MUSIC, THEATRE, DANCE, COMEDY, EVENTS 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
The Origin of Species: a Musical Comedy about Charles Darwin (7+)
Sunday 16 February 2020, 3pm (1 hour 5 minutes) This international hit from Tangram Theatre Co, 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
Family Craft Session
Saturday 7 March, 10am - 2pm Join us for a magical family day celebrating the world of Harry Potter and author Julia Donaldson. Visit our fun-themed zones featuring children’s activities and games including making troll bogey slime and a monster book of monsters at wizard school or making a Gruffalo headband and playing witches hat ring toss. Free Entry
Wem Town Hall Community Classes Taster Sessions
Friday 6 March and Saturday 7 March Free taster sessions of our community classes including pilates, yoga, Diddi Dance and much more! Please check with venue for event timetable Free Entry but pre-booking advised to avoid disappointment
Wem Town Hall 10th Birthday Party!
Saturday 7 March, 7.30pm It’s time to celebrate! Get your glad rags on and join us for a night of celebration, including a live band and chilli bar! Tickets: £9.75 - price includes Chilli Bar and celebratory cake pops
6 - 8 March Celebrate With Us!
Wem Crafters Craft Fayre
Saturday 14 March, 9.30am – 2.30pm A variety of stalls by Wem Crafters all sharing their wares of homemade crafts. Come joins us and get some presents or just treat yourself! Free Entry
Ballroom and Sequence Dance
Friday 27 March, 7.30pm and Friday 29 May, 7.30pm Ballroom and sequence dancing on the best dance floor in Shropshire, with live music by Steve Nicholas and Tony Roberts respectively. Dancers £5, Non dancers £2.50
Joseph: A Youth Group Production 20th Anniversary of Stage Door Youth
Thursday 2 April, 7.30pm, Friday 3 April, 7.30pm, and Saturday 4 April, 7.30pm Celebrate 20 years of Stage Door Youth with Andrew Lloyd Webber’s most beloved family musical Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat – a musical comedy based on the “coat of many colours” story of Joseph from the Bible. Told entirely through song with the help of the Narrator, the show follows the story of Jacob’s favourite son Joseph and his eleven brothers. Tickets £12 and £10 concessions Tickets available from WTH, Wrights News and Jenny at Stage Door or on 01939 233196
Family Easter Craft and Cooking Workshop (3+)
Wednesday 8 April, 10 - 11.30am Have fun creating your own Easter themed biscuits and chocolate delights to take away in an Easter basket crafted by your own hands. Tickets: £2.50 per person All Children must be accompanied by an adult. Places are limited so please book in advance to avoid disappointment.
Spring Market
Saturday 25 April, 9am to 1pm A wide range of local food, drink and crafts at Wem Town Hall & Wem Senior Club. Free Entry
GreenMatthews: A Brief History of Music
Saturday 25 April, 7.30pm A Brief History Of Music takes in 600 years of musical history in 90 minutes! Beginning in the Middle Ages and ending up in the 20th century (and incorporating everything in between!) this fun and fast-moving show is a whistle-stop tour of Western musical history. The show combines the vigour of the medieval period, the musical intricacy of the Renaissance, the grandeur of the Baroque and the pomp and bombast of Victoriana. Add to that the wit of Blackadder and 1066 And All That and the stage is set for a veritable musical feast! “Eclectic and enjoyable… a bewildering range of instruments” (English Dance and Song) Tickets: Adults £12, Friends £10, Under 19’s £5
Hazel Twig Theatre Company: The Disappearance of Eliza Grey
Friday 15 May, 7.30pm How would you react if you couldn’t be seen or heard? Eliza is struggling to work out why no one in her rural church community will listen to her. Their fears, feelings and good intentions may be the prime suspect, or maybe it’s just her Dementia? Eliza needs the local Detective to hear her before it’s too late. ‘The Disappearance of Eliza Grey’ is an inventive and entertaining show, which explores the issues surrounding Dementia Friendly Communities. Part of Dementia Action Week Free Entry but donations on the night gratefully received to future fund another performance in the next venue
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! 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 spring. Tickets for all Big Screen Events, unless stated, are charged at £13 Adults, £12 WTH Friends and £7 19 yrs & under
Met Opera: Porgy and Bess (12A)
Saturday 1 February, 5.55pm (3 hours 40 minutes TBC) 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. This new co-production with English National Opera and Dutch National Opera was hailed as a triumph at its premiere in London earlier this year. Featuring the much-loved arias “Summertime” and “I Got Plenty o’ Nuttin”, director James Robinson’s stylish production transports audiences to Catfish Row, a setting vibrant with the music, dancing, emotion, and heartbreak of its inhabitants. 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.
Kinky Boots (12A)
Tuesday 4 February, 7pm and Sunday 9 February, 3pm (2 hours 15 minutes) Inspired by true events, this huge-hearted hit tells the story of two people with nothing in common – or so they think. Charlie (Killian Donnelly) is a factory owner struggling to save his family business, and Lola (Matt Henry) is a fabulous entertainer with a wildly exciting idea. With a little compassion and a lot of understanding, this unexpected pair learn to embrace their differences and create a line of sturdy stilettos unlike any the world has ever seen! But in the end, their most sensational achievement is their friendship. This unmissable musical theatre event celebrates a joyous story of British grit transforming into a high-heeled hit as it takes you from the factory floor of Northampton to the glamorous catwalks of Milan!
Met Opera: Wozzeck (12A) Saturday 15 February, 5.55pm (1 hour 57 minutes TBC)
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, about a disillusioned soldier set in an apocalyptic pre–World War I environment. Starring baritone Peter Mattei in his highly anticipated role debut as the title character. Pre-order a cheese and biscuit plate for the interval for only £5.50.
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.
National Theatre Live: Cyrano de Bergarac (15)
Thursday 20 February, 7pm (3 hours to be confirmed) James McAvoy (BBC’s His Dark Materials, Atonement) returns to the stage in an inventive new adaptation of Cyrano de Bergerac, broadcast live to cinemas from the West End in London. Fierce with a pen and notorious in combat, Cyrano almost has it all - if only he could win the heart of his true love Roxane. There’s just one big problem: he has a nose as huge as his heart. Will a society engulfed by narcissism get the better of Cyrano - or can his mastery of language set Roxane’s world alight?
Met Opera: Agrippina (12A)
Saturday 29 February, 5.55pm (Running time to be confirmed) Set in Ancient Rome, Agrippina plots the downfall of Emperor Claudius to secure the throne for her son Nero, in Handel’s first operatic triumph. Mezzo-soprano Joyce DiDonato leads as the imperious title empress in Sir David McVicar’s wry new production, giving this Baroque black comedy a politically charged, modern updating. Pre-order a cheese and biscuit plate for the interval for only £5.50.
Riverdance 25th Anniversary Show (12A)
Met Opera: Der Fliegende Holländer (12A)
Tuesday 17 March, 4.55pm (Running time to be confirmed) Award-winning, Sir Bryn Terfel CBE, returns to the Met for the first time since 2012, as the mysterious seafarer searching for salvation in this co-production with L’Opéra de Québec and Dutch National Opera, Amsterdam. Inspired by the legend of the Flying Dutchman, the Captain of a ghostly ship who has been condemned to sail the seas for eternity, is offered a chance of redemption by true love. Pre-order a cheese and biscuit plate for the interval for only £5.50.
Tuesday 3 March, 7pm and Wednesday 4 March, 1.30pm (2 hours including interval) Riverdance originally burst on to the world stage in Dublin when it premiered during the interval of the 1994 Eurovision Song Contest and overnight became a worldwide phenomenon. Now they return to cinemas with innovative and spectacular lighting, projection, stage and costume designs. Filmed live in Dublin exactly 25 years to the day when it all began, the event includes a special introduction and fascinating backstage footage and interviews.
Bolshoi Ballet: Romeo and Juliet (12A) Sunday 29 March, 3pm (Running time to be confirmed)
In spite of each of their families being merciless enemies, Romeo and Juliet are deeply in love. The rivalry between the Capulets and the Montagues will cost Mercutio’s life, causing Romeo a desire of vengeance for the loss of his friend… Bolshoi stars Ekaterina Krysanova and Vladislav Lantratov wholly embody the two eternal lovers in Alexei Ratmansky’s stunning evocation of love at first sight.
Met Opera: Tosca (12A) Saturday 11 April, 5.55pm (Running time to be confirmed)
Superstar soprano Anna Netrebko returns in the title role as the explosive diva in Puccini’s best-loved operatic thriller. Based in Rome during the Napoleonic wars, this tragic tale of passion, murder, lust and love, set against a famously romantic score, is an enduring classic. Bertrand de Billy conducts Sir David McVicar’s evocative production, with tenor Brian Jagde as Tosca’s impassioned lover, Cavaradossi, and baritone Michael Volle as the sinister Scarpia. Pre-order a cheese and biscuit plate for the interval for only £5.50.
Bolshoi Ballet: Jewels (12A) Sunday 19 April, 4pm (Running time to be confirmed) This opulent triptych was inspired by Balanchine’s visit to the famous jeweler Van Cleef & Arpels on New York’s Fifth Avenue, celebrating the cities and dance schools of Paris, New York and St. Petersburg, each bound to its own precious stone: emerald, ruby and diamond.
Balanchine built an homage of captivating beauty to the three dance schools that had forged his style, each represented by a contrasting gemstone. Jewels offers a unique occasion to enjoy the genius of choreographer’s visually captivating work performed by some of the world’s most dazzling dancers.
Jonas Kaufmann: My Vienna (12A TBC)
Sunday 3 May, 3pm (1 hour 30 minutes) Jonas Kaufmann: My Vienna is a deeply personal tribute by the star tenor to the world-famous melodies from the birthplace of waltz and operetta. Filmed live in the magical setting of the Wiener Konzerthaus, the concert features popular Viennese music from Die Fledermaus and Wienerblut by Johann Strauss and Franz Lehár’s The Merry Widow, plus many of the classic songs inspired by the city of Vienna. Jonas Kaufmann performs with the Prague Philharmonia orchestra under the baton of Maestro Jochen Rieder and is joined by the internationally acclaimed soprano Rachel Willis-Sørensen. ‘The biggest opera star in the world’ (Classic FM)
National Theatre Live: The Welkin (15) Thursday 21 May, 7pm (3 hours to be confirmed)
One life in the hands of 12 women. Rural Suffolk in England, 1759. As the country waits for Halley’s comet, a young woman is sentenced to hang for a heinous murder. When she claims to be pregnant, a jury of 12 matrons are taken from their housework to decide whether she’s telling the truth, or simply trying to escape the noose. With only midwife Lizzy Luke prepared to defend the girl, and a mob baying for blood outside, the matrons wrestle with their new authority, and the devil in their midst. Starring Maxine Peake.
Met Opera: Maria Stuarda (12A)
Saturday 9 May, 5.55pm (Running time to be confirmed) Set in 16th Century Britain, Donizetti’s historical drama follows Mary, Queen of Scots and her bitter rivalry with the cousin responsible for imprisoning her, Queen Elizabeth I, and thrills with intense stand-offs and impressive vocal displays. Soprano Diana Damrau and mezzo-soprano Jamie Barton square off as two of history’s most formidable monarchs, with Maurizio Benini conducting. Pre-order a cheese and biscuit plate for the interval for only £5.50.
Exhibition On Screen: Frida Kahlo (12A) Monday 6 July, 7pm (1 hour 30 minutes)
This highly engaging film takes us on a journey through the life of one of the most prevalent female icons: Frida Kahlo. She was a prolific self-portraitist, using the canvas as a mirror through all stages of her turbulent and, at times, tragic life. Guided with interview, commentary and Frida’s own words, EXHIBITION ON SCREEN uncovers that this, however, was not a life defined by tragedy. Tickets: Adults £13, Friends £10, Under 19’s £7
Gallery Shropshire Arts Society Thursday 2 April – Thursday 7 May An exhibition of members’ work, showcasing a range of styles and media, from watercolour landscapes to oil portraits, as well as prints, acrylics and pastels. In addition there will be a display of craft items made by members including ceramics, jewellery, mirrors and textiles, as well as a small display of cards.
DIARY OF EVENTS FEBRUARY Met Opera: Porgy and Bess (12A) Sat 1st, 5.55pm BIG SCREEN Dementia Friendly: On Moonlight Bay (U) Mon 3rd, 1.30pm FILM Little Women (U) Tues 4th, 1.30pm FILM Kinky Boots (12A) Tues 4th, 7pm BIG SCREEN Little Women (U) Thurs 6th, 7.30pm FILM Shropshire Music Trust: Paper Jam Fri 7th, 7.30pm LIVE MUSIC Kinky Boots (12A) Sun 9th, 3pm BIG SCREEN Songs From the Movies: Community Singing Sessions Mon 10th, 1.30pm WORKSHOP Jojo Rabbit (12A) Tues 11th, 1.30pm FILM Jojo Rabbit (12A) Thurs 13th, 7.30pm FILM Paw Patrol: Ready, Race, Rescue (U) Sat 15th, 10am FILM Met Opera: Wozzeck (12A) Sat 15th, 5.55pm BIG SCREEN Tangram Theatre: The Origin of Species, a Musical Comedy About Charles Darwin (7+) Sun 16th, 3pm FAMILY THEATRE Paw Patrol: Ready, Race, Rescue (U) Mon 17th, 2pm FILM Paw Patrol: Ready, Race, Rescue (U) Tues 18th, 2pm FILM Paw Patrol: Ready, Race, Rescue (U) Weds 19th, 10am FILM National Theatre Live: Cyrano De Bergerac (15) Thurs 20th, 7pm BIG SCREEN Bolshoi Ballet: Swan Lake (12A) Sun 23rd, 3pm BIG SCREEN 1917 (15) Tues 25th, 1.30pm FILM 1917 (15) Thurs 27th, 7.30pm FILM Met Opera: Agrippina (12A) Sat 29th, 5.55pm BIG SCREEN
MARCH Dementia Friendly: Sister Act (PG) Mon 2nd, 1.30pm FILM Personal History of David Copperfield (PG) Tues 3rd, 1.30pm FILM Riverdance 25th Anniversary Show (12A) Tues 3rd, 7pm BIG SCREEN Riverdance 25th Anniversary Show (12A) Weds 4th, 1.30pm BIG SCREEN Personal History of David Copperfield (PG) Thurs 5th, 7.30pm FILM
DIARY OF EVENTS Dementia Friendly: Sister Act (PG) Fri 6th, 1.30pm FILM Family Crafts Session Sat 7th, 10am - 2pm WORKSHOP Wem Town Hall 10 Year Birthday Party Sat 7th, 7.30pm LIVE MUSIC Downton Abbey (PG) Sun 8th, 2pm FILM A Beautiful Day In the Neighbourhood (PG) Tues 10th, 1.30pm FILM A Beautiful Day In the Neighbourhood (PG) Thurs 12th, 7.30pm FILM Wem Crafters Craft Fayre Sat 14th, 9.30am - 2.30pm MARKET Just Mercy (12A) Tues 17th, 1.30pm FILM Met Opera: Der Fliegende Höllander (12A) Tues 17th, 4.55pm BIG SCREEN Just Mercy (12A) Thurs 19th, 7.30pm FILM Songs From the Movies: Community Singing Sessions Mon 23rd, 1.30pm WORKSHOP Emma (Rating TBC) Tues 24th, 1.30pm FILM Emma (Rating TBC) Thurs 26th, 7.30pm FILM Songs From the Movies: Community Singing Sessions Fri 27th, 1.30pm WORKSHOP Ballroom and Sequence Dance Fri 27th, 7.30pm DANCE Bolshoi Ballet: Romeo and Juliet (12A) Sun 29th, 3pm BIG SCREEN
NOVEMBER APRIL Joseph: A Youth Group Production Thurs 2nd, 7.30pm THEATRE Joseph: A Youth Group Production Fri 3rd, 7.30pm THEATRE Joseph: A Youth Group Production Sat 4th, 7.30pm THEATRE Dolittle (PG TBC) Mon 6th, 10am FILM Dementia Friendly: Sunshine On Leith (PG) Mon 6th, 1.30pm FILM Dolittle (PG TBC) Tues 7th, 1.30pm FILM Family Easter Craft and Cooking Weds 8th, 10-11.30am WORKSHOP Dolittle (PG TBC) Thurs 9th, 7.30pm FILM Disney Pixar’s Onward (PG TBC) Fri 10th, 10am FILM Dementia Friendly: Sunshine On Leith (PG) Fri 10th, 1.30pm FILM Military Wives (12A) Fri 10th, 7.30pm FILM Disney Pixar’s Onward (PG TBC) Sat 11th, 10am FILM
DIARY OF EVENTS Met Opera: Tosca (12A) Sat 11th, 5.55pm BIG SCREEN Military Wives (12A) Tues 14th, 1.30pm FILM Disney Pixar’s Onward (PG TBC) Weds 15th, 2pm FILM Military Wives (12A) Thurs 16th, 7.30pm FILM Bolshoi Ballet: Jewels (12A) Sun 19th, 4pm BIG SCREEN Songs From the Movies: Community Singing Sessions Mon 20th, 1.30pm WORKSHOP The Truth (PG) Tues 21st, 1.30pm FILM The Truth (PG) Thurs 23rd, 7.30pm FILM Songs From the Movies: Community Singing Sessions Fri 24th, 1.30pm WORKSHOP Spring Market Sat 25th, 9am – 1pm MARKET Greenmatthews Presents: A Brief History of Music Sat 25th, 7.30pm LIVE MUSIC
MAY
Jonas Jaufmann: My Vienna (12A) Sun 3rd, 3pm BIG SCREEN Met Opera: Maria Stuarda (12A) Sat 9th, 5.55pm BIG SCREEN Hazel Twig Theatre Presents: The Disappearance of Eliza Grey Fri 15th, 7.30pm THEATRE National Theatre Live: The Welkin (15) Thurs 21st, 7pm BIG SCREEN
Wem Town Hall Community Trust would like to thank the following businesses for their support as Business Friends: E Maund & Sons Gemini Hair and Beauty Hatchers Solicitors JSL Farm and Country Nathan Cross R Greaves & Co Shropshire Aero Club Wem Swimming and Lifestyle Centre
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
Adventures In Alternative Cinema
Thanks to funding from the BFI we are delighted to bring back another season of Adventures with Archives to WTH, bringing together archive film screenings with live performance and newly composed soundtracks. If you are a musician, poet, film fan, filmmaker, or just want to get creative, please get in touch to see how you can get involved. Contact: richard@mediaactive.org
Creative Conversations Creative Conversations, led by Arts Alive and MediaActive, and working with a range of partners including Wem Town Hall, has been working across the county, creating new opportunities for people, aged 55 and over, to take part on the arts. Participants may wish to develop their own creative ideas, acquire new skills to share with others, or may simply wish to try something new. In response to local interest we will be offering free taster sessions in filmmaking, animation, sound recording, and the creative use of iPads. If you are curious, aged 55 years plus, and would like more information please contact richard@mediaactive.org or ask the Wem Town Hall reception team to pass on your contact details to us.
COMMUNITY EVENTS & REGULAR ACTIVITIES Extend Exercise Class
Ballroom Dance Classes
Keep Fit
Wem Market
Backbeat School of Music
Hatchers Legal Surgery
Mondays 10.30-11.30am Exercise for people with a disability and older people. Email Sonja at hopkins766@btinternet.com Mondays 10.30-11.30am Exercise class for older people. Tel Margaret Simmons on 01939 232466.
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.
Mondays 4.30pm A Music School with a difference. Lessons for 7 – 100 year olds, from total beginners to rockstars. Visit www.backbeatmusicschool.com
Thursdays 9am - 12noon To book an appointment email mail@hatchers.co.uk
Wem U3A
Thursdays 11am-3pm Adult social care services. Email charlotte.redford@shropshire.gov.uk
First Tuesday of the Month, 10am Email membership@u3a.uk.
Yoga
Let’s Talk Local Diddi Dance
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.
Thursdays 1.30pm Fun and relaxed pre-school dance classes. Email kristina.jones@diddidance.com
Tai Chi Class
Thursdays 6.15pm - 9.15pm Telephone 01939 236414 or email koruyouththeatre@gmail.com
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.
Koru Youth Theatre
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.
Try out our classes with our free taster sessions on Friday 6 and Saturday 7 March - see our events section for more information
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.
Little Women (U)
Friday 31 January, 7.30pm, Tuesday 4 February, 1.30pm and Thursday 6 February, 7.30pm (2 hours 15 minutes) Writer-director Greta Gerwig (Lady Bird) has crafted a Little Women that draws on both the classic novel and the writings of Louisa May Alcott, and unfolds as the author’s alter ego, Jo March, reflects back and forth on her fictional life. In Gerwig’s take, the beloved story of the March sisters – four young women each determined to live life on her own terms -- is both timeless and timely. ***** Empire Magazine “this is a superb adaptation”
The Best of British and World Cinema Project
BE REWARDED! Attend any five Best of British and World film screenings at Wem Town Hall and get your sixth free! At your first screening ask for a loyalty card and then get it stamped each time you attend a qualifying film. Look out for the Best of British and World Cinema Stamp across our film listings to see which screenings are applicable!
Jojo Rabbit (12A)
Tuesday 11 February, 1.30pm and Thursday 13 February, 7.30pm (1 hour 48 minutes) World War II satire hotly tipped for Awards nominations. Lonely German boy Jojo’s world view is turned upside down when he discovers his single mother (Scarlett Johansson) is hiding a young Jewish girl in their attic. Aided only by his idiotic imaginary friend, Adolf Hitler, Jojo must confront his blind nationalism.
Paw Patrol: Ready, Race, Rescue (U)
Saturday 15 February, 10am, Monday 17 February, 2pm, Tuesday 18 February, 2pm and Wednesday 19 February, 10am (1 hour 25 minutes) In the all-new exciting high-speed adventure, the pups take to the track for the Adventure Bay 500 and need to speed into action when legendary race car driver, The Whoosh, can’t compete.
1917 (15)
Tuesday 25 February, 1.30pm and Thursday 27 February, 7.30pm (2 hours) Sam Mendes, Oscar®-winning director of Skyfall and American Beauty, brings his singular vision to his World War I epic. At the height of the First World War, two young British soldiers are given an impossible mission. In a race against time, they must cross enemy territory and deliver a message that will stop a deadly attack on hundreds of soldiers. Starring Mark Strong, Andrew Scott, Richard Madden, Colin Firth and Benedict Cumberbatch. **** Empire Magazine
The Personal History of David Copperfield (PG) Tuesday 3 March, 1.30pm and Thursday 5 March, 7.30pm (2 hours)
Dickens’ most cherished characters are brought to life in an all new adaptation. From birth to infancy, from adolescence to adulthood, the good-hearted David Copperfield is surrounded by kindness, wickedness, poverty and wealth, as he meets an array of remarkable characters in Victorian England. Starring Dev Patel (Slumdog Millionaire), Hugh Laurie and Tilda Swinton. **** The Guardian
WTH 10th Birthday Free Screening! Downton Abbey (PG)
Sunday 8 March, 2pm ( 2 hours 30 minutes including interval) We return to Downton Abbey, as the beloved Crawleys and their intrepid staff prepare for the most important moment of their lives. A royal visit from the King and Queen of England will unleash scandal, romance and intrigue that will leave the future of Downton hanging in the balance. Written by series creator Julian Fellowes and starring the original cast, including Dame Maggie Smith, Imelda Staunton, Hugh Bonneville and Michelle Dockery. Join us for scrumptious afternoon tea with your ticket – also free but booking essential. Please let us know any dietary requirements when booking.
A Beautiful Day In the Neighbourhood (PG)
Tuesday 10 March, 1.30pm and Thursday 12 March, 7.30pm (1 hour 48 minutes) Two-time Oscar®-winner Tom Hanks portrays Mister Rogers 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 magazine writer is assigned a profile of Fred Rogers, he overcomes his skepticism, learning about empathy, kindness, and decency from America’s most beloved neighbour.
Just Mercy (12A)
Tuesday 17 March, 1.30pm and Thursday 19 March, 7.30pm (2 hours 17 minutes) In Alabama 1987 Walter McMillian, is sentenced to die for the notorious murder of an 18-year-old girl, despite significant evidence proving his innocence and the fact that the only testimony against him came from a criminal with a motive to lie. Young lawyer Bryan Stevenson vows to make a difference in this inspiring true life story of one man’s history-making battle for justice.
Emma (Rating TBC)
Tuesday 24 March, 1.30pm and Thursday 26 March, 7.30pm ((Running time to be confirmed) Jane Austen’s beloved comedy about finding your equal and earning your happy ending enjoys a fresh take with Bill Nighy and Miranda Hart amongst the cast. Handsome, clever, and rich, Emma Woodhouse is a restless queen bee without rivals in her sleepy little town. In this glittering satire of social class and the pain of growing up, Emma must adventure through misguided matches and romantic missteps to find the love that has been there all along.
Dolittle (PG TBC)
Monday 6 April, 10am, Tuesday 7 April, 1.30pm and Thursday 9 April, 7.30pm (Running time to be confirmed) A vivid reimagining of the classic tale of the man who could talk to animals. After losing his wife, the eccentric Dr Dolittle hermits himself away in Dolittle Manor with only his menagerie of exotic animals for company. But when the young Queen Victoria falls ill, a reluctant Dolittle is forced to set sail on an epic adventure to a mythical island in search of a cure. Starring Robert Downey Jr (Sherlock Holmes), Emma Thompson, Michael Sheen, Jim Broadbent, Ralph Fiennes and Frances de la Tour.
Disney Pixar’s Onward (PG TBC)
Friday 10 April, 10am (this screening will be cabaret with chairs and tables) Saturday 11 April, 10am and Wednesday 15 April, 2pm (Running time to be confirmed) Dates and times to be confirmed at time of going to print. Please check with venue. From the creators of Toy Story. Two teenage elf brothers, Ian and Barley Lightfoot embark on an extraordinary quest to discover if there is still a little magic left in the world so they can spend one last day with their father. Featuring Chris Pratt, Tom Holland and Octavia Spencer.
Military Wives (12A)
Friday 10 April, 7.30pm, Tuesday 14 April, 1.30pm and Thursday 16 April, 7.30pm (1 hour 52 minutes to be confirmed) Thrown together by life on a military base while their partners serve on a tour of duty in Afghanistan, a group of ordinary women find an unexpected way to raise their spirits and combat the isolating realities of being an army wife - by forming the first ever Military Wives’ Choir. Starring Kristin Scott Thomas and from the director of The Full Monty.
The Truth (PG)
Tuesday 21 April, 1.30pm and Thursday 23 April, 7.30pm (1 hour 47 minutes) Fabienne (Catherine Denveuve) is a French movie star and most definitely a Diva. She reigns amongst men who love and admire her. When she publishes her memoirs, her daughter Lumir (Juliette Binoche) returns from New York to Paris with her husband (Ethan Hawke) and young child. The reunion between mother and daughter will quickly turn to confrontation: truths will be told, accounts settled, loves and resentments confessed. In French with English subtitles.
W.E.M: Where Everyone Matters Dementia Friendly Movie Matinees February to April
At Dementia Friendly movie matinees we hope that you enjoy a laid back informal way view and experience films. The seats are set out on the flat floor around small tables in a cafe style. The lights are kept on at a low level and we always make sure the sounds levels aren’t too high. We have an interval so everyone can have a chat over an all important cuppa and a biscuit before catching the end of the film. Our specially trained ushers are on hand to assist and help navigate the venue. From March we will be adding in a dementia friendly movie matinee on different day to allow for greater opportunity to take part. Our first additional film showing will be Sister Act on Friday 6th March, also part of Wem Town Hall’s 10th Birthday celebrations so please come and help us celebrate. Tickets: £5, Carers Free (not available online) - includes refreshment.
On Moonlight Bay (1951) (U)
Monday 3 February, 1.30pm (1 hour 50 minutes including interval) During World War I, a teenage girl begins a romance with a college student, but his unconventional attitudes cause friction with her father. Starring Doris Day.
Sister Act (PG)
Monday 2 March, 1.30pm and Friday 6 March, 1.30pm (2 hours including interval) When a Reno singer witnesses a mob crime, the police hide her as a nun in a traditional convent where she has trouble fitting in - until she is put in charge of the choir. Starring Whoopi Goldberg and Maggie Smith.
Sunshine on Leith (PG)
Monday 6 April, 1.30pm and Friday 10 April, 1.30pm (2 hours including interval) Sunshine on Leith is based on the sensational stage hit of the same name, featuring music by pop-folk band The Proclaimers. Davy and Ally have to re-learn how to live life in Edinburgh after coming home from serving in Afghanistan.
Community Singing Sessions
Monday 10 February, 1.30pm Monday 23 March, 1.30pm and Friday 27 March, 1.30pm Monday 20 April, 1.30pm and Friday 24 April, 1.30pm (2 hours including interval) Once a month we enjoy participating in ‘Songs from the Movies’ with a local musician who plays a variety of popular tunes mainly from musicals for you to join in with or simply just enjoy the music. Our sessions are welcoming and inclusive with our specially trained Dementia Friendly ushers on hand to assist and help navigate the venue. From April we will be growing our singing sessions to offer more opportunity to take part. Please join our mailing list to be kept up to date as new sessions are confirmed. Tickets: £5, carers free (not available online)
Talking Table
Every Wednesday 10am - 12noon From April onwards join us on a Wednesday morning 10am-12noon at our talking table in the cafe. We want to get Wem talking and more importantly talking to each other. Be it for a quick 10 minute cuppa or a proper hourly conversation, come along to meet new people and make new friends. A brief interaction with another person is guaranteed to brighten your day, help brighten up someone else’s!
WEM: Where Everyone Matters project is funded by the National Lottery Community Fund.
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.