What’s On
April » August 2012
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T
HE MET is more than just a venue with a programme of high quality artists. We also deliver a weekly workshop programme, festivals and a recording studio free for Bury’s young people. The venue ties everything together and supports our charitable work through which thousands benefit each year. With a programme more vibrant and varied than ever we hope you feel moved to come and support what we are doing here in Bury. No other venue can boast such a full and varied range of events, offering our audiences Experience great theatre at The Met with our Pick ’n’Mix offer. Book for any three shows marked with the Pick’n’Mix badge for just £15.
the very best in touring theatre, comedy and music in the UK. Great, inventive and entertaining theatre including Just Good Friends, The Harbour and Swamp Juice are simply not to be missed while shows by Ian Shaw, Karine Polwart, Walsh and Pound, Otis Gibbs and Dàimh will fill the venue with the fantastic music which brings live audiences back again and again. For new music, we have a programme mix which doesn’t happen anywhere else, with highlights including Louis Barrabas and the Bedlam Six, The Grand Scheme, Ducie and Orla Murphy all set to be names ordaining other venues’ and festivals’ programmes very soon.
MUSIC
COMEDY
DRAMA
FAMILY SHOWS
WORKSHOPS
FOOD & DRINK
The live scene has never been more vibrant, or more challenged by funding and financial pressures. Help us to keep the programme fresh by booking for as many shows as you can – and one more you haven’t heard of. You won’t regret it. David Agnew, Director
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F O L K R O O T S
C O M E D Y
J A Z Z
Karine Polwart
First Thursday Comedy Club
Ian Shaw
Thursday 5 April 8pm £16 / £14 conc & members Award winning Scottish folk singer-songwriter Karine Polwart’s simple but evocative style has established her as one of the genre’s most respected artists. Don’t miss a compelling performance from one of Scotland’s finest and most captivating folk artists who will be showcasing tracks from her new, much anticipated, album scheduled for release this summer.
Thu 5 April 8.30pm £10 / £8 conc A hilarious comedy on the first Thursday of every month. April features Junior Simpson (of Channel 5’s In The Dark) ,BAFTA award winning Welsh comedian Tudur Owen “Chwerthin llond bol dro arol tro, ‘da chi’n siwr o fwynhau” BBC Wales and the soonto-be-famous Nina Smith. Be sure to book in advance, as First Thursday sells out every month.
and Trio
Saturday 7 April 7.30pm / £12 Winner of Best Jazz Vocalist at the BBC Jazz Awards in 2007 and 2004, Ian Shaw has already amassed a number of highly acclaimed albums and is a popular performer both in the UK and the US. An incredibly colourful character, he has been cited as one of the world’s finest male jazz vocalists. “one of the UK’s most honest and musical jazz vocalists” The Guardian
Karine Polwart
Also featuring Phil Ware (piano), Steve Watts (double bass) and Gene Calderazzo (drums).
D RA M A
Just Good Friends
Le Voyageur Debout Wednesday 11 April 8pm / £10 £6 conc & members New, touchingly human, universally funny, theatrical clowns, for all ages from 6 upwards.
So, as faithful a friend, and as big-hearted and generous as Filomena is, will Felix get the girl of his dreams?
MaD Theatre Company Thu 12 and Fri 13 April 7.30pm £10 / £9 concession Love is in the air in the Pickles house. Mariah loves Jarvis, they’re expecting their first child, Baby Ga Ga. Her Mam loves Bobby, but he’s inside for looting and her brother is looking for love on the internet. Mariah’s Nanna has lots of loves. When wheelchair Barry takes her to a psychic, she’s contacted by a lover from long ago. But Barry is jealous of the fella from the other side. A new comedy from MaD Theatre, producers of Angels with Manky Faces and Thai Brides and Teacakes.
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Felix and Filomena are the very best of mates, but Felix secretly fancies his best mate Filomena. Unfortunately, Felix does not have much going for him. He is not exactly Brad Pitt.
Gin and Chronic Arthritis
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f a m i l Y
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Po’ Girl
D RA M A
Jenna Reid
The Harbour
Friday 13 April 8pm £12 / £8 concession & members
Jenna Reid
A M E RI C ANA
Po’ Girl Thursday 12 April 8pm £14 / £12 conc & members
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F O L K R O O T S
Po’Girl have become one of the most successful bands ever to emerge from Canada, weaving a blend of musical influences, sweetness, grit and soul. These urban minstrels pen harmony drenched melodies you’ll find yourself humming. They have wowed audiences across the globe with their passionate and spirited live shows.
Award winning Shetland Fiddler, Jenna Reid (Blazin’ Fiddles, Filska, Dochas, Deaf Shepherd) is fresh from the studio as she releases her third solo album. Morning Moon showcases the stunning slow airs and fiery fiddling that Jenna has become famous for. With Jenna will be guitarist Kevin Mackenzie and her sister Bethany on piano and fiddle. ROCK and POP
David R Black Saturday 14 April 7.30pm £5 adv / £6 door / Standing David R Black perform songs from their new album Secret City. Support comes from Jupitar Sands, Inora and Fort Worth.
Limbik Theatre
Wednesday 18 April 8pm £10 / £6 conc & members Peter – a quiet fisherman – still lives at home with his overbearing mother. One fateful night, he brings a seal-woman home from the sea. As Sally grows into life on land, their hopes and secrets collide in this funny, moving, and visually striking retelling of a selkie myth.
Steve Ashley
Andy Irvine Friday 20 April 8pm £12 / £10 conc & members
The Harbour With simple staging and haunting live music, The Harbour unearths an overfished world filled with impossible desires. “A masterclass in surreal storytelling.” East Anglia Daily Press The evening will also feature the sea shanty singing talents of Bury Acapeelers.
F O L K R O O T S
Steve Ashley Thursday 19 April 8pm / £8
His award-winning debut album, Stroll On is widely acknowledged as a folk-rock classic and his latest, Time and Tide was described by fROOTS as “a modern day masterpiece”.
Founder member of bands such as Sweeney’s Men, Planxty, Patrick Street, and Mozaik, he has been hailed as “a tradition in himself.” Musician, singer and songwriter, few others can equal his repertoire: Irish traditional songs, dexterous Balkan dance tunes, and a compelling canon of his own material that defies description. “His artistry is quite simply unique.” The Independent
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Challenging and compassionate, Steve Ashley is one of folk’s finest singer-songwriters. His songs have been covered by Fairport Convention, Anne Briggs, Martin Simpson, Wizz Jones, Phil Beer and many other artists.
For more than forty years, Andy Irvine has been a world music pioneer and icon for traditional music and musicians.
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F O L K R O O T S
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The Snail and The Whale
F A M I L Y
The Snail and The Whale Tall Stories Theatre Company Sat 21 April 1.30pm & 4pm / £8 / £6 members
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A tiny snail longs to see the world, so she hitches a lift on the tail of a huge humpback whale. Together they go on an amazing journey, experiencing sharks and penguins, icebergs and volcanoes... Tall Stories, creators of the Gruffalo and Room on the Broom stage shows, are proud to present their latest collaboration with Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Created in Tall Stories’ unique style, The Snail and the Whale combines physical storytelling, live music and lots of laughs – for ages 4 and up.
R O C K a n d P O P
B L U E S
James Grant
Mark Radcliffe &
Saturday 21 April 8pm £14 / £12 conc & members
Ramsbottom Festival Fundraiser
The Big Figures
Widely regarded as one of the finest singer-songwriters and performers around, Love And Money frontman James Grant plays material from all his critically acclaimed solo albums and a smattering of the old favourites in a solo acoustic setting.
Saturday 21 April 9pm £10 / Standing The Big Figures is a proper R&B band in the classic Dr Feelgood mould, featuring BBC 6 Music DJ Mark Radcliffe and his best mate of over thirty years, PJ Walmsley. Feelgood afficionados will know that The Big Figure was the drummer in the original group and that explains the name of this band, rather than any reference to the middle-aged spread experienced by certain members.
This is a show not to be missed, raw, heart-rending and uplifting... as MOJO says, “This is music from another place...”
James Grant
F O L K R O O T S
Jekyll & Hyde
Katriona Gilmore & Jamie Roberts
PADOS Theatre Group
Friday 27 April 8pm / £10
Tue 24 - Fri 27 April 7.30pm Sat 28 April 2.30pm & 7.30pm
Labelled respectively as “one of the most original harmonica players in Britain” and “the UK’s top Clawhammer banjoist”, these two have joined forces to create a highly entertaining and astonishing live set.
£8 Tue / £10 Wed-Fri & Sat 2.30pm / £12 Sat 7.30pm
Following their sell out success with Jesus Christ Superstar, PADOS Theatre Group return to The Met with a brand new production of smash hit musical Jekyll and Hyde.
F O L K R O O T S
Katriona Gilmore & Jamie Roberts
Prepare to be amazed by stunning vocals, banjo wizardry and sounds you didn’t think were possible on harmonica. Their self titled debut album was released last year and nominated as Best Debut Album in the Spiral Earth Awards 2012.
Thursday 26 April 8pm / £10 BBC Radio 2 Horizon Award Nominees Katriona Gilmore (Rosie Doonan and the Snapdragons, ex-Tiny Tin Lady) and Jamie Roberts (Kerfuffle) have been performing together since 2006. Their self-penned material ranges from blazing instrumentals
to heart-wrenching songs, to contemporary arrangements of traditional songs. Shadows and Half Light, the duo’s first album has been described as “inspired” by fRoots and awarded five stars by Rock’n’Reel.
Walsh & Pound
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Based on Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic Victorian gothic novella, the show tells of brilliant but obsessive scientist Henry Jekyll, whose sadistic alter ego Edward Hyde wreaks havoc across London in a dark tale of love, redemption and the seductive power of evil – glamorous, sexy and deliciously wicked in equal measures.
Walsh & Pound
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D RA M A
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A M E RI C ANA
F O L K R O O T S
F A M I L Y
Richmond Fontaine (Duo) & Richard Buckner
Little Johnny England
Little Red... You Know Who!
Friday 4 May 8pm / £12
Supported by Peter Bruntnell Thursday 3 May 7.30pm / £14 An Americana feast with full sets from Oregon band Richmond Fontaine (playing in duo format with band members Willy Vlautin and Dan Eccles) and California’s Richard Buckner.
Little Johnny England has been steadily making an impact on the folk and roots circuit, establishing a reputation as the band that is rocking the English tradition, putting the rock back into folk rock.
Willy Vlautin and Dan Eccles
“They make a stirring sound indeed. Guaranteed to revive the jaded palates of those who thought electric folk was all but dead and buried.” Traditional Music Maker
The evening will open with a set from UK singersongwriter Peter Bruntnell. A Mr Kite Benefit. Richard Buckner
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C O M E D Y
First Thursday Comedy Club Thursday 3 May 8.30pm £10 / £8 concession The first of our Edinburgh Fringe preview shows features local gem Chris Roche and Radio 4’s Stephen Carlin “The Sean Lock of his generation” BBC
Stephen Carlin
Freehand Theatre Saturday 5 May 1.30pm / £7 Taking a well-known story (you know which!), this spell-binding play for young children follows a magical path through the woods. Freehand Theatre creates a memorable and reassuring journey with its delightful use of puppetry, colour and specially composed music. For ages 3 to 7.
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F O L K R O O T S
Home Service
A Mr Kite Benefit
Saturday 5 May 8pm / £18 Home Service was the greatest folk rock band of the eighties. Formed out of the ashes of The Albion Band, for a few short years they burned bright, singing passionate songs that exposed the rotten heart of Thatcher’s Britain. They recorded three great albums, still beloved by fans, ending with the iconic Alright Jack. And then they stopped. Now, three decades later, Home Service are back. Band members
John Tams, Graeme Taylor, Steve King, Jon Davie, Michael Gregory, Paul Archibald, Roger Williams and Andy Findon have reunited to promote Live 1986, a new album of previously unheard live recordings. Just as powerful and committed as ever, Home Service are triumphally back in business – a fact acknowledged by Radio 2, who awarded the band Best Live Act at the 2012 Folk Awards. C O M E D Y / D RA M A
Stick Granny on the Roof-Rack
Msfits Theatre Company
Wednesday 9 May 7.30pm / £10 / £8 concession & members Written by Rona Munro and performed by Fiona Knowles, this is the latest hilarious comic play from the company who brought you Women Behaving Madly, Sex and Chocolate, Fur Coat and Magic Knickers and A Clucking Good Hen Night.
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Home Service
The good news… “Holiday of a Lifetime”, Marie won it on a scratch card. The bad news… “for all the family”! The family, Katy, a teenager with attitude, Graham, once the love of Marie’s life, now fifteen years past his sell by date, and… his Mum!
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F O L K R O O T S
T A L K
Emily Smith Thursday 10 May 7.45pm £12 / £10 concession & members Emily Smith is a leading light of the contemporary Scottish folk scene. Her powerful, clear vocals have gained her award winning, worldwide recognition.
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As a songwriter Emily has been likened to “a Scottish Joni Mitchell”, but she is equally adept at presenting fresh and evocative interpretations of traditional songs. She has worked with artists such as Richard Thompson, Beth Nielsen Chapman and Eddi Reader. Recent TV appearances include Transatlantic Sessions 4 and BBC Songs of Praise. “As far as I’m concerned she can walk on water” Mike Harding, BBC Radio 2
An evening with
Gervase Phinn Friday 11 May 7.30pm / £16.50 Best selling and award winning author, radio and TV personality Gervaise Phinn will have you on the edges of your seats, as he shares his hilarious and sometimes poignant tales of life as a schools inspector in the Yorkshire Dales. Dubbed “the James Herriot of schools”. With his keen ear for the absurd and sharp eye for the ludicrous, Gervase Phinn has delighted audiences all over the UK with his stories. “Laugh-out-loud funny” Women’s Weekly “Gervase Phinn has a unique understanding and love of children, and a wonderful gift for storytelling... a real star” Esther Rantzen “He tells a cracking good tale” The Times
R O C K a n d P O P
The Bogtrotters
Jake Morley
Saturday 12 May 8pm / £12.50 The Boggies are a totally authentic band who have made a musical niche that is distinctly their own. Their energetic, original vocal material and instrumental music excitingly fuses traditional Irish, Scottish, country and Cajun genres. In aid of Bury Cancer Support Centre.
F O L K R O O T S
Saturday 12 May 8pm £10 advance Jake Morley is a remarkable guitar player and singer-songwriter. He plays guitar across his lap and slaps, taps, plucks and picks the instrument to produce a sound like no-one else. His instrumental skill is combined with masterly writing, crafting songs that are both engaging and instantly memorable. Jake’s debut album, Many Fish To Fry was released to his fans in late 2011 to great acclaim. “The music purveyed by Jake Morley and encapsulated in the album ‘Many Fish To Fry’ both captivates and entices; and it’s unique. Sit back and revel in this album.” Folk Words
Hannah James & Sam Sweeney
“There is no one that even comes close to what Jake is doing” WooHoo Music
Hannah James and Sam Sweeney are one of the foremost duos performing English folk music today. April sees the release of their highly anticipated second album State and Ancientry.
Thursday 17 May 8pm / £10 / £8 concession & members They play predominantly English songs and tunes on accordion and fiddle, and live shows feature Hannah’s renowned highenergy clog dancing.
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Jake Morley
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F O L K R O O T S
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F O L K R O O T S
F O L K R O O T S
F O L K R O O T S
Kieran Goss
Spiers and Boden
Fay Hield Trio
Friday 18 May 8pm £14 / £10 concession & members Long hailed as one of Ireland’s leading songwriters and performers, Kieran Goss’ music has won him fans across the globe. But if his albums have made him a star, his live shows have made him a legend. Live on stage is where he really shines. “The sense of fun is tremendous, the playing first rate and the songs are sheer quality. The encores were genuine, but only because the man is too.” Irish Times
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Saturday 19 May 8.30pm £16 seated / £13 standing
Kieran Goss
The Selfish Crocodile
F A M I L Y
The Selfish Crocodile Blunderbus Theatre Company Saturday 19 May 1pm / £8 Deep in the forest lived a very selfish crocodile who wouldn’t share the river with the other creatures. He thought it was his river! So, the animals stayed away. But, one day there was a terrible scream – the crocodile had a toothache… Based on the best-selling children’s book by Faustin Charles and Mike Terry, this is a funny, heartwarming tale for 3-7 year olds, their grown-up’s – and of course, anybody with a pet crocodile.
Thursday 24 May 8pm £12 / £10 concession & members
Twice winners of the BBC Radio 2 folk award for Best Duo, John Spiers and Jon Boden have made the genre of spontaneous, punky English folk very much their own stomping ground. Loud, proud, and with just a few acoustic instruments, they create a multitude of textures upon which they present traditional stories and dance music which are as much at home on the main stage of Cambridge Folk Festival as they are in a lock-in at the local pub. “taking traditional folk by the scruff of the neck and giving it a thrilling new perspective” The Sun
John Spiers & Jon Boden
Fay Hield’s earthy singing and powerful haunting delivery have a unique appeal. Her 2010 debut CD Looking Glass was released to a fanfare of praise on the prestigious Topic Records, and brought her a Horizon Award nomination at the 2011 Folk Awards. She has also guested on the latest CDs by Martin Simpson and Spiers & Boden. Fay appears at The Met with trio members Rob Harbron (English Acoustic Collective) and Sam Sweeney (Bellowhead). “Unadorned – and quite exquisite... Hield is a rare talent” Uncut
It Bites
plus The Jon Amor Blues Group Friday 25 May 8.15pm £17.50 / Standing It Bites are touring in support of their new album Map of the Past. This will be fans’ first chance to hear the songs Classic Rock Magazine has called future classics. Plus songs and rarities from the It Bites back catalogue. F O L K
Fay Hield
Christine Collister
J A Z Z
Stacey Kent Saturday 26 May 8pm / £17.50
Best known for the theme from BBC’s Life and Loves of a She Devil, Christine Collister has worked with a host of excellent musicians (Peter Frampton, Richard Thompson, Louden Wainwright III).
Stacey Kent, a best-selling member of the Blue Note roster of recording artists, now boasts six best-selling albums, a string of awards, including the British Jazz Award, The BBC Jazz Award for Best Vocalist, and Album of the Year , as well as a fan base that enables her to sell-out concert halls around the world.
Throughout her career, she has mesmerized and astounded with her subtle and effortless blend of soul, blues, pop, jazz, country and folk.
“She has charm to burn, a smile that could give you hope in February and sings like nobody’s business” The Wall Street Journal
Friday 25 May 8pm / £10
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It Bites
Christine Collister
Stacey Kent
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R O C K a n d P O P
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F A M I L Y
F O L K R O O T S
Chris and Kellie While Wednesday 30 May 8pm £12 / £10 concession & members Book online www.themet.biz
Swamp Juice
Jeff Achtem in Swamp Juice
The world class vocals of internationally lauded Chris While and the uncannily similar quality of daughter Kellie While, combine an evening for unforgettable live music. Chris and Kellie have sung together since Kellie was fourteen years old and they have produced two formidable albums to date.
Bunk Puppets and Scamp Theatre Tuesday 29 May 7pm / £8
Welcome to a swamp like no other. Bickering toads, overbearing fairies and a rather gentle swamp monster. Using mind-blowing shadow puppetry, acclaimed Canadian performer Jeff Achtem brings his astonishing award-winning show about life in a swamp, with a stunning, jaw dropping 3D finale.
F O L K R O O T S
Dàimh Friday 1 June 8pm £12 / £10 concession Taking their name from the Gaelic word for kinship, super-group Dàimh (pronounced da-eve) fuse together the traditions of Eire, Scotland and Cape Breton. From pyrotechnic jigs and reels to achingly poignant ballads, they run the full expressive range of folk at its best, and are renowned for their thrilling live shows.
This made audiences of all ages literally scream the house down, at this years Edinburgh Festival. Yes, it’s that good! A winner of the Total Theatre Award 2011. Suitable for ages 7+ “Stunning.”
**** The Scotsman
D RA M A
Hairy Maclary and Friends
Coward
Nonsense Room Productions Saturday 2 June 1pm & 3pm / £8 “Out of the gate and off for a walk, went Hairy Maclary from Donaldson’s Dairy.” With music, singing and several of your favourite stories from the Hairy Maclary books, this show is a must for the whole family.
Dodd’s much-loved children’s books to life.” Primary Times
“...a vibrant, fun filled show that cleverly brings Lynley
A M E RI C ANA
Suzy Bogguss Saturday 2 June 8.30pm / £18
Saturday 2 June 7.30pm £10 / £8 concession Set in London in the early 1930s, Leonard Marlowe arrives at Noël Coward’s apartment for an audition, only to find that the part Noël has in mind for him is as amorous as it is theatrical. Will the helping hand up the showbiz ladder be enough to persuade Leonard to change his mind about himself? Suzy Bogguss
Will Leonard ever fit into the glittering, name-dropping, aristocratic world The Master inhabits? All the while, events are observed and stage-managed by Noël’s personal assistant, Cole Lesley, the epitome of the good and faithful servant. Written by James Martin Charlton; directed by Peter Stone.
C O M E D Y
First Thursday Comedy Club Thu 7 June 8.30pm £10 / £8 conc Two Edinburgh Fringe previews. This month we welcome Chris Martin (not, not that one) and Carey Marx (the comic Quentin Tarentino). In Edinburgh one of these shows would cost you £10. See two here for the price of a cinema ticket.
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Legendary US country singer Suzy Bogguss has released one platinum and three gold albums as well as charting six top ten singles. Her career has spanned over thirty years and she has collaborated with some of Nashville’s most influential songwriters. She comes to The Met to perform favourite songs from her back catalogue and some new material. A Mr Kite Benefit.
Just Some Theatre Company
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F A M I L Y
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B L U E S
Larry Miller
Larry Miller Band Friday 8 June 8pm / £10 Guitarist Larry Miller is is becoming legendary with his exciting, mesmerising guitar playing and rip roaring live shows. His engaging personality brings a dimension of showmanship to his performances like no other.
Larry‘s band features an experienced, powerful driving rhythm section. If you like Rory Gallagher, Joe Bonamassa, Gary Moore, Walter Trout or Hendrix, you’ll love the guitar pyrotechnics of Larry Miller.
Songwriter Huw Williams and multi-instrumentalist Maartin Allcock first met on a Fairport Convention tour bus in 1995.
Ame r i c a n a
Stuart Warburton
Huw went on to conquer the folk scene with his singing partner Tony Williams, and Maart had a successful session career, touring with Nashville’s Beth Nielsen Chapman, fiddle maestro Dave Swarbrick, John Wright Band, Miranda Sykes Band and more, after leaving Fairport in 1997.
& The Grand Scheme
Official launch party for the new album Telemark Book online www.themet.biz
Maartin Allcock & Huw Williams Thursday 14 June 8pm / £12
“The UK’s Stevie Ray Vaughan... and more !” Mojo Magazine “His Guitar playing is simply mesmerising” Blues Matters “A Blues Rock Powerhouse” The Guardian
Saturday 9 June 8pm / £10 advance / £12 door Bury singer-songwriter and former Rhythmaires front-man Stuart Warburton returns with a new band and a new album. Telemark was recorded during 2011 in Skien, Norway and produced by Halvor Halvorsen. The Grand Scheme came together in the summer of 2011 and made their UK debut at The Ramsbottom Festival. The line up is Jamie Fildes (lead guitar), Steve Conway (pedal-steel guitar), Roberto Ruiz (bass) and Dave Wells (drums).
F O L K R O O T S
Stuart Warburton
In this spectacular performance Maart and Huw come together in an evening of foot tapping tunes, beautiful songs and anecdotes to captivate and make you laugh.
J A Z Z
Louis Barabbas & The Bedlam Six Friday 15 June 8pm / £8 / £6 concession Vaudeville folk-rockers Louis Barabbas & The Bedlam Six are one of Manchester’s musical gems. Expect to hear twisted songs about lust and loathing spat out over
dissonant riffs coaxed from beat-up trombones, banjos, trumpets, saxophones, mandolins, cellos, violins, lap-steels, accordions, pianos and spoons. “Brilliant... terrifying but brilliant” Channel M
Rock a n d P op
Saturday 16 June 7.30pm / £5 / £3 concession This Edwin Street Showcase gives these emerging artists the chance to get out of the recording booth and onto the stage. Come and experience the next generation of musical talent from Bury.
Orla Murphy Thursday 21 June 8pm £10 adv / £12 door London-based Irish vocalist Orla Murphy’s voice has been described as possessing a distinctive, rich sound with a deep and soulful timbre; often compared with Nina Simone, Cleo Laine, and Diana Krall. Orla returns to The Met showcasing her second album Wonderous Visions, a presentation of new jazz arrangements and re-workings of Stevie Wonder songs, plus an original song, Timeless, written by Orla and pianist Steve Lodder.
“Sounding like the forgotten lovechild of Joni Mitchell and Terry Callier – seamlessly combining the liquid phrasing of the former with the soulful sonorities of the latter – Murphy’s captivating tone really draws the listener into the song...” Jazzwise
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Edwin Street Showcase In the year since it opened, Edwin Street, The Met’s professional recording studio, has worked with many exciting up-andcoming young musicians and singers from the Bury area.
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r ock a n d pop
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Ducie
W O R L D R O O T S
F O L K R O O T S / A M E RI C ANA
Ducie
State of the Union
Thursday 21 June 8pm £8 advance / £10 door Ian Fletcher and Andy Dinan of Future Trad Collective have teamed up with Richard Silwa and Jon Thorne to form new band Ducie. They combine Celtic music, Afro Cuban and Brazillian rhythms with funk, reggae, flamenco and blues – a vibrant blend that takes you over a broad musical landscape, providing music for your ears and infectious rhythms for your feet!
Boo Hewerdine and Brooks Williams Thursday 28 June 8pm / £14 In the grand tradition of ‘The Special Relationship’, State of the Union combines the talents of America and England, producing an end result that is sure to delight fans of hook-laden songs, fiery and emotional guitar playing and soulful vocals. Tapping into a multitude of influences, from Willie Nelson
and Johnny Cash to Blind Lemon Jefferson, the wide open Fenlands and the frenetic buzz of London, State of the Union is a masterclass in songwriting, showing off the talents of bluesy Americana stalwart Brooks Williams and cult British singersongwriter Boo Hewerdine to full effect.
F O L K R O O T S
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Robin and Bina Williamson Saturday 23 June 8pm £10 / £8 concession This incredible duo makes an enchanting Indo-Celtic sound. Their concerts of song, story and music blend Robin and Bina’s east/ west vocals with harp, dulcimer and other instruments. Original, traditional and spiritual folk.
Boo Hewerdine & Brooks Williams
Manning
B L U E S
+ special guest Matt Stevens
Saturday 30 June 7.30pm / £10 adv / £8 concs adv / £12 door Manning was formed by singer/ songwriter/multi-instrumentalist Guy Manning in 1999. They produce an eclectic mix of music which broadly falls within the ‘progressive’ genre, but in reality spans many different musical forms from beautiful ballads and folk-tinged songs through to
awesome all-out rock workouts and true progressive epics. With an impressive record of issuing a new album annually, Manning have experienced a surge of interest and support, with their latest release Songs from the Bliston House being nominated for Album of the Year by the Classic Rock Society. C O M E D Y
Paul Sinha
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R O C K a n d P O P
First Thursday Comedy Club Thu 5 July 8.30pm £10 / £8 concession
The Mississippi Mudbloods Friday 6 July 8pm £16 seated / £14 standing Best Blues artist Ian Siegal teams up with North Mississippi Allstars Cody Dickinson and Luther Dickinson and solo artist Alvin Youngblood Hart in a dream team of the best contemporary blues talent on the world scene. This collection of British and American talent creates a powerful fusion of hill country blues and southern rock. Between them they boast a Grammy plus two more Grammy nominations, several Blues Music and Living Blues awards, and countless ‘best of’ accolades.
Ian Siegal
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This month’s comedy club features Edinburgh Fringe preview shows from Paul Sinha, a brilliant comedian, Edinburgh Fringe Prize Winner and star of ITV’s Chaser Show; and serving policeman and ace raconteur Alfie Moore (“Hilarious and fascinating” Urban Comedy) as seen on ITV.
Ian Siegal &
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d r a m a
The House Sofie Krog Teater
Saturday 7 July 4pm / £6 Puppetry with high-tension cartoon drama! Comedy and creepy thrills lurk within The House, where closed doors open to reveal shadowy secrets.
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Houses are never really separate from you, they are like museums that collect the actions and memories of those who live within their walls... From the street, the house looks peaceful, but step inside and hear the story of one particular family who lived in a Funeral Home. The House had held the secret
of the Warehouse Family for many years, but when the Undertaker on her deathbed admits to the mistakes of her past, the secret starts to unravel. Out from under the crumbling walls the rottenness slowly starts to take over, and the struggle between good and evil begins. Suitable for ages 12+ R O C K a n d P O P
Man Made Sole Saturday 7 July 8pm £12.50 / Standing This twelve piece band guarantee to get you off your seat and on the dance floor. Performing songs from Stevie Wonder to Amy Winehouse, from Chic to the Commitments, Man Made Sole always get the place jumping.
A M E RI C ANA
Eve Selis Thursday 12 July 8pm £12 / £10 concession & members
Chris Corcoran
San Diego’s queen of Americana Eve Selis returns to The Met. Winner of Best Americana Artist in the San Diego Music Awards, Eve blends many styles of American music into a high calibre cocktail topped off with a splash of her delicious ‘lemonade and whiskey’ voice. “The woman has range. One song she’s purring like a kitten, the next she’s howling like a wildcat... With Selis, every note is right on target.” SLAMM Magazine
Eve Selis
j a zz / B L U E S
Chris Corcoran Trio Friday 13 July 8pm / £8 Chris Corcoran is one of the most sought after guitarists on the UK blues scene. After playing with many great bands, notably West Weston’s Bluesonics, he now runs his trio, which released its debut album The Getaway last year. The Chris Corcoran Trio play an exciting, eclectic mix of instrumental music covering blues, jazz, latin, funk and rock’n’roll. “Looks like a 50s college kid - sounds like BB King.” Jazz On The Streets
Otis Gibbs Wednesday 18 July 8pm £12 advance / £14 door As seen at Ramsbottom Festival, folk singer-songwriter and teller of tales Otis Gibbs returns to The Met. Much of his work concentrates on the world that is ignored by pop culture. Sometimes forgotten, obsolete or simply marginalized, it is a world that doesn’t fit into a twenty-second sound bite. Otis has spent the last fifteen years travelling across America and has a story to share about each stop along the way.
T A L K
Caroline Pugh
An afternoon with Henry Blofeld
Friday 20 July 8pm £6 / £3 concession Scottish vocalist and composer Caroline Pugh borrows old-fangled technologies and honours oral histories to create new performances. With a background in folk and improvisation, her solo works draw on performance art and pinhole photography.
Saturday 21 July 2pm / £17 There is so much more to Henry Blofeld than the cosy old Test Match Special commentary box. No one has lived life more to the full. No one’s views are more prickly and earth-shatteringly funny. The pompous, the politically correct, the prancing popinjays on every platform of life, are kicked unceremoniously into touch. “Raconteur, bon viveur, and master of quick wit and stunning repartee, Henry Blofeld’s live performance reveals him as possibly the greatest living Englishman.” The North East Press
Ticket Office 0161 761 2216
Otis Gibbs
F O L K R O O T S
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B L U E S / A M E RI C ANA
Ticket Office 0161 761 2216
folk r oot s
R O C K a n d P O P
Seattle Grunge Tribute Night Saturday 28 July 7.30pm £10 advance / £12 door Featuring The Pat Smear Test (Nirvana), Dirt (Alice in Chains), & Pearl Scam (Pearl Jam)
Fingerstyle Collective Satuday 21 July 8pm / £10
Book online www.themet.biz
Four of the world’s finest acoustic guitarists from Canada, the US and the UK take to the stage in a small number of not-to-be-missed UK shows! Don Alder is a modern-day Acoustic Guitar Renaissance Man. Don’s phenomenal fingerstyle playing and rich voice captivate and he brings an unparalleled dynamic intensity to the stage. Dan LaVoie is one of the few musicians in the world actively composing and performing on
the rare harp guitar, bringing a unique sound and texture to fans of acoustic music. I Justin King is recognised as a pioneering guitarist for his percussive “tapping” playing style, consisting of a variety of influences ranging from Flamenco to Celtic music. Stuart Masters combines Western and Indian Classical, Folk, and Celtic influences to create a unique, hybrid style, with pure, haunting vocals. In association with Ayers Guitars.
Relive the sounds of nineties Seattle – the influential grunge rock bands that changed music forever – faithfully recreated by this special triple bill. Come along and enjoy all the hits – Smells Like Teen Spirit, Come as You Are, Them Bones, Rooster, Rusty Cage, and Black Hole Sun. comedy
First Thursday Comedy Club Thu 2 August 8.30pm £10 / £8 conc Great comedy at The Met on the first Thursday of every month. August’s club features the hilarious Mike Wilkinson, Gonzo Kane, and support.
Exhibitions Group mixedmedia exhibition Until 3 June in Malt Work by Bury Collective, a network of artists from Bury and beyond. From photography to prints. www.facebook.com/burycollective
Bury Inspires Print Exhibition 4 June - 3 September in Malt Prints inspired by Bury’s history, architecture and culture, created by the artists of Bury Collective.
Saturday 16 June – Saturday 28 July in the Theatre gallery An exhibition of snapshots of the Borough of Bury through the ages. This is a rare opportunity to see copies of the many original photographs held in the collections and is part of Bury Archives “2012: Year of the Photograph” project. All of the photographs have been donated to Bury Archives by the general public. For more info contact Bury Archives at archives@bury.gov.uk This exhibition can be seen in the first floor Theatre gallery prior to events. Viewings at other times can be arranged on request.
Coming Soon Neil Innes Fri 28 September £13 / £10 conc Dervish Sat 6 October £16 / £14 conc ahab Thursday 11 October £10 seated / £8 standing Homegrown A weekend of English folk music Friday 26 & Saturday 27 October Molsky, Bain & Moller Thu 8 November / £15 / £12 conc
Martyn Joseph Friday 30 November / £16 The Met in 1890
Belshazzers Feast Wednesday 12 December £14 / £12 conc
Pinocchio Monday 10 – Monday 24 December / £8 children & conc / £10 adults From the company who brought you The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe and last year’s popular show, Scrooge: A Christmas Carol, Proper Job return with another fantasy-filled Christmas production. This year it’s the magical adventures of Pinocchio. Based on Carlo Collodi’s darkly humorous book, this production is full of singing, live music, comedy, puppetry, amazing animation and visual effects, all acted out on an awe-inspiring set.
Presented by Proper Job Theatre Co & The Met
Wooden puppet Pinocchio longs to be a real boy just like the other boys in school... but can this dream ever come true? Join us on a journey of adventures, mischief, tears and laughter brought to life with a bag full of theatrical tricks. Truer to the book than the Disney film, Proper Job strives to bring you an experience filled with comedy and drama aimed to keep you on the edge of your seats. Ages 5 years plus.
Ticket Office 0161 761 2216
Hot Club of Cowtown Sat 17 November £17 seated / £15 standing
C h r i s tm a s
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Bury in 100 Photographs
Ticket Office 0161 761 2216
F olk Rock
The Met @ Fairport Waterside Arts Convention Centre, Sale Saturday 19 May 8pm / £18
The Met in Ramsbottom Ramsbottom Comedy Club @ Ramsbottom Civic Hall Bringing the cream of the comedy circuit to Ramsbottom on the first Thursday of every month. Thursday 5 April 8pm / £8 With Jay Hampson, Scott Agnew, Tudur Owen and Junior Simpson.
Thursday 3 May 8pm / £8 With Dom Woodward, Peter Phillipson and Stephen Carlin. Thursday 7 June 8pm / £8 With Chris Martin, Carey Marx, and more. Thursday 5 July 8pm / £8 With Ivan Brackenbury & Ian D Montfort.
The Met is working in partnership with the Waterside Arts Centre in Sale, bringing some of your favourite Met artists to a bigger venue in South Manchester. B lue s
The Manfreds
Renowned for inventing British folk-rock, Fairport are winners of the coveted BBC Radio 2 Lifetime Achievement Award and their classic Liege and Lief has been voted most influential folk album of all time by Radio 2 listeners.
Thursday 12 April 8pm / £20
Book online www.themet.biz
Junior Simpson
Ramsbottom Folk Club @ The Grant Arms Wednesday 16 May 8pm & Wednesday 13 June 8pm / £5 A new regular hosted club featuring singarounds, sessions and guest artists. To book call The Met on 0161 761 2216, visit www.themet.biz or go to A&L Music in Ramsbottom
The Manfreds, with original front man Paul Jones, will be celebrating their 50th anniversary in 2012, performing many of their hits along with a mix of Jazz and Blues songs from some of their best-known albums. Paul is joined by Mike Hugg, Tom McGuinness, Rob Townsend, Marcus Cliffe and Simon Currie.
Rock a n d P op
Alan Price Thursday 31 May 8pm / £20 The original arranger and keyboardist for The Animals, Alan Price continues to write and record his unique brand of music.
To book call Waterside Arts Centre on 0161 912 5616 or buy online at www.watersideartscentre.co.uk
By phone from 0161 761 2216 Online via www.themet.biz In person Mon-Fri 10am-7pm Saturday 11am-5pm
• Concessions are available
for children, people over 60, on benefit or in education.
• We are unable to offer
refunds. Ticket exchange may be possible.
• A transaction fee is
payable on phone and online bookings. There is no fee for booking in person.
Access
Get involved
The Met is a fully accessible venue, both on its ground and first floors.
The Met is a registered charity. We are proud of our reputation and success but we know that we cannot rely on ticket income alone. Donations and sponsorship have a real impact enabling us to fulfil our mission to entertain and delight as well as support emerging artists. Learn more about The Met and our work by becoming a friend or becoming a benefactor and donating to projects.
• The entrance is fully ramped
with a lift to the main theatre and an accessible toilet built to Changing Places standards. We have staff on hand to help. Should you require a personal escort, we can supply that person with a free ticket. A magnetic induction loop for hearing aid users is used in the Main Theatre for the majority of our events. Guide dogs are welcome, and water can be provided on request.
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• •
If you have any special requirements call us on 0161 761 2216 and we'll do our best to help.
Become a Friend
BECOME A BENEFACTOR
Benefits include:
If you want to donate to The Met as an individual or a company you can do so online (www.everyclick.com/ themet). You can choose where your money goes:
• No booking fee • Money off most event tickets • 10% off food in Automatic • Invitations to VIP and friend events • Seasonal newsletter • Direct updates from Director, David Agnew • Friend allocations on sell out events
Prices start from £30 (or £50 for joint friends) valid for one year.
Corporate friends include Manchester Airport, Mill Gate Shopping Centre, The Rock Shopping and Leisure Destination and Premier Inn. Call us to discuss how The Met and your company can work together.
• £50 enables us to book a tutor to run workshops. • £500 allows us to book a professional musician. • £1000 enables us to bring in a theatre company.
Or chat to us about other projects or opportunities. VolunteerING The Met has a dedicated group of volunteers who assist with many areas of our activities. If you are interested in getting involved contact us on 0161 761 7107.
Ticket Office 0161 761 2216
Become a Corporate Friend
Be our fan on Facebook facebook.com/metbury
Ticket booking
CLASSES & WORKSHOPS Ticket Office 0161 761 2216 Book online www.themet.biz
CHILDREN’S GROUPS
Have fun, meet new friends and make the audience laugh. Contact Rob Lees rob@ madtheatrecompany.co.uk
Introduction to Bury Sound Recording Youth Dance Monday 30 & Tuesday 31 July 10am-4pm / £20 Monday 6 & Tuesday 7 August 10am-4pm / £20 For 12-16 year olds. Learn about studio equipment, recording techniques and overdubbing. You will also learn basic mixing.
Bury Boys Break-Dance Mondays 4pm-5pm / £3 per week / Starts 16 April A break-dance class for boys 1016. Learn moves, stunts and work on routines to perform as a crew. Any experience level welcome.
Black Pudding Youth Theatre Tuesday 5pm-7pm / £2.50 per week / Starts 17 April Are you aged 7-17 and fancy performing in an original comedy?
Tuesdays 5pm-7pm / £32.50 per term / Starts 17 April Led by Claire Fildes. For 11-19 year olds interested in creating innovative dance for performance. New members welcome.
Bury Youth Theatre Wednesday 5.30-7pm (9-13yrs) & 7-8.30pm (14+) / £2.50 per week / Starts 18 April A fun drama session led by Marc Young and Sammy Deas. Members explore their creativity through devising, improvising, games, and activites whilst developing skills such as team building, voice projection and confidence! Having recently developed and performed a show called The Curse of Macbeth, BYT are now working towards their next performance.
Aiming High
Stagecoach
Saturday 11am-1pm / £2 Weekly sessions for young people with disabilities or additional needs, from Bury Council Childrens Services and The Met. Craft and drama sessions, gallery and theatre visits. Build confidence, make friends and learn skills in a fun and creative environment.
Sun 10am-1pm / Starts 29 April Training in dance, drama and singing for students aged 4 - 18 years old. For more information please contact principal Ruth Mauriello on 0161 763 6161 or visit out website www. stagecoach.co.uk/bury
Introduction to Didgeridoo Saturday 16 June 2pm-4pm £6 / £3 unwaged Discover the history of the instrument, basic techniques including circular breathing, tonguing and vocal work as well as a focus on the cultural use of the instrument and adoption by the west.
Storytelling for families Saturday 23 June 1pm / £2 Professional story teller and writer Richard O’Neill offers a unique workshop covering basic techniques and ideas in making up stories for children. Suitable for ages 5-10
ADULTS’ GROUPS Harmonica Workshop Intermediate Mondays alternate weeks 6-7pm for 8 weeks from 16 April / £45 / £35 conc Led by Matt Walklate. The follow on course from our beginners harmonica workshop.
Metro Jazz Mondays 6.30-9.30pm from 16 April / £70 per term / £50 conc The Met’s community jazz orchestra led by Munch Manship. Front line musicians needed 16+.
Mondays alternate weeks from 16 April 7.30-8.30pm / £45 for 8 weeks / £35 conc Led by Matt Walklate. For beginners wanting to learn more about playing the whistle.
Met Express Mon & Tues 7.30-9pm / £4.50 Drama for people with disabilities. Not accepting new members.
Sound Engineering Wednesdays 7-9pm for 5 weeks from 25 April / £65 Studio equipment, microphone technique and signal flow Drum recording techniques Instrument recording, Pro Tools and overdubbing Hardware and software mixing techniques
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Wednesdays monthly Interested in writing for TV, theatre, radio or film? This group meets to share scripts, and offer support. New members welcome. Email scriptdotcom@googlemail.com
Guitar Workshop Wednesdays 7.30-9pm alternate weeks from 18 April / £15 Build your confidence, improve your performance skills and have fun. Ages 13+. All levels welcome from beginner to advanced. All equipment supplied. Contact Paul on 0773 8009737, or email paul@proguitartuition.co.uk or visit www.proguitartuition. co.uk. Advance booking only.
Introduction to Pro Tools Thursday 7-8pm for 3 weeks from 3 May / £30 Learn how to record and edit sound using Pro Tools, the industry standard digital audio software. Tricks, tips and shortcuts.
Acting for Comedy Thursdays from 26 April 7.30-9pm / £5 per week Led by Rob Lees. Learn comedy acting and the chance to be in one of MaD Theatre Company’s original productions and sketches. No experience necessary and the chance to have a laugh. All over 18s welcome. Contact rob@ madtheatrecompany.co.uk
Fuse On
Bloco Ashê Saturday 11am-1pm / £5 / £3 conc £2 under 16s / Starts 14 April A welcoming percussive group playing samba influenced grooves and global beats in Bury. Catering for beginners and beyond so come along and participate in the exciting and uplifting sounds of samba. The band warmly welcomes new members of all ages. For more information please visit www.blocoashe. co.uk or call 01204 882201
Storytelling for Parents Saturday 23 June 11am / £3 Basic techniques and ideas in making up stories for children, with professional story teller and writer Richard O’Neill
Dance for the over 50s 5pm to 6.30pm each Thursday from 24th May / Free The sessions will include warm up techniques including stretching, some cardio vascular, work on posture and strengthening and dance steps. There will be some performance opportunities for those that are interested. The sessions promise to be good for you, fun and a social event in your weekly calendar too!
Ticket Office 0161 761 2216
Bury Scriptwriters
Wednesdays 7.30-9pm alternate weeks from 25 April / £4 per week Led by experienced musician and workshop leader Rose Hodgson. Sing is a drop in group that gives you the chance to enjoy the magic of group harmony singing, and to experience a wide range of songs from many genres. The group sing unaccompanied (accappella) and all songs are taught by ear - no music reading ability is necessary. This is a non-performing group - the focus is very much on having fun and enjoying singing for its own sake. Come along and see for yourself!
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Whistle Workshop Sing
Food &Drink Modern, upbeat and welcoming, Automatic is a unique independent restaurant, cafe and bar, situated at The Met. Automatic offers an abundance of choice with a wide range of high quality food and drink, brought to the table with warm genuine service, ranging from breakfasts, coffees, cakes, cocktails, cask
ales, an impressive wine list and over 100 different whiskies. Bookings are advisable at weekends, and the restaurant can accommodate larger parties too. If you’re catching a midweek show at The Met, Automatic’s early evening dining offer is a great option, offering you two courses for just £10, Sunday-Wednesday 5-7pm.
Chippy Tea Tuesday gives you Fish & Chips or Scampi, a glass of house wine or a half of beer for £10. From 3pm every Tuesday. Celebrate the end of the week with Automatic’s Feel Good Friday offer - two cocktails for £8 (or two Champagne cocktails for £10) every Friday, all day. Your visit won’t be complete without a drink in Malt, our real ale and whiskey bar, open before, during and after all shows.
Visit automaticcafe.com to see a menu To book your table call 0161 763 9399
Situated at The Met, Edwin Street Recording Studio is a professional facility featuring state of the art recording equipment and superb acoustics. Our air-conditioned control room is fully equipped with a Toft ATB24 24 Channel console, an excellent selection of microphones and some of the finest outboard equipment available. This perfectly complements our industry standard ProTools 9 MOTU 24 I/O Core System.
The studio runs a number of workshops for beginners or those wanting to learn more, including a summer school for 12-16 year olds. See Classes & Workshops for details. It also provides free recording sessions for young people under 19 years old. Phone 0161 761 7107 or email info@edwinstreetstudio.com for more details, to organise a tour, or to book a recording session. Prices from ÂŁ30/hr.
Hire The Met
Our spaces are as versatile as your events Whether it’s a conference or a committee meeting, a rock gig or an exhibition, a rehearsal or an away day, The Met has the perfect room to suit your event. With venues large and small, we can accommodate any number from 3 to 300. We have a number of spaces within The Met available for hire including the Main Theatre (221 seated / 300 standing), Studio Theatre (90 seated/ 100 standing), and more intimate spaces for meetings or training sessions including the Gallery (Capacity 30), Studio 2 (Capacity 20) and the Theatre Bar (Capacity 15).
Studio Theatre
Gallery Studio 2
Theatre Bar Call 0161 761 7107 or email hires@themet.biz to discuss your requirements.
Ticket Office 0161 761 2216
Our experienced staff can provide a range of services including catering from Automatic, sound and lighting by our technicians and a full ticket office support service. We also offer a range of marketing support to ensure your event is a success.
Main Theatre
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The facility boasts a spacious studio floor plus an isolated booth for recording vocals. We also offer the services of a experienced studio technician who can advise you on all aspects of recording, mastering, mixing and audio storage.
The Seth Lakeman Trio at The Met in March 2011
The Met is operated by Bury Metropolitan Arts Association, a registered charity (No 701879). We gratefully acknowledge the support of our funders and sponsors.