The Midlands Essential Entertainment Guide

RUSSELL HOWARD GOOD NEWS INBRUM... rockin’ and rollin’ in rollin’ and rockin’ Midlands... the City Star at artistry ice talks musicals, money musicals, talks more... and inside... interview JERSEY BOYS JERSEY CIRCUS... THE JOIN CAMERON MACKINTOSH CAMERON DECEMBER 2014 ISSUE 348 348 ISSUE sOn ’ .co.uk

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www. BIRMINGHAM What THE MIDLANDS ESSENTIAL ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE ENTERTAINMENT ESSENTIAL MIDLANDS THE Birmingham Cover .qxp_Mids Cover - August 24/11/2014 10:30 Page 1 Page 10:30 24/11/2014 - August Cover .qxp_Mids Cover Birmingham BIRMINGHAM WHAT’S ON ISSUE 348 DECEMBER 2014 PART OF MIDLANDS WHAT’S ON MAGAZINE GROUP PUBLICATIONS @WHATSONBRUM WWW.WHATSONLIVE.CO.UK grand_whatson FP Dec.qxp_Layout 1 24/11/2014 16:54 Page 1 Great Theatre at the Grand!

SAT 6 DEC - SUN 18 JAN MON 12 JAN TUES 20 JAN

WED 21 JAN FRI 23 JAN SAT 24 JAN

HERMAN’S HERMITS THE SWINGING BLUE JEANS DAVE BERRY THE UNION GAP THE IVY LEAGUE ALAN MOSCA FROM FREDDIE AND THE DREAMERS

TUES 27 - SAT 31 JAN MON 2 - SAT 7 FEB SUN 8 - MON 9 FEB

Raymond Gubbay presents Russia’s acclaimed ballet company returns for the UK Tour 2014/15 SWAN LAKE THE NUTCRACKER Performed by The Russian State Ballet & Orchestra of Siberia

Box Office 01902 42 92 12 BOOK ONLINE AT www.grandtheatre.co.uk Contents Dec Region 1.qxp_Layout 1 24/11/2014 12:47 Page 1

December 2014

Editor: Davina Evans INSIDE: [email protected] 01743 281708 Editorial Assistants: Cameron Mackintosh Brian O’Faolain [email protected] Barnum out on tour... 01743 281701 interview p6 Lauren Foster [email protected] 01743 281707 Adrian Parker [email protected] 01743 281714 Sales & Marketing: Chris Horton [email protected] 01743 281704

Subscriptions: Adrian Parker [email protected] 01743 281714 Managing Director: Paul Oliver [email protected] Jersey Boys 01743 281711 rockin’ into Brum p11 Publisher and CEO: Martin Monahan [email protected] 01743 281710

Graphic Designers: Lisa Wassell Chris Atherton Accounts Administrator Julia Perry [email protected] Chris Gascoyne 01743 281717 Website Development: Corrie star set to make your Fleshcreep at Birmingham Hippodrome. Eddie Payne Check out who else is up to no good in panto this year on page 12 Contributors: Graham Bostock: Theatre James Cameron-Wilson: Film; Alev Dervish: Music TO GET THE VERY p4 Eva Easthope, Kate LATEST LISTING News Evans, Jessica Aston, The Christmas Truce Patsy Moss, Jack Rolfe, INFORMATION, Jan Watts, Reggie White, Music p17 festive offering at the RSC Simon Carter, Anita VISIT: interview p8 Champaneri whatsonlive.co.uk Comedy p26 INCLUDING Head Office: BOOKING ONLINE 13-14 Abbey Foregate, Theatre p29 Shrewsbury, SY2 6AE Tel: 01743 281777 The Midlands’ most e-mail: [email protected] comprehensive p45 entertainment website Film/DVD

Follow us on... Visual Arts p51 This publication is printed on paper from a sustainable source and is Events p55 produced without the use December 2014 of elemental chlorine. Birmingham Eating Out p65 We endorse the recycling @whatsonbrum MTWTFSS of our magazine and Warwickshire 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 would encourage you to @whatsonwarwicks pass it on to others to 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 read when you have Worcestershire finished with it. @whatsonworcs 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 ’ 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 WhatsOn 29 30 31 MAGAZINE GROUP All works appearing in this publication are copyright. It is to be assumed that the copyright for material rests with the magazine unless otherwise stated. No part of this publication may be reproduced, or stored in an electronic system, transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopied, recording or otherwise, without the prior knowledge and consent of the publishers. News December Davina.qxp_Layout 1 24/11/2014 14:52 Page 1

News A ROUND-UP OF LOCAL AND NATIONAL ENTERTAINMENT NEWS

Superheroes at the BOBs An awards ceremony which honours the best bars, nightclubs, hotels and restaurants along Birmingham’s Golden Mile is to take place at the city’s ICC on 25 January. Affectionately known as the BOBs, the Best of Broad Street Awards will celebrate its tenth anniversary with a special Superheroes theme. ITV Central presenter Sameena Ali Khan hosts the evening’s proceedings. Commenting on the event, Mike Olley, Manager of the Westside Business Improvement District, said: “The BOBS have always been the talk of the town. The energy, excitement and buzz that our annual awards creates amongst the venues is second to none, and the tenth one will be no different.”

Scoundrels abound in the Midlands... Chief Exec of Birmingham A national touring version of the critically acclaimed Dirty Rotten Scoundrels will visit two Royal Ballet to step down Midlands theatres next year. Based on Frank Oz’s 1988 film starring Steve Martin and Michael Caine - which itself was based on 1964’s Bedtime Story with David Niven and Marlon Brando Christopher Barron, Chief Executive of - Dirty Rotten Scoundrels is set in the decadent underworld of the French Riviera, where two Birmingham Royal Ballet since 2005, has seasoned swindlers attempt to hoodwink a millionaire soap heiress. The show stops off at announced he’s stepping down from the Birmingham’s New Alexandra Theatre from 5 to 16 May and then at the Regent Theatre, post in 2015, at the end of the company’s Stoke-on-Trent, from 29 July to 1 August. Casting for the show is yet to be announced. current season. Speaking of his ten years with BRB, Mr Barron said: “I have hugely enjoyed working Raw State launched in Brum CBSO welcomes Oliver Janes with such skilled colleagues to extend the Company’s work and reputation. We have Black Country-born singer-songwriter Dan British clarinettist OIiver Janes has been created a record number of new ballets, Whitehouse is to officially launch his third appointed as Section Leader Clarinet with grown Birmingham Royal Ballet’s access to album, Raw State, at Birmingham’s Glee the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra UK and overseas audiences and deepened Club this month (7 December). Dan per- (CBSO). the Company’s relationship with the commu- forms at the venue with a full band - includ- A former Royal Academy of Music and nities of Birmingham and other cities it visits. ing BJ Cole (Bjork, Elvis Costello, REM). Chetham’s School of Music student, Oliver is “I believe that this is the right time for a new Award-winning Irish songwriter Duke Special the grandson of the late John Fuest, who Chief Executive to lead the Company. The offers support. was Principal Clarinet with the CBSO from opportunities for Birmingham Royal Ballet Dan is releasing Raw State having just com- 1955 to 1970. Still only twenty-three, he’s are immense and it’s appropriate for new pleted a string of UK and played with some of the country’s most energy and ideas to be introduced to ensure North America dates. The respected orchestras, including the that the future is as exciting as the past few album has been described Philharmonia, Royal Northern Sinfonia, Royal years.” as a body of work which Scottish National Orchestra and the John Speaking about his own plans, Christopher ‘embraces the power of Wilson Orchestra. said that he wants to “mentor new genera- change and new directions’. Commenting on his appointment, Oliver tions of arts managers and assist companies said: “It’s a real honour to join such a world- in the economic and cultural changes that class orchestra, are necessary today”. and I think it will Blue Orange improv course take some time to Blue Orange Theatre is launching a new fully sink in! It's improv beginners course in January. such a special The eight-week course, which is open to feeling sitting in complete novices, comprises ‘low-pressure my grandfather's classes in a fun, friendly, supportive and chair fifty years stress-free environment’. on. I know he Participants will progress as a team with would’ve been improvisation techniques, in the process very proud.” learning skills connected to spontaneity, Oliver’s first con- character development and the devising of cert with the scenes. Further information can be found at CBSO is on 10 blueorangetheatre.co.uk/adultevening December. 4 www.whatsonlive.co.uk News December Davina.qxp_Layout 1 24/11/2014 14:52 Page 2

Motionhouse to join forces with Tamworth arts team World-renowned dance company Motionhouse is to join forces with Tamworth’s Arts & Events team to mount a large-scale site-specific performance next May. The Leamington-based ensemble will work with over two hundred performers from the local community to create Tigress, a piece inspired by the story of Æthelfleda, the eldest daughter of King Alfred the Great. A powerful queen in her own right, she was responsible for refortifying the Saxon town of Tamworth and leading the Mercians into battle against the vikings. Tigress is just one of many projects that Motionhouse has planned for 2015. The company will also be collaborating with No Fit State Circus on a brand new outdoor show called Block. We’ll keep you posted. Plenty to excite in Coventry theatre’s new season... Broadway hit Cougar The Musical will make its UK debut at the Belgrade Theatre next year. Donna Moore’s ‘sassy and provocative’ production, directed by Belgrade Creative Associate Patricia Benecke, forms part of an exciting new programme at the Coventry venue. Also featured in the Belgrade’s line-up of shows is: the UK premiere of Maureen Chadwick’s comedy, Crush - a new musical set in an all-girls boarding school; Martin Baltscheit’s Only A Day - a thought-provoking play for the under-sevens; and Em Hussaun’s Blood - a study of family betrayal. For those liking a bit of suspense, the theatre is offering Susan Hills’ The Mist In The Mirror, Agatha Christie’s The Secret Adversary and Arnold Ridley’s knockabout comedy, The Ghost Train. Other new-season offerings include Marcia Layne’s one-woman play The Bag Lady, a new UK Archive image of rehearsals for a previous tour of Sex In Suburbia - starring Claire Sweeney - all-female comedy cabaret Fascinating Motionhouse production Aida, and Moscow State Ballet’s Sleeping Beauty. Meanwhile, for music fans of a certain age in search of a slice of nostalgia, The Neville Staple Band join forces with Radio Clash for a Love is in the air at recreation of their iconic 1978 UK concert tour. For full details of all forthcoming shows, visit National Sealife Centre www.belgrade.co.uk John Lewis’ festive advert featuring Monty the penguin has certainly made a major IN BRIEF Plenty of festive cheer in impact. Birmingham’s National Sealife Birmingham’s business district Centre has credited the ad for the popularity Mo’s back in Brum of its new VIP feeding experiences with pen- Rollerskating Christmas puddings and ballerinas descend upon Tickets are now on Birmingham’s Snow Hill Station Square this month as part of guins. The Brindleyplace venue has enjoyed sale for the world’s a significant increase in bookings of late, Colmore Business District’s countdown to the festive season. biggest indoor athlet- The 10 December event also features performances from the with people eager to get up close and per- ics meeting. The sonal with the Gentoo penguins, who’ve area’s very own choir, the Colmore Chorus, as well as live music Sainsbury’s Indoor from local buskers. recently begun bowing at one another in Grand Prix will take preparation for mating. Meanwhile, the return of the popular Moseley Arts Market in the place at Birmingham’s Cathedral grounds on 12 December offers a perfect opportunity Barclaycard Arena - to pick up unique handmade gifts for family and friends. formerly known as the National Indoor Arena - on Saturday 21 February. The event will see the biggest British and global ath- letics superstars - including the legendary Mo Farah - coming together for an afternoon of world- Photo credit: John Lewis class sport. Those who were lucky enough to get their Rockin’ all over Silverstone hands on tickets for Rock superstars Status Quo will headline last year's sell-out next year’s Silverstone Classic. The leg- Grand Prix saw some Violin to feature in Christmas production endary band will top the live music line-up truly showstopping A violin made to commemorate the centenary of World War One in what organisers are promising will be the performances from is to feature in a Christmas Eve performance of the Royal biggest and best Classic event to date. Britain’s finest. Shakespeare Company’s family play, The Christmas Truce. The show is celebrating its twenty-fifth To secure tickets for The Wilfred Owen Violin will be used in the show exactly one hun- anniversary in 2015, with the occasion the 2015 event, call dred years to the day after soldiers on the Western Front left their being marked by the introduction of a spe- 08000 556056. trenches to meet their enemies in No Man’s Land - to talk, cial silver anniversary ticket. The ticket, exchange gifts and play football. The violin, which has been available to anybody with a silver car, made by Edinburgh instrument maker Steve Burnett, uses wood includes an infield vehicle display pass and taken from the branch of a sycamore tree located within the entry into the Silver Sunday parade on the grounds of Craiglockhart - an important military hospital in famous grand prix circuit. Edinburgh which treated shell-shocked officers during the Great Silverstone Classic 2015 takes place from War... The Christmas Truce continues to show at the Royal 24 to 26 July. Early Bird tickets offer signifi- Shakespeare Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon until 31 January. cant savings up until the end of March. Check out our interview with Phil Porter, the man who wrote the play, on page 8.

www.whatsonlive.co.uk 5 Cameron Mackintosh interview.qxp_Layout 1 24/11/2014 20:04 Page 1

I love showbusiness, but I don’t want it to “ take over my life. I’m as interested in building houses as putting on shows.” Cameron Mackintosh the modern-day Barnum talks musicals, money and more...

From the tender age of eight, when his aunt took him to see a matinee performance of Salad Days, Sir Cameron Mackintosh knew that he wanted to be a theatre producer. Little could he have imagined that his childhood ambition would be achieved so spectacularly! The first British producer to be inducted into the Broadway Hall of Fame, Sir Cameron has produced some of the world’s most successful musicals, including Cats, Miss Saigon, The Phantom Of The Opera and Les Miserables. He recently took time out of his busy schedule to talk to What’s On about his revival production of Barnum, which stars Brian Conley and visits two Midlands venues in 2015. What lies behind the decision to bring think of who I would get to do it. Suddenly I toast of Broadway. The show was wonderful, Barnum back to the stage, Cameron? remembered that I’d seen a young Jim Dale and because of my connection with Jim, I I’ve got a very long connection with Barnum do a marvellous show called Scapino at the went to see it and fell in love with it. It’s which is fairly tenuous. One of the first Young Vic. So I put him in The Card and he always been there in the back of my mind - musicals I did, back in 1973, was called The was terrific. The show was a reasonable and, of course, there’s a bit of PT Barnum in Card, which was written by Tony Hatch and success, and the great American producer me as well. Jackie Trent. I was discussing having the David Merrick came and saw it. David had lead played by Michael Crawford, who been asked about producing Barnum in the So how does this new staging differ from ended up doing another show called Billy US. He put Jim Dale in the show as Barnum, the original? instead. So I was wracking my brains to and this unknown Englishman became the If you know Barnum at all, you know him of

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Barnum & Bailey’s Circus - but he didn’t join myself, I understand how important it is to think we share a few more things in the circus until he was sixty-five. Before that, have a relationship. It’s not all about the common. he was a great showman. He was also quite work, it’s about how you live your life. That’s an influential politician, in first the Democrat the theme that I found in it. I normally What’s your favourite way to wind down? and then the Republican party. In fact, he produce much more serious musicals, like To be honest, the luxury is having the time to was one of the first people involved in getting Oliver! and Miss Saigon. With Mary Poppins, myself and being with my friends. I’m equally Abraham Lincoln elected. He fought for very I always thought PL Travers’ book had happy wandering the hills in Scotland or the many causes - the emancipation of women, considerably more depth - there was more to lovely countryside in Somerset. I switch off the abolition of slavery and all sorts of things, be got out of it than the original film had very easily and I’ve never had a problem all of which are touched on in the show. It’s presented. I loved the film, and I thought that relaxing and swimming and lying on the essentially about these amazing dreams that the music written for the film was brilliant, but beach reading a tawdry book. I remember Barnum had, and about his very practical it was of its time. I had no interest in putting that even when I was twenty and didn’t have wife, Chairy, who made his dreams come it on the stage. Nor would PL Travers - who two pennies to rub together, I would never true. There’s a real love story about a very never wanted the book to be turned into a not go on holiday. I’ve always thought that extraordinary couple in the middle of this film - ever have allowed it. She was ninety- that was as important as doing the work. incredible fable about a man who can’t help three when she gave me the rights. I said I That’s what’s kept me sane. I still go thinking up these wonderful ideas. Those are would never want to do it on stage unless I shopping. I enjoy doing that and seeing the the themes that have haunted me over the could bring the best of the music from the prices of things. Yes, I can afford a private jet years. I was idly playing the music one day film into the stage score and create a new and from time to time I’ll take it - mainly to and thought, it’s funny that we haven’t heard show, which I think is the reason it’s been save time - but when I don’t need to, I get on this show for twenty-five years, because it’s such a great success. It’s a mixture of the the shuttle or go Easy Jet or whatever, such a wonderful, life-affirming score and a best things from the film and the best things because there’s no reason not to. Also, I find really lovely story. What I wanted to do was from her book. Out of two existing things there’s part of me that feels it’s worth actually strengthen the love story between we’ve made something new; something knowing what things cost; to know what the Barnum and Chairy, so I did some reworking which continues to be a great success price of a theatre ticket means to the people with American theatre director and producer around the world. who’ve given me this fortunate lifestyle. I Mark Bramble, rebuilding the second act of think it’s very important, and that’s why I’m the show. The rebuilding’s worked really well. And is there a story that got away? fanatical that a show - wherever it’s going - is My first memories of watching the show with I did try and pursue Dr Zhivago for quite a not only as good as possible but also Jim Dale was of a very unknown Glenn Close long time but the rights were never available. hopefully better than what audiences have playing his wife. I never thought that the role Someone’s had them for many years and heard. of Chairy was as good in any subsequent keeps having a go at it, but I believe it may shows I saw, because Glenn - being a end up on Broadway next year. That’s a And that people think it’s money well phenomenal actress - brought something show that I seriously did look at. I love the spent? really special to the part. Thereafter, Barnum David Lean film and it’s a fascinating book, Exactly! And that’s why I’m thrilled with all was always thought of as a one-man show - but I think it would be a tricky one to do. the reaction to Brian and Linzi in Barnum. very entertaining but not much of a story. I We’ve received lovely letters from people think having someone as good as Linzi You’re the richest producer in the history who’ve said they loved it with Michael Hateley playing Chairy, and rebuilding the of musical theatre. How do you remain Crawford but that they also love the emotional core of the show, works really well. grounded? differences, and that this production is just We’ve put some new numbers into the show To be honest, as I spent so many years as good but in a different way. It is different for when she dies and Barnum has a wondering if I could afford the petrol to go to the original production and that’s what I nervous breakdown. It’s had this fantastic from one theatre to another, I’m constantly wanted it to be. reception from the audience since it re- amazed that I can afford to do whatever I opened in Leicester a few weeks ago. want. My sense of value is still there and I Where does being inducted into don’t spend all my time in the theatre. When Broadway’s Hall Of Fame rank in terms of You’ve re-worked Miss Saigon, The I started out, I wanted to make a living and I career highs? Phantom Of The Opera and now Barnum. wanted to be successful, like anyone does in As a little boy of eight who wanted to What are your main considerations when any business, but I never thought of making become a producer, having a show in setting out to re-work a very well-known lots of money. So the fact that I’ve ended up London was on my list of dreams - but this show? making more money than I could ever have never was. I believe I’m the only English I re-imagined the staging for the new imagined is something quite surreal. I’m only producer who’s been given that accolade, so Phantom and Miss Saigon. In the latter, occasionally reminded of it. I live in nice I was very, very touched to have that. I’ve Claude-Michel and Alain wrote a new song houses and I can more or less go wherever I had, and continue to have, a wonderful for Ellen, but we didn’t really change the want and do what I want, but I love living in career in America, which has been a very structure of the show at all. It was literally the country. I love showbusiness, but I don’t important part of my life. that. We looked at the language for the new want it to take over my life. I’m as interested London production and we tightened it up. It in building houses as putting on shows. I’m If you could choose one single scene from was written twenty-five years ago and we not caught up in the web of showbusiness one of your shows to watch in your final wanted it to have a bit more edge. Basically, glamour; in fact, I rarely ever do it. I throw a moments on earth, which scene would both Saigon and Phantom were the same good party for opening night but I’m not you choose and why? shows that were written twenty-five years interested in being in OK magazine and all of I think it would probably have to be the finale ago. With Barnum, I felt it needed a much that showbusiness stuff. I think that’s helped of Les Miserables, because it’s such a more radical re-think, to put the love story of me. Plus, I’ve got some very good people wonderfully uplifting piece of music. It’s the husband and wife more central stage to helping me - they do most of the work that about coming together, the past and the the telling of Barnum’s tale. keeps my empire around the world ticking. future. It’s about the people in your lives They may have to choose their moment, but being forever young once you go beyond the Broadly speaking, Miss Saigon is they know me well enough to tell me not to barricade. As a piece of music, it’s very historical, Phantom is fictional, Barnum is be an ass. I like to think I don’t give them too embracing. biographical. What draws you to a story? much of an opportunity to do so, but we can Are there common themes and elements all get carried away at times and need Read the full interview with Cameron Mackintosh, to a story that you choose to bring to the people to say to us “Stop it! That’s not right”. online at www.whatsonlive.co.uk stage? But the trappings have never interested me; Most of the shows I’ve done have been I’d much rather be spending time at home. I’m quite reclusive - and interestingly based on adaptations of classic material, Barnum shows at Wolverhampton’s Grand whether it be Dickens, PL Travers, Hugo or enough, so was PT Barnum, the greatest Theatre, from Tues 27 - Sat 31 January and whoever. I don’t normally do biography showman of all time. He would only go and Birmingham Hippodrome, from Tues 7 July musicals, and I don’t know whether I would do the hoopla when it was for his own show. to Sat 1 August have done it originally. The connection I Otherwise he built himself nice houses and found in Barnum is that, being a showman went home and had a kitchen supper. So I www.whatsonlive.co.uk 7 Phil Porter The Christmas Truce.qxp_Layout 1 24/11/2014 12:49 Page 1

The Christmas Truce Phil Porter talks about his festive offering for the RSC...

A former student of the University of Birmingham, Phil Porter is an award-winning playwright who’s worked with some of the country’s most respected producing houses, including the Royal Shakespeare Company and the Royal Opera House. Phil’s most recent creation, The Christmas Truce, is currently showing at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon. What’s On recently paid him a visit to find out what audiences can expect from the RSC’s 2014 festive offering... What makes The Christmas Truce a good something about the Truce. At the same time to be writing a new play for such a play for the RSC to stage as its festive I was sent lots of Bruce Bairnsfather prestigious theatre company with over a offering? cartoons and writings - what he wrote about thousand seats! It’s obviously very unusual Well, it’s very festive! It’s a very moving story the Truce, and that sort of thing. There was a for a new play, and such an original play, to of hope and the magic of Christmas. I sense that the piece might also be about be on that stage, so I felt a bit of pressure suppose one of the things people find him, because he’s local to Warwickshire and from that. I didn’t feel under pressure to inspiring about the story isn’t just that it was a very interesting guy. Exactly how I wove repeat the success of Matilda, though, a moment in the war when people chose to those two things together was up to me. I because it’s such a different kind of project. stop fighting, it’s also that it’s an example of guess at the beginning we knew it would the magic of Christmas being brought out in depict the days around Christmas 1914 - The Christmas Truce is recommended for people. It also feels like an appropriate story although the first part of the play is about the children over nine, so how will the show to tell in this centenary year. And not just first six months of the war. It’s the second engage with its younger audience? Christmas itself but also the carols and the part that’s about the Truce itself. It’s a very physical, active story. Obviously music of Christmas are very much a part of there’s the football. In the first half they’re all the way in which the Truce came about. The RSC has a reputation for producing training, so it feels like a great story to be high-profile festive offerings, the most doing on a big stage; to have such a big What brief were you given when well known of which is Matilda. Did that cast to fill the space with a huge energy. My commissioned by the RSC to write the add any pressure? research has gone everywhere, from play? I felt daunted and excited by it in equal academic texts to Horrible Histories kind of I was asked just over a year ago to write measure. It’s probably just enough pressure stuff. Some of the humour is quite childish,

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in the best possible sense - as you’d expect haircut in the middle of No Man’s Land How have your formative years growing from a story that’s basically about a load of during the Truce, with the sun setting behind up in Worcester informed your work? young guys put in a trench together. him. And all for the price of three fags or I’ve never written a story about Worcester, something. I always thought of that as a although I’m sure there’s one in there You’ve written quite a bit for children in good image, so we use it at the same time somewhere. the past, as well as producing work of a as the football match is going on. A lot of my plays are quite autobiographical more adult nature. Have you seen this Myself and a couple of members of the in their details without being actual stories project as an opportunity to bring all that literary department went out to Belgium as from my life. For The Christmas Truce, my together? part of our research. We had the experience background has been quite useful. If I’d Absolutely! When I was first asked to do it, I of walking around some of the trenches and been joining the army at that time, I would’ve thought it might be quite difficult to tell a the Plugstreet Wood area, where the Royal been a Worcester rather than a Warwick, but story about something as serious as war in a Warwickshires were. Just the atmosphere of it’s only half an hour down the road, so it’s way that would allow it to be appropriate for that, and being there in some grim weather, been quite easy for me to imagine myself the lower age range of our audiences. In provided a particularly useful memory to go being one of these lads from a relatively rural reality it hasn’t proved a difficulty. The nature back to when trying to imagine just how background, going off to Europe for the first of the RST stage lends itself to a more epic tough it would’ve been. And how ill-equipped time. What an incredible experience that sort of staging, so it’s not like we’ve got a lot a lot of people would feel in those would’ve been. of blood and guts and that kind of thing. In a circumstances. way the story itself is about innocence, so it Is there a place and a time where you’re at seems to quite naturally come out as a family How does the experience of working on your most creative? story. It’s a very different task to writing a The Christmas Truce rank alongside I tend to write quite well first thing in the new version of Cinderella or something like previous works? morning, and I tend to respond quite well to that - but yes, it’s used both parts of my It’s not over yet but it’s been an incredibly changes of scenery. I find that if I spend too experience. good experience so far. These bigger many days in a row just sat in my study - projects can be quite scary. That’s partly even though I’ve got a lovely view across the You put out a plea for local people to because you can become exposed as a South Downs - I just get gradually less come forward with family histories writer, but also because it can be quite productive, so I sometimes need to sit in a regarding the war. Were you surprised by difficult to keep control of the things that cafe somewhere. Quite often just knowing the response that you got to that? you’re wanting to do. There are so many there are other people around makes me Yeah, we had a brilliant day in March where I people working on it; so many work that little bit harder. My play, Blink, was got around as many people as I could. There considerations, both practical and technical. written mainly on Friday afternoons in a cafe were also other RSC staff who were meeting But we’ve got a very happy team working on bar when I lived in Hove. and talking to people and then feeding back this. I’ve never before been in a situation like to me what they’d learned. There were so this one, where most of the cast are Have you ever suffered prolonged writer’s many great things that came out of that established as a team, in this case working block? exercise, including lots of wonderful on Love’s Labour’s Lost and Love’s Labour’s I’ve never had a period where I’ve been photographs and artefacts. Won. It means there are certain short cuts in completely stuck. Normally I’m working on at terms of knowing how to bring the best out least three or four things at one time, so if Have you been able to incorporate a lot of of people. one of them’s not working I leave it and your findings into the play? Frankly, it’s been great working with a move on to something else, then come back There’s definitely stuff there. There was a company which sets standards as high as to it. Normally the bad part of my brain has woman who brought in a pamphlet about the RSC does. Working with a company done something while I’ve been away from phrenology, which is about reading people’s which is so well resourced and performs in the piece which makes it a little easier when I personalities from their head measurements. such a big theatre is all very exciting. return to it. It was the hobby of her great grandfather, who was in the trenches and who used to How does working for the RSC enhance Do your plays ever merge? offer phrenology readings to his mates - so I your creative process? Sometimes I can be writing two plays at thought I’d throw that in. That’s the kind of It definitely focuses the mind when you know once which I think are entirely different plays. bizarre detail you seize upon if you’re a the people you’re working with are of a very Quite often one is for the adult market, the writer. The photographs I saw were also very high calibre. It makes you think ‘right, I really other for young people. Then, a couple of useful. There were people attending that need to step up’. years later, I look back and think ‘I was open day whose relatives had become fixed writing about exactly the same thing in both in my mind as a particular character before When did you first realise that your future of those plays’. we cast it. It helps make it all the more real. lay in playwriting? Obviously it has its serious elements, but Probably at university. I studied drama at When you go to the theatre yourself, what one of the great things about Bruce Birmingham University and initially wanted to do you prefer to see? Bairnsfather’s cartoons is that they’re a very be an actor, but there were lots of good I quite like experimental work and surprises. I good yardstick as far as ‘gallows humour’ is actors in my year and I quickly realised that it like a lot of European work because you concerned. I’m sure that’s how a lot of wasn’t for me. Birmingham’s a bit of a centre don’t know what’s coming next. My big hero people would’ve responded to the for playwriting, so I started to write plays. I has always been Lorca, the Spanish experience of the trenches, and to feeling got quite a few slightly embarrassing student playwright. He’s quite poetic and his style is frightened, and to being thrown together with experiments out of the way within the quite indicative of the work I like, but there’s guys who they didn’t know. Hopefully it’s confines of the university environment. I’ve no kind of theatre that I loathe. quite a funny play. We’ve certainly got some been a playwright ever since, and luckily funny actors in it. There are moments in the haven’t had to do much else. Finally, what’s your long-term goal as a play that are sad and serious but there’s also playwright? plenty of laughter running through the whole So the arts has always been on the More of the same, really. I think when you’re thing. agenda for you as a career path? starting out as a writer, your goal is just to I don’t know when I decided it was what I keep going and to keep your head above Is there a particular fact that you’ve wanted to do. Before university I had a job water. That’s generally been the way I’ve unearthed that’s really struck you? working for a company called CNT Theatre approached things, but I’m now getting a bit I don’t know about a particular fact, but Company - writing, directing and working more choice about what I do. I like mixing it people’s descriptions of the Truce itself within youth theatre - so I guess it was up, but working for the RSC and the Royal fascinated me. I loved all the little details, like probably something I’d been heading Opera House, it doesn’t really get much the troops swapping their buttons, rations, towards from an early age. I think I’ve always better than that. cigars and drinks. been someone who wanted to work in One of the things that Bairnsfather talks theatre, and it turned out that playwriting was The Christmas Truce shows at Royal about is a British soldier, who was a bit of an the thing I was best at. Shakespeare Theatre, until Sat 31 January entrepreneur, giving a German soldier a

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feature...

Jersey Boys bringing the Four Seasons to Brum...

Selling more than one hundred million records worldwide, Frankie Valli And The Four Seasons were a 1960s rock’n’roll phenomenon. Comprising Valli, Bob Gaudio, Tommy DeVito and Nick Massi, the group enjoyed massive hits with songs including Sherry, Big Girls Don’t Cry and Walk Like A Man. Their incredible story has been immortalised in award-winning musical Jersey Boys, which charts their rise to fame ‘from the wrong side of the track’. Seen by over twenty million people worldwide, the Marshall Brickman/Rick Elice production is now firmly established as one of the West End’s most popular shows. With Jersey Boys’ touring version spending the festive season at Birmingham’s New Alexandra Theatre, we take a look at the four fab performers who’ll be getting Midlands audiences up on their feet and dancing...

Tim Driesen / Frankie Valli Sam Ferriday / Bob Gaudio Tim was born in Herentals, Belgium, but Local lad Sam was born in Wellington, moved to London when he was eighteen. Shropshire. Training as an actor/musician Previous stage credits include the UK at Rose Bruford School of Speech & tours of Starlight Express and Joseph Drama, his theatre credits include The And The Amazing Technicolor Prodigals at Coventry’s Belgrade Dreamcoat. Tim also appeared in Theatre, The Europeans (The Unicorn Mamma Mia! at the Prince Edward Theatre) and the UK tour of The Eva Theatre in the West End. Cassidy Story. Sam’s very excited about So what does Tim think makes Jersey Boys performing on his home turf. “Jersey Boys is so special? “First of all, the music,” he says. special to me because I grew up with the music,” “Good music is just timeless. And the show celebrates not just the he explains. “We would head out on family outings, usually long music, but also shows the heartache, sacrifices and hard work that walks somewhere random in the Midlands. On the way, my nan following a dream brings with it. It is, in essence, the story of a band would put on a tape. I can still remember hearing Sherry for the first trying to make it. People from a bad neighbourhood trying to ‘get time and being completely hooked. Everything about The Four out’. You only have to turn on the TV and look at shows like X-Factor Seasons was cool - their look, their sound. The show recreates that or The Voice to see that Frankie and the boys’ story is just as relevant perfectly.” today as it was in the 1960s. Although the way to get there may have changed a little, the dream of making music and transcending your environment is still very much alive.”Tim’s favourite song in the show Lewis Griffiths / Nick Massi is My Eyes Adored You. “The effect it has on the audience every night Lewis was born in Rochford, Essex, and is just electric.” trained at the London Studio Centre. Theatre credits include Whistle Down The Wind in the West End and Bill And Stephen Webb / Tommy Devito Ted’s Most Excellent Musical Adventure Stephen was born in Enfield, North London, and studied at the Italia at Greenwich Theatre. Conti Academy of Theatre Arts. Theatre credits Does Lewis have a favourite song from include Lowell in Legally Blonde at the Savoy Jersey Boys? “Yes I do, but it changes Theatre and Jerome K Jerome in Finding every time I hear the show! I guess it’s Neverland at The Curve in Leicester. between Beggin' and Who Loves You. The latter is Stephen reveals that his favourite song is special to my parents, as it was very much their song when they were My Eyes Adored You. “It’s a beautiful dating as teenagers. I saw the original Jersey Boys in London years song which gets me every time,” he ago. I wasn’t prepared for what a sincere, dramatic piece of theatre it admits. So what makes Jersey Boys so was. It shouldn’t be patronised by being called a ‘jukebox musical’. special? “The songs,” says Stephen. It’s a biographical stage play of the life and journey of The Four “And the true story of these men's lives - Seasons. It just happens to be woven together by a kick-ass back- the show has real heart and soul.” catalogue of decade-defining songs, many of which are huge hits that you’ve never even realised were theirs.” www.whatsonlive.co.uk 11 Panto Villains Region One.qxp_Layout 1 24/11/2014 12:48 Page 1

One of British theatre’s greatest traditions, pantomime continues to play a significant role in the country’s festive celebrations. And a staple of most productions is the rotten-to-the-core panto villain, whose sinister and often downright evil behaviour provides audiences with plenty of opportunity to enjoy a good ol’ boo and hiss. Nowadays the role is an absolute shoe-in for actors who’re best known for starring as fatally flawed or downright nasty characters on TV. And there’s certainly no shortage of famous panto baddies for them to play! Abanazar in Aladdin, Fleshcreep in Jack And The Beanstalk, Captain Hook in Peter Pan and the Ugly Sisters in Cinderella are just some of the much- loved rotters who routinely make life hell for pantoland’s handsome heroes and beautiful heroines. Here in the Midlands we’re fortunate to host some of the country’s very best pantomimes and pantomime villains - so if you’re up for a bit of booing and the pleasure of seeing a good-for-nothing ne’er-do-well get their comeuppance, bag yourself a panto ticket asap...

Not only does Jack have a giant-sized problem in the shape of a big, scary ogre, he’s also got to tackle a nasty piece of work known as Fleshcreep! The ogre’s henchman, Fleshcreep is traditionally played by a male actor - with Coronation Street favourite Chris Gascoyne stepping into the role at the Birmingham Hippodrome this Christmas. Chris, who’s starred as the Street’s much-maligned Peter Barlow since the year 2000, recently left the popular soap in order to pursue other acting projects. Making people’s skin crawl as Fleshcreep in Jack And The Beanstalk seems like a fun way for him to get that particular ball rolling!

As wicked wizards go, Abanazar’s just about as unpleasant as they come. Not surprisingly (given how low-down and thoroughly evil he is) he has a fancy for being the most powerful person in all the world, so deter- mines to acquire the magic lamp - the source of all power - to achieve his ambition. One-time Jesus Of Nazareth star Robert Powell is the veteran actor charged with bringing a touch of festive nastiness to Malvern this yuletide season, while over at Coventry’s Belgrade The- atre, Welsh actor Siôn Lloyd will be getting in touch with his ‘darker side’. Siôn is no stranger to panto, having enjoyed Christmas seasons in Loughborough, Windsor, Eastbourne and at The Players Theatre Embankment, where he made his professional debut.

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Malabelle may not be as famous as Abanazar or Fleshcreep but she’s no less wicked. When a handsome prince makes the mistake of teasing her terribly, she exacts a horrifying revenge by casting a spell on him, condemning him to a life lived as a ghastly looking beast... Hannah Summers stars as Malabelle at The Roses The- atre, Tewkesbury, this Christmas, having previously appeared at the venue as Carabosse in Sleeping Beauty. Her other roles include Helena in A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Beverly in Abigail’s Party.

Cinderella was almost certainly at the back of the queue when siblings were being handed out! The daughters of Cin- ders’ wicked stepmother, these vile-looking girls are more bitchy than evil, and are well-jealous of their stunningly beautiful sister. Making her life an absolute hell at every conceivable turn, they force her to stay at home and do the chores while they swan off to the big flash Ball. Richard Pocock and Derreck Walker are the duo in charge of nastiness at the Palace Theatre, Redditch, while over at Leamington’s Royal Spa Centre, it’s up to JP McCue (Flatula) and Mike Royce (Verucca) to serve up the bitchiness and put-downs.

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Rodrigo Y Gabriela Symphony Hall, Birmingham, Fri 5 December Rodrigo Sanchez and Gabriela Quintero are a Mex- ican acoustic guitar duo whose music is influenced by genres such as nuevo flamenco, heavy metal and rock. They’ve released five studio albums in total, including re-Foc (2002), 11:11(2009) and this year’s 9 Dead Alive. As well as countless tours and festival performances, the duo also collaborated with Hans Zimmer on the soundtrack for Pirates Of The Caribbean: On Stranger Tides, and contributed to the soundtrack for Shrek prequel movie Puss In Boots. Catch them at Symphony Hall for what promises to be a thoroughly engaging show.

The Puppini Sisters Glee Club, Birmingham, Tues 9 December With influences that range from The Andrews Sis- The Who Barclaycard Arena (formerly NIA), Birmingham, Sun 7 December ters to Mike Flowers Pops, it’s fairly evident that Just like The Rolling Stones, The Who simply don't know when to stop touring. They're The Puppini Sisters are peddling something rather appearing in the Midlands as part of their The Who Hits Fifty anniversary tour - and as unique. The retro stars, lauded for their ‘1940s you’d expect when celebrating a glorious half-century’s-worth of success, they’re pre- glamour’ look, perform tongue-in-cheek classics in senting an evening of classic anthems from their truly stupendous back-catalogue. three-part harmony. They here present their very “Trying to stay young,” said Pete Townshend in a news release announcing the tour. “Not own sassy reworkings of festive hits from perform- wearing socks. Growing a great big woodcutter’s beard. Might even wear a check shirt ers including Bing Crosby, Mariah Carey and Ertha on stage and get a tattoo of a Union Jack. Always a fashion victim. But under no illu- Kitt. Well worth a look. sions. We are what we are, and extremely good at it, but we’re lucky to be alive and still touring.” Gogol Bordello O2 Academy, Birmingham, Thurs 11 December Madness LG Arena, Birmingham, Sat 13 December The high-energy Gogol Bordello are a well-estab- Madness were one of the most prominent bands of the late-1970s/early-1980s 2 Tone lished gypsy punk band from Manhattan who’re Ska revival, and although their high-profile days are behind them, the zany funsters con- much admired for their theatrical stage perform- tinue to draw a crowd - as their regular arena concerts ably illustrate. With hits like Baggy ances. Having enjoyed a career comprising Trousers, On The Wings Of A Dove and Our House to recommend them, an evening with movies, TV shows and an impressive eight albums Suggs and the gang guarantees plenty of great (not to mention various compilations and side proj- music and not a little madcap mayhem. They ects), it’s fair to say they’re an extremely busy en- appear in Birmingham this month as part of semble - indeed, their touring schedule is so their All For The M.A.D.H.E.A.D. tour. demanding they’ve amassed no fewer than four- Pop rock trio Scouting For Girls sup- teen former band members! Eugene Hutz (lead) is port. the only original member gracing the stage on this current tour of the UK, Europe and the US. The Bronx alter-ego Mariachi El Bronx provide support in what should be an unforgettable show.

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SPRING & SUMMER PARTY NIGHTS 2015

FRI 24 JAN £32.50 BRIEFCASE BLUES SOUL BROTHERS with The Soul Man

SAT 31 Jan LENNON AND £32.50 McCARTNEY with The Lennon & McCartney Experience Sat 14 Feb £35.00 MOTOWN LEGENDS PARTY with Soul Legend

Sat 21 Feb SWINGING 60’S £37.50 MOTOWN PARTY with The Krysalettes

Fri 6 Mar Robbie Glenn as £32.50 OLLY MURS & BRUNO MARS

Sat 14 Mar BACK TO THE £37.50 80’S PARTY with The 80’s Experience

Fri 20 Mar £32.50 MICHAEL BUBLE TRIBUTE with Jamie Flanagan

MAMMA MIA Fri 27 Mar PARTY £37.50 with Bootleg Abba An Abba Tribute

Fri 10 Apr SUPREME £32.50 MOTOWN & SOUL DIVA PARTY with The The Montellas

THE ULTIMATE Fri 24 Apr SOUL PARTY £37.50 with The Soul Suvivors and Mel Day DOWNLOAD THE BROCHURE FROM OUR WEBSITE TICKET PRICES INCLUDE 4 COURSE MEAL WE WILL CATER FOR ANY SPECIAL DIETARY NEEDS BY PRIOR ARRANGMENT BOOKING HOTLINE 02476 466174 www.nailcotehall.co.uk Nailcote Hall Hotel, Nailcote Lane, Berkswell, Warwickshire CV7 7DE

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Music PREVIEWS Luke Daniels Artrix, Bromsgrove, Sat 6 December Exploring issues connected to life, love, doubt and faith via a music that’s been described as Dylanesque in its sound and quality, singer-songwriter Luke Daniels appears in Bromsgrove in support of his recently released album, What’s Here What’s Gone. “Recording and touring this album has felt like part of a bigger responsibility to promote its core message,” says Luke, who’s currently a member of The Cara Dillon Band, “the message that we live in an age of the disenfranchised human soul. We live in an age that encourages us to turn towards a society built on consumerism and individualism. The idea that value springs from what we have in common, rather than what we can acquire as individuals, sits at the heart of my songwriting.”

Bombay Bicycle Club Civic Hall, Wolverhampton, Wed 10 December English indie rockers Bombay Bicycle Club formed in 2005 and, after winning a competition to secure the opening slot at the following year’s V Festival, released two EPs and debut single Evening/Morning. The band have since cut four albums - including So Long, See You To- morrow, which topped the charts in February. This Midlands gig is one of nine UK dates they’re undertaking after an extensive tour of Australia, the US, Canada, Europe and South Africa. Support comes from upcoming indie rock quartet Peace.

By The Rivers Beans On Toast Richie Ramone The Institute, Birmingham, Wed 10 December Hare & Hounds, Birmingham, Kasbah, Coventry, Thurs 18 December; Wed 3 December The Assembly, Leamington Spa, Driven by a real passion for the groove, cul- Thurs 11 December Self-confessed drunkard Beans On Toast se- ture and soul of reggae music, Leicester six- lected his name because he wanted to be “Richie Ramone saved the band, as far as I’m piece By The Rivers write and perform songs called something basic and simple - to reflect concerned,” said punk rock icon Joey Ra- about the subjects that impact on the youth his music! “I’m not the greatest guitarist in mone. “He’s the greatest thing to happen to of today. Their lyrics are awash with social the world," he recently admitted to Listen Up The Ramones. He put the spirit back in the comment and positive messages, while their Manchester.com. "I play simple three-chord band.” self-titled debut album has been enthusiasti- folk songs, but if I see something that inter- Widely recognised to be the fastest, most cally received by their growing legion of fans. ests me, something that intrigues or angers powerful drummer ever to play for The Ra- Presenting pretty much everything you’d ex- me, I pick up my guitar and I write a song.” mones, Richie first hooked up with the leg- pect from a typical Brit Reggae band, the Emerging from the London folk scene a endary punk rock band on their boys attracted large crowds at numerous UK decade ago, he first Subterranean Jungle tour in 1983. He went festivals during the summer and are widely performed at Glas- on to play with them in over five hundred tipped for great things in 2015. tonbury in 2007 and shows around the world, along the way writ- This Birmingham gig kick-starts a nine-date has played the festi- ing several critically acclaimed songs for the tour. val every year since. albums Animal Boy, Too Tough To Die and Singing mainly about Halfway To Sanity. sex, drugs and poli- tics, he's a surefire bet for an entertain- Roy Wood Christmas Concert ing evening out. Symphony Hall, Birmingham, Tues 9 December Singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Roy Wood hails from Kitts Green and is one Lindisfarne Christmas Show of Birmingham’s most famous sons. He’s The Robin, Bilston, Mon 15 December been in the music business since the mid- “When the band was really popular,” says 1960s, performing solo as well as with The Lindisfarne’s Ray Jackson, “we kept our feet Move, Electric Light Orchestra and Wizzard. Catfish And The Bottlemen very firmly planted on the ground and did our Roy is joined for this yuletide gig by Rick The Sugarmill, Stoke-on-Trent, Fri 5 Decem- own thing. We were proud of our self-depre- Wakeman, Andy Fairweather Low And The ber; The Institute, Birmingham, cating Geordie roots, and just wanted the Low Riders, and some exclusive yet-to-be-an- Sun 7 December freedom to play our music and entertain peo- nounced special guests. Although it took a while for Welsh rock band ple.” Mandolin and harmonica player Jack- Catfish And The Bottlemen to get noticed, son was an original member of the Newcastle they finally signed to Communication folk-rock group, appearing with them for Records and released their first single, twenty long years from 1970. Homesick, last year. Now with Island Hailed for their winning blend of Geordie wit Records, the band released debut album The and well-crafted songs, the band scored hits Balcony in September and charted at num- with memorable numbers such as Meet Me ber ten - not bad for a group who were fairly On The Corner, Lady Eleanor, All Fall Down, unknown until recently. What’s more, they’ve Run For Home and Fog On The Tyne. managed to sell out plenty of dates on this Support on the night comes from local lad November/December headline tour, including David Young and The Midnight Chorus. both Midlands shows. Honeyblood support.

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UP AND ROCK Stratford LISTINGS Artshouse MusicGIG REVIEWS Music CENTIMENT, BRUTAL, MID- NIGHT CONVOY & EMUR- SIA The Oobleck, For further reviews, visit www.whatsonlive.co.uk For full listing information on gigs, Birmingham including times and dates, GRAHAM BONNET'S CATCH visit www.whatsonlive.co.uk THE RAINBOW O2 Acad- emy, Birmingham Jackson Browne THE BOOZE BROTHERS Symphony Hall, Birmingham Nailcote Hall, Berkswell THE FRANKIE VALLI RODRIGO Y GABRIELA This legendary Californian singer-song- MON 1 DEC STORY Feat: Stephen Symphony Hall, B’ham writer has been inducted into the Rock & THE DUNNETT/BAXTER James, The CHRISTMAS ROCK N ROLL Robin, Bilston Roll Hall of Fame. He also penned one BIG BAND The Yardbird ROADSHOW Tamworth JACK GARRAT Hare & of the most profound and moving Jazz Club, Birmingham Assembly Rooms, Hounds, Birmingham SLASH LG Arena, B’ham Staffs canons of contemporary song. So quite URBAN TRIO The Jam how he’s escaped becoming a house- BRIT FLOYD Symphony AUGUSTINES Wulfrun Hall, Birmingham House, Birmingham hold name is a complete mystery! Hall, Wolverhampton NUESTRAS VIVENCIAS & CATFISH AND THE BOT- Now aged sixty-six and still producing JUGGY RIHAL Warwick THU 4 DEC TLEMEN The Sugarmill, fine work, Browne’s magnificent voice Arts Centre, Coventry RAYMOND FROGGATT Stoke-on-Trent remains undiminished by time. Performing seven tracks from his new CHRIS CLEVERLEY Cres- Birmingham Town Hall PRINCE OF WALES BRASS album, Standing In The Breach, he was supported by his incredible cent Theatre, B’ham- BOYZ II MEN O2 Acad- BAND Artrix, Broms- five-piece band and backing singers. This topical album showcases BABY GODZILLA The emy, Birmingham grove Oobleck, Birmingham BJORN AGAIN The As- the musician’s defining political and environmental beliefs - from the JASPER CARROT'S STAND UP AND ROCK sembly, Leamington damning indictment of corporate greed on Which Side to the hope for Stratford TUE 2 DEC Artshouse Spa change on If I Could Be Anywhere. But it was the album’s title track, THE SENSATIONAL 60'S T.REXTASY Huntingdon SIXTIES GOLD Feat. Hall, Worcester with all its elegiac power, that made for the night’s outstanding per- Gerry and the Pace- EXPERIENCE Malvern formance. Theatres ALABAMA 3 The Institute, makers, The Searchers, Birmingham Older classics were rapturously received, including Doctor My Eyes, The Fortunes & Chip THE CHANTEL MCGREGOR BAND The Robin, Bilston ICONIC 80S The River Fountain Of Sorrow and a knockout rendition of The Pretender, but I Hawkes, Symphony Rooms, Stourbridge Hall, B’ham BEN HOWARD Civic Hall, was sorely disappointed that arguably his finest song, Sky Blue And Wolverhampton DESPERADO - THE VERY Black, was omitted - as were various other classics. THE DEFILED The Slade BEST OF THE EAGLES The Rooms, Wolverhampton PASADENA ROOF ORCHES- I was also congratulated by strangers on a fantastic poster made by TRA The Roses Theatre, Roadhouse, B’ham JANET DEVLIN Hare & MAGNUM The Robin, Bil- my equally over-excited sister, and repeatedly asked by astonished Hounds, Birmingham Tewkesbury RAGING SPEEDHORN The ston pensioners both to justify my ardour and to confirm my age! As the THE WYTCHES Hare & OZZBEST Route 44, Hounds, Birmingham Sugarmill, Stoke-on- night drew to a close with Running On Empty, we joined fans dancing Trent Birmingham in the aisles and Browne even pointed at us! MARTIN SMITH The CAPERCAILLIE IN CON- Robin, Bilston ANY TROUBLE Hare & A magical night I’ll never forget. Malaka Chowdhury nnnnn Hounds, Birmingham CERT Warwick Arts Cen- MICHAEL BUBLÉ The Bar- tre, Coventry claycard Arena (for- GERARD AND THE WATCH- MEN Ort Cafe, B’ham WOMEN IN JAZZ Sym- merly NIA), Birmingham phony Hall, B’ham GEORGE COLLIGAN The CHRISTMAS WITH THE Squeeze Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry RAT PACKNew Alexan- ABBA LOVE Genting Club Spotted Dog, B’ham Stoke-on-Trent Since first catapulting onto the UK music dra Theatre, B’ham WED 3 DEC WAIT FOR THE FALL, AGAINST THE CURRENT scene in 1979 with Cool For Cats, Deptford HOUR GLASS, ALL THE The Asylum, B’ham songwriting pair Chris Difford and Glenn TWO MAN TING The Yard- REST AND MORE... The FRAN THE MAN Irish Cen- Tilbrook have certainly seen their fair share of bird Jazz Club, B’ham Roadhouse, B’hams tre, Birmingham action. Famously hailed as the best British MICHAEL BUBLÉ The Bar- SOLID SOUL The Jam BOAT TO ROW Ort Cafe, Birmingham songwriting duo since Lennon and McCartney, claycard Arena (for- House, Birmingham merly NIA), Birmingham THE HELL The Oobleck, SEEDY SONICS The Rain- Difford and Tilbrook’s musical partnership has ELECTRIC SIX O2 Acad- Birmingham bow Venues, B’ham seen them survive break-ups, shake-ups, re-shuffles and numerous emy, Birmingham LONGFALLBOOTS O2 solo stints. ABBA MANIA New FRI 5 DEC Academy, Birmingham Poised somewhere between an intimate sit-down gig and a musical Alexandra Theatre, COME UP & SEE ME THE HUMAN LEAGUE Drummonds Bar, memoir, this eagerly anticipated reunion show beautifully balanced Birmingham BREED 77 The Oobleck, Civic Hall, W’hampton Worcester stripped-back, unplugged renditions of popular crowd-pleasers from Birmingham GORDON HENDRICKS IS HISS GOLDEN MESSEN- Squeeze’s extensive back-catalogue with previews of new material BEANS ON TOAST Hare & ELVIS Theatre On The GER Hare & Hounds, from the duo’s 2015 LP. It also included numerous offerings from the Hounds, Birmingham Steps, Bridgnorth Birmingham SOLID SOUL popular musicians’ varied solo careers. A VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS The Jam RORY MCGRATH AND House, Birmingham PHILIP POPE Malvern Among the many highlights of the evening were an acoustic duet of The Red Lion Folk Club, Birmingham JEFF WAYNE'S MUSICAL Theatres the country & western-inspired Cowboys Are My Weakness, an emo- HACKTIVIST The Insti- VERSION OF THE WAR OF tionally charged rendition of bittersweet ballad Some Fantastic Place, tute, Birmingham THE WORLDS LG Arena, SAT 6 DEC and the infectiously uptempo Pulling Muscles From A Shell. Bringing BASEMENT JAXX The In- Birmingham LONE the set - and indeed the tour - to an emotional close was the eagerly stitute, Birmingham The Oobleck, PROFESSOR GREEN O2 Birmingham Academy, Birmingham awaited trio, Cool For Cats, Labelled With Love and Goodbye Girl. EMBRACE Victoria Hall, Stoke-on-Trent CHRISTMAS WITH THE THE LEGENDS PARTY A unanimous standing ovation offered a fitting end to an exuberant PAUL CARRACK Malvern RAT PACKNew Alexan- WITH ABSOLUTE LEGENDS night of musical celebration. Katherine Ewing nnnn Theatres dra Theatre, B’ham Nailcote Hall, Berkswell JASPER CARROT'S STAND THE 80'S EXPERIENCE Lady Gaga Basement Jaxx - The Institute, Birmingham LG Arena, Birmingham It takes few words to describe a live performance by the amazing Lady G: Vocally - Amaz- ing; Visually - Stunning; Verbally - Slightly embarrassing. Gaga treated her little monsters to The Artpop Ball at the NIA in Birmingham last month. Her two-hour set included a lot of swearing, a lot of outfit changes and only a few of her biggest hits, including Poker Face, Just Dance and Paparazzi. I couldn’t help feeling that the audience, along with myself, were hoping for more of the old and less of the new. But, as Lady G put it, “If you’ve come here tonight to hear all the old hits, you’d better f... off now.” Andrew Middleton nnnn

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Birmingham Chrissie Hynde - Wulfrun Hall, Wolverhampton Music LISTINGS WED 10 DEC THREE STEP MANOEUVRE For full listing information on gigs, FUNKY ORGAN TRIO The including times and dates, Yardbird Jazz Club, Birmingham visit www.whatsonlive.co.uk MARTIN SIMPSON The Red Lion Folk Club, Nailcote Hall, Berkswell ham Town Hall Birmingham MARCIA CARR & NUBIAN THE WHO The Barclay- MORBID ANGEL The Asy- SOUL Hare & Hounds, card Arena (formerly lum, Birmingham Birmingham NIA), Birmingham BOMBAY BICYCLE CLUB HARARE Ort Cafe, B’ham RECKLESS LOVE The Civic Hall, W’hampton SOLID SOUL The Jam Slade Rooms, Wolver- FOXES Kasbah, Coven- House, Birmingham hampton try CHRISTMAS WITH THE INSPIRAL CARPETS O2 THE MOULETTES The RAT PACK New Alexan- Academy, Birmingham Robin, Bilston dra Theatre, B’ham MAYBESHEWILL The BROTHER STRUT Hare & GORDON HENDRICKS IS Flapper, Birmingham Hounds, Birmingham ELVIS Theatre On The CATFISH AND THE BOT- MADDY PRIOR & THE CAR- Steps, Bridgnorth TLEMEN The Institute, NIVAL BAND Huntingdon IMELDA MAY The Insti- Birmingham Hall, Worcs tute, Birmingham THE FREE LOVE CLUB The BY THE RIVERS The Insti- A FOREIGNERS JOURNEY Yardbird Jazz Club, tute, Birmingham THAT'S LIFE - TAKE THAT & INTO THE SHADOWS STRATFORD CONCERT The Roadhouse, B’ham Birmingham THE LAST CARNIVAL O2 WESTLIFE SHOW Nailcote Bridge House Theatre, BAND: A CHRISTMAS FES- DARK SKY The Oobleck, MARILLION The Assem- Academy, Birmingham Hall, Berkswell Warwicks TIVAL Stratford Birmingham bly, Leamington Spa ROCKET The Jam UP4 THE DOWNSTROKE Artshouse TURBOWOLF The Insti- DAN WHITEHOUSE The House, Birmingham The Jam House, Birm- SAT 13 DEC THOSE AMONGST US ARE tute, Birmingham Glee Club, Birmingham ingham WOLVES, STRUCTURES & LUKE DANIELS Artrix, KATONA TWINS Hunting- THU 11 DEC AMERICAN DREAMS Nail- BON GIOVI The Robin, MEDWAY MONOLITH The Bromsgrove don Hall, Worcs cote Hall, Berkswell Bilston Tin Music And Arts, SALLY BARKER Lichfield IRENE & TOM Irish Cen- ALFIE BOE LG Arena, MAJISTRATE The Insti- ROY ORBISON AND Coventry Guildhall, Staffs tre, Birmingham Birmingham tute, Birmingham FRIENDS Prince Of RIFF RAFF The Marr's LABOUR OF LOVE - UB40 AVONBANK BRASS BAND SAXON Wulfrun Hall, BEHEMOTH O2 Acad- Wales Centre, Cannock Bar, Coventry TRIBUTE The River Evesham Arts Centre Wolverhampton emy, Birmingham STATUS QUO The Bar- DIZZY LIZZY Moochers, Rooms, Stourbridge ANGEL AT MY TABLE Hare TAKING BACK SUNDAY DOWN N' OUTZ The Slade claycard Arena, B’ham Stourbridge MOSTLY AUTUMN The & Hounds, Birmingham The Institute, B’ham Rooms, Wolverhampton BEE GEES FEVER Theatre Robin, Bilston SHALAMAR The Institute, U.K. SUBS The Institute, PARTY POPPERZ Tam- On The Steps, Bridg- SUN 14 DEC PUNK'D Route 44, B’ham Birmingham Birmingham worth Assembly north THE BRITISH POLICE SYM- BIG SIXES The Sunflower GOGOL BORDELLO O2 Rooms, Staffs THE MOTELLAS Nailcote TALON - THE BEST OF EA- PHONY ORCHESTRA Sym- Lounge, Birmingham Academy, Birmingham ESCAPING VENDETTA O2 Hall, Berkswell GLES Prince Of Wales phony Hall, B’ham ABSOLVA The Asylum, BAD MANNERS The Academy, Birmingham UP4 THE DOWNSTROKE Centre, Cannock LYNUS, ROSE REDD, HOPE Birmingham Robin, Bilston ALL ON A WINTER'S NIGHT The Jam House, B’ham CAST The Institute, Birm- STREET, LAUREN PRYKE, HANK WOOD & THE HAM- THE BORN AGAIN BEATLES WITH JOHNNY COPPIN Ar- THAT'LL BE THE DAY ingham HIDDEN SKIES, KILL- MERHEADS Hare & Stafford Gatehouse trix, Bromsgrove CHRISTMAS SHOW Birm- CHRIS REA The Barclay- GLASS, SINGING TO- Hounds, Birmingham Theatre KICK UP THE 80'S The ingham Town Hall card Arena (formerly WARDS DISASTER, THE RAT PACK Tamworth River Rooms, Stour- MADNESS LG Arena, NIA), Birmingham SEVENDAZE & OUT OF MON 8 DEC Assembly Rooms, bridge Birmingham LEVERET The Morris LUCK O2 Academy, Staffs ECHO & THE BUNNYMEN THE CROCKERS Wulfrun Hall, Shrewsbury Birmingham ONLY MEN ALOUD Birm- MATT WOOSEY The Tin The Institute, Birming- Hall, Wolverhampton ENNIO MORRICONE LG BEYOND THE BARRICADE ingham Town Hall Music And Arts, Coven- ham BLUE ZOO The Flapper, Arena, Birmingham Malvern Theatres, RAGING SPEEDHORN O2 try CAROLS AND CAPERS The Birmingham THE ALBION CHRISTMAS Worcs Academy, Birmingham CHRISTMAS WITH THE Roses Theatre, Tewkes- LPZKIN O2 Academy, BAND mac, Birmingham THE MOTOWN SISTERS SAINT SAVIOUR & BILL RAT PACK Victoria Hall, bury Birmingham DEVIL’S DANCE The DUO Genting Club, RYDER-JONES Hare & Stoke-on-Trent FRED ZEPPELIN Route TALON - THE BEST OF EA- Roadhouse, B’ham Stoke-on-Trent Hounds, Birmingham INSOLITO O2 Academy, 44, Birmingham GLES Malvern Theatres TEWKESBURY TOWN SOLDIER & DUKE The Ac- FISH The Robin, Bilston Birmingham BEE GEES FEVER Theatre ERIC MARTIN The BAND The Roses The- tress & Bishop, B’ham EMBRACE Kasbah, UP4 THE DOWNSTROKE On The Steps, Bridg- Oobleck, Birmingham atre, Tewkesbury ST AGNES FOUNTAIN Coventry The Jam House, Birm- north ULTRA 90S The River RED BIRD SKY Kitchen Huntingdon Hall, Worcs NINA NESBITT The Glee ingham MICHELLE LAWSON Rooms, Stourbridge Garden Cafe, B’ham THE HURLING BOYS Irish Club, Birmingham RICHIE RAMONE The As- Genting Club, Stoke-on- THE STONES The Road- THE DYLAN PROJECT Centre, Birmingham THE CADILLAC THREE The sembly, Leamington Trent house, Birmingham Lichfield Guildhall, OYE SANTANA The Marr's Oobleck, Birmingham Spa UNDER THE COVERS Irish INTO THE SHADOWS Staffs Bar, Worcester LAETITIA SADIER Hare & Centre, Birmingham Stafford Gatehouse TOUCHSTONE The Robin, LOVELESS LUCK, AGAINST TUE 9 DEC Hounds, Birmingham HYPE BIRMINGHAM The Theatre Bilston THE WHEEL & HOLLOW HYPNOTIC BRASS ENSEM- Rainbow Venues, Birm- MUSIC FOR CHRISTMAS THE FREE LOVE CLUB The PEOPLE The Oobleck, RIVAL SONS Wulfrun BLE Hare & Hounds, ingham The Roses Theatre, Yardbird Jazz Club, Birmingham Hall, Wolverhampton Birmingham CASH (JOHNNY CASH Tewkesbury Birmingham CREAM BIRMINGHAM 8TH SABATON The Slade ORACLE, VEXXEN, SAM- TRIBUTE) The Road- FULLY LOADED Route 44, MADDY PRIOR & THE CAR- YEAR ANNIVERSARY The Rooms, Wolverhampton SARA AND MORE... The house, Birmingham Birmingham NIVAL BAND Birmingham Rainbow Venues, Birm- THE ALBION CHRISTMAS Roadhouse, B’ham STONE FARM Drum- AMINGTON BAND PRES- Town Hall ingham BAND Ludlow Assembly NEON WALTZ The Sug- monds Bar, Worcester ENTS A CELEBRATION OF ORCHARD HILL O2 Acad- THE BLOCKHEADS Hare & Rooms, Shropshire armill, Stoke-on-Trent LITTLE SIMZ, OCD: CHRISTMAS Tamworth emy, Birmingham Hounds, Birmingham JACK MCNEIL AND CHAR- KATE RUSBY Symphony MOOSH & TWIST The In- Assembly Rooms, BRETFORTON SILVER CHRISTMAS THROUGH LIE HEYS Ort Cafe, Birm- Hall, Birmingham stitute, Birmingham Staffs BAND Evesham Arts THE AGES, CAROLS ingham LAURA JURD QUARTET MASSIVE HEAD TRAUMA MIDLANDS METAL CRU- Centre, Worcs THROUGH THE CHAIRS ROCKET The Jam Bramall Music Building, The Marr's Bar, Worces- SADE III Featuring Seven EAMMON MCCANN Irish Stafford Town Centre House, Birmingham Birmingham ter Deadly, Destroyed Be- Centre, Birmingham MARTIN CARTHY BOB LOG III The Tin THE BOOTLEG BEATLES JACK WALLEN Ort Cafe, yond Belief, The Heretic H.E.A.T The Slade Newhampton Arts Cen- Music And Arts, Coven- Theatre Royal Concert Birmingham Order, Our World Below Rooms, Wolverhampton tre, Wolverhampton try Hall, Nottingham CHRISSIE HYNDE Wulfrun and more... The Slade EAMMON MCCANN Irish THE BOOTLEG BEATLES ROY WOOD CHRISTMAS ACOUSTIC EVENING WITH Hall, Wolverhampton Rooms, Wolverhampton Centre, Irish Centre De Montfort Hall, CONCERT Symphony TONY WRIGHT, CJ, PAUL DAN MESSORE AND IN- MAXIMUM ROBBIE - TRIB- Leicester Hall, Birmingham MIRO & CHRIS CATALYST DIGO KID Symphony UTE ACT Genting Club, MON 15 DEC MORAL PANICS The Sug- '68 O2 Academy, B’ham The Slade Rooms, Hall, Birmingham Stoke-on-Trent armill, Stoke-on-Trent BYRON HARE The Sun- Wolverhampton JESSICA RHODES The RED LIGHT ROOM & THE BOOTLEG BEATLES HEADBANGERS BALL The flower Lounge, B’ham Strawberry Bank, GUERILLA MONSOON The Symphony Hall, B’ham Flapper, Birmingham THE LITTLE UNSAID Hare FRI 12 DEC Coventry Actress & Bishop, Birm- LINDISFARNE CHRISTMAS & Hounds, Birmingham ED DOOLAN CHRISTMAS ingham SHOW The Robin, Bil- THE BOOTLEG BEATLES CHRISTMAS WITH THE SHOW Symphony Hall, THE FATHER TEDS Irish ston SUN 7 DEC PUPPINI SISTERS The Civic Hall, W’hampton Birmingham Centre, Birmingham CHRISTMAS WITH THE THE DOORS ALIVE O2 ROD AND THE FACEZ The Glee Club, Birmingham DEAD CITY SOULS The SHAWN CUDDY Irish Cen- RAT PACK The Roses JENNY JONES The Robin, Academy, Birmingham Sugarmill, Stoke-on- tre, Birmingham Theatre, Tewkesbury Roadhouse, B’ham THE JAKE & ELWOOD - Bilston Trent LICHFIELD CATHEDRAL IN THE CARDS The Sug- AT THE GATES The BLUES BROTHERS TRIB- GARETH FOWLER QUAR- JEAN GENIE The Assem- CHORUS Lichfield Gar- armill, Stoke-on-Trent Oobleck, Birmingham UTE The Robin, Bilston RODDY FRAME Birming- TET The Spotted Dog, bly, Leamington Spa rick, Staffs

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Birmingham bridge LIMEHOUSE LIZZY The HEAVENLY SINNERS The

TUE 16 DEC THE DYLAN PROJECT DARK SIDE OF THE WALL Robin, Bilston Roadhouse, B’ham WED 31 DEC Hare & Hounds, B’ham The Roadhouse, B’ham THE BON JOVI EXPERI- IVOR & LYN'S CLASSIC DEACON BLUE Symphony BIG TENT AND THE GYPSY TALON - THE BEST OF EA- ENCE The River Rooms, ROCK NIGHT Route 44, T.REXTASY The Robin, Hall, Birmingham LANTERN Ort Cafe, Birm- GLES The Robin, Bilston Stoubridge Birmingham Bilston ARCH ENEMY & KREATOR ingham ROBERT ALEXANDER THE NORTORIOUS BROTH- DIRTY DC - TRIBUTE TO AC THE DELRAY ROCKETS The Institute, B’ham RICHIE RAMONE Kasbah, GILES - MICHAEL JACK- ERS Route 44, B’ham / DC The Robin, Bilston The Roadhouse, B’ham THE DIRTY OLD FOLKERS Coventry SON TRIBUTE Route 44, THE HURLING BOYS Irish ELIVS PRESLEY - GORDON NEW YEAR'S EVE GALA Kitchen Garden Cafe, HANGING TREE The Birmingham Centre, Birmingham HENDRICKS & THE PAS- Symphony Hall, B’ham Birmingham Marr's Bar, Coventry LIAM KELLY Genting SOULED OUT 2 FUNK The SIONETTES The River NEW YEAR'S EVE - ROUTE MICHAEL SCHENKER'S E OF E The River Rooms, Club, Stoke-on-Trent Roadhouse, B’ham Rooms, Stourbridge 44 PARTY NIGHT Route TEMPLE OF ROCK The Stourbridge BUZZARD LOPE & GILL 44, Birmingham Robin, Bilston INSCRIPTIONS The Sug- SANDELL Ort Cafe, Birm- SAT 27 DEC MON 29 DEC THE FATHER TEDS Irish MIKE SANCHEZ Hunting- armill, Stoke-on-Trent ingham Centre, Birmingham don Hall, Worcs JOOLS HOLLAND & HIS THEIA The Slade MOTOWN LEGENDS PARTY THE SOUND OF MUSICALS SEAN WILSON Irish Cen- THE BBC BIG BAND PRES- RHYTHM & BLUES OR- Rooms, Wolverhampton WITH SOUL LEGEND Nail- Symphony Hall, B’ham tre, Birmingham ENTS A SWINGING CHESTRA Symphony JAMIE KNIGHT AND THE cote Hall, Berkswell DEFINITELY MIGHT BE AND SWINGAMAJIG NEW CHRISTMAS Birmingham Hall, Birmingham MANUKA BAND Hunting- GLENN MILLER ORCHES- ADORED The Robin, Bil- YEAR'S EVE The Town Hall DETROIT SOUL The Jam don Hall, Worcs TRA Symphony Hall, ston Oobleck, Birmingham THE JONATHAN SILK BIG House, Birmingham GBH, DRONGOS FOR EU- Birmingham GENERATIONS The Sug- THE DECADES BAND The BAND The Spotted Dog, ROPE & EASTFIELD The MR BEN The Jam House, armill, Stoke-on-Trent River Rooms, Stour- Birmingham FRI 19 DEC Institute, Birmingham Birmingham bridge RED LEMONS The Jam DETROIT SOUL The Jam SUPREME QUEEN The TUE 30 DEC GLOBAL GATHERING NYE House, Birmingham BAD MANNERS The As- House, Birmingham River Rooms, Stour- Featuring Wilkinson & sembly, Leamington bridge THE TREVOR BURTON David Rodigan, The In- Spa ROXY MAGIC WED 17 DEC SUN 21 DEC The Road- CHRISTMAS SHOW The stitute, Birmingham SWINGING 60'S MOTOWN house, Birmingham Roadhouse, B’ham THE SUBTERRANEANS PARTY WITH THE KRYS- CHAS AND DAVE The JOOLS HOLLAND & HIS MAINLY MADNESS The THE SOUL SURVIVORS The Jam House, B’ham TALETTES Nailcote Hall, Robin, Bilston RHYTHM & BLUES OR- Robin, Bilston The Robin, Bilston CHESTRA Symphony Berkswell THE FREE LOVE CLUB The FLARES PARTY BAND Hall, Birmingham DETROIT SOUL The Jam Yardbird Jazz Club, Route 44, Birmingham Jools Holland - Symphony Hall, Birmingham ARTHUR DOHERTY BAND House, Birmingham Birmingham ELVIS TRIBUTE BY ANDY Stafford Gatehouse THE BARRY WHITE SHOW TOM HEALY BAND Irish WHITE Irish Centre, Theatre WITH THE DIVAS OF MO- Centre, Birmingham Birmingham RED LEMONS The Jam TOWN Nailcote Hall, THE SPEAKEASY Kitchen THE BHANGRA LEGENDS House, Birmingham Berkswell Garden Cafe, B’ham Civic Hall, Birmingham MAD JOCKS AND ENG- UB40 O2 Academy, DOWNSHIFT The Road- LAWLESS The Sugarmill, LISHMEN The Red Lion Birmingham house, Birmingham Stoke-on-Trent Folk Club, Birmingham THE 90’S NIGHTMARE BE- ALTERNATIVE DUBSTEP HEFFRON DRIVE O2 FORE CHRISTMAS The In- ORCHESTRA Hare & SUN 28 DEC Academy, Birmingham stitute, Birmingham Hounds, Birmingham THE ALBION CHRISTMAS A GERMAN CHRISTMAS THE VERY BEST OF JOHN BAND New Vic Theatre, Malvern Theatres MON 22 DEC WILLIAMS Symphony Newcastle-under-Lyme, THE STONES Theatre On Hall, Birmingham Staffs The Steps, Bridgnorth ROD STEWART TRIBUTE - THE FREE LOVE CLUB The MIKE SANCHEZ The LARRY MILLER The GARRY PEASE Nailcote Yardbird Jazz Club, Robin, Bilston Marr's Bar, Worcester Hall, Berkswell Birmingham THE MELLSTOCK BAND ONE STOP BOOGIE - 70S V GOSPEL CENTRAL The LITTLE JIMMY Irish Cen- Lord Leycester Hospi- 80S The River Rooms, Jam House, B’ham tre, Birmingham tal, Coventry Stourbridge CHRISTMAS CAROL SIN- DEAF HAVANA Kasbah, SLADE UK The Road- GALONG Symphony Hall, Coventry house, Birmingham Birmingham CANTERBURY The Flap- KICK UP THE 80'S The A VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS Music Venues Box Office Across The Midlands per, Birmingham Robin, Bilston Lichfield Guildhall, HOZIER The Institute, THE ALI CLINTON BAND & Staffs SWEET The Robin, Bil- Birmingham THE YARDBIRD Staffordshire Birmingham THE Z F PROJECT Route 0121 212 2524 GIN ANNIE & NOISE POL- 44, Birmingham ston 02 ACADEMY FOXLOWE ARTS CENTRE, LEEK 0121 622 8250 01538 386112 LUTION ROCK DISCO The 3 DAFT MONKEYS The BIG BOY BLOATER Hare & Black Country River Rooms, Stour- Oobleck, Birmingham Hounds, Birmingham THE ACTRESS & BISHOP LICHFIELD GUILDHALL THE ALBION, BONSAI & 0121 236 7426 CIVIC HALL, WOLVERHAMPTON 01543 262223 bridge BACK TO THE 80'S 0870 320 7000 Genting Club, Stoke-on- THE REBELLION The Sug- ADRIAN BOULT HALL THE SUGARMILL, HANLEY 0121 331 5901 DUDLEY CONCERT HALL STOKE-ON-TRENT Trent armill, Stoke-on-Trent 01384 815577 THU 18 DEC THE ASYLUM 01159 454 593 THE FULL SHA BANG Irish FOREST ARTS CENTRE 0121 233 1109 TAMWORTH ASSEMBLY ROOMS THE BOOTLEG BEATLES Centre, Birmingham TUE 23 DEC 0845 111 2898 Victoria Hall, Stoke-on- THE BARBER INSTITUTE 01827 709618 OUT OF TIME CHRISTMAS 0121 414 7333 NEWHAMPTON ARTS CENTRE Trent SPECIAL Newhampton JERSEY 4 Nailcote Hall, 01902 572090 VICTORIA HALL, HANLEY NYA KING AS WHITNEY Berkswell BIRMINGHAM TOWN HALL 0870 060 6649 Arts Centre, Wolver- 0121 780 3333 ROBIN 2, BILSTON HOUSTON Nailcote Hall, CHRISTMAS WITH THE 01902 401211 STAFFORD GATEHOUSE hampton CBSO CENTRE 01785 254653 Berkswell, Warwickshire PALEMAN The Rainbow RAT PACK Wulfrun Hall, 0121 780 3333 SLADE ROOMS SLADE The Robin, Bil- Venues, Birmingham Wolverhampton WOLVERHAMPTON FLAPPER 0121 236 2421 0870 320 7000 Warwickshire ston THE NOTEBENDERS Sym- THE DIRTY OLD FOLKERS CHINA DRUM The Insti- Kitchen Garden Cafe, THE GLEE CLUB STOURBRIDGE TOWN HALL THE ASSEMBLY, LEAMINGTON phony Hall, Birmingham 0871 472 0400 tute, Birmingham Birmingham 01384 812812 01926 311311 KILLERSTREAM Drum- HARE & HOUNDS THE MELLSTOCK BAND FRED ZEPPELIN The WULFRUN HALL, THE KASBAH, COVENTRY monds Bar, Worcester 0121 444 2081 WOLVERHAMPTON 024 7655 4473 Lord Leycester Hospi- WAIT FOR THE FALL, KEEP Robin, Bilston 0870 320 7000 THE INSTITUTE NAILCOTE HALL, tal, Coventry THE CHANGE, SPEAKING BLAST FROM THE PAST 0121 643 0428 LIVE & PICKING PRESENTS - A MEDIEVAL BERKSWELL IN SHADOWS & YOU IRISH CENTRE Shropshire 02476 46 6174 Newhampton Arts Cen- KNOW THE DRILL The In- CHRISTMAS Huntingdon 0121 622 2314 BIRCHMEADOW, BROSELEY tre, Wolverhampton STRATFORD CIVIC HALL stitute, Birmingham Hall, Worcs THE JAM HOUSE 01952 882210 01789 207100 MACHINE HEAD O2 Acad- TRIAXIS The Asylum, JAMIE KNIGHT & THE 0121 200 3030 THE BUTTERMARKET, MANUKA BAND THE TIN MUSIC & ARTS, emy, Birmingham Birmingham Artrix, THE KITCHEN GARDEN CAFE SHREWSBURY COVENTRY KATE RUSBY Malvern Bromsgrove 01743 355055 Birmingham 0121 443 4725 0247 655 9958 Theatres SAT 20 DEC WHITE NOISE THEORY LG ARENA THE EDGE ARTS CENTRE, GORDON GILTRAP The Sugarmill, Stoke- 0844 338 8000 MUCH WENLOCK Worcestershire 01952 728911 Stafford Gatehouse THE ENEMY & THE TWANG on-Trent NIA ARTRIX, BROMSGROVE Theatre O2 Academy, B’ham BEAT BROTHERS The Jam 0844 338 8000 HENRY TUDOR HOUSE 01527 577330 KERI ARRINDELL Genting BOOTLEG ABBA Nailcote House, Birmingham SHREWSBURY THE RAINBOW 01743 361666 HUNTINGDON HALL / SWAN Club, Stoke-on-Trent Hall, Berkswell 0121 772 8174 THEATRE 01905 611427 THE BROTHERS OF SOUL THE HIVE, SHREWSBURY THE WONDER STUFF O2 WED 24 DEC RED LION FOLK CLUB 01743 234970 MARR’S BAR, WORCESTER Academy, Birmingham Nailcote Hall, Berkswell 0121472 4253 01905 613336 SKABUCKS The Road- LUDLOW ASSEMBLY ROOMS LIFESIGNS The Assem- THE MARTIN BARRE BAND THE ROADHOUSE 01584 878141 THE RIVER ROOMS, bly, Leamington Spa The Assembly, Leam- house, Birmingham 0121 246 2273 STOURBRIDGE THE CAVERN BEATLES The THEATRE SEVERN, THE ALBION CHRISTMAS ington Spa ROUTE 44 SHREWSBURY 01743 281281 01384 397177 Robin, Bilston 0121 708 0108 BAND Huntingdon Hall, SWORN TO OATH The THE PLACE, OAKENGATES, Worcs Sugarmill, Stoke-on- SYMPHONY HALL TELFORD 01952 382382 FRI 26 DEC 0121 780 3333 For additional information BLOBBIE WILLIAMS The Trent WEM TOWN HALL and to find out What’s On KICK UP THE 80'S The THE VICTORIA Roadhouse, B’ham MR BEN The Jam House, 01939 232299 at these venues. WILEY The Institute, River Rooms, Stour- 0121 633 9439 Birmingham Visit: www.whatsonlive.co.uk

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Classical Music PREVIEWS Festive Favourites With Hugh Dennis Symphony Hall, Birmingham, Fri 19 - Sun 22 December Outnumbered star Hugh Dennis hosts this firm festive favourite, which sees the City Of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO) presenting an evening of classic carols and seasonal stories. Members of the audience are invited to get into the festive spirit by joining the CBSO’s famous choruses in a Christmas singa-

long. Simon Halsey Hugh Dennis conducts. Christmas Classics Symphony Hall, Birmingham, Sat 20 December Larger-than-life thespian and ‘devilish sto- ryteller’ Brian Blessed here presents a series of festive readings to complement a host of favourite Christmas songs. Direct- ed by conductor Adrian Lucas and accom- Ex Cathedra panied by soprano Elizabeth Atherton, the St Chad’s Church, Shrewsbury, Tues 2 December; Symphony Hall, Birmingham, Sun 7 Decem- London Concert Orchestra perform a pro- ber; Birmingham Cathedral, Mon 8 December; Sy John’s Church, Hagley, Birmingham, Tues 9 gramme of carols for all, including: Good December; Hereford Cathedral, Wed 10 December; St Paul’s Church, Birmingham, Fri 19 - Sat King Wenceslas; O Come, All Ye Faithful; 20 & Mon 22 - Tues 23 December Once In Royal David’s City; The First Now- What better way to get into the festive spirit than by enjoying an evening with one of the coun- ell; and O Little Town try’s finest choral music ensembles? Under the directorship of its founder, Jeffrey Skidmore, Ex Of Bethlehem. The Cathedra this month presents a series of atmospheric ‘Christmas music by candlelight’ programme also evenings, blending seasonal favourites from around the globe and across the ages with a vari- features Darke’s In ety of readings. The Bleak Midwin- Keeping in the festive spirit, the ensemble also presents Handel’s Messiah at Symphony Hall on ter, Humperdinck’s 7 December; Santa Lucia Service - a traditional Swedish service of carols and readings at Birm- Hansel & Gretel ingham Cathedral on 8 December; An Elizabethan Evening featuring the music of Byrd, Gib- Overture and bons, Tallis and Sheppard at Hereford Cathedral on 10 December; and Angels, Stars And Kings Mozart’s Alleluia - a relaxed family concert at St Paul’s Church, Birmingham, on 20 December. from Exsultate Jubi- Brian Blessed late. Alfie Boe Elin Manahan Thomas LG Arena, Birmingham, Thurs 11 December Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony Hall, Birmingham, Alfie Boe this month makes a welcome return to Tues 30 December the Midlands as part of his second UK arena Members of the City Of Birmingham Choir tour. One of the most talented crossover artists of and Birmingham Choral Union here join modern times, Alfie here performs tracks from forces with the acclaimed Royal Philhar- latest album Serenata - a collection from the monic Orchestra in what’s described as golden era of Italian song that’s widely consid- ‘an unmissable’ all-Beethoven concert. ered to be his most romantic offering yet. Comprising the composer’s monumental Alfie’s joined on stage by New Zealand’s interna- Choral Symphony No.9 and the climactic tionally renowned singing trio, Sol3 Mio. Tenor Ode To Joy, this seasonal offering features brothers Pene and Amitai Pati and their baritone pianist Cordelia Williams, soprano Susana cousin Moses Mackay fuse powerful operatics Gaspar, mezzo soprano Rosie Aldridge, with Samoan humour to ‘break down the per- tenor Nico Darmanin and bass baritone ceived barriers and stereotypes of the music’, at Derek Welton. Gloucester-born conductor the same time breathing new life into time-hon- Christopher Warren-Green directs the oured classics. Sol3 Mio’s self-titled debut evening’s proceedings. album, featuring Nessun Dorma, Amazing Grace and O Sole Mio, was New Zealand’s biggest sell- Christopher Warren-Green er of 2013, beating off opposition from regular Armonico Consort: Messiah chart-toppers Susan Boyle and One Direction. Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, Sun 14 December If you’ve never heard Handel’s Messiah in its entirety, you’ve missed out on one of music’s most uplifting experiences. The oratorio features a series of much-loved classics, including For Unto Us A Child Is Born and the legendary Hallelujah!. Joining the Midlands-based Armonico Consort for this Warwick Arts Centre concert is: acclaimed Welsh soprano Elin Manahan Thomas; exponent of the male alto voice, countertenor Michael Chance; Stourbridge-born tenor Nathan Vale; and Bass vocalist Andrew Davies.

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CHRISTMAS CONCERT BY Frank Sinatra, Matt try Cathedral Dec, Symphony Hall, LISTINGS THE CATHEDRAL CHOIR Monro and many LONDON CONCERT Birmingham Classical Sat 13 Dec, Worcester more... Fri 19 Dec, ORCHESTRA: CHRISTMAS LONDON CONCERT Cathedral mac, Birmingham CLASSICS Feat. festive ORCHESTRA: LAST NIGHT For full listing information on classical SONGS OF THE ANGELS: CBSO FESTIVE readings by Brian OF THE CHRISTMAS concerts, including times and dates, CHRISTMAS CHARITY FAVOURITES WITH HUGH Blessed, Sat 20 Dec, PROMS Programme visit www.whatsonlive.co.uk CONCERT Featuring DENNIS Fri 19 Dec, Symphony Hall, B’ham includes works by Birmingham Festival Symphony Hall, B’ham ST JAMES’ SINGERS Feat. Rossini, Sousa, Bizet, NUESTRAS VIVENCIAS OF WINCHESTER CATHE- Choral Society with the THE KLEE QUARTET Pro- Julian Harris, Sat 20 Verdi, Ravel, Denza and Mon 1 Dec, Warwick DRAL Tue 9 Dec, Sym- choristers of St gramme includes works Dec, St Mary’s Church, Grieg, Sat 27 Dec, Arts Centre, Coventry phony Hall, B’ham Alphege, Solihull; Joe by Haydn, Stravinsky & Warwick Symphony Hall, B’ham MICHAEL BUBLE Tue 2 - ORCHESTRA OF THE Cooper (organ) & Mendelssohn, Fri 19 EX CATHEDRA: ANGELS, MOZART FESTIVAL Wed 3 Dec, The Bar- SWAN & CHAMBER CHOIR Patrick Larley (conduc- Dec, The Round Room, STARS & KINGS Sat 20 ORCHESTRA: GLORIOUS claycard Arena, B’ham Tue 9 Dec, Stratford tor), Sat 13 Dec, St Birmingham Museum & Dec, St Paul’s Church, HANDEL BY CANDLELIGHT CBSO MACMILLAN'S ST Artshouse John’s & St Peter’s Art Gallery Birmingham Sun 28 Dec, Symphony LUKE PASSION Thurs 4 STILE ANTICO: IN DULCI Church, Ladywood BIRMINGHAM CONSERVA- BIRMINGHAM BACH Hall, Birmingham Dec, Symphony Hall, JUBILO Tue 9 Dec, St ARC, Birmingham TOIRE REPERTOIRE CHOIR: NINE LESSONS & LONDON CONCERT Birmingham Mary's Church, Warwick ST MICHAEL’S SINGERS: ORCHESTRA Programme CAROLS Conducted by ORCHESTRA: THE VERY TRIO SEVERN Pro- MIDLANDS HOSPITALS' CAROLS FOR ALL Sat 13 includes works by Paul Spicer & featuring BEST OF JOHN WILLIAMS gramme includes works CHOIR - CAROLS THAT Dec, Coventry Cathe- Mahler, Mozart, Fang organist Paul Carr, Sun Sun 28 Dec, Symphony by Schubert & Arensky, COUNT Tue 9 Dec, dral Fang & Dvorak, Fri 19 21 Dec, St Paul’s Hall, Birmingham Thurs 4 Dec, CBSO Birmingham Town Hall BIRMINGHAM BACH Dec, Adrian Boult Hall, Church, Jewellery CBSO NELSONS CON- Centre, Birmingham EX CATHEDRA - CHRIST- CHOIR: CAROLS BY CAN- Birmingham Conserva- Quarter, Birmingham DUCTS BRUCKNER'S SEV- JEFF WAYNE'S MUSICAL MAS MUSIC BY CANDLE- DLELIGHT Sat 13 Dec, St toire CBSO FESTIVE ENTH Mon 29 Dec, VERSION OF THE WAR OF LIGHT Tue 9 Dec, St Francis Of Assisi, EX CATHEDRA - CHRIST- FAVOURITES WITH HUGH Symphony Hall, B’ham THE WORLDS Fri 5 Dec, John’s Church, Hagley, Bournville, Birmingham MAS MUSIC BY CANDLE- DENNIS Sun 21 - Mon LONDON CONCERT LG Arena, Birmingham Birmingham TEWKESBURY TOWN LIGHT Featuring Jeffrey 22 Dec, Symphony ORCHESTRA: THE SOUND IGOR LEVIT PLAYS RACH- CBSO ELGAR'S ENIGMA BAND Sat 13 - Sun 14 Skidmore (conductor), Hall, Birmingham OF THE MUSICALS feat. MANINOV Fri 5 Dec, VARIATIONS Wed 10 Dec, The Roses The- Alexander Mason JONATHAN COHEN Summer Strallen, Kerry Birmingham Town Hall Dec, Symphony Hall, atre, Tewkesbury (organ) & Lynda Sayce CHRISTMAS CAROL SIN- Ellis, Graham Bickley & PRINCE OF WALES BRASS Birmingham ARMONICO CONSORT: (guitar), Fri 19 - Sat 20 GALONG Mon 22 Dec, Tim Howard, Mon 29 BAND Programme ALFIE BOE Thurs 11 Dec, MESSIAH Sun 14 Dec, Dec, St Paul’s Church, Symphony Hall, B’ham Dec, Symphony Hall, includes Dukas, Rim- LG Arena, B’ham Warwick Arts Centre, Birmingham EX CATHEDRA: CHRIST- Birmingham sky-Korsakov, Dvorak, LESLIE HOWARD IN CON- Coventry CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT MAS MUSIC BY CANDLE- BEETHOVEN'S NINTH Tue Trad, Holst, Prokofiev, CERT Part of the Yama- CHRISTMAS WITH THE Sat 20 Dec, Symphony LIGHT Mon 22 - Tues 23 30 Dec, Symphony Gabrieli, Warren, ha International Piano SALVATION ARMY Sun 14 Hall, Birmingham Dec, St Paul’s Church, Hall, B’ham Sibelius & Holst, Fri 5 Series. Programme Dec, Symphony Hall, CHRISTMAS CONCERT Birmingham LONDON CONCERT Dec, Artrix, Bromsgrove includes works by Birmingham FEATURING SAINT JAMES' BERKLEY SALON ENSEM- ORCHESTRA: NEW YEAR’S NAVARRA QUARTET WITH Beethoven, Schubert & CHORAL MUSIC & READ- SINGERS & JULIAN HAR- BLE Mon 22 Dec, CBSO EVE GALA Programme ALEXANDER BOYD Fri 5 Liszt, Thurs 11 Dec, INGS WITH CHAPTER 8 RIS Sat 20 Dec, St Centre, Birmingham includes works by Dec, The Barber Insti- Malvern Theatres Sun 14 Dec, Whit- Mary's Church, Warwick ARMONICO CONSORT: Mendelssohn, Sousa, tute, Birmingham LAURA JURD QUARTET bourne Hall, Worcester- CHRISTMAS BY CANDLE- CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT Grieg, Mascagni, CBSO BRASS ENSEMBLE: Thurs 11 Dec, Bramall shire LIGHT Sat 20 Dec, Lich- Tues 23 Dec, St Mary’s Sibelius, Ravel, Elgar, CHRISTMAS CRACKERS Music Building, Birm- BIRMINGHAM PHILHAR- field Cathedral Church, Warwick Rossini, Verdi & Featuring the CBSO ingham MONIC ORCHESTRA: BBC COVENTRY & WAR- LONDON CONCERT Tchaikovsky, Wed 31 Brass Ensemble & THE MIDLAND PIANO TRIO FIRST & LAST Pro- WICKSHIRE CAROL SERV- ORCHESTRA: THE GLORY Dec, Symphony Hall, Catherine Arlidge (pre- & BRIAN PERKINS (GUI- gramme includes works ICE Sat 20 Dec, Coven- OF CHRISTMAS Wed 24 Birmingham senter), Fri 5 - Sat 6 TAR): THE MAGIC OF by Butterworth, Strauss Dec, CBSO Centre, SPAIN Programme & Mahler, Sun 14 Dec, Birmingham includes works by Bramall Music Building, ENGLISH STRING Manuel de Falla & Alb- Birmingham ORCHESTRA'S WHITE eniz, Fri 12 Dec, Birm- SING CAROLS WITH THE CHRISTMAS Sat 6 Dec, ingham & Midland Insti- CITY ORGANIST Present- Artrix, Bromsgrove tute, Birmingham ed by Jeremy Nicholas, LEAMINGTON SINFONIA CITY OF BIRMINGHAM Mon 15 Dec, Birming- WITH WARWICKSHIRE CHOIR: HANDEL’S MESSI- ham Town Hall YOUNG VOICES Sat 6 AH Fri 12 Dec, Sympho- CHRISTMAS WITH THE Dec, St Marks Church, ny Hall, Birmingham TOWN HALL GOSPEL Leamington Spa CONCERTOS FOR CHRIST- CHOIR Hosted by BBC THE CIRCLE SINGERS OF MAS A feast of Baroque WM presenter Nikki ROYAL LEAMINGTON SPA concertos, including Tapper, Mon 15 Dec, Sat 6 Dec, St Leonards works by Bach, Tele- Birmingham Town Hall Church, Leamington mann & Vivaldi, Fri 12 WARWICK & KENILWORTH Spa Dec, Huntingdon Hall, CHORAL SOCIETY With THE BRITISH POLICE Worcester Colin Druce (organ), SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA: UNIVERSITY WOMEN’S Tue 16 Dec, St Nicholas PROMS NIGHT SPECTACU- CHOIR Fri 12 Dec, The Church, Warwick LAR Sat 6 Dec, Sym- Barber Institute, B’ham A BRITISH CHRISTMAS phony Hall, B’ham ANDREW LITTON & CBSO Featuring Da Capo ACADEMIA MUSICA PLAYERS Feat. Andrew Chamber Choir & John ORCHESTRA Programme Litton (piano), Fri 12 Adams, Tue 16 Dec, St includes works by Dec, CBSO Centre, Nicholas Church, War- Faure & Dvorak, Birmingham wick Sat 6 Dec, Malvern ROYAL LEAMINGTON SPA THE BBC BIG BAND PRES- Theatres BACH CHOIR Sat 13 Dec, ENTS A SWINGING STRATFORD SYMPHONY Holy Trinity Church, CHRISTMAS Tue 16 Dec, ORCHESTRA Programme Leamington Spa Birmingham Town Hall includes works by PHOENIX SINGERS Fea- ANDRE RIEU Wed 17 Mozart, Glazunov, turing James Llewellyn Dec, LG Arena, B’ham Sibelius & Dvorak, Sun Jones (conductor) & CHRISTMAS WITH 7 Dec, Stratford Sara Wilander (accom- CANOLDIR Thurs 18 Dec, Artshouse panist), Sat 13 Dec, Birmingham Town Hall EX CATHEDRA: HANDEL’S Adrian Boult Hall, Birm- A GERMAN CHRISTMAS MESSIAH Sun 7 Dec, ingham Conservatoire Featuring the Armonico Symphony Hall, B’ham MUSIC FOR CHRISTMAS Consort & Baroque THE PEOPLE'S ORCHES- Sat 13 Dec, The Roses Players, Fri 19 Dec, TRA: CHRISTMAS MUSIC Theatre, Tewkesbury Malvern Theatres BY CANDLELIGHT Sun 7 STRATFORD CONCERT CHRISTMAS CONCERT Dec, Malvern Theatres BAND: A CHRISTMAS FES- WITH ORCHESTRA OF THE ONLY MEN ALOUD Mon 8 TIVAL Sat 13 Dec, Strat- SWAN AND CHAMBER Dec, Birmingham Town ford Artshouse CHOIR Fri 19 Dec, Hall BROMSGROVE OPERATIC Stratford Artshouse EX CATHEDRA: SANTA SOCIETY GILBERT & SUL- A CHRISTMAS CELEBRA- LUCIA SERVICE Mon 8 LIVAN GALA Sat 13 Dec, TION OF THE GREAT Dec, Birmingham Artrix, Bromsgrove CROONERS Join Matthew Cathedral CBSO ELGAR'S ENIGMA Long for a festive cele- LUNCHTIME CHRISTMAS VARIATIONS Sat 13 Dec, bration, featuring the MUSIC WITH THE CHOIR Symphony Hall, B’ham works of Perry Como,

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John Fothergill Comedy The Glee Club, Birmingham, Wednesday 10 - Sunday 14 December Box Office Geordie comedian John Fothergill has the priceless ability to look so in control that you’ll ARTRIX, BROMSGROVE 01527 577330 believe he’s being BIRMINGHAM TOWN HALL incredibly funny even 0121 780 3333 when sometimes he’s CIVIC HALL, not. Fothergill’s talent WOLVERHAMPTON 0870 320 7000 for holding a roomful COURTYARD THEATRE, of punters in his thrall HEREFORD ensures him plenty of 01432 340555 work as a compere, THE DRUM, BIRMINGHAM but he can sometimes 0121 333 2444 be a safety-first come- DRUMMONDS BAR, WORCESTER dian, sourcing his 01905 28190 humour from well- THE EDGE ARTS CENTRE, worn comedy path- MUCH WENLOCK ways. 01952 728911 EVESHAM ARTS CENTRE, WORCESTERSHIRE 01386 446944 Jojo Sutherland FOXLOWE ARTS CENTRE, LEEK, STAFFS Jongleurs Comedy Club, Birmingham, 01538 386112 Thursday 18 - Saturday 20 December THE GEORGE HOTEL, Jojo Sutherland’s life story could keep an army BURSLEM, STAFFS of comedians in quality material for years on 07763301081 THE GLEE CLUB, end. The daughter of Major Douglas BIRMINGHAM Sutherland, whose claims to fame included 0871 4720400 drinking with Dylan Thomas and attending the Russell Howard HIGHLIGHT, BIRMINGHAM Nuremberg Trial, Jojo was brought up in a cas- LG Arena, Birmingham, Sunday 21 December 0844 844 0044 HUNTINGDON HALL, tle, got married then divorced, and found her- According to his mother - Russell Howard reveals - his comic style WORCESTER, self living on benefits and trying to raise four calls to mind a child telling people about his day at the zoo. And in 01905 611427 kids - at which point she suffered a brain haem- fairness, Mrs H’s assessment is a pretty accurate one... KITCHEN GARDEN CAFE, orrhage. “Life was immensely difficult,” she BIRMINGHAM Gags include, “A Levels are getting easier; in my day you had to do 0121 443 4725 recalls now, “but it was also what urged me on fifty questions in a minute, and if you got one wrong they killed your LUDLOW ASSEMBLY to start doing stand-up.” Jojo has garnered an dad!” and “Anyone else wonder if the Queen ever props her quilt ROOMS impressive reputation as a teller of anecdotes, cover up to her neck whilst in bed and says 'Look Philip, I'm a 01584 878141 but maybe needs to polish her jokes a bit. Not stamp!'?" MAC, BIRMINGHAM quite the finished article, she’s nonetheless 0121 446 3232 OAKENGATES THEATRE, worth an evening of anyone’s time. TELFORD Upfront Christmas Special 01952 382382 PALACE THEATRE, The Drum, Birmingham, Friday 5 December REDDITCH Suzi Ruffell Laughter lovers attending this yuletide offering will be hoping that a 01527 65203 Bramall Music Building, Birmingham, Christmas crackerful of comedy capers awaits them - and with slick- PLAYERS BAR, Thursday 11 December BIRMINGHAM ’n’smooth Real McCoy stars Jefferson & Whitfield 0121 643 6871 Quirky and delightfully self-deprecating, Suzi headlining, their wish may well come true. Double THE ROSES THEATRE Ruffell is making good progress in the challeng- acts are relatively rare on the TEWKESBURY ing world of stand-up comedy. Presenting an comedy circuit nowadays, so 01684 295074 unquestionably likeable persona, she imbues ROYAL SPA CENTRE, the boys are offering some- LEAMINGTON SPA her act with an impressive dynamism - although thing intriguing even before 01926 334418 critics point out that she’d probably benefit from they pump out a punchline. SHOWCASE, COVENTRY developing a ‘unique selling point’. As well as They’re not to everyone’s taste, 0871 220 1000 being a comedian, Suzi’s also a writer, con- mind, in the past being THE SLADE ROOMS, WOLVERHAMPTON tributing to shows including 8 Out Of 10 Cats, accused of peddling materi- 0870 320 7000 The Last Leg and Stand Up For The Week. al that’s tired, worn-out and SOLIHULL ARTS COMPLEX lazy. But then suffering the 0121 704 6962 slings and arrows of outra- STAFFORD GATEHOUSE THEATRE geous reviewers is pretty 01785 619080 much 'par for the course' in THEATRE SEVERN, the rough, tough world of SHREWSBURY stand-up comedy. Veteran 01743 281281 Wolverhampton comedienne WARWICK ARTS CENTRE 02476 524524 Susan Murray and rising star WULFRUN HALL, Thanyia Moore also feature WOLVERHAMPTON on the evening’s comedy bill. 0870 320 7000

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BERNSTEIN, ANDY LISTINGS ROBINSON AND JOE Katherine Ryan - Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry Comedy LYCETT Sat 13 - Sun 14 Dec, The Glee Club, Birmingham For full listing information on comedy KEN DODD Sun 14 Dec, gigs including times and dates visit Civic Hall, W’hampton www.whatsonlive.co.uk ROB DEERING, BLAIR DUNLOP AND BETH PRIOR Sun 14 Dec, Henry MARK STEEL Wed 3 Dec, SHOWCASE Sat 6 Dec, Tudor House, Artrix, Bromsgrove mac, Birmingham Shrewsbury CRAIG MURRAY, GEOFF ROUGH WORKS NEW TOADALLY FREE COMEDY! NORCOTT AND MARLON MATERIAL NIGHT Sun 7 Mon 15 Dec, The Blue DAVIS Wed 3 Dec, The Dec, The Glee Club, Orange Theatre, B’ham Glee Club, Birmingham Birmingham MICKEY D, ALISTAIR LEE NELSON Wed 3 Dec, LOUDEEMY SOUP BARRIE, DANA The Roses Theatre, COMEDY NIGHT Mon 8 ALEXANDER AND Tewkesbury Dec, The Blue Orange RAYMOND & MR DAWN FRENCH Wed 3 Theatre, Birmingham TIMPKINS REVIEW Tues Dec, Warwick Arts IAN D MONTFORT, TOM 16 Dec, Jongleurs Centre, Coventry BINNS AND IVAN Comedy Club, B’ham ALAN DAVIS Thurs 4 BRACKENBURY Tues 9 LEE MAC Tues 16 - Wed Dec, De Montfort Hall, Dec, Station Pub, 17 Dec, Civic Hall, Leicester Sutton Coldfield Wolverhampton ROB ROUSE, GEOFF COMEDY EVENING WITH MICKEY D, ADDY VAN DE NORCOTT AND MARLON MRS BARBARA NICE AND BORGH, DANA DAVIS Thurs 4 Dec, The JO ENRIGHT Tues 9 Dec, ALEXANDER AND Glee Club, Birmingham mac, Birmingham RAYMOND & MR NOEL FIELDING Thurs 4 JEN BRISTER, MAUREEN TIMPKINS REVIEW Wed Dec, Crewe Lyceum YOUNGER Wed 10 Dec, 17 Dec, Jongleurs SUSAN CALMAN Thurs 4 Kitchen Garden Cafe, Comedy Club, B’ham Dec, Artrix, Bromsgrove Birmingham DAN NIGHTINGALE, MARK KUM-N-AVALOFF COMEDY ALEX BOARDMAN, SEAN OLVER AND CHARLIE NIGHT Thurs 4 Dec, PERCIVAL, TANYALEE BAKER Wed 17 - Thurs Stourbridge Town Hall DAVIS AND ROBERT 18 Dec, The Glee Club, ANDY WHITE, CAIMAH WHITE Wed 10 Dec, Birmingham MCDONNELL, PETE Jongleurs Comedy SEANN WALSH Thurs 18 PHILLIPSON AND ANDY Club, Birmingham PAUL THORNE, JIM J BROWN, MARLON DAVIS DEERING, MICKEY D AND Dec, Wulfrun Hall, TAVARE, MARLON DAVIS PLUS COMIC TBC Sun 28 NATHAN CATON Wed 31 KIND Thurs 4 Dec, The JOHN FOTHERGILL, SOL Wolverhampton George Hotel, Lichfield BERNSTEIN AND ANDY PLUS COMIC TBC Sat 27 Dec, The Glee Club, Dec, The Glee Club, TIFF STEVENSON, STEVE Dec, The Glee Club, Birmingham Birmingham STAND UP COMEDY ROBINSON Wed 10 - Fri BUGEJA AND AHIR SHAH SHOWCASE Thurs 4 Dec, 12 Dec, The Glee Club, Birmingham DAVID JOHNS, JUSTIN KAREN BAYLEY, SMUG Thurs 18 - Fri 19 Dec, SHOULD I STAY OR MOORHOUSE, JONNY ROBERTS, DANA mac, Birmingham Birmingham Hereford Courtyard BENNETT ARRON, JIMMY OMID DJALILI Thurs 11 SHOULD I GO Sun 28 PELHAM, DAMION LARKIN ALEXANDER AND SEAN Theatre Dec, Drummonds Bar, Wed 31 Dec, Regent PERCIVAL Wed 31 Dec, MCGHIE, IAN COPPINGER Dec, Civic Hall, JOJO SUTHERLAND, ADDY AND TANYALEE DAVIS Wolverhampton Worcester Theatre, Stoke-On-Trent Jongleurs Comedy VAN DER BORGH, CARL PAUL THORNE, ANTHONY ANDY ROBINSON, ROB Club, Birmingham Thurs 4 - Sat 6 Dec PAUL SINHA, JOHN HUTCHINSON AND ANDY Jongleurs Comedy ROBINS AND SUZI ASKINS Thurs 18 Dec Club, Birmingham RUFFELL Thurs 11 Dec, Jongleurs Comedy JEFFERSON AND Bramall Music Building, Club, Birmingham WHITFIELD, SUSAN Birmingham ROY CHUBBY BROWN Fri MURRAY AND THANYIA ALEX BOARDMAN, SEAN 19 Dec, Civic Hall, MOORE Fri 5 Dec, The PERCIVAL, TANYALEE Wolverhampton Drum, Birmingham DAVIS AND DALISO DAN NIGHTINGALE, MARK STEVE BUGEJA, ERIC CHAPONDA Thurs 11 - OLVER, CHARLIE BAKER LAMPAERT AND KIERAN Sat 13 Dec, Jongleurs PLUS COMIC TBC Fri 19 - BOYD Fri 5 Dec, Comedy Club, B’ham Sat 20 Dec, The Glee Hereford Courtyard SEANN WALSH Fri 12 Club, Birmingham Theatre Dec, Evesham Arts JOJO SUTHERLAND, ADDY THE EASY WAY TO BRIDGE OVER TROUBLED Centre VAN DER BORGH, CARL LAGER WITH RORY JEREMY HARDY Fri 12 HUTCHINSON AND STEVE MAGRATH AND PHILIP Dec, Ludlow Assembly SHANYASKI Fri 19 - Sat BOOK POPE Fri 5 Dec, Malvern Rooms, South 20 Dec, Jongleurs Theatres Shropshire Comedy Club, B’ham ELEANOR TIERNAN PLUS JOHNNY CANDON, BARRY KEN DODD Sat 20 Dec, COMICS TBC Fri 5 Dec, DODDS, IAN COPPINGER Victoria Hall, Stoke-On- YOUR TICKETS Players Bar, B’ham PLUS COMIC TBC Fri 12 Trent DAVE FULTON, GEOFF Dec, Players Bar, JIM TAVARE, GARY NORCOTT AND MARLON Birmingham DELANEY, MATT REES DAVIS Fri 5 Dec, The BARBARA NICE'S AND DAMION LARKIN Sat ONLINE Glee Club, Birmingham CHRISTMAS CRACKER 20 Dec, Regent NOEL FIELDING Sat 6 Fri 12 - Sat 13 Dec Theatre, Stoke-On-Trent Dec, Victoria Hall, mac, Birmingham COMEDY IN THE MET Sat Stoke-On-Trent ED GAMBLE, HAYLEY 20 Dec, Stafford KATHERINE RYAN Sat 6 ELLIS AND JACK BARRY Gatehouse Theatre Dec, Warwick Arts Fri 12 - Sat 13 Dec, RUSSELL HOWARD Sun Centre, Coventry Hereford Courtyard 21 Dec, LG Arena, HOWARD READ, LLOYD Theatre Birmingham GRIFFITH, RHYS JAMES JIMMY CARR Sat 13 MARK OLVER, CHARLIE AND DAMION LARKIN Sat Dec, Civic Hall, BAKER, MARLON DAVIS 6 Dec, Regent Theatre, Wolverhampton PLUS COMIC TBC Sun 21 Stoke-On-Trent STAND-UP STAIRS Dec, The Glee Club, DAVE FULTON, GEOFF COMEDY SHOW WITH MC Birmingham NORCOTT, MARLON DAVIS MR ANT HILL Sat 13 THE LAUGHING SOLE - whatsonlive.co.uk AND ANDREW BIRD Sat 6 Dec, Palace Theatre, COMEDY CLUB FOR KIDS Dec, The Glee Club, Redditch Sun 21 Dec, mac, Birmingham RHODRI RHYS, DANNY Birmingham CHRIS LYNAM, ERICH WARD, PAUL PIRIE AND ZOE LYONS, THE MCILORY, DEBRA JANE JOHN HASTINGS Sat 13 RAYMOND AND MR APPELBY AND HARRIET Dec, Coventry TIMPKINS REVIEW, MARK The most comprehensive what’s on listings website DYER Sat 6 Dec, Showcase Cinema CRAM AND SUSAN Coventry Showcase JOHNNY CANDON, BARRY MURRAY Tues 23 Dec, for Birmingham and the West Midlands Cinema DODDS, ELEANOR The George Hotel, LUCY BEAUMONT PLUS TIERNAN AND IAN Lichfield COMICS TBC Sat 6 Dec, COPPINGER Sat 13 Dec, ROY CHUBBY BROWN Sat Players Bar, B’ham Players Bar, B’ham 27 Dec, Victoria Hall, STAND UP COMEDY JOHN FOTHERGILL, SOL Stoke-On-Trent

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Jersey Boys New Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham, Tues 9 December - Sun 4 January Rockin’ and rollin’ New Jersey boys Frankie Valli and The Four Sea- mat, the show is structured as four ‘seasons’, each being narrated by sons scored some truly massive hits during the mid-1960s, with best- a different member of the band. known numbers including Walk Like A Man, Bye Bye Baby, Big Girls The Tony, Olivier and Grammy award-winning production is visiting Don't Cry, Sherry and December 1963 (Oh, What A Night). This mas- the Midlands as part of its first ever UK tour. sive jukebox musical tells their story. Taking a documentary-style for-

The Shoemaker’s Holiday The Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, Thurs 11 December - Sat 7 March Badboy aristocrat Rowland Lacy is in love with a middle class girl but is sent away to war by his father to reform his ways. Eager to avoid personal injury, Rowland assumes the guise of a Dutch shoemaker, in so doing losing himself among the crafts- men of London... Appropriately described as ‘a city comedy of class, conflict and cobblers in love’, Thomas Dekker’s rarely performed late-sixteenth century offering has plenty to say about the troubled and pessimistic era in which it was written - a period when class antagonism, political malaise and civic tensions were rife, and war in Ireland raged.

Calamity Jane Malvern Theatre, Worcestershire, Mon 1 - Sat 6 December Boasting songs such as The Deadwood Stage, Black Hills Of Dakota, Windy City and Secret Love, Calamity Jane tells the story of the Wild West’s most notorious female outlaw, along the way offering a winning combination of music, comedy, drama and dance. The famous ’50s film version starred Doris Day and Howard Keel, and remains one of the best-regarded Hollywood musicals of its era. This brand new stage show is presented by The Watermill Theatre, an ensemble who already have productions of Sweeney Todd and Sunset Boulevard under their belt. West End star Jodie Prenger takes the lead as Calamity Jane. www.whatsonlive.co.uk 29 Theatre - December.qxp_Layout 1 24/11/2014 20:08 Page 3 Theatre - December.qxp_Layout 1 24/11/2014 20:08 Page 4

Theatre PREVIEWS The Twelve Dates Of Christmas Old Joint Stock Theatre, Birmingham, Tues 9 - Sat 13 December Gina Hoben's off-Broadway play finds Mary facing up to the end of her relationship on Thanksgiving Day. The following year is hardly a bed of romantic roses for her, with one dating disaster quickly giving way to another. But when the second Christmas rolls around, a surprise encounter with a five- year-old boy whom she’s come to adore changes not only her day but her whole perspective... A heartwarming one-woman play.

Thumbelina’s Great Big Adventure mac, Birmingham, Mon 1 - Sat 13 December Award-winning physical theatre company Dancing Brick are the high-energy ensemble behind this brand new retelling of Hans Christian Andersen’s classic tale. The company describe the show as ‘a brightly-coloured, action-packed musical’, in which the vertically challenged Thumbelina, her daredevil Granny and a forest’s-worth of delightful ani- Uncle Ben’s Festive Block mals embark on a whirlwind adventure to the big bad city. Party Expect gangster moles, singing fish, biker beetles and crooning birds in a production that features puppetry, clowning, live music and even a sprinkling of snow... The Drum, Birmingham, Thurs 18 - Sun 21 December Stan’s Cafe Associate Performer Graeme Rose takes the role of Biker. Described as an evening of merriment and festive celebration, Uncle Ben’s Festive Block The Wind In The Willows The Tiger Who Came To Tea Party finds the eponymous lead character in Blue Orange Theatre, Birmingham, Birmingham Town Hall, the mood to enjoy a cracking Christmas Sat 13 December - Sat 3 January Tues 23 December - Wed 14 January caper. With the local sound system booked Kenneth Grahame’s famous children’s book to supply the music, obligatory party hats, Following on from a hugely successful West presents a perfect example of how one life crackers, mistletoe and decorative lights all End season, the tea-guzzling tiger is back in can command the full attention of three oth- purchased (and a few bottles of rum on hand town, dropping in on Sophie and her mum ers. Mole, Badger and Ratty simply don’t to ensure that even his least humorous jokes just as they’re settling down for an afternoon have time for any of their own interests - go down a storm), Uncle Ben’s set to leave a cuppa... Adapted by David Wood OBE from they’re way too busy having to look after tragic year battling ill health behind him. Judith Kerr’s 1968 book, this fifty-five-minute their reckless and irrepressible friend, Toad... Until, that is, an enlightening dream finds him show features singalong songs and boasts suddenly facing a significantly bigger chal- plenty of magic - not to mention a big, lenge than simply throwing a festive get- stripey tiger, of course! together... The Gruffalo Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, until Sun 4 January With over four million copies of the book having been sold, it's fair to say that Julia Don- aldson and Axel Scheffler's award-winning Gruffalo has captured the hearts and minds of children everywhere. Presenting songs, laughs and scary fun that's ideal for youngsters aged three and upwards, the stage version follows Mouse as he heads out on his journey through the deep dark wood. As he proceeds, he scares away hungry animals with tall stories of the terrifying Gruffalo. Imagine his surprise, then, when he sudden- A Christmas Carol ly finds himself coming face-to-face with the Birmingham Town Hall, Sun 21 December very creature that he's imagined! For anybody tired of the commercialism of Christmas in the twenty-first century, delving Horrible Christmas into the delightful world of Charles Dickens Old Rep, Birmingham, until Sat 17 January should offer the perfect antidote. Of all his festive stories, A Christmas Carol The Horrible Histories team are back, this reigns supreme. The covetous sinning of the time to stab a sprig of holly through the heart miserly Scrooge, the ghostly visions of of the yuletide season! Famous festive redemption and the eternal hope offered by favourites Charles Dickens, St Nicholas and Tiny Tim all combine to give the tale a real Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer - as well olde-world charm. as Oliver Cromwell and King Henry VIII - are Clive Francis stars as Scrooge, and also all present and correct in a good-humoured offers an introduction to Dickens’ exploits in show that brings together Victorian villains, Birmingham, which included an 1853 Town Medieval monks, Puritan parties and Tudor Hall reading of A Christmas Carol. treats. Read the review on page 43.

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Theatre PREVIEWS The BFG The REP, Birmingham, Wed 26 November - Sat 24 January Roald Dahl’s delightful tale has been enchanting children and the adults in their lives for over thirty years now. The story follows the adventures of a little girl named Sophie, who’s taken to a magical land by the Big Friendly Giant (or BFG for short). There, he teaches her whizzpopping, shows her his secret collection of dreams and lets her taste his extraordinary food, the snozzcumber. When it becomes apparent a tribe of boghumping giants are planning to rampage through England, Sophie and the BFG realise they must save the country from unprecedented disaster... Jack And The Beanstalk Birmingham Hippodrome, Fri 19 December - Sun 1 February Jack and his mam are hard-up, and have no choice but to take their cow to market to raise some much-needed cash. However, Jack being Jack, he decides to trade her in (the cow, that is, not his mam!) for a handful of magic beans, which then grow into a real ogre of a beanstalk. And speaking of ogres... Jack And The Beanstalk is one of the UK’s best-loved pantos - so it’s appropriate indeed that it’s the show of choice at the world’s number one pantomime venue, the Birmingham Hippo- drome. As well as featuring a big, bad, fee-fi-fo-fumming ogre, the production also boasts a star cast headed up by Jane McDonald, Blue’s Duncan James and Coronation Street badboy Chris Gascoyne. Gary Wilmot makes a welcome return as Dame Trot, with Paul Zerdin and Matt Slack also on hand to play their part in ensuring the laughter count’s as high as a really tall beanstalk. Aladdin Belgrade Theatre, Coventry, until Sat 10 Jan- uary; Artrix, Bromsgrove, Wed 17 - Sun 21 Cinderella December; Malvern Theatre, Thurs 11 Rumpelstiltskin December - Sun 4 January Stratford Artshouse, Stratford-upon-Avon, Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, Tues 16 - Sun 21 December Sat 6 December - Sun 18 January; Palace A perfect story for an evening of family enter- Theatre, Redditch, Mon 8 December - tainment finds street youth Aladdin trying Clap-along songs and imaginative story- Sun 4 January; Solihull Arts Complex, against the odds to win the hand of the telling are always surefire winners with chil- Fri 12 December - Sun 4 January dren of a certain age, so expect your young- beautiful princess, and being helped in his With its comical Ugly Sisters, metamorpho- sters to be well and truly delighted by this efforts by the mystical, and traditionally gar- sising pumpkin, matchmaking fairy godmoth- new version of the famous fairytale. For gantuan, genie of the lamp. er, drop-dead gorgeous Prince Charming, those who don't know the story, baker's Genie magic means the eponymous hero is super-cute mice and fits-one-foot-only glass daughter Daisy can spin pure gold from able to spend Christmas in not one but three slipper, Cinderella can justifiably lay claim to straw, and the nasty King Melvyn expects her Midlands locations this festive season... being the most popular of all pantomimes. to do just that. But there's too much straw to Iain Lauchlan is the experienced panto hand And these latest Midlands incarnations of the spin in the time she's been given by the behind the Belgrade Theatre’s production, legendary fairytale promise to be a impatient monarch. Cue Rumpelstiltskin, while one-time Jesus Of Nazareth Robert delightfully jaw-dropping experience for who’ll save her bacon - or so it would initially Powell takes on an altogether more sinister sure-to-be-wide-eyed young audiences. appear... Adapted by Olivier Award-winning Christmastime role when he stars as the evil Julian Clary and Hollyoaks star Joe Tracini children’s playwright Mike Kenny and pre- Abanazar at Malvern Theatre. take top billing in the Wolverhampton Grand sented by Northumberland Theatre Compa- The ever-popular All & Sundry theatre com- Theatre’s version, while Neighbours’ ny. pany, meanwhile, are the highly imaginative favourite Anne Charleston (pictured) gets ensemble behind the Artrix, Bromsgrove’s busy with her fairy godmother magic wand at sure-to-be-energetic take on this most the Palace Theatre in Redditch. famous of Arabian Nights stories. The Nutcracker Meanwhile, the Solihull Arts Complex version Birmingham Hippodrome, is written by and stars local comedian until Sat 13 December Malcolm Stent, Sir Peter Wright’s enchanting version of this whose Christmas festive favourite returns to the Hippodrome, shows have been courtesy of Birmingham Royal Ballet. Creat- delighting the ed in 1990 as a thank you to Birmingham for venue’s audiences its support of the company following its for more years move to the Midlands from London’s Sadler than he probably Wells, Wright’s production is seen by many cares to remember! as the finest interpretation of Tchaikovsky’s magnificent and mesmerising score. In true Christmas spirit, the story follows the young Clara as she’s swept up in a fantasy of soldiers, giant rats, snow fairies, magic and mystery, before finally being transformed into a beautiful ballerina. A magical, must-see Iain Laughlan plays Widow Twankey show for little princesses everywhere... at Coventry’s Belgrade Theatre

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BROMSGROVE’S THEATRE, CINEMA, DECEMBER LIVE MUSIC AND COMEDY VENUE 2014

Saturday 6th Wed 10th - Fri 12th Friday 12th December December December LUKE DANIELS A NUTCRACKER ALL ON A A SUPERB MUSICIAN & CHRISTMAS WINTER’S NIGHT SINGER-SONGWRITER HOW COLLEGE’S TALE OF A FEAST OF SONGS, MAGIC & MYSTERY CAROLS & FOLKLORE

Wed 17th - Sun 21st Monday 22nd Tuesday 23rd December December December ALADDIN ALICE’S ADVENTURES JAMIE KNIGHT & ALL & SUNDRY’S ANNUAL IN WONDERLAND THE MANUKA BAND PANTO - OH YES IT IS! ROYAL BALLET SCREENING BIG BAND & SWING FOR ALL THE FAMILY CLASSICS & FESTIVE TUNES

FORTHCOMING CINEMA: Pride (15) // Effie Gray (12A) // The Book Of Life (U) What We Did On Our Holidays (12A) // Paddington (TBC) // Mr Turner (12A) Northern Soul (15) // The Imitation Game (12A) // Ida (12A)

FORTHCOMING SCREENINGS: Treasure Island (NT Live) // John (NT Live) Alices’ Adventures In Wonderland (Royal Ballet) // The Flying Dutchman (ROH) Love’s Labour’s Lost / Won (RSC) // Swan Lake (Royal Ballet) The new Artrix brochure is available to download on www.artrix.co.uk www.artrix.co.uk or phone 01527 577330 Artrix, Slideslow Drive, Bromsgrove B60 1PQ Free parking on-site

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recreating some of the finest moments of Eric Theatre LISTINGS & Ernie's television and stage performances, For full listing information on theatre Tue 2 Dec, Malvern productions, including times and dates, Theatres visit www.whatsonlive.co.uk A VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS Presented by Blast From The Past, Wed 3 Stratford-upon-Avon Dec, The Red Lion Folk From LOVE'S LABOUR'S WON Club, Birmingham MON 1 DEC Christopher Luscombe TAT MAN TALES Black directs the second of Country Touring pres- Shakespeare's match- ent an intense, emo- FRANKENSTEIN Return of ing pair of comedies tional, one-man produc- the National Theatre that rejoice in man's tion featuring stories Live's broadcast of capacity to find love in that promise to stay Frankenstein, featuring the most of unlikely with audiences long Benedict Cumberbatch places, until Sat 14 after the show is over, as the creature, until March, Royal Shake- Wed 3 Dec, Arena The- Sun 7 Dec, mac, Birm- speare Theatre, Strat- atre, Wolverhampton ingham ford-upon-Avon DEM BOYZ Exploration of WE'RE GOING ON A BEAR BLOOD BROTHERS Ama- the issues of gang HUNT Little Angel The- teur version presented association, devised atre bring Michael by Stage Productions, and performed by year Rosen's much-loved Mon 1 - Fri 5 Dec, Two BA (Hons) applied children's book to life in Stoke Repertory The- performance students a new puppetry pro- atre from Birmingham duction featuring music CALAMITY JANE The School of Acting, Wed and lyrics by renowned Watermill Theatre pres- 3 - Fri 5 Dec, The singer-songwriter Barb ent a new production of Drum, Birmingham Jungr, until Sun 7 Dec, the classic musical. DAYS OF SIGNIFICANCE mac, Birmingham Jodie Prenger stars..., Birmingham School of THE NUTCRACKER Birm- BRB’s The Nutcracker - Birmingham Hippodrome Mon 1 - Sat 6 Dec, Acting present Roy ingham Royal Ballet Malvern Theatres Williams' explosive play screening of Arthur Conducted by Jeff Del Sol; Adam Ruther- present Sir Peter A CHORUS OF DISAP- that explores the after- Miller’s classic Ameri- Wayne & featuring Liam ford's What Sexuality Is Wright’s enchanting PROVAL The Nonentities math of war, Wed 3 - can drama based on Neeson in 3D hologra- Love?, Sat 6 Dec, The version of the festive present Alan Ayck- Sat 6 Dec, Crescent Salem’s infamous witch phy, Jason Donovan, Drum, Birmingham favourite, until Sat 13 bourn’s hilarious view Theatre, Birmingham trials. Richard Armitage Westlife’s Brian McFad- BEAUTY AND THE BEAST Dec, Birmingham Hip- of amateur theatre, Mon RETURN TO NEVERLAND stars, Thurs 4 Dec, The den, Shayne Ward, Les PMA Productions pres- podrome 1 - Sat 6 Dec, Rose Presented by Cannock Edge Arts Centre, Much Miserables’ Carrie ent their version of the BEAUTY AND THE BEAST Theatre, Kidderminster Wood & Gentleshaw Wenlock, South Shrop- Hope Fletcher & X Fac- greatest love story ever Traditional family pan- THUMBELINA'S GREAT BIG Musical Society, Wed 3 shire tor 2013’s Joseph Whe- told, Sat 6 Dec, Festival tomime, until Sat 3 Jan, ADVENTURE Puppetry, - Sat 6 Dec, Prince of HOKE'S BLUFF Action lan, Fri 5 Dec, LG Drayton, Market Dray- The Roses Theatre, clowning, live music Wales Centre, Cannock Hero present an under- Arena, Birmingham ton, North Shropshire Tewkesbury and a sprinkling of HORRIBLE HISTORIES: dog story that shifts MORE GRIMM TALES CHRISTMAS ON BROAD- DICK WHITTINGTON Tra- snow are all promised BARMY BRITAIN Birming- and rearranges the trite Stage 27 present ‘dark WAY Join a talented ditional family pan- in this brand new, ham Stage Company conventions and narra- festive fun’ via comic cast of singers as they tomime, until Sun 4 brightly coloured, bring historical figures tives of American teen fables from the Broth- perform some of the Jan, Regent Theatre, action-packed, musical to life in a new show movies to talk about ers Grimm, Fri 5 - Sat 6 best Christmas songs Stoke-on-Trent retelling of Hans Chris- featuring 3D Bogglevi- what it means to be a Dec, Acocks Green from the world of musi- THE GRUFFALO Songs, tian Andersen’s classic sion, Wed 3 - Sat 6 winner on the inside, Methodist Church, cal theatre and beyond, laughter and scary fun tale, Mon 1 - Sat 13 Dec, Theatre Hafren, Thurs 4 - Sat 6 Dec, Shirley Rd, Birmingham Sat 6 Dec, The Blue come together in this Dec, mac, Birmingham Newtown, Powys Warwick Arts Centre, SANTA'S DIZZY DAY! Fun- Orange Theatre, Birm- family favourite based UNCLE ERIC'S CHRISTMAS DONA ROSITA THE SPIN- Coventry packed experience for ingham on Julia Donaldson's PARTY New Vic legend STER Birmingham THE LASTING SENSE OF children with song & NOT ABOUT HEROES Feel- best-selling book, until Uncle Eric returns with School of Acting pres- SUDDEN A rollercoaster laughter, Fri 5 - Sat 6 good Theatre present a Sun 4 Jan, Warwick a fun night of Christmas ent one of Lorca’s ride across the diverse Dec, Belgrade Theatre, production based on Arts Centre, Coventry comedy and ’60s greatest achievements, landscape of human Coventry the true story of friend- ALADDIN By Iain Lauch- music, Mon 1 - Sat 13 a play which charts the sexuality and relation- THE VICAR OF DIBLEY - ship between war poets lan, until Sat 10 Janu- Dec, New Vic Theatre, decline of a young girl ships, Thurs 4 - Sat 6 THE SECOND COMING Siegfried Sassoon and ary, Belgrade Theatre, Newcastle-under-Lyme full of dreams whose Dec, Fred’s Shed, Amateur stage version Wilfred Owen, Sat 6 Coventry BEAUTY AND THE BEAST hopes of marriage Sheep Street, Stratford- of the popular BBC sit- Dec, Stafford Gate- HORRIBLE CHRISTMAS A ‘magical festive pan- diminish with every upon-Avon com, Fri 5 - Sat 13 Dec, house Theatre The Horrible Histories tomime’ presented by passing year, Wed 3 - CINDERELLA Traditional The Bear Pit, Stratford- BEAUTY & THE BEAST team are back, this time the Worcester Reperto- Sat 6 Dec, Old Joint family pantomime... upon-Avon Ballet Cymru present a to stab a sprig of holly ry Company, Mon 1 Stock Theatre, Birming- Thurs 4 Dec - Sun 4 CHRISTMAS ON BROAD- choreographed version through the heart of the Dec - Sun 4 Jan, The ham Jan, Lichfield Garrick WAY Featuring a pletho- of the much-loved fairy- yuletide season!, until Swan Theatre Worces- PETER PAN OR THE BOY ALL TURN! Brass Tack ra of Christmas musical tale, Sat 6 Dec, Stour- Sat 17 Jan, The Old ter WHO WOULDN’T GROW Theatre present a one- favourites, including bridge Town Hall Rep Theatre, Birming- WEST END WOMEN West UP Presented by the man show which tells White Christmas, A BEYOND THE BARRICADE ham End leading ladies Solihull Society of Art & the story of working- Winter’s Tale & The Per- Musical theatre concert THE BFG A brand new Kerry Ellis, Joanna Drama, Wed 3 - Sat 6 class man Albert North, fect Year, Sat 6 Dec, recreating original West staging of Roald Dahl's Ampil & Ria Jones join Dec, The Edge, Alder- Fri 5 Dec, Arena The- The Blue Orange The- End & Broadway musi- popular children's forces for a celebration brook School, Solihull atre, Wolverhampton atre, Birmingham cal hit songs, Sat 6 book, until Sat 24 Jan, of their careers in the ALADDIN Wed 3 - Sun BRIDGE OVER TROUBLED AN AUDIENCE WITH DES Dec, Malvern Theatre The REP, Birmingham musicals. Songs from 28 Dec, Bedworth Civic LAGER After their hit O'CONNOR Sat 6 Dec, PAUL HOLLYWOOD: THE BORROWERS Mary Miss Saigon, Les Miser- Hall dad-rock album, Dark Evesham Arts Centre BRITISH BAKING LIVE A Norton's classic family ables, Cats, Evita, PETER PAN Paul Hendy Side Of The Moob, AN EVENING WITH NOEL packed show full of adventure, until Sat 31 Jesus Christ Superstar Productions and Brad Rory and Philip return FIELDING Expect a mag- baking, fun, demos & Jan, New Vic Theatre, and Wicked all feature, Fitt return to Theatre to touring with an ical mix of Noel's audience participation, Newcastle-under-Lyme Tue 2 Dec, New Alexan- Severn with another evening of sophisticat- unique brand of stand- Sat 6 Dec, Warwick Arts THE CHRISTMAS TRUCE A dra Theatre, Birming- fun-filled family pan- ed comedy and song, up comedy, live anima- Centre, Coventry specially commissioned ham tomime, Wed 3 Dec - Fri 5 Dec, Malvern The- tion and music, plus A CHRISTMAS WASSAIL A play by Phil Porter THE WIND IN THE WIL- Sun 11 Jan, Theatre atres some of his best-known festive feast of carol which draws on true LOWS Live music and Severn, Shrewsbury IMPRO HO HO! An impro- TV characters (such as music and song, come- stories of soldiers in the comedy from Odd- AN EVENING WITH NOEL vised Christmas cracker The Moon and Fantasy dy and spoken word, Warwickshire Regiment, socks as they present FIELDING Expect a mag- featuring mistletoads Man)…, Sat 6 Dec, Vic- Sat 6 - Sun 7 Dec, until Sat 31 Jan, Royal their version of the clas- ical mix of Noel's and folly, Fri 5 Dec, The toria Hall, Stoke-on- Coughton Court, War- Shakespeare Theatre, sic tale of boats, cars, unique brand of stand- Blue Orange Theatre, Trent wickshire Stratford-upon-Avon trains and washer- up comedy, live anima- Birmingham NORMS OF CONDUCT THE LADYKILLERS Gra- LOVE'S LABOUR'S LOST women... Tue 2 Dec, tion and music, plus STAND UP AND ROCK Triple bill of works ham Lineham’s staging Christopher Luscombe Ludlow Assembly some of his best-known WITH JASPER CARROTT which focus on the dis- of the classic Ealing directs a new produc- Rooms, South Shrop- TV characters (such as Fri 5 Dec, Stratford tinguishing characteris- comedy, Sat 6 - Sun 14 tion of Shakespeare's shire The Moon and Fantasy Artshouse, Stratford- tics of human nature: Dec, Criterion Theatre, sparkling comedy, until ERIC AND LITTLE ERN A Man)…, Thurs 4 Dec, upon-Avon Rosie Kay's Dance Of Coventry Sat 14 March, Royal homage to the great Crewe Lyceum WAR OF THE WORLDS: Possession; Carlos THE WITCHES The Cres- Shakespeare Theatre, British comedy duo, THE CRUCIBLE Live THE FINAL ARENA TOUR Pons Guerra's Costa cent Theatre Company

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one-man show which tells the story of Jesus Theatre LISTINGS through the eyes of Joseph, Wed 10 Dec, For full listing information on theatre The Attic Theatre, Strat- productions, including times and dates, ford-upon-Avon visit www.whatsonlive.co.uk A NUTCRACKER CHRIST- MAS HOW College students present a tale of present David Wood's ferer. Inspired by real- magic & discovery, adaptation of Roald life experiences, Tue 9 Wed 10 - Fri 12 Dec, Dahl's children's tale, Dec, Arena Theatre, Artrix, Bromsgrove Sat 6 - Sat 20 Dec, Wolverhampton THE WIZARD OF OZ Pre- Crescent Theatre, Birm- CINDERELLA Anne sented by Stratford ingham Charleston stars as the Musical Theatre Com- MOTHER GOOSE Sat 6 - Fairy Godmother in the pany, Wed 10 - Sat 13 Sat 20 Dec, Sutton Arts classic festive fairytale. Dec, The Courtyard, Theatre, Sutton Cold- Rebecca Tyson (Cin- Stratford-upon-Avon field derella), Scott Cripps OUR LIFE ON ICE In con- OH NO IT ISN'T! A festive (Buttons) and Richard versation with leg- comedy thriller written Pocock & Derreck endary skating duo and directed by Nick Walker (Ugly Sisters) Jayne Torvill & Christo- Walker, Sat 6 - Sat 27 also star... Mon 8 Dec - pher Dean, Thurs 11 Dec, Belgrade Theatre, Sun 4 Jan, Palace The- Dec, Town Hall, Birm- Coventry atre, Redditch ingham CINDERELLA Starring JP CANNOCK CHASE HIGH JUST ANOTHER WINTER'S McCue & Mike Royce SCHOOL CHRISTMAS TALE Jean Brown Pro- Hoke’s Bluff - Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry as the Ugly Sisters, Sat CONCERT Join students ductions present an 6 Dec - Sat 3 Jan, from Cannock Chase evening of 'harmony with Baron Hardup, the BEANSTALK A ‘not-to-be shire Royal Spa Centre, High School for a fes- singing with a touch of loveable Buttons, Cin- missed production’ AN AUDIENCE WITH Leamington Spa tive celebration. A Christmas', Thurs 11 derella - and two very packed full of sparkling ALBERT ROUX Tue 16 CINDERELLA Qdos return blend of musical, dra- Dec, Prince Of Wales ugly sisters... Fri 12 costumes, spectacular Dec, Malvern Theatres to the Wolverhampton matic and dance per- Centre, Cannock Dec - Sat 10 Jan, sets, supersized come- GHOST STORIES FOR Grand with yet another formances showcase ELEGIES FOR ANGELS, Stafford Gatehouse dy and some very mag- CHRISTMAS In the popular family pan- the very best individual PUNKS AND RAGING Theatre ical beans! Sat 13 Dec - macabre tradition of tomime. This year's and group talents at the QUEENS A dramatic and CINDERELLA Encore Sun 4 Jan, Crewe the BBC's classic adventure sees Julian school, Tues 9 Dec, emotive musical theatre Academy bring a twist Lyceum 1970s programme, Clary star as Dandini. Prince Of Wales Centre, piece featuring free to a classic festive A CHRISTMAS CRACKER Ghost Stories For Hollyoaks star Joe Cannock verse poems and panto, Sat 13 Dec, Presented by Elite Christmas, this theatre Tracini takes the role of LA TRAVIATA Glynde- songs which reflect the Dovehouse Theatre, Dance Academy, Sun show features new Buttons, Sat 6 Dec - bourne present a new lives of people who’ve Solihull 14 Dec, Albany The- adaptations of classic Sun 18 Jan. Wolver- version of Verdi's mas- lived with and died from CELTIC FEET THE SHOW atre, Coventry spinechillers, Tue 16 hampton Grand The- terpiece - one of the AIDS, Thurs 11 - Fri 12 Dance show presented MY DEAREST GIRLS: THE Dec, Stafford Gate- atre most popular operas of Dec, Arena Theatre, by the Celtic Feet Irish LETTER BOOK A full- house Theatre THE PEOPLE'S ORCHES- all time, Tue 9 - Wed 10 Wolverhampton Dance & Theatre Com- length theatre piece JOHN CLEESE: SO, ANY- TRA: THE SNOWMAN Dec, Regent Theatre, ROBIN HOOD AND BABES pany, Sat 13 Dec, based on the real let- WAY BOOK TOUR Bring- Classic Christmas Stoke-on-Trent IN THE WOOD Thurs 11 - Albany Theatre, Coven- ters sent between a ing a unique comedy songs and stories fol- ALADDIN Presented by Sun 21 Dec, Forest Arts try group of six Shropshire perspective to audi- lowed by The People’s Rugeley Rose Theatre, Centre, Walsall A CHRISTMAS CAROL women between 1917- ences with tales from Orchestra playing the in association with ALADDIN Robert Powell Booster Cushion The- 1920 Sun 14 Dec, Wem his new book, Tues 16 original orchestration to Reveal Theatre Compa- stars as Abanazar, atre Company’s version Town Hall, South Dec, Warwick Arts Cen- a live screening of the ny, Tues 9 - Sat 13 Dec, Thurs 11 Dec - Sun 4 of the festive Dicken- Shropshire tre, Coventry classic film, Sun 7 Dec, Rugeley Rose Theatre, Jan, Malvern Theatres sian tale, told using ONCE IN A BLUE MOON GOING FOR A NUMBER Malvern Theatres Staffordshire Aladdin mime, voice, some sign Wriggle Dance Theatre ONE AT CHRISTMAS Ama- BASHMENT HOUSEWIVES THE TWELVE DATES OF THE SHOEMAKER'S HOLI- language, a 60cm-tall present a fusion of teur Transplants front An urban comedy high- CHRISTMAS Gina DAY Following his pop-up book and lots dance, live music and man Adam Kay pres- lighting the lifestyles of Hoben's off-Broadway acclaimed RSC debut of audience participa- audience interactivity ents his festive antidote four competitive young play, Tue 9 - Sat 13 with The Merry Wives tion, Sat 13 Dec, for three-to-six-year- to the pantomime hor- women wanting to live Dec, Old Joint Stock Of Windsor (2012), Library of Birmingham olds, Sun 14 Dec, rors on every other a life of luxury, Sun 7 Theatre, Birmingham Phillip Breen returns to FATHER CHRISTMAS Arena Theatre, Wolver- London stage, Tues 16 Dec, The Drum, Birm- UNDER THE STARS Lan- direct Dekker's glorious NEEDS A WEE! Tale Gate hampton Dec, mac, Birmingham ingham guage Alive present a city comedy of class, Theatre present a THE CRUCIBLE Live THE SNOWMAN Family- LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD celebration of the rich conflict and cobblers in ‘bouncy’ musical adap- screening of Arthur friendly concert featur- Presented by Working world of Arabic story- love, Thurs 11 Dec - tation of Nicholas Miller’s classic Ameri- ing Raymond Briggs’ Theatre Company, Sun telling, including Sin- Sat 7 Mar, The Swan Allan’s much-loved can drama based on much-loved festive film 7 Dec, Newhampton bad The Sailor and Ali Theatre, Stratford book, Sat 13 Dec, The- Salem’s infamous witch accompanied by a live, Arts Centre, Wolver- Baba And The Forty THE ELVES AND THE atre Hafren, Newtown, trials. Richard Armitage twenty-five-piece hampton Thieves, Tue 9 - Sat 20 SHOEMAKER A magical Powys stars, Sun 14 - Mon 15 orchestra, Tues 16 Dec, THE CRUCIBLE Live Dec, The REP, Birming- new show for children GILBERT & SULLIVAN Dec, Warwick Arts Cen- Victoria Hall, Stoke-on- screening of Arthur ham from Silly Boys, the cre- GALA Presented by tre, Coventry Trent Miller’s classic Ameri- JERSEY BOYS The Tony, ators of The Tallest Bromsgrove Operatic A CHRISTMAS WASSAIL PWS MEWN BWTS Welsh can drama based on Olivier and Grammy Horse On Earth, Fri 12 Society, Sat 13 Dec, Evening of festive fun, version of the famous Salem’s infamous witch Award-winning musical Dec, Ludlow Assembly Artrix, Bromsgrove Christmas comedy & Puss In Boots adven- trials. Richard Armitage hits the road for its first Rooms, South Shrop- THE STORY GARDEN seasonal song, Sun 14 ture, Tues 16 Dec, The- stars, Sun 7 Dec, The UK tour, Tue 9 Dec - shire Active storytelling ses- - Tues 16 Dec, Crescent atre Haffren, Newtown, Edge Arts Centre, Much Sun 4 Jan, New Alexan- SWAN LAKE Ballet The- sions where children Theatre, Birmingham Powys Wenlock, South Shrop- dra Theatre, Birming- atre UK present a aged four to eight and THE HAUNTING Psycho- shire ham retelling of the world- their parents/carers can Week Commencing logical horror present- SIMONE SCHOOL OF BEAUTY AND THE BEAST famous ballet, Fri 12 get involved in telling ed by Stoke-On-Trent DANCE Sun 7 Dec, Chaos, calamities & Dec, Prince Of Wales Shakespeare's stories MON 15 DEC Repertory Players, Tues Artrix, Bromsgrove comedy in the French Centre, Cannock in a fun and lively way, 16 - Sat 20 Dec, Stoke village of Cristimonto, SLEEPING BEAUTY Tradi- Sat 13 Dec, Royal Repertory Theatre, Week Commencing Tue 9 Dec - Mon 5 Jan, tional family pan- Shakespeare Theatre, ALADDIN Annual family Stoke-on-Trent MON 8 DEC The Place, Oakengates tomime, Fri 12 - Sat 20 Stratford-upon-Avon pantomime presented RUMPELSTILTSKIN Theatre, Telford, Shrop- Dec, Hall Green Little SWAN LAKE Ballet The- by Reveal Theatre Ltd Northumberland The- shire Theatre, Acocks Green, atre UK present a Mon 15 - Tue 16 Dec, atre Company present A CHRISTMAS WASSAIL JOHN CLEESE: 'SO, ANY- Birmingham retelling of the world- Rugeley Rose Theatre an adaptation of the Evening of festive fun, WAY' BOOK TOUR John CINDERELLA Traditional famous ballet, Sat 13 - ALICE'S ADVENTURES IN classic fairytale, Tue 16 Christmas comedy & brings his unique family pantomime writ- Sun 14 Dec, Bridge WONDERLAND Live - Sun 21 Dec, Stratford seasonal song, Mon 8 comedic perspective to ten by & starring Mal- House Theatre, War- screening from the Artshouse & Tues 9 Dec, Highbury audiences across the colm Stent, Fri 12 Dec - wick Royal Opera House of JACK AND THE Hall, Birmingham UK with tales from his Sun 4 Jan, Solihull Arts THE WIND IN THE WIL- Christopher Wheeldon's BEANSTALK Presented LOOKING GOOD - FEELING new book, So, Anyway. Complex LOWS Presented by ballet in three acts, by Tread The Boards BETTER OutsidEye pres- Wed 10 Dec, Malvern CINDERELLA THE ROCK 'N' Blue Orange Arts, Sat based on Lewis Car- Theatre Company, ent a passionate story Theatres ROLL PANTO Rock 13 Dec - Sat 3 Jan, The roll's much-loved chil- Tues 16 - Sun 28 Dec, about the social and JESUS MY BOY Worces- around the clock and Blue Orange Theatre, dren's classic, Tue 16 Attic Theatre, Stratford- personal traumas faced ter Repertory Theatre get ready to party at Birmingham Dec, Ludlow Assembly upon-Avon by a breast cancer suf- Company present a Prince Charming's ball JACK AND THE Rooms, South Shrop- A CHRISTMAS SHOW-

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Theatre, Warwick VIENNA FESTIVAL BALLET Theatre LISTINGS - SNOW WHITE Fri 19 - Sat 20 Dec, Evesham For full listing information on theatre Arts Centre productions, including times and dates, ONCE UPON A CHRIST- visit www.whatsonlive.co.uk MAS Described as a Christmas show for all ages & tastes, Fri 19 - CASE Three local the- Sat 20 Dec, Crescent Sat 20 Dec, Albany atre groups - WOW, Theatre, Birmingham Theatre, Coventry No-Nonsense and The ALADDIN All & Sundry JACK AND THE Discoverers - present a serve up a festive fami- BEANSTALK Fri 19 Dec- festive showcase of ly treat, Wed 17 - Sun Sun 1 Feb, Birming- dance, drama, music & 21 Dec, Artrix, Broms- ham Hippodrome comedy, Wed 17 Dec, grove TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE Arena Theatre, Wolver- MOTHER GOOSE Wed 17 CHRISTMAS Distraction hampton Dec - Sun 4 Jan, Priory Theatre Company GHOST STORIES FOR Theatre, Kenilworth, present a heartwarm- CHRISTMAS Don’t Go Warwickshire ing tale based on the Into The Cellar theatre PETER PAN Playbox story of Saint Nicholas company present new Christmas show featur- and his kind offerings, adaptations of classic ing 'swashbuckling Sat 20 Dec, Bridge spinechillers, Wed 17 - sword fights, music, House Theatre, War- Thurs 18 Dec, The Old dancing, wonderful wick Joint Stock Theatre, characters & plenty of EMBRACED BURLESQUE Birmingham fairy dust', Thurs 18 Sat 20 Dec, Newhamp- ROBIN PUD William Dec - Sun 4 Jan, The ton Arts Centre, Brooks’ School Sixth Dream Factory, War- Wolverhampton Form present a brand wick KEN DODD Sat 20 Dec, new version of the UNCLE BEN'S FESTIVE Victoria Hall, Hanley, Robin Hood legend, BLOCK PARTY Join Stoke-on-Trent Rumpelstiltskin - Stratford Artshouse Wed 17 - Thurs 18 Uncle Ben, his friends ALI BABA AND THE FORTY Dec, The Edge Arts and some very special THIEVES Sat 20 Dec - Centre, Much Wenlock, guests for an evening Dec, Birmingham Town THE TWELVE DAYS OF Sat 3 Jan, Talisman Week Commencing South Shropshire of merriment and fes- Theatre, Coventry Hall CHRISTMAS The Peo- TWELFTH NIGHT OR tive celebrations, Thurs A CHRISTMAS CAROL THE CHRISTMAS BALLET MON 22 DEC ple's Theatre Company WHAT YOU WILL Birm- 18 - Sun 21 Dec, The Clive Francis brings Presented by the Amy present a festive family ingham-based youth Drum, Birmingham Charles Dickens’ most Greaves School of THE UGLY DUCKLING Sea production based on theatre Drama-Link THE TWELVE DAYS OF famous characters to Dance, Sun 21 Dec, Legs Puppet Theatre’s the ever-popular Christ- present ‘a hilarious CHRISTMAS Distraction life. The first half of the Dovehouse Theatre, gentle musical adapta- mas carol, Mon 22 - play suitable for all Theatre Company performance sees Solihull tion of Hans Christian Tue 30 Dec, Theatre ages’ that’s based on present the story of Francis talk about SLEEPING BEAUTY Sun Andersen’s classic tale Severn, Shrewsbury Shakespeare’s famous Miss Elizabeth Fairfax Dickens’ first reading 21- Tue 30 Dec, Prince of belonging & identity, A VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS comedy of mistaken and her rather unusual at the Town Hall and Of Wales Centre, Can- Mon 22 - Tues 23 Dec, Presented by Blast identity, romance & Christmas of 1895, Fri the author’s exploits in nock Stafford Gatehouse From The Past, Mon 22 shipwrecks, Wed 17 - 19 Dec, Bridge House Birmingham, Sun 21 Theatre Dec, Lichfield Guildhall

Wed 26 November, 7.30pm Wed 3 December, 7.30pm

Tickets: £10/£8 concs Tickets: £10/£8 concs

Fri 5 December, 7.30pm Sun 14 December, 11am & 2pm

Tickets: £10/£8 concs Tickets: £5.00

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VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO VIEW MORE SHOWS!

Frankwell Quay, Box Office 01743 281 281 Shrewsbury, Shropshire, Book Online www.theatresevern.co.uk SY3 8FT TUESDAY 27 JANUARY

Westcountry folk singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist .

WEDNESDAY 28 JANUARY

His darkest, most personal show yet. Luckily, also his funniest.

THURSDAY 29 JANUARY THE THREE DEGREES

The Legendary American female vocal group, formed in 1963 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. FRIDAY 30 JANUARY

Olivier Award winning OperaUpClose follow their hugely successful La Boheme & Tosca with Mozart's joyous The Marriage of Figaro. Bursting with great tunes, laugh-out-loud comedy and powerful insights.

WEDNESDAY 4 - SATURDAY 7 FEBRUARY

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Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent LISTINGS DICK WHITTINGTON Tradi- Theatre Box Office Theatre tional pantomime performed by Three Spires For full listing information on theatre Musical Society, Sun 28 Birmingham OLDBURY REP, OLDBURY BEDWORTH CIVIC HALL 0121 552 2761 024 7637 6707 productions, including times and dates, Dec - Sat 3 Jan, Albany ALEXANDRA THEATRE visit www.whatsonlive.co.uk Theatre, Coventry 0844 871 3011 BELGRADE THEATRE, THE SNOW PRINCESS Shropshire COVENTRY BIRMINGHAM HIPPODROME Amateur production THE BELFREY, WELLINGTON 024 7655 3055 SANTA'S LITTLE HELPER night. Strictly over-18s 0844 338 5000 presented by Limelight 01952 222277 BRIDGE HOUSE THEATRE, Festive family show only, Sat 27 Dec, BIRMINGHAM REP Theatre Company, Sun THE EDGE, MUCH WENLOCK WARWICK 01926 776438 blending music, pup- Stafford Gatehouse 0121 236 4455 28 Dec - Sat 3 Jan, 01952 728911 THE DREAM FACTORY petry and high-energy Theatre THE BLUE ORANGE THEATRE Roses Theatre, Kidder- THE HIVE, SHREWSBURY 01926 419555 storytelling, Mon 22 - A CHRISTMAS CAROL Lit- 0121 212 2643 minster 01743 234970 ROYAL SHAKESPEARE Wed 24 Dec, Solihull tle English Theatre CRESCENT THEATRE LUDLOW ASSEMBLY THEATRE, Arts Complex Company bring a new 0121 643 5858 Week Commencing ROOMS 01584 878141 STRATFORD-UPON-AVON THE TIGER WHO CAME TO twist to Dickens' festive DOVEHOUSE THEATRE THE PLACE, OAKENGATES, 0844 800 1110 TEA Stage adaptation of favourite, Sun 28 Dec, MON 29 DEC 0121 706 7139 Judith Kerr's much- Artrix, Bromsgrove TELFORD 01952 382382 ROYAL SPA CENTRE THE DRUM 0121 333 2444 loved picture book for ALADDIN Family pan- THEATRE SEVERN, LEAMINGTON 01926 334418 AN EVENING OF MUSIC HALL GREEN LITTLE children, Tue 23 Dec - tomime presented by AND DANCE WITH BIRM- SHREWSBURY WARWICK ARTS CENTRE, Wed 14 Jan, Birming- DE Cavershill Theatre THEATRE 01743 281281 COVENTRY 02476 524524 INGHAM ROYAL BALLET 0121 707 1874 ham Town Hall Company. Jonny Wilkes Wed 31 Dec, Sympho- WEM TOWN HALL MAC 0121 446 3232 TRES TRES CABARET & Christian Patterson ny Hall, Birmingham 01939 232299 Worcestershire star, Sun 28 - Mon 29 OLD JOINT STOCK THEATRE Stafford's very own bur- ARTRIX ARTS CENTRE, 0121 200 0946 lesque and cabaret Dec, Stoke Repertory Staffordshire BROMSGROVE OLD REP 0121 245 4455 LICHFIELD GARRICK 01527 577330 A Christmas Carol - Artrix, Bromsgrove SOLIHULL ARTS COMPLEX 01543 412121 THE HIVE 0121 704 6962 NEW VIC, NEWCASTLE- 01905 822866 UNDER-LYME 01782 717962 HUNTINGDON HALL, Black Country PRINCE OF WALES WORCESTER ARENA THEATRE CENTRE, CANNOCK 01905 611427 01543 578762 WOLVERHAMPTON MALVERN THEATRE 01902 321321 REGENT THEATRE, STOKE 01684 892277 0870 060 6649 BLOXWICH THEATRE NORBURY THEATRE, 01922 653183 RUGELEY ROSE THEATRE DROITWICH 01889 584036 DUDLEY CONCERT HALL 01905 770154 STAFFORD GATEHOUSE 01384 812812 PALACE THEATRE 01785 619080 FOREST ARTS CENTRE, REDDITCH 01527 65203 STOKE REPERTORY THEATRE WALSALL ROSE THEATRE, 01782 209784 01922 654555 01562 743745 GRAND THEATRE, SWAN THEATRE, 01902 429212 Warwickshire WORCESTER NEWHAMPTON ARTS CENTRE ALBANY THEATRE, COVENTRY 01905 611427 01902 572090 024 7601 6222

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Theatre REVIEWS

Below are reviews of theatre productions we checked out last month. For further theatre reviews, visit www.whatsonlive.co.uk Horrible Christmas The Old Rep, Birmingham A rapping King Charles II was the source of much hilarity in this festive offering from Birmingham Stage Company. An alternative to the traditional panto, Terry Deary’s Horrible Christmas provides a fun - and often participatory - way for younger audiences to learn about the origins of Christmas. In modern-day England, when a young Watson Williams has his presents snatched from under the tree, he calls upon the help of super sleuth Shirley Holmes. Together, Watson and Holmes soon estab- lish that the villains behind the crime are Sydney Clause and his Scottish sidekick Rudolph. Clause hates Christmas and is on a mission to change the Slava’s Snowshow Birmingham Hippodrome course of history. And so, aided by a time-travelling Slava’s Snowshow has been touring the world for around a decade now, so most of scooter, Clause and Rudolph, with Watson and the riotous audience at Birmingham Hippodrome knew exactly what to expect - except Holmes in hot pursuit, take us to numerous places: me! Consequently I was literally blown away by it - by the wide-eyed magic, wonderful the home of Charles Dickens, where the author is comedy and gale-force blizzard that swept through the stalls. suffering a literary block; the opulent surroundings Half a century ago, Slava Polunin was famously turned down by the Leningrad Theatre of a blinged-up King Charles II; Oliver Cromwell’s Institute because his diction wasn’t up to scratch. Instead he turned himself into a puritan England; the palaces of Henry VIII, com- Russian clown and mime artist. He and his troupe have never looked back. Now in plete with a snorting Katherine Howard; the far- worldwide demand, their UK Christmas tour began in Birmingham. away shores where St Nicholas resides. This is no circus slapstick show. It’s a comedy without words, a ballet without dance; a Horrible Christmas is very entertaining, even for sequence of gently moving tableaux laden with grace, humour and pathos. Each idea older members of the audience. The performance creates diametrically contrasting emotions. I’d never seen anything quite like it. of each of the eight-strong cast is excellent. Tom A red-nosed, red-slippered, ageing clown walks on with a noose around his neck. He Jude’s amusing portrayals of all of the principal tugs and tugs at his long rope, trying to find the other end, only to discover that it too characters throughout history was perfect. His is a noose, fitted round the neck of another clown. You want to laugh and weep in the depiction of Charles II and Henry VIII had me in same moment. Gradually his gang of green gabardined fools arrive, wearing winged stitches - so much so, in fact, that I’d love to see hats and huge, flapping feet. They move slowly about the stage with keen intent. the show all over again. It was certainly a great Every gesture generates a laugh. They are ridiculous, simple and elegant, as they start to my festive season... Patsy Moss n n n n gently toy with our imaginations. A red bedstead and white sheet becomes a ship, rolling roughly in a sea of smoke. Another clown, with his belly on a skateboard and a dark fin on his back, circles the shipmates, weighing up his lunch. It’s simultaneously sinister and hilarious. The show oscillates from tiny, bittersweet, solo vignettes to huge arena effects. In a moment of sophisticated street theatre, Slava plays coyly with his own arm as if it belongs to a stranger. It’s a simple street artist stunt, but in the controlled environment of a proper theatre, its impact is side-splitting. And when he deigns to speak, it’s in completely comprehensible gibberish. The big set-pieces really are big. What at first looks like a harmless wisp of candyfloss grows and grows until it envelops the entire audience in a white cobweb the size of Wembley. And when the blizzard finally comes - billowing ferociously off the stage right into our faces - it brings with it awe and joy. Chris Eldon Lee n n n n n

MummyJi Presents The REP, Birmingham This warm, British-Asian talent show was hosted by the bubbly MummyJi (Rina Fata- nia) and her hapless son, Pandesh (Divian Ladwa), from the comfort of ‘their own living room’. In no time at all, I too felt very much at home. Claiming that Bollywood leg- Beauty Of The Beast end Amitabh Bachchan had appeared to her in a dream, urging her to launch the The Patrick Centre, Birmingham Hippodrome show, MummyJi presented a production that made for a welcome and refreshing change from stale TV talent shows like The X Factor. I very much enjoyed watching the Taking the theme of masculinity as its starting diverse acts - from classical Indian dancing to spoken performance art and even a point, Beauty Of The Beast brings together theatre comedy monologue. and dance to showcase ‘the many sides of men’. Light relief was provided It’s performed by an all-male cast of six. by MummyJi’s attempts Raising the curtain with a work of ballet, what was to find her son a wife - originally meant to be a pastiche poses questions she even asked female about masculinity and femininity. Graceful yet pow- audience members about erful, is the artform really so soft? their marital status! The Moving into an exploration of group dynamics, the show broke with tradition ceremonies of initiation and, conversely, of alien- by not announcing an ation, hierarchy and public/private personas, the overall winner. If I’d had evolution of man is symbolised through clothing. to choose, the superb Breaking down barriers and challenging precon- Giddha Sansaar dance ceived notions of what’s masculine, how men troupe would have should act and what it means to be a man, Com- received my vote. pany Chameleon has here created a thought-pro- Malaka Chowdhury n n n voking piece. Alev Dervish n n n n

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Jasmin Vardimon Company Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury Theatre WEST END Ten years after it was first staged, Jasmin Vardimon’s critically acclaimed PARK has been resurrected and refigured for a new genera- tion. Bringing so much more to the stage than just contemporary Phill Jupitus to join dance, the production is set in an urban park in need of some care and Urinetown The Musical attention. The narrative follows eight principial characters who frequent, live or work near to the park, which is under threat of development as Never Mind The Buzzcocks frontman Phill we witness a property developer trying to persuade a Japanese busi- Jupitus is to join the cast of Urinetown nesswoman to invest. The Musical this month. Jupitus will play A simple set comprising a fenced-off fountain with a mermaid on top, a Caldwell B Cladwell in director Jamie row of benches, a lamppost and a bin is used to great effect through- Lloyd’s well-reviewed production. A social out the performance, and could see PARK placed anywhere in the and political satire, Urinetown is set in a world. fictional future where water is scarce. Throughout the ninety-five-minute production, we get to meet a host of With the government having imposed a interesting characters. The opening performance introduces us to a ban on all private toilets in order to con- bag lady with a penchant for twerking as she wields bundles of carrier trol water consumption, spending a bags around her robust frame. As the story unfolds, so does her char- penny can be somewhat problematic... acter. Each new routine sees her gradually shed more layers of clothing Urinetown The Musical shows at the until, finally, she morphs into a slimline form of sophistication. Apollo Theatre until 10 January. A busker who loves to graffiti, a homeless man wanting to ‘share the love’, an ASBO boy who bullies his way through life, a chav girl who communicates through intimidation and a singing vamp who attempts Daniel Kitson and Cole Porter at the Old Vic to seduce anyone who crosses her path complete the line-up of char- Artistic Director Kevin Spacey has announced two new shows for acters, each of whom contribute in equal measure to the sheer magnifi- his final season at the Old Vic. Revivals of Daniel Kitson’s Tree and cence of PARK. Cole Porter’s High Society - the latter directed by Maria Friedman - Comedy interspersed with choreographed routines set to an eclectic are highlights of the theatre’s programming for 2015. musical soundscape (ranging from Singin’ In The Rain to The Power Of First performed at Manchester’s Royal Exchange, Tree is described Love and Popcorn) means there’s no shortage of surprises. There’s as a show about ‘dissent, commitment, two people and a tree’. Kit- even a lighthearted rendition of Oh, I Do Like To Be Beside The Sea- son will appear in the show alongside fellow comedian Tim Key. side. The production shows at the Old Vic from 5 to 31 January. PARK is undoubtedly physical theatre at its very best. The dance, the Cole Porter’s High Society, meanwhile, is the story of Long Island comedy, the narrative and the performers are all first class. All in all, an socialite Tracy Lord, whose plans for a lavish summer wedding are excellent evening’s entertainment that I strongly recommend. Let’s just thrown into disarray when her ex-husband turns up and tries to win hope it comes to the region again soon!”. Patsy Moss n n n n n her back. Casting for High Society (30 April to 20 August) has yet to be announced. Arthur Miller classic transfers to the West End The cast of the Young Vic’s A View From The Bridge is to remain with the production when it transfers to Wyndham’s Theatre next year. The Arthur Miller classic, a dark and passionate tale which confronts the American dream, has enjoyed rave reviews at the Young Vic, with Mark Strong receiving particular acclaim for his portrayal of Eddie Carbone. The production also stars Emun Elliot (Marco), Phoebe Fox (Catherine), Michael Gould (Alfieri), Luke Nor- ris (Rodolpho) and Nicola Walker (Beatrice). A View From The Bridge shows at Wyndhams Theatre from 11 February until 11 April.

Songs From A Ledge Old Joint Stock Theatre, Birmingham A theatre space the size of my living room was brought to sizzling life by three brilliant actors in this intimate production. Transported back to 1920s New York, I was spellbound by the stormy life of vivacious blues singer Maria Linwood - played by Amy Kakoura, who also co-wrote the play. Her voice was stunning; her recollections of her past, hilarious. Her scenes were interjected with those of her great-granddaughter Anna (Jessica Duncan), who received from a distant relative a box of Maria’s memorabilia which transformed her life. The strong script, excellent characterisations and wonderful, live music - per- Casting complete for Women On The Verge... formed by both the actors Land Girls actress Seline Hizli is to join Tamsin Greig, Haydn and talented musicians - Gwynne and Anna Skellern in the forthcoming London production made me wish this show of Women On The Verge Of A Nervous Breakdown. Based on the had found a wider audi- original book by Pedro Almodóvar, Women On The Verge... is set ence. The delightful sets in Spain in the late 1980s and follows the messy love lives of sever- paved the way for an al women. Hizli, who stars as Marisa, has previously appeared in absorbing tale of familial Jumpy at The Royal Court and The House Of Bernada Alba at the estrangement and heart- Almeida Theatre. Greig, who plays the central character of Pepa - break. By the end, I truly an actress and singer who struggles to deal with being dumped by loved the characters. An her boyfriend - is well known from TV shows Green Wing, evocative evening filled Episodes and Friday Night Dinner. with life, love and laughs. Women On The Verge Of A Nervous Breakdown opens at the Play- Malaka Chowdhury house Theatre on 12 January and runs through to 9 May. n n n n n www.whatsonlive.co.uk 43 Film - DEC.qxp_Layout 1 24/11/2014 19:16 Page 1 GET YOUR COPY DELIVERED TO YOUR DOOR EVERY MONTH ...you just pay for the postage and packing! 6 Months £12, 12 Months £24, 2 Years £45

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Film TO WATCH THE LATEST MOVIE TRAILERS, VISIT: www.whatsonlive.co.uk

From FRI 26 DEC

Exodus: Gods And Kings CERT 12a (150 mins) Starring Christian Bale, Joel Edgerton, John Turturro, Aaron Paul, Ben Mendelsohn, Sigourney Weaver, Ben Kingsley, Hiam Abbass Directed by Ridley Scott (USA/UK/Spain) TOP 5 Sir Ridley Scott calls this his biggest epic yet, which is some almighty claim (it was he who brought us 1492: FILM BOX OFFICE Conquest Of Paradise, Gladiator and Kingdom Of Heaven). For those who don’t know their Bible, it’s a tale of sibling rivalry, namely between a lawgiver called Moses (Christian Bale) and his adopted brother Ramesses II (Joel Edgerton), a rather powerful pharaoh. There are also wars, plagues and the parting of the Red Sea. Please, this has got to be better than Darren Aronofsky’s Noah. We hope. Expect some CGI. In 3D. 1 Interstellar (12a)

The Imitation Game 2 (12a) 3 Nativity 3 (U) 4 Mr. Turner (12a) 5 The Drop (15)

FROM FRI 26 DEC

Big Eyes CERT tbc Starring Amy Adams, Christoph Waltz, Danny Huston, Krysten Ritter, Jason Schwartzman, Terence Stamp, Jon Polito Directed by Tim Burton (USA) Any film from Tim Burton is an event but this one is trailing Oscar buzz in its wake - and it’s a fascinating story. This is the true tale of the impresario Walter Keane (Waltz) whose pictures of wide-eyed waifs became a marketing phenomenon in the 1950s. However, history relates that it was actually his wife Margaret (Adams), not Walter, who painted the pictures and when he refused to give her any credit, she took him to court. Origi- nally Reese Witherspoon and Ryan Reynolds were in the frame to star, but when Burton took over as director there was a creative reshuffle. If Amy Adams snatches the Oscar nomination she is tipped to, it will be her sixth. Herr Waltz already has two (actual statuettes). Interstellar www.whatsonlive.co.uk 45 Film - DEC.qxp_Layout 1 24/11/2014 19:16 Page 3

FilmNEW RELEASES Released from Fri 5 December

Penguins Of Madagascar CERT U (92 mins) Featuring the voices of Jennifer Aniston, Mos Def, Isla Fisher, Will Forte, Tim Robbins, John Hawkes Directed by Simon J. Smith and Eric Darnell (USA) Like the Nickelodeon TV series The Penguins Of Madagascar, this full-length feature is an off-shoot from DreamWorks’ Madagascar trilogy. This one features a lot of penguins and is a spy thriller (seriously) - with a lot of laughs. To secure the voice of Werner Herzog as narrator is definitely a coup. In 3D.

The Grandmaster CERT 15 (108 mins) Get Santa CERT U (102 mins) Starring Tony Leung, Zhang Ziyi, Chang Chen, Starring Jim Broadbent, Rafe Spall, Kit Zhao Benshan Connor, Stephen Graham, Ewen Bremner, Directed by Wong Kar-wai (Hong Kong/China) Jodie Whittaker Directed by Christopher Dedicated followers of Wong Kar-wai will proba- Smith (UK) Black Sea CERT 15 (115 mins) bly adore The Grandmaster. It is such a Wong For Santa read Father Christmas, even Starring Jude Law, Scoot McNairy, Ben Kar-wai film that one aches in its exalted pres- though this is a British comedy. So, Father Mendelsohn, Jodie Whittaker ence. With its exquisite lighting, atmospheric in- Christmas (Jim Broadbent) is on the run Directed by Kevin Macdonald (UK) teriors, tight close-ups and elegiac, from the police, crashes his sleigh and is For his Bafta-winning documentary Touching Morricone-esque score, the film sweeps one up then befriended by a nine-year-old boy The Void (2003), Kevin Macdonald scaled the and invites one to fall in love with its imagery. (Connor) who wants to help his hero save heights of the Peruvian Andes. Now he tack- The Grandmaster himself is one Ip Man Christmas. Incidentally, Chris Smith previ- les the depths of the Black Sea, where Jude (Leung), a martial arts maestro who perfected ously directed the extremely nasty Creep, Law’s submarine captain goes in search of a the horizontal/vertical combat of wing chun. Ip Severance and Black Death. But this bears sunken sub supposedly stacked with gold… Man was a very real person - he went on to a U certificate. The screenplay is by the playwright Dennis teach Bruce Lee - although this biography is Kelly, he who scripted Channel Four’s Utopia. more of a hallucinogenic tapestry of captions, Men, Women & Children voice-over and fights. On the combatant front, CERT 15 (120 mins) the film is no equal of Bruce Lee’s cinematic an- tics - let alone Jackie Chan’s - as the fight se- Starring Adam Sandler, Jennifer Garner, Rose- marie DeWitt, Judy Greer, Dean Norris, Ansel quences are far too stylised to exhilarate or Elgort Directed by Jason Reitman (USA) enthral. It’s just a symphony of exaggerated sound effects, musical riffs and impossibly bal- A hugely ambitious undertaking, this dramatic letic jumps. It’s odd, then, that this is one mar- comedy follows the tial arts film that might actually be better without interlocking lives of a the martial arts. group of people whose worlds have been changed by the Internet and social networking. From the director of Juno, Up St Vincent CERT 12a (102 mins) In The Air and Labor Starring Bill Murray, Melissa McCarthy, Naomi Day. Watts, Chris O'Dowd, Scott Adsit, Terrence Howard Directed by Theodore Melfi (USA) Jack Nicholson was due to play the drunken, The Pyramid CERT 15 (89 mins) hedonistic, misanthropic war veteran St Vincent Starring Ashley Hinshaw, Denis O'Hare, de Van Nuys, but Bill Murray is a damn good re- James Buckley placement. When St Vincent is recruited by his Directed by Grégory Levasseur (USA) neighbour, Maggie (McCarthy), to look after her What are those Egyptians like? All those curses. twelve-year-old son, he introduces the under- Hello Carter CERT U (92 mins) Here a team of American archaeologists un- sized boy to the joys of the strip club and the Starring Charlie Cox, Jodie Whittaker, Paul earth a previously unknown pyramid, but once racetrack, among other things. Schneider, Annabelle Wallis, Christian Cooke, inside... Expect some gory imagery. Judy Parfitt Directed by Anthony Wilcox (UK) A comedy-drama with a romantic heart, Hello Carter follows the hapless Carter (Cox) as he attempts to get his life back together. He’s lost his job, he’s lost his home, but worst of all, he’s lost his girlfriend. Filmed in and around London. 46 www.whatsonlive.co.uk Film - DEC.qxp_Layout 1 24/11/2014 19:16 Page 4

Released from Fri 12 December

The Circle (Der Kreis) CERT 15 (102 mins) Starring Matthias Hungerbühler, Sven Schelker, Marianne Sägebrecht, Stefan Witschi Directed by Stefan Haupt (Switzerland) Ernst Ostertag and Röbi Rapp were the first same-sex couple to be married in Switzerland, back in 2003. Here, now in their eighties, they relate to camera how their relationship flour- ished in Zurich in 1956, at a time when adult ho- mosexuality was not a criminal offence. In fact, as one talking head puts it, Zurich had “practi- cally one leg in New York.” But things were to change, and The Circle details the backlash against the liberal ideal, with the younger Ernst and Röbi played by Matthias Hungerbühler and Sven Schelker in the dramatised bulk of the film. Unfortunately, Hungerbühler gives a some- From what wooden reading of Ernst, a portrayal that FRI 12 reflects the rather flat delineation of Stefan DEC Haupt’s film. It seems a missed opportunity as the story contains all the true-life dramatic potential of Pride, but The Circle fails to either stir or excite. Released from Fri 19 December The Hobbit: The Battle Of The Five Armies CERT tbc Starring Ian McKellen, Martin Freeman, Night At The Museum: Richard Armitage, Evangeline Lilly, Lee Pace, Luke Evans, Benedict Cumberbatch, Secret Of The Tomb CERT tbc Cate Blanchett, Orlando Bloom Directed by Starring Ben Stiller, Robin Williams, Owen Wil- Peter Jackson (New Zealand/UK/USA) son, Dan Stevens, Ben Kingsley, Steve Coogan, Ricky Gervais, Mickey Rooney Previously known as The Hobbit: There And Directed by Shawn Levy (USA) Back Again, the final instalment of the Hobbit trilogy now takes on a more militant subtitle. After voicing Alex in Madagascar 3 and be- And there’s a lot of battling. There’s not only a fore embarking on Zoolander 2, Ben Stiller very grumpy Smaug (the dragon voiced by slipped in this sequel to Night At The Mu- Cumberbatch) but the return of Sauron (Cum- seum 2: Battle Of The Smithsonian. This time berbatch again) and his army of ferocious The Face Of Love CERT 12a (90mins) the former security guard Larry Daley em- Orcs. It’s all too exciting. In 3D of course. Starring Annette Bening, Ed Harris, Robin barks on a round-the-world trip in an effort to Williams, Amy Brenneman, Jess Weixler save the magic powers of The Tablet of Ahk- Directed by Arie Posin (USA) menrah. Sadly, this comic sequel was to be Annette Bening may be fifty-six, but there’s love the last film for both Robin Williams and Released from Fri 26 December in the air. She plays Nikki Lostrom, who has re- Mickey Rooney. cently lost her husband. Then she meets - and connects with - a teacher and artist (Ed Harris) Unbroken CERT 12a (tbc) who bears an uncanny resemblance to her late Starring Jack O’Connell, Domhnall Gleeson, spouse. The Israeli-born director Arie Posin pre- Miyavi, Garrett Hedlund, Jai Courtney viously brought us the slick, smart satire The Directed by Angelina Jolie (USA) Chumscrubber (2005). Louis ‘Louie’ Zamperini was quite a chap. An Olympic distance runner praised by Hitler, Zam- perini was a survivor. When his plane crashed in the Pacific, he spent forty-seven days drifting on a raft before being picked up by the Japanese and then sent to a series of POW camps. Jack O’Connell (Starred Up, ’71) is said to be sensational as Zamperini, while such heavyweights as Dumb & Dumber To CERT tbc William Nicholson, Richard LaGravenese and Starring Jim Carrey, Jeff Daniels, Laurie Joel and Ethan Coen contributed to the screen- Holden, Kathleen Turner, Bill Murray play. Directed by Bobby Farrelly and Peter Farrelly (USA) Twenty years after Dumber And Dumber was re- Annie CERT PG (118 mins) leased (almost to the day) and went on to gross Starring Jamie Foxx, Quvenzhané Wallis, Electricity CERT 15 (96 mins) $247million worldwide, we have the sequel. Rose Byrne, Bobby Cannavale, Cameron Starring Agyness Deyn, Christian Cooke, Paul Pedants will recall that there was a prequel (in Diaz, Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje Anderson, Alice Lowe, Lenora Crichlow, Tom Directed by Will Gluck (USA) Georgeson Directed by Bryn Higgins (UK) 2003), but this is the first time that Jim Carrey and Jeff Daniels, now fifty-two and fifty-nine, re- Little Orphan Annie (Wallis) trusts the sun'll Lily O’Connor (Deyn) suffers from temporal lobe spectively, have resurrected their characters of come out tomorrow when filthy-rich New York epilepsy and it is through her eyes - and halluci- the cerebrally challenged morons Lloyd Christ- mayoral candidate Will Stacks (Foxx) turns up nations - that we follow mas and Harry at her foster home. Of her search for her long Dunne. Now they go course, it’s a thinly- lost brother. Based on on a road trip to find veiled campaign the novel by Ray Robin- Harry’s daughter, movie but Annie is no son, which was partly in- who was given up fool… No doubt we’ll spired by events in his for adoption. Think be whistling the tunes own childhood. Filmed Philomena meets when we leave the in and around London Rain Man - and pre- cinema. and Newcastle. pare to be offended. www.whatsonlive.co.uk 47 Film - DEC.qxp_Layout 1 24/11/2014 19:16 Page 5

Fear Eats The Soul 15 fight against the Capitol. the attention of a guardian Mr. Turner 12a A-Z LISTINGS An almost accidental ro- Stars Jennifer Lawrence, angel that shows him all Mr Turner seems to have Film mance is kindled between Josh Hutcherson. Show- the people whose lives been known by a number a German woman in her ing at Electric Cinema, George has touched and of names: Mr Mallord, Mr All films are currently on general release mid-sixties and a Moroc- Birmingham, until Thurs 4 the difference he has Booth, William, Billy and unless otherwise stated. For full listing can migrant worker Dec; Ludlow Assembly made to his community. by posterity as J.M.W. information, including times and dates, around twenty-five years Rooms, Thurs 18 - Sat 20 Stars James Stewart & Turner, arguably Britain’s Donna Reed. Showing at visit www.whatsonlive.co.uk younger. They abruptly & Mon 22 Dec greatest artist of all time. decide to marry, appalling The Roses Theatre, Stars Timothy Spall. Show- I am Ali PG everyone around them. Tewkesbury, Fri 19 Dec; ing at The Courtyard, swords. However, in order An intimate and heart- ‘71 15 Showing at The Hive, mac, Birmingham, Sat 20 - Hereford, Fri 5 - Thurs 11 to pursue his romantic warming documentary An unstable British soldier Shrewsbury, Wed 10 Dec Tues 23 Dec; Warwick Arts Dec; The Roses Theatre, dream, he has to manoeu- looking at the man behind is caught up in riots in Centre, Coventry, Sat 20 - Tewkesbury, Sat 27 - Mon vre two alternative worlds. the legend - Muhammad Belfast in the year of the Fury 15 Tues 23 Dec; Ludlow As- 29 Dec; Artrix, Broms- Stars Diego Luna, Zoe Ali as he’s never been title. Stars Jack O’Connell. ‘Fury’ is the name of a sembly Rooms, Tues 23 grove, Sat 27 - Tues 30 Saldana. Showing at Artrix, seen before. Showing at Showing at The Courtyard, Sherman tank and Brad Dec Dec Hereford, Mon 8 - Thurs Bromsgrove, Mon 22 - Pitt is in command. It’s the mac, Birmingham, Fri 19 - 11 Dec Weds 24 Dec last month of the war (the Sat 20 Dec Jimi: All Is By My Side The Muppet Christmas Second) and Pitt and his 12 Carol U Chef 15 Ida 12a Alexander And The crew of five find them- A drama based on Jimi Michael Caine, sur- The story of a disgraced Poland 1962; orphaned Terrible, Horrible, No selves stuck behind Hendrix's life as he left rounded by legions of chef who starts up his own novice nun Sister Anna is Good, Very Bad Day PG enemy lines. And even New York City for London, fuzzy, felt puppets, plays it business running an eatery about to take her vows The title pretty much sums though the Allies are mop- where his career took off. straight as the crotchety on wheels. Stars Jon when she finds out that up the gist of this Disney ping up all over Europe, Stars André Benjamin & Ebenezer Scrooge, an old Favreau. Showing at Stour- she was originally named comedy about poor old Fury finds itself in dire Imogen Poots. Showing at miser who couldn’t care bridge Town Hall , Mon 15 Ida and is Jewish, so she eleven-year-old straits as the full might of a The Roses theatre, less about Christmas and Dec goes on a search for the Alex(ander). It’s based on Nazi backlash unleashes Tewkesbury, Wed 10 Dec the joy the season brings. truth about her parents. the 1972 children’s book its, er, fury. Showing at The Showing at mac, Birming- Dolphin Tale 2 U Stars Agata Kulesza. Joyeux Noel 12 by Judith Viorst. Stars Roses Theatre, Tewkes- ham, Sat 6 Dec; Royal Spa More true stories from the Showing at Malvern The- The moment when World Steve Carell, Jennifer Gar- bury, Sat 6 Dec Centre, Leamington Spa, Clearwater Marine Aquar- atres, Thurs 11 Dec War One took a momen- ner. Showing at Ludlow ium in Florida. The first Thurs 11 Dec Get On Up 12a tary backseat for Christ- Assembly Rooms, Mon 29 film was rather sweet. The Imitation Game 12a A biography of James mas. Stars Diane Kruger & My Old Lady 12a - Tues 30 Dec Stars Harry Connick, Jr. Based on the biography Brown. Brown, of course, Benno Furmann. Showing This is all bit of a reunion Showing at The Courtyard, Alan Turing: The Enigma Belle 12a was the Godfather of Soul, at Forest Arts Centre, Wal- for Kristin Scott Thomas Hereford, Sat 6 - Sun 7 by Andrew Hodges, the Based on true events, this and Get On Up chronicles sall, Fri 5 Dec as she has previously Dec; The Roses Theatre, film chronicles Turing’s is the story of Dido Eliza- his rise from poverty to starred alongside both Tewkesbury, Sun 7 Dec part in winning the Sec- The Judge 15 beth Belle, a former slave celebrity. Stars Chadwick Kevin Kline and Maggie ond World War (by help- Estranged from his family, who is brought up by her Boseman & Nelsan Ellis. Smith. Here, she plays the ing to crack the Nazi’s top city lawyer Hank great uncle, the First Earl Showing at The Roses old lady’s daughter, her Enigma code) and then Palmer returns to the small of Mansfield. Stars Theatre, Tewkesbury, Sat 6 mother being the sole oc- his criminal prosecution town of Carlinville, in Indi- Mbatha-Raw. Showing at WATCH Dec; Warwick Arts Centre, cupant of a Parisian apart- for being homosexual. ana, for his mother's fu- Stourbridge Town Hall , Mon 15 - Sun 21 Dec ment inherited by a New Stars Benedict Cumber- neral. He then discovers Mon 1 Dec THE FILM Yorker. Showing at mac, batch & Keira Knightley. that his father, the local The Homesman 15 Birmingham, Fri 5 - Thurs The Big Lebowski 15 Showing at Malvern The- judge, has been accused TRAILERS AT An unlikely Western, in 11 Dec; Warwick Arts Cen- "Dude" Lebowski, mis- atres, until Thurs 4 Dec; of murder… Stars Robert which a man and woman tre, Coventry, Fri 5 - Fri 12 taken for a millionaire, whatsonlive.co.uk Warwick Arts Centre, Downey Jr. & Robert Du- team up to escort three Dec; The Roses Theatre, seeks restitution for his ru- Coventry, until Sun 7 Dec; vall. Showing at Ludlow mentally impaired women Tewkesbury, Sun 21 - Tues ined rug and enlists his Old Market Hall, Shrews- Assembly Rooms, Wed 10 from Nebraska to Iowa. 23 Dec; Warwick Arts Cen- bowling buddies to help bury, until Thurs 11 Dec; - Thurs 11 Dec From the 1988 novel by tre, Coventry, Fri 26 - Sun get it. Starring Jeff Glendon Swarthout. Stars The Courtyard, Hereford, The Drop 15 La Belle Et La Bete PG 28 Dec; The Courtyard, Bridges, John Goodman. Tommy Lee Jones & Hi- Fri 12 - Wed 17 Dec; Lud- Tom Hardy plays a Brook- Jean Cocteau's adapta- Hereford, Fri 26 - Tues 30 Showing at Electric Cin- lary Swank. Showing at low Assembly Rooms, Sat lyn bartender whose joint tion of Beauty and the Dec; Ludlow Assembly ema, Birmingham, Thurs mac, Birmingham, Sat 13 - 13, Mon15 - Thurs 18 Dec; is used as a money-laun- Beast. When a merchant Rooms, Mon 29 - Tues 30 11 Dec Thurs 18 Dec The Roses Theatre, dering operation for the is told that he must die for Dec local lowlife. Then things Tewkesbury, Fri 28 - Sun Blade Runner: The Final Human Capital 15 picking a rose from the get personal… Showing at 28 Dec; Warwick Arts Cen- Nativity! U Cut 15 A cyclist is hit by a jeep, Beast's garden, his coura- Warwick Arts Centre, until tre, Coventry, Mon 29 - Primary school teacher Adapted from Philip K and so the destinies of two geous daughter offers to Thurs 4 Dec Wed 31 Dec Paul Maddens is being Dick’s novel Do Androids families become irrevoca- go back to the Beast in Dream Of Electric Sheep?, charged with the biggest Effie Gray 15 bly intertwined in a tricky Interstellar 12a her father's place. Stars Ridley Scott’s science fic- challenge of his life - direct- Back in the 1850s, ‘Effie,’ social dance of status, A sci-fi tale of the journey Jean Marais & Josette Day. tion masterpiece Blade ing the school's musical the wife of the eminent art money and ambition. undertaken by a group of Showing at The Roses Runner has gripped audi- version of the Nativity, critic John Ruskin, met the Stars Valeria Bruni astronauts through a Theatre, Tewkesbury, Sun ences and inspired pas- competing against the Pre-Raphaelite painter Tedeschi. Showing at wormhole. Think Gravity 7 Dec sionate and fierce debate posh local school for the John Everett Millais. The Hereford Courtyard The- with more star names. ever since its initial release Miracle On 34th Street honour of best reviewed resultant affaire de cœur atre, Mon 1 - Wed 3 Dec; Stars Matthew Mc- in 1982. Stars Harrison U show in town. Stars Mar- has been the subject of The Roses Theatre, Conaughey & Anne Hath- Ford, Rutger Hauer. The mysterious Kriss tin Freeman & Pam Ferris. much speculation. Stars Tewkesbury, Thurs 11 Dec away. Showing at The Showing at Electric Cin- Kringle is white-bearded Showing at Warwick Arts Dakota Fanning & Emma Courtyard, Hereford, Fri 12 ema, Birmingham, Sat 14 The Hunger Games: department store Santa Centre, Sat 6 Dec Thompson. Showing at - Wed 17 Dec; Festival Dec listening to the wish lists of Ludlow Assembly Rooms, Mockingjay Part 1 12a Drayton Centre, Market Nativity 3: Dude, JLaw is back as Katniss Drayton, Mon 29 - Tues 30 toy-crazed kids, deter- Where’s My Book Of Life U Mon 1 & Wed 3 Dec; The mined to prove he is in Donkey? U Roses Theatre, Tewkes- Everdeen, and in her new Dec Following in the skid Originally entitled Day Of role as Mockingjay - the fact the genuine article. The Dead, this animated bury, until Fri 5 Dec; Artrix, It’s A Wonderful Life U Stars Richard Attenbor- marks of Nativity! (2009) Bromsgrove, Sun 7 - Mon symbol of hope for the and Nativity 2: Danger in musical-adventure con- persecuted districts of When selfless George Bai- ough. Showing at The cerns a hopeless romantic 8 Dec ley attempts suicide on Courtyard, Hereford, Sat 6 the Manger (2012), comes Panem - she must consoli- this third instalment featur- with a guitar and two date the divided in their Christmas Eve he gains - Sun 7 Dec

FOREST ARTS CENTRE, WAL- ODEON TELFORD ODEON TAMWORTH Worcestershire CINEMA Box Office SALL 01922 645 555 0871 224 4007 0871 224 4007 ARTRIX, BROMSGROVE OMH SHREWSBURY 01527 577330 Shropshire 01743 281281 Warwickshire Birmingham SHOWCASE 0871 220 1000 MALVERN THEATRE VUE CINEMA Star City 08712 CINEWORLD, SHREWSBURY WEM TOWN HALL ODEON COVENTRY 0845 287 2146 CINEWORLD Broad St, B’ham 0871 200 2000 01939 232299 0871 224 4007 240 240 THE NORBURY THEATRE, 0871 200 2000 THE EDGE ARTS CENTRE, Staffordshire ODEON NUNEATON DROITWICH SPA CINEWORLD Solihull Black Country MUCH WENLOCK 0871 224 4007 08444 777 1000 0871 200 2000 CINEWORLD W’HAMPTON 01952 728 911 CINEWORLD, BURTON-UPON- SHOWCASE, COVENTRY TRENT 0871 200 2000 WAREHOUSE, ELECTRIC, B’ham 0871 200 2000 FESTIVAL DRAYTON CENTRE, 0871 220 1000 0121 643 7879 THE STAFFORD CINEMA, KIDDERMINSTER LIGHT HOUSE MEDIA CEN- MARKET DRAYTON VUE, LEAMINGTON SPA 01562 747773 EMPIRE 0871 471 4714 TRE, W’HAMPTON 01902 01630 654 444 STAFFORD 08712 240 240 716055 0207 438 9580 VUE, WORCESTER MILLENNIUM POINT THE HIVE, SHREWSBURY PICTURE HOUSE, STRAT- 0871 224 0240 0121 202 2222 ODEON MERRY HILL, DUD- 01743 234 970 FOXLOWE ARTS CENTRE, FORD-UPON-AVON 0871 902 THE ROSE’S THEATRE, MAC 0121 446 3232 LEY 0871 22 44007 LUDLOW ASSEMBLY ROOMS LEEK 01538 386 112 5741 SHOWCASE, DUDLEY 01584 878 141 STOKE FILM THEATRE, 01782 TEWKESBURY ODEON 0871 224 4007 WARWICK ARTS CENTRE 01684 295 074 0871 220 1000 411188 COVENTRY 02476 524524 REEL Quinton 0121 421 5316 MAJESTIC, BRIDGNORTH 01746 761815

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ing the loose canon that is Paddingtontbc from George’s past threat- terviews and a wealth of but no one even knew However, their limited sur- Mr Poppy, whom the stu- A film about the loveable ens to undermine their rare and never before their names. Starring Dar- vival skills are tested by dents of St Bernadette's bear with a penchant for union... Stars Jennifer seen archive, Still the lene Love & Lisa Fischer. the lack of food, bad adore. Stars Martin Clunes marmalade.Stars Hugh Lawrence & Bradley Enemy Within draws to- Showing at The Hive, weather, an over amorous & Marc Wootton.Showing Bonneville &Sally Hawkins. Cooper. Showing at Light gether personal experi- Shrewsbury, Fri 19 Dec Uncle and a shared fixa- House Media Centre, ences – whether they’re tion for illegal substances. at Warwick Arts Centre, Showing at Warwick Arts The Two Faces Of Janu- Coventry, Fri 12 - Thurs 18 Centre, Coventry, Fri 19 - Wolverhampton, until tragic, funny or terrifying – Stars Richard E. Grant & ary 12a Dec; Wem Town Hall, Fri Wed 24 Dec; The Court- Thurs 4 Dec; Warwick Arts to take the audience on Paul McGann.Showing at Rydal, a tour guide shows 19 - Sun 21 Dec; Festival yard, Hereford, Sat 20 - Centre, Coventry, Mon 8 - an emotionally powerful mac, Birmingham, Tues an American couple Drayton Centre, Market Wed 31 Dec; mac, Birm- Thurs 11 Dec; The Roses journey through the dra- 16 - Thurs 18 Dec around the Acropolis of Drayton, Fri 19 - Sat 20 & ingham, Fri 26 - Wed 31 Theatre, Tewkesbury, Tues matic events of that year. Athens. But Rydal is not all What We Did On Our Tues 23 Dec; Ludlow As- Dec; Artrix, Bromsgrove, 16 - Thurs 18 Dec Showing at Electric Cin- he seems and neither, for Holiday12a sembly Rooms, Mon 22 - Sat 27 - Wed 31 Dec ema, Birmingham, Tues 2 Wed 24 Dec Set Fire To the Stars15 Dec that matter, is his new friend When Abi and Doug are Taking its title from the last Chester MacFarland. Stars invited to the Scottish Northern Soul15 line of Dylan Thomas’s Times And Winds15 Viggo Mortensen & Kirsten Highlands for the birthday An authentic, uplifting ‘'Love in the Asylum,' this Turkish director Reha Dunst.Showing at The of Doug’s father, they are drama about two friends is the story of the Welsh Erdem's sumptuously Edge Arts Centre, Much determined to keep their whose horizons are ex- poet’s first visit to America. composed fourth feature Wenlock, South Shrop- impending divorce a se- panded forever by their Elijah Wood plays the liter- looks at childhood life in a shire, Mon 1 Dec; cret. Stars Rosamund discovery of black Ameri- ary critic and aspiring poet rural village on a mountain Foxlowe Arts Centre, Leek, Pike & David Tennant. can soul music, with sup- John Malcolm Brinnin overlooking the sea is the Staffs, Tues 2 Dec Showing at Ludlow As- porting turns from Steve who brings Thomas along incubator for an examina- sembly Rooms, Sat 6 & Coogan, Lisa Stansfield - and has to suffer the tion of that pain as experi- Violette15 Mon 8 Dec; Artrix, Broms- &Ricky Tomlinson consequences. Stars Eli- enced through the eyes of Impoverished and grove, Tues 9 & Fri 19 Dec amongst others.Showing jah Wood & Celyn Jones. three very different chil- unloved Violette Leduc meets Simone de Beau- Winter Sleep15 at The Roses Theatre, Say When15 Showing at mac, Birming- dren. Showing at The voir in post war Saint-Ger- In Palme d'Or winner Win- Tewkesbury, Sat 20 Dec When Megan is proposed ham, until Tues 2 Dec Hive, Shrewsbury, Fri 5 maindes-Prés. An intense ter Sleep, Aydin, a former to by her long-term Dec The Other Woman12a The Shop Around The lifelong relationship devel- actor, runs a small hotel in boyfriend, she panics and It’s hard to imagine any CornerU This Is Where I Leave ops between the two central Anatolia with his hangs out with sixteen- man double-dealing Two employees at a gift You12a women authors, based on young wife Nihal with year-old Annika instead. Cameron Diaz, but this is shop can barely stand one The comedic story of four Violette’s quest for free- whom he has a stormy re- Then she meets Annika’s the case in this revenge another, without realising siblings who return to their dom through writing and lationship and his sister rather cute dad.Stars Keira comedy. Also stars Nikolaj that they're falling in love childhood home following on Simone’s conviction Necla who is suffering Knightley & Sam Rockwell. Coster-Waldau.Showing at through the post as each the death of their father. that she holds in her from her recent divorce. In Showing at The Roses Forest Arts Centre, Walsall, other's anonymous pen Stars Jason Bateman & hands the destiny of an winter as the snow begins Theatre, Thurs 18 Dec Fri 5 Dec pal. Stars Margaret Sulla- Tina Fey.Showing at The extraordinary writer.Show- to fall, the hotel turns into Serena15 van & James Stewart. Courtyard, Hereford, until ing at Light House Media a shelter but also an in- Our Currency Is Showing at Wem Town Mon 1 Dec Centre, Wolverhampton, escapable place that fuels Information George Pemberton is a ty- coon who moves from Hall, Thurs 4 Dec Mon 1 - Thurs 4 Dec their animosities… Stars The first episode of the Twenty Feet From Boston to Depression-Era Haluk Bilginer & Melisa documentary film series Still the Enemy Within Stardom12a Withnail & 15I North Carolina to build a Sözen.Showing at mac, exposing the Invisible 15 A wonderfully exuberant A modern classic that fol- timber empire. Initially met Birmingham, Fri 12 - Mon which shows methods for In 1984, a conservative tribute to the fabulous lows the (mis) fortunes of with hostility by the locals, 15 Dec; Electric Cinema, investigating corruption government under Prime backing singers who Withnail and friend as they his wife, Serena soon Birmingham, Sat 6 - Thurs and organised crime. Minister Margaret worked on classic albums attempt to escape their proves that she can hold 11 Dec Showing at The Drum, Thatcher declared war on through the 60s & 70s. squalid Camden flat for an her own. But then a secret Birmingham, Thurs 4 Dec Britain’s unions. Using in- Millions loved their voices holiday in the countryside.

DVD NEW RELEASES The Congress 15 The Inbetweeners 2 15 The story of an ageing Having wreaked havoc in Hollywood beauty who Crete, Jay Cartwright can no longer get work (Buckley) goes on a gap due to her reputation for year in Australia and in- being ‘difficult.’ So, in vites along his sex-mad, order to continue her ca- half-witted friends. Stars reer, she sells the rights Simon Bird, James Buck- to her ‘digital image.’ ley and Blake Harrison. Stars Robin Wright and Released 8 December Harvey Keitel. Released 8 December The Nut Job U The nuts in question are those prized by squirrels in the fictional town of Oakton, where the self- centred Surly is forced to reconsider the value of the greater good. With the voices of Will Arnett and Brendan Fraser. Released 8 December The Expendables 3 12a After Conrad Stonebacks (Mel Gibson) survived Lucy 12a novels back to the Into The Storm 12a Sex Tape 15 Expendables 2 so Bar- Lucy is a drug mule screen. Weaving to- Those looking for a mete- Cameron Diaz and Jason ney must now recruit a whose body is perme- gether two of Miller’s orological Godzilla should Segal team up again with new band of younger Ex- ated by a drug she is classic stories with new be warned that this is a director Jake Kasdan. pendables to help him carrying, which boots tales, some of Sin City's “found footage” thriller. This time they play a mar- finish the job. Stars her brain power to su- most hard-boiled citizens The premise is about a ried couple whose private Sylvester Stallone and perhuman proportions, cross paths with a few of group of students who at- sex tape ends up in cyber Jason Statham. so she turns on the its more reviled inhabi- tempt to document the space. Released 8 December gangsters who have tants. Stars Jessica Alba. devastating effects of a Released 26 December Million Dollar Arm PG been exploiting her. Released 15 December tornado, and so the This “inspirational” true- Stars Scarlett Johans- events are relayed by life drama from Disney son, Morgan Freeman. video camera à la Clover- includes both cricket and Released 29 Dec field, Paranormal Activity, Major League baseball, Chronicle, et al. The as the sports agent J. B. Sin City 2: A Dame To Leicester-born actor Bernstein tries to recruit Richard Armitage (The Indian cricketers to play Kill For 18 Co-directors Robert Ro- Hobbit, TV’s Spooks) baseball in America. plays a widowed father Stars Jon Hamm and driguez and Frank Miller reunite to bring Miller’s trying to rescue his son. Suraj Sharma. Released 15 December Released 15 December visually stunning graphic

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50 www.whatsonlive.co.uk Visual Arts December R1 .qxp_Layout 1 24/11/2014 14:46 Page 2 Visual Arts

Jim Simpson’s Photography Retrospective Havill & Travis, Harborne, Birmingham, until Sat 27 December Whether via his company, Big Bear Records, his involvement with the Birmingham International Jazz Festival or his management of Black Sabbath, it’s fair to say that Jim Simpson is a well- known name on the Midlands arts & entertainment circuit. What Jim is less well known for, however, is his work as a photographer... This new retrospective exhibition takes a look at the many and varied photos Jim produced way back in the 1960s, during which time he caught on camera such stars as The Rolling Stones, Little Richard, Black Sabbath, Nina Simone, Marianne Faithfull and Ginger Baker, to name but a few.

Infinite Variety Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, until Sun 4 January A photographic exhibition mounted as an accompaniment to the Royal Shakespeare Company’s Roaring Girls season of plays at the Swan Theatre, Infinite Variety celebrates the beauty of the ageing female face. Its curator is actor and RSC Associate Artist Harriet Walter. “Our faces drop and droop as we get older,” she writes in her book, Facing It. “It Art Bus: Galleries Night is a law of gravity. Sorrow and worry etch themselves on our brows as well as laughter The Barber Institute, Eastside Projects, Ikon round our mouths and eyes. They say that after fifty we get the face we deserve but the Gallery, mac, Birmingham & RBSA Gallery, truth is less convenient than that. Our genes have an equal, if not greater input.” Wed 3 December A unique celebration of growing older, the exhibition includes photos of numerous Visiting Birmingham’s top museums and art gal- famous faces, including Kandis Cook (pictured above), Jane Birkin and Bianca Jagger. leries is being made easier early this month, courtesy of the return of the ever-popular Art Bus. The tour bus will once again be visiting six of the Empire By Jon Tonks city’s most popular galleries, providing visitors mac, Birmingham, until Sun 4 January with the chance to check out what Birmingham’s major art venues currently have on offer. West Midlands-born photographer Jon Tonks’s fascinating exhibition is the end product The big seven are: Ikon, the Barber Institute of of a sixty thousand-mile journey, during which he used four hundred rolls of film, caught Fine Arts, mac, Birmingham Museum & Art twenty-four flights and spent thirty-two days at sea. Jon’s travels saw him exploring life Gallery, The Parkside Gallery (BCU), RBSA Gallery on four remote islands in the South Atlantic, all of which are relics of the once-formidable and Eastside Projects. Artist Jon Tonks will be in British Empire - the British Overseas Territories of Ascension Island, Tristan da Cunha, attendance at mac to speak to visitors throughout the Falkland Islands and St Helena. Photographing the people and landscapes, and the evening. recording traces of the past which he found embedded within each territory, Jon is eager to point out that his motivation for the project was neither political nor nostalgic. Instead it arose from his curiosity about the lives of these distant yet still firmly British lands.

Ikon Gallery in Brindleyplace

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Worcester City Art links between JRR VisualArts PREVIEWS VisualArts LISTINGS Gallery & Museum Tolkien’s depiction of MADE AT MAC: JEW- his fantasy region and the industrial Black For full listing information on Visual Art ELLERY EXHIBITION Featuring work created Country of the 1900s, Further exhibitions exhibitions, including times and dates, under the watchful eye presented alongside visit www.whatsonlive.co.uk of artist-tutor Nick more contemporary Greenhough, until Sun responses, until 17 Jan, 4 Jan, mac, Wolverhampton Art ‘Degenerate’ Art ECHO Exhibition of paint- sewage & maps, until Birmingham Gallery ings by London-based Sat 20 Dec, Ort Gallery, JON TONKS: EMPIRE THE NAKED AND THE The Barber Institute, Birmingham, artists, with audio Balsall Heath, NUDE Works made until Sun 11 January Series of photographs accompaniment from Birmingham which come together to between 1500 and 1914 This exhibition of German Expressionist Birmingham-based ECHOES Exhibition show- tell the story of life on by, among others, prints from the Barber’s collection features musicians, until Fri 5 casing recent works by four remote islands in Durer, Rembrandt and Dec, Stryx, Digbeth, Matisse are featured in work by celebrated artists including Max figurative painter John the South Atlantic, until Birmingham Devane, Head of Sun 4 Jan, mac, this striking exhibition of Beckmann, George Grosz and Egon Schiele. SUSAN PHILIPSZ - BRO- Coventry University’s Birmingham images portraying the Complementing the venue’s Rebel Visions unclothed human fig- KEN ENSEMBLE: WAR Department of Design & KATE WRIGGLESWORTH: exhibition, it explores the ways in which DAMAGED MUSICAL Visual Arts and runner- ure, until Sun 18 Jan, MAKE BELIEVE & MOVE- The Barber Institute, artists’ depictions of society, religion and the INSTRUMENTS (BRASS up in the BP Portrait MENT THROUGH STORY- Award 2013, until Sat 20 Birmingham human body were systematically corrupted SECTION) New site-spe- TELLING AND PAINT until Dec, Lanchester Gallery, cific work from Turner Sun 4 Jan, Artrix, WHEN SANTA CAME TO and devalued by Nazi propaganda. This Jordan Well, Coventry Prize-winning artist Bromsgrove THE FACTORY Exhibition included the Nazi-led Entartete Kunst Susan Philipsz, which BIRMINGHAM AND which brings together INFINITE VARIETY (Degenerate Art) exhibitions of the 1930s, promises to fill the BEYOND Featuring contri- childhood memories Photographic exhibition which saw modernist artworks being chaoti- gallery with the sounds butions from numerous with nostalgic photo- celebrating the beauty cally hung and derided in passages of of instruments dam- highly acclaimed hon- graphs to focus on the aged in World War One, of the ageing female accompanying text. orary RBSA members, hugely popular until Sat 6 Dec, notably David face, curated by actor Christmas parties Eastside Projects, Carpanini, Ken Howard, and RSC Associate organised by the Last Birmingham HRH the Prince of Artist Harriet Walter, region’s factories & chance Wales and John Salt, until Sun 4 Jan, Royal their workforce, until British Folk Art OLD HILL UPRISING Shakespeare Theatre, Exhibition of paintings until Wed 24 December, Sun 18 Jan, Bantock Compton Verney, Warwickshire, to see Stratford-upon-Avon by Sandwell-based RBSA Gallery, House, Wolverhampton until Sun 14 December Polish artist Rafal Zar, Birmingham WEST INDIES TO WEST A MODERN NARRATIVE This first ever major survey of British folk art until Sat 6 Dec, SENSING SCULPTURE MIDLANDS Photographic Exhibition of contempo- Eastside Projects, Featuring new sculp- exhibition by rising rary painting & drawing features over one hundred-and-fifty paint- Birmingham-based doc- ings, sculptures, textiles and objects, all of Birmingham tures alongside old by Kate Bainbridge & favourites, until Wed 31 umentary photographer Genevieve Belgard, which have been drawn together from collec- MILLION WOMEN RISE Inés Elsa Dalal, until EXHIBITION Highlighting Dec, Wolverhampton until Fri 23 Jan, The tions across the country. The exhibition Art Gallery Thurs 8 Jan, The Drum, Bond Cafe Gallery, some of what the MMR Birmingham seeks to explore the threshold between art has done over the DUDLEY SOCIETY OF Birmingham and artefact, and to challenge perceptions of years, until Wed 10 ARTISTS until Wed 31 AFTER THE GOLDRUSH An REBEL VISIONS ’high art’. Featured works include rustic Dec, Library Of Dec, Dudley Museum & exhibition of work by Groundbreaking exhibi- Stephen Boyd made in leather Toby jugs, a larger-than-lifesize Birmingham Art Gallery tion exploring the work response to the finding of British war artist thatched figure of King Alfred, maritime SOUND AND SILENCE DEER PARK DUDLEY and conservation of the EXHIBITION Exploring the Archaeological exhibi- Richard Nevinson, until embroidery by fisherman John Craske, and Staffordshire Hoard, Sun 25 Jan, The Barber experience of prayer & tion, until Wed 31 Dec, until Fri 11 Jan, an intricately designed pin cushion made by contemplation amongst Dudley Museum & Art Institute, Birmingham wounded soldiers during the Crimean war. Birmingham Museum & Birmingham’s six major Gallery Art Gallery JULIAN OPIE The last in a faith groups, until Sat BOULTON PAUL Former series of five exhibitions 13 Dec, Birmingham ‘DEGENERATE ART’ to be presented in employees of the British German expressionist Museum & Art Gallery Aircraft manufacturer Ikon’s Tower Room as Static: Still Life art from the Barber part of the gallery’s Last ALL FIRED UP Exhibition showcase their knowl- Collection, including chance of work created by edge of the industry, birthday celebrations, Reconsidered early twentieth century until Sun 25 Jan. Ikon members of Region 4 until Wed 31 Dec, prints by celebrated Birmingham Museum & Art to see from the Guild of Wolverhampton Art Gallery, Birmingham Gallery, until Wed 31 December artists Max Beckmann, Enamellers, until Sat 13 Gallery George Grosz & Egon IMRAN QURESHI Pablo Picasso, Georges Braque, Howard Dec, Bilston Craft CRAFTSENSE Exploring Schlele, until Sun 11 Featuring an array of Gallery three hundred years of Jan, The Barber gold and blood-red Hodgkin, Henry Moore and Jim Dine are just miniature paintings some of the renowned artists whose work MOUNTAIN, MOOR AND craft through fine his- Institute, Birmingham MOONLIGHT Cleone toric examples of depicting people, blos- features in this exhibition at the Museum & DARK AGE WARWICK & soms, colours, rain, Abbs’ artwork reflects applied arts produced THE WARRIOR QUEEN Art Gallery’s Waterhall Gallery. Comprising her attempts to bring in the Black Country, leaves and abstract Exhibition which forms, until Sun 25 Jan, fifty artworks from Birmingham’s collection inner and outer worlds including the famous explores the origins of into new and unexpect- Bilston enamels, until Ikon Gallery, from the 1800s to the present day, Static Aethelflaed, Lady of the Birmingham brings together a broad range of disciplines ed relationships, until Wed 31 Dec, Bilston Mercians, until Sun 11 Sat 13 Dec, Craft Gallery ANDY GARBI: SHADOWS & and artistic responses, at the same time Jan, Leamington Art Wolverhampton Art TURNING ‘AGES EXHIBI- Gallery & Museum DUST Using music, pho- opening a discussion about the genre of still Gallery tography and video, the TION Installation & exhi- PEOPLE OF INDIA: PHOTO- life in its broadest sense. THE ARTIST AND THE CITY bition which comments artist explores ‘spirit of Three new contemporary exhibits, Land Of GRAPHS BY JASON SCOTT place’ through audiovi- A collaborative exhibi- on our connection with TILLEY Thought-provok- Milk And Honey II - from the late West tion celebrating Stoke’s the written word, until sual works that contain ing exhibition featuring within them the ‘DNA’ of Bromwich artist Donald Rodney - and status as a creative Wed 31 Dec, Library of black-and-white studies hub, until Sat 13 Dec, Birmingham the Newman Bros facto- Snacks 4 and London Oyster Shells (from taken between 1999 & ry before changes Airspace Gallery, Stoke- VOICES OF WAR EXHIBI- 2009, until Sun 11 Jan, young artist Jess Flood-Paddock) are show- on-Trent occurred through its cased in the exhibition. TION The experiences of Herbert Museum & Art renovation, until Fri 30 ART FROM AMMUNITION: men on the Front, the Gallery, Coventry Jan, Newman Brothers TRENCH ART FROM THE impact of war on chil- MARTIN PARR: BLACK at the Coffin Works, FIRST WORLD WAR A dren, the contribution of COUNTRY STORIES Jewellery Quarter, showcase of folk art Black & Asian soldiers, Photographic portrait & Birmingham objects created by ser- and the role of women archive of life in the CRAFTED FOR YOU vicemen, civilians and on the Home Front are Black Country, until Sun prisoners of war from among the themes Showcase of works 11 Jan, New Art Gallery, from some of the over twenty countries explored in this enlight- Walsall which serve as a ening WWI exhibition, region’s finest craftmak- reminder of the global until Wed 31 Dec, USEFUL OR BEAUTIFUL ers, until Sat 31 Jan, scale of the First World Library of Birmingham CRAFT EXHIBITION Worcester City Museum Curated selection of & Art Gallery War, until Sun 14 Dec, FROM FERTILE GROUND A Compton Verney contemporary craft for THE GREAT WAR: COVEN- changing programme of sale, until Sat 17 Jan, Gallery, Warwickshire displays, projects & TRY’S STORY Exhibition RBSA Gallery, marking the outbreak of HIDDEN WATERS events exploring Birmingham Exhibition by Bob themes from the natural World War One which Flowers and a jug, William George Scott © Birmingham Levene about water, world, until 31 Dec, THE MAKING OF MORDOR focuses on the experi- Museums Trust, Estate of William Scott 2011 Exhibition exploring the ences of Coventry peo-

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memorates the cente- RBSA Gallery, JUNE DUDLESTON RBSA START Featuring works VisualArts LISTINGS nary of the First World Birmingham Exhibition exploring by RBSA Members & War and recounts the ROBERT HAND ARBSA landscape scenes over Associates. All works on experiences of the changing seasons, show are for sale, For full listing information on Visual Art Solo show featuring a Birmingham men who combination of hand- Mon 29 Dec - Sat 14 priced £200 or under, exhibitions, including times and dates, served in the regiment built raku & pit-fired Feb, RBSA Gallery, Tues 30 Dec - Sat 7 visit www.whatsonlive.co.uk between 1914 and ceramics, Mon 29 Dec - Birmingham Feb, RBSA Gallery, 1918, using personal Sat 7 Mar, RBSA Birmingham objects, medals & Gallery, Birmingham ple during the conflict, soldier-artist Captain memorabilia, until Sun until Sun 1 Feb, Herbert Bruce Bairnsfather. This 26 July, Birmingham Art Gallery & Museum, exhibition ties in with Museum & Art Gallery Coventry the RST’s festive offer- Museums & Art Galleries FAITHFUL FRIENDS PHO- POP EUROPE! until Sat 7 ing, The Christmas Truce, until Sun 15 Mar, TOGRAPHY EXHIBITION A Birmingham BROADFIELD HOUSE GLASS Staffordshire Feb, Wolverhampton MUSEUM, DUDLEY Paccar Room, Royal body of work docu- NEWCASTLE BOROUGH Art Gallery ARTIFEX Sutton Coldfield 01384 812745 Shakespeare Theatre, menting friendships 0121 323 3776 MUSEUM & ART GALLERY WEST MIDLANDS OPEN formed & deepened DUDLEY MUSEUM & ART Stratford-upon-Avon BARBER INSTITUTE 01782 232323 GALLERY Biennial public art exhi- through the Near 0121 414 7333 THE POTTERIES MUSEUM & bition featuring work by 100 DAYS: THE RWANDAN Neighbours programme 01384 815575 GENOCIDE TWENTY BIRMINGHAM MUSEUM & ART GALLERY, STOKE-ON- both professional and in Birmingham, Mon 1 - LIGHT HOUSE MEDIA CENTRE TRENT 01782 232323 YEARS LATER ART GALLERY amateur artists from all A display Sun 14 Dec, Library of WOLVERHAMPTON of photographic, digital 0121 303 2834 SHIRE HALL GALLERY disciplines, until Sun 15 Birmingham 01902 716055 STAFFORD 01785 278345 Feb, Birmingham and installation works CASTLE GALLERIES from a selection of DARREN BANKS: THE 0121 248 8484 THE NEW ART GALLERY STAFFORDSHIRE MUSEUM, Museum & Art Galleryt WALSALL 01922 654400 international contempo- RAVEN A body of work SHUGBOROUGH GRAND UNION 01889 881388 ART OF THE TROUBLES rary artists, to give inspired by the legacy 0121 643 9079 RED HOUSE GLASS CONE Major new exhibition voice to the women of Churton Fairman - 01384 812750 featuring artists’ better known by his IKON GALLERY who lived through the 0121 248 0708 WOLVERHAMPTON ART Warwickshire responses to the trou- conflict, until Thurs 30 alias, Mike Raven, GALLERY 01902 552055 bles in Northern Thurs 4 Dec - Sun 26 NUMBER NINE THE GALLERY COMPTON VERNEY GALLERY Apr, Herbert Art Gallery 0121 643 9099 01926 645500 Ireland, until Fri 27 Feb, & Museum, Coventry Apr, New Art Gallery, Wolverhampton Art Walsall RBSA GALLERY Shropshire HERBERT ART GALLERY THE JEWELLERY QUAR- 0121 2364353 BEAR STEPS GALLERY, COVENTRY 02476 832386 Gallery BLACK SHEEP: THE DARK TER DURING THE FIRST SHREWSBURY LANCHESTER GALLERY, WORLD WAR ONE: IN THE SIDE OF FELT Exploration STRYX GALLERY, DIGBETH WORLD WAR Exhibition [email protected] 01743 344994 COVENTRY WORDS OF WORCESTER- of artefacts, images of the edgier side of felt 02476 887831 SHIRE PEOPLE Part of a in an exhibition curated THREE WHITE WALLS SHREWSBURY MUSEUM & and oral histories relat- ART GALLERY series of events in by textile artist & felt GALLERY MEAD GALLERY WARWICK ing to the recruitment of 0121 200 3328 01743 258885 02476 524524 Worcestershire com- soldiers from the maker Laura Mabbutt, memorating the Sat 6 Dec - Sat 31 Jan, TWENTY TWENTY GALLERY, ROYAL PUMP ROOMS Jewellery Quarter, until MUCH WENLOCK 01926 742700 anniversary of the First Sat 27 June, The Bilston Craft Gallery Black Country 01952 727952 RUGBY MUSEUM & ART World War, until Sat 14 Jewellery Quarter, VAL PITCHFORD RBSA Val BANTOCK HOUSE THE WILLOW GALLERY, GALLERY 01788 533201 Mar, Worcester City Birmingham explores the small, and WOLVERHAMPTON Museum & Art Gallery 01902 552195 OSWESTRY SOLDIERS STORIES: very small, format 01691 657575 BRUCE BAIRNSFATHER through abstract land- BILSTON CRAFT GALLERY Worcestershire BIRMINGHAM AND THE 01902 552507 Fascinating exhibition ROYAL WARWICKSHIRE scapes, still life and WORCESTER CITY ART which explores the life REGIMENT 1914 - 1918 flower paintings, Mon GALLERY 01905 25371 and illustrative work of Exhibition which com- 29 Dec - Sat 28 Feb, Visit whatsonlive.co.uk for venue website details

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Antiques For Everyone NEC, Birmingham, Thurs 4 - Sun 7 December Antiques For Everyone is one of the largest events of its kind in the Taking centre-stage at this latest fair is a display of silverware from UK - and with items ranging from as little as £10 (up to £100,000 for the Soldiers Of Gloucester Museum, including trophies, medals and the more serious collectors), it provides a perfect environment in flags from one of the British Army's most battle-honoured units, the which to pick up some unusual Christmas gifts. Gloucestershire Regiment. Collectables on show at the event include antique and decorative fur- The event also features more than two hundred-and-fifty stall holders. niture, treen, ceramics, kitchenalia, silver, glass, jewellery, works of Antiques For Everyone favourites Judith Miller and Mark Hill will be art, arms and armour, maps, dolls and bears. on hand to offer hints and tips on what’s hot and what’s not.

A Traditional Christmas Selly Manor, Birmingham, Sat 6 December Elizabethan re-enactors Gloriana are at the heart of this festive offering, which sees the sixteenth century Tudor manor house - one of Birmingham’s oldest buildings - decked out in Christmas greenery and illuminated by candlelight. Carol singing and festive favourites from local choirs and the Blackwell Concert Band also feature, as do mince pies, mulled wine and plenty of seasonal cheer.

Clothes Show Live NEC, Birmingham, Fri 5 - Tues 9 December Featuring more than five hundred leading fashion and beauty brands, non-stop catwalk shows, makeovers, manicures, beauty demonstrations and style advice, it’s little wonder that Clothes Show Live is described as ‘the hottest ticket on the fashion calendar’. The award-winning ALCATEL ONETOUCH Fashion Theatre is the place to see hot new girl band Neon Jungle, British music talent Jetta, onscreen favourite Rick Edwards, fashion designer Henry Holland and the cheekiest chap in Chelsea, Jamie Laing. Meanwhile, over at the Olympus PEN Designer Catwalk, British journalist Hilary Alexander OBE presents an exclusive trend show featuring iconic designer Zandra Rhodes. Other features include: Model Masterclasses - thirty-minute tutorials led by an industry expert; the Image Catwalk - showcasing influential and contemporary collections from emerging talent and graduate designers; and the THX Total Hair Experts Paparazzi Pen - where visitors can have the ultimate celebrity selfie with their favourite TV & music stars, set against a branded Clothes Show Live wall.

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Events PREVIEWS Victorian Christmas Evenings Black Country Living Museum, Fri 19 - Tues 23 December Providing a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of Christmas shopping, these traditional festive evenings at Dudley’s award- winning living history museum promise plenty of Christmas cheer. Entertainment is provided courtesy of brass bands, street performers and carols singers - and there’s even a fairytale panto with a Black Country twist from the museum’s resident performers, Fizzog Productions. Mulled wine and roasted chestnuts, a food & craft market and the chance to visit Santa by the fireside provide even more reasons to experience this always-popular event.

Continental Circus Berlin On Ice Star City, Birmingham, Thurs 18 December - Sat 3 January After delighting audiences across the world, Continental Circus Berlin this month lands in the Midlands with a glittering show that combines ice artistry, circus skills and illusions. Ice Plenty of festive joy at dancers, trapeze artists, contortionists, comedians and magicians all feature in this high- energy production, which is presented within a brand new state-of-the-art (and heated!) luxu- Birmingham Museums ry big top. Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery, Blakesley Hall, Birmingham, Museum of the Jewellery Quarter, Soho House & Weoley Castle, Christmas, it provides an ideal accompani- Birmingham. Various dates apply Christmas Celebration ment to Birmingham’s well-established There’s certainly no shortage of events to get Weekends Frankfurt Market. visitors to Birmingham Museums in the fes- Cadbury World, Birmingham, Sat 6 - Sun 7, tive spirit this month. Sat 13 - Sun 14 & Sat 20 - Sun 21 December An extensive programme across five venues The run-up to Christmas 2014 sees starts with a Nativity Trail at Birmingham Bournville’s chocolate paradise converted Museum & Art Gallery. Taking place through- into a festive wonderland filled with seasonal out December, the trail explores works in the entertainment and activities. Highlights venue’s collection that have a special link to include Cadbury’s Chuckle Beans joining the Christmas Story. Snow White on stage for a series of There’ll also be a chance to meet Santa at ‘enchanting’ performances, and the chance the museum between 17 and 22 December to visit Father Christmas in his magical grot- (selected times only). to, where he’ll be handing out gifts to well- Over at the Museum of the Jewellery Quarter, behaved and deserving youngsters. seasonal entertainment on 6 December Birthplace Light Show includes carol singing, costumed guided Shakespeare’s Birthplace, Stratford-upon- tours and craft activities for children. Avon, until Sun 14 December On the same day at Weoley Castle, visitors young and old are invited to take part in spe- This brand new contemporary light show, cial Green Wreath Workshops (a charge of which celebrates the four hundred-and-fifti- £10 per wreath applies). eth anniversary of Shakespeare’s birthday, Meanwhile, Christmas tours at Blakesley Hall features digital images lasered onto the exte- (8 - 11 December) enable visitors to view the rior of the Birthplace Trust building, illuminat- house decorated in Tudor splendour. A ed gardens and pathways, and dramatic per- warming mug of berry punch and a mince formances from the Birthplace’s resident per- pie are included in the price of £8. Booking formers, Shakespeare Aloud. is essential! Developed by emerging artists Anthony Moving on a few centuries, Blakesley then Head and Emily Knight, the show explores hosts a Victorian Christmas experience on the text and texture of Shakespeare across Sat 13 December, providing visitors with the four themes, combining the Stratford bard’s chance to come face-to-face with costumed Winter Skate words with sixteenth century music and pat- characters as they prepare for yuletide festiv- terns. Centenary Square, Birmingham, Four shows will be played in rotation every ities. until Sun 5 January evening, each showcasing a different theme Over at Soho House, Christmas Delights Returning to Centenary Square for a second tours (Thursday 4, 11 and 18 December) and lasting about five minutes. The shows year, Winter Skate provides a perfect oppor- begin at 4.30pm, 5pm, 5.30pm and 6pm. reveal how industrialist Matthew Boulton and tunity for wannabe Torvill and Deans to try his friends would have celebrated Christmas Entrance to the Birthplace gardens’ illumina- out their skating skills on an Olympic-sized tions is free of charge between shows. during the eighteenth century. outdoor ice rink. Perfect for the lead-up to

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Dec, Trentham Gardens, Staffs Events LISTINGS CHRISTMAS POTTERY PAINTING Mon 1 Dec - For full listing information on Events, Wed 24 Dec, Gladstone including times and dates, visit Pottery Museum, Stoke-on-Trent www.whatsonlive.co.uk SANTA'S WINTER WONDERLAND Explore WINTER SKATE Providing Santa’s Christmas a perfect opportunity from snow trail, take a walk for wannabe Torvill & through the enchanted MON 1 DEC Deans to try out their forest, enjoy a game of skills on an Olympic- snowballs and hitch a FRANKFURT CHRISTMAS size outdoor ice rink, ride on a sledge, Mon 1 MARKETS until Sun 5 Jan, The largest - Wed 31 Dec, The Centenary Square, outdoor market in the Snowdome, Tamworth Birmingham country, featuring a EXPERIENCE CHRISTMAS THE RAGLEY SNOW BALL wide range of tradition- AT WORCESTER CATHE- Mon 1 Dec, Ragley al handmade toys, art, DRAL Enjoy a family trail Hall, Warwickshire and items from around the east end of THE BIRTHPLACE LIGHT throughout the world, the Cathedral, Mon 1 Santa Run - Brindleyplace, Birmingham SHOW Celebrate until Mon 22 Dec, Dec - Tues 6 Jan, Christmas with the Birmingham City Centre Worcester Cathedral DASH ART EXPRESS Birmingham CHRISTMAS TREE WINTER WONDERLAND Birthplace lightshow SCIENCE OF SOUND Mon WORKSHOP Tues 2 Dec, VOICES OF WAR FESTIVAL Wed 3 - Sun 7 and garden illumina- Visit Santa in his log 1 Dec - Fri 5 June The Hive, Shrewsbury EXHIBITION GUIDED Dec, St Marys Church, tion, Mon 1 - Sun 14 cabin, walk through Ice 2015, Symphony Hall, SONGS FOR THE CITY TOURS Wed 3 Dec, Stafford Dec, Shakespeare’s Mountain, take a spin Birmingham Tues 2 Dec, Lichfield Library Of Birmingham CHRISTMAS AT ARLEY Birthplace, Stratford- on the Winter Carousel LUNCHTIME TALK: THE Cathedral MAKE A CHRISTMAS ARBORETUM Wed 3 - upon-Avon and Sleigh Ride, until FACTORY CHRISTMAS POP EUROPE! SYMPO- PLANTER Wed 3 Dec, Sun 7 Dec, Arley FESTIVE FEASTS Mon 1 - Tues 23 Dec, PARTY Illustrated talk SIUM Symposium Charlecote Park, Arboretum, Worcester Fri 19 Dec, St Mary’s Wonderland, Telford, linked to the exhibition addressing the issues Warwickshire CHRISTMAS DELIGHTS A Guildhall, Coventry Shropshire When Santa Came To concerning the geo- FREE RADIO STAGE Enjoy rare opportunity to see THE SHROPSHIRE SANTA FESTIVE OUTDOOR AND The Factory, Tues 2 graphical confinement festive music and enter- the house decorated EXPERIENCE CRAFTY FUN Mon 1 - until Wed Dec, Bantock House of Pop Art, Tues 2 Dec, tainment from Free for a Georgian Mon 22 Dec, Brandon 24 Dec, Park Hall Museum, Wolverhampton Art Radio, Wed 3 Dec, Christmas. Hear tales Marsh Nature Centre, Countryside Wolverhampton Gallery Civic Centre 4, of how the season was Coventry Experience, Oswestry, TILE DECORATING CHRISTMAS BY CANDLE- Coventry celebrated over two SANTA SAFARI Enjoy a North Shropshire WORKSHOPS Drop-in LIGHT Tues 2 Dec, The SANTA AND STEAM hundred years ago, CHRISTMAS AT RAYS four-mile drive-through sessions where partici- Fleece Inn, Worcester Celebrate the festive Thurs 4 Dec, Soho FARM safari. See cheetahs, See baby Jesus pants use the tech- ART BUS! GALLERIES season with a nostalgic House, Birmingham lions and elephants - in the donkey’s stable nique known as tube NIGHT Birmingham's Art steam ride through GRUESOME AND GHOSTLY and meet Santa too! with Mary, Joseph, the lining to decorate their Bus is back on the road Staffordshire’s most TOURS Hear about the Mon 1 - Wed 24 Dec, Three Kings and Wise very own tile to take this month, transporting idyllic valley, Wed 3 ghosts that haunt the West Midland Safari Men, until Wed 24 Dec, home, Tue 2 Dec, art lovers between the Dec, Churnet Valley streets and houses of Park, Bewdley Rays Farm Country Jackfield Tile Museum, city’s various galleries, Railway, Froghall, Lichfield, Thurs 4 Dec, TRENTHAM FAIRY TRAIL Matters, Bridgnorth, Shropshire Wed 3 Dec, mac, Staffordshire Lichfield City Shropshire Mon 1 Dec - Wed 24

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WITH IAN PHILIPS Sat 6 Frankfurt Christmas Markets, Birmingham City Centre LISTINGS Dec, The Willow Events Gallery, Oswestry, North Shropshire For full listing information on Events, CANDLELIT CHRISTMAS including times and dates, visit NIGHT Sat 6 Dec, www.whatsonlive.co.uk Avoncroft Museum, Bromsgrove CITY CENTRE SANTA RIDE and beauty brands. GALLERY TOUR An infor- Charity bike ride Hair and beauty mal tour of the gallery around the city centre. demonstrations, to find out about the All proceeds to the makeovers, experts, history of the building Heart of England trend reports, celebri- and Wolverhampton’s Community ties and next genera- renowned collections, Foundation, Thurs 4 tion talent all feature, Sat 6 Dec, Dec, Coventry City Fri 5 - Tue 9 Dec, NEC, Wolverhampton Art Centre Birmingham Gallery ANTIQUES FOR EVERYONE CHRISTMAS TREE FESTI- THE SINGULAR EXPLOITS Showcasing an eclectic VAL Fri 5 - Sat 20 Dec, OF SHERLOCK HOLMES array of antiques and Lichfield Cathedral Sat 6 Dec, Wightwick collectables, ranging SANTA SAFARI Fri 5 - Manor & Gardens, from kitchenalia Tues 23 Dec, Wolverhampton through to fine works of Hawkstone Park & CHRISTMAS EXTRAVA- art worth in excess of Follies, Shropshire GANZA Make, play and £20,000, Thurs 4 - Sun SANTA’S DIZZY DAY A discover during a fes- 7 Dec, NEC, fun-packed experience tive session inspired by Attingham Park, Nr entertainment and Shakespeare’s Birmingham for children which Christmas decorations, Shrewsbury activities, Sat 6 - Sun 7 Birthplace, Stratford- CHRISTMAS WREATH includes meeting santa, Sat 6 Dec, Bilston Craft SANTA HUNTS A fun- Dec, Cadbury World, upon-Avon MAKING Led by an sing-a-longs, festive Gallery filled search for Santa. Birmingham CHRISTMAS TREE FESTI- expert, learn about the shows and more, Fri 5 - CHRISTMAS AT WINTER- Costumed guides and CHRISTMAS FOOD AND VAL Sat 6 Dec - Mon 5 different techniques Wed 24 Dec, Belgrade BOURNE Featuring Christmas clues point CRAFT FAYRE Sat 6 - Jan, Worcester used to make a wreath Square, Coventry themed craft activities the way to Santa's Sun 7 Dec, Weston Cathedral and then get creative, FARMER'S MARKET and a magical workshop. This is a Park, Shifnal, A VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS designing something Featuring stalls selling Christmas grotto, Sat 6 pre-book event, Sat 6 - Shropshire Sat 6 Dec - Tues 6 Jan, special to take home local food, drink, craft Dec, Winterbourne Sun 7 Dec, Black HOLLY WREATH-MAKING Anne Hathaway’s with you, Fri 5 Dec, and produce, including, House and Garden, Country Living WORKSHOPS Sat 6 - Sun Cottage & Gardens, Kenilworth Castle, sweets, apple juice, Birmingham Museum, Dudley 7 Dec, National Stratford-upon-Avon Warwickshire bread, cakes, honey, MUCH WENLOCK CHRIST- CHRISTMAS CRAFT AND Memorial Arboretum, CHRISTMAS GIFT FAIR SANTA SAFARI Fri 5 Dec, smoked meats, hand- MAS FAYRE Sat 6 Dec, FOOD MARKET Sat 6 - Staffs Featuring unique arts Hawkstone Park & dyed yarns, beer, The Square, Much Sun 7 Dec, Croome CHRISTMAS WASSAIL and crafts created by Follies, Weston-under- plants and much more, Wenlock, South Park, Worcester Enjoy Christmas stories local designers, Sat 6 - Redcastle, North Sat 6 Dec, The Shropshire SANTA AT THE SERVANTS' and carols from Tues 7 Dec, Hall’s Shropshire Discovery Centre, TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS QUARTERS Explore the Birmingham Crescent Croft, Stratford-upon- FESTIVE CHRISTMAS Shropshire See the Tudor manor festively decorated Theatre, Sat 6 - Sun 7 Avon CAROLS Fri 5 Dec, SANTA RUN In aid of decorated for Victorian servants’ Dec, Coughton Court, ATTINGHAM AT CHRIST- Aston Hall, Birmingham Acorns Children’s Christmas, lit by atmos- quarters and meet Warwickshire MAS Discover the man- MURDER MYSTERY DIN- Hospice, Sat 6 Dec, pheric candlelight and Santa in the butler’s CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR sion decorated for NERS Fri 5 Dec, Brindleyplace, brought to life by living pantry, where he’ll be Sat 6 - Sun 7 Dec, Christmas in a bygone Shugborough Working Birmingham history group Gloriana, handing out gifts to vis- Ruskin Glass Centre, age, Sat 6 - Sun 7 Dec, Estate, Staffs WINTER MARKET Sat 6 Sat 6 Dec, Selly Manor, iting children, Sat 6 - Stourbridge Attingham Park, VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS Dec, The Bond, Birmingham Sun 7 Dec, CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS Shrewsbury Evening of festive enter- Birmingham DRIVEZONE - CAR CLINIC Shugborough Historic CARD AND BAUBLE MAK- SANTA’S GROTTO Sat 6 - tainment, Fri 5 Dec, HAND-CASTING AT THE A three-hour course in Working Estate, Staffs ING CRAFTS Sat 6 - Sun Sun 7 Dec, Gregynog Bantock House GLASS MUSEUM Sat 6 the basics of motoring, SANTA STEAM SPECIALS 7 Dec, National Hall, Newtown Museum, Dec, Broadfield House Sat 6 Dec, Heritage Visit Santa in his spe- Memorial Arboretum, CHRISTMAS DURING WWI Wolverhampton Glass Museum, Dudley Motor Centre, cial grotto at Arley, Staffordshire Experience what life FRIDAY TWILIGHT - A34 FESTIVE DOMINO Warwickshire where all fare-paying STORIES WITH SANTA Sat was like for a middle- CAROLS IN THE CAFE See MUSIC NIGHT An CHRISTMAS BALL Sat 6 children will receive a 6 - Sun 7 Dec, National class family between the World War One evening of dominos, Dec, Warwick Castle present, Sat 6 - Sun 7 Memorial Arboretum, 1914 and 1918, Sat 6 - exhibition by lamplight music & Caribbean cui- FESTIVE BUNTING WORK- Dec, Severn Valley Staffordshire Sun 7 Dec, Hall’s Croft, and enjoy traditional sine to welcome the SHOP Sat 6 Dec, Railway, Kidderminster VICTORIAN CRAFT FAYRE Stratford-upon-Avon carols in the cafe with festive period, Sat 6 Herbert Art Gallery & CHRISTMAS CRAFT Sat 6 - Sun 7 Dec, St CHRISTMAS CRAFT pianist Frank Leigh, Fri Dec, The Drum, Museum, Coventry MARKET Featuring local Leonard’s Church, SHOPPING EXPERIENCE 5 Dec, The Potteries Birmingham MIRANDA DICKINSON designers selling an Bridgnorth, Shropshire Sun 7 Dec, Museum & Art Gallery, CHRISTMAS BOOK LAUNCH Sat 6 exclusive selection of CHRISTMAS IN THE HOME Warwickshire Exhibition Stoke-on-Trent CELEBRATIONS Dec, Fargo Village, products, including Learn how to make tra- Centre TUDOR BANQUETS Fri 5 - Costumed guided Coventry ceramics, jewellery, ditional Christmas dec- DECK THE HALLS Sun 7 Sat 6 Dec, Tamworth tours, carol singing by CHRSTIMAS WREATH paintings and craft orations and watch Dec, Moseley Old Hall, Castle, Staffs Enchant Choir and fes- WORKSHOP Sat 6 Dec, items, Sat 6 - Sun 7 demonstrations on how Wolverhampton CHRISTMAS AT HOME tive refreshments, Sat 6 Jinney Ring Craft Dec, mac, Birmingham to traditionally boil a SANTA DASH Sun 7 Dec, WITH THE EDWARDIANS Dec, Museum of the Centre, Bromsgrove SANTA AND STEAM Christmas pudding, Sat Stafford Town Centre Enjoy Christmas activi- Jewellery Quarter, STUFF THE TURKEY Celebrate the festive 6 - Sun 7 Dec, Black FAMILY FUSED GLASS ties and entertainment, Birmingham CHRISTMAS CONCERT Sat season with a nostalgic Country Living DECORATIONS Sun 7 Fri 5 - Sat 6 Dec, The WREATH MAKING WORK- 6 Dec, St Nicolas steam ride through Museum, Dudley Dec, Broadfield House Locksmith’s House, SHOP Sat 6 Dec, Church, Coventry Staffordshire’s most CHRISTMAS GROTTO No Glass Museum, Dudley Willenhall Moseley Old Hall, CHRISTMAS FOOD AND idyllic valley, Sat 6 - child's Christmas would THE MYTON HOSPICES WINTER WONDERLAND Wolverhampton GIFT FAIR Sat 6 - Sun 7 Sun 7 Dec, Churnet be complete without a SANTA DASH Sun 7 Dec, PARTY NIGHT Enjoy CHRISTMAS Dec, National Memorial Valley Railway, trip to see Father War Memorial Park, food, drink and enter- CELEBRATIONS - CRAFT Arboretum, Staffs Froghall, Staffordshire Christmas, Sat 6 - Sun Coventry tainment by Mark ACTIVITY Make-and-take CHRISTMAS SHOPPING CHRISTMAS MARKET Sat 21 Dec, Birmingham CHRISTMAS AT THE CAS- Tolliss Experience, Fri 5 drop-in craft activity for FARGO STYLE Sat 6 - 6 - Sun 7 Dec, Upton Botanical Gardens TLE Sun 7 Dec, - Sat 6 Dec, National children, Sat 6 Dec, Sun 7 Dec, Fargo House & Gardens, FATHER CHRISTMAS AT Worcestershire County Motorcycle Museum, Museum of the Village, Coventry Warwickshire CHARLECOTE Sat 6 - Sun Museum Solihull Jewellery Quarter, BREAKFAST WITH VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS 21 December, FLEA FAIR Sun 7 Dec, WINTER WONDERFARM Birmingham FATHER CHRISTMAS Sat Sat 6 - Sun 7 Dec, Charlecote Park, Three Counties See Lower Drayton CHRISTMAS FAYRE Sat 6 6 - Sun 7 Dec, Blists Hill, Ironbridge, Warwickshire Showground, Malvern Farm transformed into Dec, Lower Precinct Wightwick Manor & Shropshire VISIT FATHER CHRISTMAS COVENTRY BLAZE VS a winter wonderland Shopping Centre, Gardens, SANTA AT ARLEY ARBORE- Sat 6 - Sun 21 Dec, NOTTINGHAM PANTHERS and meet Santa for an Coventry Wolverhampton TUM Sat 6 - Sun 7 Dec, Upton House & Sun 7 Dec, Skydome early Christmas pres- GREEN WREATH DBPC CHRISTMAS GALA Arley Arboretum, Gardens, Warwickshire Arena, Coventry ent, Fri 5 - Sun 7 Dec, WORKSHOPS Sat 6 Dec, Sat 6 - Sun 7 Dec, Worcester VISIT FATHER CHRISTMAS Lower Drayton Farm, Weoley Castle, Dallas Burton Polo CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION Sat 6 - Sun 21 Dec, Week Commencing Penkridge, Staffs Birmingham Club, Coventry WEEKENDS The run-up Croome Park, MON 8 DEC CLOTHES SHOW LIVE FREE RADIO CHRISTMAS ATTINGHAM CHRISTMAS to Christmas sees Worcester Five-day fashion festival STARS Sat 6 Dec, New Discover the mansion Bournville’s chocolate CHRISTMAS FAMILY POR- packed with unique Art Gallery, Walsall decorated for paradise converted into TRAITS Draw your own and boutique fashion LINOCUT PRINTMAKING Christmas in a bygone a festive wonderland Holbein-style portrait, BAKE AND MAKE - THE age, Sat 6 - Sun 7 Dec, filled with seasonal Sat 6 - Sun 28 Dec, ART OF BREAD AND BUT-

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PARANORMAL INVESTIGA- Birthplace Lightshow, Shakespeare’s Birthplace Trust, Stratford-upon-Avon TION Join the Simply Events LISTINGS Paranormal team as they explore ghostly For full listing information on Events, goings on, Sat 13 Dec, including times and dates, visit St Mary’s Guildhall, www.whatsonlive.co.uk Coventry CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR TER Find out how peo- ago, Thurs 11 Dec, AT FUSION Sat 13 Dec, ple in the seventeenth Soho House, Fusion, Jackfield, Nr century ran their home, Birmingham Ironbridge, Shropshire bake a loaf of bread MURDER MYSTERY DIN- LANTERN PARADE Sat 13 and make butter, Mon 8 NERS Thurs 11 Dec, Dec, Lower Precinct Dec, Moseley Old Hall, Shugborough Working Shopping Centre, Wolverhampton Estate, Staffordshire Coventry VINTAGE CHRISTMAS CHRISTMAS WREATH RETRO CHRISTMAS FAIR PAPER CRAFTS Mon 8 MAKING Fri 12 Dec, Sat 13 Dec, Walsall Dec, Gregynog Hall, Witley Court & Leather Museum Newtown Gardens, Worcester SANTA DASH Take part in CHRISTMAS TOURS Take WORCESTER WOLVES VS the festive fun and walk part in a festive tour, SHEFFIELD SHARKS Fri or jog a one-mile route Mon 8 - Thurs 11 Dec, 12 Dec, Worcester from Chase Leisure Blakesley Hall, University Arena Centre to the Bank Bar Birmingham FABRIC FAFFERS Fri 12 & Lounge in aid of MOSELEY BY CANDLE- Dec, Broadfield House Newlife Foundation, Sat LIGHT Mon 8 - Fri 12 Glass Museum, 13 Dec, Cannock Town Dec, Moseley Old Hall, Stourbridge Centre Wolverhampton CHRISTMAS READINGS Fri CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT Sat 13 Dec, Christ CHRISTMAS CAROL CON- 12 Dec, Nuneaton cial grotto at Arley, paradise converted into WINTER WONDERLAND CERTS Mon 8 - Tues 16 Museum & Art Gallery, Church, Oswestry, North Shropshire where all fare-paying a festive wonderland PARTY NIGHT Enjoy Dec, Wightwick Manor Coventry children will receive a filled with seasonal food, drink and enter- & Gardens, BOWMAN ANTIQUES FAIR OVERNIGHT GHOST HUNT Sat 13 Dec, The present, Sat 13 - Sun entertainment and tainment by Mark Wolverhampton A quality three-day 14 Dec, Severn Valley activities, Sat 13 - Sun Tolliss Experience, Sun TILE DECORATING giant antique fair. Up to Falstaff’s Experience, Stratford-upon-Avon Railway, Kidderminster 14 Dec, Cadbury 14 Dec, National WORKSHOPS Drop-in four hundred stands, SEARCH FOR SANTA Sat World, Birmingham Motorcycle Museum, sessions where partici- including antiques, BUSH CRAFT - SPOON CARVING Learn the 13 - Sun 14 Dec, MERLIN'S MAGIC WAND Solihull pants use the tech- curios, vintage, retro Avoncroft Museum, WINTER PARTY Festive CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT nique known as tube and collectables. Free process and techniques of working with Bromsgrove painting, clay model- Sun 14 Dec, Black lining to decorate their Parking, Fri 12 - Sun 14 SANTA AT THE CONE making and festive craft Country Living very own tile to take Dec, Bingley Hall, green wood and knives to create your own Visits to Santa include a activities, Sat 13 - Sun Museum, Dudley home, Tue 9 Dec, Stafford gift, photo, craft activity 14 Dec, The National CHRISTMAS CAROLS ON Jackfield Tile Museum, WINTER WONDERFARM spoon, Sat 13 Dec, Bishops Wood Centre, and much more, Sat 13 Sea Life Centre, THE FARM Sun 14 Dec, Shropshire See Lower Drayton - Sun 14 Dec, Red Birmingham Fordhall Community CHRISTMAS FLOWER Farm transformed into Stourport CHRISTMAS DECORATION House Glass Cone, CHRISTMAS GIFT-MAKING Farm, Market Drayton, ARRANGING Tues 9 Dec, a winter wonderland Stourbridge WORKSHOPS Sat 13 - Shropshire Gregynog Hall, and meet Santa for an WORKSHOP Decorate and take away your CHRISTMAS CRAFT Sun 14 Dec, Jackfield THE MYTON HOSPICES Newtown early Christmas pres- MARKET Featuring local Tile Museum, WARWICK SANTA DASH CHRISTMAS BY CANDLE- ent, Fri 12 - Sun 14 own Christmas poman- der, Sat 13 Dec, designers selling an Ironbridge, Shropshire Sun 14 Dec, The Myton LIGHT Tues 9 Dec, The Dec, Lower Drayton exclusive selection of COVENTRY BLAZE VS Hospice, Coventry Fleece Inn, Evesham Farm, Penkridge, Staffs Shakespeare’s Birthplace, Stratford- products, including SHEFFIELD STEELERS OSWESTRY CHRISTMAS DRIFT WHAT YA BRUNG 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS ceramics, jewellery, Sun 14 Dec, Skydome MARKET Sun 14 Dec, Chance to practise drift- & NEW YEAR FROLICS Fri upon-Avon CAROLS AT SOHO In part- paintings & craft items, Arena, Coventry Bailey Street, Oswestry, ing in safe and legal 12 Dec - Mon 5 Jan, Sat 13 - Sun 14 Dec, CHRISTMAS AT THE North Shropshire conditions on some of Heritage Motor Centre, nership with St Michael’s Church, Sat mac, Birmingham CASTLE Enjoy crafts, POTTER’S WHEEL WORK- the Pod's thirty acres of Warwickshire CHRISTMAS TRUCE WALK storytelling and more, SHOP Sun 14 Dec, open tarmac, where VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS 13 Dec, Soho House, Birmingham Sat 13 - Sun 14 Dec, Sat 13 - Sun 14 Dec, Eastnor Pottery and there are beginners, Sat 13 Dec, Blakesley National Memorial Kenilworth Castle, The Flying Potter, intermediate and Hall, Birmingham FAMILY CHRISTMAS CAROL CONCERT Sat 13 Arboretum, Staffs Warwickshire Herefordshire advanced tracks open GLAM XMAS PARTY VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS CHILDREN'S CHRISTMAS 1970s-themed Dec, Croome Park, at the same time each Sat 13 - Sun 14 Dec, SANTA TRAILS Sat 13 - SOWeek SUNDAY, Commencing SO SANTA DWYB day, Wed 10 Christmas party to coin- Worcester SANTA’S GROTTO Sat 13 Blists Hill, Ironbridge, Sun 14 Dec, Tamworth Sun 14 Dec, The Dec, Santa Pod cide with the When Shropshire Castle, Staffordshire FleeceMON Inn, 15 Evesham DEC Raceway, Northampton Santa Came To The Dec, Gregynog Hall, Newtown, Powys CHRISTMAS AT THE CAS- CHRISTMAS STORY- CHRISTMAS COOKERY Factory exhibition, Sat TLE Sat 13 - Sun 14 TELLING Sat 13 - Sun 21 Wed 10 Dec, Gregynog 13 Dec, Bantock House FESTIVE FARMERS MARKET Sat 13 Dec, Dec, Worcestershire Dec, Croome Park, SEASONAL CRAFT FOR Hall, Newtown Museum, County Museum Worcester ADULTS Mon 15 Dec, WREATH-MAKING WORK- Wolverhampton Stafford Town Centre SANTA HUNTS A fun-filled CHRISTMAS IN THE HOME 17TH CENTURY CHRIST- Solihull Arts Complex SHOP Wed 10 Dec, WORCESTER WARRIORS V Learn how to make tra- MAS Sat 13 - Sun 21 TWILIGHT SANTA Pop Moseley Old Hall, NOTTINGHAM Sat 13 search for Santa. Costumed guides and ditional Christmas dec- Dec, Moseley Old Hall, along after school, Wolverhampton Dec, Sixways Stadium, orations and watch Wolverhampton meet Santa in the man- SANTA AND STEAM Worcester Christmas clues point the way to Santa's demonstrations on how FATHER CHRISTMAS sion and receive a spe- Celebrate the festive MURDER-MYSTERY DIN- to traditionally boil a GROTTO Sat 13 - Sun 21 cial gift, Mon 15 - Fri 19 season with a nostalgic NERS Sat 13 Dec, workshop. This is a pre- book event, Sat 13 - Christmas pudding, Sat Dec, Wightwick Manor Dec, Attingham Park, steam ride through Shugborough Working 13 - Sun 14 Dec, Black & Gardens, Shrewsbury Staffordshire’s most Estate, Staffs Sun 14 Dec, Black Country Living Country Living Wolverhampton TILE DECORATING idyllic valley, Wed 10 CHRISTMAS Museum, Dudley MERRY 'FISHMAS' Visit WORKSHOP Drop-in ses- Dec, Churnet Valley CELEBRATIONS Featuring Museum, Dudley CHRISTMAS AT THE CAS- SANTA AT ARLEY ARBORE- the National Sealife sions where partici- Railway, Froghall, live music, mulled fruit TUM Sat 13 - Sun 14 Centre to meet the man pants use the tech- Staffordshire punch and lots of fes- TLE Crafts, storytelling and a chance to see a Dec, Arley Arboretum, who makes Christmas nique known as tube FARGO CHRISTMAS MAR- tive goodies, Sat 13 Worcester happen, Sat 13 - Tues lining to decorate their KET Wed 10 Dec, Fargo Dec, Chedham's Yard, very special guest in his grotto, Sat 13 - Sun CHRISTMAS WEEKEND 23 Dec, The National very own tile to take Village, Coventry Warwickshire Sat 13 - Sun 14 Dec, Sea Life Centre, home, Tue 16 Dec, CHRISTMAS AT ARLEY DRIVEZONE - TASTER 14 Dec, Kenilworth Castle, Warwickshire Bewdley Museum, Birmingham Jackfield Tile Museum, ARBORETUM Wed 10 - One-hour session Worcester ATTINGHAM AT CHRIST- Ironbridge, Shropshire Sun 14 Dec, Arley aimed at young people SANTA AT THE SERVANTS' QUARTERS Explore the SANTA AND STEAM MAS Discover the man- CHRISTMAS BY CANDLE- Arboretum, Worcester who’ve not yet started Celebrate the festive sion decorated for LIGHT Tues 16 Dec, The CHRISTMAS MARKET formal driving lessons, festively decorated Victorian servants’ season with a nostalgic Christmas in a bygone Fleece Inn, Evesham Wed 10 - Wed 24 Dec, Sat 13 Dec, Heritage steam ride through age, Sat 13 - Tues 23 MURDER MYSTERY DIN- Civic Centre 4, Motor Centre, quarters and meet Santa in the butler’s Staffordshire’s most Dec, Attingham Park, NERS Tues 16 Dec, Coventry Warwickshire idyllic valley, Sat 13 - Shrewsbury Shugborough Working CHRISTMAS DELIGHTS A A CHRISTMAS WISH Meet pantry, where he’ll be handing out gifts to vis- Sun 14 Dec, Churnet DRIVEZONE - EXPERIENCE Estate, Staffordshire rare opportunity to see Santa, listen to story- Valley Railway, Froghall, A three- hour package CHRISTMAS AT ARLEY the house decorated for telling and join in with a iting children, Sat 13 - Sun 14 Dec, Staffordshire that includes classroom ARBORETUM Wed 17 - a Georgian Christmas. variety of craft activities, CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION training and tuition Sun 21 Dec, Arley Hear tales of how the Sat 13 Dec, The Shugborough Historic Working Estate, Staffs WEEKENDS The run-up behind the wheel, Sun Arboretum, Worcester season was celebrated Potteries Museum & Art to Christmas sees 14 Dec, Heritage Motor CHRISTMAS DELIGHTS A over two hundred years Gallery, Stoke-on-Trent SANTA STEAM SPECIALS Visit Santa in his spe- Bournville’s chocolate Centre, Warwickshire rare opportunity to see

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Events LISTINGS For full listing information on Events, including times and dates, visit www.whatsonlive.co.uk

the house decorated for Centre a Georgian Christmas. CANDLELIT CAROL Hear tales of how the SERVICE Sat 20 Dec, season was celebrated National Memorial over two hundred years Arboretum, Staffs ago, Thurs 18 Dec, AN AFTERNOON WITH Soho House, CLARE BALDING Sat 20 Birmingham Dec, Cineworld, MURDER-MYSTERY DIN- Shrewsbury NERS Thurs 18 Dec, ANNUAL SANTA RUN & Shugborough Working ICE RINK Sat 20 Dec, Estate, Stafordshire Haughton St Giles THREE MEN IN A BOWTIE Primary School, Staffs Music and comedy CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT capers... Thurs 18 Dec, Sat 20 Dec, Avoncroft Ashton Theatre, Museum, Bromsgrove Shrewsbury School FUSED GLASS CHRIST- EARLY YEARS PLAY DAYS MAS DECORATION WORK- Children aged 1-3 have SHOP Sat 20 Dec, an opportunity to Ruskin Glass Centre, explore through senso- Stourbridge ry play that encourages WINTER WONDERLAND creativity, Thurs 18 - Fri PARTY NIGHT Enjoy 19 Dec, Hebert food, drink and enter- Museum & Art Gallery, tainment by Mark Tolliss Coventry Experience, Sat 20 Dec, Birmingham Botanical Gardens THE MAD HATTER'S National Motorcycle CHRISTMAS PARTY A the- Museum, Solihull TUM Sat 20 - Sun 21 Staffordshire cial grotto at Arley, CHILDREN’S SCHOOL HOL- atrical Christmas party MURDER MYSTERY DIN- Dec, Arley Arboretum, WASPS VS LONDON IRISH where all fare-paying IDAY POTTERY SESSIONS which offers partici- NERS Sat 20 Dec, Worcester Sun 21 Dec, Ricoh children will receive a Mon 29 Dec, Eastnor pants the chance to Shugborough Working CHILDREN'S CHRISTMAS Arena, Coventry present, Wed 24 Dec, Pottery and The Flying eat, drink and dance Estate, Staffs SANTA TRAILS Sat 20 - A MEDIEVAL CHRISTMAS Severn Valley Railway, Potter, Eastnor Castle, the night away inside MEET SPONGEBOB Sun 21 Dec, Tamworth WITH WAYTES & MEAS- Kidderminster Herefordshire The Studio, The Rep’s SQUAREPANTS Sat 20 Castle, Staffs URES Sun 21 Dec, The CHRISTMAS EVE GHOST TILE DECORATING newest theatre space, Dec, City Arcade, SHREWSBURY WALKING Fleece Inn, Worcester TOUR Including mince WORKSHOPS Drop-in Thurs 18 - Sat 20 Dec, Coventry TOURS - A CHRISTMAS CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY pies and mulled wine, sessions where partici- The REP, Birmingham A MAGICAL CHRISTMAS CAROL Sat 20 - Sun 21 FAMILY ACTIVITIES A vari- Wed 24 Dec, The pants use the technique HISTORY TALKS: BLACK Sat 20 Dec, Elgar Dec, Shrewsbury Town ety of family-friendly Falstaff’s Experience, known as tube lining to COUNTRY ECHOES Paul Birthplace Museum, Centre trails, crafts and out- Stratford-upon-Avon decorate their very own Quigley, curator of Worcester SANTA AT THE SERVANTS' door activities, Sun 21 - TUDOR CHRISTMAS TALKS tile to take home, Tue Black Country Echoes, CAROLS AT WARWICK Sat QUARTERS Explore the Wed 31 Dec, National Wed 24 Dec, 30 Dec, Jackfield Tile discusses the project 20 Dec, Warwick Castle festively decorated Memorial Arboretum, Shakespeare’s Museum, Ironbridge, and some of the fasci- SANTA STEAM SPECIALS Victorian servants’ quar- Staffs Birthplace, Stratford- Shropshire nating stories he and Visit Santa in his spe- ters and meet Santa in upon-Avon NEW YEAR’S EVE GHOST the team unearthed cial grotto at Arley, the butler’s pantry, Week Commencing BLESSING OF THE CRIB TOUR Includes a glass while researching the where all fare-paying where he’ll be handing Wed 24 Dec, Worcester of buck’s fizz, Wed 31 region’s industrial her- children will receive a out gifts to visiting chil- MON 22 DEC Cathedral Dec, The Falstaff’s itage, Fri 19 Dec, present, Sat 20 - Sun dren, Sat 20 - Mon 22 CHRISTMAS DAY Experience, Stratford- Wolverhampton Art 21 Dec, Severn Valley Dec, Shugborough EUCHARIST Thurs 25 upon-Avon Gallery Railway, Kidderminster Historic Working Estate, WREATH MAKING WORK- Dec, Worcester NEW YEAR’S EVE GALA ART SPEAKING Audio- CHRISTMAS IN THE HOME Staffs SHOP Mon 22 Dec, Cathedral Enjoy a five-course described tours of exhi- Learn how to make tra- SANTA AND STEAM Moseley Old Hall, CHRISTMAS DAY EVEN- meal and disco, Wed bitions for people with ditional Christmas dec- Celebrate the festive Wolverhampton SONG WITH CAROLS 31 Dec, Hawkstone visual impairment, Fri orations and watch season with a nostalgic A VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS Thurs 25 Dec, Park & Follies, Weston- 19 Dec, Wolverhampton demonstrations on how steam ride through WITH SWAN & DYER’S Worcester Cathedral under-Redcastle, North Art Gallery to traditionally boil a Staffordshire’s most WINTER WARMER A fes- COVENTRY BLAZE VS Shropshire WORCESTER WOLVES VS Christmas pudding, Sat idyllic valley, Sat 20 - tive celebration of CARDIFF DEVILS Fri 26 NEW YEAR’S EVE HOUSE LONDON LIONS Fri 19 20 - Sun 21 Dec, Black Wed 24 Dec, Churnet Christmas carols and Dec, Skydome Arena, PARTY Wed 31 Dec, Dec, University of Country Living Valley Railway, Froghall, music hall, Mon 22 Coventry Weston Park, Worcester Arena Museum, Dudley Staffordshire Dec, The Fleece Inn, WINTER FAMILY OUTDOOR Staffordshire OVERNIGHT GHOST HUNT SANTA AT THE CONE CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY Evesham TRAIL Fri 26 Dec - Mon NEW YEAR’S EVE 1940S Fri 19 - Sat 20 Dec, The Visits to Santa include a TRAIL Sat 20 Dec - Sun FESTIVE DROP-IN CRAFT 5 Jan, Croome Park, PARTY Includes a wel- Falstaff’s Experience, gift, photo, craft activity 4 Jan, Attingham Park, Mon 22 Dec, Artrix, Worcester come drink and a four- Stratford-upon-Avon and much more, Sat 20 Shrewsbury Bromsgrove TOY COLLECTORS FAIR course meal, Wed 31 WINTER WONDERFARM - Tue 23 Dec, Red MAC FOOD MARKET CATHEDRAL CAROL SERV- Described as 'Britain's Dec, Jinney Ring Craft See Lower Drayton House Glass Cone, Indulge yourself with ICES Mon 22 - Tues 23 biggest' event of its Centre, Bromsgrove Farm transformed into a Stourbridge tasty treats and special- Dec, Worcester kind and featuring thou- NEW YEAR EVE CEILIDH winter wonderland and SANTA HUNTS A fun-filled ist goods at a special Cathedral sands of collectables Family event featuring meet Santa for an early search for Santa. festive edition of mac's TILE DECORATING for sale from the UK's music entertainment as Christmas present, Fri Costumed guides and monthly food market, WORKSHOPS Drop-in leading specialist deal- well as a hot supper 19 - Sun 21 Dec, Lower Christmas clues point featuring a host of local sessions where partici- ers, Sat 27 Dec, NEC, and bonfire. Fancy Drayton Farm, the way to Santa's artisan producers, Sun pants use the technique Birmingham dress theme is Sci-Fi, Penkridge, Staffs workshop. This is a pre- 21 Dec, mac, known as tube lining to CHRISTMAS IN THE HOME Wed 31 Dec, The VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS book event, Sat 20 - Birmingham decorate their very own Learn how to make tra- Fleece Inn, Evesham EVENINGS Featuring Wed 24 Dec, Black CHRISTMAS RAMBLE tile to take home, Tue ditional Christmas dec- GOLDEN ANNIVERSARY market stalls, carol Country Living Enjoy a walk around 23 Dec, Jackfield Tile orations and watch NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY singing and both street Museum, Dudley the Capability Brown Museum, Shropshire demonstrations on how Featuring a glass of fizz and musical entertain- CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION Parkland and learn how GREAT HALL MEDIAEVAL to traditionally boil a on arrival, live music ment. Local theatre WEEKENDS The run-up the landscape has BANQUET Tues 23 Dec, Christmas pudding, Sat and hot food, Wed 31 group Fizzgog to Christmas sees evolved over centuries, Warwick Castle 27 - Sun 28 Dec, Black Dec, The Swan Theatre, Productions present Bournville’s chocolate Sun 21 Dec, Weston CHRISTMAS BY CANDLE- Country Living Worcester their fairytale panto, Fri paradise converted into Park, Staffordshire LIGHT Tues 23 Dec, The Museum, Dudley NEW YEAR’S EVE CELE- 19 - Tue 23 Dec, Black a festive wonderland COVENTRY BLAZE VS FIFE Fleece Inn, Evesham FLEECE FESTIVE FILMS BRATIONS Featuring a Country Living filled with seasonal FLYERS Sun 21 Dec, CHRISTMAS QUEST Tues Sun 28 Dec, The Fleece buffet and live entertain- Museum, Dudley entertainment and activ- Skydome Arena, 23 - Wed 24 Dec, Inn, Evesham ment from Sole Trader, DICKENSIAN CAROL ities, Sat 20 - Sun 21 Coventry Moseley Old Hall, EVENSONG WITH CAROLS Wed 31 Dec, Wharton SINGERS & CHRISTMAS Dec, Cadbury World, CAROLS AND SUNDAY Wolverhampton Sun 28 Dec, Great Park, Bewdley STREET THEATRE Sat 20 Birmingham LUNCH Sun 21 Dec, SANTA STEAM SPECIALS Witley Parish Church, Dec, Stafford Town SANTA AT ARLEY ARBORE- Weston Park, Visit Santa in his spe- Worcester

64 www.whatsonlive.co.uk Eating Out Dec Region One.qxp_Layout 1 24/11/2014 17:39 Page 1 Eating Out Just Good Food at The REP... Highly rated local outfit Just Good Food has been chosen by The REP as its caterer for private parties and events. The Birmingham-based catering company will provide a wide range of food options - from canapes to three-course meals - for a variety of events at the Centenary Square theatre venue, including VIP launch events, opening nights, corporate breakfasts, lunches and private parties. The company will this month be cre- ating a special menu for The REP’s Alice In Wonderland-themed Mad Hatter’s Christmas Parties.

Gentleman & Scholar opens Number Six the place to be... at The Hyatt But on to the food. For for attention, but his empty REVIEW starters (ranging from plate told the real story. Birmingham’s Hyatt hotel has unveiled its brand £4.95-£6.95) I opted for We rounded off the new look following a multi-million pound refur- twice-baked gruyere evening with a bitter bishment. An integral part of the revamp is the Located in the heart of cheese soufflé with shal- chocolate marquis, with creation of a new bistro pub. The Gentleman & Warwick, Number Six lots and walnut bread. cherry puree and glazed Scholar opens onto Broad Street and features a Castle Street is a relatively This was delicious, and oranges (for me), and a heated terrace and extensive menu. Open to both new addition to the town’s the accompanying slithers baked treacle tart, with guests and non-guests, the eatery mixes modern thriving restaurant scene. of granny smith apple lemon curd, winter berry European cuisine with great British classics. And if you’re looking for were the perfect accompa- granola and crème Dishes include a trio of Shropshire lamb, char- really good food at decent niment to cut through the anglaise. We tried a bit of grilled cutlets, lamb shoulder boulangere and prices, this is the place to creamy cheese flavours. each other’s desserts and sauted sweet breads, all sourced from local pro- be. My friend’s squash bubble couldn’t decide which was ducers. On the cold night my dining partner and I visited, and squeak cake, served better - they were both I’m pleased to report that with poached duck egg, perfectly presented, and, Warwick venue unveils new look the welcome was warm had an excellent consis- above all, tasty as hell! and friendly, setting the tency and was just the And, as with all the pud- It’s been a hive of activity behind the scenes at tone for the service we thing for a cold autumnal dings, only £6.95. Warwick’s popular Rose & Crown pub, with the were to receive throughout night. The restaurant also boasts venue now boasting a stylish new look and new the evening. The restau- From the impressive range a great cocktail and wine dining facilities. The pub’s private dining room, rant is on two levels, with of Mains (£9.95 for fish list, and upstairs there’s The Wood Shed, offers a lovely setting for ‘a bit bare light wooden tables and chips or risotto to the option of private din- of a do’. Its decor is described as ‘rustic chic with and a number of different £22.50 for steak of the ing. So, despite my gripe some quirky antique pieces and plenty of space (in fact, too many) styles day) my slow-braised belly about the lighting, Number to sit back and have a special lunch/dinner or of chair. And here’s my of pork, with potato gratin, Six has the potential to go momentous meeting’. Another new addition at main, and probably only baby carrots and house all the way to Number the Rose & Crown is The Yard. With its white- criticism: there’s some- jus (£15.95) was utterly One. Jack Rolfe washed brick walls and comfy booth seating, it thing just not quite right sublime. I would go as far offers the perfect ambience in which to enjoy laid- with the ambiance created as to say it was the best Food: n n n n n back lunches and drinks with friends. To go with by the furnishings and, in pork dish I’ve ever tasted. Service: n n n n n the new look, head chef Rob Hartwell has rustled particular, the lighting. Whilst I was in raptures, Ambience: n n n n n up a variety of hearty dishes for the winter Everything is too bright my mate enjoyed pheas- Overall value n n n n n months. Using the best of the season’s crop, the and harsh, and needs ant breast with pickled red OVERALL n n n n n menu features: mulled Cornish lamb casserole softening to create a more cabbage, carrots, suet with creamy mash; pan-fried sea bass with intimate and relaxing dumplings and candied Number Six Bombay potatoes, onion bhaji and cardamom atmosphere. The good beetroot (£14.95). His only Castle Street yogurt; and smoked haddock and king prawn pie news is, with a few quibble was that there Warwick with parsley crust and winter greens. tweaks, this could easily were perhaps too many CV34 4BP To book a table or find out more about the Rose be achieved. diverse flavours fighting Tel: 01926 497663 & Crown, visit www.roseandcrownwarwick.co.uk www.whatsonlive.co.uk 65 Eating Out Dec Region One.qxp_Layout 1 24/11/2014 17:39 Page 2

MINT Yew Tree Retail WAGAMAMA Brindley upon Avon. CV37 7LT Droitwich WR9 7NQ Restaurant LISTINGS Park, Stoney Lane Place, birmingham B1 01789 264804 01905 345874 Yardley, B25 8YP WATERS ON THE SQUARE MALLORY COURT Harbury BROWNS 24 Quay St, 0121 789 8908 Chad Square, Hawthorne Lane, Leamington Spa, Worcester WR1 2JJ For full listing information on restau- MOUNT FUJI The Bullring, Rd, Edgbaston, B15 3TQ CV33 9QB, 01926 330214 01905 26263 rants, including opening times and B5 4BH 0121 633 9853 MATRICARDIS 97 High St, CHADDESLEY RESTAURANT NUVO BAR 11 Brindley type of cuisine, visit: www.whatson- Warwickshire Henley in Arden. B95 5AT Brockencote Hall Hotel, live.co.uk Place, B1 2LP 0121 631 01564 792735 Kidderminster DY10 4PY 1600 MERCHANTS 01562 777876 7 SQUARE 7 Old Square, Swan Street, OPUS 54 Cornwall St, Warwick CV34 4BJ 01926 CHUNG YING GARDEN 17 Warwick CV34 4RA THE CHASE INN Chase Rd, B3 2DE 0121 200 2323 403833 Birmingham Thorpe St, B5 4AT 01926 411 755 Upper Colwall, Malvern. 0121 666 6622 THE ORIENTAL The NICOLINIS 14 The Parade, WR13 6DQ 01684 Mailbox, 128-130 NO. 9 CHURCH STREET AALTO RESTAURANT Hotel CIELO 6 Oozells Square, Leamington Spa, CV32 540276 Wharfside St, B1 1RQ Stratford upon Avon, La Tour, Albert Street, Brindleyplace, B1 2JB 4DW 01926 421620 CHESTERS 51 New St, Birmingham B5 5JT 0121 633 9988 Warwickshire CV37 6HB 0121 632 6882 01789 415522 NUMBER SIX Castle Street, Worcester, WR1 2DL 0121 718 8000 PEACHYKEENS 1741 Warwick, CV34 4BP 01905 611638 COAST TO COAST 9 AGRA PLACE 12 Abbey AIR RESTAURANT LG Coventry Road, B26 01926 497663 CROWN & SANDYS Brindleyplace, Broad Green, Nuneaton, CV11 Arena, Bickenhill Rd, 1DS 0121 764 5519 ONE ELM Main Rd, Ombersley, Street, B1 2HJ 5DR 024 7635 0515 1 Guild St, 0844 338 0333 PENNY BLACKS Stratford-Upon-Avon, WR9 0EW 01905 62025 COTE The Mailbox, THE ALMANAK Abbey End BALCONY BRASSERIE The Mailbox, 132-134 CV37 6QZ 01789 404919 EWE AND LAMB Hanbury B1 1RX 0121 631 1587 Wharfside St, B1 1XL North, Kenilworth, CV8 Selfridges On4, The PREZZO 1-3 High St, Road, Bromsgrove B60 CUCINA RUSTICA 24 0121 632 1460 1QJ 01926 353 637 Bullring, B5 4BP Warwick CV34 4AP 4DN 01527 871 929 Ludgate Hill, B3 1DX PICCOLINO AUBERGINE 32 Smith St, BANK 4 Brindleyplace, 0121 233 2277 01926 475867 THE FIG TREE 99 Church B1 2JB 0121 633 4466 9 Brindleyplace B1 2HS Warwick CV34 4HS DEL VILLAGGIO RESTAURANT 23 Street, Gt Malvern, WR14 BAR ESTILO 10-114 0121 634 3055 01926 400 086 Unit 528, Middle Mall, 34 Hamilton Terrace, Holly 2AE 01684 569909 Wharfside St, The PITCHER & PIANO THE ALMANACK Abbey The Bullring. B5 4BE Walk Leamington Spa, FOUR SEASONS 61 Mailbox, B1 1RF 0121 Brindleyplace, B1 2HP End North, Kenilworth 0121 643 1400 CV32 4LY 01926 422422 Lowesmoor, Worcester 643 3443 0121 643 0214 CV8 1QJ 01926 353637 EASTZEAST 167 Broad RISTORANTE DA VINCI 50 WR1 2RS 01905 27026 BARAJEE 265 Broad POPPY RED Arcadian THE BELL Alderminster, Street, Birmingham, B15 Earlsdon Street, Coventry, FUSION BRASSERIE Street, B1 2DS 0121 643 Centre, Birmingham B5 Stratford-upon-Avon, 1AY, 0121 643 4808 CV5 6EJ 024 7671 3554 6699 4TD 0121 687 1200 CV37 8NY Hawbridge, Stoulton, EDMUNDS 6 Brindley ROBBIE’S RESTAURANT 74 Worcester WR7 4RJ BELLA ITALIA 102 New PURNELL’S 55 Cornwall 01789 450414 place, B1 2JB 0121 633 Smith Street, CV34 4HU 01905 840647 Street, B2 4HQ 0121 St, B3 2DH 0121 212 BLUE BISTRO 21 Spon St, 4944 01926 400470 643 1548 9799 Coventry, CV1 3BA 024 THE INN AT STONEHALL ROOFTOP RESTAURANT Stonehall Common, BERLIOZ Burlington FIESTA DEL ASADO 229 PURNELL’SBISTOR & GIN- 7622 9274 Worcester, WR5 3QG Arcade, New St, B2 4JQ Hagley Road, GER’S BAR 11 Newhall @ The RST, Waterside, Birmingham, B16 9RP BROWNS Earl St, Coventry Stratford-upon-Avon, 01905820462 0121 633 1737 Street, B3 3NY, 0121 CV1 5RU 0247 622 1100 0121 445 9331 CV37 6BB 01789 403449 KING CHARLES II King BLUE GINGER 32 Poplar, 2000 1588 CARLUCCIOS 13 Waterside, Rd, Kings Heath, B14 FLEET STREET KITCHEN RAJDOOT TANDOORI 78 - SAFFRON GOLD Market St, Charles House, New St, Fleet Street, Islington Stratford-Upon-Avon Westgate House, Worcester WR1 2D 7AD 0121 444 0999 79 George St, B31 1PY CV37 6BA Gates, B3 1JH 0121 236 Warwick CV34 4DE 01905 22449 BLUE MANGO Regency 0121 236 1116 01789 267424 0100 01926 402061 L’AMUSE BOUCHE 51 Wharf, Broad St, B1 2DS THE RECTORY 50-54 St CASTLES 6 Castle Street, ITIHAAS 18 Fleet St, B3 THE SAXON MILL Graham Rd, Malvern. 0121 633 4422 Paul’s Sq, B3 1QS CV34 4QU 01926 495421 1JL 0121 212 3383 Coventry Rd, Guys Cliffe, WR14 2HU 01684 BLUE PIANO RESTAURANT 0121 605 1001 CATALAN 6 Jury St , JAMIE’S ITALIAN Middle Warwick CV34 5YN 572427 AND BAR 24-26 Harborne RED PEPPERS 117 Warwick CV34 4EW Mall, Bullring Shopping 01926 492 255 LANGTREYS Rd, B15 3AA 0121 454 Wharfside St, B1 1RF 01926 498 930 89a High St, 6877 Centre, B5 4BE 0121 643 4202 SIGNATURES @ The Bromsgrove. B61 8AQ 0121 270 3610 THE CHURCH STREET Belgrade Theatre, 01527 878242 BUONISSIMO 1 Albany SAN CARLO 4 Temple St, TOWNHOUSE 16 Church JIMMY SPICES Regency Coventry, CV1 1GS Rd, Harborne, B17 9JX B2 5BN 0121 633 0251 Street, Stratford-upon- LITTLE VENICE 1 - 3 St Wharf, Broad St, B1 2DS 02476 846762 0121 426 2444 SHIMLA PINKS Avon CV37 6HB 01789 Nicholas St, Worcester 0121 643 2111 215 Broad CAFE OPUS 1 Oozells St, B15 1AY 0121 633 262222 TAILORS 22 Market Place, WR1 1UW 01905 LAS IGUANAS Arcadian Warwick CV34 4SL 726126 Square, Brindleyplace, 0366 COOMBE ABBEY Brinklow Centre, Hurst St, B5 4TD 01926 410590 B1 2HS 0121 248 3226 SIMPSONS, Road, Coventry, CV3 2AB LOTUS HOUSE 33 0121 622 4466 20 Highfield CARLUCCIO’S The Water’s Rd, Edgbaston B13 3DU 024 7645 0450 THE TREVELYAN Warwick Ombersley St East, LASAN 3-4 Dakota Edge, Brindleyplace 0121 454 3434 CROSSED KHUKRIS GURKHA Rd, Stratford-upon-Avon, Droitwich, WR9 8QX Buildings, James St, St CV37 ONR 01905 770079 B1 2HP 0121 633 9262 THE SLUG AND LETTUCE, 115 Abbey Street, Paul’s Square, B3 1SD 01789 295252 MAEKONG THAI 12 CENTENARY BAR & 0121 212 3664 Brindley Place, Nuneaton, CV11 5BX 024 BRASSERIE Broad Street, Birmingham B1 2HL 7634 4488 THE VINE INN 86 - 88 West Worcester Road, THE LOFT LOUNGE B1 2EP 0121 245 2080 0121 633 3049 EDWARD MOON 9 Chapel St, Warwick CV34 6AW Bromsgrove B61 7AE 143 Bromsgrove St, 07873 219005 01527 578888 CHI BAR & GRILL 61 B5 6RG 0121 622 2444 STRADA 109-111 Street, Stratford-upon- Avon, CV37 6EP 01789 WARWICK SPICE 24 Smith MASSALLA LOUNGE 35 Newhall Street, B3 3RB THE LOST & FOUND Wharfside St, The Mailbox B1 1XL 267069 Street, CV34 4HS 01926 Broad St, Worcester 0121 233 3150 8 Bennetts Hill, B2 5RS EGO 491736 WR1 3NH 01905 CHIMICHANGA 41 Mill Lane 0121 643 9293 0121 643 7279 29 The Square, Kenilworth, CV8 1EF ZIZZI 85-87 Regent 729955 Arcade, Touchwood, LOVES The Glasshouse, TGI FRIDAYS 180 Hagley Solihull, B91 3GS 0121 Road, Edgbaston, B16 01926 864463 Square House, Parade, MUG HOUSE Claines Browning St, B16 8FL Leamington Spa CV 32 Lane, Worcester WR3 704 0749 0121 454 5151 9NY 0121 454 1930 THE ENCORE Bridge Street Stratford 4NL 01926 432532 7RN 01905 456649 CHUNG YING MECHU 47 - 59 Summer THAI EDGE 7 Oozells Sq, 16-18 Wrottersley Street, B1 2HL 0121 643 3993 upon Avon CV37 6AB ON THE ROCKS 44 Row, B3 1JJ 0121 212 01789 269462 B5 4RT 0121 622 5669 1661 TURTLE BAY 81-91 John Worcestershire Worcester Road, FINEST CATCH B’ham Rd, Bromsgrove, B61 7AE CHUNG YING CENTRAL 126 METRO BAR & GRILL 73 Bright Street, B1 1BL Colmore Row, B3 3AP THE VAULTS Newhall Henley in Arden. B95 ANAKARI 47 The Tythings, 01527 882412 Cornwall St B3 2DF 5QR 01564 793783 0121 400 0888 0121 200 1911 Place, Newhall Hill, Worcester. WR1 1JT PORTOFINO, 6 Worcester B1 3JH 0121 212 9837 FIVE RIVERS 20-22 Victoria 01905 21412 Rd, Droitwich. WR9 8AD Terrace, ANGEL CHEF 1 Angel St, 01905 794799 Leamington Spa, CV31 Worcester WR1 3QT PORTWAY ITALIAN, 3AB 01926 431999 01905 731131 Alcester Rd, Redditch. GEORGETOWN 23 Sheep ANUPAM 85 Church B48 7HT 01564 824794 (EST 86) St, Stratford-Upon-Avon, Street, Malvern. WR14 PUCCINI'S, 12 Friar St, THE DINNER CLUB CV37 6EF 01789 204445 2AE 01684 573814 Worcester WR12LZ A RECIPE FOR FINE FOOD AND GOOD COMPANY GRANTS OF SHEEP ST 21-23 BACCHUS 44 Worcester 01905 27770 Sheep Street, Stratford- Road, Bromsgrove B61 RAJDOOT Cutnall Green, upon-Avon, CV37 6EF 0TA 01527 877557 Droitwich. WR9 0PW SINGLE? 01789 290 008 BENEDICTOS 34 Sidbury, 01299 851000 HIGH PAVEMENT BAR & DIN- Worcester WR1 2HZ ROSADOS’S 2 Finstall Rd, For the more discerning ING 3 High Street, CV34 01905 21444 Aston Fields, unattached person, age 40+ 4AP 01926 494725 BINDLES BAR & BRASSERIE Bromsgrove. B60 2DZ HELP OUT MILL Heather 55 Sidbury, WR1 2HU 01527 889948 Rd, Shakerstone, 01905 611120 SAFFRON BISTRO 15 New Events weekly include dining out, dinner dances, black tie Nuneaton. CV13 0BT BRAMBLINGS Hither Green St, Worcester WR1 2DP balls,theatre, parties, weekends away and holidays abroad. 01530 260666 Lane, Redditch, B98 9BE 01905 610505 INDIA RED 25 Abbey 01527 406600 Street, Nuneaton, CV11 BRIDGE INN Plough Road, NOT A DATING AGENCY 5BX 024 7634 2090 JIMMY SPICES 64-66 01244 677030 (Day)/01244 548816 (Eve/W-end) Station Rd, Solihull, B91 3RX 0121 709 2111 For full Restaurant listings LE BISTRO PIERRE Swans visit: www.whatsonlive.co.uk www.thedinnerclubuk.com Nest, Bridgford, Stratford

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