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CHRIS TUCKER - Your FREE essential entertainment guide for the Midlands RUSH HOUR COMEDIAN IN BRUM BIRMINGHAM WHAT’S ON SEPTEMBER 2018 Birmingham ISSUE 393 SEPTEMBER 2018 ’ WhatFILM I COMEDY I THEATRE I GIGS I VISUAL ARTS I EVENTSs I FOOD Onbirminghamwhatson.co.uk

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Yourthe 16-pagelist week by week listings guide

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September 2018

Contents

Bollywood in Birmingham - Taj Express comes to Birmingham Hippodrome... feature on page 8

Going for gold... Pop Music Ballet In Brum the list

The Princess of Pop an ‘emotionally contagious BRB launches its new season Your 16-page plays Genting Arena rollercoaster’ at The REP at Birmingham Hippodrome week-by-week listings guide page 15 page 24 page 36 page 51 inside:

4. First Word 11. Food 15. Music 20. Comedy 24. Theatre 39. Film 42. Visual Arts 45. Events

@whatsonbrum fb.com/whatsonbirmingham @whatsonmediagroup Birmingham What’s On Magazine Birmingham What’s On Magazine What’s On Media Group

Managing Director: Davina Evans [email protected] 01743 281708 ’ Sales & Marketing: Lei Woodhouse [email protected] 01743 281703 Chris Horton [email protected] 01743 281704 WhatsOn Editorial: Lauren Foster [email protected] 01743 281707 Brian O’Faolain [email protected] 01743 281701 MEDIA GROUP Sue Jones [email protected] 01743 281705 Abi Whitehouse [email protected] 01743 281716 Lauren Cole [email protected] 01743 281706 Adrian Parker [email protected] 01743 281714 Contributors: Graham Bostock, James Cameron-Wilson, Heather Kincaid, Katherine Ewing, Jenny Ell, Steve Adams, Jack Rolfe, Elly Yates-Roberts, Daisy Sparkle, Steve Taylor, Chris Eldon Lee 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 Birmingham September copy.qxp_Layout 1 20/08/2018 11:47 Page 1

Entertainment news from around the region

Plans for new world-class cultural centre revealed Proposals for a new centre for heritage, com- munity arts, learning and skills develop- ment, led by Birmingham Museums Trust, have taken a step forward after a plot in the east of the city was approved for regenera- tion by Birmingham City Council. Due to open in 2021, the proposed purpose- built facility will offer ‘a completely new type of cultural proposition to engage and inspire new audiences’. The initial phase will create a new storage facility to house the collections currently held at Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery, in readiness for the redevelopment of the city’s flagship museum.

Half-term digital festival Popular folk in Lichfield composers. Each session, which lasts around an hour, will include musical excerpts to help Lichfield Arts will next month host its annual fun for ‘little geeks’ explain closely what’s being said by our ex- L2F folk event. A homegrown digital festival designed to perts. At each Insight event we invite a spe- The festival takes place from 19 to 21 October entertain ‘little geeks’ and their guardians is cial guest, and encourage the audience to ask and features nationally renowned musicians taking place at Birmingham’s MAC during the questions and join the debate. and bands, local acts, a street procession, autumn half-term holiday. “Our audiences have told us that they’d like dancing, workshops and competitions for The sure-to-be-popular event, which runs an informal opportunity to meet and talk visual artists and songwriters. from 27 October to 3 November, will feature about music, so I’m very excited about this Commenting on the event, the festival’s live shows, virtual reality, gaming, work- new addition to our 2018-19 season.” shops, robotics and a retro arcade game Chair, Stuart Davies, said: “L2F 2018 really play-zone. has something for everyone with an interest For more information, visit macbirming- in folk music and folk traditions, whether it’s Plenty to laugh about at ham.co.uk watching morris dancing on the Saturday, enjoying some fine live music from leading Brum’s comedy festival lights in the folk music world, or taking part The award-winning Birmingham Comedy in one of our many workshops.” Festival brings another 10 days of ‘cracking Saturday Night Fever is comedic entertainment’ to the city next Stayin’ Alive and well in month (Friday 5 to Sunday 14 October). Headlining the event is Joanna Lumley (9 Oc- Birmingham... tober, Symphony Hall), with James Acaster, Dig out your flares The Infinite Monkey Cage’s Robin Ince and and wear your collars the brain behind BBC One’s Hospital People, really high - a new Tom Binns, also contributing. version of hit 1970s Commenting on the 2018 edition of the event, musical Saturday a spokesperson for the festival said: “We’ve Night Fever is coming got another packed line-up this year, with to the Midlands. Birmingham music group over 70 performances featuring not only Based on the cult stand-up comedy but also sketch shows, im- 1977 movie of the offers brand new Insight prov, spoken word, theatre, music, game same name starring Birmingham Contemporary Music Group shows, podcasters, John Travolta, the (BCMG) has launched a new initiative for its fine art and loads show runs at Birmingham’s New Alexandra 2018-19 season. more, with over 20 Theatre from 25 to 29 September. Songs fea- The Insight series will provide audiences shows being free or tured in the production include the Bee Gees’ with the chance to explore contemporary pay-what-you- Stayin’ Alive, How Deep Is Your Love, Night music. want.” For more in- Fever and Tragedy. Commenting on the initiative, BCMG’s Artis- formation, visit Richard Winsor (pictured) takes the lead as tic Director, Stephan Meier, said: “Insight bhamcomfest.co.uk Tony Manero... For more information, visit will delve into pressing issues of contempo- atgtickets.com/newalexandratheatre rary music with leading writers, thinkers and 4 whatsonlive.co.uk First Word Birmingham September copy.qxp_Layout 1 20/08/2018 11:48 Page 2

First Word

NEC hosts Open Mic auditions Open Mic UK, the country’s pre- mier for un- signed acts, is this month holding auditions at Birming- ham’s NEC (Saturday 22 Septem- ber). Singers, songwriters, rappers and vocal groups of all ages are encouraged to enter, and can do so by registering at Open Mic UK for £5. The competition winner will get the chance to record a debut and music video, as well as benefitting from extensive media promotion. For more information, visit openmicuk.co.uk

Music and The Color Purple on stage at the Hippodrome... science collide Birmingham Hippodrome is teaming up with Leicester’s Curve theatre to co-produce Broadway musical The Color Purple. at Thinktank The new version of the hit show, which is based on Alice Walker’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, Music and science collide at forms part of the Hippodrome’s 2018/19 programme and will be directed by Tinuke Craig (pictured). Birmingham’s Thinktank next It will be staged at the venue next year, from 16 to 21 July. month (2 October) when the Meanwhile, a number of presentations commemorating the 100th anniversary of the end of World ever-adventurous Ligeti Quartet War One, including the National Theatre’s award-winning production of War Horse, feature among take audiences on ‘an astronom- the highlights of the Hippodrome’s autumn programme. ical journey into new music’. Inspired by modern astronomy Tickets for the venue’s new-season shows go on sale to the Friends of the Theatre on Thursday 23 and music, Ligeti will perform August at 11am, and to the general public on Wednesday 29 August (11am). eight new planetary works by For more information, visit birminghamhippodrome.com eight composers. For more information, visit birminghammuseums.org.uk New live music Popular Birmingham festival celebrates After hours at the venue to open 50 glorious years of Reggae music in Birmingham city museum’s The impact, legacy and heritage of 50 years of Reggae music will be Birmingham’s Digbeth celebrated in next month’s BASS2018 festival. collection centre area is getting a brand Taking place at various Birmingham venues across October, the event new live music, bar & features concerts, films, exhibitions and discussions. Highlights in- event venue this month. clude appearances by Toots And The Maytals and Loversrock pioneer The Mill is located on Carrol Thompson. The festival also commemorates the 40th anniver- Lower Trinity Street and sary of the release of iconic Steel Pulse album Handsworth Revolution. features a large ware- For more information, visit wearepunch.co.uk house space, a mezza- Birmingham Museums is this nine level and an month providing visitors with open-top roof garden, the chance to ‘explore by night’ situated against the the Museum Collection Centre - Victorian railway complete with live musical arches. Live-music accompaniment! artists so far booked for The centre stores thousands of The Mill include the objects for Birmingham Muse- original 1977 line-up of ums and will be available to visit on Thursday 13 September. Sham 69, who will be The Bostin' Brass will be performing at the venue further enlivening the experi- on Friday 28 September. ence with some classic funk For more information, beats from New Orleans. visit themilldigbeth.com

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First Word

New campaign aims to promote the lives and contributions of older members of the LGBT community A Midlands charity for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgen- der people (LGBT) has launched a campaign aimed at pro- moting the lives and lived experiences of older LGBTs. Birmingham LGBT’s Ageing With Pride initiative will high- light the positive contributions made by gay and trans peo- ple over the age of 50 who are living or have lived in the city. Commenting on the importance of the campaign, the char- ity’s Director, Steph Keeble, said: “I’m really excited that we’re able to deliver Ageing With Pride. The aim is for it to be highly visible, addressing the issues that older LGBT people face but also celebrating the lives and achievements of our LGBT elders, many of whom fought discrimination and campaigned for the achievements in human rights we all now share.” For further information, visit blgbt.org

Symphonic Fantasy Get ready for A Black Country Night Out 70 years and still Birmingham’s Symphony Hall This year’s A Black Country Night Out touring show will feature a new galloping along next month hosts the cast member - comedian Wayne Beese. The Horse Of The Year Show Concert Orchestra and the Can- Wayne joins the ensemble as a replacement for longtime contributor will next month be celebrat- zonetta choir as they present an Ian ‘Sludge’ Lees, who recently passed away following a short illness. ing its 70th anniversary at evening of music from the Wayne is joined in the line-up by husband-and-wife comedy duo Birmingham’s NEC (Wednes- world of film and epic fantasy. Dandy, comedian Ollie Spencer, resident band The Empty Can (pic- day 3 to Sunday 7 October). The programme features music tured) and the ukele-playing Joe Thomas. The show is touring to A firm favourite on the from movies including Lord Of venues across the Midlands. See page 60 for Midlands dates... showjumping calendar, the The Rings, Pirates Of The five-day event hosts a range Caribbean, Jurassic Park, Harry of national and international Potter and The Chronicles Of showjumping classes, and Narnia... Symphonic Fantasy will this year also be present- takes place on 19 October. ing four entertainment dis- To book tickets, call 0121 780 plays for visitors to enjoy. 3333 or visit thsh.co.uk For more information, visit hoys.co.uk Exploring identity & beauty in Brum The controversial issue of skin lightening comes under the spotlight in a ‘powerful and provocative exploration of identity and beauty’ at Birming- ham’s MAC venue this month. Long-lost Tony Hancock radio scripts Combining drama and humour, Marlene McKenzie’s Lite ex- finally set to see the light of day plores the emotional and physi- Two long-lost 1950s radio scripts written for Birmingham-born comedy cal journey required by many legend Tony Hancock are set to be performed this month. people to fit into modern soci- Buried in the BBC archives until recently, the scripts from the series ety, where pressure from the Vacant Lot focus on life in the fictional seaside town of Churdley Bay, media constantly reinforces the where the blundering and pompous Hancock is hoping to better his need to conform. The Friday 14 situation. September production is fol- Popular Birmingham comedian , better known as her lowed by a discussion about alter-ego Mrs Barbara Nice, is among the cast who’ll be performing the the themes of the performance. scripts at Stourbridge Town Hall on Wednesday 19 September. 6 whatsonlive.co.uk First Word Birmingham September copy.qxp_Layout 1 20/08/2018 11:48 Page 4 Taj Express (1).qxp_Layout 1 17/08/2018 14:16 Page 1

Bollywood in Brum Bold beats and explosive dance as new musical arrives in the Midlands

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by Lauren Cole

Taj Express, which visits the Midlands this month, is a one-way ticket to experiencing the flavour of Bollywood. Expect a musical bursting with bold colours, fabulous dancing and a soundtrack by famous composer AR Rahman. What’s On spoke to producer and director Shruti Merchant about the show...

This month, the Midlands will be hit by a Bollywood because the whole world knows Shruti is particularly excited about bringing wave of Indian culture when Taj Express who Mr Rahman is. This story contemplates Taj Express to the UK. comes to both the Birmingham Hippodrome who carries on his legacy, and it acts as a “This is my favourite country. I desperately and the Regent Theatre in Stoke. catalyst to explore all the different music and want to move to the UK because I feel very dance of India through different choreogra- The feelgood musical has been a success connected to the world of musical theatre phy. across the globe, including during its stint in here. In Mumbai, where I’m currently living, London last year. Audiences will get the “I always like to think that the audience I feel all alone. When I walk around the opportunity to explore the glamorous world enjoys being transported into a new world streets of London, I see so many musicals of Bollywood through a young man’s desire where they feel happy, relaxed and, most playing and so many people lining up to to follow in the footsteps of composer AR importantly, are completely entertained. I’m watch theatre. That’s something that Rahman - the man behind the music from hit not here to put across any content that de- doesn’t exist in my country - films and Bolly- movie Slumdog Millionaire. presses anybody, or that makes them want to wood are the predominant entertainment. So check their phones. The fact that everyone yes, the UK is special to me.” Director and producer of Taj Express, Shruti wants to dance at the end of the show is Merchant, comes from a family who’s Directing musical theatre and leading her great; there’s some kind of release the heritage is deeply rooted in dance and company is incredibly hard work, but the audience feel when they come out of a choreography. rewards more than make up for it. Bollywood musical. I’m not here to show the “I’m born into a family of choreographers,” technique of Bollywood dancing or to brag “Theatre is the life I’ve chosen, but I’ve had she says. “Not just in Bollywood, but also about the kinds of fabulous extensions we do to sacrifice my personal life because the only from a background of Indian classical in our dancing. I just want my audience to be thing I’m doing is focusing on the dancing - predominantly Kathak, like all my entertained!” productions. It’s an endless job. There are ancestors from Rajasthan. times when I say, “I’m never going to do this Shruti believes Taj Express is bringing a true I started off my career assisting my sister, again”. Then, after finishing the production and diverse flavour of India to theatres across Vaibhavi Merchant, in films, and that’s when and sleeping for two or three days straight, the world. we got an offer to do a musical about her life. I’m trying to get back on it. Yes, there are a I quickly preferred sitting in a theatre to “I think Taj Express is a perfectly curated lot of sacrifices, but I think at the same time being on a set because the experience was show of the best parts of India. Everything - the madness is what I enjoy the most. The exhilarating - the audience reaction to your from the team we have to the songs we sing, reward is when the audience stands up at the work was so instant. The kind of love and the script by Toby Gough and the dance in end to give us a round of applause, and then adulation we received when taking our the show - makes this happen. We didn’t leaves the theatre laughing, smiling and culture and dance choreography on stage is want to bore people with Indian history, so dancing. something that made me never want to go the script is very easy to follow. Even the “I have another production that I’ll start back on a film set. So I started my company, fabrics and colours of the costumes have working on when Taj Express has finished. It Quintessence, to produce not only Taj brought in a pallete that is pan-India. will probably be presented next year at the Express but a lot more content from India.” “Audiences find our dance styles so intrigu- Fringe because we’ve got a keen Shruti believes that Bollywood is the perfect ing and wonder how we Indians move our interest from there. I’ve been touring Taj platform upon which to base the most necks in that certain way, so these are the Express for five years now, so it’s high time I vibrant of musicals. kinds of moments we’ve incorporated into did something new because there’s such a the musical. It doesn’t only feature demand. I’ll be presenting a lot more stuff “I guess in India we still believe in dreams traditional dance performed in the temples in from India out there on the world stage.” and fairytales. We believe very heavily in India, it also speaks to current India, which romance, and the drama surrounding ro- is in tune with hip-hop and other modern mance, and we show this in our films. How- forms of dance and music. The way our show ever, we wanted to do something different has been styled is in tune with popular world Taj Express runs at Birmingham with Taj Express. We came up with the idea standards, but also brings true India through. Hippodrome from Tuesday 11 to Saturday of telling the story of a young boy who tries It’s such a unique, diverse production for 15 September and is at Regent Theatre, to follow in the footsteps of AR Rahman. He audiences all over the world to enjoy.” Stoke-on-Trent on Tuesday 18 September wants to be the next big composer in

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by Lauren Cole

Fun in the sun! Although it’s the end of the road for long-running television series Benidorm, the show’s Mid- lands fans can still catch up with all their favourite characters, thanks to a new touring stage version of the hit ITV comedy. What’s On recently chatted to Adam Gillen - who plays the unusual but loveable Liam Conroy - to find out more about ...

Complete with swingers, cross-dressing be himself. That’s the beautiful thing about stage, we’re able to have a proper barny, and more, would you say Benidorm really Liam, actually - he doesn’t try to be anyone where we can cross over speech when shout- embraces the beauty of , Adam? else but who he is. He’s sometimes unusual ing at each other without that being an issue. I reckon so. I think the character of Les/Les- and sometimes quite strange, but nobody But I think the core elements are the same. ley is a wonderful one. It also shows how should apologise for who they are. So if he What’s the most outrageous thing you’ve someone can be if they’re surrounded by an keeps on that road, he’ll find somebody - seen off-set during all your time filming accepting community that allows him to be eventually. abroad? himself and express himself both as a man Some of Liam’s fashion choices in the TV God, I’ve seen quite a few things in and as his alter-ego. I think it portrays an en- series have been questionable. Has he Benidorm. People really let loose. People just vironment of freedom and freedom of expres- grown up a bit for the stage version? have the best time of their lives. Even though sion, and I think that’s a really positive thing. I’m not sure yet, as we haven’t had that cos- people are insanely happy, it does sometimes I imagine Benidorm’s portrayal of all tume chat, but I hope so. When I first started look like you imagine Sodom and Gomorrah lifestyles with a certain amount of levity, joy playing him, I got the impression he was would! It’s just absolute chaos and pure car- and fun can only be a good thing. I think the dressed by his mother and also borrowed a nage, but in the most beautifully fun sense. I overall reason for Benidorm’s success, few things from her wardrobe, which is quite couldn’t even pick out a specific event be- though, is that there’s a certain amount of ir- a fun angle. Then, as he’s grown up, he’s cause there have been too may. reverence, real warmth and heart in its story. been influenced by Kenneth, and I think Ken- genuinely loves his characters. Not planning a holiday trip to Benidorm neth has picked him out a couple of shirts. I anytime soon, then? Your character, Liam, and Kenneth - think now he’s older there may be a change, Well, I’ve been to Benidorm for four months played by Tony Maudsley - have a close but we’ll see what the costume chat has in every year for eight years, but I wouldn’t say friendship. What can we expect in the store. no to dipping my toe in again - once I’ve had stage version? What made you want to come back to the a little break - because its enormous fun. You Liam and Kenneth are who they are. They character of Liam for a full-on stage show? don’t have to be going for it party-wise to care for each other very dearly. I think they’re The series has come to an end, and I can’t enjoy the area because there are actually beautiful, well-formed characters who aren’t think of a better way to pay tribute to that some really lovely things to do there; it’s a re- shallow and have layers. They’re very whole- than by doing a sort-of Benidorm roadshow - ally beautiful part of Spain. The neon whites some and just fun to watch. I’m not sure if an extended, bumper episode. To see the always draw you back for a bit of nonsense in there’ll be duets in the Neptune, but certainly freedom that those characters can explore on the end, though. there’ll be a continuation of the combative, the stage as well is great. For example, Tony fun, warring siblings relationship they seem What are your plans for the future? and I, we like the physical, brotherly side of to have - just more nonsense. That’s the thing I’m not sure. We’ve got this until April and our characters’ relationship, and you can’t al- with all your best friends; you can have the then, after that, who knows? There’s hope- ways get all of that on camera effectively. So most horrendous rows and fall out terribly, fully more fun, interesting projects to come. to be on stage and to have a bit more space but you know they’re not going to go very far that allows you to really have a proper jostle and you’re always going to be there for each is ideal. other. I think that’s what happens with us. Benidorm Live visits the Regent Theatre, How does preparation for comedy on- Liam is pretty ill-fated and unlucky in Stoke-on-Trent, from Monday 24 to Satur- stage and comedy for screen differ? love. What dating advice would you give day 29 September, and then runs at the The timings and the rhythm of the comedy is him? New Alexandra Theatre in Birmingham the same, but you’re not restricted so much I think I’d say that he shouldn’t be afraid to from Monday 3 to Saturday 29 December. by the technical side of things on stage. On Food September Birmingham.qxp_Layout 1 20/08/2018 14:54 Page 1 Food September Birmingham.qxp_Layout 1 20/08/2018 14:54 Page 2

Food

REVIEW: Al Bader My dining companion selected and spinach and topped with the hummus shawarma - home- king prawn. A taste of Lebanon, Syria and made chickpea puree with Also featuring on Al Bader’s ex- Marrakesh in Birmingham sesame pasta and lemon juice tensive menu is a fine selection dressing, topped with a choice of of delicacies from both Lebanese Lebanese Moroccan eatery Al Bader was like an evening visit to sliced lamb or chicken and Turkish bakeries, as well as Bader boasts a celebrity endorse- a culinary paradise. By the end, shawarma. A most enjoyable ap- a number of dishes to share. ment from local actor Adil Ray. we were happy to leave only be- petiser for the enthusiastically As Adil Ray had advised, the The Citizen Khan star is a regular cause we were pleasantly stuffed anticipated main-dish course restaurant was indeed extremely visitor to the Ladypool Road with fine-tasting food. that was still to come. busy, and any final bill is un- establishment. And the food really was phenom- There’s plenty else from which to likely to make your wallet groan Al Bader is every bit as good as enal. Al Bader even has a break- choose on the starter menu too, too much. the too-many-to-mention rave re- fast menu, complete with a full from sawada dijaj - seasoned A fantastic meal in a bustling views it’s received during its English if you’ve forgotten to put chicken liver sauteed in garlic restaurant, with cash left in your decade of inspired service to the your adventurous-pants on. Far and pomegranate sauce - to mer- pocket for a beer or two down people of Birmingham. more appealing, though, are the guez - pan-fried sausages with your local. As great eating-out And that service really is in- Moroccan breakfast options, in- fresh tomatoes and onions. experiences go, this was cer- spired; just like the menu: ‘From cluding the delicious-sounding For my main, I was drawn to- tainly one which will be hard to the hills of Lebanon, the streets shakshuka omelette - spiced wards the samke harra, a tradi- beat. Jon Bennett of Syria to the hustle and smells mince meat oven-cooked in tional Lebanese spicy fish dish of Marrakesh,’ reads the intro- roasted tomatoes, peppers, that originated in Tripoli. Cooked Food: nnnnn ductory page, ‘all are familiar to onions and topped with eggs. Or in an impressively herby tradi- Service: nnnnn the home of the Al-Bader family. how about kickstarting your day tional sauce and served with Ambience: nnnnn ‘Our kitchen team has over 100 with a lamb kafta - meatballs rice, fries or bread - I chose the Overall value nnnnn years experience between them slow-cooked in a tagine with rice - it was a dish that not only OVERALL nnnnn and come with passion and style. eggs in a rich tomato sauce?... met my expectations but actually Al Bader We hope your experience with us The evening menu was no less surpassed them. 178-182 Ladypool Road is an uplifting and comfortable appetising. For a starter, my love My friend’s selection proved equally revelatory: marinated Birmingham one, and you feel the love of our of beans steered me towards the B12 8JS charcoal grilled butterfly chicken cooking.’ falafel, a delicious blend of deep- Tel: 0121 773 9818 Myself and my dining compan- fried fava beans, chickpeas, fine fillet cooked in a warm creamy ion certainly did. Our time in Al herbs and croquettes. harrisa tomato sauce, prawns whatsonlive.co.uk 11 Food September Birmingham.qxp_Layout 1 20/08/2018 14:54 Page 3

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Food

Charity Viva! to host Birmingham's largest ever vegan festival -based charity Viva! is returning to Birmingham on 8 September to host the city’s largest ever vegan festival. Expected to attract over 2,000 visitors to New Bingley Hall, the event will feature over 150 stalls and include talks, cookery demonstrations and (of course!) plenty of vegan food. Entry to the festival is £3, with kids under 16 going free.

New restaurant set to open in The Mailbox New family-run Italian restaurant Pinocchio is set to open in Birmingham’s Mailbox this month. Taking up residence alongside the Mailbox’s other canalside restaurants, Old celebrity haunt back in business in Birmingham the eatery will serve pasta, pizza and risotto dishes, as well as steak, lamb, Once a famous hangout for the likes of Ronnie Wood and UB40, Deolali, now named Deolali veal and a daily fish option. Dhaba, has reopened in the heart of Birmingham’s Moseley district. Offering an Indian twist on some of Britain’s best-loved dishes, restaurant is being tipped as ‘one to watch’ in a city known for its love of spice. The menu features old favourites such as dum biriyani and garlic Midlands Whisky chilli lamb and new additions including keema scotch egg, Tandoori dil salmon, Goan fish curry and the already infamous Deolali Shepherd’s Pie. Festival returns for Manager Tariq Zaman comments: “Birmingham already has a wealth of authentic Indian cuisine a third year available, so we knew that we needed to offer something different, not just to attract food lovers The Midlands Whisky Festival makes a but to keep them coming back. Of course, we keep to traditional spices and flavour combinations welcome return this month, taking in our dishes, but the menu also offers a point of difference, with dishes like our chicken place at thestudio in Birmingham on mo-mo and shepherd’s pie proving that we’re much more than an Indian restaurant. Staying true Saturday 15 September. to our name, we’ve gone crazy for new flavours, which I think results in a really exciting addition Serving Scotch, Irish, Swedish, French, to a city that’s already known worldwide for its foodie offering.” Japanese, American and Indian whiskies, the festival is also hosting a Fine & Rare bar - a room where you can Street food pop-up opens Custard Factory restaurant ‘take your palate to new heights with Baked In Brick, the most celebrated tipples from a bygone era’. street food pop-up in the UK and winner of Best Street Food Trader at the British & European Street Food Awards, has opened a 60-seater restaurant in Birmingham’s Custard Factory. The menu features the ‘best main course’ winner at the European Street Food Awards - Shire Meadows Beef Shin Ragu & Wild Mushroom Calzone with a Colston Bassett Stilton Dip - as well as artisan pizzas, a selection of fresh salads and charcuterie boards. A lighter lunch menu features chicken tikka wraps, charcuterie and pizza by the slice. Hand-crafted cocktails and a selection of draught and bottled beers from Purity are also available.

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Gigs

Brooke Bentham Hare & Hounds, Birmingham, Tues 4 September Twenty-two-year-old singer-songwriter Brooke Bentham’s music has been described as carrying ‘the weight of someone who's lived a hundred lives already’. Having re- leased her debut EP, The Room Swayed, last year, lead tracks Heavy & Ephemeral and I Need Your Body instantly picked up support across Radio One, 6Music and Radio X. Performing her live show at festivals includ- ing Green Man, Reading & and Lati- tude - not to mention a string of high-profile support shows with Sam Fender earlier this year - Brooke now embarks on an autumn headline tour. Soccy Mommy offer support.

Kylie coveted Grammy Award, Kylie heads for Birmingham with a brand new extravaganza Genting Arena, Birmingham, Fri 21 September centred around latest album Golden. But don’t worry - the princess of pop will un- Having racked up more than 80 million doubtedly be treating fans to some of the worldwide record sales, released 14 studio best-loved hits from her extensive , 12 compilation albums and won a back-catalogue too. Arctic Monkeys Molotov Jukebox Biffy Clyro Arena Birmingham, Sat 15 - Sun 16 September O2 Academy, Birmingham, Sat 15 September Symphony Hall, Birmingham, Wed 19 September Formed in 2002, rock band Arctic Monkeys Boasting a unique sound, Molotov Jukebox Finally finding stardom in 2007 with the have released five studio albums, won seven are a six-piece like no other. album Puzzle, Scottish rockers Biffy Clyro Brit Awards - bagging both Best British Group Fronted by lead singer Natalia Tena (who have since established themselves as one of and Best British Album three times - been played Nymphadora Tonks in the Harry Pot- the biggest bands on the music scene. nominated for three Grammy Awards and ter film series and the wildling Osha in Puzzle was actually the group’s fourth won the Mercury Prize in 2006 for their debut Game Of Thrones), they bring their bilingual album, so the boys were no overnight-suc- album, Whatever People Say I Am, That's fiesta floor-fillers to Birmingham this month cess story. Indeed, it was only their decision What I'm Not. as part of a 10th anniversary tour. to perform ‘more mainstream’ songs that Alex Turner and the band this month visit brought them to the attention of a wider au- Birmingham in support of latest album Tran- dience... The band visit Symphony Hall this quility Base Hotel & Casino. Garbage Digbeth Arena, Birmingham, Sat 8 September month in support of their first acoustic album, MTV Unplugged: Live At The Scottish-American alternative rockers Roundhouse London. Garbage were founded in 1993 and have sold more than 17 million albums worldwide. Featuring Shirely Manson, Duke Erikson, Steve Marker and Butch Vig, the band also have a theme to their name, having performed and co-produced 1999’s The World Is Not Enough. They visit Birmingham as part of the Skyline Series, with Maximo Park and Honeyblood providing support.

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Classical

CBSO: Italian Moments Symphony Hall, Birmingham, Thurs 27 September Birmingham-born conductor Alpesh Chauhan (pictured) picks up the baton to oversee a CBSO homage to all things Ital- ian - from Tchaikovsky’s Romeo & Juliet to Respighi’s depiction of Roman excess in his symphonic poem, Feste Romane. Russian pianist Pavel Kolesnikov also con- tributes to the evening’s programme when he performs Rachmaninov’s Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini.

Autumn Classics: CBSO Benevolent Fund Concert Symphony Hall, Birmingham, Sat 22 September Summer has flown, autumn is here - and former BBC Young Musician of the Year Jennifer Pike (pictured) is bringing her violin to town for this special concert in aid of the Benevo- lent Fund, a registered friendly society supporting CBSO players and staff. After Jennifer has presented a number of ‘mouthwatering miniature treats’ in the violin repertoire, the CBSO turn the full glare of the spotlight on Russia, performing a programme of work that includes compositions by Shostakovich, Glazunov and Tchaikovsky. Stephen Bell is the man who’ll be wielding the baton to excellent effect.

CBSO: Dvorak’s Emily Sun With A French Accent New World Gamal Khamis On The Classics Symphony Hall, Birmingham, Routh Hall, Bromsgrove School, Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, Wed 12 & Thurs 13 September Bromsgrove, Fri 28 September Thurs 6 September Pianist Gamal Khamis here lends his sup- port to the winner of last year’s Bromsgrove Young Musicians competition, violinist Emily Sun (pictured). Presenting a programme of tuneful sonatas by romantic and 20th century composers, Emily will draw the evening to a close with much-loved tunes including Summertime from Porgy And Bess. Omer Meir Wellber makes a welcome return to the region to conduct the City of Birming- ham Symphony Orchestra. The programme Two of Royal Birmingham Conservatoire's for the evening brings together concertos by advanced pianists, Domonkos Csabay and Rachmaninov and Bartok with Dvorak’s Connor Wilcox, here perform music from Othello and From The New World. Durand’s Édition classique. A significant, The latter piece was first performed 125 large but little explored collection of Euro- years ago, since which time it has estab- pean piano music from the 18th and 19th lished itself as one of the most popular centuries, the publication was edited by, symphonies ever written. among others, various early 20th century Two of classical music’s most revered French composers. artists - violinist Gidon Kremer and pianist The concert forms part of a three-day con- Jan Lisiecki (pictured) - contribute to the ference hosted by the French Music Re- programme on separate nights. search Hub. whatsonlive.co.uk 17 Festivals September.qxp_Layout 1 17/08/2018 12:10 Page 1 Festivals September.qxp_Layout 1 17/08/2018 12:10 Page 2

Festivals

Shiiine On Birmingham O2 Academy, Birmingham, Sat 8 September Festival brand Shiiine On is launching a new one-day event at Birmingham’s O2 Academy this month. Shiiine On Birmingham’s impressive line-up includes more than 20 iconic bands. The Hacienda will descend on the city, with Todd Terry headlining a superb line-up alongside Marshall Jefferson and Jon Dasilva. Ticket prices include free entry to two special afterparties. Line-up includes: Orbital, Shed Seven (pic- tured), Happy Mondays, Embrace, Glasvegas, Julian Cope, Reverend & The Makers, Black Grape, Cast, The Wedding Present, Dread- zone, A Certain Ratio, Jim Bob (Carter USM), Bentley Rhythm Ace, Thousand Yard Stare, The Stairs, Psyence, Steve Cradock, Clint Boon (Inspiral Carpets) and Ned's Acoustic Dustbin.

Moseley Folk Godiva Bromyard Folk Festival Moseley Park, Birmingham, War Memorial Park, Coventry, Bromyard, Worcestershire, Fri 31 August - Sun 2 September Fri 31 August - Sun 2 September Thurs 6 - Sunday 9 September Tucked away behind Birmingham’s busy Taking place for the 51st time, Bromyard’s streets, the beautiful Moseley Park is one of much-loved celebration of traditional music the city's hidden gems, transformed each is now a well-established tradition in and of year into an enchanting escape by one of the itself. This year’s event promises more than Midlands' best-loved music festivals. 170 hours of entertainment, with some of the Traditional folk & low-fi acoustic sets blend finest national and international folk musi- seamlessly with dreamy electropop, cians headlining a programme that also in- psychedelia and indie favourites against a cludes workshops, sing-arounds, ceilidhs, magical backdrop of bright hippie colours, dance displays, children’s entertainment and lush foliage and a beautiful lake. The perfect a traditional craft market. way to see out the summer. Line-up includes: Oysterband, The Music line-up includes: Levellers, Teenage Young’uns (pictured), Rura, Cosmotheka, Fanclub (pictured), Nick Mulvey, Steve Chris Wood, Fara, Moore Moss and Rutter, Harley & Cockney Rebel, Show Of Hands, The Rheingans Sisters, Granny’s Attic, Crows, Bridget St John, King Creosote, This Is The The Hut People, Cardboard Fox, Jack Rutter, Proudly reaffirming its status as the UK's Kit, Willy Mason, Imarhan, Skinny Lister, Cohen Braithwaite-Kilcoyne, Steamchicken, biggest and best free music festival, Godiva Jools Holland and Samantha Parton, Richard Rosie Hood, Ben Robertson and Keith Don- presents another bumper crop of top-notch Dawson, Martin Carthy, Chris Wood and nelly. talent as it returns for 2018. Veteran perform- Siobhan Miller. ers join emerging artists working across a dazzling array of genres. While the tradi- tional Godiva procession continues to this day, the weekend has certainly come a long way since its 17th century origins as a cele- bration of the medieval Countess of Mercia. Music line-up includes: Editors, Ronan Keating, Jake Bugg, Gaz Coombes (pictured), Cradle Of Filth, Asian Dub Foundation, Jonas Blue, Peace, The Band, Gabrielle, Professor Green, Little Comets, Hazel O’Connor and Blood Red Shoes. whatsonlive.co.uk 19 Comedy September 2018 .qxp_Layout 1 17/08/2018 12:11 Page 1

Comedy

Scummy Mummies Artrix, Bromsgrove, Fri 14 September; Sutton Coldfield Town Hall, Wed 10 October “Our speciality is comedy for less-than-per- fect parents, so that means all parents!” says Ellie Gibson about Scummy Mummies, her popular double act with Helen Thorn. “Our live comedy shows cover a wide range of parenting topics - from pelvic floors and play-dates to farting and fish fingers. Expect songs, sketches, stand-up and very scummy stories!”

Marcus Brigstocke Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, Sun 23 September; Old Rep Theatre, Birmingham, Sun 30 September; Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, Sat 24 November; Evesham Arts Centre, Sat 1 December Rich Hall Oakengates Theatre at The Place, Telford, Peddling a line in dark, intelligent humour, the award-winning is one of Tues 25 September; Birmingham Town Hall, the most inventive talents on the comedy circuit. Jokes include: “I realised I was dyslexic Thurs 11 October; Evesham Arts Centre, when I went to a toga party dressed as a goat,” and “If Pac-Man had affected us as kids, Sat 20 October; Stourport Civic Centre, we'd all be running around in dark rooms, munching pills and listening to repetitive elec- Wed 21 November tronic music.” His official biography somewhat less than Marcus’s latest touring show, Devil May Care, finds Lucifer himself arbitrating on the in- modestly describes American funnyman creasingly tricky issue of what’s good and what’s bad ‘in these challenging divisive times’. Rich Hall as ‘a comic genius’ - albeit a ‘grouchy, deadpan’ one. With much of his comedy focusing on mak- ing fun of life across the pond in his home- Gary Delaney land, Rich is best known for his creation of Otis Lee Crenshaw, a bourbon-swilling red- Stafford Gatehouse, Fri 7 September; Artrix, Bromsgrove, neck jailbird from Tennessee whose many Thurs 20 September; Royal Spa Centre, Leamington Spa, Thurs 11 October; The Glee Club, Birmingham, wives have all been named Brenda. Sun 4 November Rich returns to the Midlands with a show “The hardest part of running competitively in that he describes as a hoedown: “There’s must be keeping up with the Joneses,” quips the ever- stand-up comedy, improvised ballads, popular Gary Delaney. cracking good musicianship, and ultimately And Gary’s certainly no one- a hilarious, foot-stomping, s**t-kicking good gag pony: “My girlfriend’s time to be had by all. Even if you don’t own dog died, so to cheer her up I a hoe.” went out and got her an iden- tical one. She was livid and yelled, ‘What am I going to do with two dead dogs?’ Or how about: “The president of France said that the English are arrogant with their re- fusal to learn foreign languages. At least I think that’s what he said. It all just sounded like haw-he-haw-he- haw-he-haw.” Suffice to say there’ll be plenty more where those came from when Sarah Millican’s Solihull-born husband re- turns to his Midlands roots this month. 20 whatsonlive.co.uk Comedy September 2018 .qxp_Layout 1 17/08/2018 12:11 Page 2

Stephen Lynch The Glee Club, Birmingham, Sun 16 September American funnyman and theatrical star Stephen makes a welcome return to the UK for the first time in five years this month. A Broadway award winner for his perform- ance in hit musical The Wedding Singer, Stephen describes himself as a musician trapped in a comedian’s body - so it’s little wonder that he’s made the singing of witty ditties a real front-and-centre element of his stand-up set.

Dylan Moran Run, the hugely entertaining Irishman spe- cialises in stand-up rants that are often New Alexandra Theatre, Sat 22 September; bizarre and always unpredictable. Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, Sat 6 October; Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, Tues 30 October Jokes include: “I don't do drugs. If I want a rush, I just stand up when I'm not expecting Once labelled 'the Oscar Wilde of comedy’, it,” and “I can't swim. I can't drive either. I it's fair to say that Dylan Moran is a fella with was going to learn to drive but then I a style of humour all his own. A star of hit thought, well, what if I crash into a lake?” Jason Byrne films Shaun Of The Dead and Run Fat Boy Birmingham Town Hall, Sat 29 September Watching Jason Byrne on stage has been likened by one reviewer to watching foot- Geoff Norcott Chris Tucker baller Lionel Messi play for Barcelona: it’s Arena Birmingham, Thurs 27 September Henry Tudor House, not a matter of 'if' the magic will come, but Shrewsbury, Wed 12 'when' and 'how often'. Byrne comes to the Probably best known for playing September; The Core Detective James Carter in the Rush Midlands with brand new offering You Can Theatre, Solihull, Hour movies, American stand-up Come In, But Don’t Start Anything, a show Fri 16 November which he promises will hotwire his audi- comedian Chris Tucker has been a big High-energy Geoff is one hit at the cinema, starring in films ence’s funnybones big time! of the sharpest tools in “Everyone’s welcome,” says Jason, “unless which have collectively the comedy shed, pre- grossed more than one billion you’re under 14, in which case come back senting shows which when you’re older.” dollars at the box office. He’s blend observational hu- been plying his trade as a mour with satire - and comedian for a couple of even the odd impression decades now, and released his or several! A former first stand-up movie, Chris teacher, plenty of Tucker Live, on Netflix back in Geoff’s gags relate to 2015. school experiences and Jokes include: “Have you ever the education system. had a neighbour that borrows He’s also made some- your shit for so long, you have thing of a name for him- to borrow it back?” and “You self in the field of loan your friend money. You sports-related humour, a see them again, they don't say niche that’s yielded him nothin' ’bout the money. 'Hi, how plenty of work both on ya doin'? How's ya mama doing?' television and radio. Man, how's my money doin'?’”

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by Dave Freak Josh Pugh Keeps it personal with The Changing Man

A harrowing tale of confinement rests at the heart of Josh Pugh’s latest show. What’s On finds out more from the award-winning Warwickshire comedian…

Josh Pugh was just 10 years old when he jokes and they’re quiet, they’re not enjoying enjoyed doing it." experienced the traumatic incident that lies themselves." Although the podcast’s University of East at the heart of his latest stand-up show, The At the centre of the story is that agonising Coventry setting is entirely fictional, it's Changing Man. puffer jacket incident. certainly plausible. "I got stuck in a puffer jacket," he confesses, "I went to my dad’s one weekend and he was "You can see these universities online, and "for 48 hours!" just angry all the time. The next weekend he they’re so embarrassing. You see these Hailing from Atherstone, Warwickshire, Josh bought me this puffer jacket I wanted, as a students wandering around campus saying, made his stand-up debut in the spring of present, and I zipped it up and realised the ‘Wow! There are so many shops and facilities 2014. Within 18 months, he'd won the zip was stuck, and I was too scared to tell here! I can really see myself getting a great Birmingham Comedy Festival Breaking him. I was worried that he’d shout at me, so I education here!’ So it started off as a parody Talent Award, and in 2016 he picked up the kept it on for the whole weekend.” of that.” English Comedian of the Year title - the prize As those two horrendous days progressed, With the first six episodes available online for which included a string of Australian gigs. the young Josh's stress levels sky-rocketed. for free, listeners will be pleased to know that "The weirdest thing was the ex-pats who Would his father be furious that he'd just there are more shows on the way. came to the show because I was billed as ruined his expensive new present? Would "We’ve started working on another series English Comedian of the Year. I’d have people someone have to tear him out of the snug now. People who’ve listened to it have coming up to me saying, ‘I used to live in jacket? Or would he be forced to live in it for enjoyed it, and we’ve enjoyed doing it - it’s Coventry’, or ‘I’ve been to The Roadhouse’ (a the rest of his life? nice to do something other than stand-up. now-closed venue in Birmingham). I found "Then something happens where I realise I You have all these ideas sometimes that don’t that dead odd - being so far away, on the don’t have to be scared of my dad, so the work as stand-up, so it’s nice to have a other side of the world, and having people show is about how you think people are one different vehicle for it. If you listen to a lot of coming up to me who knew where I lived!" way, but they can be another way.” podcasts, they’re often just two people It seems that bumping into local folk in chatting, but we wanted to produce it more The show is one of two he’ll be bringing to far-flung places is more common than you like a radio show. It’s scripted a bit more and the Birmingham Comedy Festival next might think. edited a bit more - there aren’t that many month. The second is the live premiere of his podcasts like it. I don’t think anyone else is "I did a gig in Switzerland, which is this real podcast, Josh And Phil's Knowledge Club, doing anything like it. We might do it at the melting pot of a place, and there was one guy with fellow West Midlands comedian Phil Fringe next year if it goes down well in there from Worcester!" Pagett. Birmingham." The Changing Man is Josh’s second one-hour "The premise of Knowledge Club is that we’re Edinburgh Fringe show. working for a fictional university and we’re pitching the university to potential students. "The Changing Man was my nickname. I’m a freelance lecturer who hasn’t really got Josh Pugh performs The Changing Man at That’s what my dad used to call me because I a clue and Phil’s the straight man. We’re still 1000 Trades in Birmingham’s Jewellery was always into different fads and different working it out, but it’ll be good live. Phil’s got Quarter on Saturday 13 October. stuff every time I went round to see him. So a good ear and eye for stuff like that." John And Phil’s Knowledge Club is at it’s a bit more personal this year. Last year's The Victoria, Birmingham, on Sunday show, A Boy Named Pugh, was just jokes and The first series of podcasts saw the duo 14 October, as part of the second Free me being daft - which this is as well - but explore subjects including money, crime, Half-Dayer. there’s also a story this time. I’ve enjoyed dating and technology. For more information about Birmingham doing a story, actually; when people are "Doing different subjects is a good way to Comedy Festival (5 - 14 October), visit quiet, they’re listening, but if you’re doing generate stuff; it’s a good exercise. I’ve bhamcomfest.co.uk

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Theatre Theatre previews from around the region

Benidorm Live Benidorm regulars (Mateo), Janine Duvitski (Jacqueline), Adam Gillen (Liam) and Sherrie Hewson (Joyce Temple-Savage) are Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent, Mon 24 - Sat 29 September; all present and correct in a production that promises to bring plenty New Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham, Mon 3 - Sat 29 December of sunshine to six early-autumn evenings at the Regent. Sangria in Stoke is the name of the game this month when Benidorm The production is then back in the Midlands in a couple of months’ Live jets into the Potteries. Darren Litten’s brand new stage show is of time, for a Christmas run at Birmingham’s New Alexandra Theatre. course based on the hit ITV1 comedy series that’s been delighting Check out our online interview with Adam Gillen who plays viewers for more than a decade now. Liam at whatsonlive.co.uk

The Goon Show Pop Music Nazanin’s Story New Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham, The REP, Birmingham, The Old Joint Stock Theatre, Birmingham, Tues 18 September Wed 12 - Sat 22 September Wed 19 & Thurs 20 September Comedy enthusiasts of a certain vintage will Nazanin’s Story focuses on the real-life expe- well recall . Presenting a rience of Iranian British charity worker highly original and utterly zany style of hu- Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe. In 2016 she was mour, the 1950s radio programme made stars convicted of plotting to overthrow Iran’s cler- of its three main contributors, Spike Milligan, ical establishment and sentenced to five Peter Sellers and Harry Secombe. years in the country’s prison system. This brand new homage to the show is A judge in Tehran recently admitted that presented by the same team who recently Nazanin will not be released from prison adapted another classic radio comedy for the until Iran receives payment for a 1970s debt stage - Round The Horne. Described in its publicity as an emotionally owed by Britain... contagious rollercoaster for anyone who's Long-listed for ever been a dick on the dancefloor, Pop the Amnesty Music finds G and Kayla taking advantage of Freedom of Ex- the free bar at a wedding they’re attending. pression award, With lashings of cheap prosecco offering the play is con- them the chance to forget their troubles, the stantly being up- pair embark on an epic journey through 30 dated to take into years of pop - in the process discovering that account new de- they have far more in common with one velopments in the another than their taste in tunes... ongoing saga.

24 whatsonlive.co.uk Theatre September.qxp_Layout 1 20/08/2018 11:14 Page 2 Joanne Clifton Interview.qxp_Layout 1 21/08/2018 11:16 Page 1

what a feeling! Joanne Clifton stars as Alex in the UK tour of Flashdance The Musical Joanne Clifton Interview.qxp_Layout 1 21/08/2018 11:16 Page 2

More than 13 million people tuned in to BBC One to see Joanne Clifton and her partner, Ore Oduba, lift the glitterball trophy in the final of the 2016 series of Strictly Come Dancing. For the girl from Grimsby, it was not only a moment of triumph but also a stepping stone to a new career as a star of musical theatre. Now Joanne is taking her dancing to the next level in the new UK tour of Flashdance The Musical...

What’s your earliest dance memory, How was that? And what are Dance Sport knowing me only as a dancer, sitting there Joanne, and did you want to put on the Games? and thinking, ‘Let’s see if she can actually ballet shoes and tutu or throw yourself It was an amazing experience. They weren’t, act’! into body popping? like, the loudest audience in Russia, but it The character you play in Flashdance, My earliest memory is being at my mum and was great to be able to say, ‘I’ve done that’. Alex Owens, is based on a real-life woman dad’s dance school. When they couldn’t find The World Sport Games are basically all the who really did work as a welder by day anyone to babysit us, they used to take me sports that aren’t in the Olympics but are on and danced at night. Are you any good at and my brother Kevin along. We were just the waiting list to be included. It’s always DIY? toddlers, but Kevin would join in, and as difficult with something that’s based on I actually built myself a desk and a shoe- soon as he did, I would copy him. Then mum opinion rather than who crosses the line first rack! The shoe rack was basically little pipes put me into ballet, but I was just awful at it; or who jumped the highest - although ice that you fit together at corners, but the desk they used to call me the ‘pregnant plug’ dancing is in the Olympics, so dance could was wood and you had to use a screwdriver. because I wore the little black leotard with maybe make it one day, too. It’s a bit wobbly, and I got one bit the wrong the pink tights and was one of those kids You joined Strictly Come Dancing in 2014 way round, but apart from that I thought I whose belly really stuck out! I was absolutely and won two years later with Ore Oduba. did quite well. rubbish at it and hated it. So I stopped the What was your favourite dance routine ballet but did ballroom, Latin, disco and little Could you describe Alex in three words? during your winning series? group dances. Then we started entering Passionate, focused and determined. competitions when Kevin was five and I was Singing In The Rain, because I thought that four. Quite a lot of people think we’re twins, was a turning point for me and that style is In Flashdance, you have to perform but there’s a whole year and 11 days between just my thing. The audience seemed to love several dance routines that are so well us! the jive. I’m not keen on Latin, but I’m glad known they’ve become iconic movie they enjoyed it. But probably equal with moments. How are you feeling about that? You spent a long time in Italy. Do you Singing In The Rain was the ballroom show speak Italian? I can’t wait! I think the audience will get the dance we did at the end. They’ve both got all same feeling as me. When the music starts, Yes, I went over to a dance school at 16 and that Hollywood glamour, which I love. particularly Maniac and What A Feeling, nobody spoke English there, so I had to learn Your brother, Kevin, also a Strictly dancer, even if I’m tired after a day of rehearsals and very quickly. I stayed there for 14 years. When was the first to congratulate you, even the director says, ‘Okay, let’s do it from the I came back, I’d spent half my life there. It though you’d beaten him. Was there a top’, as soon as that music comes on, I get an was my first language for quite a long time, little bit of sibling rivalry in evidence absolute buzz and can’t wait to do it. and when I came back to England in 2014, I during the course of the show? used to think in Italian and had to translate You’re appearing in the show up until in my head back into English. I dreamed in More on my part. I’m more competitive than December. Are you feeling fit and ready to Italian for about a year after I left. It still Kevin. But he’s my big brother and I wanna take that on? comes out in natural reactions - like if I bang pay him back for all the wrestling moves he I think so. I’ve danced since I was four and my elbow or my knee, I’ll swear in Italian used to practise on me when we were kids. been trained the hard, sports way in Italy. rather than English, which can be a good But if he had a good week, I was really happy Obviously I’m older now - I’m 33 and I’m thing if I’m in public! for him, and he was for me. And as soon as playing a 19-year-old, but I know how to train the cameras went off, I went and said sorry Do you like Italian food? for it and I know how to eat so that I’ve got because he’d been in the finals four times enough energy but can look good in a I absolutely love it, although I wasn’t allowed and not won, and then I just came out of leotard. Touch wood, my dancing experience to eat much of it while I was over there. My nowhere and took the title! will help me through it. male coach was Italian and my female coach Having left Strictly, you went into the tour was Russian, so we were trained like the What is it about Flashdance that really of Thoroughly Modern Millie. Was musical Russian ballet dancers and, of course, we appeals to audiences? theatre a new direction for you or a return needed to be slim. But that’s why I’m eating to an earlier love? It’s such an iconic movie with such iconic lots of it now! songs and scenes. Everybody knows I’d never really trained in musical theatre, And do you cook it? Flashdance, everybody knows What A but I had private lessons in singing and Feeling and everybody knows the Maniac No. I can cook two things. I can do poached acting when I was a kid growing up in water scene. It’s going to be great for those eggs and pop tarts - but that’s a meal in itself, Grimsby. I didn’t do anything for 14 years moments, and I just say to people, come and isn’t it? You can have the poached eggs for while I was in Italy, but since I came back to see it! I’m so grateful that I’ve got the role. mains and then the pop tarts for pudding! do Strictly, I’ve been taking lessons again. Before Millie, I did two other musicals on the 2013 was an amazing year for you. You fringe, but Millie was my first big stage show. won the World Pro Ballroom Show Dance Flashdance The Musical runs at the I’ve wanted to do musicals since I was a kid. I Championships, the World Dance Sport Belgrade Theatre, Coventry, from Tuesday absolutely love singing and acting, and I like Games and you performed at the Kremlin. 4 to Saturday 8 September. the excitement of the audience coming in, War Horse September online mag.qxp_Layout 1 21/08/2018 11:14 Page 1

War Horse

Stage phenomenon War Horse is set to return to the Midlands... What’s On spoke to puppeteers Tom Quinn and Lewis Howard about their crucial role in this spectacular, emotive production...

Michael Morpurgo’s popular children's book puppets, so what’s each puppeteer’s puppet forwards until the head is in a good is now a hit National Theatre stage show, specific role? position. Then I control the front legs using which has wowed audiences and moved triggers at the curve of the knee. Tom: My role as the puppeteer of the head of people to tears all across the world. both Joey and Topthorn is to control what the How much time have you both spent The second UK tour of War Horse is horse is looking at, what it’s thinking and studying horse behaviour? underway. Local lads Tom Quinn - from what it’s feeling; to bring the horse to life. Tom: When we first started, we had a Redditch - and Lewis Howard - who grew up Lewis: As Joey’s heart, I instigate the fortnight of just ‘horse academy’, if you like. and attended drama school in Birmingham - breathing so the horse looks alive. Being It was a little puppetry school where all the are puppeteers in the show. What’s On spoke between the head and the hind means I can puppeteers gathered two weeks before the to them about the task of bringing huge on- see what both are doing, so I can silently rest of the cast to learn basic movements like stage horse puppets to life in front of translate between the two. If I see the hind walking, trotting and galloping. Then we thousands of people... wanting to make a certain move, but the went to the Kings Troop, the Royal Horse It takes three puppeteers to work the head isn’t in the right position just yet to do Artillery with all the ceremonial guns and entirety of the Joey and Topthorn so, I can hold off the hind form pushing the carriages, to watch the real-life Topthorns. War Horse September online mag.qxp_Layout 1 21/08/2018 11:14 Page 2

by Lauren Cole

Then, that afternoon, we went to a riding thoroughbred and half draught horse. He’s Tom: The puppets are made by a South stable to look at more chilled-out riding built for riding, not for a lot of the things he’s African company called the Handspring horses. So we watched a bunch of Joeys as made to do in the show. He’s quite chilled- Puppet Company. There are 23 puppets in the well. We were there watching a lot of little out and earthy, whereas Topthorn is just pure whole show, and Handspring make most of behaviours to refine our skills. thoroughbred, so he’s like a proper feisty them. They’re made from an aluminium officer’s horse. The puppets themselves do a frame that sits on top of the hind and heart Lewis: One of the most important things is lot of that for us, so Joey in comparison to puppeteers, and there’s a cane cage that sort making the horse look as heavy as it should Topthorn is slightly smaller, and as a head of sits around them. Then the mane and tail be. The weight of the puppet is on our backs puppeteer, I can extend Topthorn’s neck up are made using a material called tyvec and and we’re standing on our own feet, so it really tall. He’s an enormous horse, and we bits of leather. So, yeah, those bits rustle and takes a lot of practice to sell the idea that it’s need to convey that proud, feisty side of flow but it still has some weight, and a real horse. But there are things that the him.” between all of the canes there’s a thin mesh puppet can’t do, and if you tried to do those gauze so the audience can see out mostly, but things it would make it look less real, so once It’s easy for people who haven’t seen the in the right light the audience’s view into the we got comfortable with the basics, we show to be dubious about how a puppet cage is obscured. moved away from horse behaviour and can be made realistic on stage. Do either focused on how the puppet can move, and of you have anything to say to people who Is the puppet as heavy to work with as it how best to work with what we’ve got. aren’t yet convinced that they should go sounds? and see the show? Does each team of puppeteers create a Lewis: Yes, the cage that we’re under is 10 slightly different Joey or Topthorn - or Lewis: I first saw it 10 years ago. When my stone, and that’s split between the hind and even, does each individual puppeteer mum told me we were going to see the stage the heart puppeteers’ backs. Then, the legs bring a different personality to the role? version of War Horse, a book I’d read in are probably a couple of kg each, and then school, I didn’t imagine it would be puppets. the head has its own weight that the head Tom: Yes, it’s the same as any other role. So I assumed there would be projections or puppeteer holds up. We wear it as a backpack each team that does Joey and Topthorn something, and there would be a way of and it’s something you get used to. It’s like brings a slightly different characterisation to getting round it that would give the show a wearing one of those big backpacks for life on stage, just like an actor would do slightly more surreal feel. hiking - now only once you take it off do you when interpreting the lines from Hamlet. We realise how heavy it’s been. Early in still go through the same acting choices as But when baby Joey appears on the stage, as rehearsals it was quite brutal though. Trying the speaking parts go through, except we an audience member you don’t want to watch to do stuff, be nimble and make a huge horse don’t act through our own bodies. We also the puppeteers, you want to watch Joey puppet look realistic while having this huge change a lot of things from each show. For because that’s what’s amazing. Then, when weight on your back is quite a challenge. example, one of the nights, one of the actors the big horses come out, from afar you can’t may choose to shout one of their lines, or see a lot of the mechanisms - the puppets just What are your plans for the future? walk towards Joey particularly aggressively, look so fluid. Anyone who comes to see the Tom: I think this role has given me a bit of a which obviously Joey will need to be startled show will be surprised by how quickly they bug for puppetry, but obviously I trained as by. We spend a lot of it improvising how we forget it’s a puppet horse. I mean, we an actor, so I’m sure I can use all the skills think a horse would react in the situation suspend disbelief all the time in theatre, and I’ve gained from this role in a whole range of that’s playing out on stage, and each time this is no exception. work. something slightly different is created. Lewis, you trained at the Birminghan Lewis: As with most actors, I somehow can’t Lewis: I know with my team one of us brings School of Acting. Are you proud to be think beyond the current job. I’m sure I’ve more of a focused intensity to it and one of us returning to the city in such an important opened other doors by doing this role, and is a little more cheeky, but I think both are role? it’s taught me new things I wasn’t sure I’d very funny. But, of course, there are certain Lewis: Yes, I’m incredibly happy because enjoy. It’s like learning a new language or personalities it’s hard to bring to different originally, when we got the contracts, something - a new realm of opportunities parts of the horse. It’s much easier to bring a Birmingham hadn’t been announced and was have been opened up for me, so I’ll just wait sense of cheekiness to the head than to the still a venue to be confirmed. So when I got and see what happens next. hind, for example. It’s harder to be more that news, it was fantastic. To go back there aggressive in certain roles. So yes, certain for four weeks as well is even better. I qualities do manifest themselves in each role actually haven’t been back to Birmingham in the team, while each team also brings since I graduated, so I can’t wait to go back something slightly different to the stage. and show everyone around because I’ve been Tom, how do Topthorn and Joey’s telling the cast all about my favourite places. War Horse is at Birmingham Hippodrome personalities differ, and how do you as a Going back as Joey is really an honour. from Wednesday 10 Oct - Saturday 3 puppeteer bring those different Can you tell us a little bit about the November, and Regent Theatre, Stoke-On- characters out on stage? puppets themselves and what they’re Trent from Wednesday 27 March - Tom: Joey is a hunter, so he’s half made of? Saturday 6 April 2019. Theatre September.qxp_Layout 1 20/08/2018 11:14 Page 3

Theatre Theatre previews from around the region

Salad Days Belgrade Theatre, Coventry, Wed 19 - Sat 22 September; Malvern Theatres, Tues 2 - Sat 6 October When newly-weds Jane and Timo- thy Dawes agree to take care of a tramp’s mobile piano for a month, they find themselves embroiled in an adventure that involves disrup- tive music, flying saucers and an ir- resistible desire to dance... Julian Slade and Dorothy Reynolds’ hit show debuted in the mid-1950s, having been written by the pair as a summer musical for the Bristol Old Vic's resident company. Featuring numbers including We Said We Wouldn’t Look Back, Look At Me, I’m Dancin’ and We’re Look- ing For A Piano, Salad Days is the show that famously made a young Cameron Mackintosh fall in love with all things theatrical. Casting includes Wendi Peters (pictured centre).

Jekyll & Hyde The League Of Gentlemen Rebus: Long Shadows The Old Rep Theatre, Birmingham, Genting Arena, Birmingham, The REP, Birmingham, Tues 18 - Sat 22 September Thurs 13 & Fri 14 September Thurs 20 September - Sat 6 October Doctor Jekyll is not himself! Robert Louis Crime novelist Ian Rankin’s celebrated detec- Stevenson’s gothic novella tells the tale of a tive, John Rebus, takes to the stage for the brilliant but obsessive scientist whose sadis- very first time in a brand new show helmed tic alter-ego wreaks havoc across Victorian by the Birmingham Rep’s Artistic Director, London. Roxana Silbert. This dark, twisted tale of love, redemption Rankin’s most famous creation first hit the and the seductive power of evil is presented bookshelves back in 1987, with this year see- by the National Production Company. ing the publication of the 22nd Rebus novel. The character has also been brought to life The Bafta Award-winning magic of Reece on television, first by Four Weddings And A The Silence Of Snow: The Shearsmith, Steve Pemberton, Mark Gatiss Funeral actor John Hannah and then by Ken and Jeremy Dyson makes a welcome return to Stott. Life Of Patrick Hamilton the stage after an absence of 12 years. The new stage play sees a retired Rebus back Lichfield Garrick, Fri 21 September Spawned on radio then television in the on the case when the daughter of a murder The burning question being asked in this dying days of the 20th century, The League Of victim appears outside his flat... new work by Mark Farrelly is: why do so Gentlemen featured a mind-boggling array of many people get through life without feeling grotesque, bizarre and downright unhinged they ever truly know another person? comedy characters, all of whom were going Writer and performer Farrelly, who scored a about their decidedly abnormal business in recent hit in the Midlands with previous the fictional northern town of Royston Vasey. show Quentin Crisp: Naked Hope, seeks an- Favourite creations include Tubbs and Ed- swers to his question via a contemplation of ward Tattsyrup - who run the ‘local shop for Patrick Hamilton, best known for his plays local people’ - ‘dole scum’-hating Restart offi- Rope and Gaslight. But behind Hamilton’s cer Pauline Campbell-Jones, and gruff-spo- raw, unbridled talent there lurked a troubled ken transsexual taxi driver Barbara Dixon. alcoholic teetering on the brink of self-de- Expect all four and plenty more to be present struction... and correct when the boys take to the stage in Birmingham this month.

26 whatsonlive.co.uk Theatre September.qxp_Layout 1 20/08/2018 11:14 Page 4 Wendi Peters Interview.qxp_Layout 1 21/08/2018 11:36 Page 1

Salad Days! Wendi Peters Interview.qxp_Layout 1 21/08/2018 11:36 Page 2

A loved-up young couple, plenty of laughs and a magical piano that makes people dance - award-winning musical Salad Days is coming to the Midlands... What’s On caught up with star of the show Wendi Peters to talk about the hit production and her extensive stage and screen career...

What’s Salad Days about, Wendi? northern working-class background, so has What do you hope the audience will take had to fight for all she has. The only away from the show? Salad Days holds lots of great memories for similarity is the fact that both have a roving me, and I was thrilled when this opportunity I’m hoping they’ll leave with big smiles on eye for the opposite sex… came along to do it. I first saw a production their faces after a glorious evening of of it when I was about 10. It was an amateur What else can you tell us about your uplifting singing and dancing. They may be a production in Accrington in Lancashire and character? little confused as to why everyone’s looking my godmother, Lorna, was in it. I became for a piano, and why one of Tim’s uncles Lady Raeburn likes to look after herself and obsessed with the music and, soon after, appears from a space ship shaped like a spends plenty of time in the beauty salon. there was a TV version of the show. My sister saucer. It’s such wonderful, crazy nonsense There’s a wonderful scene in Salad Days and I videoed it and watched it over and over but very funny! where she’s having her hair and nails done... again. It’s really become a family joke/ it’s going to be fun! What’s coming up for you once the tour memory, and it’s still quoted today! Of finishes? course, I’m now feeling very old, as I’m How do you feel about embarking on this playing one of the parents in the show. The tour? I have a week off and then it’s straight into show revolves around Jane and Timothy, panto season. I’m back at the Lyceum Theatre Most of my career has been on stage, and if who’ve just graduated from university. Not in , playing Mrs Darling, Myrtle the someone asked me to pick between TV and knowing what to do next, they decide to get Mermaid and Big Chief Squatting Cow. I love theatre, the stage would always win. It’s married and get a job looking after a piano, Sheffield. I did my very first panto there in where I first fell in love with acting and which happens to be magic and makes 1987 at the Crucible Theatre and have been singing. My mum would take us to see all the people dance! Tim’s parents are desperate for back a few times since. There are great musicals that came to , and I him to get a good job and send him out to audiences and it’s a lovely city. visit all his uncles for career advice. Jane’s adored going to the theatre. A lot of my mother wants to find her a wonderfully rich theatre work has been on tour and I love it. Any advice for budding actors? It’s very exciting to be back on the road and influential husband - not knowing that My advice would be that you really must have again, bringing such a fun show to some she’s already married. It’s a wonderfully the drive and determination to want to wonderful places. I’ve played all of the upbeat, fun show with great numbers that a succeed. Not in terms of being famous and a theatres on this tour apart from two, so I’m lot of people will know and can tap and hum ‘star’, but in having a long and varied career looking forward to new towns and stages. along to. It’s a great ‘leave your troubles and a love for your art. Take the time to train We’re mostly doing a week in places, which is outside the theatre’ show, and I guarantee properly, be it privately or at a drama school. the perfect length. By the time you’ve settled you’ll leave with a big smile on your face. Watch and learn from other actors around the show in, you have a couple of days to you. You never stop learning. If you’re still at Lots of audience members will know you explore and then you move on. It’s also great school, get involved in as many school or from Coronation Street. How does this being on tour and catching up with friends local amateur productions as you can and character differ from Cilla? and family in various towns. enjoy it! That’s really important. They differ inasmuch as Lady Raeburn in What would you say to encourage people Salad Days is the quintessential aristocrat to come and watch Salad Days? who’s very relaxed and laid back until it Salad Days The Musical runs at the Salad Days is a fun, feelgood show that will comes to her daughter and finding the right Belgrade Theatre, Coventry, from have you humming and tapping all the way husband for her. I suppose she really just has Wednesday 19 to Saturday 22 September, out of theatre. It’s complete escapism for two- Jane’s best interests at heart. Cilla in Corrie and then at Malvern Theatre, and-a-half hours - and in today’s world, couldn’t give two hoots for her children, Fiz Worcestershire, from Tuesday 2 to that’s sometimes needed. and Chesney, and comes from a very Saturday 6 October. Theatre September.qxp_Layout 1 20/08/2018 11:14 Page 5

Theatre Theatre previews from around the region

Tartuffe ern-day Birmingham, they have in their midst the charismatic and de- vout Tahir Taufiq Arsuf - or Tartuffe to the sceptical. But is Tartuffe all Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, Fri 7 September - Sat 23 February that he seems - and will family life ever be the same again?... Described as a wicked comedy about faith, family and #fakingit, this First performed in 1664, Moliere’s famous comedy saw its reputation brand new version of a 17th century masterpiece brings events bang wildly enhanced when the Archbishop of Paris issued an edict threat- up to date. ening excommunication for anyone who even so much as read the The story centres around the wealthy Pervaiz family. Living in - play, so offensive to the church did he consider the work to be.

As You Like It Lesley are not giving up. Instead they go Such imaginative stuff-and-nonsense is very below ground and dig in, determined to do much all in a day’s work for one-man enter- Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, what they can to save their community... tainment machine Edward Day, whose pro- Thurs 27 - Sat 29 September Peake’s previous written work, Beryl - a duction also features retro animation, live A pacy tale of cross-dressing and mistaken warm and witty celebration of British cyclist music and comedy songs. identity, As You Like It is one of Shake- Beryl Burton - was also performed at the New speare’s most accessible and appealing Vic Theatre. comedies. And this particular version of the much-loved yarn should be even more acces- Evita sible and appealing than most, given that it’s Malvern Theatres, Tues 4 - Sat 8 September; being presented by the critically acclaimed Super Hamlet 64 Belgrade Theatre, Coventry, Tues 25 - Sat 29 September Pantaloons. Artrix, Bromsgrove, Fri 21 September Andrew Lloyd-Webber and Tim Rice's third Laughing gear at the ready, then, for an Are you tired of all those common-or-un- major collaboration opened to rave reviews evening of bombastic buffoonery and foot- weeded-garden Hamlets in which the way back in the late 1970s, since which time stomping live music! prince’s father gets bumped off by his uncle it’s garnered a reputation as one of the great- who then marries his mother? If so, you may est musicals ever to grace West End and well enjoy the refreshing wind of change that Broadway stages. Super Hamlet 64 is blasting across the ram- Queens Of The Coal Age Telling the real-life story of Eva, the wife of parts of Elsinore Castle. New Vic Theatre, Newcastle-under-Lyme, former Argentine dictator Juan Peron, the Sure, all that dad/uncle/mum gubbins is pre- Fri 7 - Sat 29 September show is packed to the rafters with memorable sent and correct, but on this occasion the This powerful play by critically acclaimed numbers, including On This Night Of A Thou- young Prince Hamlet awakens to discover actor Maxine Peake sees four women taking a sand Stars, Buenos Aires and, of course, the that his life is actually a computer game. stand in the face of a changing world. classic Don't Cry For Me Argentina. What’s more, the person he has a crush on is It’s 1993, and although the Parkside Colliery Voice UK 2015 finalist Lucy O’Byrne takes the a samurai-sword-wielding superhero. pit is winding down, Anne, Elaine, Dot and title role.

28 whatsonlive.co.uk Theatre September.qxp_Layout 1 20/08/2018 11:14 Page 6

theatre for younger audiences...

Awful Auntie the world famous Teletubbies are here ap- and plenty of humour... When a tiny snail, pearing in their first ever theatre show, cre- who longs to see the world, hitches a lift on a Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, Wed 26 - Sun humpback whale, 30 September; New Alexandra Theatre, Tues ated especially for little ones. Tinky Winky, 27 November - Sat 1 December Dipsy, Laa-Laa and Po continue to enchant she finds herself embroiled in an ex- Frights, fights and friendships are the order and delight pre-school youngsters a full 21 citing adventure - of the day in David Walliams’ much-loved years after making their television debut on particularly when story. At the centre of the tale is a young girl BBC Two. the whale unexpect- named Stella. The sole heir to Saxby Hall, Brand new songs and the popular supporting edly gets beached... she finds herself in danger of losing both her characters of Tubby Phone, Noo-noo and Sun inheritance and her life when she comes up Baby also feature. against her thoroughly unpleasant Aunt Al- berta... Milkshake! Live Ensonglopedia Of Produced by the team behind the hugely suc- Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, Sat 22 cessful stage adaptation of Walliams’ Animals September; Birmingham Town Hall, Gangsta Granny, the show comes complete Sat 27 October Artrix, Bromsgrove, Sun 16 September with a very old car, a very large owl, a very Here taking youngsters on a journey through small ghost and plenty of opportunity to After scoring a huge success with musical the world’s favourite fairytales are, among enjoy a jolly good chuckle. comedies about Charles Darwin, Albert Ein- others, Bob the Builder, Little Princess, stein and Marie Curie, the award-winning Noddy, Fireman Sam and Shimmer & Shine. John Hinton returns to the stage with a show If you’ve watched the TV series and/or been that features 26 animal songs - one for every to a previous live production, you’ll already letter of the alphabet. So if, as John puts it, know what to expect. If not, get ready for an you want to ‘get to grips with fascinating event that promises lots of laughter, bucket- facts about extraordinary echinoderms, dis- loads of family fun, bags of audience partici- tressed damselflies, crazy corals, batty birds pation and plenty of singing and dancing. and amazing arachnids’, then this is most definitely the show for you.

The Snail And The Whale Teletubbies Live MAC, Birmingham, Sat 1 & Sun 2 September Oakengates Theatre, at The Place, Telford, Sat Following on from versions of The Gruffalo 1 - Sun 2 September; Malvern Theatres, and Room On The Broom, highly rated en- Wed 19 - Thurs 20 September semble Tall Stories here present a show that Despite having been around for many a year, blends imaginative storytelling, live music

Matilda The Musical Birmingham Hippodrome, until Sat 8 September Adapted from one of Roald Dahl’s best-loved books, the Royal Shakespeare Company’s stage-musical version of Matilda - complete with music and lyrics by comedian Tim Minchin - has been delighting West End au- diences for six years. A staggering eight million people worldwide have so far seen productions of the critically acclaimed show, which has visited more than 50 cities and bagged an impressive 80-plus international awards. Impressive statistics in- Last deed. If you haven’t al- ready done so, bag chance yourself a ticket and find out what all the to see! fuss is about!

whatsonlive.co.uk 29 Tall Stories' Happy Birthday Toby Mitchell.qxp_Layout 1 17/08/2018 12:06 Page 1

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

The Gruffalo The Canterville Ghost The Snail And The Whale

This month marks the 21st anniversary of older people. We pride ourselves on making the least! We were wowed by the response to highly acclaimed theatre company Tall Sto- the kind of theatre that we ourselves would The Gruffalo, and from there it snowballed.” ries, created following a chance meeting like to watch. There are those big and silly The reaction to the show at the Edinburgh between its co-founders and artistic shows that parents enjoy on a certain level Fringe was one of many highlights for Toby directors, Toby Mitchell and Olivia Jacobs. but not entirely. That’s not what we do. We during Tall Stories’ 21 years. try to create something where everyone has a “Tall Stories came to be when I was produc- wonderful experience, and I think that’s why “I picked up a copy of The Scotsman’s Fringe ing a show on my own,” explains Toby. “I audiences keep coming back to our shows pull-out to find the review, and there was a went to deliver some flyers to Soho Theatre. I again and again. full-page photograph of our Gruffalo on the bumped into Olivia there, we got talking and front cover with a five-star review inside. So, stayed in touch. We decided to set up a com- “High points are when audiences really get it’s moments like that, when we realised we pany, which wasn’t called Tall Stories at the the show, or when a parent comes up to you were doing things that people were actually time, and went to the Fringe. We got reviewed and says their child won’t sit still for longer enjoying, that really stand out in our jour- and were regarded as a company to watch. than 10 minutes in front of the television, but ney.” that they’ve been absolutely motionless for “When we returned to the Fringe the follow- an hour watching us. Moments like that Seventeen years on, Tall Stories are still ing year, we came up with the name Tall Sto- make me very proud, but are also under- reimagining The Gruffalo every time they ries, as we thought it summed up what we standable because we’re talking directly to bring it back to the stage. aimed to do. I directed one show and Olivia the audience and taking them seriously, the other. Olivia did a show based on Oscar which a lot of children’s television doesn’t “Now a lot of the audiences are coming be- Wilde’s The Happy Prince And Other Stories, do.” cause they know the animation rather than and I did Alice In Wonderland. the book. We used to have two narrators and A pinch of good luck, or maybe just sound a female actor playing mouse. That worked “We didn’t really know what we were doing, intuition, also helped Tall Stories become when people only knew the book. Since the and neither of those shows were particularly established: “I had a day job in the early animation, we got the occasional complaint aimed at children. They were just ones that years of Tall Stories. I was working for saying that the animals didn’t look convinc- we wanted to do, but because they were Macmillan Children’s Books, and I read The ing because our costumes were a little more based around childhood favourites, families Gruffalo just before it was published. We suggestive of animals than full costumes. So, were our main audience. They told us how were looking for a show for a younger age we went back to the structure of the show, lovely it was to find work that didn’t talk group. We thought the Gruffalo was just a made it have three narrators at the start and down to their kids. We wouldn’t even have lovely story, so we decided to put that on then turned one of them into mouse on-stage considered talking down to our audience - we stage. in front of the audience. were just telling good stories - but that’s been our touchstone ever since.” “Of course, at the time it was an unknown “This was just gently saying to the audience book. Julia Donaldson was also unknown, so that they needed to use their imaginations Toby firmly believes this approach has been a it was fairly easy to negotiate the rights. for the show; part of the fun of a storytelling major factor in Tall Stories’ success: “We Then, while we had it in rehearsals, it won a show is that we don’t give it all to them on a don’t patronise the younger people in the au- major book prize - which was handy, to say plate. They have to get involved for it to be dience, and we don’t make it too silly for the 30 whatsonlive.co.uk Tall Stories' Happy Birthday Toby Mitchell.qxp_Layout 1 17/08/2018 12:06 Page 2

by Lauren Cole TO TALL STORIES!

Wilde Creatures The Snow Dragon Room on the Broom

believable. It’s so rare to get a complaint “The Snail And The Whale is another Julia we’ve set the minimum age guide at 12-plus, about our shows now, which is wonderful. Donaldson title, but audiences get something so it’s still something that caters for lots of It’s great that the show is still 80% the same else from Tall Stories that they also enjoy. We people. as it was 17 years ago, when it first went on make it clear on all our publicity material “We did a preview in London a few weeks be- stage. It’s just a case of making sure we rein- that there is this extra story added on top of fore the Fringe, to what we thought was vent enough of it to keep it relevant and mod- the Julia Donaldson one, and that we’ve obvi- going to be a very tough crowd of South Lon- ern, so that people keep on coming.” ously consulted Julia about it and that she’s don school kids. Again, I think because we happy with it. That’s a definite favourite - a Tall Stories are often approached to adapt took them seriously, they were completely on well-loved story in a fresh way.” children’s picture books into theatre produc- board. It was joyous to watch because we tions. Luckily for Midlanders, two more of Toby’s thought they were going to be quite a de- all-time favourite Tall Stories productions are manding audience - and actually they were a “Whatever themes can be plucked out of a coming to the region very soon... demanding audience, but what they were de- story always create resonances if it’s a strong manding was a good story. So that’s the aim story. We’re quite well known as book “Wilde Creatures has four acting-musicians for our 21st birthday - to do a more grown-up adapters, and that’s despite the fact that only who’re extremely talented and manage to, show, seeing as we’re hitting ‘proper’ adult- a third of our shows are based on picture with our help, bring Oscar Wilde’s stories to hood. Then we’re hoping that the two shows books. The other two-thirds are popular fairy- life in a very imaginative and modern way. will tour together.” tales or things we’ve made up ourselves. We There’s also Emily Brown And The Thing (see do turn down people if their book hasn’t got a pages 32/33), a really lovely story about a Toby is optimistic about the future of Tall strong enough plot.” child who’s scared of the dark at bedtime and Stories. the way she overcomes it. Sometimes, however, extra layers can be “The aim is to continue to give audiences added to the story to make it suitable for the “With all my favourites, there’s a seamless- shows that they’re enjoying. The challenge stage. ness to them; although the stories are com- for the future is to get more shows in, to keep plex and there are lots of scene changes and on creating by seeing if there are any other “The way we made it work with The Snail props, we make it flow over that hour so that great picture books out there, or any other And The Whale was to tell the story through it doesn’t seem clunky. But that doesn’t mean stories we want to make up ourselves, and to the eyes of a young girl and her father, who’s it’s simple! We look like swans from the front, always be reinventing. Here’s to the next 21 in the navy. So in the story, the snail wants to but you don’t realise how much furious pad- years!” go on a trip around the world, so hitches a dling is going on behind the scenes! ride on the tail of a whale. This reflects how the girl would rather be with her dad than “For our 21st birthday, we took Wilde Crea- stuck in her bedroom, so there’s a process tures and the premier of The Canterville where we added emotional resonance to that Ghost to the Fringe. Wilde Creatures had a For more information and to find out story. In that case, there was a way for us to run in London last Christmas because there when the next Tall Stories production is make it work on stage, but the power of the was a big Oscar Wilde season. The Canter- coming to a theatre near you, story always has to come first when we make ville Ghost uses the same cast as Wilde Crea- visit tallstories.org.uk our shows. tures. We’ve set it as a grown-ups’ show, but whatsonlive.co.uk 31 Emily Brown and the Thing interview.qxp_Layout 1 17/08/2018 12:13 Page 1

32 whatsonlive.co.uk Emily Brown and the Thing interview.qxp_Layout 1 17/08/2018 12:13 Page 2

by Lauren Cole

Emily Brown And The Thing! It’s time for another adventure with award-winning theatre company Tall Stories. Join Emily Brown and her rabbit, Stanley, on their quest to find the key ingredients to a good night’s sleep... What’s On spoke to Sophie Alice, who plays Emily, about hit production Emily Brown And The Thing, which is coming to the Midlands over Christmas...

Young Emily Brown and her best pal, toy and music in there, just to add to the mainly the feeling is one of excitement. Yes, rabbit Stanley, discover a Thing crying production element as a whole, but it’s been there’s always the pressure of reviewing well outside their bedroom window because he kept as authentic as possible.” because Tall Stories are so well known, but can’t get to sleep. Of course, they can’t help as they’re so supportive, I tend not to notice Emily Brown And The Thing features but go on an adventure to try and assist that pressure too much. We really like to physical storytelling that uses not only actors him... create great shows as a team, so overall I’d but also puppets. “What puppets allow you say it’s definitely more enjoyable than nerve- Tall Stories’ version of the book, Emily Brown to do is include adventure elements on stage wracking.” And The Thing, is a witty and heartwarming that actors just couldn’t perform in a realistic children’s show that sees Sophie Alice taking way - for example, climbing trees and skiing Sophie has some theories as to why, over the lead role of Emily. “I’d worked with Tall down slopes. It brings a really exciting their 21 years of performing, Tall Stories have Stories before,” says Sophie, “so when they dimension to the play for both the audience been so successful. asked me to do this show, I jumped at the and us as performers. I think it’s very “The company are very passionate about chance. It’s a truly wonderful book. Emily amusing to watch, too - particularly with telling good stories to anyone and everyone - Brown is a fantastic young female Stanley, who, for a lot of the play, has been I think that’s the most important thing. They protagonist. She’s adventurous, she’s strong, upscaled from cuddly toy to full-grown adult have an incredible team of creatives, she’s courageous. I thought it would be man in a rabbit costume, only to be shrunk directors and visual thinkers. They have such brilliant to be involved in a family show that back down to tiny puppet size.” a passion for delivering beautiful messages has such a good female role at the heart of it. Sophie is thoroughly enjoying her time in the on stage, and I think that’s at the core of I just figured it would be such a rewarding production: “I get to go on three different what’s allowed Tall Stories to flourish.” role to play.” adventures, so what’s not to like? Really Currently, Sophie’s plans don’t extend The production is adapted from the book by immersing myself in those worlds is just so beyond a future spent with Emily Brown and Cressida Cowell, the author behind the exciting. We have so much fun playing our her friends. famous How To Train Your Dragon series. characters. It’s not put on at all; a lot of the emotion you see on stage isn’t even acting. “We’re taking the show to America and “The original cast worked with Cressida and We’re just having the best time, and it means Canada after Christmas. That’s a five-month the book’s illustrator, Neal Layton, to make a lot to us if the audience has as much fun tour, so that takes me up to May next year. sure the production was respectful and in watching the show as we do performing it.” After that, who knows? All I know is that keeping with the world of Emily Brown as Emily Brown and myself have an amazing seen in the original book. If you look at the Tall Stories’ version of Emily Brown And The adventure ahead of us!” pictures in the book and then come to see the Thing has been met with widespread critical show, there’s a striking resemblance between acclaim wherever it’s been presented. the characters, and we’ve tried to do that “I wasn’t in the original cast, but I was in the with the actual content also. Almost all the Emily Brown And The Thing shows at second cast, which did a UK tour followed by words from the book are in the stage version. Birmingham Hippodrome from Monday 17 the Sydney Opera House and Wisconsin. So Obviously, some of the characters have been December to Sunday 6 January. there are a few nerves now I’m returning, but extended, and we’ve got some original songs

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Dance previews from around the region Dance

Rosie Kay: MK Ultra The Patrick Studio, Birmingham Hippodrome, Thurs 20 & Fri 21 September; Forest Arts Centre, Walsall, Tues 25 September This critically acclaimed offering from Rosie Kay’s highly regarded local ensemble has been inspired by ‘the bizarre realm of pop culture, mind-control conspiracies and Illuminati imagery’. Commenting on the show, Artistic Director Rosie said: “MK Ultra is the result of three years of in- tense research which has taken me through the world of surveillance, state police, torture and brainwashing, to pop culture, mainstream media and celebrity breakdowns, then all the way back to politics and a comment on the post-culturism state we are now in. “At a time when everything is fake, or at least we don’t trust what’s real anymore, MK Ultra looks at what this world really feels like - and what ef- fect it is having on us, whether we know it or not.”

Fagin’s Twist Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, Fri 28 & Sat 29 September “I’ve always been excited by the idea of retelling a popu- lar tale,” says Tony Adigun, the artistic director of inno- vative hip-hop and contemporary dance company Avant Garde. “I wanted to add a mischievous twist that would play with and challenge the audience’s perspectives on a much-loved classic.” The classic to which he refers is Charles Dickens’ Oliver Twist, which Adigun and his company are here reimagin- ing. The piece delves deep into the backstories of the novel’s most prominent characters: Oliver, Fagin, Bill, Nancy and the Artful Dodger. “We’ve examined the rela- tionships between the five of them,” explains Adigun. “The backstories will allow the dancers who’re playing these dynamic people to be engrossed by the characters and to really embody the roles.” New English Ballet Sampad: Double Bill Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, Tues 18 September MAC, Birmingham, Mon 24 September Sampad’s latest production, bringing to- New English Ballet here performs two works gether the classical and contemporary, that should perfectly showcase the company’s showcases the ability of ‘the most excit- impressive talent and versatility. ing young talent in South Asian dance’. The Four Seasons features recomposed music A story of love and devotion is explored by Max Richter and bold choreography from in TRI, via a series of solos and emotive Jenna Lee... duets. EKA, meanwhile, presents a show Performed alongside it is Remembrance, a of female unity and strength ‘through new ballet created by choreographer Wayne mesmerising movement’. Eagling to commemorate the armistice. The piece imagines the Hindu goddesses Inspired by the story of Dame Marie Rambert’s of learning, wealth and power as they life during the Great War, the piece is set to impact upon a modern world. Handel's Ode for St Cecilia's Day.

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The much-acclaimed Birmingham Royal page and opposite showcase the prowess of Ballet this month launches its new the company’s dancers. We suggest you grab Hippodrome season with two exciting yourself a ticket or two and check out La Fille presentations - one of which includes a world mal gardée and Fire And Fury in person. We premiere. The beautiful balletic shots on this promise you won’t be disappointed...

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La Fille mal gardée Birmingham Hippodrome, Wed 26 - Sat 29 September Frederick Ashton’s ever-popular La Fille mal gardée (translated as The Wayward Daughter) is a choreographed exploration of rural life. A firm family favourite, the simple and engag- ing story tells the tale of Lise, whose mother is desperately attempting to find her a wealthy suitor. But who will win Lise’s hand - the loaded country bumpkin or the penniless but hunky farmhand?... Ashton’s 1960s creation was described by as being ‘as finely wrought an English comedy as My Fair Lady or The Im- portance Of Being Earnest’. Justified praise indeed for a slick comedy that features a clog-dancing dame, a super-cute pony and no shortage of spectacular classical ballet.

Fire And Fury Birmingham Hippodrome, Wed 3 - Sat 6 October The old and the new here combine for what promises to be an evening of truly memorable dance. David Bintley’s The King Dances fo- cuses on the young King Louis XIV of France as he dances the role of the Sun God in a spectacular court enter- tainment... The second production is Ignite, by up-and-coming choreographer Juanjo Arqués. Presented as part of Birmingham Royal Ballet’s innova- tive Ballet Now programme - and in- spired by Turner’s painting, The Burning Of The House Of Lords And Commons - the piece is here receiv- ing its world premiere. Photo credits (top to bottom) 1. Brandon Lawrence and Céline Gittens, 2. Tyrone Singleton and Delia Mathews, 3. Delia Mathews, 4. Brandon Lawrence and Céline Gittens. All photos: Fabio Filippi Singleton and Delia Mathews, 3. 4. Brandon Lawrence Céline Gittens. All photos: Fabio Photo credits (top to bottom) 1. Brandon Lawrence and Céline Gittens, 2. Tyrone

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Film

EDITOR’S CHOICE

The King Of Thieves CERT tbc sooner had the raid broken across the headlines, than a film version of the events seemed almost inevitable. But nobody could have envis- Starring Michael Caine, Jim Broadbent, Tom Courtenay, Charlie Cox, Michael Gambon, Ray Winstone, Francesca Annis, Paul Whitehouse aged such a mouth-watering cast of England’s knighted and fêted. Directed by James Marsh (UK) The director James Marsh made his mark in the field of documen- The thieves in question are a gaggle of ageing crooks who have the taries, winning innumerable plaudits for Man On Wire and Project temerity to break into a vault in Hatton Garden, London’s jewellery Nim, before directing the Oscar-winning The Theory Of Everything. district. It was the biggest robbery in British criminal history and no Released Fri 14 Sept

Film highlights released in September...

The Nun CERT 15 (96 mins) The Miseducation Of Starring Demián Bichir, Taissa Farmiga, Jonas Cameron Post CERT 15 (91 mins) Bloquet, Charlotte Hope Directed by Corin Hardy (USA) Starring Chloë Grace Moretz, John Gallagher Jr, Sasha Lane, Forrest Goodluck, Jennifer The fifth instalment in The Conjuring fran- Ehle Directed by Desiree Akhavan (USA/UK) chise, this supernatural shocker is set in 1952 Having been caught making out with the and features a creepy Romanian monastery. prom queen, Cameron Post (Moretz) is sent to And there’s already talk of The Nun 2. American Animals God’s Promise, an out-of-the-way treatment Released Thurs 6 Sept centre dedicated to curing the gay. Based on CERT 15 (117 mins) the 2012 novel by Emily M Danforth. Starring Evan Peters, Barry Keoghan, Blake Jenner, Jared Abrahamson, Udo Kier, Ann Released Fri 7 Sept Dowd Directed by Bart Layton (USA) Heists are suddenly all the rage again (think Ocean’s Eight, Logan Lucky), but this one’s based on a true story. Four young fantasists decide to rob a Kentucky university library, as much for the excite- ment of the crime as for the value of the rare books. The real crooks talk to camera as their escapades are re-enacted on screen. Released Fri 7 Sept

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Film highlights released in September...

The Seagull CERT 12a (99 mins) Superfly CERT 15 (116 mins) Starring Annette Bening, Saoirse Ronan, Corey Starring Trevor Jackson, Jason Mitchell, Stoll, Elisabeth Moss, Mare Winningham, Jon Michael K. Williams, Lex Scott Davis, Jennifer Tenney, Brian Dennehy Directed by Jennifer Yuh Morrison Directed by Director X (USA) Nelson (USA) Following the remake of the blaxploitation Yep, this is an American version of Chekhov’s thriller Shaft in 2000, there are now a slew of 1895 social satire, with Ms Bening as the age- new reboots in the works, with this being the ing actress Irina Nikolayevna Arkadina. The first out of the starting gate. Trevor Jackson film was shot in New York. takes on the role of Youngblood Priest (made Released Fri 7 Sept famous by Ron O’Neal in 1972), an Atlanta drug dealer who attempts to quit the busi- ness after ‘one last job.’ For the record, Direc- The Predator CERT tbc tor X was born Julien Lutz in Toronto. Starring Boyd Holbrook, Trevante Rhodes, Released Fri 14 Sept Jacob Tremblay, Keegan-Michael Key, Olivia Munn, Sterling K Brown, Thomas Jane, Alfie Allen Directed by Shane Black (USA) The human race is in trouble again. The Mile 22 CERT tbc predators - first seen in the 1987 thriller star- Starring Mark Wahlberg, John Malkovich, ring Arnold Schwarzenegger - have upgraded Lauren Cohan, Iko Uwais Directed by Peter Berg (USA) themselves by introducing DNA from other species. And now they are intent on wiping A CIA agent (Wahlberg) is tasked with smug- out humankind. gling a police officer with sensitive informa- tion out of Southeast Asia. Peter Berg Released Thurs 13 Sept previously directed Marky Mark in the enor- mously efficient Lone Survivor, Deepwater Horizon and Patriots Day. Lucky CERT 15 (88 mins) Released Wed 19 Sept Starring Harry Dean Stanton, David Lynch, Ron Livingston, Ed Begley Jr, Tom Skerritts, Melissa Leo, Bill Pullman, Sakina Jaffrey Directed by John Carroll Lynch (USA) The House With A Clock Having reached the grand old age of 90, In Its Walls CERT PG Lucky, a US Navy veteran, realises that it is Starring Jack Black, Cate Blanchett, Owen time to come to terms with his mortality... Vaccaro, Renée Elise Goldsberry, Sunny Not long after completing this, his first leading Suljic, Kyle MacLachlan Directed by Eli Roth role in some time, the veteran character actor (USA) Harry Dean Stanton passed on, aged 91, adding an enormous frisson to this noble character study. It marks the directorial debut of the actor John Carroll Lynch. Released Fri 14 Sept

Reinventing Marvin CERT tbc Starring Finnegan Oldfield, Grégory Gadebois, Vincent Macaigne, Charles Berling, Isabelle Huppert Directed by Anne Fontaine (France) At the age of 59, Anne Fontaine can consider herself one of the grande dames of French Eli Roth is responsible for such films as cinema, with a portfolio that includes Coco Cabin Fever, Hostel and Death Wish, so it Before Chanel (2009), Gemma Bovery (2014) makes sense that his first children’s film and The Innocents (2016). Here, Marvin Bi- should be based on the Gothic horror novel joux (Oldfield) is not like other boys in his by John Bellairs. The recently orphaned small village and only after a chance en- Lewis (Owen Vaccaro) goes to stay with his counter with a drama teacher does he realise uncle (Jack Black), who turns out to be a that there is another world that can accom- mediocre warlock living in a house contain- modate those who are different… Mlle Hup- ing the secret to the end of the world. Should pert plays herself. be fun. Released Fri 14 Sept Released Fri 21 Sept 40 whatsonlive.co.uk Film September.qxp_Layout 1 20/08/2018 18:26 Page 4

Film

Faces PlacesCERT PG (94 mins) Directed by Agnès Varda and JR (France) Agnès Varda is the grande dame of the French New Wave, JR an anonymous artist and pho- tographer who specialises in colossal pictures displayed in public places. Together, the un- likely duo travel round France to capture the lives of the locals and in the process bond on camera. The result went on to be nominated for an Oscar for best documentary of 2017. Released Fri 21 Sept

CRITIC’S CHOICE

Puzzle CERT 15 (103 mins) Starring Kelly Macdonald, Irrfan Khan, David her blob of a husband could have foreseen. Denman, Bubba Weiler, Austin Abrams Puzzle, the film, is not unlike its protagonist. Directed by Marc Turtletaub (USA) Its wider ambitions materialise slowly and The puzzle in question is of the jigsaw vari- while it seems to occupy a modest, even safe ety. It is one of the few pleasures that Agnes mind-set, it has the intelligence to feed out (Kelly Macdonald) allows herself, in between its story in its own time, without pandering The Little Stranger caring for her husband and her two sons, all to the impatient. The result, then, is a splat- the cooking, the housework and her commit- ter of surprises, as our heroine gathers CERT 12a (111 mins) ments to the church. Somehow, arranging all courage to pursue her own dreams and to Starring Domhnall Gleeson, Ruth Wilson, Will these myriad cardboard shapes into their cor- Poulter, Charlotte Rampling, Josh Dylan find her own voice. In short, Marc Turtle- Directed by Lenny Abrahamson rect order gives Agnes a sense of control, of taub’s subtle, resonant film is a timeless (Ireland/UK/France) finding a way to complete the puzzle of her character study of a woman sidelined by life. The name to note here is Lenny Abrahamson, life. And her new obsession is about to trans- In a good way. form her world in a way that neither she nor the talented director who brought us the grip- Released Fri 7 Sept ping, moving and original (and Oscar-win- ning) Room of 2015. His new film is a Gothic drama set in 1947 based on the novel by CERT 12a (111 mins) Sarah Waters. It stars Domhnall Gleeson as a Night School country doctor whose life unravels when he Starring Kevin Hart, Tiffany Haddish, Rob Riggle, Taran Killam, Romany Malco, Keith David attends a patient at a crumbling manor Directed by Malcolm D. Lee (USA) house. It seems like only yesterday that Melissa Mc- Released Fri 21 Sept Carthy went back to school in Life Of The Party (2018). Now it’s the turn of Kevin Hart and other troublemakers who are forced to attend A Simple Favour night school in order to complete their high CERT 15 (117 mins) school exams. From the director of The Best Starring Anna Kendrick, Blake Lively, Henry Man, Soul Men and Girls Trip. Just saying. Golding, Andrew Rannells, Linda Cardellini, Rupert Friend Directed by Paul Feig (USA) Released Fri 28 Sept It’s a case of mistaken inten- tions when a small-town ‘mommy blogger’ (Anna The Wife CERT 15 (100 mins) Kendrick) attempts to solve Starring Glenn Close, Jonathan Pryce, Christian Slater, the disappearance of her Max Irons, Annie Starke, Harry Lloyd Directed by Björn high society friend (Blake Runge (UK/Sweden/USA) Lively). The mystery drama It’s early days, but there’s already some buzz surround- is based on the novel by ing Glenn Close’s Oscar chances for this drama. She Darcey Bell, described as ‘Gone Girl on plays Joan Castleman, the wife of a writer (Jonathan steroids, amphetamines and cocaine.’ From Pryce) who is honoured with the Nobel Prize in Litera- the director of Bridesmaids, The Heat and ture, an event that prompts her to examine her own Spy. life. Based on the 2003 novel by Meg Wolitzer. Released Fri 21 Sept Released Fri 28 Sept whatsonlive.co.uk 41 Visual Arts September-2.qxp_Layout 1 17/08/2018 12:05 Page 1

Visual Arts previews from around the region

Out Of The Shadows MAC, Birmingham, 8 September - 11 November The human cost of locking up people with learning disabilities and/or autism is the subject of Polly Braden & Sally Williams’ Out Of The Shadows. “Sally and I spent 2017 driving between Bristol, London and West Bromwich to visit the 10 people that share their stories with us,” explains Polly. “Sometimes we would arrive to find Rodney didn’t feel like seeing us, or Harry had got into trouble and was back in prison. On other occasions we would be happy to see Lindsey preparing for her first day of volunteer work after a life spent in and out of prison. This journey, at times sad and frustrating, could also be inspiring and uplifting.”

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

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Visual Arts

Within And Without: Body Image And The Self Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery, until Fri 1 February This is the second exhibition to take place in the mu- seum’s Story Lab gallery, a space that invites visitors to help shape the future of the venue. Exploring the ways in which body image impacts on issues such as so- cial status, gender, stage of life, health, aesthetics, religion, politics and sexuality, the exhibition’s theme has been shaped into a single narrative by volunteers working with staff on the show’s development.

Grace A Williams: Intermission experienceCOLOUR New Art Gallery, Walsall, until Sun 11 November Glasshouse Arts Centre, Stourbridge, until Sun 14 October Standing inside a rainbow, playing with through a selection of large-scale instal- the shadows of an eclipse, exploring re- lations, displays and experiments, the flection and investigating the mystery of presentation aims to explain the ways in coloured shadows are among the activi- which different colours can influence ties and experiences which visitors to people, and also to pose new questions this ‘remarkably beautiful’ exhibition about ‘the meanings of colour in the can enjoy. world around us’. Exploring the science and art of colour

Journeys With ‘The Waste Land’ The Mead Gallery, Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, Sat 15 September - Sun 18 November Grace A Williams’ two-screen projection focuses Taking as its starting point TS Eliot’s fa- on the gaze of two unknown black men whose mous poem, The Waste Land - written in portraits appear on 19th century photographic 1922, in the aftermath of the Great War - slides found by the artist. Journeys aims to explore the meanings of “Despite being historic images,” explains Grace, the poem and its relationship to Coventry. “their representation in a contemporary context The Waste Land’s imagery of journeys and enacts a reading of race and identity that com- fragmentation, redemption through fire and pletely undermines their original purpose of rebirth, connects with the histories and defining colonial ‘othering’. This feels particu- myths of the city. larly pertinent in a moment where voices eradi- The exhibition shows at the Mead Gallery cated by white eurocentrism - including women until one week after the 100th anniversary and ethnic minorities, regularly lumped together of the World War One armistice. as ‘other’ - are being reinstated.”

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Festival of Imagineers presenting a unique mix of arts and engineering on the streets of Coventry...

Festival of Imagineers brings a plethora of The eyes of the nation were drawn to journey,” Claire continues. “We ran a small- outdoor art and performance to Coventry this Imagineer when they unveiled their project scale festival of invention at that time, which month. All pieces are based around the for the London 2012 Olympics. was to do with the fact that Coventry has merging of the arts with engineering. historically been a very inventive city. We left "The thing that everyone would know us for The festival is now in its fifth year and is a that behind when we did our major Olympic is our Godiva Awakes project for the recurring part of Imagineer’s calendar of project in 2012, where we’d mixed with a Olympics,” says Claire. “We made a massive projects. whole series of engineering companies Lady Godiva puppet and cycled it down to across the region. So it seemed like a natural “Our aims as a company really are to create London. I think since then it’s been a slightly progression to link all our future work to extraordinary, new and exciting outdoor work challenging journey because there was a those engineers, and to explore further the in creative spaces, with the hope of engaging period after 2012 where a lot of funding dried synergy between creative engineers and as broad a range of audience as possible,” up - this happened nationally.” creative artists. says Claire Maddocks, Creative Producer at Despite those funding difficulties, the Imagineer, and the festival’s director. “We “For the festival, quite a lot of the company managed to create a very unusual want to support the development of new performances will use structures or machines and distinct identity for Festival of artists and young people through our work, or other things that have been engineered to Imagineers. but mainly we want to create work that’s create a framework for facilitating really memorable.” “The concept came out of quite a long performance or art of some description. Festival of Imagineers.qxp_Layout 1 21/08/2018 11:19 Page 2

By Lauren Cole

We’ve managed to really fuse those elements Imagineers presents a balance of local, over the next five years.” together over the years, and I think that’s national and international work. Claire hopes Coventry becoming City of very much what Imagineer is about. I feel it "I do feel like you need to do stuff that’s Culture 2021 will help propel Imagineer, the really makes sense to our audience now, and locally rooted, but is interesting nationally festival and Coventry itself towards new they really appreciate the festival as and internationally. I think the important heights: “I’m really excited because I’ve something a little bit different, quirky and thing is creating a platform upon which there spent almost my whole career in Coventry, unexpected.” can be a cross-fertilisation between local, insisting the city isn’t the cultural desert Each year sees the festival programme take national and international artists. So I think many presume it to be! This is Coventry’s on different themes: "We’re doing two it’s about striking a balance between opportunity to really change people’s themes this year - connectivity and play. The nurturing, supporting and showcasing local perceptions of it. In terms of what it means connectivity part is all about exploring what artists, and bringing in work from outside for the festival, we really don’t know, but connects people, communities, places and that can influence the local art scene, or be we’re hopeful. I think it’s just a case of more. Our theme of play partly links to some influenced by it.” waiting to see what happens.” work the Herbert Art Gallery & Museum are Claire is also optimistic about the festival’s doing exploring the subject. It also links to future. our major new commission, Bridge, where Festival of Imagineers takes place in one of the main things we’re exploring is “We’re exploring a slightly different model various locations around Coventry city creating an environment in which members and different partnerships, so it may become centre from Monday 17 - Saturday 22 of the public are invited to play in the public a festival where you might visit Coventry and September space, or behave differently from usual in stay for the duration. I can’t reveal much else For more information, visit relation to a public space." about what we’re actually trying to do, but festivalofimagineers.co.uk the plan is to grow and explode the festival Claire is immensely proud that Festival of

FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS...

CARMEN FUNEBRE REAR VIEW CHILD HOOD Sat 22 Sept Thurs 20 - Sat 22 Sept Thurs 20 - Sat 22 Sept As Imagineer celebrates 20 years of Rear View is a unique, interactive Originally commissioned by Artichoke for working with inspirational outdoor arts experience where the streets of Coventry Lumiere London in Trafalgar Square, an company Teatr Biuro Podrozy, and the UK become part of the performance. Presented installation of illuminated balloons fills marks the centenary of World War One, by IOU, the action happens on a custom- Broadgate. French company Collectif Coin Festival of Imagineers presents Teatr Biuro made conversion of a double decker bus, a are experts in site-specific art, exploring a Podrozy’s most iconic performance. mobile auditorium that turns the city into a dreamy and somewhat naïve vision of the Carmen Funebre is a visceral and brutal stage, as participants are taken on a digital technologies that surround us in exposé of the horrors of war, based on the journey during which familiar and not so everyday life through ideas about body, Bosnian conflict of the 1990s. familiar places are brought to life. sound and light. Events September.qxp_Layout 1 20/08/2018 15:16 Page 1

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Events previews from around the region Events

Classic & Retro Show Himley Hall & Park, Dudley, Sun 2 September This popular show presents a se- lection of 800-plus vehicles and static displays featuring saloons, sports cars, commercial & military vehicles and classic motorcycles. There are trade & autojumble stands too, as well as a contribu- tion from Warwickshire singer Melissa Hollick, who’s promising to get the crowds dancing with a variety of vintage music.

A Place In The Sun Live Italy and Florida, showcasing a wide range of properties and answering potential punters’ NEC, Birmingham, Fri 21 - Sun 23 September purchasing questions. The official exhibition of Channel Four’s popu- Television-show presenters Amanda Lamb, Jas- lar series returns to the Midlands - and it’s the mine Harman, Jonnie Irwin and Laura Hamil- perfect place to negotiate the process of finding ton will be on hand to share their experience The Cycle Show an ideal property abroad. and offer advice, while a panel of experts will NEC, Birmingham, More than 150 exhibitors will be flying in from take visitors through the ins and outs of buying Fri 28 - Sun 30 September locations including Spain, France, Portugal, a property abroad.

Autumn Steam Gala Midland Game Fair Severn Valley Railway, Bewdley, Weston Park, Shropshire, Thurs 20 - Sun 23 September Sat 15 & Sun 16 September Check out an array of steam locomotives at Sev- As the premier event of its kind in the country, ern Valley Railway’s Autumn Steam Gala this the well-established Midland Game Fair offers a month. rewarding weekend for those with a passion for Attractions include overnight running on the Fri- traditional country pursuits. day and Saturday, an early-morning breakfast The event showcases a wide range of rural attrac- train from Bridgnorth to Kidderminster, an open- tions, including clay shooting, gundog competi- to-visitors Eardington Halt station, and Paddock tions, falconry displays and ferret racing. Showcasing more than 300 ex- Railway and Coalyard Miniature Railway in There’s plenty of musical entertainment to enjoy hibitors, 500 brands and the very steam. as well, with folk, jazz & blues and Celtic & coun- latest bikes and accessories, it’s no try stages all featuring. surprise that the Cycle Show is the Younger visitors can get up-close-and-personal to UK’s biggest cycling event. some beautiful The 2018 line-up of brands fea- birds in the fal- tures Canyon, Orange Mountain conry classroom, Bikes, Oakley, Primal Europe and with other kids’ Dolan, to name but a few. entertainments Main-stage attractions include in- including don- dustry talks, celebrity interviews key rides, a and the chance to pick up plenty bouncy castle of hints and tips about cycling - and bungee from how to get started to safety trampolines. for families.

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Events previews from around the region Events

Every September, thousands of volunteers across England organise events to celebrate the country’s fantastic history, archi- tecture and culture. These Heritage Open Days offer you a chance to discover hidden places, try out new experiences and learn fascinating facts about some of England’s most interesting visitor destinations - all free of charge. Below, we’ve selected a few Midlands highlights from the 2018 edition of the festival.

POP-UP EXHIBITION This year’s exhibi- tion explores the stories of women in Stratford-upon-Avon across six cen- turies - from Shakespeare’s plays to Stratford’s suffragettes and beyond - torian sideshow full of ‘spectacular and astonish- 400 Years of Aston Hall through the Shakespeare Centre’s li- ing displays’. brary, archive and museum collection. Aston Hall, Birmingham, Sat 8 September There’s also the chance to meet Queen Victoria Craft activities and a Tudor ‘dress-up Aston Hall brings to a close its 400th anniversary and learn about her two visits to the venue - first corner’ are also available. celebrations with The Palace of Curiosities, a Vic- as a princess and then, in 1858, as Queen. SAT 8 & SUN 9 SEPTEMBER, THE SHAKE- SPEARE CENTRE, STRATFORD-UPON-AVON ********************************** OPEN WEEKEND A weekend for steam, engine, canal boat and industrial ar- Trampoline, Tumbling & chaeology enthusiasts. The event fea- DMT British Championships tures engine rallies and displays of classic cars and commercial vehicles. Arena Birmingham, Sat 22 & Sun 23 September Crafting activities take place in the With 13 major medals won at the European Canal Warehouse. Championships, British gymnastics is enjoying a SAT 15 & SUN 16 SEPTEMBER, ETRURIA

brilliant year. INDUSTRIAL MUSEUM, STOKE ON TRENT m Olympic medal-winning trampolinist Bryony ********************************** Page (pictured) is here back on home soil, taking OPEN DAY TOURS Free-entry event fea- on stiff competition from world team bronze turing tours of both the museum and medallists Laura Gallagher and Kat Driscoll. the nearby ruins of Bordesley Abbey. Other highlights include children’s Nathan Bailey and Luke Strong go head-to-head craft activities, various exhibitions, a for the men’s trampoline crown. Malvern Autumn Show family heritage trail and music by local Other attractions include performances by the charity Indigo Arts. Three Counties Showground, Malvern, senior tumbling teams, led by 2018 European Sat 29 & Sun 30 September SUN 9 SEPTEMBER, FORGE MILL NEEDLE champion Lucie Colebeck, and the very best of MUSEUM, REDDITCH A weekend of home-grown family fun is in Britain’s DMT gymnasts, who’ll be executing ********************************** store at the Malvern Autumn Show. high-flying stunts in a bid for the British titles. MEET 17TH CENTURY COSTUMED CHAR- For green-fingered visitors, there’s the chance ACTERS Meet the musketeer and his to glean some useful know-how from the gar- wife alongside replica arms and ar- dening and floral experts in attendance, as mour from the siege of Oswestry in well as to stock up on plants and bulbs for 1644. On the Saturday and Sunday, winter. visitors can also enjoy a guided walk from outside St Oswald’s Parish. Other show highlights include the Giant Veg- etables Championship, an ‘old tyme’ fair- FRI 14 - SUN 16 SEPTEMBER, OSWESTRY VISITOR CENTRE, SHROPSHIRE ground, free dance lessons and a local arts, crafts & food market.

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Events previews from around the region Events

STORE TOURS Behind-the-scenes tour during which visitors can meet the BCLM Curators, see some of the mu- seum’s hidden treasures and curiosi- ties, and handle objects in the workshop. SAT 15 SEPTEMBER, BLACK COUNTRY LIVING MUSEUM, DUDLEY ********************************** WOMEN OF WELLESBOURNE New exhibi- tion bringing to life the stories of local women through voice recordings and displays. From the everyday to the ex- traordinary, the event celebrates the rural Warwickshire community. The Monster There are 42 obstacles in total, including an 18- metre mega-slide, a ‘tunnel of love’ and ‘The SAT 15 SEPTEMBER, CHEDHAM’S YARD, WELLESBOURNE NEC, Birmingham, Fri 21 - Sun 23 September Bouncy Cage of Doom’. ********************************** Release your inner child in a nostalgic bouncy The event also features a selection of street food, MEDIEVAL WALK & COSTUME GUIDED castle experience for adults. numerous cocktails and craft beers, a host of TOURS Discover hidden history in the At nearly 300 metres long, The Monster is one of pop-up stalls, giant adult ball pits and live DJs. village of Yardley on a 2.5-mile stroll the world’s largest inflatable obstacle courses. led by experts from the Birmingham & Warwickshire Archaeological Society. The walk begins at Blakesley Hall, where costumed guided tours will also be taking place. Coracle World SAT 15 & SUN 16 SEPTEMBER, The Glamping Show BLAKESLEY HALL, BIRMINGHAM Championships 2018 Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire, ********************************** Thurs 20 - Sat 22 September Pengwern Boat Club, Shrewsbury, TOLKIEN & SAREHOLE Visitors to the Fri 14 September 18th century mill can learn about how This major charity event makes a welcome return it inspired Lord Of The Rings author to Shrewsbury’s River Severn for the 11th time. JRR Tolkien’s fictional land of The Organised in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support, Shire. the championship sees teams of four paddle a SAT 15 & SUN 16 SEPTEMBER, SAREHOLE traditional coracle boat in a relay race across the MILL, BIRMINGHAM river. ********************************** Also up for grabs is the Richard Bayliss Trophy, EXTRAORDINARY COMMANDERY WOMEN for the team that raises the most money prior to Explore Worcester’s Civil War Story, an the event, and a prize for the best fancy dress. interactive experience with costumed tours in a Grade I listed building. Racing starts at 3pm, with teams aiming to im- Visitors can join one of the Their Sto- prove on the current world record of five minutes ries tours and learn about extraordi- and 20 seconds. Event organisers are hoping to nary Commandery women. raise funds in excess of last year’s £33,700. SUN 16 SEPTEMBER, THE COMMANDERY, WORCESTER Glamping - a more luxurious form of camping ********************************** - has become increasingly popular during the HIGHBURY DURING THE GREAT WAR The last few years and is now a prominent part of Moseley Society History Group com- the leisure industry. memorates the 100th anniversary of the end of World War One with interac- This annual show presents a wide selection of tive displays, living history, and the pop-up, temporary and pre-pitched accommo- chance to research family members. dation solutions, including yurts, tipi and sa- SUN 16 SEPTEMBER, HIGHBURY HALL, fari tents. MOSELEY This year’s seminar programme takes a look at An extensive list of Heritage innovation within the industry, how to de- Open Days events can be found velop a glamping business and ways to create at heritageopendays.org.uk sustainable profit.

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Four Play feature.qxp_Layout 1 21/08/2018 11:16 Page 1 Tom Silverton photo credit: Clive Padden Photography / paddenphotography.co.uk / Photography Padden credit: Clive photo Silverton Tom Four Play feature.qxp_Layout 1 21/08/2018 11:16 Page 2

A play for our times Midlands-born actor Tom Silverton this month makes his Old Joint Stock Theatre debut, playing Michael in a new comic four-hander about sex and commitment in the 21st century. Tom recently chatted to What’s On about this much-anticipated play, and about what audiences can expect...

Why is Four Play a relevant drama for he’s doing is purely physical, whereas spoken to a few friends about their experi- our times, Tom? what he has with his partner is truly loving ences. For my own character of Michael, It explores what relationships have be- and special. who’s obsessed with fitness, I’ve been hit- ting the gym as much as possible. As for come in the time of Grindr, Tinder, Hornet Can you give us some background to the cast as a whole, people have really etc. They can be a lot more open and fluid, the four characters? and I think that people who were in a rela- been delving into the details of the script We have two couples: Rafe & Pete and An- tionship before this phenomenon kicked and then going away to create these rich drew & Michael. Michael’s my character. off may feel a little bit left behind, as backgrounds for the characters; where Rafe and Pete are in a seven-and-a-half- though they’ve missed out on all this op- they work, their families, their favourite year relationship, and one of them insti- portunity to be so easily promiscuous and bars - anything that’ll bring them to life. gates the idea to involve one of the other easy-going. There are plenty of contempo- couple. Pete is quite adventurous and likes Is Four Play best suited to an intimate rary cultural references in the play, and to pass off the power to Rafe, but he can be performance area like The Old Joint the dialogue is very conversational, which a little uptight and is very sensitive. An- Stock, or would it work equally well on adds to the intimacy. drew and Michael have been together a a larger scale? Four Play exposes the frustrations that can couple of years. Andrew is easy-going and The OJS is the perfect venue for it; the arise for couples in long-term relation- loving, which Michael can take advantage characters are revealing all the intimate ships. Are they involving another member of. He’s often out at all hours at the gym. details right in front of you. It feels like to simply spice up their sex life, or are they you’re right there with them throughout doing it to save an already-crumbling rela- Where does the comedy angle come the whole play. tionship? from? With relationships being a lot more open Relationships aren’t usually one long bat- There’s been a big furore over Jack these days, the definition of monogamous tle, so there’s plenty of playfulness be- Whitehall - a straight man - playing a can be slightly looser. tween the couples. I think comedy comes gay character in Disney’s Jungle Cruise. What’s your opinion on straight men Does the play centre on a throuple or a from tension too, so even if the characters playing gay characters? threesome? What’s the difference? aren’t being directly funny, their sly com- ments, slip-ups and mistakes provide I can understand the frustration from the Without giving too much away, one couple plenty of laughs, along with a few tongue- LGBT community, as it’s important to im- propositions half of another couple with in-cheek moments. prove representation in Hollywood, giving an idea which means there’s a certain everyone an equal opportunity. On the amount of risk involved for them all. How much sexual content is there, and other hand, if they felt he was the very best There’s definitely a great deal of intimacy is there an audience age limit? person to fulfil that role because of his act- for the three characters. I would say a Sex is one of the biggest topics of the play, ing ability, then that’s fair enough. How- throuple is a three-way relationship in so there’s plenty of it explored by the char- ever, Disney may well have played on the every aspect, but a threesome is purely a acters - from kinky things to sensual can- controversy a little to generate publicity, physical, sexual experience. dles, it covers a lot! As for an age limit, it’s which could be considered a little ex- Do the characters in the play distin- at your own discretion, but I wouldn’t ploitative. guish between sex and a loving rela- bring your kids - it’d make for a bit of a tionship? full-on sex-ed. Four Play shows at Birmingham’s Old Definitely. One of the characters gets about What research have you undertaken for Joint Stock Theatre from Wednesday 5 quite a bit, but he still saves ‘something’ the role? to Saturday 8 September. intimate for his partner. He believes what Well, I haven’t signed up to Grindr, but I’ve The List Cover September Birmingham (Rachel Parris).qxp_Layout 1 17/08/2018 14:03 Page 1 The List Cover September Birmingham (Rachel Parris).qxp_Layout 1 17/08/2018 14:03 Page 2

YourYour wweek-eek- bby-weeky-week llistingsistings gguideuide Septemberptember 22018018 thelist

Rachel Parris at The Glee Club, Birmingham - Wednesday 12 September

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 September Mon 10 to Sun 16 September Mon 17 to Sun 23 September Mon 24 to Sun 30 September

Imelda May at Yungblud at Danny Baker at Dirty Vegan at Symphony Hall, Birmingham O2 Academy, Birmingham Birmingham Town Hall MAC, Birmingham Sat 1 September Wed 12 September Mon 17 September Fri 28 September

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thelist THROUGHOUT SEPTEMBER

early-career artists, Mon 3 - Sat 22 Visual Arts Sept NEW MATHE SHEPHEARD RBSA An exhi- Birmingham Museum & bition of trees with a life of their own, Art Gallery in watercolour and Indian ink, Mon 3 Sept - Sat 6 Oct DIPPY ON TOUR: A NATURAL HISTORY NEW STEPHEN ADAMS ARBSA Exhibition ADVENTURE The Natural History Mu- of pottery, using stoneware, earthen- seum’s famous Diplodocus, known ware and Raku processes, Mon 10 as Dippy, is taking a road trip to Birm- Sept - Sat 3 Nov ingham. This is a free ticketed event, but advanced booking is strongly ad- NEW STEPHANIE REDFERN RBSA Show- vised, until Sun 9 Sept casing new stitched mixed media tex- tile works based on the natural world, THE EVERYDAY AND EXTRAORDINARY Mon 17 Sept - Sat 3 Nov Exhibition exploring the potential of objects to be transformed and seen in new and insightful ways. Showcas- The Barber Institute ing over 70 modern and contempo- MEN OF THE DOCKS This became the rary artworks, until Sun 9 Sept first painting by George Bellows ac- Imelda May - Symphony Hall, Birmingham INSPIRE 2018 Now in its third year, In- quired for a UK public collection Symphony Hall, B’ham Sept, Lichfield Guild- spire is a youth art competition for when it was purchased by the Na- hall five-to-19-year-olds, this year taking tional Gallery in 2013. Just a year Gigs ICEAGE Mon 3 Sept, its inspiration from the theme of later, his nude, Miss Bentham, was Hare & Hounds, Birm- THE COUNTERFEIT SIX- colour, until Sat 15 Sept purchased for the Barber Institute by DETROIT SOUL COLLEC- ingham TIES Fri 7 Sept, Artrix, Bromsgrove COLLECTING BIRMINGHAM: WHO IS the Henry Barber Trust. The two TIVE Sat 1 Sept, The INCUBUS Tues 4 Sept, BIRMINGHAM? Discover new collec- paintings will hang side by side this Jam House, B’ham O2 Academy, B’ham U2-2 Fri 7 Sept, The tions that reflect the experiences of season, until Sun 9 Sept SIGNING OFF (UB40 SANDY ALEX G Tues 4 Robin, Bilston diverse Birmingham people - from NEW YORK CITY LIFE Exhibition of TRIBUTE) Sat 1 Sept, Sept, Hare & Hounds, SEASON OF THE SHEL- working lives to community activists prints by John Sloan which provides The Night Owl, B’ham Birmingham LAZ Sat 8 Sept, O2 In- and protest movements, until Sun 27 fascinating historical insights into THE KAISER CHIEFS Sat SOCCER MOMMY Tues 4 stitute, Birmingham Oct Manhattan life in a period of rapid so- 1 Sept, Wolverhamp- Sept, Hare & Hounds, SKYLINE SERIES: cial change, until Sun 16 Sept ton Racecourse Birmingham GARBAGE Sat 8 Sept, Grand Union DRAWN TO PERFECTION Masterworks SAVING ABEL Sat 1 LA GUNS Tues 4 Sept, Digbeth Arena, B’ham from the Royal Collection, exploring JOANNE MASDING: BRUNTWOOD COR- Sept, The Asylum, The Robin, Bilston THE DARLING BUDS + their use as prototypes for paintings NERBLOCK COMMISSION Permanent in- Birmingham THE PROCTORS Sat 8 and frescoes, tapestries, sculpture or BARRY MANILOW Tues 4 stallation made by artist and Grand LADY SANITY Sat 1 Sept, Hare & Hounds, architecture, until Sun 23 Sept Sept, Arena B’ham Union studio holder Joanne Masding, Sept, The Flapper, Birmingham SAM DRAISEY AND THE until Fri 5 July 2019 Birmingham GROUPER Sat 8 Sept, Other VISUAL ARTS REVOLT Wed 5 Sept, FRANCIS & THE FIEND The Robin, Bilston House, Birm- COVER TO COVER: ROALD DAHL AROUND Sat 1 Sept, O2 ingham Ikon Gallery PASSENGER Wed 5 THE WORLD EXHIBITION Coinciding Academy, Birmingham THE COUNTERFEIT NEW POLLY APFELBAUM Waiting for the with Matilda The Musical’s run at the Sept, O2 Institute, THE SOUND AKA + BRI- STONES Sat 8 Sept, UFOs (a space set between a land- Hippodrome, this exhibition of eye- Birmingham TANNIA BEAT Sat 1 The Robin, Bilston scape and a bunch of flowers) - exhi- catching international book covers SABBRA CADABRA Thurs Sept, The Robin, Bil- bition of new work by New celebrates the work of Matilda’s cre- 6 Sept, The Robin, Bil- THE STRANGE DOORS ston York-based artist Polly Apfelbaum, ator, bestselling children’s author ston Sat 8 Sept, The Night Wed 19 Sept - Sun 18 Nov TEXAS + IMELDA MAY Owl, Birmingham Roald Dahl, until Sat 15 Sept, Birm- FUNK N SOUL NIGHT OUT (SKYLINE SERIES) Sat 1 ingham Hippodrome PRESENTS... URBAN CHANTEL MCGREGOR Sept, Symphony Hall, SOUL FAMILY Thurs 6 Sat 8 Sept, Artrix, MAC, Birmingham Birmingham Sept, The Jam House, Bromsgrove NEW OUT OF THE SHADOWS: THE UN- PLUVIAM + EARLY DAYS Birmingham TOLD STORY OF PEOPLE WITH AUTISM... + LUNA KISS Sat 1 THE ELO EXPERIENCE Exhibition by photographer Polly Sept, The Sunflower Thurs 6 Sept, The Braden and journalist Sally Williams, Lounge, Birmingham with images and stories of the every- Core Theatre, Solihull MARSHALL JEFFERSON day lives of people with learning dis- THE ROY ORBISON abilities and autism in educational Sat 1 Sept, Hare & STORY Fri 7 - Sat 8 KELLY OLIVER Sat 8 and care settings, Sat 8 Sept - Sun NEW 10•10 Exhibition celebrating the Hounds, Birmingham Sept, The Core The- Sept, Artrix, Broms- 11 Nov 10th anniversary of Design for Indus- SERPENTYNE Sun 2 atre, Solihull try jewellery graduates from the grove NEW CREATING THE SPECTACLE! IM- Sept, The Robin, Bil- School of Jewellery, Mon 10 Sept - THE SMALL FAKERS Fri 7 ATHENS + PALE SEAS + MERSED IN 360 In repurposing her ston Fri 5 Oct, Vittoria Street Gallery, Birm- Sept, The Night Owl, FREESPIRITS + ELK Sat wheelchair to create fantastical art, SCREAMING FEMALES ingham Birmingham 8 Sept, The Sunflower Sue Austin reshapes how we think Sun 2 Sept, Hare & SKYLINE SERIES: THE Lounge, Birmingham about disability, Sat 22 Sept - Sun 25 NEW SOLIHULL ARTISTS' FORUM Exhibi- Hounds, Birmingham tion featuring an open-studio event, THE Fri 7 Sept, Digbeth BRUM ROCKS LIVE Sun Nov OFF THE WALL - PINK with a number of the Solihull Artists' Arena, Birmingham 9 Sept, Wolverhamp- FLOYD TRIBUTE Sun 2 Forum members opening their stu- PHILIPPA HANNA Fri 7 ton Grand Theatre Sept, The River RBSA Gallery dios to the public over the weekend Sept, Pizza Express Rooms, Stourbridge NIGHTWISHED Sun 9 NEW NEXT WAVE 2018 Exhibition of of 21 - 23 September, Tues 18 Sept - Live, Birmingham Sept, The Robin, Bil- CLARE BOWEN PLUS contemporary art by emerging and Tues 2 Oct, The Core Theatre, Soli- LISBEE STAINTON Fri 7 ston hull SUPPORT Sun 2 Sept, 52 whatsonlive.co.uk The List Birmingham 1 Sat 1 - Sun 9 September.qxp_Layout 1 20/08/2018 15:20 Page 2

Saturday 1 - Sunday 9 September Classical Music Theatre BLAKE - THE ANNIVERSARY TOUR Sat 1 THE FULL MONTY Musical adaptation Sept, Lichfield Garrick of the hit film of the same name, until Sat 1 Sept, Old Joint Stock Theatre, Birmingham DISENCHANTED Birmingham premiere of Dennis T Giacino's off-Broadway hit, until Sat 1 Sept, The Blue Orange Theatre, Birmingham JERSEY BOYS Internationally ac- claimed musical telling the real-life story of Frankie Valli And The Four Seasons, until Sat 8 Sept, Wolver- hampton Grand Theatre THE COMEDY ABOUT A BANK ROBBERY LICHFIELD PROMS Free annual out- Smash-and-grab comedy promising door concert that takes place in the swagloads of laughter, until Sat 8 beautiful surroundings of Beacon Sept, The REP, Birmingham Park, Sat 1 Sept, Beacon Park, Lich- MACBETH Starring Christopher Eccle- field ston and Niamh Cusack, until Tues A FRENCH ACCENT ON THE CLASSICS 18 Sept, Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Featuring Birmingham Conservatoire Stratford-upon-Avon Iain Stirling - The REP, Birmingham pianists Domonkos Csabay & Connor ROMEO AND JULIET Contemporary pro- atre Stratford, Stratford-upon-Avon Wilcox. Programme includes works duction of Shakespeare's story of by Handel, Chopin & Debussy, Thurs love at first sight, until Fri 21 Sept, THE 39 STEPS The Crescent Theatre Talks Company present John Buchanan’s 6 Sept, Royal Birmingham Conserva- Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Strat- AN EVENING WITH ADAM HENSON Join tale of treachery, spies and dastardly toire ford-upon-Avon Adam as he shares stories about his deeds, Sat 8 - Sat 15 Sept, Crescent THE MERRY WIVES OF WINDSOR David farming life, his TV career and the Theatre, Birmingham Troughton stars as Falstaff, until Sat running of the Cotswold Farm Park, 22 Sept, Royal Shakespeare Theatre, CONJUGAL RIGHTS Amateur staging of Thurs 6 Sept, Birmingham Town Hall Roger Hall’s single-set farce concern- Stratford-upon-Avon AN EVENING WITH SIR MICHAEL PARKIN- ing a couple about to celebrate their Comedy TAMBURLAINE Michael Boyd returns to SON In conversation with his son, 21st wedding anniversary, Sat 8 - Sat the RSC to direct a new staging of Mike, and showing highlights from ANDY ASKINS, KEVIN MCCARTHY, STU- 15 Sept, Oldbury Rep ART MITCHELL, JOHNNY COCHRANE & Christopher Marlowe’s famous play, the Parkinson archive, Sun 9 Sept, BROTHERS BEYOND Celebrating 50 COMIC TBC Sat 1 Sept, The Glee Club, until Sat 1 Dec, Royal Shakespeare Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury years of Joseph & The Amazing Birmingham Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Technicolor Dreamcoat, Sun 9 Sept, UNCLE BEN'S FAMILY FEUD Comedy fol- LIVE AT HOT WATER SPECIAL Sat 1 Prince Of Wales Centre, Cannock Sept, Crescent Theatre, Birmingham lowing the ups and downs of family life, Thurs 30 Aug - Sun 2 Sept, The ADAM ROWE, STEVE HALL, MANDY Old Rep Theatre, Birmingham Film KNIGHT & COMIC TBC Sat 1 Sept, The Comedy Loft, Birmingham JOHN EDWARD - PSYCHIC MEDIUM Sun INDEPENDENT LISTINGS: 2 Sept, New Alexandra Theatre, Birm- JARLATH REGAN, ANDREW O'NEILL & ingham Kids Show UNDER THE TREE (15) Comedy/Drama. COMEDY CAROUSEL WITH ANDY ROBIN- Starring Steinþór Hróar Steinþórsson, MATILDA THE MUSICAL The Royal SON Thurs 6 Sept, The Glee Club, FLASHDANCE Strictly Come Dancing Edda Björgvinsdóttir. Foreign lan- Shakespeare Company's award-win- Birmingham Champion Joanne Clifton and A1 guage, subtitled. MAC, Birmingham, ning musical, until Sat 8 Sept, Birm- heartthrob Ben Adams star in a stage Fri 31 Aug - Thurs 6 Sept KUM-N-AVALOFF COMEDY NIGHT Thurs version of the iconic film of the same ingham Hippodrome 6 Sept, Stourbridge Town Hall HEART BEATS LOUD (PG) Drama/Music. name, Tues 4 - Sat 8 Sept, Belgrade TIDDLER AND OTHER TERRIFIC TALES Starring Nick Offerman, Kiersey JONNY AWSUM, ANDREW BIRD, LUKAS Theatre, Coventry Featuring live music, puppetry and a Clemons. MAC, Birmingham, Fri 31 KIRKBY & SEAN MORAN Thurs 6 Sept, host of colourful characters from Julia MEEK A haunting story of ruthless Aug - Thurs 6 Sept The George Hotel, Lichfield state control, tense friendships and Donaldson & IAIN STIRLING Fri 7 Sept, The REP, one woman's determination not to be Axel Schef- PRETTY IN PINK (15) Comedy/Drama. Birmingham broken, Tues 4 - Sat 8 Sept, The REP, fler’s best- Starring Molly Ringwald, Andrew Mc- loved titles, Carthy. This is an outdoor screening JOE LYCETT Fri 7 Sept, Dudley Town Birmingham Thurs 30 Aug - presented by Mrs Barbara Nice. Hall LADY MACBETH AND HER SERVANTS Sat 1 Sept, MAC, Birmingham, Fri 31 Aug - Thurs Jars Of Clay Theatre Company pre- JARLATH REGAN, ANDREW O'NEILL, OLA New Alexan- 6 Sept sents its version of Shakespeare's & GEORGE ZACH Fri 7 - Sat 8 Sept, The dra Theatre, blood-splashed tale, Wed 5 - Sat 8 WALLACE AND GROMIT CURSE OF THE Glee Club, Birmingham B’ham Sept, The Blue Orange Theatre, Birm- WERE-RABBIT (U) Comedy/Animation. GEORGE EGG Sat 8 Sept, The Old Rep ingham THE SNAIL & THE WHALE A Tall Stories With the voices of Peter Sallis, Helena Theatre, B’ham musical production inspired by the Bonham Carter. This is a Scratch & BOTHERED & BEWILDERED The Billesley MO GILLIGAN Sat 8 Sept, New Alexan- bestselling picture book by Julia Sniff Screening. MAC, Birmingham, Players present Gail Young’s drama dra Theatre, Birmingham Donaldson & Axel Scheffler, Sat 1 - Fri 31 Aug & Sat 8 Sept of memory, loss, secrets, love and Sun 2 Sept, MAC, Birmingham ADAM BLOOM, SARAH KEYWORTH, MIKE Barbara Cartland, Fri 7 - Sat 8 Sept, TOP GUN (18) Action/Drama. Starring NEWALL & FREDDY QUINNE Sat 8 Sept, Dovehouse Theatre, Solihull THE ENORMOUS TURNIP Stuff And Non- Tom Cruise, Kelly McGillis. This is a The Comedy Loft, Birmingham sense Theatre Company return with brunch screening. Mockingbird Cin- TARTUFFE Brand new version of unswerving energy, live music and ema, Birmingham, Sat 1 Sept ALFIE MOORE Sat 8 Sept, MAC B’ham Moliere's provocative French classic, eccentric puppetry, Sun 9 Sept, Lich- TIME TRIAL (12a) Documentary/Sport. JEREMY HARDY Sun 9 Sept, The Old relocated to Birmingham's modern- field Garrick Starring Thomas Dekker, David Millar. Rep Theatre, Birmingham day Pakistani Muslim community, Fri 7 Sept - Sat 23 Feb, The Swan The- Mockingbird Cinema, Birmingham, whatsonlive.co.uk 53 The List Birmingham 1 Sat 1 - Sun 9 September.qxp_Layout 1 20/08/2018 15:20 Page 3

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thelist Saturday 1 - Sunday 9 September Sat 1 - Sun 2 & Wed 5 Sept hampton HEATHERS (15) Comedy. Starring CLASSIC VEHICLE SHOW Classic & retro Winona Ryder, Christian Slater. Artrix, show presenting a fine selection of Bromsgrove, Mon 3 - Tues 4 Sept over 800 vehicles as well as trade THE ESCAPE (15) Drama. Starring and autojumble stands, Sun 2 Sept, Gemma Arterton, Dominic Cooper. Himley Hall & Park, Dudley Artrix, Bromsgrove, Fri 7 Sept ON THE BUSES All aboard for vintage THE CHILDREN ACT (12a) Drama. Star- buses at Bewdley! Sun 2 Sept, Sev- ring Emma Thompson, Stanley Tucci. ern Valley Railway, Bewdley, Nr Kid- MAC, Birmingham, Fri 7 Sept dersminster RECLAIM THE FRAME: FACES PLACES ARTS MARKETS 2018 Monthly market (12a) Documentary. Followed by Q&A showcasing the work of local de- - guests tbc. MAC, Birmingham, Sat 8 signer makers, Sun 2 Sept, MAC, Sept Birmingham THE LITTLE MERMAID (18) Animation. SPITFIRE FAMILY RUN Gentle 1K run, With the voices of Jodi Benson, Sun 2 Sept, RAF Cosford, Nr Wolver- Samuel E. Wright. This is a brunch hampton screening. Mockingbird Cinema, AUTUMN FAIR Featuring brands, new Birmingham, Sat 8 - Sun 9 Sept products, retail insight and ‘endless MILDRED PIERCE (PG) Crime/Drama. inspiration’, Sun 2 - Wed 5 Sept, Starring Joan Crawford, Jack Carson. NEC, Birmingham MAC, Birmingham, Sun 9 - Tues 11 FIREWORK CHAMPIONSHIPS Three of Sept the UK’s best firework companies battle it out, Tues 4 Sept, Ragley Hall, Alcester NEW FILMS ON GENERAL RELEASE: Peaky Blinders Night - Black Country Living Museum, Dudley BACKSTAGE TOUR Journey behind the Released from Fri 7 Sept, showing at scenes at one of Britain's premier selected cinemas from resident magicians and ventrilo- MOSELEY FOLK FESTIVAL Line-up in- producing theatres, Thurs 6 Sept, quists, Sat 8 - Sun 9 Sept, Cadbury cludes Levellers, Nick Mulvey, AMERICAN ANIMALS (15) The REP, Birmingham World, Birmingham Teenage Fanclub, Show Of Hands, PUZZLE (15) BIRMINGHAM HERITAGE OPEN DAYS AT DIGITAL ACTIVITIES FOR SCOUTS Take Steve Harley & Cockney Rebel, THE MISEDUCATION OF CAMERON POST SAREHOLE MILL Thurs 6 - Sat 15 Sept, your scout pack to Enginuity for a Skinny Lister, Willy Mason & more, (15) Sarehole Mill, Hall Green, B’ham hands-on workshop session every Fri 31 Aug - Sun 2 Sept, Moseley Park, Birmingham THE NUN (tbc) PEAKY BLINDERS NIGHT Walk around Saturday, Sat 8 Sept - Sat 20 Oct, En- the Peaky Blinders film set and enjoy ginuity Museum, Ironbridge, Shrop- OFF THE TRACKS SUMMER FESTIVAL THE SEAGULL (12a) an evening of music and entertain- shire Line-up includes Transglobal Under- ment from the Roaring 20s, Fri 7 - Sat WAKE UP THE ZOO Go behind the ground, Jon Otway & His Little Big 8 Sept, Black Country Living Mu- scenes courtesy of an early-morning Band, Dreadzone, Mad Dog Mcrea & seum, Dudley guided tour, Sun 9 Sept, Dudley Zoo- more, Fri 31 Aug - Sun 2 Sept, Don- Events HOME, GARDEN & FOOD SHOW Meet logical Gardens ington Park Farmhouse, Castle Don- ington, Derbyshire THE JINNEY RING SCULPTURE TRAIL and talk with experts in home & gar- ECO FEST Featuring free workshops, New and returning artists create an den design, Fri 7 - Sun 9 Sept, activities, and opportunities to find COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL Line-up in- exhibition of dramatic sculptures Ragley Hall, Alcester, Warwickshire out how much you can develop your cludes Texas Tornados and Kezia Gill, using a range of media and subject JEWELLERY QUARTER HERITAGE WALK eco-friendly credentials, Sun 9 Sept, Sun 2 Sept, Birmingham Botanical matter, until Sun 30 Sept, The Jinney Sat 8 Sept, Museum of the Jewellery MAC, Birmingham Gardens Ring Craft Centre, Bromsgrove Quarter, Birmingham ONBOARD THE CRAFT FESTIVAL Line-up BACKSTAGE TOUR Journey behind the BACKSTAGE TOUR Journey behind the includes Vince Ripper & The Rodent scenes at one of Britain's premier scenes at one of Britain's premier Show, Mr Strange, Syteria, Poisond producing theatres, Sat 1 Sept, The producing theatres, Sat 8 Sept, The Food Festivals Electrick Head, Underground Zero & REP, Birmingham REP, Birmingham BB Blackdog, Thurs 6 - Sat 8 Sept, GIN AND RUM FESTIVAL Fri 7 - Sat 8 Stoke Prior Sports & Country Club, BIG BUILD EVENT Celebrate the 'Brick KIDSOUT COLOUR DASH Sat 8 Sept, Sept, Edgbaston Stadium, B’ham Stoke Prior, Bromsgrove Built' exhibition by helping build a Drayton Manor Theme Park, Tam- giant mosaic using lego bricks, Sat 1 worth, Staffordshire LUDLOW FOOD FESTIVAL Fri 7 - Sun 9 BROMYARD FOLK FESTIVAL Line-up in- Sept, Ludlow Castle, South Shrop- cludes Oysterband, The Young’Uns, Sept, Forge Mill Needle Museum, GLASS ENGRAVING Ideal for beginners, Redditch shire RURA, Chris Wood, Granny’s Attic & Sat 8 Sept, Black Country Living Mu- more... Thurs 6 - Sun 9 Sept, various CARIBBEAN NIGHT Grass skirts and ALE, CIDER & GIN FESTIVAL Sat 8 Sept, seum, Dudley locations, Bromyard, Herefordshire loud shirts at the ready! Sat 1 Sept, Blakesley Hall, Birmingham CARS & COFFEE BREAKFAST CLUB 2018 SHIIINE ON BIRMINGHAM FESTIVAL Line- West Midland Safari and Leisure A wide and varied display of beautiful TAMWORTH FOOD GUSTO FESTIVAL Sat Park, Bewdley 8 - Sun 9 Sept, Tamworth Castle, up includes Orbital (pictured), Shed cars from years gone by, Sat 8 Sept, Seven, Happy Mondays, Julian MIDDLE EARTH FESTIVAL Two-day Staffordshire Coventry Transport Museum Cope, Embrace, Reverend & The event celebrating the life and works SHUGBOROUGH ESTATE HERITAGE OPEN Makers, Black Grape & more... Sat 8 of JRR Tolkien and his connections to DAY Sat 8 Sept, Shugborough His- Sept, O2 Academy, Birmingham the city of Birmingham, Sat 1 - Sun 2 toric Working Estate, Stafford Sept, Sarehole Mill, Hall Green, Birm- ingham AMIR KHAN VS SAMMY VARGAS Sat 8 Music Festivals Sept, Arena Birmingham WORLD WAR DAY Featuring music, COVENTRY GODIVA FESTIVAL Line-up in- trade stalls and activities, with high- 400 YEARS OF ASTON HALL: ROLL UP! cludes Editors, Jake Bugg, Ronan lights including displays and ROLL UP! Featuring a Victorian Keating, Jonas Blue, Gabrielle, Pro- re-enactments as well as a selection sideshow, Sat 8 Sept, Aston Hall, fessor Green & Blood Red Shoes, Fri of civilian and military vehicles, Sun 2 Birmingham 31 Aug - Sun 2 Sept, War Memorial Sept, Bantock House & Park, Wolver- FAMILY MAGIC WEEKENDS Live shows Park, Coventry

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thelist Monday 10 - Sunday 16 September POP MUSIC A night at the theatre ‘for Classical anyone who's ever been a dick on the dancefloor’, Wed 12 - Sat 22 Sept, The REP, Birmingham Music SHEILA'S MHS MENTAL HEALTH SHOW 3 CBSO: DVORÁK’S NEW WORLD SYM- 'THE ANGER CUSHION' A show combin- PHONY Featuring Omer Meir Wellber ing humour and mental health, ex- (conductor), Gidon Kremer (violin) & plaining why life is too serious to be Jan Lisiecki (piano). Programme in- taken seriously, Thurs 13 Sept, cludes works by Dvorák, Bartók & Stafford Gatehouse Theatre Rachmaninov, Wed 12 - Thurs 13 FAULTY TOWERS: THE DINING EXPERI- Sept, Symphony Hall, Birmingham ENCE A fully immersive, highly impro- vised and site-specific comedy -theatre production, Thurs 13 - Sat 15 Sept, The REP, Birmingham Comedy MARLENE MCKENZIE: LITE Marlene CHRIS RAMSEY Mon 10 Sept, The fuses drama and humour to explore REP, Birmingham the issue of skin lightening, Fri 14 Sept, MAC, Birmingham Yungblood - O2 Academy, Birmingham RACHEL PARRIS Wed 12 Sept, The Glee Club, Birmingham A VICAR OF DIBLEY CHRISTMAS - THE New Alexandra The- HERITAGE: SLIPMATT, DJ SECOND COMING Stage version of the Gigs atre, Birmingham RATTY AND DJ PILGRIM original TV series, Fri 14 - Sat 22 LEELA JAMES Thurs 13 Sat 15 Sept, Hare & Sept, Hall Green Little Theatre, Birm- FAITH - THE GEORGE Sept, The Jam House, Hounds, Birmingham ingham MICHAEL LEGACY Mon Birmingham JOE LOUIS WALKER, 10 Sept, Wolverhamp- BACK TO THE 60S Thurs BRUCE KATZ & GILES ton Grand Theatre 13 Sept, The Core ROBSON Sat 15 Sept, IONA FYFE & CAMERON Theatre, Solihull Pizza Express Live, NIXON Mon 10 Sept, Birmingham Kids Show ISLANDS IN THE STREAM Crescent Theatre, Fri 14 Sept, New TRU GROOVE Sat 15 MATILDA THE MUSICAL The Royal Birmingham Alexandra Theatre, Sept, The Jam House, Shakespeare Company's award-win- ROSE TATTOO Tues 11 Birmingham Birmingham DARREN HARRIOTT, MARTIN MOR & ning musical, until Sat 8 Sept, Birm- Sept, O2 Academy, COMEDY CAROUSEL WITH ANDY ROBIN- ingham Hippodrome LINDSEY WEBSTER Fri KICK UP THE 80S Sat 15 Birmingham Sept, The River SON Thurs 13 Sept, The Glee Club, ENSONGLOPEDIA OF ANIMALS Enter- 14 Sept, Pizza Express Birmingham YOUNGBLOOD BRASS Live, Birmingham Rooms, Stourbridge tainment for children featuring a BAND Tues 11 Sept, THE SCUMMY MUMMIES SHOW Fri 14 plethora of fascinating facts... Sun SOUL'D OUT Fri 14 KARKOSA + CANDID + Hare & Hounds, Birm- Sept, Artrix, Bromsgrove 16 Sept, Artrix, Bromsgrove Sept, The Robin, GLASS CEILINGS + ingham Bilston YOUNG CHASERS Sat 15 SCOTT BENNETT, JAVIER JARQUIN & YUNGBLUD Wed 12 Sept, The Sunflower DAVE WARD Fri 14 Sept, Molineux TRU GROOVE Fri 14 Sept, O2 Academy, Lounge, Birmingham Stadium, Wolverhampton Sept, The Jam House, Birmingham Birmingham MARLEY REPRISED Sat DARREN HARRIOTT, MARTIN MOR & Talks MILDLIFE 15 - Sun 16 Sept, New ADAM HESS & JANEY GODLEY Fri 14 - Wed 12 Sept, ARRIVAL - THE HITS OF LUCY WORSLEY - QUEEN VICTORIA - Hare & Hounds, Birm- Alexandra Theatre, Sat 15 Sept, The Glee Club, B’ham ABBA Sat 15 Sept, DAUGHTER, WIFE, MOTHER & WIDOW ingham Birmingham Lichfield Garrick SCOTT BENNETT, JENNY COLLIER, JU- The life, the palaces and the rich RICHARD DIGANCE - THE ARCTIC MONKEYS Sat NIOR SIMPSON & KANE BROWN Sat 15 AC/DC EXPERIENCE Sat colourful age of a woman who ruled NOT BAD FOR HIS AGE 15 - Sun 16 Sept, Sept, The Comedy Loft, Birmingham 15 Sept, O2 Academy, a quarter of the globe, Thurs 13 TOUR Arena Birmingham Wed 12 Sept, Birmingham JULIETTE BURTON Sat 15 Sept, The Sept, Lichfield Garrick The Robin, Bilston JAYCE LEWIS Sun 16 REP, Birmingham MOLOTOV JUKEBOX Sat AN EVENING WITH BRIAN BLESSED WHITNEY - QUEEN OF Sept, O2 Academy, 15 Sept, O2 Academy, TOM STADE, ALUN COCHRANE, JO EN- Join the larger-than-life actor as he THE NIGHT Birmingham Wed 12 Birmingham RIGHT & WAYNE BEESE Sat 15 Sept, talks about his career on stage and Sept, New Alexandra NINES Sun 16 Sept, O2 Cornbow Hall, Halesowen screen, Thurs 13 Sept, Birmingham Theatre, Birmingham PRONE 2 MADNESS Sat Academy, Birmingham Town Hall 15 Sept, The Night MARTIN MOR Sun 16 Sept, MAC, MALCOLM STENT IN THE Owl, Birmingham SINGLE BY SUNDAY Sun Birmingham AFTERNOON Wed 12 16 Sept, The Asylum, Sept, The Core The- JARET REDDICK Sat 15 Birmingham atre, Solihull Sept, O2 Institute, Birmingham SKATING POLLY - BABE INK. Thurs 13 Sept, O2 PUNCH - DESENSITISED Institute, Birmingham FRIDOLIJN Sat 15 Sept, Sun 16 Sept, Hare & Artrix, Bromsgrove Theatre CAM Thurs 13 Sept, O2 Hounds, Birmingham Institute, Birmingham WOLFGANG FLUR Sat 15 CEILDH WITH THE REEL A LOCK-IN WITH TUFFERS AND DAWSON Sept, The Castle & Cricketer Phil Tufnell and rugby star THE KRIS BARRAS BAND HOT CEILIDH PEPPERS Falcon, Birmingham Sun 16 Sept, Lichfield Matt Dawson lift the lid on their Thurs 13 Sept, The hugely successful sporting careers, Asylum, Birmingham THE GEORGE MICHAEL Guildhall STORY Sat 15 Sept, Tues 11 Sept, New Alexandra The- ANDREW MCMILLAN - WORDS Spend THE DEVIL MAKES WOODEN SHJIPS Sun Crescent Theatre, atre, Birmingham an evening with the award-winning THREE Thurs 13 Sept, 16 Sept, O2 Institute, Birmingham TAJ EXPRESS Brand new musical fea- poet, whose debut collection, Physi- Hare & Hounds, Birm- Birmingham turing Bollywood's greatest dancers cal, was the first ever poetry collec- ingham LE CLUB FONDUE GO THE TINA TURNER EXPE- INDIE Sat 15 Sept, and the songs of AR Rahman, Tues tion to win First Book THANK YOU FOR THE RIENCE SHOW Sun 16 Hare & Hounds, Birm- 11 - Sat 15 Sept, Birmingham Hippo- Award, Sun 16 Sept, Artrix, Broms- MUSIC Thurs 13 Sept, Sept, The Robin, drome grove ingham Bilston whatsonlive.co.uk 57 The List Birmingham 10-16 September.qxp_Layout 1 20/08/2018 10:21 Page 3

Morgan & West's Magic Show. (for kids .. and childish grown ups!!) Magicians, time-travellers & all round spiffing chaps present their family show. Thurs 30 Aug at 2pm £10 The Barnhart & Huxley Hot Five - Jazz and Jokes III. Sublime Jazz music hosted by Malc Stent.

Wed 19 Sept at 7.30pm £17 MOTHERSHIP - Led Zeppelin Tribute. A brand new multimedia show celebrating the music of the greatest rock band in history. Fri 21 at 7.30pm £15, £12 conc. Rolling Back the Years. One of the biggest shows of its kind in the UK, taking the audience on a musical journey through the 50s, 60s, the sounds of the 70s. Tue 25 & Wed 26 at 2.30pm & 7.30pm £15 mat, £16 eve. Andy Fairweather-Low's Big Show with The Low Riders & The Hi Riders Big Soul Revue. Fri 28 Sept at 7.30pm £25 Let There Be Love. Let musical partners Claire Martin OBE and Ray Gelato take you on an irresistible romp through the romantic classics of the Great American Songbook. Fri 5 Oct at 7.30pm £20

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thelist Monday 10 - Sunday 16 September Film Events INDEPENDENT LISTINGS: BIRMINGHAM HERITAGE WEEK AT ASTON THE HEIRESSES (12a) Drama. Starring HALL Wed 12 - Fri 14 Sept, Aston Ana Brun, Margarita Irun. Foreign lan- Hall, Birmingham guage, subtitled. MAC, Birmingham, HOME ON THE RANGE Discover the Mon 10 - Thurs 13 Sept challenges of feeding a family in the THE MISEDUCATION OF CAMERON POST Victorian period, Thurs 13 Sept, (15) Drama. Starring Chloë Grace Black Country Living Museum, Moretz, Steven Hauck. Artrix, Broms- Dudley grove, Tues 11, Fri 14 & Sun 16 Sept OUTDOOR CINEMA AT BIRMINGHAM COLD WAR (15) Drama. Starring BOTANICAL GARDENS ‘The UK’s most Joanna Kulig, Tomasz Kot. Foreign luxurious outdoor cinema experi- language, subtitled. MAC, Birming- ence’, Thurs 13 - Sat 15 Sept, Birm- ham, Fri 14 - Thurs 20 Sept ingham Botanical Gardens HERITAGE OPEN DAYS Free family event exploring over 1.000 years of history, Fri 14 - Sun 16 Sept, Hartlebury Cas- tle, Kidderminster 100 COCKPITS AND CABS A rare chance to get a closer look inside 100 cock- pits and vehicles from the collection, Sat 15 Sept, RAF Cosford, Nr Wolver- Outdoor Cinema hampton Birmingham Botanical Gardens, Thurs 13 - Sat 15 September A CLOSER LOOK - EVENING HOUSE TOURS 2018 Discover the history of Birmingham Botanical Gardens says a fond farewell to summer BLACKKKLANSMAN (15) the collection, Sat 15 Sept, Pack- Biography/Comedy. Starring John this month as it continues with its popular programme of outdoor wood House, Solihull David Washington, Adam Driver. movie screenings. Presented by Cult Screens, ‘the UK’s most luxu- MAC, Birmingham, Fri 14 - Thurs 20 YARDLEY MEDIEVAL WALK Join experts rious outdoor cinema experience’, the featured films are Leon Sept from the Birmingham & Warwickshire (Thursday 13 September), Pretty Woman (Friday the 14th) and The Archaeological Society in a leisurely HEATHERS (15) Comedy. Starring 2.5-mile stroll around the village of Greatest Showman (Saturday the 15th). Visitors can book a bean- Winona Ryder, Christian Slater. MAC, Yardley, Sat 15 Sept, meet at bag or deck chair for the screening(s) - or bring a blanket of their Birmingham, Sat 15 Sept Blakesley Hall, Birmingham own if that suits them better. HERITAGE OPEN DAY STORE TOUR Be- NEW FILMS ON GENERAL RELEASE: hind-the-scenes tour featuring some THE PREDATOR (tbc) of the museum’s hidden treasures ing, children’s wildlife activities and and curiosities, Sat 15 Sept, Black CATHEDRAL Sat 15 Sept, Birmingham Released from Fri 14 Sept, showing live music, Sun 16 Sept, Martineau Country Living Museum, Dudley Cathedral, Birmingham at selected cinemas Gardens, Edgbaston, Birmingham BOURNVILLE HERITAGE OPEN DAY Fea- HERITAGE OPEN DAY A free, costumed, THE KING OF THIEVES (tbc) HIGHBURY DURING THE GREAT WAR turing living-history experts Gloriana, guided tours of the Smith & Pepper Featuring interactive displays, living THE MISEDUCATION OF CAMERON POST Sat 15 Sept, Selly Manor, Bournville, jewellery factory, Sat 15 Sept, Mu- history and opportunities to research (15) Birmingham seum of the Jewellery Quarter, Birm- ingham family members, Sun 16 Sept, High- LUCKY (15) FREE TOUR OF WEOLEY CASTLE Sat 15 MIDLAND GAME FAIR Premier event of bury Hall, Moseley, Birmingham OPERATION FINALE (tbc) Sept, Weoley Castle Ruins, B’ham its kind in the country, for anyone in- SUPERFLY (15) ARCHITECTURE TOUR OF BIRMINGHAM terested in traditional country pur- suits, Sat 15 - Sun 16 Sept, Weston Park, Nr Shifnal, Staffordshire HERITAGE OPEN WEEKEND Free entry all Food Festivals weekend, Sat 15 - Sun 16 Sept, CHILLI FESTIVAL A day of live music, Blakesley Hall, Birmingham street performances and plenty of FAMILY MAGIC WEEKENDS Enjoy live chilli-inspired food & drink, Fri 14 - show from the resident magicians Sat 15 Sept, Brindleyplace, B’ham and ventriloquists, Sat 15 - Sun 16 Sept, Cadbury World, Birmingham HIDDEN AREAS WEEKEND - ATTIC TOURS Discover the rarely revealed attics of Harvington Hall, including the sec- ond-largest priest hole ever found, Sat 15 - Sun 16 Sept, Harvington Hall, Kidderminster MEDIEVAL FESTIVAL Have a go at archery or get involved with medieval dancing, Sun 16 Sept, Bewdley Mu- seum, Bewdley, Nr Kidderminster LICHFIELD AUTUMN BEER FESTIVAL Fea- turing live music on both nights in- HERITAGE OPEN DAY Take a picnic and cluding The Grateful Dads (Friday) & enjoy the beautiful scenery, Sun 16 local favourites Three’s Company Sept, Birmingham Botanical Gardens Autumn Event - Martineau Gardens, Edgbaston, Birmingham (Saturday), Fri 14 & Sat 15 Sept, AUTUMN EVENT Featuring apple press Lichfield Guidlhall whatsonlive.co.uk 59 The List Birmingham 17-23 September.qxp_Layout 1 20/08/2018 11:45 Page 1 The List Birmingham 17-23 September.qxp_Layout 1 20/08/2018 11:45 Page 2

thelist Monday 17 - Sunday 23 September Classical Music Theatre CHOIRMANIA 2018 Featuring over 200 BURNING BOOKS Powerful and humor- singers from local choirs from around ous look at an education system the West Midlands, Sat 22 Sept, buckling under government cuts and Birmingham Town Hall targets, Tues 18 Sept, Old Joint Stock AUTUMN CLASSICS: CBSO BENEVOLENT Theatre, Birmingham FUND CONCERT Featuring Stephen Bell THE GOON SHOW From the producers (conductor), Jennifer Pike (violin) and of the 50th anniversary tour of Round the City Of Birmingham Symphony The Horne, Tues 18 Sept, New Orchestra. Programme includes Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham works by Shostakovich, Saint-Saëns, ALL SHOOK UP A Sutton Coldfield Mu- Wieniawski, Glazunov, Kreisler & sical Theatre Company Production, Tchaikovsky, Sat 22 Sept, Symphony Tues 18 - Sat 22 Sept, Lichfield Gar- Psychedelic Porn Crumpets - The Sunflower Lounge, Birmingham Hall, Birmingham rick 20 Sept, Symphony grove Hall, Birmingham JEKYLL & HYDE The National Produc- Gigs DYLAN CARLSON Sat 22 tion Company put a fast-paced spin ONE NIGHT OF QUEEN Sept, The Flapper, on a classic story, Tues 18 - Sat 22 KOYO + SPECIAL Thurs 20 Sept, New Birmingham Sept, The Old Rep Theatre, B’ham GUESTS Mon 17 Sept, Alexandra Theatre, Comedy DAKKA SKANKS + LOB- BEYOND THE BARRICADE 2018 The UK’s The Castle & Falcon, Birmingham DANNY BAKER: GOOD TIME CHARLIE’S STER (LIVE & PUNK longest-running musical theatre con- Birmingham BACK Mon 17 Sept, Birmingham Town VINCENT FLATTS LAW- REGGAE BANDS) Sat 22 cert tour, Wed 19 Sept, New Alexan- Hall WALKING PAPERS Mon LESS Thurs 20 Sept, Sept, The Night Owl, dra Theatre, Birmingham 17 Sept, The Asylum, The Robin, Bilston Birmingham Birmingham THE LOST HANCOCKS: VACANT LOT Fea- HOME FREE Thurs 20 THE RED LEMONS Sat 22 turing impressionist James Hurn as SLUG Mon 17 Sept, Sept, O2 Institute, Sept, The Jam House, Tony Hancock, Wed 19 Sept, Stour- Hare & Hounds, Birm- Birmingham Birmingham bridge Town Hall ingham A CELEBRATION OF JOHN CROWN THE EMPIRE Sat NAZANINS STORY The true and ongo- PSYCHEDELIC PORN DENVER Thurs 20 Sept, 22 Sept, The Asylum, ing story of Nazanin Ratcliffe, cur- CRUMPETS Mon 17 The Core Theatre, Soli- Birmingham rently imprisoned in Iran, Wed 19 - Sept, The Sunflower hull KICK UP THE 80S Sat 22 Thurs 20 Sept, Old Joint Stock The- Lounge, Birmingham LAUREL Thurs 20 Sept, Sept, The Robin, Bil- atre, Birmingham TOM CLARKE Tues 18 The Sunflower ston SALAD DAYS Julian Slade and Dorothy Sept, Hare & Hounds, Lounge, Birmingham THE MAGIC GANG Sat 22 Reynolds’ award winning show, Wed Birmingham INDIE REWIND Fri 21 - Sept, O2 Institute, 19 - Sat 22 Sept, Belgrade Theatre, LOST HORIZONS Tues 18 Sat 22 Sept, Hare & Birmingham Coventry Sept, Hare & Hounds, Hounds, Birmingham TORY LANEZ Sat 22 TRANZ TALKZ Join prominent queer Birmingham BIG COUNTRY Fri 21 Sept, O2 Academy, artist Travis Alabanza for an intimate 50 CENT Tues 18 Sept, Sept, The Robin, Bil- Birmingham dinner of burgers, chips and drinks, Arena Birmingham, ston DIVAS : THE LEGENDS while discussing, reflecting and doc- BROOKE CANDY Wed 19 THE MIDNIGHT BEAST Fri Sat 22 Sept, Sutton umenting experiences of queer and Sept, The Glee Club, 21 Sept, O2 Academy, Coldfield Town Hall transphobic public harassment, Birmingham Birmingham Thurs 20 Sept, Belgrade Theatre, LA DHARMA + THE EX- Coventry CATHERINE MCGRATH THE RED LEMONS Fri 21 TONS + M A R C + THE Wed 19 Sept, O2 Insti- Sept, The Jam House, VERSE + MODERN COM- FAULTY TOWERS: THE DINING EXPERI- tute, Birmingham Birmingham FORTS Sat 22 Sept, The KEVIN BRIDGES Wed 19 - Sat 22 Sept, ENCE Fully immersive, highly impro- Birmingham Hippodrome vised and site-specific JOYNER LUCAS Wed 19 Sunflower Lounge, Fri 21 comedy-theatre production, Thurs 20 Sept, O2 Academy, Birmingham LLOYD LANGFORD, GARY LITTLE, RYAN Sept, Genting Arena, - Sat 22 Sept, The REP, Birmingham Birmingham Birmingham LEPROUS | AGENT DALTON & ANDY ROBINSON Thurs 20 Sept, The Glee Club, Birmingham REBUS: LONG SHADOWS Brand new PUNKS ALIVE PRESENTS FRESCO Sun 23 Sept, KAZ HAWKINS Fri 21 play based on Ian Rankin's fictional THE WILD STRAYS Wed O2 Institute, B’ham SUKH OJLA, RAHUL KOHLI, ESHAAN Sept, Pizza Express detective, John Rebus, Thurs 20 Sept 19 Sept, Hare & AKBAR & NABIL ABDUL RASHID Fri 21 Live, Birmingham MERRY HELL AND FOLK- - Sat 6 Oct, The REP, Birmingham Hounds, Birmingham LAW Sun 23 Sept, Lich- Sept, The Slade Rooms, W’hampton THE REAL THING Fri 21 THE DREAMBOYS Fri 21 Sept, New BEYOND THE BARRICADE field Guildhall LLOYD LANGFORD, GARY LITTLE, RICH Sept, Artrix, Broms- Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham 2018 Wed 19 Sept, grove THE BIG WOLF BAND WILSON & GEOFF NORCOTT Fri 21 - Sat New Alexandra The- 22 Sept, The Glee Club, Birmingham SUPER HAMLET 64 Fast-paced retelling AGAINST THE CURRENT Sun 23 Sept, The atre, Birmingham Robin, Bilston JOSH HOWIE, NICK DIXON, RORY O'HAN- of Shakespeare’s most famous play, Fri 21 Sept, O2 Insti- Fri 21 Sept, Artrix, Bromsgrove BIFFY CLYRO MTV UN- tute, Birmingham JANE MCDONALD Sun LON & PETE OTWAY Sat 22 Sept, The PLUGGED PLUS SPECIAL Comedy Loft, Birmingham THE SILENCE OF SNOW - THE LIFE OF MOTHERSHIP - LED ZEP- 23 Sept, Wolverhamp- GUESTS Wed 19 Sept, PATRICK HAMILTON Production telling PELIN TRIBUTE Fri 21 ton Grand Theatre BARNSTORMERS COMEDY NIGHT Sat 22 Symphony Hall, B’ham Sept, Artrix, Bromsgrove the story of alcoholic playwright Sept, The Core The- BOSTON MANOR Sun 23 Patrick Hamilton, Fri 21 Sept, Lich- BARNHART & HUXLEY - atre, Solihull Sept, Mama Roux's, ALFIE MOORE Sat 22 Sept, Lichfield field Garrick JAZZ & JOKES Wed 19 CRESCENDO PRESENTS Birmingham Garrick Sept, The Core The- FUNNY FACES A double bill of plays THE SOUND OF MUSI- APRIL TOWERS + TEZ ILYAS, TOMMY SANDHU, SLIM & atre, Solihull based on the lives and loves of two CALS Sat 22 Sept, The LOVEBITES + OPEN SUKH KAUR OJLA Sun 23 Sept, The legends, Sid James THE GOON SAX Thurs 20 Core Theatre, Solihull ARMS Sun 23 Sept, Glee Club, Birmingham and Joan Sims, Fri 21 - Sat 22 Sept, Sept, Hare & Hounds, THE FORTUNES: PAST The Sunflower ROUGH WORKS: NEW MATERIAL NIGHT Old Joint Stock Theatre, Birmingham Birmingham Lounge, Birmingham AND PRESENT Sat 22 Sun 23 Sept, The Glee Club, B’ham YOUNG HERBERT'S HORRORS A pirate DIONNE WARWICK Thurs Sept, Artrix, Broms- whatsonlive.co.uk 61 TICKETS SELLING FAST MANY SESSIONS NOW SOLD OUT!

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thelist Monday 17 - Sunday 23 September adventure with a twist, Sat 22 Sept, The REP, Birmingham Film THE SOUND OF THE MUSICALS Featur- INDEPENDENT LISTINGS: ing hit songs from the 1940s through to the present day, Sat 22 Sept, The CHRISTOPHER ROBIN (PG) Core, Solihull Adventure/Comedy. Starring Hayley Atwell, Ewan McGregor. Artrix, ONE MAN TWO GUVNORS The Crescent Bromsgrove, Mon 17, Fri 21 & Sat 22 Theatre present Richard Bean’s Sept adaptation of Carlo Goldini’s play, Sat 22 - Sat 29 Sept, Crescent The- THE MISEDUCATION OF CAMERON POST atre, Birmingham (15) Drama. Starring Chloë Grace Moretz, Steven Hauck. MAC, Birm- ingham, Fri 21 - Wed 26 Sept TESTAMENT OF YOUTH (12a) Biogra- phy/Drama. Starring Alicia Vikander, Kit Harington. Highbury Theatre, Dance Birmingham, Sun 23 Sept ROSIE KAY - MK ULTRA 'A visually ar- resting production’ featuring cos- NEW FILMS ON GENERAL RELEASE: Mini Motorists - British Motor Museum, Gaydon tumes from Lady Gaga's designer, Gary Card, Thurs 20 - Fri 21 Sept, Released from Wed 19 Sept, showing with local whiskey merchants Nickolls ber. Could it be you? Sat 22 - Sun 23 The Patrick Centre, Birmingham Hip- at selected cinemas & Perks Est 1797, Sat 22 Sept, Black Sept, Cadbury World, Birmingham podrome MILE 22 (tbc) Country Living Museum, Dudley THE 2018 TRAMPOLINE, TUMBLING & FACES PLACES (12a) FORGE EXPERIENCE DAY Hands-on ex- DMT BRITISH CHAMPIONSHIPS First- THE HOUSE WITH A CLOCK IN ITS WALLS perience of blacksmithing, Sat 22 class performances from both the se- (tbc) Sept, Black Country Living Museum, nior squad and up-and-coming stars, Dudley Sat 22 - Sun 23 Sept, Arena Birming- THE LITTLE STRANGER (12a) CBEEBIES' RASTAMOUSE LIVE! Plenty of ham Talks A SIMPLE FAVOUR (15) ‘singin', dancin' and jammin'’ as Da AUTUMN FOOD FAIR Sun 23 Sept, CREATIVE CONVERSATIONS WITH SATH- Easy Crew look for a new band mem- Sarehole Mill, Hall Green, B’ham NAM SANGHERA Boy With The Topknot author Sathnam talks about the role of the creative industries in urban place-making, regeneration, educa- tion and employment, Mon 17 Sept, Events Birmingham Hippodrome MINI MOTORISTS Under-fives activity AN EVENING WITH SIR CHRIS HOY One morning, discovering through play of the most successful Olympic ath- the world's largest collection of his- letes of all time talks about his new toric British cars, Mon 17 Sept, British book and incredible career in cycling, Motor Museum, Gaydon, Warwick- Tues 18 Sept, Birmingham Town Hall shire MARY-ANN OCHOTA & JASON BUCK Join THE GLAMPING SHOW Showcase for TV presenter & archaeologist Mary- the glamping industry, Thurs 20 - Sat Ann Ochota and storyteller Jason 22 Sept, Stoneleigh Park, Warwick- Buck for a unique journey through shire Britain’s history, Tues 18 Sept, Artrix, AUTUMN STEAM GALA Thurs 20 - Sun Bromsgrove 23 Sept, Severn Valley Railway, Be- DR PHIL HAMMOND: HAPPY BIRTHDAY wdley, Nr Kidderminster NHS? Cheer on the heroes, boo the KENILWORTH ARTS FESTIVAL Featuring villains and look to the future of robot talks, gigs, workshops and exhibi- surgeons, Fitbit nurses and iPhone tions, held in different venues around GPs, Wed 19 Sept, Artrix, Broms- the town, Thurs 20 - Sat 29 Sept, Ke- grove nilworth OUTDOOR CINEMA SCREENINGS Fri 21 - Sat 22 Sept, RAF Cosford, Nr Wolver- hampton THE MONSTER The ultimate bouncy- castle experience, Fri 21 - Sun 23 Sept, NEC, Birmingham A PLACE IN THE SUN LIVE Find your ideal property abroad, Fri 21 - Sun 23 Sept, NEC, Birmingham CREATE YOUR OWN RAG RUG Join craft experts and discover the traditional craft of rag rugging, Sat 22 Sept, AN AUDIENCE WITH SIMON REEVE Jour- Birmingham Back to Backs nalist Simon recounts tales from DUDLEY CASTLE & THE STATION HOTEL more than 15 years of travelling to PARANORMAL NIGHT Evening of para- the most remote and extreme corners normal investigating, Sat 22 Sept, of the planet, Sun 23 Sept, Birming- Dudley Castle ham Town Hall WHISKEY, MALTS & BLENDS Evening

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thelist Monday 24 - Sunday 30 September OSUKARU Thurs 27 PLANET ROCK PRE- KUMARSUTRA Sat 29 Sept, The Old Gigs Sept, Scruffy Murphys, SENTS: THE BAD FLOW- Classical Music Rep Theatre, Birmingham Birmingham ERS + FEDERAL CHARM TROY HAWKE, ROB THOMAS, ROBIN RUSSELL WATSON An intimate evening ANNETTE GREGORY: STARS OF IRISH COUN- Sat 29 Sept, O2 Insti- MORGAN & ANDRE VINCENT Sat 29 with one of the world's most promi- LADIES OF JAZZ Mon 24 TRY MUSIC SHOW Thurs tute, Birmingham Sept, The Comedy Loft, Birmingham nent tenors, Mon 24 Sept, Wolver- Sept, Crescent The- 27 Sept, The Core RED LEMON ELECTRIC hampton Grand Theatre MARCUS BRIGSTOCKE Sun 30 Sept, atre, Birmingham Theatre, Solihull BLUES BAND - LEGACY The Old Rep Theatre, Birmingham SHANIA TWAIN Mon 24 FLING Thurs 27 Sept, CONCERT Sat 29 Sept, Sept, Arena Birming- The Sunflower Stourbridge Town Hall ham Lounge, Birmingham THE SUBTERRANEANS HALESTORM Mon 24 SCARLXRD Fri 28 Sept, Sat 29 Sept, The Jam Sept, O2 Academy, O2 Academy, B’ham House, Birmingham Theatre Birmingham BRIAN DOWNEYS ALIVE THE SUBTERRANEANS Fri BENIDORM Brand new stage show HORSE FEATHERS Mon 28 Sept, The Jam AND DANGEROUS Sat 29 Sept, The Robin, Bil- based on the smash-hit ITV comedy, 24 Sept, Hare & House, Birmingham Mon 24 - Sat 29 Sept, Regent The- Hounds, Birmingham ston NINE BELOW ZERO RAF IN CONCERT CENTENARY TOUR An atre, Stoke-on-Trent GIANTS OF ROCK U.S.A evening that charts the development PALE WAVES Tues 25 ACOUSTIC DUO Fri 28 NEW NIGERIANS 2018 TOUR Sat 29 Sept, of the Royal Air Force from its forma- Oladipo Agboluaje's Sept, O2 Institute, Sept, Pizza Express satire about the state of populism in Birmingham Live, Birmingham The Slade Rooms, tion in 1918 through to the present Wolverhampton day and beyond, Wed 26 Sept, Sym- politics, Tues 25 - Sat 29 Sept, The JIMOTHY LACOSTE Tues THE SMITHS TRIBUTE REP, Birmingham THE ACOUSTIC WHO Sat phony Hall, Birmingham 25 Sept, Hare & ‘THE SMITHS UTD’ JOY SATURDAY NIGHT FEVER Brand new Hounds, Birmingham DIVISION TRIBUTE 29 Sept, The Night MENDELSSOHN’S STRING OCTET Featur- Owl, Birmingham ing Jonathan Martindale, Philip Brett, stage version of the hit musical, Tues MAJOR PARKINSON Wed ‘TRANSMISSION’ NEW 25 - Sat 29 Sept, New Alexandra The- ORDER TRIBUTE ‘TRUE ONE STOP BOOGIE - 70S Kirsty Lovie & Colette Overdijk (vio- 26 Sept, Hare & lins); Angela Swanson & Amy atre, Birmingham ORDER’ Fri 28 Sept, V 80S Sat 29 Sept, The Hounds, Birmingham NIGHTMARE The Robin, Bilston River Rooms, Stour- Thomas (violas) & Miguel Fernandes A Lichfield Players Pro- CHRIS CLEVERLEY TRIO bridge & Lorenzo Meseguer Luján (cellos), duction, Tues 25 - Sat 29 Sept, Lich- Wed 26 Sept, The Red THE CHRISTIANS Fri 28 Thurs 27 Sept, CBSO Centre, Birm- field Garrick Sept, Artrix, Broms- ERADIKATOR Sat 29 Lion Folk Club, B’ham ingham MY FAIR LADY grove Sept, O2 Academy, A Lichfield Operatic So- JASON DERULO Wed 26 Birmingham CBSO: ITALIAN MOMENTS Featuring ciety production, Tues 25 - Sat 29 Sept, Arena Birming- CHELSEA GRIN Fri 28 Alpesh Chauhan (conductor), Pavel Sept, Lichfield Garrick ham Sept, The Asylum, YOLANDA BROWN Sat Kolesnikov (piano) & the City of Birm- Birmingham 29 Sept, MAC, B’ham EVITA Lucy O’Byrne stars in Andrew LIFESIGNS Wed 26 ingham Symphony Orchestra. Pro- Lloyd Webber & Tim Rice’s award- Sept, The Robin, Bil- VICIOUS NATURE Fri 28 gramme includes works by winning musical, Tues 25 - Sat 29 ston Sept, The Slade Tchaikovsky, Rachmaninov, Puccini & Sept, Belgrade Theatre, Coventry Rooms, W’hampton Respighi, Thurs 27 Sept, Symphony ASWAD Wed 26 Sept, Hall, Birmingham EARLY DOORS LIVE The hit sitcom, live The Jam House, Birm- AIRWAYS Fri 28 Sept, on stage with a brand new story, Fri ingham The Castle & Falcon, EMILY SUN WITH GAMAL KHAMIS Part of 28 Sept, Arena Birmingham Birmingham the Bromsgrove Concerts 2018/19 THE BLUETONES Wed 26 season. Programme includes works SAID AND DONE Sugarscratch The- TRIVAX, BLASFEME & Sept, The Slade by Schubert, Grieg, Gillian White- atre's two-hander explores friendship, OPUS MORTIS Fri 28 Rooms, W’hampton head, Poulenc & Frolov, Fri 28 Sept, family relations, maternal ties, sibling Sept, Scruffy Murphys, THE LAFONTAINES: THE Artrix, Bromsgrove rivalries and ex boyfriends, Fri 28 - Birmingham UP TOUR Wed 26 Sept, Sat 29 Sept, Old Joint Stock Theatre, O2 Academy, B’ham ANDY FAIRWEATHER G2 DEFINITIVE GENESIS Birmingham LOW AND THE LOW RID- Sat 29 Sept, Artrix, WITH CONFIDENCE Wed BEST OF BROADWAY: THROUGH THE ERS Fri 28 Sept, The Bromsgrove 26 Sept, Mama Roux's, YEARS Celebration of musical theatre Core Theatre, Solihull Birmingham DIRE STREETS Sat 29 through the decades, Sat 29 Sept, Sept, The Core The- Comedy MAC, Birmingham PATAWAWA Wed 26 atre, Solihull Sept, The Sunflower CHRIS RAMSEY Wed 26 Sept, Stafford YUSSEF DAYES Sun 30 Lounge, Birmingham Gatehouse Theatre Sept, Hare & Hounds, LATINMOTION PRESENTS Birmingham JAMALI MADDIX Wed 26 Sept, The DEL CAMINO Thurs 27 Glee Club, Birmingham Sept, The Jam House, KH WALK OF FAME PRE- Dance STEPHEN LYNCH Wed 26 Sept, The Birmingham SENT THE STONES Sun TRI & EKA: DOUBLE BILL Classical and 30 Sept, Hare & Glee Club, Birmingham DEMON Thurs 27 Sept, contemporary Indian dance inter- Hounds, Birmingham BEN NORRIS, DAVID TRENT & COMIC TBC The Robin, Bilston twine in a dynamic double bill, Mon KEITH JAMES THE Thurs 27 Sept, The Glee Club, B‘ham 24 Sept, MAC, Birmingham REX ORANGE COUNTY BOBBY "KP" WOODS SONGS OF LEONARD SCOTT GIBSON Fri 28 Sept, Artrix, Thurs 27 Sept, O2 In- RIP IT UP THE 60S Strictly Come Danc- SINGS RAY CHARLES Fri COHEN Sun 30 Sept, Bromsgrove stitute, Birmingham ing champions Harry Judd and Louis 28 Sept, Sutton Cold- Lichfield Garrick KANE BROWN, ED PATRICK, STEVE HALL Smith MBE, and people’s champion THE TREATMENT Thurs field Town Hall THE NIGHT CAFE Sun 30 & TOM HOUGHTON Fri 28 Sept, The Aston Merrygold, join forces to be- 27 Sept, The Slade BRIGHT LIGHT BRIGHT Sept, O2 Institute, Comedy Loft, Birmingham come 'the ultimate boy band of Rooms, W’hampton LIGHT + MONDO ROYALE Birmingham ROY CHUBBY BROWN Fri 28 Sept, Dud- dance', Mon 24 Sept, Symphony Hall, SPRING KING Thurs 27 Fri 28 Sept, The Sun- ANDY FAIRWEATHER ley Town Hall Birmingham Sept, O2 Institute, flower Lounge, B’ham LOW AND THE LOW RID- LA FILLE MAL GARDEE Birmingham Birmingham BEN NORRIS, DAVID TRENT, HOWARD REMI HARRIS TRIO Sat ERS Sun 30 Sept, Ar- READ & LAURA LEXX Fri 28 - Sat 29 Royal Ballet present Frederick Ash- ELVANA: ELVIS FRONTED 29 Sept, Artrix, Broms- trix, Bromsgrove Sept, The Glee Club, Birmingham ton's final full-length ballet, an engag- NIRVANA Thurs 27 grove BAKAR Sun 30 Sept, ing story which remains a firm family Sept, O2 Academy, JASON BYRNE Sat 29 Sept, Birming- favourite, Wed 26 - Sat 29 Sept, Birm- BABBU MAAN Sat 29 The Sunflower ham Town Hall Birmingham Sept, Arena B’ham Lounge, Birmingham ingham Hippodrome

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thelist Monday 24 - Sunday 30 September BRB FIRST STEPS: A CHILD'S LA FILLE Artrix, Bromsgrove, Fri 28 Sept MAL GARDÉE An introduction to the world of ballet for children aged three-plus, Fri 28 Sept, Birmingham NEW FILMS ON GENERAL RELEASE: Hippodrome Released from Fri 28 Sept, showing FAGIN’S TWIST Avant Garde Dance at selected cinemas fuse music & hip-hop to recount the NIGHT SCHOOL (tbc) story of a notorious and complex vil- THE WIFE (15) lain, Fri 28 - Sat 29 Sept, Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry Events Film THE CYCLE SHOW Showcasing the very INDEPENDENT LISTINGS: latest bikes and accessories, Thurs 27 - Sun 30 Sept, NEC, Birmingham THE BATTLE OF ALGIERS (15) MEDIEVAL BANQUET Immersive Drama/War. Starring Brahim Hadjadj, evening of medieval entertainment, Dirty Vegan - MAC, Birmingham Jean Martin. MAC, Birmingham, Mon Sat 29 Sept, Warwick Castle 24 Sept witches, wizards and werewolves, Sat GAYDON MILITARY SHOW Sun 30 Sept, BACKSTAGE TOUR: GENERAL Journey BLACK POWER MIXTAPE 1967 - 1975 29 Sept - Sun 4 Nov, West Midland British Motor Museum, Gaydon, War- behind the scenes at one of Britain's Safari and Leisure Park, Bewdley, Nr (12a) Documentary. MAC, Birming- wickshire premier producing theatres, Sat 29 Kidderminster ham, Tues 25 Sept Sept, The REP, Birmingham TOY COLLECTORS FAIR Sun 30 Sept, THE APPARITION (12a) Drama. Starring CBEEBIES' RASTAMOUSE LIVE! Plenty of NEC, Birmingham Vincent Lindon, Galatéa Bellugi. For- ‘singin', dancin' and jammin'’ as Da eign language, subtitled. MAC, Birm- Easy Crew look for a new band mem- AUTUMNAL ASTON: RUFUS AND THE For Foodies ingham, Wed 26 - Thurs 27 Sept GOLDEN ACORNS Half a day of activi- ber. Could it be you? Sat 29 - Sun 30 DIRTY VEGAN Loads of delicious vegan ties celebrating ‘autumnal Aston’, THE CHILDREN ACT (12a) Drama. Star- Sept, Cadbury World, Birmingham drinks, desserts and freak shakes, Fri Sun 30 Sept, Aston Hall, Birmingham ring Emma Thompson, Stanley Tucci. SPOOKY SPECTACULAR Featuring 28 Sept, MAC, Birmingham

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