Rock and Europop grace our stage with their royally hilarious showcase of hits (and misses!). Utterly dysfunctional siblings Otto & Astrid from the cult band Die Roten Punkte are a lipstick-smeared sonic collision between The B-52s, The Pixies, Kraftwerk and early Ramones.

Preston Reed

Thursday 18 July, 8.45pm £16.50

Internationally recognised as one of the world’s most influential guitarists and a groundbreaking innovator, Preston Reed revolutionised acoustic guitar playing in the 1980s and 90s. His invention of integrated percussive guitar playing – an approach that incorporates a live percussive groove on the guitar neck and body with other techniques – continues to captivate audiences and inspire new generations of musicians around the world.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Martin Taylor 4 June

The Cadillac Kings

Saturday 7 September, 8.45pm £16.50

Formed 25 years ago by ex-members of the bands of Otis Grand, Paul Lamb, Big Joe Louis, James Hunter and Camden legends The Poorboys, The Cadillac Kings have built a huge reputation for entertaining audiences with a unique mix of selfpenned rhythm’n’blues, roots rock’n’roll and swing! Last year the band released Crash And Burn, their sixth album of original roots rhythm’n’blues.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Tom Waters Band 14 Oct

The Shackleton Trio

Friday 13 September, 8.45pm £16.50

Touring their brand new live album, to be released in September, The Shackleton Trio features Georgia Shackleton (fiddle, vocals), Aaren Bennett (guitar) and Nic Zuppardi (mandolin and banjo). Collectively the band draw influences from British, American and Scandinavian folk traditions, while Georgia’s flair for sourcing largely unsung material from East Anglia keeps the band firmly rooted in their local tradition.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Suthering 7 Nov

Tremaine Dawkins

Saturday 14 September, 8.45pm £16.50

Singer-songwriter Tremaine Dawkins performs songs from her much-awaited new album Something About Love with a live band. The album is a beautiful, eclectic fusion of jazz, soul and gospel music, centred around the theme of love and all its intricacies – expect heartfelt lyrics laid over soulful jazz-tinged melodies, guaranteed to uplift and inspire.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Natasha Seale 22 Jun

Catfish

+ support from Geminii Dragon

Friday 20 September, 8.45pm £20

International touring blues-rock powerhouse Catfish are making waves on the music scene in the UK and Europe and they have now won a total of five UK Blues Awards. In the past few years they have played at almost every major UK blues festival, toured regularly in Europe and established themselves as a real force in the British blues scene.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Verity Bromham Band 16 Jun

Ian Stone: Ian Stone Is Keeping It Together

Saturday 21 September, 8.45pm £16.50

Ian Stone’s new show is called Ian Stone is Keeping it Together

In spite of everything. What does it matter that he has all his own hair and teeth and keeps a tight control over his between-meal snacking when the Tories are still in power, there’s war in the Middle East and Donald Trump could be allowed back (back!) into the White House?

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Ashley Blaker 28 Jun

An Evening with Guy Chambers

Thursday 26 September, 8.45pm £23.50

Guy Chambers is one of the U K’s most successful songwriters and probably best known for his work with Robbie Williams. In this special ‘Evening with’ Guy performs arrangements of his songs, including classics such as Angels and Feel. He’ll also tell the stories behind them and share hilarious anecdotes spanning his early years as a sideman in Aztec Camera, The Waterboys, World Party, and his own band, The Lemon Trees.

Eddy Smith & The 507

Friday 27 September, 8.45pm £20

Eddy Smith has been making his mark as one of the major male vocalists on the circuit, with his soulful melodies and infectious song-writing drawing favourable comparisons to classic and contemporary artists alike. Backed by his long-time friends, Eddy Smith & The 507 are firm festival favourites, with appearances including the Isle of Wight Festival, Black Deer, The Long Road, Cambridge Folk and The British Country Music Festival.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Dean Owens & The Sinners 21 Jun

Plumhall

Sunday 6 October, 8.45pm £15 Plumhall are Michelle Plum (Chumbawamba, The Chris Norman Band) and Nick B Hall (Magna Carta, Ian Prowse & Amsterdam, The Hall Brothers). Their mesmerising blend of acoustic and electric instruments, exquisite vocal harmonies and exceptional musicianship has earned them numerous accolades and wowed audiences worldwide. 2024 promises to be the band’s most exciting year yet –including the release of their third album One Star Awake

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Iain Matthews 15 Jun

Jo Harrop

Thursday 10 October, 8.45pm £16.50

Jo Harrop possesses one of the most distinctive voices in contemporary jazz, yet she has soul running through her veins. The Path Of A Tear, Harrop’s superb fourth album to be released in June, is an ear-watering slice of mid-70s soul with a sublime shot of jazz and a subtle twist of Americana and sees Jo finding her voice as a writer with elegant, confessional songs of unflinching honesty.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Natasha Seale 22 Jun

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.

Join online at stables.org/support_us/friends or call 01908 280800 for further information

Sorrel Nation

Friday 11 October, 845pm £13.50

Kent born songstress Sorrel Nation brings you a soulful mix of folk rock with powerful vocals and haunting melodies. She engages audiences with emotive lyrics, a 1970’s inspired style and is known for impressive covers of Gillian Welch, Fleetwood Mac and Portishead. 2024 sees new music released by Sorrel, a single in May, a live EP in July and a studio album in October supported by a trio/band tour with many festival appearances too.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The Beggs Sisters 24 Nov

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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Tad Newton’s Jazz Friends: A Journey Thru’ Jazz

Saturday 12 October, 8.45pm £16.50

A swinging and entertaining evening dedicated to the great icons of jazz: Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Earl Hines, Jelly Roll Morton, Horace Silver, Fats Waller, Bill Evans, Miles Davis and many more…

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The Dime Notes 20 Oct

Tom Waters Band

Monday 14 October, 8.45pm £26.50

Tom Waters is a highly accomplished rhythm’n’blues and jazz saxophonist who has recorded and worked with numerous charttopping bands and rock’n’roll legends. Tom has many awards to his name and with his band, which he tours and gigs with regularly, he is proving that the saxophone can really rock and roll!

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The Cadillac Kings 7 Sep

Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club

Wednesday 16 October, 8.45pm £12.50 in advance, £14.50 on the door

Compere Andrew Bird introduces Michael Fabbri and Tania Edwards. (Line-up is subject to change.)

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Ian Stone 21 Sep

Jimmy Regal and the Royals

Saturday 19 October, 8.45pm £14

A tough and howlin’ harmonica-led three piece from S outh London, with sounds drawn from Mississippi, New Orleans, Mali and Canvey Island. This high-energy band have supported the likes of Grammy Award winner Cedric Burnside and the B.B. King Band and have graced festivals and venues across the UK, including Red Rooster and the 100 Club.

The Fezzes

Tuesday 22 October, 8.45pm £16.50

The Fezzes stand for Fun, Entertainment and never ZZ sleeping to bring you an evening of Exotic Sounds. Stylishly turned out with a set loaded with the classic cool of 1950s American rock’n’roll, filtered through the lens of Tarantino soundtracks. And you’ll often find them taking a left turn into the knowing wink of British Comedy, with a yakety sax. Just Like Hat.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Rave On 11 Oct

Long Road Home

Friday 25 October, 8.45pm £14

Long Road Home are a song-based blues rock band, whose music is drenched in the blues. The band’s influences can be traced back to the emergence of the British blues scene, 1970s rock and beyond. Their debut album Are We Invisible? is very much in the modern blues idiom with shades of progressive and classic rock adding spice to the mix.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Verity Bromham Band 16 Jun

gift ideas

Demi Marriner

Sunday 27 October, 8.45pm £16.50

2023 was a big year for Demi Marriner. Not only with her own music but also as a member of the Elles Bailey Band, which has just won The Americana Music Association UK Live Act of the Year award. Demi then released her highly anticipated debut album, The Things We Didn’t Say, followed by a series of soldout record release shows featuring her full band. She has been nominated in three categories at the UK Blues Awards for 2024.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Sandi Thom 28 Jul

Footpath of Fame – your chosen name or text engraved onto a brick and placed amongst many celebrities in our exclusive Footpath. Stables Gold – a presentation pack of The Stables’s very own 50th anniversary beer, specially made us by Concrete Cow Brewery. Gift Vouchers – treat someone to a great night of entertainment.

For more information contact box office on 01908 280800 or email development@stables.org

Your support helps us to continue providing music and music-making opportunities for children and adults alike.

Joshua Burnell Band

Tuesday 29 October, 8.45pm £16.50

Joshua Burnell makes retro pop-rock for the modern world. His latest album Glass Knight won over a lot of new fans upon its release in 2023. Expect hooky melodies drenched in warm, retro-synth textures, reverbing guitars, lush harmonies and words that make you think. Imagine The War On Drugs meets Genesis with “lashings of Peter Gabriel stylings” (The Guardian).

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: India Electric Co. 18 Sep

Sooz Kempner: Class of 2000

Thursday 31 October, 8.45pm £18.50

S ooz Kempner’s new tour combines her 2023 sell-out Edinburgh Fringe hit with fresh 2024 material. In a hilarious look back, she explores turning 15 in 2000 amid fears of the Millennium Bug. Recalling school, pop culture and teenage dreams, the show resonates with anyone who remembers Y2K or simply had big ambitions as a kid.

LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Maisie Adam 25 Oct

learn and take part

Learning and participation are central to The Stables’ activities, bringing music to the widest possible audience. Our learning and participation programme works with people of all ages and levels of ability and across many musical styles.

With lifelong learning at its heart, the programme includes workshops, courses, talks, concerts and training. The Stables aims to encourage people to become involved in music, whether by developing existing skills or offering a musical experience for the first time. The programme offers events for children and young people, through to opportunities for more experienced audiences and music makers. Our outreach work and partnerships aim to support people across the region who may not otherwise have the opportunity to participate in musicmaking activities.

The atmosphere was relaxed and the tutor allowed everyone to learn in their own way offering additional support where it was needed.

Great venue, great course, great teacher!

Over the following pages you’ll find details of our workshops and courses over the next few months.

Please call The Stables box office on 01908 280800 or visit stables.org to book a place.

workshops and courses

Our popular saxophone workshops and courses, including those for absolute beginner and improving players, will be returning in the autumn. Watch this space for more information www.stable.org/learning or contact education@stables.org

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.

Summer Songwriting Workshops for Young People

Thursday 1 August, 10am-3pm For ages 10-11

Friday 2 August, 10am-3pm For ages 12-14

Workshop fee £20; bursaries available

Would you like a creative day of music making? Work with other young musicians to create a brand new group song? Through warm-ups, word games, musical play and teamwork in this workshop you’ll learn how a song can start, how to contribute ideas, listen to other peoples’ ideas and bring them all together to create and perform a brand new song and record it as a group.

Workshop leader John Bowman is founder of the Notivate singer/ songwriting programme and has helped over 5,000 young people in Europe and Africa to record over 1,000 songs. As a pianist and arranger he collaborates regularly with established singer/ songwriters, touring widely and appearing on numerous commercial recordings.

Cajon Beginners Workshop Adult/15+ Workshop

Sunday 8 September, 1.30-4pm

£28

The Cajon (wooden box), the smallest drum kit in the world, is the perfect powerful accompaniment instrument to any kind of band, be it blues, hip hop, boogie, rock, pop, folk or latin – providing a full snare and rich bass sound. Cajons come in various shapes, sizes and styles and during this one-day workshop you’ll get hands-on experience to fully discover a range of possibilities this versatile instrument can provide. Covering tones, exercises and rhythms, this workshop is suitable for kit drummers and hand drummers alike. Please bring a cajon (with snare wires inside) if you have one or contact education@ stables.org if you need to borrow one (limited numbers available).

Ukulele Beginners Part 1 Adult/15+ Workshop

Saturday 14 September, 10am-3pm

£38

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 follow-on workshop Ukulele Beginners Part 2 workshop takes place on Saturday 19 October.)

Concertina Beginners Adult/15+ Workshop

Saturday 21 September, 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 its rich history and repertoire in this day-long workshop. You’ll 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.

Introduction to Music Recording and Production Part 1

Adult/15+ Workshop

Saturday 28 September, 10am-4pm £52

This workshop offers an introduction to recording and production using music technology, looking at microphone and production techniques and recording different instruments. The workshop uses MAC computer and Logic Software in ways that apply generally across Digital Audio Workstations software including Ableton, Cubase and Sonar. We’ll 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 the skills you’ve learned. If you play an instrument, bring it along for the afternoon recording session to learn how best to record it. (Our Part 2 follow-on workshop on Saturday 26 October looks in more detail into studio-based recording and production.)

Blues Guitar Beginners Part 1 Adult/15+ Workshop

Sunday 29 September, 10am-3pm £38

This workshop introduces the blues, looking at techniques such as turnarounds, shuffles and basic basslines, demystifying ‘V-IV-I’ chord sequences. We’ll explore fundamental techniques such as finger picking, hammer-ons and pull-offs, using examples from classic recordings. You’ll need to be comfortable with E, A, D and B7 chords and be able to change confidently between them. Some knowledge of E and A minor pentatonic scales will also be helpful. (Details available on The Stables website or email education@stables.org.) You will need to bring a six-string acoustic guitar. (The follow-on Blues Guitar Part 2 takes place on Saturday 2 November.

Mandolin Beginners Adult/15+ Workshop

Sunday 6 October, 10am-3pm £42

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).

Melodeon Beginners Part 1

Saturday 12 October, 10am-3pm

Adult/15+ Workshop

£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.)

Singing Lead Vocals & Microphone Technique

Sunday 13 October, 1.30-5pm

Adult/15+ Workshop

£28

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.

Latin Percussion for Beginners Adult/15+ Course

Sundays 13 October, 17 November & 8 December, 1.30-4.30pm (three session course)

£56

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 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.

The Jazz Experience for Beginners Adult/15+ Course

Sundays 13, 20, 27 October; 3, 17, 24 November (no session 10 Nov), 10am12.30pm; end of course performance Sunday 24 November, 2pm £95 (£75 students)

For instrumental players new to jazz, this six-session 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.

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 work towards learning a selection of well-known jazz tunes from memory, in preparation for an informal performance on the final afternoon. The tunes will be selected by the tutors to suit the range of instruments taking part, but you may find it useful to be familiar with the following scales and chords before the course. 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

The course is ideal for those that have not played any jazz before, or are looking for a basic refresher. If you are unsure or have any other level of experience, including paying some jazz before, contact education@stables.org for further advice.

Harmonica Beginners Part 1 Adult/15+ Workshop

Saturday 19 October, 10am-3pm

£38

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 Sunday 24 November.)

Ukulele Beginners Part 2

Saturday 19 October, 10am-3pm

Adult/15+ Workshop

£38

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.

Introduction to Music Recording and Production Part 2

Saturday 26 October,10am-4pm

Adult/15+ Workshop

£52

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 workshop follows on from Introduction to Music Recording and Production Part 1 on Saturday 28 September.)

Blues Guitar Beginners Part 2 Adult/15+ Workshop

Saturday 2 November, 10am-3pm

£38

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.

Heritage Open Day Tours

Sunday 15 September, tours at 10am, 11am, 12 noon

Tours are free, but must be booked in advance, limited numbers. Max 2 tickets per booking. You’ve sat in the Jim Marshall Auditorium… you’ve enjoyed the music ... the ambience… the acoustics…

But have you ever wondered how The Stables works as a building? What it’s like walking on the trampoline at the top of the main auditorium? How does fresh air reach you and the essential communications reach the control desk? And what’s The Stables experience like for our visiting artists?

Led by architect Peter Hall, who will explain how The Stables was conceived, these Heritage Open Day tours will give you a unique opportunity to visit backstage areas and gain a better understanding of why The Stables is widely regarded as one of the UK’s finest music venues.

The Children’s Bookshow

Al Rodin

Suitable for Years 1 and 2 (Key Stage 1)

Tuesday 26 September, 11am

£7

The Children’s Bookshow presents author and illustrator Al Rodin, creator of the brilliant picture books An Adventure for Lia and Lion and Little Echo. Al will be talking to children about his work, showing the audience his beautiful illustrations and reading his stories. With the chance to ask questions and watch Al draw live on stage this interactive and fun performance will spark children’s imaginations and encourage them to read, write and draw! Every child attending will get their very own book to take home and keep.

The show will last one hour.

To book tickets contact Katy Webster at The Children’s Bookshow:

Katy Webster

07904 068084

katyw@thechildrensbookshow.com

Hospitality Packages AT THE STABLES

Enjoy bespoke hospitality packages* for all occasions, whether you are celebrating a special birthday, anniversary or simply wanting a private space for time to catch up with colleagues, friends or family.

We can offer exclusive use of Stage 2 or our Hospitality Room (depending on numbers), both pre-show and during the interval, with a dedicated event manager and event staff.

Packages can be built together to include specific drink requests (subject to availability) and various options for catering. Pre-ordered drink options are also available.

*Please note that hospitality packages do not include any show ticket requirements/costs.

For more information, contact Emma Briggs, Event Manager development@stables.org or call 01908 280816

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 offers a selection of quality draught and bottled beers, lagers and cider. Look out for our guest beers from local breweries including Leighton Buzzard Brewery, Kelchner Brewery in Ampthill and Tring Brewery.

Drivers Drinks

Look out for our range of low alcohol drinks, including Adnams Ghostship, Heineken Zero and Old Mout Berries & Cherries cider. We can also offer Doom Bar Zero and Guinness Zero (while stocks last).

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 from our popular snack bar plus a selection of sweet treats, crisps and peanuts. Why not try an ice cream from our tempting selection from the Marshfield range, which includes sorbet and vegan flavours?

Summer Drinks

Get refreshed for summer with a chilled Pimms or Sangria. If Gin is your preference we have a small quality range to refresh you.

and not forgetting...

Tickets are still available for the following Stables shows in May:

also on sale

Mon 4 & Tue 5 Nov

Omid Djalili

Sat 16 Nov

Turin Brakes Acoustic

JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM ALL SHOWS START AT 8PM, EXCEPT WHERE STATED

NOVEMBER

Sat 2 Bye Bye Baby: Tribute to Frankie Valli

Sun 3 The Syd Lawrence Orchestra

Mon 4 & Tue 5 Omid Djalili: Namaste

Wed 6 & Thu 7 Talon: The Best of Eagles

Fri 8 Nick Heyward

Sat 9

Fri 15 The Real Thing

Sat 16 Turin Brakes Acoustic

Mon 18 Sarah Keyworth

Thu 21 Count Arthur Strong

Sat 23 Julia Fordham

Sun 24 The Beggs Sisters

Tue 26

Elio Pace: My Songbook, My Life

Mon 11 Colosseum

Wed 13 Oysterband

Thu 14 The Sound of Springsteen

Tue 3 Dec Mediaeval Baebes

Thu 5 & Fri 6 The Drifters

Sat 7 No Jacket Required

Tue 10 Tenors Unlimited

Wed 11 Cats In Space

Thu 12 Ed Byrne: Tragedy Plus Time

Sun 15

Eliza Carthy & the Restitution

Thu 28 Buddy Holly & the Cricketers

DECEMBER

Sun 1 Mostly Autumn

Tue 3 Mediaevel Baebes

Maddy Prior: Carols & Capers

Sun 22 Simon Evans & Friends

JANUARY

Sat 11 Dire Streets

Sat 25 80’s Mania

& 30.50

FEBRUARY

Sun 2 Cregan & Co

£33

£26.50

£31.50

£30

£33.50

£33.50

£25

£27.50

£33

£38

£31

£24.50

£24

£33.50

£16.50

£27.50

£26.50

£22.50

£26

£37.50

£25

£25

£26.50

£35.50

£35.50

£22.50

£33

£33

£27

Indicates a new show which is open for public booking from Tuesday 14 May. Prior to this date Stables Friends have priority.

Thu 6 Feb Eshaan Akbar

Fri 30 May

ABC: An Intimate Evening with Martin Fry

Sun 17 Nov Blackbeard’s Tea Party

STAGE

Thu 6 Eshaan Akbar

Fri 21 Coldplace: Tribute to Coldplay

Sat 22 Larry Dean: Dodger

Sun 23 John Shuttleworth

Mon 24 Spiers & Boden

MARCH

Fri 7 Police Dog Hogan

Sat 8

Sat 15 A Night to Remember Motown Show

Sun 16 The South

APRIL

Thu 10 & Fri 11 Eddi Reader

Sat 12 Johnny Cash Roadshow

MAY

Fri 30

Lucy Porter: No Regrets

Wed 12 Nashville Nights Tour

Fri 14 The Story of Guitar Heroes

ABC: An Intimate Evening with Martin Fry from

SUNDAY SESSIONS IN THE MANCINI FORUM 11.30AM

NOVEMBER

Sun 17 Nicola Farnon Trio

DECEMBER

Sun 15 Jazz Dynamos

NOVEMBER

Thu 7 Suthering

Fri 8 The Hitman Blues Band

Thu 14 Christine Collister

Fri 15 Sunjay

Sun 17 Blackbeard’s Tea Party (Standing gig)

Tue 19 Eleanor McEvoy

Wed 20 Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club

DECEMBER

Wed 11 Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club

£16.50

£15

£18.50

£16.50

£15.50

£22.50

£12.50

£12.50

£21

£29

£20.50

£27.50

£24.50

£22.50

£22.50

£27.50

£30.50

£16.50

£18.50

£36

£36

£33.50

£30.50

£35.50

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 £2.50, 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 £25.01 and £35:

a commission fee of £3.50 per ticket will be charged

For tickets more than £35: a commission fee of £4.50 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

All ticket prices are inclusive of booking fees

visitor information

How to find us

The Stables is situated to the south east of Milton Keynes in the village of Wavendon.

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.

MK17 8LU

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 foyer snack bar serves a range of light snacks, soft drinks, teas and coffees. Ice-creams are also available. The Stables bar will be available for pre-show and interval drinks on performance nights.

diary at a glance

JUNE

Sat 1G2 Genesis

Sat 1Miranda Sykes

Sun 2Alina Orchestra Family Concert

Sun 2RANT

Tue 4Martin Taylor

Thu 6Clive Anderson

Fri 7Quo Connection

Fri 7Banter

Sat 8Len Phillips Swing Orchestra

Sat 8Wesson

Wed 12Rich Hall

Wed 1215 Years of the Inbetweeners

Thu 13Six Chick Flicks

Fri 14Johnny Hates Jazz

Sat 15Carl Hutchinson

Sat 15Iain Matthews

Sun 16Verity Bromham Band

Tue 18Karine Polwart & Dave Milligan

Wed 19Terry Slesser’s Back Street Crawler

Thu 20Slambovian Circus of Dreams

Fri 21Roy Orbison & the Traveling Wilburys Experience

Fri 21Dean Owens & The Sinners

Sat 22La Voix

Sat 22Natasha Seale

Sun 23Grimethorpe Colliery Band

Tue 25Zog & the Flying Doctors

Wed 26Zog & the Flying Doctors

Thu 27Zog & the Flying Doctors

Thu 27Curtis Stigers

Fri 28Aynsley Lister

Fri 28Ashley Blaker

Sat 29Logicaltramp

Sat 29Tara MacLean

Sun 30Stand Together: The Concert for Matt Long

JULY

Tue 2The Fugitives

Wed 3Spooky Men’s Chorale

Thu 4New Amen Corner

Thu 4Diana Jones

Fri 5Steampunk Orchestra

Fri 5Sukh Ojla

Sat 6Northern Soul Live

Sat 6The Weeping Willows

Wed 10National Youth Brass Band

Wed 10Otto & Astrid

Sun 14Rock Experience Concert

Thu 18Mark Simmons

Thu 18Preston Reed

Fri 19Live/Wire: Tribute to AC/DC

Sun 21Rubbish Shakespeare Company

Fri 26The Swing Cats

Sat 27Karnataka

Sun 28Sandi Thom

Wed 31Love with Johnny Echols

AUGUST

Sun 25Hello Again: The Neil Diamond Songbook

Wed 28Mànran

Thu 29Gary Delaney & Friends

Fri 30Fleetwood Bac

Sat 31Fleetwood Bac

SEPTEMBER

Sun 1Go Now! Tribute to the Moody Blues

Tue 3Bootleg Blondie

Wed 4Camille O’Sullivan

Thu 5Cloudbusting: The Music of Kate Bush

Fri 6The Tiger Lillies

Sat 7Solstice

Sat 7The Cadillac Kings

Sun 8 What Now My Love?: A Tribute To Herb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass

Indicates a new show which is open for public booking from Tuesday 14 May. Prior to this date Stables Friends have priority.

For more information see page 3

Tue 10Hope & Social

Wed 11G4

Thu 12Geoff Norcott & Friends

Fri 13Shakatak

Fri 13The Shackleton Trio

Sat 14Nick Cope

Sat 14Gary Meikle

Sat 14Tremaine Dawkins

Sun 15An Evening with Richard Carpenter

Tue 17Lulo Reinhardt & Yuliya Lonskaya

Wed 18India Electric Co.

Thu 19Aled Jones

Fri 20Danny Beard

Fri 20Catfish

Sat 21Peter Cox

Sat 21Ian Stone

Sun 22Stars from The Commitments

Mon 23Dom Joly

Tue 24Big Big Train

Wed 25The Wonder of Stevie

Thu 26Merrill Osmond

Thu 26An Evening with Guy Chambers

Fri 27Abba Forever

Fri 27Eddy Smith & The 507

Sat 28The Leo Green Experience

Sun 29The Shires

Mon 30 The Shires

OCTOBER

Wed 2The Music of Peter Green

Thu 3Tom McRae

Fri 4Best of Queen

Sat 5Van Morrison Alumni Band

Sun 6Marty Wilde

Sun 6Plumhall

Tue 8Henning Wehn

Wed 9Henning Wehn

Thu 10Henning Wehn

Thu 10Jo Harrop

Fri 11Rave On

Fri 11Sorrell Nation

Sat 12Nearly Dan

Sat 12Tad Newton’s Jazz Friends

Sun 13Ronnie Scott’s All Star Band

Mon 14Wishbone Ash

Mon 14Tom Waters Band

Tue 15Afro Celt Sound System

Wed 16Steve Knightley

Wed 16 Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club

Thu 17Papagena

Fri 18Lady Nade Sings Nina Simone

Sat 19The Best of Vonda Shepard

Sat 19Jimmy Regal & the Royals

Sun 20Sunday Sessions: The Dime Notes

Sun 20Jason Byrne

Tue 22Henry Normal & Nigel Planer

Tue 22The Fezzes

Wed 23Urzila Carlson

Thu 24Pam Ayres

Fri 25 Maisie Adam

Fri 25Long Road Home

Sat 26Cavern Beatles

Sun 27Seckou Keita: Homeland Tour

Sun 27Demi Marriner

Mon 28Albert Lee

Tue 29Lindisfarne

Tue 29Joshua Burnell Band

Wed 30Stewart Copeland

Thu 31Gary & Robbie

Thu 31Sooz Kempner

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 and 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

For further details please contact the Development Office on 01908 280816 or development@stables.org

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