SEPT TO DEC 2017 EVENTS BROCHURE theplacebedford.org.uk
OUR PLACE IS YOUR PLACE!
INFORMATION Tickets for all shows are available online (with no booking fees) from www.theplacebedford.org.uk/tickets You do not need to print your ticket - just bring the booking reference number. Shows marked have a special price for members of our Friends scheme, email friends@theplacebedford.org.uk for details of how to join. The venue has very limited capacity to take telephone bookings - please leave a message on our 24 hour answer phone and we will ring you back when someone is next in the office. The Place Theatre Bradgate Road Bedford MK40 3DE
FREE ONSITE PARKING
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Introducing our Trustees and volunteers Justin Phillimore has been Chairman of Bedford Players Trust since 2008 and is the Chief Executive of Charles Wells Brewery Ltd, the Bedford based Brewer and pub operator. Justin became involved with the Place Theatre when his actress wife volunteered him to help build the auditorium in 2002! Brenton Jackson has lived in Bedford all his life and has been involved in community voluntary work for a number of years. An interest in the arts led to the development of Cultural Aspects, which offers photography, entertainment and community projects including performance showcases at The Place. He became a trustee to help bring a more diverse audience to The Place and to support it on the next step of its journey.
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ABOUT US
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We are happy to support young people who are working towards an Arts Award. Call or email us for advice about planning a visit.
Matt Baker has been involved in local theatre for over 35 years as an actor, director, stage manager and set designer. He is also an artist/illustrator. He has worked with both local theatre groups and local professional company No Loss Productions. For the last ten years he has regularly appeared at The Place. He became a Trustee in 2016. Rae Levene has been involved with The Place since it opened in 2002 and was a founding trustee of the Bedford Players Trust in 1984. He is passionate about theatre, directing many productions at The Place over the years. He acts as a liaison between the Trust and outside organisations and since retiring in February 2016 has taken an increasing role in management. Continued over >>
The Place Theatre is managed by Bedford Players Trust, Charity Registration No: 290124 and has received funding from The Harpur Trust, the Wixamtree Trust, The BFI Film Audience Network, The House of Industry Estate and The Theatres Trust. 02
eMail: info@theplacebedford.org.uk Web: theplacebedford.org.uk
Tel: 01234 354321 Facebook: ThePlaceBedford Twitter: @ThePlaceBedford
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ABOUT US Sarah Waller first came to The Place four years ago when she moved to Bedford. She was taken by the friendly, relaxed atmosphere and variety of shows. She is passionate about visual arts, contemporary dance and theatre and jumped at the chance to become a trustee as it gives her a different perspective on how arts organisations work. She is very proud to be involved with this wonderful venue as it changes and develops. Bipin Shah recently joined the board but has been involved with the Trust for some time. He is a founder trustee of 21st Century Educational Trust, a local charity established to promote dance, music and song within the Asian community. Bipin agreed to become a trustee because The Place is a community focused organisation promoting the arts within Bedford and particularly within the town’s multi-ethnic communities. The Trust is also very grateful to the volunteers who provide support in very particular areas of administration and management: Richard Moon who deals with billing, Mike Cooper who manages the bar, Kathy Frost who looks after the Friends of the Place and Bill Lay who co-ordinates our friendly team of Front of House volunteers. If you have time and talents to spare, why not come and join us?
AUGUST Bedfordshire Youth Opera
THE PIRATES OF PENZANCE COMMUNITY PERFORMANCE OR HIRE TUESDAY 29 AUGUST TO SATURDAY 2 SEPTEMBER 7:30PM
ADULTS £15 / UNDER 18S £12
ALL AGES
In its 33rd year of productions, the Bedfordshire Youth Opera is proud to present The Pirates of Penzance, as you’ve never seen it before. This well-known comic opera written by Arthur Sullivan (music) and W.S Gilbert (libretto) was first performed in New York in 1879. Fast-forward 138 years and this opera takes on a modern edge at Bedford’s Place Theatre. Join us to celebrate Bedford’s own operatic talent with breathtaking performances, dazzling costumes and an evening to remember!
Goblin Theatre
PETER AND THE WOLF TOURING & PROFESSIONAL THEATRE
Become a Friend of The Place Look out for any shows marked with a in the brochure as these have a special price for Friends (which can be booked by choosing that price online). Our Friends benefit primarily from the satisfaction of helping to maintain Bedford’s only full-time community theatre, but you also get discounts on drinks and shows, special offers and invitations and advance notice of our programmes. For full details email friends@theplacebedford.org.uk
SUNDAY 3 SEPTEMBER
2PM
FULL £10 / CONCESSIONS £8.50
4+
Peter and Grandad have gone camping for the weekend. Grandad says stick to the campsite but Peter has other ideas. Join Peter on a hilarious adventure through the fields and forest as he discovers new sounds and noises. Featuring animal antics of singing birds, waddling ducks, sneaky cats, and a rocking wolf. With new music lovingly inspired by Prokofiev’s classic, this is Peter and the Wolf as you’ve never seen it before. Goblin’s Peter and the Wolf is a brand new show with amazing music created live with a variety of instruments and objects, including real musical vegetables. Supported using public funding by Arts Council England
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eMail: info@theplacebedford.org.uk Web: theplacebedford.org.uk
Tel: 01234 354321 Facebook: ThePlaceBedford Twitter: @ThePlaceBedford 05
SEPTEMBER SEASON LAUNCH EVENT WEDNESDAY 6 SEPTEMBER
7:30PM
FREE EVENT
ALL AGES
Everyone is invited to join us for an evening of live music and short excerpts of productions, as we launch the autumn season at The Place. The Blue Glass will offer some new wines to taste and Spaghetti John’s will bring some new flavours of their popular Gelato John ice cream range to sample.
Folk Nights
WILD WILLY BARRETT’S FRENCH CONNECTION MUSIC
Swan Theatre Company
THE DIARIES OF ADAM AND EVE COMMUNITY PERFORMANCE OR HIRE TUESDAY 12 SEPTEMBER TO SATURDAY 16 SEPTEMBER
7:30PM
FULL £10 / CONCESSIONS £8 / TUESDAY PREVIEW £6
13+
Relationships: whose idea was that? One of you wants to get things done, the other wants to chill out in the garden. One of you wants a minute’s peace, the other wants to talk (and talk and talk). One of you knows that eating that apple is wrong, but the other is going to eat it anyway. In this witty and modern adaptation of Mark Twain’s affectionate satire, Adam and Eve, the world’s first couple confront their many differences to find successful ways of living and loving together. Whether they’re creating language, inventing fire, taming nature, or discovering love and death, what they learn about each other on the way will be familiar and funny to anyone who has ever experienced a close relationship. Tempted?
SATURDAY 9 SEPTEMBER
8PM
Paul Burston
ALL TICKETS £14
ALL AGES
POLARI
With their unique musical style and irrepressible sense of fun, Willy, John, Mary and Aurora are back in support of their new vinyl album, A Mange-Tout Far. From a cafe in Paris, via a hoolie in Dublin, to a night out in New Orleans with rip-roaring fiddle and banjo – this band does it all! Multi-talented erstwhile Godfather of grunge folk Wild Willy Barrett directs, as the versatile and heartrending vocals of French singer Aurora Colson take centre stage. Changing gear between almost every number, the quartet performs stunning original compositions and arrangements on guitar, cello, harmonium, whistle, fiddle, banjo and Irish pipes. All overlaid with a large dose of wry humour!
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SEPTEMBER
eMail: info@theplacebedford.org.uk Web: theplacebedford.org.uk
T A L K S , P O E T R Y A N D S P O K E N WO R D SUNDAY 17 SEPTEMBER
7:30PM
FULL £12 / CONCESSIONS £10 / WORKSHOP £5
16+
London’s award-winning LGBT literary salon, Polari is coming to Bedford. Now in its tenth year, Polari has been showcasing the best in established and emerging LGBT literary talent since 2007. Tonight’s event is curated and hosted by author Paul Burston with Diana Souhami, James Maker, VG Lee, Matthew Todd and Orlando Ortega-Medina. A writing workshop will be held from 2pm to 4pm on the day of the performance and one local writer will be selected to join the line-up for the evening show. Supported using public funding by Arts Council England. Tel: 01234 354321 Facebook: ThePlaceBedford Twitter: @ThePlaceBedford 07
SEPTEMBER Folk Nights
WordSetFree and Alex Levene present
RIC SANDERS
A STORY IN THE STARS: VIRGO MUSIC
T A L K S , P O E T R Y A N D S P O K E N WO R D
WEDNESDAY 20 SEPTEMBER
8PM
FRIDAY 22 SEPTEMBER
7:30PM
ALL TICKETS £16
ALL AGES
PAY WHAT YOU THINK
9+
Since 1985 Ric Sanders has been the fiddle player in Fairport Convention. In the late 70s he played in both Soft Machine and The Albion Band, and it was in the latter that he met Michael Gregory, now drummer with The Home Service. Ric’s association with guitarist and vocalist Vo Fletcher goes back even further – they played together when still teenagers. Vo has played with artists as diverse as Rik Mayall and Nigel Kennedy (just to keep Ric on his toes!). It was inevitable that these three pals would play together, and over the last couple of years they’ve been reconnecting with the music closest to their hearts. It’s music firmly rooted in the blues. They love playing it, and their recent performances have shown just how much people love hearing it – “a rockin’ good time was had by all!”
DOT Productions
Life and Death: A Journey into the Underworld. A Story in the Stars: Virgo The autumn equinox passes and the world tumbles down into the underworld towards its death and subsequent rebirth. Every civilization has a story of katabasis, a journey by mortals into the underworld and their subsequent return. Through this process we discover our hopes and fears, and we come to an understanding of our own journeys through life. Dealing with these journeys: into the woods; into darkness; into the great beyond; told through epic poetry and ritual, exploring areas of ancient folk tradition, the mystic, and theatre as lived experience. The Stories in the Stars re-imagines and retells these ancient stories for new audiences. This piece is a work in progress.
The Human Zoo Theatre Company
EMMA
THE GIRL WHO FELL IN LOVE WITH THE MOON
TOURING & PROFESSIONAL THEATRE
TOURING & PROFESSIONAL THEATRE
THURSDAY 21 SEPTEMBER
7:30PM
WEDNESDAY 27 SEPTEMBER
7:30PM
FULL £12 / CONCESSIONS £10
9+
FULL £12 / CONCESSIONS £10
ALL AGES
DOT Productions returns with a sparkling new stage adaptation of the Jane Austen classic Emma. Emma Woodhouse has the world at her fingertips. Life seems pretty good if a bit boring and so Emma decides to spice things up by taking on a protégé, Harriet Smith. Although determined never to marry herself, Emma immediately decides to find Harriet a husband and sets about playing Cupid with the village men. When her carefully laid plans unravel and lead to consequences she never expected, Emma learns life doesn’t always go the way you want it to!
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SEPTEMBER
eMail: info@theplacebedford.org.uk Web: theplacebedford.org.uk
‘It wasn’t a particularly spectacular night, as she sat stargazing in her room… ‘ Join this tattered troupe as Luna’s tragic tale unravels for the first time. But why tonight? A patchwork of puppetry, poetry, movement and live music stitched together with The Human Zoo’s explosive visual imagination. The Girl Who Fell in Love With The Moon sets out to explore humanity’s eternal fascination with the skies through the eyes of this playful and dynamic young ensemble.
***** This is certainly a must-see show. British Theatre Guide Tel: 01234 354321 Facebook: ThePlaceBedford Twitter: @ThePlaceBedford 09
SEPTEMBER
OCTOBER Richard Waring
Director: Icíar Bollaín
GOLEM
EL OLIVO / THE OLIVE TREE (2016)
TOURING & PROFESSIONAL THEATRE
FILM THURSDAY 28 SEPTEMBER 7:30PM
£5
15+
SHEERIN OF AL-WALAJA FILM 7:30PM 12+
Bedford Friends of Al Walaja is proud to present this multi-award winning short film about the Palestinian resistance leader Sheerin al-Araj, from our twin village in the West Bank. She gave up her job with the UN to fight for her ever shrinking village, and the film follows her life over four years. After the 30 minute film, we hope to have the Director there to answer questions and a Skype link to Sheerin herself. Others will also be there who have current knowledge of the village and Palestinian goods will be on sale.
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FULL £12 / CONCESSIONS £10
12+
‘A performance laced with human poignancy and Hasidic humour, it is a splendidly interpreted fable with chilling contemporary resonance.’ John Agard, Playwright, Poet & Author
Director: Daz Chandler
FREE EVENT DONATIONS WELCOME
7:30PM
When we feel powerless, we create monsters – and then? It’s the Passover, a young girl has gone missing and the Jews know that they will be blamed. The Blood Libel is coming to Prague. Rabbi Loew, leader of the community, creates a champion from the clay of the riverbank – a being of enormous strength. But can the old Rabbi control his own creation? Golem: the moving, funny and electrifying story of the tale that inspired Frankenstein.
A girl, her uncle and a friend start an emotional road trip to recover an ancient olive tree. This award winning film is shown in Spanish with English subtitles. Presented in partnership with Bedford Language Centre, who will offer olive oil tasting in the foyer before the film (from 7pm). Running time Ihr 40min.
FRIDAY 29 SEPTEMBER
SATURDAY 30 SEPTEMBER
eMail: info@theplacebedford.org.uk Web: theplacebedford.org.uk
Tibbs Dementia Foundation
FOLK MUSIC AND TALES COMMUNITY PERFORMANCE OR HIRE SUNDAY 1 OCTOBER
2PM
ADULT £6 / CHILDREN £4 (UNDER 5 FREE)
ALL AGES
Tibbs Dementia Foundation, in conjunction with Karuna and Fibs and Fables, presents an afternoon of folk tales, music and fun for all the family. Prepare to be enthralled and captivated by stories told in the age-old oral tradition, by Fibs and Fables. An audience friendly sing along will be led by Karuna, a local folk duo comprising Rosamund Hoskins (viola, violin) and Stuart Prince (ukulele and vocals). The event will finish around 4.45pm. Tibbs Dementia Foundation provides services to people with dementia and their families in the Bedford area.
Tel: 01234 354321 Facebook: ThePlaceBedford Twitter: @ThePlaceBedford 11
OCTOBER
OCTOBER Theatrical Niche
Folk Nights
LADY WINDERMERE’S FAN
FAUSTUS
TOURING & PROFESSIONAL THEATRE
MUSIC THURSDAY 5 OCTOBER
8PM
ALL TICKETS £14
ALL AGES
SUNDAY 8 OCTOBER
7:30PM
FULL £12 / CONCESSIONS £10
12+
When a mysterious new beauty enters high society, the incrowd is sent scattering outwards, bent utterly backwards and flattened low to find out exactly with whom they are dealing. Oscar Wilde’s raucous social comedy pulls apart the intricacies of etiquette and flips expectation rump-over-head in this scathingly funny satire.Theatrical Niche returns to The Place with this high-speed adaptation using signature touches of Commedia Dell’Arte and Stylised Movement.
At the vanguard of the English traditional folk music scene, Faustus continue to blaze a trail with their unique and forthright delivery, previously recognised by their nomination for Best Group in the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards, and now recipient of the German Critic’s Award (Schallplatenkritik Bestenliste) in the Folk/ Singer-Songwriter/World Music category.
Townsend Productions Cultural Aspects
CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY MONTH COMMUNITY PERFORMANCE OR HIRE FRIDAY 6 AND SATURDAY 7 OCTOBER
ALL AGES
TIMES AND PRICES TO BE ANNOUNCED Cultural Aspects returns to celebrate Black History Month 2017 at The Place with a showcase of local talent. Last year was good, this year will be even better, so if you want to see something different, keep checking The Place website for full details. To take part contact culturalaspects1@gmail.com
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eMail: info@theplacebedford.org.uk Web: theplacebedford.org.uk
WE ARE THE LIONS, MR MANAGER! (PREVIEW) TOURING & PROFESSIONAL THEATRE SATURDAY 14 OCTOBER
7:30PM
FULL £10 / CONCESSIONS £8.50
14+
This is the remarkable story of Jayaben Desai, the inspirational leader of the 1976-78 Grunwick Film Processing Factory Strike. Jayaben brought the issue of workplace exploitation and racism to the fore, challenging the perception of Asian women, whilst having the measure of the most brutish and charmless of her managers, telling them: “What you are running here is not a factory, it is a zoo. But in a zoo there are many types of animals. Some are monkeys who dance on your fingertips, others are lions who can bite your head off. We are the lions, Mr. Manager!” Preview performance of a new play by The Place’s resident professional company, also returning 14th April 2018.
Tel: 01234 354321 Facebook: ThePlaceBedford Twitter: @ThePlaceBedford 13
OCTOBER
OCT / NOV
Bedford Drama Company
Certain Age
KINDERTRANSPORT
WEEKEND BREAKS
COMMUNITY PERFORMANCE OR HIRE
COMMUNITY PERFORMANCE OR HIRE
WEDNESDAY 18 TO SATURDAY 21 OCTOBER
7:30PM
WEDNESDAY 25 OCTOBER TO SATURDAY 28 OCTOBER
7:30PM
FULL £10 / CONCESSIONS £8
9+
FULL £10 / CONCESSIONS £8
12+
Martin (Mat Monk), a PhD in literature and a lecturer in theatre studies at his local Humberside university, is really a frustrated writer and has rented a cottage in the Lake District to concentrate on writing his Hollywood blockbuster. Hoping for inspiration and peace and quiet he decides to invite his aging parents along for a weekend break hoping for a nice cosy time together.
Kindertransport is a superbly written play about love, loss, escaping, belonging and knowing who we are. Faith is in her mother’s attic looking for things for her new flat - but what she finds there forces her mother to reveal the truth about her past. “Samuels has written the best play about the pain and passion of mother/daughter relationships,” Guardian
Len (Matt Baker) and Joan (Kathy Frost) turn up at the Lakes after a long drive from Doncaster. They last visited the area 13 years ago when it rained...and of course it is still raining! With twists and turns and unexpected revelations this weekend break evolves into an opportunity for the release of a lifetime of pent-up frustrations. From the author of Bouncers, Shakers, April in Paris and September in the Rain comes one of John Godber’s best plays, full of bittersweet humour and pathos.
From the company which brought you Goodnight Mr Tom and Nell Gwynn. In association with Nick Hern Books.
Theatre of Widdershins
THE THREE BILLY GOATS GRUFF & OTHER FURRY TALES TOURING & PROFESSIONAL THEATRE
YERMA
COMMUNITY PERFORMANCE OR HIRE
MONDAY 23 OCTOBER
11AM / 2PM
FULL £10 / CONCESSIONS £8.50
3+
The perplexing question of fairy tales – what really happened between the wolf and his three porky friends? Why was Goldilocks wandering in the woods? How did the goats overcome a mighty troll – are explored and explained by the wonderful Theatre of Widdershins with the help of fun, laughter, some gorgeous puppets and a soundtrack that will stick in your head long after you’ve left the theatre.
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Theatre in Transit
eMail: info@theplacebedford.org.uk Web: theplacebedford.org.uk
WEDNESDAY 1 TO FRIDAY 3 NOVEMBER
7:30PM
FULL £8 / CONCESSIONS £6
13+
Theatre in Transit returns to The Place with Federico García Lorca’s Yerma. Yerma tells the story of a young woman whose inability to have a child tears her life apart. Her fierce desire to be a mother is met with painful indifference by her husband - provoking a desperate reaction.
Tel: 01234 354321 Facebook: ThePlaceBedford Twitter: @ThePlaceBedford 15
NOVEMBER
Ben Watson
BEDSLAM WITH KATE FOX T A L K S , P O E T R Y A N D S P O K E N WO R D WEDNESDAY 8 NOVEMBER
HISTORY OF EVERYTHING TOURING & PROFESSIONAL THEATRE
7:30PM
FULL £10 / CONCESSIONS £8.50 / SLAMMER £5
NOVEMBER
12+
Kate Fox has been Poet in Residence for BBC Radio 4’s Saturday Live, the Glastonbury Festival and the Great North Run. She has written and performed two comedy series of The Price of Happiness for Radio 4, all about things she doesn’t want. Her books include Fox Populi from Smokestack Books and Chronotopia from Burning Eye Books. She’s funny, Northern and gently annoyed.
7:30PM
FULL £12 / CONCESSIONS £10
13+
Everything you ever wanted to know about everything...ever. Silly, surreal and comical adventure through history! From Ancient Rome to the Millennium Dome, Telegraphy to the mobile phone, Tudors, Trump and Tory capers, Persians, peace signs and the Panama papers. Musical and sketch comedy with cabaret and spoken word poetry.
The evening will also feature another blistering poetry slam as local wordsmiths battle it out and you, the audience, judge who walks away with a cash prize.
Tooth + Nail
Folk Nights
HUMMINGBIRD
GERRY COLVIN MUSIC THURSDAY 9 NOVEMBER
8PM
ALL TICKETS £12
ALL AGES
Folk-pop legend Gerry Colvin must be one of the most endearing and energetic musicians on the planet, just as much at home playing small clubs as he is supporting Status Quo on their Aquostic Live Tour. This multi-talented singer-songwriter performs all his own material, combining catchy melodies with thoughtful lyrics on love, society, angst and Johnny Cash! His besuited on stage performance combines Frank Sinatra, Lee Evans, and the afore-mentioned Man in Black. Genius? Madcap? Maverick? Yes, all of these things…and a lot, lot more. Gerry will be joined by musicians Jerome Davies, double bass, Trish Power, accordion, Lyndon Webb, guitar.
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FRIDAY 10 NOVEMBER
eMail: info@theplacebedford.org.uk Web: theplacebedford.org.uk
TOURING & PROFESSIONAL THEATRE SATURDAY 11 NOVEMBER
7:30PM
FULL £12 / CONCESSIONS £10
12+
Edith Cole worked a dead-end job in a funeral parlour. Ralph Conti worked wealthy widows for a quick buck. Neither expected to fall in love. But once they did, they just kept on falling. Inspired by the true story of the Lonely Hearts Killers, a pair of latter-day Macbeths who gripped the imagination of 1950s America, ‘Hummingbird’ is dark, compelling physical theatre. Award-winning, Lecoq-trained Tooth+Nail blend acrobatics and action with a striking visual style to tell a deviously touching tale of love and murder.
**** A sepia-toned doomed romance... Immaculate. The Scotsman **** Cleverly atmospheric, knowingly noir. The Herald Scotland Tel: 01234 354321 Facebook: ThePlaceBedford Twitter: @ThePlaceBedford 17
NOVEMBER
DECEMBER
Swan Theatre Company
Toffe Apple
THE NIGHT ALIVE
ELF JNR
COMMUNITY PERFORMANCE OR HIRE
COMMUNITY PERFORMANCE OR HIRE
TUESDAY 14 NOVEMBER TO SATURDAY 18 NOVEMBER
7:30PM
TUESDAY 28 TO SATURDAY 2 DECEMBER
7PM / 2.30PM SATURDAY
FULL £10 / CONCESSIONS £8 / TUESDAY PREVIEW £6
13+
FULL £12.50 / CONCESSIONS £11.50
5+
Tommy’s not a bad man; renting a room in his uncle’s house and rolling from one get-rich-quick scheme to another with his pal Doc. Then one day he comes to the aid of Aimee, who’s struggling through life the only way she knows. Their past won’t let go easily, but together there’s a glimmer of hope they could make something more of their lives. Something extraordinary. Perhaps. A warm and stylish play by Conor McPherson that deftly mines the humanity to be found in the most unlikely situations, it premiered at the Donmar Warehouse in 2013, before transferring to New York. It was named Best New Play at the New York Drama Critics’ Circle Awards 2014. This play contains very strong language.
ELF is the hilarious tale of Buddy, a young orphan child who mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported back to the North Pole. Unaware that he is actually human, Buddy’s enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to face the truth. With Santa’s permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father, discover his true identity, and help New York remember the true meaning of Christmas. Book by Thomas Meehan & Bob Martin, music by Matthew Sklar, lyrics by Chad Beguelin. By kind permission of MTI: Europe.
ShowCo
DIRTY ROTTEN SCOUNDRELS COMMUNITY PERFORMANCE OR HIRE TUESDAY 21 TO SATURDAY 25 NOVEMBER
7:30PM / 2.30PM SATURDAY
FULL £13.50 / CONCESSIONS £12.50
11+
Dirty Rotten Scoundrels the Musical, a caper about two fraudsters, who are both equally determined to outwit each other, as well as anyone unlucky enough to cross their paths. Based on the classic comedy film starring Sir Michael Caine and Steve Martin, be transported to the French Riviera and its decadent underworld, as two seasoned swindlers attempt to hoodwink a millionaire heiress. As the pair competes in the true art of the con, they discover there is only room for one of them. Sophisticated, suave with a good dash of mischief, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels is set to be one of the finest nights out. Book by Jeffrey Lane, music and lyrics by David Yazbek.
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This community youth production of ELF Jnr is based on the beloved 2003 film starring Will Ferrell. ELF Jnr features songs by Tony Award nominees Matthew Sklar and Chad Beguelin (The Wedding Singer), with a book by Tony Award winners Thomas Meehan (Annie, The Producers, Hairspray) and Bob Martin (The Drowsy Chaperone).
eMail: info@theplacebedford.org.uk Web: theplacebedford.org.uk
West End in Concert
WEST END AT CHRISTMAS TOURING & PROFESSIONAL THEATRE THURSDAY 7 & FRIDAY 8 DECEMBER
7.30PM / 2.30PM FRIDAY
FULL £14 / CONCESSIONS £12
ALL AGES
Stars from the West End present a magical evening of entertainment featuring hits from the musicals and the best of Christmas song. The talented cast have starred in many West End productions and national tours such as Les Miserables, We Will Rock You, South Pacific, Singing in the Rain, Starlight Express, Phantom Of The Opera, Godspell, Joseph and Cats... to name but a few!
Tel: 01234 354321 Facebook: ThePlaceBedford Twitter: @ThePlaceBedford 19
DECEMBER KEMPSTON COMMUNITY THEATRE in collaboration with BEDFORD ARTS CHOIR
A CHRISTMAS CAROL
COMMUNITY PERFORMANCE OR HIRE
Swings The Thing
AN EVENING WITH GERSHWIN COMMUNITY PERFORMANCE OR HIRE
MONDAY 11 & TUESDAY 12 DECEMBER
7:30PM
THURSDAY 14 DECEMBER
8PM
FULL £12 / CONCESSIONS £10
ALL AGES
ALL TICKETS £12.50
ALL AGES
How much has our world changed? 174 years after it was initially published, Dickens’ Christmas classic surprisingly remains as relevant as it has ever been, whilst keeping us entertained at this very special time of the year. Kempston Community Theatre, in a unique collaboration with Bedford Arts Choir, presents a modern version of Dickens’ tale that combines acting, singing and dancing. In the spirit of community arts and community theatre, the play is a celebration of what brings us together as a community. Expect to be surprised, to laugh, to be entertained, and (maybe) to sing along as the Spirit(s) of Christmas come to town! Bah humbug!
Lamphouse Theatre
PETER PAN TOURING & PROFESSIONAL THEATRE FRI 15 & SAT 16 DEC
FRIDAY 6.30PM / SATURDAY 2PM & 4.30PM
FULL £10 / CONCESSIONS £8.50
6+
The Darling family’s life is changed forever when Peter Pan, the boy who wouldn’t grow up, appears at their window one night. Wendy, John and Michael follow Peter to Neverland, meeting Lost Boys, mermaids and crocodiles along the way! But will their adventure be sabotaged by Captain Hook or can they outwit his nasty pirate crew and save Neverland? Jam-packed with live music, humour, adventure and energy, this professional production by Peterborough–based Lamphouse Theatre, will appeal to both boys and girls and discusses important morals; family, responsibility, friendship, bravery, trust and ambition. 20
DECEMBER
eMail: info@theplacebedford.org.uk Web: theplacebedford.org.uk
Popular local big band Swings the Thing returns to The Place for another evening of favourite hits.
Moon on A Stick
LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD TOURING & PROFESSIONAL THEATRE MONDAY 18 DECEMBER
2PM (RELAXED) / 4PM
FULL £10 / CONCESSIONS £8.50
3+
This much-loved story is reinvented as a playful pantomime for little ones. Moon On A Stick combines enchanting puppetry and storytelling with all the traditional pantomime elements in a gentle, imaginative show designed especially for our tiniest audience members. There’s plenty of live music, dance and audience interaction to delight the whole family. Get really involved with the story and help Little Red find her way through the forest. Which colour coat should she choose, what should she pack to take to her grandma’s and who’s that hiding in the trees? The 2pm ‘relaxed’ performance is open to everyone and will be particularly suitable for children on the autistic spectrum or anyone who would benefit from having the house lights up and being able to come and go during the performance if they need to. A familiarisation visit can be arranged by appointment.
Tel: 01234 354321 Facebook: ThePlaceBedford Twitter: @ThePlaceBedford 21
DECEMBER Novus Theatre
OTHER CREATIVE DAYS
THE YETI TOURING & PROFESSIONAL THEATRE THURSDAY 21 TO SUNDAY 24 DEC
11AM / 2PM
FULL £10 / CONCESSIONS £8.50
4+
From the makers of Fantastic Mr Fox and James and the Giant Peach comes a brand new show, The Yeti! Novus bring you an exciting adventure as we follow two climbers on their most dangerous mission yet to save the daughter of the chief of the most distant mountain village. The villagers say that a creature from the mountain has taken her. Join our climbers as they unlock the secrets of the mountain! A ‘relaxed’ performance on 23 Dec is open to everyone and will be particularly suitable for children on the autistic spectrum or anyone who would benefit from having the house lights up and being able to come and go during the performance if they need to. A familiarisation visit can be arranged by appointment.
WO R K S H O P S A N D PA R T I C I PA T I O N SATURDAY MORNINGS IN TERM TIME
POETRY AT THE EAGLE BOOKSHOP T A L K S , P O E T R Y A N D S P O K E N WO R D FIRST SUNDAY OF EACH MONTH £5 ON THE DOOR
Members of Swan Theatre Company present an evening of poetry, lightly spiced with prose and drama, on the first Sunday of each month in the appropriately bookish surroundings of the Eagle Bookshop, 103 Castle Road, Bedford. MK40 3QP.
eMail: info@theplacebedford.org.uk Web: theplacebedford.org.uk
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“Our aim is to encourage and develop the creativity in children through our weekly art and craft workshops here at The Place Theatre.” Creative Saturdays workshops are open to all 4 to 13 year olds. We explore a range of different themes using many different materials and techniques. We take our inspiration from the changing seasons, the world around us as well as different artists and cultures. Contact Philippa on 077824345042, email creativedaysbedford@gmail.com or visit our website www.creative-days.co.uk
ACT ONE THEATRE SCHOOL WO R K S H O P S A N D PA R T I C I PA T I O N SATURDAY MORNINGS IN TERM TIME
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BOOKING ESSENTIAL
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BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Act One Theatre School has been running successfully at The Place since 2002. There are three groups every Saturday morning in term time for Juniors, Intermediates and Seniors. Act One Beginners for 5 to 8 year olds takes place on Tuesday afternoons. Every year Act One gives pupils the opportunity to take part in the Bedfordshire Festival of Music, Speech and Drama, perform in a Showcase and take part in a Senior production. There are Speech and Drama lessons available after school preparing pupils for LAMDA examinations and holiday courses open to all in the Easter and Summer school holidays. Contact Sally Hammelev on 07988 762170 or email actone.theatreschool@yahoo.co.uk for more information. New pupils are always welcome and a free trial session is offered to every prospective pupil.
Tel: 01234 354321 Facebook: ThePlaceBedford Twitter: @ThePlaceBedford 23
DIARY DATE
COMPANY
SHOW
Tues 29 Aug to Sat 2 Sept
Bedfordshire Youth Opera
The Pirates of Penzance
Sun 3 Sept
Swan Theatre Company
Poetry at Eagle Bookshop
Sun 3 Sept
Goblin Theatre
Peter and the Wolf
Wed 6 Sept
Bedford Players Trust
FREE Season Launch
Sat 9 Sept
Folk Nights
Wild Willy Barrett's French Connection
Tues 12 to Sat 16 Sept
Swan Theatre Company
The Diaries of Adam and Eve
Sun 17 Sept
Paul Burston
POLARI Literary Salon
Wed 20 Sept
Folk Nights
Ric Saunders Trio
Thurs 21 Sept
DOT Productions
Emma
Fri 22 Sept
WordSetFree & Alex Levene
Virgo
Wed 27 Sept
Human Zoo
The Girl Who Fell in Love With The Moon
Thus 28 Sept
Film Screening:
El Olivo
Fri 29 Sept
Bedford Friends of Al Walaja
FILM: Sheerin of Al-Walaja
Sat 30 Sept
Richard Waring
Golem
Sun 1 Oct
Swan Theatre Company
Poetry at Eagle Bookshop
Sun 1 Oct
TIBS Dementia Foundation
Folk Music and Tales
Thurs 5 Oct
Folk Nights
Faustus
Fri 6 Oct and Sat 7 Oct
Cultural Aspects
Black History Month Showcase
Sun 8 Oct
Theatrical Niche
Lady Windermere’s Fan
Sat 14 Oct
Townsend Productions
We Are The Lions Mr Manager
Wed 18 to Sat 21 Oct
Bedford Drama Company
Kindertransport
Mon 23 Oct
Theatre of Widdershins
Three Billy Goats Gruff & Other Furry Tales
Wed 25 to Sat 28 Oct
Certain Age
Weekend Breaks
Wed 1 to Sat 4 Nov
Theatre in Transit
Yerma
Sun 5 Nov
Swan Theatre Company
Poetry at Eagle Bookshop
Wed 8 Nov
Bedslam
Guest Poet Kate Fox
Thurs 9 Nov
Folk Nights
Gerry Colvin
Fri 10 Nov
Ben Watson
History of Everything
Sat 11 Nov
Tooth + Nail
Hummingbird
Tues 14 to Sat 18 Nov
Swan Theatre Company
The Night Alive
Tues 21 to Sat 25 Nov
ShowCo
Dirty Rotten Scoundrels
Tues 28 Nov to Sat 2 Dec
Toffe Apple
ELF Jnr
Sun 3 Dec
Swan Theatre Company
Poetry at Eagle Bookshop
Thurs 7 and Fri 8 Nov
West End in Concert
West End at Christmas
Mon 11 and Tues 12 Dec
Kempston Community Theatre A Christmas Carol
Thurs 14 Dec
Swings The Thing
An Evening with Gershwin
Fri 15 and Sat 16 Dec
Lamphouse Theatre
Peter Pan
Mon 18 Dec
Moon on a Stick
Little Red Riding Hood
Thurs 21 to Sun 24 Dec
Novus Theatre
The Yeti
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eMail: info@theplacebedford.org.uk Web: theplacebedford.org.uk