MUSIC, THEATRE, DANCE, COMEDY, EVENTS Mitch Benn Live: Ten Songs to Save the World
Saturday 19 October, 7.30pm One broken world and ten funny songs to fix it. From BBC Radio 4’s “Now Show”, award-winning Mitch Benn, spreads insight and laughs in equal measure. Join the “country’s leading musical satirist” (The Times) as, with six string in hand and a head full of silly rhymes, he identifies the problems and proposes (semi-serious) solutions. “Song after song of exquisitely crafted satire” The Scotsman “Well crafted lyrics, catchy tunes and a charismatic performer. What more could you ask for?” Leicester Mercury “A seriously talented laugh-maker, musician and satirist. “Well crafted, well sung, his songs are just plain funny” The Guardian
Tickets: £14 Adults, £13 Friends and £12 19’s and under
Bouncy Castle Fun
Wednesday 30 October, 10am – 12pm Bouncy castle fun in our main hall. All Children must be accompanied by an adult. Places are limited so please book early to avoid disappointment. £2.50 per child
Slimy Spidery Halloween Craft Session
Thursday 31 October, 10am – 12pm Join us for a fun family session making slime and creating Halloween wreaths to take home. All children must be supervised by an adult. £2.50 per child
Wem Craft Fair
Friday 1 November, 5.30pm – 9pm Saturday 2 November and Sunday 3 November, 9.30am – 2.30pm A variety of stalls by Wem Crafters all sharing their wares of homemade crafts. Come join us and get some great presents or just treat yourself!
Altan Live In Concert
Saturday 26th October, 7.30pm WTH is excited to bring the eminent Altan to Shropshire this autumn. No Irish traditional band in the last dozen years has had a wider impact on audiences and music lovers throughout the world than Altan. Celebrating 30 years in the industry this is a rare chance to hear the stories that have spun golden careers and some of their best musical hits. With their exquisitely produced award-winning recordings, ranging dynamically from the most sensitive and touching old Irish songs all the way to hard hitting reels and jigs, and with their heartwarming, dynamic live performances, Altan have moved audiences from Donegal to Tokyo to Seattle. Throughout, there has been the unwavering commitment of the band to bringing the beauty of traditional music, particularly that of the Donegal fiddlers and singers, to contemporary audiences in a way that brings out all its qualities and destroys none. In fact, Altan have always believed that Irish traditional music is a modern music in every sense and its growing influence and popularity have proved them right. Tickets: Adults £22, Friends £20
“The finest traditional Irish combo working today, Altan seamlessly blend dazzling instrumental prowess and the gorgeously delicate vocals of Mairead Ni Mhaonaigh” Chicago Weekly
Fetch Theatre: The Pedlar’s Tale (6+)
Friday 15 November, 5.30pm (1 hour 30 minutes including interval) The storyteller weaves a magical spell, drawing you into a fantastical world in this pop-up touring show with music, featuring a host of beautiful puppets. Bite-sized stories, contained in a quirky cart drawn by a goat, have been inspired by fascinating historical documents and objects from Herefordshire Archives. The cart also contains a ‘magical’ box, to collect stories from you, the audience. Relax and enjoy all the stories performed together as ‘Silver Joan’s’ tales unfold. Most suitable for ages 6+ but younger children also welcome. Tickets: All £4 Join us for pre-show pizza and ice cream at 4.30pm - only £4.95! Pre-book only.
Ballroom and Sequence Dance
Friday 22 November, 7.30pm With live music by John Harrison. Dancers £5, Non dancers £2.50
Open Sky Theatre: Disappearing Act (12+)
Saturday 23 November, 7.30pm (1 hour 5 minutes) A dark, delirious magical cabaret is performed by three female performers, telling the story of magician’s assistant Edie Rose at different stages of her career. Using visual physical theatre, new writing, song, puppetry, object manipulation and magic tricks, the show addresses themes of sexuality in performance, motherhood, the hopefulness of youth, the wisdom of experience, love, loss and identity. Tickets: Adults £12, Friends £10, Under 19’s £5 Feeling a bit peckish? Pre order a plate of cheese and biscuits for the interval at £4.95 per person!
James Wilton Dance: Leviathan
Thursday 28 November, 7.30pm (1 hour 30 minutes, including interval) Leviathan follows Ahab, a ship captain hell-bent on capturing the white whale: Moby Dick, a beast as vast and dangerous as the sea itself, yet utterly beautiful. Ahab’s crew is drawn into the unhinged charisma of their captain, blindly following him on his perilous adventure towards almost certain destruction. Multi-award-winning choreographer James Wilton re-imagines Melville’s seminal novel, Moby Dick. Featuring a cast of 6, electro-rock soundtrack and a blend of athletic dance, martial arts, capoeira and partner-work, Leviathan will have you on the edge of your seat. Leviathan is man versus nature; be careful what you fish for! Tickets: Adults £12, Friends £10, Under 19’s £5 Join us for a taste of the seaside with chunky fishfinger sandwiches served with wedges before the show to complete the night out. Pre-order in advance - £7.95 per person
Wem Town Hall Community Trust Quiz
Saturday 30 November, 7pm The hottest competition of the year is back in an evening of entertainment to fundraise for Wem Town Hall Community Trust! Pull your quiz teams together and get genned up on all things entertainment and general knowledge. Tickets: All at £3. Max 6 people per team. Join us for warming homemade goulash at 6.30pm for only £5.95! Please state any dietary requirements when booking.
Winter Festival Craft and Food Fayre
Friday 6 December, 5pm - 9pm Buy your loved ones something special this Christmas Craft and Food Fayre. Featuring local products made by local people. Free Entry. Don’t forget to complete your Christmas shopping down the High Street and check out all the events organised by Wem Christmas Lights committee too!
Wem Training Band In Concert
Saturday 7 December, 1.30pm Get in the festive spirit with Wem Training Band as they regale you with your favourite Christmas tunes and hymns. Tickets: Adults £4, 19 years and under £1
FARA: Christmas Tour
Friday 13 December, 7.30pm FARA are four young musicians at the forefront of today’s Scottish folk scene. Their fiery Orkney sound has won them acclaim including a nomination for best newcomers at the 2017 Radio 2 Folk awards. This December they come to WTH to present a unique night of Christmas cheer. Some original songs sung with such beautiful, haunting clarity that sends a shiver down your back and a medley of Christmas music and tunes with a festive twist. Anyone who heard their live rendition of Silent Night on BBC Radio 2 last year would agree this quartet is not to be missed. Tickets: Adults £14, Friends £12 The perfect pre-Christmas celebration, especially if you pre book a delightful slice of mincemeat tart and glass of gluhwien to enjoy in the interval! £4.95 per person.
Ballroom and Sequence Dance
Friday 24 January, 7.30pm With live music by Graham Darby. Dancers £5, Non dancers £2.50
Shropshire Music Trust Presents: Paper Jam
Friday 7 February, 7.30pm Two jazz giants with a mix of choice standards, bebop classics, beautiful Latin American melodies and original compositions. Chris Garrick, lead member of ‘The Budapest Café Orchestra’ and widely recognised as the country’s leading jazz violinist, returns to Wem Town Hall with fellow jazz pianist and harpsichordist, David Gordon. Between them they have worked with artists such as Wynton Marsalis, Biréli Lagrène, Dolly Parton, All About Eve, Van Morrison and Brian Ferry. “A genuine rapport allied to their immense technical skill...these musical exchanges are consistently full of interest – there’s always something exciting going on.” The Telegraph Tickets: Adults £12, Under 25’s £6, Under 18’s £1
Tangram Theatre Company Presents The Origin of Species: a Musical Comedy about Charles Darwin (7+)
Sunday 16 February 2020, 3pm (1 hour 5 minutes) This international hit tells the remarkable story of how Charles Darwin discovered the secrets of evolution. It’s packed with big ideas, terrible puns, brilliant physical comedy and six cracking original songs. “Remarkably inventive, thoroughly entertaining… Science can rarely have been so fascinating and never so much fun.” The Stage “Grown-ups will love it. Kids will adore it. A gem.” Broadway Baby Tickets: Adults £12, Friends £10, Under 19’s £5 Family of four, max two adults £30
BIG SCREEN EVENTS Have you tried the Big Screen Experience? Or maybe you’ve been wondering what all the fuss is about? Well, let us tell you… You have the opportunity to see world-class theatre, music, dance and exhibitions at the WTH Cinema. The picture and sound quality is amazing. You get a better view than if you were sitting in the theatre itself and for a fraction of the price! You can see close-ups of the performers and it makes you feel really close to the action. You don’t have the expense of making your way down to London or abroad; instead you can make a short journey to WTH, select a luxury coffee or glass of wine and enjoy the experience! This autumn we are delighted to bring New York’s MET Opera to Wem for the first time. With knockout performances of classic operas and intriguing storylines of lesser-known titles produced with the creative flare The MET is known for; this is simply a season you have to try. Complimented by a full season from the National Theatre and Bolshoi Ballet in Moscow as well as one off performances of music, theatre and comedy you really will be spoilt for choice on the Big Screen this autumn. Tickets for all Big Screen Events, unless stated, are charged at £13 Adults, £12 WTH Friends and £7 19 yrs & under
Wise Children (15)
Thursday 3 October, 7pm and Friday 4 October, 1.30pm (2 hours 30 minutes with one interval) A celebration of show business, family, forgiveness and hope, with a generous dash of Shakespeare, scandal and mischief. In Brixton, Nora and Dora Chance – twin chorus girls born and bred south of the river – are celebrating their 75th birthday. Over the river in Chelsea, their father – and greatest actor of his generation – Melchior Hazard turns 100 on the same day. As does his twin brother Peregrine. If, in fact, he’s still alive. And if, in truth, Melchior is their real father after all… ‘pure, unadulterated theatre.’ (***** Broadway World)
Plácido Domingo: 50th Anniversary Gala Evening (12A)
Friday 4 October, 7pm (2 hours 30 minutes including interval) With an illustrious career spanning five decades: over 150 stage roles, 11 Grammy Awards and his iconic performances alongside Luciano Pavarotti and José Carreras as one of the Three Tenors, the legendary Plácido Domingo continues to astound audiences with a vocal talent unmatched in power. For one very special night, Plácido Domingo returns to the breathtaking Arena Di Verona amphitheatre for this anniversary gala evening, 50 years after his debut, revisiting three of his greatest ever roles in Verdi’s Nabucco, Simon Boccanegra and Macbeth.
Elvis Unleashed (12A)
Monday 7 October, 7pm (1 hour 40 minutes) The ‘68 Comeback Special exists as a pinnacle moment in Elvis’ career. Elvis Unleashed is a new feature that showcases the Comeback Special from a brand new perspective, with alternative takes, and classic comeback moments that rejuvenated Elvis’ career. Candid outtakes and rehearsal moments from the original provide an intimate insight into the charm and charisma of the King of Rock ‘n Roll. Together with a specially-curated tribute on the influences of Elvis in music today, this is a cinematic event you definitely need to put on your calendar.
National Theatre Live: A Midsummer Night’s Dream (12A) Thursday 17 October, 7pm (3 hours to be confirmed) ‘The course of true love never did run smooth.’ A feuding fairy King and Queen of the forest cross paths with four runaway lovers and a troupe of actors trying to rehearse a play. As their dispute grows, the magical royal couple meddle with mortal lives leading to love triangles, mistaken identities and transformations… with hilarious, but dark consequences.
Met Opera: Turandot (12A)
Saturday 12 October, 5.55pm (3 hours 22 minutes estimated running time) Franco Zeffirelli’s spectacular production returns to cinemas with powerhouse soprano Christine Goerke taking on the titular role of the sharp Princess, sworn never to be possessed by a man. Calaf, an unknown suitor played by tenor Roberto Aronica, who sings the famed aria “Nessun dorma”, becomes lovestruck with the icy Princess, vowing to risk his life in attempting to answer the challenging three riddles that promise to unlock her heart. Yannick Nézet-Séguin, the Met’s Music Director, conducts this powerful production of love, loss and loyalty. Sung in Italian with English Subtitles Pre-order a cheese and biscuit plate for the interval for only £5.50.
Shakespeare’s most famous romantic comedy will be captured live from the Bridge Theatre in London. Gwendoline Christie (Game of Thrones), Oliver Chris (Green Wing, NT Live: Young Marx), David Moorst (NT Live: Allelujah!) and Hammed Animashaun (The Barber Shop Chronicles) lead the cast as Titania, Oberon, Puck and Bottom. Photo Credit Manuel Halan
Bolshoi Ballet: Raymonda (12A)
Sunday 27 October, 3pm (3 hours) Raymonda is a must-see of the Bolshoi, a work of living dance history. Being one of legendary choreographer Marius Petipa’s final works, he fully armed this ballet with beautiful court scenes, romantic corps de ballet dances, Hungarian czardas and a title role suited for the most outstanding ballerina. Raymonda is betrothed to Jean de Brienne, a gallant knight who pledged to go on a crusade led by the King of Hungary. When her beloved leaves, Abderakhman, a foreign knight, makes a bid for the hand of Raymonda and threatens her fate when she rejects him…
Met Opera: Manon (12A)
Tuesday 29 October, 5.55pm (4 hours 12 minutes estimated running time) Laurent Pelly’s enchanting production, starring exhilarating soprano Lisette Oropesa in the effervescent title role, explores the devastating consequences when excess and passion collide. Maurizio Benini conducts Massenet’s sensual score with tenor Michael Fabiano as the besotted Chevalier des Grieux, whose desperate love for Manon proves to be the undoing of these unfortunate lovers. Sung in French with English subtitles. Pre-order a cheese and biscuit plate for the interval for only £5.50.
Exhibition On Screen: Leonardo’s Full Story (12A)
Thursday 31 October, 7pm ( 1 hour 25 minutes) Leonardo da Vinci is acclaimed as the world’s favourite artist. Many TV shows and feature films have showcased this extraordinary genius but often not examined closely enough is the most crucial element of all: his art. Leonardo’s peerless paintings and drawings will be the focus of Leonardo: The Works, as EXHIBITION ON SCREEN presents every single attributed painting, in Ultra HD quality, never seen before on the big screen. Key works include The Mona Lisa, The Last Supper, Lady with an Ermine, Ginevra de’ Benci, Madonna Litta, Virgin of the Rocks, and more than a dozen others. To be released on the 500th anniversary of his death, this is the definitive film about Leonardo: the first to truly tell the whole story. Tickets: Adults £12, Friends £10, Under 19’s £7
National Theatre Live: Hansard (15)
Thursday 7 November, 7pm (1 hour 50 minutes, no interval) Hansard; noun The official report of all parliamentary debates. See two-time Olivier Award winners, Lindsay Duncan (Birdman, About Time) and Alex Jennings (The Lady in the Van, The Queen), in this brand-new play by Simon Wood, broadcast live from the National Theatre in London. It’s a summer’s morning in 1988 and Tory politician Robin Hesketh has returned home to the idyllic Cotswold house he shares with his wife of 30 years, Diana. But all is not as blissful as it seems. Diana has a stinking hangover, a fox is destroying the garden, and secrets are being dug up all over the place. As the day draws on, what starts as gentle ribbing and the familiar rhythms of marital scrapping quickly turns to blood-sport.
Met Opera: Madama Butterfly (12A)
Saturday 9 November, 5.55pm (3 hours 32 minutes estimated running time) Anthony Minghella’s vividly cinematic staging of Puccini’s tale of unrequited love returns to our screens featuring soprano Hui He in the devastating title role. One of the most frequently staged operas of our generation, Madama Butterfly follows the story of a young Japanese girl, Cio-Cio San, who falls in love with Pinkerton, an American naval officer. Tragedy unfolds in this sweeping production, which is a perennial audience favourite. Pier Giorgio Morandi conducts one of opera’s most beautiful and heartbreaking scores. Plácido Domingo adds another role to his remarkable repertoire, singing Sharpless for the first time and is joined by a cast that also includes tenor Piero Pretti as Pinkerton, and mezzosoprano Elizabeth DeShong as Suzuki. Sung in Italian with English Subtitles Pre-order a cheese and biscuit plate for the interval for only £5.50.
42nd Street The Musical (PG)
Sunday 10 November, 3pm and Tuesday 12 November, 7pm (2 hours 22 minutes including one 10-minute interval) 42nd Street, the legendary Broadway musical theatre classic, is a ‘glorious’ (Express) and an ‘utterly moreish extravaganza of glitz’ (Times). The musical tells the story of Peggy Sawyer, a talented young performer with stars in her eyes who gets her big break on Broadway. This is the largest ever staging of the Tony® Award-winning musical and it was filmed live at the magnificent Theatre Royal in the heart of London’s West End. Starring national treasure Bonnie Langford as Dorothy Brock and featuring iconic songs 42nd Street, We’re In The Money and Lullaby Of Broadway, this is pure musical magic on the big screen.
Billy Connolly: Sex Life of Bandages (18)
Friday 29 November, 7.30pm (2 hours 10 minutes TBC) Hailed as the UK’s most influential comedian of all time, legendary Scot Billy Connolly is coming to cinemas with this brilliant show from his final stand-up tour. Recorded in 2015, during the Australian leg, this whip smart routine is a riotous journey filled with outrageous tales and blistering observations of everyday absurdities. Connolly will also muse upon his career, life and legacy in a deeply personal interview filmed exclusively for cinema audiences.
Met Opera: Akhnaten (12A)
Tuesday 26 November, 5.55pm (3 hours 56 minutes estimated running time) Star countertenor Anthony Roth Costanzo headlines as the revolutionary Pharaoh who transformed ancient Egypt with the striking mezzo-soprano J’Nai Bridges in her Met debut as his wife, Nefertiti. Director Phelim McDermott returns to the Met to bring this contemporary production to life, with a virtuosic company and dramatic staging that features acrobatics and juggling to Glass’s ritualistic and hypnotic score. Sung in mixed languages with English subtitles Pre-order a cheese and biscuit plate for the interval for only £5.50.
Prior to retiring in 2016 following his diagnosis with Parkinson’s Disease, Connolly toured worldwide continuously for 50 years, performing to an audience of over 10 million. The Sex Life of Bandages is a big screen tribute to an iconic funny-man whose sharp wit and anarchic storytelling is still as hilarious as ever.
National Theatre Live: Present Laughter (12A)
Tuesday 3 December, 7pm (3 hours to be confirmed) Matthew Warchus directs Andrew Scott (BBC’s Sherlock, Fleabag) in Noël Coward’s provocative comedy Present Laughter. As he prepares to embark on an overseas tour, star actor Garry Essendine’s colourful life is in danger of spiralling out of control. Engulfed by an escalating identity crisis as his many and various relationships compete for his attention, Garry’s few remaining days at home are a chaotic whirlwind of love, sex, panic and soul-searching. Captured live from The Old Vic in London, Present Laughter is a giddy and surprisingly modern reflection on fame, desire and loneliness.
Bolshoi Ballet: The Nutcracker (12A)
Sunday 15 December, 3pm (2 hours 30 minutes) On Christmas Eve, the mysterious Drosselmeyer brings a Nutcracker doll as a gift for his goddaughter Marie. At midnight, the doll comes to life and finds himself in a battle against the Mouse King, determined to save Marie from him. In this timeless story accompanied by Tchaikovsky’s beloved score, rising star Soloist Margarita Shrainer perfectly embodies Marie’s innocence and enchantment along with the supremely elegant Principal Dancer Semyon Chudin as The Nutcracker, captivating audiences of all ages and bringing them on an otherworldly journey.
DIARY OF EVENTS OCTOBER Wise Children (15) Thurs 3rd, 7pm BIG SCREEN Wise Children (15) Fri 4th, 1.30pm BIG SCREEN Plácido Domingo 50th Anniversary (12A) Fri 4th, 7pm BIG SCREEN Dementia Friendly Film: Kiss Me Kate (U) Mon 7th, 1.30pm FILM Elvis Unleashed (PG) Mon 7th, 7pm BIG SCREEN The Mustang (15) Tues 8th, 1.30pm FILM The Mustang (15) Thurs 10th, 7.30pm FILM Met Opera: Turandot (12A) Sat 12th, 5.55pm BIG SCREEN NT Live: Midsummer Night’s Dream (12A) Thurs 17th, 7pm BIG SCREEN Downton Abbey (PG) Fri 18th, 7.30pm FILM Mitch Benn: Ten Songs to Save the World (16+) Sat 19th, 7.30pm LIVE COMEDY Songs From the Movies: Dementia Friendly Singing Sessions Mon 21st, 1.30pm WORKSHOP Downton Abbey (PG) Tues 22nd, 1.30pm FILM Downton Abbey (PG) Thurs 24th, 7.30pm FILM Ad Astra (12A) Fri 25th, 7.30pm FILM Altan Live In Concert Sat 26th, 7.30pm LIVE MUSIC Bolshoi Ballet: Raymonda (12A) Sun 27th, 3pm BIG SCREEN Ad Astra (12A) Mon 28th, 1.30pm FILM Met Opera: Manon (12A) Tues 29th, 5.55pm BIG SCREEN Bouncy Castle Family Fun Weds 30th, 10am- 12pm COMMUNITY Slimy Spidery Halloween Craft Session Thurs 31st, 10am – 12pm COMMUNITY Exhibition On Screen: Leonardo’s Full Story (12A TBC) Thurs 31st, 7pm BIG SCREEN
NOVEMBER Wem Crafters Craft Fair Fri 1st, 5.30pm – 9pm, Sat 2nd, 9.30am – 2.30pm and Sun 3rd, 9.30am – 2.30pm MARKETS Dementia Friendly Film: Paint Your Wagon (PG) Mon 4th, 1.30pm FILM
DIARY OF EVENTS BFI Musicals Season: Carousel (U) Tues 5th, 1.30pm FILM NT Live: Hansard (15) Thurs 7th, 7pm BIG SCREEN Judy (12A) Fri 8th, 7.30pm FILM Met Opera: Madama Butterfly (12A) Sat 9th, 5.55pm BIG SCREEN 42nd Street The Musical (PG) Sun 10th, 3pm BIG SCREEN Judy (12A) Tues 12th, 1.30pm FILM 42nd Street The Musical (PG) Tues 12th, 7pm BIG SCREEN Judy (12A) Thurs 14th, 7.30pm FILM Fetch Theatre: The Pedlar’s Tale (6+) Fri 15th, 5.30pm FAMILY THEATRE Songs From the Movies: Dementia Friendly Singing Sessions Mon 18th, 1.30pm WORKSHOP The Farewell (PG) Tues 19th, 1.30pm FILM The Farewell (PG) Thurs 21st, 7.30pm FILM Ballroom and Sequence Dance Fri 22nd, 7.30pm DANCE Open Sky Theatre: Disappearing Act (12+) Sat 23rd, 7.30pm LIVE THEATRE Met Opera: Akhnaten (12A) Tues 26th, 5.55pm BIG SCREEN James Wilton Dance: Leviathan Thurs 28th, 7.30pm LIVE DANCE Billy Connolly The Sex Life of Bandages (18) Fri 29th, 7.30pm BIG SCREEN Wem Town Hall Community Trust Quiz Sat 30th, 7pm COMMUNITY
NOVEMBER DECEMBER
Dementia friendly Film: Meet Me In St Louis (U) Mon 2nd, 1.30pm FILM NT Live: Present Laughter (12A) Tues 3rd, 7pm BIG SCREEN Official Secrets (15) Weds 4th, 1.30pm FILM Official Secrets (15) Thurs 5th, 7.30pm FILM Winter Festival Craft and Food Fayre Fri 6th, 5pm – 9pm MARKET Wem Training Band Christmas Concert Sat 7th, 1.30pm LIVE MUSIC The Good Liar (15) Tues 10th, 1.30pm FILM Christmas Classic: Meet Me In St Louis (U) Tues 10th, 7.30pm FILM The Good Liar (15) Thurs 12th, 7.30pm FILM FARA: The Christmas Tour Fri 13th, 7.30pm LIVE MUSIC Last Christmas (Rating TBC) Sat 14th, 1.30pm FILM
DIARY OF EVENTS Bolshoi Ballet: The Nutcracker (12A) Sun 15th, 3pm BIG SCREEN Songs From the Movies: Dementia Friendly Singing Sessions Mon 16th, 1.30pm WORKSHOP Last Christmas (Rating TBC) Tues 17th, 1.30pm FILM Last Christmas (Rating TBC) Thurs 19th, 7.30pm FILM Frozen 2 (PG TBC) Fri 20th, 7.30pm FILM Frozen 2 (PG TBC) Sat 21st, 11am & 2pm FILM Frozen 2 (PG TBC) Sun 22nd, 2pm FILM Frozen 2 (PG TBC) Mon 23rd, 1.30pm FILM Frozen 2 (PG TBC) Tues 24th, 11am FILM
JANUARY Andre Rieu: 70 Years Young (12A TBC) Sat 4th, 7pm BIG SCREEN Andre Rieu: 70 Years Young (12A TBC) Sun 5th, 3pm BIG SCREEN BFI Musicals Season: Sweet Charity (PG) Tues 7th, 1.30pm FILM Met Opera: Wozzeck (12A) Sat 11th, 5.55pm BIG SCREEN A Beautiful Day In The Neighbourhood (Rating TBC) Tues 14th, 1.30pm FILM A Beautiful Day In the Neighbourhood (Rating TBC) Thurs 16th, 7.30pm FILM Cats (Rating TBC) Fri 17th, 7.30pm FILM Cats (Rating TBC) Tues 21st, 1.30pm FILM Cats (Rating TBC) Thurs 23rd, 7.30pm FILM Ballroom and Sequence Dance Fri 24th, 7.30pm DANCE Bolshoi Ballet: Giselle (12A) Sun 26th, 3pm BIG SCREEN Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker (Rating TBC) Tues 28th, 1.30pm FILM Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker (Rating TBC) Thurs 30th, 7.30pm FILM
FEBRUARY Met Opera: Porgy and Bess (12A) Sat 1st, 5.55pm BIG SCREEN Musical To Be Announced Tues 4th, 7pm BIG SCREEN NT Live Production TBC Thurs 6th, 7pm BIG SCREEN Shropshire Music Trust: Paper Jam Fri 7th, 7.30pm LIVE MUSIC Musical To Be Announced Sun 9th, 3pm BIG SCREEN
DIARY OF EVENTS Tangram Theatre Company Presents The Origin of Species: a Musical Comedy about Charles Darwin (7+) Sun 16th, 3pm FAMILY THEATRE NT Live: Production TBC Thurs 20th, 7pm BIG SCREEN Bolshoi Ballet: Swan Lake (12A) Sun 23rd, 3pm BIG SCREEN
Wem Town Hall Community Trust would like to thank the following businesses for their support as Business Friends: E Maund & Sons Hatchers Solicitors JSL Farm and Country Lorraine Guest Nathan Cross Shropshire Aero Club R. Greaves & Co
BIG SCREEN EVENTS CONTINUED Andre Rieu: 70 Years Young (12A TBC)
Saturday 4 January, 7pm and Sunday 5 January, 3pm ( 2 hours to be confirmed) André Rieu is celebrating a landmark birthday and is inviting cinema audiences all over the world to his party! Bring your friends and kick off the New Year together in style, in the comfort of the cinema, with the most wonderful music from the birthday boy – the King of Waltz! Hip hip hooray! Tickets: Adults £18, Friends £17, Under 19’s £13
Met Opera: Wozzeck (12A)
Bolshoi Ballet: Giselle (12A)
Sunday 26 January, 3pm ( 2 hours 30 minutes) Giselle touches upon great and universal romantic themes. In this brand new production, renowned choreographer Alexei Ratmansky brings a fresh perspective to one of the oldest and greatest works of classical dance, giving the audience an opportunity to discover this iconic ballet anew. The young peasant girl Giselle dies when she learns that the man she loves, Albrecht, has betrayed her. Against her own will, she joins the Wilis, vengeful spirits of jilted brides who condemn Albrecht to dance until he dies of exhaustion…
Saturday 11 January, 5.55pm (1 hour 57 minutes estimated running time) After wowing audiences with his astounding production of Lulu in 2015, South African artist William Kentridge now focuses his extraordinary visual imagination on Berg’s other operatic masterpiece, set in an apocalyptic pre–World War I environment. Baritone Peter Mattei makes his highly anticipated role debut as the title character. Soprano Elza van den Heever is Wozzeck’s unfaithful mate. Sung in German with English subtitles Pre-order a cheese and biscuit plate for the interval for only £5.50.
Met Opera: Porgy and Bess (12A)
Saturday 1 February, 5.55pm (3 hours 40 minutes Estimated running time) The Gershwins’ modern American masterpiece has its first Met performances in almost three decades, starring bass-baritone Eric Owens and soprano Angel Blue in the title roles. The final stage work of George Gershwin, Porgy and Bess is largely regarded as one of the greatest American operas of the 20th Century. Pre-order a cheese and biscuit plate for the interval for only £5.50.
Pssst! We have to keep this secret for now but there is an exciting musical production we know you’ll love, not announced until November! It will take place on Tuesday 4 February, 7pm and Sunday 9 February, 3pm so add the dates to your diary and check back with WTH Box Office in November for more information. Bolshoi Ballet: Swan Lake (12A)
Sunday 23 February, 3pm (2 hours 45 minutes) Tchaikovsky’s essential masterpiece returns with a new cast for the most beloved ballet in the classical canon. Technically challenging and filled with vibrant emotion, with a stunning and world-famous corps de ballet in perfect unison, the legendary love story between Prince Siegfried and the dual personalities Odette/Odile, born at the Bolshoi Theatre, is a must-see. Prince Siegfried is summoned by his parents to choose a bride. However, he encounters a mysterious swan-woman by the lake, Odette, and is captivated by her. His vow of eternal love to her will have irreversible consequences.
COMMUNITY EVENTS & REGULAR ACTIVITIES Extend Exercise Class
Ballroom Dance Classes
Keep Fit
Wem Market
Mondays 10.30-11.30am Exercise for people with a disability and older people. Email Sonja at hopkins766@btinternet. com
Mondays 12- 1pm Exercise class for older people. Tel Margaret Simmons on 01939 232466.
Wem U3A
First Tuesday of the Month, 10am Email membership@u3a.uk.
Yoga
Tuesdays 9.15am – 10.45am Regular Yoga 11am – 12.30pm Gentle Yoga Contact Ginger Yoga on 07932798574. £6 per class or £5 per class with block booking.
Tai Chi Class
Tuesdays 2-3pm. For more information email jennyajoyner@gmail.com - £5 per class.
Pilates@Wem
Wednesdays 9.30-10.30am,10.45-11.45am, 6.30pm - 7.30pm Thursdays 7-8pm Contact Helen Minton on 01939 234017 or email wempilates@hotmail.com
Macular Society
Last Wednesday of the Month, 2-4pm For more information please contact 01939 234387.
Wednesdays 7.15-8.15pm All abilities welcome. £10 per couple each week. For more information telephone 01952 223091.
Thursdays 8am-1pm For stall information, please email adam@wemtownhall.co.uk.
Hatchers Legal Surgery Thursdays 9am - 12noon To book an appointment email mail@hatchers.co.uk
Let’s Talk Local
Thursdays 11am-3pm Adult social care services. Email charlotte.redford@shropshire.gov.uk
Koru Youth Theatre
Thursdays 6.15pm - 9.15pm Telephone 01939 236414 or email koruyouththeatre@gmail.com
Stage 2 Performing Arts Academy Cecchetti Ballet Saturdays Primary and Grades 1 to 6 Classes start from £6.00 Contact: studio@stagetwo.co.uk/01743 248667.
MediaActive Projects Based at Wem Town Hall, MediaActive works with local people of all ages on a wide range of creative projects, exhibitions, events and screenings. Visit our Projects pages on our website to see some of the resulting artworks, and find out about forthcoming opportunities: www.mediaactive.org
EXCITE & In2
Over the past 15 years the MediaActive team has delivered talent development, training, work related learning, accreditation and work experience for young people through our EXCITE programme, which includes: engagement with creative media production, exhibition and events (including film, photography, animation, web and print design, sound and music production, cinema and related events). The EXCITE programme is open to all young people aged 15 to 24 years, including In2 participants. Take a look at www.mediaactive.org/excite-programme to get an idea of what’s on offer. The new In2 programme provides support to young people at risk of disengaging from education as well as those who are not currently in education, employment or training. MediaActive’s EXCITE and In2 programme can be accessed from our base at Wem Town Hall, or offsite, in schools, colleges and community venues. For more information contact info@mediaactive.org
Gallery Alan Albert Smith Thursday 7 November – Monday 6 January Al Smith is an Artist and Illustrator who lives in Shropshire and has been lucky enough to have had a varied and enjoyable career, with many exhibitions in group and solo shows throughout the country. Some of his works are held in collections all over the world, including Japan, Australia, Europe, USA and Peru. Al’s work can also be seen throughout Wem, including the Wem Better Welcome map.
FILM Film Screenings
Unless stated, all films are priced at £7 Adults, £6 Friends and £5 for 19’s and under. 3D Films are priced at £8.50 Adults, £7.50 Friends and £6.50 for 19’s and under. At time of going to print some film ratings and timings are to be confirmed and may be subject to change.
Audio Aids
Infra Red enhanced hearing headsets are available to amplify sound for hard of hearing patrons. They can be worn with or without a hearing aid. Please call 01939 232299 to book your headset.
Carers and Accessibility
We offer free carers tickets when accompanying a paying adult. These tickets are not available online, please contact our box office to book. A limited number of reserved seating is available for patrons with a disability or mobility concern. Please contact the venue for more information and to reserve seats. Telephone 01939 232299.
The Mustang (15)
Tuesday 8 October, 1.30pm and Thursday 10 October, 7.30pm (1 hour 37 minutes) Roman Coleman (Matthias Schoenaerts) is a convict in a rural Nevada prison who struggles to escape his violent past. Required to participate in ‘outdoor maintenance’ as part of his social rehabilitation he is spotted by a no-nonsense veteran trainer and is accepted into the selective wild horse training programme. Helped by an outgoing fellow inmate he rediscovers his own humanity in gentling an especially unbreakable mustang. “ruggedly stunning” The Daily Telegraph “Inspirational…an electrifying performance” The Guardian
Downton Abbey (PG) Friday 18 October, 7.30pm, Tuesday 22 October, 1.30pm and Thursday 24 October, 7.30pm ( 2 hour 2 minutes)
The beloved Crawleys and their intrepid staff prepare for the most important moment of their lives - a royal visit from the King and Queen. Scandal, romance and intrigue abound leaving the future of Downton hanging in the balance. Written by series creator Julian Fellowes and starring the original cast including Michelle Dockery as lady Mary, Hugh Bonneville as the Earl of Grantham, and Dame Maggie Smith as the ever-cutting Dowager Countess.
Ad Astra (12A)
Friday 25 October, 7.30pm and Monday 28 October, 1.30pm (2 hours 4 minutes) Astronaut Roy McBride (Brad Pitt) is desperate to uncover the truth behind his father’s mysterious disappearance while on a space mission, and will go to the ends of the earth, and beyond, to do so. Also starring Donald Sutherland, Tommy Lee Jones and Liv Tyler the film played to rapt audiences at the Venice Film Festival. Guaranteed to keep you gripped this is ultimately a family melodrama at heart, Brad Pitt giving one of the best and most understated performances of his career.
BFI Musical Season: Carousel (U)
Tuesday 5 November, 1.30pm (2 hours 28 minutes including interval & refreshment) A much-loved stage and film musical, Henry King’s 1956 classic Carousel stars Gordon MacRae and Shirley Jones. Based on the 1945 Rodgers and Hammerstein stage musical of the same name, it contains what many critics consider to be some of the pair’s most beautiful songs including the emotionally rousing ‘You’ll never walk alone’ Ticket Price: £7 Adults, £6 Friends, £5 Under 19’s, ticket price includes refreshment
WTH Top Pick! Judy (12A)
Friday 8 November, 7.30pm Tuesday 12 November, 1.30pm and Thursday 14 November, 7.30pm ( 1 hour 58 minutes) Renee Zellwegger is transformative in her portrayal of troubled singer and actress Judy Garland. It’s 1968 and landing in London ahead of a week of sell-out shows Judy is busy meeting fans, friends and even a potential new romance. But after working for 45 of her 47 years, she is exhausted; haunted by memories of a childhood lost to Hollywood; gripped by a desire to be back home with her children. Will she have the strength to go on? Featuring some of her best-known songs, including the timeless classic ‘Over the Rainbow’, Judy celebrates the voice, the capacity for love and the sheer pizzazz of “the world’s greatest entertainer.”
WTH Top Pick! The Farewell (PG)
Tuesday 19 November, 1.30pm and Thursday 21 November, 7.30pm (1 hour 40 minutes) In Mandarin and English with English Subtitles A headstrong Chinese-American woman returns to China when her beloved grandmother is diagnosed with terminal cancer. Billi struggles with her family’s decision to keep grandma in the dark about her own illness as they all stage an impromptu wedding to see grandma one last time. A poignant well acted drama that’s incredibly funny with universal themes we can all relate to. This film demands to be seen and is a WTH Top Pick. “Accessible, authentic, and at times side-splittingly funny” The Daily Telegraph
Official Secrets (15)
Wednesday 4 December, 1.30pm and Thursday 5 December, 7.30pm (1 hour 52 minutes) A powerful performance from Keira Knightley as Katharine Gun, a British intelligence specialist who, in 2003, through her routine work discovers American plans to enlist Britain in blackmailing UN Security Council members to vote in favour of an invasion of Iraq. Unable to stand by and watch the world be rushed into an illegal war, Gun defies her government, leaking the memo to the press and igniting an international firestorm, putting her family directly in harm’s way in the process.
The Good Liar (15)
Tuesday 10 December, 1.30pm and Thursday 12 December, 7.30pm (1 hour 49 minutes) Career con artist Roy Courtnay can hardly believe his luck when he meets well-to-do widow Betty McLeish online. As Betty opens her home and life to him, Roy is surprised to find himself caring about her, turning what should be a cut-and-dry swindle into the most treacherous tightrope walk of his life. Starring Dame Helen Mirren and Sir Ian McKellen.
Christmas
Christmas Classic: Meet Me In St Louis (U)
Tuesday 10 December, 7.30pm (1 hour 53 minutes) Judy Garland stars in a timeless tale of family, captured with warmth and emotion. The enduring popularity of Meet Me in St. Louis comes from a terrific blend of music, romance and humour. Starring Judy Garland, together with Margaret O’Brien and Mary Astor, and featuring the musical classics such as Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.
Last Christmas (Rating TBC)
Frozen 2 (PG TBC)
Friday 20 December, 7.30pm, Saturday 21 December, 11am & 2pm, Sunday 22 December, 2pm, Monday 23 December, 1.30pm and Tuesday 24 December, 11am (Running time to be confirmed) Dates to be confirmed at the time of going to print – please check with venue The family phenomenon is back! Anna, Elsa, Kristoff, Olaf and Sven leave Arendelle to travel to an ancient, autumn-bound forest of an enchanted land. They set out to find the origin of Elsa’s powers in order to save their kingdom.
Saturday 14 December, 1.30pm, Tuesday 17 December, 1.30pm and Thursday 19 December, 7.30pm (Running time to be confirmed) Kate (Emilia Clarke) harumphs around London, a bundle of bad decisions accompanied by the jangle of bells on her shoes, another irritating consequence from her job as an elf in a year-round Christmas shop. Tom seems too good to be true when he walks into her life and starts to see through so many of Kate’s barriers.
BFI Musical Season: Sweet Charity (PG)
Tuesday 7 January, 1.30pm (2 hours 40 minutes including interval) Charity Hope Valentine (Shirley MacLaine) always tries to look on the bright side of life, despite working in a rundown dance hall and contending with a seemingly endless run of bad dates she is determined to find love. Actor Vittorio Vidal seems like a good contender or will the reserved Oscar Lindquist be a better match? With wonderfully iconic Bob Fosse choreography and songs you just can’t resist joining in (Hey Big Spender, The Rhythm of Life) this is a musical you have to experience on the big screen. Ticket Price: £7 Adults, £6 Friends, £5 Under 19’s, ticket price includes refreshment
A Beautiful Day In the Neighbourhood (Rating TBC)
Tuesday 14 January, 1.30pm and Thursday 16 January, 7.30pm (Running time to be confirmed) Dates to be confirmed at the time of going to print – please check with venue Two-time Oscar®-winner Tom Hanks portrays Mister Rogers, one of America’s greatest TV icons in a timely story of kindness triumphing over cynicism, based on the true story of a real-life friendship between Fred Rogers and journalist Tom Junod. After a jaded journalist (Emmy winner Matthew Rhys) is assigned a profile of Fred Rogers, he overcomes his skepticism, learning about empathy, kindness, and decency from America’s most beloved neighbour.
Cats (Rating TBC)
Friday 17 January, 7.30pm, Tuesday 21 January, 1.30pm and Thursday 23 January, 7.30pm (Running time to be confirmed) Dates to be confirmed at the time of going to print – please check with venue Oscar- winning director Tom Hooper (The King’s Speech, Les Miserables) transforms Andrew Lloyd-Webber’s record shattering stage musical into a breakthrough cinematic event. Featuring Lloyd-Webber’s iconic music and a world-class cast of dancers (including members of the Royal Ballet), this is sure to blow you away! Starring Judi Dench, Taylor Swift, James Corden, Ian McKellen and Idris Elba.
Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker (Rating TBC)
Tuesday 28 January, 1.30pm and Thursday 30 January, 7.30pm (Running Time to be confirmed) Dates to be confirmed at the time of going to print – please check with venue A year after the events of The Last Jedi, the remnants of the Resistance face the First Order once again—while reckoning with the past and their own inner turmoil. Meanwhile, the ancient conflict between the Jedi and the Sith reaches its climax, altogether bringing the Skywalker saga to a definitive end.
DEMENTIA FRIENDLY FILMS Dementia Friendly Film Showings October to January
Wem Town Hall is proud to be offering access to the arts for those living with dementia and memory loss. Dementia Friendly Showings are open to all but will be more relaxed, with lights on and sound level low with specially trained ushers on hand to assist. All timings include a 20 minute interval with refreshments! Tickets: £5, Carers Free (not available online) - includes refreshment.
Kiss Me Kate (U)
Monday 7 October, 1.30pm (2 hours 7 minutes including interval) An ex-husband and wife team star in a musical version of ‘The Taming of the Shrew’; off-stage, the production is troublesome with ex-lovers’ quarrels and a gangster looking for some money owed to them. Featuring a sparkling score by Cole Porter including the standards “So in Love”, “Why Can’t You Behave” and “Always True to You in my Fashion”
Paint Your Wagon (PG)
Monday 4 November, 1.30pm (3 hours including interval) This western musical centres on two unlikely prospector partners share the same wife in a California gold rush mining town. Starring Clint Eastwood and Lee Marvin.
Meet Me In St Louis (U)
Monday 2 December, 1.30pm (2 hours 20 minutes including interval) Judy Garland stars in a timeless tale of family, captured with warmth and emotion. Featuring the musical classics Meet Me in St. Louis, Louis, The Trolley Song and Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.
Venue Information
Access Information
To Plan Your Journey
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WEM TOWN HALL
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Access to the first floor can be gained via a lift. Wheelchair accessible toilets are available on all floors. Infra Red enhanced hearing headsets are available for cinema patrons. Induction Loop system operates in the main hall and foyer. Guide Dogs are welcome in all parts of the building.
Parking Information The nearest parking is located at the main car park, adjacent to the Co-op, just off High Street. Disabled parking on site (limited) please book in advance. Please do not park on Noble Street.
Please visit www.wemtownhall.co.uk
High Street, Wem, Shropshire, SY4 5DG REG CHARITY No, 1113075 Box Office: (Tickets and Bookings) 01939 238279 Mon - Fri 10am - 4pm or Online 24hrs Reception: (Information) 01939 232299 www.wemtownhall.co.uk info@wemtownhall.co.uk Open Monday-Saturday 10am - 4pm and other times for events Follow us on Twitter @WEMTOWNHALL or like us on Facebook.
All information correct at time of printing. Please see Wem Town Hall website for the most up to date listings or contact reception.