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 – and a registered charity.
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.
JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM
front cover artists
Ward Thomas Saturday 1 & Thursday 27 March page 18 & 26
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 19 November. 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.
Charlie Connelly Wednesday 19 March page 32 A Christmas Tail Tuesday 17 - Tuesday 24 December pages 4-5
Graffiti Classics Friday 21 March page 33
Touch ing, fun ny and ut terly or iginal, A Ch r ist mas Tail is the perfect fest ive t reat for the whole fam ily to enjoy.
Having got lost in a snow-storm, a mischievous but lovable puppy faces an epic journey to get home in time for Christmas. Featuring a series of hair-raising escapades along the whirlwind of laughter, surprises and heartwarming moments.
Fusing comedy, circus and puppetry, and interwoven with music and songs, this is one tail-wagging adventure you and your children won’t forget in a hurry!
Dizzy O’Dare have been creating unique interactive circus and theatre productions for 15 years and are widely regarded as one of the UK’s most imaginative and playful companies making theatre for young people
“Abs olutely our favourite show. I would travel many miles to laug h that much ag ain.”
“Very entertaining for b oth children and adults. Brilliant.”
Audience feedback on previous Dizzy O’Dare productions.
Performance dates and times
DECEMBER
Tuesday 17 11am 4.30pm
Wednesday 18 11am 1.30pm
Thursday 19 11am 1.30pm
Friday 20 – 4.30pm
Saturday 21 11.30am 2.30pm
Sunday 22 11.30am 2.30pm
Monday 23 11.30am 2.30pm
Tuesday 24 11.30am 2.30pm
Ticket prices
Adults
Children under 16
Carers accompanying disabled customers
Groups of 10+
School groups
£16.50
£14.50
£12.75
£14.50 per person
£14.50 per pupil –one free teachers ticket for every 10 tickets booked
Duration: approximately one hour (with no interval)
Suitable for everyone over 4 years old. No live animals appear in this production.
Last remaining tickets 14+
Mostly Autumn
Sunday 1 December, 8pm
£22.50 in advance
£24.50 on the door
Mostly Autumn have built their fan base the old-fashioned but highly effective way by playing live at every opportunity. Their musical palette is diverse – and while they draw on influences from the golden age of 1970s rock, they have developed their own unique sound and style that captures some of the essence of that era and yet looks forward into the future.
Promoted
by Mostly Autumn
Ruby Wax: I’m Not As Well As I Thought I Was
Monday 2 December, 8pm
£31
After a sell-out run in 2023, Ruby Wax’s rawest, darkest, funniest and most compelling stage show yet announces brand new dates. “The original idea behind this show was based on the extreme journeys that I wanted to take in order to find an antidote to living a frazzled life. However, after some transcendent experiences, I ended up in a mental institution. Obviously, I didn’t find what I was looking for.”
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Suzi Ruffell 6 Jun 2025
The Mediaeval Baebes
Tuesday 3 December, 8pm
£26
With lush, ethereal harmonies and a dazzling array of exotic and period instruments, The Mediaeval Baebes will be weaving their storytelling magic once again. In this glorious festive concert, the classical chart-topping choir perform a selection of well-known Christmas carols, traditional folk songs and innovative settings of ancient and romantic poetry.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Maddy Prior & The Carnival Band 15 Dec
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.
follow us on X @stablesMK
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Last remaining tickets
Last remaining tickets
The Puppini Sisters: Celebrate 20 Years Together
Wednesday 4 December, 8pm £33.50
2024 sees The Puppini Sisters celebrate 20 years together. Founded by Marcella Puppini, the band pioneered the neoburlesque/swing scene with their immaculate close harmonies. To mark the anniversary, the group are embarking on a tour that looks back over their career by performing their hits, fan favourites and a few surprises in preparation for a new album to be released in 2025.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Crooners 23 Jan 2025
The Drifters
Thursday 5 & Friday 6 December, 8pm £37.50
Under the guidance of Tina Treadwell (daughter of the group’s original founders George and Faye Treadwell), The Drifters have enjoyed a remarkable resurgence in recent years with multiple successful UK tours. Tonight they’ll perform all their classic hits including Saturday Night At The Movies, You’re More Than A Number and Come On Over To My Place.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Northern Soul Live 21 Jun 2025
No Jacket Required
Saturday 7 December, 8pm £25
Join the UK’s leading Phil Collins tribute as No Jacket Required return to celebrate their 20th anniversary. A spectacular twohour show from this fantastic 11-piece band features tracks from Phil’s solo career and his time with Genesis. Expect to be transported back to the 1980s to relive those hit-packed concerts in the company of this acclaimed band, making their 10th appearance at The Stables.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: G2 Genesis 23 & 24 May 2025
Woburn Sands Band
Sunday 8 December, 4pm £16.50, under-18s £6
Get in the mood for the Christmas season as the Woburn Sands Band present The Christmas Concert. The programme will include arrangements of some of our best-loved seasonal melodies. Come along to this early-evening event for some true family entertainment from your favourite local brass band, with soloists from the band featured in this, the 71st concert in the Drakeloe Series.
Promoted by Woburn Sands Band
Tenors Unlimited Christmas Show
Tuesday 10 December, 8pm
£25
Tenors Unlimited are back with a feast of Yuletide songs, including family favourites O Holy Night, O Come All Ye Faithful, Silent Night and Last Christmas, as well as their number one selling Christmas single Who Is He?. The guys’ rich vocal harmonies and down-to-earth sense of humour have endeared them to audiences around the world.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Craig Revel Horwood 5 Apr 2025
support our work
The success of our music and education programme depends on the generous support of many individuals and organisations.
Become a Friend of The Stables –benefits include priority booking and ticket discounts.
Name a Seat – your chosen name on a seat in the auditorium.
Leave a gift in your will to help nurture the next generation of musicians.
For further information please call 01908 280800 or email development@stables.org
Join our group of volunteers and become a Stablemate.
Purchase Gift Vouchers which can be exchanged for tickets at The Stables.
Cats In Space: Time Machine Tour 2024
+ support from Willie Dowling & The Invisible Band
Wednesday 11 December, 8pm
£26.50
Imagine, if you will, a heady mix of Queen, ELO, Elton John and all things 1970s… then you have Cats In Space, a band brimming with majestic songs, soaring vocal harmonies, power chord guitars, thundering drums and bass and huge, symphonic keyboards. The band’s latest album, their sixth, is a huge musical feast conjuring up the finest sounds of the classic rock years.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: ELO Again 7 Feb 2025
Ed Byrne: Tragedy Plus Time
Thursday 12 December, 8pm
£35.50
As attributed to Mark Twain, humour is defined as Tragedy Plus Time. Come and join Ed as he tests that formula by mining the most tragic event in his life for laughs.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Ed Byrne 30 Mar 2025
Los Pacaminos
Friday 13 December, 8pm £27.50
Los Pacaminos are now in their 33rd year and show no signs of hanging up their boots. With an unmatched reputation for their live performances and four acclaimed albums under their belts, the band continue to explore and celebrate the music of the Deep Southwest.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Nick Lowe & Los Straitjackets 12 Feb 2025
Dankworth Family Christmas Show
Saturday 14 December, 8pm
£35 & £32.50
Started by the legendary Sir John Dankworth and Dame Cleo Laine more than 50 years ago, this seasonal celebration led by Alec Dankworth features a host of family, friends and special guests. Already confirmed are Kevin Whately, Lorna Dallas, Peter Fisher, Jacqui Dankworth, Emily Dankworth, Alec Dankworth and The Dankworth Family Christmas Band. The evening will be hosted by the much-loved vocalist Ian Shaw.
This concert is a VAT fundraiser for Wavendon AllMusic Plan.
Jazz Dynamos
Sunday 15 December, 11.30am
£18.50
Fronted by vocalist Lucy Randell, Jazz Dynamos are a five-piece band who take the hits of the 1970s and 80s and transform them with an entertaining mix of jazz, bossa and samba. Their unique set of original, contemporary jazz arrangements includes classics by Dolly Parton, Madonna, U2, The Police, a-ha and Britney Spears.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Joanna Eden Band 13 Apr 2025
Maddy Prior & The Carnival Band: Carols & Capers
Sunday 15 December, 8pm
£35.50
To mark the 40th anniversary of their artistic relationship, Maddy Prior and The Carnival Band will tour the UK in what will be not only a celebration but also a farewell, the last time they will undertake such an outing. Together they will mix ancient and modern instruments and rich vocal harmony with a refreshing cavalier attitude and plenty of humour.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Spiers & Boden 24 Feb 2025
Enjoy some fabulous Sunday-morning jazz in the Mancini Forum (The Stables’ main foyer).
We’ll be presenting an enticing mix of established names and rising stars of the UK jazz scene – the perfect way to start the day.
Jazz Dynamos
15 December, 11.30am
£18.50
Expect to hear your favourite 1970s and 80s hits but in a way you’ve never heard before! This is a fivepiece band who take well-known songs and transform them with a mix of jazz, bossa and samba.
Shades of Shearing Quintet
Sunday 19 January, 11.30am
£18.50
The band recreate the distinctive sound of the classic Shearing Quintet as well as highlights the work of this influential and important British pianist who found fame when he settled in the US in the late 1940s.
Simon Spillett Quartet
Over a career stretching 25 years, multi-award-winning instrumentalist (BBC Jazz Awards, British Jazz Awards, Jazz Journal’s Album of The Year) tenor saxophonist Simon Spillett has cultivated a unique persona within British jazz.
Joanna Eden Band
Sunday 13 April,11.30am
£18.50
Regular Stables artist, singer-pianist-songwriter Joanna Eden is unmistakeably English in the same way as Christine McVie and Stevie Winwood, but her songwriting and voice lean heavily into the jazz and latin music of her heroes Ella Fitzgerald, Joni Mitchell, Sondheim, Bernstein, Gilberto and Getz.
Doors open at 11am. Coffee, tea and light snacks will be available before each concert.
Dizzy O’Dare: A Christmas Tail
Tuesday 17 – Tuesday 24 December
For information, turn to pages 4 & 5
The Wandering Hearts: Driving Home For
Christmas + support from Simeon Hammond Dallas
Thursday 19 December, 8pm
£27.50
The Wandering Hearts are a three-part vocal harmony group that formed in London in 2015. Since the release of their first record, Wild Silence, Tara, Chess and AJ have been at the forefront of the UK Americana, folk and country music scenes. Tonight’s show is an intimate evening of festive songs and stories along with the band’s own material.
Albion Band Christmas Show
£27.50
The Albion Band’s Christmas Show is widely regarded as the UK’s premier seasonal show and regularly attracts sell-out audiences. Featuring the combined talents of Simon Nicol (Fairport Convention), Kellie While (Albion Band), Simon Care (Edward II) and the guvnor himself, Ashley Hutchings MBE, the show takes you on a musical guided tour of Britain’s Christmas customs.
gift ideas
The Stables offers a number of unique gift ideas that make for original presents as well as being a great way of supporting the venue.
Footpath of Fame
Your chosen name or text engraved onto a brick and placed amongst many celebrities in our exclusive Footpath.
Friends Membership
Why not give a loved one Friends membership as a gift? They’ll be able to enjoy a range of benefits designed to make their visits to The Stables even more enjoyable.
Gift Vouchers
Treat someone to a great night of entertainment.
Your support helps us to continue providing music and music-making opportunities for children and adults alike.
Simon Evans & Friends
Sunday 22 December, 8pm
£22.50
Simon Evans returns to The Stables for an extended headline set of new material with two very special support comedians TBA soon! Simon is one of the UK’s most respected and established comedians. Fearless, provocative and ruthlessly intelligent, he’s a regular on TV and radio. His credits include BBC One’s Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow and BBC Two’s Mock The Week, and he was a regular on Channel 4’s Stand Up For The Week
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Andy Zaltzman 25 Apr 2025
The Stables... available for hire!
The Stables offers 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. For further information, please contact the Development Office on 01908 280816 or development@stables.org
Last remaining tickets
Dire Streets
Saturday 11 January, 8pm
£33
Dire Streets bring to life the classic songs of one of the world’s greatest guitar bands with an incredible level of musicianship and attention to detail, making them the UK’s standout Dire Straits tribute. The two-hour show includes superb renditions of studio tracks along with extended live versions from some of the legendary Dire Straits concerts.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Logicaltramp 5 Jul
Limehouse Lizzy
Thursday 16 January, 8pm
£31
Limehouse Lizzy continue to keep the spirit of Celtic rock icon Phil Lynott alive and well. From receiving their official PRS award to being recruited to record and tour by members of the original Thin Lizzy band, Limehouse Lizzy enter their third decade as a full-time professional touring act with their most explosive show and critically acclaimed line-up yet.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Kossoff: The Band Plays On 10 Jul
Rob Newman: Where The Wild Things Were
Friday 17 January, 8pm
£22.50
Rob Newman’s epic stand-up show goes from cave paintings to car-free cities, by way of Imperial Rome’s chariot ban, Rapper’s Remorse, and the dance steps of Homo Ergaster.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: George Lewis 11 Jun
Ray Gelato & the Giants
Saturday 18 January, 8pm
£22.50
Godfather of swing Ray Gelato has been taking his special brand of swing, jazz and R&B music all over the world since 1988. This multi-talented singer, saxman, songwriter and band leader has appeared at festivals, clubs and concert stages from Brazil to New York City. Ray and his band have enjoyed an illustrious career, including a long-established residency at London’s world-famous Ronnie Scott’s, where they appear every Christmas.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Simon Spillett Quartet 16 Feb
Shades of Shearing Quintet
Sunday 19 January, 11.30am
£18.50
Led by pianist Nick Tomalin, the Shades of Shearing Quintet recreate the distinctive sound of the classic Shearing Quintet and highlight the work of the influential and important British pianist George Shearing. The repertoire includes Shearing’s best-known compositions and arrangements of Lullaby Of Birdland and September In The Rain.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: James Allsop Quartet 16 Mar
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
• MK Community Foundation
• PMC
• The Limb Family Endowment Fund
• The Wavendon Foundation
16+
Sophie Duker: But Daddy I Love Her
Wednesday 22 January, 8pm
£20 Sophie Duker is back! The Taskmaster champ is back on tour and dealing with her (sugar) daddy issues in a hilarious new stand-up show. But Daddy I Love Her sees Sophie take to the stage with her trademark naughtiness, this time arguing that we should all choose silliness over common sense and hot wet fantasies over cold, bleak reality. In this intentionally unhinged hour, delulu is the solulu.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Lucy Porter 8 Mar
Crooners
Thursday 23 January, 8pm
£32.50
Crooners have been wowing audiences with their witty and exhilarating show full of hilarious one-liners, laugh-out-loud silliness and superb musical numbers, backed by the outstanding ninepiece The Mini Big Band. The show pays homage to some of the greatest crooners of all time with a splendiferous injection of Britishness. Featuring humour, tap dance and quintessential songs from Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Jazz Dynamos 15 Dec
Martyn Joseph
Friday 24 January, 8pm
£24.50
Martyn Joseph is a unique, mind-blowing artist. Just one man and a guitar, Martyn creates a performance with a huge, far-reaching sound that is energetic, compelling and passionate. Whether he’s playing to 200 people or 20,000, he blows the crowd away night after night. He is gifted with the rare ability to speak to the soul with his expressive and poignant lyrics.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The Breath 19 Feb
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
British Film Institute Study Days
Contemporary and New Wave Cinema for KS5 French students, with screening of Bande de Filles (Céline Sciamma, 2014)
A study day analysing the style and themes of the French New Wave and its impact on contemporary French cinema. Friday 24 January, 10.30am-3.30pm
This study day is aimed at helping KS5 French students develop their film analysis skills and build a deeper understanding of the styles and themes of key set texts on the AQA, Edexcel and Eduqas specifications.
Conducted in French, the morning will consist of a clip-based presentation introducing the concepts of the French New Wave, highlighting key films of the movement such as The 400 Blows and using scene analysis to reveal to how it influenced the style and themes of contemporary French films such as La Haine (1995) and Entre Les Murs (2008). By exploring key scenes and applying textual analysis, students will have the opportunity to learn about film language, gain a deeper understanding of the set text and expand their vocabulary.
£12.50 per student; £1 per adult accompanying every 5 students; for any additional adult the student rate applies. £40 for teachers attending without students.
Venez étudier le français! A cross-curricular KS3 French study day and history event, with screening of Le Voyage de Fanny (Lola Doillon, 2016)
Tuesday 28 January, 10.30am-3pm
Help KS3 French students enhance their French language skills through a cross-curricular study day, gain a deeper understanding of the Holocaust and World War II and mark Holocaust Memorial Day (27 January).
Conducted in French and English, the morning session will be made up of a clip-based presentation introducing students to a range of French short films alongside language activities aimed at expanding vocabulary and encouraging listening and speaking in French. In the afternoon, students will be introduced to the French feature film Le Voyage de Fanny, which explores themes related to World War II and the Holocaust, at an age-appropriate level and relevant to French and History study. A students and teacher resource pack will be provided on the day (students should bring a pen for the morning activities).
£10 per student; £1 per adult accompanying every 5 students; for any additional adult the student rate applies. £40 for teachers attending without students.
Booking information
Book either by calling The Stables box office on 01908 280800 or email boxoffice@stables.org
Schools which have over 20% of students receiving free school meals should ask about a discount when booking. Email education@stables.org to find out more. These events are intended for teachers and students only.
For full details please visit stables.org and search for BFI
15
80’s Mania
Saturday 25 January, 8pm
£33 & £30.50
80’s Mania is Europe’s official 1980s multi-tribute concert featuring a host of pop icons authentically recreated with a live band and awesome dancers. Expect to enjoy more than 35 chart-topping smash hits, with tributes to Duran Duran, The Human League, Kim Wilde, Culture Club, Madonna, Wham! and many more.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The Freddie & Queen Experience 15 Feb
Antiques and A Little Bit of Nonsense
Sunday 26 January, 8pm
£33.50
Three much-loved antique experts share their adventures – from selling livestock to priceless treasures, they’ve seen it all. Philip Serrell reveals his auctioneering journey while Charlie Ross recounts his global ‘old banger’ sales, and the effervescent Christina Trevanion keeps them in check.
Back To Black
Tuesday 28 January, 7.30pm £10 & £8; under-16s £9 & £7
Back To Black is a behind-the-scenes glimpse into Amy Winehouse’s early rise to fame and the release of her groundbreaking studio album, Back To Black. Inspired by Amy’s deeply personal and honest lyrics, the film is an unapologetic look at the woman behind the phenomenon. (122 minutes)
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Bob Marley – One Love (12) 18 Feb
Taylormania: Taylor Swift Eras Tribute Concert
Wednesday 29 January, 8pm
£30.50
Don’t miss this tribute to one of the leading contemporary recording artists of our time. Backed by an incredible live band and dancers, Katy Ellis delivers the most authentic recreation of a Taylor Swift show you will ever see. The show has already delighted ‘Swiftie’ fans across the world and features all of Taylor’s best-loved hits including Shake It Off, Blank Space, Love Story, You Belong With Me and many more.
Promoted by Ellis Live Ltd
T.Rextasy
Thursday 30 January, 8pm
£36
T.Rextasy have been performing around the world for more than 20 years, a career that ironically outlives Marc Bolan’s very own T.Rex. The band are now recognised as the world’s only official live tribute band dedicated to Marc and T.Rex, and the only one endorsed and approved by Marc’s family, estate and original ex-members of T.Rex. They have been described by many as ‘beyond the boundaries of tribute’.
The BBC Big Band: Rhapsody in Blue
Friday 31 January, 8pm
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Counterfeit Stones 13 Mar 2025 Returns Only
£40.50
The internationally acclaimed BBC Big Band are joined by conductor Barry Forgie and special guest vocalist Emer McParland for a unique celebration of the music of George Gershwin. The evening will feature a sparkling selection of Gershwin’s best-loved compositions, all specially arranged for big band. Expect to hear numbers including Fascinating Rhythm, Embraceable You and the iconic Rhapsody in Blue.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Gershwin Piano Trio 18 May
Ward Thomas
Saturday 1 February, 7.30pm
£38.50 & £33.50
Hailed as the UK’s most successful country act, twin sisters Catherine and Lizzy Ward Thomas perform stripped-back versions of songs from across their career. This unique acoustic show takes Ward Thomas back to their early days of performing and writing together as the duo share the stories behind the songs that have seen them make such an impact on the country music scene.
Promoted by Senbla
Cregan & Co: The Rod Stewart Songbook
Sunday 2 February, 8pm
£27
Jim Cregan was one of the most influential guitarists in Rod Stewart’s original band – he co-wrote, co-produced and musically directed for Rod for almost 20 years. More than 40 years on, Jim has formed his own band Cregan & Co to present the very best of Rod Stewart – the songs that formed the soundtrack to our lives for more than 30 years.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Francis Rossi 28 Apr
Fairport Convention
+ support from Danny Bradley
Tuesday 4 February, 8pm
£36.50
Fairport Convention have been entertaining music lovers for more than half a century. During that time the band that launched British folk-rock has seen many changes, but one thing has remained the same – Fairport’s passion for performance. This year’s winter tour will present a mix of long-established Fairport favourites and some surprises from albums old and new.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Steeleye Span 14 May
Jan Akkerman
Wednesday 5 February, 8pm
£27.50
Jan Akkerman found fame with Focus in the 1970s, releasing a number of breakout albums with the band. In 1973, he was named World’s Best Guitarist by Melody Maker. Jan has released 30 solo albums and collaborated with the likes of Alan Price, Jack Bruce and Ice T. Expect to hear music from his long career, including his favourite Focus tunes, along with new material.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Focus 29 Apr
Eshaan Akbar: Live 2025
Thursday 6 February, 8pm
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Logicaltramp 5 Jul 16+
£21
Eshaan Akbar is back doing jokes on tour! His previous tour, The Pretender, was described by The Times as “pretty sick” (not an actual quote) so this one is likely to be mad good. Eshaan has supported some of the biggest acts in the UK, including Micky Flanagan, Jason Manford and Kae Kurd, so be sure to buy tickets for this much-anticipated tour.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Babatunde Aleshe 26 Sep
ELO Again
Friday 7 February, 8pm
£33
ELO Again are back with their stunning Re-Discovery Tour celebrating the universal music of the Electric Light Orchestra. The band give you a taste of what a legendary ELO concert would have been like back in their heyday – the whole experience is professionally re-enacted with a great sound reproduction, light show and visual effects.
Alina Orchestra: Mozart Plus
Saturday 8 February, 7.30pm
Mozart
Mozart
Mozart
£31.50 & £25.50, under-16s £11
Divertimento in D major, K.136
Piano Concerto no.23 in A major, K.488
Symphony no.39 in E flat major, K.543
Conductor Hilary Davan Wetton Soloist Antoine Préat
Tonight’s concert features the brilliance of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart across three distinct forms. Filled with light melodies and a charming dance-like quality, his Divertimento in D major is a delightful introduction to the composer’s youthful energy. One of Mozart’s most beloved concertos, no.23 in A major showcases both the virtuosity of the soloist and a rich interplay with the orchestra. The concert concludes with the majestic Symphony no.39 in E flat major – a powerful and dramatic work that exemplifies Mozart’s genius for crafting profound emotional depth within the classical form.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Ensemble 360 4 Mar
The Cinelli Brothers & Brave Rival
Sunday 9 February, 8pm
£26.50
A blues double-header not to be missed! The Cinelli Brothers have a passion for the music of the 1960s, performing an amalgam of blues, rock and soul with a twist of contemporary style. Brave Rival are the South-East’s rip-roaring rock and blues machine. Hailing from Portsmouth, the five-time UK Blues Awardnominated band features the powerful and beautiful twin vocals of Chloe Josephine and Lindsey Bonnick.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Elles Bailey 4 Apr
GCSE and A-Level Set-Work Concert
MK Music Hub in partnership with Alina Orchestra
Tuesday 11 February, 1pm
Milton Keynes Music Hub joins with Milton Keynes’ own professional orchestra, Alina, to present a special event for GCSE and A-Level music students. The orchestra will perform some of the courses’ set works and analyse the key moments, instruments and history of the music to support your studies. The event is offered free to Milton Keynes’ school groups in years 9,10,11,12 and 13. For all enquiries, please contact sue.wakley@milton-keynes.gov.uk
Coldplace
Tuesday 11 February, 8pm
£29 Coldplace are a band whose quality and experience on the tribute scene are second to none. Their aim is to capture the feeling of a live Coldplay performance – the music, the visuals, the energy and the atmosphere. The band have over 600 gigs under their belts across the length and breadth of the UK and also abroad in more than 20 countries.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Classic Rock Show 6 & 7 Sep
Nick Lowe & Los Straitjackets
Wednesday 12 February, 8pm
£44.50
Nick Lowe has made his mark as a producer, enjoyed a short-lived career as a pop star and served a lengthy term as a musicians’ musician. Since 2016, Nick has performed and recorded with Los Straitjackets, the leading practitioners of the lost art of the guitar instrumental. Using the music of The Ventures and The Shadows as a jumping-off point, the band have taken their unique, highenergy brand of original rock’n’roll around the world.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Los Pacaminos 13 Dec 2024
Maisie Adam: Appraisal
Thursday 13 February, 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 her show Appraisal. 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: Suzie Ruffell 6 Jun
The Magic of Terry Pratchett
Friday 14 February, 8pm
£20
Join author and comedian Marc Burrows on a journey through the life and work of Sir Terry Pratchett. Explore Pratchett’s life, influences, impact, wit and wisdom, from his days as a school librarian to his time as a trainee journalist to his untimely death from Alzheimers in 2015. Discover the joy, anger, and delicious cock‘n’bull stories of one of the greatest storytellers of all time. Warning: includes bad puns and unnecessary footnotes.
The Freddie & Queen Experience
Saturday 15 February, 8pm
Portrait image
£30.50
The Freddie & Queen Experience are the UK’s premier Queen and Freddie Mercury tribute. The five-piece band perform with replica outfits and instruments and recreate a live Queen show. It’s simply a great evening not to be missed!
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: ELO Again 7 Feb
Simon Spillett Quartet
Sunday 16 February, 11.30am
£16.50
Over a career stretching 25 years, multi-award-winning tenor saxophonist Simon Spillett has cultivated a unique persona within British jazz. Leading both his own quartet and big band, and inspired by the classic Brit-bop of the 1950s and 1960s, his is a powerfully passionate style, with an emphasis on straight-ahead jazz.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS : James Allsopp Quartet 16 Mar
Dr Feelgood
Sunday 16 February, 8pm
£33
Formed on Canvey Island in Essex in the early 1970s, Dr Feelgood remain one of the world’s most popular and exciting live rhythm and blues acts. The band enjoyed global success with a string of hit singles including Roxette, Back In The Night, Milk And Alcohol, Down At The Doctors, She Does it Right and See You Later Alligator, which gave the group their first gold record.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Quo Connection 7 Jun
Tuesday 18 February, 2.30pm
£6 & £4
IF is about a girl who discovers that she can see everyone’s imaginary friends — and what she does with that superpower — as she embarks on a magical adventure to reconnect forgotten IFs with their kids. Starring Ryan Reynolds, John Krasinski, Cailey Fleming, Fiona Shaw, and the voices of Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Louis Gossett Jr. and Steve Carell. (104 minutes)
12
Bob Marley – One Love
Tuesday 18 February, 7.30pm
£10 & £8, under-16s £9 & £7
Bob Marley: One Love celebrates the life and music of an icon who inspired generations through his message of love and unity. Discover Bob’s powerful story of overcoming adversity and the journey behind his revolutionary music. (110 minutes)
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Back To Black (15) 28 Jan
The Breath
Wednesday 19 February, 8pm
Formed in 2016, The Breath are Manchester-based guitarist Stuart McCallum and singer/flautist Ríoghnach Connolly.
£21
Ríoghnach is a storyteller and their exquisitely crafted, honest, personal, heartfelt songs are as likely to touch on childhood summers and first love as cultural dislocation, post-colonial injustices and grief. But it’s Ríoghnach’s impassioned delivery coupled with Stuart’s understated brilliance that is so engaging.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Martyn Joseph 24 Jan
Think Floyd
Thursday 20 February, 8pm
remaining tickets
£33
This new production features a complete performance of the iconic album Wish You Were Here, as well as the whole range of classic Pink Floyd from The Dark Side of the Moon, The Wall, The Division Bell and more. Think Floyd pride themselves in faithfully recreating Pink Floyd’s timeless music and this exciting show recreates all the atmosphere, visual magnitude and musical excellence of Pink Floyd live on stage.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The Freddie & Queen Experience 15 Feb
Coldplace: Tribute to Coldplay
Friday 21 February, 8pm
£29
Coldplace are a band whose quality and experience on the tribute scene are second to none. Their aim is to capture the feeling of a live Coldplay performance – the music, the visuals, the energy and the atmosphere. The band have over 600 gigs under their belts across the length and breadth of the UK and also abroad in more than 20 countries.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The Ultimate Classic Rock Show 6 & 7 Sep
Pop Princesses
Saturday 22 February, 2pm
£23
A magical show where beautiful princesses become pop stars! Don’t miss this musical spectacular starring four fabulous fairytale princesses who just love to sing. It’s the perfect mix, featuring a soundtrack of top pop hits from artists such as Little Mix, Ariana Grande, Taylor Swift, Meghan Trainor and internet sensation JoJo Siwa, plus songs from all your favourite films and musicals.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Taylormania 29 Jan
Larry Dean: Dodger
Saturday 22 February, 8pm
£20.50
Larry’s been spending a lot of time with his granny lately. He wants to tell you about it. Join the thrice Edinburgh Comedy Award-nominated, two-time star of Live At The Apollo for a hilarious new show about identity, heroes and the benefits of being a dafty.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Scott Bennett 26 Apr
feeling peckish?
Our snack bar is open from 7pm serving a variety of snacks, soft drinks, teas and coffees. Or why not enjoy a luxury Marshfield Farm ice-cream during the interval? Save time at the bar! Place your interval drinks order at the bar before the show starts.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Laurence Jones 29 May 16+
John Verity Band
Sunday 23 February, 8pm
For more information on eatingand drinking at The Stables visit stables.org
£20
John Verity is a blues rock veteran having honed his craft over 60 years on the circuit. He has opened for the likes of Jimi Hendrix and Janis Joplin. After a spell as frontman with Argent, he focused on studio work with artists such as Ringo Starr and Motorhead. Now he’s back on the road with his own band, enjoying a musical renaissance.
gift ideas
Gift Vouchers – treat someone to a great night of entertainment.
Spiers & Boden
Monday 24 February, 8pm
£24.50
Described by The Guardian as “the finest instrumental duo on the traditional scene”, Spiers & Boden first rocketed onto the music scene in 2001, quickly winning a clutch of BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards and going on to form and front the hugely successful folk big band Bellowhead. They take to the road again in 2025 for selected dates, for their only tour this year.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Maddy Prior & The Carnival Band 15 Dec 2024
Seth Lakeman
Tuesday 25 February, 8pm
£31
Seth Lakeman was catapulted into the mainstream when he was nominated for the Mercury Music Prize for his album Kitty Jay. 2024 marked the 20th anniversary of the album’s release – the start of an incredible solo journey which has included record deals, 11 album releases, BBC Radio 2 playlisted singles, a clutch of awards and touring all over the world. His new studio album The Granite Way will be released in February 2025.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Cara Dillon 26 Mar
Totally Tina
Wednesday 26 February, 8pm
£33.50
Totally Tina! is an internationally acclaimed tribute revue show to the Queen of Rock. It re-creates the spectacle and energy of Tina’s live performances with a six-piece live band, four stunning dancers and Justine’s incredible impersonation of the Queen of Rock and Soul. You’ll be taken on a musical journey from her early days with Ike through to her solo comeback in the 1980s.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The Ultimate Classic Rock Show 6 & 7 Sep
Friends Membership – Why not give a loved one Friends membership as a gift? They’ll be able to enjoy a range of benefits designed to make their visits to The Stables even more rewarding.
Footpath of Fame – your chosen name or text engraved onto a brick and placed amongst many celebrities in our exclusive Footpath. Your support helps us to continue providing music and music-making opportunities for children and adults alike.
For more information contact box office on 01908 280800 or email development@stables.org
Whipped Up!
produced
by Watford Palace Theatre
Thursday 27 February, performances at Adult & baby ticket £15; 10.30am, 12.30pm & 2.30pm additional adult £6 (performance lasts approximately 45 minutes)
for ages 2 months - 2 years
Returns Only
Whipped Up! follows Dottie, an eager-toplease, 1950s-style diner server on her first day on the job – where the baby is the customer and care-givers are along for the ride. As Dottie waits on her ‘demanding’ clientele (imagine babies doing what babies do best – creating adorable chaos!), she grows increasingly frazzled – and more and more entertaining!
The show is stimulating for tiny audience members with sensory play served up throughout, and hilarious for parents/adults watching their loved ones take on roles in an unfolding comedy.
In association with house
Ward Thomas
Thursday 27 February, 7.30pm
£38.50 & £33.50
Hailed as the UK’s most successful country act, twin sisters Catherine and Lizzy Ward Thomas perform stripped-back versions of songs from across their career. This unique acoustic show takes Ward Thomas back to their early days of performing and writing together as the duo share the stories behind the songs that have seen them make such an impact on the country music scene.
Promoted by Senbla
keep up to date
All details are correct at time of going to print. For latest programme and other updates from The Stables, please visit www.stables.org and keep an eye on our social media channels.
Stay connected!
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Andy Fairweather Low & The Lowriders
Friday 28 February, 8pm
£33.50
Andy Fairweather Low & The Lowriders are touring the UK for the first time since 2021. Andy shot to fame as lead singer in Amen Corner performing massive hits including Bend Me Shape Me, Hello Suzy and (If Paradise is) Half As Nice. He now tours the world with his band Ian Jennings (bass and vocals), Paul Beavis (drums), Nick Pentelow (sax and clarinet) and Richard Milner (organ).
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The Manfreds 17 May
support our work
The success of our music and education programme depends on the generous support of many individuals and organisations.
Become a Friend of The Stables –benefits include priority booking and ticket discounts.
Name a Seat – your chosen name on a seat in the auditorium.
Leave a gift in your will to help nurture the next generation of musicians.
For further information please call 01908 280800 or email development@stables.org
Join our group of volunteers and become a Stablemate.
Purchase Gift Vouchers which can be exchanged for tickets at The Stables.
Marcus Brigstocke: Vitruvian Mango
Saturday 1 March, 8pm
£20.50
What are men for? Most heavy things can be lifted by machines and most problems can be solved by computers and most puddles can be crossed without us gallantly draping our capes over them – so are we fellas of any use at all? Award-winning MAN Marcus Brigstocke thinks we might still serve some useful function. But what is it? This new tour show will resolve the entire issue once and for all.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Stephen K Amos 8 Nov
David O’Doherty: Tiny Piano Man
Sunday 2 March, 8pm
£25.50
The dishevelled prince of 10 eBay keyboards tries to make you feel alive with a new pageant of laughter, song and occasionally getting up from a chair. It’s gonna be a big one. Star of 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown, Live at The Apollo, The Great Celebrity Bake Off 2024, Along For the Ride with David O’Doherty and co-host of hit podcast What Did You Do Yesterday?
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: John Shuttleworth 25 Mar
Giddy Goat
featuring Ensemble 360 and narrator Lucy Drever
Tuesday 4 March, performances at 11am & 1pm
£8 (concert lasts approximately 50 minutes)
free teachers ticket with For ages 3 to 7, Foundation/Key Stage 1 every 10 seats booked
Schools’ / Family Concert
This musical tale follows the trials and tribulations of Giddy, a young mountain goat who is scared of heights, as he faces his fears and makes new friends. It is based on the colourful children’s book by Jamie Rix and Lynne Chapman*, with specially composed music by Paul Rissmann. This captivating concert includes projected illustrations and some irresistibly catchy songs with actions, ideal for engaging young children in high quality music, as well as firing up their imaginations.
Before the concert why not buy the book, download the free participation pack, use the Learn the Songs YouTube videos and other learning and participation resources at https://musicintheround.co.uk/giddy-goat-resource-hub/.
*Published by Orchard Books.
Free twilight teachers/educators inset session for participating groups on Tuesday 5 February, 4.30pm-6.00pm. Contact education@stables.org for more information.
Ensemble 360: Fantasias and Flights
Tuesday 4 March, 8pm
£24 & £22
Holst: Phantasy String Quartet
Britten: Three Divertimenti for String Quartet
Holbrooke: Eilean Shona
Howells: Phantasy String Quartet op.25
Purcell: Three-part Fantasias 1, 2 & 3 (transc Warlock)
Howells: Rhapsodic Quintet
Vaughan Williams: The Lark Ascending (arr. Gerigk)
The violin soars melodiously above the rest of the quartet in the gorgeous arrangement of Vaughan Williams’ most popular work The Lark Ascending, which concludes this concert of English music for clarinet and string quartet. Fantasies from the Baroque gems of Purcell’s Three-part Fantasias (arranged for string trio) and Imogen Holst’s Phantasy String Quartet sit alongside this perennial favourite, while Holbrooke’s intoxicating depiction of a Scottish Island is a magical Celtic evocation for clarinet and strings.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Alina Orchestra 8 Feb
The Stables... available for hire!
The Stables offers 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. For further information, please contact the Development Office on 01908 280816 or development@stables.org
Police Dog Hogan
Friday 7 March, 8pm
£22.50
Following the release of their 2022 album Overground, Police Dog Hogan return to performing live, with dates taking them across the UK. The band combine guitar, fiddle, banjo, trumpet and accordion with bass and drums to create a driving country-folk sound that has earned them a large live following. They’ve played dozens of the UK’s leading festivals, including Glastonbury, Cropredy, Cornbury, Kendall Calling, Black Deer and Sidmouth Folk.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Los Pacaminos 13 Dec 2024
Lucy Porter: No Regrets
Saturday 8 March, 8pm
£22.50
The irrepressible Lucy Porter bounces back into action with a show all about regrets. Frank Sinatra had too few to mention but Lucy’s got hundreds, and she’s prepared to go into graphic detail about all of them. Disastrous dates, professional calamities, ruined friendships and parenting fails – Lucy describes all the mistakes she’s made, works out why they happened and ponders how her life would have turned out if she’d acted differently.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Stephen K Amos 8 Nov
Ceilidh Experience Concert & Dance
Sunday 9 March, 1.30pm-4pm
£7.50
Come along and join in the dancing as participants from the Ceilidh Experience course present their new bands, performing a feast of traditional tunes for dancers and folk fans of all ages. Our guest caller will guide you through the steps in what promises to be a fun afternoon of dance and music. No previous Ceilidh dance experience needed! Suitable for adults and older children (10+).
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
The Dublin Legends
Tuesday 11 March, 8pm
£31.50
The Dublin Legends perform Irish folk as it was meant to be –pure and straight from the heart. When the band take to the stage, within a few minutes you will feel like you are in an Irish pub – the beating heart of Irish cities and villages, where stories about tough sailors, fiery romances and unhappy loves are told over a pint of Guinness or a good glass of whiskey.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The Fureys 9 Apr
Nashville Nights Tour
Wednesday 12 March, 8pm
£27.50
Led by critically acclaimed Nashville recording artists Kaitlyn Baker and Joe Lasher, the Nashville Nights Tour promises an unforgettable journey through the biggest chart-topping hits of country music’s brightest stars. From the raw emotion of Luke Combs to the fierce energy of Miranda Lambert, the timeless classics of Tim McGraw and Faith Hill, and beyond, the show delivers the authentic country experience direct from the heart of Nashville, Tennessee.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Johnny Cash Roadshow 12 Apr
Counterfeit Stones
Thursday 13 March, 8pm
£33
Why pay a fortune to see ants in a stadium when for a fraction of the price you can get up close and smell the faking brilliance of the Counterfeit Stones? The band’s latest fast shuffle promises yet another night of utter Copy-Rock. Now in their 33rd year, these fraud-stars continue to deliver the best ‘moc‘n’roll’ show on the circuit.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Think Floyd 20 Feb
turn up the volume!
Turn Up The Volume! is The Stables’ monthly podcast. Each month we’ll bring you lively conversations with upcoming Stables artists and bands, exclusive looks behind the scenes, along with news and updates on what’s coming up.
Visit stables.org to take a listen to the latest episode.
The Story of Guitar Heroes
Friday 14 March, 8pm
£30.50
One of the UK’s premier live concert experiences, The Story of Guitar Heroes has won critical acclaim both at home and abroad for its incredible homage to some of the most influential and iconic guitarists from the past 50 years of popular music. Featuring worldclass musicians and state-of-the-art video projection, the show journeys through five decades, from 1950s rock’n’roll through to the most creative and inspirational guitar heroes of the modern era.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The History of Rock 13 Jun
A Night To Remember Motown Show
Saturday 15 March, 8pm
£36
A Night To Remember Motown Show takes you back in time to 1960s Detroit. Be prepared for a high-energy show packed with the greatest Motown hits. Starring The Voice UK finalist Bizzi Dixon and backed by the soulful vocal dynamics of The Motown Divas, this musical celebration is sure to have you singing along and dancing in the aisles and the streets.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Northern Soul Live 21 Jun
James Allsopp Quartet play Stan Getz
Sunday 16 March, 11.30am
£16.50
“There is so much fantastic repertoire associated with Stan, from lush ballads and bossa novas to swinging standards and bebop compositions. We have chosen a varied programme reflecting this range of material and have interpreted the music respectfully but not reverentially, allowing it to breathe and feel natural for our time.”
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Gershwin Piano Trio 18 May
The South
Sunday 16 March, 8pm
£36
The South are an impressive nine-piece band featuring former members of The Beautiful South, including singer Alison Wheeler and lifelong sax player Gaz Birtles. Since the demise of The Beautiful South in 2007, this exciting band have spent 14 years touring the UK recreating the full sound and arrangements of treasured songs such as A Little Time, Perfect 10, Rotterdam, Good As Gold, Don’t Marry Her plus many more.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Eddi Reader 10 & 11 Apr
Graham Gouldman: Heart Full Of Songs
Monday 17 March, 8pm
£31
Graham Gouldman co-founded 10cc in 1972 and went on to achieve three number one singles – Rubber Bullets, I’m Not In Love and Dreadlock Holiday. It’s the enduring appeal of these tracks, along with Graham’s passion for performing acoustic versions, that inspired the creation of Heart Full of Songs. The show features many 10cc classics alongside tracks from his critically acclaimed solo album, Love and Work
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Logicaltramp 5 Jul
Charlie Connelly: Attention All Shipping – A Celebration of the Shipping Forecast
Wednesday 19 March, 8pm
£21 & £18.50
‘Dogger, Fisher, German Bight’: Charlie Connelly brings the shipping forecast vividly to life in his hilarious and moving celebration of an iconic cultural institution. Inspired by his bestselling book, Charlie explores the broadcast’s remarkable history, unlocks its beguiling mysteries and tells rip-roaring stories of his own adventures among the sea areas.
Shaparak Khorsandi: Scatterbrain
Thursday 20 March, 8pm
£20.50
Having reassessed her life through the prism of an ADHD diagnosis in last year’s funny and moving memoir, one of Britain’s most beloved and most scatterbrained stand-ups lets you back into her mind (warning: it’s cluttered in there). Among other things, this show will be a love-letter to letter-writing, a trip back through her early years as a comic and woman-about-town, and a whirlwind tour of a chaotic, hilarious brain.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Lucy Porter 8 Mar
Graffiti Classics
Friday 21 March, 8pm
£27.50, under-16s free (ticket required)
Take 16 strings, eight dancing feet and four voices – all with one aim: to make classical music wickedly funny and fantastically exhilarating for everyone. Graffiti Classics burst the elitist boundaries of the traditional string quartet with their hilarious all-singing, all-dancing musical comedy show. It’s a classical concert, a gypsy-folk romp, an opera, a stand-up comedy set and a brilliant dance show all rolled into one!
The Kast Off Kinks
Saturday 22 March, 8pm
£27.50
The Kast Off Kinks include former members of legendary band The Kinks. This great line-up features Mick Avory (founding member of The Kinks and the original drummer on all the classic hits from 1964-84), Mark Haley, Mike Steed and Dave Clarke. Expect all the hits, including You Really Got Me, Dedicated Follower Of Fashion, Sunny Afternoon, Lola, Come Dancing and many more for a great night out!
Promoted by Mark Southgate
Family Ceilidh
with the MK Youth Ceilidh Band
Sunday 23 March, 1.30pm-3.30pm Adults/12+
£5, children 11 and under free (ticket still required)
Enjoy a fun afternoon of ceilidh dancing with the MK Youth Ceilidh Band. This new band of young players have been learning dance tunes and perform them with a modern twist. No previous experience is needed and our dance caller will guide you through the steps in an inclusive way suitable for all ages (except very little ones!). Children aged 7 and under will need an adult to partner with them to dance with.
Reg Meuross Quartet: Fire & Dust – The Woody Guthrie Story
Sunday 23 March, 8pm
£22
Commissioned by Pete Townshend, tonight’s show is a journey into the soul of one of America’s finest folk musicians. This incredible new song-cycle draws important parallels between Guthrie’s time and our own, with each song revealing Reg Meuross’s skills as a performer and storyteller at their absolute best. He’s joined by Geraint Watkins, Marion Fleetwood and Phil Beer.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Phil Beer 12 Feb
WeCompose School Concerts
Monday 24 & Tuesday 25 March
A culmination concert for schools taking part in WeCompose project – a programme to support schools in developing young people’s creativity and composing skills. Students have been supported by visits from professional composers and extensive resources to help create their own music, which will be performed by internationally ensemble the Ligetti Quartet at this concert. For more information contact education@stables.org
John Shuttleworth: Raise The Oof
Tuesday 25 March, 8pm
£27.50
Radio 4 favourite, comedy legend and “the 42nd best reason to love Britain” (The Telegraph), John Shuttleworth is back with more hilarious stories and songs performed on his trusty Yamaha organ (with built-in auto accompaniment!). In Raise The Oof, John celebrates 40 years in showbiz. Yes, it was 1985 when he met TV’s Clarinet Man, next door neighbour Ken Worthington who came last on New Faces in 1973 (Tony Hatch crucified him!).
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: David O’Doherty 2 Mar
Cara Dillon: Coming Home
Wednesday 26 March, 8pm
£31
Following the official release of the album and the publication of her book, Cara Dillon is bringing her acclaimed Coming Home show to life once again. This fabulous show sees Cara skilfully interweave emotive new material with a carefully curated selection of her beloved classics. She’ll be accompanied by a talented band led by Sam Lakeman.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Kathryn Roberts & Sean Lakeman 29 Mar
Harriet: Trying To Get The Feeling Again
Friday 28 March, 8pm
£25.50
Harriet has announced more shows on her Trying To Get The Feeling Again tour, which sees her perform intimate interpretations of her favourite sounds of the 1970s, including hits by Eagles, Fleetwood Mac, Carole King and The Carpenters, interlaced with her nostalgic original material. This is a special opportunity to hear Harriet perform songs from the era that inspires her most and share the stories behind her connection to the music.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Zervas & Pepper 14 Sep
James Brown
Funk Soul Orchestral pay homage to the legendary legacies of James Brown and Prince, two iconic artists who have left an indelible mark on the music world. From the funk anthems Sex Machine, Kiss, Get Up Offa That Thing and I Wanna Be Your Lover to the timeless ballads Purple Rain and Man’s World, this show is a must-see for all fans of soul and funk music.
Ed Byrne: Tragedy Plus Time
Sunday 30 March, 8pm
As attributed to Mark Twain, humour is defined as Tragedy Plus Time. Come and join Ed as he tests that formula by mining the most tragic event in his life for laughs. LIKE
Live music and performance have the power to inspire, entertain and bring joy.
Our Pay-It-Forward initiative opens doors for families and young people who may not otherwise be able to attend live events. The funds we raise provide free and heavily subsidised tickets for younger audiences so that they don’t miss out on the incredible experience of enjoying live performances at The Stables.
The more we raise, the more young people can benefit. For example, every £15 donation enables a young person to attend our Family Christmas show in December.
We are working in partnership with local charities, community and education organisations to reach those who would benefit the most from this initiative.
We would be so grateful if you can support our appeal.
Pay-It-Forward is a fund set up by The Stables (registered charity no.261645)
To make a donation, visit stables.org/pay-it-forward or call The Stables box office on 01908 280800. Thank you!
(If you are set up for gift aid in your account, this will increase the value of your donation by 25% - please contact our box office team if you need further information on how to do this.)
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!
Look out for these Stage 2 artists making their headline debuts this season
Wise Woman Fri 7 Mar
Pete Roth Trio Fri 24 Jan
Iago Banet Tue 25 Mar
Bella Hardy & Jenn Butterworth
Sunday 1 December, 8.45pm
£18.50
A self-taught ‘fiddle singer’, Bella Hardy began performing at Cambridge and Sidmouth festivals from the age of 13. Her debut album Night Visiting, released 10 years ago, established her reputation as a songwriter of rare quality. Now, 10 years on, Bella marks a decade of remarkable recordings with her new album Hey Sammy. Tonight, she will be joined by the wonderful guitarist Jenn Butterworth.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Spiers & Boden 24 Feb 2025
The Leon Hudston Band
+ support from Howling Bee
Friday 6 December, 8.45pm
£13.50
With a bond that spans more than 30 years, The Leon Hudston Band bring to life the captivating melodies of Leon Hudston, enriched by a delicate backing of electric and acoustic guitar, piano and bass. Drawing inspiration from artists such as Angus & Julia Stone, The Franklin Electric and Ray Lamontagne, their music is a winning blend of songwriting and storytelling.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Smith & Brewer and The 4 of Us 16 Mar 2025
Albany Down
Saturday 21 December, 8.45pm
£15.50
Contemporary UK blues-rock band Albany Down came together with some classic rock and Brit blues-rock influences, but with their 2011 debut album, South Of The City, they found their own sound. Albany Down are a band that runs on pure adrenalin, unrelenting energy and raw emotion. Rock blogger Neil Mach probably got it right, when he described the band “as hot as volcanic ash and yet as cool as snow slippers”.
Promoted by AD Recordings Ltd
Pete
Roth Trio featuring Bill Bruford
Friday 24 January, 8.45pm
£22.50
The Pete Roth Trio, featuring guitarist Pete Roth, bassist Mike Pratt and legendary drummer Bill Bruford, create innovative jazz. Their original compositions and interpretations of classics explore new musical frontiers. The trio’s music, ranging from Pete’s Dancing With Grace to a reinterpretation of the Largo from Dvorak’s Ninth Symphony, will redefine your understanding of the guitar trio format.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Jan Akkerman 5 Feb
Standing gig
Daria Kulesh Trio
Saturday 1 February, 8.45pm
£16.50
Daria Kulesh celebrates the release of her new studio album MotherLand. She is joined by Marina Osman (piano) and Katrina Davies (fiddle). Daria’s debut release Eternal Child was described as “phenomenal” and her second album Long Lost Home has enjoyed rave reviews and multiple awards, including LCM Album of the Year. Her third offering, Earthly Delights, was named “one of the year’s finest albums” by Folk Radio UK.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Bella Hardy 1 Dec 2024
Kim Richey
+ support ftom Carla J Easton
Wednesday 5 February, 8.45pm
£21
Two-time Grammy-nominated Kim Richey is a storyteller with a voice so pure, arresting and honest, it aches with life’s truths. Kim has recently been recording in Nashville and the results can be heard on her new album, tentatively titled Every New Beginning, on her long-standing label Yep Roc Records.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Josienne Clarke 6 Feb
Josienne Clarke
Thursday 6 February, 8.45pm
£19
Indie-folk singer, songwriter, guitarist and producer Josienne Clarke is often said to draw on traditional British folk inspirations, but she is a thoroughly modern, multi-faceted artist who follows her own compass. Her varied background and effortless musicality mean a cover of Radiohead is just as likely to appear on the set list as Nick Drake, as on her recent Now & Then EP.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Kim Richey 5 Feb
Cole Stacey: Postcards From Lost Places
Friday 7 February, 8.45pm
Cole Stacey (India Electric Co./Midge Ure) releases his debut album Postcards From Lost Places in the spring. He will be performing the album live at a selection of hand-picked venues across the UK, selected for their resonance with lost or regenerated places. Having roamed the highest echelons of British folk, 1980s pop and ambient electronics, Cole’s travels have finally brought him home.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Martyn Joseph 24 Jan
£14
Phil Beer
Wednesday 12 February, 8.45pm
£21.50
Phil Beer is the multi-instrumental half of the award-winning acoustic duo Show of Hands. Having enjoyed a professional career of more than 36 years, Phil has a great deal of material to draw on for his solo appearances, which are an eclectic mix of traditional tunes, covers of Springsteen or The Hollies, together with his own compositions and songs by his contemporaries.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Albion Band Christmas Show 21 Dec 2024
Nabil Abdulrashid: Urban Battuta
Sunday 16 February, 8.45pm
£20
Award-winning, international touring comedian Nabil Abdulrashid returns with a riotous new stand-up show. As seen on Live at the Apollo, Have I Got News For You, 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown and The Last Leg. As heard on Off Menu with James Acaster and Ed Gamble and Hoovering with Jessica Fostekew.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Screaming Blue Murder 19 Mar
Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club
Wednesday 19 February, 8.45pm
£12.50 in advance, £14.50 on the door
Compere Andrew Bird introduces Sally-Anne Hayward and Tony Law. (Line-up is subject to change.)
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Andy Zaltzman 25 Apr
A Barron Knight with Lillia Grace
Charity concert in aid of Willen Hospice
Friday 21 February, 8.45pm
£38.50
Barron Knight Pete Langford and his granddaughter Lillia Grace will be performing a special show for Willen Hospice. Featuring duets, solos, pop songs and songs from the musicals you all know, plus a few stories and a bit of humour along the way.
Promoted by Pete Langford
Melanie Bracewell: Attack of the Melanie Bracewell
Thursday 27 February, 8.45pm
£19
Fresh from a sell-out Edinburgh Fringe run, Melanie Bracewell is taking her show Attack of The Melanie Bracewell around the UK! This is a story of revenge. A story of justice. But mostly, it’s Melanie’s signature style of goofy, punchline-heavy comedy that has earned her sell-out shows all around the world. But also the revenge bit.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Sophie Duker 22 Jan
The Gary Fletcher Band
Friday 28 February, 8.45pm
£20
A founder and ever-present member of The Blues Band, Gary Fletcher has focussed on his own music since the band’s breakup in 2022. With his new band, Gary performs songs from The Blues Band’s repertoire, such as Greenstuff, So Lonely and Flatfoot Sam, alongside songs from his own albums, including the critically acclaimed River Keeps Flowing.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: John Verity Band 23 Feb
Wise Woman
Friday 7 March, 8.45pm
£16.50
Blending ancient folk traditions with a bold contemporary flair, Wise Woman perform a heady collision of lush folk harmonies, cinematic strings and 90s girl power. With a repertoire spanning traditional ballads and original compositions on subjects as diverse as fenland witches to drag artists, their powerful music and captivating storytelling transports audiences through a unique and transformative musical experience.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: The Young’uns 25 May
John Coghlan’s Quo Re-imagined
Saturday 8 March, 8.45pm
£22.50
Former Status Quo drummer John Coghlan, Ben Holder, Alex Steele and Paul Jefferies re-imagine Quo’s greatest hits! Paul and Alex wanted to create a totally different sound for their Quo Reimagined project and their first thought was to go acoustic. They instantly decided on world-class violinist Ben to create a sound quite different to the electric instruments used by Francis Rossi and Rick Parfitt.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Quo Connection 7 Jun
Looking For Me Friend: The Music of Victoria Wood
Friday 14 March, 8.45pm
£22.50
Featuring the star of BBC1’s All Together Now, Paulus ‘The Cabaret’ Geek, this is an evening of pure joy filled with Victoria Wood’s best-loved songs, including the iconic Ballad of Barry & Freda (Let’s Do It) and the classic It Would Never Have Worked In telling Victoria’s story, Paulus unfolds his own – a relatable story of a 1970s childhood and what it really means to find your tribe.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Liza Pulman & Joe Stilgoe 21 May
Navaro
Saturday 15 March, 8.45pm
£13.50
Navaro are Pete White, Steve Austin and Beth Navaro. The three singer-songwriters met in the late 2000s at a Hertfordshire open mic event. They have opened for Fairport Convention and other major roots acts and performed their own headlining events. Expect an evening of folk and country-tinged original songs from all four of their albums, together with stories and a unique vocal blend joined in harmony.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Ward Thomas 1 & 27 Feb
Smith & Brewer and The 4 Of Us
Sunday 16 March, 8.45pm
£22.50
Since meeting for the first time at an event organised by Joan Armatrading in 2015, Smith & Brewer have played together all over the UK, toured with 10cc, Ralph McTell, Jools Holland and Fairport Convention, and have played hundreds of shows together. Blending contemporary roots with rock, The 4 Of Us are one of the most acclaimed bands in Ireland, having been a steadfast part of Irish music history for over 30 years.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Fairport Convention 4 Feb
Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club
Wednesday 19 March, 8.45pm
£12.50 in advance, £14.50 on the door
Compere Andrew Bird introduces Alan Francis and Dee Allum. (Line-up is subject to change.)
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS : Andy Zaltzman 25 Apr
Honey & The Bear
Saturday 22 March, 8.45pm
£16.50
Honey & The Bear are UK folk and roots multi-instrumentalists Lucy and Jon Hart. Formed in 2014, the duo have gone from strength to strength, releasing three critically acclaimed albums and gathering an enthusiastic following of loyal fans. Shortlisted for the FATEA Band/Duo of the Year (2023), their live performances are full of variation, from emotive and dramatic fullbodied ballads to rip-roaring tales of adventure on the seas!
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Kathryn Roberts & Sean Lakeman 29 Mar
Iago Banet
Tuesday 25 March, 8.45pm
£16.50
Described as “a master of the guitar” by Sean Rafferty on BBC Radio 3’s In Tune; as “nothing short of phenomenal” in a recent review and as a “highly recommended artist” by Celtic Connections, Iago Banet creates stories without words, enthralling audiences as he does so.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Preston Reed 6 Sep
Stick In The Wheel
Friday 28 March, 8.45pm
£20.50
Stick In The Wheel’s work is rooted in traditional music and song, informed by the modern electronic music that grew out of their hybrid East London heritage. Nicola Kearey and Ian Carter make full-force reworkings of centuries-old work-songs, speaking to contemporary issues of class, using multi-layered sonic palettes to deeply reflect hidden histories, told with a razor-sharp authenticity.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Seth Lakeman 25 Feb
Kathryn Roberts & Sean Lakeman
Saturday 29 March, 8.45pm
£22.50
For over a quarter of a century Kathryn Roberts and Sean Lakeman’s partnership has proved personal, permanent and pivotal. From their early days in folk supergroup Equation through to their new album, Almost A Sunset, this multi award-winning musical couple continue to exude timeless class with their exquisite brand of traditional and contemporary acoustic music.
LIKE THIS? TRY THIS: Cara Dillon 26 Mar
also on sale
Craig Revel Horwood
JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM
Fri 25 Andy Zaltzman
£20
Fri 4 Elles Bailey
£25
Sat 5 Craig Revel Horwood from £38.50
Mon 7 The Amazing Bubble Man from £14
Wed 9 The Fureys
£26
Thu 10 & Fri 11 Eddi Reader
£33.50 Sat 12 Johnny Cash Roadshow from £30.50
Wed 16
7.30pm UK Blues Awards
£27.50
Thu 17 Jamali Maddix
£24.50
Fri 18 Lionel: The Music of Lionel Richie £26
Sat 19 10am & 12.30pm Teach Rex Live
£13.50
Sat 19 Feast of Fiddles
£26.50
Sat 26 Scott Bennett
£20.50
Sun 27 Jon Culshaw
£30.50
Mon 28 Francis Rossi from £43.50
Tue 29 Focus
£27.50 MAY
Thu 1 China Crisis
£33.50
Fri 2 Kate Butch: Wuthering Shites
£19.50
Sun 4 The Simon & Garfunkel Story
£34.50
Wed 14 Steeleye Span £38
Sat 17 The Manfreds £31
Wed 21 Liza Pulman & Joe Stilgoe
£27.50
Fri 23 & Sat 24 G2 Genesis from £31
Sun 25 The Young’uns
£26
Wed 28 Mark Radcliffe & David Boardman £20
Thu 29 Laurence Jones
£20.50
Fri 30 ABC: An Intimate Evening with Martin Fry from £35.50 Sat 31 7.30pm Alina Orchestra: Baroque Splendour from £25.50 JUNE
Sun 1 Peter White £21
Fri 6 Suzi Ruffell
£19.50
Sat 7 Quo Connection
£22
Wed 11 George Lewis
£18.50
Fri 13 The History of Rock
£32
Elles Bailey
Eddi Reader
Indicates a new show which is open for public booking from Tuesday 19 November. Prior to this date Stables Friends have priority.
Culshaw
JIM MARSHALL AUDITORIUM
Sat 14 Peggy Seeger: Final Farewell Tour
£24
Fri 20 Roy Orbison & the Traveling Wilbury Experience
£29
Sat 21 Northern Soul Live
£32
Wed 25 & Thu 26 Scummy Mummies
£25.50
Fri 27 Alfie Moore: A Face for Radio
£22.50
Sat 28
7.30pm Grimethorpe Colliery Band
£31 JULY
Fri 4 Americana Revue feat. Ben Mills
£27
Sat 5 Logical Tramp
£26
Thu 10 Kossoff: The Band Plays On £24.50
Sat 30 Solstice
£25
Sat 31 Hello Again: Tribute to Neil Diamond £34 SEPTEMBER
Thu 4 Cloudbusting: The Music of Kate Bush from £26 Fri 5 Abba Forever £35
Sat 6 & Sun 7 Ultimate Classic Rock Show
£32.50
Thu 11 Bootleg Blondie
£25
Sat 13 Paul Zerdin £25
Sun 14 Zervas & Pepper: This Flight Tonight – Songs of Joni Mitchell £27.50
Thu 18 Richard Digance
£21
Fri 26 Babatunde Aleshe: High Expectations
£21
Sat 27 Classic Clapton Unplugged £18.50 Sun 28 Nik Kershaw from £37.50 OCTOBER Sat 4 Kerry Ellis: Queen of the West End from £33.50 Sun 5 Marty Wilde £35.50
Fri 17 The Military Wives Choir: An Evening of Song
£31
Evening with Martin Fry
also on sale
APRIL
Sat 5 Katey Brooks
£16.50
Wed 9 Luke Wright: Joy
£16.50
Thu 10 Dave Kelly Band
£25
Sat 12 Andrew Bird: Ticklish Mind
£14.50
Wed 16 Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club
£12.50
Sat 26 Zoe Schwarz
£13.50
Sun 27 Edwina Hayes
£16.50
Indicates a new show which is open for public booking from Tuesday 19 November. Prior to this date Stables Friends have priority.
SUNDAY SESSIONS IN THE MANCINI FORUM 11.30AM
APRIL
Sat 3 Set Two: Gala Concert in Aid of Willen Hospice
£13.50
Wed 14 Twangtown Paramours
£16.50
Wed 21 Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club
£12.50
Fri 23 Hannah White
£16.50
Fri 30 Patrick Monahan: Talkinator
£16.50
JUNE
Sat 21 Jenny Colquitt
£15
OCTOBER
Fri 31 The Blackheart Orchestra
£22.50
Sun 13 Joanna Eden Band: The Road to Paysanda Tour
£18.50
MAY
Sun 18 Gershwin Piano Trio
£16.50
Nik Kershaw
Suzi Ruffell
Kerry Ellis
and not forgetting...
Tickets are still available for the following Stables shows in November:
8
Eliza
Clare Teal
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 instructor was very encouraging and helped me to play happily in a group for the first time.
It was a fabulous event and I wish I’d done it sooner.
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
Ukulele Beginners Part
Sax from Scratch
Improving Beginners Sats 4 Jan, 1 Feb & 1 Mar OR Sats 11 Jan, 8 Feb & 8 Mar
Saxophone Study Group Sats 4 Jan, 1 Feb & 1 Mar OR Sats 11 Jan, 8 Feb & 8 Mar
26 Jan, 2,9 & 23 Feb, 2 & 9 Mar
Saxophone Improving Beginners Course
Adult/16+ Course
Saturdays 4 January, 1 February, 1 March, 9.30am-12.30pm OR Saturdays 11 January, 8 February, 8 March, 9.30am-12.30pm (three-session course)
Saxophone Study Group
£58
This course offers returning saxophonists the opportunity to learn as part of a group through a fun programme of practical musical activities and performance. It aims to help students develop core technical, performance and improvisation skills and build confidence. Students must have their own instruments and ideally have attended previous Stables Saxophone from Scratch, Refresher and Improving Beginners workshops. If you have any other recent playing experience and are interested in joining the course, contact education@stables for further advice before booking.
Adult/16+ Course
Saturdays 4 January, 1 February, 1 March, 1pm-4pm OR Saturdays 11 January, 8 February, 8 March, 1pm-4pm (three-session course)
£58
This course is for saxophonists with more than two years’ experience and looking to reach an intermediate standard (equivalent to Grade 3 plus) on their instrument. You will have the opportunity to learn through a structured programme of study, incorporating a mixture of scale and study work, duet and group performance and improvisation activities.
The focus is on having fun, building confidence and competence in a supportive environment which enables students to progress in their musical development. Contact us on education@ stables.org to find out availability of places, and also so we can advise you which of the two groups is suitable to join and if your recent sax playing experience is suitable for the course.
Ukulele Beginners Part 1
Saturday 4 January, 10am-3pm
Adult/15+ Workshop
£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 15 February.)
Saxophone from Scratch
Adult/16+ Workshop
Sunday 5 January, 9.30am-12.30pm OR 1pm-4pm
£30
Have you ever wanted to try the saxophone but didn’t know where to start? Do you want to try it for the first time or have a go before buying one? Starting with the absolute basics, this workshop takes you on a on a step-by-step approach to making your first sounds, breathing tips, exercises, learning fingerings and scale patterns and playing simple melodies from those scales. No previous musical experience is required. You’ll be in a small group of beginners and in a friendly and supportive learning environment. Instruments are provided for use in the workshop, but if you have your own you are welcome to bring it along for advice and comparison, especially if it is one you may be practicing on after the workshop.
Harmonica Beginners Part 1
Saturday 11 January, 10am-3pm
Adult/15+ Workshop
£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 Saturday 1 March.)
Melodeon Beginners Part 1
Sunday 19 January, 10am-3pm
Adult/15+ Workshop
£42
A rare chance for beginners to pick up and play the small but mighty melodeon (aka 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 melodeons (squeezebox that plays different notes on the squeeze and on the pull for the same button), 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. (The follow-on workshop Melodeon beginners Part 2 is on Saturday 1 March.)
Cajon Beginners Workshop
Sunday 19 January, 1.30pm-4pm
Adult/15+ Workshop
£30
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).
Blues Guitar Beginners Part 1 Adult/15+ Workshop
Saturday 25 January, 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 29 March.)
Saxophone Beginners Course
Saturdays 25 January, 22 February, 22 March, 9.30am-12.30pm (three-session course)
Adult/16+ Course
£58
This course offers beginner saxophonists the opportunity to learn as part of a group. Through practical musical activities and exploring tunes you’ll start to build confidence and develop some of the technical and musical skills to play the saxophone. The course is suitable for beginners who have attended our Sax from Scratch or Refresher workshops or had another basic introduction to the saxophone. Participants will need to bring their own tenor, alto or baritone sax. If you have any other recent sax playing experience and are interested in joining the course, contact education@ stables.org for further advice before booking.
Latin Percussion for Beginners
Sundays 26 January, 23 February, 23 March, 1.30pm-4.30pm (three-session course)
Ceilidh Experience
Adult/16+ Course
£58
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.
Adult/16+ Course
Sundays 26 January, 2, 9 & 23 February, 2 & 9 March, 10am-12.30pm; £95 (£75 students) Sunday 9 March, 1.30pm-4pm afternoon performance/ceilidh dance for six sessions
Playing for dancing can stretch you as a musician but can also be one of the most rewarding musical experiences you can have. The Ceilidh Experience is a chance for anyone interested in traditional and folk music to play in a band and play at a Ceilidh. During the sessions you’ll learn tunes and come together as small ceilidh bands, getting ready to perform at a final event for dancers and folk fans of all ages.
You’ll be supported in the sessions by experienced professional tutors and ceilidh band performers, have the opportunity to practice with a ‘caller’ and perform on a professional stage, and learn how to perform acoustically and with amplification.
The course is suitable for any instrument, but acoustic instruments especially welcome. Participants should already be able to play tunes from memory, ideally at ’dance speed’ and be prepared to do some tune practice between sessions.
MK Youth Ceilidh Band for ages 11-18
Sundays 26 January, 2, 9, 16, 23 February, 2 March, 1pm-3pm Sunday 16 March, 12pm-2pm Sunday 23 March, 1.30pm-3.30pm afternoon performance/ family ceilidh dance
(Sunday 9 March optional – free ticket to the Ceilidh Experience concert and dance) £75 for eight sessions (concessions – reduced rates for those who qualify –contact your local Music Education Hub/Music Service for details)
For players of any instrument, and any level experience (except absolute beginners).
How would you like to play with other young musicians, get people dancing and learn to play folk and traditional music with a twist?
If you can play a tune from memory, or play chords to accompany a tune, you could be part of this exciting new band, and work as a team to put on an amazing final event for family, friends and dancers of all ages!
You don’t have to know anything about folk or traditional music and you don’t have to read music notation – you’ll be learning mostly ‘by ear’ as well as having written notes to help you when you need them. You’ll get chance to play folk and traditional music mixed with musical ideas from other popular music styles. You’ll also get chance to try some other instruments from the folk and traditional music world.
If you have any questions about your playing level or your instrument being OK for this course, contact education@stables.org.
Supported by Milton Keynes Music Service
Introduction to Music Recording and Production
Part 1
Saturday 1 February, 10am-4pm
Adult/15+ Workshop
£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. (The Part 2 follow on workshop on Saturday 8 March looks in more detail into studio based recording and production.)
Ukulele Beginners Part 2
Saturday 15 February, 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-, tenoror concert-sized ukulele. (The follow on part 3 workshop is on Saturday 22 March.)
Introduction to Live Sound Engineering
Saturday 15 February, 10am-4pm
Adult/16+ Workshop
£45
Are you an aspiring sound engineer? Or a musician who wants to understand how to use PA and get a better sound at your gigs? This workshop offers a basic introduction to the world of Live Sound Engineering and will cover types of microphone and placement, basic parts of a PA, how to use a mixing desk and basic EQ. It is suitable for complete beginners, or for people who have gaps in their understanding of live sound.
Melodeon Beginners Part 2
Saturday 1 March, 10am-3pm
Adult/15+ Workshop
£42
A chance for melodeon players at the beginner level to explore the instrument and basic rhythms in more depth. This workshop will focus on playing traditional English polkas, jigs and waltzes, how to start crossing the rows and introduce some left-hand variation. Suitable for players who have some basic knowledge of the instrument already (i.e. can play a number of simple tunes oom-pah on the left hand), and who have their own instrument. Participants do not need to read music notation, but a basic knowledge of music (scales, chords, time signatures) will help. This workshop is for melodeons (squeezebox that plays different notes on the squeeze and on the pull for the same button), 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.
Harmonica Beginners Part 2
Saturday 1 March, 10am-3pm
Adult/15+ Workshop
£38
Learn more of the basics of harmonica playing in this Beginners Part 2 workshop. This session will consolidate the work you have already done on improvisation, tune playing and chugging at Part 1 and move on to the fundamental blues technique of note bending. Participants will need a 10-hole harmonica in C. Prior attendance on Beginners Part 1 is recommended.
Introduction to Music Recording and Production Part 2
Saturday 8 March, 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.
Refresher Sax From Scratch
Saturday 15 March, 9.30am-12.30pm
Adult/15+ Workshop
£30
Following on from the absolute beginners Sax from Scratch workshop, this Refresher workshop will enable students to have more fun playing on one of our saxophones, or bring their own sax, with a view to developing their skills and techniques. Ideal for those that have attended previous Sax from Scratch workshops, or for early beginners who would like to develop their playing.
Ukulele Part 3:
Jazz Up Your Ukulele!
Saturday 22 March, 10am-3pm
Adult/15+ Workshop
£38
We’re currently in the ‘third wave’ of the ukulele, but the last time just about everyone had one was in the 1920s and 1930s – the ‘Jazz Age’. In this course we’ll go from basic three- and fourchord pop songs and start to explore ‘Jazz Age’ style of playing, with the emphasis on making it swing and having fun. We’ll look at fancy sounding jazz chords, ways of linking chords together, some classic intros and endings, and turn our strumming into something you can dance to. Ideally you will have completed the beginners parts 1 and 2 courses, be able to play a couple of common barre chords and have played some simple tablature.
Blues Guitar Beginners Part 2
Saturday 29 March, 10am-3pm
Adult/15+ Workshop
£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.
Singing Lead Vocals and Microphone Technique
Sunday 30 March, 1.30pm-5pm
Adult/15+ Workshop
£30
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.
For more information and how to apply, visit stables.org and search Fresh Sounds – the deadline for applications is Friday 29 November.
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
Check out our new draught beers: Beavertown Neck Oil, a session IPA, Cruzcampo, a Spanish lager and Appleshed cider to complement our quality range. Don’t forget to look for our guest beers from a local 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
Our popular snack bar has a selection of hot and cold drinks on offer – a hot chocolate might be the order of the day as the weather turns colder. Or how about a mulled wine to warm you through – and why not add a festive mince pie, available from 1 December?
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.
IF: MILTON KEYNES INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL –
THROUGH THE LENS
An exhibition of photographs by Shaun Armstrong
To celebrate the opening of the new Gallery space in the Mancini Forum at The Stables, we are delighted to present an exhibition of photographs taken by Shaun Armstrong at previous editions of IF: Milton Keynes International Festival. The exhibition offers a glimpse into some of the remarkable projects and events the Festival has commissioned and presented.
Shaun is a documentary photographer and artist and has been the Festival’s official photographer since it was founded in 2010.
Exhibition supported by
Visual Artists
For more information and details on how to apply, visit stables.org and search for Call Out 18 November 2024-March 2025
The Stables invites visual artists who live or work in and around Milton Keynes to submit creative works for display and sale in our new foyer gallery space. We will be hosting a series of exhibitions throughout the year. The first exhibition will run from March to May 2025, offering an exciting opportunity to showcase your art to more than 20,000 people during this time.
We are interested in supporting and presenting contemporary work which has an appeal to the mix of audiences who visit the venue.
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 between £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
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
DECEMBER
Sun 1 Mostly Autumn
Sun 1 Bella Hardy & Jenn Butterworth
Mon 2 Ruby Wax
Tue 3 The Mediaeval Baebes
Wed 4 The Puppini Sisters
Thu 5 The Drifters
Fri 6 The Drifters
Fri 6 The Leon Hudston Band
Sat 7 No Jacket Required
Sun 8 Woburn Sands Band
Tue 10 Tenors Unlimited
Wed 11 Cats In Space
Wed 11 Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club
Thu 12 Ed Byrne
Fri 13 Los Pacaminos
Sat 14 Dankworth Family Christmas Show
Sun 15 Sunday Sessions: Jazz Dynamos
Sun 15 Maddy Prior & The Carnival Band
Tue 17-
Tue 24 Dizzy O’Dare: A Christmas Tail
Thu 19 The Wandering Hearts
Sat 21 Albion Band Christmas Show
Sat 21 Albany Down
Sun 22 Simon Evans & Friends
JANUARY
Sat 11 Dire Streets
Thu 16 Limehouse Lizzy
Fri 17 Rob Newman
Sat 18 Ray Gelato & The Giants
Sun 19 Sunday Sessions: Shades of Shearing Quintet
Wed 22 Sophie Duker
Thu 23 Crooners
Fri 24 BFI Study Day
Fri 24 Martyn Joseph
Fri 24 Pete Roth Trio
Sat 25 80’s Mania
Sun 26 Antiques & A Little Bit of Nonsense
Tue 28 BFI Study Day
Tue 28
Stables Screenings: Back To Black (15)
Wed 29 Taylormania
Thu 30 T.Rextasy
Fri 31 BBC Big Band
FEBRUARY
Sat 1 Ward Thomas
Sat 1 Daria Kulesh Trio
Sun 2 Cregan & Co
Tue 4 Fairport Convention
Wed 5 Jan Akkerman
Wed 5 Kim Richey
Thu 6 Eshaan Akbar
Thu 6 Josienne Clarke
Fri 7 ELO Again
Fri 7 Cole Stacey
Sat 8 Alina Orchestra
Sun 9 Cinelli Brothers & Brave Rival
Tue 11 Alina Orchestra GCSE & A-Level Schools Concert
Tue 11 Coldplace
Wed 12 Nick Lowe & Los Straitjackets
Wed 12 Phil Beer
Thu 13 Maisie Adam
Fri 14 The Magic of Terry Pratchett
Sat 15 The Freddie & Queen Experience
Sun 16 Sunday Sessions: Simon Spillett Quartet
Sun 16 Dr Feelgood
Sun 16 Nabil Abdulrashid
Tue 18
Tue 18
Stables Screenings: IF (U)
Stables Screenings: Bob Marley – One Love (12)
Wed 19 The Breath
Wed 19 Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club
Indicates a new show which is open for public booking from Tuesday 19 November. Prior to this date Stables Friends have priority.
Friends and Founders discount applies
For more information see page 3
Thu 20 Think Floyd
Fri 21 Coldplace
Fri 21 A Barron Knight with Lillia Grace
Sat 22 Pop Princesses
Sat 22 Larry Dean
Sun 23 John Verity Band
Mon 24 Spiers & Boden
Tue 25 Seth Lakeman
Wed 26 Totally Tina
Thu 27 Whipped Up!
Thu 27 Ward Thomas
Thu 27 Melanie Bracewell
Fri 28 Andy Fairweather Low
Fri 28 Gary Fletcher Band
MARCH
Sat 1 Marcus Brigstocke
Sun 2 David O’Doherty
Tue 4 Ensemble 360: Giddy Goat
Tue 4 Ensemble 360
Fri 7 Police Dog Hogan
Fri 7 Wise Woman
Sat 8 Lucy Porter
Sat 8 John Coghlan’s Quo Re-imagined
Sun 9 Ceilidh Experience Concert & Dance
Tue 11 The Dublin Legends
Wed 12 Nashville Nights Tour
Thu 13 Counterfeit Stones
Fri 14 The Story of Guitar Heroes
Fri 14 Looking For Me Friend
Sat 15 A Night To Remember Motown Show
Sat 15 Navaro
Sun 16 Sunday Sessions: James Allsopp Quartet
Sun 16 The South
Sun 16 Smith & Brewer/The 4 Of Us
Mon 17 Graham Gouldman
Wed 19 Charlie Connelly
Wed 19 Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club
Thu 20 Shaparak Khorsandi
Fri 21 Graffiti Classics
Sat 22 The Kast Off Kinks
Sat 22 Honey & The Bear
Sun 23 Family Ceilidh
Sun 23 Reg Meuross Quartet
Mon 24 WeCompose End of Project Concert
Tue 25 John Shuttleworth
Tue 25 Iago Banet
Wed 26 Cara Dillon
Fri 28 Harriet
Fri 28 Stick In The Wheel
Sat 29 James Brown v Prince
Sat 29 Kathryn Roberts & Sean Lakeman
Sun 30 Ed Byrne
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