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TORVILL AND DEAN TALK COVENTRY&WARWICKSHIRE WHAT’S JANUARY ON 2018 Your FREE essential entertainment guide for the Midlands DANCING ON ICE

Coventry & Warwickshire ISSUE 385 JANUARY 2018 ’ WhatFILM I COMEDY I THEATRE I GIGS I VISUAL ARTS I EVENTSs I FOOD On warwickshirewhatson.co.uk

inside: PARTOF WHAT’S ON MEDIA GROUP Yourthe 16-pagelist week by week listings guide

THE CRIBS Indie rockers in Coventry interview inside... TWITTER: @WHATSONWARWICKS

BILL BAILEY educating comedy at Warwick Arts Centre FACEBOOK:@WHATSONWARWICKSHIRE

DorothyTHE WIZARD takes the Yellow OF Brick OZ Road to Bromsgrove WARWICKSHIREWHATSON.CO.UK Sold Out F/P Artric Fire Jan 18.qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2017 12:56 Page 1 Contents January Warwicks_Worcs.qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2017 14:52 Page 2

January 2018

Contents

A slice of Pie - political satirist Tom Walker talks about his cult creation, Jonathan Pie - feature page 24

Gautier Capuçon Guz Khan Shrek’s back in town the list

explores the musical landscapes former school teacher sees the award-winning musical returns Your 16-page of Dvorak at Warwick Arts... funny side in Coventry to the region week-by-week listings guide page 17 page 26 feature page 36 page 55 inside:

4. First Word 11. Food 13. Music 26. Comedy 30. Theatre 43. Film 48. Visual Arts 51. Events

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Managing Director: Davina Evans [email protected] 01743 281708 Sales & Marketing: Lei Woodhouse [email protected] 01743 281703 Chris Horton [email protected] 01743 281704 What’sOn Editorial: Lauren Foster [email protected] 01743 281707 Brian O’Faolain [email protected] 01743 281701 Sue Jones [email protected] 01743 281705 Abi Whitehouse [email protected] 01743 281716 MEDIA GROUP Ryan Humphreys [email protected] 01743 281722 Adrian Parker [email protected] 01743 281714 Contributors: Graham Bostock, James Cameron-Wilson, Heather Kincaid, Katherine Ewing, Jenny Ell, Lauren Cole, Jack Rolfe, Elly Yates-Roberts, Daisy Sparkle, Carol Lovatt Publisher and CEO: Martin Monahan Accounts Administrator: Julia Perry [email protected] 01743 281717 This publication is printed on paper from a sustainable source and is produced without the use of elemental chlorine. We endorse the recycling of our magazine and would encourage you to pass it on to others to read when you have finished with it. 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. First Word Warwickshire January.qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2017 14:48 Page 1

Entertainment news from around the region

Nativity! The Musical to open UK tour at Coventry’s Belgrade Theatre The Belgrade Theatre in Coventry will be getting into the Christmas spirit early this year when it stages Nativity! The Musical. Based on the popular UK film franchise and running at the Belgrade from Tuesday 23 to Sunday 28 October, the show is written and directed by Coventry resident Debbie Isitt, who also created the movies. The production received its world premiere in autumn 2017 at the Birmingham Repertory Theatre. Commenting on the news, Debbie said: “After an incredibly successful opening in 2017, I’m thrilled that the story of Nativity! is heading home to Coventry. I couldn’t think of a better place for this year’s UK tour to start, and can’t wait for Coventry’s audiences to enjoy this very special show.” To book tickets for the show, ring 024 7655 3055 or visit belgrade.co.uk/event/nativity

Coventry-born actor to British soldier art on show RSC ‘live lessons’ to be star as Romeo at the RSC at Warwickshire gallery streamed into schools Coventry-born actor Bally Gill is to play Schools in the UK are set to be given unprece- Romeo in the Royal Shakespeare Company’s dented access to the Royal Shakespeare Com- (RSC) forthcoming production of Romeo And pany’s (RSC) world famous rehearsal rooms, Juliet. as part of a new series of 45-minute ‘live les- Born and brought up in the Foleshill area of sons’. Coventry, Bally made his RSC debut in 2016 RSC Live Lessons for Romeo And Juliet and when he performed in the Company’s Mis- Macbeth will be streamed direct into class- chief Festival. rooms up and down the country. Commenting on the news of his casting, Bally The lessons will give students a unique in- said: “Romeo is one of the most iconic sight into the creative process and interpre- Shakespeare characters of all time. I've got tive choices that directors and actors make as my version of what I want to do with him, but they prepare to stage a new production. what usually happens is that when you go Christopher Eccleston and Niamh Cusack into the room with the rest of the company, (pictured below) star in Macbeth which runs everything you've prepared or thought about A new exhibition at Compton Verney Art at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Stratford- morphs and changes, and I can't wait for that Gallery & Park in Warwickshire is set to chal- upon, from 13 March to 18 September. process to hap- lenge perceptions about war and behaviour. pen.” Produced in partnership with the National Romeo And Army Museum, Created In Conflict: British Juliet shows at Soldier Art From The Crimean War To Today the Royal will showcase the diversity of artwork made Shakespeare by British Armed Forces personnel. In the Theatre, Strat- process, the exhibition will contemplate sub- ford-upon-Avon, jects such as patriotism, loyalty and the treat- from 21 April to ment of veterans. 21 September. Created In Conflict shows at the venue from For more infor- 17 March to 10 June and features loans from mation, visit the V&A, the Imperial War Museum and the rsc.org.uk Museum of Military Medicine.

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First Word

Spring into spring in Shakespeare’s England Destination management organisation Shakespeare’s England is encouraging families to get out and about in Warwickshire during next month’s half-term holiday. Attractions to enjoy include the chance to take part in a chocolate workshop at Henley Choco- lates, experience live lambing at Cotswold Farm Park, check out new exhibits at the MAD Mu- seum and explore star cars at the British Motor Museum. For full details about what’s on offer in Warwickshire and the surrounding region, visit shake- speares-england.co.uk Coventry gearing up for its year as UK City of Culture Coventry has begun gearing up for one of the biggest years in its history after last month being named UK City of Culture 2021. The city beat off strong competition from Paisley, Stoke, Sunderland and Swansea to win the presti- gious national title. Commenting on the success, Laura McMillan, Manager of the Coventry City of Culture Trust, said: “This is a win for Coventry, a win for young people and a win for diversity. The economic impact will be huge for the city and the West Midlands. It’s been a bid by and for the people of Coventry. It’s brought so many people and organisations together - and this is just the start. Over the next three years, we will ensure that everyone in the city, which has been moving people by cycle, car and jet engine, is now moving people through culture.”

Coming up... Historic Coventry Trust set to regenerate Big names, contemporary 27 of the city’s major heritage sites theatre and high-quality student shows all feature Community organisation Historic Coventry Trust is set to take over the in Warwick Arts Centre running of 22 historic properties and five adjoining sites in the city. Coventry’s spring 2018 The properties and sites are being transferred to the Trust by the city programme of entertain- council, with the groundbreaking deal set to kickstart a £30million ment. restoration and regeneration programme. “We start the year as we Over the next five years, the Trust plans to repair, restore and find sus- Cinderella ‘treads mean to go on,” says Pro- tainable uses for all of the properties, with the help of funding from gramme Director Julia Historic England. the boards’... Carruthers, “bringing our In order to protect the assets, Coventry City Council has said that the transfer will only be made once full funding for the scheme is secured. Christmas may be a gently fad- audiences a host of ing memory but the season of shows to enjoy, challenge pantomime continues well into and immerse themselves January. If you’ve not yet had in. Whilst we pride our- your annual dose of rouged-up selves in bringing recog- Dames, slapstick comedy and nised artists and the best singalong songs, check out theatre and dance com- Treading The Boards Theatre Company’s production of Cin- panies to our stages, derella, showing at the riverside we’re passionate about Attic Theatre in Stratford-upon- supporting new and Avon until Sunday the 7th. young talent too.” For more information, visit For more info, visit war- treadtheboardstheatre.co.uk wickartscentre.co.uk

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First Word

Coventry’s Belgrade awarded It’s All About Me: Theatre Of Sanctuary status Joanna Lumley Coventry’s Belgrade Theatre has become one of only a takes to the road handful of theatres across the UK to be granted Theatre Joanna Lumley is heading of Sanctuary status, an award that recognises the out on her first-ever live tour venue’s commitment to being a welcoming and safe in the autumn. place. The popular actress, who be- Commenting on the award, the Belgrade’s Associate Di- came a household name rector, Justine Themen, said: “The theatre prides itself when she starred in 1970s TV on welcoming and building strong relationships with action series The New the diverse communities in the city, whether as audi- Avengers, will take her It’s ences, participants or artists. We recognise that a city is All About Me show on a 30- a continuously evolving place, and that we need to be date UK tour, en route stop- responsive to change within it. A theatre is a space for ping off at Birmingham’s dialogue within the city and celebrating both our differ- Symphony Hall and Coven- ences and our shared humanity.” try’s Warwick Arts Centre. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit ticket- Historic rally car Stratford festival calls for submissions master.co.uk open day at British from debut writers and illustrators Motor Museum A children’s book competition which partners with Stratford-upon- Avon Literary Festival is taking place for a third year. The Salariya Children’s Picture Book Prize is now open for submissions (until Monday 5 March) and welcomes entries from debut writers and illustrators. The winner will be awarded publication by Salariya imprint Scrib- blers, as well as a £5,000 advance against royalties. The announcement of the winning book will coincide with the publication of 2017 winner Luna And The Moon Rabbit by Camille Whitcher. For further details, visit stratlitfest.co.uk/bookcompetition.

Leamington’s historic Royal Pump Rooms gets a long-overdue renovation Motionhouse man Leamington Spa’s Royal Pump Rooms is receiving a major facelift. takes on new role The Historic Rally Car Register The long-overdue renovation has seen the historic venue - home to Leamington Art Gallery & Museum - given a smart new coat of paint, The founder and artistic di- (HRCR) Open Day takes place at rector of Leamington Spa the British Motor Museum in new furniture, a light installation referencing the town’s spa waters and a reception redesign. dance company Motionhouse Gaydon, Warwickshire, this has been appointed the month (on 13 January). The ongoing project will transform the Pump Rooms’ concourse area from a corridor into a coherent, multifunctional, creative space, Royal Birmingham Conserva- A social gathering where the toire’s first Visiting Professor rally community comes together where residents and visitors can access information and artists can create, showcase and sell work. of Dance. to meet friends and view a selec- Professor Kevin Finnan MBE tion of rally cars from the 1950s was also the choreographer through to the 1980s, the open & movement director of the day is this year taking the theme London 2012 Paralympic of the MG Metro 6R4, one of the Games opening ceremony. most spectacular MG cars ever Commenting on his recent produced. appointment, Kevin said: Entry to the event is free, with “The collaboration reflects attendees able to visit the Mu- our commitment to the dance seum on the day at the dis- sector in the West Midlands, counted rate of £9 per person. and will help celebrate Birm- For more information, visit ingham and the wider region britishmotormuseum.co.uk or as a centre of excellence in hrcr.co.uk dance.” 6 whatsonlive.co.uk First Word Warwickshire January.qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2017 14:48 Page 4

JANUARY CONCERTS

23 January at 7:30pm St Mary’s Church, WARWICK THE GESUALDO SIX The Flower of the Italian Madrigal Palestrina, Gesualdo, Monteverdi

...... 26 January at 7:30pm Royal Pump Rooms, LEAMINGTON ATRIUM STRING QUARTET Haydn, Shostakovich, Tchaikovsky FEBRUARY CONCERTS

11 February at 11:30am Royal Spa Centre, LEAMINGTON ENSEMBLE 360 with POLLY IVES narrator Stan & Mabel and the Race for Space by Paul Rissman

...... 11 February at 3:00pm Royal Spa Centre, LEAMINGTON ENSEMBLE 360 BRAVO BRAHMS Piano Quintet & Serenade in D

...... 16 February at 7:30pm Royal Pump Rooms, LEAMINGTON ARCADIA STRING QUARTET Haydn, Bartók, Beethoven

...... 20 February at 7:30pm St Mary’s Church, WARWICK JOGLARESA The Enchantress of Seville MARCH CONCERTS

9 March at 7:30pm Royal Pump Rooms, LEAMINGTON LONDON HAYDN QUARTET Vranitsky and two Haydn Quartets

...... 13 March at 7:30pm St Mary’s Church, WARWICK THE BACH PLAYERS Music for Easter including Boccherini Stabat Mater

...... 18 March at 3:00pm entry Royal Spa Centre, LEAMINGTON THE SCHUBERT ENSEMBLE OF LONDON plays Hummel, Mozart and Schubert’s Quintet The Trout

For tickets and details of these concerts visit www.leamingtonmusic.org Or call 01926 334418 whatsonlive.co.uk 7 Claire Woods DPS.qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2017 14:53 Page 1

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by Heather Kincaid

reality dimmed Clare Woods’ new exhibition debuts at Warwick Arts Centre

“Disquieting”, “disorienting”, “sensuous”, It’s not so much a case of form taking The transformation works both ways, then: “dangerous and beautiful”, “vibrant, raw precedence over subject matter, then, as it is on the one hand, something as unassuming and exciting” - all words used to describe the a sense that form is content, the means by and everyday as a piece of domestic furniture strange, abstracted works of contemporary which an apparently random source image is can take on an uneasy, even sinister British painter Clare Woods, whose brand made to express a personal way of looking at appearance, while on the other hand, scenes new solo exhibition, Reality Dimmed, opens the world - by which, if you like, we’re invited of genuine horror are cut loose from their at the Mead Gallery this month. to journey into the Woods… original context, reinterpreted and even Straddling the divide between abstract and “I wouldn’t normally disclose my source rendered oddly beautiful through paint. figurative art, Woods’ large-scale works use material directly because it really is just a It’s here that the title of her latest exhibition thick, sculptural layers of brightly coloured springboard for the painting. I’m using it as a comes in. Taken from Viktor Frankl’s 1946 paint to transform real subjects pictured in starting point rather than making direct book Man’s Search For Meaning, the quote found photographs. Close-up, visible copies. The way I pick an image is, I find a refers to his observations of the brushstrokes distort and break up images, photograph that works on a really practical, psychological defence mechanisms while from a distance, they coalesce into formal level, so I know it’s going to be really employed by Auschwitz prisoners. “Reality dimly recognisable shapes, like hidden challenging to paint. The question I’m asking dimmed, and all efforts and all emotions thoughts and feelings slowly surfacing from myself is, ‘How am I going to actually were centred on one task: preserving one’s the subconscious. Indeed, Woods has structurally form this in paint?’ own life and that of the other fellow,” he described her own work as a means of “I spent a lot of time trying to work out how writes. As a psychiatrist, his own experiences painting out buried anxieties, and the overall all the source material linked up and fitted as a Holocaust survivor led to a belief in the effect is startlingly immediate and visceral. together, but eventually I realised that it importance of finding meaning in even the Comparisons have been made to Munch’s doesn’t at all. It’s quite disparate. The only most brutal forms of existence, and thereby a Scream - and it’s easy to see why - while connection is that it all has some effect on reason to continue living. Woods herself cites artists like Bacon and me emotionally or conceptually. For me to While few can claim to have experience of Guston as influences. But such parallels want to paint something, it has to have some anything comparable, the idea of finding a don’t quite do justice to her distinctive way of sort of emotional attachment, and then the means of processing trauma to get on with working: it’s the method and medium she act of painting it is a way of breaking that our lives is surely something to which anyone uses to express her ideas that are uniquely down.” can relate, and chimes with Woods’ own Woodisan. Originally trained in sculpture, Critics and commentators on her last method of obscuring observed reality to she now brings to her painting a sculptor’s exhibition - Victim Of Geography at Dundee reveal some personal truth. eye for three-dimensional form, approaching Contemporary Arts - have picked up on what “I read the book a long time ago, actually, but it as a sort of construction process. appears to be a focus on scenes of trauma in it’s something that’s really stayed with me - “I use aluminium (as a base) because it’s a her latest work. Where early paintings were the idea that to really find meaning you have very stable, solid structure to paint onto,” predominantly based on her own landscape to strip everything away, strip it right back. I she explains. “I always work flat, and photography, there’s since been a shift often collect titles from reading and hearing because I use quite a lot of paint, if I was towards exploring human figures and man- things, and this is one of those instances working this way onto canvas it would sag.” made objects and settings through images where the two words seemed to really fit When she talks about her influences, she gathered from magazines, newspapers and what I was thinking about and what I was describes the work of other artists in online. War zones, hospital corridors and making at that moment, the notion of similarly practical terms, honing in on terror attacks are subjects mentioned in abstracting what you’re actually looking at or specific details or techniques that she is reviews, but it’s something that Woods what you’re feeling.” grappling with, such as a given artist’s use of herself downplays. orange or pink. But her real interest lies in “There was an image in Dundee that came why those choices produce the particular from September the 11th, but it’s actually just Reality Dimmed shows at the Mead effects they do, on the responses - conscious of a person so you wouldn’t necessarily know Gallery, Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, or otherwise - that they provoke from that from looking at it. They’re quite from Monday 8 January until viewers. ambiguous. One of them was just based on a Saturday 10 March. photograph of a chair.”

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Food

Selfridges opens new patisserie, cafe and ice cream bar San Carlo Group has opened its second dining concept in Birmingham’s Selfridges - a luxury patisserie, cafe and ice cream bar. Gran Cafe’s all-day menu, available to eat in or take away, includes: Gourmet sandwiches, a range of freshly baked croissants, pastries & muffins, freshly baked cakes from San Carlo’s own patisserie - including its famous pistachio cake - tiramisu, mille feuille, cream tea or afternoon tea served with a choice of teas, Champagne or prosecco and towering cake shake creations. The ice cream bar also serves San Carlo’s own homemade luxury gelato and sorbets. These are available in an array of flavours, from the more traditional vanilla, strawberry, mint choc chip and chocolate to salted caramel, amarena cherry, marscapone and fig & cookie dough.

risotto and an array of meat all recommended by Vito - com- dishes - the extensive fish menu plemented the mains perfectly, has earned the restaurant a repu- the undoubted highlight being tation for having some of the the deep-fried strips of zucchini best seafood around. that looked like French fries but Bellagio’s fish is delivered six tasted even better. I could’ve days a week and nothing is kept eaten another plateful of those, for more than two days, ensuring too. everything is exceptionally fresh. Actually I couldn’t have, because We decided to stick with seafood by that time we were both more throughout the evening, and I’m than sated and unable to manage confident it was the right deci- a dessert, despite having sali- sion, even if just for the stunning vated at the prospect of a panna starter of Capesanti Spinaci - suc- cotta or tiramisu earlier in the culent melt-in-the-mouth scal- evening. Such sweet delights will lops in garlic served with have to wait for another time, spinach and a lovely rich lobster particularly as both are options REVIEW: Bellagio Ristorante Italiano sauce. I happily would’ve eaten a on the restaurant’s great-value couple of platefuls to myself, but three-course set menu (£19.95 a A great dining experience that won’t we’d opted to share a trio of head). break the bank in Leamington Spa starters, so also tucked into a For the record, the main menu spectacular plate of deep-fried has starters ranging from £4.50 Tucked away on a side street off home but also offered some ex- calamari - which looked more up to £9 (the lobster), main the Parade in Leamington Spa, cellent recommendations from like a whole baby squid than the courses from £9 to £30 (again, Italian restaurant Bellagio might the menu and particularly the ‘onion rings’ I’m used to - with the lobster) and desserts from £5 be rather less ostentatious than wine list, pointing us in the di- homemade tartare sauce, and a to £7. the Las Vegas hotel of the same rection of Sibiliana Roceno Gre- lovely plate of prawns in a tradi- So unlike Vegas, this Bellagio name - sadly there were no danc- canico, a fabulous Sicilian white tional provencale sauce. certainly won’t break the bank ing fountains to greet us - but it’s that instantly became a new Both were great, but were never and is a really safe bet for a thor- worth taking a gamble on all the favourite. going to match the magnificence oughly enjoyable dining experi- same. And while we’re on the subject of of those scallops. I doubted that ence. Opened a little under three years drink, Bellagio has such an ex- anything would, but my main Steve Adams ago, Bellagio was an instant hit tensive gin and cocktail list (in- course came close - beautifully with the locals. Establishing a cluding some fascinating tender chunks of meaty monk- Food: nnnnn great reputation for the quality of non-alcoholic versions) that its fish fillet in white wine, garlic, Service: nnnnn its food, it was named Best Ital- cosy bar area has a clientele all chilli, lemon and parsley, a mix- Ambience: nnnnn ian Restaurant at the 2017 Mid- of its own - although I can’t help ture of flavours that mingled fa- Overall value nnnnn lands Food, Drink & Hospitality thinking the smell of the food mously, none trying to outdo the OVERALL nnnnn Awards. And quite right too, be- will have converted many a rest. cause Bellagio certainly scores drinker into a diner, even if it’s My partner opted for grilled sea high marks when it comes to its only for a few slices of pizza. bass with rosemary and lemon. It Bellagio Ristorante Italiano 33-39 Regent Grove food, drink and hospitality. But as good as that pizza looked, was cooked to perfection, with a lovely balance of firm but flaky Lantern Corner The latter came in the form of a Bellagio is more of a fine dining Leamington Spa flesh. Our side dishes of zuc- friendly welcome and brilliant restaurant than pizzeria, and al- CV32 4AP service from maître d’ Vito, who though there are plenty of tradi- chini, spinach and petit pois Tel: 01926 425394 not only made us feel totally at tional Italian options - pasta, peas with onions and pancetta - whatsonlive.co.uk 11 GIGS January Warwicks_Worcs.qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2017 14:54 Page 1

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Gigs

Will Varley O2 Institute, Birmingham, Tues 30 January Folk musician Will Varley began his musical journey in the early 2000s, aimlessly busking around London with a fake ID, writing hundreds of songs and playing two or three open mics a week. He’s since released four full-length albums, played the Royal Albert Hall, supported Frank Turner and performed at Bestival, Cam- bridge Folk Festival and Glastonbury. This month sees him stopping off in Birming- ham as part of his biggest ever tour.

The Cribs prominence in the mid-noughties on the back of their self-titled debut offering. The Empire, Coventry, Sat 27 January They’ve since released a further six albums Hailing from Wakefield in West Yorkshire, and are probably best known for singles indie rock band The Cribs comprise twins Men’s Needs, Be Safe and Hey Scenesters!. Paramore Gary and Ryan Jarman and their younger The trio visit Coventry in support of seventh brother, Ross. album 24-7 Rock Star Shit. Genting Arena, Birmingham, Sun 14 January The band, which once included Smiths and Check out our interview with the band’s Fronted by Hayley Williams, award-winning Modest Mouse guitarist Johnny Marr, rose to Gary Jarman on page 14. band Paramore are well established on the international rock star circuit. From 2005’s gold-certified debut, All We Know Is Falling, through to 2013's self-titled Robinson-Stone Martyn Joseph album, the band have enjoyed a remarkable Artrix, Bromsgrove, Sat 27 January Huntingdon Hall, Worcester, run of critically acclaimed releases. Thurs 18 January With their celtic folk roots and trademark Best known for hit numbers Misery Business, sibling harmonies, family trio Robinson- There’s a versatility to Martyn Joseph’s Still Into You, The Only Exception and Ain’t It Stone have been heralded as the new Corrs. music that’s hard to categorise. Many have Fun, the hugely popular three-piece head to Expect to hear original songs from their lat- tried, resulting in labels such as folk, rock, Birmingham this month in support of latest est EP release and timeless classics from soul, folk-funk and Americana all being ap- album After Laughter. their acclaimed show, The Life & Music Of plied to his sound. Clifford T Ward. Nominated in the Hardest Working Artist category at the UK Independent Music Awards 2016, Joseph’s overwhelming pas- Bang On The Wall Band sion, unique percussive style and powerful, Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, showstopping voice make for a memorable Thurs 25 January and thoroughly enjoyable live show. Get ready to dance the night away with a traditional Céilidh. Comprising Martin Wildig on lead melodeon, Phil Preen on percussion and tin whistle, Michael Scrivens on bass and Neil Cadwallader on guitar, Bang On The Wall Band play a mix of traditional Eng- lish, Scottish, Irish and American songs. Well known for their infectious enthusiasm, the four-piece have been widely praised for their ‘wonderfully danceable sound’. whatsonlive.co.uk 13 The Cribs DPS.qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2017 14:51 Page 1

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the cribs Lauren Foster chats to Gary Jarman ahead of the band’s Coventry show

The Cribs’ seventh album, 24-7 Rock Star The Cribs are a family band. Does being with us recently. They have to be DIY by Shit, was released last year. Can you tell brothers have a greater number of necessity. They’re totally unspoilt, super- us a bit about it… positives or negatives? dedicated and motivated, and it’s by We recorded it in five days and released it More positives, for definite. The negatives necessity. There are no major labels with no promo. It’s probably my favourite can suck, for sure - you take criticism etc a mollycoddling and throwing money at guitar Cribs record. little more personally cos you’re naturally bands nowadays, like there used to be back defensive of your siblings - but the positives in the 2000s. We were always more DIY than How does it differ from your previous of solidarity, integrity and commitment to a our contemporaries, who were signed to big albums? specific vision are worth so much more than labels and had massive promo campaigns It has most in common with our debut, those trivialities. etc. As a result we always felt like outsiders. probably because of how quickly we made it. The kids coming through now are way more It’s the only record we’ve ever made where How would you describe the evolution of on our wavelength than the bands back then, we specifically knew it was going to be non- the band’s sound? who all expected success and fame. commercial, which was very liberating - to We started off being pigeonholed as ‘lo fi’, The Cribs are playing Coventry’s Empire not have to worry about all the industry stuff which I always had a problem with cos we this month. What can your audience that, even subliminally, ends up seeping into were trying to make the best-sounding expect from your headline show? the mindset when releasing a record. records we could - we just had no money! Surprise-releasing it, not doing any promo or We’ve always preferred the approach of We just honestly and sincerely put everything servicing any songs to radio was very passion over precision, so while the records into it as much as we can. People who know liberating, as it took that whole element off were spirited, people thought they were ‘raw’ the band know what to expect in terms of the table. or ‘lo fi’ or whatever. We made a couple of enthusiasm and effort. To people who don’t records for a major US label which sounded know us, it probably seems really wild and Why 24-7 Rock Star Shit? technically better - and that was cool, I guess crazy, but to people who do, they know it’s Just seemed to typify a mindset, really. We - but our heart has always been in trying to just borne out of trying to make sure we give felt that we’d already eschewed a lot of the get the energy down, and we prioritise that 100%, and that everyone who’s paid for a usual formalities of releasing a record, so it above labouring over things for too long. I ticket gets their money’s worth. was already a pretty serious gamble. We felt think that’s always something we return to. Which UK city has the best audience? like we could get away with a name like that cos it wasn’t gonna be available in your local Career-wise, what are you most proud of? Hard to say - Leeds is our sorta ‘hometown’ supermarket anyway. We’ve been lucky to tour and play shows with show, so is always really awesome. Glasgow some of our heroes - the Sex Pistols, Queen, is crazy, as is Manchester. But a lot of the The Cribs first became active on the gig Dave Grohl etc - but I would honestly say that time, when we get off the beaten path and go circuit in 2002. Why do you think the band what we’re most proud of is having built a to cities that don’t get as many shows as the has remained so popular? fanbase that believes in us and has been with big cities, that’s where things can get really Hopefully it’s because the people who like us for 15 years. They’re the reason we’ve had exciting. the band get something from us that’s a bit four top-10 records and headlined Leeds And finally, what does the future hold for less superficial than whatever is currently ‘on Arena and stuff like that. It’s allowed us to The Cribs? trend’. We’ve tried to represent a specific operate outside the mainstream and still be ethos and approach that operates outside of able to sustain our momentum without We have a big stadium show with Foo and independently from the pop-culture having to constantly look over our shoulders. Fighters in the summer, and we’re maybe realm. Hopefully that’s what’s been It’s hugely empowering and also humbling, heading to Australia and Asia - but this is our translated to the people who care about the all at the same time. last UK tour for the foreseeable future. band, and they appreciate and understand that. It’s almost like we have our own small What’s your opinion of the current music scene in some ways - the fans have always scene in the UK? been really engaged and clued-in, which is We feel way more affinity with the new The Cribs perform at The Empire, just awesome. generation of bands that we’ve had on tour Coventry, on Saturday 27 January

whatsonlive.co.uk 15 Nine Below Zero DPS.qxp_Layout 1 20/12/2017 12:53 Page 1 Nine Below Dennis Greaves and Mark Feltham get up close and personal at Zero Henry Tudor House Nine Below Zero DPS.qxp_Layout 1 20/12/2017 12:54 Page 2

South London blues band Nine Below Zero boast a cult following in Europe and a history stretching back 40 years. What’s On caught up with founder member Dennis Greaves ahead of their early-February performance at Shrewsbury’s Henry Tudor House

You’re returning to Henry Tudor House weekly. How was that experience? sax. The reason we do this is so we stay fresh with Mark Feltham next month, following You get used to it. TV programmes at the time and don’t become a cover band of ourselves, a sell-out show there in 2015. What can loved NBZ because they knew we would playing the same old stuff. I think it’s your audience expect from this headline deliver and not be trouble with egos etc. important to keep moving when you’ve been show? Going to the TV studios was amazing. We still around as long as us. Mark and I have been doing the duo now for bump into cameramen now who talk fondly a couple of years. It will be an intimate of us. You’re well known for your stylish attire. evening where we play songs that have Who are your favourite designers? influenced our career. We also chat about the You recently supported Squeeze on tour... I’m getting a lot of stuff from second-hand great musicians we’ve had the luck to play Well, they come from Deptford and we came shops as well as a bespoke company called with. from the Old Kent Road. We both used to play Art Gallery. My wife used to work at Gucci the same gigs in South London. We also were when Tom Ford was designing, which was You’ll be playing some unplugged both signed by Derek Green to A&M Records. handy. I get my scarves from Tootal. I like versions of well-known Nine Below Zero We have so much in common, so the tour was things in second-hand shops because material... a pleasure and their fans loved us. Mark and normally they will be a one-off. Its quite nice stripping those songs back to I got up and played a few songs with them, their creation. You tend to find new things in and we’re on the last two Squeeze albums. And your favourite outfit from over the them that you never knew existed. years? R&B has remained popular for more than My wedding suit, made by Max Cohen, which Your father bought you your first guitar. 70 years. Why is this? was in the Aldgate, East End. He used to fit Did you come from a musical family? If I knew, I’d be a millionaire. All I know is the Krays, and he still had his old patterns Yes, he was a big inspiration to me. He sang that if you play a Robbie Williams track from from the ’60s buried away in the back of the but didn’t play an instrument. It was my 10 years ago, it sounds dated. Play Smoke shop. grandad who played almost anything he put Stack Lightning by Howlin Wolf and it his hand to. The Boston Arms in Tufnell Park sounds so fresh. Maybe it’s the fact that it’s What’s your favourite hobby outside of is where me, my father and grandad have all real musicians playing a groove with no click music? sang and performed. track? It just still feels so great. I really don’t have any - maybe clothes and my Edwardian house. Both my sons are Nine Below Zero were originally formed in Nine Below Zero have been going for four drummers and we jam together locally. My South London. How big an impact did that decades now. Did you ever imagine that hobby is music, I suppose. have on your musical style and early would be the case when you first started career? out? Are there any up-and-coming bands or artists you’d like to champion? Well, it was a place where you either boxed, No, you just do it thinking it won’t last long, played football, were a musician or became a so enjoy it while it lasts. But then it becomes I’ve championed The Strypes and love what thief, to get out of the gutter. I went to a lifestyle and career, you perfect your craft they’re doing. Walworth School in the Old Kent Road. The and every day is a new challenge. In Keith school backed onto the famous Thomas A Richards' book, he mentions this very subject What does the future hold for Dennis Becket pub, where loads of bands would and almost says the same thing. Greaves and Nine Below Zero? play. After school one night, I went to see Wow! I suppose just to keep on going. I really Beryl the owner and asked for a gig. She gave As mentioned previously, you’re playing love what I do, so just to keep playing and me a Monday night residency. This is where next month’s acoustic show alongside touring and keeping fit. we were spotted. South London made you a fellow founding member Mark Feltham, fighter in many ways. yet Nine Below Zero now boast eight members and perform as a big band. Do Following the release of your second you have a preference? Nine Below Zero perform at Henry album in 1981, there was a period when I love them all. We have duo, eight-piece and Tudor House, Shrewsbury, on Sunday Nine Below Zero were on TV almost a five-piece where Chris Rand plays keys and 4 February Classical January Warwickshire.qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2017 14:51 Page 1 Classical January Warwickshire.qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2017 14:51 Page 2

Classical

The Gesualdo Six St Mary’s Church, Warwick, Tues 23 January Vocal consort The Gesualdo Six specialise in the performance of renaissance polyphony - although often turn their collective hand to modern pieces, too. Here making their Warwick debut, they present a programme of sacred and secu- lar music from Italy’s Golden Age, featuring works by, among others, Palestrina, Gesualdo, Monteverdi and Lassus.

Philharmonia Orchestra Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, Wed 31 January The stunning musical landscapes of Czech composer Antonín Dvo ák are here explored by Paavo Järvi and the Philharmonia Orchestra, beginning with his much-lovedř Carnival Over- ture. Folk-inspired Slavic sounds of the composer’s homeland are then echoed in his cello concerto, before the evening’s entertainment is completed in a suitably rousing manner with a performance of his powerful seventh symphony. A piece once declared ‘fit to shake the world’, it comes complete with glorious, resounding finale. The cellist for the evening is the multi-award-winning Gautier Capuçon (pictured). Atrium String Quartet Royal Pump Rooms, Leamington Spa, Fri 26 January John Lill Plays Viennese New Year The Atrium String Quartet is widely con- Beethoven Symphony Hall, Birmingham, Sat 6 January sidered to be one of the classical music Malvern Theatre, Fri 19 January Martin Yates takes the helm for the City of scene’s most dynamic and charismatic en- Birmingham Symphony Orchestra’s annual sembles. Since forming in St Petersburg in New Year celebration of Vienna. 2000, the quartet has performed exten- Austria’s capital city attracted many great sively throughout Europe, Russia, the US, classical composers during the 19th century Australia, Japan and Brazil. and was home to the famous Strauss fam- This month sees the ensemble returning ily, whose works feature heavily in the con- to Leamington to perform a programme cert programme. comprising Haydn’s Quartet in G Op 77 Soprano Ilona Domnich (pictured) also No1, Shostakovich’s Quartet No12 in D flat contributes to the evening’s musicmaking. Op 133 and Tchaikovsky’s Quartet No3 in E With a career spanning more than 50 years, flat minor op 30. John Lill is considered to be one of the leading pianists of his generation. Since performing Rachmaninov’s Third Craig Ogden Piano Concerto under Sir Adrian Boult at Artrix, Bromsgrove, Fri 19 January the tender age of 18, Lill has amassed a Best known to British audiences for his repertoire in excess of 80 concertos, per- numerous albums for Classic FM, highly forming in more than 50 countries along- rated Australian classical guitarist Craig side some of the world’s most accomplished Ogden makes a welcome return to Broms- orchestras. grove, having previously featured in the He here joins Stratford-upon-Avon’s Orches- town’s concert season in 2014 and ’16. tra of the Swan to present Mozart’s Don His latest programme of work includes Sil- Giovanni (Overture) and Symphony no41, vius Leopold Weiss’ Fantasie and a 2010 Jupiter, and Beethoven’s piano concerto piece by Australian composer Nigel West- no3 in C minor. lake. whatsonlive.co.uk 17 Reader's Awards (DOWNSAVE).qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2017 16:12 Page 1

Get VOTING for your favourite Midlands events and venues in the... What’sOn Readers’ Awards 2018

Some of last year’s winners...

Doreen Tipton - Midlands Personality Of The Year Birmingham Hippodrome - Best Midlands Large Theatre Wolverhampton Grand Theatre winners of Best Midlands’ Panto and Best Arts/Theatre Venue in Wolverhampton

18 whatsonlive.co.uk Reader's Awards (DOWNSAVE).qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2017 16:12 Page 2

#culturematters #artsmatters

Yes, it’s time for you to show just how much CATEGORIES INCLUDE: you appreciate Birmingham and the West Best Large Regional Theatre Midlands’ ever-vibrant arts and Best Small Theatre entertainment scene. Best Touring Musical Best Home Produced Show Nominate and vote online for your Best Home Produced Theatre favourites to help them secure a place in our Best Touring Show What’s On Readers’ Awards Top 5 Best Kids Show Shortlist. Best Panto Best Panto Dame The shortlist will be announced in our Best Arts Venue February issue, when you’ll have another Best Large Music Venue chance to VOTE for your WINNER in each Best Independent Live Gigs Venue category. So get voting now! Best Gallery Best Exhibition And, complete our Readership Survey for Best Midlands Band the chance to WIN £1000 cash! Best Dance Production Best Operatic Production VOTE for your NOMINATIONS Best Midlands Personality by Monday 15 January 2017 Best Midlands Comedian Best Place To Visit The Top 5 Shortlist in each category will be Best Event announced at the end of January - you’ll then get Best Festival the chance to VOTE one more time for your Best Restaurant WINNER. Voting closes the end of February. Best Nightclub WINNERS will be announced in the Spring Best Regional Orchestra Best Independent Cinema Best Amateur Theatre Company Best Amateur Production What’s On Achievement Award VOTE today at whatsonlive.co.uk

whatsonlive.co.uk 19 Festivals 2018 DPS.qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2017 14:56 Page 1

Festivals

When it comes to music, regardless of your preference - be it jazz, indie, folk, classical, world or pop - you’re almost certain to find a festival in the Midlands to suit your taste. And 2018 looks set to be another bumper year for the region’s festival-goers. Get your diary out and get booking!...

sic.org Sanchez. Fri 25 - Sun 27 May, Seven tion at rockandbowlfestival.com End Country Estate, Hanley Castle, APRIL FIELDBOUNCE New for 2018. Line-up in- HIP HOP COLOUR POWDER FESTIVAL Worcestershire. More information at cludes Scouting For Girls, Dappy and Line-up to be announced. Sun 27 May, mellofestival.co.uk NANTWICH JAZZ, BLUES & MUSIC FESTI- Danny Howard. Sat 5 May, The Venue, SK Cash & Carry, Digbeth Birmingham. VAL Line-up includes Glenn Tilbrook, Oswestry. More information at field- GLASTONBUDGET Line-up includes DOT TO DOT FESTIVAL Line-up to be an- Thea Gilmore, Dennis Greaves and bounce.co.uk Antarctic Monkeys, Coldplace, Four nounced. Sun 27 May, various venues Mark Feltham from Nine Below Zero Fighters, Happy Mondaze and Letz- HANDMADE FESTIVAL Line-up includes in Nottingham. More information at and Dr Feelgood. Thurs 29 Mar - Mon 2 Zep. Fri 25 - Sun 27 May, Turnpost Circa Waves, Idles, Little Comets, Di- dottodotfestival.co.uk Apr, various venues in Nantwich. More Farm, Leicestershire. More information nosaur Pile Up and Protomartyr. Sat 5 - information at nantwichjazz.com at glastonbudget.org SLAMDUNK FESTIVAL Line-up includes Sun 6 May, O2 Academy, Leicester. Good Charlotte, Jimmy Eat World, Tak- More information at handmadefesti- STAFFS FEST Line-up includes Mick ing Back Sunday, Sleeping Sirens and val.co.uk Moylan, Mick Oakden, Mark Morris State Champs. Mon 28 May, Genting MAY and Gary Lees. Fri 25 - Sun 27 May, SWINGAMAJIG Brought to you by Elec- Arena, Birmingham. More information Lower Drayton Farm, Penkridge. More tric Swing Circus, Swingamajig is back at slamdunkmusic.com CHELTENHAM JAZZ FESTIVAL Line-up in- information at staffsfest.co.uk for its 6th year. Line-up to be an- cludes Randy Crawford, Beth Hart, WIRRAL FOLK FESTIVAL Line-up to be nounced. Sun 6 May, The Digbeth Tri- HOWTHELIGHTGETSIN The world’s Christian McBride Big Band and Ka- announced. Thurs 31 May - Sun 3 Jun, angle, Birmingham. More information largest philosophy and music festival. masi Washington. Wed 2 - Mon 7 May, The Whitby Club, Cheshire. More infor- at swingamajig.co.uk Line-up includes The Orb, The Corre- various venues in Cheltenham. More mation at wirralfolkonthecoast.com spondents, Laura Wright and Nerina information at BEARDED THEORY Line-up includes The Pallot. Fri 25 - Mon 28 May, Hay on cheltenhamfestivals.com/jazz Jesus & Mary Chain, Fun Lovin Crimi- Wye, Hereford. More information at nals, Jimmy Cliff and Reverend And JUNE UPTON UPON SEVERN FOLK FESTIVAL hay.htlgi.iai.tv The Makers. Thurs 24 - Sun 27 May, Line-up includes Mike Wilson & Catton Hall, South Derbyshire. More CHESTER FOLK FESTIVAL Line-up in- Damien Barber, Monty's Maggot En- WYCHWOOD MUSIC FESTIVAL Line-up information at beardedtheory.co.uk cludes Jez Lowe, Greg Russell & Ciaran glish Ceilidh & Country Dance Band includes Buzzcocks, The Levellers, Or- Algar, Hannah James and Jim Moray. and Granny's Attic. Fri 4 - Mon 7 May, BREAKING BANDS Line-up includes Red chestral Manoeuvres in the Dark, Billy Fri 25 - Mon 28 May, Kelsall Village. various venues, Upton upon Severn, Rum, Skaciety, Estrella, New Genera- Bragg and Dhol Foundation. Fri 1 - Sun More information at chesterfolk.org.uk Worcestershire. More information at tion Superstars, Chris Slade and 3 Jun, Cheltenham Racecourse. More uptonfolk.org Wicked Stone. Fri 25 - Sun 27 May, BIRMINGHAM PRIDE Line-up to be an- information at wychwoodfestival.com Stoke Prior Sports & Country Club, nounced. Sat 26 - Sun 27 May, Birming- LEAMINGTON MUSIC FESTIVAL Line-up THE ACOUSTIC FESTIVAL OF BRITAIN Bromsgove. More information at ham Gay Village. More information at includes Pražák String Quartet, The Line-up includes Ferocious Dog, Tom breakingbandsfestival.com birminghampride.com Guarneri Piano Trio, Jana Nováková Dibb, Steve Harley, Chris Difford and and Martin Kasík. Fri 4 - Tues 8 May, MELLO Line-up includes Soul II Soul, ROCK AND BOWL Line-up to be an- The Brandy Thieves. Fri 1 - Sun 3 Jun, Royal Pump Rooms, Leamington Spa. Toploader, Badly Drawn Boy, The Jive nounced. Sat 26 - Mon 28 May, Picnic Uttoxeter Racecourse. More informa- More information at leamingtonmu- Aces, The Mariachis and Mike Area, Market Drayton. More information at acousticfestival.co.uk

20 whatsonlive.co.uk Festivals 2018 DPS.qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2017 14:56 Page 2 Festivals 2018 DPS.qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2017 14:56 Page 3

Festivals

GATE TO SOUTHWELL FOLK Line-up in- Centre, Napton On The Hill, Warwick- Hall, Leicestershire. More information CREAMFIELDS Carl Cox announced as cludes Nine Below Zero, Lindisfarne, shire. More information naptonfesti- at barefootfestival.com Friday night headliner. Thurs 23 - Sun The Young 'Uns, Cara Dillon, Dalla- val.co.uk 26 Aug, Daresbury, Halton, Cheshire. CARFEST NORTH Line-up includes Ba- han, The Furrow Collective and More information at creamfields.com MOSTLY JAZZ FUNK AND SOUL Line-up nanarama, Billy Ocean, Jools Holland, Habadekuk. Thurs 7 - Sun 10 Jun, to be announced. Fri 6 - Sun 8 Jul, Rick Astley, Status Quo, Texas and The BEERMAGEDDON FESTIVAL Line-up in- Southwell Racecourse, Notting- Moseley Park, Birmingham. More in- Feeling. Fri 27 - Sun 29 Jul, Bolesworth cludes Haerken, Footprints in The Cus- hamshire. More information at south- formation at mostlyjazz.co.uk Castle, Chester. More information at tard, Shadowflag and Fjords. Fri 24 - wellfolkfestival.org.uk carfest.org Sun 26 Aug, Stoke Prior Sports & Coun- CAMPERJAM Line-up to be announced. DOWNLOAD FESTIVAL Line-up includes try Club, Bromsgrove, Worcester. More Fri 6 - Sun 8 Jul, Weston Park, Shrop- INDIE TRACKS Line-up to be an- Guns N’ Roses, Ozzy Osbourne, information at beermageddon.co.uk shire. More information at camper- nounced. Fri 27 - Sun 29 Jul, Butterley Avenged Sevenfold, Rise Against and jam.com Station, Derbyshire. More information SUNSHINE FESTIVAL Status Quo an- Marilyn Manson. Fri 8 - Sun 10 Jun, at indietracks.co.uk nounced as first headliner. Fri 24 - Sun Donington Park, Derby. More informa- THE ROCK AND BIKE FEST Line-up in- 26 Aug, Fish Meadow, Upton upon Sev- tion at downloadfestival.co.uk cludes Sham 69, Evil Scarecrow, Circus MIDDLE OF NOWHERE FESTIVAL Line-up Of Horrors, (Alice Cooper tribute act) ern, Worcestershire. More information SONIC ROCK SOLSTICE 2018 Line-up in- to be announced. Fri 27 - Sun 29 Jul. and Gallus Cooper. Thurs 12 - Sat 14 at uptonfestival.co.uk cludes Evil Blizzard, Senser, Astrala- Lower Drayton Farm, Staffordshire. Jul, Carnfield Hall, Derbyshire. More sia, Sonic Black Holes and Here & More information at monmusicfesti- SHREWSBURY FOLK FESTIVAL Line-up information at rockandbikefest.co.uk Now. Thurs 14 - Mon 18 Jun, Stoke val.co.uk includes Steeleye Span, Gretchen Pe- ters, Jon Boden & The Remnant Kings Prior Sports and Country Club, Worces- BROMSGROVE FOLK FESTIVAL Line-up LUNAR FESTIVAL Line-up to be an- and O'Hooley & Tidow. Fri 24 - Mon 27 ter. More information at sonicrocksol- includes The Damien Barber Road- nounced. Fri 27 - Sun 29 Jul, Umber- Aug, Greenhous West Mid Show- stice.com show, Cosmotheka, Dave Gibb, Ursula slade Farm Park. More information at Holden Gill and Mumbo Jumbo. Thurs ground, Shrewsbury. More information FOXTON LOCKS FESTIVAL Line-up to be lunarfestival.co.uk 12 - Sun 15 Jul, various venues across at shrewsburyfolkfestival.co.uk announced. Sat 16 - Sun 17 Jun, Foxton MADE BIRMINGHAM Line-up to be an- Bromsgrove. More information at STONEDEAF Line-up includes Anvil, Locks, Leicestershire. More informa- nounced. Sat 28 Jul, The Digbeth Trian- bromsgrovefolkclub.co.uk The Graham Bonnet Band, Massive tion at foxtonlocksfestival.co.uk gle, Birmingham. More information at Wagons and Hand of Dimes. Sat 25 FUSE FESTIVAL Line-up to be an- madebirmingham.com NORTHAMPTON MUSIC FESTIVAL Line- Aug, Newark Showground, Notting- up to be announced. Sun 17 Jun, Mar- nounced. Fri 13 - Sun 15 Jul, Beacon Park, Lichfield, Staffordshire. More in- hamshire. More information at ket Square, Northampton. More stonedeaffestival.co.uk information at northamptonmusicfes- formation at fuselichfield.org.uk AUGUST tival.co.uk LET’S ROCK SHREWSBURY Line-up in- OFF THE TRACKS Line-up to be announced. Fri 31 Aug - Sun 2 Sep, Don- UPTON JAZZ FESTIVAL Line-up to be an- cludes UB40, Kim Wilde, Midge Ure, 110 ABOVE FESTIVAL Line-up to be an- Go West, Jason Donovan, From The nounced. Fri 3 - Sun 5 Aug, Gospel Hall ington Park, Derbyshire. More nounced. Thurs 21 - Sun 24 Jun, The information at offthetracks.co.uk Riverside, Upton-upon-Severn, Worces- Jam and Imagination. Sat 14 Jul, The Farm, Leicestershire. More information tershire. More information at upton- Quarry, Shrewsbury. More information at 110above.com MOSELEY FOLK FESTIVAL Line-up to be at letsrockshrewsbury.com jazz.co.uk BLOODSTOCK OPEN AIR Line-up in- announced. Fri 31 Aug - Sun 2 Sep, DEERSTOCK Line-up includes The King cludes Judas Priest, Gojira, Nightwish, Moseley Park, Birmingham. More in- BEARDY FOLK FESTIVAL Line-up information at moseleyfolk.co.uk cludes Nick Heyward, Skerryvore, Blues, April Towers, Blackballed and Emperor and DevilDriver. Thurs 9 - Sun False Lights, Jim Moray, 3 Daft Mon- John Otway. Fri 20 - Sun 22 Jul, Newton 12 Aug, Catton Hall, Derbyshire. More keys and Chris Helme. Fri 22 - Sun 24 Cross Country Course, Notting- information at bloodstock.uk.com hamshire. More information at deer- SEPTEMBER Jun, Hopton Court, Cleobury Mortimer, LAKEFEST Line-up to be announced. stock.co.uk Shropshire. More information at Thurs 9 - Sun 12 Aug, Eastnor Castle, BROMYARD FOLK FESTIVAL Line-up to beardyfolkfestival.co.uk NOZSTOCK Line-up to be announced. Herefordshire. More information at be announced. Thurs 6 - Sun 9 Sep, Fri 20 - Sun 22 Jul, Rowden Paddocks, lakefest.co.uk SUPERSONIC FESTIVAL Line-up to be Bromyard, Herefordshire. More infor- Bromyard, Herefordshire. More infor- announced. Fri 22 - Sun 24 Jun, various FARMER PHIL’S FESTIVAL Line-up to be mation at bromyardfolkfestival.co.uk mation at nozstock.com venues in Birmingham. More informa- announced. Fri 10 - Sun 12 Aug, near WORCESTER MUSIC FESTIVAL Line-up tion supersonicfestival.com THE BIRMINGHAM AND SOLIHULL JAZZ & Gatten Farm, Shropshire. More infor- to be announced. Fri 14 - Sun 16 Sep, TEXFEST Line-up includes Example & BLUES FESTIVAL Line-up to be an- mation at farmerphilsfestival.com venues across Worcester. More infor- DJ Wire, Nick Grimshaw (DJ set), We nounced. Fri 20 - Sat 29 Jul, various THE MOIRA FURNACE FOLK FESTIVAL mation at worcestermusicfestival.co.uk venues around Birmingham and Soli- Are Scientists, Tinchy Stryder and Line-up includes Elbow Jane, Other hull. More information at birmingham- ROCKSTOCK AND BARREL Line-up to be Beans on Toast. Fri 29 Jun - Sat 1 Jul, Road, Vicki Swan & Johnny Dyer, Mike jazzfestival.com announced. Thurs 27 - Sun 30 Sep, The Market Harborough Showground, Le- Silver and Risky Business. Fri 17 - Sun Chimneys, Willington, Derbyshire. icestershire. More information at SPLENDOUR Line-up to be announced. 19 Aug, Moira Furnace Museum and texfest.co.uk More information at rockstockandbar- Sat 21 Jul, Wollaton Park, Nottingham. Monument Site, Derbyshire. More in- relfestival.co.uk More information at splendourfesti- formation at moirafurnacefolkfesti- JULY val.com val.co.uk WARWICK FOLK FESTIVAL Line-up in- THE JUST SO FESTIVAL Line-up to be OCTOBER cludes Show of Hands, Jon Boden & announced. Fri 17 - Sun 19 Aug, Rode NOISILY FESTIVAL Line-up to be an- the Remnant Kings and Korrontzi. Hall Parkland, Cheshire. More infor- nounced. Thurs 5 - Sun 8 Jul, Coney LICHFIELD FESTIVAL OF FOLK Line-up Thurs 26 - Sun 29 Jul, Warwick School mation at justsofestival.org.uk Woods at Noseley Hall, Leicestershire. includes Sam Kelly and the Lost Boys and Warwick Town Centre. More infor- More information and tickets at noisi- SHAMBALA Line-up to be announced. and Megson. Fri 19 - Sun 21 Oct, venues mation at warwickfolkfestival.co.uk lyfestival.com Thurs 23 - Sun 26 Aug. A secret loca- around Lichfield, Staffordshire. More BAREFOOT FESTIVAL Line-up to be an- tion in Northampton. More informa- information at lichfieldarts.org.uk NAPTON MUSIC FESTIVAL Line-up to be nounced. Fri 27 - Sun 29 Jul, Prestwold tion at shambalafestival.org announced. Fri 6 - Sat 7 Jul, Village

22 whatsonlive.co.uk Festivals 2018 DPS.qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2017 14:56 Page 4 Jonathan Pie DPS.qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2017 15:20 Page 1

A SLICE OF PIE Actor and comedian Tom Walker talks about creating cult character, YouTube sensation and ranting reporter Jonathan Pie...

24 whatsonlive.co.uk Jonathan Pie DPS.qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2017 15:20 Page 2

by Brian O’Faolain

So I made a few little films, one of them “went viral and that was it. I suddenly had a career back

What made you create the character of comes to Brexit he’s actually pretty balanced. have been more open to it - I don’t know if Jonathan Pie, Tom? Because he’s an old-school lefty, he knows the BBC would make The Thick Of It now. I what’s wrong with the EU. He knows that” it’s think from my few encounters with TV Desperation, really. I’d been out of work for a long time as an actor, and I felt that if I didn’t not this eutopia full of different creeds people, they’re very risk-averse. I would love do something myself nothing would ever holding hands and singing. He knows that to see Pie evolve, but I need someone to take happen. So I had him in my head for a while it’s a corporate block which is all about the a punt on him first. and I thought, just do it. So I made a few little interest of corporations, but he also knows If Jonathan Pie existed in the real, minute- films, one of them went viral and that was it. that economically we’re better off in it. So by-minute world and you met him in a I suddenly had a career back. actually, when it comes to Brexit, he speaks for leavers and remainers. So I think, as I pub, do you think you’d get on well? Many people thought, at least on the first said, the satire is more balanced than he is. I’m not sure, actually. Like I say, everyone viewing, that Jonathan was real… wants to talk to me about politics in the pub, Would you say that most people’s politics I think the first time you see him or come and on my downtime I’m not that interested are more nuanced than Pie’s? As a across him, you kind of go, ‘God, is this for because I spend my day following the news character he simplifies things and people real?’ I think by the second time, you go, and reading articles. Every comedy character maybe find that more engaging? ‘Oh... no, it’s not’. Nobody loses it that badly has a fault at their core, and Pie’s is that he every week. It is simplified because I’m writing a three or can’t not talk about politics, and when he four-minute piece each week, and normally talks about politics, he can’t not get angry. So How did you go about evolving him as a there’s one, maybe two, points that I’m trying I think after about half an hour I’d be like, character? to make. So he does over-simplify. But I don’t “Can we talk about something else?” So I The evolution had to come very quickly think that people recognise their political don’t know. because the first couple of videos I did views are nuanced. I think these days, Have you found yourself in any awkward happened to be about politics. The first one especially on the left, people go, “You either situations midst recording your outside was about Jeremy Corbyn, and then the next agreed with me 100% or you’re on their side.” broadcasts? week the story about our prime minister at You know what I mean? Anyone who votes the time and a pig got released, and you go, Conservative is a bigot and anyone who voted No, not at all. Because I’m still cult - niche, if “I can’t ignore that”. Very quickly I realised it leave is a bigot. So I think the left are in you like - the people who recognise me are was the politics that people were tuning in danger of forgetting political nuance. I hope, the people who know me, and the people for; it was the satire of it. Originally I actually, that Pie reminds them of it. who know me are the people who like me. So conceived him as ‘Isn’t it funny when things I’ve never had anyone really have a go. I’ve How does that transpire in the live show? go wrong to newsreaders’ or ‘Isn’t it funny had people interrupt recording, as they think when a newsreader flips’. That’s what it was Well, I’ve got an hour or so to actually it’s funny to stick two fingers up at the all about, really - the political satire wasn’t explore things harder, and so I’m much more camera, and that’s when you can’t really there when I originally conceived it, but very able to have a go at the left because they’re distinguish between the two of us, because I quickly I realised that people were seeing it not going to turn off. In this new show I’ve do tear them a new one. When I’ve got a suit as a piece of political satire, so that was what just written, a main section in the middle is on and a camera there, everyone recognises I needed to go with. I never once, before Pie, having a go at us lefties and saying where me; when I’m walking around in my hoody had been in the pub having a discussion we’re going wrong. I’m much more able, and have a hat on, looking scruffy, no one about politics, but now that seems to be all when I’ve got a bit of length to the show, to recognises me at all. anyone wants to talk to me about - which is explore where the Tories are going wrong, So in real life you’re not sweary but really fine - but I don’t care as much as the where Trump is going wrong, but also where polite? character does, which I think actually helps we’re going wrong. So I think the satire is me write him. much more balanced in the live show. No, unfortunately not. I am a bit sweary. We have a similar vocabulary… He certainly has left leanings, would you Do you think that Jonathan will evolve say? further - for example, as Steve Coogan evolved Alan Partridge? Yes, he does. He’s a lefty, a proper old-school Tom Walker appears as Jonathan Pie at lefty, which is why he likes Corbyn. But I That would be great. I mean, I’d love to see Victoria Hall, Stoke-on-Trent, on think the satire is more balanced than he is. Pie on TV, and I’d like to see where he comes Thursday 1 March; Warwick Arts Centre, It’s quite easy for him to hate Trump because from and where he works and to meet who he Coventry, on Wednesday 7 March; and I’ve not met anyone in this country who likes works with. But I don’t think there’s a TV New Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham, on him, so that’s a universal thing. But I think channel out there that’s quite ready for Pie. I Thursday 8 March. the other hot potato is Brexit, and when it think maybe 10 or 15 years ago they might

whatsonlive.co.uk 25 Comedy January 2018 (2017).qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2017 12:35 Page 1

Comedy

Chris Rock Arena Birmingham, Thurs 25 January Grammy and Emmy Award-winning comedian, actor, director, writer and producer Chris Rock has certainly courted his fair share of controversy during a career spanning more than 30 years. At the 2007 London Live Earth concert, for instance, his de- cision to call the crowd ‘mother******s’ led to the BBC immediately terminating its live broadcast of the event, then issuing numerous apologies for having inadvertently aired the swear word at a pre-watershed time. Rock has also been slammed by his hero Bill Cosby, both for his willingness to use the ‘n’ word and for his view that high-profile celebrities shouldn’t be under extra pressure to behave as role models. "Why does the public expect entertainers to behave better than everybody else?” he questioned in his memoir. “It's ridiculous. Of course, this is just for black entertainers. You don't see anyone telling Jerry Seinfeld he's a good role model, because everyone expects whites to behave themselves. Nowadays, you've got to be an entertainer and a leader. It's too much.” Rock’s jokes include: “White man makes guns? No problem. Black rapper says ‘gun’? Congressional hearing. ‘Oh my God, that n***** said gun, and he rhymed it with fun!’”. And also: “I had a cop pull me over the other day - scared me so bad, made me think I stole my own car. ‘Get out of the car,’ he said, ‘get out of the f****** car! You stole this car!’ I was like, ‘Damn, maybe I did!’” And finally... “We got so much food in America that we’re allergic to food. Allergic to food! Hungry people ain’t allergic to s***. You think anyone in Rwanda’s got a f****** lac- tose intolerance?” Touring the UK for the first time in 10 years, Rock stops off in Birmingham this month with his critically acclaimed Total Blackout show.

James Redmond & Adam Kay Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, Fri 26 January One-time international model James Redmond is relatively new to standup, having initially made a name for himself as an actor - most notably in the long-running BBC TV series Casualty. Former obstetrician and gynae- cologist Adam Kay has been playing the comedy circuit for a good while longer than James. He counts Stephen Fry among his many fans and always brings a palpable feelgood fac- tor to his shows. 26 whatsonlive.co.uk Comedy January 2018 (2017).qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2017 12:35 Page 2

Adam Rowe MAC, Birmingham, Wed 24 January Adam Rowe well remembers the day he died in Stockport (only on stage, of course). ”It was the day I got my A-Level results and realised I wasn't going to university for another year,” recalled the 25-year-old Liver- pudlian in a recent interview with The Skinny. “I decided to rant about my day and not do my material. I died on my arse and got gonged off. Awful.” Fortunately for Adam, most of his gigs bear no resemblance to that one. Blending an affable persona with a quick wit and material that’s seen him likened to Jason Manford, he’s widely considered to be one of the most promising new acts on the UK comedy circuit.

Bill Bailey Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, Mon 29 & Tues 30 January Bill Bailey thinks his comedy should be edu- worthwhile. Obviously, I want people to cational. “From an audience perspective, it’s come along and be entertained, have a laugh great if they can leave one of my shows more and get taken out of themselves for a couple informed than when they arrived,” he says. of hours, but if they can also glean some- “I’m delighted when I get messages from thing a bit longer-lasting than a couple of people saying, ‘I was in a lecture and I knew laughs, then all the better.” Guz Khan who this artist was because I’d seen your Bill is visiting Coventry with his show, Larks show’, or ‘I was in a pub quiz and I got the In Transit - “a compendium of travellers’ Belgrade Theatre, Coventry, Mon 8 January answers right because I’d seen your show’. tales and the general shenanigans of 20 Former school teacher Guz is fairly new to “I’m delighted by that, and it makes it all years as a travelling comedian.” the comedy scene, but he’s certainly made a big impact in a short time. He shot to rela- tive fame a handful of years ago after seeing Ed Byrne his YouTube clips go viral. Since then, the only way’s been ‘up’ for the one-time Hu- Stafford Gatehouse Theatre, Fri 26 January; Birmingham Town Hall, Sat 27 January manities teacher at Grace Academy in Coventry. “I think it’s important to push A highly regarded master of observational comedy, Ed Byrne against boundaries with comedy,” says Guz, admits to being a little uncomfortable about some of the “and although I like to make people laugh ‘more laddish’ material he used in the early days of his while exploring issues such as religion, race standup career. and gender, I’m not somebody who’s look- “My comedy reflected my life at that time - single and enjoy- ing to cause offence just because I can.” ing myself. Most of it was fairly harmless, but some of the stuff about an ex-girlfriend I can see was a bit angry, and I wouldn't do it now.” So 20-plus years after first dipping his toes into the decidedly dangerous waters of standup comedy, does Ed still enjoy touring? “Apart from the travel involved, which no comic likes, I love it. You have people responding to something that you’ve written alone in your office, and the work comes alive in a roomful of people. I like the TV things I do, but nothing can beat a live comedy audience.” Ed tours to the Midlands this month with brand new show Spoiler Alert. whatsonlive.co.uk 27 Beautiful DPS-2.qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2017 12:29 Page 1

BeautifulThe Carole King Musical returns to the Midlands

It’s an amazing night! It’s like a rock concert at “ the end - there’s no other feeling like it! ”

28 whatsonlive.co.uk Beautiful DPS-2.qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2017 12:29 Page 2

by Heather Kincaid

Having enjoyed great acclaim during its debut Midlands run late last year, Beautiful: The Carole King Musical makes a welcome return to the region. What’s On recently caught up with leading lady Bronté Barbé to find out more....

After kicking off its first ever UK tour late last her relationship with husband and long-term was a real eye-opener. Despite considering year, smash-hit Carole King musical Beauti- writing partner Gerry Goffin breaks down herself a fan, it wasn’t until she saw friends ful enjoyed a warmly received run at Birming- during the 12-year period the show covers, performing in the West End production that ham Hippodrome in November. But even If there’s plenty of tugging at heartstrings be- she realised quite how prolific a songwriter It’s Over and you missed out, don’t think that fore the feelgood finale. King was. It’s Too Late. Though touring may have taken “I think Carole actually found it very hard to “I had her album Tapestry on vinyl because the show Way Over Yonder and So Far Away, listen to the initial read-throughs of the show, my mum told me I had to get it when I first it turns out pretty soon it’s Goin’ Back - on because in a way it was like living through it got a record player, and I just absolutely Wednesday 31 January to be precise. again. But then I know she later went to the loved it. I probably overplayed it, actually. So It seems something told the Hippodrome it Broadway show in disguise and absolutely I already thought she was fantastic, but I had was into something good… loved it. She even ended up getting on stage no idea she’d written all of these other songs. And word must’ve filtered through to fellow to sing with the cast! I knew like The Locomotion and Will You Still Midlands venues the Wolverhampton Grand “It’s a very different process playing a part Love Me Tomorrow?. There’s a huge back cat- and Stoke-on-Trent’s Regent Theatre too, be- like this. Because she’s a real person, she’s alogue of songs in the show.” cause they’ve booked the hit show as well. still alive and she worked so hard for this, It’s partly this that makes Beautiful stand out “It sold really well, and the theatre is so sup- you do want to honour her. I haven’t met her from the numerous other biopic-style juke- portive of the work that arrives there,” and I don’t know if I will - though I’d abso- box musicals around in theatreland at pre- gushes Bronté Barbé, who takes over the lutely love to! - but I have watched lots of in- sent. tremendous task of playing Carole King from terviews and documentaries and videos of “There’s no other show that I know of where West End star Cassidy Janson. “They laid on her, and I’ve read her book. So hopefully I’m one character can present a song and then a a lovely welcome for us, and we had a great living up to the task!” whole other group of characters can sing the time in Birmingham. The audiences were fan- The trick, you might say, is not to play her as same song without you getting bored of it. tastic!” your typical, emotionally demonstrative Like with Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow?, I Telling the extraordinary story of the song- stock musical theatre character, but rather to present it and then The Shirelles sing it in a writer-turned-performer’s rise to fame, the make her feel like a Natural Woman. Para- completely different way. The combination of show takes us through King’s personal trials doxically, though, seeming natural and spon- that and the fact that it isn’t just about her and tribulations: overcoming her own inse- taneous actually takes a lot of hard work and and Gerry Goffin but also the other writing curities, kicking back against convention, attention to detail, particularly when it duo, Cynthia Weil and Barry Mann, means and breaking into what was then a very comes to the vocals. With big fans of Carole there’s a great variety of music in the show.” male-dominated 1960s music industry. King coming into theatres expecting to Feel For those of an age to remember when King “One of the first lines in the show is Carole’s The Earth Move, getting the singing right was first made it big, the music and nostalgia it mum saying to her, ‘Girls don’t write music, always Going To Take Some Time… inspires will surely be the main draw, with they teach it,’” says Barbé. “She was so brave “It was quite a long process because I wanted many coming just to hear that one special at that time, to go into those offices to pre- to get as close to Carole as I could without Song Of Long Ago. Yet there’s more to it than sent her songs. What’s amazing is that de- doing an impression, because that’s not what that. Beautiful aims to be a show not just for spite her insecurities, she had the it’s about. So I listened to her intently for a one generation, but for Anyone At All, guar- determination to stick at it and get what she long time, broke down what I thought were anteed to have you Dancing With Tears In wanted, especially when she was so young.” ‘Carole-isms’, wrote them out, put them in Your Eyes. Evidently, this ‘Sweet Young Thing’ ‘Wasn’t different places, and sang the songs over and “There’s so much heart to the piece and it’s Born To Follow’: we know that she eventually over again with and without them.” so incredibly relatable that I think there’s plucked up the courage to enter the limelight For Barbé, as for many audience members, something for everyone. It’s an amazing and became a star in her own right. But as seeing the show for the first time in London night! It’s like a rock concert at the end - there’s no other feeling like it!”

Beautiful: The Carole King Musical returns to Birmingham Hippodrome from Wed 31 January to Sat 3 February. The show then plays at Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent, from Tues 24 to Sat 28 April and Wolverhampton Grand Theatre from Tues 12 to Sat 16 June.

whatsonlive.co.uk 29 Hedda Gabler DPS.qxp_Layout 1 20/12/2017 12:52 Page 1 Hedda Gabler DPS.qxp_Layout 1 20/12/2017 12:53 Page 2

by Heather Kincaid

THE DREAD OF

APatrick Marber’s SCANDAL take on Henrik Ibsen’s Hedda Gabler comes to Wolverhampton

Fresh from a celebrated National Theatre This freed-up approach is not unique to the and free from clutter. But for all its elegance, premiere, Patrick Marber’s new version of portrayal of Hedda. In fact, it’s a defining there’s an unsettling air of decay about the Hedda Gabler is now embarking on a hotly feature across the work of the production’s place, a sense of something hastily thrown anticipated UK tour, stopping off at the Belgian director, Ivo van Hove. Actors learn up and incomplete - a little like the Wolverhampton Grand this month. their lines before rehearsals start, and the unfulfilling future to which Hedda has Widely viewed as one of the greatest female idea is that by homing in on the script and condemned herself. roles in theatre history, the title character of working through it chronologically, the story “It’s really key that everything you see is from Henrik Ibsen’s 1891 masterpiece already will emerge more organically than in a Hedda’s point of view,” explains associate comes laden with a huge weight of rehearsal process stuffed with director Rachel Lincoln. “There’s a sort of expectation for any actor with the courage to supplementary research and studied vast, empty space that Hedda inhabits, but take her on. But with Ruth Wilson’s character development strategies. there are no doors, so no way to escape from devastating star turn in London having been “We’ve never really talked about specific her prison. You’ll also see buckets and old declared one of the top performances of the psychologies behind any of the characters,” tables and scruffy sofas, like everything is in year, for her touring counterpart Lizzy Watts, says Richard Pyros, who plays Eilert Lövborg, a state of construction or deconstruction - there’s even more than usual to live up to. Hedda’s ex-lover and her husband’s former almost like the builders have just kind of “I was really nervous before I started,” she colleague. “Instead, you sort of just have abandoned it and gone home.” admits. “But as soon as you start getting into bodies in a space acting really impulsively, It’s oddly exposing, the fiery Hedda thrown it, it becomes much easier. What’s so brilliant and the way the audience reads that into sharp relief against the blandness and about playing Hedda is that she seems to information can be filtered through their own emptiness of the world around her. Much like change so much from one day to the next. ideas of what the characters’ psychologies the satin nightdress that she wears She’s all over the place, and that’s actually are. In a way, it feels a lot more like real life. throughout, it’s both luxurious and rather really fun. It’s the first time I’ve played a part You don’t tend to sit back and think, ‘Am I insubstantial. anxious? Am I depressed?’ It usually takes where I don’t feel like I can go too far with “There’s an idea that she never gets dressed someone else to tell you that.” her.” because she never really wants to leave the In some readings of the play, there’s been an “It’s the sort of thing that, as actors, we house,” explains Watts. “But also when she’s impulse to delve into Hedda’s psychology for might have been apprehensive about going not wearing her dressing gown, it’s very explanations of her erratic behaviour. in,” adds Adam Best, who plays family friend exposing. It’s great for accessing her Trapped in an unhappy marriage by her own and would-be lover to Hedda, Judge Brack. vulnerability, which isn’t always the thing professed cowardice and paralysing fear of “But it’s been really interesting. Having you first think of with Hedda Gabler, but is public opinion, the newlywed becomes learned all the lines before you start actually something this production taps into a lot.” feels very freeing, because all the emphasis is increasingly unpredictable, her frustration at Music, too, is modern and accessible, with on the relationships.” her lot manifesting in everything from extra- Joni Mitchell’s Blue and Nina Simone’s Wild marital flirtations and emotional blackmail It’s not the only way in which van Hove has Is The Wind used to evoke particular moods. to - in this production at least - a chaotic stripped away the standard features of It’s “almost like a film score”, says Christine episode in which she ends up stapling dying traditional approaches to the text. Working Kavanagh, who plays Aunt Juliana, adding, flowers to the walls that imprison her. In this together with designer and long-term “I think the Patrick Marber adaptation is very version, however, the team prefer to let the collaborator Jan Versweyveld, he has fresh and contemporary. Together with the text and actions speak for themselves. developed an unspecified, loosely defined music, I think it will be hugely appealing for “It’s really liberating not having to get modern setting, removing the stiffness of younger audiences.” bogged down in questioning every action and period costume without adding in the digital pulling apart every emotional turn,” Watts distractions that tend to dominate our lives continues. “Not having to explain too much today. Hedda Gabler shows at Wolverhampton as I was going along actually helped me to A simple set evokes the minimalism of a chic, Grand Theatre from Tuesday 23 until develop the character quicker than normal.” contemporary apartment, all neutral colours Saturday 27 January. Theatre January-3.qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2017 12:30 Page 1

Theatre Theatre previews from around the region

Strangers On A Train Brought to the New Alexandra Theatre by the company which recently visited the venue with Gaslight, Strangers On A Train stars Christo- New Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham, Mon 29 January - Sat 3 February pher Harper (Nathan Curtis in Coronation Street), John Middleton Two strangers meet on a train journey and start chatting. One talks (Vicar Ashley Thomas in Emmerdale), Jack Ashton (Call The Midwife) about an unfaithful wife; the other, a hated father. As the conversa- and Hannah Tointon (Mr Selfridge). tion continues, the charming but spoilt Charles Bruno hatches a plan, The production is based on the 1950 novel of the same name by Patri- proposing to ambitious architect Guy Haines that they execute the cia Highsmith. Her book was made universally famous the following perfect murder - by each killing the other’s victim. Guy initially laughs year thanks to an Academy Award-winning ‘film noir’ adaptation by off the suggestion, but then things start happening... the legendary ‘master of suspense’, Alfred Hitchcock.

The Death Show The pair here invite audience members to cel- Austen The Musical ebrate their own mortality, ‘laugh, cry and The REP, Birmingham, Fri 26 & Sat 27 January stick two fingers up’ at the aforementioned Old Joint Stock Theatre, Birmingham, Thurs 11 - Sat 13 January grim reaper, and discover why talking about death can be a life-affirming activity. Having previously played both the Edinburgh Fringe and the Jane Austen Festival to great critical acclaim, Rob Winlow’s celebration of The Late Marilyn Monroe the life, times and works of one of England’s greatest ever writers stops off in Birmingham The Blue Orange Theatre, Birmingham, Tuesday 30 January - Saturday 3 February as part of a nationwide tour. Broadway director Tim Trimingham is the Marilyn Monroe was widely considered to be man at the helm of a production that re- the sexiest female movie star of the 20th cen- counts Austen’s struggle to get published in a tury - except maybe by Tony Curtis, who once male-dominated society. said that making love to her was like ‘kissing Much admired for their playful and dynamic Hitler’. The woman who began life as Norma approach to making original, contemporary Jeane Mortenson courted controversy work, independent theatre makers Lucy throughout her Hollywood career, her trou- Nicholls and Antonia Beck here get to grips bled life coming to an end at the tragically with the grim reaper. young age of 36. Preparation for The Death Show has included This brand new production takes a look at the duo working as artists-in-residence at a the events of August 5 1962, the last day of funeral parlour and spending time with pa- Marilyn’s life, and asks that eternally unan- tients at a hospice. swerable question: what really happened?...

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Wed 4 - Tue 1 - Tue 15 - Sun 29 Apr Sat 12 May Sat 19 May From £28 £19.50 From £23 Theatre January-3.qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2017 12:30 Page 3

Theatre Theatre previews from around the region

Gallowglass This latest offering from the Worcestershire-based company - veterans of more than 40 productions since forming in 1988 - is a stage version Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton, Thurs 18 - Sat 20 January; Malvern Theatres, Wed 24 - Sat 27 January; Theatre Severn, of the same-named 1990 thriller by Ruth Rendell, writing under her Shrewsbury, Tues 1 - Sat 5 May pseudonym of Barbara Vine... When Sandor snatches homeless youngster Little Joe from the path of Middle Ground Theatre Company have some seriously impressive a London tube train, the latter finds himself taking on the role of a form when it comes to delivering highly charged stage adaptations of ‘gallowglass’ - the servant of a chief - and becoming embroiled in a literary works - recent successes have included productions of The bizarre plot to kidnap a former model... Verdict and A Murder Is Announced.

Quentin Crisp: Teechers The Wizard Of Oz Naked Hope Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, The Place, Oakengates, Shropshire, Fri 12 Wed 31 January - Sat 3 February January; Artrix, Bromsgrove, Sun 14 January; Lichfield Garrick, Fri 19 January MAC Birmingham, Wed 21 & Thurs 22 Quentin Crisp certainly had a talent for outra- February geous self-publicity. Back in the mid-20th Although zany funsters Oddsocks are proba- century, ‘mincing’ around the streets of Lon- bly best known for their humorous takes on don in gaudy makeup and dying one’s hair the works of William Shakespeare, they occa- crimson was a pretty good way for a gay man sionally like to shake things up a bit by look- to get himself not only noticed but also thor- ing for their inspiration elsewhere. This is oughly duffed up - and Quentin certainly one such occasion... L Frank Baum’s splen- bagged a beating or two en route to the fame did tale is here presented with a hearty dol- and fragility of his old age. lop of the company’s trademark comedy - not This ‘glorious, uplifting celebration of the ur- to mention brand new songs to add to the raft gent necessity to be your true self’ is directed of classic numbers adored by generations... by Linda Marlowe, who played Sylvie Carter John Godber's highly acclaimed comedy tells in EastEnders for more than two years. the story of three school leavers, Salty, Hobby and Gail, who offer an account of their time in high school. Their memories focus mainly on their experience of Mr Nixon, the drama teacher who inspires them with his belief that all children should be treated equally... A play which deals with the sense of disillu- sionment evident not only in students but in many of those who educate them, Teechers remains as relevant today as it was when first performed at the Edinburgh Festival way back in 1987.

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Pantomimes and festive shows in January

Cinderella rock’n’roll flavour has proved so popular in Snow White And The previous years that the venue is giving the Malvern Theatre, until Sun 7 January; Seven Dwarfs Belgrade Theatre, Coventry, until Sat 13 exact same treatment to its 2017 production. January; Birmingham Hippodrome, So... they’ve taken the story of Robin Hood, Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, until Sun 28 January added a Babe In The Wood or two, stirred in a until Sun 7 January The fact that Snow White is a 24-carat classic With its comical Ugly Sisters, matchmaking few time-honoured pantomime favourites of a fairytale means that a pantomime ver- fairy godmother, drop-dead-gorgeous Prince and then seasoned liberally with all manner sion is always a surefire winner... Charming, super-cute mice and fits-one-foot- of rock’n’roll hits. All the usual panto elements are present and only glass slipper, Cinderella can justifiably correct in this brand new Theatre Severn of- lay claim to being the most popular of all Sleeping Beauty fering, including a rouged-up Dame in pantomimes. Swan Theatre, Worcester, until Sun 7 January colourful costumes, oodles of hearty thigh- Midlands-born soul diva Beverley Knight slapping, singalong songs aplenty, slapstick stars as the fairy godmother in the Hippo- The tragic tale of a young princess who’s comedy, and even a few naughty jokes to drome’s spectacular version of the story. tricked by an evil fairy and pricks her finger make sure the grown-ups don't feel too left She’s joined in the show by Danny Mac, on a spinning-wheel, causing her to fall out of things. Shropshire's ‘favourite Dame’, Suzanne Shaw, Matt Slack and the Grumble- asleep for 100 years, offers a great story Brad Fitt, once more dons the dress. weeds. Ceri Dupree and David Dale don the around which to build a pantomime produc- giant wigs and altogether unpleasant manner tion. And that’s exactly what Worcester to play the not-very-nice Ugly Sisters... Repertory Company have done, with a show Aladdin This year’s Belgrade Theatre version of the that’s so far earned plenty of plaudits. Lichfield Garrick, until Sat 6 January; Regent famous fairytale features all the usual panto Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent, Sun 7 January elements and has been written and directed Jack And The Beanstalk A perfect story for an evening of family enter- by Mr Coventry Panto himself, the inimitable tainment finds street youth Aladdin trying Iain Lauchlan... Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, until Sun 14 January against all odds to win the hand of the beau- Meanwhile, in Malvern, former Strictly Come tiful princess - and being helped in his efforts Dancing contestant and This Morning regular Gareth Gates stars as Jack, with Lisa Riley re- by the mystical genie of the lamp... Alison Hammond is joined by Gemma Naylor turning to the venue as the wand-waving ‘Son of the Potteries’ Jonathan Wilkes stars from Nick Jr’s Go! Go! Go! show and Paul Spirit of the Beans. as the lad himself at the Regent, with his big Hawkyard from CBeebies’ Old Jack’s Boat. Also getting back in the Grand Theatre pan- pal Christian Patterson giving his usual tomime saddle is ‘queen of the Black Coun- larger-than-life performance as the Dame, on try’ Doreen Tipton. Panto ‘Dame’ Ian Adams this occasion Widow Twankey... Robin Hood And The also features, with familiar television face Over in Lichfield, CBeebies Cat Sandion stars Babes In The Wood Graham Cole starring as the oh-so-evil in the Garrick’s version of the classic Arabian Fleshcreep. Stafford Gatehouse, until Sun 7 January Nights tale. She’s joined by Sam Rabone as Adam C Booth, meanwhile, is two potatoes Widow Twankey and Ben Thornton as Wishy Stafford Gatehouse’s oft-used strategy of im- short of a Christmas dinner in the comedy Washy. buing their annual pantomime with a real role of Simple Simon.

Robin Hood And Babes In The Wood - Stafford Gatehouse Jack And The Beanstalk - Wolverhampton Grand Theatre Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs - Theatre Severn

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Theatre more theatre productions showing in January

The Hundred And One Dalmatians The Jersey Boys We’re Going On A Bear Hunt

The Hundred And One The Jersey Boys Catchy songs and interactive scenes are com- bined with no shortage of swishy swashy Dalmatians New Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham, grass and oozy, squelchy mud, in a show that until Sat 6 January The REP, Birmingham, until Sat 13 January seems certain to keep youngsters well and Rockin’ and rollin’ New Jersey boys Frankie Birmingham Rep has gone dotty for dogs this truly entertained. Valli And The Four Seasons scored some Christmas, courtesy of its brand new stage massive hits during the mid-1960s, with best- version of The Hundred And One Dalmatians. known numbers including Walk Like A Man, The Wind In The Willows The REP’s Associate Director, Tessa Walker, Bye Bye Baby, Big Girls Don't Cry, Sherry and Albany Theatre, Coventry, takes the helm for the festive-season family December 1963 (Oh, What A Night). until Sat 6 January show, having previously directed the venue’s This massive jukebox musical tells their A firm festive favourite, Kenneth Grahame’s yuletide productions of A Christmas Carol story. Taking a documentary-style format, the classic story ably demonstrates the way in and The Lion, The Witch And The Wardrobe. show is structured as four ‘seasons’, each which one life can command the full atten- Dodie Smith’s delightful tale has been trans- being narrated by a different member of the tion of three others! formed for the stage by Debbie Isitt, writer band. The award-winning production is visit- Mole, Badger and Ratty simply don’t have and director of the hugely popular Nativity! ing Birmingham as part of a UK tour. time for any of their own interests - they’re films. Isitt’s stage show, Nativity! The Musi- way too busy having to look after their reck- cal, began its national tour at The REP in Oc- less and irrepressible friend, Toad... tober. Stick Man Commenting on the venue’s 2017 Christmas Birmingham Town Hall, until Fri 12 January offering, Tessa Walker said: “I’m delighted to “Scamp Theatre send shivers down my Treasure Island be bringing to life the magic of The Hundred spine,” reveals Julia Donaldson, the co-cre- New Vic Theatre, Newcastle-under-Lyme, And One Dalmatians in our unforgettable ator (along with Alex Scheffler) of the hugely until Sat 27 January production, which features wonderful pup- popular children’s book on which this show When salty old seadog Billy Bones brings his pets and new music. Debbie’s adaptation is is based. “They’re so lively and innovative. I papers to the Admiral Benbow Inn, he draws packed with enchantment and humour, and love their production of Stick Man, and so do young Gem into the adventure of a lifetime, brings a thrilling new sense of adventure to the audiences.” one which will see her not only setting sail in the story, making it fun for families and Julia’s not wrong - audiences most definitely search of buried treasure, but also spending friends of all ages.” do love the show, as a smash-hit season in time in the company of a one-legged pirate the West End ably demonstrated. with murder in mind... A Christmas Carol Featuring a trio of performers, the production Boasting live music, puppetry and swash- brings together puppetry, songs, live music buckling sword fights, this brand new stage Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Stratford-upon- Avon, until Sun 4 February and ‘funky moves’ to tell the story of Stick version of Robert Louis Stevenson’s high-seas Man’s attempts to get back to the family tree. adventure is helmed by New Vic Artistic Di- Of all Dickens’ festive stories, A Christmas Suitable for children aged three and older. rector Theresa Heskins. Carol reigns supreme. The covetous sinning of the miserly Scrooge, the eternal hope of- Treasure Island fered by Tiny Tim, and the eerie visions of re- We’re Going On A demption - visiting Ebenezer in the shape of three yuletide ghosts (four if you count the Bear Hunt chain-clanking Marley) - all combine to give Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, the tale a real olde worlde charm. until Sun 7 January The RSC version of the story has been penned Written for children aged two-plus, this new by David Edgar, whose previous work for the adaptation of Michael Rosen and Helen Ox- Company includes his award-winning adap- enbury’s popular picture book follows the ex- tation of Dickens’ Nicholas Nickleby. Phil citing adventures of a family as they head out Davis stars as Scrooge. on an intrepid quest to find a bear. whatsonlive.co.uk 35 Shrek feature.qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2017 12:32 Page 1

I’M A BELIEVER! SHREK THE MUSICAL BACK IN BRUM

36 whatsonlive.co.uk Shrek feature.qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2017 12:32 Page 2

by Patsy Moss

Described as ‘larger than life’, Shrek The Musical next month returns to the Midlands for a second outing. What’s On caught up with producer Caro Newling to track the journey of this ogre of a show...

If anything’s got layers, it’s Shrek The Musi- Jeffrey Katzenberg keen on the concept, but Theatre in New York. cal. If you thought Shrek and Donkey had a Bill Damaschke, Head of Creative, was a With musical stalwart Brian D’Arcy James as long journey to Duloc and back, it’s got noth- dyed-in-the-wool musicals man. And so Shrek and the award-winning Sutton Foster ing on what’s gone into the making of this Newling and Damaschke set out to assemble as Fiona, the show became a top-five, Tony- mega show. a team who could bring Shrek to the stage. nominated hit, running for 444 performances Once upon a time (2002) in a land not so far First on board in 2004 was David Lindsay- until January 2010 and departing on a mam- away (Covent Garden), director Sam Mendes Abaire, the American writer of Fuddy Meers, moth North American tour that July. and producer Caro Newling were brainstorm- Neal Street’s first production. Since then, London was in the picture from day one, ac- ing ideas for new theatre pieces. he’s gone on to be a Tony-nominated, cording to Newling. “DreamWorks recognised The co-founders of London’s Donmar Ware- Pulitzer Prize-winning writer. And crucially, it would go down well in the UK because of house were leaving to set up their own inde- he got what they wanted to do with Shrek. our phenomenal response to the original pendent film and theatre company, Neal Shrek was never a simple screen-to-stage Shrek movies. A lot of the humour of the first Street Productions, which, from the off, had adaptation. Mendes and Lindsay-Abaire Shrek (on which this show is based) is very strong ties to DreamWorks, the Hollywood spent a year knocking a new script into British: pun, satire, that subtle updating of studio behind Mendes’ biggest movies, in- shape. Meanwhile, a small show called Av- the fairytale. There’s a darkness to it, but also cluding the Oscar-winning American Beauty. enue Q was making big waves Off-Broadway. lots of self-deprecation and a big heart.” DreamWorks had expressed an interest in Damaschke was onto director Jason Moore The Muffin Man must be happy. “That was making theatre with Neal Street, and it was like a shot, convinced he’d found the right one of the running jokes with the original Mendes who realised they had the ideal story man for the Shrek project. Shrek team, that if we ended up in London, in the form of their 2001 animated hit, Shrek. Moore took over script development with we’d be on Drury Lane,” laughs Newling. “It “Musicals were a big part of what we did at Lindsay-Abaire (freeing Mendes up for film really was a dream come true.” And nearly the Donmar,” recalls show producer Caro work) and was later joined in the directorial wasn’t, she adds, with Shrek waiting in line Newling, “And Sam was clear that the ingre- chair by Rob Ashford, choreographer of such for the theatre behind Oliver! dients of Shrek were brilliant for a musical. West End hits as Guys And Dolls and Thor- Three years on from the opening on Drury oughly Modern Millie. “While Jason was busy “For a start, it’s a big old love story as well as Lane, Shrek The Musical embarked on its dramaturging, Rob took on the big stage pic- a search for friendship by people who feel a first UK and Ireland tour to huge acclaim. ture,” says Newling. “The perfect pairing.” bit lost. Then there’s the idea of updating a Now the tour hits the road for a second time. fairytale and the battle of good versus evil. When it came to composers, Jeanine Tesori “We’re very excited to be bringing Shrek The And those characters, even the fairytale crea- was high on everyone’s wish-list. The native Musical to the best venues across the UK and tures - they’re all so brilliantly drawn.” New Yorker, best known for scoring Tony Ireland once more,” says Newling. “It was a Kushner’s Caroline Or Change, was “abso- Visiting the DreamWorks campus in Glen- joy bringing this much-loved story to cities lutely a woman of the theatre,” says Newling. dale, California, and seeing the original de- across the country three years ago, and we’re signs and models for Shrek, Newling was “She writes music for plays as well as being thrilled to be giving audiences another struck by the parallels between animation a composer of musicals, but she’s also writ- chance to experience their beloved swamp- and theatre-making. “The ingenuity involved ten for Disney and knows a lot about the film dwelling ogre, Princess Fiona, Donkey and in making the whole Shrek franchise live and world. So she became more and more obvi- all their fairytale friends live on stage.” breathe was quite extraordinary,” she says. ous a fit.” “And an idea that was floated over dinner Shrek The Musical made its debut at the 5th and could have flopped around indefinitely Avenue Theatre in Seattle in September 2008, Shrek The Musical shows at Birmingham’s got picked up immediately.” before heading back into rehearsals for its New Alexandra Theatre from Wednesday Not only was DreamWorks Animation CEO big opening on 14 December at the Broadway 14 to Sunday 25 February.

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Dance previews from around the region Dance

Swan Lake Symphony Hall, Birmingham, Sun 7 January The highly regarded St Petersburg Classic Ballet here presents its production of a timeless favourite, set to Tchaikovsky’s mesmerising score. Swan Lake tells the story of Odette, a beautiful princess who, caught under the spell of the evil Von Rothbart, must spend the daytime hours as a swan, returning to human form only when night falls... A sumptuous visual feast, the production offers an evening of ballet which is ideal both for the first-time trier and the more- seasoned dance-goer.

Brendan Cole: All Night Long The Nutcracker Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent, Mon 29 January; Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, Symphony Hall, Birmingham, Fri 16 March; Sun 28 January Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, Tues 20 March Along with Coppélia, Swan Lake, Sleeping Strictly Come Dancing star Brendan Cole makes a Beauty, Romeo And Juliet, Cinderella and welcome return to the Midlands with this critically Giselle, The Nutcracker is one of the most acclaimed solo spectacular. frequently performed productions in the As anyone who's seen any of Brendan's previous repertoire of the Russian State Ballet of live productions will know, they offer a five-star Siberia, a company which is this year cele- all-round entertainment package, complete with brating its 40th anniversary. incredible costumes, fabulous sets and carefully Boasting a magnificent Tchaikovsky score, chosen music - all designed to appeal to an audi- The Nutcracker tells the story of a young ence that spans generations. girl named Clara as she’s swept up in a fan- “There's no through-narrative to the show,” says tasy of soldiers, giant rats, snow fairies, Brendan, “but what it offers is a chance for people magic and mystery, before finally being to experience a bit of Strictly magic first hand. transformed into a beautiful ballerina. When creating modern productions, I think it's re- A magical, must-see show for little ally important to have something for everybody. princesses everywhere… Strictly has a very diverse audience covering all ages, and we have to try to cater for all of them. Hopefully it will be a really good night out, where people can celebrate what they know and love.”

Anton And Erin: From Broadway To Hollywood Symphony Hall, Birmingham, Sat 27 January Celebrity dancing duo Anton du Beke and Erin Boeg return to Symphony Hall this month with their brand new show. Blending smart choreography, sassy tunes and sparkly costumes, the production features a host of much-loved numbers, including Cry Me A River, Mr Bojangles and New York, New York. The popular pair are joined by a 25- piece orchestra, six ensemble dancers and guest singer Lance Ellington. Richard Balcombe conducts.

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40 whatsonlive.co.uk Torvill & Dean feature-2.qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2017 12:33 Page 2

GET YOUR SKATES ON Ice skating superstars Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean found worldwide fame at the 1984 Winter Olympics in Sarajevo, where they memorably took gold with their spectacular free programme, performed to the music of Maurice Ravel's Boléro. In more recent times, they returned to the limelight in ITV1’s Dancing On Ice, a series that’s back on our screens this very month following a four-year break. Jayne and Chris are back too, and will also be heading out on tour with the live version of the show. What’s On caught up with the dynamic duo to find out more...

Dancing On Ice returns to ITV this month on, I think he would’ve been a champion - he Is ice skating as popular as it used to be? following a four-year hiatus. How will it just had a natural ability on the ice. He really Jayne: Oh, definitely! When the first series of differ from previous years? blew everybody away. There’s the likes of Dancing On Ice came out, there were people Jayne: For us personally, the big difference is Hayley Tamaddon too, who brought all her flocking to local ice rinks. From that, over the that we’re actually going to be judging on the theatrical performance to the ice, which re- years, more and more seasonal rinks are pop- show. Chris and I are head judges. In the ally moved people. Then there were sports ping up around the country. They’re continu- past, we’ve been responsible for chore- people like Beth Tweddle. ing to pop up because the skating and the ographing all the routines for the celebrities social side of it has become really, really pop- as well as the opening numbers and our own Who are you looking forward to seeing on ular. routines. This time, workload wise, it’s a lot the ice this year? less - but then we have that pressure on Sun- Christopher: I’m a big Corrie fan, so I’m What have been the highlights of your day night to come up with the right points looking forward to seeing Brook. career? and the right decisions. It’s quite different for Jayne: I’m looking forward to seeing all the Jayne: Obviously winning the Olympics was us. We’re really excited that it’s coming back. boys because on all the pictures, none of a massive highlight. Having a gold medal It was a big part of our lives, and one that them have got their shirts on! puts you in a special club and opens up lots was very much missed in that January, Febru- of doors for the future. It certainly did for us. ary, March period of the year. It left quite a What are you looking forward to most We’ve had lots of opportunities and enjoyed big void for a lot of people. We’ve had such about the Dancing On Ice UK tour? real longevity... Another highlight was going positive feedback from people after hearing Jayne: We’ve hosted before, but we’re going back to Sarajevo 30 years on, which is what that it’s coming back. to be hosting and judging, so pretty busy! we did in 2014, and being able to perform Bolero again in the same rink - it had actually The 2014 edition was due to be the last Will you be skating on the tour? been bombed but rebuilt - in front of a crowd show. Why the return? Christopher: We haven’t hung up our boots of people who were so excited that we’d gone Christopher: That’s when we kind of retired, yet. It’s more than a maybe. back there. you might say. But having retired for a year or Christopher: We’ve also been given OBEs, so, we got itchy feet again. We’re really happy How active are you both on the ice which we’re very humbled about. that it’s coming back and really excited about nowadays? the new role. Christopher: I never leave the ice. I live in What would be your dream project? America and coach and choreograph out Christopher: I’d like to put on a skating Following the increase in reality TV pro- there. I’ve been working with a lot of Olympic show in a permanent theatre space, custom- grammes, is there pressure to compete skaters this year, so I'm really looking for- built with all the whizzes and bangs that the with other shows? ward to seeing their progress in the Cirque Du Soleil has. Christopher: I think everybody compares ev- Olympics. Jane has had her skates on a little Jayne: I could help him with that! erything - but from our point of view, the less. show is unique. It’s the only show on TV now Jayne: Where I live, I'm not close to an ice What’s the secret of your longstanding that has all the jeopardy involved. It’s a skill rink - it’s about a two-hour drive to get to a friendship and professional partnership? to be learned, to be able to do it in any com- rink, which takes a whole chunk out of your Christopher: Tolerance! No, I'm being funny petent way. day. there. Jayne: At the same time, it’s entertaining as Jayne: We never got married - I think that well. It’s a family show that everyone can sit What’s the most important piece of advice was a good thing! down and enjoy. you’d give to a budding skater? Christopher: I think you said it - it’s friend- Jayne: We always say bend your knees so ship. Which celebrity surprised you the most in that you lower your centre of gravity. previous shows? Christopher: Skating is all about bending Christopher: We had the likes of Ray Quinn, the knees. It’s a different feeling from ballet - Torvill & Dean’s Dancing On Ice Live Tour who was just unique - he just seemed to be you’ve got to bend down and get the glide. visits Arena Birmingham from Friday 13 to able to skate. If he’d been a skater from early Sunday 15 April.

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42 whatsonlive.co.uk Brief Encounter DPS.qxp_Layout 1 20/12/2017 12:48 Page 1

“Thanking you for coming back to me” Kneehigh’s Brief Encounter returns to Birmingham REP Brief Encounter DPS.qxp_Layout 1 20/12/2017 12:48 Page 2

by Heather Kincaid It’s really important to me that you see the “ “ different layers of society, and that’s something that Noel Coward did beautifully

There may come a time in the future where extent to which this production feels like a that: you’ve got first love with the young kids we shan’t mind about it any more, but for love letter to the strange magic of the cinema. in the tea room; you’ve got impossible love now, Kneehigh Theatre’s spectacular stage With her reputation for breaking theatrical between these two middle-aged, married adaptation of Brief Encounter continues to conventions, it’s no surprise that Emma Rice people in Alec and Laura; and you’ve got tour to international acclaim. would love to see her work freed from the last-chance love or surprise love between the perceived rules for theatre audiences, instead older couple that find their way to each other. Ten years after its 2008 premiere, the show enjoyed in much the same way as a film. returns to where it all started in a run at “It’s really important to me that you see the Birmingham REP that might mark the “For one thing, cinema audiences tend to be different layers of society, and that’s beginning of the end of its long life. But not younger and poorer. But generally I think something that Noel Coward did beautifully. quite yet. there’s a sort of freewheeling sense of a good It’s no mistake that he set Still Life in the tea night out at the cinema which I would love to room - it’s a great leveller, isn’t it? Everyone “It’s one of those rare instances where if you be what people felt when they come to the who’s waiting for a train goes in there for a could always make shows like this, you theatre.” cup of tea.” would, but in reality they don’t come along very often in a lifetime,” says writer and One might well wonder, then, what’s to be While elements of Still Life have been added, director Emma Rice. “Every time we’ve taken gained from presenting the story live on stage some features of the film have had to be cut, it out, we’ve made it a little bit better, a little as opposed to simply screening the film. Her notably the voiceovers which offer a window bit deeper. It’s 10 years old this year, and still answer is surprisingly straightforward. into Laura’s private thoughts - though certain retains this incredible magic, so it felt lines from these internal monologues have “You can’t really do magic on film. I know absolutely right to bring it back again.” made their way into song lyrics. Arguably, that sounds silly when there are so many this helps to spread our sympathies between Those who saw the show in its original special effects nowadays, but as a medium the characters. The film perhaps feels more incarnation will notice a few changes this it’s much more, ‘what you see is what you like Laura’s story, while there’s a kind of time round, the story having been tightened get’. If you go and see Harry Potter, they have ambiguity to Alec: we’re never quite sure if up and distilled down to a “perfect gem”. to show you the witches and wizards flying his motives are as honest and genuine as around on broomsticks, whereas in the “On a really practical level, it used to have an hers. theatre, you only need to suggest it, and interval but doesn’t now, so it runs more like there’s a kind of magic to what happens in “It’s true that he’s not as well-drawn as Laura a film. I remember re-watching the film after that moment.” - I think mostly because Noel Coward had I’d made it and thinking there was something less empathy with the straight man than he extraordinary about following this journey Interestingly enough, the plot of Brief did with the trapped housewife. There’s an from beginning to end without getting off - a Encounter first appeared on stage in Noel interesting unanswered question there, and bit like being on a train.” Coward’s short play Still Life. Set entirely in you could certainly read him as a predator, the station tea room where Alec and Laura Attempts to recreate the atmosphere of a visit but I’m a romantic, so mine is quite a pure have their first chance meeting, the original to the cinema have been a feature of the play telling of the story. play harks back to a long theatrical tradition since its inception. Upon arrival, audiences by making much more of the working-class “I always felt it was really important that are greeted by 1940s-style ushers and characters whose own romantic subplots they’re both in this together. To use the popcorn sellers. Meanwhile, the show itself reflect on the main action. Rice’s version is fairytale language I prefer, it’s like they’re incorporates pre-recorded film footage in an amalgamation of the two, with songs and both asleep. They’re sleepwalking through which the stage cast recreate scenes from the poems by Coward thrown in for good their lives and then they meet each other and David Lean original, combining them with measure. awaken something in each other and have to live performance in clever effects. decide what to do with it.” “The original play is much more of a six- Much like its 1945 inspiration, in which the hander, and I loved that. There’s a beautiful thrill of an illicit trip to the pictures is what Paula Rego painting called The Dance Of Life kicks off the quiet romance between the which shows love in all these different Brief Encounter shows at Birmingham separately married Alec and Laura, there’s an stages, and I think Brief Encounter’s a bit like REP from Friday 2 to Saturday 17 February. Film January.qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2017 16:40 Page 2

Film

Coco CERT PG With the voices of Anthony Gonzalez, Gael García Bernal, Benjamin Bratt, Alanna Ubach, Renée Victor, Edward James Olmos Directed by Lee Unkrich (USA) Footloose meets The Book Of Love in this cartoon from Pixar and Walt Dis- ney. Twelve-year-old Miguel has always harboured an ambition to become a famous guitarist, like his idol Ernesto de la Cruz. But music is banned in his family, an embargo that has lasted generations. So Miguel pur- sues his dream to the Land of the Dead, where he believes his great- great-grandfather, a singer, resides... Here, Disney continues to expand its ethnic net, following its animated features Mulan, The Princess And The Frog and Moana. With a budget in the $175–200million range, it is the most expensive cartoon ever to feature an all-Latino cast. In 3D. Released Fri 19 January EDITOR’S CHOICE

Film highlights released in January...

Brad’s Status CERT 15 (102 mins) All The Money In The World Starring Ben Stiller, Austin Abrams, Jenna Fis- cher, Luke Wilson, Jemaine Clement, Michael CERT 15 (133 mins) Sheen Directed by Mike White (USA) Starring Michelle Williams, Christopher Plum- Brad, the manager of a non-profit consul- mer, Mark Wahlberg, Romain Duris, Charlie Plummer, Timothy Hutton tancy firm in Sacramento, is suffering from Directed by Ridley Scott (UK/USA) peer envy. More significantly, he’s having a The man with the money is the oil tycoon midlife crisis. Then he finds himself becom- Jean Paul Getty (Plummer). Then, when his ing jealous of his own son, who looks like he grandson is kidnapped, his daughter-in-law has a good chance of getting into Harvard. Gail (Williams) begs him to pay the ransom. If the message of Mike White’s grey comedy Originally, Ridley Scott had directed Kevin is a little pat, it is engagingly enough played Spacey as the billionaire but, following to hold the attention and to prompt the odd CERT 15 (133 mins) Hostiles Kevingate, Ridley re-shot all the scenes again wry smile. And few actors do pent-up angst Starring Christian Bale, Rosamund Pike, with Christopher Plummer in the role. Char- as well as Ben Stiller. Wes Studi, Jesse Plemons, Adam Beach, Ben Foster, Timothée Chalamet, Peter Mul- lie Plummer, who plays Jean Paul Getty III, is Released Fri 5 January lan Directed by Scott Cooper (USA) no relation to the actor who now plays his In the year 1892, a legendary captain in grandfather. Released Fri 5 January the American army reluctantly agrees to escort a Cheyenne chief and his family through dangerous terrain. Scott Cooper previously directed Chris- tian Bale in the suspenseful and com- pelling Out Of The Furnace (2013) and here, by all accounts, Bale delivers one of the best performances of his career. Be warned, though, it is incredibly violent. Released Fri 5 January

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Film highlights released in January...

was looking at a life behind bars, she re- Molly’s Game CERT 15 (140 mins) Eric Clapton: fused to name names. The film marks the Starring Jessica Chastain, Idris Elba, Kevin directorial debut of the scenarist Aaron A Life In 12 Bars Costner, Michael Cera, Jeremy Strong, Chris O'Dowd Directed by Aaron Sorkin (USA) Sorkin, whose screenplays include A Few CERT 15 (128 mins) Good Men, The Social Network and Steve Directed by Joe Wright (UK) Jessica Chastain turns in another sizzling Jobs - and his dialogue here positively As with Asif Kapadia’s documentary about performance as the real-life ‘Poker crackles. But sometimes Sorkin is too smart Amy Winehouse (2015), Eric Clapton’s life Princess’ Molly Bloom. After working as a for his own good: real people are seldom as story is related by interviewees off-camera. hostess for someone else’s game, Molly set articulate as his keyboard. Nevertheless, he The widow of George Harrison and the ob- up her own high-stakes enterprise at a supplies an extraordinary true-life episode ject of Clapton’s fixation, Pattie Boyd, has high-end hotel and was soon entertaining with polish and pizzazz. There are mo- much to say, as do family members and the movie stars, real-estate magnates, sporting ments here of blistering electricity. late BB King. But it’s Clapton himself who legends and top-drawer aristocrats. How- narrates most of his own story, pieced to- ever, when the FBI took her down, and she Released Mon 1 January gether with home movies, concert footage and news reportage. And it’s a gripping narrative, a film that should appeal to those who don’t actually care a jot that Clapton won 18 Grammys and was inducted three times into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. This is the story of a man who admits he was a racist, a heroin addict, a drunk and that he slept with his best friend’s wife, that friend being George Harrison. Released Fri 12 January CRITIC’S CHOICE

Darkest Hour CERT PG (125 mins) Three Billboards Outside Starring Gary Oldman, Kristin Scott-Thomas, Ebbing, Missouri Lily James, Stephen Dillane, Ben Mendelsohn, Samuel West Directed by Joe Wright (UK) CERT 15 (115 mins) Starring Frances McDormand, Woody Harrel- Joe Wright, who brought us Pride And Preju- son, Sam Rockwell, Abbie Cornish, John dice and Atonement, is a terrific director, al- Hawkes, Peter Dinklage though his last outing, Pan, was a Directed by Martin McDonagh (USA/UK) horrendous flop. However, the word is that When the police fail to solve the rape and his latest drama is outstanding, helped no murder of her daughter, Missouri divorcee end by Gary Oldman’s extraordinary reincar- Mildred Hayes (McDormand) decides to draw nation as Winston Churchill during the initial attention to the fact. So she rents three bill- stages of the Second World War. boards just outside Ebbing to shame the local Released Fri 12 January constabulary. From the writer-director of In Bruges and The Guard. Released Fri 12 January

Insidious: The Last Key CERT 15 (103 mins) Starring Lin Shaye, Angus Sampson, Leigh Whannell, Josh Stewart, Caitlin Gerard, Bruce Davison Directed by Adam Robitel (USA) The dead horse, which started with James Wan’s genuinely unnerving Insidious seven years ago, is being flogged again. This time, the medium Elise Rainier (Lin Shaye) heads to New Mexico to sort out a haunting. This is the fourth chapter to date. Released Fri 12 January 44 whatsonlive.co.uk Film January.qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2017 16:40 Page 4

Film

The CommuterCERT 15 (104 mins) Starring Liam Neeson, Vera Farmiga, Patrick Wilson, Jonathan Banks, Elizabeth McGovern, Sam Neill, Florence Pugh Directed by Jaume Collet-Serra (UK/France/USA) An insurance salesman on his regular com- mute finds himself at the heart of a criminal conspiracy as he is forced to uncover the identity of a fellow passenger. The Catalo- nian filmmaker Jaume Collet-Serra previously directed Liam Neeson in Unknown, Non-Stop and Run All Night. Released Fri 19 January

Downsizing CERT 15 (119 mins) Steven Spielberg’s political thriller centres The Post CERT 12a (116 mins) Starring Matt Damon, Christoph Waltz, Hong on the presidential cover-up of the US’s mili- Chau, Kristen Wiig, Jason Sudeikis Directed by Starring Meryl Streep, Tom Hanks, Sarah Paul- tary involvement in Cambodia and Laos dur- Alexander Payne (USA) son, Bob Odenkirk, Tracy Letts, Matthew Rhys Directed by Steven Spielberg (USA) ing the Vietnam war. With global resources running low, occupa- Tom Hanks plays the newspaper’s editor, That’s The Post as in The Washington Post tional therapist Paul Safranek (Matt Damon) Ben Bradlee. decides to have himself shrunk to four inches and Meryl Streep plays Kate Graham, the Released Fri 19 January in height in order to reduce his environmen- newspaper’s publisher. More particularly, tal footprint. There will be problems, though. From the director of Sideways and The De- scendants. Released Fri 19 January Maze Runner: The Death Cure CERT tbc Starring Dylan O'Brien, Kaya Scodelario, Thomas Brodie-Sangster, Nathalie Em- manuel, Will Poulter, Patricia Clarkson Directed by Wes Ball (USA) Every maze has an end, we are told. Let’s hope so, as the conclusion to this dystopian fantasy sees Thomas (O'Brien) search for a cure to the disease that has ravished the land. Released Fri 26 January

12 Strong CERT 15 (119 mins) Early Man CERT tbc Starring Chris Hemsworth, Michael Shannon, Michael Peña, Navid Negahban, Elsa Pataky, With the voices of Eddie Redmayne, Tom Hiddleston, William Fichtner Directed by Nicolai Fuglsig Maisie Williams, Timothy Spall, Richard Ayoade, (USA) Johnny Vegas Directed by Nick Park (UK) Following the attacks on the World Trade The latest full-length plasticine project from Aard- Centre, 12 American soldiers were hand- man Animations takes us back to the dawn of time. picked to fly to Afghanistan. Their mission: Here, a goofy caveman called Dug (Redmayne) finds to take down the Taliban. Based on a true himself at loggerheads with Lord Nooth (Hiddle- story. ston), who’s already got one foot in the Bronze Age. Released Fri 19 January Released Fri 26 January whatsonlive.co.uk 45 New Art West Midlands DPS.qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2017 12:31 Page 1

Lily Wales - Airspace Gallery, Stoke Larissa Shaw - Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery Bryony Loveridge- Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery MIDLANDS MAKERS New Art West Midlands showcases the region’s hottest new artistic talent

Recent graduates from the region’s six art audiences, which are quite different in each though they’re obviously all different sizes. schools will have the chance to see their work location. For example, Airspace is a Birmingham City University has a huge professionally exhibited this spring when dedicated contemporary art space that only number of students, so we do get a lot of New Art West Midlands (NAWM) returns with has one exhibition at a time, whereas in submissions from there, but I think the fact its annual showcase. Birmingham, we’ve got lots of things going that the exhibitions are still quite well- on at once and all sorts of different visitors, balanced really demonstrates the quality of Now in its sixth year, the exhibition forms from families to art students and from people the work that’s coming through all of the art part of the NAWM organisation’s wider who are already really engaged with art to schools.” mission to develop new talent and promote people who may never have come into a engagement with visual arts. While gallery curators have the final say over gallery before. So all of that contributes to which works they display, the selection The show is this year being hosted by three the choices we make.” actually begins with external judges working venues: Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery Featuring work by a total of 28 artists, all of their way through hundreds of submissions (BMAG), Herbert Art Gallery & Museum in whom have completed either undergraduate and picking out the most promising. Unlike Coventry and Airspace Gallery in Stoke-on- or postgraduate courses within the last three the artists, these selectors aren’t necessarily Trent. BMAG curator Lisa Beauchamp tells us years, the 2018 exhibition marks the second from the region: this year’s trio are Patricia more... year running that Hereford Arts College has Fleming (director of Patricia Fleming Projects “The idea is that this is a multi-site been involved, taking part alongside in Glasgow), Sinead McCarthy (curator of exhibition rather than a tour, so there will be Coventry University, Birmingham City Liverpool Biennial) and Ingrid Pollard (a different artists presenting work at each of University, Staffordshire University and the London-based artist and photographer). the galleries. Each venue curates their own universities of Wolverhampton and “All of our selectors are art professionals,” exhibition, so they will all be communicating Worcester. says Lisa. “We always have at least one different themes and ideas through the work “We do always get good coverage from each practising artist on the panel, and often the of the artists they show. of the universities taking part,” continues others teach art or lecture in higher “Part of that will be based on what we feel is Lisa, “and that just happens without us education institutions. It’s really important going to resonate with and appeal to our deliberately trying to get a spread, even that they understand the level that these

46 whatsonlive.co.uk New Art West Midlands DPS.qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2017 12:31 Page 2

by Heather Kincaid

Tony McClure- Airspace Gallery, Stoke Keri Jayne- Herbert Art Gallery, Coventry Valerija Zukoba- Herbert Art Gallery, Coventry

Olivia Peake- Airspace Gallery, Stoke Sarah Walden - Airspace Gallery, Stoke Maggie Shuter - Herbert Art Gallery, Coventry

recently graduated artists are working at, and installations. There’s a really fun piece by work by artists from previous years. that they also have an awareness of what’s Larissa Shaw called Flesh Party, which uses “Obviously this is the first major public happening in art schools across the country, sampled music to reference the late Hacienda exhibition that most of the artists have been so we like to have a real mix.” nightclub in Manchester. It has speakers that involved with,” says Lisa, “and it can take produce soundwaves to make parts of the Unsurprisingly, among the trends currently time for them to really flourish. But most of sculpture vibrate, and visitors will be able to influencing young creatives is an interest in the work in the exhibition is for sale, and in touch and interact with the vibrating parts.” digital technology. Used variously as a previous years we’ve had plenty of artwork medium, tool or theme, it’s something that’s Although it’s only been running since 2013, purchased by visitors and other been prominent across many of this year’s the scheme has already boosted the careers organisations. Mainly, though, it’s the submissions. of many of its former exhibitors, including publicity and promotion and advocacy Lucy Hutchinson and Chris Clinton - who’ve around the exhibition that really helps them “There are quite a few artists working in both had work enter the national Arts career-wise. This is a very competitive digital mediums, and also others who are Council Collection - and Sikander Pervez, industry, so it’s great for them to have a referencing ideas around social media, who’s since held a solo exhibition at platform at an early stage in their connectivity and surveillance, particularly in Walsall’s New Art Gallery. More recently, development.” our selection in Birmingham. Hereford graduate Lorna Brown was “On the other hand, there are also artists who commissioned by the National Trust for a have taken a completely different direction project at Berrington Hall, while Emily and gone back to exploring the handmade Sparkes’ An Ode To Christian Joy has been and found materials, looking at things like acquired by the Birmingham Museums New Art West Midlands 2018 shows at everyday domestic items and the urban Trust’s own collection. Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery from environment. Thurs 15 February to Sun 13 May; Airspace In recognition of this success, Birmingham Gallery in Stoke-on-Trent from Fri 23 “There’s a lovely playfulness to a lot of the Museum & Art Gallery will be running a ‘Five February to Sat 31 March, & Herbert Art work, with some of the artists creating quite Years On’ NAWM alumni showcase alongside Gallery & Museum in Coventry, from Sat immersive, large-scale sculptures and the main exhibition, displaying more recent 24 February to Sun 13 May

whatsonlive.co.uk 47 Visual Arts January 2018-2.qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2017 12:25 Page 1

Visual Arts previews from around the region

Coming Out: Sexuality, Gender & Identity Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery, until Sun 15 April As the UK marks 50 years since the partial decriminalisation of ho- mosexuality in 1967, this new exhibition explores how shifting atti- tudes towards the LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) experience have influenced visual art. Part of a three-year national partnership between the Arts Council Collection and four UK galleries, Coming Out: Sexuality, Gender And Identity comes to Birmingham fresh from its opening at Liver- pool’s Walker Art Gallery - but it’s not simply been a case of trans- ferring the exhibition wholesale... The show has been ‘reimagined’ for Birmingham audiences, featuring new items and with an extensive engagement programme and gallery-trail running alongside. Among the pieces which have joined the exhibition is Grayson Perry’s Claire’s Coming Out Dress, which he designed and wore to mark his entry into the art world as a transvestite. The dress is being shown alongside his 1996 ceramic Who Am I?, marking stages in the artist’s personal journey. Local artists also get a look in, notably with three prints by Birming- ham photographer Vanley Burke, capturing scenes from a Pride demonstration called in protest against the infamous 1988 Section 28 Act.

Birmingham @WHATSONBRUM Wolverhampton @WHATSONWOLVES Shropshire @WHATSONSHROPS staffordshire @WHATSONSTAFFS Worcestershire @WHATSONWORCS warwickshire @WHATSONWARWICKS

48 whatsonlive.co.uk Joshua Bell DPS-2.qxp_Layout 1 20/12/2017 14:26 Page 1

Joshua Bell I’ve always really enjoyed playing concertos as a soloist, but“ “ now with the Academy I still get to do that, while also working in much finer detail on what I want from them Joshua Bell DPS-2.qxp_Layout 1 20/12/2017 14:26 Page 2

by Heather Kincaid

Classical musician Joshua Bell & the Academy of St Martin in the Fields bring a new tour to Symphony Hall this month, presenting a programme fusing Vivaldi’s classic Four Seasons with a brand new commission by Edgar Meyer...

There are few classical musicians who can honest, and I find that quite refreshing.” today, whereas with new work it’s still hit lay claim to a fame that reaches beyond those and miss. Previous collaborations between the two already interested in their field, but even if include a double concerto for violin and “Also I think in recent years there’s been a lot you’re not familiar with the work of violin bass, as well as the chamber music album of music that seems quite random and virtuoso Joshua Bell, there’s a chance you’re Short Trip Home. As a bright, ambitious high dissonant that people have struggled to at least vaguely aware of the 2007 schooler, Bell first met the older Meyer at connect with. But listen, I’m one of those Washington Post experiment that saw him Indiana University, where he was double people who is pleasantly surprised when I busking incognito in a New York subway. majoring in Mathematics and Music. like a piece of new music myself! I think it’s Over 10 years later, the story still crops up important to keep challenging people with “He plays to what he thinks are my strengths, more often than he’d like - not least because new work, but when I hear a piece that I can’t but I sometimes think he overestimates my he has much more to say about his relate to as a musician, it makes me wonder abilities! He has a brilliant mathematical phenomenal body of work before and since. how someone who is outside the music world mind and creates these incredibly complex, Having made his solo debut aged just 14, he’s can get anything from it.” precise rhythms that I sometimes wonder if gone on to become one of the world’s most I’ll be able to pull off at all. Those seeking the reassurance of more celebrated classical performers, winning familiar titles will find it in the pieces multiple awards and being colourfully “Luckily the Academy is really quick and programmed alongside Meyer’s. In described as ‘the Poet of the Violin’. open to new challenges. I think a lot of particular, The Four Seasons should be a European orchestras would have struggled Latterly, he’s been taking up new challenges significant draw - if you want to know why, with a piece like this - the first time we as music director of the acclaimed Academy look up Bell’s superb 2008 recording (there’s performed it we were just happy to get of St Martin in the Fields, succeeding its late a Spotify link on the Academy website). through it without falling apart! But when we founder, Sir Neville Marriner. It’s in this Beethoven’s Second, meanwhile, will be a premiered it at the Bravo! Vail festival in capacity that he’ll be heading to first for him - one of just two Beethoven Colorado, they had a lot of fun with it and Birmingham’s Symphony Hall this month, symphonies he has yet to perform. As usual, Edgar was really pleased, so I’m excited leading the orchestra in performances of he’ll also be managing the tricky balancing about taking it out on tour.” Beethoven’s exuberant Second Symphony, act of leading the orchestra while performing Vivaldi’s Four Seasons and a brand new, 10- Attracting large and diverse audiences for himself, without the help of a separate minute commission by his old friend and classic concerts can be difficult in and of conductor. frequent collaborator, Edgar Meyer. itself, a challenge that’s magnified where “I love it! I’ve always really enjoyed playing new compositions are involved. At the Bravo! “Edgar comes from a background in concertos as a soloist, but now with the Vail premiere, says Bell, people told him Nashville, Tennessee, where as well as Academy I still get to do that, while also afterwards how “surprised” they were that studying classical music, he was a bluegrass working in much finer detail on what I want they’d enjoyed it. It’s not unusual for double bass player,” says Bell. “He also from them. After years of playing these audiences to be so apprehensive, and as far played a lot of jazz, so his musical language pieces, I have very strong convictions about as Bell’s concerned, he doesn’t blame them. brings together a real mix of different how I want every aspect of them to be, and influences. It’s hard to describe but I would “Partly I think people in the classical world now I can control that without having to say that although it’s rhythmically very can be sceptical about new compositions just work through a conductor. I also really enjoy complex, it’s also very tonal and accessible. because we have so much great music that the way the orchestra responds without has stood the test of time. People know that a having a middle man with a stick. It feels “What I like about it is that it’s something Beethoven symphony is going to move them - more like playing chamber music and it’s that has emerged very organically out of who what are the chances that a new piece is exciting for me as well.” he is as a musician. A lot of composers who going to have that kind of effect? Of course in are focused on being different and finding every generation there is some great music their own voice can end up with something and a lot of not so great music, but with older that sounds quite artificial and gimmicky. Joshua Bell and the Academy of St Martin classical music, we’ve weeded out everything But somehow Edgar’s music is always very in the Fields play Symphony Hall, that’s not so good from our programmes Birmingham, on Tuesday 23 January. Visual Arts January 2018-2.qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2017 12:25 Page 2

Visual Arts

Edmund Clark: In Place Of Hate Ikon Gallery, Birmingham, until Sun 11 March Engaging with issues of censorship, security and control to create work that explores ideas of visibility, representation, trauma and self- image, Edmund Clark is Ikon’s artist-in-residence at Europe’s only entirely therapeutic prison - HMP Grendon in Buckinghamshire. This new exhibition of work, the culmination of his residency at the prison, comprises photographs, videos and installations.

Saddleworth: Responding Murray’s photographs all the more impressive. His images manage to look beyond To A Landscape the ever-present shadow cast by the Moors MAC, Birmingham, until Sun 21 January Murders and present the landscape in a far Saddleworth Moor in the South Pennines more positive way - as a picturesque, is a location that will forever be associated dreamlike and strangely beguiling space. with the grotesque crimes of Ian Brady and Murray’s epic series of photographs was Myra Hindley. made over a period of four-and-a-half The moorland’s connection to those hor- years. This exhibition marks the first time rific events of the 1960s makes Matthew the pictures have been on public display.

Warhol To Walker: Nine American Prints From Pop To Today Worcester City Art Gallery, until Sat 6 January Works by Andy Warhol, Robert Rauschenberg and Jim Dine are among the highlights of this exploration of great American printmaking. Covering the period from the Pop Art era of the 1960s to the present day, the display features nine key works from the British Museum’s collection. Pieces from the Worcester City Collec- tion are also included, highlighting the ways in Crafts Of The Punjab arts and crafts from the second to the 19th which artists have pushed century, and includes a number of never- the boundaries of print- Herbert Art Gallery & Museum, Coventry, before-exhibited works. until Sun 21 January making while exploring Among the featured items are examples of subjects as diverse as the An exhibition specially created for the Her- Buddhist, Hindu and Jain sculpture, deli- bert and featuring items from the impres- Vietnam War, Bing Crosby, cately carved ivories, elaborate musical in- picnics and the universe. sive collections of the Victoria & Albert struments and gold-inlaid steel artefacts. Museum, Crafts Of The Punjab celebrates An undoubted highlight of the show is the Image credit: Andy Warhol, the delicate and detailed artistry of crafts- Golden Throne, made by a Muslim crafts- Campbell’s green pea soup, people from the region. 1968, Colour screenprint, man in Lahore for Ranjit Singh, the first 1981,0620.37 © The Trustees of The display boasts an extensive range of Sikh Maharaja of the Punjab. the British Museum

whatsonlive.co.uk 49 Events January-2.qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2017 12:24 Page 1 Events January-2.qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2017 12:24 Page 2

Events previews from around the region Events

Strictly Come Dancing Live Arena Birmingham, Fri 19 - Sun 21 January The Strictly Come Dancing Live UK tour waltzes back into Birmingham this month. The 2018 edition of the show sees Bruno Tonioli and Craig Revel Horwood joined on the judging panel by ballet star Darcey Bussell. Reigning Strictly champion Ore Oduba hosts the show, while taking to the dance- floor this year are, among others, comedian Susan Cal- man and double paralympic champion Jonnie Peacock.

British Basketball Arenacross 2018 Genting Arena, Birmingham, Cup Finals Sat 20 January Arena Birmingham, Sun 28 January An absolute must for extreme One of the most eagerly antici- sports fans, the 2018 Arenacross pated dates on the British Basket- tour brings indoors all the spec- ball League (BBL) calendar, this tacular elements of Motorcross annual event sees stars of the na- for a ‘non-stop white-knuckle tional game go head-to-head in ride’. pursuit of coveted silverware. Set to a pumping soundtrack and The get-together also features laser show, the event sees some some of Europe’s top slam of the world’s top freestylers hit- dunkers, giving it their all in a bid ting the track to present what or- to become the BBL Slam Dunk ganisers describe as ‘truly Champion. awe-inspiring entertainment’.

The National Running Show NEC, Birmingham, Sat 20 - Sun 21 January Dame Kelly Homes (pictured) opens this brand new addi- tion to the NEC’s calendar, a show designed as a one-stop shop for running enthusiasts. Highlights of the event include ‘inspirational’ talks from running experts, free advice on nutrition, training and equipment, the latest product launches, free trainer fitting and gait analy- sis and the chance to enter numerous on-site competitions. whatsonlive.co.uk 51 Events January-2.qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2017 12:24 Page 3

52 whatsonlive.co.uk Events January-2.qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2017 12:24 Page 4

Events previews from around the region Events

Autosport New Year Family Fun International British Motor Museum, Gaydon, NEC, Birmingham, Tues 2 - Sun 7 January Thurs 11 - Sun 14 January Early-January visitors to the British Motor Museum can certainly expect Described as ‘the world’s greatest an all-action start to the year. four-wheel indoor extravaganza’, Young motor enthusiasts can get Autosport International caters for 2018 under way in style by using industry professionals and motor- Lego to design a new car, then step- sport fans alike. Featuring every ping back in time to find out about level of motor racing - from kart- the most popular automobiles of ing through to Formula One - the 1927. A Motoring Treasures trail event offers visitors the chance to adds to the fun. check out the latest performance road cars, chat to club members and watch precision-driving displays in the Live Action Arena. Ex-Formula One World Champion Nigel Mansell makes a special guest appearance at the show.

Tattoo Freeze Telford International Centre, Sat 13 - Sun 14 January Twelfth Night Following on from the success Wassail And Ceilidh of previous shows, this spe- The Other Place and various venues cialist two-day event offers around Stratford, Sat 6 January members of the general public The Royal Shakespeare Company is the chance to get themselves hosting this special event in order tattooed by one (or more!) of to celebrate the last night of Christ- the 200 talented tattooists mas. who’ll be in attendance. Choirs from across the Midlands Show highlights include Katie sing traditional wassailing songs Dee and her ‘burlesque and and carols, after which there’s a magical fire show’, robot- winter procession and special building, felt & fibre, BMX ceilidh. and circus workshops, a Roughly translated as ‘be in good Scalextric rally challenge and health’, wassailing is an English a 10ft-long python named tradition - taking place on the Julius! Twelfth Night of Christmas - which involves singing to the health of apple trees, in the hope that they Wolverhampton Literature Festival might yield a good harvest. The RSC wassail includes four spe- Venues across Wolverhampton city centre, Fri 26 - Sun 28 January cially commissioned arrangements by ex-Bellowhead member and Wolverhampton’s second literature festival features ac- choral arranger Paul Sartin. claimed authors, musicians, workshops and children’s The event coincides with the Com- events. pany’s staging of Shakespeare’s Included among the festival’s highlights is an appearance by popular comedy, Twelfth Night. novelist, journalist, political commentator and television personality Will Self (pictured). Commenting on the 2018 festival, Councillor John Reynolds said: "The pilot festival was made possible by the generous contributions of artists and local businesses, and was a great celebration of literature in our city. I’m pleased that the festival will take place again in 2018. Already there’s a great variety of entertainment lined up during the three-day festival, with even more authors and events soon to be announced."

whatsonlive.co.uk 53 The List Cover January 1 Warwicks_Worcs.qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2017 14:50 Page 1 The List Cover January 1 Warwicks_Worcs.qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2017 14:50 Page 2

YourYour wweek-eek- bby-weeky-week llistingsistings gguideuide JanuaryJanuary 20182018 thelist

A Christmas Carol at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon - until Sun 4 February

Music I Comedy I Theatre I Dance I Film I Events I Visual Arts I and more!

What’s On Mon 1 to Sun 7 January Mon 8 to Sun 14 January Mon 15 to Sun 21 January Mon 22 to Wed 31 January

The Real Ice Rink at Webbs Oddsocks’ The Wizard Of Oz Martyn Joseph Winter Tour at Lady Gaga plays Garden Centre, Wychbold at Artrix, Bromsgrove Huntingdon Hall, Worcester Arena Birmingham until Tues 2 January Sun 14 January Thurs 18 January Wed 31 January

whatsonlive.co.uk 55 The List Warwickshire Fri 1 - Sun 7 January.qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2017 14:46 Page 1

thelist THROUGHOUT JANUARY Gigs Comedy EDWINA HAYES Mon 1 Jan, Kitchen until Sun 11 Feb COMEDY CAROUSEL WITH ANDY Visual Arts Garden Cafe, Birmingham Leamington Spa Art Gallery & RICHARDSON & COMIC TBC Thurs 4 DINO BAPTISTE TRIO Thurs 4 Jan, The Jan, The Glee Club, Birmingham Museum Jam House, Birmingham Artrix, Bromsgrove JEN BRISTER, BEN NORRIS, PAUL TONK- THE BENEVOLENT DESPOT: ALDERMAN CATAPULT CLUB FEAT. 14 PIECES Fri 5 INSON & ROBIN MORGAN Fri 5 - Sat 6 RACHEL BLACKWELL: THE ENCHANTED ALFRED HOLT (1858 - 1943) AND THE Jan, O2 Academy, Birmingham Jan, The Glee Club, Birmingham REALM Malvern-based artist Rachel FOUNDATION OF LEAMINGTON ART produces paintings that come from GALLERY The story of Alderman Alfred KING PLEASURE AND THE BISCUIT BOYS ESHAAN AKBAR, MICKEY SHARMA, ‘the enchanted realm of imagination’, Holt's contributions as a ‘public-spir- Fri 5 Jan, Artrix, Bromsgrove SUNIL PATEL & GUZ KHAN Mon 8 Jan, and which are often inspired by the ited resident’, presented through a Belgrade Theatre, Coventry landscape of Britain, until Sun 4 Feb selection of the paintings he donated to the gallery and supplemented by Birmingham Museum & photographs and local-history ob- Art Gallery jects, until Sun 7 Jan KNIGHTS OF THE RAJ Exhibition featur- NEW LIGHTS OF LEAMINGTON In the Theatre ing rare photographs, unique arte- 1950s, a festival called The Lights of facts, videos, interactive displays and Leamington drew 300,000 visitors to ALADDIN Family panto starring CBee- oral histories that tell the fascinating the town. This new exhibition, se- bies favourite Cat Sandion, with story of the much-loved British curry, lected and curated by Birmingham- Sam Rabone until Sat 6 Jan, Lich- until Sun 14 Jan based artist Stuart Whipps, brings field Garrick BEYOND THE BATTLEFIELD: FACES OF the theme up to date, showing the di- CRIMES ON THE CHRISTMAS EXPRESS PEACE & WAR Amateur photographer verse ways that light runs through the Inspired by Agatha Christie, The 39 Käthe Buchler photographed the collection at Leamington Spa Art Steps and the Jason Bourne German home front during the First Gallery & Museum, Fri 19 Jan - Sun movies, a cast of four bring to life a World War. Her black & white images 15 Apr THE BEAT BROTHERS Fri 5 - Sat 6 Jan, host of characters, until Sat 6 Jan, feature members of her family, work- The Jam House, Birmingham Lichfield Garrick ing children and a series called Rugby Art Gallery & Museum ROD STEWART & THE FACEZ Fri 5 Jan, CINDERELLA Traditional family pan- ‘women doing men’s jobs’, until Sun RUGBY OPEN ART EXHIBITION 2017 The River Rooms, Stourbridge tomime, until Sat 6 Jan, Talisman 14 Jan Showcasing the best of art and craft Theatre & Arts Centre, Kenilworth THE PAST IS NOW: BIRMINGHAM AND from the region, until Sat 13 Jan THE JOHNNY CASH ROADSHOW Sat 6 Jan, Artrix, Bromsgrove WIND IN THE WILLOWS Olivier Award- THE BRITISH EMPIRE Exhibition chal- CABINETS OF CURIOSITY Exhibition ex- winning children’s playwright Mike lenging the typical colonial narrative ploring the museum's social history BOWIE Sat 6 Jan, The Night Owl, Kenny’s adaptation of Kenneth Gra- used to present the history of the and archaeology collections, until Sat Birmingham hame’s children’s classic, until Sat 6 British Empire, until Mon 12 Mar 10 Mar LEGEND Sat 6 Jan, The River Rooms, Jan, Albany Theatre, Coventry FAITH IN BIRMINGHAM, Exploring how Stourbridge SLEEPING BEAUTY Starring Ben different faiths have influenced and Other VISUAL ARTS ANNIE DUGGAN Sun 7 Jan, Kitchen shaped the city, until Sun 3 Feb 2019 Humphrey as Dame Ginny, until Sun PERSHORE ARTS Showcasing the Garden Cafe, Birmingham 7 Jan, The Swan Theatre, Worcester work of artists living and working in NIK TURNERS NEW SPACE RITUAL Sun CINDERELLA Alison Hammond stars Herbert Art Gallery & Worcestershire, until Sun 7 Jan, Eve- 7 Jan, The Robin, Bilston Museum, Coventry sham Arts Centre alongside Gemma Naylor from Nick Jr’s Go! Go! Go! show, until Sun 7 NEW GARAGE ART GROUP Garage Arts SACRED THINGS Jan, Malvern Theatres Photographer and an- promotes health & wellbeing through thropologist Liz Hingley has collabo- painting, drawing, textile and other vi- TALL STORIES: THE SNOW DRAGON rated with Syrian families to produce sual arts, Tues 9 Jan - Fri 9 Mar, Eve- Toe-tapping songs and ‘lots of portraits that introduce them as indi- sham Arts Centre Classical laughs’ for everyone aged three and viduals to the people of Coventry, older, until Sun 7 Jan, The Patrick Music Centre, Birmingham Hippodrome CINDERELLA Panto version of the JOHANN STRAUSS GALA Featuring classic rags-to-riches tale, written the Johann Strauss Dancers & Or- and directed by Iain Lauchlan, until chestra in period costume. John Sat 13 Jan, Belgrade Theatre, Rigby (conductor), Corinne Cowl- Coventry ing (soprano) & Nicky Spence THE HUNDRED AND ONE DALMATIANS (tenor), also star, Mon 1 Jan, Sym- Dodie Smith’s delightful tale, phony Hall, Birmingham adapted for the stage by Nativity! CBSO VIENNESE NEW YEAR Featuring writer Debbie Issit, until Sat 13 Jan, Martin Yates (conductor) & Ilona The REP, Birmingham Domnich (soprano). Programme JACK AND THE BEANSTALK Starring includes works by Supp , J. Gareth Gates, Lisa Riley, Ian Adams Strauss II, Lehâr & Novello,ė Fri 5 & Doreen Tipton, until Sun 14 Jan, Jan, Malvern Theatres Wolverhampton Grand Theatre VIENNESE NEW YEAR Featuring Mar- CINDERELLA Soul diva Beverley tin Yates (conductor) & Ilona Dom- Knight makes her pantomime debut nich (soprano). Programme alongside Strictly finalist Danny Mac, includes works by Suppé, J. Birmingham panto favourite Matt Strauss II, Lehár, Waldteufel, Nov- Slack, pop and television star ello & Josef Strauss, Suzanne Shaw and comedy duo Sat 6 Jan, Symphony Hall, The Grumbleweeds. Ceri Dupree Knights Of The Raj - Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery Birmingham and David Dale star as the Ugly Sis-

56 whatsonlive.co.uk The List Warwickshire Fri 1 - Sun 7 January.qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2017 14:46 Page 2

Friday 1 to Sunday 7 January

ters, until Sun 28 Jan, Birmingham Jan, International Convention Centre Hippodrome (ICC), Birmingham A CHRISTMAS CAROL David Edgar’s THE PRINCESS AND THE DRAGON Swan adaptation of Charles Dickens’ festive Theatre Amateur Company present classic. Phil Davies stars, until Sun 4 Sally Nall’s popular play for younger Feb, Royal Shakespeare Theatre, audiences, Sat 6 Jan, Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Worcester IMPERIUM: THE CICERO PLAYS, PART I CONSPIRATOR Mike Poulton turns his pen to the thrilling world of power politics in the Ancient Rome of Robert Harris’ best-selling Cicero trilogy. Dance Gregory Doran directs, until Sat 10 Feb, The Swan Theatre, Stratford- SWAN LAKE St Petersburg Classic Bal- upon-Avon let bring to life the greatest romantic ballet of all time, Sun 7 Jan, Sym- phony Hall, Birmingham

Film

PADDINGTON 2 (U) Adventure/Comedy. Starring Sally Hawkins, Brendan Gleeson. Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury, Blue Man Group until Sat 6 Jan; Artrix, Bromsgrove, International Convention Centre, Birmingham, until Sat 6 January Wed 3 & Fri 5 Jan Close friends Chris Wink, Matt Goldman and Phil Stanton came up IMPERIUM: THE CICERO PLAYS, PART II WONDER (PG) Drama/Family. Starring DICTATOR Mike Poulton turns his pen Julia Roberts, Owen Wilson. Roses with the Blue Man Group (BMG) concept in New York City in 1991, to the thrilling world of power politics Theatre, Tewkesbury, until Sun 7 Jan since which time the famously blue and bald performers have en- in the Ancient Rome of Robert Harris’ STAR WARS: THE LAST JEDI (12a) Ac- tertained a staggering 35 million people across the world. Present- best-selling Cicero trilogy. Gregory tion/Adventure. Starring Daisy Ridley, ing shows that combine art, music, comedy and cutting-edge Doran directs, until Sat 10 Feb, The John Boyega. Mockingbird Cinema, technology ‘to create a sublime celebration of human connection’, Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Birmingham, Mon 1 - Thurs 4 Jan; BMG is visiting the UK for the first time in nine years. Expect a Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury, Fri 5 - TWELFTH NIGHT Ade Edmondson & blissful party atmosphere and innovation aplenty. Kara Tointon star in Shakespeare’s Thurs 11 Jan tale of unrequited love, until Sat 24 BATTLE OF THE SEXES (15) Biogra- Feb, Royal Shakespeare Theatre, phy/Comedy. Starring Emma Stone, Stratford-upon-Avon Steve Carell. Warwick Arts Centre, NEW FILMS ON GENERAL RELEASE: eryone at this festive time of year as a sparkling path winds its way through STICK MAN Scamp Theatre’s adapta- Coventry, Tues 2 - Thurs 4 Jan Released from Mon 1 Jan, showing the Gardens in a magical after dark tion of Julia Donaldson & Alex Scef- at selected cinemas THE DINNER (15) Drama/Thriller. Star- experience, until Mon 1 Jan, Birming- fler’s popular children’s book of the ring Richard Gere, Laura Linney. War- MOLLY’S GAME (15) ham Botanical Gardens same name, Tues 26 Dec - Fri 12 Jan, wick Arts Centre, Coventry, Tues 2 - Released from Fri 5 Jan, showing at Birmingham Town Hall Thurs 4 Jan THE REAL ICE RINK AT WEBBS GARDEN selected cinemas CENTRE WYCHBOLD Create lasting fes- BLUE MAN GROUP Global smash-hit THE FLORIDA PROJECT (15) Drama. tive memories as you glide across fusing art, music, comedy and state- ALL THE MONEY IN THE WORLD (tbc) Starring Brooklynn Prince, Bria the ice, until Tues 2 Jan, Webbs Gar- of-the-art technology to create an ‘un- BRAD'S STATUS (tbc) Vinaite. Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury, den Centre, Droitwich Spa forgettable celebration of the human Sat 6 - Wed 10 Jan HOSTILES (tbc) connection’, Thurs 28 Dec - Sat 6 ICE SKATE BIRMINGHAM Ice Skate JUPITER'S MOON (15) Birmingham gives you the opportu- nity to enjoy this winter sport in beautiful city surroundings, until Sun 7 Jan, Eastside City Park, Birmingham CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL The Red Events House Glass Cone's first Christmas Tree Festival, raising money for Dud- MAGICAL LANTERN FESTIVAL Prepare to ley Mind, The YMCA and Dudley enter a magical experience and dis- Alzheimer's Society, until Sun 7 Jan, cover life-sized and larger-than-life Red House Glass Cone, Wordsley, lanterns in all shapes and forms, until Stourbridge Mon 1 Jan, Kings Heath Park, Birm- BRITISH MOTOR MUSEUM NEW YEAR ingham FAMILY ACTIVITIES Drop in to the GINGERBREAD TRAIL George the gin- Learning Space and get creative with gerbread man is playing hide and Lego, Tues 2 - Fri 5 Jan, British Motor seek in the parkland with his friends - Museum, Gaydon help him find them. Follow the clues NEW YEAR CRAFTS: CREATE A CALENDAR round our trail and claim your prize, Use a variety of craft materials to de- until Mon 1 Jan, Croome Park, sign and create a unique calendar to Worcester use for the new year ahead, Wed 3 - CHRISTMAS AT BIRMINGHAM BOTANICAL Thurs 4 Jan, Blakesley Hall, B’ham Paddington 2 - showing at Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury & Artrix, Brromsgrove GARDENS There’s something for ev-

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thelist Monday 8 - Sunday 14 January CLAIRE DOWIE DOUBLE BILL Stage2 Classical Theatre Company present two of the author’s monologues as full-cast one-act plays, Wed 10 - Sat 13 Jan, Music Crescent Theatre, Birmingham JACK AND THE BEANSTALK Presented BRUCKNER’S SEVENTH Featuring by Three Spires & Guildhall theatre Omer Meir Wellber (conductor) & group, Wed 10 - Sun 14 Jan, Albany Yeol Eum Son (piano). Programme Theatre, Coventry comprises Mozart’s Piano Concerto No.21, K.467, 29’ & Bruckner’s AUSTEN THE MUSICAL New musical Symphony No.7, 68’, Thurs 11 Jan, production exploring Jane’s strug- Symphony Hall, Birmingham gles to have her work published in a male-dominated world, Thurs 11 - CENTRE STAGE: CBSO STRING ENSEM- Sat 13 Jan, The Old Joint Stock The- BLE Programme includes works by atre, Birmingham Schubert, Gade & Shostakovich, Fri 12 Jan, CBSO Centre, Birming- THE WICKED WIZARD OF FIZZOG Black ham Country theatre favourites Fizzog present their version of The Wizard IN ECHO Period instrument ensem- Of Oz, Sat 13 Jan, Crescent Theatre, ble featuring Gawain Glenton Cor- Birmingham netto (recorder), Uri Smilansky (viol/recorder), Kirsty Whatley FUTURETHEATRE: 90 DAYS & INVISIBLE (harp), Richard Boothby (viol) & DOUBLE BILL Thought-provoking double bill featuring a play set in the Craig Charles - Hare & Hounds, Birmingham Katherine Hawnt (soprano), Fri 12 Jan, The Barber Institute, Birming- past - in 1972, in Uganda - and one set in the future - in 2025, in Birming- KENI BURKE Thurs 11 GORDON GILTRAP WITH ham ham, Sat 13 Jan, MAC, Birmingham Gigs Jan, Hare & Hounds, SPECIAL GUEST CARRIE Birmingham MARTIN Sat 13 Jan, THE WIZARD OF OZ Zany funsters Oddsocks present a lighthearted CATAPULT CLUB FT. ALI Huntingdon Hall, THE JEEPS Tues 9 Jan, take of L Frank Baum’s classic ad- GILBERT Fri 12 Jan, O2 Worcester The Jam House, Birm- venture, Sun 14 Jan, Artrix, Broms- Academy, Birmingham RODDY RADIATION & THE ingham grove SKABILLY REBELS & THE Comedy ARCHER & TRIPP’ THE BEST OF WHAM Fri SKA45S Sat 13 Jan, TRANCE SEND Tues 9 12 Jan, Artrix, Broms- Hare & Hounds, Birm- ANGELA BARNES, MAUREEN YOUNGER Jan, Kitchen Garden grove ingham Wed 10 Jan, Kitchen Garden Cafe, Cafe, Birmingham 6LACK Fri 12 Jan, O2 Birmingham BAD PRACTICE Sat 13 GOSPEL CENTRAL Wed Institute, Birmingham Jan, Hare & Hounds, ABIGOLIAH SCHAMAUN, PAUL THORNE & Film 10 Jan, The Jam THE BOB DYLAN STORY Birmingham COMEDY CAROUSEL WITH ANDY ROBIN- House, Birmingham Fri 12 Jan, Stratford SON Thurs 11 Jan, The Glee Club, JOHNNY CASH ROAD- INDEPENDENT LISTINGS: THE HUNNA Thurs 11 Artshouse Birmingham SHOW Sat 13 Jan, KALEIDOSCOPE (15) Thriller. Starring Jan, O2 Academy, CHER VS PINK Fri 12 THE COMEDY HUT ACTS TBC Fri 12 Jan, Malvern Theatres, Anne Reid, Sinead Matthews. Mock- Birmingham Jan, The River Rooms, The Civic, Stourport Worcester ingbird Cinema, Birmingham, Mon 8 IN HER OWN WORDS + Stourbridge JAMES O’MARA- FOR- TOM BINNS Fri 12 Jan, Katie Fitzger- Jan FOR THE WIN + BETTER BENNETT FAMILY ald's, Stourbridge EVER ON TOUR Sat 13 CHURCHILL (PG) Biography/Drama. THAN NEVER + VICTORY SINGERS Fri 12 Jan, Jan, The Marr’s Bar, Starring Brian Cox, Miranda Richard- LANE + YOU KNOW THE Kitchen Garden Cafe, Worcester son. Stourbridge Town Hall, Mon 8 DRILL Thurs 11 Jan, Birmingham The Flapper, B’ham BLACK ELVIS Sat 13 Jan MOTHERSHIP - LED ZEP- Jan, The Night Owl, STRONGER (15) Biography/Drama. OSCAR YOUNG 'WE ARE PELIN TRIBUTE Sat 13 Birmingham Starring Jake Gyllenhaal, Tatiana YOUNG' - EP LAUNCH Jan, Artrix, Broms- Maslany. Roses Theatre, Tewkes- Thurs 11 Jan, Hare & grove Hounds, Birmingham bury, Mon 8 - Thurs 11 Jan TROPHY (15) Documentary. Mocking- bird Cinema, Birmingham, Tues 9 Jan I AM NOT A WITCH (12A) Drama. Star- ABIGOLIAH SCHAMAUN, PAUL THORNE, ring Gloria Huwiler, Chileshe Kalima- FIN TAYLOR & JAKE LAMBERT Fri 12 - mukwento. Roses Theatre, Sat 13 Jan, The Glee Club, B’ham Tewkesbury, Tues 9 Jan MATT REED, SUZI RUFFELL, CHRISTIAN TAWAI: A VOICE FROM THE FOREST (U) REILLY & JOSH PUGH Sat 13 Jan, The Documentary. Starring Bruce Parry, Comedy Loft, Birmingham Ingrid Lewis. Roses Theatre, Tewkes- bury, Thurs 11 Jan THE KILLING OF A SACRED DEER (15) Drama/Horror. Starring Nicole Kid- man, Colin Farrell. Roses Theatre, Theatre Tewkesbury, Thurs 11 Jan ERIC CLAPTON: LIFE IN 12 BARS (15) BEAUTY AND THE BEAST Presented by Documentary. Mockingbird Cinema, Sudden Impulse Theatre Company, Birmingham, Fri 12 - Thurs 18 Jan Tues 9 - Sat 20 Jan, Abbey Theatre, THE GREATEST SHOWMAN (tbc) Biogra- Nuneaton Gordon Giltrap - Huntingdon Hall, Worcester phy/Drama. Starring Rebecca Fergu- whatsonlive.co.uk 59 The List Warwickshire 8 - 14 January.qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2017 14:47 Page 3 The List Warwickshire 8 - 14 January.qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2017 14:47 Page 4

thelist Monday 8 - Sunday 14 January son, Hugh Jackman. Roses Theatre, NEW FILMS ON GENERAL RELEASE: Britain’s most haunted buildings, Sat TATTOO FREEZE Admire great artists Tewkesbury, Fri 12 - Thurs 18 Jan 13 Jan, Aston Hall, Birmingham and artwork and get some new ink, Released from Fri 12 Jan, showing at Sat 13 - Sun 14 Jan, Telford Interna- THE PRINCE OF NOTHINGWOOD (15) selected cinemas AUTOSPORT INTERNATIONAL Must-visit Documentary. Starring Qurban Ali, event for motorsport fans and perfor- tional Centre, Shropshire DARKEST HOUR (PG) Sonia Kronlund. Roses Theatre, mance-car aficionados, featuring PANORAMA TOWER OPEN DAY Enjoy Tewkesbury, Sat 13 Jan ERIC CLAPTON: A LIFE IN 12 BARS (15) cars, stars and action, Sat 13 - Sun 360-degree views from the balcony of FERDINAND (U) Animation/Adventure. INSIDIOUS: THE LAST KEY (15) 14 Jan, NEC, Birmingham the Panorama Tower, Sun 14 Jan, With the voices of Kate McKinnon, THREE BILLBOARDS OUTSIDE OF EBBING DAD’S DAYS OUT WORKSHOP Workshop Croome Park, Worcester David Tennant. Roses Theatre, MISSOURI (15) allowing dads of all ages to spend CAMPER MART One-day VW buying Tewkesbury, Sat 13 - Sun 14 Jan quality time with their children explor- extravaganza, Sun 14 Jan, Telford In- ing the world of science, technology, ternational Centre, Shropshire engineering and maths, Sat 13 Jan, Events Coventry Transport Museum

ST JOSEPH'S BOYS SCHOOL TOUR AT CROOME Share the experiences of former pupils of Croome Court, when it was St Joseph's Boys School, as they take you on a tour of the court and red wing, Tues 9 Jan, Croome Park, Worcester PERFORMANCE CAR SHOW Featuring iconic brands like Lamborghini, Fer- rari, McLaren, Aston Martin and Porsche, this show is the ultimate destination for performance-car afi- NORTH BY NORTHWEST (PG) Adven- cionados, Thurs 11 - Sun 14 Jan, ture/Mystery. Starring Cary Grant, NEC, Birmingham Eva Marie Saint. Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury, Sun 14 Jan GHOST TOURS A tour of one of Tattoo Freeze - Telford International Centre, Shropshire

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thelist PAUL JONES AND DAVE KELLY 36 CRAZYFISTS Sat 20 Jan, O2 Gigs Thurs 18 Jan, Artrix, Broms- Academy, Birmingham grove TO KILL A KING Sat 20 Jan, SEAWAY Mon 15 Jan, O2 In- MARTYN JOSEPH - WINTER Mama Roux’s, Birmingham stitute, Birmingham TOUR 2017/18 Thurs 18 Jan, SOMEONE LIKE YOU - THE Huntingdon Hall, Worcester JACOB & DRINKWATER Mon 15 ADELE SONGBOOK Sat 20 Jan, Jan, Kitchen Garden Cafe, KING KING Thurs 18 Jan, Huntingdon Hall, Worcester Birmingham Birmingham Town Hall ALEX OHM Sat 20 Jan, The CREATE TO INSPIRE Tues 16 CATAPULT CLUB FEAT. THE AT- Sunflower Lounge, B’ham Jan, The Asylum, B’ham TICS Fri 19 Jan, O2 Academy, HUDSON TAYLOR Sat 20 Jan, Birmingham AND YOU KNOW US Tues 16 O2 Institute, Birmingham Jan, The Jam House, B’ham THE NEIL DIAMOND STORY Fri THE MAGIC OF MOTOWN Sat 20 19 Jan, The Core Theatre, THE TRANSPORTS - A TALE OF Jan, Belgrade Theatre, Solihull EXILE & MIGRATION Wed 17 Coventry Jan, Artrix, Bromsgrove THE SMYTHS “UNITE & JAKE MITCHELL Sat 20 Jan, TAKEOVER” Fri 19 Jan, The THE DECADES BAND Wed 17 O2 Academy, Birmingham Assembly, Leamington Spa Jan, The Jam House, B’ham THE ONE LOVE BAND Sat 20 DETROIT SOUL COLLECTIVE Fri THE SYD LAWRENCE ORCHES- Jan, The River Rooms, Stour- 19 - Sat 20 Jan, The Jam TRA Wed 17 Jan, The Core bridge House, Birmingham Theatre, Solihull FAITH: THE GEORGE MICHAEL CRAIG CHARLES Fri 19 Jan, SINACH WAYMAKER Thurs 18 LEGACY Sat 20 Jan, Malvern Hare & Hounds, Birmingham Jan, O2 Institute, B’ham Theatres, Worcester BUDDY HOLLY: A LEGEND RE- RICKY COOL & IN THE CROWD JANIS JOPLIN & FRIENDS IN BORN Fri 19 Jan, Huntingdon Thurs 18 Jan, The Jam THE WOODSTOCK EXPERIENCE Hall, Worcester House, Birmingham Sat 20 Jan, Artrix, Broms- FIGHTS AND FIRES Fri 19 Jan, grove BRAD O'NEILL & MYLO MEM- The Marr’s Bar, Worcester PHIS Thurs 18 Jan, Hare & LIFESIGNS Sun 21 Jan, The Hounds, Birmingham JAKE HENRY Fri 19 Jan, Pizza Robin, Bilston Martyn Joseph - Huntingdon Hall, Worcester Express Live, Birmingham

JANUARY 2018

Fri 12 January Weds 17 January Thurs 18 January THE BEST OF THE TRANSPORTS PAUL JONES & WHAM! FEATURING THE YOUNG’UNS, DAVE KELLY FANTASTIC SHOW WITH FAUSTUS, NANCY KERR, AN ACOUSTIC BLUES GEORGE, ANDREW, PEPSI & RACHAEL MCSHANE & MORE EVENING SHIRLIE

Sat 20 January Thurs 25 January Fri 26 January THE WOODSTOCK FRANKIE’S GUYS THE BEST OF EXPERIENCE TRIBUTE TO FRANKIE VALLI QUEEN RELIVE THE SUMMER OF & THE FOUR SEASONS SUPERB TRIBUTE TO LOVE FREDDIE & COMPANY

COMING SOON: Young Marx, King Pleasure & The Biscuit Boys, Johnny Cash Roadshow, The Best Of Wham, Mothership, Oddsocks: Wizard Of Oz, ROH Live: Rigoletto, The Transports, Paul Jones & Dave Kelly, Craig Ogden, Andy Zaltzman, Woodstock Experience, Frankie’s Guys, The Best Of Queen, Germaine Greer, Eclipse, Counterfeit Stones, Samantha Baines, ROH Live: Tosca, Austen The Musical, Leon McCawley, Cloudbusting, Fizzogs, Whitney Houston Live Experience, Bobby Mair, Kitty Macfarlane, T.Rextasy, RSC Live: Twelfth Night, Monstersaurus, Phil Wang, Official Receivers, Fairport Convention…

Join our Mailing List and receive our weekly e-flyer Free parking on-site withup-to-date information about upcoming shows or download our latest brochure Artrix, Slideslow Drive, Bromsgrove, B60 1GN www.artrix.co.uk Box Office: 01527 577330 @artrixarts @artrix arts centre

62 whatsonlive.co.uk The List Warwickshire 15 - 21 January.qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2017 14:44 Page 2

Monday 15 - Sunday 21 January

Bromsgrove Classical Music GUZ KHAN, MICKEY P KERR, STEFANO PAOLINI & JESSICA FOSTEKEW Sat 20 LUNCHTIME ORGAN CONCERT WITH Jan, The Comedy Loft, Birmingham THOMAS TROTTER Programme includes works by J.S Bach, C.P.E Bach, C.H.H Parry, E.H Lemare & Wagner, Mon 15 Jan, Symphony Hall, Birmingham Theatre BBC RADIO 3 NEW GENERATION ARTISTS: MARIAM BATSASHVILI BONES Poignant and emotionally (PIANO) Programme includes works charged monologue about a young by Bach/Busoni & Liszt, Tues 16 man trying to find his place in a world Jan, Royal Birmingham Conserva- that doesn’t want him, Tues 16 - Wed toire 17 Jan, Old Joint Stock Theatre, BARTÓK'S CONCERTO FOR ORCHESTRA Birmingham Featuring the City of Birmingham THE SOUND OF MUSIC West End star Symphony Orchestra, Mirga Lucy O’Byrne stars as Maria in what’s Gražinyt -Tyla (conductor) & Ning widely regarded as one of the great- Feng (violin).ė Programme includes est musicals of all time, Tues 16 - Sat works by Haydn, Bruch, Brahms & 20 Jan, New Alexandra Theatre, Bartok, Wed 17 Jan, Symphony Birmingham The Sound Of Music Hall, Birmingham MEDEA Warwick Classics Society pre- New Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham, DOMONKOS CSABAY PIANO RECITAL sents a staging of Euripides’ explo- Tues 16 - Sat 20 January Programme includes works by ration of love, loss, betrayal and Rodgers & Hammerstein's hit musical is best known from its mid- Schubert, Bartók, Janá ek & Britten, revenge, Thurs 18 Jan, Belgrade The- 1960s film version starring Julie Andrews. Telling the story of the Wed 17 Jan, Birminghamč Town Hall atre, Coventry Von Trapp family’s World War Two flight across the mountains of CRAIG OGDEN GUITAR CONCERT Pro- GALLOWGLASS Middle Ground The- gramme includes works by Silvius atre Company present the stage pre- Austria, it features memorable songs like Edelweiss, My Favourite Leopold Weiss, Nigel Westlake, Alb- miere of the 1990 thriller by Barbara Things, Do-Re-Mi, Climb Ev’ry Mountain, The Lonely Goatherd, So eniz, Bach & Antonio Jose, Fri 19 Vine (aka Ruth Rendell), Thurs 18 - Long, Farewell and, of course, the title track itself. Jan, Artrix, Bromsgrove Sat 20 Jan, Wolverhampton Grand KENNETH HAMILTON LECTURE-RECITAL Theatre Programme comprises works by ALADDIN Kays Theatre Group pre- DARKEST HOUR (PG) Frédéric Chopin, Fri 19 Jan, The sents its version of the rags-to-riches Biography/Drama. Starring Gary Old- Barber Institute, Birmingham favourite, Thurs 18 - Sun 28 Jan, man, Lily James. Roses Theatre, Events ORCHESTRA OF THE SWAN: JOHN LILL Swan Theatre, Worcester Tewkesbury, Fri 19 - Thurs 25 Jan THE ARENACROSS TOUR 2018 Are- PLAYS BEETHOVEN Featuring John Lill PEARL JAM: LET'S PLAY TWO (15) Docu- nacross is ‘short, sharp and shock- (piano) & David Curtis (conductor). mentary. Starring Jeff Ament, Matt ingly spectacular’, with huge triple Programme includes works by Cameron. Mockingbird Cinema, jumps, killer mogul sections and fast, Mozart & Beethoven, Fri 19 Jan, Birmingham, Sat 20 Jan banked corners all designed to pro- Malvern Theatres Dance BLADE RUNNER : THE FINAL CUT + vide a high-octane sensory feast, Sat BARTÓK'S CONCERTO FOR ORCHESTRA BLADE RUNNER 2049 Sci-Fi/Thriller. 20 Jan, Genting Arena, Birmingham Featuring the City of Birmingham AN EVENING OF MUSIC AND DANCE WITH Starring Harrison Ford. Mockingbird NATIONAL RUNNING SHOW Brand new Symphony Orchestra, Mirga BIRMINGHAM ROYAL BALLET Featuring Cinema, Birmingham, Sun 21 Jan show for running enthusiasts, Sat 20 Gražinyt -Tyla (conductor) & Ning BRB director David Bintley, the Royal - Sun 21 Jan, NEC, Birmingham Feng (violin).ė Programme includes Ballet Sinfonia and world class works by Haydn, Bruch, Brahms & dancers from the Company, Fri 19 Bartok, Sat 20 Jan, Symphony Hall, Jan, Symphony Hall, Birmingham Birmingham A VIENNESE STRAUSS GALA Pro- gramme includes works by Strauss & Lehar, Sun 21 Jan, Wolverhamp- ton Grand Theatre Film

INDEPENDENT LISTINGS: TOUS LES MATINS DU MONDE (12) Biog- raphy/Drama. Starring Gérard Depar- Comedy MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS (12a) dieu, Jean-Pierre Marielle. Foreign Crime/Drama. Starring Kenneth language, subtitled. Malvern The- TOADALLY FREE COMEDY! Mon 15 Jan, Branagh, Johnny Depp. Artrix, atres, Sun 21 Jan The Blue Orange Theatre, B’ham Bromsgrove, Mon 15, Fri 19 Jan STEPHEN K AMOS Thurs 18 Jan, War- CLERKS AND SHOOTING CLERKS DOUBLE NEW FILMS ON GENERAL RELEASE: wick Arts Centre, Coventry BILL (15) Biography/Comedy. Star- Released from Fri 19 Jan, showing at ring Kevin Smith, Brian O'Halloran. NATHAN CATON, CARL DONNELLY & BEN selected cinemas VAN DER VELDE Thurs 18 Jan, The With Q&A. Mockingbird Cinema, COCO (tbc) Bramall, Birmingham Birmingham, Fri 19 Jan THE COMMUTER (15) ANDY ZALTZMAN Fri 19 Jan, Glee Club, THE DISASTER ARTIST (15) Biogra- Birmingham phy/Comedy. Starring James Franco, DOWNSIZING (15) Dave Franco. Mockingbird Cinema, ANDY ZALTZMAN Sat 20 Jan, Artrix, THE POST (tbc) The Arenacross Tour - Birmingham, Fri 19 - Thurs 25 Jan Genting Arena, Birmingham whatsonlive.co.uk 63 The List Warwickshire 22 - 31 January.qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2017 14:45 Page 1

thelist GUITAR HEROES Sat 27 Warwickshire Symphony Orches- Jan, Belgrade Theatre, Classical tra, Sat 27 Jan, Coventry Cathedral Coventry BIRMINGHAM CONTEMPORARY MUSIC DIRT BOX DISCO Sat 27 GROUP - CELEBRATING CARTER Fea- Jan, The Asylum, Music turing Mirga Gražinyt -Tyla (con- Birmingham ductor) & Pierre-Laurantė Aimard JOSHUA BELL - VIVALDI’S FOUR SEA- (piano). Programme includes ROBINSON-STONE Sat SONS Also featuring the Academy 27 Jan, Artrix, Broms- works by Elliott Carter, Sun 28 Jan, of St Martin in the Fields. Pro- Birmingham Town Hall grove gramme includes works by Vivaldi, MONGOL HORDE Sat 27 Edgar Meyer & Beethoven, Tues 23 THE PELLEAS ENSEMBLE Sun 28 Jan, Jan, O2 Institute, Birm- Jan, Symphony Hall, Birmingham Huntingdon Hall, Worcester ingham THE GESUALDO SIX: THE FLOWER OF CHRISTOPH SIETZEN IN RECITAL ALVAREZ KINGS Sat 27 THE ITALIAN MADRIGAL Young vocal Featuring the WAVE Quartet & Jan, O2 Institute, Birm- consort specialising in the perfor- Christoph Sietzen (percussion). ingham mance of renaissance music. This Programme includes works by J. Groban, J.S Bach, I. Boumanns, Pi- STAMINA TOUR Sat 27 programme includes music from Lady Gaga - Arena Birmingham Italy's Golden Age and features azzolla & Rodrigo y Gabriela, Mon Jan, O2 Institute, Birm- 29 Jan, Birmingham Town Hall ingham works by Palestrina, Gesualdo, IMPERIALS & DENNIS Monteverdi, Lassus, Anerio, Vecchi, LUNCHTIME ORGAN CONCERT WITH Gigs JALE Thurs 25 Jan, MHVH VS LOVE THE LIFE de Rore, Marenzio, de Macque, THOMAS TROTTER Programme in- Birmingham Town Hall VS YOUNG CULTURE Massaino, Giovanelli & Malvezzi, cludes works by J.S Bach, I. Fla- PRESENT GENERAL LEVY LOUISE Mon 22 Jan, BANG ON THE WALL Tues 23 Jan, St Mary's Church, gler, R. Downes, A. Wammes, P. Sat 27 Jan, Hare & O2 Institute, B’ham BAND Thurs 25 Jan, Warwick Whitlock & Saint-Saëns, Mon 29 Warwick Arts Centre, Hounds, Birmingham BLOODSHOT DAWN + BBC RADIO 3 NEW GENERATION Jan, Birmingham Town Hall Coventry ALVAREZ KINGS Sun 28 GEHTIKA + REPRISAL + ARTISTS: ASHLEY RICHES (BASS BARI- BBC RADIO 3 NEW GENERATION Jan, O2 Academy, XVII Mon 22 Jan, The MATT WOOSEY Thurs 26 TONE) Also featuring Sholto Kyn- ARTISTS: QUATUOR AROD Programme Birmingham Flapper, Birmingham Jan, The Marr’s Bar, toch (piano). Programme includes includes works by Mozart & Worcester WILL VARLEY Tues 30 BLACK VEIL BRIDES & works by Schubert, Dvorak & Mendelssohn, Tues 30 Jan, Royal Jan, O2 Institute, Birm- ASKING ALEXANDRIA UK GUNS N’ ROSES Brahms, Tues 23 Jan, Royal Birm- Birmingham Conservatoire ingham Tues 23 Jan, O2 Thurs 26 Jan, The ingham Conservatoire CBSO: RACHMANINOV'S SECOND Fea- Academy, Birmingham River Rooms, Stour- THE CLASSIC ROCK BERNSTEIN - STAGE AND SCREEN Fea- turing Kazuki Yamada (conductor) bridge SHOW 2018 - GUITAR & Dejan Lazi (piano). Programme THE BOTTOM LINE Wed turing John Wilson (conductor), GREATS Tues 30 Jan, includes works by Glinka, 24 Jan, The Asylum, GAGA: THE ULTIMATE vocalists to include Kim Criswell, Birmingham Town Hall Beethoven & Rachmaninov, Wed Birmingham QUEEN TRIBUTE Thurs University of Birmingham Voices, 26 Jan, Malvern The- A BEAUTIFUL NOISE - Wed 24 Jan, Symphony Hall, Birm- 31 Jan, Symphony Hall, B’ham THIS IS THE KIT Wed 24 atres NEIL DIAMOND Tues 30 ingham PHILHARMONIA ORCHESTRA Jan, Glee Club, B’ham TOYAK - ACOUSTIC, UP Jan, Belgrade Theatre, COULL QUARTET - FROM THE NEW Featuring Cello Gautier Capuçon MALIJA Wed 24 Jan, CLOSE AND PERSONAL Coventry WORLD Programme includes works on cello & Paavo Järvi (conductor), Stratford Artshouse Thurs 26 Jan, Number MOON DUO Tues 30 by Villa Lobos, Mozart, Puccini & Wed 31 Jan, Warwick Arts Centre, THE WEDDING CRASH- 8 Community Arts, Jan, Hare & Hounds, Dvorak, Wed 24 Jan, Warwick Arts Coventry ERS Wed 24 Jan, The Pershore Birmingham Centre, Coventry KATE ROYAL (SOPRANO) & JOSEPH Jam House, B’ham WITT LOWRY Fri 26 Jan, PAUL DUNMALL/JOHN MALVERN CONCERT CLUB Featuring MIDDLETON (PIANO) This evening SAM LAVERY Wed 24 O2 Academy, B’ham O'GALLAGHER/JOHN ED- Martin Roscoe & Tasmin Little. Pro- concert features a programme of Jan, The Sunflower gramme comprises works by works by Lieder, and art song, as FLASH: THE BEST OF WARDS/MARK SANDERS Lounge, Birmingham Beethoven, Thurs 25 Jan, Malvern well as operatic arias from some of QUEEN Tues 30 Jan, Mac, Fri 26 Jan, Ar- Theatres the many roles that Kate has TALON-BEST OF THE EA- trix, Bromsgrove Birmingham GLES Wed 24 Jan, The THE CLASSIC FM MOVIE: MUSIC HALL played over the years, Wed 31 Jan, MOTIONLESS IN WHITE SARAH MCQUAID Tues The Barber Institute, Birmingham Core Thestre, Solihull 30 Jan, The Roses OF FAME Featuring Michael Seal Fri 26 Jan, O2 Insti- EUROPEAN BAROQUE ENSEMBLE: AUGUST ALSINA Thurs Theatre, Tewkesbury (conductor), Tommy Pearson (pre- tute, Birmingham senter), Fri 26 Jan, Symphony Hall, MAGICAL MOZART Wed 31 Jan, The 25 Jan, O2 Institute, THE WHOLLS HOLLYWOOD UNDEAD Fri Wed 31 Birmingham Core, Solihull Birmingham Jan, Actress & Bishop, 26 Jan, O2 Academy, CENTRE STAGE: CBSO BAROQUE EN- TASMIN LITTLE & MAR- Birmingham Birmingham TIN ROSCOE Thurs 25 SEMBLE Fri 26 Jan, CBSO Centre, FANGCLUB Fri 26 Jan, THE ELVIS YEARS Wed Jan, Malvern Theatres Birmingham The Sunflower 31 Jan, Belgrade The- FRANKIE’S GUYS Thurs atre, Coventry ATRIUM STRING QUARTET Featuring Comedy Lounge, Birmingham Sergey Malov & Anton Ilyunin (vio- 25 Jan, Artrix, Broms- YUNGBLUD THE BEST OF WHAM Fri Wed 31 lins), Dmitry Putulko (viola) & Anna grove ADAM ROWE 26 Jan, Belgrade The- Jan, The Sunflower Gorelova (cello). Programme in- Wed 24 Jan, MAC, Birm- FAIRPORT CONVENTION atre, Coventry Lounge, Birmingham cludes works by Haydn, ingham Thurs 25 Jan, The YOUR ALIBI Sat 27 Jan, THE WEATHER STATION Shostakovich & Tchaikovsky, Fri 26 CHRIS ROCK Thurs 25 Jan, Arena Roses Theatre, O2 Academy, B’ham Wed 31 Jan, Hare & Jan, Royal Pump Rooms, Birmingham Tewkesbury Hounds, Birmingham Leamington Spa ECLIPSE - THE PINK JOHN ROBINS Thurs 25 Jan, Royal SEXTILE Thurs 25 Jan, FLOYD EXPERIENCE Sat DEAD! Wed 31 Jan, KENNETH HAMILTON LECTURE-RECITAL Spa Centre, Leamington Spa The Sunflower 27 Jan, Artrix, Broms- The Flapper, B’ham Programme comprises works by MIKE BUBBINS, ANGELA BARNES & Lounge, Birmingham grove LADY GAGA Wed 31 Frédéric Chopin, Fri 26 Jan, The COMEDY CAROUSEL WITH ANDY ROBIN- THE BILLY FURY YEARS Barber Institute, Birmingham BLOBBIE WILLIAMS - Jan, Arena B’ham SON Thurs 25 Jan, The Glee Club, Thurs 25 Jan, The THE HEAVIER ENTER- BARRY STEELE AND BLAKE Fri 26 Jan, The Core Theatre, Birmingham Core Theatre, Solihull TAINMENT SHOW Sat FRIENDS Wed 31 Jan, Solihull FERN BRADY Fri 26 Jan, The Glee THE ORIGINAL 1968-77 27 Jan, Huntingdon Grand Theatre, COVENTRY CATHEDRAL CHORUS: DIS- Club, Birmingham ELVIS TCB BAND WITH Hall, Worcester Wolverhampton COVER THE CLASSICS Featuring the JAMES REDMOND, ADAM KAY & CHRIS SPECIAL GUESTS THE 64 whatsonlive.co.uk The List Warwickshire 22 - 31 January.qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2017 14:45 Page 2

Monday 22 - Wednesday 31 January

PURCHASE Fri 26 Jan, Wolverhampton teur staging of John Ajvide Lindqvist's Grand Theatre Swedish vampire novel of the same MIKE BUBBINS, ANGELA BARNES, PHIL name, Sat 27 Jan - Sat 3 Feb, Cres- JERROD & IAN SMITH Fri 26 - Sat 27 cent Theatre, Birmingham Jan, The Glee Club, Birmingham DI JAMAICAN BIG BROTHER HOUSE ED BYRNE Sat 27 Jan, Birmingham Glenda Jaxson & Charles Tomlins Town Hall star in Devon Morgan’s comedy of love, envy, jealousy and backstab- AHIR SHAH Sat 27 Jan, Royal Spa bing, Sun 28 Jan, New Alexandra Centre, Leamington Spa Theatre, Birmingham GEOFF BOYZ, ALISTAIR BARRIE, NOEL CIRCOMEDIA: CUT THE MUSTARD JAMES & DANNY MCLOUGHLIN Sat 27 Evening of contemporary circus fus- Jan, The Comedy Loft, Birmingham ing acrobatics, aerial work, manipula- JOHN KEARNS Sun 28 Jan, Warwick tion and humour, Sun 28 Jan, The Arts Centre, Coventry Roses, Tewkesbury ROUGH WORKS - NEW MATERIAL NIGHT STRANGERS ON A TRAIN Christopher Sun 28 Jan, The Glee Club, Birming- Harper, John Middleton, Jack Ashton ham & Hannah Tointon star in a ‘gripping’ Hedda Gabbler BILL BAILEY Mon 29 Jan, Warwick Arts thriller based on a fateful encounter, Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, Tues 23 - Sat 27 January Centre, Coventry Mon 29 Jan - Sat 3 Feb, New Alexan- dra Theatre, Birmingham The character of Hedda Gabler is one of the most challenging roles NO SEX PLEASE WE'RE BRITISH Amateur for an actor to play, and it’s a brave woman indeed who undertakes staging presented by the Nonentities, the necessary plunge into her own psyche. Hats off, then, to Lizzy Mon 29 Jan - Sat 3 Feb, The Rose Watts, who here takes on the part of the free-spirited Hedda in a Theatre Theatre, Kidderminster National Theatre touring production of Henrik Ibsen’s 1890 master- TEECHERS Blackeyed Theatre pre- HEDDA GABLER Contemporary produc- sents its version of John Godber’s piece. Visiting the Midlands following a sell-out run at the Na- tion of Ibsen’s masterpiece, Tues 23 - classic comedy about life at a strug- tional, the play has been modernised by Closer playwright Patrick Sat 27 Jan, Wolverhampton Grand gling school, Tues 30 Jan, Bridge Marber and Olivier and Tony Award-winning director Ivo van Hove. Theatre House Theatre, Warwick GALLOWGLASS Middle Ground The- CRAZY FOR YOU Tom Chambers, Claire atre Company present the stage pre- 30 Jan, Wolverhampton Grand The- MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS (12a) Sweeney & Charlotte Wakefield star miere of the 1990 thriller by Barbara atre Crime/Drama. Starring Kenneth in a touring production of ‘the ulti- Vine (aka Ruth Rendell), Wed 24 - Sat Branagh, Johnny Depp. Artrix, mate feelgood musical’, Tues 30 Jan 27 Jan, Malvern Theatre Bromsgrove, Mon 22 & Wed 24 Jan - Sat 3 Feb, Malvern Theatres OUR DAY OUT Aylesford School’s ama- FILM STARS DON'T DIE IN LIVERPOOL BEAUTIFUL: THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL teur staging of Willy Russell’s modern (15) Biography/Drama. Starring Jamie A ‘joyful story of musicality, success Talks classic, Thurs 25 - Sat 27 Jan, Bridge Bell, Annette Bening. Artrix, Fri 26 Jan and self-discovery’ which tells the in- House Theatre, Warwick spiring true story of King’s remark- AN EVENING WITH JOHNNY KINGDOM THE POST (tbc) Biography/Drama. HANSEL AND GRETEL Opera Warwick able rise to stardom, Wed 31 Jan - Join the wildlife enthusiast in conver- Starring Meryl Streep, Tom Hanks. transport the traditional Brothers Sat 3 Feb, Birmingham Hippodrome sation with the producer of his televi- Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury, Fri 26 - Grimm story to a post-apocalyptic Wed 31 Jan RENT Inspired by Puccini’s classic sion programmes, David Parker, Wed world, Thurs 25 - Sat 27 Jan, Warwick opera, La Bohéme, and presented by 24 Jan, Malvern Theatre VERTIGO (PG) Thirller/Drama. Starring Arts Centre, Coventry Music Theatre Warwick, Wed 31 Jan - AN AUDIENCE WITH MATT DAWSON James Stewart, Kim Novak. Artrix, COMEDY CHEKHOV Showcasing three Sat 3 Feb, Warwick Arts Centre, Thurs 25 Jan, The Bramall, B’ham Bromsgove, Sat 27 Jan local actors and new versions of Coventry MICHAEL PORTILLO: LIFE: A GAME OF FILM STARS DON'T DIE IN LIVERPOOL three short plays by Anton Chekhov, TWO HALVES The journalist and former (15) Biography/Drama. Starring Jamie Thurs 25 - Sat 27 Jan, The Bear Pitt politician shares his views on democ- Bell, Annette Bening. Artrix, Broms- Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon racy, Trump & Brexit, interspersed grove, Mon 29 - Tues 30 Jan THE GIN CHRONICLES - A SCOTTISH AD- with stories about his travels and love VENTURE ‘Delightfully silly’ show fea- Dance of the railways, Fri 26 Jan, Royal Spa NEW FILMS ON GENERAL RELEASE: turing an Australian, a pair of Centre, Leamington Spa Spaniards, a reindeer, some bag- ANTON & ERIN Featuring Anton du Released from Fri 26 Jan, showing at AN AUDIENCE WITH THE REV RICHARD pipes and a band of pirates... Thurs Beke & Erin Boag, Richard Balcombe selected cinemas COLES Join Richard as he reminisces 25 - Sun 28 Jan, Old Joint Stock The- (conductor) and Lance Ellington (star about his times on Top Of The Pops 12 STRONG (tbc) atre, Birmingham vocalist), Sat 27 Jan, Symphony Hall, in the 1980s, his stint on Strictly and EARLY MAN (tbc) THE DEATH SHOW Two-hander cele- Birmingham his roles as Church of England priest, MAZE RUNNER: THE DEATH CURE (tbc) brating mortality, Fri 26 - Sat 27 Jan, THE NUTCRACKER The Russian State radio broadcaster and television The REP, Birmingham Ballet of Siberia presents its version show panelist, Tues 30 Jan, The Core WHITE BOY RICK (tbc) CINDERELLA Presented by Coventry & of the most famous of fantasy ballets, Theatre, Solihull Warwickshire Partnership Trust, Fri 26 Sun 28 Jan, Wolverhampton Grand - Sat 27 Jan, Abbey Theatre, Theatre Nuneaton ROMEO AND JULIET Shakespeare’s tale Events HAYFEVER Amateur staging of Noel of primal passion and timeless Coward's riotous comedy, Fri 26 Jan - tragedy is brought to life by Film ARTRIX BABY RAVE Jessie DJ plays a Sat 3 Feb, Hall Green Little Theatre, Prokofiev’s soaring score, Mon 29 selection of CBeebies and ’90s Birmingham Jan, Wolverhampton Grand Theatre INDEPENDENT LISTINGS: dance tunes, with sound and light SWAN LAKE The Russian State Ballet levels suitable for young children, of Siberia bring to life the greatest ro- LOST IN PARIS (12a) Comedy. Starring Sun 28 Jan, Artrix, Bromsgrove LET THE RIGHT ONE IN The Crescent mantic ballet of all time, set to Fiona Gordon, Dominique Abel. zS- Theatre Company present an ama- Tchaikovsky’s haunting score, Tues tourbridge Town Hall, Mon 22 Jan

whatsonlive.co.uk 65 Competitions.qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2017 15:21 Page 1

Win! To enter all competitions head to whatsonlive.co.uk

Tickets to Gallowglass Tickets to Jimmy Osmond

Closes Friday 12th January Closes Friday 26th January

Tickets to BBL Cup Final Tickets to Crazy For You

Closes Monday 15th January Closes Friday 26th January

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Family ticket to Disney On Ice Family ticket to Dear Zoo Tickets to Hedda Gabler

BIRMINGHAM WHAT’S ON SHROPSHIRE WHAT’S ON WOLVERHAMPTON WHAT’S ON

Closes Monday 8th January Closes Thursday 1st February Closes Wednesday 17th January

66 whatsonlive.co.uk Birmingham Conservatoire F/P January 2018.qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2017 12:56 Page 1 Coventry City Council (FP) January 2018.qxp_Layout 1 15/12/2017 13:14 Page 1