SUMMER /AUTUMN 2017

BOX OFFICE 0121 704 6962 19 GE thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk EE PA OY - S DANNY BH 2

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PANTOMIME Box Office 0121 704 6962 DATE MORNING MATINEE EVENING Dame Trot is so poor she has Friday 8 Dec 7pm holes in her shoes and can’t Saturday 9 Dec 2.30pm 7pm afford the latest fashions. She Sunday 10 Dec 11am 3pm sends Jack off to market with their Monday 11 Dec NO SHOWS family cow, telling him to get the Tuesday 12 Dec SCHOOL 10am SCHOOL 1.30pm best possible price for her!... Wednesday 13 Dec SCHOOL 10am SCHOOL 1.30pm meanwhile, elsewhere a giant is Thursday 14 Dec SCHOOL 10am SCHOOL 1.30pm making fiendish plans with his Friday 15 Dec SCHOOL 1.30pm 7pm slimy servant Fleshcreep… what Saturday 16 Dec 2.30pm 7pm on earth ARE they planning? Sunday 17 Dec 11am 3pm Solihull’s own ‘Mr Panto’ Malcolm Stent is Monday 18 Dec NO SHOWS treating audiences to one final dollop of Tuesday 19 Dec 2.30pm 7pm sparkling fun and silliness as he takes to the stage in his panto finale Jack & The Beanstalk Wednesday 20 Dec 2.30pm 7pm after his amazing 27 year run. Thursday 21 Dec 2.30pm 7pm Jack and the Beanstalk is an action-packed Friday 22 Dec 2.30pm 7pm traditional panto packed with music, dancing Saturday 23 Dec 2.30pm 7pm and sparkling silliness for the whole family. Featuring Malcolm and his professional Sunday 24 Dec 10.30am 2.30pm ensemble cast of actors, dancers and musicians, Monday 25 Dec NO SHOWS suitable for ages 2-102! Tuesday 26 Dec 2.30pm 7pm Join the celebration in this giant pantomime 3 Wednesday 27 Dec 2.30pm 7pm show in our intimate venue where no one is Thursday 28 Dec 2.30pm 7pm more than 15 rows from the front. Offering great value prices and a wide choice of start times the Friday 29 Dec 2.30pm 7pm venue adjoins Touchwood with nearby parking Saturday 30 Dec 2.30pm 7pm and great shopping. Sunday 31 Dec 10.30am 2.30pm ACCESS/MOBILITY: Special requirements should be planned in Show time approx. 2 hours, 20 mins including interval. advance and booked early to ensure appropriate seating. TICKET PRICES There is a lift to the upstairs of the auditorium. Red £17 All Seats Green Full Price £19.50, Concession £17.50 S MAY 4 - 8 Family £70 (2+2) T

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Group Discount 1 in 10 FREE E T JULY 12 - 15 Gold Full Price £19.50, Concessions £17.50 N O AUGUST 15 - 16 Blue School Bookings Only - Contact Box Office C S SEPTEMBER 16 - 19 OCTOBER 19 - 24 SEE ALSO OUR NOVEMBER 24 - 28 LILY AND DECEMBER 28 THE LITTLE FORTHCOMING 29 SNOW BEAR ENCORE 29 SHOW ON PAGE 29 WORKSHOPS & CLASSES 30 BOOKING & SEATING 31 thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk PANTOMIME THE CORE EXPERIENCE! The Core welcomes thousands of people each month all busily engrossed in a multitude of purposes in this community building. Some are reading, studying, some proudly registering their babies whilst elsewhere others may be getting advice, using a PC or tracing their family tree. All are blissfully unaware that downstairs hundreds of people may be wildly applauding a Theatre show, whilst some are learning new dance steps in the Studio at the same time as toddlers are learning rhymes in the Children’s Library. This fantastic building is crammed with people doing things, who rub along nicely next to other people doing their own thing too! Long may this Core experience continue. So whatever you do here, next time take time to look around at something new… you never know where it may lead you! Q U Last brochure I asked readers to suggest new activities and daytime art E S classes were popular - so we’re giving it a try! (see page 30). T IO Finally, Solihull’s own ‘Mr Panto’ Malcolm Stent was honoured in Her N T

I Majesty’s New Year List and we’re thrilled for him. Jack & The Beanstalk M

this year will be his last after an astonishing 27 years! E I

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His Solihull panto finale will be a sparkling celebration of the decades O

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of fun, laughter and silliness he’s given the generations of H

U pantomime audiences and we hope those audiences will L

join us to thank him for every single laugh, of every L 4 single show!

Lawrence Smith Theatre Manager

THEATRE TUE 9 - SAT 13 MAY, 7.30PM, (MAT 2.30PM) ELTON JOHN & ’S AIDA Solihull Theatre Company are proud to present the Solihull premiere of Elton John and Tim Rice’s vibrant musical - Aida! Set in ancient Egypt, it tells an epic tale of love, loyalty, and betrayal, chronicling the love triangle between Aida, a princess and a soldier they both love. With fun, humour and emotion, and featuring fantastic songs as you would expect from Elton John & Tim Rice including haunting ballads, upbeat Motown, and rousing Gospel anthems - Aida promises something for everyone!

RUNNING TIME: 165MINS TICKETS: £16

MAY Box Office 0121 704 6962 MON 15 MAY, 7.30PM THEATRE MILTON JONES IS NEARLY OUT THERE: WORK IN PROGRESS Milton Jones is back on the road with another tour but unfortunately it isn’t quite ready yet. Don’t panic though he’s a professional, it’s the guy with the loud shirts and messed up hair from Mock the Week, Live at the Apollo, Michael McIntyre’s Roadshow and various Radio 4 series. An evening in the company of an idiot. Or is he? Yes he is. Only come if you like jokes though. If not you’ll be cross. “He’s fast, absurd and very funny” Radio Times

TICKETS: £18 PLEASE NOTE: THE SHOW WILL FEATURE A SUPPORT ACT

STUDIO TUE 16 MAY, 2PM ALWAYS - IRVING BERLIN Award winning singer Robert Habermann sings the songs and tells the story of Irving Berlin. Born in Russia in 1888, Berlin escaped to America aged 4, becoming a singing waiter at 14, writing his first mega hit Alexander’s Ragtime Band in 1912 and became a star. Berlin wrote mega hits for over seventy years for great singers like Bing Crosby, 5 Fred Astaire, Ethel Merman. Songs include: White Christmas, Cheek To Cheek, I Love A Piano, Top Hat, Show Business, and of course Always.

RUNNING TIME: APPROX. 2HRS TICKETS: £1O

THU 18 MAY, 7.30PM THEATRE BACK TO THE 60 ’S EN CORE Its fab... its groovy... its back to the 60s with OFFER over 2 hours of hits from two of the most popular bands from this great era – The Fourmost & The Dreamers. The Fourmost were firmly within the Mersey Beat Boom with hits Hello Little Girl and A Little Loving. The Dreamers, with Freddie Garrity had hits such as You Were Made For Me and their zany antics kept audiences spellbound. After Freddie left in the 80s, they’re now The Dreamers, but Alan Mosca & Bryan Bung continue his great work.

RUNNING TIME: 120MINS, PLUS INTERVAL TICKETS: £18.50 (£17.50 CONC.) thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk MAY STUDIO FRI 19 MAY, 7.30PM 20B 20B is a new drama written and performed by Jane English unearthing stories of a demolished council estate in East London. To find her sense of home, Jane goes on a mission to find and reconnect with her former neighbours, to document their memories and make a record of the community scattered by regeneration. A moving exploration of what home and community really mean and how it feels when these things are lost. With warmth and humour, Jane uncovers the narratives of our city from post-war slum clearance to Olympic-era gentrification.

RUNNING TIME: 75MINS, NO INTERVAL TICKETS: £10 (SUITABLE AGE: 13+)

THEATRE FRI 19 MAY, 7.30PM OPERA BOYS The Opera Boys are some of the UK’s finest classically trained young tenors with credits including lead roles on London’s West End, and throughout the UK and Europe plus several prestigious cruise lines. 6 The show delivers a magnificent blend of opera and classical favourites, mixed with the best pop songs and tunes from some fantastic musicals that the boys have been lucky enough to perform in. With charm, style and perfect harmony, they’ll perform a fabulous show for music lovers young and old.

RUNNING TIME: TBC TICKETS: £19.50

THEATRE TUE 23 MAY, 7.30PM EN PASHA KOVALEV OFCFOERR E Pasha Kovalev from Strictly Come Dancing and his fantastic dancers are back again touring the UK with their completely brand new show. Expect all your favourite dance’s, stunning costumes, great music, and chat as Pasha and his friends dance the night away! Pasha won Strictly Come Dancing with Caroline Flack in 2014 and has scored more 10’s than any other professional dancer since the series began. This is your chance to watch him live! He is joined on tour by Anya Garnis and a talented troupe. Wed 24 May is sold out.

RUNNING TIME: 2HRS TICKETS: £25

MAY Box Office 0121 704 6962 WED 24 MAY, STUDIO 7.30PM EN CORE SALLY BARKER & OFFER BROOK WILLIAMS A special collaboration between two classy and versatile singer songwriters with long varied careers is Sally Barker and Brook Williams who play in the Studio. Sally’s stint on BBC’s The Voice brought Tom Jones to tears, she’s supported Bob Dylan, Robert Plant and supports Fairport Convention’s 2017 Tour. She’s led The Poozies for many years. Brooks, who hails from Georgia USA, fuses blues, Roots, old country and much more. He’s toured extensively worldwide releasing some 24 CDs on the way.

RUNNING TIME: 1HR, 45MINS INC. INTERVAL TICKETS: £10

THEATRE FRI 26 MAY, 8PM ALL FOLK’D UP - 2017 TOUR Introducing the most exciting young Irish band to appear in a generation! With their sound rooted deep in Irish Folk and Celtic rock, All Folk’d Up take you on a fabulous journey into the depths of traditional Irish music and American folk as well as rock & modern classics. 7 This 5 piece band have already made a name for themselves, touring the length and breadth of Ireland and successfully in the UK in 2016. For further details and ‘The Live Sessions’ video showreel check out www.allfolkdup.com

RUNNING TIME: 2HRS, INC. INTERVAL TICKETS: £18

SAT 27 MAY, 2.30PM THEATRE Ask a bout a DON’T DRIBBLE Chi ldren’s ON THE DRAGON Party Tom is a toddler with a cool older brother and a dribbling problem that just won’t stop! Can a dragon’s amazing magic help them could it end up making things worse? Based on Steven Lee’s new book with magic designed by the much loved late Paul Daniels. This feelgood family show is about growing up and the importance of family. Author Steven will sign your copy of Don’t Dribble On The Dragon (also on sale) after the show. For adults and cool kids of all ages (not recommended for under 2s).

RUNNING TIME: 1HR TICKETS: £9.50 (SUITABLE AGE: 3+) thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk MAY Ask TUE 30 MAY, 11AM & 2PM a THEATRE bout a Chi ldren’s THE CHRIS & Part PUI SHOW! y Chris & Pui present their family show with songs, comedy sketches, a dash of magic and heaps of joining in for all the family. Familiar Chris & Pui BBC TV characters including Incy Wincy, Twinkle, Old MacDonald, Humpty, Granny Humpty will be dropping in along with the toys – Tom, Momo, Teddington, Stuffy and Miss Mouse. See the ‘Gingerbread Man’, marvel at the ‘Ugly Duckling’ becoming a beautiful swan and oooh and aaah as Miss Mouse attempts to zoom and zoom to the cheesy moon. RUNNING TIME: PART ONE 34MINS (INTERVAL 20MINS) PART TWO 30MINS TICKETS: £10 CHILDREN, £12 ADULTS (SUITABLE AGE: 2 TO 102) £40 FAMILY TICKET AVAILABLE FROM BOX OFFICE (SORRY NOT ONLINE)

THEATRE THU 1 JUN, 2.30PM & 7.30PM EN ALICE IN OFCFOERR E WONDERLAND BY BALLET THEATRE UK Basing his ballet on Lewis Carroll’s much-loved children’s books, Alice in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass, Ballet 8 Theatre UK’s Artistic Director Christopher Moore has created a captivating piece, brimming with wit, humour and charm. With its whimsical flights of the imagination, eclectic music and joyful dance, Alice in Wonderland is delightful entertainment for all ages. An ideal gift, this beautiful small scale ballet show is perfect for first timers or young ballet audiences.

RUNNING TIME: APPROX. 2HRS, INC. INTERVAL TICKETS: £18 (£17 CONC. £12 CHILDREN)

SAT 3 JUN, 8PM THEATRE AND FINALLY PHIL COLLINS Recognised in the industry as the definitive Phil Collins & Genesis tribute show recreating their timeless back catalogue. The 11-pc. band which includes the ‘And Finally Horns’ have now toured for 9 years. Now with new lighting, stage sets and world class musicians to get even closer to that immense Phil Collins spectacle. The ‘two drummer’ line up are an integral part of the act plus the brass line up takes the ‘And Finally’ experience both musically and visually to a whole different league.

RUNNING TIME: 140MINS, INC. INTERVAL TICKETS: £20

MAY · JUN Box Office 0121 704 6962 TUE 6 JUN THE SEARCHERS RESCHEDULED DATE CALL BOX OFFICE FOR AVAILABILTY

WED 7 JUN, THEATRE 7.30PM EN CORE HELLO BROADWAY - OFFER LIVE FLORAL DEMO Another in this popular series of live flower arranging demonstrations. Demonstrator Julia Knight will provide exquisite arrangement on a Broadway musical theme. Live demos celebrate floral beauty and her marvellous creations are raffled off at the end - so make sure you have room for a new display on the journey home! Solihull Flower Club work to a high standard and welcome new members of any ability - find out more during the evening.

RUNNING TIME: 2HRS TICKETS: £13.50

THEATRE THU 8 JUN, 8PM EN JONGLEURS OFCFOERR E ON THE ROAD Jongleurs is the byword for live stand up comedy. These regular shows feature a host and three 9 comedians. MC Susan Murrary won the first ever Jongluers competition and a regular host for years, whilst Carey Marx mixes his dark humour with gleeful delivery. Dave Fulton has his own inimitable style whilst The Raymond & Mr Timpkin Review act is musical, silly... middle aged men... you’ll like it! just come along and find out whats on offer at this great value full blown Comedy Night on Tour.

RUNNING TIME: APPROX. 2HRS, INC. INTERVAL TICKETS: £12 (SUITABLE AGE: 16+)

FRI 9 JUN, 7.30PM THEATRE THE UPBEAT BEATLES A brand new show from moptop to rooftop - this is no ordinary Beatles show! Over two hours of non-stop music – from She Loves You , to I Am The Walru s and beyond – this band will have you dancing in the aisles from the very beginning. Breath-taking harmonies, punchy musicianship and an acute attention to detail make for an uncanny resemblance to the originals – plus a touch of good old scouse humour, of course! There are plenty of tributes around but this is the definitive touring Beatles show.

RUNNING TIME: 2HRS, INC. INTERVAL TICKETS: £19 STUDIO FRI 9 JUN, 7.30PM SHUNTED AGAIN! STEVE GRIBBIN’S REAL STORY OF THE RAILWAYS Veteran train traveller and stand-up comedian Steve Gribbin rails against the current state of Britain’s railways. Using his very worst journeys as examples, Steve takes us on a (de)tour of cancellations, delays and overcrowding that's enough to drive you to drive. A mix of stand up, songs and training announcements with everything from Beeching to Brunel from H20 to HS2!

RUNNING TIME: APPROX. 70MINS TICKETS: £10

THEATRE SAT 10 JUN, 7.30PM EN T REXTASY OFCFOERR E Over the last twenty years T Rextasy have become widely accepted as the only official tribute show dedicated to Marc Bolan & T.Rex. Endorsed and approved by Marc’s family, estate and catalogue management, not to mention original members of T.Rex. they 10 are described by many as ‘beyond the boundaries of tribute’. The 2017 Tour celebrates Marc’s life and works with a very special commemorative tour and early booking is recommended as previous gigs have sold out.

RUNNING TIME: 1HR, 45MINS TICKETS: £19

TUE 13 JUN, 2PM STUDIO KEITH SLATER’S SINATRA CELEBRATION ‘Sinatra Celebration’ is a show packed full of classic hit songs starting in the pre-war America of the 1930s through to his final hit in 1994. Modern graphics and projection bring to life the story of one of the world’s favourite artistes, using film footage and photos from the archives. Keith Slater has toured extensively appearing on national TV and Radio. He regularly works regionally with award winning bands Inheritance and Vivo where he sings, plays guitar, drums, violin and harmonica.

RUNNING TIME: APPROX. 90MINS TICKETS: £10

JUN Box Office 0121 704 6962 TUE 13 - SAT 17 JUN, 7.30PM THEATRE OLIVER! The talented local members of Queensbridge Musical Theatre Society (QMTS) proudly present Oliver!, the heartwarming musical journey of a young orphan, who leaves the workhouse searching for a home, family and love. Told through Lionel Bart’s well-loved songs, such as Consider Yourself, Oom Pah Pah, Where is Love? and Who Will Buy ?, to name but a few. There can be hardly anyone who has not seen and loved the film... book tickets early and remind yourself of those great songs!

RUNNING TIME: 2HRS, 30MINS TICKETS: £15 - £16

THEATRE THU 22 JUN, 7.30PM EN THE MANFREDS - OFCFOERR E MAKIN’ TRACKS TOUR The Manfreds, with original ‘front man’ Paul Jones, will perform tracks from the highly acclaimed album ‘The Five Faces Of Manfred Mann’, which is to be re- released for their 50th anniversary, along with a mix of their 11 biggest hits and the jazz and blues songs for which they are famous. Paul Jones, with his harmonica is joined by Mike Hugg on keyboards, Tom McGuinness on lead guitar, Rob Townsend on drums, Marcus Cliffe on bass guitar and Simon Currie on saxophone/flute - all excellent musicians. RUNNING TIME: 2HRS, 20MINS INC. INTERVAL TICKETS: £21

THEATRE FRI 23 JUN, 7.30PM BABY I NEED YOUR LOVIN’ THE LEGENDS OF MOTOWN Baby I Need Your Lovin’ presents The Legends of Motown is a live (narrated in parts) story of some of the greatest names (past and present) of the Motown label between the late 50s to the 70s and a short period beyond. Within the show there are multiple costume changes, slick choreography and fantastic singing which incorporates 50 Motown and soul classics during the 2+hr performance of which, 90% of songs were outstanding number one hits.

RUNNING TIME: 2HRS, PLUS INTERVAL TICKETS: £16 thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk JUN FRI 30 JUN, 7.30PM THEATRE EN CORE THE KILKENNYS OFFER Renowned for their musicianship and vocal ability. The Kilkennys have gained a reputation for revitalising traditional Irish music and adding their own touch of passion and youthful energy. Formed at a very young age, Davey Cashin, Rob Campion, Tommy Mackey and Davey Long are excited about bringing their brand of Irish music to a UK audience having toured throughout Europe. Come along to a show and join in the fun for a great evening of music and song!

RUNNING TIME: TBC TICKETS: £19

THEATRE SAT 1 JUL, 7.30PM QUILL Another exciting year for Quill, a Country, Folk, Celtic rock band who play to sell out theatre audiences, wowing festivals and receiving brilliant reviews. Having again re-invented themselves their new members have credentials from working with the likes of Robert Plant, Bellowhead and Seth Lakeman. 12 Join their musical journey and enjoy unique violin influenced interpretations of classics by the likes of Fleetwood Mac, Thin Lizzy and the anthemic “Say it Aint So” and with more of their own songs to please old and new audiences.

RUNNING TIME: 2HRS, INC. INTERVAL TICKETS: £18

WED 5 JUL, 7.30PM THEATRE EN THE SIMON & OFCFOERR E GARFUNKEL STORY Direct from its success in London’s West End, a sold out UK tour and standing ovations at every show, The Simon & Garfunkel Story is back on the road! Using huge projection photos and original film footage, and also features a full live band performing all the hits including Mrs Robinson, Cecilia, Bridge Over Troubled Water, Homeward Bound and many more. Book now as this is an evening not to be missed! “Fantastic” Elaine Paige BBC Radio 2 “Authentic and Exciting” The Stage

RUNNING TIME: 2HRS, 15MINS INC. INTERVAL TICKETS: £18

JUN · JUL Box Office 0121 704 6962 CAFE THE BIRMINGHAM AND SOLIHULL JAZZ & BLUES FESTIVAL Bringing top drawer players from across the world to Birmingham for a series of (mostly) free gigs taking place at around 40 venues including; bars and public spaces etc. 2017 has a truly international flavour, with acts from the USA, Canada, Argentina, and right across Europe joining home-grown musicians presenting around 175 performances. Most forms of Jazz and Blues are featured. The Remi Harris Trio are playing in Encore Bar at The Core Theatre on Friday 14 July at 2pm in a free show - just turn up.

See the full exciting Solihull programme on the website.

PARK TUE 18 JUL, 7PM IN BRUETON PARK THE TAMING OF THE SHREW You are invited to Heartbreak Productions’ 1928 Fete of Misrule to enjoy an open air performance of The Taming of the Shrew. Everyone wants to marry Bianca, Kate’s younger sister but no suitor can be found for Kate who must be married before her sister. A controversial, passionate and tender story of sexual politics with unforgettable characters. 13 With elements of live music, humour and interaction, this live outdoor adaptation offers a perfect introduction to Shakespeare. Please see website for full details. Age: 8+

RUNNING TIME: 2HRS, 20MINS INC. INTERVAL TICKETS IN ADVANCE: £11 FULL, (£10 CONC., £6 CHILD) TICKETS ON GATE: £12 FULL, (£11 CONC., £7 CHILD)

TUE 25 & WED 26 JUL, 7PM IN BRUETON PARK PARK BILLIONAIRE BOY In this adaptation of the David Walliams bestseller Mr Spud has lost all his money... a few billion! So he and his son, Joe, decide on a garage sale (they used to own 500 garages). They’ll be selling their final belongings to raise some money to buy food. The Bailiffs took their Formula 1 racing car but could there be something interesting left? Bring a seat/blanket/chair and picnic to this outdoor show - please ask Box Office or see website for full outdoor show details.

RUNNING TIME: 2HRS, INC. 20MINS INTERVAL AFTER 50MINS TICKETS IN ADVANCE: £11 ADULTS (£10 CHILD) TICKETS ON GATE: £12 ADULTS (£11 CHILD) IF AVAILABLE, (SUITABLE AGE: 7+) thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk JUL Ask FRI 28 JUL, 1PM & 6PM a THEATRE bout a Chi THE LITTLE MIX ldren’s EXPERIENCE Party Fans of one of X Factor’s finest exports are sure to L.O.V.E. The Little Mix Experience! Four hugely talented girls pay tribute to one of the UK’s finest Girl-Bands. With all the dance moves, replica costumes and some fantastic vocals this is a high-energy show from beginning to end, packed with all of Little Mix’s greatest hits and suitable for all ages! Get the Little Mix experience with songs like; DNA, Wings, Salute, Black Magic, Love Me Like You, Secret Love Song and many, many more.

RUNNING TIME: 1HR, 50MINS TICKETS: £14

THEATRE SAT 29 JUL, 7.30PM BRINGING ON BACK THE 60 S The hottest ticket in town has just arrived at The Core Theatre! Bringing On Back The 60s, starring The New Amen Corner with very special guest - 60s icon Mike Pender, the orginal voice of The Searchers, whose hits include Needles and Pins, 14 When You Walk In The Room, Sweets For My Sweet and Sugar and Spice. Also featuring Mike D’Abo, former singer of Manfred Mann, performing hits like; Ha Ha Said The Clown and Mighty Quinn. Two hours of prolific hits from the best musical decade ever.

RUNNING TIME: 2HRS, 30MINS INC. INTERVAL TICKETS: £19.50

GALLERY THE BIG SLEUTH & SUMMER TRAIL Following The Big Hoot in 2015 and The Book Bench Trail in 2016 Solihull welcomes… The Big Sleuth! The word ‘sleuth’ means a detective, but it’s also the collective noun for a group of bears! Wild in Art bring both definitions together this summer and the Sun Bear (now threatened with extinction) is the inspiration for this new sculpture trail across the West Midlands. There are 3 bears in Solihull, and The Core is also home to the ‘mini-bears’ created by schools as part of the project. These incredible creatures, are all uniquely painted and sited to form a fun trail for sleuth spotters! Later the bears will be auctioned for Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity. www.wildinart.co.uk www.thebigsleuth.co.uk

JUL Box Office 0121 704 6962 THEATRE MON 31 JUL - FRI 4 AUG, 10AM - 3PM THEATRE SUMMER SCHOOL THE YOUNG ACTORS STUDIO Summer Drama course in partnership with K22 Productions exploring the creative and performance potential of all children in a safe, fun theatre environment through drama, dance and music. No prior experience or talent needed to enjoy learning and working as part of this youth theatre class that aims to help young people to develop their imaginations, communication skills and self-esteem. Boys and girls ages 8-16 work with actors, with a chance to participate in a real public show - The Jungle Book, on the final day of the course. Age: 8-16 years.

DETAILS: COURSE FEE: £120

THEATRE FRI 4 AUG, 2.30PM JUNGLE BOOK The Jungle Book, presented by Katch 22 Theatre Productions who specialise in family shows in schools, cruise liners and holiday camps in the UK and abroad. In this classic tale the boy who was raised by wolves is growing fast and curious about ‘man’. His journey takes him through the jungle meeting characters like Baloo, Shere Khan and those pesky 15 monkeys too! Joining the cast will be some Summer School participants who’ll perform in the show which contains singing and audience participation.

RUNNING TIME: APPROX. 80MINS Ask TICKETS: £8 a bout a Chi ldren’s Par SAT 5 AUG, 2.30PM ty THEATRE STEVE HEWLETT Steve Hewlett returns fresh from world travels. From The QE2 to the Royal Albert Hall, Britain’s Got Talent to his cameo on Strictly Come Dancing Steve is a favourite on ships and in theatres worldwide and just toured widely with The Osmonds. Set your nan up with Arthur Lager or audition for Simon Cowell, maybe turn your dad into a dummy... or just laugh out loud at one of the best loved comedy Ventriloquist’s around. A family show, with a fun photo opportunity with the (puppet) Simon Cowell!

RUNNING TIME: 1HR, 45MINS INC. INTERVAL TICKETS: £15 (£10 CHILDREN) thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk JUL · AUG THU 31 AUG, 12PM & 3PM THEATRE DOTTY THE DRAGON Dotty is a baby Fire Dragon living in a dusty old castle with her grumpy dad, Mr Dragon. She loves to watch the children playing in the village below, and wishes she could play with them, too! One day Dotty decides she will fly down to the village and say hello! After all, everybody loves surprises, don’t they? Using puppetry, song and high-energy storytelling, this fantastic family show is the perfect treat for little explorers complete with laughs, surprises, and a fire-breathing dragon!

RUNNING TIME: 55MINS, NO INTERVAL Ask a TICKETS: £10, (SUITABLE AGE: 3+) bout a Chi ldren’s Party THEATRE FRI 1 SEP, 2.30PM SPECTACULAR SCIENCE Think Science is boring, think again! With science like you have never seen before. Mark Thompson’s Spectacular Science Show explores the strange and magical properties of matter with exploding elephant’s toothpaste, 16 vortex-generating dustbins, dancing paste, vanishing beakers and even exploding Pringle tubes! The TV astronomer and author has been enthralling audiences for many years with his fascinating journeys around the Universe and turns his infectious enthusiasm to things a little closer to home!

RUNNING TIME: 1HR, NO INTERVAL TICKETS: £10, (SUITABLE AGE: 7+)

THU 7 & FRI 8 SEP, 7.30PM THEATRE THE ELO EXPERIENCE The legacy left by Jeff Lynne & The Electric Light Orchestra needs no introduction. Between 1972 -1986 they achieved more combined UK and US Top 40 hits than any other band on the planet! 10538 Overture, Evil Woman, Living Thing, Don’t Bring Me Down and of course Mr Blue Sky... simply the soundtrack of our lives. The ELO Experience 2017 tour also includes one or two tracks from Jeff’s new album. Their fabulous strings and their trademark stunning light show recreates the songs and sounds.

RUNNING TIME: 2HRS, PLUS INTERVAL TICKETS: £22

AUG · SEP Box Office 0121 704 6962 THU 14 SEP, 7.30PM THEATRE EN CORE THE BARNHART/ OFFER HUXLEY HOT FIVE HOSTED BY MALC STENT The righteous reeds of George Huxley and Matt Palmer meet the flirtatious flute and vibrant vocals of Anne Barnhart (USA), aided and abetted by swinging drummer Nick Ward and the ebullient pianist/vocalist/raconteur Jeff Barnhart (USA) to bring you an evening of unforgettable jazz the way it’s meant to be, hosted by Malc Stent. These talented musicians are teaming up to produce an exiting night filled with jazz... one-time only sounds from this talented quintet! Not to be missed!

RUNNING TIME: APPROX. 2HRS TICKETS: £15

FRI 15 SEP, 7.30PM THEATRE STARMAN - THE STORY OF DAVID BOWIE From Rebel Rebel to China Girl, Let’s Dance to Young Americans. Ashes to Ashes, Life On Mars, Changes, Heroes, Sound and Vision, Golden Years, Absolute Beginners , the list goes on and on. Songs from all eras of David Bowie’s celebrated career are performed to perfection in this highly 17 charged show. Take stage star Michael King plus big screen audio visual footage plus various costume changes and you have an emotional, thought-provoking show and ultimate tribute to Bowie that you’ll want to watch again and again.

RUNNING TIME: 2HRS, PLUS INTERVAL TICKETS: £22

THU 21 SEP, 7.30PM THEATRE ROCKIN’ ON EN CORE HEAVEN’S DOOR OFFER A rollercoaster ride back to the heady days of the very first teenagers - fabulous 50s and the swinging 60s. This is a real livewire show featuring the most loved performers singing classic songs of the era. Quite rightly referred to in The Stage & Television Today as ‘A classic slice of social history’. Featuring superb portrayals of Buddy Holly, Roy Orbison, Eddie Cochran and the King himself, and backed by an energetic live rock ‘n’ roll band to recreate those special songs.

RUNNING TIME: 2HRS, PLUS 20MINS INTERVAL TICKETS: £23.50 thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk SEP SUN 24 SEP, 2.30PM & 7.30PM THEATRE TOGETHER IN HARMONY - CRESCENDO Crescendo Musical Theatre return with a new musical theatre show ‘Together In Harmony’. A collection of best loved Broadway and West End hits from shows including Five Guys Named Moe, Beautiful - The Carole King Musical, Half A Sixpence, Aladdin, Billy Elliot, Blood Brothers, Motown The Musical, Jekyll & Hyde, Mary Poppins and many more. Enjoy the powerful vocal harmony arrangements of this talented group of singers who are making their mark in local theatres.

RUNNING TIME: 2HRS, 15MINS TICKETS: £15 - £16

MON 25 & TUE 26 SEP, 2.30PM & 7.30PM THEATRE MEMORIES ARE MADE OF THIS A nostalgic musical journey through the past six decades. Including some of the greatest all time hits by Judy Garland, Connie Francis, Buddy Holly, , Dean Martin, Frank Sinatra, Sandy Shaw, Dusty Springfield, Elvis Presley, 18 Tom Jones, The Carpenters, Bay City Rollers, Abba, Michael Buble and many more. Beautifully costumed and choreographed. Performed by West End and international vocalists, along with the stunning Memory Lane dancers. Enjoy some of the greatest songs ever written.

RUNNING TIME: 2HRS, 20MINS TICKETS: £14 - £15

THU 28 SEP, 7.30PM THEATRE EN MYJO & OFCFOERR E SPECIAL GUEST The multi-award winning Midland Youth Jazz Orchestra under the expert leadership of John Ruddick MBE returns with a special guest singer. Previous guests include; Clare Teal, Jamie Cullum, George Melly, Georgie Fame, Elaine Delmar and many more. Details of the guest will be shown on the website when known. MYJO have won so many big band competitions so many times that they were forced to rewrite the rules to give others the chance to win... this is your chance to find out exactly why!

RUNNING TIME: 2HRS, PLUS 20MIN INTERVAL TICKETS: £18

SEP Box Office 0121 704 6962 THEATRE FRI 29 SEP, 8PM DANNY BHOY Make Something Great Again For Stronger Better Future Tomorrow Together. Scottish comedian Danny Bhoy embarks on his maiden tour of his brand-new show this Autumn. Don’t miss this internationally renowned and critically acclaimed comedian who regularly sells out tours all over the world with his unique brand of observational storytelling. See website for further info plus support (if any).

RUNNING TIME: 75MINS, NO INTERVAL TICKETS: £15 (MAY CONTAIN SWEARING)

THEATRE SAT 30 SEP, 7.30PM EN PATSY CLINE & OFCFOERR E FRIENDS The Velvet Country voice of Patsy Cline caught the imagination of Sue Lowry who has been a lifelong fan of Patsy Cline and Country music! Patsy Cline spent a record-breaking 251 weeks in the Country Music Album 19 charts and Sue Lowry’s powerful rendition of Sweet Dreams and Crazy will take you back to those wonderful days. Hank Williams played by Marc Robinson and Jim Reeves played by Rodger Bird/Lee Davidge. Please wear your Western gear and join us for a honkin’, tonkin’ hayride of a show!

RUNNING TIME: 180MINS TICKETS: £18 (£17 CONC. £10 CHILD)

THU 5 OCT, 7.30PM THEATRE EN DAVID HAMILTON’S OFCFOERR E ROCK ‘N’ ROLL BACK THE YEARS Fab ‘50s and swinging ‘60s show hosted by DJ and broadcasting legend David Hamilton, plus amazing live band The Fugitives and sensational singers, Ash Denver and the Tiffany Girls. This fabulous show will make you smile, laugh, and most definitely make you feel like dancing and singing along. The show brings you the hits of yesteryear and evokes memories of a bygone age, steeped in nostalgia and sprinkled with humour and unforgettable music from this magical era. This is a show not to be missed!

RUNNING TIME: APPROX. 2HRS TICKETS: £21 thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk SEP · OCT FRI 6 OCT, 7.30PM THEATRE EN CORE MOTHERSHIP OFFER A TRIBUTE TO LED ZEPPELIN Led Zeppelin tribute band MOTHERSHIP present a brand new multi-media show celebrating the music of the greatest rock band in history. In collaboration with Vesbim Media (producers of Pink Floyd’s ‘The Wall’) this production is more of an ‘event’ than a gig, and includes video projection, spectacular light show and the voices of Robert Plant and Jimmy Page.

RUNNING TIME: 160MINS TICKETS: £15 (£12 CONC.)

STUDIO FRI 6 OCT, 8PM THE LOST WILL & TESTAMENT OF JAKE THACKRAY Jake Thackray’s songs are exquisitely funny, satirical, incisive, irreverent, witty and gloriously un-PC – and sometimes all of these at the same time. 20 John Watterson (Fake Thackray) has performed Jake’s songs at venues across the UK and on local and national radio - most recently on Radio 4s ‘Great Lives’. John supported Fairport Convention on tour, achieved 4 star reviews for his show at Edinburgh Festival, and has received accolades from Jake’s friends like Richard Digance, Mike Harding and Sir Richard Stilgoe.

RUNNING TIME: APPROX. 70MINS TICKETS: £12, (£10 CONC.)

THEATRE SAT 7 OCT, 7.30PM SALUTE TO SINATRA AND THE SWING LEGENDS Award winning singer Matthew Ford is widely regarded as the finest big band singer in the UK, and he is delighted to present this show which celebrates Ol’ Blue Eyes and the Swing Legends. Matt’s extensive TV, Radio and Proms appearances have ensured the success of this big touring show with a 9-piece band that showcases his fantastic vocal range. Celebrating the hits of Frank Sinatra and paying homage to Tony Bennett, Matt Monro, Bobby Darin, Sammy Davis Jr, Andy Williams and many more.

RUNNING TIME: 2HRS, INC. INTERVAL TICKETS: £18

OCT Box Office 0121 704 6962 THEATRE TUE 10 OCT, 7.30PM MAD ABOUT THE MUSICALS Join this whistle stop tour from London’s theatre land to the glitz of Broadway, Mad About The Musicals celebrates the very best songs from the shows we all know and love! Rodgers & Hammerstein, Kander & Ebb, Andrew Lloyd Webber and Boublil & Schonberg and many more provide classic songs. The West End cast includes the hugely popular musical theatre star Michael Courtney and the fabulous vocalist winner of Britain’s Got Talent Jai McDowell who produce spine-tingling songs from the best stage shows.

RUNNING TIME: 1HR, 55MINS PLUS INTERVAL TICKETS: £22

THEATRE WED 11 OCT, 8PM EN PRINCE REVELATION OFCFOERR E One of the most talented and prolific singer- songwriter performers of all time... Prince was a global megastar with over 40 hits in the UK Top 40 and 5 No 1 UK albums. Mark Anthony is the No.1 Prince tribute in the world. 21 This show features those massive hits records… Purple Rain, Little Red Corvette, Let’s Go Crazy, Kiss, 1999, The Most Beautiful Girl In The World, 7, When Doves Cry, Sign O’ The Times and includes a band and dancers recreating the spectable that was Prince... don’t miss it!

RUNNING TIME: 2HRS, PLUS 20MINS INTERVAL TICKETS: £20

STUDIO SAT 14 OCT, 8PM IN STUDIO ELLIE TAYLOR Ellie Taylor star of BBC 2’s Mock the Week, BBC 1’s The John Bishop Show, Comic Relief 2017, Radio 4’s The Now Show and C4’s 8 out of 10 Cats is back with her stand up show. Ellies last tour ‘Infidelliety’ sold out effortlessly so book early. Details of the support act will be shown on the website when known. “Radiates natural charisma… blessed with great flair” “Smart, self-mocking and telegenic, it’s hard to see what else is going to stand in Taylor’s way.” The Scotsman

RUNNING TIME: APPROX. 90MINS (MAY CONTAIN SWEARING) TICKETS: £12 thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk OCT TUE 17 OCT, 2PM STUDIO MALCOLM STENT IN THE AFTERNOON Malcolm was honoured in her Majesty’s New Year list for his fantastic Services to Entertainment and whilst his final panto season is looming his other shows here definitely continue. His guests vary each show, sometimes singers sometimes guitarists etc. His stories will take you back and hopefully make you smile too. Malcolm’s warmth and local interest ensures his popularity never wanes and his audiences remain as loyal now as they were 25 years ago! Spend an afternoon with Malc and be home by teatime!

RUNNING TIME: 100MINS, INC. INTERVAL TICKETS: £10

THEATRE TUE 17 OCT, 7.30PM EN AN AUDIENCE WITH OFCFOERR E REV. RICHARD COLES Former popstar with The Communards Richard has successfully bridged the gap between pop and pulpit and tells the informative story of his journey connecting the euphoria and mayhem of stardom to being a Church of 22 England priest. Also a popular radio broadcaster and TV host and guest on shows like QI and his sense of the absurd, plus his quick and inventive verbal humour ensure his talks are moving and thought-provoking in equal measure. “How do you go from pop star to priest? And why?”

RUNNING TIME: 90MINS, PLUS 20MINS INTERVAL TICKETS: £20

THEATRE THU 19 OCT, 7.30PM EN THE ELECTRIC OFCFOERR E fronts the show, and in addition to long-time regulars Dave Lambert and , the Electric Strawbs are proud to have Tony Fernandez on drums, and Dave Bainbridge on keyboards. All in all, this is an impressive combination of terrific talent to showcase some enduring compositions. With their deep roots and immense creativity, the Electric Strawbs offer a show just too good to miss.

RUNNING TIME: TBC TICKETS: £20

OCT Box Office 0121 704 6962 FRI 20 & SAT 21 OCT, 7.30PM THEATRE THE WORLD FAMOUS ELVIS SHOW Chris Connor is back! Direct from the West End, world- leading Elvis performer Chris brings his huge 2 hour production with his energetic live band, ‘The Steels’, and backing vocals by ‘The Sweet Harmonies’! Voted ‘The Worlds Best’ in a world-wide Elvis Presley fan poll for his faultless looks, moves and mannerisms... it really is as if Elvis is performing on stage. You won’t want to miss the Elvis show of the year! “Wow that boy is good!” Joe Esposito (Elvis’ best friend)

RUNNING TIME: 2HRS TICKETS: £24.50

THEATRE TUE 24 OCT, 2.30PM & 7.30PM THE NUTCRACKER BY BALLET THEATRE UK Discover the magic of this beloved festive classic for the first time by Ballet Theatre UK. Tchaikovsky’s most loved and unforgettable musical score combines with magical choreography, exquisite costumes and scenery that together creates an atmosphere of fantasy and illusion. 23 The Nutcracker features such favourites as The Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy, The Waltz of the Flowers, The Russian Trepak, The Dance of the Reed Pipes and the world famous Waltz of the Snowflakes , to name but a few.

RUNNING TIME: APPROX. 2HRS TICKETS: £18 (£17 CONC. £12 CHILDREN)

THEATRE THU 26 OCT, 7.30PM EN BLACK COUNTRY OFCFOERR E NIGHT OUT A Black Country Night Out is one of the longest running shows in the Midlands and continues to sell out. Show regulars ‘Dandy’ are husband and wife team with hilarious routines that are true to life. Welcomed in 2017 are The Empty Can who perform worldwide but their hearts belong in the Black Country. Comedian Ian ‘Sludge’ Lees is joined by raconteur and musician Bev Pegg who’ll host the show and introduce the new voice of Jess Silk. Packed to the brim with music, mirth and merriment - book now!

RUNNING TIME: 2HRS, PLUS INTERVAL TICKETS: £20 thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk OCT FRI 27 OCT, 12PM & 3PM Ask THEATRE a bout a Chi MONSTERSAURUS ldren’s Par This brand new show from the creators of ty Aliens Love Underpants is monster-ously good! Follow the young inventor Monty as he creates a whole world of whacky inventions and incredible monsters, but what is he going to do with them?! This energetic show full of thrills, spills, magic and mayhem will delight the whole family – with original music and plenty of audience participation!

RUNNING TIME: 55MINS, NO INTERVAL TICKETS: £10 (SUITABLE FOR AGES 3+)

SAT 28 OCT, 7.30PM THEATRE WILDLIFE ROAD TRIP WITH BBC AUTUMN WATCH PRESENTERS Natural history broadcasters and co-presenters of BBC Autumn Watch Martin & Iolo have teamed up to perform an amusing and informative show packed with facts and fun. 24 This fascinating journey will entertain you about the wonderful world of wildlife and about presenting television programmes. We go behind the scenes as they tell their own stories about their amazing experiences. This show is filled with fun & facts plus a few surprises!

RUNNING TIME: 2 X 50MINS TICKETS: £20 (£18 CHILDREN)

THEATRE WED 1 NOV, 7.30PM EN JINGLE ALL THE WAY OFCFOERR E - LIVE FLORAL DEMO Another in this popular series of live floral demos, the hugely talented presenter Jacqui Arnold present a Christmas-themed show for Solihull Flower Club, open to the public. Her entertaining demonstrations are a celebration of floral beauty and the marvellous festive creations are raffled off at the end of the evening so make sure you have room on the journey home! Solihull Flower Club work to a high standard and welcome new members - find out more during the evening. RUNNING TIME: 2HRS TICKETS: £13.50

OCT · NOV Box Office 0121 704 6962 THU 2 NOV, 7.30PM THEATRE EN CORE THE LEGENDS OF OFFER AMERICAN COUNTRY SHOW The Legends of American Country Show is Ireland’s number 1 Country music tribute show featuring the music of eight of the biggest names on the American scene including Garth Brooks, Randy Travis, Dolly Parton, Tammy Wynette, Merle Haggard, Alan Jackson, Buck Owens and Johnny Cash. The 4 vocalists have a wealth of experience and glittering careers than span over 30 years and each perform a string of hits from the featured artist, complete with authentic costume changes and a live 6 piece band.

RUNNING TIME: 2HRS, 30MINS INC. INTERVAL TICKETS: £19.50

FRI 3 NOV, 7.30PM THEATRE EN KING PLEASURE OFCFOERR E AND THE BISCUIT BOYS King Pleasure & the Biscuit Boys have been on the road for almost three decades, playing throughout Europe, Russia and the Middle East with their dazzling musicianship,riveting 25 stage performances... they’re the established ‘Kings of Swing’. They’re the genuine article, in full working order, dedicated to shaking you up and swinging you into the middle of next week. They’ve got King Pleasure’s inimitable bourbon voice plus an unmistakeably roaring band sound that hits you like a cannonball! RUNNING TIME: APPROX. 2HRS TICKETS: £17

TUE 7 - SAT 11 NOV, 7.30PM (MAT 2.30PM) THEATRE PETER PAN - A MUSICAL ADVENTURE Close your eyes and take off on a magical trip to Neverland, where you never grow old. J M Barrie's timeless tale of the boy who refused to grow up is reborn as a spectacular musical with a score by Stile & Drewe and a book by the late Willis Hall, as Peter Pan and Tinkerbell presented by talented local society STAMPS. Includes favourite characters like Captain Hook and his pirate crew, Princess Tiger Lily and her tribe, The Lost Boys, Tick Tock and of course the Darlings and Nana the dog.

RUNNING TIME: TBC TICKETS: TBC thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk NOV FRI 10 NOV, 8PM STUDIO RAFFLE - MRS BARBARA NICE Comedian Janice Connolly returns with her alter ego everyone’s favourite housewife Barbara Nice! The Phoenix Nights actress and comedian presents a playful show about chance and luck (which includes a Raffle ticket for audiences giving them the chance to win a prize from Barbara’s table!). She sells out effortlessly and garners 5 star reviews - this laid back small scale show is a chance to find out why. “Warm and spontaneous”

RUNNING TIME: TBC TICKETS: £12

THEATRE TUE 14 NOV, 7.30PM FOSTER & ALLEN For over three decades in the music business, this popular Irish duo have continuously managed to scale new heights! Foster and Allen will be touring the UK, performing their Oct - Nov ‘17 Tour with all their hits including Bunch of Thyme, Maggie, After All These Years, I Will Love You All My Life… and many 26 more, the list is endless. Foster & Allen’s style and easy listening sound remains as fresh and exciting as ever. They really enjoy the business they are in, especially the live concerts. .

RUNNING TIME: 110MINS, INC. INTERVAL TICKETS: £27

THEATRE WED 15 NOV, 7.30PM EN THE BLUES BAND OFCFOERR E Many of The Blues Band’s 21st century fans weren’t even born when these five virtuoso, already music industry veterans formed a band ‘just to play The Blues’. Decades later they’re still dazzling audiences with their showmanship and virtuousity. About twenty albums and thousands of gigs later Paul Jones, Dave Kelly, Tom McGuinness, Rob Townsend and Gary Fletcher still tour the world as the finest exponents of the blues tradition in all its forms - The Blues Band.

RUNNING TIME: TBC TICKETS: £21

NOV Box Office 0121 704 6962 THU 16 NOV, 8PM STUDIO EN CORE JONGLEURS OFFER ON THE ROAD Jongleurs is the by word for live stand up comedy. These shows will feature a well known host and three live stand up comedians from the current comedy club circuit. From time to time acts are changed to suit TV filming etc - so please check website for up to date info, which will show full details of the performers when known and confirmed.

RUNNING TIME: TBC TICKETS: £12 (SUITABLE AGE: 16+, MAY CONTAIN STRONG LANGUAGE/SUBJECT MATTER)

FRI 17 NOV, 7.30PM THEATRE THE SUMMER OF LOVE The Summer of Love anniversary concert takes you back on a nostalgic musical journey to that incredible summer of 1967 - an eclectic explosion of flowers, psychedelia, freedom, peace and love and, of course, timeless music that inspired a generation. With original film footage and a full live band enjoy classics 27 like; California Dreaming, San Francisco, Turn Turn, Turn, Somebody To Love, Happy Together, Brown Eyed Girl, and over 40 more classic songs from the summer that changed the world.

RUNNING TIME: 2HRS, 10MINS INC. 20MINS INTERVAL TICKETS: £18

SAT 18 NOV, 7.30PM THEATRE EN 80 S MANIA OFCFOERR E Europe’s Official 1980s multi-tribute concert featuring 25 chart topping pop icons authentically recreated with live band and great dancers. 35 chart topping hits by tributes to , The Human League, Kim Wilde, Culture Club, Madonna, Wham!, Nena, Toni Basil, Frankie Goes to Hollywood, Bananarama, Dead or Alive, Madness and many many more! Described by ex-Radio 1 DJ Mike Read as “like meets Live Aid with the sexy dance troupe Legs ‘n’ Co!” Dig out your 80s fashions and party!

RUNNING TIME: 1HR, 55MINS PLUS 20MINS INTERVAL TICKETS: £22 thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk NOV TUE 21 - SAT 25 NOV, 7.30PM (MAT 2.30PM) THEATRE FIDDLER ON THE ROOF Fiddler on the Roof is the much loved story set in 1905 in the small, tradition-steeped Jewish village Anatevka, Russia feautring Tevye and his colourful community, as they witness his daughters, Tzeitel, Hodel, and Chava, grow up and fall in love in a time of change in Russia. Filled with hope, faith and warmth this musical show is presented by the talented cast of local society St Augustine’s MTC and features iconic songs as the beautiful Sunrise, Sunset and the boisterous If I Were a Rich Man .

RUNNING TIME: APPROX. 165MINS, INC. INTERVAL TICKETS: £16 - £18

STUDIO WED 22 NOV, 2PM KEITH SLATER’S 60 S CELEBRATION Turn on, tune in and drop out on this musical journey through this influential decade, the ‘Swinging sixties’ full of mini-skirts, World Cups and... teenagers! Songs from , The Searchers, The Beach Boys, Peter Sarstedt and many more. 28 From Rock ‘n’ Roll to psychedelia, from segregation to the summer of love and beyond. Keith and his guitar plus hi-tech graphics, lighting and screen projection provide a musical and visual reminder of life back in the day when Britain was swinging!

RUNNING TIME: 90MINS, PLUS INTERVAL TICKETS: £11

PANTO OPENS 8 DECEMBER! SEE INSIDE FRONT COVER FOR INFO.

WED 20 - SUN 24 DEC, VARIOUS START TIMES STUDIO LILY AND THE LITTLE SNOW BEAR Lily lives with Grandpa in a tiny country cottage and there are just two more sleeps until Christmas and it’s snowing already! Lily loves SNOW! So, she pops on her coat and sets off to explore. But when she discovers a trail of soft little footprints, she’s in for a very big SURPRISE! This funny, heartwarming tale of friendship is the perfect treat for Christmas with exquisite puppets, enchanting music and a magical snowy setting. By Blunderbus Theatre aimed at ages 3+ with chance to meet and greet afterwards

RUNNING TIME: 55MINS, NO INTERVAL TICKETS: £10 (SUITABLE AGE: 3+) FORTHCOMING ATTRACTIONS SPRING ‘ 18

19 JAN THE NEIL DIAMOND STORY £20 1 FEB MALCOLM STENTS SONGS OF PRAISE £17 2 - 3 FEB LET’S HANG ON - FRANKIE VALLI & FOUR SEASONS STORY £23 1 - 3 MAR RETURN TO THE FORBIDDEN PLANET BY SOSAGE FACTORY £12 - £14 6 - 10 MAR MY FAIR LADY BY KNOWLE MUSICAL SOCIETY £16 - £17 20 - 24 MAR DIRTY ROTTEN SCOUNDRELS BY COLESHILL OPERATIC SOC £12 - £17 10 - 14 APR SPAMALOT BY PETERBROOK PLAYERS £16 24 - 28 APR MADE IN DAGENHAM BY SOLIHULL ON STAGE £14 - £16 11 MAY THE FUREYS £20 Details correct at the time of going to print but dates/prices may change.

OUR FOOD DESERVES A ROUND OF APPLAUSE!

We are truly proud of our food range, from our premium breakfast ingredients to our EN 29 OFCFOERR E Thursday ‘Pie Nights’. With daytime offers and ‘specials’ plus pre-show cocktails, beer deals and other promotions (look for the ENCORE OFFER logo) it’s worth arriving early!

Every purchase, however small, made at Encore We offer corporate events, meeting and training during your visit here helps boost our income and facilities plus private dining, family events and helps the venue to continue to offer the fantastic parties. The Encore Team cook everything from theatre facilities and programme we currently working breakfast pastries to after-show curries! enjoy. Our catering income, alongside ticket sales Our café users love our great value prices and and venue hire is vital to ensure the sustainability friendly service with a smile. We adapt our menu of this venue which is much loved by our loyal to keep ahead of demand with some great ideas audiences - so every penny you spend here helps like our cream teas and fresh milkshake range with us continue! fun new flavours like Oreo and Banoffee.

Join us at Encore next time you’re in Solihull! WORKSHOPS, CLASSES & MORE

BHANGRA TOTS & BOLLYWOOD TOTS NEW! DDMIX DANCE CLASSES FAMILY DANCE WITH SOHAN KAILEY Taking the fitness world by storm! Fun sessions for little ones aged 2 - 5 to enjoy Bhangra Devised by Darcey Bussell, these classes & Bollywood music and dance with their parents. Wiggle, are specifically designed aerobic giggle & dance to Bhangra, jolly Bollywood and play fun fitness moves using dance styles from musical instruments. Parents/guardians stay with their child around the world and make exercise at all times and are most welcome to join in too! fun and musical. Solihull tutor Aruna Kailey was trained by Darcy and the WEEKLY IN STUDIO: MON, 10-10.45AM £5 class starts promptly at 6.45pm. DECOPATCH WORKSHOPS WEEKLY IN STUDIO FROM 8 MAY: FOR CHILDREN MON FROM 6.30PM £6 Decoupage - The art of layering patterns, transfers, fabrics, papers etc onto SILENT READING CAFE new or used items can turn something plain Join our digital detox and switch off from the outside world into something wonderful! Classes are held with an hour of uninterrupted reading in Ovations bar. during school holidays and participants go Bring a book or e-reader (sorry no smart devices allowed!) home with a finished item – see website. sit back, relax and enjoy some blissful reading. Monthly sessions on Thurs from Sept – see website for dates/times. NEW! ART CLASS WITH ARTIST VICKI KILGOUR Join this friendly group in the Courtyard gallery space. ACTIVITIES IN Watch Vicki demonstrate drawing and painting techniques 30 then try them out yourself, and develop your own style. LIBRARIES... Beginners to advanced, all abilities are welcome. FAMILY HISTORY To discuss call Vicki on: 07940483320 or email FIRST STEPS IN [email protected] FAMILY HISTORY (BEGINNERS) WEEKLY IN COURTYARD GALLERY: WED 10-12NOON A 7-week course for (£75.00 PER 10 WK. COURSE) complete beginners, explaining the process of THEATRE SUMMER SCHOOL - researching your family tree from JUNGLE BOOK scratch, using records, indexes, census and websites. 5 DAY YOUTH THEATRE COURSE You don’t need previous experience or talent to enjoy VENUE: PC ROOM, THE CORE LIBRARY learning and working on stage as part of a youth theatre TUTOR: BEVERLEY BIRD COST: £76 class. It’s great fun, exercise and a brilliant chance to work THURS 28 SEPT, 2-4PM FOR 7 WEEKS ( Ends 9 Nov ). with professionals. See page 26 or website for more info. WEEK 5 ( Half Term ) is a research session with tutor support.

COURSE FEE: £120 PER CHILD. CREATING A FAMILY HISTORY WEBSITE FOR AGES 8-16 YEARS. MON 31 JUL - FRI 4 AUG, 10AM-3PM A brand new course that will help create a family history website using the free Wordpress platform to turn your own LIGHT 52 PHOTOGRAPHY COURSES history into a website using your research, short stories, WITH RICHARD PEARCE images etc, taking into account copyright and data Always popular these 10 week Beginners, Intermediate and protection. Only basic computer skills required. Advanced courses, held in the Studio are held on Thursdays 6.30pm – 8.30pm. The courses for adults are designed to VENUE: PC ROOM, THE CORE LIBRARY enable you to learn at your own pace and rotate around TUTOR: TRACEY WILLIAMS COST: £76 the year if you wish to complete all levels. See website for FORTNIGHTLY for 7 SESSIONS, BETWEEN 27 SEP the course content at each level or call Box Office to book. & 13 DEC, 2-4PM. BEGINNERS COURSE: STARTS JANUARY 2018 CHILDREN’S LIBRARY CRAFT SESSION INTERMEDIATE COURSE: STARTS APRIL 2018 PAPER PUMPKINS 11AM-12NOON ON TUE 24 OCT ADVANCED COURSE: 14, 21, 28 SEP, 5, 12, 19 OCT SCARY SKELETONS 2PM-3PM ON THU 26 OCT NO CLASS 26 OCT ( Half Term ) then 2, 9, 16, 23 NOV Free sessions - no need to book for ages 3+. HOW TO REACH US The venue adjoins Touchwood and the ‘Orange zone’ in Touchwood car park brings you up near the glass doors to Theatre square. Taxi drop-off is no longer free - a minimum charge applies. High sided vehicles cannot enter Touchwood and should drop off and park elsewhere. Solihull station is a 5-min walk away and bus and rail services run regularly to/from Birmingham and other areas.

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BOX OFFICE & TICKETS Tickets are on sale anytime online at www.thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk with seat selection for most shows. Box Office currently opens Mon-Sat between 10.30am-4pm. They re-open 90mins before curtain-up on show nights. Call Box Office on 0121 704 6962 for tickets and reservations. Charges may apply but you can visit the office to avoid these. When booking by post please make cheques payable to Solihull MBC. Where £1.50 postage charge is not added, tickets will remain for collection. Opening hours may change during 2017 – check the website or call them for up to date information before making a special trip. The Core Theatre, Box Office, Theatre Square, Touchwood, Homer Road, Solihull B91 3RG 31 N A L P

G N I T A E S

NOT ON SALE ONLINE COURTYARD GALLERY DIARY

WED 10 - MON 22 MAY WED 6 SEP - MON 2 OCT COVENTRY WATERCOLOUR SOCIETY METHODIST MODERN ART EXHIBITION - SOLIHULL METHODIST CHURCH WED 24 MAY - MON 5 JUN PAINTING, ART & LEISURE SOCIETY (P.A.L.S) WED 4 - MON 16 OCT AN EXHIBITION BY WED 7 - MON 26 JUN CATHERINE DE BARNES SOCIETY SOLIHULL ARTISTS FORUM & SOLIHULL SOCIETY OF ARTS WED 28 JUN - MON 10 JUL WED 18 OCT - MON 6 NOV THE CORE COLLECTIVE EXHIBITION ECLECTICA: EXHIBITION WED 12 - MON 24 JUL WED 8 - MON 20 NOV OUR WORLD: PROFOUND ARTS DRAWN TO ART SUMMER HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES AN EXHIBITION BY LOCAL ARTISTS THE BIG SLEUTH - JOIN THE BEAR TRAIL! WED 22 NOV - MON 4 DEC SEE OUR COLLECTION OF MINI-BEARS TEXTILES EXHIBITION

HIRE THE COURTYARD GALLERY Entry to the Gallery is free and it’s open all day whenever the building is open. It’s popular with evening theatre audiences who browse the works before the show and during the interval. The Courtyard Gallery is located just off the main foyer of The Core, to the left of the box office. Email [email protected] or call 0121 704 6961 for details of hire fees and availability.

Art Classes in Courtyard Gallery NEW! on Weds 10-12 noon - See p30 for details. Solihull Jets - Junior Embroiderers 27 May Book covers 24 Jun Novelty threads & Textile Students & recycling necklaces Hold regular demonstrations & sessions for young people. 29 Jul All about Butterflies Sat 27 May 1.30 - 4pm then further sessions during the 30 Sep Crewel work using wool year [email protected] or Deborah on 28 Oct Firework stitching 07557 023245 for info. 25 Nov St Andrews Day