DIARY

from Dluxe Birmingham Spring 2020

TRAVEL

THE DIARY. MARCH [ the diary ] <<<

The Book of Mormon Until 28th March at Birmingham Hippodrome The Book of Mormon is the outrageous musical comedy from the creators of South Park, Trey Parker and Matt Stone, and Bobby Lopez, co-writer of Avenue Q and Frozen, follows the misadventures of a mismatched pair of missionaries, sent on a mission to a place that’s about as far from Salt Lake City as you can get.

Bournville Book Festival 14th – 24th March Meet your favourite authors. Discover astonishing books. Interactive storytelling fun at Birmingham’s only dedicated children’s book festival for 0-12s.

Blood Brothers 17th – 21st March at Belgrade Theatre, Coventry Willy Russell’s legendary musical tells the captivating and moving tale of twins separated at birth, who grow up on opposite sides of the tracks, only to meet again with tragic consequences.

Once 10th – 14th March at Belgrade Theatre, Coventry Based on the critically acclaimed and much-loved film, you will meet (and never forget) two lost souls – a Dublin street busker and a Czech musician – who find each other unexpectedly and fall in love.

Stewart Lee 12th – 13th March at Symphony Hall, Birmingham Stewart Lee returns to Symphony Hall with a doublebill in one night, with two new sets Snowflake and Tornado. Both will be performed on the night for consecutive nights!

Jamie Cullum 15th March at Symphony Hall, Birmingham After recently announcing the release of his new album, Taller, critically acclaimed musician and songwriter Jamie Cullum announces he will be taking to the stage for a 2020 tour.

David Baddiel: Trolls Not The Dolls 19th March at Symphony Hall, Birmingham Following his five-star Oliviernominated hit My Family: Not The Sitcom and the return to number 1 of his seminal football anthem Three Lions, David Baddiel comes back to the stage with a brand new one-man show, Trolls: Not The Dolls.

Tartuffe 20th March – 4th April at Birmingham Repertory Theatre Tartuffe has the gift of the gab. A spirituality. A certain aura about him… that comes only when you claim to have Allah on your side, hundreds of Twitter followers and access to the family’s bank account. Eventually, the lies and deceit unfold in this wickedly hilarious Brummie satire of faith, family and #fakingit

Jimmy Carr 6th March at Symphony Hall, Birmingham Jimmy’s brand-new show contains jokes about all kinds of terrible things. Terrible things that might have affected you or people you know and love. But they’re just jokes - they are not the terrible things. Having political correctness at a comedy show is like having health and safety at a rodeo.

Marisha Wallace 14th March at Birmingham Hippodrome Inspired by the likes of the late, great Aretha Franklin, Etta James and Ella Fitzgerald, Marisha’s voice will pull you from your seat and to your feet. She effortlessly infuses jazz, gospel and R&B with a healthy dose of soul that will leave you feeling inspired and uplifted.

My Mother Said I Never Should 16th – 18th March at Birmingham Repertory Theatre A moving and funny exploration of the lives of four generations of women in one family. Shifting back and forth in time, we see their loves, expectations and choices play out against huge social change from 1900-1980s.

Coventry Festival of Running 22nd March – 5th April This celebration of sport kicks off with the Children’s Mile and Toddler Dash on Sunday 22nd March and finishes two weeks later on Sunday 5th April 2020 with the Coventry Half Marathon and 5k run.

Birmingham Wine Weekend 22nd – 24th March Birmingham Wine Weekend is a long weekend of sipping delicious wines in some of Birmingham’s best venues!

CIRQUE DU SOLEIL ‘CRYSTAL’ CIRQUE DU SOLEIL ‘CRYSTAL’

RESORTS WORLD ARENA – 8-12 APR 20RESORTS WORLD ARENA – 8-12 APR 20

GREGORY PORTER GREGORY PORTER

RESORTS WORLD ARENA – 16 MAY 20 Wed 4- Sat28Mar Wed 8& Thu 9Apr RESORTS WORLD ARENA – 16 MAY 20 Wed 4- Sat28Mar Wed 8& Thu 9Apr

ARENA BIRMINGHAM – 08 JUNE 20 ALICIA KEYS ARENA BIRMINGHAM – 08 JUNE 20 ALICIA KEYS

WHITESNAKE, FOREIGNER & EUROPEWHITESNAKE, FOREIGNER & EUROPE

ARENA BIRMINGHAM – 3 JUN 2020ARENA BIRMINGHAM – 3 JUN 2020

Wed 6May Wed 6May

DUA LIPA Tue12- Sat30May DUA LIPA Tue12- Sat30May

ARENA BIRMINGHAM – 10 JUN 2020ARENA BIRMINGHAM – 10 JUN 2020

QUEEN & ADAM LAMBERT QUEEN & ADAM LAMBERT

ARENA BIRMINGHAM – 14 & 15 JUN 20ARENA BIRMINGHAM – 14 & 15 JUN 20

MICHAEL BOLTON MICHAEL BOLTON

RESORTS WORLD ARENA – 17 OCT 20 Fri 19- Sat27Jun Tue30Jun Sat18Jul RESORTS WORLD ARENA – 17 OCT 20 Fri 19- Sat27Jun Tue30Jun Sat18Jul Mon 13- Sat18Apr Mon 13- Sat18Apr

Tue2- Sat6Jun Tue2- Sat6Jun

Tue21 - Sat25Jul Tue21 - Sat25Jul

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THE DIARY. Classic comedy, family fun and fearless females: Spring at the Belgrade Theatre [ the diary ] <<< THE DIARY. Classic comedy, family fun and fearless females: Spring at the Belgrade Theatre

Grace Carter 22nd March at O2 Institute Birmingham After a year of self-discovery, hard work and plenty of fun, Grace Carter is continuing her ascent to the top with her biggest headline tour to date. Grace Carter 22nd March at O2 Institute Birmingham After a year of self-discovery, hard work and plenty of fun, Grace Carter is continuing her ascent to the top with her biggest headline tour to date. magician, Illusionist and Britain’s Got Talent star, Darcy Oake, as he returns to the UK for a run of jaw-dropping shows. magician, Illusionist and Britain’s Got Talent star, Darcy Oake, as he returns to the UK for a run of jaw-dropping shows.

Spring is finally in the air and the Belgrade Theatre is gearing up for another action-packed season with diverse shows ranging from classic comedies to hit West End musicals and favourite family stories. Spring is finally in the air and the Belgrade Theatre is gearing up for another action-packed season with diverse shows ranging from classic comedies to hit West End musicals and favourite family stories.

Making plans for the Easter holidays? From 22-25 April, the award-winning Birmingham Stage Company are back with another brilliantly bonkers adaptation of a bestselling David Walliams book. Following the huge success of Gangsta Granny and Awful Auntie, the company this year take on Billionaire Boy, the hilarious story of schoolboy Joe Spud and his toilet roll tycoon father. Making plans for the Easter holidays? From 22-25 April, the award-winning Birmingham Stage Company are back with another brilliantly bonkers adaptation of a bestselling David Walliams book. Following the huge success of Gangsta Granny and Awful Auntie, the company this year take on Billionaire Boy, the hilarious story of schoolboy Joe Spud and his toilet roll tycoon father.

Colin Thackery 25th March at Town Hall, Birmingham This new headline tour will see Colin perform his muchloved favourite BGT winning songs. Colin will also be joined by acclaimed musical director, supervisor and conductor Jae Alexander. Colin Thackery 25th March at Town Hall, Birmingham This new headline tour will see Colin perform his muchloved favourite BGT winning songs. Colin will also be joined by acclaimed musical director, supervisor and conductor Jae Alexander.

The High Table 25th March – 9th April at Birmingham Repertory Theatre An epic family drama played out between the heavens and earth, The High Table is the hilarious and heart-breaking debut play from Temi Wilkey. The High Table 25th March – 9th April at Birmingham Repertory Theatre An epic family drama played out between the heavens and earth, The High Table is the hilarious and heart-breaking debut play from Temi Wilkey.

Then from 2-7 June, experience the unstoppable musical histo-remix as West End smash hit SIX lands in Coventry as part of its first UK tour. Packed full of sisterly sass and empowering anthems you’ll be singing for weeks, this spectacular show tells the story of Henry VIII’s six wives as you’ve never heard them before. Then from 2-7 June, experience the unstoppable musical histo-remix as West End smash hit SIX lands in Coventry as part of its first UK tour. Packed full of sisterly sass and empowering anthems you’ll be singing for weeks, this spectacular show tells the story of Henry VIII’s six wives as you’ve never heard them before.

Then from 6-9 May, Alan Ayckbourn’s comic masterpiece Absurd Person Singular will delve into the world of 1970s suburbia. Directed by Michael Cabot, this side-splitting satire of social climbing fuses farce and black comedy as it follows three married couples and their Christmas celebrations. Then from 6-9 May, Alan Ayckbourn’s comic masterpiece Absurd Person Singular will delve into the world of 1970s suburbia. Directed by Michael Cabot, this side-splitting satire of social climbing fuses farce and black comedy as it follows three married couples and their Christmas celebrations.

Blade Runner In Concert 26th March at Symphony Hall, Birmingham Experience Ridley Scott’s multi-Academy Award®- nominated cult classic, Blade Runner (2007 Final Cut), on a vast HD screen while Vangelis’ synthesiser-led score is performed by The Avex Ensemble for the first time in-sync with the 1982 motion picture. Blade Runner In Concert 26th March at Symphony Hall, Birmingham Experience Ridley Scott’s multi-Academy Award®- nominated cult classic, Blade Runner (2007 Final Cut), on a vast HD screen while Vangelis’ synthesiser-led score is performed by The Avex Ensemble for the first time in-sync with the 1982 motion picture.

DX – Mariposa 27th & 28th March at Birmingham Hippodrome Under the neon lights of a Caribbean port, a local rent boy and a foreign sailor fall in love in choreographer Carlos Pons Guerra’s reimagining of Puccini’s seminal opera, Madame Butterfly. DX – Mariposa 27th & 28th March at Birmingham Hippodrome Under the neon lights of a Caribbean port, a local rent boy and a foreign sailor fall in love in choreographer Carlos Pons Guerra’s reimagining of Puccini’s seminal opera, Madame Butterfly.

David Gray 28th March at Resorts World Arena, Birmingham Multi-platinum, multi-Brit and Grammy-nominated, British singer-songwriter David Gray is today announcing a 12- date UK and European arena tour; White Ladder: The 20th Anniversary Tour, to celebrate the trailblazing album’s 20- year anniversary. David Gray 28th March at Resorts World Arena, Birmingham Multi-platinum, multi-Brit and Grammy-nominated, British singer-songwriter David Gray is today announcing a 12- date UK and European arena tour; White Ladder: The 20th Anniversary Tour, to celebrate the trailblazing album’s 20- year anniversary.

Table Manners with Jessie Ware 28th March at Town Hall, Birmingham Currently in the midst of its eighth series, Table Manners sees critically acclaimed singer-songwriter Jessie Ware and her chef extraordinaire mum Lennie chat with a guest from the worlds of music, culture and politics from the singer’s dinner table over a three-course meal. Table Manners with Jessie Ware 28th March at Town Hall, Birmingham Currently in the midst of its eighth series, Table Manners sees critically acclaimed singer-songwriter Jessie Ware and her chef extraordinaire mum Lennie chat with a guest from the worlds of music, culture and politics from the singer’s dinner table over a three-course meal.

Wed 4- Sat28Mar Wed 4- Sat28Mar

Wed 6MayWed 6May

OOH LA VOIX!

Fri 19- Sat27Jun Internionally renowned & critically acclaimed diva, La Voix is one of the UK’s leading variety performers and funniest red heads performing across the globe dazzling audiences. With stints on Britain’s Got Talent and Michael McIntryre’s Big Show to appearances on the silver screen in Ab Fab The Movie, La Voix is continuing her assault on the UK. Saul Morgan caught up with her as she appeared at Leicester’s Little Theatre. Fri 19- Sat27Jun

Take us back to your childhood La Voix, can you tell us a little bit about La Voix as a child. Well, my childhood, was very theatrical, as you can imagine. My parents ran a theatrical boarding house for all sort of retired people in the showbiz world, all the greats were there, Jennette Cranky, Christopher Biggins, the unfunny one from Cannon and Ball, I can’t remember his name, all of them were there’. So of course, I grew up around all these fabulous entertainers and it’s there I had my first sort of inkling that I wanted to go into the showbiz world.

Unforgettable performance,powered byyou 0844 338 5000* birminghamhippodrome.com *Calls cost4.5p permin plus access charge. Tue12- Sat30May Mon 13- Sat18Apr Wed 8& Thu 9Apr

Tue2- Sat6Jun Tue30Jun Sat18Jul Tue21 - Sat25Jul Tue15- Sat26Sep Mon 12- Sat17Oct MacDonald. I used to get all her old handme-downs, some of them were quite moth eaten, I’m not going to beat around the bush. But it’s only now that I have a whole team of people from scaffolders and feather fluffers to designers and seamstresses. What would you say are your make-up essentials? I’m a big fan of the true red lip so much so that I’ve launched my own called Ooh La La Red- you can get it on my website. A lot of women are scared to use it but throw on a bit of red lippy and you’ll always get a compliment – guaranteed! Would you say you have any style icons at all? Well I used to always be inspired by Judy Finnigan on This Morning. In her time she was as cutting edge as GaGa but then she had that faux-pas on the TV awards. The minute I saw her in that oversized maternity bra, I thought, that’s it. She’s gone. So now it’s Ruth Langsford I look to. Imagine what time in the morning she has to get up, she goes to the studio, probably has a hoard of hair and makeup artists yet she still manages to look so plain and simple. I think that’s inspiring! How would you describe an average day in La Voix? Oh well, it starts with a yoga class, I love yoga! There’s nothing like a downward dog to set the day off. Then, my gorgeous Joanne, my vegan driver picks me up, every day’s a show day for La Voix! So, I get driven to the latest venue, the band will arrive and there’ll be a soundcheck before I’m into make-up, hair styling, costumes. The audience will arrive and it’s straight into a full two-hour live band show spectacular before popping back in the car and home. That’s my day in a nutshell. Your act is inspired by some of the biggest divas around including Liza, Judy and Cher. Has their music always been in your life? Yes, I’ve always been inspired by those greats, you know they took risks, they were amazingly entertaining, and they all sang live, these huge, belting voices. My father had a huge vinyl collection when I was growing up and there was always music in our house; Donna Summer, Eurovision Greatest Hits, Barbara Streisand. Looking back my Father’s record collection does raise a few questions, but we won’t go into that one… What songs are your favourite to perform live, and why? Ooo It’s got to be the big ones! Your Shirley Bassey belters, your Liza Minelli show tunes anything that’s big, brassy and you can belt out, that’s what I like. You’ve worked alongside some huge stars including Joanna Lumley, Jennifer Saunders and Sir Ian McKellen to name just a few. Have you received any notable advice from them about the showbiz lifestyle? Well Joanna Lumley taught me about the importance of carrying a pashmina. I’ve worked with so many fabulous people that I never get starstruck. Jennifer Saunders met me, she was a quivering mess I can tell you, because, these people, they need glamour in their lives. I met her doing Ab Fab the movie which was a great experience. You were the first vibrant red head to make it to Britain’s Got Talent final, what inspired you to audition in the first place? You’ve always got to have a gimmick on that show, a gimmick or a sob story. I learnt that very, very quickly because, of course, I went on with a twenty-two-piece London Gay Big Band, although apparently nine lesbians blowing trumpets isn’t a gimmick... Simon Cowell was so glad I was on. I think he just wanted to work and experience the presence of a natural woman; it must be hard always working with Amanda Holden and Alesha Dixon. I used to do a great impersonation of Amanda Holden actually. That’s when I was temporarily paralysed so we won’t got into that. You’ve also had the chance to feature in the film ‘Absolutely Fabulous’ as you mentioned, how did that opportunity come about? Well, Jennifer Saunders called me and said ‘La Voix I need a leading lady, a strong leading woman to carry this film forward’, so I said ‘Look I might be free Jennifer, but I am due to be the foot model for Bazuka Gel, but I’ll cancel that and I’ll be all for it’. I’m so pleased I did as I had an amazing time. Jennifer Saunders is such an inspiring woman. When I was younger I used to love watching her on television. I used to think every time that woman came on the television “If I lived in Dibley I’d go to that church.” Would you say the ‘Absolutely Fabulous’ movie has been a career highlight so far, or would you say there’s another event that’s sticks out? Oh, there has been so many highlights. I’ve had shows at the Palladium for Future Dreams charity, I’ve done the Royal Family’s New Year’s Eve party twice in Dorchester and Ian McKellen’s 80th birthday party. I even did pantomime with Sue Pollard! What’s left to achieve that you’ve not quite done yet? Oh, it’s to bring back good old-fashioned fabulous entertainment to television. You’ll turn on the television these days and there’s just nothing entertaining. I mean, there’s only so many times you can watch Gemma Collins falling over isn’t there?! www.lavoix.co.uk Unforgettable performance,powered byyou 0844 338 5000* birminghamhippodrome.com *Calls cost4.5p permin plus access charge. Tue12- Sat30May Mon 13- Sat18Apr Wed 8& Thu 9Apr

Tue2- Sat6Jun Tue30Jun Sat18Jul Tue21 - Sat25Jul Tue15- Sat26Sep Mon 12- Sat17Oct

THE DIARY. HAUNTINGS AT THE HIPPODROME [ the diary ] <<< THE DIARY. HAUNTINGS AT THE HIPPODROME

Andrew Lloyd Webber and Cameron Mackintosh’s brilliant original production of The Phantom of the Opera is returning to haunt Birmingham Hippodrome this summer. Andrew Lloyd Webber and Cameron Mackintosh’s brilliant original production of The Phantom of the Opera is returning to haunt Birmingham Hippodrome this summer.

Now in its 34th phenomenal year in the West End, The Phantom of the Opera is widely considered one of the most beautiful and spectacular productions in history. Andrew Lloyd Webber’s romantic, haunting and soaring score includes Music of the Night, All I Ask of You, Masquerade and the iconic title song. Now in its 34th phenomenal year in the West End, The Phantom of the Opera is widely considered one of the most beautiful and spectacular productions in history. Andrew Lloyd Webber’s romantic, haunting and soaring score includes Music of the Night, All I Ask of You, Masquerade and the iconic title song.

The Phantom of the Opera is one of the most successful musicals in entertainment history playing to over 145 million people in 41 countries and 183 cities in 17 languages. It has won more than 70 major theatre awards, including seven Tony Awards and four Olivier Awards. The Phantom of the Opera is one of the most successful musicals in entertainment history playing to over 145 million people in 41 countries and 183 cities in 17 languages. It has won more than 70 major theatre awards, including seven Tony Awards and four Olivier Awards.

The Phantom of the Opera the only show in history to have celebrated 30 years on both sides of the Atlantic. In October 2016 the London production celebrated its 30th Anniversary with a special gala performance at Her Majesty’s Theatre and in October 2011 the London production celebrated its 25th Anniversary with a spectacular staging of “The Phantom of the Opera at the Royal Albert Hall” which was screened live in cinemas all over the world and subsequently released on DVD. The musical became the longest running show in Broadway history on 9 January 2006 when it celebrated its 7,486th performance. On 1 January 2018 it celebrated its 13,000th performance and later that month on 24 January the Broadway production celebrated an amazing 30 years on Broadway. The Phantom of the Opera the only show in history to have celebrated 30 years on both sides of the Atlantic. In October 2016 the London production celebrated its 30th Anniversary with a special gala performance at Her Majesty’s Theatre and in October 2011 the London production celebrated its 25th Anniversary with a spectacular staging of “The Phantom of the Opera at the Royal Albert Hall” which was screened live in cinemas all over the world and subsequently released on DVD. The musical became the longest running show in Broadway history on 9 January 2006 when it celebrated its 7,486th performance. On 1 January 2018 it celebrated its 13,000th performance and later that month on 24 January the Broadway production celebrated an amazing 30 years on Broadway.

Returning to Birmingham Hippodrome following his acclaimed performance as Jean Valjean in Les Misérables, Killian Donnelly will play the title role of ‘The Phantom’. He will be joined by HollyAnne Hull as ‘Christine Daaé’ and Rhys Whitfield as ‘Raoul’. Returning to Birmingham Hippodrome following his acclaimed performance as Jean Valjean in Les Misérables, Killian Donnelly will play the title role of ‘The Phantom’. He will be joined by HollyAnne Hull as ‘Christine Daaé’ and Rhys Whitfield as ‘Raoul’.

Magnum 30th March at Town Hall, Birmingham The band, formed in Birmingham in 1972, had notable successes in their early years, including 1982 album ‘Chasing the Dragon’ which spawned live favourites ‘ Soldier of The Line’, ‘Sacred Hour’ and ‘The Spirit’. Magnum 30th March at Town Hall, Birmingham The band, formed in Birmingham in 1972, had notable successes in their early years, including 1982 album ‘Chasing the Dragon’ which spawned live favourites ‘ Soldier of The Line’, ‘Sacred Hour’ and ‘The Spirit’.

identity by a young artist at the height of her career, using photography to interrogate the intricacies of skin, blackness and being. Active between 1985–1997 this is Maxine Walker’s first solo exhibition in her home city of Birmingham. identity by a young artist at the height of her career, using photography to interrogate the intricacies of skin, blackness and being. Active between 1985–1997 this is Maxine Walker’s first solo exhibition in her home city of Birmingham.

Message in a Bottle 8th – 11th April at Birmingham Hippodrome With a mix of exhilarating dance styles, dazzling footwork and breath-taking athleticism set to the music of Sting, Message In A Bottle tells a vital and uplifting story of humanity and hope. A village alive with joyous celebrations is suddenly under siege. Everything changes forever. Determined and daring, three parted siblings step out on their own extraordinary adventures. Message in a Bottle 8th – 11th April at Birmingham Hippodrome With a mix of exhilarating dance styles, dazzling footwork and breath-taking athleticism set to the music of Sting, Message In A Bottle tells a vital and uplifting story of humanity and hope. A village alive with joyous celebrations is suddenly under siege. Everything changes forever. Determined and daring, three parted siblings step out on their own extraordinary adventures.

Goldfrapp 31st March at Symphony Hall, Birmingham A brand new show featuring lush and intimate takes on classics from across their 20 year career. Goldfrapp 31st March at Symphony Hall, Birmingham A brand new show featuring lush and intimate takes on classics from across their 20 year career.

APRILAPRIL

Faulty Towers the Original Dining Experience 1st – 4th April at Birmingham Hippodrome Chaos reigns right from the start as Basil, Sybil and Manuel serve a 3-course meal along with plenty of laughs. Totally immersive, it’s a true blend of ingenious comedy and unique theatrical script, creating an experience that’s perfect for comedy fans, theatre fans, and anyone who just fancies going out for a meal they’ll never forget. Faulty Towers the Original Dining Experience 1st – 4th April at Birmingham Hippodrome Chaos reigns right from the start as Basil, Sybil and Manuel serve a 3-course meal along with plenty of laughs. Totally immersive, it’s a true blend of ingenious comedy and unique theatrical script, creating an experience that’s perfect for comedy fans, theatre fans, and anyone who just fancies going out for a meal they’ll never forget.

Maxine Walker: UNTITLED 4th April – 21st June at MAC Birmingham Reintroducing a pioneering artist whose practice focused on representations of black womanhood, the exhibition is a poignant exploration of Maxine Walker: UNTITLED 4th April – 21st June at MAC Birmingham Reintroducing a pioneering artist whose practice focused on representations of black womanhood, the exhibition is a poignant exploration of

Cirque Du Soleil Crystal 8th – 12th April at Resorts World Arena, Birmingham This spectacular show blends circus arts and the world of ice skating in a stunning new production that will take the audience on a journey into a whimsical frozen playground where ice skating of all kinds mingles with acrobatics and aerial feats. Cirque Du Soleil Crystal 8th – 12th April at Resorts World Arena, Birmingham This spectacular show blends circus arts and the world of ice skating in a stunning new production that will take the audience on a journey into a whimsical frozen playground where ice skating of all kinds mingles with acrobatics and aerial feats.

Rick Astley 9th April at Arena Birmingham Rick Astley has proven to be a consistently huge draw in the live arena. He’s sold over 100,000 tickets to his UK headline shows since releasing his charttopping album ‘50’ in 2016. Rick Astley 9th April at Arena Birmingham Rick Astley has proven to be a consistently huge draw in the live arena. He’s sold over 100,000 tickets to his UK headline shows since releasing his charttopping album ‘50’ in 2016.

THE DIARY. THE PREMIER LOUNGE – CORPORATE HOSPITALITY WITH A DIFFERENCE FROM THE AWARD-WINNING AMPLIFY THE DIARY. THE PREMIER LOUNGE – CORPORATE HOSPITALITY WITH A DIFFERENCE FROM THE AWARD-WINNING AMPLIFY

Since Arena Birmingham opened the exclusive Premier Lounge, it’s proved an exciting new hotspot in the city for corporate hospitality with a unique twist. Ever more business executives across the city are turning to the Premier Lounge to entertain their clients when the traditional golf days, football matches and restaurants just aren’t appealing to their diverse client base. The contemporary lounge offers a relaxed environment, but with the premium feel you’d expect from the Arena’s hospitality arm Amplify. Every Premier Lounge member receives a welcome drink as they enter the lounge, before being taken to their private balcony seating with panoramic views across the Arena. From there they can browse the menu of Premier Lounge’s very own bar, from which in-house caterers Amadeus serve up an exclusive range of drinks (including a selection of cocktails). Drinks can be ordered right to your seat with Amadeus’ bespoke Qjacker app created for the venue – making sure you won’t miss a moment of the show. Premier Lounge brings with it a new debenture-style of membership, similar to what you might expect from a football or rugby season ticket. Each membership purchases access to 2 seats for 10 performances, which includes access to Amplify member events and exclusive discounts for future shows. For the ultimate way to personalise their experience, members will also receive the unique opportunity to put their name, or company name, on their very own seats. Organising corporate entertainment can be a headache when you’re already busy, so Amplify offers clients a dedicated account manager to look after them. Each account manager knows their clients’ needs inside out – so they can recommend the perfect show and the perfect space to suit their needs. The team recently won the prestigious accolade of “Greater Birmingham Prices for Premier Lounge membership start at £2500+VAT. To find out more about the Premier Lounge visit www.arenabham.co.uk/premier, or to receive a tour of the space from the Amplify team, please give them a call on 0844 338 0333. Individual Premier Lounge tickets also available for select shows. Since Arena Birmingham opened the exclusive Premier Lounge, it’s proved an exciting new hotspot in the city for corporate hospitality with a unique twist. Ever more business executives across the city are turning to the Premier Lounge to entertain their clients when the traditional golf days, football matches and restaurants just aren’t appealing to their diverse client base. The contemporary lounge offers a relaxed environment, but with the premium feel you’d expect from the Arena’s hospitality arm Amplify. Every Premier Lounge member receives a welcome drink as they enter the lounge, before being taken to their private balcony seating with panoramic views across the Arena. From there they can browse the menu of Premier Lounge’s very own bar, from which in-house caterers Amadeus serve up an exclusive range of drinks (including a selection of cocktails). Drinks can be ordered right to your seat with Amadeus’ bespoke Qjacker app created for the venue – making sure you won’t miss a moment of the show. Premier Lounge brings with it a new debenture-style of membership, similar to what you might expect from a football or rugby season ticket. Each membership purchases access to 2 seats for 10 performances, which includes access to Amplify member events and exclusive discounts for future shows. For the ultimate way to personalise their experience, members will also receive the unique opportunity to put their name, or company name, on their very own seats. Organising corporate entertainment can be a headache when you’re already busy, so Amplify offers clients a dedicated account manager to look after them. Each account manager knows their clients’ needs inside out – so they can recommend the perfect show and the perfect space to suit their needs. The team recently won the prestigious accolade of “Greater Birmingham Prices for Premier Lounge membership start at £2500+VAT. To find out more about the Premier Lounge visit www.arenabham.co.uk/premier, or to receive a tour of the space from the Amplify team, please give them a call on 0844 338 0333. Individual Premier Lounge tickets also available for select shows.

56 dluxe-magazine.co.uk 56 dluxe-magazine.co.uk Chambers of Commerce Business of the Year”, with the six-strong team praised for their “mindset of continuous improvement” and growing performance from modest beginnings. Chambers of Commerce Business of the Year”, with the six-strong team praised for their “mindset of continuous improvement” and growing performance from modest beginnings.

Amplify have been delivering corporate hospitality for over 20 years. Operating exclusively at the NEC Group Arenas – Arena Birmingham (city centre) and Resorts World Arena (NEC campus), their range of packages provide exclusive hospitality, exquisite dining and premium tickets for the world-class music, comedy and sport events that come to the Arenas every year. Amplify have been delivering corporate hospitality for over 20 years. Operating exclusively at the NEC Group Arenas – Arena Birmingham (city centre) and Resorts World Arena (NEC campus), their range of packages provide exclusive hospitality, exquisite dining and premium tickets for the world-class music, comedy and sport events that come to the Arenas every year.

Il Divo: 11 December 2020 Arena Birmingham is one of the busiest indoor entertainment venues in the world – so you’ll never be short of a show to use your Premier Lounge membership on. Il Divo: 11 December 2020 Arena Birmingham is one of the busiest indoor entertainment venues in the world – so you’ll never be short of a show to use your Premier Lounge membership on.

Upcoming shows include:Upcoming shows include:

Alicia Keys - 8 June 2020 Dua Lipa: 10 June 2020 Celine Dion: 8 & 9 September 2020 Pete Tong Presents Ibiza Classics: 3 December 2020 Alicia Keys - 8 June 2020 Dua Lipa: 10 June 2020 Celine Dion: 8 & 9 September 2020 Pete Tong Presents Ibiza Classics: 3 December 2020

THE DIARY. [ the diary ] <<< THE DIARY.

Remembering the Oscars 9th April at Symphony Hall, Birmingham Fresh from their sell-out tour with their highly entertaining and innovative Remembering The Movies, Aljaz and Janette, will be returning with their brand new show Remembering The Oscars. Get ready to celebrate the Oscar winning songs in this exhilarating new dance spectacular with Strictly’s favourite couple, Aljaz and Janette. Remembering the Oscars 9th April at Symphony Hall, Birmingham Fresh from their sell-out tour with their highly entertaining and innovative Remembering The Movies, Aljaz and Janette, will be returning with their brand new show Remembering The Oscars. Get ready to celebrate the Oscar winning songs in this exhilarating new dance spectacular with Strictly’s favourite couple, Aljaz and Janette.

Oi Frog & Friends! 10th – 13th April at Town Hall, Birmingham Join FROG, CAT and DOG in this new action-packed stage adaptation of Kes Gray and Jim Field’s bestselling books. Expect songs, puppets, laughs and more rhymes than you can shake a chime at. Oi Frog & Friends! 10th – 13th April at Town Hall, Birmingham Join FROG, CAT and DOG in this new action-packed stage adaptation of Kes Gray and Jim Field’s bestselling books. Expect songs, puppets, laughs and more rhymes than you can shake a chime at.

Priscilla Queen of the Desert 13th – 18th April at Birmingham Hippodrome Priscilla is the hilarious adventure of three friends who hop aboard a battered old bus bound for the Outback to put on the show of a lifetime. Their epic journey is a heart-warming story of self-discovery, sassiness and acceptance. Priscilla Queen of the Desert 13th – 18th April at Birmingham Hippodrome Priscilla is the hilarious adventure of three friends who hop aboard a battered old bus bound for the Outback to put on the show of a lifetime. Their epic journey is a heart-warming story of self-discovery, sassiness and acceptance.

The Boomtown Rats 15th April at Town Hall, Birmingham Formed in 1975 in Dublin The Boomtown Rats exploded out of Ireland in ’76 and their fast, loud, furious music meant they became part of the burgeoning punk scene. The Boomtown Rats 15th April at Town Hall, Birmingham Formed in 1975 in Dublin The Boomtown Rats exploded out of Ireland in ’76 and their fast, loud, furious music meant they became part of the burgeoning punk scene.

The Croft 15th – 18th April at Belgrade Theatre, Coventry In this bold and haunting new play the present interweaves with the past as ancient tales surface and the terrifying truth lurking in the Croft is revealed. The Croft 15th – 18th April at Belgrade Theatre, Coventry In this bold and haunting new play the present interweaves with the past as ancient tales surface and the terrifying truth lurking in the Croft is revealed.

JP Cooper 18th April at O2 Academy Birmingham Fresh from a sold-out string of UK shows, soul-pop singer, JP Cooper, is heading back out on the road armed with new single, ‘Sing It With Me’. JP Cooper 18th April at O2 Academy Birmingham Fresh from a sold-out string of UK shows, soul-pop singer, JP Cooper, is heading back out on the road armed with new single, ‘Sing It With Me’.

We Will Rock You 20th April – 2nd May at Birmingham Hippodrome The worldwide smash hit musical by Queen and Ben Elton returns to the UK. The multi-million-pound We Will Rock You 20th April – 2nd May at Birmingham Hippodrome The worldwide smash hit musical by Queen and Ben Elton returns to the UK. The multi-million-pound show dazzles all the senses in breath-taking style. show dazzles all the senses in breath-taking style.

Billionaire Boy 22nd – 25th April at Belgrade Theatre, Coventry From the award-winning West End producers of Gangsta Granny and Horrible Histories comes this amazing new production of David Walliams’ best-selling story. Billionaire Boy 22nd – 25th April at Belgrade Theatre, Coventry From the award-winning West End producers of Gangsta Granny and Horrible Histories comes this amazing new production of David Walliams’ best-selling story.

Andre Rieu 23rd April at Resorts World Arena, Birmingham André Rieu, the Dutch “King of Waltz” who has made classical music accessible to ordinary people, will bring his Johann Strauss Orchestra back to Birmingham next April! Andre Rieu 23rd April at Resorts World Arena, Birmingham André Rieu, the Dutch “King of Waltz” who has made classical music accessible to ordinary people, will bring his Johann Strauss Orchestra back to Birmingham next April!

Simple Minds 24th April at Resorts World Arena, Birmingham Simple Minds celebrate 40 iconic years in music by embarking upon a major world tour in 2020. Simple Minds 24th April at Resorts World Arena, Birmingham Simple Minds celebrate 40 iconic years in music by embarking upon a major world tour in 2020. “Electric Ladies of the 80s”. Luke Evans 26th April at Symphony Hall, Birmingham At last, says Luke Evans with a grin – after a decade in musical theatre, and another decade in movies and television, the Welsh actor is finally able to fully dive into his first love: singing. “Electric Ladies of the 80s”. Luke Evans 26th April at Symphony Hall, Birmingham At last, says Luke Evans with a grin – after a decade in musical theatre, and another decade in movies and television, the Welsh actor is finally able to fully dive into his first love: singing.

LAVA 28th April – 2nd May at The REP, Birmingham Sharply funny and deeply moving, LAVA is a tender, necessary story about friendship and human connection in the face of the inexplicable. LAVA 28th April – 2nd May at The REP, Birmingham Sharply funny and deeply moving, LAVA is a tender, necessary story about friendship and human connection in the face of the inexplicable.

An Inspector Calls 28th April – 2nd May at Belgrade Theatre, Coventry When Inspector Goole arrives unexpectedly at the prosperous Birling family home, their peaceful dinner party is shattered by his investigations into the death of a young woman. His startling revelations shake the very foundations of their lives and challenge us all to examine our consciences. An Inspector Calls 28th April – 2nd May at Belgrade Theatre, Coventry When Inspector Goole arrives unexpectedly at the prosperous Birling family home, their peaceful dinner party is shattered by his investigations into the death of a young woman. His startling revelations shake the very foundations of their lives and challenge us all to examine our consciences.

Toyah & Hazel O’Connor – The Electric Ladies of the 80s Tour 25th April at Town Hall, Birmingham Post Punk and New Wave artists Toyah and Hazel O’Connor join forces to bring you their exciting new tour, Toyah & Hazel O’Connor – The Electric Ladies of the 80s Tour 25th April at Town Hall, Birmingham Post Punk and New Wave artists Toyah and Hazel O’Connor join forces to bring you their exciting new tour,

Oliver Twist 29th April – 9th May at The REP, Birmingham This bold, brutal and beautiful new version of Oliver Twist sends you on a dark adventure through the twisted streets of London. Every performance of Oliver Twist will feature the use of integrated creative sign language, audio description and captioning. Oliver Twist 29th April – 9th May at The REP, Birmingham This bold, brutal and beautiful new version of Oliver Twist sends you on a dark adventure through the twisted streets of London. Every performance of Oliver Twist will feature the use of integrated creative sign language, audio description and captioning.

22 – 25 Apr 6 – 9 May 2 – 7 Jun from £15 * from £15 * 22 – 25 Apr 6 – 9 May 2 – 7 Jun from £15 * from £15 *

from £15 * from £15 *

BOOK NOW 024 7655 3055 www.belgrade.co.uk *Ticket prices include a £1.50 booking fee. No booking fee applies if booked online. BOOK NOW 024 7655 3055 www.belgrade.co.uk *Ticket prices include a £1.50 booking fee. No booking fee applies if booked online.

WHAT’S ON AT THE BELFRY WHAT’S ON AT THE BELFRY

3 COURSE MEAL | LIVE MUSIC | THEMED DRESS FROM £34.95 PER PERSON 3 COURSE MEAL | LIVE MUSIC | THEMED DRESS FROM £34.95 PER PERSON

BELFRY BINGO FRIDAY 24 TH APRIL BELFRY BINGO FRIDAY 24 TH APRIL WHITE PARTY FRIDAY 24 TH JULY WHITE PARTY FRIDAY 24 TH JULY 1920 s PROHIBITION NIGHT FRIDAY 25 TH SEPTEMBER 1920 s PROHIBITION NIGHT FRIDAY 25 TH SEPTEMBER