Autumn 2019 theplacebedford.org.uk
Behind the Scenes
Our Partners
TRUSTEES Justin Phillimore, Brenton Jackson, Matt Baker, Rae Levene, Sarah Waller, Bipin Shah, James Pharaoh
VOLUNTEERS Finance and Billing: Bar Management: Friends Coordinator:
Richard Moon Mike Cooper Rae Levene
Our ambition is to make a positive difference by providing people with mental and community health care services that support their recovery.
Front of House Volunteers: Ron Singleton
Jennifer Ward-Fletcher
Kathy Frost
Bill Lay
Cory Walker
Donna Swann
Jennie Sewell
Chris Ingley
Sue Burnett
Phil Mardlin
Brenda Hart
Harri Mardlin
Cally Lawrence
Anne Jones
Carol Carter
Amanda Friman
Carol Wood
Philippine Thiery
Jon Evans
Sheila Bissell
Juliet Lawson
Roisin Atkinson
Lee Knapp
Janet King
Sue Hammond
Jenny Curzon
Paul Barnes
Wendy Trussell
Jenny Goodes
Colin King
STAFF
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Facilities Manager:
Matt Baker
Technical and Content:
Dave Deans
Audience Development:
Elizabeth Howard
Programme Coordinator:
Alex Levene
Accounts and Finance:
Mervyn Lewis
Social Media & Marketing:
Lissy Malt
Fundraising and Development:
Laura Pottinger
Press and PR:
Simão Vaz
Administration & Volunteer Coordinator:
Jacquie Waterfield
Suppliers to The Place Theatre with Gelato John’s products offering delicious ices to audiences across the whole year.
The Blue Glass is a truly independent wine, beer and spirit merchant, based in Bedford. The Blue Glass are glad to be the supplier of choice for wine at The Place Theatre, and are very happy to be the new sponsor for ‘A Good Night Out’.
Charles Wells have been running pubs and brewing beer in the heart of Bedfordshire since 1876. With a new tasty range of beers and lagers from their new brewery coming in to The Place Bedford we’re looking forward to sponsoring ‘That’s All Folk’, The Place’s strand of great live folk music.
Tickets for all shows are available online 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; see our Friends information on p4.
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The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road, Bedford MK40 3DE FREE ONSITE PARKING You can follow our activities online by going here: /ThePlaceBedford
@ThePlaceBedford
@theplace_bedford
The venue has very limited capacity to take telephone bookings. Please leave a message with your name and a contact number on our 24-hour answer phone and we will ring you back as soon as we can. info@theplacebedford.org.uk
01234 354321
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No organisation worth its salt can survive without good friends and supporters. We are lucky that we have them in abundance but we also like to welcome more into the fold. If you would like to be a part of the thriving community of The Place as it moves into the next phase of its development there are a number of ways in which you can join us:
BECOME A FRIEND OF THE PLACE Being a Friend brings with it many benefits, the major one being the satisfaction of knowing that you are helping to maintain Bedford’s only full-time community and professional touring theatre. You will also get a special price exclusively for our Friend and discounts in the brochure. on drinks at certain shows so look out for the Friends tickets can be booked online (just show your membership card when you arrive).
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You also get to enjoy special offers, invitations to special evenings and advance notice of extra events organised after the brochure goes to print plus a copy of each brochure sent to you in the post (remember that!). For more information about how to become a Friend pick up a leaflet in the foyer, leave your details with the Duty Manager or email: friends@theplacebedford.org.uk
BECOME A VOLUNTEER If you have time to spare, a talent or simply an interest in meeting people of a like mind, why not join our Front of House team or help with our marketing? To find out more about volunteering opportunities email: volunteer@theplacebedford.org.uk or speak to the duty manager on performance nights. You are free to commit as much or as little as you want and any necessary training will be given. One thing we can guarantee is that you will be made very welcome. The Place Theatre is managed by Bedford Players Trust, a charity registration no: 290124 The Trust does not receive any revenue funding, though we have been very fortunate to receive capital and project funding from the following: The Harpur Trust, Arts Council England, Wixamtree Trust, The John Apthorp Charity, Sylvia Waddilove Foundation, The Frank Branston Trust, Unity Trust, Backstage Trust, The BFI Film Audience Network, The House of Industry Estate, The Theatres Trust, Bedford Community Dental Services, Santander Foundation, The High Sheriff of Bedfordshire - Julian Polhill, The Panacea Society,(distributed through the Bedfordshire and Luton Community Fund), Bedford Community Chest and Bedfordshire and Luton Community Foundation. 4
This Season Another full year starts to draw to a close, and here at The Place we get ready for our busiest and most exciting season. This season sees a huge number of returning companies and shows. Family favourites from Lamphouse Theatre, Moon on a Stick, Squashbox; fantastic live music from West End presents and Swing’s The Thing; high-quality professional work from DOT productions, Theatrical Niche and The Pantaloons. Our live music and folk seasons continue to grow from strength to strength, again with return visits from Grace Petrie, Benji Kirkpatrick, Urban Folk Quartet and Andante. Alongside them we’re excited to welcome a new Bedfordshire based group, Pitmatics, and the London Klezmer Quartet to entertain our local audiences with their folk fusions. This season we’ve focussed on delivering great pieces of entertainment, ensuring that your night out at The Place is memorable and fun, as well as thought provoking. Our ‘Good Night Out’ offer has expanded (now with generous sponsorship from The Blue Glass) to include more drinks offers at our bar for all attendees, and we’re delighted to welcome Charles Wells as a new sponsor of the ‘That’s All Folk’ strand. We’re really looking forward to October, where as well as celebrating Black History Month in Bedford we have visits from some of the best pieces of touring professional theatre in the U.K.: house theatre brings us the hilarious and energetic ‘Square Go’, a dissection of masculinity and bullying, and later in the month Third Angel present their exploration of deep space, humanity and our place in the cosmos with ‘600 people’. Most excitingly we CANNOT wait for our Christmas collaboration with the 100% amazing The Pantaloons who’ll be premiering their first ever specially made Panto show ‘Cinderella’. We’re overjoyed that they’ll be spending Christmas with us and the community here in Bedford. September sees the start of our new year-long season of film programming. Each film has been carefully selected by the team at The Place (with support from the team at the British FIlm Institute and the Independent Cinema Office) to try to give you access to the wide landscape of British and Foreign film. This next season will focus on ‘Rites of Passage’, connecting those moments when we grow, develop and change; looking at stories from across the world, across cultures and across ages and genders. We will spend the next 12 months asking the question ‘do we really “come of age” once, or is it an ongoing process?’ We’re really proud of the selection of films for this Autumn and we’d love to see you at a screening. Finally, it would be silly not to mention the fantastic work produced at The Place Bedford by our community theatre companies, another jam packed Autumn season brings us high drama, deep dives in to local and national history, farcical comedy, and a Shakespearian classic. Please continue to support local theatre makers, who help make the arts scene so vibrant. We hope you’ll find plenty in this programme to delight and stimulate your senses and we cannot wait to welcome you at The Place Bedford over the next few months. Why not come to the Season’s Launch to find out more details of all the events we have coming up and also give us your thoughts on our programming and newly introduced systems? Please go online, experience our brand new website and book your tickets on our new ticket system. We’re looking forward to hearing your thoughts on the new look.
ALEX LEVENE
ASSOCIATE PRODUCER: PROGRAMMING AND PARTNERSHIPS
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Programme Strands Our professional and community programming continues to go from strength to strength, with previous strands continuing and new ones coming through. We’re always looking for artists and community organisations we can support to develop our programming, so if you have an idea, or know someone who may be interested in helping us, please get in contact with the team. FILM
SPOKEN WORD
MUSIC
THEATRE
FANTASTIC FOR FAMILIES As holders of the Family Arts Standard we believe in the importance of creating a positive atmosphere for the audiences of the future. With this in mind, we offer a range of programming and activities for a range of ages and aim to make them accessible to all members of the family group attending The Place.
MENTAL HEALTH PROGRAMME After the successes of our 2018 strand of shows exploring Mental Health, we continue to bring theatre and films that explore the many different lived experiences. Presented in partnership with Mind BLMK, Bedfordshire and Luton NHS Mental Health services provided by ELFT, and other local organisations.
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In order to achieve this, we strive to have clear pricing and ensure you are told of age appropriateness and that our staff and volunteers are helpful and able to respond to your questions and needs as parents or guardians. More details of the Family Arts Standard can be found in the leaflet available in the foyer. We are also proud of our reputation for being friendly and cosy and to display the Fantastic for Families logo.
NEW FILM SEASON: RITES OF PASSAGE A year-long series of curated films exploring those moments in life where we transition from one person to another: learning, growing, experimenting, developing and ultimately moving forwards. With films from around the world, contemporary UK and World cinema, Hollywood classics and documentaries this year-long season of work will encourage you to revisit those moments throughout life where we’re faced with a choice, a challenge and a change.
We love an evening at the theatre, and we love sharing work with younger audiences, but we don’t want you to worry that your children are going to have a late night if they come to see one of our fantastic family shows. Extra special early evening performances that start at 6pm are aimed just at families and younger audiences that makes for an extra special evening together at The Place.
Saturday evenings have traditionally been the night when people go out looking for things to do for that ‘special occasion’.
On top of that... why not come to see a show in your pyjamas or onesies? You will also be supercomfy, and it adds a bit of extra special sparkle to a theatre experience.
At the Place we have recognised this for some time and since January we have been making an even greater effort to make the night more memorable. We are continuing these ‘special occasions’ for this season - and beyond.
Thanks to Community Dental Services UK’s CDS Action, we can provide all children attending with free toothbrushes and free toothpaste and everything you need to clean your toothie-pegs at the theatre - so all your children have to do when they get home is pop straight to bed.
Not only are the productions extremely entertaining, just right for a night out, but our front of house offer is even greater than it normally is. Special themed cocktails, drinks deals and nibbles, as well as many other ‘secrets’ known only on the night.
Look out for the #DRAMASINPJYAMAS hashtag on social media.
Look out for the ‘A GOOD NIGHT OUT’ logo in this brochure. 7
TUES 27 – SAT 31 AUG 7.30PM BEDFORDSHIRE YOUTH OPERA
Offenbach’s The Tales of Hoffmann Estimated running time 2 hours 45 minutes Bedfordshire Youth Opera are back once again! They will be following up last year’s triumphant Candide with Offenbach’s The Tales of Hoffmann. Three stories for the price of one! Expect more imaginative, witty and high-class entertainment from this wonderful young troupe, directed once again by Fred Broom and conducted by Ben Bottone. Not to be missed!
£17/£12 12+
COMMUNITY
FRI 6 SEP 7:30PM
The Place Autumn Season Launch Night Come along and find out more about our jam-packed programme for the Autumn season; meet the team and fellow audience members; see extracts from some of the community shows in development and sample wines from our partner at Blue Glass and homemade ice cream from Gelato John’s. This will also give you the chance to let us have your views about the offer made to you and our new ticketing system and website.
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FREE 12+
SAT 7 SEP 7PM
Beats (2019) 18 | 1h 41min | Comedy, Crime, Drama
DIRECTOR: Brian Welsh CAST: Cristian Ortega, Lorn Macdonald, Laura Fraser
1994, a small town in central Scotland. Best mates Johnno and Spanner share a deep bond. Now on the cusp of adulthood, life is destined to take them in different directions – Johnno’s family are moving him to a new town and a better life, leaving Spanner behind to face a precarious future. But this summer is going to be different for them, and for the country. The explosion of the free party scene and the largest counter-cultural youth movement in recent history is happening across the UK. In pursuit of adventure and escape, the boys head out on one last night together to an illegal rave. Stealing cash from Spanner’s older brother, under the hazy stewardship of pirate radio DJ D-Man, the boys journey into an underworld of anarchy, freedom and a fullon collision with the forces of law and order. A universal coming of age story, set to a soundtrack as eclectic and electrifying as the scene it gave birth to, BEATS is a story for our time – of friendship, rebellion and the irresistible power of gathered youth. Running time: 101mins
£6
IN ENGLISH WITH ENGLISH SUBTITLES
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TUE 10 - SAT 14 SEPT 2.30PM & 7.30PM SWAN THEATRE COMPANY
Lilies on the Land Based on real events and interviews with surviving Land Girls, those young women conscripted during WWll to serve as labourers on the nation’s farms. Some loved it; some hated it. Some had a tolerable time with reasonable hosts; others were treated as slave labour. From out of this experience come four girls with stories to tell – some funny, some sad but most merely illustrating life on the farm in that long-ago era – “during the war”. And throughout, we hear the music and songs from that time. Before each performance, in the foyer, there will be a live performance of songs from the period – so come along early to get ‘In the Mood’.
£12/£10/£7.50 12+
COMMUNITY
SUN 15 SEPT 7.30PM DOT PRODUCTIONS PRESENT
Sense and Sensibility
The Dashwood sisters have a very different approach to their love lives. Elinor has much more Sense, but Marianne has a great deal of Sensibility. Heroes, heartbreak and debonair villains, all topped off with a dashing duel, will have you falling in love with this wonderful Austen novel and leave you wondering, are you an Elinor or a Marianne? A cast of five actors and DOT’s renowned comedic style make this comedy of manners a production not to be missed.
£12/£10 10
♥ 12+
PROFESSIONAL
TUES 17 SEPT 7PM
We The Animals (2018) 15+ | 1h 34min | Drama DIRECTOR: Jeremiah Zagar CAST: Evan Rosado, Josiah Gabriel, Isaiah Kristian, Raúl Castillo, Sheila Vand Us three. Us brothers. Us kings, inseparable. Three boys tear through their childhood, in the midst of their young parents’ volatile love that makes and unmakes the family many times over. While Manny and Joel grow into versions of their loving and unpredictable father, Ma seeks to shelter her youngest, Jonah, in the cocoon of home. More sensitive and conscious than his older siblings, Jonah increasingly embraces an imagined world all his own. With a screenplay by Dan Kitrosser and Jeremiah Zagar based on the celebrated Justin Torres novel, We the Animals is a visceral coming-ofage story propelled by layered performances from its astounding cast – including three talented, young first-time actors – and stunning animated sequences which bring Jonah’s torn inner world to life. Drawing from his documentary background, director Jeremiah Zagar creates an immersive portrait of working class family life and brotherhood.
£6
IN ENGLISH WITH ENGLISH SUBTITLES
WED 18 SEPT 7PM WORDSETFREE & EDGERYDERS
culture Culture #3: A networked conversation about cultural growth and development ‘culture Culture’ is a curated deep inquiry into the most urgent challenges faced by cultural and art collectives across European cities. Culture culture offers participants a local/global platform for conversation and access to useful information and support which tends to be unavailable or expensive. Over six months, one question per month will convene artists, activists and cultural workers to a local meetup in locations across Europe, where they will engage in constructive conversation and draw points of action for mutual support and collaboration. The meetups are synchronized to address complementary issues across each location, so each event feeds into the wider conversation.
WordSetFree and Edgeryders Culture Squad will work with you, the participants, to produce and document the events, connecting our local stories into a bigger narrative, and connecting participants with resources from a network of thousands of people doing cultural and activist work across the world.
FREE 14+ 11
THURS 19 SEPT 8PM SWING’S THE THING
Miller Magic Swing’s the Thing return with their annual tribute to Glenn Miller and his Orchestra. The band boasts an extensive library of Miller chart toppers and will include all of the popular numbers as well as some that may be less familiar. If you have any particular favourites you would like to hear, let us know.
£12.50 10+ SUN 22 SEPT 1PM & 5.30PM STAGE - STARS THEATRE ACADEMY PRESENTS
Little Shop of Horrors Children aged 5-15 years perform this well known and loved musical. The meek floral assistant Seymour Krelborn stumbles across a new breed of plant he names “Audrey II” - after his coworker crush. This foulmouthed, R&B-singing carnivore promises unending fame and fortune to the down and out Krelborn as long as he keeps feeding it, BLOOD. Over time, though, Seymour discovers Audrey II’s out of this world origins and intent towards global domination! One of the longest-running Off-Broadway shows, Little Shop Of Horrors the charmingly tongue in cheek comedy has been produced worldwide to incredible success Team Mushnik 1pm Team Krelborn 5.30pm
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£12/10 12+
COMMUNITY
MON 23 SEPT 6.30PM doors, 7PM AGM, 8PM show YARL’S WOOD BEFRIENDERS/JOURNEYMEN THEATRE
AGM / Feeding the Darkness This production takes place as part of Yarl’s Wood Befriender’s Annual Meeting, and everyone is welcome to attend the meeting before to find out more about the work they have done over the past year for the women detained indefinitely in Yarl’s Wood IRC.
FEEDING THE DARKNESS BY JOURNEYMEN THEATRE Shining a Light on State Sanctioned Torture through Story, Song and Poem. Lasting 65 minutes in total, Feeding the Darkness takes its title from the words of James Naylor and is presented as a series of ‘miniseries’ (monologues, duologues and poems) written from extensive research into state-sanctioned torture – and hopefully challenging our ignorance and avoidance of this disturbing aspect of humanity.
SUGGESTED DONATION £5 14+
COMMUNITY
TUES 24 SEPT 8PM THAT’S ALL FOLK
Benji Kirkpatrick
6.30pm Doors Open – bar available 7.00pm Yarl’s Wood Befrienders Annual Meeting 7.45pm Interval – bar available 8.00pm Performance of Feeding the Darkness by Journeymen Theatre.
That’s All Folk Sponsored by Charles Wells
Upbeat bouzouki-infused roots music for today. Benji Kirkpatrick & The Excess head off on their debut album release tour this September. After being at the heart of big band folksters Bellowhead, Benji enlists fellow ex-Header Pete Flood on drums with Pete Thomas (Megan Henwood and Jackie Oates) on bass to stir up raucous riffs and potent songs. With Benji leading on bouzoukis - electric and acoustic - and guitar, the band stoke up rhythms, riffs and uproarious, soaring melodies: sometimes cacophonous, sometimes stark and raw, sometimes sensitive, always powerful. Whilst being at the heart of various successful bands, big band folk trailblazers Bellowhead, power folk trio Faustus, and the Seth Lakeman band, Benji was making plans and writing material for his own project, which now takes form. Opting for the classic power trio line up, Benji’s writing is brought to life with this fresh, vibrant sound and is propelled in an exciting new direction.
£12 ADVANCE/£14 DOOR
10+
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WED 25 SEPT 7.30PM WASSAIL THEATRE
Over the Wall Picking Apples
Happily married with a lovely house on the Somerset Levels, Richard could have settled down to life as a withy weaver, cider maker or llama farmer. But then the fish tank started singing to him –the same song over and over, day after day. It was enough to drive him mad. This is the story of Richard’s response to all this: his admission into the mental health service, a diagnosis of bipolar disorder, medication (the highs…the lows) and making sense of a lifetime lived over the wall picking apples. Join Richard on his emotional roller-coaster as he squares up to the frightening, the furious and the funny sides of mad. It’s no laughing matter – but it will make you laugh. “a great piece of theatre, a brave and emotional performance, and a privilege to have shared” Post-show discussion after the performance with Richard and ELFT team members
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£12/£10
♥ 12+
PROFESSIONAL
THURS 26 SEPT 10AM & 11.15AM (45mins) THE PLACE PRESENTS
Jackastory (In association
with ‘Rogan’s Books’)
As part of our growing programme of events for the younger members of our audience, to give them the excitement of being in a theatre watching a live performance, we are continuing our mornings of readings of well-known children’s books, both past and present. Listen to members of the Place team read their favourite stories from when they were little or which they read to their own children. Maybe they are ones you had read to you as a child. Each session will last for about an hour with a break for refreshments. This will be a very relaxed event with young - and old- being invited to join the readers on the stage in an intimate and friendly atmosphere.
£3 INC. FREE COFFEE/TEA/SQUASH & BISCUITS
STORIES FOR 2 TO 5 YEAR OLDS / LIMITED TICKETS AVAILABLE
THURS 26 SEPT 7.30PM DON’T GO INTO THE CELLAR
Lovecraft after Dark Allow the cosmic horror of Howard Phillips Lovecraft to envelop your senses and blast your imagination! At any moment, the terrors of the Ancient Ones may be unleashed upon the world.
The Elder Gods scrutinise our every deed, awaiting their opportunity to reclaim what was once theirs. Madness will be a blessing to those mere mortals who witness the crawling chaos soon to be released upon mankind! Jonathan Goodwin plays Cornelius Pike in Lovecraft After Dark. The show is scripted by Goodwin and co-directed by Goodwin and Gary Archer.
£12/£10 12+
PROFESSIONAL
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FRI 27 SEPT 7.30PM SE THEATRE
I, Banquo After their Bedfringe production of The Comedy of Errors, award-winning SE Theatre Company return to The Place with a production of Tim Crouch’s I, Banquo. This blood-shot one-man journey into the heart of Shakespeare’s Macbeth, told through the eyes of his murdered best friend, combines classic theatre and modern story-telling, raising questions regarding destiny, Fate and just how close each of us is to falling into the trap suggestion. ‘...a thought-provoking monologue, brought to life by an excellent young actor’ Kath Bradley, ReviewShakespeare ‘Compelling performance by Simão Vaz’ Audience review
£10/£8
♥ 12+
PROFESSIONAL
SAT 28 SEPT 7.30PM STAGE WRITE
STAGEWRITE AUTUMN Hosted by The Place since 2013, StageWrite is a hothouse for the development of new writing for theatre, supporting writers with a platform for their work and providing opportunities for actors and directors to quickly get scripts up on their feet and offer them to audiences for a brand new experience. A number of the plays that have featured in previous years have gone on to full production in Bedford and beyond. Two script in hand performances will feature on Saturday 28th September. Each is followed by a short Q&A, allowing audience members the chance to give feedback on what they have seen. Find out more: www.stagewrite.org.uk
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£8/£6 14+
PROFESSIONAL
SUN 29 SEPT 10.30AM & 1.30PM SQUASHBOX
Myths & Monsters Where can you find a creature that is half eagle and half lion? Or one that is half horse, half fish? Or half lion, half goat and half snake? Wait, that’s impossible… or is it? ot in the crazy, mixed-up world of ancient Greek stories, it’s N not! Let Craig Johnson of Squashbox Theatre guide you through this strange, magical world, using a quirky and ingenious blend of puppetry, storytelling, live music and comedy - all presented in that unique Squashbox style! Meet the brave heroes and immortal gods of ancient Greece, such as Heracles, Odysseus, Perseus, Zeus and Aphrodite. ncounter some of the mixed-up monsters of legend, E such as the Minotaur, the Harpies, the Cyclops and the terrifying gorgon, Medusa. earn about the ways ancient Greece has shaped the modern L world, from theatre and philosophy to mathematics and music! I have consulted the mysterious Oracle of Delphi and seen the future and I can guarantee that Squashbox Theatre’s new show will be legendary!
£10/£8 5+ and their families
PROFESSIONAL
#fantasticforfamilies
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MON 30 SEPT DOORS 7.30PM SHOW 8PM THAT'S ALL FOLK
Grace Petrie
Protest singer Grace Petrie’s unique takes on life, love and politics, delivered with the warmth and wit which have won over an army of loyal fans across the alternative, folk, political and comedy scenes. Returning to The Place Bedford after her sell-out show in 2018, it’s bound to be another great night of music and protest.
‘She writes the sort of songs you want to pin the lyrics of on your bedroom wall, or on the office door, to remind you and everyone else who might read them what is important and true’ Buzz Magazine
‘She offers hope and solidarity, born out of absolute conviction and with no trace of empty sloganeering…. this wake-up call is one to be both welcomed and wholeheartedly embraced.’ fRoots
That’s All Folk Sponsored by Charles Wells
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£13 ADVANCE/£15 DOOR 12+
TUES 1 OCT 7.30PM
BHM Launch Night
An evening celebrating Bedford’s black history and culture. Featuring music, poetry, talks and activities, as well as the opening of an exhibition of BHM artwork for The Place foyer. Organised by Nubian Teachings with the team at The Place Bedford, this free event will have tasty food for sale, as well as some great cheap drinks deals at the bar. Drop in and say hello.
WED 2 OCT 7PM
Babylon (1980) 15+ | 1h 35min | Drama Director: Franco Rosso Cast: Brian Bovell, Brinsley Forde, Karl Howman, Trevor Laird, Archie Pool, T-Bone Wilson One of the most highly regarded cult British films of the 1980s, Babylon is raw and incendiary film-making at its very best. Sound system 'toaster' Blue (Brinsley Forde) and his Ital Lion crew are looking forward to a sound clash competition with rival outfit Jah Shaka. But as the event approaches, Blue's personal life begins to unravel. Fired from his job, he begins to suspect his girlfriend is cheating on him and then one night he is brutally beaten by plain-clothes policemen. Finally, when their lock-up garage is broken into and their sound-system destroyed, he cannot take any more. Increasingly angered and alienated by what he perceives to be society's rejection of his race and his culture, Blue is compelled to respond by fighting fire with fire. Directed by Franco Rosso, co-written by Martin Stellman (Quadrophenia), and photographed by two-time Oscar® winner Chris Menges (The Mission; The Killing Fields). £6
IN ENGLISH WITH ENGLISH SUBTITLES
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FRI 4 OCT 7.30PM ANTOSH WOJCIK/PENNED IN THE MARGINS
How to Keep Time: A Drum Solo for Dementia “Dziadek? Dziadek? Can you hear me?”
Using just his voice and an electronic drum kit, awardwinning spoken word artist Antosh Wojcik explores the effects of dementia on speech, memory and family in his debut work for stage, How to Keep Time. Subtitled A Drum Solo for Dementia, this 60-minute show is a mesmeric display of drumming and spoken word in which poems become beats and beats become glitches in time. Antosh Wojcik tells the moving story of his Polish grandfather's struggle against vascular dementia and the effect it had on the people around him. "I want to de-stigmatise dementia and give it a human voice," Antosh explains. "By combining spoken word with music I want to unlock some critical questions about memory and language. What happens when memories disappear? Where do they go and can we get them back? Can I use my drums to communicate with my grandfather?"
‘An extraordinary and powerful exploration of what language might be when there are no longer any words … this stunning debut piece needs to be experienced’ MUST SEE SHOW Fringe Review
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£12/£10
♥ 14+
PROFESSIONAL
SAT 5 OCT 7.30PM HOUSE THEATRE
Square Go Max is a normal-ish kid in a normal-ish town. He spends his days daydreaming and hanging out with his weird wee pal Stevie Nimmo.
“Finn den Hertog’s production is – there’s no other way of putting it – brilliant, brilliant fun” ★★★★★ The Stage “A riotous night of school boy insults, theatrical wrestling and perceptive insights on male aggression” ★★★★ The Skinny “Riotously entertaining” ★★★★ The Independent
But when Max is called for his first Square Go, a fight by the school gates, it’s his own demons he must wrestle with first.
“It’s irresistible” ★★★★ The Guardian
Featuring an original soundtrack by members of Frightened Rabbit, this unmissable collaboration between Fringe Firstwinning writers Kieran Hurley (Heads Up, BEATS film) and Gary McNair (A Gambler’s Guide to Dying) is a raucous and hilarious new play about playground violence, myths of masculinity and the decision to step up or run.
“Fast moving and... thrilling” ★★★★ The Scotsman £12/£10
♥ 14+
PROFESSIONAL
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TUES 8 - SAT 12 OCT 7.30PM BEDFORD DRAMA COMPANY
Murder in Play by Simon Brett “Unless we do something, a terrible crime is going to take place …” Boris Smolensky’s budget repertory production of “Murder at Priorswell Manor” is looking decidedly shaky. The cast are more interested in their egos than the play but life imitates art when a real-life tragedy occurs on stage. Simon Brett’s hilarious text, a worthy companion to his Charles Paris theatrical thriller novels, ruthlessly satirises the politics of the inept company, and the numerous red-herrings keep the audience guessing until the final moments of the play.
£12/10 12+
COMMUNITY
SUN 13 OCT DOORS 7PM, STARTS 7.30PM THAT’S ALL FOLK
Urban Folk Quartet In an age where the word “folk” encompasses everything from acoustic pop to hardcore traditional music, the use of such labels to distinguish one musical experience from another has arguably been stretched farther than ever. The Urban Folk Quartet’s distinguishing features have much less to do with the traditional idea of genre. Yes, this is fiddle-led music that draws heavily from Celtic dance forms and traditional song but from there on in it is unlike any folk band you have ever heard. Just as English country dance unassumingly met with big band jazz musicianship in the mid 20th century, the UFQ’s approach to the folk ethos is to embrace any and every influence that genuinely makes sense of their time and place and makes sense in their music. From funk grooves to Middle Eastern melodies, afrobeat to north Indian rhythms. “A sizzling hot ensemble who fuse folk with elements of dub, house and rock with an ease that shouldn’t naturally follow that list of genres. Built on the rhythms of a cajón-wielding percussionist and oud-playing bassist, the phenomenal fiddlers led the quartet in one of the tightest line-ups I have ever seen.” Olivia Haughton, Songlines
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£13 ADVANCE/£15 DOOR 8+
That’s All Folk Sponsored by Charles Wells
ells
TUES 15 OCT 7PM
Pressure (1975) 15+ | 2h | Drama Director: Horace Ové Cast: Herbert Norville, Oscar James, Frank Singuineau, Lucita Lijertwood, Sheila Scott-Wilkinson Hailed as Britain's first black feature film, Pressure is a hardhitting, honest document of the plight of disenchanted Britishborn black youths. Set in 1970s London, it tells the story of Tony, a bright school-leaver, son of West Indian immigrants, who finds himself torn between his parents' church-going conformity and his brother's Black Power militancy. As his initially high hopes are repeatedly dashed - he cannot find work anywhere; potential employers treat him with suspicion because of his colour - his sense of alienation grows. In a bid to find a sense of belonging, he joins his black friends who, estranged from their submissive parents, seek a sense of purpose in the streets and in chases with the police. An angry but sincere and balanced film, Pressure deals with the identity struggles that children of immigrants have to face and Horace Ové makes the most of his combination of professional actors and local non-actors from the streets of London.
£6
IN ENGLISH WITH ENGLISH SUBTITLES
WED 16 OCT 7PM WORDSETFREE
F.U.N Bedford: Volume 2
F**kUp Nights: Conversations about failures and other mistakes LESSONS FROM ENTREPRENEURS WHO’VE FAILED AND SURVIVED F.U.N is a global movement where stories of failed business and projects are told, questioned and celebrated! In each F.U.Night, three or four entrepreneurs share their stories of failure, discussing what they were working on, what went wrong and what they learnt. A chance for us all to learn together, and beat the stigma that comes from trying but failing. “Fall Down 7 Times Get Up 8” There’s a chance after each story to ask plenty of questions and even the opportunity to get up at the end and share your own story during the open mic session. All of this accompanied by cheap booze and good friends.
£5 14+
23
THURS 17 OCT 8PM ANDANTE
TIMES ARE A-CHANGIN’ SONGS OF PEACE, PROTEST & LOVE
Following their hugely successful performance last year, Andante return with a new show in which they revisit the era of Peace, Protest and Love. With more uniquely arranged songs of the ‘60s and ‘70s tonight they feature songs from artists such as Pete Seeger, The Kinks, McCartney, as well as Dylan, Baez, Lennon, Simon & Garfunkel and more. Combining the vocal harmonies of Vee Sweeney and Mark Rowson, 16 instruments between them and outstanding musicianship, they perform an uplifting and inspiring show to give you a fabulous evening of music. All you need is love ... love is all you need!
£12.50
♥ ALL AGES
FRI 18 OCT 7.30PM THIRD ANGEL
600 People
“Wow! Completely stunning!” “Genuinely mind-boggling!” audience reaction
“We step out of our solar system, into the universe, seeking only peace and friendship…” So says the message from the human race on the Voyager spacecraft. But is there, y’know, anyone out there? Alex went to speak to an astrophysicist to find out. This is what he learned: Stellar Wobble. The Mirror Test. Fermi’s Paradox. The Enhanced Human and murderous dolphins. Somewhere between stand-up and an astrophysics lecture, Third Angel brings you a simple show about huge ideas. 600 People explores the stories we tell in order to understand our place in the cosmos, that asks if there are extra terrestrials in our galaxy, that asks what it means to be human. We said they were big ideas… Originally commissioned for Northern Elements, a development programme funded by Arts Council England and managed by ARC, Stockton Arts Centre.
24
£12/£10 ( FRIENDS ) 12+
PROFESSIONAL
“...engaging with the big issues about how we live with a fierce intelligence” The Guardian
TUES 22 OCT 7PM
The Story of Lovers Rock (2011) 12A | 1h 37min | Documentary, Family, Music
Director: Menelik Shabazz Stars: Dennis Bovell, Paulette Harris-German, Janet Kay
In the 70s and 80s Britain was rife with racial tension and police harassment, particularly against black British youths. These youths were the rebel generation who were also searching for an identity. They created a music - a sub genre of reggae known as Lovers Rock. This music became a global brand through artists like UB40 and Maxi Priest. The music brought a level of intimacy between young people that was unique. It was also ‘girl power’ music that empowered a generation of young women. Through comedy, live performance, dance, interviews and archive the film takes you back to an untold era of British cultural, musical and political history. Lovers Rock, often dubbed ‘romantic reggae’ is a uniquely black British sound that developed in the late 70s and 80s against a backdrop of riots, racial tension and sound systems. Lovers Rock allowed young people to experience intimacy and healing through dance - known as ‘scrubbing’- at parties and clubs. This dance provided a coping mechanism for what was happening on the streets. Lovers Rock developed into a successful sound with national UK hits and was influential to British bands (Police, Culture Club, UB40). These influences underline the impact the music was making in bridging the multi-cultural gap that polarized the times. The film sheds light on a forgotten period of British music, social and political history.
£6
IN ENGLISH WITH ENGLISH SUBTITLES 25
WED 23 OCT 6.30PM
Jay Foreman’s Disgusting Songs for Revolting Children Jay Foreman is an award-winning musical comedian whose songs have been heard on BBC Radio 4, Radio 4 Extra, The One Show, London Live TV and Dave Gorman’s UK/Ireland tour. Jay provides a devilishly cheeky hour of songs, poems and comedy for children of all ages in this family-friendly show which regularly sells out its entire runs at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. “With dark humour and wordplay reminiscent of Roald Dahl, he should more often than not grab the attention of even the most reluctant child.” BroadwayBaby.com ★★★★ “My fellow child-wranglers laughed happily, probably even louder than their enthralled kids.” ThreeWeeks ★★★★ “Disturbingly catchy... my daughter was still singing about caterpillar sick right up until bedtime!” One4Review ★★★★ “Classy and funny... Victoria Wood for the Spotify generation” Chortle
£10/£8/£32 8+ ALL AGES THURS 24 OCT 10AM & 11.15AM (45mins) THE PLACE PRESENTS
Jackastory (In association
with ‘Rogan’s Books’)
As part of our growing programme of events for the younger members of our audience, to give them the excitement of being in a theatre watching a live performance, we are continuing our mornings of readings of well-known children’s books both past and present. Listen to members of the Place team read their favourite stories from when they were little or which they read to their own children. Maybe they are ones you had read to you as a child. Each session will last for about an hour with a break for refreshments. This will be a very relaxed event with young - and old- being invited to join the readers on the stage in an intimate and friendly atmosphere.
£3 INC. FREE COFFEE/TEA/SQUASH & BISCUITS 26
STORIES FOR 2 TO 5 YEAR OLDS / LIMITED TICKETS AVAILABLE
THURS 24 OCT 7.30PM JOHN OSBORNE PRESENTS
John Peel’s Shed/ Circled in the Radio Times - Double Bill Writer, theatre maker and Radio 4 favourite John Osborne returns to the stage, this time with a double bill of two storytelling shows. Cult Edinburgh sellout show ‘John Peel’s Shed’ – a show about radio, music and a box of records that once belonged to Radio 1 DJ John Peel – is performed alongside ‘Circled in the Radio Times’, a show about a collection of old magazines and the changing ways all of us watch television. “Sits somewhere between Daniel Kitson and Tom Wrigglesworth. I could have listened for hours.” ★★★★★ The Independent on John Peel’s Shed.
£12/£10 15+
‘Deceptively layered and delightfully cosy storytelling. A 15-tog hug of a show.’ – The Stage on Circled in the Radio Times.
PROFESSIONAL
FRI 25 OCT 7.30PM SCARY LITTLE GIRLS
Salon Du Chocolat
Allow performers from Scary Little Girls to stimulate your senses! This intimate storytelling salon celebrates the relationship between cocoa nibs and forbidden literature… When chocolate was first brought to England in the 1600s, it was considered a taboo substance, enjoyed only by the risqué and elite in private salons. Some of our finest literature was also once considered too provocative for public consumption and was heard in similar salon environments by only the boldest of ears. We recreate these intimate environs, combining mouth-watering chocolate treats with tales of the secret, banned and scandalous from authors such as Lord Byron, Mae West, Angela Carter and Joanne Harris. Performed, read and sung to you by our highly acclaimed storytellers, the Salon du Chocolat invites you to succumb to a literary seduction!
£12/£10 14+ 27
SAT 26 OCT 11AM
Coco (2017) PG | 1h 45min | Animation, Adventure, Comedy Directors: Lee Unkrich, Adrian Molina Stars: Anthony Gonzalez, Gael García Bernal, Benjamin Bratt Despite his family’s baffling generations-old ban on music, Miguel dreams of becoming an accomplished musician like his idol, Ernesto de la Cruz. Desperate to prove his talent, Miguel finds himself in the stunning and colourful Land of the Dead following a mysterious chain of events. Along the way, he meets charming trickster Hector and, together, they set off on an extraordinary journey to unlock the real story behind Miguel’s family history.
£6/£3
IN ENGLISH WITH ENGLISH SUBTITLES
SAT 26 OCT 7.30PM CULTURAL ASPECTS
An Evening with Donna Marie Donna Marie has been the UK’s leading female reggae singer for decades. Raised in the parish of St. Elizabeth, Jamaica and singing in her local choir from the age of nine, Donna Marie came to England, where she was soon starring on the Reggae and Gospel circuits. With a career over 25 years, recording more than 15 albums, this is a fantastic evening in the company of one of the finest female vocalists.
28
£9 10+
TUES 29 OCT - SAT 2 NOV 7.30PM CERTAIN AGE
Albany Road In 1814 Joanna Southcott died, leaving a selection of her prophecies sealed in a box that she said should be opened in a time of national danger by 24 bishops of the Church of England. In 1919 Mabel Barltrop, having learned about Joanna Southcott’s box, founded The Panacea Society in Bedford. Albany Road, like An Evening with Jane Austen in 2017 and last year’s Vote!, is a new play devised and performed by Certain Age to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the founding of the society. The play deals with a fascinating piece of Bedford’s history and will focus on Joanna Southcott and Mabel Barltrop, two women with strong beliefs who had the charisma to attract large groups of supporters.
£12/£10 10+
COMMUNITY
WED 6 - FRI 8 NOV 7.30PM THEATRE IN TRANSIT
Oh! What a Lovely War Oh! What a Lovely War is a satirical attack on military incompetence during World War I, in particular the disregard for human life. It also acts as a reminder of just how costly war can be to so many people. Presented in the form of a seaside entertainment of the period, Oh! What a Lovely War expertly blends elements of live dance, song, music and sketches, for an epic production not to be missed!
£10/£8 10+
COMMUNITY
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SAT 9 NOV 7.30PM THE PANTALOONS
Othello
“What did thy song bode, lady? Hark, canst thou hear me? I will play the swan, And die in music…” It’s stormy outside. In here, tensions are simmering. As a touring swing band gather for their next performance, malevolent trickster Iago begins to sow the seeds of mistrust. The critically-acclaimed Pantaloons relocate Shakespeare’s classic tragedy of jealousy and deception to a jazz-age setting, with live music, intense drama and more than a hint of their own inimitable brand of theatrical mischief.
£12/£10 10+
PROFESSIONAL
TUES 12 - SAT 16 NOV 7.30PM SWAN THEATRE COMPANY
Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare Julius Caesar is Shakespeare’s first great tragedy. It is a play about politics in which the demands of honour, patriotism and friendship are brought into conflict; it is as relevant today as when it was written 420 years ago. The honourable Brutus must decide whether to join the conspiracy against his friend Julius Caesar. As the political tension escalates, Brutus’ defence of the conspirators is countered by Mark Antony and Rome slides into civil conflict, with Brutus and Cassius on one side and Antony and Octavius Caesar on the other.
30
£12/£10/£7.50 12+
COMMUNITY
TUES 19 - SAT 23 NOV 2.30PM & 7PM TOFFE APPLE
Mary Poppins Jr. Based on one of the most popular Disney movies of all time and the Broadway musical that received multiple Olivier and Tony Awards nominations; Disney and Cameron Mackintosh's Mary Poppins is capturing hearts in a whole new way: as a practically perfect Broadway Junior musical! The jack-of-all trades, Bert, introduces us to England in 1910 and the troubled Banks family. Young Jane and Michael have sent many a nanny packing before Mary Poppins arrives on their doorstep. Using a combination of magic and common sense, she must teach the family members how to value each other again. Mary Poppins takes the children on many magical and memorable adventures, but Jane and Michael aren't the only ones upon whom she has a profound effect. Even grown-ups can learn a lesson or two from the nanny who advises that "Anything can happen if you let it." A musical based on the stories of P.J. Travers and the Walt Disney film. Original music and lyrics by Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman. Book by Julian Fellowes. New songs and additional music and lyrics by George Stiles and Anthony Drewe. Co-Created by Cameron Mackintosh
£12/£11/£10 GROUP 20+/£42 FAMILY 8+
COMMUNITY
TUES 26 NOV 7PM/9PM
Double Bill:
Superbad (2007) 1h 53min | Comedy
DIRECTOR: Greg Mottola STARS: Michael Cera, Jonah Hill, Christopher Mintz-Plasse
Booksmart (2019) 1h 42min | Comedy
DIRECTOR: Olivia Wilde STARS: Kaitlyn Dever, Beanie Feldstein, Jessica Williams On the eve of their high school graduation, two academic superstars and best friends realise they should have worked less and played more. Determined not to fall short of their peers, the girls try to cram four years of fun into one night.
£6/£10 DOUBLE BILL
Seth and Evan are best friends, inseparable, navigating the last weeks of high school. Usually shunned by the popular kids, Seth and Evan luck into an invitation to a party and spend a long day, with the help of their nerdy friend Fogell, trying to score enough alcohol to lubricate the party and inebriate two girls, Jules and Becca, so they can kick-start their sex lives and go off to college with a summer full of experience and new skills. Their quest is complicated by Fogell’s falling in with two inept cops who both slow and assist the plan. If they do get the liquor to the party, what then? Is sex the only rite of passage at hand?
IN ENGLISH WITH ENGLISH SUBTITLES
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WED 27 NOV 7.30PM
After a long hiatus PechaKucha returns to Bedford at The Place Theatre. Come and hear local creatives present their passions using just 20 images each shown for just 20 seconds. PechaKucha (or chitchat in Japanese) is a creative style of presenting that was created by two architects from Tokyo in 2003 who were fed up with lengthy presentations. Since then the concept has grown and PechaKucha talks now run in over 800 cities around the world, bringing together people from all creative backgrounds. If you’re interested in talking at a PechaKucha night, please get in touch: Alex Levene (al@theplacebedford.org.uk) You can find out more at: pechakucha.com/cities/bedford
DONATIONS OF £3
14+
THURS 28 NOV 10AM & 11.15AM (45mins) THE PLACE PRESENTS
Jackastory (In association
with ‘Rogan’s Books’)
As part of our growing programme of events for the younger members of our audience, to give them the excitement of being in a theatre watching a live performance we are continuing our mornings of readings of well-known children’s books both past and present. Listen to members of the Place team read their favourite stories from when they were little or which they read to their own children. Maybe they are ones you had read to you as a child. Each session will last for about an hour with a break for refreshments.
This will be a very relaxed event with young - and old- being invited to join the readers on the stage in an intimate and friendly atmosphere.
£3 INC. FREE COFFEE/TEA/SQUASH & BISCUITS 32
STORIES FOR 2 TO 5 YEAR OLDS / LIMITED TICKETS AVAILABLE
THURS 28 NOV 8PM THAT'S ALL FOLK
That’s All Folk Sponsored by Charles Wells
London Klezmer Quartet The London Klezmer Quartet is a dynamic group of performers whose deep understanding of klezmer, the celebratory and soulful music of Eastern European Jews, is reflected in exuberant, passionate and accomplished performances that captivate audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
The group plays old and new traditional material guaranteed to move audiences from toe-tapping to tears and back again in moments. "Virtuosity, exciting original tunes and soulful playing. What's not to like?” Songlines Magazine "The tradition is safe in their hands." Sunday Times "The London Klezmer Quartet is one of the best purveyors of the music of Eastern European Jewish heritage" ABC Radio National “Four of Europe's most talented klezmer musicians. They bring a wealth of knowledge, experience and excitement to their performances." Frank London, the Klezmatics
£12 ADVANCE/£14 DOOR 8+
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FRI 29 NOV 7.30PM THEATRICAL NICHE
Uncle Vanya BY ANTON CHEKHOV IN A NEW ADAPTATION BY VENETIA TWIGG Chekhov's tragicomedy in a bittersweet, multi-disciplinary new adaptation. Isolated and beyond help, the weary inhabitants of one country household plunge head over heels in lust when a beautiful stranger arrives. As the owner announces the estate sale for his own gain, the strains of repression begin to bubble, until Vanya hits boiling point. Theatrical Niche's acclaimed physical theatre team collaborate with international artist Lily Hunter Green, creating a unique showcase of rural art intertwined with this Russian masterpiece. An unmissable production of Chekhov's witty observations on the irrational human heart. This modern take on 'Uncle Vanya' highlights the farcical nature of the text whilst showcasing captivating physical work inspired by the decline of the bee.
£12/£10
♥ 12+
PROFESSIONAL
SAT 30 NOV – SUN 1 DEC 1.30PM & 6.30PM LAMPHOUSE THEATRE
The Jungle Book by Rudyard Kipling Raised by wolves since birth, young man-cub Mowgli is forced to leave his jungle home when he is threatened by Shere Khan, a terrifying tiger. Arriving in a human village, Mowgli is seemingly safe, until he strays from his adopted family and meets Shere Khan again. Mowgli returns to the protection of the wolf pack, but will his presence in the jungle again put them all in danger? Full of live music, comedy, puppetry and energy, this production explores the themes of growing up and staying true to yourself. Lamphouse Theatre is a Peterborough-based theatre company committed to telling epic stories in intimate settings. They perform with a playful mischief and create events accessible to all. Find out more about the company here: www.lamphousetheatre.co.uk Audience reviews on previous production: “Absolutely brilliant” “So funny and full of energy” “The kids were mesmerised” “Entertaining for young and old”
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£10 / £8 / £32 FAMILY
6+
PROFESSIONAL
WED 4 - FRI 6 DEC 2.30PM & 7.30PM WEST END PRESENTS
West End at Christmas Back by popular demand... 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, including Les Miserables, We Will Rock You, South Pacific, Starlight Express, The Phantom Of The Opera, Wicked, Godspell, Joseph and Cats... to name but a few! "With new songs added every year, this wonderful concert guarantees to bring you joy and fill you with Christmas cheer" Evening Post
£15/£13 8+ TUES 10 DEC 7PM
Walkabout (1971) 15+ | 1H 40MIN | ADVENTURE, DRAMA
DIRECTOR: Nicolas Roeg STARS: Jenny Agutter, David Gulpilil, Luc Roeg Under the pretence of having a picnic, a geologist (John Meillon) takes his teenage daughter (Jenny Agutter) and 6-year-old son (Lucien John) into the Australian outback and attempts to shoot them. When he fails, he turns the gun on himself, and the two city-bred children must contend with the harsh wilderness alone. They are saved by a chance encounter with an Aborigine boy (David Gulpilil) who shows them how to survive, and in the process underscores the disharmony between nature and modern life.
£6
IN ENGLISH WITH ENGLISH SUBTITLES
35
WEDS 11 DEC 10AM & 11.15AM (45mins) THE PLACE PRESENTS
Jackastory (In association
with ‘Rogan’s Books’)
As part of our growing programme of events for the younger members of our audience, to give them the excitement of being in a theatre watching a live performance we are continuing our mornings of readings of well-known children’s books both past and present. SEE 28 NOVEMBER FOR FULL LISTING
£3 INC. FREE COFFEE/TEA/SQUASH & BISCUITS
STORIES FOR 2 TO 5 YEAR OLDS / LIMITED TICKETS AVAILABLE
WED 11 DEC 8PM THAT'S ALL FOLK
Pitmatics
An exciting new six-piece folk band performing original and cover songs. The band tells powerful stories with great arrangements, superb musicianship and stunning harmonies. With four members based around the Bedford area, they have already received excellent reviews and have recently performed with folk legend Julie Felix. They play a wide range of instruments including mandola, accordion, fiddle, horn, whistles and uilleann pipes. A super night of local Bedford folk music to get you in the mood for the winter months.
£12 ADVANCE/£14 DOOR
10+
THURS 12 DEC 8PM SWING’S THE THING
The Big Show It’s that time of year again!
Swing’s the Thing are back with another concert of seasonal swing music from the likes of Glenn Miller, Les Brown, Gordon Goodwin and more. Katherine Mclean and Mel Peake will once again join with the band in what promises to be their best ever Christmas Concert.
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£12.50 10+
That’s All Folk Sponsored by Charles Wells
ells
FRI 13 DEC 10.30AM , 12NOON, 1.30PM MOON ON A STICK
Little Star: A starlit show for babies
Meet Little Star in our show for little ones aged 6-18 months. Join her as she swings from shooting stars, slides down crescent moons and bounces on fluffy clouds. Using puppetry, music and captivating visuals to delight our young audience, an intimate, relaxed setting makes this the perfect first theatre experience. Little Star features the popular song ‘Twinkle Twinkle Little Star’, taking us on a journey with the star herself. Little Star wants to explore space. Not content with the same spot in the sky, she wants to see, hear and touch everything!
£10/£5 ADULTS 6-18MONTHS +CARERS
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TUES 17 - SAT 28 DEC 2PM & 7PM The Pantaloons
Cinderella
People of Bedford (and beyond)! You are cordially invited to Prince Charming’s Annual Ball 2019! Unfortunately due to a typo it will have to be held at The Place rather than The Palace... Nevertheless, please dress to impress (no rags, no Buttons allowed, sensible footwear advised) and note that illegally parked pumpkins will be towed. Cinderella, a traditional pantomime with a twist, is co-produced by the critically-acclaimed Pantaloons Theatre Company. Featuring live music, audience interaction, ugly sisters, slapstick and wishes coming true‡. Book early to go to the ball and avoid bitter disappointment. Wishes may only come true within the fictional world of the play. We accept no responsibility for ungranted wishes.
‡
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£10/£7/FAMILY £29
8+
PROFESSIONAL
External Events SWAN THEATRE COMPANY
Poetry at the Eagle Bookshop SUN 6TH OCT, SUN 3RD NOV, SUN 1ST DECALL AGES
Members of Swan Theatre Company and guests present an evening of poetry, lightly spiced with prose and drama, in the appropriately bookish surroundings of the Eagle Bookshop, at its new premises on St Peter’s Street. Tickets are available online or on the door.
The Eagle Bookshop RARE BOOKS and RARE PEOPLE FINE BOOKS and FINE PEOPLE SCHOLARLY BOOKS and SCHOLARLY PEOPLE SECONDHAND BOOKS and.... we’ll stop there! Books bought and sold www.eaglebookshop.co.uk 39
Coming in 2020
SPRING SEASON LAUNCH 9 JAN
GAME PLAY WEEKENDER 10-12 JAN
HOLOCAUST BRUNCH 25 JAN
TROJAN HORSE - LUNG 14 FEB
KING LEAR - ODDBODIES 5 MAR
OH NO GEORGE! - CAN’T SIT STILL 8 MAR
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Community Matters COMMUNITY GROUPS – THANK YOU
RESIDENT REVIEWERS SCHEME
The Place Theatre was founded by Bedford Players Trust to become a hub for the local community theatre world, a home where various groups could gather together, rehearse and perform. Since then, we have welcomed and worked with many local groups and, while in recent years our programme has expanded to include touring companies, our links with the Bedford companies remain part of the lifeblood of the organisation. As in past seasons, we are delighted to have so many exciting productions by community groups, adding a very rewarding Bedford focus to our autumn season. The Place would like to say a big THANK YOU to all of the community groups that help us to be the unique venue we are.
Throughout the Audience Development Project, we have been running a Resident Reviewers Scheme. Each season two young people are chosen to be our resident reviewers and their writing is published across our social media accounts and in The Bedford Clanger. The initiative has been supported by The Stage and A Younger Theatre and provides a public platform for young local people to express their views about the theatre that is on offer to Bedfordians as well as collecting, analysing and disseminating information about local events that bring people together. This season The Place will be running a competition to find reviewers who will be in place for the whole year. Initial training will be given and writing workshops will also run regularly to support new writers. The closing date is the end of September, so if you want to be considered get your email in quickly.
CREATING NEW DIALOGUES The Place is very proud to contribute to the cultural identity of the town and, over the past 18 months, has been reaching out and connecting with the Bedford community. Unfortunately, this Christmas sees the end of the funding for the Audience Development in the Community project, but we hope to be able to continue some of this work if other funding sources can be found. The initiative was a wonderful way for The Place to collaborate with new audiences as it allowed the venue to reach out and show that theatre is for everyone to share. Successful ventures have included working in Bedford prison, collaboration with Bedford Creative Arts and with the University of Bedfordshire and local schools, particularly Goldington Academy. Through this partnership The Place has become the natural focus for class trips as it can offer quality, affordable professional theatre. We hope to expand our relationship with other schools over the coming months. Please email eh@theplacebedford.org.uk with any enquiries.
Contact eh@theplacebedford.org.uk to register your interest or for more information. In conjunction with
Love talking about theatre? WE NEED THREE ‘RESIDENT’ REVIEWERS FOR OUR NEXT SEASON!
Winners will be chosen in three age categories and their writing will be published across our social media platforms. Our new partners The Stage will provide mentoring, and there will be opportunities to visit their offices in London! We are running FREE review writing workshops on Wed 27 March & Wed 3 April at 4.30pm (all age groups) – email Elizabeth Howard eh@theplacebedford.org.uk to book a place. To enter, please attend a show at The Place before Sat 27 April and send a review of your experience to eh@theplacebedford.org.uk by Tue 30 April. Winners will receive free tickets to a number of shows.
We also continue to support young people who are working towards an theplacebedford.org.uk Arts Award. Call or email us for advice or to plan a visit. 41
Wider activities at The Place Bedford Creative Days SATURDAY MORNINGS IN TERM TIME. FROM 4 YEARS WORKSHOPS AND PARTICIPATION
BOOKING ESSENTIAL “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 07824345042, email: creativedaysbedford@gmail.com or visit our website: www.creative-days.co.uk
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Act One Theatre School SATURDAY MORNINGS IN TERM TIME AND TUESDAY AFTERNOONS ( SEE BELOW ) WORKSHOPS AND PARTICIPATION
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.
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Our Season of Events SPOKEN WORD
FILM
MUSIC
THEATRE
27 - 31 Aug
Bedfordshire Youth Opera
Offenbach’s Tales of Hoffmann
18 Oct
Third Angel
600 People
6 Sept
BPT
Season Launch
19 Oct
BPT/ELFT/OMM
Mental Health Awareness Event
7 Sept
FILM
Beats
22 Oct
FILM
The Story of Lovers Rock Disgusting Rhymes for revolting children
10 - 14 Sept
Swan Theatre Company
Lilies on the Land
23 Oct
Jay Foreman
15 Sept
DOT Productions
Sense & Sensibility
24 Oct
BPT
Jackastory
FILM
We the Animals
24 Oct
John Osborne
18 Sept
WordSetFree
culture Culture Bedford #3
John Peel's Shed/Circled in the Radio Times
25 Oct
Scary Little Girls
Salon Du Chocolate
19 Sept
Swings The Thing
Miller Magic
26 Oct
FILM
Coco (PG)
17 Sept
21 - 22 Sept
AllStars Dance & Theatre
Little Shop of Horrors
26 Oct
Cultural Aspects
23 Sept
Yarl's Wood Befrienders & Journeymen Theatre
AGM and Feeding the Darkness
An Evening with Donna Marie
29 Oct - 2 Nov
Certain Age
Albany Road
24 Sept
That's All Folk
Benji Kirkpatrick
6 - 8 Nov
Theatre In Transit
Oh! What a Lovely War
25 Sept
Wassail theatre
Over the wall picking apples
9 Nov
The Pantaloons
Othello
26 Sept
BPT
Jackastory
12 - 16 Nov
Swan Theatre Company
Julius Caesar
26 Sept
Don't Go Into the Cellar
Lovecraft after Dark
19 - 23 Nov
Toffe Apple
Mary Poppins Jr
27 Sept
SE Theatre
I, Banquo
26 Nov
FILM
Double Bill: Booksmart/ Superbad
28 Sept
Stage Write
StageWrite Autumn
27 Nov
WordSetFree
PechaKucha 2
29 Sept
Squashbox
Myths and Monsters
28 Nov
BPT
Jackastory
30 Sept
That's All Folk
Grace Petrie
28 Nov
That's All Folk
London Klezmer Quartet
29 Nov
Theatrical Niche
Uncle Vanya
30 Nov - 1 Dec
Lamphouse
The Jungle Book
4 - 6 Dec
West End
West End at Christmas
10 Dec
FILM
Walkabout
11 Dec
BPT
Jackastory
11 Dec
That's All Folk
Pitmatics
12 Dec
Swings The Thing
The Big Show
13 Dec
Moon on a Stick
Little Star
17 - 28 Dec
The Pantaloons
Cinderella
Black History Month Launch
1 Oct 2 Oct
FILM
Babylon (1980)
4 Oct
Antosh Wojcik/ Penned in the Margins
How to Keep Time: A Drum Solo for Dementia
5 Oct
house
Square Go
8 - 12 Oct
Bedford Drama Company
Murder in Play by Simon Brett
13 Oct
That's All Folk
Urban Folk Quartet
15 Oct
FILM
Pressure (1975)
16 Oct
WordSetFree
F***Up Nights 2
17 Oct
Andante
Times are a'changing