Saturday 14 October 2023, 7.30pm
YORK BARBICAN CENTRE
Saturday 14 October 2023, 7.30pm
YORK BARBICAN CENTRE
Dvorˇák
Concert Overture ‘In Nature’s Realm’
Mendelssohn
Violin Concerto in E minor
Elgar
Symphony No.1
David Greed
Violin
Simon Wright Conductor
Fiona Love Leader
Tickets: £24.50 & £18.50
Children/Students in full-time education: £7.50
Available from:
yorkbarbican.co.uk/whats-on
David Greed
These prices include the service and facility fees charged by York Barbican. An additional ‘transaction fee’ is also levied by the Barbican.
You’d think that with summer drawing to a close, the weeks of fun events would also be slowing down, but as ever, York is the gift that keeps on giving. If you’re looking to keep those summer vibes alive for as long as possible it doesn’t get better than Dogfest at Harewood House. Keep an eye on page 26 for the grand return of our our gig-guide — there’s an exciting act or band performing on almost every day of the month. It’s the best way to make the most of the last long summer nights.
If the start of a new school year has inspired you to take a new direction in your career, you'll go no wrong with York Learning's Jobs Fair where you can meet dozens of local employers.
Above all else, theatre is the theme of September, read our listings on pages 22-25 to hear about all the brilliant shows, with The Barbican’s ‘Do you Believe in Ghosts’ the pick of the bunch, and ‘Murder in the Dark’ at the Theatre Royal a very close second. Both are thrilling stories that will get you in the mood for spooky season next month. This September in York is going to be one to remember, and this issue of What’s On is your key to making the most of it. Until next month, Your What’s On Team
See and hear some of our aircraft fired up and running their engines.
OCTOBER 8TH 2023
Static engine runs of Victor • Nimrod Navy Buccaneer Jet Provost Dakota • SE5a Kitten
ADULTS CHILDREN
£20 £10
Return tickets are not valid on this special event day. Normal admissions prices suspended.
Pre-booking is advisable
www.yorkshireairmuseum.org
// FROM AUGUST 26TH
ART IN THE PARK, Rowntree Park, York. The brilliant work of a host of local artists are to be displayed in the serene Rowntree Park from the end of August until Spring 2024. Some of the work will also be available to buy as prints, note cards and a 2024 calendar — all sales go toward their volunteers who work hard to maintain the park. Head to rowntreepark.org.uk for details.
// 27TH, 28TH, 29TH AUGUST
POPPLETON ARTISTS’ EXHIBITION AND SALE, Tithe Barn, Nether Poppleton. 10am5pm on Saturday and Sunday, and 10am-4pm on Monday. Poppleton Artists Exhibition will host all-original work from over 25 artists. Showcasing around 250 pieces of work. Entry is free and refreshments are available too. Search Poppleton Artists Exhibition on Facebook to find out more information.
// UNTIL 31ST AUGUST
SUTTON PARK, Sutton on the Forest, York, YO61 1DP. Open from 11am-4pm with guided tours at 1:30pm and 2:45pm. The annual window is open to visit the iconic 18th Century home that recently featured in BBC series Gentleman Jack. Visit
www.sutton-park.co.uk/about for ticket information.
PIRATES AND MERMAIDS, Mother Shipton's Cave, Prophecy Lodge, High Bridge, Knaresborough, HG5 8DD. 10:00am-5pm. Take a trip under the sea to meet a magnificent mermaid and swashbuckling pirate at Britain’s oldest tourist attraction, Mother Shipton’s Cave. Book tickets at www. mothershipton.co.uk/the-park.
// 2ND SEPTEMBER
CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF THE YORK ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY, Priory Street Centre, YO1 6ET, 10am-4pm. Celebrate
Itching for something to do in York?
Read our handy events and attractions guide, covering York and the surrounding areas.
this historic landmark with a day of talks and telescopes. Tickets are £5 and are available from Eventbrite. Head to www. yorkastro.org.uk for more information.
STEVE CASSIDY BAND, Haxby Sports and Social Club, 8pm. Free entry. For an evening of great music, join the Steve Cassidy Band for a wonderful mix of country, ballads and rock music. Head to www. stevecassidy.co.uk/ for all the details.
YORK U3A OPEN DAY, Friends Meeting House, Friargate, 10–12am. There’s free entry to this welcome meeting where you can learn all about the amazing
n The comprehensive guide to what’s on in York
events run by York U3A, a social club for retired people; these include monthly talks, UK and International Travel and over 120 Interest Groups ranging from Bridge, Chess, Cycling to Walking, and many more. You can find details at www.yorku3a.com.
POCKLINGTON CANAL OPEN DAY, Melbourne Arms, Melbourne, Pocklington, YO42 4QJ from 10am until 4pm. The annual Pocklington Canal Amenity Society open-day returns with free entry! Boat rides are available on the Society’s Trip-Boat, the “New Horizons” from 11am until 4pm. Stalls, information, bacon butties, burgers and cups of tea & coffee available all day! Visit www. pocklingtoncanalsociety.org for further information.
GARDENING THE WORLD, York Army Museum. FREE online talk. Learn about the horticulture of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission around the world and discover the stories of the commission’s early gardeners in this free online talk. Booking via, yorkarmymuseum.co.uk or call 01904 461010.
HEWORTH RETIRED MEN’S GROUP, Heworth Without Community Centre, 10-11.30am. This friendly social group meets fortnightly on Tuesdays. The speaker at the next meeting is John Stott and the subject is great musicals, with words and music both provided on the day. Refreshments will be available for £2. For more information, please contact Allen Humphries at 07517661872.
YORK BEER & CIDER FESTIVAL, St Lawrence Parish Church, Lawrence Street, YO10 3WP. Returning for its' 49th edition the festival is taking on a new and unique venue, where there'll be more than 250 beers and ciders to try! Tickets are expected to sell out so it’s advised to book well in advance. Tickets cost £4-£7 per session and CAMRA members receive a £2 discount on ticket bookings. For more information or to book please visit yorkbeerfestival.com.
YORK NATIONAL BOOK
FAIR, Knavesmire Suite, York Racecourse, 12-7pm and 10am5pm respectively. At the York September Book Fair, you will find over 100,000 books with some dating back as far as 500 years! Admission is £2, head to www.yorkbookfair.com for all the details.
YORK HISTORIC VEHICLE
SHOW, York Racecourse, The Knavesmire 10am-4pm. Whether you have a vintage car of your own you’d like to showcase, or
you just have an interest in old vehicles, this will be the ideal day out. Public Entry is £5 and free for children under 5. Head to www.yhvg.uk for all the details.
WEDDING FAYRE, Delta Hotels
By Marriott York, Tadcaster Road, York YO24 1QQ, 11:30am-2:30pm. This completely free fayre is the place to be for all of York’s engaged couples— speak to 30 top wedding suppliers and pick up a free tote bag. It’s at the iconic Delta Marriott Hotel, overlooking the racecourse. To make sure you get in at the door, book a ticket now at www. theukweddingevent.co.uk.
YORK LEARNING JOB FAIR, York Railway Institute Sports Centre, 22/24 Queen Street, YO24 1AD. 10am-2pm. Employers from up to 80 businesses will be available to speak to for professional advice and employment opportunities. York Learning’s own staff will also be on site to discuss any of their professional qualification courses. Get more details at yorklearning.org.uk/ events/yorkjobsfair.
// 21ST-24TH SEPTEMBER
NORTH YORKSHIRE MOORS
RAILWAY 50TH ANNIVERSARY
STEAM GALA, North Yorkshire Moors Railway, 12 Park Street, Pickering, North Yorkshire, YO18 7AJ. 9am-10pm. See the best of Yorkshire across four action packed days of scenic railway journeys onboard historic locomotives. Tickets are £45 for a day and kids go free! Head to www.nymr.co.uk/Event/50thanniversary-steam-gala for all the details.
SHAKESPEARE’S SONGS, St Mary's Church Bishophill Junior, York (22-23 September) and the Super Sustainable Centre, Derwenthorpe, Osbaldwick (24 September), 7:30pm. Shakespeare's Songs revisits and celebrates some of the original music from the Bard’s most influential plays. Details at www. yorkshakespeareproject.org.
// 23RD SEP-8TH OCT
YORK 50+ FESTIVAL, York Older People’s Assembly, St Sampson’s Centre, Church Street, YO1 8BE. Come along to share skills and try out new activities during over 120 events. The two-week festival is centered around October 1st, The UN's International Day of Older People, and will bring together York’s community of older people. For more information and a full timetable of events and taster sessions head to www. yorkassembly.org.uk.
RSPB TRIP TO HARTLEPOOL
HEADLAND, the coach pick up is from Memorial Gardens, YO26 4ZF at 7am. Day trip to Hartlepool Headland and RSPB
Saltholme where you should expect to see Eider, Rock Pipit, Purple Sandpiper and other returning migrants species. Tickets are £25 per head — to book your seat head to www. group.rspb.org.uk/york/.
ACADEMY OF ST OLAVE’S AUTUMN CONCERT, St Olave’s Church, Marygate, 8pm. York’s leading chamber orchestra present a programme of classical music in aid of Kyra Women's Project. Features works by Fanny Mendelssohn-Hensel, Fauré, Sibelius and Mozart. Tickets cost £16 or £5 for Under 18s and are available from www. academyofstolaves.org.uk or on the door.
DOGFEST, Harewood House, Leeds LS17 9LG. Considering the Harewood House estate dates all the way back to the twelfth century, you’d think it would have seen every possible type of excitement — none of that history however will compare to the heights of DogFest, the ‘ultimutt’ festival for dogs and dog lovers. You’ll find world-
class displays from top canine athletes, free expert advice, have-a-go activities and plenty of play that will guarantee a memorable day out. Your Local Link readers are entitled to TWOFOR-ONE tickets. To claim, visit www.dogfest.co.uk and quote LOCAL241 at checkout. (Valid until midnight on 20th September).
// 24TH SEPTEMBER
ANTIQUE & COLLECTORS FAIR, Driffield Showground YO25 9DN, 9am-3pm. Browse over 40 stalls packed with quality collectables. There will also be a valuation table available from 10am-1pm, where you can have your precious items valued by experts — it’ll cost just £1 per item. Entrance is also £1. Car parking is free, call 07713 34411 for more details.
// 30TH SEP-1ST OCT
ANTIQUE & VINTAGE FAIR, Wetherby Racecourse, LS22 5EL. An indoor and outdoor event, set in the wonderful Bramham Hall Exhibition Centre. Free parking and on-site catering available. For more information on timings and ticket prices visit jaguarfairs. com.
// 7TH OCTOBER
EXHIBITION AND ART SALE, 10am–4pm, Wigginton Recreation Hall, Wigginton. Come and browse a beautiful collection of art created by the talented members of the Haxby and Wigginton Art Group. This is their annual exhibition and art sale where you can meet the artists, purchase and/or browse artwork. There is a £1 entrance fee which includes refreshments. All are welcome to come along.
// 7TH-8TH OCTOBER
YORK UNLOCKED, Various locations. Explore Yorks history and past as York Unlocked returns for its' second year. It provides visitors with free access to around 70 buildings across York; many aren’t normally open to the public. There is a range of new buildings added for 2023; including Bishopthorpe palace, Cameron Walker Court, Eboracum Lodge and St Mary’s Tower. Some buildings require pre-booking. There's something for everyone to find interesting, whether you're a history buff or are just looking for a fun family day out. Visit www.york-unlocked. org.uk for more information.
// 8TH OCTOBER
THUNDER DAY, Yorkshire Air Museum, Elvington, YO41 4AU, 10am-5pm. See and hear the engines that won the war fired up and running their engines. Those on display include a Nimrod Navy Buccaneer, a Victor and more. Tickets are £20, head to www.yorkshireairmuseum.org to find out more information and to book your tickets.
// 14TH OCTOBER
ST NICKS AUTUMN FAYRE, Rawdon Ave, YO10 3FW, 1-5pm. This year's annual fundraiser will see a jam-packed afternoon celebrating local organisations and businesses who help make a difference for the planet. There’ll be activities for all ages and live music from the meadow — entry is free! Visit www.stnicks.org.uk for more information.
// 14TH OCTOBER
DVOŘÁK, MENDELSSOHN AND ELGAR, York Guildhall Orchestra, York Barbican Centre, Paragon Street, YO10 4AH, 7:30pm. Violin soloist David Greed returns to bring the ever-popular violin concerto of Mendelssohn to life, this will be accompanied by concert greats from Dvořák and Elgar. Tickets start at £18.50.
// 20TH-21ST & 27TH-28TH OCT
YORKTOBERFEST, Clocktower Enclosure, York Racecourse. York's very own Oktoberfest returns with plenty of laughs, live entertainment and lederhosen! Fill your stein, grab a tasty bite and enjoy thigh-slapping live music and hilarious drag artist
Velma Celli. Tickets from £20. For more information on tickets and timings, please visit www. yorktoberfest.co.uk.
// 28TH OCTOBER
DO YOU BELIEVE IN GHOSTS, The Barbican, Paragon St, 7:30pm. A brilliant show of experimental theatre led by Adam, an actor-turnedparanormal investigator, who reveals the chilling supernatural secrets hidden in the shadows. You’ll leave at the end of the night having forgotten everything you thought you knew about ghosts… Head to www.barbican. org.uk for tickets.
// 17TH DECEMBER
YORK’S ANNUAL COMMUNITY CAROL CONCERT, York Barbican, Paragon Street, YO10 4AH, 2pm. Early shout-out for this Christmas’s biggest event. Join Shepherd Group Youth Band, Badger Hill School Choir, Track 29 Ladies Close Harmony Chorus, York Stage School and Steve Cassidy for a Christmas sing along under the baton of Musical Director Mike Pratt. Tickets are priced at £8 for adults and £6 for children, head to www.
n The comprehensive guide to what’s on in York
yorkbarbican.co.uk to buy yours now. All proceeds will go to charity.
// WEEKLY
BIRD & WILDLIFE CLASSES, Various locations. Encounter the natural world as a completely new sensual experience. Book now for the Autumn season where you can study birds such as immature Cuckoos, Redstarts, Whinchats, Spotted Flycatchers, and Yellow Wagtails on migration. For more information or to book, call 07946 625688 or email mflowers81@live.co.uk.
JOYCE RHODES YOGA, Fulford
Social Hall, 7.30pm. A mixedability yoga class with a very experienced accredited teacher, qualified with the British Wheel of Yoga. Email Joycegrhodes@ btinternet.com.
// EVERY TUES
HAXBY AND WIGGINTON ART GROUP, 7-9pm, Wigginton Recreation Hall, Wigginton. Meeting every Tuesday evening from 5th September until May 2024 excluding the Christmas period. This friendly art group is a fantastic place to meet other creative individuals. This is a self-help group and there are sometimes guest tutors that come along to hold workshops. You must supply your own materials. All abilities and ages are welcome to join.
// EVERY TUES
STOCKTON FORESTERS DRAMA GROUP, Stockton on the Forest Village Hall, 7.30pm. A friendly,
fun local amateur theatre group, producing two plays a year. Whether you fancy being on stage or helping behind the scenes, they would love to hear from you! For more information, email Holly at dramastockton@ gmail.com or find Stockton foresters drama group on Facebook.
MENFULNESS RUNNING CLUB, Millennium Bridge, York, from 7.30pm. An all-abilities weekly running group run by David Lingwood. A chance to talk to like-minded men and have a laugh all while exercising. There's even an opportunity afterward for a post-run beverage.
// EVERY WED
YOGA WITH NESTOR, Stockton on the Forest Village Hall, 10am. A mixed ability yoga class, beginners welcome. Email nestorportnoy@yahoo. com to find out more
IN HARMONY LADIES CHOIR, Acomb Methodist Church Hall, 7:30pm. This friendly group are looking for new members, no audition needed to join, come along and give it a try. For more information visit yorkinharmony.
co.uk/index.html.
YOGA IN DALBY FOREST, Dalby Visitor Centre. Suitable for all abilities, this wonderful yoga practice delivered by an experienced instructor, will restore and revitalise you in the beautiful setting of the nature site, Dalby Forest. Visit www.forestryengland. uk/forest-event/events-dalbyforest/yoga-dalby-forest.
// EVERY 1ST & 3RD WED
STRICTLY FUN BARN DANCING! Acomb Methodist Church Hall, 2.15-4.30pm. Enjoy an afternoon of barn and ceilidh-style social dancing. Admission is £3. For more information, please call Phil on 01904 783029.
// EVERY 2ND WED
ACOMB LOCAL HISTORY
SOCIETY, Acomb Church Hall, 10am. Enjoy a guest speaker’s presentation followed by refreshments. Admission is £1 for members, £2.50 for nonmembers and £5 for a yearly membership.
// EVERY THUR
n The comprehensive guide to what’s on in York
Join this friendly beginners' ballroom and Latin dance lesson. Tuition will be focused on the jive, cha cha cha, and waltz up to the Christmas break. Call 07939 336315 or email andy.k.gant@ gmail.com for more information.
YORK CAMERA CLUB, Dringhouses/online 7:309pm. Anyone with a genuine enthusiasm for taking photos are encouraged to sign up, whether you’re a beginner or a professional. The meetings are a supportive environment for photographers to meet, collaborate and learn from each other, often consisting of a mixture of exhibitions and photographic talks from established professional photographers. Contact secretary@yorkcameraclub.co.uk if you’re interested.
SILVER SWANS BALLET, for over 55s (under 55s also welcome) Huntington Memorial Hall (Thursdays) and St. Mary’s Church Hall, Haxby (Fridays). This gentle ballet class is adapted and age-appropriate. Get fit, have fun, and meet people with a passion for life! Taught by RAD Silver Swans Licensee and director of Jorvik Dance. Call 07725 478479 or visit www.jorvikdance.com for more information.
SUN
SHADOWS OF YORK GHOST
WALK, Meet outside the front of St Michael Le Belfrey Church, located between the Minster and Guy Fawkes Inn, to step back into the past and hear all the ghostly tales of York's not so nice history. Tours are at 6:30pm with an additional 8:15pm tour on Saturdays. Visit www.
shadowsofyork.co.uk for details.
WIGGINTON CAR BOOT, Home Farm, Wigginton. The classic Wigginton Car Boot Sale is on every Sunday and gates open at 6.30am, weather permitting. Cars cost £8 and vans are £9, with additional trailers at £2 extra. Public admission is £1 with toilets and refreshments available. Call 01904 768463 to find out more.
DOWN BY THE RIVER, Plonkers Wine Bar, 8:30pm. Calling all open mic night lovers. Head on down to Plonkers Wine bar every Sunday to enjoy an evening of live music in a relaxed atmosphere. Free drink to all performers and all music equipment is provided on the night. To find out more information search Plonkers Wine Bar on Facebook.
CASTLE HOWARD, York YO60 7DA. Marvel at the palace that took over 100 years to complete, wander through the manicured gardens, play at Skelf Island, and take souvenirs home with you from The Farm Shop and Garden Centre. Prebooking is recommended. Visit castlehoward.co.uk.
CITY CRUISES YORK, York's favourite water-based attraction offers sightseeing, dining, selfdrive, and private hire cruises on the River Ouse, and is a muchloved and highly regarded staple of York's visitor economy.
CITY WALLS EXPERIENCE, Micklegate Bar. Visit one of the historic gateways into the city and discover 2,000-year stories involving battle, imprisonment, and near destruction. This new
attraction is open until October. Visit yorkcitywalls.com.
DARK TALES OF YORK, Book a private tour to explore the narrow streets and alleyways of York and learn about the rich and haunting history that the city has amassed over hundreds and thousands of years. Call 07530 378176 or visit www. darktalesofyork.com.
GHOST TRAIL OF YORK, West Doors of York Minster, 7.30pm. Dare you cross the centuries and discover York's spine-chilling history? Visit www.ghosttrail. co.uk or call 01904 633276.
JORVIK VIKING CENTRE, Coppergate. Discover the Original Viking Encounter! Enjoy the world-famous ride experience with the sights, sounds, and smells of the Viking Age. Get up close to the ancient artefacts and interact with their friendly real-life Vikings. Visit www. jorvikvikingcentre.co.uk.
KENTMERE HOUSE GALLERY, Scarcroft Hill, York. Pop along to Kentmere House Gallery to witness the work of artists who are members of Royal Art Societies, including Robert Palmer, Richard Pikesley, Roy Freer, Susan Bower and Fred Cuming. For more information, please call 01904 656507.
JORVIK DIG, St Saviourgate. Head down to DIG on St Saviourgate where your little ones can experience a real hands-on archaeological adventure! Visit www.digyork. com for more information.
NORTH YORKSHIRE MOORS
RAILWAY, Pickering. Experience 24 miles of Yorkshire’s amazing scenery in historic carriages behind a heritage steam or diesel
n The comprehensive guide to what’s on in York
locomotive. Book online at nymr. co.uk
THE CATS WHISKERS, 46 Goodramgate, York YO1 1LF. This cat cafe sits comfortably in the city centre and offers charming views of the Minster whilst you sip coffee, eat delicious cakes and meet Sprout, Pumpkin and many more feline residents. Visit www.thecatswhiskersyork.co.uk/ the-cats/ for the details.
THE HILT AXE THROWING, 57B Goodramgate, York YO1 7LS. Open everyday except Tuesdays from 2-8pm. This is the first axe throwing venue to open on the streets of York and offers eight lanes for aspiring vikings to either be coached or to take part in axe throwing tournaments. They also serve food and drink. Visit www. thehilt.co.uk to book a lane.
THE HOLE IN WAND, Coppergate Shopping Centre, York. Visit the world’s most magical golf course and enjoy a Wizarding adventure. This unique nine hole course is one for the Wizard fans! There is even a Wizard Tavern to relax in after your victory. To find out more information or to book, please visit www.theholeinwand. com/york.
THE POTIONS CAULDRON, 93/4 Shambles, York. Visit the magical apothecary at 93/4 Shambles and enter the world of magic. Enjoy the spellbinding potion making experience or indulge yourself in an array of magical gifts and souvenirs. Visit www. thepotionscauldron.com to find out more information.
THE YORK DUNGEON, Clifford Street. If you enjoy a bit of mild peril in your life, then you need to go to The York Dungeon. Never before has history been so entertaining – and terrifying.
Visit
WHITE ROSE YORK TOURS, Meet at the West Entrance to York Minster, 11am and 3pm (also 1pm Friday and Saturday). Take a free history tour of the city centre. Visit www.whiteroseyork. com or call 07792 207679.
WIZARD WALK OF YORK, Shambles, York. Explore the enchanting historical city on your mission to locate magical creatures. Ideal for children aged between five and ten years old, there are several evening days available; reserve your spot online at www.wizardwalkofyork. com.
WONDERLAB AT THE BRAMALL GALLERY, 10am-5pm. This unmissable exhibition is new for this summer. Test your engineering skills through 18 hands-on challenges including a human wind tunnel, a rocket launch and many more —then immerse yourself in an explosive live show that reveals the science behind the fun. Tickets are £7.20 for the day or £13 for an annual pass. Head to www. railwaymuseum.org.uk/whatson/wonderlab-bramall-gallery for the details.
YORKSHIRE AIR MUSEUM, Elvington. Did you know that the first-ever aeroplane was invented in Yorkshire? Explore aircraft from throughout history and dig into archive material to learn all about the world of aviation. Visitors can also enjoy a stroll on the Nature of Flight walk or take a moment to reflect in the Remembrance Garden. Visit yorkshireairmuseum.org.
YORK GOLF RANGE, Towthorpe Moor Lane, near Strensall. Set in beautiful countryside, York Golf
Range features a whole host of fun activities, including a floodlit driving range, a nine-hole golf course, crazy golf, and even foot golf – a great combination of soccer and golf. Visit www. yorkgolfrange.co.uk or call 01904 499275.
YORK LEISURE CENTRE, York Leisure Centre at the York Stadium Leisure Complex at Monks Cross has a great range of activities guaranteed to turn up the fun. From the junior gym, swimming, racquet sports, and clip 'n climb, the whole family will enjoy a range of fun and affordable activities. Visit better. org.uk/york-lc.
YORK MANSION HOUSE, Book in to visit York's most exclusive address. Across four floors, walk in the footsteps of Lord Mayors and some of the most infamous figures in York's history, discovering grand State Rooms, vast kitchens, and hidden passages. Visit www. mansionhouseyork.com for more information.
YORK MAZE, Elvington. This year's maze is set to aMAZE the family for a full day out packed with plenty of attractions, shows and rides and of course the maze! Tickets must be booked via www.yorkmaze.com.
To book, call 01904 623568 or visit www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk.
// 7TH SEPTEMBER
THE ONE LIKE JUDI LOVE
The hilarious Judi Love as seen on Loose Women, Taskmaster, The Jonathan Ross Show, The Graham Norton Show, 8 Out Of 10 Cats
Does Countdown and The Royal Variety Performance is bringing her fresh, unapologetic and charismatic real talk to the Theatre Royal this September as part of her first ever official tour.
// 19TH-23RD SEPTEMBER
MURDER IN THE DARK
This thrilling new story will keep you on the edge of your seats. Set on a cold, dark and mysterious New Year’s Eve, a car crash on a lonely road brings famous but troubled singer Danny Sierra (Tom Chambers) and his extended family to an isolated holiday cottage in rural England. From the moment they arrive, a series of unsettling events begin to occur…
// 10TH-14TH OCTOBER
METAMORPHOSIS
One morning Gregor Samsa awakes to find himself changed. To those around him he is dangerous, untouchable vermin. Worse than that, he is a burden. This retelling perfectly captures Franz Kafka’s story of kindness and cruelty, as Gregor’s life is transformed from mundane boredom into abject horror…
To book, call 0333 009 6690 or visit atgtickets.com.
// 9TH SEPTEMBER
JEN BRISTER: THE OPTIMIST
The hilarious comedian as seen on Live at the Apollo is brining her latest stand-up show to York where you'll hear Jen's witty commentary on tackling middle age. Can Jen work against her natural instincts and finally see the light or will she stay the pessimistic naysayer?
// 15TH SEPTEMBER
BEAUTIFUL - THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL
Beautiful tells the inspiring true story of Carole King’s remarkable rise to stardom from her origins as an ordinary girl from Manhattan. Witness incredible renditions of her classics including (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman, Take Good Care of My Baby and many more.
// 7TH OCTOBER
THE MAGIC OF MOTOWN
Enjoy a revival of classic hits from Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross, Stevie Wonder, The Temptations, The Supremes, The Four Tops, Martha Reeves, The Jackson 5 and many more. Celebrate the sound of a generation with one very special night of The Magic of Motown!
// 17TH-21ST OCTOBER
THE FULL MONTY
Oscar-winning writer and Yorkshire’s own Simon Beaufoy is celebrating the 25th anniversary of his film, adapting it for modern audiences
into a brilliant play. His brandnew production is a rollercoaster ride of ups and downs, laughs and heartbreak as we follow four Sheffield lads, taking on unfortunate circumstances to earn a fortune against all odds.
JOSEPH ROWNTREE THEATRE
To book, call 01904 501935 or visit josephrowntreetheatre.co.uk.
// 18TH-22ND OCTOBER
GUYS AND DOLLS
The legendary musical’s latest adaptation arrives in York, from the award-winning Bev Jones Theatre Company. Experience the heart-wrenching love story of Sky Masterson, a high-rolling gambler who accidentally encounters destiny on his way to winning a bet. Love and hilarity inevitably unfold along the way.
RIDING LIGHTS THEATRE COMPANY
To book, call 01904 655317 or visit ridinglights.org
// 22ND SEPTEMBER
RIGHT HERE RIGHT NOW
A night of fun and foolish improv comedy for all the family. It’s completely audience led and the show does exactly as it says on the tin, they make it up as they go along; turning your ideas into chaotic and brilliant comedy. The show will be running one Friday every month meaning even if you did attend in August, you can come again for a completely different show.
// SEPTEMBER LIVE MUSIC & GIG GUIDE
// 2ND SEPTEMBER
THE BUZZKOCKS + DEATH BY OWL
The York Vaults
KANOWURMZ - ROCKING
THE BLACK HORSE
The Black Horse Wigginton
// 4TH SEPTEMBER
UNITED BY MUSIC OCTOBER
DRIFT
The Fulford Arms
// 5TH SEPTEMBER
DEXYS
York Barbican
// 7TH SEPTEMBER
VIKKI CLAYTON
Black Swan Folk Club
// 8TH SEPTEMBER
JO WHILEY’S 90S ANTHEMS
York Barbican
// 9TH SEPTEMBER
CHARITY MUSIC NIGHT
Haxby Sports Bar
THE JACK FLETCHER BANDPLUS NICK TUDOR
The York Vaults
// 12TH SEPTEMBER
DAPHNE’S FLIGHT
The Crescent Community Venue
BUSTED
Bridlington Spa
HAUS OF LYNX
The Fulford Arms
// 13TH SEPTEMBER
TUBULAR BELLS LIVE IN CONCERT
York Barbican
// 14TH SEPTEMBER
A NIGHT TO REMEMBER
York Barbican
OWEN SPAFFORD AND LOUIS
CAMPBELL
Black Swan Folk Club
// 15TH SEPTEMBER
HUNTER-GATHERER
The Fulford Arms
// 16TH SEPTEMBER
LIVING YOUNG
The Black Horse Wigginton
// 19TH SEPTEMBER
MOCK TUDORS
The Fulford Arms
// 21ST SEPTEMBER RANT
NCEM
OPEN MIC NIGHT
Black Swan Folk Club
// 22ND SEPTEMBER
ABSOLUTE BOWIE
The Crescent Community Venue
From opera to dubstep, there's a gig for everyone in York.
THE MADCHESTER
EXPERIENCE
The York Vaults
MAYFIRE (FORMERLY KNOWN AS CITY SNAKES)
The Fulford Arms
MEATLOUD
The Joseph Rowntree Theatre
// 23RD SEPTEMBER
THE NATIONAL
First Direct Arena, Leeds
THE MOTHERS
The Black Horse Wigginton
// 24TH SEPTEMBER
AN EVENING WITH THE HOLLIES
York Barbican
// 27TH SEPTEMBER
THE HOWLERS
The Fulford Arms
// 28TH SEPTEMBER
MAZ O’CONNOR
Black Swan Folk Club
// 29TH SEPTEMBER
BEN PORTSMOUTH: THIS IS ELVIS 2023
York Barbican
// EVERY SUNDAY
OPEN MIC NIGHT
Plonkers Wine Bar
Afternoon Tea is one of those proper British institutions, like Wimbledon or the ashes, every time you sit down to it; you feel more proud of where you come from. So when I was invited by The Principal Hotel to review their new afternoon tea menu, only a week on from England’s (almost) historic victory over the Aussies, you can imagine I was brimming with pride. They’ve chosen to highlight their relationship with York’s chocolate history for this latest adaptation, as the city’s oldest hotel (dating back further than even the first ashes test) for their 145th anniversary they’ve transformed the menu into a celebration of chocolate. Each guided step we take toward our seats feels like a step back in time, the garden room is beautifully preserved and feels as welcoming as it did to guests and resident visitors like myself a century ago. Our’s is a window seat with views of the Minster — serving as a reminder of how central the Principal is, you can quite literally just wander in from the street. The staff were nothing short of wonderful, informative and welcoming and the glass of champagne that waits for us
at the table is almost equally as welcoming.
In no time at all our first course arrived, a delicious plate of finger sandwiches; cucumber egg, salmon —all the favourites you can imagine, accompanied by a Wensleydale Cheese & Caramelised Onion Tartlet. While these were a brilliant introduction, it’s fortunate the staff were forward-thinking enough to remind us not to fill up — better to box up and take some sandwiches home than not enjoy the chocolate course. Then that moment I’d been counting down the days for arrives— a mountain of cake, brownie, macaroon and scone is elegantly heaped in front of us. Sharply followed by a refreshing pot of loose-leaf tea that as any reader can imagine went down a treat. The much anticipated chocolate menu offers something for everyone but my personal favourite was The ‘Orange’, a chocolate orange delice, mousse and sponge combination. I followed this swiftly with The Big One, a purple brioche-crumb choux bun, the menu introduces it alongside the words ‘aimed to share’ but
this advice became obsolete immediately after my first bite. It will come as no surprise to hear that this latest adaptation made for a roaring success, I hope the chocolate theme catches on as a trend for years to come — the Principal’s chef seems to have found the perfect balance. Just like one of those magical mornings when the smell of chocolate from the Nestle factory on Haxby Road catches on a breeze and is carried throughout the town, each bite transports you back in time — to York’s golden days as the chocolate city.
The Principal should be at the top of every York resident’s list, whether you’re looking for a weekend afternoon treat, or a venue for an important celebration. The table to our left had booked in to celebrate a 100th birthday, looking back on a million memories made living in York. Beyond the delicious cakes, the Principal Afternoon Tea is an idyllic backdrop for the reunions that matter.
To see the full menu and book in your afternoon tea, head to www.theprincipalyork.com.
£15.00
Rump steak & a side dish of your choice for £15.00. Every Tuesday & Thursday.