Warwickshire Cover Online.Qxp Birmingham Cover 28/09/2016 12:54 Page 1

Warwickshire Cover Online.qxp_Birmingham Cover 28/09/2016 12:54 Page 1

Your FREE essential entertainment guide for the Midlands ISSUE 370 OCTOBER 2016

ZOE LYONS: Warwickshire COMEDIAN AT ARTRIX ’

WhatFILM I COMEDY I THEATRE I GIGS I VISUAL ARTS I EVENTSs I FOOD On warwickshirewhatson.co.uk

inside:

Yourthe 16-pagelist week by week listings guide p02 (IFC) Warks.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 14:11 Page 1

Read the reviews online Contents October Warwicks/Worcs.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 13:55 Page 2

October 2016

Contents

Embodied Islands - exhibition celebrates Black History Month in Coventry ... page 6

Jean-Michel Jarre The Play’s The Thing Frozen the list

godfather of electronic music new permanent exhibition Disney On Ice present children’s Your 16-page talks about his world tour opens at the RST favourite at Barclaycard Arena week-by-week listings guide Interview page 8 page 19 page 32 page 51

inside:

4. First Word 11. Food 14. Music 20. Comedy 26. Theatre 37. Film 40. Visual Arts 43. Events

fb.com/whatsonwarwickshire fb.com/whatsonworcestershire @whatsonwarwicks @whatsonworcs Warwickshire What’s On Magazine Worcestershire What’s On Magazine Warwickshire What’s On Magazine Worcestershire What’s On Magazine

Managing Director: Davina Evans [email protected] 01743 281708 ’ Sales & Marketing: Matt Rothwell [email protected] 01743 281719 Lei Woodhouse [email protected] 01743 281703 Whats On Chris Horton [email protected] 01743 281704 MAGAZINE GROUP Editorial: Lauren Foster [email protected] 01743 281707 Sue Jones [email protected] 01743 281705 Brian O’Faolain [email protected] 01743 281701 Abi Whitehouse [email protected] 01743 281716 Ryan Humphreys [email protected] 01743 281722 Adrian Parker [email protected] 01743 281714 Contributors: Graham Bostock, James Cameron-Wilson, Heather Kincaid, Adam Jaremko, Kathryn Ewing, David Vincent, Eva Easthope 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 October Warwicks.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 13:57 Page 1

First Word

Asian award hope for Belgrade Bollywood production

Coventry’s Belgrade Theatre is celebrating after its smash-hit show, Bring On The Bollywood, was nominated for an Asian Media Award. The high-energy musical, which showed in the venue’s B2 auditorium earlier this year, received its nomination in the Media Awards’ Best Stage Production category. Winners will be announced on Thursday 27 October. Commenting on the nomination, the show’s director, Samir Bhamra, said: “Over the last decade, Bollywood has been revitalised by a new generation of visionaries presenting contemporary stories coloured with the vibrancy of India. We wanted to take British audiences on a journey to one of the most romantic locales, the Valley of Flowers, and fill it with the comedy that comes from a dysfunctional Indian family.”

Josie Lawrence headlines Birmingham’s first improv festival Birmingham is hosting its first Improv Festival this month. The brand new three-day event, comprising 10 shows and eight workshops, sees Dudley- born actress and ‘improv queen’ Josie Lawrence making a welcome return to the Midlands. Presented in the intimate setting of the Phillip, Holly and This Jewellery Quarter’s Blue Orange Theatre - from Friday 21 to Sunday 23 October - the fes- Morning to visit the region ti val features plays, musicals, sketches, pup- Twist the night away A lifestyle show inspired by ITV1’s This pets and costume dramas. at Solihull venue Commenting on the event, its director, Jon Morning programme will make its debut at A brand new show featuring the powerhouse Trevor, said: “This is a unique opportunity Birmingham’s NEC next spring. vocals of retro king Si Cranstoun visits for people to be part of the first festival of its Featuring live appearances by Phillip Solihull's Core Theatre this month. kind in what I believe to be a great festival Schofield and Holly Willoughby - the presen- Twisting The Night Away sees the Sussex- city. Audiences can expect the unexpected, ters of the popular daytime television series - born crooner using his distinctive high tenor with lots of twists and turns. In fact, nobody the event will also feature numerous lifestyle voice to present a unique blend of doo wop, knows how each performance will pan out - elements, including fashion & style, food & rock’n'roll and early soul music. it really is relying on audience participation. drink, home, gardening, pets, beauty, and Often compared to singers like Jackie Wilson I want people to health & wellbeing. and Sam Cooke, Cranstoun was signed by immerse themselves Commenting on the new four-day show, music giants Warner having spent the better and just have a real- Emma Gormley, ITV Daytime Managing part of 20 years busking on the streets. ly memorable and Director, said: “This Morning is one of ITV's It was while he was busking that Si met the fun night out.” most loved and iconic brands. With our fan- woman who would one day become his wife. The festival culmi- tastic presenting talent and the wonderful He was also, on one occasion, given 30p by nates in a special mix of content that we'll be taking on the Prime Minister Tony Blair, who presumably charity showcase in road, this event promises to delight fans of recognised a real talent when he heard one! aid of Birmingham the show across the country.” Twisting The Night Away is at The Core Children's Hospital. This Morning Live takes place at the NEC Theatre, Solihull, on Saturday 22 October. from 18 to 21 May.

4 whatsonlive.co.uk FIRST WORD October Warwicks.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 13:57 Page 2

Entertainment news from around the region

Coventry Music Museum curator awarded MBE

Discover China at popular Warwickshire venue The curator of Coventry Music Warwickshire art gallery Compton Verney is this month hosting a number of activities related to its Museum has been made an MBE. internationally important Chinese collection. Music historian Pete Chambers Attractions include Big Sunday! - an event featuring lion dancing and Chinese calligraphy - and a received his Member of the British Empire medal, awarded for ‘volun- daily tour called Discover China!, exploring the history and stories behind the venue’s collection of teering services to Coventry music’, Chinese bronzes. at a recent ceremony in A half-day introductory workshop in how to design a paper cut using typographic and pictorial ele- Birmingham’s Town Hall. ments also features in the programme of events, as does a talk on the 2,000 objects unearthed in In addition to running the museum, 1976 from the tomb of Lady Fu Hao. Pete has written six books on the For more information, including dates and times of events, visit comptonverney.org.uk subject of music in Coventry. He was also instrumental in music-related city initiatives such as the Walk Of Stars, the 2-Tone Trail and the Coventry Music Wall Of Fame. West End’s House grime at Commenting on the MBE, Pete said: "To say I'm thrilled is something of Kara to star in Coventry Cathedral an understatement. Getting an hon- psychological A unique outdoor music event featur- our like this is a unique thing, and being awarded it for Coventry music thriller ing major UK grime, house and makes it even more amazing. I never drum’n’bass artists takes place in the dreamed that one day I would be on Former EastEnders ruins of Coventry Cathedral at the end the Honours List and be able to use favourite Kara Tointon, of the month. letters after my name!" Merlin actor Rupert Young Entitled Relic, the concert boasts a stellar line-up of talent, includ- and one-time hellraiser ing British grime pioneer Lethal Bizzle and D’n’B favourite Keith Allen visit the Wilkinson. Prominent Midlands DJs Chris Lorenzo, Philip George A fashionable Midlands next year in a and The Golden Boy will also be in attendance. show indeed! revival of Patrick The event is expected to attract up to 2,000 revellers and also fea- Hamilton’s 1938 psycho- tures fairground attractions, street food vendors and cocktail bars. The Midlands Fashion Awards take logical thriller, Gaslight. Relic takes place on Friday 28 October from 4pm till 1am. place in Birmingham this month. West End leading lady To purchase tickets, visit antiquityevents.co.uk. Now in its ninth year, the event Kara, whose career has offers a platform for local designers to showcase their collection to fash- also seen her win Strictly ion industry professionals. Come Dancing, will take “We’ve seen so many previous win- the part of Bella Birthday celebrations at Resorts World ners go on to develop their own Manningham, the role Popular leisure complex Resorts World Birmingham is this month careers,” says show founder Jenny memorably played by celebrating its first birthday. Eason. “We’re giving creatives a Ingrid Bergman in the chance to excel in their field as well The Solihull-located visitor destination, which features shopping classic 1944 film adapta- as on their home turf. Often the outlets, bars and restaurants, an 11-screen cinema, an international tion. pressure for designers and creatives casino and a boutique hotel, is aiming to mark its first anniversary The UK tour of Gaslight to move to London is overwhelming, in style by presenting customers with ‘a whole host of birthday but there’s so many potential oppor- begins at the New treats’, including a multitude of offers, giveaways and free parking. tunities right here in the Midlands. Alexandra Theatre, Other events celebrating the complex’s birthday include the chance An event like this proves that there’s Birmingham, where it a melting pot of talented individuals to climb inside a giant cake for a birthday photo opportunity (avail- plays from 6 to 14 January. just waiting for their chance to able from the 4th of the month) and the launch of a new art instal- shine.” lation on Pendigo Lake. The event takes place at the CBSO To find out more about what’s on offer, including the selection of Centre on Friday 7 October. Tickets are available from midlandsfashion- birthday treats available on the first-anniversary day itself, Friday 21 awards.co.uk October, visit resortsworldbirmingham.co.uk/latest-offers/birthday- offers

whatsonlive.co.uk 5 FIRST WORD October Warwicks.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 13:57 Page 3

First Word

King Arthur comes to Warwick One of the UK’s leading theatre companies for younger audiences is visiting Warwick School’s Bridge House Theatre this month. The award-winning Story Pocket Theatre will present a stage adaptation of War Horse author Michael Morpurgo’s 2008 novel about the legend of King Arthur. The Guildford-based company, of which Morpurgo is patron, bring both classic and original children's stories to the stage. They present their latest production on 22 and 23 October as part of Bridge House Theatre’s autumn line-up of shows. Other productions featuring in the venue’s programme include In Our Hands - a show by award-winning puppetry and visual theatre company Smoking Apples - Goblin Theatre’s Penguin! Elephant!, previewed in the Theatre section of this issue of What’s On magazine, and a schools adaptation of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. To check out Bridge House Theatre’s whole programme of shows, visit bridgehousetheatre.co.uk

Stratford Music Coventry celebrates Black History Month Festival comes With diversity now high on the agenda for arts organisations across the country, Black History Month of age... presents the ideal opportunity to stop and take stock of the contributions of minority communities to Stratford Music Festival is local culture over the years. Renowned as one of Britain's most multicultural cities, Coventry is mark- this month celebrating its ing the occasion with a range of exciting events and activities. This year, Birmingham-based Strictly 21st anniversary with a pro- Arts present two new productions at the Belgrade which explore issues affecting BAME (Black, Asian gramme that features both and minority ethnic) people past and present - William Freeman and Green Leaves Fall. Alongside rising and internationally these, the theatre also hosts an exhibition, a multi-act concert and illuminating talks and workshops. established stars. Well- Further afield, Birmingham venues are also joining the BHM celebrations, with events focusing on the known performers con- theme of black music icons. tributing to the 2016 edition Here are just a few of our highlights... of the festival include Lesley Garrett, Martin Embodied Islands Diversity Rocks Roscoe, the Ronnie Scott’s All-Stars and the Endellion Belgrade Theatre, Mon 3 – Fri 28 October Belgrade Theatre, String Quartet. Teaming up with Warwick University's Centre for Sun 16 Oct The nine-day event, taking Caribbean Studies, the Belgrade brings together Marking 40 years since place from 14 to 22 October, historical stereoview pieces with contemporary the Butts Stadium held also features a lunchtime visual art in a photographic exhibition exploring its famous Festival concert series, a fringe festi- Caribbean life from the 19th century to the pres- Against Racism as part of val and informal recitals in ent day. the nationwide Rock local hotels and tea rooms. Warwick University Associate Professor Dr Against Racism move- For more information, visit Fabienne Viala and award-winning photographer ment, the Belgrade presents a genre-busting stratfordmusicfestival.com Jean-Francois Manicom host workshops and dis- music line-up headlined by Neville Staple of The cussions alongside the exhibition. Specials. Other acts include international hip- hop, bhangra and R’n’B collective Offlicence, award-winning bhangra dance group Gabhru Panjab De and Coventry ska band Ruder Than U, formed by performers from hit musical Three Minute Heroes.

Ira Aldridge & Paul Robeson: Setting Shakespeare Free Belgrade Theatre, Thurs 20 Oct With ‘colour-blind casting’ increasingly the norm in UK theatres, it's easy to forget just how groundbreaking BAME performances of Shakespeare plays on British stages once were. In this landmark year for Shakespeare, Tony Howard from Warwick University's Multicultural Shakespeare project looks back on two great actors who helped to shift the status quo. 6 whatsonlive.co.uk FIRST WORD October Warwicks.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 13:57 Page 4 Jean-Michel Jarre DPS.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 16:23 Page 1

FEATURE

Jean-Michel Jarre

The godfather and pioneer of electronic music this month stops off in Birmingham as part of his world tour. What’s On recently caught up with the music icon to ﬁnd out more...

You’re bringing your tour to Barclaycard Arena this month, Jean-Michel. What can your Birmingham audience expect from your upcoming show? I’ve spent a lot of time working on what I believe to be an exciting stage design. I’ve always been involved in the visual aspect of my work. It’s very important nowadays, with technology allowing us to push the boundaries even more than when I started out. It’s a very exciting challenge to be able to explore different directions. On this new production, I want to share with the audience a totally different experience from what I’ve done in the past, and also, hopefully, a totally different experience from a usual electronic or rock music show. I want to immerse the audience in my music and performance. I’m going to do my best to deliver a show that will satisfy them beyond their expectations. I know how big their expectations are, so I’m going to try not to disappoint them. This is your first live show for six years. Why the break? Quite simply, I’ve spent the last few years in the studio and travelling the world to compose and produce my double Electronica album, with over 30 collaborators from the electronic music scene who are legends and/or newcomers, and with whom I share a common music DNA. Believe me, it was far from a break! The Electronica project took over my life these past few years, and I’m delighted to have worked with so many wonderful musicians and to have made great friends along the way.

8 whatsonlive.co.uk Jean-Michel Jarre DPS.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 16:23 Page 2

by Lauren Foster

‘‘ I’m addicted to making and performing my music - it consumes my life daily ” Your recent releases, Electronica 1: The ence of the multimedia concert as we the Great Pyramids. Now Birmingham hope- Time Machine and Electronica 2: The know it today. What was the original in- fully will be another great moment! Heart Of Noise, have seen you collaborate spiration behind the idea? with an eclectic mix of artists, including With electronic music, you are not confined Hans Zimmer, Moby, Massive Attack, Pet to the acoustics of a concert hall, and that Your album, Oxygène, was released by a Shop Boys and Edward Snowden. Can inspired me to bring my music performance French independent label, having previ- you tell us a bit about how that came outdoors. Also, I’ve always been inspired by ously been turned down by every major about? architecture and how we perceive our envi- record label. What were their reasons for The project came from an idea I started ronment, whether man-made or natural. rejecting it? some time ago, gathering around me musi- That's where the idea initially came from for At the time, Oxygène was considered a to- cians, artists and collaborators who’ve been my Cities In Concert concept - hijacking a tally ‘far out’ concept. What was ‘in’ at the and who are an ongoing source of inspira- public space for a night and deploying all time was disco, hard rock and the early days tion to me - linked, directly or indirectly, to the tools available to me to create a unique of punk. And moreover, Oxygène was instru- technology and electronic music covering sound-and-vision spectacle and experience. mental. And I was French! different generations. Because everyone Before your professional career, you said yes, the project became much bigger The album has since gone on to sell 12 studied classical musical composition than I had imagined, and I decided to divide million copies and was presumably one and fronted punk act The Dustbins. Clas- Electronica into two separate albums. Vol- of the pinnacle moments of your career... sical, electronic and rock/punk are all ume one was released in October 2015, and Oxygène was the meteorite that indeed completely different sounds. Why did volume two in May 2016 with another bunch launched my career, and this year is its 40th you choose to go down the electronic of great collaborators. The essence of the anniversary, for which I have plans to cele- music route? double album was to physically travel to brate, but cannot say more at this moment. meet with those artists I’d invited on board, I am an explorer, a sound-hunter. I love all Watch this space! spending time in their working environment genres of music, but with technology, I dis- You’ve compared music to a ‘hard drug’. and sharing a creative process physically - covered that I could also create something Can you explain what you mean by this? merging our DNA through a piece of music. I new sound-wise. My classical education was composed the first demo for every artist a great foundation to compose with sounds I I’m addicted to making and performing my with my fantasy of their music and touch in could record from nature, voices and other music - it consumes my life daily. means, creating my own notes and personal mind, to start from something as a platform, Your live concert is something spectacu- sound. while leaving enough space for him or her to lar, featuring synthesizers and large- add their part. You’ve played a countless number of con- scale audio-visual shows. Are there any Electronic music festival Sónar saw the certs throughout your four-decade ca- plans to evolve it further? world premiere of your new show back in reer. Can you name some particularly I invite you to see the evolution on this tour! June this year. Why Sonar? memorable shows and venues? And finally, what does the future hold for That’s not easy to answer for me, as all of Sónar is one of the most renowned elec- Jean-Michel Jarre? tronic music festivals in the world, and they my concerts and shows are quite singular The future is here and now. kindly invited me to headline this year’s edi- and memorable, but this year is the 30th an- tion, showcasing my new music and kicking niversary of the Houston concert which I did off my brand new stage production. with NASA in front of the amazing down- town skyline of skyscrapers. The London Jean-Michel Jarre plays Barclaycard You’re the pioneer of electronic music Docklands concerts were also a most memo- Arena, Birmingham, on Saturday and were the first to create the experi- rable moment, as was Millennium Night at 8 October. whatsonlive.co.uk 9 FOOD October - Region Warwickshire .qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 16:52 Page 1 FOOD October - Region Warwickshire .qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 16:52 Page 2

Food

Old Joint Stock Pub voted one of the best... A Birmingham pub which hosts theatrical performances in its upstairs room has been voted one of the West Midlands’ top hostelries. The Old Joint Stock on Temple Row West is the only Birmingham pub to be included in The Good Pub Guide 2017. Commenting on the success, Jonathon Swaine, Managing Director of Fuller’s Inns, which owns the pub, said: “This is an amazing accolade for The Old Joint Stock. Being crowned one of the best pubs in the country is fantastic, but to be the only Birmingham pub to be recognised demonstrates just how much hard work, enthusiasm and passion the team have put into ensuring that the pub is a cut above its competitors.”

REVIEW: Tasca Dali, Warwick depth of flavour was impressive, and I can’t remember the last A beautiful taste of Spain in the heart of Warwick time I enjoyed king prawns so much! Following a roasted pepper stuffed with beef and topped with cheese (very moreish), the last of the five courses arrived - a beautifully tender and flavour- some fillet steak, served with sliced potatoes (with a hint of cream and garlic) and mush- rooms. It was simply superb. If all that wasn’t enough, the evening’s proceedings were rounded off with a homemade chocolate cake, made with cher- ries, coconut and topped with small pieces of pineapple. Sumptuous - although by this point, I was starting to feel quite full! The carefully selected wines are all Spanish of course, starting at £6 a glass and up to £53 a bottle. My Viero Viura white Rioja was wonderfully dry yet smooth, and without any acidic ‘sting’. It may be my favourite new white wine! Tasca Dali is no ordinary The raw ingredients are sourced from Barcelona and was really Tasca Dali is a beautiful slice of Spanish restaurant. There’s no locally and, where practical, knowledgeable about each of Spain in the heart of Warwick. menu as such. Instead you get from Spain. This is a restaurant the dishes on offer that night. Go, but go with an empty stom- five delicious and varied courses that cares about its food and And because everyone is eating ach! Jack Rolfe - all chosen by the chef - for £25, wine, striving for an authentic the same food in the restaurant, which sounds, and is, amazing dining experience. That said, you can be sure that you will get Food: n n n n n value. you do have to buy into the con- each course just at the moment Service: n n n n n As soon as you arrive at the cosy cept of not choosing what you you’d want it. Ambience: n n n n n eatery, you feel like you’ve been eat - it’s different every day, So what of the food? After a deli- Overall value n n n n n transported to somewhere on the depending on what’s in season cious antipasto sharing platter OVERALL n n n n n Iberian Peninsula. The music is and, I hope, the mood of the (the Spanish cheese being a Spanish, the staff are Spanish chef. Of course, when booking, major hit), we enjoyed a stew of and the food is most definitely they will take note of any specif- butter beans and chorizo, hearty Tasca Dali Spanish. The majority of the ic requirements, such as food and rich with just the right 15 High Street seating is around large wooden allergies or if you prefer a vege- amount of kick. Our third course tarian or vegan meal. Warwick barrels, with high stools, many was a seafood paella. To be hon- CV34 4AP in full view of the chef, creating My dining partner and I were est, I’m not a massive fan of Tel: 07445 223527 a friendly and lively vibe. welcomed by Jorge, who hails paella, but I have to say the

whatsonlive.co.uk 11 FOOD October - Region Warwickshire .qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 16:52 Page 3

Food

New app helps locate Michelin-starred vegan restaurants Glynn Purnell to A brand new app is set to make dining out a whole lot easier for vegans become Secret Chef and vegetarians in Warwickshire. Michelin-starred Birmingham chef The free-to-use ‘vanilla bean’ is an Glynn Purnell will host his own televi- interactive restaurant guide specialis- sion show on ITV1 next year. ing in the needs of eco and health- Secret Chef will see Glynn teaching a conscious users, as well as people complete novice how to cook and pre- with food intolerances. pare a lavish meal for their family and The app covers over 1,800 vegan and friends, entirely from scratch. vegetarian restaurants across the UK, “This was probably the most difficult including dozens in Warwickshire. TV job I’ve had,” says Glynn. “I’ve The vanilla bean is available as a free taught my children to chop vegetables download on the UK app store and on and help out in the kitchen - and they Google Play. are better cooks than the person I was For more information, visit vanilla- teaching! I had six weeks to teach this bean.com or follow them on Twitter person to cook. At the end of it, he had at @vanillabeanapp. to surprise his friends and family with a meal they thought that I’d cooked!” As well as his new TV show, Glynn is Pasta and pizza helps making a welcome return to BBC’s victims of Italian Saturday Kitchen next month. He’s also published a new cookery book, Rib earthquake Ticklers And Choux-Ins - available now, A company which operates three pub- priced £19.99. restaurants in Warwickshire has raised more than £20,000 to help victims of the recent Italian earthquake. Oakman Inns & Restaurants, which Marco’s New York Italian launches new menu runs The Globe in Warwick, The Beech House in Solihull and The Four Marco Pierre White’s restaurant at Birmingham Airport’s Holiday Inn has launched a new menu. Alls at Welford-on-Avon, raised the Alongside old favourites such as Baked New York Italian Meatballs and Lasagne Bolognese Al money from the net sale of its pizza Forno, diners at Marco’s New York Italian can now enjoy a selection of new dishes. These include and pasta dishes. Using the social Chicken Milanese Burger, New Orleans Seafood Kebab, media hashtag #EatForItaly, it Classic Spaghetti Napoletana, Seared Seabream with encouraged its customers to show Caponata and The Long Island Seafood Platter. their support over a three-day period “If I had to choose only one cuisine to eat for the rest of by ordering a pizza or pasta dish my life, it would be Italian,” says Marco. “My mother instead of one of the pub’s other 40- was Italian, and I spent a lot of time in Italy with her plus dishes. when I was a boy. My New York Italian is all about creat- A cheque for £20,744 has been sent to ing a comfortable environment for friends and family to the Italian Red Cross to support their relax and enjoy some of my favourite Italian and relief efforts in Amatrice and the sur- American foods.” rounding areas. For more information, visit mpwrestaurants.co.uk/restaurants/birmingham-airport

Award-winning Thai restaurant opens in Stratford-upon-Avon

Following the success of its two Birmingham restaurants, award-winning Thai eatery Sabai Sabai has branched out into Stratford-upon- Avon. “We’re really excited to be opening in Stratford, the artistic heart of Warwickshire,” says Torquil Chidwick, joint owner of Sabai Sabai with his wife, Juree. “The location for the restaurant couldn’t be more perfect. Our other restaurants are in the suburbs, but Wood Street is right in the centre of Stratford, just a stone’s throw from the Royal Shakespeare Company.”

12 whatsonlive.co.uk FOOD October - Region Warwickshire .qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 16:52 Page 4

FEATURE by Heather Kincaid The Play’s The Thing

This year marks 400 years since the death of round a portrait of the old librarian, Alfred with an A-to-Z of the various sights, smells William Shakespeare, and 137 years since a Wall, and at the moment, there's also a gap and sounds of the stage. theatre was first dedicated to his works on amongst the tightly packed programmes that As visitors exit the exhibition, they'll be con- the banks of the river Avon. will later serve as a screen for an introducto- fronted with Steven Follen's striking installa- Over the last nine months, extensive regener- ry animation, after which a door will open tion, For All Time, hanging above the Swan's ation work has seen the Swan's stunning onto the Swan's back stairs. main stairwell. Unveiled to coincide with the gothic arches and beautiful stained-glass The windows alongside the stairs are just a Shakespeare 400 celebrations in April, the windows hidden away from public view. taster of what's to come. At the back of the piece takes the form of a giant face con- While every care has been taken to preserve upstairs room is an area lit up with a host of structed from 2,000 folded metal stars. the structure as it was (the match for bricks stained-glass figures, installed by the Old Turning left will take you to the theatre's was so exact that new items had to be Bensonians, the theatre's first resident act- Rialto Bridge, where an arresting new mural marked to ensure they would be paid for!) ing company. It's here that, for the first few documents the history of Stratford's when it finally reopens this autumn, it won't months, you'll be able to see an original 1623 Shakespeare industry, with peepholes look quite as you remember it. First Folio, as well as the famous Chandos revealing amazing photographs from the Seizing the chance to make the most of the portrait, temporarily on loan from the company archive. refurbished space, the RSC will open its first National Gallery. Of course, measures must “This is such a connecting space,” says permanent exhibition, The Play's The Thing, be taken to protect such old and delicate Geraldine, “obviously connecting the exhibi- on 22 October. Featuring state-of-the-art exhibits. tion to the theatre, but you can also see technology, spectacular props and costumes, “One of the challenges of the whole project down the colonnade into the RST, and on the multi-sensory displays and more, this is that we have to make a listed Victorian other side there's the view to the river and immersive experience offers visitors a space into something that could potentially the rest of Stratford. I've always found this a unique behind-the-scenes insight into the house really valuable items,” Geraldine bit of a soulless space that people just pass making and magic of theatre. explains. “You can see some of the pipework through, so we thought about that sense of “The whole design of the space is about the in the ceiling, but most of the climate-con- connecting and place when we set out to coming together of old and new,” says trol mechanics are hidden behind displays.” give it more of an identity.” Director of Exhibitions Geraldine Collinge, as After this, things start to get more interac- Soon, benches will move in, complete with we enter what was once the Swan Wing's tive. Amidst incredible props and costumes headphones to hear audio recordings of library. Located at the back of the theatre's worn by actors from Laurence Olivier to interviews with RSC actors. As the theatre ground-floor café-bar (itself decked out with David Tennant, you'll find a full-size replica seasons roll by, there'll be plenty of new rea- interesting objects and stories) the old of Artistic Director Greg Doran's desk, as well sons to make return visits. library has been plastered with RSC pro- as a set designer's toolkit for investigating “(The exhibition) will change, with costumes gramme covers, some dating back as far as how productions are put together. being rotated, and we will want to reflect the the 1950s. Elsewhere, you'll be able to try your hand at RSC seasons and activity. I’m sure we’ll also “We haven't necessarily chosen particularly acting, performing a scene from Hamlet with see new opportunities and developments for famous or important shows,” she adds. “We the help of a digital recording of the ghost. the exhibition that we will want to imple- just wanted to give a sense of how these One electronic exhibit will enable you to don ment as we go forward.” . plays have been approached in so many dif- a costume of your choice and send a photo ferent ways over the years.” to yourself to share with friends. For those It's surrounded by this vibrant celebration of who prefer a more hands-on approach, there The Play's The Thing opens at the RSC's the company's history that visitors begin are also wigs and costumes specially made Swan Theatre on Saturday 22 October. their journey. On one wall, replica books sur- for dressing up, as well as drawers filled whatsonlive.co.uk 13 Music - October - Warwicks_Worcs.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 14:02 Page 1

Gigs

Heidi Talbot Artrix, Bromsgrove, Sat 8 October Former singer of Irish-American musical group Cherish The Ladies, Heidi Talbot is a well-known name in the folk world. She’s currently touring her new LP, Here We Go, 1, 2, 3, for which she was joined by a host of musicians and co-writers, including Louis Abbott (Admiral Fallow), Duke Special and Boo Hewerdine. “The title takes that idea of jumping,” says Talbot, the recipient of 2008's Indie Acoustic award and multiple BBC Radio Two Folk Award nominations, “whether it's into new musical territories, new bands, a new studio, new label, new family - new everything, really. It's about taking a chance. I've written eight of the 10 songs on this album in some context, whether it's the lyrics or the music - that's the most I've ever contributed. And it's quite personal.”

The Sunshine Jean-Michel Jarre Underground Barclaycard Arena, Birmingham, Sat 8 October O2 Institute, Birmingham, Thurs 20 October The godfather and pioneer of electronic music makes a welcome return, six long years after his last live show. Jarre came to prominence back in 1976, following the release of debut album Oxygène, and has since sold hundreds of millions of albums worldwide. Famed for staggering visuals and the use of cutting-edge digital technology, his new live show promises to be a truly immersive musical journey, with Jean- Michel performing brand new music from two-part LP Electronica alongside It’s 10 years since Shropshire band The classic material from previous albums. Sunshine Underground released their debut Read our interview with Jean-Michel at album, Raise The Alarm. whatsonlive.co.uk Although both that and second album Nickelback Nobody’s Coming To Save You showcased an Genting Arena, Birmingham, Fri 14 October indie rock sound, the boys took a different Comprising guitarist and lead vocalist Chad direction a couple of years back and focused Kroeger, guitarist, keyboardist and backing on their first love - electronic music. vocalist Ryan Peake, bassist Mike Kroeger Following the release of their fourth (and and drummer Daniel Adair, multi-platinum- last) album, Luminescent, the band is this selling Canadian rock band Nickelback bring month embarking on their farewell tour. their No Fixed Address world tour to Commenting on the split, lead singer Craig Birmingham. Wellington said: “Musically, we’ve become a The band were originally due to play the city very different band to the one we started out last November but were forced to cancel due as, and 10 years since the debut album felt to Chad needing an extended period of vocal like the right time to say ‘that was a good rest following voicebox surgery. progression from album one to four, and now Having sold more than 50 million albums it’s time to do something different’.” worldwide and notched up the fourth best- Read the full interview at whatsonlive.co.uk selling song of the 21st century’s first decade - 2001’s How You Remind Me - the fellas are a must-see experience for any rock fan. 14 whatsonlive.co.uk Music - October - Warwicks_Worcs.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 14:02 Page 2

Gig previews from around the region

Buzzcocks The Copper Rooms, Coventry, Tues 18 October

Forming, along with the Sex Pistols and the Clash, the original holy trinity of British punk, Buzzcocks are Nell Bryden attention of many an artist - Gary Barlow, genuine, twenty-four carat punk rock Jools Holland and Counting Crows, to name The Glee Club, Birmingham, but a few. royalty. Superstar groups such as Sun 9 October; Huntingdon Hall, REM, Nirvana and Green Day have all Worcester, Fri 14 October Nell has since become a Radio Two listeners' favourite, gaining plenty of acclaim for her been happy to acknowledge the In 2012, Brooklyn-born singer-songwriter powerful, soaring vocals and accomplished influence which the Bolton-originat- Nell Bryden released Sirens - a song based songwriting. ed band had on their music. on her experiences of living in New York in Influential in terms of both the inde- the aftermath of 9/11. The track caught the pendent record movement and the Manchester music scene, the band were once hailed ‘the Beatles of punk’, their sound being described John Carpenter Level 42 as a fusion of pop craftsmanship and Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, Symphony Hall, Birmingham, rapid-fire punk energy. Thurs 27 October Tues 11 October They stop off in Coventry as part of To say ’80s pop legends Level 42 have had a their 40th Anniversary World Tour. successful career would be an understatement. The band have released 27 albums, had 18 top-40 singles, sold out Wembley Jamie T Arena for 21 nights and sold over 30 million O2 Academy, Birmingham, albums worldwide. Sat 1 October This month’s Birmingham gig comes in support of their recently released EP, Sirens II, One of the most distinctive voices in and showcases new material alongside a British music, Jamie T released his selection of their greatest hits. debut album, Panic Prevention, in 2007 to great critical acclaim. Best known for singles such as If You Got The Money, Sheila and Poliça Sticks’n’Stones, the London-born O2 Institute, singer-songwriter has since released Birmingham, Thurs 20 October a further three albums - Kings & Queens (2009), Carry On The Grudge John Carpenter is best known for his cult Pop-soul outfit (2014) and this year’s Trick, a highly films, included among which are The Thing, Poliça play the praised fusion of rock, punk, reggae, Assault On Precinct 13, Dark Star, Big Midlands in sup- rap and pop, in support of which Trouble In Little China, Halloween, Escape port of their latest album, United Crushers, he’s playing this gig and touring the From New York and Starman. following a triumphant performance at the UK. Alongside his duties as movie director, pro- BBC Radio 6 Music Festival last month. ducer, screenwriter and editor, he’s also a The band, which comprises Channy musician and film music composer. Leaneagh, dual drummers Drew Now, to support his album, Lost Themes II, Christopherson and Ben Ivascu, Chris the ‘horror master’ is hitting the road for the Beirden on bass and producer Ryan Olson, first time. collectively wrote the album in Minneapolis Accompanied by musicians who previously in the winter of 2015, during their first true backed Jack Black’s Tenacious D, he’s also break from touring in two long years. joined by his son, Cody, and godson Daniel The new album builds on Poliça’s signature Davies - both film and TV composers of note synthesizer and percussion-heavy sounds whose credits include Cigarette Burns, Zoo, with more complex arrangements and a big- Pro-Life and Condemned. ger, crisper, hi-fi punch.

For the complete gig guide visit whatsonlive.co.uk 15 Classical Warwickshire October.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 13:52 Page 1

Classical Music

Carducci String Quartet Royal Pump Rooms, Leamington Spa, Fri 7 October Performing around 100 international concerts each year, Carducci are regarded as one of the most successful string quartets in the business. Indeed, the Washington Post described their performance in a recent concert as ‘extravagantly beautiful’. Winners of this year’s Royal Philharmonic Jennifer Pike Society award for chamber music, the quartet here launch Leamington Music’s Tchaikovsky Symphony Orchestra 10th anniversary season. Their pro- Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, Wed 19 October gramme features Mendelssohn’s Quartet Highly rated English violinist Jennifer Pike joins the long-established Tchaikovsky in F minor Opus 80, Shostakovich’s Symphony Orchestra of Moscow for a concert that promises plenty of musical passion. Quartet No 11 and Beethoven’s Quartet in A former BBC Young Musician of the Year, winning the title at the tender age of 12, Pike C Op 59 No 3. lends her talents to the orchestra’s performance of Sibelius’s Violin Concerto. The piece is here presented alongside Vaughan Williams’s supremely English Tallis Fantasia and Tchaikovsky’s soulful Pathétique Symphony. The Russian composer’s sixth symphony, the work was first performed just nine days before he died in 1893. Tchaikovsky’s death is traditionally attributed to cholera, but numerous scholars have sug- gested that he took his own life, and that the symphony was actually a form of ‘suicide note’. The concert is conducted by Sergey Polyanichk, a man whose musical talents were already so in evidence as a child that he was sent to a special school for gifted youngsters at the age of 11.

Lesley Garrett And Friends Stile Antico Stratford ArtsHouse, Stratford-upon-Avon, St Mary’s Church, Warwick, The English Concert Fri 14 October Tues 11 October An innovative vocal ensemble of a Forum Theatre, Malvern, Fri 14 October dozen performers, Stile Antico work without a conductor, aim to shine new light on Renaissance music and are this year celebrating their 10th anniversary. The London-based group have a uniquely collaborative style of working, the members rehearsing and performing as chamber musicians, each contributing artistically to the musical results. Given the fact that the English Concert The ensemble are annual visitors to was founded some 43 years ago, it’s per- Warwick, and on this occasion pres- haps surprising that this is their very first Although many would claim that she’s been ent a programme to mark the 400th visit to Malvern. Good things are worth displaced as Britain’s best-loved soprano by anniversary of Shakespeare’s death. waiting for, though, and this Forum Welsh wonder Katherine Jenkins, Lesley Theatre performance seems certain to Garrett retains an army of appreciative fans leave the audience hungry for more. and continues to produce superlative per- Boasting an unsurpassed reputation for formances. their inspiring presentations of baroque This Stratford concert sees the talented and classical music, the talented chamber Yorkshire lass team up with 2015 Covent orchestra’s concert features the following Garden debutant Roland Wood and pianist programme: Purcell’s Suite from King Anna Tillbrook to perform a programme of Arthur; Corelli’s Concerto Grosso Op 6 No popular arias and songs. 10; Telemann’s Viola Concerto; Vivaldi’s Highlights include music from Mozart’s The Concerto for Strings in G minor RV 157; Marriage Of Figaro and The Magic Flute, Handel’s Concerto Grosso Op 6 No 6; and works by Gershwin and Cole Porter, and Bach’s Orchestral Suite No 3 BWV1066. much-loved numbers from the Rodgers & The orchestra’s artistic director, Harry Hammerstein stable of musicals. Bicket, conducts.

16 whatsonlive.co.uk Classical Warwickshire October.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 13:52 Page 2

whatsonlive.co.uk 17 Dance October Warwickshire.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 16:51 Page 1

18 whatsonlive.co.uk Dance October Warwickshire.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 16:51 Page 2

Dance Dance previews from around the region

Aneckxander DanceXchange, The Patrick Centre, Birmingham Hippodrome, Fri 7 October Cartwheels and nudity combine in this solo performance by Belgian dancer and circus artist Alexander Vantournhout. “Aneckxander questions the way in which identity can be reduced to physical charac- teristics,” explains Vantournhout. “I have two short legs, two short arms and a long neck, and it’s these disproportions that I make use of to provide a creative answer to the reduction of identity.” The piece sees Vantournhout performing all manner of gymnastics as a means of convey- ing the way in which the body exposes itself to prying eyes; eyes from which it also tries to escape...

Jasmin Vardimon: Aditi Mangaldas Dance Romeo And Juliet Pinocchio Company: Inter_rupted Albany Theatre, Coventry, Thurs 20 October; Palace Theatre, Redditch, Sat 22 October; Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, Sat 29 October Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, The Core Theatre, Solihull, Wed 26 October; Sun 30 October Prince Of Wales Centre, Cannock, Thurs 27 October; Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury, Wed 9 “For kathak dance to be appealing to new November; Crescent Theatre, Birmingham, audiences and young people,” explains Thurs 19 January Indian dance revolutionary Aditi Mangaldas, “it’s essential that their minds and their pre- conceived notions of classicism are challenged.” Mangaldas’ latest kathak work is an exploration of ‘fragility, disintegration and renewal’. Featuring seven dancers, it perfectly exemplifies the choreographer’s ongoing commitment to the task of infusing traditional dance with modern sensibilities, com- "I find unique curiosity in rediscovering this bining 21st century sound, rhythm and light original 1883 classic tale,” says Jasmin with an art form that’s existed since at least Vardimon in speaking about Carlo Collodi's 400 BCE. famous story of Pinocchio. “The original “New audiences, young audiences, need to novel allows us to critically examine the be drawn into a world of imagination,” Aditi assumptions of ourselves and others about continues, “a world which engages them what it means to be human.” and demands their immediate attention. Jasmin’s company here combines physical Dance is different from a book, a painting or a piece of music in that it’s intangible - it’s theatre and quirky characterisation with Innovation is definitely the name of the innovative technologies, text and dance to presented and then it’s over and finished with. That’s why it’s so important to trans- game for Leicestershire dance company create a hugely accessible work. Ballet Theatre UK. The ensemble draw their port young viewers and transform their “We have so many audience members telling inspiration from classical dance, theatre, minds. One of the best ways to do that is to us it’s the first time they’ve ever seen dance, popular culture and literature, all of which refashion a traditional dance form like and that they didn’t realise they’d enjoy it so feed into their critically acclaimed produc- kathak by producing contemporary work much,” says Jasmin. “You can see that tions of timeless ballets. which is based upon it.” they’re emotionally attached or intellectual- The company is this season joining the year- ly engaged and want to speak and talk about long celebrations to mark four centuries of it more. And that’s exactly what I always Shakespeare’s legacy by presenting this hope to do with my art. I want to make peo- brand new version of Romeo And Juliet. ple think and ask questions; I don't want to Expect exquisite dancing, stunning cos- give answers. At the end of the day, I see tumes and imaginatively designed stage myself as a storyteller and communicator sets. about things that are important to me.”

whatsonlive.co.uk 19 Michael Morpurgo DPS.qxp_Layout 1 28/09/2016 17:17 Page 1

FEATURE

MICHAEL MORPURGO

talks about Adolphus Tips, the story of how 946 American soldiers lost their lives during World War Two...

At first glance Adolphus Tips seems a pretty grim story for a family audience. What made you choose it? At first glance you’re right. One of the great challenges of writing about serious subjects for young people is to find a way of telling the story without patronising, and without senti- mentalising. In this case, I came across the story of a cat called Adolphus Tips who was owned by a farmer’s daughter at Slapton. This cat had to be left behind when the family, along with hundreds and thousands of others, were moved from their homes and farms and villages so that the Americans could practise life-like landings from the sea on the beach at Slapton sands. The true story is that the families were gone from their houses over a year, and all that time Adolphus Tips, the family cat, was left in a live exercise area with bombs falling all around. The cat survived and was found again by the family when they came home after the D-Day landings, after all the American soldiers were gone. During these exercises, the US soldiers and local people got to know one another and to like one another, and it was during that year of exercises that Opera- tion Tiger happened, during which German e- boats surprised the American ships and landed craft at sea and attacked them. Nine hundred- and-forty-six died, and this event was hushed up by the US and the British for a long time. So yes, a grim story, but on the other hand, a time when people from different lands and different cultures got to know one another well and when friendships were made. I concen- trated my story on that family and the relationship between them and two black American GIs and their search for the missing cat, for the farmer’s daughter. It was a way into telling the story, I felt, maintaining the seriousness of what happened, about the loss, but also about the love and the triumph of love over loss. Michael Morpurgo DPS.qxp_Layout 1 28/09/2016 17:17 Page 2

Michael Morpurgo

The story’s about displaced people. the Asylum at the wonderful Heligan Gar- Which of your books is your favourite? Given the current situation regarding mi- dens in Cornwall, where Kneehigh put on All my books are special to me - they are all grants and refugees, is there any signifi- some of their shows. It was a huge hit there, my babies if you like. Often it’s the latest cant message within Adolphus Tips that wonderfully received and universally ac- one that I’ve written that’s my favourite. I’d we may do well to heed in 2016? claimed. Shortly afterwards, she was ap- been dreaming it for so long, living and Everyone in the story of Adolphus Tips is, pointed as artistic director at the Globe, and breathing its story, so that when it finally ar- for one reason or other, obliged to leave I believe felt it important to reach out to a rives as a newly published book, smelling home. The Americans over here, thousands wider audience at that theatre, a brave and wonderful and fresh out of the box, there is of miles from home and family. The farming important decision. There will be many fam- nothing like it. However, if I was to mention families expelled from their houses and the ilies who saw 946 at the Globe and loved the some favourites, War Horse would be up evacuee children finding refuge in the vil- spirit and energy of it and will no doubt be there, and the prequel to War Horse - Farm lage. So everyone in the story is in one sense back to see Shakespeare there. Boy - and Private Peaceful. War Horse is my a migrant, and everyone is supporting wife’s favourite too and that means a lot. For people who loved the stage version of everyone else. Is there a message in that? I War Horse and might be hoping that Is there a children’s book that you wish hope so. Adolphus Tips is a similar experience, in you’d written? Why Kneehigh? what ways will the production satisfy I wish I’d written The Iron Man, which I ad- What I love about Kneehigh is their wonder- their desire? mire because of its epic quality, its economy ful inventiveness and the way they weave to- In every way, but it is significantly different of writing and the beauty of the language. gether wonderful acting and glorious music as a show, smaller in scale, more intimate, What advice would you give to a would- and song. And terrific dance, and a script funnier, but like War Horse deals with seri- be writer of children’s stories? that never puts a foot wrong. ous issues. In War Horse, the puppets took Write from the heart and get it down, with- centre stage and were huge. In 946, the pup- Are the techniques and devices you use out worrying too much. Settle on an idea pets were important but not so significant in to engage a young reader different from that you care about, that you’re really pas- the production. They were also infinitely the ones used to engage a young theatre- sionate about, then research around it and smaller, especially the sheep and the mice! goer? dream it out in your mind. Don’t plan out No difference. When you write or make a As with Adolphus Tips, you feature ani- the plot too much, rather let it emerge as play for whatever audience, all that’s impor- mals in a number of your stories. What you write. Try and live inside your story, tant is that you mean it and that you write do you feel they bring to your books? hear and feel it all around you and become and act with total commitment, that you I think for many children, an animal helps the characters. never talk down to any audience and treat them go to places they would otherwise not them with the respect and sensitivity they venture into. With a dog, horse or cat as a deserve. companion, a young reader can empathise more readily, and so for a writer it does Earlier this year, Adolphus Tips was the 946: The Amazing Story Of Adolphus allow me to engage with subjects that might first ever family-friendly production to Tips is at Birmingham Rep from Thurday otherwise be too difficult or traumatic for be staged at the Globe, a theatre more 6 until Saturday 15 October and Warwick younger readers. Also, I am fascinated by usually associated with Shakespeare Arts Centre from Tuesday 8 until the relationship between animals and hu- plays. What prompted the venue to Saturday 12 November mans and how it affects us. How we can choose the story for its first foray into give and receive affection and trust. family entertainment? Emma Rice created the play last year for at Comedy October.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 12:08 Page 1

Comedy

Dane Baptiste Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, Sat 8 October; Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, Sun 30 October With a new sitcom hitting TV screens recently and this touring show enjoying a positive response from critics and audiences alike, it’s fair to say 2016 is working out well for Dane Baptiste. It’s certainly been a whirlwind couple of years for the London-born funnyman. In 2014, he became the first ever black comedian to be nominated for the Foster's Best Newcomer Award at the Edinburgh Fringe, a success achieved with his debut solo show, Citizen Dane. “This is my second show,” says Baptiste of the currently touring Reasonable Doubt, “so essentially it’s like my second album. And the pressure’s cranked up because the first show did so well. I’ve pretty much always wanted to be a comic, so there’s no alternative for me - I’ve got to make sure this goes well...”

Six of the best...

Kerry Sam Miles Jupp Godliman Simmons Birmingham Town Hall, Sat 29 October Artrix, Warwick Arts Bromsgrove, Sat Centre, Coventry, Once described by 8 October; The Fri 14 October the Evening Glee Club, Birmingham, Fri Junkie seagulls, Standard as having 14 October cherry tomatoes the distracted air of Comedian and on a train station bewilderment you actress Kerry platform and the might expect of a Godliman’s new heavily medicated man ‘who’d fallen touring show, Stick Or Twist, zeroes in on years of Brian Wilson featured among the asleep in the 1950s to the sound of cricket on why people take certain decisions and make subjects visited by Aussie funnyman Sam the village green and had only very recently particular choices - especially when it comes Simmons when he performed his latest show, woken up’, Miles Jupp wears tweeds and is to that potentially life-transforming (or ruin- Not A People Person, in Edinburgh this sum- posh. He’s also a hugely popular stand-up ing) moment when they start to think about mer. comedian, entertaining his audience with a moving house, city or country. Having last year bagged the Foster’s style of presentation that’s disarmingly polite “I was prompted by whether I should move Edinburgh Comedy Award and the Barry (given which fact, it’s perhaps a little surpris- out of London with my family,” explains Award at the Melbourne International ing that one of his best chums on the circuit Kerry, “but it opens up beyond that to why Comedy Festival, great things were under- is the bile-spewing Frankie Boyle!). people live where they live. Some people standably expected at the 2016 Fringe - Miles is visiting the Midlands with his latest choose it, others are forced to stay where although the show did prompt a surprisingly touring show, Songs Of Freedom. Expect they are or forced to move. Whether I’m mixed bag of reactions. ungainly attempts at being laddish and opin- happy where I live is the $64million ques- Sam’s style of comedy is off the wall, to say ions on all manner of subjects, from astro- tion.” the least. If you’ve enjoyed him before, this nauts and poo to lost stuff and other stuff. Kerry’s TV work includes the Ricky Gervais Midlands gig is an event not to miss; if you’re comedies Extras, Life’s Too Short and Derek. a first-timer, get yourself along, take a suit- She appeared in the latter as care home man- ably open mind with you and, in accordance ager Hannah. with Sam’s motto, embrace the chaos.

20 whatsonlive.co.uk Comedy October.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 12:08 Page 2

Rich Hall New Vic Theatre, Newcastle-under-Lyme; Mon 3 October; The Glee Club, Birmingham, Tues 4 October; William Aston Hall, Wrexham, Thurs 6 October; Theatr Hafren, Newtown, Powys, Fri 7 October; The Place, Telford, Shropshire; Thurs 13 October; Ludlow Assembly Rooms, South Shropshire, Fri 21 October His official biography somewhat less than modestly describes American funnyman Rich Hall as ‘a comic genius’, albeit a ‘grouchy, deadpan’ one. It also explains that he ‘quit his job as a hurricane-namer for the United States meteorological service’ more than two decades ago - since which time, it’s fair to say, the sun has been smiling rather warmly on the hugely talented Virginian. With much of his comedy centring on making fun of life across the pond in his homeland, Rich is perhaps best known for his creation of Otis Lee Crenshaw, a bourbon-swilling red- neck jailbird from Tennessee whose many wives have all been named Brenda. Rich’s jokes include: “A hotel mini-bar allows you to see into the future and find out what a can of Pepsi will cost in 2020”.

Mark Zoe Lyons Joel Watson Artrix, Bromsgrove, Dommett Thurs 27 October Brewhouse Arts The Glee Club, Centre, Burton- High on confidence Birmingham, Fri 21 upon-Trent, Fri 7 and blessed with a October; Stafford October; Royal Gatehouse Theatre, Spa Centre, razor-sharp wit, Zoe Sat 29 October Leamington Spa, Lyons creates funny Thurs 13 October routines based on “I absolutely love A regular contrib- astute observation performing in utor to the of life’s absurdities. small, intimate Edinburgh Fringe, Mark Watson has the curi- Her latest show, titled Little Misfit, looks spaces,” says Joel Dommett, once the face of ous distinction of having performed stand- back on her experiences as the ‘awkward gay MTV - until he was sacked at the age of 27 for up shows which have lasted for a period in kid at school’ whose feeling of being differ- being ‘too old’. “I’d far rather do a small gig excess of 24 hours. ent was heightened by a severe bout of in front of 50 people, but be doing new stuff, “Comedy is certainly a time-consuming ele- alopecia and, consequently, a less-than- than do old stuff in front of 5,000 people.” ment of my life,” he admits, “but then while attractive comb-over. She also harboured Joe’s extremely committed to the business of I’m out touring and on stage, I’m not having secret desires for Charlie’s Angels - “The keeping his act fresh. “I’m working on mate- to do the far less glamorous things at home. blonde one mostly,” she admits, “but with a rial pretty much all the time,” explains the There have certainly been times when I’ve comb-over, who can afford to be fussy? one-time warm-up act for Justin Bieber been very happy to say, ‘Of course I’d like to Described by one reviewer as ‘Alan Bennett whose television work includes Skins, Live stay and help out with that plumbing crisis, on speed’, Zoe’s jokes include: ‘The old blind In Chelsea and Impractical Jokers UK. “In but Burton awaits!’” fisherman liked nothing more than coming fact, I try to put in something new every time home and putting on a pair of his favourite I go on stage. If there’s something new in kippers.’ there, it brightens up the whole set and gives it more energy and excitement.”

For more comedy listings visit whatsonlive.co.uk 21 Omid Djalili DPS.qxp_Layout 1 28/09/2016 17:20 Page 1

FEATURE

Omid Djalili talks about being a Schmuck For A Night

Award-winning funnyman Omid Djalili is probably one of the most subversive comedians currently doing the rounds on the UK comedy circuit. An actor as well as a comic, Omid has appeared in numerous box office blockbusters, including Gladiator, The Mummy, Sex And The City 2 and the James Bond movie, The World Is Not Enough. He visits the Midlands this month with his brand new stand-up show, Schmuck For A Night. What’s On met up with him to find out more... Your new show's called Schmuck For A Night. Why Schmuck? I like the word ‘schmuck’. It means ‘fool’ or buffoon. You have to be a schmuck to do comedy in today’s climate. I’m embracing the schmuck in me to take on the big issues of our day. Plus, it’s a word that ends with ‘uck’, which can only be a good thing. The show is mellower than your other tours. Is that fair to say? I've become less frenetic. I used to dance every two minutes in between the stand-up. I can’t even remember why. It was mentioned to me that when I danced, audiences were laughing at me, not with me. So it was either stop dancing or ban my manager from the gigs. You touch on Brexit, ISIS and Trump in the show. It's a long tour - will the show change while you’re on the road? I think the show will change even while I’m on stage. It’ll be so current sometimes that audiences won’t laugh until they get home and turn on the TV. Are you looking forward to that challenge? Of course - although my main challenge is getting the audience in a good mood again after my support act, Boothby Graffoe, has been on. Sometimes people haven’t finished booing until a few minutes into my act! Omid Djalili DPS.qxp_Layout 1 28/09/2016 17:20 Page 2

You produced a show known as the Iraq matter. The documentary We Are Many Shepperton Studios. I walked straight on Out & Loud Project at the Edinburgh was about the 2003 protests against the stage in my film costume. I went on stage in Fringe, which involved reading the war in Iraq. Are you proud of the film? full 1930s Egyptian prison warden garb. I Chilcot report in full, 24 hours a day. How It’s not a comedy, but you could easily say even heard an audience member say, “Well at did the idea come about? it’s my crowning achievement so far. I’ve least he’s making an effort.” I was on the phone to Boothby in July and worked on the project for the last five years - Away from stand-up, you have an impres- said, “We should do a show at next year’s Ed- countless edits, screenings, meetings, discus- sive acting CV, having worked with Rus- inburgh Festival where we just read the sions. The fact that Universal Pictures bought sell Crowe, Brad Pitt, Robert Redford, Chilcot report 24 hours a day.” He mentioned it, that it’s been so well received and hit Johnny Depp, Mike Myers and Sarah Jes- it to a promoter called Bob Slayer, rang me number one on iTunes in about 10 different sica Parker. Who’s been the most fun to back and said, “There's a guy called Bob countries, you could say I’m very proud of it. work with? who's mad enough to do it this year.” So A film promoting worldwide public opinion That’s a tough one. I’d say - and anyone while Bob was building a shed to stage it in, as a ‘second superpower’ has got to be doing who’s worked with him as an actor would we were contacting all our friends in comedy good. agree - that Keith Richards from the Rolling to read it and kick the idea off. It took 285 Will the film and the Chilcot report read- Stones was probably the most extraordinary. hours and 1,444 people to read it. I read too. ing make a difference, do you think? He played the father of Captain Jack Sparrow It was a truly one-off experience. You can never quantify the impact of such - Johnny Depp - in Pirates Of The Caribbean It was a great idea. The Edinburgh Com- things, but certainly it felt like they were im- 3. His character shoots and kills my character edy Awards judges certainly thought so, portant projects to be part of. In this life for no reason. This seemed to bother him. In awarding it the Panel Prize. you're either a problem or a solution. I’d like fact, he shot me about 14 times, and after At my age, winning an award! What a pleas- to think these projects - which raise more each take he’d come up to me and say, “Lis- ant surprise - although I’ve found that when questions than answers - are firmly en- ten, you do know I don't mean this?” After an idea is really good, it's no longer your trenched in the solution camp. Or at least try- every take. It was almost like a joke, but it idea. The idea belongs to the collaborators. ing to be! wasn’t. Bang! and he’d shuffle up and say, In fact, the idea felt like it belonged to the “Nothing personal mate, I hope you realise.” Your stand-up isn't particularly political comedy industry. Comics do nutty things all Then, after another take, with the same sin- or agenda-based, though... the time at the festival. Sometimes it’s a 24- cerity and intensity, “It’s all acting. You know Well, yes and no. I'm not party political, if hour show, sometimes mad benefit gigs, but that? You’re not upset with me, are you?” On that’s what you mean. I have no party politi- sometimes an idea really captures the zeit- one occasion he shot me and just said, “For- cal agenda. But I'll talk about what's going geist. Comedians are very adept at smelling give them, Lord, they know not what they on around us, trying to contribute to the dis- bs - by which I mean sensing when we’re do.” The final time he shot me, he just stood course. In fact, that’s what the show should being fobbed off - so it was important to us over me and mumbled, “We’ve all got issues. have been called: Schmuck Talks About that the readings were a simple, non-politi- It’s all about mummy, innit?” How right he What’s Going On Around Him, Trying To cal, people-powered public service. was. Contribute To The Discourse. Did you find anything funny in such a se- You’ve just been cast in The Nutcracker rious report? with Morgan Freeman and Keira Knight- Yes. It was in the final moments of the read- Omid Djalili brings his Schmuck For A ley. How’s it going to feel, filming and ings, after 285 hours and 1,444 people. The Night tour to Civic Hall, Wolverhampton then showing up at a theatre to do stand- very last paragraph of the Chilcot report is: on Sat 22 October; Royal Spa Centre, up? ‘How to read the Chilcot report’! It was a Leamington Spa on Sat 29 October; Palace You’d think it’d be weird, but it has never great punchline. Theatre, Redditch on Fri 4 November and fazed me. Once, in Barnet years ago, I was Huntingdon Hall, Worcester on Tues 15 You were involved as executive producer late, so didn’t change and came straight to November. on another project about similar subject the theatre from the set of The Mummy at More dates at whatsonlive.co.uk Comedy October.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 12:08 Page 3

22 whatsonlive.co.uk Comedy October.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 12:08 Page 4

Birmingham Comedy Festival

Tickling the ribs of Midlanders since 2001, this annual event is one of the longest-running comedy festivals in the UK. Previous contributors include Peter Kay, Lee Evans, Michael McIntrye, Lenny Henry, John Bishop, Miranda Hart and Jimmy Carr. The festival returns this month to provide another 10 days of marvellous mirth across the city, and features performances by Justin Moorhouse, Simon Munnery, Kerry Godliman, Tony Law, Jason Byrne and many more... Birmingham Comedy Festival runs from 7 to 16 October at various venues across the city. Here are just a few of our festival favourites. For full listings visit whatsonlive.co.uk

Birmingham Comedy Neighbourhood Watch Atomic Magic Festival Breaking Talent Cherry Reds, The Electric Cinema, Award Tues 11 October Thurs 13 October The official publicity Thom Peterson’s alter The Glee Club, Fri 7 October for Neighbourhood ego of The Amazing Watch carries the Guy isn’t to be con- Birmingham comedy warning that ‘this fused with your com- legend Jasper Carrott show will make you mon-or-garden super- is among the judges laugh out loud a lot!’ Comic Theatre hero. There’s no catch- Stand-up running the rule over a Described as ‘an ing of speeding bullets hand-picked selection eccentric, madcap, character comedy show’, in his bare hands. What there is, however, is of emerging acts from Stand-up the production features Brassy Brenda, the a level of mind-twisting, wow-factor magic across the West Bumsville villagers, bingo, songs and ample that’s seen him become a regular performer Midlands. The competitors have been select- opportunities for audience participation. at Hollywood’s world famous Magic Castle. ed for their ‘gag-writing skills, observational And this being the BCF, you can expect plen- chops, deft delivery and potential to break ty of ‘uproarious comedy’ too. out’. LoveHard: Murdered By Murder Croft And Pearce Barry Bling, Mr Velvet And The Victoria, Old Joint Stock The Orchestra Of Chaos Tues 11 October Theatre, No strangers to the Sat 15 October The Spotted Dog, Digbeth, Fri 7 October Birmingham Comedy Hannah Croft and Festival, madcap dou- Fiona Pearce are cer- Local lads Barry Bling ble-act LoveHard tainly creating a (on keyboards) and Mr make a welcome splash in the sketch- Velvet, pictured, (on return with a 1930s-set show world at the drums) are the rather Sketch Show tale of a murder-mys- Comic theatre moment. Much small Orchestra Of tery party that goes admired at the Edinburgh Fringe, the duo Chaos, presenting an Musical Odyssey horribly wrong. Expect an absorbing night of last year won the BBC Audio Drama Award act that’s often been laughter-inducing mayhem. for Best Scripted Comedy after participating described as 'Pulp Fiction meets Phoenix in Radio Four’s Sketchorama, a success that Nights'. Their Birmingham Comedy Festival earned them their very own show. appearance sees the boys performing their first ever musical odyssey, from the Swinging Simon Munnery ’60s to the 21st century. The Victoria, Tues 11 October Tony Law Simon Munnery’s lat- The Station Pub, Suttoncoldfield, Rough est show features ‘an Fri 14 October opening to die for, Zany alternative come- Works seven wry observa- dy is Canadian funny- The Glee Club, tions, a tone poem, man Tony Law's stock- Sun 9 October four fresh skits and in-trade, a fact which A presentation of new two new command- Stand-up means his audience is material from ments’. Stand-up guaranteed an evening Midlands comics, His bag of gags include: “Beware the smile of of truly off-the-wall, boundary-defying Rough Works is curat- Stand-up a waiter. It means he's pissed in your soup,” stand-up. Jokes include: “My kid was looking ed by Birmingham's very own Jo Enright. and “In love, as in fighting, the winner has at me with doey eyes - we'd been baking that Alongside her stand-up career, Jo’s also an an eight-foot pole”. morning”. actor, appearing in television comedy series including Phoenix Nights, I’m Alan Partridge and Life’s Too Short.

whatsonlive.co.uk 23 Million Dollar Quartet DPS.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 15:08 Page 1

FEATURE Memories Are Made Of This

Million Dollar Quartet, the Vegas, West End and Broadway hit, arrives in the Midlands

The fourth of December 1956. Record pro- bumptious and never shuts up, and at this ducer Sam Phillips makes musical history point in his career, Elvis is still an extremely by uniting four rock’n’roll icons at his Sun polite, shy young man. It's almost hard to Records Studio in Memphis, Tennessee. believe it when you think of all those pic- Inspired by an astonishing real-life event, tures of him at the end of his career, bloated Million Dollar Quartet brings to life on stage and addled with drugs and so on. But that's the legends that are Elvis Presley, Johnny what he was like at this point. Sam Phillips I Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins. see as quite a grisly, tough guy who wants to control them all. He's very possessive.” Following successful runs in Vegas, the West End and on Broadway, this smash-hit It might create moments of inspiration or musical is visiting Malvern Theatres and even genius, but to some extent, putting Birmingham Hippodrome this month as four megastars together in one room is part of a new UK tour directed by Ian Talbot. bound to lead to clashes. For the most part, We spoke to Talbot to find out more. this is a laid-back jamming session where all of the musicians get their chance to “What I've tried to do with this version is shine, but it's certainly not without its ten- make it less like a concert and more like a sions. play with music,” he says. “In previous productions on Broadway and in the West End, “I actually didn't know until I came to direct they've had stand mics down the front, the play that Blue Suede Shoes was origi- which they'd go to every time they came to nally written and recorded by Carl Perkins, do a number. They don't do that in this ver- and that he'd already had a hit with it before sion - it's more about exploring the relation- Elvis did. One day, when Carl was on his ships between the four singers and Sam way to perform the song on The Perry Como Phillips. One of our cast members has been Show, he got caught in a really bad car acci- in the show in Vegas for four years, and our dent. Later, while he was still lying in hospi- Musical Director, John Mayer, worked on it tal, he was watching television and up came in London, and they both say that this pro- Elvis singing Blue Suede Shoes on The Ed duction is entirely different.” Sullivan Show. Pretty much from then on, whenever Carl sang it, everybody thought By placing the relationships between the he was covering Elvis. So there’s quite a bit characters centre stage, Talbot is able to ex- of animosity between them.” plore each one individually in greater depth, drawing out the personalities behind Nevertheless, if there's one thing to unite the public personae. people, it's a common grievance, and even Carl and Elvis are brought together by their “What I've tried to cultivate is distinct per- mutual irritation with another member of sonalities. Carl is kind of the moody one, the quartet. Johnny is the silent one, Jerry is really “I think all of them would quite like to

24 whatsonlive.co.uk Million Dollar Quartet DPS.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 15:08 Page 2

by Heather Kincaid

bump Jerry Lee Lewis on the head,” laughs Of course, we also know that Elvis left Sun called Marilyn Evans. Talbot. “He's just so cocky - any opportunity, Records too, at which point the Colonel took “I think she was probably more of a showgirl he'll pop up and say, 'Oh, shall I play you an- over his career, and he started making what than the play indicates, but she stayed very other song?' or 'I've done this...' or 'I'm many people see as pretty awful movies - a quiet and never used the publicity. There's gonna be the best!' And indeed he was, but lot of people would say that he sold out. an iconic photograph of her sitting on the he creates quite a lot of the humour in the “Sun Records is very small in comparison piano, but after that she just sort of disap- piece.” with RCA and Colombia, but Phillips hangs peared.” Nicknamed ‘The Killer’, Lewis was once de- on to it like a terrier with a bone. He really But if Million Dollar Quartet takes some liber- scribed as ‘rock & roll's first great wild man’ did discover all these stars, and during the ties with the truth, it's all in the name of and is widely acknowledged to be one of play he also mentions that he's just signed good storytelling and creating an exhilarat- popular music's most influential pianists. At up a guy called Roy Orbison, so he obviously ing live experience that has thrilled audi- the age of 80, he's now the one surviving had this great knack for spotting people. All ences on both sides of the Atlantic. It might member of the quartet, and remains musi- the big record companies want to know how not be the first jukebox musical of recent cally active to this day. he does it, and of course he won't tell them, years, but it might just be one of the most ir- “Apparently he's still as erratic as ever. I which amuses him no end.” resistible. think he's cultivated that. From what I hear, In addition to the five men, there's also a “I think a lot of [the rise of jukebox musicals] he's quite deaf, and when he's waiting to give sixth, female character - Elvis' girlfriend is about nostalgia - I know I love Jersey Boys a performance he just sits in a corner quietly, who, within the context of the show at least, because that was my era. But I think when until somebody comes and says, 'Okay Jerry, is a singer called Dyanne. they fail is when they take all those songs you're on'. Then suddenly this miracle hap- “Dyanne has come with Elvis because she's and try to pin them to a story that isn’t very pens and he leaps to the floor, plays the going to meet his parents, and my take on good. This show has a great book, but also piano and then scuffles back and sits in his her is that she's the most sensible of the lot every song that's sung is a huge hit. There's a corner again.” of them. When you get these five men to- great sort of mega mix at the end which is in Lewis might ruffle a few feathers in his way, gether, there's an element of them all behav- the form of a concert, culminating in Jerry but there's deeper trouble brewing at Sun ing like overgrown schoolboys, whereas she's Lee Lewis doing Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' Records. As an independent producer with got a wise head on her shoulders. It's her On, and I defy anybody to stay in their seat relatively limited resources, Sam Phillips that's able to get Sam Phillips to calm down, by the end. Above all, this is the sort of show made himself the envy of the big guns like and when Jerry Lee tries to come on to her, that you can't help coming out of with a big RCA and Colombia with his talent-spotting she gives him this withering put-down and smile on your face, which I think is quite a ability. Unfortunately, his work was such a he immediately sits down and feels rather nice thing in this time we live in.” soaring success that it wasn't long before his silly. But she's still 'one of the boys' in the boys became too big for him. sense that she's got a fantastic voice, and she “The story really revolves around how Sam sings two hit numbers, Fever and I Hear You Million Dollar Quartet is at Malvern Phillips built Sun Records. At this point, he's Knocking.” Festival Theatre from Monday 17 until hoping to get Johnny Cash to renew his con- This isn't strictly true to life. In reality, the Saturday 22 October, and Birmingham tract, but what he doesn't know is that both girlfriend Elvis brought with him to the Hippodrome from Monday 24 until Cash and Perkins are going off to Colombia recording session was a dancer from Vegas Saturday 29 October.

whatsonlive.co.uk 25 Theatre October.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 12:11 Page 1

Theatre Theatre previews from around the region

946: The Amazing Story Of Adolphus Tips The REP, Birmingham, Thurs 6 - Sat 15 September; Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, Tues 8 - Sat 12 November Lily Tregenza’s life on a farm in Slapton is pretty idyllic, even though beyond the picturesque seaside village’s boundaries the Second World War is raging. Lily’s dad is away and her school is being attended by evacuee children - but other than that, her world remains untouched by the terrible conflict. Until, that is, the villagers are told to leave their homes so that the allies can use Slapton to practise their landings for D-Day. When Lily’s cat finds her way beyond the ‘keep out’ signs and through the barbed wire, the 12-year-old girl thinks little of her own safety as she searches for her beloved pet... Michael Morpurgo’s delightful story is here presented by the ever-inventive Kneehigh theatre company, who clev- erly combine music, puppetry and ‘foolishness’ to recount a tale that’s been described by The Times as a life-affirming piece of theatre.

Method In Madness The Rocky Horror Show Fall Out mac, Birmingham, Tues 11 - Wed 12 October; The Old Joint Stock Theatre, Birmingham, New Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham, Thurs 20 - Friday 21 October Arena Theatre, Wolverhampton, Wed 19 - Mon 10 - Sat 15 October Thurs 20 October Hook up your fishnets, tighten your corsets and prepare to ‘do The Time Warp again’ - The Rocky Horror Show is returning to Birmingham. Richard O Brien’s cult production tells the tale of the straight-laced Brad and the deli- ciously corruptible Janet, who arrive at the castle of alien transvestite Frank N Furter and witness the birth of the monster, Rocky. This latest work from Midlands-based Highly Along the way, they take the audience Sprung Performance Co has been produced through a selection of love-’em-or-loathe-’em in response to what the company describes musical numbers, including Sweet as a growing concern about young people Transvestite, Damn It Janet and The Time becoming disempowered - ‘no longer having Any actress who accepts the role of Hamlet’s Warp. a voice, or control over their own future’. Ophelia needs to be ready and able to under- Great fun’s a guarantee - particularly if you The story focuses on three teenagers on the take a necessary plunge into her own psyche. get into the spirit of things and attend the roof of a nightclub, thrown together through So when a young Hollywood starlet in Blitz- show dressed in your very best stockings and circumstance, who’re all searching for an ravaged London struggles to connect with suspenders (as many patrons do)! answer to the same question - who, if any- Shakespeare’s enigmatic and ultimately trag- This touring production stars The Voice’s body, cares? A young revolutionary named ic character, she turns for salvation to Liam Tamne as Frank N Furter, S Club 7’s Jay thinks he knows how to bring about ‘method acting’, a technique that sees the Paul Cattermole as Eddie/Dr Scott and come- change: “Thousands of us,” he says, “on the actor aspire to complete emotional identifi- dian Steve Punt as the Narrator. cation with the role they’re playing. Her last day of exams - we’re all gonna jump. resulting performance is sensational - but it They’ll have to listen to us then, they’ll have isn’t long before the boundaries between the- no choice...” atre and her own reality become disturbingly Set in empty studio spaces, Fall Out com- blurred... bines physical theatre performance with the Fusing Shakespearean text and new writing experience of a club night. with physical theatre, dance and mask/pup- “Audiences are invited to enter a nightclub,” petry work, Method In Madness is presented Highly Sprung explain. “Dance becomes against a soundtrack of haunting music by interspersed with story, movement and dia- folk singer-songwriter Laura Marling. logue, and action takes place around and above the audience. It’s a self-contained, interactive, promenade experience.”

26 whatsonlive.co.uk Theatre October.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 12:12 Page 2

Avant Garde Dance Company and The Place present Fagin’s Twist

Sat 1 - Thu 20 & Mon 10 - Sat 8 Oct Fri 21 Oct Sat 22 Oct From £16 £12 From £18

Cole Porter’s Kiss Me, Kate

Mon 24 - Tue 1 - Thu 10 - Sat 29 Oct Sat 5 Nov Sat 12 Nov From £14 From £12 From £16.50

performance!Extra Thu 17 Nov 2pm

“Uproariously entertaining – Mon 14 - Tue 25 Nov Mon 19 Dec every inch a whopping hit” Sat 19 Nov - - Sun29 Jan Daily Telegraph From £16 Tue 13 Dec From £15.50

Everyone’s Welcome

0844 338 5000 birminghamhippodrome.com Calls cost 4.5p per min plus access charge. 5% transaction charge applies excluding cash sales in person. Theatre October.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 12:12 Page 3

Theatre Theatre previews from around the region

The Sound Of Music Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, Tues 4 - Sat 8 October One of the most popular family musicals of all time, Rodgers & Hammerstein’s The Sound Of Music is best known, of course, from its mid-1960s film version starring Julie Andrews. It tells the story of the Von Trapp family’s World War Two flight across the mountains of Austria, along the way featuring hit songs including My Favourite Things, Do-Re-Mi, Climb Every Mountain and The Lonely Goatherd. This touring version of the show stars The Voice’s Lucy O’Byrne as Maria and former Coronation Street actor Andrew Lancel as Captain Von Trapp.

On The Edge Of Me sidered to be his finest work. Henceforward... Using the struggles of one particular family Arena Theatre, Wolverhampton, as a focal point, Dickens’ explores the New Vic Theatre, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Thurs 13 October Tues 11 - Sat 29 October human drama of the revolution in all its myr- “Stigmas such as gender, race and class are iad forms. And having had such rich and Not exactly one of Alan Ayckbourn's best transcended by mental health issues,” dramatic subject matter at his disposal, it’s known or most performed plays, explains Yolanda Mercy, who fuses story- hardly surprising that the resulting story Henceforward... is a curious offering that's telling, poetry, live music and audience par- makes for compelling theatre. set in a futuristic world devoid of human ticipation in this one-woman show. Although The show’s music is provided by Oscar-win- contact. the production focuses on the subject of ning composer Rachel Portman. With both his family and his inspiration mental health in the context of graduate gone, lonely composer Jerome Watkins is a unemployment, Yolanda is keen to point out desperate man - and it's hard to imagine that that she hopes the piece speaks to a wide Seriously Dead his deranged android childminder is ever audience. “It isn’t a play that’s exclusively for The Place, Oakengates Theatre, Shropshire, likely to help him regain the person who unemployed graduates,” she says. “I hope Sat 15 October matters most to him... On The Edge Of Me doesn’t just re-educate Benidorm favourite Crissy Rock takes top Alan Ayckbourn himself directs this much- but gives people something to identify with.” billing in a new comedy that she co-wrote anticipated revival of the 1987 comedy. It’s with Leah Bell, who also stars. presented by Scarborough’s Stephen Joseph When bank robber Albert Blunderstone Theatre, of which Ayckbourn is the long- returns home from abroad to attend a funer- standing artistic director. al, he runs into Betty, the former wife of his accomplice, a small-time crook called Nodger Wilson. Suddenly alert to the possi- The Hound Of The bility of finally finding out what happened to Baskervilles his share of the loot, Albert befriends Betty and her husband, Billy Blenkinsopp. But as Prince Of Wales Centre, Cannock, Thurs 13 - Fri 14 October you might expect, the course of true crime never runs smooth... Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes is One-time Emmerdale actor Frazer Hines and one of literature’s most enduring characters, comedian Billy Pearce co-star. The Hound Of The Baskervilles his most famous adventure. Yet no matter how many A Tale Of Two Cities actors don the deerstalker and solve the mys- Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, tery of the monstrous moorland beast, the Wed 19 - Sat 22 October story remains a popular choice for both stage Charles Dickens’ name is probably best and screen adaptation. known to the wider population via all man- This latest version finds the ever-reliable ner of Christmas Carol adaptations and the Ambient Night Productions bringing a wel- hugely successful stage musical version of come dose of humour to the lonely waste- Oliver Twist. But it’s A Tale Of Two Cities - an land of the desolate moors... epic story of love, sacrifice and redemption set during the turbulent days of the French Revolution - which the author himself con-

28 whatsonlive.co.uk Theatre October.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 12:12 Page 4 Theatre October.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 12:12 Page 5

Theatre

Blood Brothers Birmingham Hippodrome, Mon 10 - Sat 22 October Although it’s effectively a class-driven ‘scouse melodrama’, to describe Blood Brothers as such is to greatly underestimate the emotional response it produces within its audience. This touring production stars one-time New Seeker Lyn Paul as Mrs Johnstone, an unfor- tunate mother compelled to give away one of her twins. The show also features adult actors playing children, a narrator who wan- ders through the scenes with warnings of impending doom, a good helping of sharp social awareness to counteract the sticky sentimentality and a raft of much-loved musical numbers, including Bright New Day, Marilyn Monroe and the emotionally charged Tell Me It’s Not True.

Paradise described by the RSC as ‘A Midsummer The show was a massive success in Night’s Dream meets Fight Club’, and with Edinburgh this summer, where it made fun Of The troubled lovers, woodland scenes and mortal of the radio programme its name recalls - Assassins combat all playing a part, it’s easy to see “Next: Judi Dench talking about her men- Belgrade Theatre, why. strual cycle” - and presented such concepts Coventry, When Duke Theseus of Athens is victorious as the pink, gender-specific Kinder Egg, com- Thurs 13 - Sat 15 in battle with King Creon of Thebes, the 'two plete with the surprise ‘gift’ of a message October noble kinsmen' - cousins and Thebans informing the not-so-lucky recipient that The former associate Palamon and Arcite - find themselves impris- she’s fat. artistic director of oned. Looking from their window, they see a Commissioned by Camden People’s Theatre, Birmingham Repertory Theatre, Anthony beautiful woman with whom they both fall the show promises an evening of imaginative Clarke, is the man behind this chillingly res- instantly in love. In so doing, they set in sketch-based comedy that hits the funny onant stage adaptation of a century-old tale. motion a chain of events that will see one of bone far more times than it misses. Clarke’s company, Theatre Accord, has them win her hand in marriage and the other teamed up with Tara Arts to present the lose his head... story, written by Abdul Halim Sharar in 1899. Sharar’s novel focuses on a young man Shooting With Light named Hussain who finds himself faced with Bridge House Theatre, Warwick, the decision of a lifetime - whether to live Women’s Tues 11 October without his beloved Zamurrud or to join her Hour The long-neglected story of pioneering pho- in Paradise. But choosing the latter comes Warwick Arts Centre, tojournalist Gerda Taro is here presented via with a heavy price attached - if he wishes to Coventry, the use of innovative staging, physicality and be reunited with her, he must first join The Tues 25 - Wed 26 multimedia. October Assassins... Fleeing from Germany to Paris in the early This thought-provoking reflection on the The female-led Sh!t 1930s, Taro soon found herself using her price people are willing to pay for Utopia Theatre are quite camera to record the tyranny of fascism in contains scenes of a violent nature and sexu- open about the fact the Spanish Civil War. But it was the fellow al references. As such, it’s not recommended that their on-stage refugee with whom she undertook the dan- for anybody under the age of 12 product is intention- gerous project, a man called Robert Capa, ally a little bit, er, sh!t. Their style of presen- whose name would become synonymous tation aims to be reflective of life - and life, with compelling and The Two Noble Kinsmen too, can sometimes be a little bit... well, you provocative war pho- get the drift. tography. Taro, mean- Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, A cabaret piece of ‘giddy, freewheeling silli- until Tues 7 February while, would be all ness’, Women’s Hour takes the format of but forgotten... Chaucer’s Knight’s Tale was Shakespeare’s Radio Four’s morning magazine programme Presented by the inspiration for this rarely performed tragi- of a similar name. Along the way it makes highly rated Idle comedy, written in collaboration with John the point that dedicating 60 radio minutes Motion theatre com- Fletcher only a couple of years before the per day exclusively to women hardly consti- pany. Stratford bard’s death. tutes a prime example of equality in action... This latest version of the play is being 30 whatsonlive.co.uk Theatre October.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 12:12 Page 6 Theatre October.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 18:15 Page 7

theatre for younger audiences...

We’re Going On A Bear Hunt

Disney On Ice: Frozen The Curious Adventures Of Pinocchio

Disney On Ice: Frozen surprising to find him embarking on his first Penguin! Elephant! ever live tour, bringing along with him his Barclaycard Arena, Birmingham, pugs, his close friend Dr Trayaurus and lots Newhampton Arts Centre, Wolverhampton, Tues 25 - Sun 30 October Sun 2 October; Bridge House Theatre, of other characters from his children-focused Warwick, Sun 16 October Disney On Ice’s latest extravaganza brings Diamond Minecart gaming channel. “Goblin theatre company believes that imagi- the snowy wastelands of the hugely popular Plenty of bums on seats at these touring nation inspires imagination,” says its movie Frozen to the Midlands this month. shows is pretty much a guarantee and will founder and producer, Matt Borgatti, “so we The company promises a production replete further swell an annual income that’s esti- aim to create shows that will make young with ‘dazzling’ special effects and ‘astonish- mated to be somewhere between £160,000 people want to tell stories, be characters, ing’ skating - not to mention, of course, the and £1.6million. make up songs and remember the experience cast of ever-popular characters from the Daniel’s also got a graphic novel coming out long after the performance finishes.” Academy Award-winning film. this month - DanTDM: Trayaurus And The Goblin’s currently-touring show for children But wait, there’s more; Mickey and Minnie Enchanted Crystal. are on hand to host proceedings, with the aged three-plus is an energetic celebration of Mouse House’s beloved Princesses making ‘difference’, telling the story of a selfish pen- guest appearances too. With characters from The Adventures Of Walter guin that has its black-and-white world all-time favourites like Toy Story, Finding Lemonface turned upside down by the arrival of a big, Nemo and The Lion King also getting their messy, colour-loving elephant. skates on, this is one winter wonderland that mac, Birmingham, Sun 23 October Food based-mess, a ‘magical’ balloon ride should definitely warm the cockles of any If you’re looking for something a little differ- and a fish-finger rap add to the fun. youngster’s heart. ent for your kids to enjoy, check this out. Walter Lemonface is a fun and friendly character with a lemon for a head. An older-than- Gangsta Granny We’re Going On A the-hills adventurer, fearless inventor, con- Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, noisseur of carrots and hunter of rhubarb Wed 12 - Sun 16 October; Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton, Wed 22 - Sun 26 March Bear Hunt ogres, he lives in a purple shed at the bottom Old Rep, Birmingham, of a waterfall. And his adventures very much The ever-popular Birmingham Stage Thurs 20 - Sat 22 October depend on the suggestions called out by the Company make a welcome return with their Suitable for children aged two-plus, this youngsters in the audience. critically acclaimed adaptation of David Little Angel Theatre adaptation of Michael The refreshingly imaginative 154 Collective Walliams’ best-selling book. Rosen and Helen Oxenbury’s popular picture are the company behind this hit show, a win- Ben’s no lover of Friday nights - and why book follows the exciting adventures of a ning blend of live animation, music and sto- would he be? After all, Friday night means family as they head out on an intrepid quest rytelling that’s suitable for children ‘aged having to stay at Granny’s house, where he’s to find a bear. Catchy songs and enchanting three to 93’. not only bored senseless but also has to eat puppets are combined with no shortage of an unholy trinity of cabbage dishes - cabbage swishy swashy grass and oozy, squelchy mud soup, cabbage pie and cabbage cake. in a show that seems certain to keep young- The Curious Adventures But experiences can sometimes be deceptive, sters entertained. and Ben soon finds out that there’s way more Of Pinocchio to his boring old Granny than he’d ever imag- Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, ined... Dan TDM Tour Fri 28 - Sat 29 October A singular visual flair, an inventive use of Birmingham Hippodrome, Sun 23 October props and an interactive approach to per- Coventry-based Daniel Middleton is one of formance are the trademark features of the world’s most viewed YouTube creators. Lyngo theatre company’s productions for A professional gamer who goes by the han- children. dle The Diamond Minecart (DanTDM), he has This latest show brings to life the much- over 12 million subscribers and has accumu- loved tale of the puppet-boy whose nose lated around seven billion views across his grows whenever he tells a porky-pie. two YouTube channels. CBeebies’ Patrick Lynch is the man pulling Given such massive popularity, it’s hardly the strings. Gangsta Granny

32 whatsonlive.co.uk Theatre October.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 12:12 Page 8 Theatre October.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 12:12 Page 9

34 whatsonlive.co.uk Theatre October.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 12:12 Page 10

whatsonlive.co.uk 35 BRB DPS.qxp_Layout 1 28/09/2016 17:18 Page 1

FEATURE

BIRMINGHAM ROYA

posed to be drowning, basic Storms, spells & shipwrecks: Birmingham Royal Ballet that's how I start,” he adds.

“Just the thought of it's mak present the world premiere of David Bintley's The Tempest feel sick!” laughs Mackay. Fo

for him, Prospero doesn't ha With 2016 marking one of the biggest Shakespeare milestones to date, it's little wonder that any flying. In fact, as often a just about everyone's been getting stuck in to the 400th anniversary celebrations, particu- the one who's making other

larly in the playwright's native West Midlands. Back in April, Birmingham Royal Ballet In addition to the choreogra

dancers Elisha Willis and Tyrone Singleton performed a preview from David Bintley's brand there's also the design to con

and for this production, Bint new Shakespeare Suite, which sets snapshots of Shakespeare's best-loved couples to a assembled a stellar team, at swinging Duke Ellington soundtrack. Then in July, the company revived John Cranko's lively of which is award-winning W 1969 ballet of The Taming of the Shrew to rave reviews designer Rae Smith.

“The designs are stunning. H Now the BRB continues its focus on choreographer,” says Iain Mackay, which Bintley has always excelled. down this is the best costum the Bard with a full season of shows who plays the ageing magician Pros- Among the more unusual aspects of had!” says Mackay. “The firs inspired by some of Shakespeare's pero. “He does allow us to find our this production is its extensive use of she showed me was a pictur most iconic plays. Two sets of three own way, but he's so aware of the text aerial choreography. movie with Clive Owen in it, short ballets sandwich the autumn and how he's going to bring out the “We've done flying ballet before, but I thought it was brilliant. I've season with a mix of new and estab- story in dance that sometimes I think guess that's what you'd call quite basic amazing cloak, and there ar lished works by Bintley, José Limón, the best thing to do is just be led by stuff. Generally you're up and off, like incredible masks in it too. I t Frederick Ashton and Jessica Lang, him. If you want to understand how in Aladdin or The Nutcracker, whereas guy who made them does th but the jewel in its crown will be the he wants it, one of the best things to in this, it's very choreographic and Doctor Who and stuff like th world premiere of Bintley's full-length do is just to watch him. He's amazing, there's the whole element of the char- They're unbelievable!” adaptation of The Tempest. especially with the acting: all of a sud- acter still moving in the way that he den he just gets up and completely be- “I think they've tried to keep In some respects, it's hard to conceive should,” says Mackay. comes the character – and then he period-ish, but it's a stylised a better choice to translate into a phys- does the other ones as well!” “It seems difficult at first, but actually that,” says Caley. “It can't be ical medium. Wild, wonderful and a it's easier than I thought it was going because I've got to be able to little bit weird, Shakespeare's last solo “I think with a production like this, to be. We have really, really good in- around and lift my arms up i play is set on an isolated island where because the play is so complicated, structors,” says Joseph Caley, who they're going for that look.” Prospero, the former Duke of Milan, probably half the people in the com- plays Prospero's shipwrecked nephew lives in banishment with his daughter, pany have no idea what's going on for For most ballet dancers, star Ferdinand. “It's all about where you Miranda. There, he practises magic, some of it!” says Jenna Roberts, who world premiere would be som put your weight – the harness can re- conjuring island spirits to do his bid- plays Miranda. “But when you're a that happens only on an occ ally rub on your hips, but once you get ding, foremost among them the myste- lead character, you definitely need to basis, but at BRB, the compa the technique down, it's quite fun. I rious Ariel, whom Prospero rescues know what the part entails and the customed to regularly taking think for the Ariels, they have to do from captivity. Also under his com- emotions they're feeling. David did ex- creations and new challenge this sort of dive which can be quite dif- mand is the earthy island child Cal- plain some of it - in the very first re- ing the dancers (quite literal ficult to control, just tipping your body iban, a “thing of darkness” born to the hearsal we discussed what kind of their toes. and holding it there, whereas I do cruel witch Sycorax. Yet at the same person Miranda was, but I don't think tumbling, so it's just somersaults.” “It's part of what makes it go time, The Tempest's complexity can he did that with everyone. I like to in this company – it's excitin make it an unwieldy and difficult read about it, watch the play and “After I've done all my tumbling, we new and the rep's constantly piece to stage even as a play, let alone watch movies so I can get a really have these strange fish characters that ing,” says Mackay. “If we did in other forms. Fortunately, the com- good idea of them.” grab on to me and start rocking me Lake from now until next Au pany's ever-inventive artistic director and moving me around. They've also The storms, spells and shipwrecks all be pulling our hair out, a is well-equipped for the challenge. put some bungee cord in so there's a that fill The Tempest's scenes demand so would the audiences.” kind of buoyancy effect to it. I'm sup- “David is like a dramaturg as well as a bold creative choices – something at BRB DPS.qxp_Layout 1 28/09/2016 17:18 Page 2

HAM ROYAL BALLET

posed to be drowning, basically – “We've done quite a lot recently – am Royal Ballet that's how I start,” he adds. we've had Cinderella and Aladdin too, but generally I guess it's not that com- “Just the thought of it's making me y's The Tempest mon. We're really lucky to have feel sick!” laughs Mackay. Fortunately David,” Roberts agrees. for him, Prospero doesn't have to do it's little wonder that any flying. In fact, as often as not, he's “The thing is, with a new production celebrations, particu- the one who's making other people fly. like this, we don't know how it's going to be. It's a journey for us as well. With mingham Royal Ballet In addition to the choreography, anything else, you can go and watch David Bintley's brand there's also the design to consider, YouTube videos of the dancers you and for this production, Bintley has est-loved couples to a love so you can see their take on it – I assembled a stellar team, at the heart d John Cranko's lively could go and look up how Carlos did of which is award-winning War Horse Shrew to rave reviews something and wish that I could do it designer Rae Smith. like him. Whereas if you've got some- “The designs are stunning. Hands thing new that's come straight from ley has always excelled. down this is the best costume I've ever the man at the front of the studio, more unusual aspects of had!” says Mackay. “The first thing you've got no idea what you're going ction is its extensive use of she showed me was a picture from a to be doing,” Mackay adds. eography. movie with Clive Owen in it, and I In this regard, the opportunities that ne flying ballet before, but I thought it was brilliant. I've got an BRB presents for young talent are al- s what you'd call quite basic amazing cloak, and there are all these most unparalleled. Not only does rally you're up and off, like incredible masks in it too. I think the being part of the company provide or The Nutcracker, whereas guy who made them does things for them with a steady position and a very choreographic and Doctor Who and stuff like that. chance to work with one of Britain's whole element of the char- They're unbelievable!” most celebrated living choreogra- moving in the way that he “I think they've tried to keep it sort of phers, it's also a relatively small, tight- ays Mackay. period-ish, but it's a stylised take on knit team where everyone gets a

difficult at first, but actually that,” says Caley. “It can't be exact, chance to shine on stage.

han I thought it was going because I've got to be able to move “We're not like the Royal Ballet – ave really, really good in- around and lift my arms up in it, but there's only 60 of us, and David often says Joseph Caley, who they're going for that look.” brings through young dancers. I've pero's shipwrecked nephew For most ballet dancers, starring in a been here for 17 years now – I got my “It's all about where you world premiere would be something first principal role when I was 20,” eight – the harness can re- that happens only on an occasional says Mackay. “It's a really talented your hips, but once you get basis, but at BRB, the company is ac- company, and while David always que down, it's quite fun. I customed to regularly taking on new picks whoever he thinks will be best he Ariels, they have to do creations and new challenges, keep- for a role, he's got the luxury that dive which can be quite dif- ing the dancers (quite literally) on everyone in the company is really ntrol, just tipping your body their toes. strong. There are a lot of young mem- g it there, whereas I do bers who are phenomenal, but also so it's just somersaults.” “It's part of what makes it good to be dancers that have been here a long in this company – it's exciting, it's time who are better than ever now.” done all my tumbling, we new and the rep's constantly chang-

strange fish characters that ing,” says Mackay. “If we did Swan me and start rocking me Lake from now until next August we'd Birmingham Royal Ballet perform g me around. They've also all be pulling our hair out, and I think The Tempest at Birmingham Hippo- ungee cord in so there's a so would the audiences.” drome from Saturday 1 until Satur- oyancy effect to it. I'm sup- day 8 October. Film Oct- GROUP.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 17:37 Page 1

To enter all competitions go to whatsonlive.co.uk

Win!

Tickets to Cabaret XXL: East Tickets to Mugenkyo Taiko A meal for 2 at Sabai Sabai, End Cabaret Drummers Stratford-upon-Avon

Closes Friday 14 Cctober Closes Friday 14 Cctober Closes Friday 28 October

Tickets to Gangsta Granny Tickets to A Tale of Two Cities Tickets to What Shadows

Closes Wednesday 5 October Closes Wednesday 12 October Closes Monday 24 October

Tickets to Ice Skate A meal for 2 at Zen Metro, A meal for 2 at El Borracho de Birmingham Birmingham Oro, Birmingham

Closes Monday 14 November Closes Friday 28 October Closes Friday 28 October

Tickets to The Mousetrap Tickets to Motorcycle Live Tickets to Vamos Cuba!

Closes Monday 24 October Closes Monday 7 November Closes Friday 21 October

To enter all competitions go to whatsonlive.co.uk also follow us on Twitter for more great competitions 36 whatsonlive.co.uk Film Oct- GROUP.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 17:37 Page 2

Film

Southside With You CERT 12a (84 mins) Starring Parker Sawyers, Tika Sumpter, Vanessa Bell Calloway Directed by Richard Tanne (USA) With just one month to go before the presidential blood- bath, this is one film that fans of the current administration will want to seek out. If you can imagine Richard Linklater’s Before Sunrise trilogy peopled not by Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy but by Barack Obama and Michelle Robinson, then you will get the picture. It is 1989 on Chicago’s Southside and the future commander in chief is working as a young law associate alongside the beautiful attorney Michelle. The young man is obviously smitten with his colleague and invites her out on a date disguised as a trip to a local community assembly. Throwing in a visit to an exhibition of Afro-Centric art and a picnic in the park, Barack has just a few hours to win the attorney’s heart. If there’s any justice in Hollywood, newcomer Parker Sawyers should be heading for an Oscar nomination for his performance as Obama - he not only nails the man’s mannerisms but gives him a credible humanity, vul- nerability and passion, to boot. The film - superbly written and directed by Richard Tanne - is also an intelligent look at what it was to be black and motivated in 1989 with no idea of what the future held. Now showing

CRITIC’S CHOICE

Film highlights released in October...

The Girl On The Train War On Everyone CERT 15 (112 mins) CERT 15 (112 mins) Starring Emily Blunt, Rebecca Ferguson, Haley Starring Alexander Skarsgård, Michael Peña, Bennett, Justin Theroux, Luke Evans, Édgar Theo James, Tessa Thompson, Caleb Landry Ramírez Directed by Tate Taylor (USA) Jones, Paul Reiser Directed by John Michael McDonagh Not to be confused with the 2009 French film (UK/Ireland) of the same name, this thriller is based on The corrupt cops Terry Monroe (Skarsgård) the 2015 novel by Paula Hawkins. Emily and Bob Bolaño (Peña) don’t mess around. If Blunt plays a divorcee who, on the same they can’t catch their man, they’ll frame him. train each day, fantasises about the couple Then they come across an adversary who’s just down the street from where she and her even meaner than they are. Possibly. We ex-husband used to live together. Then she expect great things from this, as the director witnesses something quite shocking… previously brought us The Guard and Tate Taylor previously directed the award- Blood Father Calvary. Shot in New Mexico. winning The Help (2011). CERT 18 (88 mins) Released Fri 7 October Released Wed 5 October Starring Mel Gibson, Erin Moriarty, Diego Luna, Michael Parks, William H Macy, Elisabeth Röhm Directed by Jean-François Richet (France) It all sounds rather familiar. An ex-con on parole attempts to bond with his estranged 17-year-old daughter while saving her from the clutches of some very nasty drug dealers. Although the film is technically French, it was shot in English in New Mexico. Released Fri 7 October

whatsonlive.co.uk 37 Film Oct- GROUP.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 17:37 Page 3

Film

American Honey CERT 15 (164 mins) Starring Sasha Lane, Shia LaBeouf, Riley Keough, Raymond Coalson, Arielle Holmes Directed by Andrea Arnold (UK/USA) A new film from Andrea Arnold (Red Road, Fish Tank) is always worth seeking out. Here, she cast the waitress Sasha Lane as Star, a teenager from an abusive home who links up with a magazine subscription sales team. As they travel across the American Midwest, Star falls in with their hard-partying antics and brushes with petty crime… As usual with Arnold, much of the film was improvised. Winner of the Jury Prize at Cannes. Released Fri 14 October

CRITIC’S CHOICE

Marvel Comics’ Stephen Vincent Strange, Doctor Strange CERT tbc the neurosurgeon-turned-sorcerer. And Starring Benedict Cumberbatch, Chiwetel with Chiwetel Ejiofor and Tilda Swinton Ejiofor, Rachel McAdams, Benedict Wong, Mads Mikkelsen, Tilda Swinton, Michael in the mix, it should certainly be more Stuhlbarg, Benjamin Bratt lively than Batman v Superman. Indeed, Directed by Scott Derrickson (USA) when the film’s trailer was first released, Scott Derrickson has made some pretty it caused a storm in nerdland. duff movies (The Day The Earth Stood Apparently, even Benedict says he got the Still, Deliver Us From Evil) but Doctor shakes watching it. Benedict Wong plays Strange is likely to change his fortunes. Wong, Doctor Strange’s valet. In 3D. The film has certainly got an intriguing Released Fri 28 October cast, with Benedict Cumberbatch as

Inferno CERT 12a (121 mins) Storks CERT U (90 mins) Queen Of Katwe Starring Tom Hanks, Felicity Jones, Irrfan With the voices of Andy Samberg, Katie Crown, CERT PG (124 mins) Khan, Omar Sy, Ben Foster, Sidse Babett Kelsey Grammer, Keegan-Michael Key, Jordan Starring David Oyelowo, Lupita Nyong'o, Knudsen Directed by Ron Howard (USA) Peele, Jennifer Aniston Directed by Nicholas Madina Nalwanga Stoller and Doug Sweetland (USA) Dan Brown’s Robert Langdon, Professor of Directed by Mira Nair (USA/South Africa) Religious Iconology and Symbology, is back Just the presence of David Oyelowo (Selma) in a new adventure. This time Langdon (Tom and the Oscar-winning Lupita Nyong’o (12 Hanks, for the third time) follows in the foot- Years a Slave) alone should make this film steps of Dory and Jason Bourne and wakes worth seeking out. But the true-life story of up with amnesia in an Italian hospital. Then, Phiona Mutesi (Nalwanga), a poor girl from like Jason Bourne, he discovers that he is the Uganda whose father died of Aids, sounds target of a major manhunt. Luckily, our very simply inspirational. With her family unable own Felicity Jones is on hand to help out. In to afford her schooling, Phiona, aged nine, 3D. enrolled in a chess programme organised by Released Fri 14 October the Sports Outreach Institute. And she turned out to be rather good at the game… Released Fri 21 October

While Amazon is revving up its drone infra- structure, this computer-animated fable has the eponymous birds delivering packages for the global internet giant Cornerstore.com. Then, when a mishap produces a real live baby, Junior (voiced by Andy Samberg) is forced to deliver the infant. Like in the old days. In 3D. Released Fri 14 October

38 whatsonlive.co.uk Film Oct- GROUP.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 17:37 Page 4

Film releases in October

Jack Reacher: Daniel Blake After Love CERT tbc CERT 15 (100 mins) Never Go Back CERT tbc Starring Bérénice Bejo, Cédric Kahn, Marthe Starring Dave Johns, Hayley Squires, Keller, Catherine Salée Starring Tom Cruise, Cobie Smulders, Danika Dylan McKiernan, Briana Shann Directed Directed by Joachim Lafosse (Belgium/France) Yarosh, Robert Knepper Directed by Edward by Ken Loach (UK/France/Belgium) Zwick (USA) It’s a tricky situation. After 15 years of mar- In spite of the first film’s disappointing box- riage, Boris and Marie are in the process of office (for a Tom Cruise vehicle, that is), Jack divorce. However, they are forced to stay in Reacher is back and in trouble. Here, he’s the same house - until they can resolve their accused of a 16-year-old homicide and must differences over the property. The Belgian clear his name and uncover a major govern- writer-director Joachim Lafosse previously ment conspiracy. Edward Zwick previously brought us the intelligent and absorbing Our directed Cruise in The Last Samurai (2003). Children (2012), which also dealt with people from different backgrounds sharing a con- Released Fri 21 October fined space under unusual circumstances. Released Fri 28 October

Winner of this year’s Palme d'Or at Cannes, Ken Loach’s latest film features Dave Johns as the titular carpenter. When Daniel Blake falls foul of heart disease, he attempts to untie the red tape that would enable him to benefit from Employment and Support Allowance. And, along the way, he befriends a single mother who is also Ouija: Origin Of Evil CERT tbc battling the system. Typical Ken Loach Starring Elizabeth Reaser, Annalise Basso, fare who, amazingly, is now 80 years Lulu Wilson, Henry Thomas, Kate Siegel Directed by Mike Flanagan (USA) old. Burn Burn Burn CERT tbc Time for another horror film, and a sequel at Released Fri 21 October that. Set almost 50 years prior to the events Starring Laura Carmichael, Chloe Pirrie, Jack Farthing, Joe Dempsie, Hannah Arterton featured in Ouija (2014), a mother and her Directed by Chanya Button (UK) two daughters introduce a new scam into Keeping Up With The Marking the directorial debut of Chanya their séance sessions. And, lo and behold, Joneses CERT tbc Button, this is a bittersweet road movie in the younger daughter finds herself possessed which Seph and Alex set out across Britain by a very real entity… Starring Jon Hamm, Zach Galifianakis, Gal Gadot, Isla Fisher, Maribeth Monroe with a singular mission in mind. They are Released Fri 21 October Directed by Greg Mottola (USA) accompanied by the ashes of their friend Dan, who has instructed them to scatter his remains across his favourite old haunts. Trolls CERT tbc Released Fri 28 October With the voices of Anna Kendrick, Justin Timberlake, Zooey Deschanel, Russell Brand, James Corden, Gwen Stefani Directed by Mike Mitchell and Walt Dohrn (USA) After The Boxtrolls of 2014 we now just have Trolls. This cartoon musical animates the plastic so-called ‘gonk trolls’ available in every good toyshop. Here, a grouchy troll called Branch (voiced and sung by Justin Timberlake) teams up with the flighty Poppy Neighbours ain’t what they used to be. (Kendrick), princess of the Trolls, to help Suburban couple Jeff and Karen save the future of Troll Town. In 3D. Gafney (Galifianakis, Fisher) find themselves caught up in a world of Released Fri 21 October espionage when they discover that their new neighbours are secret agents. Not to be confused with The Joneses (2009) in which Demi Moore and David Duchovny played suburbanites who were not entirely who they said they were… Released Fri 28 October

whatsonlive.co.uk 39 Visual Arts October.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 12:17 Page 1

40 whatsonlive.co.uk Visual Arts October.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 12:18 Page 2

Visual Arts

Roy Lichtenstein Wolverhampton Art Gallery, Sat 22 October - Sun 26 February Renowned for works based on comic strips and advertising imagery coloured with his signature Benday dots, Roy Lichtenstein was one of the most radical and influential artists of the 20th century and a leading figure in the Pop Art movement. This exhibition of his art is drawn from Artist Rooms, a collection of international modern and contemporary art owned by National Galleries of Scotland and Tate on behalf of the public. Commenting on the show, Wolverhampton council- lor John Reynolds, cabinet member for City Economy, said: “This is the fourth time the art gallery has hosted an Artist Rooms exhibition, and we’re delighted the Lichtenstein works, newly added to the collection, are coming here this month. They were first displayed at the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art in Edinburgh in 2015, and this will be the first opportunity for visitors to see the works at an Artist Rooms associate venue.” Roy Lichtenstein Reflections on Crash 1990. ARTIST ROOMS, Tate and National Galleries of Scotland. Lent by The Roy Lichtenstein Foundation Collection 2015

Sara Barker Peter Kennard: The Human Document Ikon Gallery, Birmingham, Off Message Mead Gallery, Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, until Sun 27 November Fri 7 October - Sat 10 December mac, Birmingham, until Mon 27 November “The point of my work,” explains Peter Kennard, “is to use easily recognisable iconic images, but to render them unacceptable; to break down the image of the all-powerful missile, in order to represent the power of the millions of people who are actually trying to break them.” The image of the Broken Missile to which Kennard refers is perhaps the artist’s most famous work, a 1980 photomontage he pro- When it was created in 1937, the primary duced for the Campaign for Nuclear objective of the US’s Farm Security Disarmament (CND). Administration (FSA) was to combat Kennard is widely considered to be Britain’s Depression-era rural poverty. The agency most important political artist, producing, attempted to do this by means of rural reha- for nearly half a century, images which have bilitation, farm loans and subsistence home- been deployed on placards and banners by stead programmes. For all of its good work in activist groups and organisations throughout this regard, the FSA during this period is per- The boundary between sculpture, painting the UK. His distinctive photomontages have haps best known for its collection of photo- and drawing is the place where Sara Barker been published extensively in newspapers graphs documenting rural conditions. The makes her art. and magazines, while his collaborations photos not only promoted the agency’s pro- The Glasgow-based artist often draws on the with artists including Banksy offer evidence grammes but also provided a record of the written word for inspiration, dipping time of a persisting desire to present art which is people, cultures and landscapes of rural and again into the works of Virginia Woolf, relevant and topical. America. Gertrude Stein and Doris Lessing, authors This new retrospective exhibition, produced As well as presenting a selection of these who write about their own creative space. by mac birmingham and curated by Craig famous photographs, The Human Document “It’s also a crutch to coax the work,” Sara Ashley, features examples of Kennard’s work also explores the fascination of modern-day told The List, “to distract away from the between 1968 and the present day. photographers with the FSA images - a col- work, to allow my mind to think more clearly lection created as much to awaken human about what I need to do. It’s very multiple.” emotions as to provide a historical record of Sara here presents existing installations as a desperate period in 20th century American well as a new work made especially for Ikon. history. For more visual arts listings visit whatsonlive.co.uk 41 ICHF NEC XMAS16 A4 (4SHOWS):Layout 1 26/09/2016 11:33 Page 1

THURS 3 - SUN 6 NOVEMBER 2016 9.30am - 5.30pm (5pm Sun)

4 SHOWS FOR THE PRICE OF 1 Christmas at the NEC Birmingham

KIDS GO t WORKSHOPS FREE!* t JEWELLERY & BEAD MAKING t PAPERCRAFTS t DEMONSTRATIONS t KNITTING & STITCHING

t FESTIVE FOOD & DRINK t GIFT WRAPPING t CHRISTMAS PRODUCT SHOWCASE t BAUBLE MAGIC! t LIVE MUSIC

t DEMONSTRATING ARTISTS t PYROGRAPHY WORKSHOPS t ART SUPPLIES t SAA WORLD RECORD ATTEMPT! t ARTISTS, GUILDS & SOCIETIES

t WORLD’S LARGEST CAKE COMPETITION t CAKE INTERNATIONAL THEATRE t BAKING, DECORATING & SUGARCRAFT SUPPLIES t APPEARANCES FROM 4-6 NOVEMBER 2016* TOP CAKE ARTISTS

Adults £12 in advance, £14 on the door Seniors £11 in advance, £13 on the door BOOK NOW AND *Children under 16 go free when accompanied by a parent Buy tickets online www.ichfevents.co.uk SAVE £2 or phone 01425 277988 OFF EACH ADULT *Cake International is open from Friday 4 - Sunday 6 November. Thursday visitors will be able to attend Cake International on the Friday, Saturday or Sunday. AND SENIOR TICKET Events October.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 17:03 Page 2

Events

READERS’ OFFER DISCOUNTED TICKETS QUOTE ‘WHATS241’

AT GRANDDESIGNSLIVE.COM T&Cs APPLY

Grand Designs Live Kevin hosts various events in the show’s Grand Theatre, where guest speakers offer tips and advice on a variety of homebuilding issues. NEC, Birmingham, Wed 19 - Sun 23 October This year’s show also features tons of inspiring ideas to help visitors The UK’s leading contemporary home show makes its annual visit to create stylish interiors for their homes, state-of-the-art bathroom Birmingham this month, with design guru Kevin McCloud once again products, suggestions for making the most of available kitchen space, presiding over proceedings. and ‘must have’ products for gardens and outdoor spaces.

Weston Park Horse Trials Flame And Thunder Brick Live Weston Park, Staffordshire, Santa Pod Raceway, Northants, NEC, Birmingham, Thurs 27 - Sun 30 October Sat 18 - Sun 19 October Sat 29 October This haven for LEGO fans boasts numerous This annual two-day event features the Blue interactive features. Attractions include Chip Central North West BE80(T) Challenge brick pits - enabling visitors to showcase and the Mitsubishi Motors Cup BE90 & BE100 their inner master builder - a movie zone, a Regional Finals. fan zone, LEGO Minecraft, a museum of Commenting on the show, internationally LEGO history, a collection of well-known renowned course designer and Weston Park film and television characters recreated in Horse Trials organiser Janet Plant said: LEGO, and race ramps on which to test cus- “Every year we’re faced with a slightly differ- tom-built cars. ent course depending on the weather during New for 2016 is the LEGO League - in which V Festival in August, which always keeps the teams compete to design, build and program ” course interesting and different! an autonomous robot to solve a series of A regular on the Santa Pod calendar, missions - and LEGO Mindstorms, demon- the family-focused Flame And Thunder strating how to build a robot. show brings together monster trucks, jet cars and drag cars for plenty of spectacular main-track action. Away from the circuit, entertainment comes courtesy of (alongside numerous other attractions) a wall of death, a funfair, helicopter pleasure flights and a kids’ Halloween disco. The event is brought to a close with a ‘huge’ firework display and ‘massive’ bonfire.

whatsonlive.co.uk 43 Events October.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 17:03 Page 3

Events

Birmingham Oktoberfest Cannon Hill Park, Birmingham, Wed 12 - Sun 16 October Munich is coming to Birmingham this month. Well, sort of. Oktoberfest is the leg- endary Munich beer festival providing the inspiration behind this popular annual event, which organisers promise will be a ‘truly unique’ experience. Expect huge steins, Bavarian lager, German games, authentic German food and plenty of lederhosen...

The Horse Of The Year Show Genting Arena, Birmingham, a display at the show in 2008, the Drive per- Wed 5 - Sun 9 October formance had previously been presented from A spectacle reminiscent of the traditional driv- the 1950s until 1999. ing tasks asked of heavy-breed horses in a This year’s Horse Of The Year Show also fea- bygone era is making a welcome return to the tures international showjumping, the finals of Horse Of The Year Show. the national Showing and Showjumping The Musical Drive sees the jingling of the Championships, a line-up of equestrian enter- chains created by the heavy horses’ majestic tainment and a performance by the West End footing providing a harmonious accompani- cast of hit Abba musical Mamma Mia! Festival Of Flight ment to military-style drill music. Last seen as For more information, visit hoys.co.uk Spectacular Ragley Hall, Warwickshire, Sat 1 - Sun 2 October Motorhome And World War One Top display pilots from around Caravan Show History Weekend the world will be flying into the Midlands for this two-day family NEC, Birmingham, Tues 11 - Sun 16 October British Motor Museum, Gaydon, Warwickshire, air show. Sat 1 - Sun 2 October Attracting huge crowds and filling numerous Featuring aerobatic displays on halls of the NEC, the Motorhome And Caravan both days and a World War Two Show is this year being opened by cyclist and pyrotechnics display, the event Olympian Sir Bradley Wiggins. also includes a craft fair, a small The six-day event offers visitors the chance to funfair for children, an on-site check out all the new 2017 caravan, camping facility and a ‘spectacu- motorhome, holiday home, trailer tent and lar’ fireworks and light show, folding caravan models, as well as to access illuminating the skies on the plenty of free help and advice on all aspects of Saturday night. touring. The show also features a space in which visitors can enhance their motorhome manoeu- vring skills, the opportunity to sample a virtual The British Motor Museum this month joins in reality zipwire experience, and the chance to with the ongoing national World War One com- check out a wide range of accessories - many of memorations via this family-friendly weekend. which will be available at show-only prices. Attractions include the opportunity to check out a ‘Battle Bus’ on loan from London Transport Museum, and to find out from a ‘tommy’ in the trenches what life was like for soldiers on the Front Line. There’s also the chance to visit a Field Hospital and discover how injuries sustained in battle led to the discovery of new medical techniques, including plastic surgery. Numerous ‘dynamic’ displays and re-enactments also take place across the weekend, presented by the Royal Warwickshire Regiment 1914-1918 Living History Group.

44 whatsonlive.co.uk Events October.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 17:03 Page 4

more events from around the region

Birmingham Literature The International Festival Astronomy Show Various locations across Birmingham, Thurs 6 - Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire, Sun 16 October Fri 14 - Sat 15 October This annual event features appearances by a “We have a full lecture pro- host of well-known names, this year including gramme running both days of Hans Rosenfeldt - writer of hit Nordic noir televi- the show,” says Martin Stirland, sion series The Bridge - and Elif Shafak, the one of the organisers of this most widely read woman writer in Turkey. annual event. “We also have The 2016 festival celebrates an impressive range over 30 trade vendors from of subjects - from the creativity of concrete to Europe and the UK selling all what makes Birmingham a great speech-making things astronomy - telescopes, city. binoculars, eye pieces, mounts, Other festival highlights include an appearance cameras, clothing. We even by Waterstones Children’s Laureate Chris Riddell have meteorites and astro and the National Poetry Day Gala. Launching images available for sale - the 11-day event, the gala features the framed and ready to hang on announcement of the new Birmingham Poet your wall. There are also kids’ Laureate and Young Poet Laureate. booths, the purpose of which is to make space simple, and vendors selling space jewellery.” Martin has been running the event with his friend, Graham Destination Star Museums At Night Smith, since 2012. “It’s very Trek Europe Various locations across the Midlands, much a show organised by Thurs 27 - Sat 29 October astronomers for astronomers,” NEC, Birmingham, Fri 7 - Sun 9 October This annual after-hours celebration of arts, says Graham, “I’ve been an history and heritage sees hundreds of muse- amateur astronomer for nearly ums and galleries across the UK staying open 40 years and I’ve attended a lot late and hosting special events. of events, most of which are in Midlands highlights include a spooky trail London or near Scotland. We’re around St John’s House Museum in Warwick, proud to have created some- code-cracking fun at Worcester’s Infirmary thing that’s far more central.” Museum, and a line-up of ghoulish characters appearing and disappearing in the ghostly gaslight of Blists Hill Victorian Town in Diwali Shropshire. Soho Road, Handsworth, Birmingham, Sun 16 October For a full run-down on events taking place in the region, visit museumsatnight.org.uk Diwali (the festival of lights) cel- Birmingham is surely offering a special kind of ebrations will be much in evi- heaven on earth for Trekkers this month. dence across the Midlands this This homage to all things Star Trek beams into month, with the biggest event the city’s NEC complete with interactive taking place in Handsworth, exhibits, two 50th anniversary parties and all Birmingham. manner of fascinating information about the Diwali is an ancient Indian fes- long-running franchise’s impact on science, tival which celebrates the tri- space and technology. umph of good over evil. Its The absolute highlight of the three-day event, dates change each year in accor- though, must surely be the appearance of dance with the Hindu lunar cal- Captain James Tiberius Kirk himself, aka actor endar. This Diwali celebration William Shatner... will include live performances ‘The Shat’, as he’s affectionately known by his Dive Show from Punjabi artist Roshan legion of fans, will be taking to the stage on NEC, Birmingham, Sat 22 - Sun 23 October Prince and local artist Jaz the Saturday night to present his hit one-man Dhami. As well as a variety of Broadway show, Shatner's World. Boasting over three hundred exhibitors - street food and Indian cuisine Other well-known actors from the Star Trek including manufacturers and retailers of div- on offer, a fun fair and a range universe who’re scheduled to appear at the ing equipment and travel agents offering dive of family activites to enjoy. event include Walter Koenig and George Takei holiday options - the Dive Show also features (Mr Chekov and Mr Sulu in the original series) an unrivalled programme of guest speakers. and Gates McFadden, Marina Sirtis and Will Popular in-hall features include the Try Dive Wheaton (Dr Beverley Crusher, Deanna Troi Pool, the Rebreather Pool, a photo zone and a and Wesley Crusher in Star Trek: The Next new-product showcase. Generation). Themed travel and dive training areas are also included.

whatsonlive.co.uk 45 Events October.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 17:03 Page 5 Events October.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 17:03 Page 6

Halloween spooky goings-on around the region

As the late American children’s author Harry Behn observed in his famous poem, Halloween is the night ‘when dead leaves fly like witches on switches across the sky’... And it wasn’t just broomstick-riding witches that Harry made As you’d expect, there’ll be no shortage of freaky and frightening reference to either, pointing out that ‘ghoul and ghost and goblin other-worldly creatures and characters in evidence at Halloween host’ were other supernatural entities that featured prominently happenings across the Midlands this month. Check out some of in the All Hallows’ Eve mix. the region’s eeriest events in the following few pages...

The Haunting The Rainbow Venues, Birmingham, Sat 29 October Organisers of The Haunting are promising that their show will feature a haunted circus, a ghost train, a haunted house, black magic, voodoo witchcraft and more ‘terrifying treats’ than you can shake a witch’s broomstick at. More than 50 actors, acrobats and performers will ensure a real sense of the theatrical is much in evidence, while an impressive line-up of DJs is headed by Wilkinson. Attending in fancy dress is very much encouraged.

Ghostly Gaslight Haunted Castle Halloween Nights Blists Hill Victorian Town, Ironbridge, Tamworth Castle, Staffordshire, Black Country Living Museum, Dudley, Shropshire, Sat 29 October Mon 24 - Fri 28 October Fri 28 - Sat 29 October A spine-tingling but family-friendly experi- With a well-established reputation for ence awaits visitors to Ironbridge Gorge’s effectively evoking whatever atmosphere Blists Hill Victorian Town this half-term holi- any one of its numerous themed events day. Included among the popular venue’s may require, the Black Country Living Halloween-related attractions is a ghost story Museum is an obvious place to visit if trail, providing participants with the chance you’re looking for some hair-raising, to learn about the supernatural tales that spinetingling, knee-trembling and utterly were so beloved of the God-fearing ghoulish fun this Halloween. Victorians. There’s also the chance to find Highlights of the event include the chance out about curious Halloween customs of the to descend into the depths of the venue’s Victorian era, and to enjoy a selection of ‘spooky’ mine, a competition to decide Shropshire ghost stories and spooky scenes who’s the best-dressed ghoul in the from Sweeney Todd, courtesy of the Prince Halloween costume parade, and perform- Albert Players. ances by street entertainers, fire jugglers and magicians.

Castles are great settings for spooky Halloween capers, as Tamworth’s proves every October. End-of-month visitors to the venue will find themselves challenged by hags to make spells and play ping pong eye- balls. Ghoulish characters making their presence felt include St Editha and the eerie executioner.

whatsonlive.co.uk 47 Events October.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 17:03 Page 7

Halloween

Creepy Carnevil Waterworld, Hanley, Stoke-on- Trent, Thurs 27 - Fri 28 October Waterworld is evidently intend- ing to make a big splash this Halloween - and judging by its line-up of creepy characters, the popular Stoke-on-Trent visitor attraction has every chance of doing just that. Killer clowns, insane ringmas- ters, psychotic puppet masters, supernatural puppets, zombie showgirls and crazy fortune- tellers are all present and correct in a show that’s being advertised as ‘not for the fainthearted’.

Halloween at Hickman Park Hickman Park, Bilston, Alton Towers Scarefest Sat 29 October Alton Towers Resort, Staffordshire, Sat 8 - Sun 9, in which small groups venture through the It’s time to get out your needle Sat 15 - Sun 16 and Fri 21 - Mon 31 October darkened corridors of a forgotten ruin and dis- and thread and start sewing - Alton Towers’ hugely popular Halloween attrac- cover the terrifying secret of ‘what lies within’. the organisers of Hickman Park’s tion makes a welcome return this month. Featured alongside the three mazes are two Halloween event will be on the Highlights of this year’s Scarefest include equally spinetingling scare zones. lookout for the best-dressed Altonville Mine Tours - presenting ‘the chilling Dark Apocalypse sees quarantine procedures ghoul, ghost or witch when they tale of the Skin Snatchers’ - Sub-Species: The implemented as a deadly virus gets out of hand. host this family-friendly get- End Games - featuring a post-apocalyptic, Freak Show, meanwhile, dares visitors to walk together at the end of the month. sewer-dwelling community infested by a species among the freakishly fascinating misfits of a The best costume will win a from another world - and Terror Of The Towers, travelling circus sideshow. prize, with categories for under eights, under 16s and adults. Other highlights of the event include a pumpkin parade for Dudley Canal Trust Lockdown II - Sanatorium youngsters and their families, Dudley Canal Tunnel and Limestone Mines, Dana Prison, Shrewsbury, the lighting of a dozen cauldrons Dudley, Fri 28 - Mon 31 October Thurs 27 - Sun 30 October prior to an ‘impressive’ firework What better way can there be to get into the If you fancy scaring the living daylights out of display, and plenty of family Halloween spirit than by exploring Dudley yourself, Shrewsbury’s former prison, the Dana, entertainment from Signal FM Canal Trust’s naturally spooky tunnels and cav- could well be the venue for you this Halloween. breakfast show host Dicky Dodd erns? Part of a three-event story arc called Lockdown, and his team. The Trust is running special children’s boat Sanatorium presents participants with the chal- trips lasting between 45 minutes and an hour lenge of finding the formula for a ‘cure’, after this half-term holiday (28 to 31 October), during the country has been plunged into a post-apoc- Red Ditch which youngsters will encounter some truly alyptic nightmare. impressive glow-in-the-dark Halloween pup- The only trouble is, Halloween pets. The boat trips are ‘spooky’ but not scary, the clues to the for- Film Festival and should be suitable for children over three mula’s whereabouts Palace Theatre, Redditch, years of age. lie with the inhabi- Fri 28 - Sat 29 Oct And the fiendish fun doesn’t end there. On the tants of Sanatorium, Big Frog Films are the organisa- Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday mornings of all of whom have tion behind this cinematic half-term week (25 - 27 October), families can been driven to insan- spookfest, promising not one enjoy a 45-minute heritage boat trip and get cre- ity... but two evenings of ‘the best ative with a selection of Halloween-themed This 90-minute zom- short horror films from around craft activities. Each child will get to make a bie fest is followed the world’. The event is hosted witch or wizard hat, have a go at creating an by a short Scare by Redditch undertaker Weird animal superpower potion and add a spooktac- Maze experience, Mortimer Balmer. Guests who ular creation to the Trust’s truly ghastly ghostly bringing to life the dress to scare ‘may be reward- gallery. origins of the ed’... Lockdown story arc.

48 whatsonlive.co.uk Events October.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 17:03 Page 8

spooky goings-on around the region

Seance Centenary Square, Birmingham, Tues 18 - Sat 29 October “We won’t prey upon the paranoid, the bereaved, the credulous, the wide-eyed, the weak or the inbred,” promise performers David Rosenberg and Glen Neath of Seance, their third collaboration, “but in return we ask that you proceed with an open mind. Seance is an entertainment only, and we cannot hold the medium responsible for the out- come.” Having previously scored successes with projects Ring and Fiction, Rosenberg and Neath present this 15-minute ‘event’ (for up to 20 people) in a shipping container, in complete darkness. Expect a tingle or several in the region of your spine... Drayton Manor More Trick Than Treat Note: Seance is recommended for ages 18- Drayton Manor Theme Park, Staffordshire, Sat 15 - Sun 30 Oct plus and, as stated above, is an entertain- Drayton Manor Park is inviting families to dust off their broomsticks and batwings and ment only. treat themselves to some ghoulish Halloween fun this month. As well as providing ‘creepy arts and crafts, spooky sweet treats and pumpkin donuts’, Spooky Science Night the Staffordshire venue is also staging a fireworks spectacular, presenting ‘the animals of the night’ and transforming its popular Thomas Land attraction into the ‘spooktacular’ Thinktank Science Museum, Birmingham, Island of Sodor. And if that little lot isn’t enough to give you the heebie jeebies, you can Sat 29 October always give yourself the fright of your life by trying out one of the theme park’s stomach- Thinktank is calling on all mad scientists, churning white-knuckle rides! witches and wizards to come together for a spooky party featuring tricks, treats and opti- cal illusions. Highlight of the venue’s Halloween offering Halloween Pokemon Go The Haunting is its Science Of Fright show, ‘where making Cannon Hill Park, Birmingham, Heart of England Conference and Events a monster is all a matter of choosing the right Sat 29 October Centre, Coventry, Fri 28 - Sat 29 October ingredients’. Visitors can also make their This Halloween-themed charity With an arrival cocktail, three-course carvery own family light photos and create their own fundraiser follows on from the Pokémon meal, music and party games all featuring on sample of blood to take home, while those in Go-inspired walk that took place in July. The Haunting’s programme of entertain- fancy dress have the opportunity to be As with the inaugural walk, donations ment, there’s certainly more than a ghost of a entered into a ‘fantastic’ prize draw. are in aid of Birmingham Children’s chance that you’ll head for home at the end Hospital. of the night having had a thoroughly enjoy- “We love how the Pokéwalk team have able experience. And in true Halloween spir- taken the latest social media craze and it, the event also features a seance. Guests ingeniously turned it into a fundraiser,” are invited to help a medium make contact says Miranda Williams, Public with the restless spirit of a lady who Fundraising Manager at Birmingham drowned her children in the lake, burying Children’s Hospital Charity. “The money them somewhere in the grounds before hang- donated from the last Pokémon Go walk ing herself in the boathouse. Fancy dress, by will make a massive difference to our the way, is compulsory... brave young patients and their families, so we’re certainly excited about this Spookfest Halloween event!” The Halloween Pokéwalk takes place in Lower Drayton Farm, Nr Stafford, Sat 22 - Sun 30 October Birmingham on Saturday 29 October from 1pm, with an open-to-all, family- Award-winning horror-maze creators Twisted friendly after-party at Second Cup cafe Attractions have designed a Halloween show from 5pm until midnight. especially for very young children to enjoy. For more information about the event, SpookFest is a daytime event with a ‘boo fac- visit birminghampokewalk.com tor’ designed to keep little ones happy and engaged, but without running the risk of keeping them awake at night. Highlights of the show include three ‘scary’ attractions, children’s entertainers, a soft-play area and the chance to enjoy the popular Halloween practice of pumpkin carving.

whatsonlive.co.uk 49 The List Cover October Warwicks/Worcs.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 14:26 Page 1

50 whatsonlive.co.uk The List Cover October Warwicks/Worcs.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 14:26 Page 2

Your week to week listings guide October 2016 thelist Breakfast at Tiffany’s at Malvern Theatres - Mon 10 to Sat 15 October 15 Sat to 10 Mon - Theatres Malvern at Tiffany’s at Breakfast

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

What’s On Sat 1 to Sun 9 October Mon 10 to Sun 16 October Mon 17 to Sun 23 October Mon 24 to Mon 31 October

The Enemy at The Empire, Stratford on Avon Music Festival Zoe Lyons at Artrix, Bromsgrove Little Shop of Horrors at Belgrade Coventry across Stratford-upon-Avon Thurs 27 October Theatre, Coventry Thurs 6 - Sat 8 October Fri 14 - Sat 22 October Wed 26 - Sat 29 October

whatsonlive.co.uk 51 The List 1 - 9 October - Warwicks & Worc.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 14:25 Page 1

thelist Saturday 1 - Sun 9 October THROUGHOUT OCTOBER Bar, Worcester THE FOOD FIGHTERZ Fri 7 Gigs ALVAREZ KINGS Mon 3 Oct, The Roadhouse, Birmingham NEW REDDITCH: ITS FARMING HISTORY Oct, The Rainbow Venues, Birmingham KATE RUSBY Fri 7 Oct, Visual Arts Exhibition by the Redditch Local LET'S ROCK'N'ROLL WITH Warwick Arts Centre, History Society using maps, photo- THE PONTIACS Sat 1 THE BIRTHDAY graphs and images, to illustrate its MASSACRE, THE RED Coventry Artrix, Bromsgrove Oct, Huntingdon Hall, forgotten landscape, Wed 26 Oct - Worcester PAINTINGS, AMONG THE BOB MOULD Fri 7 Oct, NEW FINDING FRESH PATHS: 5 CUBED Sun 27 Nov ECHOES & THE DEAD O2 Academy, B’ham DEFINITELY MIGHTBE Exhibition by a group of four mature, Sat BETAS Tues 4 Oct, O2 THIS BURNING AGE Fri 7 contemporary artists who trained 1 Oct, O2 Academy, Herbert Art Gallery & Institute, Birmingham Oct, O2 Institute, together and exhibit regularly, Wed Birmingham Museum, Coventry WILLE & THE BANDITS Birmingham 26 Oct - Sun 20 Nov THE ENGLISH BEAT Sat 1 NATURE NOTES Multisensory exhibition Tues 4 Oct, Hare & Oct, O2 Institute, AURORA Fri 7 Oct, O2 with beautiful artworks and real natu- Hounds, Birmingham Birmingham Institute, Birmingham Birmingham Museum & ral history specimens, until Sun 20 BLUE ROSE CODE Tues 4 MOTOR CITY DRUM Art Gallery Nov DARK SIDE OF THE WALL Oct, Kitchen Garden ENSEMBLE Fri 7 Oct, ABBEYFIELD'S GOLDEN GALLERY: ART & Sat 1 Oct, The Swan BRICK WONDERS Exhibition of over 70 Cafe, Birmingham The Rainbow Venues, SOUL Pioneering new exhibition high- Theatre, Worcester models, including the Great Wall of FEEDER Tues 4 Oct, O2 Birmingham lighting the therapeutic benefits that China and Niagara Falls, until Sun 15 THE MEHARIS Sat 1 Institute, Birmingham THE WEDDING PRESENT art brings to older people - particular- Jan 2017 Oct, Katie Fitzgerald's, ly those living with dementia and Stourbridge THE HUNNA Tues 4 Oct, Sat 8 Oct, The Slade O2 Academy, B’ham Rooms, W’hampton other medical conditions, until Fri 14 The Hive, Worcester UK GUNS N' ROSES Sat 1 Oct Oct, The Assembly, ULTIMATE PAINTING Tues DIRE STREETS (TRIBUTE NEW PICTURE THIS! Prize-winning BIRMINGHAM MUSEUM & ART GALLERY Leamington Spa 4 Oct, Hare & Hounds, TO DIRE STRAIGHTS) Sat entries in the World Wide Picture IN 130 YEARS The story of the Birmingham 8 Oct, The Core Book Competition. The show fea- THE MAGIC GANG Sat 1 Museum & Art Gallery, told via a spe- Theatre, Solihull tures three winning UK illustrators Oct, O2 Institute, YOUNG KATO Wed 5 Oct, cial anniversary exhibition, until Sun and three winning illustrators from Birmingham The Sunflower Lounge, THE TOP TEN BEATLES 27 Nov Birmingham Sat 8 Oct, Huntingdon the other participating countries, The ADDICTIVE TV: Hall, Worcester BIRMINGHAM PEOPLE AND CHANGE IN Netherlands and Germany, Tues 4 ORCHESTRA OF SAMPLES MARZY'S JAMMING THE INNER-CITY Birmingham People Oct - Mon 31 Oct, The Hive, Sat 1 Oct, Coventry NIGHT Wed 5 Oct, The UB40 Sat 8 Oct, The explores the ways in which ordinary Worcester Cathedral Ruins Marr's Bar, Worcester Assembly, Leamington Brummie folk have been represented JAKE QUICKENDEN Wed Spa in art during the 20th and 21st cen- 70'S V 80'S - ONE STOP Leamington Spa Art Gallery & 5 Oct, O2 Academy, THE DEMON BARBERS XL turies. Change In The Inner-City BOOGIE! Sat 1 Oct, The Museum Birmingham Sat 8 Oct, Royal Spa focuses on the four inner-city wards River Rooms, Centre, Leamington of Ladywood - Nechells, Soho, Aston CONCEALMENT AND DECEPTION: THE Stourbridge FIREBALL - FUELLING THE Spa and Ladywood, until Fri 31 Mar 2017 ART OF THE CAMOUFLEURS OF SHAPES Sat 1 Oct, The FIRE TOUR Wed 5 Oct, LEAMINGTON SPA IN WW2 Presenting Tin Music And Arts, O2 Academy, B’ham THROUGH THE DECADES FAITH IN BIRMINGHAM, Exploring how the work of the camouflage staff - Coventry GABRIEL BRUCE Wed 5 Sat 8 Oct, Dovehouse different faiths have influenced and often known as 'camoufleurs' - Oct, The Rainbow Theatre, Solihull shaped the city, until Sun 3 Feb 2019 against the backdrop of life on the JAMIE T Sat 1 Oct, O2 Venues, Birmingham JEAN-MICHEL JARRE Sat CELEBRATING GANESHA A touring exhi- Home Front during World War Two, Academy, Birmingham 8 Oct, Barclaycard bition across seven venues around until Sun 16 Oct POP WILL EAT ITSELF MURA MASA Wed 5 Oct, Arena, Birmingham the UK. Part of the British Museum’s Sun 2 Oct, The Robin, Hare & Hounds, B’ham National Programmes, until 8 Jan Worcester City Museum & Art Bilston ANDY MORTON’S JAZZ THE REGULARS Sat 8 Oct, O2 Academy, Gallery LEE MEAD - SOME BALLADS Wed 5 Oct, Blue Piano Restaurant Birmingham Compton Verney Gallery, JEREMY DELLER: THE BATTLE OF ENCHANTED EVENING And Bar, Birmingham HEIDI TALBOT - HERE WE Warwick ORGREAVE On loan from the Artangel Sun 2 Oct, Royal Spa GO, 1, 2, 3 Sat 8 Oct, BBC FACES OF COMEDY Celebrating 60 Collection at Tate, the exhibition Centre, Leamington THE COMPUTERS Thurs Artrix, Bromsgrove side-splitting years of the ‘TV sitcom’, includes a documentary film, Spa 6 Oct, Hare & Hounds, with an exclusive glimpse of some of objects, images and audio record- NANCY KERR AND THE Birmingham REDFACES Sat 8 Oct, Britain's greatest comedians at work, ings from the artist's archive of SWEET VISITOR BAND WESTROCK Thurs 6 Kasbah, Coventry until Sun 2 Oct research materials for the reenact- Sun 2 Oct, mac, Oct, Bedworth Civic MOSTLY AUTUMN Sun 9 BRITAIN IN THE FIFTIES: DESIGN AND ment of the battle, until Sat 26 Nov Birmingham Hall Oct The Assembly, ASPIRATION Examining the crucial LOYLE CARNER Sun 2 THE ENEMY Thurs 6 Oct Leamington Spa role of design in shaping the ‘brave Other VISUAL ARTS Oct, O2 Institute, - Sat 8 Oct, The FIVE STAR SWING: THE new world’ of post-war Britain, until EMBROIDERERS GUILD EXHIBITION - Birmingham Empire, Coventry BIG BAND Sun 9 Oct, Sun 2 Oct BROWN AT BERRINGTON Hand-crafted MARTIN CARTHY Sun 2 THE KILLS Thurs 6 Oct, Artrix, Bromsgrove NEW PICASSO ON PAPER Picasso was textiles inspired by the Capability Oct, The Fleece Inn, O2 Institute, B’ham JANE MCDONALD Sun 9 one of the most inventive and prolific Brown-designed Berrington park- Evesham, DREADZONE Fri 7 Oct, Oct, New Alexandra printmakers of the 20th century. land, until Sun 6 Nov, Berrington Worcestershire The Assembly, Theatre, Birmingham Each technique - including etching, Hall, Nr Leominster THEM HEAVY PEOPLE - Leamington Spa NELL BRYDEN Sun 9 lithography, aquatint and linocut - NEW THE HUMAN DOCUMENT A new KATE BUSH TRIBUTE Sun Oct, The Glee Club, inspired new directions in his work, FRED ZEPPELIN TRIBUTE exhibition exploring artists’ enduring 2 Oct, The River Birmingham Sat 15 Oct - Sun 11 Dec BAND TO LED ZEPPELIN fascination with the work of a group Rooms, Stourbridge Fri 7 Oct, The River SORORITY NOISE NEW QUEEN VICTORIA IN PARIS: of photographers who were commis- Sun 9 LOUIS FORDE Sun 2 Oct, Rooms, Stourbridge WATERCOLOURS FROM THE ROYAL sioned by the Farm Security Oct, Hare & Hounds, The Tin Music And Birmingham COLLECTION Forty-four watercolours Administration Programme (FSA) in BLOOD YOUTH Fri 7 Oct, Arts, Coventry of Queen Victoria’s 1855 visit to Depression-era America to docu- The Asylum, B’ham DUA LIPA Sun 9 Oct, O2 MOOSE BLOOD Mon 3 Paris, some of which were given to ment the plight of rural workers, Fri 7 SECRET AFFAIR Fri 7 Institute, Birmingham Oct, O2 Institute, her as gifts, others which she later Oct - Sat 10 Dec, Warwick Arts Oct, The Robin, Bilston ANGE HARDY & LUKAS commissioned herself, Sat 15 Oct - Centre Birmingham THIS FEELING Fri 7 Oct, DRINKWATER Sun 9 Oct, Sun 11 Dec CLARE MAGUIRE Mon 3 NEW THE PLAY'S THE THING Family- The Sunflower Lounge, Artrix, Bromsgrove Oct, The Glee Club, friendly exhibition full of treasures Birmingham THE QUINPHONIC Forge Mill Needle Museum, from the archives and the museum Birmingham ‘OLLY MURS & BRUNO FESTIVAL 3 Sun 9 Oct, Redditch collection, including rarely seen MARIANAS TRENCH Mon MARS' WITH ROBBIE The Roadhouse, props, costumes and original set 3 Oct, O2 Academy, MADE IN BRITAIN: CONCEALED Some of GLENN Fri 7 Oct, Birmingham Britain’s best-known and most designs, Sat 22 Oct - Sat 11 Feb, Birmingham The Swan Theatre Stratford Nailcote Hall, BABEHEAVEN Sun 9 Oct, respected textile artists showcase IL SOGNO DEL MARINAIO Berkswell, The Sunflower Lounge, their work, until Sun 23 Oct Mon 3 Oct, The Marr's Warwickshire Birmingham

52 whatsonlive.co.uk The List 1 - 9 October - Warwicks & Worc.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 14:25 Page 2

Saturday 1 - Sun 9 October

BAROQUE Shakespeare's rarely performed Sat 8 Oct, Great Malvern Bromsgrove romance, until Sat 15 Oct, Royal Classical Music Priory SIMON MUNNERY Sat 8 Oct, mac, Shakespeare Theatre, Stratford- ENGLISH STRING ORCHESTRA Featuring Birmingham Michael Bochmann (violin), Graeme upon-Avon ORCHESTRA OF ST JOHN: MARVELLOUS MARTIN HUBURN Sat 8 Oct, The Adams (oboe) & Corrine Frost KING LEAR RSC Artistic Director MOZART Sat 1 Oct, St John’s Church, Roadhouse, Birmingham (cello). Programme includes works Gregory Doran directs Antony Sher Bromsgrove by Mozart, Bach & Holst, Sun 9 Oct, VINCE ATTA, BEN VAN DER VALDE, TOM in the title role, until Sat 15 Oct, CELEBRATION GALA CONCERT Featuring The Roses, Tewkesbury TOAL & LIAM PICKFORD Sat 8 Oct, Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Roderick Williams & Orchestra Of Coventry Showcase THE LEGEND OF ZELDA: SYMPHONY OF Stratford-upon-Avon The Swan Sat 1 Oct, Bridge House THE GODDESSES Sun 9 Oct, ROMESH RANGANATHAN Sun 9 Oct, THE TWO NOBLE KINSMEN Based on Theatre, Warwick Symphony Hall, Birmingham Birmingham Town Hall Chaucer's The Knight's Tale, The Two DUO KARADYS Featuring Carol Hubel- SEANN WALSH Sun 9 Oct, Warwick Noble Kinsmen is attributed to John Allen (viola) & Alan MacLean (piano). Arts Centre, Coventry Fletcher and William Shakespeare Programme includes works by Bliss, PAUL RICHARDS Sun 9 Oct, Old Joint and is best described as a tragicom- Delius & Holst, Sun 2 Oct, Stock Theatre, Birmingham edy exploring the intoxication and Huntingdon Hall, Worcester Comedy Gigs strangeness of love, until Tues 7 Feb, LUCY PORTER Sun 9 Oct, Warwick SUNDAY CLASSICS Presenting a range The Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon- Arts Centre, Coventry of young stars of the future from the ELLIE TAYLOR Sat 1 Oct, Artrix, Avon classical world, ranging from opera Bromsgrove THE BIRMINGHAM COMEDY FESTIVAL THE ROVER Aphra Behn's anarchic singers to violinists to harpists at the PAUL TONKINSON, PHIL NICHOL, LLOYD HALF-DAYER - PART 1 Sun 9 Oct, The restoration comedy, rich with seduc- very start of their careers, Sun 2 Oct, GRIFFITH & ALLYSON SMITH Sat 1 Oct Victoria, Birmingham tion, intrigue and danger, is set in the The Spotted Dog, Birmingham The Glee Club, Birmingham ADHAM FISHER Sun 9 Oct, Six Eight topsy-turvy world of the carnival, until LUNCHTIME ORGAN CONCERT WITH PAUL MCCAFFERY, JARLETH REGAN, Kafe, Birmingham Sat 11 Feb, The Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon THOMAS TROTTER Programme GARETH RICHARDS & KANE BROWN Sat includes works by Bach (arr. M. 1 Oct, The Comedy Loft, Birmingham ROMEO & JULIET Amateur staging of Dupre), Bach, J. Francaix, C.H Parry Shakespeare’s classic tale, Fri 30 ANDREW LAWRENCE Sat 1 Oct, The & Rossini (arr. Trotter), Mon 3 Oct, Sept - Sat 8 Oct, Hall Green Little Bear Pit Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Birmingham Town Hall Theatre Theatre, Birmingham BARRY CASTAGNOLA, DOMINIC MONDAY SHOWCASE: HANDEL, WAR- OSADIA WOODWARD, SIMON CLAYTON & Part street performance, part LOCK, MAHLER & SCHUMANN Featuring DIAL M FOR MURDER artistic hairsculpting show, Osadia FREDDIE FARRELL Sat 1 Oct, Coventry Blue Orange Arts Joanne Sealey (piano) & Tommy Hill offers an original and provocative Showcase present Frederick Knott’s erotic tale (oboe), Mon 3 Oct, Recital Hall, of betrayal, passion and murder - exhibition of hair art, with the active Birmingham Conservatoire RICH HALL Tues 4 Oct, The Glee best known from its 1954 Alfred participation of the audience as vol- TAMSIN WALEY-COHEN IN RECITAL Club, Birmingham Hitchcock-directed film version star- unteers, Sat 1 Oct Coventry Featuring Huw Watkins (piano). JAMES ACASTER Wed 5 Oct, The Glee ring Ray Milland and Grace Kelly, Cathedral Programme includes works by Club, Birmingham until Sat 1 Oct, The Blue Orange TEATRO TASCABILE DI BERGAMO VALSE Beethoven, Elgar, Ravel & Gershwin MANILLA ROAD COMEDY Thurs 6 Oct, Theatre, Birmingham Large-scale outdoor performance (arr.Heifetz), Mon 3 Oct, Birmingham The Victoria, Birmingham DEAD SHEEP Steve Nailon and featuring beautiful costumes, power- Town Hall PAUL F TAYLOR, ANDY ASKINS & Graham Seed star in Jonathan ful visual imagery and a waltz on CBSO: FOUR LAST SONGS Featuring COMEDY CAROUSEL WITH ANDY Maitland's tale of love, honour, loyalty stilts to the music of Johann Strauss, Alpesh Chauhan (conductor) & Talise ROBINSON Thurs 6 Oct, The Glee and revenge, which charts the story Sat 1 Oct, Coventry Cathedral Trevigne (soprano). Programme Club, Birmingham of how Mrs Thatcher, once the most YE GODS A new show by the Whalley includes works by Humperdinck, R. powerful woman in the world, was ADAM HESS, RHYS JAMES Thurs 6 Oct, Range Allstars, Sat 1 Oct, University Strauss & Bruckner, Thurs 6 Oct, brought down by Geoffrey Howe, her Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry Square, Coventry Symphony Hall, Birmingham one-time friend and political soul THE HARBINGER OF HUSSAIN MATT FORDE Fri 7 Oct, The Old Rep mate, with one of the greatest THE SACCONI QUARTET Featuring Theatre, Birmingham speeches ever made, until Sat 1 Oct, Ridhayatullah Theatre present a two- Freddy Kempf (piano) & Double The REP, Birmingham part play exploring the life and times Bass. Programme includes Elgar's PAUL F TAYLOR, ANDY ASKINS, ANDRE of the seventh century CE Muslim ibn Piano Quintet & Schubert's Piano VINCENT, DARIUS DAVIES & GUZ KHAN LADY ANNA: ALL AT SEA Until Sat 1 Aqeel, who served as a selfless emis- Quintet in A Major 'The Trout', Fri 7 Fri 7 Oct, The Glee Club, B’ham Oct, Malvern Theatres sary to deliver a message of peace Oct, Artrix, Bromsgrove BIRMINGHAM COMEDY FESTIVAL BREAK- THE SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION and unity to lands in Mesopotamia, LUNCHTIME CONCERT WITH JAMES ING TALENT AWARD Fri 7 Oct, The Examination of desperation, injustice, Sat 1 Oct, The Crescent Theatre, TURNBULL & CLARE HAMMOND Glee Club, Birmingham friendship and hope in the claustro- Birmingham Programme includes works by ROGER MONKHOUSE, SCOTT BENNETT, phobic setting of a maximum security URBAN ASTRONAUT Highly Sprung Poulenc, Thomas Hyde, Ninfea BRENNAN REECE Fri 7 Oct, Katie facility. Based on Stephen King’s combine a unique travelling flying Cruttwell-Reade, Robert Saxton & Fitzgerald's, Stourbridge 1982 novella, until Sat 1 Oct, machine with simple storytelling to Dutilleux, Fri 7 Oct, The Barber Wolverhampton Grand Theatre OH DEAR DIARY Fri 7 Oct, Old Joint provide a glimpse of a possible Institute, Birmingham Stock Theatre, Birmingham NIGHT MUST FALL Gwen Taylor and future... Sat 1 Oct, University Square, BEASTDOME: EMERGENCE Featuring Daragh O'Malley star in a new stag- Coventry JOHN HEGLEY Fri 7 Oct, mac, B’ham guest artist Denis Smalley, Fri 7 Oct, ing of Emlyn Williams' psychological ACROJOU - WHEELHOUSE Acrobatic The Dome, Bramall Music Building, BARRY BLING MR VELVET AND THE thriller, until Sat 1 Oct, Belgrade promenade show, Sat 1 Oct, Birmingham University ORCHESTRA OF CHAOS Fri 7 Oct, The Theatre, Coventry University Square, Coventry Spotted Dog, Birmingham CARDUCCI STRING QUARTET Featuring DISCO PIGS A furious, funny and vio- OLD HAUNTS Don't Go Into The Cellar Matthew Denton and Michelle DAN NIGHTINGALE, THE NOISE NEXT lent dash through a lifelong friend- present an original one-man show Fleming (violins) Eoin Schmidt-Martin DOOR, MARLON DAVIS & BEN BRIGG Fri ship at the moment of its savage based on MR James’ Ghostly Tales (viola) & Emma Denton (cello). 7 - Sat 8 Oct, The Comedy Loft, destruction, until Sat 1 Oct, The REP, Of Edwardian Menace, Sat 1 Oct, Programme includes works by Birmingham Birmingham Stratford Artshouse Mendelssohn Shostakovich & RICE N PEAS N CAVIAR (SECOND FREEMAN Strictly Arts Theatre present WILLIAM AND THE PIRATES Presented Beethoven, Fri 7 Oct, Royal Pump HELPINGS!) Sat 8 Oct, Old Joint a brand new collaboration with by STAC Children’s Theatre, Sat 1 Rooms, Leamington Spa Stock Theatre, Birmingham award-winning writer Camilla Oct, The Swan Theatre, Worcester THE HALLE ORCHESTRA Programme Whitehill, until Sat 1 Oct, Belgrade DANIEL SLOSS, KAI HUMPHRIES Sat 8 ROSA PARKS: THE HIDDEN JOURNEY comprises Dvorak's The Golden Theatre, Coventry Oct, Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry Thought-provoking exploration of the Spinning Wheel Op.109; Liszt's Piano ROMESH RANGANATHAN Sat 8 Oct, LADY GREGORY One-woman play civil rights movement, performed by Concerto No.2 in A major & Malvern Theatres which recalls the greatest moments a community cast, Sat 1 - Sun 2 Oct, Beethoven's Symphony No.6 in F in the life of one of Ireland’s best- mac, Birmingham Op.68 Pastoral, Sat 8 Oct, Warwick PAUL F TAYLOR, ANDY ASKINS, ANDRE known dramatists, until Sat 1 Oct, Arts Centre, Coventry VINCENT & DARIUS DAVIES Sat 8 Oct Crescent Theatre, Birmingham ABIGAIL’S PARTY Solihull Theatre The Glee Club, Birmingham Company present an amateur pro- LUNCHTIME CONCERT BY EBORACUM CYMBELINE Melly Still directs KERRY GODLIMAN Sat 8 Oct, Artrix, duction of Mike Leigh's satirical com-

whatsonlive.co.uk 53 The List 1 - 9 October - Warwicks & Worc.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 14:25 Page 3

thelist Saturday 1 - Sun 9 October edy play, Sat 1 - Sun 2 Oct, The puppetry and foolishness to tell Resonance FM's award-winning ROOM (15) Held captive for years in Core, Solihull Michael Morpurgo’s tale of war, prej- LGBT magazine show. With Jasmine an enclosed space, a woman (Brie MONKEY: JOURNEY TO THE WEST udice and love, based on his novel of Gardosi, AJ McKenna & Rosie Wilby, Larson) and her young son (Jacob Created by Emily Jane Quash, pre- the same name, Thurs 6 - Sat 15 Fri 7 Oct, Artrix, Bromsgrove Tremblay) finally gain their freedom, sented by Playbox Theatre and Oct, The REP, Birmingham JOHN HEGLEY - NEW & SELECTED allowing the boy to experience the based on the much-loved Chinese WHOSE SARI NOW? Rasa Productions POTATOES Performance poet, comedi- outside world for the first time. Forest novel, Sun 2 Oct, The Dream present a multifaceted one-woman an and musician John hits the road, Arts Centre, Walsall, Fri 7 Oct Factory, Warwick show that looks at the sari in fresh mandolin in hand, to present medita- JULIETA (15) Julieta is a teacher of 55. THE SOUND OF MUSIC Timeless family and unexpected ways, Fri 7 & Sat 8 tions on subjects such as family, cel- She writes a long letter to her musical starring Lucy O'Byrne from Oct, Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry ery and happier Daleks, Fri 7 Oct, estranged daughter trying to explain BBC's The Voice and former THE HAUNTING OF EXHAM PRIORY mac, Birmingham the secrets kept from her over the Coronation Street actor Andrew Spine-chilling drama which follows IN THE SPACE WITH NIKKI TAPPER BBC last 30 years. But once she’s finished Lancel, Tues 4 - Sat 8 Oct, the fate of Mr Delapore, who retires radio presenter Nikki Tapper hosts an her confession, she doesn’t know Wolverhampton Grand Theatre to England to restore his ancestral evening of live music and conversa- where to post the letter... Stars Emma Suárez & Adriana Ugarte. SUNSET BOULEVARD Amateur produc- home only to discover there’s more tion accompanied by dance and to its past than he could ever have poetry, Fri 7 Oct, mac, Birmingham Foreign language, subtitled. Old tion presented by Lichfield Garrick Market Hall, Shrewsbury, Fri 7 - Youth Theatre, Tues 4 - Sat 8 Oct, imagined, Fri 7 Oct, Rose Theatre, Kidderminster Thurs 13 Oct; Warwick Arts Centre, Lichfield Garrick Coventry, Sun 9 Oct A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM Box TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD Presented by FANTASTIC MR. FOX (PG) Mr and Mrs Swan Theatre Amateur Company, Tale Soup presents its version of Shakespeare’s enchanting story, Sat Film Fox (George Clooney and Meryl Tues 4 - Sat 8 Oct, Swan Theatre, Streep) live a happy home life with Worcester 8 Oct, Alveley Parish Memorial Hall, Alveley, Worcestershire INDEPENDENT LISTINGS: their eccentric son Ash and visiting NIGHT MUST FALL Gwen Taylor and nephew Kristofferson. That is until Mr Daragh O'Malley star in a new stag- SETH KRIEBEL: A HOUSE REPEATED Fox slips into his sneaky old ways Interactive performance-game com- HELL OR HIGH WATER (15) Chris Pine ing of Emlyn Williams' psychological has already been through hell and and plots the greatest chicken heist thriller, Tues 4 - Sat 8 Oct, Malvern bining the simplicity of bare-bones the animal world has ever seen. storytelling with the limitless possibili- high water this year (in the water- Theatres logged Finest Hours), but here the Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, Sat 8 ties of contemporary open-world Oct ONE-MAN STAR WARS TRILOGY Actor computer games, Sat 8 Oct, mac, title proves to be a little more Charles Ross single-handedly plays Birmingham metaphorical. He plays a Texan all the characters, sings the music, farmer whose business is facing fore- flies the ships, fights the battles and RICE N PEAS N CAVIAR (SECOND HELP- closure, so he and his brother, an ex- condenses the plots of three films INGS!) Character comedy taking a con, set about acquiring some major NEW FILMS ON GENERAL RELEASE: into just 60 minutes! Wed 5 Oct, satirical look at the lives of ladies cash by somewhat unorthodox Released from Wed 5 Oct, showing Artrix, Bromsgrove from the British Afro-Caribbean com- means… Also Stars Jeff Bridges. at selected cinemas munity and a little further afield, Sat 8 PEPPA PIG’S SURPRISE Peppa Pig, Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, until THE GIRL ON THE TRAIN (15) Oct, Old Joint Stock Theatre, B’ham Thurs 6 Oct George and their friends return with a Released from Fri 7 Oct, showing at brand new live stage show, Wed 5 - BRIDGET JONES'S BABY (15) Twelve selected cinemas Thurs 6 Oct, Belgrade Theatre, years on and Bridget is still compos- Coventry ing her diaries. And this time she THE GREASY STRANGLER (tbc) RHUM & CLAY: 64 SQUARES A story Dance really does have something to write MY SCIENTOLOGY MOVIE (15) about memory, free will and how the about: her bump. Scripted by the WAR ON EVERYONE (15) choices of our past define who we HUMANHOOD: ZERO New full-length redoubtable triumvirate of Emma are in the present. Accompanied by work exploring the relationship Thompson, Helen Fielding and Dan a live jazz percussive score, Thurs 6 between memory, space and time Mazer, the romcom sees Bridget bat- Oct, mac, Birmingham and choreography, lighting and tling with her 40s but settling down to sound, Sat 1 Oct, mac, Birmingham a contented routine with her reliable AN EVENING OF MEDIUMSHIP WITH BRB: THE TEMPEST An original new circle of friends. And then a dashing Events TONY STOCKWELL Thurs 6 Oct, American enters her life… Starring Huntingdon Hall, Worcester ballet in celebration of Shakespeare's 400th anniversary, Sat 1 - Sat 8 Oct, Renée Zellweger & Colin Firth. THE NATIONAL FRANCHISE EXHIBITION ELEPHANT IN THE GARDEN Stage ver- Birmingham Hippodrome Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, Fri 7 - Showcasing a huge range of national sion of Michael Morpurgo’s chil- Tues 11 Oct THE NUTCRACKER The Russian State franchise opportunities for anyone dren’s novel, Thurs 6 Oct, Malvern CAFÉ SOCIETY (12A) Woody Allen’s looking to run their own business, Theatres Ballet of Siberia present this world famous classic, set to Tchaikovsky's 45th feature as writer-director sees until Sat 1 Oct, NEC, Birmingham THE RUBY DOLLS The acclaimed mesmerising score, Fri 7 Oct, Jesse Eisenberg as a young man LITTLE WARRIOR WEEKENDS Teach cabaret ensemble here use unique Belgrade Theatre, Coventry who leaves New York for Hollywood, your little warriors the skills required arrangements of songs by Nick where he falls in love with the secre- to conquer fierce dragons and fight Cave, Amy Winehouse and Rage ANECKXANDER Choreographed by tary of his uncle (Steve Carell). Bruce Alexander Vantournhout & Bauke mediaeval battles, until Sat 1 Oct, Against The Machine to tell the cen- Willis was originally cast as the Warwick Castle turies-old folk tale of Bluebeard, Lievens, this is a solo show in a mini- uncle, but Woody fired him on Thurs 6 Oct, Old Joint Stock Theatre, mal setting for one acrobatic body, a account of his prima donna behav- THE NATIONAL WEDDING SHOW With Birmingham handful of carefully selected objects iour. Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, over 300 wedding specialists from and three variations on a piece of bridal boutiques and florists to jew- THE COMPLETE DEATHS Spymonkey until Thurs 6 Oct; Artrix, Bromsgrove, piano music by Arvo Pärt, Fri 7 Oct, Mon 3, Thurs 6 - Fri 7 Oct ellers and photographers, this event present a solemn and funny tribute DanceXchange, Birmingham is the ultimate wedding shopping to mark the 400th anniversary of ZOOTROPOLIS (PG) Disney’s 55th ‘offi- experience, until Sun 2 Oct, NEC, Shakespeare's death, Thurs 6 - Fri 7 cial’ animated feature film, Birmingham Oct, Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry Zootropolis is set in an anthropomor- SHAKESPEARE RE-FASHIONED until Sun HIM Actor Tim Barlow reflects on life phic metropolis, obviously. Here, the leading characters are a red fox 2 Oct, The Bullring Shopping Centre, at 80 in a new collaborative work by Talks / Birmingham writer/theatre-maker Sheila Hill and who’s a con artist (Jason Bateman) photographer/videographer Hugo and a rabbit who’s a rookie cop SCULPTURE TRAIL Exhibition of dra- Glendinning, Thurs 6 - Sat 8 Oct, The Spoken Word (Ginnifer Goodwin). Together, they matic sculptures using a range of REP, Birmingham team up to try and uncover a con- media, until Tues 4 Oct, The Jinney spiracy. Idris Elba is the voice of a Ring Craft Centre, Bromsgrove BIRMINGHAM - BRICK LANE - GREEN LEAVES FALL Strictly Arts cape buffalo, obviously. Warwick Arts BANGLADESH Emerging local writers FLATPACK FESTIVAL - BIRMINGHAM ON Theatre present a visceral portrayal Centre, Coventry, Sat 1 Oct of life after the 1981 Brixton riots, share their narratives, exploring their FILM until Sat 15 Oct, Various loca- Thurs 6 - Sat 8 Oct, Belgrade family lives and personal journeys, ALICE IN WONDERLAND (U) Lewis tions throughout Birmingham Theatre, Coventry Sun 2 Oct, mac, Birmingham Carroll's beloved fantasy tale is THE SOOTY SHOW: SOOTY IN SPACE Sat brought to life in this Disney animat- QUEER'SAY A showcase of queer spo- 1 - Sun 2 Oct, Cadbury World, 946: THE AMAZING STORY OF ADOLPHUS ed classic. Artrix, Bromsgrove, Sun 2 ken word, to be recorded for Bournville, Birmingham TIPS Kneehigh Theatre fuse music, Oct

54 whatsonlive.co.uk The List 1 - 9 October - Warwicks & Worc.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 14:25 Page 4

Saturday 1 - Sun 9 October

KINGS HEATH FARMERS MARKET Sat 1 brations, rituals and curiosities sur- Arboretum, Kidderminster BAVARIAN EVENINGS Featuring a Oct, All Saints' Church, Kings Heath, rounding death, Sat 1 - Mon 31 Oct, RELAXED @ NEWMAN BROTHERS A fac- Bavarian Oompah band and a Birmingham Herbert Art Gallery & Museum, tory tour designed specifically for Bavarian buffet feast, Sat 8 Oct, West KEEP IT REAL PRESENTS GHOST TOWN Coventry people on the autistic spectrum and Midland Safari and Leisure Park, Featuring live DJs, beers, live dance SPOOKY SPECTACULAR Witches, their families, Sun 2 Oct, Coffin Bewdley, Worcestershire and pop-up street artists who’ll be ghosts and eerie tales, Sat 1 - Mon Works, Birmingham CARS & COFFEE BREAKFAST CLUB An creating brand new works inspired 31 Oct, West Midland Safari and FLATBREAD MAKING Fun and informal opportunity for classic car and by the Festival Of The Dead, Sat 1 Leisure Park, Bewdley, baking class, Sun 2 Oct, Sarehole motorcycle owners to show off their Oct, Herbert Art Gallery & Museum, Worcestershire Mill, Birmingham vehicles directly in front of the muse- Coventry JAPSHOW FINALE The final round of um, Sat 8 Oct, Coventry Transport SILVERSTONE TIME TRIAL CHALLENGE Museum CLASSIC VIRGINS EXPERIENCE DAY This Jap and FWD Drag series. Featuring Sign up and enjoy the experience of one-day workshop is designed to a Jap only RWYB competition, Jet cycling on one of the most famous AZTEC WEEKEND Sat 8 - Sun 9 Oct, encourage and assist potential Car, club displays, Show & Shine, tracks in the world, Sun 2 Oct, Cadbury World, Bournville, British classic car owners, Sat 1 Oct, Sun 2 Oct, Santa Pod Raceway, Silverstone Circuit, northants Birmingham British Motor Museum, Gaydon, Northants SCAREFEST Sat 8 - Sun 9 Oct, Alton Warwickshire HORSE OF THE YEAR SHOW Wed 5 - RAF WALKS Be shown where, in 1940, Sun 9 Oct, NEC, Birmingham Towers, Staffordshire WORLD WAR I HISTORY WEEKEND Sat 1 a substantial part of Croome Park MURDER THROUGH THE LOOKING GLASS GREAT ELECTRIC TRAIN SHOW - Sun 2 Oct, British Motor Museum, was requisitioned for the building of Featuring more than 25 layouts and Gaydon, Warwickshire a new airfield, known as RAF “Murder Through the Looking Glass”, is a murder-mystery game that takes 30 traders taking part, Sat 8 - Sun 9 MINIATURA - THE INTERNATIONAL Defford, Sun 2 Oct, Croome Park, Oct, British Motor Museum, Gaydon, Worcestershire place at the Mad Hatters Tea/Dinner DOLLS' HOUSE MODELLING SHOW party, Fri 7 Oct, Fargo Village, Warwickshire Featuring workshops, old favourites WORKSHOP: HERBAL REMEDIES Coventry APPLE PRESSING DAYS Sat 8 - Mon 10 and skilled exhibitors from the UK THROUGH THE AGES Explore how Oct, Croome Park, Worcestershire and further afield, Sat 1 - Sun 2 Oct, medieval herbal remedies were pre- LITTLE WARRIOR WEEKENDS Teach NEC, Birmingham pared, and find out more about the your little warriors the skills required GTI FESTIVAL RWYB event for water- to conquer fierce dragons and fight cooled VWs, show’n’shine, car clubs, FESTIVAL OF FLIGHT SPECTACULAR beliefs that surrounded them, Sun 2 Oct, Avoncroft Museum, Bromsgrove medieval battles, Fri 7 - Sat 8 Oct, an auto jumble and more, Sun 9 Oct, Family air show featuring top display Warwick Castle Santa Pod Raceway, Northants pilots from around the world, Sat 1 - CACTUS SHOW See a display of beau- Sun 2 Oct, Ragley Hall, Warwickshire tiful cacti, with experts on hand to DESTINATION STAR TREK Featuring special guests, props, sets, talks, BIRMINGHAM LITERATURE FESTIVAL answer your questions, Sun 2 Oct, Birmingham Botanical Gardens photo shoots, autographs and more, 2016 Sat 1 - Sun 16 Oct, Birmingham Fri 7 - Sun 9 Oct, NEC, Birmingham City Centre DROITWICH MODEL BOAT CLUB Hand- GREYFRIARS' HARVEST FESTIVAL Sat 8 FESTIVAL OF THE DEAD Events, craft crafted model boats sail on the big pool, Sun 2 Oct, Bodenham Oct, Greyfriars House & Garden, workshops and talks exploring cele- Worcestershire

whatsonlive.co.uk 55 The List 10 - 16 Oct - Warwicks & Worcs Davina.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 17:42 Page 1

Monday 10 - Sunday 16 October

thelistSUZANNE VEGA Birmingham Thurs 13 singers to violinists to harpists at the Gigs Oct, Birmingham Town WINTER WILSON Sat 15 Classical Music very start of their careers, Sun 16 Hall Oct, Palace Theatre, Oct, The Spotted Dog, Birmingham SONIC BOOM SIX Thurs Redditch BIRMINGHAM PHILHARMONIC ORCHES- THE LEYLINES Mon 10 MONDAY SHOWCASE: MOZART, BARTOK 13 Oct, The Marr's Bar, TRA Featuring Michael Lloyd (con- Oct, The Marr's Bar, LOGICALTRAMP Sat 15 & MESSAIEN Featuring Georgia Worcester ductor) & Alison Roddy (soprano). Worcester Oct, Huntingdon Hall, Hughes (flute) & Joanne Sealey Programme includes works by AKALA Thurs 13 Oct, Worcester (piano), Mon 10 Oct, Recital Hall, PETULA CLARK Mon 10 Wagner, Cantaloube & Bartok, Sun O2 Institute, B’ham ROBIN TROWER Sat 15 Birmingham Conservatoire Oct, Birmingham Town 16 Oct, Bramall Music Building, Elgar NINA NESBITT Thurs 13 Oct, The Assembly, Hall ORCHESTRA OF THE SWAN Featuring Concert Hall, Birmingham University Oct, O2 Academy, Leamington Spa Lucia Caruso (piano) & David Curtis ADY SULEIMAN Mon 10 ENDELLION STRING QUARTET Birmingham TONY HADLEY Sat 15 (conductor). Programme includes Oct, O2 Institute, Programme includes works by GOO GOO DOLLS Thurs Oct, Symphony Hall, works by Salieri, Mozart & Haydn, Birmingham Mozart, Haydn & Beethoven, Sun 16 13 Oct, O2 Institute, Birmingham Tues 11 Oct, Stratford Artshouse, EXPLOSIONS IN THE SKY Oct, Stratford-upon-Avon Town Hall Birmingham Stratford-upon-Avon Mon 10 Oct, O2 MAMA PRESENTS AN Institute, Birmingham MY DARLING EVENING OF GENESIS STILE ANTICO: THR TOUCHES OF SWEET CLEMENTINE Thurs 13 Music Sat 15 Oct, The HARMONY Featuring an enticing pro- CHIP TAYLOR Mon 10 Oct, Hare & Hounds, Core Theatre, Solihull gramme of classics for Oct, Kitchen Garden Birmingham Shakespeare’s 400th anniversary, Cafe, Birmingham REMI HARRIS Sat 15 THE ELO EXPERIENCE Fri Oct, Artrix, Bromsgrove Tues 11 Oct, St Mary’s Church, OCTOBER DRIFT Mon 10 14 Oct, Palace Theatre, Warwick Oct, The Sunflower THE OVERTONES Sat 15 - Redditch ELSABE RAATH (VIOLA) Featuring Lounge, Birmingham Sun 16 Oct, Bedworth THE AUSTRALIAN PINK Civic Hall Robert Markham (piano). Programme OTIS GIBBS Tues 11 Oct, includes works by Enescu, Brahms & FLOYD SHOW Fri 14 Oct, ABSOLUTE BOWIE Sat 15 Kitchen Garden Cafe, Hinemith, Tues 11 Oct, Recital Hall, Barclaycard Arena, Oct, The Copper Birmingham Birmingham Conservatoire Birmingham Rooms, Coventry HEY YOU GUYS Tues 11 LEFTFOOT & MOSTLY ORCHESTRA OF THE SWAN Featuring Oct, The Marr's Bar, JIMMY OSMOND Sat 15 JAZZ FESTIVAL Fri 14 Lucia Caruso (piano) & David Curtis Worcester Oct, Malvern Theatres Comedy Gigs Oct, Hare & Hounds, (conductor). Programme includes TWIN ATLANTIC Tues 11 Birmingham BABBU MAAN Sat 15 works by Salieri, Mozart & Haydn, Oct, O2 Institute, Oct, Barclaycard Wed 12 Oct, Birmingham Town Hall LOUDEEMY SOUP COMEDY NIGHT Mon THE JANOSKIANS Fri 14 Birmingham Arena, Birmingham 10 Oct, The Blue Orange Theatre, Oct, The Asylum, UNIVERSITY OF WARWICK SYMPHONY Birmingham LEVEL 42 Tues 11 Oct, Birmingham THE NEW RUFFIANS Sat ORCHESTRA Programme includes Symphony Hall, 15 Oct, Katie works by Verdi, Mozart, Strauss, ROADHOUSE COMEDY NIGHT: MONEY FOR NOTHING Fri Birmingham Fitzgerald's, Berlioz & Tchaikovsky, Wed 12 Oct, BIRMINGHAM COMEDY FEST SPECIAL 14 Oct, Artrix, Stourbridge Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry Mon 10 Oct The Roadhouse, MYSTERY JETS Tues 11 Bromsgrove Oct, The Assembly, LE BUTCHERETTES Sat LESLEY GARRETT & FRIENDS Featuring Birmingham, KANO Fri 14 Oct, O2 Leamington Spa 15 Oct, Kasbah, Roland Wood (baritone) & Anna FREEWHEELERS IMPROV COMEDY NIGHT Institute, Birmingham Coventry Tilbrook (piano), Fri 14 Oct, Stratford FRANKIE BALLARD Tues Mon 10 Oct, Cherry Reds Cafe-Bar, FLEETWOOD BAC Fri 14 ArtsHouse, Stratford-upon-Avon 11 Oct, O2 Academy, THE LOST NOTES Sat 15 Birmingham Oct, The Assembly, Birmingham Oct, Hare & Hounds, TCHAIKOVSKY SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA VIRGINIA IRONSIDE Tues 11 Oct, The Leamington Spa Birmingham Programme includes works by GAVIN JAMES Tues 11 Core Theatre, Solihull NELL BRYDEN Fri 14 Borodin & Tchaikovsky, Fri 14 Oct, Oct, The Glee Club, TAKE THAT SHOW WITH GRIMM UP NORTH PRESENTS - Oct, Huntingdon Hall, Symphony Hall, Birmingham Birmingham FAKE THAT Sat 15 Oct, NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH Tues 11 Oct, Worcester Nailcote Hall, Berkswell THE ENGLISH CONCERT Conducted by LLOYD COLE Wed 12 Cherry Reds Cafe-Bar, Birmingham NICKELBACK Fri 14 Oct, Harry Bicket. Programme includes Oct, The Glee Club, DEAD LETTER CIRCUS VODKA, KGB AND MIND TICKLES Tues Genting Arena, B’ham works by Purcell, Corelli, Telemann, Birmingham Sat 15 Oct, The 11 Oct, Everyman Theatre, B’ham ALL SAINTS Fri 14 Oct, Rainbow Venues, Vivaldi, Handel & Bach, Fri 14 Oct, THE PIGEON DETECTIVES LOVEHARD - MURDERED BY MURDER O2 Academy, B’ham Birmingham Malvern Theatre Wed 12 Oct, The Tues 11 Oct, The Victoria, B’ham SHAKESPEARE AND HIS Sunflower Lounge, KARKOSA Fri 14 Oct, O2 ENEMY FEAT. KIT CONTEMPORARIES Featuring Joel ROMESH RANGANATHAN Wed 12 Oct, Birmingham Academy, Birmingham DOWNES, PETTER ELDH, Williams (tenor) & Duncan Appleby Birmingham Town Hall CC SMUGGLERS Fri 14 JAMES MADDREN Sat 15 THE REMI HARRIS (piano). Programme includes works ANNETTE FAGON, JOANNA NEARY, ALICE Oct, The Sunflower Oct, CBSO Centre, PROJECT Wed 12 Oct, by Dowland, Purcell arr. Benjamin FRICK & MAUREEN YOUNGER Wed 12 Lounge, Birmingham Birmingham Stratford Artshouse, Britten, Britten, Parry, Robert Oct, Kitchen Garden Cafe, B’ham SONIC BOOM SIX Sun 16 Stratford-upon-Avon SIGHTS AND SOUNDS + Busiakiewicz & Quilter, Fri 14 Oct, Oct, The Rainbow JONATHAN MAYOR Wed 12 Oct, The FIFTH HARMONY Wed 12 BOSSK Fri 14 Oct, The The Barber Institute, Birmingham Venues, Birmingham Royal Pug, Leamington Spa Oct, Barclaycard Flapper, Birmingham REGER CENTENARY FESTIVAL: FROM TRIAXIS Sun 16 Oct, DIRTY WHITE BOYS Wed 12 Oct, Old Arena, Birmingham RICHARD SMITH Fri 14 DARKNESS TO LIGHT Members of The Rainbow Venues, Joint Stock Theatre, Birmingham KERBDOG Wed 12 Oct, Oct, Kitchen Garden Birmingham Conservatoire Organ Birmingham O2 Institute, B’ham Cafe, Birmingham Department perform works by JS ALEX AND SARAH Wed 12 Oct, Cherry RAGLANS Sun 16 Oct, Reds Cafe-Bar, Birmingham THE DUKE SPIRIT + JOE RISCAS + VEDA + THE Bach, Mendelssohnm Schumann & O2 Institute, B’ham GIDEON Wed 12 Oct, COMMON SOUNDS Fri 14 Reger, Fri 14 Oct, St Chad’s JACOB LOVICK Wed 12 Oct, Cherry The Rainbow Venues, Oct, The Rainbow JAMIE LAWSON Sun 16 Cathedral, Birmingham Reds Cafe-Bar, Birmingham Birmingham Venues, Birmingham Oct, O2 Academy, MAX REGER CENTENARY FESTIVAL Visit NINA CONTI Thurs 13 Oct, Warwick Birmingham SUBROSA, DARKHER, YASHIN + VAMPIRES bcu.ac.uk for full listings, Fri 14 - Arts Centre, Coventry KROC, BAYONNEBLEEDER EVERYWHERE Fri 14 Oct, THE FEELING Sun 16 Tues 18 Oct, Birmingham MARK WATSON Thurs 13 Oct, Royal Wed 12 Oct, The The Rainbow Venues, Oct, The Slade Rooms, Conservatoire Spa Centre, Leamington Spa Birmingham Wolverhampton Rainbow Venues, FONTANELLA RECORDER QUINTET NATHAN CATON Thurs 13 Oct, The Birmingham OLIVER COATES Fri 14 EVERY THREAD Sun 16 Programme includes Vivaldi's La Glee Club, Birmingham Oct, The Tin Music And Oct, The Tin Music And Pastorella; Anon's Greensleeves; DERVISH Thurs 13 Oct, TOM WRIGGLESWORTH, MICHAEL LEGG Huntingdon Hall, Arts, Coventry Arts, Coventry Shearing's Lullaby of Birdland; Byrd's The Woods So Wild Byrd & & COMEDY CAROUSEL WITH ANDY Worcester WILKO JOHNSON Sat 15 DIVERSITY ROCKS This Sweet and Merry Month of May. ROBINSON Thurs 13 Oct, The Glee Oct, Birmingham Town Headlined by local leg- CHRISTY MOORE WITH Sat 15 Oct, St Helen's Church, Club, Birmingham Hall end and 2 Tone icon, DECLAN SINNOTT & JIM Stratford-upon-Avon PATRICK MONAHAN Thurs 13 Oct, Old HIGGINS Thurs 13 Oct, BROKEN WITT REBELS Neville Staple and his SUNDAY CLASSICS Presenting a range Joint Stock Theatre, Birmingham Symphony Hall, Sat 15 Oct, The Band, Sun 16 Oct, of young stars of the future from the ANDREW O'NEILL Thurs 13 Oct, The Birmingham Rainbow Venues, Belgrade Theatre, Coventry classical world, ranging from opera Royal Pug, Leamington Spa

56 whatsonlive.co.uk The List 10 - 16 Oct - Warwicks & Worcs Davina.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 17:42 Page 2

thelistBLOOD BROTHERS Willy Russell’s THE BIRMINGHAM COMEDIANS CHOIR Thurs 13 Oct, mac, Birmingham acclaimed musical, set in his native Liverpool and starring Lyn Paul in ALEX HYLTON Thurs 13 Oct, Cherry the iconic role of Mrs Johnstone, Reds Cafe-Bar, Birmingham Mon 10 - Sat 22 Oct, Birmingham SHIP OF FOOLS Fri 14 Oct, Palace Hippodrome Theatre, Redditch VIRGINIA IRONSIDE - GROWING OLD ROMESH RANGANATHAN Fri 14 Oct DISGRACEFULLY One-woman grannie Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry stand-up which addresses unlimit- CHRISTIAN REILLY, DAVID TRENT, BEN ed free drugs, fun funerals, grand- SCHOFIELD & SCOTT BENNETT Fri 14 children and sex at 60, Tues 11 Oct, Oct, Abbey Theatre, Nuneaton The Core, Solihull KERRY GODLIMAN Fri 14 Oct, The SHOOTING WITH LIGHT Idle Motion Glee Club, Birmingham use innovative staging, physicality and multimedia to piece together OLD HAUNTS TONY CHRISTIE NAOMI PAUL Fri 14 Oct, Old Joint the life of an exceptional woman, Stock Theatre, Birmingham glimpsed through the lost photo- Sat 1st October, £10.00 Sat 8th October, £26.00 TIERNAN DOUIEB, JEREMY FLYNN, ISZI graphs she risked her life to take, LAWRENCE, LOU CONRAN & ROGER Tues 11 Oct, Bridge House Theatre, SWIFT Fri 14 Oct, The Royal Pug, Warwick Leamington Spa ALL OR NOTHING: THE MOD MUSICAL AHIR SHAH Fri 14 Oct, Royal Spa New stage show based on the life Centre, Leamington Spa and music of The Small Faces, SAM SIMMONS Fri 14 Oct, Warwick Tues 11 - Wed 12 Oct, Malvern Arts Centre, Coventry Theatre BEST OF BRUM COMEDY SHOWCASE THAT’LL BE THE DAY Musical romp Fri 14 Oct, Cherry Reds Cafe-Bar, through the youthful days of rock- Birmingham ’n’roll, Tues 11 - Wed 12 Oct, Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury STRATFORD JAZZ - REMI HARRIS LESLEY GARRETT AND FRIENDS CANNON & BALL Fri 14 Oct, Bedworth Civic Hall FALL OUT Highly Sprung Theatre Wed 12th October, From £6.00 Fri 14th October, £18.00 explore the story of three young TOM WRIGGLESWORTH, MICHAEL people whose night out leads to a LEGG, HARRIET DYER & JOE WELLS Fri journey of self-discovery that tests 14 - Sat 15 Oct, The Glee Club, friendships and questions notions B’ham of identity and loyalty, Tues 11 - RUDI LICKWOOD, JIM SMALLMAN, Wed 12 Oct, mac, Birmingham BARRY DODDS & ANDY ASKINS Fri 14 BARDOLPH’S BOX An interactive - Sat 15 Oct, The Comedy Loft, rollercoaster ride through B’ham Shakespeare’s stories - perfect for COMEDY CLUB 4 KIDS Sat 15 Oct, kids aged eight to 12 and their fam- Royal Spa Centre, Leamington Spa ilies, Tues 11 - Sat 15 Oct, Malvern KATHERINE RYAN, PATRICK MONAHAN, Theatres KEITH FARNAN, LLOYD GRIFFITH & 9 TO 5 - THE MUSICAL South Staffs RONNIE SCOTT’S ALL STARS MARCUS BRIGSTOCKE HOWARD REED Sat 15 Oct, Royal Musical Theatre Company cele- Sat 15th October, £18.00 Mon 17th October, £15.00 Spa Centre, Leamington Spa brates its 80th birthday with this CHRISTIAN REILLY, SAM HARLAND, stage version of the hit Dolly Parton LLOYD GRIFFITH & JOSH PUGH Sat 15 movie, Tues 11 - Sat 15 Oct, Oct, Coventry Showcase Wolverhampton Grand Theatre LEE NELSON Sun 16 Oct ONE MAN, TWO GUVNORS St John’s The Mockingbird, Birmingham Players present an amateur production of Richard Bean’s version of JASON BYRNE Sun 16 Oct, Goldoni’s classic Italian comedy, Birmingham Town Hall Tues 11 - Sat 15 Oct, Swan KANE BROWN Sun 16 Oct, The Glee Theatre, Worcester Club, Birmingham THINGS I KNOW TO BE TRUE Frantic PANEL BEATERS Sun 16 Oct, The Assembly and State Theatre Glee Club, Birmingham Company of South Australia pres- HOW WE LOST IT MIDGE URE THE BIRMINGHAM COMEDY FESTIVAL ent Andrew Bovell's story about a Wed 19th October, £9.00 Fri 21st October, From £18.00 HALF-DAYER: PART 2 Sun 16 Oct The Victoria, Birmingham

Theatre

THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW Starring Diana Vickers as Janet, Ben Freeman as Brad, Richard Meek as Eddie/Dr Scott and Kristian Lavercombe as Riff Raff, Mon 10 - KEN CLARKE - IN CONVERSATION JOE LONGTHORNE IN CONCERT Sat 15 Oct, New Alexandra Theatre, Fri 28th October, From £15.00 Sat 29thOctober, £21.00 Birmingham BREAKFAST AT TIFFANY'S Ex- For full details and the latest news on Coronation Street actress Georgia all our shows please visit our website May Foote stars as Holly Golightly in a stage version of the hit film, Mon 10 - Sat 15 Oct, Malvern Theatres

whatsonlive.co.uk 57 The List 10 - 16 Oct - Warwicks & Worcs Davina.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 17:42 Page 3

thelist Monday 10 - Sunday 16 October family and marriage through the eyes ing her diaries. And this time she of four grown siblings struggling to Dance really does have something to write define themselves beyond their par- about: her bump. Scripted by the ents’ love and expectations, Tues 11 redoubtable triumvirate of Emma - Fri 21 Oct, Warwick Arts Centre, WRIGGLE DANCE THEATRE: THE COLOUR Thompson, Helen Fielding and Dan Coventry OF ME Interactive dance theatre per- Mazer, the romcom sees Bridget bat- formance for young audiences, Sun STARTING OUT New piece of political tling with her 40s but settling down 9 Oct, mac, Birmingham theatre that shines a light on the to a contented routine with her reli- experiences of young women enter- RUN 2Faced Dance present a triple able circle of friends. And then a ing the world of work in 2016, Wed bill choreographed by Tamsin dashing American enters her life… 12 - Sat 15 Oct, The REP, B’ham Fitzgerald, Lenka Vagnerova and Starring Renée Zellweger & Colin Rebecca Evans, with original music Firth. Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, MERCHANT OF VENICE Amateur proby Angus MacRae and Tomas Thurs 13 - Sun 16 Oct duction presented by Birmingham Vychytil, Thurs 13 - Fri 14 Oct, School of Acting, Wed 12 - Sat 15 THE GIRL WITH ALL THE GIFTS (15) DanceXchange, Birmingham Oct, The Old Rep Theatre, B’ham Adapted by MR Carey from his own SNOW WHITE Presented by Vienna novel, this is another sci-fi thriller set SISTER ACT Amateur production pre- Festival Ballet, Sun 16 Oct, Artrix, in a post-apocalyptic dystopian sented by The Norbury Players, Wed Bromsgrove future. When a fungal infection wipes 12 - Sat 15 Oct, Norbury Theatre, out most of mankind (check your Droitwich toenails!), a teacher and a scientist THE WEST END OF BROADWAY set out on a journey of survival - with Crescendo Musical Theatre present a young teenage girl (Nanua) unlike Woman In Mind - Malvern Theatre an evening of ‘musical magic’, featur- normal human beings… Stars ing music from the 1940s to the cur- Talks / Gemma Arterton & Paddy Considine. George Cadbury, focusing on his rent day, Thurs 13 Oct, The Core, Warwick Arts Centre, Fri 14 - Thurs contribution to the creation of a flour- Solihull Spoken Word 20 Oct ishing community in Bournville, Thurs 13 Oct, Selly Manor, B’ham AN EVENING WITH BARRY FRY & BIG THE SNARLING (16) The movie, shot in REVEREND RICHARD COLES SIGNING RON ATKINSON Thurs 13 Oct, Palace DAVID STARKEY: THE KING IS DEAD The Studley and Redditch, centres Theatre, Redditch around a crew making a zombie hor- The Reverend Richard Coles signs UK’s leading constitutional historian copies of his new book, Bringing In FRANKO B: MILK & BLOOD An uncom- talks about royal death and succes- ror movie - but then, in a case of life imitating art, the crew-created The Sheaves, Thurs 13 Oct, promising performance that sion under the Tudors, Sat 15 Oct, Waterstones, High St, Birmingham responds to personal traumas, socie- Artrix, Bromsgrove mauled bodies and severed limbs scenarios become a reality and the BOOK TO THE FUTURE University of tal ills, corrupt politics and barbaric BELLOWS POETRY COLLECTIVE conflict, Thurs 13 Oct, mac, B’ham police move in to investigate. Palace Birmingham’s annual festival of the Showcase Birmingham’s first young Theatre, Redditch, Sat 15 Oct written and spoken word, Thurs 13 - RATS' TALES Reworking of original sto- poetry collective touches on themes THE BFG (PG) The last time Steven Sat 15 Oct, The University of ries by Carol Ann Duffy, collecting of identity, compassion and history, Birmingham enchanting and mysterious folk tales Sat 15 Oct, mac, Birmingham Spielberg and the screenwriter from around the world. Suitable for Melissa Mathison collaborated on a LITTLE WARRIOR WEEKENDS Teach BRUCE O'NEILL: BROMSGROVE WORDS film was on ET The Extra-Terrestrial, your little warriors the skills required family audiences, Thurs 13 - Sun 16 The Director of Music at the Royal Oct, The Dream Factory, Warwick 34 years ago. This one is a live- to conquer fierce dragons and fight Shakespeare Company considers action adaptation of Roald Dahl’s mediaeval battles, Fri 14 - Sat 15 ANYTHING GOES Amateur production the importance of music in story of the lonely giant (played here Oct, Warwick Castle of the Cole Porter classic, Thurs 13 - Shakespeareʼs plays and its influ- by Mark Rylance) who kidnaps a little STRATFORD ON AVON MUSIC FESTIVAL Sat 22 Oct, The Rose Theatre, ence on Stratford productions, Sun girl (Ruby Barnhill) to help him outwit Kidderminster 16 Oct, Artrix, Bromsgrove Fri 14 - Sat 22 Oct, Various locations the man-eating giants that have been in Stratford-upon-Avon HOUSE OF ORPHANS: A BED OF SHARDS plaguing the human world. Also stars The story of Ronnie and Button, two Ruby Barnhill & Dame Penelope LAND ROVER BREAKFAST MEET Sat 15 tower-block residents whose eviction Wilton. Warwick Arts Centre, Oct, British Motor Museum, Gaydon, to a brand new bungalow reveals Coventry, Sat 15 Oct Warwickshire dark truths about their relationship, Film SPARK YOUNG WRITERS GROUP A Fri 14 Oct, mac, Birmingham monthly writing group for young people interested in creative writing, Sat TWO Bear Pitt Theatre present Jim INDEPENDENT CINEMAS: Cartwright's pub-set play, Fri 14 - Sat NEW FILMS ON GENERAL RELEASE: 15 Oct, The Other Place, Stratford- 22 Oct, The Bear Pit Theatre - The Released from Fri 14 Oct, showing at upon-Avon United Reformed Church, Stratford- MY SCIENTOLOGY MOVIE (15) selected cinemas EXTREME PERFORMANCE BIKE WEEKEND upon-Avon Incomparable British broadcaster AMERICAN HONEY (15) Weekend of full-throttle thrashing on Louis Theroux hits the big screen in Europe's most famous dragstrip, Sat INVISIBLE FRIENDS An Ayckbourn INFERNO (tbc) double bill, presented by Dick & his first feature documentary. 15 - Sun 16 Oct, Santa Pod Lottie. Never played before as a pair, Following a long fascination with the KATE PLAYS CHRISTINE (tbc) Raceway, Northants Invisible Friends is often described religion, and with a lot of experience STORKS (U) CADBURY CHARACTER WEEKEND Sat 15 as a complementary play to Woman dealing with eccentric human behav- - Sun 16 Oct, Cadbury World, In Mind. Both feature a protagonist iour, Louis won’t take no for an Bournville, Birmingham who creates an imaginary family to answer when his request to enter the Church of Scientology’s Los Angeles VINTAGE IN THE VILLAGE Sat 15 - Sun escape her real one, Sat 15 Oct, 16 Oct, Fargo Village, Coventry Malvern Theatres headquarters is turned down. Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, Mon Events BIRMINGHAM INTERNATIONAL RECORD WOMAN IN MIND An Ayckbourn dou- 10 Oct FAIR Sun 16 Oct, National Motorcycle ble bill, presented by Dick & Lottie. Museum, Solihull Never played before as a pair, JULIETA (15) Julieta is a teacher of 55. RICK STEIN SIGNING Rick’s in store to Invisible Friends is often described She writes a long letter to her sign copies of his new book, Long THE BATTLE OF THE SOMME FILM as a complementary play to Woman estranged daughter trying to explain Weekends, Tues 11 Oct, SCREENING Imperial War Museum’s In Mind. Both feature a protagonist the secrets kept from her over the Waterstones, High St, Birmingham UNESCO-listed film screening, Sun who creates an imaginary family to last 30 years. But once she’s finished THE MOTORHOME AND CARAVAN SHOW 16 Oct, Blakesley Hall, Birmingham escape her real one, Sat 15 Oct, her confession, she doesn’t know Tues 11 - Sun 16 Oct, NEC, BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOURS - SERVICE Malvern Theatres where to post the letter... Stars Birmingham AREA & STABLE YARD Sun 16 Oct, Emma Suárez & Adriana Ugarte. OKTOBERFEST Witley Court, Worcestershire PENGUIN! ELEPHANT! New show com- Foreign language, subtitled. Warwick Wed 12 - Sun 16 Oct, bining original songs, physical come- Arts Centre, Coventry, Tues 11 - Cannon Hill Park, Birmingham BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOURS - CELLAR dy and dance. Suitable for young Thurs 13 Oct GEORGE CADBURY - HERITAGE TALK Sun 16 Oct, Witley Court, audiences, Sun 16 Oct, Bridge Bournville Village Trust Chairman Worcestershire House Theatre, Warwick BRIDGET JONES'S BABY (15) Twelve years on and Bridget is still compos- Duncan Cadbury gives a talk on businessman and philanthropist 58 whatsonlive.co.uk The List 10 - 16 Oct - Warwicks & Worcs Davina.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 17:42 Page 4

whatsonlive.co.uk 59 The List 17 - 23 October - Warwicks & Worcs Davina.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 17:44 Page 1

thelist Monday 17 - Sun 23 October Redditch MOMENT Fri 21 Oct, O2 Rossini, Debussy & new work by Gigs STEEL PANTHER Wed 19 Academy, Birmingham Classical Music Roché van Tiddens, Fri 21 Oct, Stratford-upon-Avon Town Hall Oct, Barclaycard CALLUM PICKARD & THE Arena, Birmingham THIRD LOOK Fri 21 Oct, RICHARD JENKINSON & DAVID LE PAGE JOANNE SHAW TAYLOR BILLY TALENT The Tin Music And Programme includes works by Mon 17 Oct, Wed 19 THE ALAUDA STRING QUARTET Oct, O2 Institute, Arts, Coventry Kodaly & Ghys/Servais, Fri 21 Oct, Huntingdon Hall, Programme includes new works by Birmingham The Barber Institute, Birmingham Worcester BACK TO THE 60’S PARTY Chloe Knibbs, Mon 17 Oct, Stratford- WITH REVOLVER Fri 21 LA CALISTO English Touring Opera STEVE MASON Mon 17 THE DIVINE COMEDY upon-Avon Town Hall Oct, Nailcote Hall, present a new version of Cavalli’s Oct, The Glee Club, Wed 19 Oct, The LUNCHTIME ORGAN CONCERT WITH Assembly, Leamington Berkwell, Warwickshire baroque opera. Timothy Nelson con- Birmingham THOMAS TROTTER; REMEMBERING MAX ducts & directs, Fri 21 Oct, Malvern Spa ALL TVVINS Fri 21 Oct, THE HYENA KILL Mon 17 REGER Mon 17 Oct, Birmingham Theatre The Rainbow Venues, Oct, The Sunflower GREGORY PECK'S JAZZ, Town Hall FUNK AND SOUL OPEN Birmingham LA BOHEME Ellen Kent present a Lounge, Birmingham YU-CHENG AND SHIH-HAN LEE brand new production of Puccini's MIC NIGHT Wed 19 Oct, THE UNDERTONES Sat 22 BACKBEAT SOUND Programme includes works by tragic tale, Sat 22 Oct, New The Night Owl, Oct, The Assembly, SYSTEM Mon 17 Oct, Chopin, Piazzolla and Ravel with Birmingham Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham Leamington Spa more contemporary works by Anders Hare & Hounds, TIPPETT STRING QUARTET Featuring BELINDA O’HOOLEY & THE DECADES BAND Sat Koppel, Ivan Trevino, Stephen Birmingham Emma Abbate (piano). Programme HEIDI TIDDOW Wed 19 22 Oct, The River Whibley, Emmanuel Sejourne and THE BAY RAYS + ALIBIS includes works by Dvorak & Britten, Oct, The Red Lion Folk Rooms, Stourbridge Avner Dorman, Tues 18 Oct, Royal Mon 17 Oct, Kasbah, Sat 22 Oct, The Great Hall, Malvern Club, Birmingham Spa Centre, Leamington Spa Coventry THE CHRISTIANS 30TH College AUSTIN LUCAS & ANNIVERSARY TOUR Sat EMILY SUN (VIOIN) & JENNIFER HUGHES JUSTIN BIEBER Mon 17 CBSO: THE SPIRIT OF ENGLAND DREAMING SPIRES Wed 22 Oct, O2 Institute, (PIANO) Programme includes new - Tues 18 Oct, Programme includes works by Ravel, 19 Oct, Hare & Birmingham works by Ivan Cancialosi, Tues 18 Barclaycard Arena, Elgar & Berlioz, Sat 22 Oct, Hounds. Birmingham Oct, Stratford-upon-Avon Town Hall Birmingham SI CRANSTOUN Sat 22 Symphony Hall, Birmingham KEYWEST Thurs 20 Oct, Oct, The Core Theatre, STRATFORD CHAMBER CHOIR THE LIFE & MUSIC OF JIM XERXES English Touring Opera pres- O2 Academy, B’ham Solihull Programme includes works by REEVES Tues 18 Oct, ent a revival of Handel’s comic mas- Palestrina and his contemporaries, The Core Theatre, THE SUNSHINE GORGON CITY Sat 22 terpiece set in 1940 during the Battle Tues 18 Oct, The Guild Chapel, Solihull UNDERGROUND Thurs 20 Oct, O2 Institute, of Britain, Sat 22 Oct, Malvern Oct, O2 Institute, Birmingham Stratford-upon-Avon BUZZCOCKS Tues 18 Theatre Birmingham CBSO SYMPHONIE FANTASTIQUE Oct, The Copper THE UNDERCOVER HIPPY THE SPIRIT OF ENGLAND Programme Featuring Nicholas Collon (conduc- Rooms, Coventry POLICA Thurs 20 Oct, Sat 22 Oct, The Tin includes works by Ravel, Elgar & tor) & Vilde Frang (violin). O2 Institute, B’ham Music And Arts, Berlioz, Sat 22 Oct, CBSO Centre, WE ARE SCIENTISTS Programme includes works by Ravel, FIELD STUDIES Thurs 20 Coventry Birmingham Tues 18 Oct, The Slade Couperin, Korngold & Berlioz, Wed Oct, The Sunflower HIDDEN CHARMS & THE Rooms, Wolverhampton 19 Oct, Symphony Hall, Birmingham VILLIERS STRING QUARTET Sun 23 Oct, Lounge, Birmingham VRYLL SOCIETY + THE Evesham Arts Centre SPRING KING Tues 18 TCHAIKOVSKY SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA DUNE RATS Thurs 20 LIZARDS Sat 22 Oct, Oct, O2 Institute, Programme includes works by AMICANTUS: SONGS FOR AN AUTUMN Oct The Rainbow The Rainbow Venues, Birmingham Vaughan Williams, Tallis, Sibelius & EVENING Featuring a programme of Venues, Birmingham Birmingham JAY BRANNAN Tues 18 Tchaikovsky', Wed 19 Oct, Warwick various musical themes including MAXIMUM RNB WITH THE Oct, O2 Institute, SUPER HANS Thurs 20 Arts Centre, Coventry songs from the classical, musical Oct, Hare & Hounds, MANFREDS Sat 22 Oct, theatre and pop genres, Sun 23 Oct, Birmingham YUANFAN YANG Wed 19 Oct, Stratford- Birmingham Birmingham Town Hall The Bear Pit Theatre - The United BARB WIRE DOLLS Tues upon-Avon Town Hall KORN AGAIN + ST IFF Reformed Church, Stratford-upon- 18 Oct, O2 Academy, HEAVEN 17 Fri 21 Oct, BIZKIT - FAMILY VALUES BERLIN PHILHARMONIC WIND QUINTET Avon Birmingham Birmingham Town Hall TRIBUTE Sat 22 Oct, Programme includes works by BLOWIN' IN THE WIND MIDGE URE Fri 21 Oct, The Assembly, Mozart (arr. Hasel), Kalevi Aho, Tues 18 Oct, Artrix, Stratford Artshouse Leamington Spa Tomasi & Paul Taffanel, Wed 19 Oct, Bromsgrove The Barber Institute, Birmingham LONELY THE BRAVE Fri BIG JIM AND THE BLACK HOMELANDS Tues 18 21 Oct, O2 Academy, CAT BONES Sat 22 Oct, MARTIN ROSCOE Programme includes Comedy Gigs Oct, The Old Rep Birmingham Katie Fitzgerald's, works Schumann, Beethoven & Theatre, Birmingham NINA KRAVIZ PLUS Stourbridge Debussy, Thurs 20 Oct, Stratford- upon-Avon Town Hall HAL CRUTTENDEN Wed 19 Oct, Artrix, MELLOW MARIMBAS AND BODDIKA & ADAM TRIBUTE TO OTIS Bromsgrove VIBRANT VIBES Tues 18 SHELTON Fri 21 Oct, REDDING PERFORMED BY LA VOCE Thurs 20 Oct, New Oct, Royal Spa Centre, The Rainbow Venues, MUDIBU & THE JEZEBEL Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham ELIS JAMES & JOHN ROBINS Birmingham Leamington Spa SEXTET Sat 22 Oct, ELGAR’S STRING QUARTET Programme EXPERIENCE Wed 19 Oct, The Glee LOUDON WAINWRIGHT III THE OFFICIAL RECEIVERS Artrix, Bromsgrove includes works by Bax & Elgar, Thurs Club, Birmingham Tues 18 Oct, Fri 21 Oct, The Marr's CLEAN CUT KID Sat 22 20 Oct, CBSO Centre, Birmingham SIMON EVANS Thurs 20 Oct, Royal Bar, Worcester Birmingham Town Hall Oct, Kasbah, Coventry GEMMA LOIS SUMMERFIELD (SOPRANO) Spa Centre, Leamimgton Spa AQUILO Fri 21 Oct, O2 KIKO BUN Sun 23 Oct, Featuring Sebastian Wybrew (piano), JOJO SMITH, MIKE WILMOT & COMEDY Institute, Birmingham The Rainbow Venues, Thurs 20 Oct, Stratford-upon-Avon CAROUSEL WITH ANDY ROBINSON THE MODFATHERS Fri 21 Birmingham Town Hall Thurs 20 Oct, The Glee Club, B’ham Oct, The River Rooms, SIXTIES GOLD THE ULYSSES’S HOMECOMING English ANGELOS & BARRY Thurs 20 Oct, Stourbridge SEARCHERS, BRIAN Touring Opera present a new staging Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry of Monteverdi’s ‘crowning achieve- MICHAEL KIWANUKA Fri POOLE & THE JOEL DOMMETT Fri 21 Oct, The Glee ment’, Thurs 20 Oct, Malvern Theatre 21 Oct, O2 Institute, TREMELOES, P.J. PROBY Club, Birmingham Birmingham & GARY PUCKETT Sun CONTEMPORARY CONSORT Programme ANGELOS & BARRY Fri 21 Oct, Royal 23 Oct, Symphony includes works by Oliver Knussen, BAD COMPANY Fri 21 Spa Centre, Leamington Spa Oct, Genting Arena, Hall, Birmingham Purcell & Handel, Fri 21 Oct, JOJO SMITH, MIKE WILMOT, JONNIE Birmingham BIRDY Sun 23 Oct, O2 Stratford-upon-Avon Town Hall PRICE & MATT PRICE Fri 21- Sat 22 Institute, Birmingham FRONTIERS TRIO Featuring David Le FORTY SHADES OF GREEN Oct, The Glee Club, Birmingham MEETS COUNTRY ROADS BROKEN TEETH Sun 23 Page (violin), Mark Ashford (guitar) & BARNSTORMERS COMEDY NIGHT Sat 22 THE TRAVELLING BAND Fri 21 Oct, Albany Oct, The Flapper, Nick Stringfellow (cello). Programme Oct, Artrix, Bromsgrove Wed 19 Oct, The Theatre, Coventry Birmingham includes works by Vivaldi, Paganini, Sunflower Lounge, Monti & Piazzola, Fri 21 Oct, Recital PAJAMA MEN Sat 22 Oct, Warwick ONE NIGHT OF ROCK Fri BLACK FOXXES + BIG Birmingham Hall, Birmingham Conservatoire Arts Centre, Coventry 21 Oct, Palace Theatre, SPRING Sun 23 Oct, JOE MCELDERRY Wed 19 Redditch The Sunflower Lounge, THE PELLEAS ENSEMBLE Programme SIMON BLIGH Sat 22 Oct, Coventry includes works Rameau, Chopin, Showcase Oct, Palace Theatre, BROTHERS OF THE Birmingham

60 whatsonlive.co.uk The List 17 - 23 October - Warwicks & Worcs Davina.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 17:44 Page 2

thelistRosen's much-loved children's book to life in a new puppetry production Theatre featuring music and lyrics by renowned singer-songwriter Barb DOMESTICA Highly anticipated new Jungr, Thurs 20 - Sat 22 Oct, The work from Sleepwalk Collective Old Rep, Birmingham which asks what we might cling to METHOD IN MADNESS Fusion of and what we might love in an ever- Shakespearean text and new writing louder, ever-accelerating new centu- with physical theatre, dance and ry the we already seem to be leav- mask/puppetry work, Thurs 20 Oct - ing, Mon 17 Oct, The REP, Fri 21 Oct, Old Joint Stock Theatre, Birmingham Birmingham MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET Smash-hit MONOLOGUESLAM UK Check out the musical starring Jason Donovan as brightest new acting talent and see record producer Sam Phillips. The actors go head-to-head to be story of how four stars made rock- crowned the winner of their respec- ’n’roll history, Mon 17 - Sat 22 Oct, tive rounds, Fri 21 Oct, The REP, Malvern Theatres Birmingham BLOWN AWAY Metta Theatre presents CABARET XXL - EAST END CABARET a stage adaptation of Rob Featuring alternative, award-win- Biddulph’s award- winning chil- ning, filth-mongering musical come- dren’s book, featuring acrobatic dy duo Bernie & Victy, Fri 21 Oct, penguins, ‘magical’ puppetry and The REP, Birmingham live music, Tues 18 Oct, Malvern Theatres ROMEO & JULIET The Pantaloons present Shakespeare's tale of ill- SOUTH PACIFIC Amateur production fated love with a twist. Featuring live presented by Worcester Operatic & music, audience interaction and, of Dramatic Society, Tues 18 - Sat 22 course, the bit with the balcony, Fri Oct, Swan Theatre, Worcester 21 Oct, Artrix, Bromsgrove KING JOHN Worcester Repertory LA CALISTO English Touring Opera Company present Shakespeare’s present a new production, sung in play about one of medieval English, of Cavelli’s opera, charting England’s most controversial mon- the relationship between men, archs, Tues 18 - Sat 22 Oct, women and gods, Fri 21 Oct, Worcester Cathedral Malvern Theatre HOW WE LOST IT Cheap Date Dance LOST DOG: PARADISE LOST (LIES Company fuse choreography and UNOPENED BESIDE ME) One-man comedy in a coming-of-age story staging fusing theatre, comedy and which weaves together tales of movement to retell Milton’s epic youth, love, sex and growing up, poem in just 75 minutes, Fri 21 - Sat Wed 19 Oct, Stratford Artshouse 22 Oct, mac, Birmingham LIVING WITH LUKE Critically THE EXORCIST Unleashed for the first acclaimed play about a father cop- time in a uniquely theatrical experi- ing with his son’s autism, Wed 19 ence, Fri 21 Oct - Sat 5 Nov, The Oct, The Core, Solihull REP, Birmingham URSULA MARTINEZ: FREE ADMISSION LENNON: THROUGH A GLASS ONION Following on from the success of Part concert, part biography, this off- My Stories, Your Emails, Olivier Broadway success celebrates the Award-winning performance provo- genius and music of John Lennon, cateur Ursula Martinez attempts to Fri 21 - Sat 22 Oct, Belgrade make sense of the absurdity of Theatre, Coventry modern living, Wed 19 - Thurs 20 Oct, Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry PAJAMA MEN: 2 MAN 3 MUSKETEERS Two comedians attempt to stage an DEAD SHEEP Steve Nailon and epic historical romance novel in Graham Seed star in Jonathan under an hour, Sat 22 Oct, Warwick Maitland's tale of love, honour, loyal- Arts Centre ty and revenge, which charts the story of how Mrs Thatcher, once the TONY'S LAST TAPE Inspired by the most powerful woman in the world, diaries of Tony Benn – one of was brought down by Geoffrey Britain’s most respected, inspiring Howe, her one-time friend and polit- but divisive politicians, Sat 22 Oct, ical soul mate, with one of the great- Bridge House Theatre, Warwick est speeches ever made, Wed 19 - LOVERS ROCK MONOLOGUES Janet Sat 22 Oct, Belgrade Theatre, Kay, Carroll Thompson and Victor Coventry Romero Evans fuse timeless music SISTER ACT Amateur production pre- and theatrical storytelling to present sented by the Norbury Players, Wed an account of the Lovers Rock 19 - Sat 22 Oct, Norbury Theatre, lifestyle, Sat 22 Oct, The REP, Droitwich Birmingham PSYCHIC SALLY - CALL ME PSYCHIC DON’T DRIBBLE ON THE DRAGON The Thurs 20 Oct, Palace Theatre, People’s Theatre Company present Redditch a musical adventure about growing up and the importance of family, Sat ULYSSES’S HOMECOMING English 22 Oct, Artrix, Bromsgrove Touring Opera present a new version of Monteverdi’s ‘crowning THE TEDDY BEAR’S PICNIC London achievement’, Thurs 20 Oct, Contemporary Theatre present a Malvern Theatre stage show for young audiences, fusing live music and puppetry, Sat WE’RE GOING ON A BEAR HUNT Little 22 Oct, Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury Angel Theatre bring Michael

whatsonlive.co.uk 61 The List 17 - 23 October - Warwicks & Worcs Davina.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 17:44 Page 3

Monday 17 - Sun 23 October

theKING ARTHURS Sat 22list - Sun 23 Oct, 22 Oct, Albany Theatre, Coventry Betrayal, Fri 21 Oct, Waterstones, an illuminating tale about one of the Bridge House Theatre, Warwick ROMEO AND JULIET Ballet Theatre UK High St, Birmingham most significant Cistercian abbeys of DAN TDM ON TOUR One of the world’s present a passionate and innovative BAVARIAN EVENINGS Featuring a its time, Sat 22 - Sun 23 Oct, Forge biggest YouTubers takes to the road recreation of the world's greatest love Bavarian Oompah band and a Mill Needle Museum, Redditch with his pugs, Dr Trayaurus and lots story, Sat 22 Oct, Palace Theatre, Bavarian buffet feast., Fri 21 - Sat 22 FAMILY FUN DAYS - HALLOWEEN 2016 of other friends, Sun 23 Oct, Redditch Oct, West Midland Safari and Leisure Spooky outdoor trail with take-home Birmingham Hippodrome Park, Bewdley, Worcestershire activities, Sat 22 - Sun 30 Oct, MOLLY'S MARVELLOUS MOUSTACHE TWISTED BARREL BREWERY TOURS Baddesley Clinton, Solihull Fidget Theatre fuse an original music 2016 Meet the team behind Twisted CROOME ENCOUNTERS Follow actors score and playful interaction in a new Barrel Ale on this exclusive tour. around the court as they tell theatrical production of the original Events Learn how the brewing process Croome's spookier stories, Sat 22 - storybook, written by Andrea Heaton works and sample ales and food, Sat Sun 30 Oct, Croome Park, Worcester and illustrated by Talya Baldwin, Sun 22 Oct, Fargo Village, Coventry AN EVENING WITH SIMON GARFIELD FAMILY FUN DAYS - HALLOWEEN 2016 23 Oct, Warwick Arts Centre, BEAR GRYLLS PRESENTS ENDEAVOUR Spooky outdoor trail with take-home Coventry Simon takes a look at the worldwide obsession with keeping time, Tues Sat 22 Oct, Genting Arena, B’ham activities, Sat 22 - Sun 30 Oct, 18 Oct, Waterstones, High St, CARS THROUGH THE LENS Learn to Packwood House, Solihull Birmingham utilise the different settings on your THE HAUNTED CASTLE Wondrous READ YOUR MIND: THE IDIOT BRAIN BY camera so that you can create stun- witches, Horrible Histories and the Dance DEAN BURNETT Wed 19 Oct, ning car photographs, Sat 22 Oct, return of the spectacular fire joust, Waterstones, High St, Birmingham British Motor Museum, Gaydon, Sat 22 - Mon 31 Oct, Warwick Castle Warwickshire GRAND DESIGNS LIVE Wed 19 Oct - OCTOBER HALF TERM Celebrate 400 ROMEO AND JULIET Ballet Theatre UK Sun 23 Oct, NEC, Birmingham GCCF 40TH SUPREME CAT SHOW Sat 22 years of Shakespeare's creative and present a passionate and innovative Oct, NEC, Birmingham cultural legacy at the Shakespeare recreation of the world's greatest love DIG FOR VICTORY: HARVEST COOKING DIVE 2016 The UK's biggest event for Family Homes, Sat 22 - Mon 31 Oct, story. Thurs 20 Oct, Albany Theatre, DEMO Thurs 20 Oct, Upton House & divers, Sat 22 Oct - Sun 23 Oct, Shakespeare's Birthplace, Stratford- Coventry Gardens, Warwickshire NEC, Birmingham upon-Avon FAGIN’S TWIST Avant Garde Dance HALLOWEEN TRAIL Follow clues round THE GRUB CLUB Bringing together LIGHTS, CAMERA, CARS Workshop Company shed new light on Dickens’ the park to find Frankenstein’s mon- bakers, growers, grillers and brew- demonstrating how to take the per- Oliver Twist, Thurs 20 - Fri 21 Oct, ster, Thurs 20 - Sun 30 Oct, Croome ers, Sat 22 - Sun 23 Oct, Fargo fect car photograph, Sun 23 Oct, Birmingham Hippodrome Park, Worcestershire Village, Coventry British Motor Museum, Gaydon AN EVENING WITH IAN WAITE & GARDEN TOURS Fri 21 Oct, Witley SON ET LUMIÈRE: A NIGHT AT THE CAMILLA DALLERUP An evening of Court, Worcestershire ABBEY Join a black dog, a golden dance, songs and stories from the MARTINA COLE SIGNING Martina Cole lion, white monks and Indigo Arts for Strictly Come Dancing Live stars, Sat signs copies of her latest book,

62 whatsonlive.co.uk The List 17 - 23 October - Warwicks & Worcs Davina.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 17:44 Page 4

October BROMSGROVE’S THEATRE, CINEMA, LIVE MUSIC AND COMEDY VENUE AUTUMN

Saturday 8th October Friday 14th October Sunday 16th October HIGHLIGHTS HEIDI TALBOT NISH KUMAR SNOW WHITE FOLK SINGER'S WELCOME ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER PRESENTED BY THE VIENNA www.bridgehousetheatre.co.uk RETURN THAN WORDS, UNLESS YOU FESTIVAL BALLET SHOUT THE WORDS REAL MYTON ROAD, LOUD 1 OCT, 7.30PM, WARWICK. CV34 6PP CELEBRATION GALA CONCERT BOX OFFICE: ORCHESTRA OF THE SWAN 01926 776438 with RODERICK WILLIAMS The inaugural concert for the Warwick Hall featuring a galaxy of orchestral and vocal delights

11 OCT, 7PM, 22 & 23 OCT, 2.30PM, Thursday 20th October Tuesday 25th October Thurs 27th October SHOOTING WITH MICHAEL ANGELOS AND SHARK IN THE ZOE LYONS LIGHT MORPURGO’S BARRY PARK Renowned company Idle KING ARTHUR Motion piece together the “ ﬁnely crafted and totally ANGELOS EPITHEMIOU & BASED ON THE NICK ZOE IS HAPPY BEING A life of an exceptional enthralling….. BARRY FROM WATFORD ARE SHARRATT BOOKS LITTLE MISFIT woman, glimpsed through a masterclass in serious THE NEW POWER the lost photographs she theatre for older children’ – GENERATION risked her life to take. The Stage.

15 OCT, 7.30PM, 16 -19 NOV, 7PM, TONY’S LAST TAPE A MIDSUMMER Inspired by the diaries of Tony NIGHT’S DREAM Benn, this critically An insane fairy-go-round of acclaimed new play a play in which, as in a examines the struggle of a dream, people can turn man who knows it may be themselves invisible and time to withdraw from the make others fall in love COMING SOON: fight, to let others take over, with the first person they but doesn’t know how. see when they wake. Ellie Taylor, One Man Star Wars, Queer'Say, Kerry Godliman, Five Star Swing, Ange Hardy, Jimeoin, Money For Nothing, Remi Harris, David Starkey, Hal Cruttenden, Pete Firman 16 OCT, 11AM & 2PM, 23 NOV, 7PM, FORTHCOMING CINEMA: PENGUIN! IN OUR HANDS ELEPHANT! Join Alf the trawler Café Society (12A) // Alice In Wonderland (U) // Bridget Jones's Baby (tbc) // Free State Of Jones (15) “A funny, visually fisherman as he journeys The BFG (PG) // Blade Drive-in (18) expressive piece of from the depths of despair storytelling… celebrating to rise again and rescue the life he loves. Download the Artrix brochure on www.artrix.co.uk diversity has never been so @artrixarts much fun”– The Stage. “An imagination-fuelled www.artrix.co.uk or phone 01527 577330 cracker of a production” – @artrix arts centre A Younger Theatre Artrix, Bromsgrove, B60 1GN Free parking on-site

whatsonlive.co.uk 63 The List 24 - 31 October (dav)- Warwicks & Worcs Davina.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 14:26 Page 1

thelist Monday 24 - Monday 31 October Institute, Birmingham ASYLUMS Fri 28 Oct, Arts Centre, Coventry The Rainbow Venues, Gigs EMMA BLACKERY Wed Classical Music ZOE LYONS Thurs 27 Oct, Artrix, Birmingham 26 Oct, O2 Academy, Bromsgrove Birmingham CC SMUGGLERS Fri 28 JAKE BUGG Mon 24 Oct, DAMIEN CLARK & LARRY DEAN Fri 28 Oct, The Assembly, CBSO: SHOSTAKOICH’S EIGHT Featuring O2 Academy, B’ham ANDREA VICARI WITH Cristian M celaru (conductor) & Oct, Wolverhampton Grand Theatre MORNINGTON LOCKETT Leamington Spa SOUTHERN TENANT FOLK Akiko Suwanaiă (violin). Programme NICK DIXON, PHIL ELLIS, EDDY BRIMSON Wed 26 Oct, Stratford BADFINGER Fri 28 Oct, UNION Mon 24 Oct, includes works by Liadov, COMIC TBC Fri 28 - Sat 29 Oct, The Artshouse, Stratford- The Core Theatre, Kitchen Garden Cafe, Mendelssohn & Shostakovich, Wed Glee Club, Birmingham upon-Avon Solihull 26 Oct, Symphony Hall, Birmingham Birmingham ALISTAIR BARRIE, MIKE NEWALL, CAIMH JOE MCELDERRY Thurs BONDAX Fri 28 Oct, The ABC Mon 24 Oct, THE ENGLISH CONCERT: BAROQUE MCDONNELL & IVO GRAHAM Fri 28 Oct, 27 Oct, Albany Theatre, Rainbow Venues, Symphony Hall, B’ham MASTERS Programme includes works The Comedy Loft, Birmingham Coventry Birmingham by Purcell, Corelli, Telemann, Vivaldi, WARD THOMAS Mon 24 TALENTS OF BRITAIN Fri 28 Oct, IAN PARKER & HIS BAND MAETLOAF Sat 29 Oct, Handel & JS Bach, Wed 26 Oct, The Oct, The Assembly, Palace Theatre, Redditch Thurs 27 Oct, The The River Rooms, Barber Institute, Birmingham Leamington Spa MORGAN AND WEST Sat 29 Oct, The Robin, Bilston Stourbridge CONCERT CLUB: IMOGEN COOPER JUSTIN BIEBER Mon 24 Core Theatre, Solihull LUKE JACKSON Thurs 27 THE UKULELE (PIANO) Programme includes works Oct, Genting Arena, Oct, Katie Fitzgerald's, ORCHESTRA OF GREAT by Beethoven, Schumann, Debussy MILES JUPP Sat 29 Oct, Birmingham Birmingham Stourbridge BRITAIN Sat 29 Oct, & Albeniz, Thurs 27 Oct, Malvern Town Hall THE DIVINE COMEDY COOPE, BOYES AND Warwick Arts Centre, Theatre ALISTAIR BARRIE, CAIMH MCDONNELL & Mon 24 Oct, SIMPSON Thurs 27 Oct, Coventry THE BEETHOVEN QUARTETFEST IVO GRAHAM Sat 29 Oct, The Birmingham Town Hall Huntingdon Hall, JP COOPER Sat 29 Oct, Featuring Krysia Osostowicz & Oscar Comedy Loft, Birmingham JAPANESE BREAKFAST Worcester O2 Institute, B’ham Perks (violins), Yuko Inoue (viola) & GARY DELANEY, SY THOMAS, ALISTAIR Mon 24 Oct, Hare & SIMONE FELICE Thurs 27 NICK HARPER Sat 29 Richard Jenkinson (cello), Fri 28 - BARRIE & GEORGE RIGDEN Sat 29 Oct, Hounds, Birmingham Oct, The Glee Club, Oct, The Tin Music And Sun 30 Oct, Artrix, Bromsgrove Coventry Showcase THE SOUTH EX THE Birmingham Arts, Coventry FRIDAY NIGHT CLASSICS: CLASSIC FM NINA CONTI Sun 30 Oct, Birmingham BEAUTIFUL SOUTH Tues VULA VIEL Thurs 27 BARS AND MELODY Sat HALL OF FAME Featuring Michael Seal Town Hall 25 Oct, The Assembly, (conductor), John Suchet (presen- Oct, mac, Birmingham 29 Oct, O2 Institute, DANE BAPTISTE Sun 30 Oct, Warwick Leamington Spa ter), Mihkel Poll (piano) & Zoë Beyers ALIEN ANT FARM Thurs Birmingham Arts Centre, Coventry FAITHFUL CITY SHOWS (violin). Programme includes works 27 Oct, The Assembly, WILDHEARTS Tues 25 Oct, The Marr's by Vaughan Williams, Uematsu, Leamington Spa HALLOWEEN Bar, Worcester Rachmaninov, Elga, Sibelius, Grieg, LADY LESHURR Thurs 27 HOOTENANNY 3 Sat 29 Bruch & Shore, Fri 28 Oct, MATT BERRY & THE Oct, O2 Institute, Oct, The Slade Rooms, Symphony Hall, Birmingham MAYPOLES Tues 25 Oct, Birmingham Wolverhampton Theatre O2 Academy, B’ham ENSEMBLE 360: ROALD DAHL’S CIN- ED GEATER + LADY SANI- GEHTIKA Sat 29 Oct, O2 DERELLA & DIRTY BEASTS Featuring MADDIE & TAE Tues 25 TY + ALEX RAINSFORD Academy, Birmingham Juliette Bausor (flute), Adrian Wilson BARD’S BEST BITS OF ROMEO & JULIET Oct, O2 Institute, Thurs 27 Oct, The THE BON JOVI (oboe), Matthew Hunt (clarinet), Amy Oddsocks fuse their signature come- Birmingham Rainbow Venues, EXPERIENCE Sat 29 Oct, Harman (bassoon), Naomi Atherton dy and clowning in a 90-minute ver- LISA HANNIGAN Tues 25 Birmingham The Core Theatre, (horn) & Tim Horton (piano), Sun 30 sion of the world’s greatest love Oct, The Glee Club, story, Mon 24 Oct, The Core, Solihull CHRIS BOURNE Thurs 27 Solihull Oct, Royal Spa Centre, Leamington Birmingham Oct, O2 Academy, SMOKIN PILCHARDS Sat Spa HEADS WILL ROLL Told By An Idiot LEO STANNARD Tues 25 Birmingham 29 Oct, Katie ENSEMBLE 360: ROALD DAHL’S EDWARD explore the themes of delusion, vani- Oct, The Sunflower ty and the corruption of power, Mon PUBLIC ACCESS TV Fitzgerald's, THE CONQUEROR Featuring Cordelia Lounge, Birmingham 24 - Wed 26 Oct, The REP, Thurs 27 Oct, Hare & Stourbridge Williams (piano) & Sara Kestelmann Birmingham MARTHA FFION Tues 25 Hounds, Birmingham MAXWELL & MARY J (narrator), Sun 30 Oct, Royal Spa Oct, Hare & Hounds, Centre, Leamington Spa BRUMMEGEM PALS New play written THE WICKED WHISPERS BLIGE Sat 29 Oct, Birmingham by Malcolm Stent and Don Maclean Thurs 27 Oct, Hare & Genting Arena, CBSO YOUTH ORCHESTRA: THE WOODEN about two ordinary boys caught up TYGERS OF PAN TANG Hounds, Birmingham Birmingham PRINCE Featuring Cristian M celaru in the horrors of war, Tues 25 - Wed Tues 25 Oct, The BEV BEVAN'S ZING BAND (conductor), Martin James Bartlettă KIRSTY BROMLEY Thurs 26 Oct, Wolverhampton Grand Robin, Bilston Sat 29 Oct, Palace (piano) & the CBSO Youth Orchestra. 27 Oct, Evesham Arts Programme includes works by Theatre GOLD CLASS Tues 25 Centre Theatre, Redditch Copland, Gershwin & Bartok, Sun 30 RELATIVELY SPEAKING Alan Ayckbourn Oct, The Flapper, OAS-IS Sat 29 Oct, The OZZMOSIS Fri 28 Oct, Oct, Symphony Hall, Birmingham play starring Robert Powell and Liza Birmingham Marr's Bar, Worcester Route 44, Birmingham ALDWYN VOICES Featuring Adrian Goddard, Mon 24 - Sat 29 Oct, MASSMATIKS + RORY THE UKULELE PAUL GILBERT Sat 29 Lucas (conductor) & Fenella Malvern Theatre INDIANA Tues 25 Oct, ORCHESTRA OF GREAT Oct, The Assembly, Humphreys (solo violin). Programme The Rainbow Venues, MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET Smash-hit BRITAIN Fri 28 Oct, Leamington Spa includes works by Bach, Rory Boyle Birmingham musical starring Jason Donovan as Huntingdon Hall, AN EVENING WITH & Baloue, Sun 30 Oct, Great Malvern record producer Sam Phillips. The NASTY + AVERSIONS Worcester SHIRLEY ACOUSTIC Priory story of how four stars made rock- CROWN + MALEVOLENCE ALUNAH, TEMPLE BLACK, GUITAR CLUB Sat 29 ’n’roll history, Mon 24 - Sat 29 Oct, + VITJA + SAND Tues ABANDONED LIFE & Oct, Dovehouse Birmingham Hippodrome See page 25 Oct, The Rainbow LONGFALLBOOTS Fri 28 Theatre, Solihull 24 for details Venues, Birmingham Oct, The Tin Music And CABBAGE Sat 29 Oct, Comedy Gigs SHARK IN THE PARK Family musical MARZY'S JAMMING Arts, Coventry Kasbah, Coventry following Timothy Pope and his tele- NIGHT Wed 26 Oct, The GEKO Fri 28 Oct, O2 THEATRE OF HATE Sun scope, Tues 25 Oct, Artrix, Marr's Bar, Worcester Academy, Birmingham 30 Oct, O2 Academy, HANS TEEUWEN Mon 24 Oct, The Bromsgrove STEELEYE SPAN Wed 26 Glee Club, Birmingham SUNSET SONS Fri 28 Birmingham WOMEN'S HOUR Sh!t Theatre present Oct, Royal Spa Centre, Oct, O2 Institute, FM - INDISCREET 30 JOSH WIDDICOMBE Tues 25 Oct, a cabaret piece of 'giddy, freewheel- Leamington Spa Birmingham TOUR Sun 30 Oct, The Royal Spa Centre, Leamington Spa ing silliness' about what happens BAY CITY ROLLERS STAR- when women are given just one hour GEORGE BENSON - River Rooms, FELICITY WARD Wed 26 Oct, Royal RING LES MCKEOWN a day to think about what it is to be a STEVIE WONDER PARTY Stourbridge Spa Centre, Leamington Spa Wed 26 Oct, Palace woman, Tues 25 - Wed 26 Oct, WITH NAT AUGUSTIN Fri THE FUREYS Mon 31 NICK DIXON, COMEDY CAROUSEL WITH Theatre, Redditch Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry 28 Oct, Nailcote Hall, Oct, Artrix, Bromsgrove ANDY ROBINSON & COMIC TBC Thurs FOUR TOPS AND THE DISNEY ON ICE: FROZEN Tues 25 - Sun Berkswell, PILE Mon 31 Oct, The 27 Oct, The Glee Club, Birmingham TEMPTATIONS Wed 26 30 Oct, Barclaycard Arena, Warwickshire Sunflower Lounge, JO CAULFIELD Thurs 27 Oct, The Core Oct, Genting Arena, Birmingham DETROIT MAGIC Fri 28 Birmingham Theatre, Solihull Birmingham THE TELL-TALE HEART Tin Robot Oct, The Swan Theatre, BETH VYSE Thurs 27 Oct, Warwick DMA'S Wed 26 Oct, O2 Worcester

64 whatsonlive.co.uk The List 24 - 31 October (dav)- Warwicks & Worcs Davina.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 14:26 Page 2

thelist Theatre present a new adaptation Coventry of Edgar Allen Poe's psychological THE CURIOUS ADVENTURES OF thriller, Wed 26 - Sat 29 Oct, Old PINOCCHIO Lyngo Theatre bring the Joint Stock Theatre, Birmingham much-loved children's classic to life, THE VERY HUNGRY CATERPILLAR Fri 28 - Sat 29 Oct, Warwick Arts Jonathan Rockefeller's critically Centre, Coventry acclaimed show for children which DR. FAUSTUS Tewkesbury Arts & weaves together four Eric Carle sto- Drama Society present a new ver- ries: The Artist Who Painted A Blue sion of the Christopher Marlowe Horse, Mister Seahorse, The Very classic, Fri 28 - Sat 29 Oct, The Lonely Firefly and The Very Hungry Roses, Tewkesbury Caterpillar, Wed 26 - Sat 29 Oct, Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry DRACULA: THE MUSICAL Amateur production presented by Blue MIDLAND OPERA PRESENT CAVALLERIA Orange Arts and Night Project RUSTICANA & I PAGLIACCI Wed 26 - Theatre, Fri 28 Oct - Sat 5 Nov, The Sat 29 Oct, The Old Rep, B’ham Blue Orange Theatre, Birmingham LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS Charming, MORGAN AND WEST - PARLOUR kooky and hilarious 1950s musical TRICKS Brand new show from the sci-fi spoof, Wed 26 - Sat 29 Oct, time-travelling magic duo, Sat 29 Belgrade Theatre, Coventry Oct, The Core, Solihull A BLACK COUNTRY FAIRYTALE... AY IT! VAMPIRES ROCK: GHOST TRAIN Fizzog Productions weave together Sequel to the phenomenally suc- various fairytales in one 'spectacu- cessful Vampires Rock Musical lar' production, Thurs 27 Oct, Concert, Sat 29 Oct, Wolverhampton Grand Theatre Wolverhampton Grand Theatre A MUSICAL MEDLEY An evening of CAPTAIN FLINN AND THE PIRATE entertainment and laughter inspired DINOSAURS 2: THE MAGIC CUTLASS by Dr Terry Gasper, Thurs 27 Oct, Les Petits present an action-packed Stratford Artshouse adventure for children, a sequel to THE ADVENTURES OF SINBAD Captain Flinn And The Pirate Puppetry, music and sound effects Dinosaurs, which, in turn, is based bring to life the story of Sinbad and on the popular book by Giles his epic encounters with a whale, a Andarea and Russell Ayto, Sun 30 giant bird and an ogre, Thurs 27 Oct, Birmingham Town Hall Oct, The Core, Solihull SPOOKTACULAR A cast of profession- BRUMMEGEM PALS A new play writ- al singers and dancers perform to ten by Malcolm Stent and Don all the best spooky classics such as Maclean telling the moving story of ghostbusters, thriller, spell on you two ordinary boys caught up in the and many more... Sun 30 Oct, horrors of war, Thurs 27 Oct, Palace Albany Theatre, Coventry Theatre, Redditch THE MOUSETRAP Touring production AN EVENING OF DIRTY DANCING: THE of Agatha Christie's famous thriller - TRIBUTE SHOW Homage to ‘the the longest-running show in the his- greatest movie soundtrack of all tory of British theatre, Mon 31 Oct - time’, Thurs 27 Oct, New Alexandra Sat 5 Nov, New Alexandra Theatre, Theatre, Birmingham Birmingham CINDERELLA High Time present RELATIVELY SPEAKING Alan Rossini's intoxicating opera, Thurs Ayckbourn play starring Robert 27 - Sat 29 Oct, Belgrade Theatre, Powell and Liza Goddard, Mon 31 Coventry Oct - Sat 5 Nov, Belgrade Theatre, FIRST STAGES: MAVIS SPARKLE M6’s Coventry cosmic new production, mixing magic, animation and laughter, urges its audience to dust away doubts, follow their dreams and reach for the stars. Age recommen- dation is four-plus, Thurs 27 - Sat 29 Oct, The REP, Birmingham WHAT SHADOWS Roxana Silbert- directed play starring Ian McDiarmid as Enoch Powell, Thurs 27 Oct - Sat 12 Nov, The REP, Birmingham Read more on page 26 THE NOSE THAT NOBODY PICKED Surreal yarn for all the family, with Dance songs and, we’re reliably informed, ‘snot’! Suitable for children aged five-plus, Fri 28 Oct, mac, ROMEO AND JULIET Ballet Theatre Birmingham UK present a passionate and innovative recreation of the world's TALENTS OF BRITAIN Fri 28 Oct, greatest love story, Wed 26 Oct, Palace Theatre, Redditch The Core, Solihull SORRY! NO COLOUREDS, NO IRISH, NO ADITI MANGALDAS DANCE COMPANY: DOGS Gazebo returns with one of its INTER_RUPTED Mangaldas’s latest most powerful plays - an explo- piece contemplates fragility, disinte- ration of racism and migration, pre- gration and renewal. The show fea- sented in response to events taking tures seven dancers, with musi- place across the UK and interna- cians live on stage, Sun 30 Oct, tionally, Fri 28 Oct, Albany Theatre, Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry

whatsonlive.co.uk 65 The List 24 - 31 October (dav)- Warwicks & Worcs Davina.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 14:26 Page 3

thelist Monday 24 - Monday 31 October Griffiths, Tues 25 Oct, Malvern REDDITCH HALLOWEEN FILM FESTIVAL FLAME & THUNDER Action-packed day Theatres, Worcestershire Fri 28 - Sat 29 Oct, Palace Theatre, featuring motorsport stunts and drag Talks / SHADOW PUPPETS WORKSHOP For chil- Redditch racing, Sat 29 Oct, Santa Pod dren aged between four and seven, THE MONSTER BALL Fri 28 - Sat 29 Raceway, Northants Spoken Word Thurs 27 Oct, Malvern Theatres, Oct, West Midland Safari and Leisure GHOST WALK Sat 29 Oct, Museum of Worcestershire Park, Bewdley, Worcestershire the Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham CROOME AFTER DARK Thurs 27 Oct, FRIGHT NIGHTS AT ASTON HALL An HALLOWEEN Featuring spooks, spi- LEVEL UP SEASON 4.5 VS TONGUE FU Croome Park, Worcestershire immersive horror experience, Fri 28 - ders, pumpkin carving, face painting Featuring some of the sharpest Sun 30 Oct, Aston Hall, B’ham and pumpkin pie, Sat 29 Oct, poets, storytellers, rappers and BIRMINGHAM BEER & CIDER FESTIVAL Chedhams Yard, Stratford-upon-Avon comedians around, accompanied by Thurs 27 - Sat 29 Oct, New Bingley HALLOWEEN FUN Carve a pumpkin or a live soundtrack from the Tongue Fu Hall, Birmingham have your face painted, Fri 28 - Sun TORCH-LIT PUMPKIN WALK Sat 29 - Band, Tues 25 Oct, The REP, B’ham HALLOWEEN FRIGHT NIGHTS Hear tales 30 Oct, Croome Park, Worcestershire Mon 31 Oct, Bodenham Arboretum, Kidderminster KEN CLARKE IN CONVERSATION Join the of ghostly apparitions, dastardly PUMPKIN FLOTILLA Watch pumpkins Tory Grandee as he talks about his deeds and ghoulish goings-on, float across the Mill Pond at twilight, SPOOKY HALLOWEEN Dress in your autobiography, Kind Of Blue, which Thurs 27 - Sat 29 Oct, Kenilworth Fri 28 - Sun 30 Oct, Sarehole Mill, best costume and be prepared for charts his rise from a working-class Castle, Warwickshire Birmingham some spine-tingling fun, Sun 30 Oct, background and 46 years as an MP, BRICKLIVE Celebrating all things STEVE BACKSHALL'S WILD WORLD Birmingham Botanical Gardens Fri 28 Oct, Stratford Artshouse LEGO, Thurs 27 - Sun 30 Oct, NEC, Illustrated with photos and films from DIVALI - CELEBRATION MUSIC, FOOD & Birmingham his expeditions, Sat 29 Oct, DANCE FESTIVAL Sun 30 Oct, Birmingham Town Hall Birmingham Botanical Gardens DOWN UNDER LIVE The UK’s number TALES OF THE SUPERNATURAL KIND Events one emigration event, Sat 29 - Sun Adults-only evening ghost walk 30 Oct, National Motorcycle around the castle, Mon 31 Oct, Croft Museum, Solihull Castle, nr Leominster GHOSTS AND GHOULS Be scared silly ELIZABETHAN LIVING HISTORY EVENT HALLOWEEN TOURS with spooky tales and enjoy getting Tales of ghostly hands-on with creepy crafts and Reenactments of Elizabethan life, apparitions, dastardly deeds and activities, Mon 24 - Fri 28 Oct, with costumes, music and dancing, ghoulish goings-on, Mon 31 Oct, Sat 29 - Sun 30 Oct, Harvington Hall, Kenilworth Castle HALLOWEEN FUN Discover the rare Kidderminster GHOST SEARCH and wonderful world of bats, Mon 24 A ghost walk around FEMALE KING: THE LIFE & TIMES OF - Fri 28 Oct, Witley Court, the medieval castle, with vigils con- HATSHEPSUT Worcestershire BADDESLEY GHOST TOUR Creepy tales Profile of a woman who, ducted in reputedly haunted rooms, 3,000 years ago, took the throne of Mon 31 Oct, Tamworth Castle SPECIAL EFFECTS MAKE-UP Workshop and ghostly goings-on, Fri 28 Oct, Baddesley Clinton, Solihull Egypt, Sat 29 Oct, Herbert Art with professional make-up artist Kate Gallery & Museum, Coventry

66 whatsonlive.co.uk p67 (IBC) Warks.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 14:12 Page 1 Comic Con F/P Oct.qxp_Layout 1 26/09/2016 14:14 Page 1