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GREASE IS THE WORD Your FREE essential entertainment guide for the Midlands FEATURE INSIDE...

BIRMINGHAM WHAT’S ON JULY 2019 Birmingham ISSUE 403 JULY 2019 ’ 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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HOME OF METAL celebrating 50 years of at BMAG BIRMINGHAMWHATSON.CO.UK IFC Birmingham.qxp_Layout 1 20/06/2019 12:52 Page 1 Contents July Birmingham.qxp_Layout 1 21/06/2019 15:42 Page 2

July 2019

Contents

It’s A Hard Knock Life... stars as Miss Hannigan in Annie at the Hippodrome page 24

Little Miss Sunshine MoonFest BE FESTIVAL the list

join the dysfunctional Hoover plus much more at Midlands celebrates Europe’s performing Your 16-page family at The Alexandra Theatre Arts Centre this summer arts scene at The REP week-by-week listings guide feature page 8 feature page 12 page 16 page 53 inside:

4. First Word 15. Gigs 19. Festivals 22. Comedy 24. Theatre 33. Film 36. Visual Arts 39. Events

@whatsonbrum fb.com/whatsonbirmingham @whatsonmediagroup Birmingham What’s On Birmingham What’s On 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 Abi Whitehouse [email protected] 01743 281716 Sue Jones [email protected] 01743 281705 Subscriptions: Adrian Parker [email protected] 01743 281714 Contributors: Graham Bostock, James Cameron-Wilson, Katherine Ewing, Jenny Ell, Steve Adams, Lauren Cole, Nanci Davies, Jack Rolfe, Steve Taylor, Chris Eldon Lee, Patsy Moss 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 July.qxp_Layout 1 21/06/2019 15:53 Page 1

Entertainment news from around the region

Birmingham arts venue gets major funding boost A £4.5million Arts Council investment of National Lottery money is set to finance a transformation of Birming- ham’s Symphony Hall. The cash will be used to up- date the venue’s foyers, create new learning & participation spaces and enhance the expe- rience for visitors of all ages. Alongside flexible spaces that can host workshops, pre- show talks and corporate guests, opportunities will also be made available for artists with limited mobility, sensory and cognitive disabilities.

The best of Handsworth at Lesley Joseph set to get The theatre will use the money to install handrails on every row of its auditorium. historic Soho House wicked in Snow White... Commenting, Michael Penn, the venue’s Birmingham Museums’ Lesley Joseph and Joe executive director, said, “It’s great that this historic Soho House is McElderry are among will make our beautiful old theatre even more this month hosting the the stars who’ll be accessible to audiences, so that they can first ever Best Of gracing the stage in share in our amazing programme of shows Handsworth fair. Birmingham Hippo- and events.” Taking place on Sunday drome’s must-see The handrails are being built specifically to 7 July, the event aims to pantomime, Snow fit The Old Rep’s seats and will be installed in promote the area’s rich White And The Seven time for the venue’s autumn season. culture and history by Dwarfs, this Christmas. giving visitors the opportunity to experience Lesley and Joe will be joined by Hippodrome ‘the tastes, sounds, artists, products and panto favourite Matt Slack, Coronation Youth ballet showcases people of Handsworth’. Street’s Faye Brookes, Britain’s Got Talent new works in Birmingham The fair will place an emphasis on ‘healthy street dance troupe Flawless and the Black living, mutual respect and cross-cultural Country’s very own ‘lazy cow’, Doreen Tip- National Youth Ballet (NYB) return to Birm- solutions to the issues of today’. For more in- ton. Completing the principal line-up is one ingham next month with Wonderlands, a formation, visit birminghammuseums.org.uk of Birmingham Hippodrome’s favourite mixed programme of new works created by dames, Andrew Ryan, who will this year be some of the country’s most promising young making his 33rd pantomime appearance, his choreographers. The programme is presented Calling Planet Earth II at 29th as a dame and his third in Birmingham. by a company of young dancers aged Resorts World Arena Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs runs at between nine and 18 from across the UK. the Hippodrome from Saturday 21 December NYB perform at the Crescent Theatre on A live version of the award-winning BBC TV to Sunday 2 February. To book tickets, visit Thursday 29 & Friday 30 August, following a series Planet Earth II will visit Birmingham’s birminghamhippodrome.com residential programme at Elmhurst Ballet Resorts World Arena next year as part of a UK School in Edgbaston. For more information, & Ireland tour. visit nationalyouthballet.org Following on from the success of the Blue Lottery grant to fund Planet II Live tour, the 3 April 2020 concert will feature specially selected footage shown improved access at the in 4K ultra high-definition on a gigantic LED city’s Old Rep theatre screen. The footage will be accompanied by Birmingham’s Old Rep Theatre has received music performed by the City Of Prague an award of £9,942 from the National Lottery Philharmonic Orchestra. Community Fund to increase accessibility at To purchase tickets for the show, visit the venue. theticketfactory.com 4 whatsonlive.co.uk First Word Birmingham July.qxp_Layout 1 21/06/2019 15:53 Page 2

First Word

John Partridge to star in Cabaret at the Grand Theatre Former EastEnders favourite John Partridge will take on the role of Emcee when hit musi- cal Cabaret visits the Wolver- hampton Grand Theatre in the autumn. The show, which features iconic songs including Money Makes The World Go Round, Maybe This Time and the title track itself, is helmed by the National Theatre’s Artistic Director, Rufus Norris, and visits the Grand from Tuesday 3 to Saturday 7 September. Tickets for the production are now on sale and can be bought online at grandthe- atre.co.uk or by calling 01902 429212. Family festival goes intergalactic for moon landing’s 50th Birmingham Hippodrome’s free two-day family ram’s Museum Of The Moon - a stunning seven- festival, Summer In Southside, returns on metre model of the moon projected with detailed Saturday 13 & Sunday 14 July. NASA imagery - Motionhouse’s dance piece, This year sees the festival going intergalactic to Gravity, exploring weightlessness, and Highly celebrate 50 years since the first moon landing. Sprung’s popular aerial performance, Urban The Hippodrome and surrounding streets will be Astronaut, which sees an astronaut suspended transformed into a lunar landscape to accommo- 20 feet in the air. date a whole of performances, installa- For full details of the programme, visit birming- tions and extraterrestrial antics. hamhippodrome.com/summerinsouthside ‘Out of this world’ attractions include Luke Jer-

Fancy a cuppa? A summer of free events to enjoy at the Birmingham Women’s & city centre’s Bullring & Grand Central New initiative for Children’s Hospitals Char- Birmingham’s Bullring & Grand Central is hosting a selection of free Birmingham dance ity is asking members of events over the summer, including a space-themed family festival to the general public to help mark the 50th anniversary of the first moon landing. community raise much-needed funds Circus performances and a summer food festival also feature in the A brand new non-profit initia- by hosting their own tea line-up of attractions. tive supported by local dance party, as part of the NHS Commenting on the sched- artists, companies and organi- Big Tea celebrations taking ule, Danielle Bozward, sations has launched in Birm- place on Friday 5 July... Marketing Manager at ingham. To learn more about this Bullring & Grand Central, Responding to the ambition of year’s event or to down- said: “We’re looking for- the city’s dance sector to have load a free pack to raise ward to hosting lots of free a consistent offer of classes in money for Birmingham entertainment and experi- a variety of styles, Birming- Women’s Hospital Charity, ences for our customers to ham Pro Class provides visit bwh.org.uk/nhs-big- enjoy. With new restaurants bi-weekly sessions open to tea. to discover, including Kitty professional dancers, recent Alternatively, to fundraise Café and a beach bar to kick graduates and those in train- for Birmingham Children’s back in, summer is officially ing. For more information, Hospital Charity, visit sorted at Bullring & Grand visit bidf.co.uk bch.org.uk/nhs-big-tea. Central.” whatsonlive.co.uk 5 First Word Birmingham July.qxp_Layout 1 21/06/2019 15:53 Page 3

First Word

Photographic exhibition looks behind the scenes at The REP A new exhibition by local photographer Fraser McGee, offering an insight into backstage life at the Birmingham Repertory Theatre, is this month on display in the city’s Medicine Bakery & Gallery venue. Fraser spent a month backstage at The REP taking hundreds of pictures which reveal the vast amount of usually unseen work that goes into bringing theatre to life on stage. The exhibition, entitled Production, features 100 black-and- white pictures from his residency at the venue. Commenting on the project, Fraser said: “The exhibition is essentially about the culmination of the hard work, skills, dedication and passion of all the people at The REP that results in each and every show.” Production shows at the Medicine Bakery & Gallery until 5 August.

The Dollop at the City museum rewarded for excellence New live music Glee Club Birmingham Museums Trust (BMT) has been crowned the Overall event at The Mill Hit American History podcast Winner of Excellence at the 2019 Charity Awards. A new live music event is sched- The Dollop is coming to the UK BMT won the coveted gong for its Collecting Birmingham project, uled to take place at The Mill in in late autumn as part of its which empowered residents to take an active role in developing Birmingham’s Digbeth district this first ever European tour. the city’s museums collection. November (Sunday the 17th). The premise sees history buff Commenting on the success, Rachel Cockett, Director of Develop- Set across two stages and catering and comedian Dave Anthony ment at Birmingham Museums Trust, said: “This award success for the indie-pop enthusiast, read a story to his friend and showcases the important role that museums and culture can play Shimmer Sounds’ line-up boasts fellow comedian, Gareth in our communities. These award wins aren’t just to be celebrated Temples, The Blinders and Buz- Reynolds, who has no idea by the Birmingham Museums team but also by the people of Birm- zard Buzzard Buzzard. what the topic is going to be ingham and all those who helped shape the collection through this Commenting on the event, one of about. The show visits Birm- project. It was truly transformative for us. and the lessons we’ve its organisers, Joff Hall of The MJR ingham’s Glee Club on Tuesday learnt will have a long-lasting impact on the city’s collection.” Group, said: “We hope to bring 19 November. back the all-day music event, showcasing the very best indie Collaboration for music talent, even bigger and bet- Brum music group ter this time round. Digbeth is one of the most unique and vibrant Birmingham Contemporary creative quarters in the UK, and Music Group (BCMG) is taking we’re excited to be bringing some- part in a ground-breaking mu- thing varied to Birmingham.” sical collaboration that links For more information, visit classical musicians from the themilldigbeth.com UK with those from Pakistan and Bangladesh. Music In Dialogue culminates Open-mic poetry at in two concerts, one on the last Nigel Planer to star as Grandpa in new Blakesley Hall day of June, the other on adaptation of David Walliams classic Popular open-mic poetry night The Wednesday 3 July at the city’s Ramblers Ball is visiting Birming- Nigel Planer will take the lead role in the first ever stage adaptation Barber Institute. ham Museum’s Blakesley Hall for of David Walliams’ children’s book, Grandpa’s Great Escape, when Commenting on the collabora- one night only this month. it visits Birmingham Arena this Christmas. tion, Stephan Meier, Artistic The event takes place at the Hall Best known for starring as hippie Neil in the cult 1980s sitcom The Director of BCMG, said: “We on Thursday 11 July from 6pm. Young Ones, Nigel commented: “It’s a great honour to be asked to are always keen to make new To book an open-mic slot, email play Grandpa in the live version of this amazing and cockle-warm- strides in music making, and [email protected]. ing story by David Walliams. It’s set to be such an amazing spec- we are extremely excited at the Tickets to the event are £4 and can tacular, and I can’t wait to drive a tank and fly a lifesize Spitfire tantalising prospect of working be booked at bit.ly/RamblersBall- over audiences around the country!” with our guests from Pakistan BlakesleyHall. and Bangladesh.” The production shows in Birmingham on 23, 24 & 26 December. 6 whatsonlive.co.uk First Word Birmingham July.qxp_Layout 1 21/06/2019 15:53 Page 4 Little Miss Sunshine (1).qxp_Layout 1 20/06/2019 16:25 Page 1

LITTLE MISS SUNSHINE on a road trip to Brum...

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by Lauren Cole

The Voice’s Lucy O’Byrne is in Birmingham this month with new musical comedy Little Miss Sunshine. What’s On spoke to her about the show and her own rise to musical theatre stardom…

Little Miss Sunshine follows 10-year-old Olive controversial world of American beauty but everyone who takes part has a different and the rest of the Hoover family on an epic pageants on its head… experience. Some people go on these reality cross-country trek. Their goal is to make TV programmes and find themselves chewed “I think our show definitely pokes fun at the young Olive a beauty pageant queen. But not up and spat out, whereas I had the time of my beauty pageant world,” says Lucy. “It’s not everything goes quite according to plan... life. I can only say that I had the best possible really a massive commentary on beauty experience!” Based on the Oscar-winning film of the same pageants, but we definitely do point out how name and written by the Tony Award-winning silly it is having all those tiny children caked Lucy hopes to continue with her career in team of James Lapine and William Finn, Little in makeup. For the Hoover family, ‘worth’ is musical theatre for the foreseeable future. Miss Sunshine promises to provide a family definitely more focused on who you are as a For now, though, she’s thoroughly enjoying night out to remember. person, and I think that really comes across in having Little Miss Sunshine as her sole the show. The audience really root for Olive focus… “The Hoovers are the ultimate dysfunctional like nothing I’ve ever seen. Near the end of family,’ explains Lucy, who stars in the show. “I just think the show is the most uplifting the show, the Little Miss Sunshine audience ‘Plus, 10-year-old Olive is not what you might two hours you can spend in the theatre almost becomes the audience of the pageant think of from the pageant kids who you see because the Hoover family are just like every- itself, and they really cheer her on because on TV programmes. But it’s still something one’s family. Yes, what happens to these poor she’s such a great little character. So I guess she’s always wanted to do, so her family takes people on their journey is sometimes farcical, the message from us is that you don’t need all her on the 800-mile round-trip from New but everything that you see in the show is just the hair and makeup and flashy outfits - it’s Mexico to California. Little Miss Sunshine reminding everybody of how lucky we are to all about who you are on the inside.” follows how this dysfunctional family really have our friends and family. For me, it’s such comes together when overcoming all the Coming from a family of theatrical perform- great fun every night to perform. Everyone bumps in the road. It’s definitely a family ers, Lucy always dreamed of becoming a I’ve spoken to says how much fun they’ve had story and is also very, very funny. It’s quite musical theatre star: “I grew up doing theatre, watching it too. You’ll certainly come out with dark comedy but really heartwarming all the and both my parents and my sister are also a smile on your face! While I was rehearsing, same. It’s also very relatable! Even though it’s doing theatre, so I would follow them around it was on at the Arcola in set in America and their dysfunctionality is while they did their shows. Theatre was , and after my heightened and exaggerated, everyone I’ve always a big part of my life, and I always second day of spoken to who’s seen the show can see their dreamed of going to London to star in the rehearsal I went to own family reflected on stage at one point or West End. I studied in Ireland and came over see it. I can another.” to London, got myself an agent and was honestly say I trying to audition for things while working as laughed and cried Classically trained Lucy has previously an usher. It just wasn’t working out for me for the whole two starred in iconic musicals such as Evita, Les until I did The Voice, and low and behold, hours! The journey Misérables and The Sound Of Music. Little here I am!” the Hoover family take Miss Sunshine is completely out of her you on is amazing, and comfort zone - but that’s one of the many Lucy was a runner-up on series four of The I can honestly things she loves about playing the character Voice, which gave her more exposure than recommend this of Sheryl Hoover. she ever dreamed it would. She looks back beautiful show fondly on her time on the show: “The Voice “Little Miss Sunshine is so different to my to anyone.” changed my life, and I have nothing but previous roles. It’s completely out on its own happy memories of it. I didn’t go into it in respect to anything I’ve done before. I find expecting much out of it. I didn’t think I’d get every day a challenge with the show, and I Little Miss very far, or do as well as I did, and I certainly love to be challenged. I’m also in the Sunshine never thought I’d get voted through by the company of some amazingly strong actors. shows at public. I didn’t really think my voice was right With the musicals I’ve done previously, the The Alexandra for the show, so I didn’t expect to come out story has been communicated much more Theatre, with a record deal, a job, or a best friend in exclusively through the songs. Obviously, Birmingham, Will.I.Am. The only hope that I had was to get Little Miss Sunshine is still a musical and the from Tuesday a little bit of exposure; maybe I’d get a songs do also tell the story, but it contains a 16 to Saturday show-reel out on TV that would get me an lot more dialogue than I’m used to. The music 20 July audition for something. It was an amazing and the songs really move the story along, platform for me and gave me the most which is really special, I think. My previous incredible chance to pursue my dream career. roles have been well-known characters their stand-alone iconic songs one “I almost immediately went into auditions for after another. In Little Miss Sunshine, it really The Sound Of Music after The Voice, and that feels like the songs very much contain the was because I’d been seen on there. But it’s characters and the story within themselves.” hard work. The Voice was almost a year of my life. I definitely developed as a performer and Little Miss Sunshine also manages to turn the a person. I’ll always be grateful to the show,

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Classical

Birmingham Cathedral Choir: The Divine Beauty Concert Birmingham Cathedral, Sat 6 July Presenting a programme of great cathedral anthems inspired by the Burne-Jones stained-glass window, this David Hardie-conducted concert features organist Ashley Wagner and includes music by Parry, Taverner, Poulenc, Stanford and Finzi. The concert supports Divine Beauty, a project that aims to restore and celebrate the cathedral’s remarkable stained-glass windows.

Birmingham Bach Choir BBC National Orchestra Of Wales Lichfield Cathedral, Sat 13 July CBSO Centre, Birmingham, Sat 6 July To continue its three-year Lichfield Festival residency, BBC National Orchestra of Wales One of the city's oldest and most presents two major works featuring ‘codes’ in music. distinguished musical groups, Birming- The theme for Shostakovich’s Cello Concerto no1 is taken from a musical cryptogram of the ham Bach Choir is currently celebrating composer’s initials, while Elgar’s Enigma Variations features Last Night Of The Proms its centenary. The choir here gets its favourite Nimrod. collective teeth into an exploration of the The programme also features a second quintessentially British work by the Worcestershire- negro spiritual and its treatment in the born composer - his sumptuous song cycle, Sea Pictures. hands of a variety of composers. The orchestra is joined by conductor Ainars Rubikis, cellist Andrei Ioni (BBC New The programme includes: classic arrange- Generation Artist) and 2019 artist-in-residence Polly Leech (mezzo-soprano).ță ments by black American Moses Hogan; Tippett’s arrangements from A Child Of Our Time; Rutter’s large-scale work based Padmore And Lewis: on spirituals, Feel The Spirit; and a new The Mozartists piece by the choir’s conductor, Paul Lichfield Cathedral, Tues 9 July Dichterliebe Spicer, composed to the words of one of Specialising in the historically informed Birmingham Town Hall, Sun 21 July the most famous spirituals of all time, performance of music by Mozart, The “The most Steal Away. Mozartists here explore the composer’s important thing travels across Europe via works composed is to communi- in London, The Hague, Paris, Munich, cate,” says tenor SO Vocal Summer Vienna, Prague and Rome. Mark Padmore Concert They are joined by harpist Oliver Wass, (pictured) in Birmingham Town Hall, Sun 7 July horn player Gavin Edwards and the 2017 talking about his BBC Cardiff Singer of the World concert perfor- The City of Birmingham Symphony competition winner, soprano Louise Alder mances. “To Orchestra’s SO Vocal is open to anyone (pictured) hold an engaged (regardless of their experience or musical and interesting knowledge) who is aged 18-plus and lives conversation that includes the composer, locally to Selly Oak. the performer and the audience.” Boasting around 200 members, the choir Mark and pianist Paul Lewis visit Birming- learns and performs a wide repertoire of ham on the crest of a seemingly never- music. Recent performances have breaking wave, having garnered great featured songs by Dolly Parton and Abba praise from across the globe and been alongside traditional Zulu music and hailed by the New York Times as the art selections from Mozart, Faure and Verdi. song ‘dream team’. This Town Hall presentation includes The duo here turn their attention to Schu- Irving Berlin’s Let’s Face The Music And mann, performing his glorious song cycle, Dance, John Rutter’s For The Beauty Of Dichterliebe, alongside music by Brahms The Earth, Polish folk song Szla and Mahler. Dzieweczka and the traditional Zimbabwean Shosholoza. 10 whatsonlive.co.uk Classical NEW July Birmingham.qxp_Layout 1 20/06/2019 11:52 Page 2 10 things to do at MAC.qxp_Layout 1 20/06/2019 15:25 Page 1

10 reasons to visit Midlands Arts Centre Standing proud in Edgbaston’s Cannon Hill Park is a real gem of an arts venue - Midlands Arts Centre, MAC. Attracting more than one million visitors each year, the venue is a leading creative force in the Midlands, offering an extensive programme of practical courses, visual arts, theatre, independent cinema, music, comedy and more. Midlands Arts Centre also has a well-stocked and welcoming café & bar area, for anybody in need of a quick breather from the challenges of their day. Here are just some of the great things happening at Midlands Arts Centre over the summer...

connect with this landmark Pikachu, Toy Story 4, Aladdin, MoonFest event. Family-friendly DIY Zoom-In Cinema (part of This year marks the 50th For nine special days, Midlands flicks MoonFest), Secret Life Of Pets 2 anniversary of the Apollo 11 Arts Centre is presenting a MAC Cinema is this summer and The Lion King. mission to the Moon that saw selection of moon-inspired hosting a range of entertaining Each movie can be seen for a Neil Armstrong taking a ‘giant events, performances, screen- films which can be enjoyed as a bargain price of just £4.25 per leap for mankind’. ings and activities, all of which family, including Detective person (including adults!)! MoonFest has been designed to have been created with the offer visitors some thought-pro- input of artists, academics and voking and entertaining ways to audience members.

And after previous sell-out Family theatre success, Circus Raj are another Join the delightful and brightly ensemble heading back to MAC. coloured Elmer the Patchwork A supergroup of elite street Elephant as he celebrates his circus artists drawn from 30th birthday - and everybody is Rajasthan's entertainment com- invited to the party! munities, they present ‘a Tiny Light present their show, vibrant, breathtaking extrava- Sundown Cinema The Paper Moon - a gentle first ganza of intrigue and drama’. adventure into theatre for the MAC’s much-loved Sundown tiniest of tots - as part of Moon- Cinema returns this summer, Fest... providing audiences with the For slightly older kids, iconic chance to enjoy movies CBBC duo Sam & Mark present ‘beneath the stars’ in the ‘an unmissable hour of enter- venue’s outdoor arena. tainment’, while the ever-zany This year’s films are two much- Oddsocks return with their loved classics - Monty Python's easy-to-follow version of A Mid- Life Of Brian (pictured) and summer Night’s Dream... Withnail & I.

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Ben Venom, a collection of Barbara Nice's Home Of Metal portraits of Black Sabbath fans Summer Special Home Of Metal is a celebration wearing the ubiquitous battle of the music that was born in Hot on the heels of her Britain’s jacket from Home Of Metal, and Birmingham - music that turned Got Talent appearance, items crafted by local jewellers up the volume, down-tuned the Celebrity Housewife Barbara who’ve connected metal the guitars and gave the word Nice is coming to MAC with her material and Metal the music to 'heavy' a whole new meaning. Summer Special! Dig out your present an exhibition entitled Visit the galleries to see large- best pair of slacks, borrow some Show Your Metal. scale textile pieces from artist leopard-print chiffon and get yourself a piggin' ticket to see her in MAC's very own Arena Theatre. A night of life-affirm- ing laughter and top fashion tips is very much on the cards.

Creative camps & summer schools Set your imagination free at MAC Creative Camps & Summer Schools, which run for between two and five days. From pottery to animation to magic, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Suitable for children and young people aged between six and 17.

Or slow things down and kick- Find a new hobby! book for MAC’s new academic Dine, drink start your weekend the right year of term-time courses from and dance! way - with a gin cocktail in Try something new, develop an 6 July onwards, so get ready to existing talent or spend time Celebrate Dirty Vegan’s first hand while listening to some secure your place and get together as a family. You can birthday on 2 August with vegan chilled-out live jazz. creative! party food, live music, a drink MAC’s Gin & Jazz Club takes and a party bag! place on 16 August. Short courses for adults From a single day to a few weeks, MAC’s short courses for adults are the perfect way to try out something new. From wildlife photography in Cannon Hill Park, to basket- weaving weekends, to making your own African ceramic pot- tery, there’s a brilliant range of courses on offer this summer.

visit macbirmingham.co.uk to check out Midlands Arts Centre’s full listings

And don’t forget to check out Cannon Hill Park too... One of the city’s best-loved green spaces, Wildlife Conservation Park or taking in 80 The Fun Park is also worth a visit and is Cannon Hill Park offers plenty by way of acres of beautiful parkland on foot, you suitable for children up to the age of 10. family-friendly fun. certainly won’t be short of things to do! Consisting of classic theme-park rides such as coasters and slides, the area is open daily From taking a swan-shaped pedal-boat out A more recent addition is Golden Putter, from 11am to 7pm during the summer on the lake and having a ride on the Land providing 36 holes of mini-golf madness and months. Train, to visiting the animals at Birmingham plenty of fun for families and friends.

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Gigs

Easy Star All-Stars play Dub Side Of The Moon O2 Institute, Birmingham, Thurs 18 July Easy Star All-Stars have established them- selves as one of the top international reggae acts since forming in 1997. Known for their reinterpretations of classic in reggae style, their musical versatility, instrumental prowess and beautiful vocal harmonies have seen them garner praise across the globe... They here play their version of Pink Floyd's The Dark Side Of The Moon.

Bloc Party month. Recorded in Copenhagen and Lon- don with producer Paul Epworth in mid- O2 Academy, Birmingham, Sat 13 July 2004, the hit record, which featured tracks Indie rock band Bloc Party will play, in full, including Helicopter, Banquet and So Here their 2005 debut studio , Silent Alarm, We Are, peaked at number three in the UK when they stop off in Birmingham this albums chart. KT Tunstall Lichfield Cathedral, Fri 5 July Jess Glynne Since the release of her 2004 debut album, , Tues 9 July Cannock Chase Forest, Staffordshire, Eye To The Telescope - which sold five mil- Fri 5 July The Rock & Roll Hall of Famers, who’ve sold lion copies worldwide and featured such hits more than 100 million albums worldwide, Jess Glynne rose to prominence in 2014 as Other Side Of The World and Black Horse are bringing their 45-year career to a close following a guest spot on Clean Bandit’s & The Cherry Tree - Scottish musician KT with this current End Of The Road World smash hit, Rather Be. Tunstall has been among the UK’s most Tour. Her powerhouse vocal and fearless delivery revered singer-songwriters. Fronted by the iconic , widely have earned her the record for the most Amongst her many accolades is a Brit Award admired for their larger-than-life perform- number one UK singles scored by a British for ‘best British female solo artist’, the Ivor ances and boasting a back-catalogue includ- female solo artist. She’s also had two num- Novello ‘best song’ award for her huge self- ing I Was Made For Lovin’ You, Love Gun, ber one albums - I Cry When I Laugh and penned hit, Suddenly I See, and a Q Award and Crazy Crazy Always In Between. for ‘track of the year’. Nights, the much-loved four-piece have Jess here plays Cannock Chase Forest as part She performs at Lichfield Festival as part of a dedicated this ‘last hurrah’ to their millions of Forest Live - a major series of live, outdoor three-piece band. of fans around the world. music concerts held every summer by Forestry Commission England in seven Doves beautiful wooded locations across the UK. Perry Park, Birmingham, Sun 28 July Twins Jez & Andy Williams formed indie rock band Doves with Jimi Goodwin in 1998, nine years after having first met him at the legendary Hacienda in Manchester. By 2005, having secured number one albums The Last Broadcast and Some Cities, they were opening shows for the likes of U2, Oasis and Coldplay. After a hiatus of nearly a decade, the three- piece here play a one-off gig as part of Inner City Live. Johnny Marr, The Coral and The Twang support.

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BE FESTIVAL The 10th Birmingham European Festival takes place at the city’s Repertory Theatre this month. From its humble beginnings in 2010, BE FESTIVAL has grown exponentially into an event that places Birmingham firmly at the forefront of Europe’s performing arts scene. Here, we pick some of our highlights from across the festival...

SILENCE BY ÇA MARCHE (SPAIN) - Thursday 4 July With political and environmental turmoil threatening human existence, how can we dream the best future for our world? Some would argue that we’ve exhausted all current modes of thought and must return to a childlike state of dreaming - free of inhibitions, untainted by imagined reason or ethics. Should this return to infancy be the foundation of a new future? Or will it all end in a giant meltdown? Catalan company Ça Marche and a cast of children create a suspended moment on stage, where the parents are not ‘there’ - or at least are not watching. Amongst the improvised chaos, snow and giant blow-up monsters, Silence explores the future of the world and the concept of coexistence with our ghosts.

LIGHT YEARS AWAY BY EDURNE RUBIO (SPAIN) - Friday 5 July In complete darkness, Edurne Rubio transforms the audience into cave explorers for the night. Inspired by her father’s and uncles’ quest to map the caves of Ojo Guareña in Northern Spain during Franco’s regime, Edurne here presents a guided tour. Light Years Away is a documentary without faces, a show lit with lanterns and projections, a journey in which everything that appears also surprises, whether it be organic or inanimate, chronological or anachronistic, visible or invisible.

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BE FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS...

PUNK BY PAULA ROSOLEN/HAPTIC ‽ HIDE (GERMANY) - Wednesday 3 July Forty years ago, Sex Pistols singer Johnny Rotten said, “I wanna be anarchy”... And so punk rock was born. Punk wasn’t just music, though; it was a way of life - a rebellion against the status quo. Here, choreographer Paula Rosolen questions what now remains of ‘punk’, the visual language of which increasingly found its way into the fashion world and mainstream culture. The show playfully examines punk’s roots in specific dance moves, and makes unexpected connections with simultaneous developments in postmodern dance.

A LAND FULL OF HEROES BY LA CONQUESTA DEL POL SUD (UK/FRANCE/SPAIN) - Saturday 6 July A Land Full Of Heroes follows the life of Romanian writer Carmen- Francesca Banciu. Having grown up within the rigid ideologies of the Romanian communist regime, she remembers her life-changing trip to Berlin in 1990, a year after the fall of the Wall and off the back of the Romanian revolution in Bucharest. Was Berlin the mirage of a new European vision? Presenting a show that’s halfway between journalistic research and theatrical re-imagining, La Conquesta del Pol Sud recreates Carmen- Francesca’s compelling 1990 Bucharest-to-Berlin trip. The play is co-produced by the University of Birmingham.

SOUL SEEKERS BY MOKHALLAD RASEM (IRAQ/BELGIUM) - Wednesday 3 July Soul Seekers is a performance documentary by Mokhallad Rasem, devised as part of the Beyond Borders project on the subject of migration. The piece was created after a six-week stay at an asylum centre in Menen, Belgium (where he was previously a resident) and then further stop-offs at asylum centres in Paris and Valenciennes. Mokhallad worked with fellow refugees to make a performance and film documenting the fluctuating feelings of limbo and hope in difficult times.

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Festivals

Lichfield Fuse Festival Beacon Park, Lichfield, Fri 12 - Sun 14 July Founded in 2001 and now established as one of the Midlands’ largest free music & arts festivals, Fuse this month returns to Lichfield’s beautiful Beacon Park. The event features a tremendous line-up of music that spans genres as diverse as rock, afrobeat, RnB/soul, ska, pop, folk, jazz and reggae. Other Fuse 2019 attractions include family activities, circus skills, a steampunk ceilidh, Bhangra and salsa dance workshops, a drum circle, children’s storytelling, sporting challenges, poetry readings, arts & crafts, group dance displays, close-up magic, yoga and food & drink. Line-up includes: Agbeko (pictured), The Bethlehem Casuals, Punch The Sky, The Lagan, Y!kes, The Long Game, The Hustle, Martian Social Club, DJ Thumpa, The Lonely Mister Punch Steampunk Ceilidh, Meme De- troit, Letisha Gordon, Global Reggae Band, Ned Dylan and more.

Mostly Jazz Funk & Soul Upton Blues Festival Summer Fest Moseley Park, Birmingham, Upton-upon-Severn, Thurs 18 - Sun 21 July Tudor Grange Park, Solihull, Fri 12 - Sun 14 July Sat 27 & Sun 28 July Created by the Midlands masterminds behind Now in its fourth year, Solihull Summer Fest Moseley Folk & Arts Festival, Mostly Jazz is fast becoming one of the most popular Funk & Soul sees world-class artists coming music get-togethers on the Midlands events together with leading lights of the local jazz calendar. community for a laidback family-friendly The festival features more than 10 hours of event designed to celebrate Birmingham's live music across two days, funfair rides, a musical heritage. food village full of street vendors, and a huge Celebrating its 10th year in 2019, the event is variety of bars serving everything from real located in the picturesque surroundings of ale to prosecco. Moseley Park, a stunning woodland glade tucked away behind busy Birmingham streets Line-up includes: The Human League, The - making it the ideal retreat for music-loving Vamps, The Proclaimers, Ms Dynamite city-dwellers. (pictured), Go West, Sugarmill Gang, Bad Manners, Mitchell Brunings, Mercury, Garry Line-up includes: Burt Bacharach, The Jack- Pease As Rod Stewart and JK As Robbie. sons, The Brand New Heavies, Khruangbin, Ibibio Sound Machine (pictured), Brian Jack- Set in the beautiful riverside town of Upton- son, Craig Charles, Smoove & Turrell, Rene- upon-Severn, Upton Blues Festival started in gade Brass Band, James & Black and Boca 45. 2001 as a small event taking place in just a couple of pubs. How times have changed... The festival now boasts two main stages, an acoustic stage, 10 pub venues and more than 130 free perfor- mances across three days.

Line-up includes: Kyla Brox, Wille and the Bandits (pictured), Dino Baptiste, Jenny Wren And Her Borrowed Wings, The Rain- breakers, Trevor Babajack Steger, Danny Bryant, Ma Polaines Great Decline and Beaux Gris Gris & the Apocalypse.

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Festivals

Godiva Festival War Memorial Park, Coventry, Fri 5 - Sun 7 July Organisers of Coventry’s Godiva Festival are anticipating another blockbuster year, with the 2019 edition of the event featuring 70 acts across five stages. Veteran performers join emerging artists working across a dazzling array of genres. While the traditional Godiva procession continues to this day, the event has certainly come a long way since its 17th century origins as a celebration of the medieval Countess of Mercia. Due to its popularity, this year’s festival will be ticketed for the first time. Tickets cost £2 per person per day and can be purchased from godivafestival.com Line-up includes: Levellers (pictured), Feeder, Busted, Reef, Robin S, The Twang, The Selecter and Get Cape. Wear Cape. Fly.

Warwick Folk Festival Simmer Down Bromsgrove Folk Festival Warwick School and Warwick town centre, Handsworth Park, Birmingham, Sun 21 July Bowling Green Inn, Bromsgrove, Thurs 25 - Sun 28 July Worcestershire, Thurs 11 - Sun 14 July Celebrating its 40th year in 2019, Warwick Now in its 28th year, Bromsgrove Folk Folk Festival boasts the very best in Festival offers patrons the chance to enjoy contemporary and traditional folk arts from intimate concerts by UK-based folk, roots and the UK and beyond. acoustic performers. As well as an extensive line-up of performers, Taking place at the town's Bowling Green the four-day camping event features ceilidhs, Inn, the festival spreads across two workshops, acoustic concerts, singarounds, marquees, with sessions and singarounds an extended craft fair, a range of real ales, taking place inside the pub. on-site catering and community-led Storytelling, a ukulele workshop and dance recycling. demonstrations all feature in this year’s The organisers also deliver a fringe festival of Free-to-attend Simmer Down has become one line-up of entertainment. events in the town centre, featuring dance of Birmingham’s most popular and diverse Line-up includes: Richard Digance, The displays, street theatre, music sessions and festivals. Churchfitters, The Bad Pennies, Jez Lowe, an evening concert on the Saturday. Featuring music, dance, spoken word, visual Kate Bramley, The Lost Notes, Enda Kenny, arts, commissioned work, workshops & Line-up includes: Billy Bragg (pictured), Patchwork Skies, Silvington, Mike Silver, participation activities and outreach & young Skerryvore, Karen Casey, Calan, Will Pound & Johnny Coppin, Fairfield, Anthony John people’s programmes, the family-friendly Eddy Jay, Breabach, Kabantu, O’Hooley & Clarke, Tosh Ewins, Stitherum. event celebrates the city’s rich cultural Tidow, Nancy Kerr, John Kirkpatrick, Melrose diversity with a line-up of internationally Quartet, Granny’s Attic, Matthew Byrne and acclaimed artists and homegrown talent. Rosie Hood Rooted in North Birmingham, the festival pays tribute to the centrality of reggae and other musical genres that have contributed to Birmingham’s growing reputation as an international city of culture. Line-up includes: Johnny Clarke (pictured), Horace Andy, Pato Banton & Friends, Afro- manding, JK & The Goldmind Band, Amy G, A Doubles, Rock N’ Dhol, Commonwealth Drum Orchestra, Boyz Beatz Ft JBeatz, Dar- shae and Ashley Zeal. whatsonlive.co.uk 21 Comedy July.qxp_Layout 1 20/06/2019 11:57 Page 1

Comedy

Michelle Wolf Glee Club, Birmingham, Tues 23 July Incendiary American funnywoman Michelle Wolf is a fast-rising star on the international comedy circuit after enjoying an extremely high-profile 2018. As well as having her very own 10-episode Netflix comedy series and debuting her first ever hour-long standup TV special, she also caused massive controversy when hosting the prestigious White House Correspondents Dinner, telling a series of gags that hacked off both Democrats and Republicans alike and led to President Trump calling her ‘a filthy “ comedian”’. Jokes include: “It’s kind of crazy that the Trump campaign was in contact with Russia when the Hillary campaign wasn’t even in contact with Michigan. It’s a direct flight; Pre-Fringe Comedy Night The REP, Birmingham, Mon 22 July it’s so close.” Just as with Midlands Arts Centre’s Edin- year headlining comedy clubs in the UK brum events (see below), the Birmingham and Europe... Rep is here hosting two comedians who’re High-profile South African standup Loyiso honing their acts in readiness for the Edin- Gola, meanwhile, has featured on shows burgh Festival. including Live At The Apollo and Mock The Australian comedian and tracksuit enthusi- Week. His latest Edinburgh-bound offering ast Daniel Muggleton (pictured above), sees him taking an irreverent look at the whose promotional material includes the way in which years of pop culture has fact that he’s apparently ‘just woke enough shaped people’s lives. to know he's an a*shole’, has spent the last

Troy Hawke & Paul Sinha away. And the comedians in question will no doubt be measuring the audience Midlands Arts Centre, Birmingham, reaction to their every gag, as they franti- Thurs 25 July cally try to hone their material in prepara- Yep, it’s that time of year again, when all tion for their forthcoming trip to Bonnie good comedians stop off at Midlands Arts Scotland. This particular Edinbrum line-up Centre to try out their new material en route includes Paul Sinha - from ITV’s The Chase Paul Smith to the Edinburgh Festival. - and 1930s throwback comedic investigator Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham, Sun 21 July The venue’s Thursday night line-up of Troy Hawke. The pair share the billing on Affable Liverpool comedian Paul Smith has mirthful merrymakers should certainly the last Thursday of the month. ensure a chuckle or several is never too far waxed lyrical on all manner of topics in his time, including such peculiar subjects as who he’d most like to be haunted by (Ghandi - Paul reckons he’d do it quite quietly) and which is the largest animal he thinks he could beat in a fight (a goose). He’s also ‘died’ on stage in front of a Babylon 5 actress, who made matters worse for him by shaking her head in pity. Widely regarded as one of the comedy circuit’s most accomplished MCs, Paul is starting to make a real name for himself on a national level, courtesy of online video clips which almost routinely go viral. He visits Birmingham this month with his second national touring show, Following.

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Jimmy Carr Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, Sat 20 July; Dudley Town Hall, Sat 14 September Jimmy Carr’s comedy is all about quickfire, deadpan one-liners - and so many of them, in fact, that he’s not sure their content matters all that much: “People don’t really remember the individual jokes I tell because I tell such a lot of them; what they do remember is how those jokes make them feel.” Jimmy is a comedian for whom no subject is off limits: “I’ll talk about anything as long as I feel the joke justifies it. It may cause controversy, but my thing on that is that controversy’s an easy story on a slow-news day. And I never apologise for jokes. After all, I’m not making a serious political statement, I’m just trying to make somebody laugh.”

Josh Wolf Glee Club, Birmingham, Fri 19 July Shrewsbury International Comedy Festival Josh kickstarted his career as a standup comedian at the tender age of 15, when he Various venues, Shrewsbury town centre, Thurs 18 - Sun 21 July performed a set based around the subject of Already a hotbed of food, flowers and folk Irish hip-hop improv duo Abandoman. his parents’ flatulence. music, Shrewsbury tossed its hat into the Commenting on the event, its co-producer He’s since carved out a career for himself comedy ring a couple of years ago too, with a and one-time standup comic, Kevin Bland, via countless television shows, multiple number of the town’s venues co-hosting an said: “Shrewsbury has a great tradition of podcasts and a YouTube channel. inaugural weekend of laughter. hosting festivals, including everything from He’s also a big cannabis smoker, as his The event proved so popular that it’s now an street theatre to folk music, food to comics routines make clear... annual attraction. and beer to flowers. So we’re delighted to be “I didn’t smoke much in college, and for a Comedians contributing to the 2019 edition playing our part in further enhancing its while I was a single dad,” Josh told High of the festival include, among others, Lee reputation by bringing some great comedy to Times. “During that time I didn’t smoke Nelson, Kate Mulgrew, Larry Dean, former the town as well.” because I didn’t have a backup or a partner burger van owner Angelos Epithemiou, and just in case shit went down. I didn’t think with me being the only parent that getting high was the right thing to do at that point. Olga Koch But as soon as I got together with my wife, St Mary’s, Lichfield, Sat 6 July she asked me, ‘Do you always smoke so The daughter of a former deputy prime minis- much?’ because I ter of Russia who went on to become a game- was definitely show host, Olga Koch describes herself as the making up for lost Taylor Swift of the comedy scene. time.” She visits Lichfield with a new story about ‘finding love and computer programming’. “The show will teach you how to code,” says Olga, “while at the same time delivering insights into what happens when our expecta- tions of love, happiness and Michael Bublé no longer compute.” whatsonlive.co.uk 23 Theatre July.qxp_Layout 1 21/06/2019 09:55 Page 1

Theatre Theatre previews from around the region

The Color Purple black community. Walker’s original novel was published in 1982 and won the coveted Birmingham Hippodrome, Tues 16 - Sat 20 July Pulitzer Prize. Three years later, Steven Spielberg brought the story to In an era marked by conversations about abuse of women and female the cinema screen, teasing from Whoopi Goldberg an Oscar-nomi- empowerment, The Color Purple has plenty to say. nated performance and providing Oprah Winfrey with her film debut. Initially a story of male control achieved through rape, domestic A 2005 musical version faired less well with the critics, but later violence and servitude, Alice Walker’s captivating coming-of-age tale productions - while retaining the same jazz, ragtime, gospel and ends on a far more triumphant, celebration-of-feminism kind of note, blues-inspired score - have enjoyed positive reviews and made the along the way taking a provocative look at the cycle of slavery in the show a definite ‘one to catch’.

Boris The Musical 2: Rudy Redfort Annie Brexit Harder Old Rep Theatre, Birmingham, Birmingham Hippodrome, Mon 15 - Wed 17 July Tues 23 July - Sun 11 August Old Joint Stock Theatre, Birmingham, Wed 3 - Sun 7 July West End favourite Jodie Prenger stars as the With Boris Johnson very much back in the far-from-pleasant Miss Hannigan in this news of late, this revised and updated latest version of the oft-touring Broadway hit. version of Blowfish Theatre’s hit show The heart-warming rags-to-riches tale of a couldn’t have come at a better moment. little girl who finds herself transported from At the time of going to print, the blond bomb- a New York orphanage to the luxurious world shell is knocking on the door of Number 10. of millionaire Oliver Warbucks, the show If voting goes his way, Blowfish will soon be features plenty of tasked with a further update of their rude memorable songs, and irreverent show... including It's A Hard Expect lots of songs and plenty of fun. Knock Life and the legendary Tomorrow. Children’s Laureate Lauren Child is the creative force behind this quirky spy thriller featuring codebreaker, secret agent and teenage girl Ruby Redfort. Based on Lauren’s internationally bestselling series of books about Ruby, the show comes complete with ‘hair-raising stunts, terrifying villains and death-defying codes’.

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An Drea

Jaymi Hensley talks ahead of starring in Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat at BirminghamWil Hippodrome Do Jaymi Hensley online.qxp_Layout 1 28/06/2019 09:04 Page 2

by Ellie Hutchings

Union J’s Jaymi Hensley is taking on his terms of stamina. When I wanted to take on that side of me in some form or other. For me, first major musical role as the lead in this role, the producers’ main concern was that was dancing, acting and singing. I was Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor whether I would be able to sing in 10 shows a always putting on shows for my family. I Dreamcoat, which lands in Birmingham in week. I’ve done pantos which are 12 shows a cottoned on from a young age that I could July. What’s On chatted to him ahead of week - although it’s not really the same make people listen to me, and that I could do the show’s Hippodrome run... discipline - and I’ve been in a band for seven something special with what I’d been given. years. I’ve toured and I know how to look So it was important that I made it work for You’re returning to Birmingham after a after my voice. What a lot of people don’t me. successful run as Peter Pan at Christmas. know about me is that I went to stage school. How did that rank amongst the highs in I trained in musical theatre, and for the last Do you have a favourite moment or scene your career? four or five years, I’ve been doing off-Broad- in Joseph? It was one of my greatest highs, that’s for way or off-West End stuff. I’ve done roles for It’s definitely when I’m the prince at the end. sure. I think people give pantos such a hard free, just to get the experience. I don’t think I I get to be someone else in myself. Joseph has time, but I love them! It’s six to eight weeks of would be giving the performance I am now been wronged and now he’s got the upper just sheer fun. Birmingham this year was had I just walked off of X-Factor into this role hand, so he has a bit of a cock-sure ‘look really special. I’m gutted not to be back this because it’s a completely different discipline. where you are, look where I am’ moment. As Christmas. It was such a lovely time working I think when you come out of a reality pop much as that’s not a great thing to portray in with so many amazing people, and the cast world, people are automatically going to give your everyday life, I think everyone’s got the got on like a house on fire. Plus, it’s a huge you a bit of stick or think that you’re not going capacity to enjoy a bit of revenge. stage and a huge theatre; it was a West End- to be good enough. So I wanted to make sure scale production. I loved it - it was one of my that wasn’t an option, and that I was Are there any other roles that you’d like to favourite things in my career. well-trained and did have the stamina. sink your teeth into? I don’t want to say anything because I always Joseph is such a well-known musical - one Away from the stage, how do you like to think I might jinx it in terms of specific roles! that most people have probably seen at wind down? But I really want to do some straight acting; some point. How does it feel to be playing I don’t have any time! I go home, I sleep, I some screen acting. I’ve learnt a lot from this the lead, and where does Joseph stand in work and that’s it. But I think that’s the best experience about my natural acting ability in terms of your favourite musicals? way because you’re constantly on an terms of being able to bring out real emotions. I hadn’t seen it before! Having been in it, it’s adrenaline rush. I went straight out of panto I’d never been able to make myself cry until I really different. I have my favourite musicals into this, and then hopefully I’ll be going did this show, and now in every show I cry at and Joseph is obviously up there now, but for straight into the next job. I think when you the end when I see my dad for the first time in different reasons, because I know first-hand don’t have time, you have to commit to the 25 years. I’ve managed to unlock a part of me as a performer how great the music is and role, whereas if you had weeks off here and that can bring memories and emotions into what a joy it is to sing. It will always have a there, you’d maybe get a bit sloppy and my performance, so I’d be really interested to special place in my heart. I love the show, I wouldn’t feel connected to the role in quite do something that isn’t as camp and over- love the cast, I love the company. Yeah, the same way. the-top as Joseph is; something that’s real Joseph is definitely up there. and gritty and nowadays. But there’s Back to the beginning... Was being on definitely some other musicals that I’ve got What’s the biggest appeal of playing stage something you dreamt about when my eye on at the minute, and I would love to Joseph, and can you relate to the character you were a child? go to the West End. That’s a big bucket-list in any way? Definitely. I don’t know any different. I never item for me - to be on stage in a West End Yeah, I massively relate to this role. Joseph is had a back-up plan. It wasn’t a matter of ‘if’ I theatre. This experience has done wonders for a dreamer, he’s the black sheep of the family, was going to make it, it was always a matter me. I will have done it for a year by the time I and I took that back to my sexuality. I was out of ‘when’. Some people might say that was finish, so I think I’ve proven that I’ve got the and proud at school, I had these dreams of delusional or a bit cocky, but it wasn’t. I just stamina. Now I’m just looking forward to being a popstar, and everything I wanted to had belief that I wanted it enough. I was going out and adding different strings to my do didn’t seem to fit with the norm - so I always taught to work hard and try to be the bow. understand what Joseph goes through in that best, because if you’re the best that you can respect. I know what it’s like to hit rock be, then no one can tell you you’re not giving bottom and still stick by your convictions. I’ve enough. learnt that if you work hard and don’t let Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor anyone deter you from your path, ultimately Were you specifically drawn to musical Dreamcoat runs at Birmingham you come out on top - that’s what the show’s theatre or just performing in general? Hippodrome from Tuesday 2 to Saturday about and that’s where I feel I am in my life Just performing in general. I love the expres- 13 July. For more information and to book now. sion that can come with it. I think that poten- tickets, visit birminghamhippodrome.com tially comes from - like I said - when I was This is your first musical. How did your younger and was a gay child. I remember my previous experiences on stage prepare you first memories of being gay were when I was for the challenge? eight years old. 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Theatre Theatre previews from around the region

Hair The Musical Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, Tues 23 - Sat 27 July Although it’s set in New York in 1967, Hair The Musical nonetheless explores a number of subjects that remain relevant in the 21st century. Inspired by the late-1960s sexual revolution, very much a product of the hippie counter- culture of the time, and unfolding against the backdrop of the Vietnam War and widespread anti-war protests, Hair follows a group of rebellious youngsters as they chase their dreams of living a bohemian existence and avoiding conscription. The show’s Grammy Award-winning score features numerous songs that became anthems of the anti-Vietnam War peace movement, not least among which is opening number Aquarius. Dancing On Ice winner Jake Quickenden, Daisy Wood-Davis (Hollyoaks/Dreamboats & Petticoats) and Marcus Collins (X- Factor/Kinky Boots) star.

Scenes From A into his mystical world of Narnia. love tends to fair less well critically than the The show is the Garrick’s fourth ‘community rest of the playwright’s high-profile works. Brummie lliad musical’ production. Its popularity is nonetheless ensured by its The REP, Birmingham, Fri 19 & Sat 20 July timeless themes and its regular appearance Homer’s epic poem about the war between as a study text on the National Curriculum. the Greeks and the Trojans is here given Joseph And The Amazing This outdoor version is being presented by something of a Brummie makeover. Technicolor Dreamcoat the ever-reliable Heartbreak Productions. RSC and Birmingham Rep actor Roderick Smith is the man behind the show, breathing Birmingham Hippodrome, Tues 2 - Sat 13 July Hymns For Robots new life into the classic story of heroes and Joseph was Tim Rice & Andrew Lloyd gods whilst at the same time celebrating the Webber’s first foray into the world of Midlands Arts Centre, Birmingham, Thurs 18 July local vernacular. Sounds, er, bostin’! musical theatre, paving the way for their later offerings, Jesus Christ Superstar and The name Delia Derbyshire may not be all Evita. Fabulously fun and frothy, the show that well known, but one of her compositions offers great entertainment for anybody who most certainly is. Derbyshire was an elec- fancies the kind of night out that lets you tronic-music trailblazer who also happened leave your brain at home. to be the unsung talent behind the now Joseph sees the future in dreams, and tells globally famous theme tune to Dr Who. his 11 brothers that he’s had a vision in This clever show from Noctium Theatre is an which he’s seen them all bowing down to imaginative celebration of the Coventry-born him. Not surprisingly, the lads are a tad musician and composer, blending the com- annoyed with him about this - and feel even pany’s unique heightened-performance style less enamoured towards their sibling when with analogue and digital music to create ‘a their dad gives him a coat of many colours... sonic experience your ears won’t believe’. The Lion, The Witch & Union J’s Jaymi Hensley stars as Joseph. The Wardrobe Lichfield Garrick, Tues 23 - Sat 27 July Romeo & Juliet This much-loved tale from the pen of CS Brueton Park, Solihull, Wed 17 July; Walsall Lewis is rightly regarded as an all-time Arboretum, Fri 26 July; Royal Spa Centre, classic of children's literature. It sees the Leamington Spa, Fri 6 September lion-god Aslan coming to the aid of three Widely regarded as Shakespeare’s fifth youngsters who’ve accidentally stumbled tragedy, this story of a forbidden and secret

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A Walk In The Night Garden... Lucy Tobin meets the creators behind In The Night Garden Live... In The Night Garden.qxp_Layout 1 28/06/2019 09:05 Page 2

In The Night Garden is probably the only lul- minds he exists - he’s real - and they’re all so tale of Igglepiggle’s search for his friends, fol- laby-filled children’s TV programme that has excited to see him. lowing their funny sounds until he finds them almost caused a parental riot. Why? Because all. Fans will spot all of their favourites. Zafar “Making shows for two-year-olds is brilliant - when CBeebies once moved the tots’ favourite has spent months working on the design of they're so vocal when you get it right (and - featuring the adventures of Igglepiggle, Upsy the characters “because, to the children in when you get it wrong). My favourite ever clip Daisy, Makka Pakka and friends - from its our audience, In the Night Garden’s charac- that one parent shared on social media after bedtime slot to an earlier one, it prompted ters are like friends that they know really seeing In the Night Garden Live had her two parent petitions, outrage, and a swift u-turn well: they have to look exactly as they do on year old repeating over and over ‘Mummy, it’s from the BBC. their screens at home.” And the show’s amazing. Wow, it’s amazing. It’s amazing.’ I writer, Eastman says her biggest challenge Igglepiggle and co returned to their popular think she says it around fifteen times! As a was “creat[ing] something which will feel evening slot, and they’ve remained there ever theatre producer you can’t really wish for a completely familiar to our young audience, since: In the Night Garden is the BAFTA better review than that.” who know the world of Night Garden and its award-winning series that’s been one of the To guarantee that reaction with the latest characters intimately, but is also fresh and ex- Beeb’s most-watched shows for a whopping 12 show, the producers called in world- citing. All our favourite characters feature in years. Only 100 episodes were ever made - so renowned theatrical experts to create the the story, as do the rituals of the Night Gar- toddlers and their parents around the country show, which is written by Bing Live writer den.” will be elated that, following 2010’s sell-out Helen Eastman, with the puppets’ costumes live touring show, In the Night Garden Live is That sense of responsibility is echoed by Will designed by Tahra Zafar. A costumier, puppet coming to Birmingham Repertory Theatre Tuckett, the Royal Ballet stalwart, Olivier and animatronics expert whose career spans with a brand-new show and a brilliant new award-winner, and one of the Royal Opera the blockbuster Harry Potter and Star Wars story to tell from 31 July – 4 August. House’s top choreographers, who is director films, Zafar even worked with the Queen on of the new In the Night Garden Live stage It’s part of a tour of 40 regional theatres her first (and only) acting role, as she was show. “It’s not just the actual show that we which promises to thrill toddlers and their head of costumes at the 2012 London want to be perfect for our young audience, parents or grandparents: there’s a reason Olympics and Elizabeth II starred in the but the whole theatre experience,” Tuckett ex- celebrities including singers and Rob- Opening Ceremony. Yet ask the creative whiz plains. “We’ve trained all the front-of-house bie Williams, Rio Ferdinand, Billie Piper, what character she’s most proud of working staff to make sure everything runs smoothly - Scott Mills and Amanda Holden are amongst on in her three-decade-long career, and the after all, it’s not every show that sees hun- those who have flocked to see In the Night answer isn’t Hermione or Obi Wan-Kenobe - dreds of buggies arrive! We needed to make it Garden Live. it’s Upsy Daisy. clear that we can’t delay the start as other But it’s the puppets on stage who are the stars The always-happy dolly with red, pink and shows might because of a glitch, for example, of this show. Whilst the average grown-up yellow hair who Zafar helped create for the because parents may have to pick up older might watch In the Night Garden and see a original In the Night Garden TV show is, she kids at a set time. We’re making sure the show strange plot of cuddly characters apparently explains, “just smashing. She’s a girl charac- works for parents as well as their children.” speaking gobbledegook to a soporific back- ter who avoids the usual stereotypes - she Tuckett’s favourite thing about In the Night drop, it’s all sophistically-tailored linguistics isn’t overly bossy, or stuffed with props”. Garden Live is that “its style is perennial - a to captivate pre-schoolers. Andrew Daven- Working on Upsy Daisy was Zafar’s first job make-believe world, all about how friends op- port, the show’s creator, explains: “The char- after maternity leave with her now 14-year-old erate, how small children play, how they acters speak almost entirely in play language, - “so the character is a bit like my other learn about texture, communication - it’s very which is hugely important to language devel- daughter,” she laughs. The designer is pas- relaxing to watch. Parents might initially opment. Children recognise the nursery sionate about the importance of children’s think it all looks a bit weird - but kids abso- rhyme silliness of it, they love the funny lan- theatre under the shadow of cuts to the arts in lutely love it, and parents love watching their guage and characters, and the attention to de- schools. “Straitened budgets and a 1950s- kids love something.” tail that’s within them, and they love the style emphasis only on reading, writing and whole fantasy of the Night Garden world - but Like the rest of the In the Night Garden Live arithmetic means that creativity is being I think, at the end of it, that it’s the comedy crew, Tuckett knows he has “a really precious sucked out of schools,” she believes. “So it’s that draws them in.” audience for Night Garden. For so many this more important for us on In the Night Garden will be their first time in a theatre; we want It might be all about having fun, but the mak- Live, and in children’s arts in general, to the families to go back to see something else, ers of In the Night Garden Live took the re- make sure we do our jobs really well. We have for the theatre to feel like a place they all sponsibility of putting on what will be a lot of a responsibility to get everything to right to enjoy going to, to see magical shows. It’s a big the audience’s first trip to a theatre very seri- fill that gap. Children’s theatre is about being responsibility.” ously. As Oliver Seadon, producer of In the together, taking in a shared experience, es- Night Garden Live, puts it: “It’s such a heart- caping everyday worries, being taken some- meltingly brilliant thing to hear the hysteria where different.” In the Night Garden Live is at Birmingham when Igglepiggle first appears on stage in That somewhere different is Igglepiggle’s Repertory Theatre from 31 July – 4 August front of his little fans - there’s a sort of glow of Busy Day, as In the Night Garden Live tells the happiness throughout the theatre. In their Theatre July.qxp_Layout 1 21/06/2019 09:55 Page 5

Theatre Theatre previews from around the region

Amélie The Musical The Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham, Mon 22 - Sat 27 July; Malvern Theatres, Mon 29 July - Sat 3 August Danny Mac stars in this new stage adaptation of the five-time Oscar-nominated 2001 film of the same title (well, the same title minus ‘the musical’ bit). A young woman who lives quietly in the world but loudly in her mind, Amélie secretly improvises small but extraordinary acts of kindness that bring happiness to those around her. But when Nino comes into her life, the introverted young woman finds herself unexpectedly contemplating a happiness of her very own... The West End version of this show has garnered plenty of praise, and the production certainly stands out as one of a kind - where else would you find dancing gnomes, giant figs, large dildos and Elton John, for example? It’s not short in length, though, and there are a lot of songs, so be sure that you’re wearing your ‘I love musical theatre’ head on the night that you go along.

Fame The Musical ers and inspired a giant treasure chest’s- folds. Nothing you are told is quite as Malvern Theatres, Mon 8 - Sat 13 July worth of stage and film adaptations. straightforward as it seems, and nothing you When salty old seadog Billy Bones brings his see is quite what you expect.” papers to the Admiral Benbow Inn, he draws young Jim Hawkins into the adventure of a lifetime, one which will see him not only A Midsummer setting sail in search of buried treasure, but Night’s Dream also spending time in the company of a one- Midlands Arts Centre, Birmingham, Fri 5 & Sat legged pirate with murder in mind... 6 July; Avoncroft Museum, Bromsgrove, Presented by the well-established and highly Sun 7 July; The Place, Telford, Wed 17 July regarded Chapterhouse Theatre Company. Zany funsters Oddsocks celebrate their 30th anniversary with a high-energy production of one of Shakespeare’s best-loved comedies. The original mega-hit film and its spin-off TV Lysander and Demetrius both fancy Hermia, series are now both so old that their once- Helena’s sitting on the shelf, Titania and nimble dancers might soon be reaching for Oberon are up to no good, and Puck’s got his zimmer frames! By contrast, Fame The finger in more pies than Mr Kipling. Musical continues to get up a sweat on a Add in a group of rude mechanicals and the regular basis. And as high-octane, recipe for success is guaranteed... choreographed-to-the-rafters stage musicals go, it hits the Midlands this month with a reputation second to none. Offstage Set in New York’s legendary High School for Lichfield Garrick, Fri 12 July the Performing Arts, the show focuses on the Crooked Dances International physical theatre company highs and lows of the students who’re Studio Theatre, The Other Place, Stratford- Ephemeral Ensemble combine skilled physi- desperately seeking success, and offers a upon-Avon, until Sat 13 July cality, playful stage craft and original music dazzling evening of foot-tapping music and Award-winning playwright Robin French’s to create original and ambitious works in- breathtaking dance into the bargain. new work finds journalist Katy heading to spired by human stories. Focusing on the Re-envisioned songs include Let’s Play A Paris to interview world famous concert characters of Harley and Pedro, the com- Love Scene and the title hit itself. pianist Silvia de Zingaro. The meetup doesn’t pany’s latest offering takes a look ‘behind the go well, but it soon becomes apparent that curtain to loneliness and depression’ in a Treasure Island Katy might yet get the scoop she’s been look- compassionate exploration of suicide. ing for... Birmingham Botanical Gardens, Wed 10 July; “From reading the first few lines in Robin’s Powis Castle & Garden, Nr Welshpool, Fri 12 July; Haughton Hall Hotel & Leisure Club, play, I was hooked,” says Crooked Dances’ Shropshire, Sun 14 July director, Elizabeth Freestone. “He creates a Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic story has funny, vivid and spellbinding atmosphere as delighted generation after generation of read- the extraordinary story of Silvia’s life un-

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Theatre for younger audiences...

In The Night Garden Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent, Tues 2 & Wed 3 July; The REP, Birmingham, Wed 31 July - Sun 4 August If your little ones are big fans of top-rated CBeebies television series In The Night Garden, they’re certain to enjoy this live version as well. And it’s not only the kids who’re in love with the stage productions... Audience surveys at NightGardenLive.com reveal that, for nine out of 10 adults, it’s a five-out-of-five theatrical experience! This latest production sees Igglepiggle trying to find all his friends in the Night Garden by following the selection of funny sounds that they make.

Horrible Histories the sea - until, that is, a meeting with the Ben, a wingless elf who flies on the back of wise octopus makes him realise that the act Gaston the Ladybird. The two chums live in The Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham, of sharing brings with it the reward of the tiny land of the Little Kingdom. Wed 3 - Sun 7 July happiness and acceptance. In this particular show, they help Gaston clean up his messy cave, go on a trip into The Big World with tooth-fairy Nanny Plum, and Elmer The Patchwork plan a surprise birthday party for King Elephant Thistle... Expect plenty of games, songs and laughter. The Core Theatre, Solihull, Tues 23 & Wed 24 July Suitable for children aged one-plus, this lively production tells the story of a patch- work elephant who determines to hide his As Horrible Histories’ publicity explains, ‘We ‘true colours’ in an effort to blend in, only to all want to meet people from history - the find that he feels happiest when he’s simply trouble is, everyone’s dead!’ being himself... Based on the classic chil- Which is, of course, where these hugely dren’s book series by David McKee. enjoyable and fabulously popular stage shows come in, with the Horrible Histories team bringing to life all manner of historical Alice In Wonderland figures and events. Birmingham Botanical Gardens, Thurs 25 July This particular production takes a look at the Awful Egyptians: ‘from the fascinating A timeless classic telling the magical and Pharaohs to the power of the Pyramids, decidedly topsy-turvy story of a little girl who discover the foul facts of death and decay falls down a rabbit hole and discovers a with the meanest mummies in Egypt’. weird world, Alice's Adventures In Wonder- land first made its way onto the stage during its author Lewis Carroll’s lifetime; in 1886, to The Rainbow Fish be precise. It’s since been adapted for the Ben & Holly’s theatre countless times and in all manner of Midlands Arts Centre, Birmingham, Sat 27 July Little Kingdom ways, including as a ballet, a musical, an Song, storytelling, percussion, interaction opera and a traditional pantomime. The Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham, and innovative set design utilising recycled Wed 10 & Thurs 11 July With its cast of nonsensical and amusing plastic are here brought together to present a characters, including the White Rabbit, the The team behind Peppa Pig here present a stage version of Swiss author and illustrator Mad Hatter and the March Hare, it invariably stage version of another of their splendid Marcus Pfister’s cautionary tale. makes for a fun family show - and experienc- creations. Originally a BAFTA award-winning The multi-coloured Rainbow Fish doesn’t ing it in the great outdoors should make the television animation, it focuses on the adven- want to share his scales with the other fish in production all the more memorable. tures of fairy princess Holly and her best pal, Presented by Immersion Theatre. whatsonlive.co.uk 29 Grease (1).qxp_Layout 1 20/06/2019 14:48 Page 1

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The first brand new touring production of Grease The Musical in 25 years comes to Birmingham next month, and it’s bound to be electrifyin’… WhatGreased’s On spoke to cast members Peter Andre,Lightn who stars as Teen Angel, Dan ! Partridge, who takes the lead as Danny Zuko, and Martha Kirby, who plays Sandy. Gritty and glamorous, Grease is one of the the film came out and I went to see it in the So where does Peter get his inspiration for the most iconic shows of the 20th century. cinema at least 15 times,’ explains Peter role: “The Fonz is definitely my rebellious ’50s Producer Colin Ingram insists that this new Andre, who plays Teen Angel. “I loved it! inspiration for this part. The Fonz was a production will refresh and revive the hit Then I had it on VHS. It was such an iconic legend, and he and Danny Zuko brought musical, keeping it ‘fresh, relevant, vibrant film. I always had this dream of going back to about that iconic style of blue jeans, white and young’. What makes this version the 1950s, like when people say if you had a t-shirt and leather jacket. Those rockabilly different is that it’s more in keeping with the time machine and could go back to any era, vibes are definitely something I’ll be thinking original Broadway production written by Jim where would you go. The ’50s would always about during my performance. I remember at Jacobs and Gordon Casey, featuring songs be my answer. I think there’s something school we all loved to dress like that.” never before heard in any staging of Grease in about that era. I loved watching Grease and Peter’s father and children have also the UK. was desperate to be a part of it, so when the influenced him in preparing to play Teen opportunity came up to play Teen Angel, I ‘Growing up in Australia, I remember when Angel: was delighted.”

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by Lauren Cole

“My father was always there to give me the Grease The Musical has a history of making far! My aspirations are to find fulfillment in best advice when I was starting out in my stars of its actors. John Travolta himself started whatever I do. Obviously there are roles I’d career. When I was offered a recording deal out in the original Broadway production be- love to play and shows I’d love to do, like live on television when I was 16, I was the fore becoming a huge movie star. Grease, but I just want to feel like I’m apply- happiest person alive, but my dad insisted I Taking on the role of Danny Zuko in this latest ing myself creatively in anything that I put my finish school first. I was upset because I version is Dan Partridge: “When you go into mind to. So whether that’s going into teaching thought they might change their mind if they this industry as a performer, especially in for a bit after Grease or going on to do more had to wait for me. But I’m really grateful for times where you don’t have so much success, performing, I just want to do my best in what- that advice now, and it’s something that I to make a living out of this is an absolute ever the next opportunity happens to be.” want to pass onto my kids. My kids ask me dream come true,” says Dan. “In terms of why they have to go to school when I didn’t aspirations, I always want to go higher and get where I did in my career directly from further; to go into film and television. The studying. But I always insist that school is the sky’s the limit. Like Peter Andre says, you’ve Grease The Musical shows at Birmingham basis for everything, for all learning about got to climb that mountain and turn ‘impossi- Hippodrome from Tuesday 13 to Saturday life. I guess that’s also why the role of Teen ble’ into ‘I’m possible’. 24 August, with Peter Andre playing Teen Angel appeals to me so much, because he “What’s so exciting about this new production Angel from 13 to 17 and 21 to 22 August only. appears to Frenchy to encourage her not to is that it has all the iconic songs and every- drop out of school.” thing that audiences love about Grease, along- side the fact that it’s a brand new The new production is blessed with the production. The script has been improved, so creative input of renowned choreographer that we have a bit more of the historical Arlene Phillips. Peter explains what this context in there, which is what makes it means for Teen Angel: “I’ve been told that grittier. There’s unbelievable casting, es- this role is Teen Angel with a twist… and I’m pecially with Peter Andre, even if he just about as much in the dark with that right does make lots of terrible dad-jokes! now as the audiences will be when they Then, on top of that, Arlene Phillips arrive. choreographs it. There really are “Teen Angel is such an iconic part of the some incredible household names on Grease film, but they definitely plan to make board with this new production.” that scene a much bigger and better part of this production. With Arlene Phillips at the Starring alongside Dan is newbie helm, I think everything will be fabulous. Martha Kirby… She’s talking about making the moves more “It’s an honour to be making my contemporary, but also going back and look- professional debut as ing at the original Broadway production and Sandy,” she says. “To ful- the dancing from the ’50s itself. There have fill this dream role at been rumours that I will be suspended in such an early stage some way to fly in, in true Teen Angel style, in my career is but I haven’t told them yet that I’m scared of mental - scary heights! I’m not into sky diving or bungee but also very jumping or anything like that…” exciting. I’m Despite focusing on his extensive music really inter- career, Peter’s love of theatre really shines ested to play through: “I think theatre is the root of all Sandy in my performance. You look at some of the A-list own way and Hollywood actors and they either start out in challenge the stereo- theatre or return to it later on. Theatre is type of what the char- where performance starts and where it ends: acter can be. I think I’m it’s truly the root of it all. I did Thriller in the slightly punchier than the tra- West End for the Prince’s Trust, and there’s ditional Sandy, so I’d like to bring talk of me doing other stage shows as well. some of my own personality and Unfortunately, it’s the commitment and long experience to the role. With this amount of time spent touring that makes new UK tour and production, it theatre difficult for me, but I can do a few bits just seems like the right time to here and there, which is great, and I’m really bring something new.” looking forward to Grease. So what are Martha’s hopes for her “The show is going to be electrifyin’! The career? visuals, lights, costumes, acting, singing and dancing - it’s truly going to dazzle!” “Gosh, I’m just happy I’ve even got this

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Film

Spider-Man: Far From Home CERT 12a (129 mins) Starring Tom Holland, Samuel L Jackson, Zendaya, Cobie Smulders, Jon Favreau, JB Smoove, Jacob Batalon, Marisa Tomei, Jake Gyllenhaal Directed by Jon Watts (USA)

Having been killed off in Avengers: Infinity War, Spidey swings back into action in this, the ninth solo Spider-Man film. On a school trip to London, Prague and Venice, Peter Parker (Tom Holland) is called on by Nick Fury (Samuel L Jackson) to help combat an organisation operating from an alternative dimension. The director Jon Watts returns from his duties on the last Spidey film, Spider- Man: Homecoming (2017) and Jake Gyllenhaal plays the master of trickery, Quentin Beck - aka Mysterio. Interestingly, Gyllenhaal was due to play Spider-Man himself - in Spider- Man 2 (2004) - when Tobey Maguire was injured while shooting Seabiscuit, but the latter then recovered in time. Available in 3D and IMAX. Released Tues 2 July EDITOR’S CHOICE

Film highlights released in July...

Anna CERT 12a (119 mins) Midsommar CERT tbc (140 mins) Never Look Away Starring Sasha Luss, Luke Evans, Cillian Starring Florence Pugh, Jack Reynor, CERT 15 (189 mins) Murphy, Helen Mirren William Jackson Harper, Vilhelm Blomgren, Starring Tom Schilling, Sebastian Koch, Paula Directed by Luc Besson (France) Archie Madekwe, Will Poulter Beer, Saskia Rosendahl, Oliver Masucci Directed by Ari Aster (USA/Sweden) Anna is played by the Russian supermodel Directed by Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck (Germany) Sasha Luss and is a beauty with a frightening secret. Well, not that secret if you are familiar From the director of the Oscar-winning The with Luc Besson’s other films, Nikita, Lucy, Lives Of Others (2006), this is the story of an and Valerian And The City Of A Thousand artist who has escaped the constraints of Planets. As it happens, Anna is a kick-ass East Germany but is still haunted by his government assassin. childhood there under the GDR regime. Nominated for the 2019 Oscar for best foreign Released Fri 5 July language film - and for best cinematography. Released Fri 5 July

A young couple choose a remote Swedish village in which to holiday, a decision they quickly learn to regret when bizarre local traditions start to surface. From the American filmmaker who made his debut with the critically acclaimed Hereditary (2018). Be afraid. Released Fri 5 July

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Film

Warren and is locked behind sacred glass. Vita & Virginia CERT 12a (110 mins) Kursk: The Last Mission But we all know that Annabelle is no Starring Gemma Arterton, Elizabeth Debicki, dummy… For those who really care, this is CERT tbc (117 mins) Rupert Penry-Jones, Peter Ferdinando, the seventh instalment in the Conjuring Uni- Starring Matthias Schoenaerts, Léa Seydoux, Isabella Rossellini Colin Firth, Peter Simonischek, August Diehl, Directed by Chanya Button (UK/Ireland) verse franchise. Max von Sydow Directed by Thomas Vinterberg (France/Belgium/Luxembourg) Adapted from the Released Wed 10 July play by Eileen Only last year Colin Firth was having trouble Atkins - who co- at sea in the yachting drama The Mercy. Now scripts the film with The Dead Don’t Die he plays the Royal Navy commander David its director - this CERT 15 (105 mins) Russell, who attempts to save those aboard biographical Starring Bill Murray, Adam Driver, Tilda the Russian nuclear-powered submarine romance explores Swinton, Chloë Sevigny, Steve Buscemi, Kursk that sank in the Barents Sea in 2000. Danny Glover, Tom Waits Based on Robert Moore’s book A Time To Die the relationship Directed by Jim Jarmusch (USA/Sweden) between Virginia (2003). With Only Lovers Left Alive (2013), cult direc- Woolf (Elizabeth Debicki) and the poet and Released Fri 12 July tor Jim Jarmusch explored the vampire genre novelist Vita Sackville-West (Gemma Arter- and cast Tilda Swinton as a centuries-old ton). Bizarrely, the last time Virginia Woolf bloodsucker. Now he’s cast her as a sword- was played on screen was by another wielding undertaker in his starry take on the Stuber CERT tbc Australian actress, Nicole Kidman. zombie comedy. Starring Kumail Nanjiani, Dave Bautista, Iko Released Fri 5 July Uwais, Natalie Morales, Karen Gillen Released Fri 12 July Directed by Michael Dowse (USA) Uber driver Stu (Kumail Nanjiani) really cares Annabelle Comes Home about his star rating. However, when he picks CERT 15 (106 mins) up a reckless detective (Dave Bautista) who Starring Mckenna Grace, Madison Iseman, involves him in a race to catch a ruthless Katie Sarife, Patrick Wilson, Vera Farmiga terrorist, things turn decidedly tricky. Directed by Gary Dauberman (USA) Expect some raw language. That wretched doll - last seen in Annabelle: Released Fri 12 July Creation (2017) - is now back in the safekeep- ing of the demonologists Ed and Lorraine

Pavarotti CERT 12a (114 mins) Directed by Ron Howard (USA/UK) Luciano Pavarotti was perhaps the most successful tenor in history, crossing over into popular music, being a part of The Three Tenors and even starring in a Hollywood film. Ron Howard previously directed the documentary The Beatles: Eight Days A Week (2016). Released Mon 15 July

The Queen’s Corgi Whitehall), accidentally bites Donald CERT PG (85 mins) Trump on his state visit and shortly after- With the voices of Jack Whitehall, Julie wards goes missing. You couldn’t make it Walters, Sheridan Smith, Ray Winstone, up. In spite of the British voice cast - and Matt Lucas, Tom Courtenay subject matter - this cartoon actually hails Directed by Ben Stassen and Vincent from Belgium. Kesteloot (Belgium) The Queen’s favourite Corgi, Rex (Jack Released Fri 5 July

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Film highlights released in July...

The Lion King CERT PG With the voices of Donald Glover, Seth Rogen, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Alfre Woodard, Billy Eichner, John Kani, John Oliver, Beyoncé Knowles-Carter, James Earl Jones Directed by Jon Favreau (USA) A 'photorealistic' remake of Disney's 1994 cartoon classic builds on the company's growing technical acumen, with Jon Favreau back in the director’s chair following his wizardry with The Jungle Book (2016). Elton John, of Rocketman fame, teams up with Tim Rice and Beyoncé to provide a brand new song, while five tunes from the original will figure, including, of course, Circle Of Life and the Oscar-winning Can You Feel The Love Tonight, the latter being performed by Beyoncé. Since the release of the first film - which was, in part, inspired by Hamlet - The Lion King has been made into a stage musical, becoming the highest-grossing production in Broadway history. A hard act to follow. Released Fri 19 July

CRITIC’S CHOICE

The Chambermaid The Current War The Intruder CERT 15 (102 mins) CERT tbc (102 mins) CERT tbc (105 mins) Starring Michael Ealy, Meagan Good, Dennis Starring Gabriela Cartol, Teresa Sánchez Starring Benedict Cumberbatch, Michael Quaid, Joseph Sikora, Alvina August Directed by Lila Avilés (Mexico/USA) Shannon, Nicholas Hoult, Tom Holland, Directed by Deon Taylor (USA) Katherine Waterston, Tuppence Middleton People really shouldn’t buy houses in the In the wake of the Oscar-winning Roma, this Directed by Alfonso Gomez-Rejon (USA) Mexican drama also focuses on class and movies. There’s always a problem. Here, privilege as it highlights the ritual of a Scott and Annie Howard move into their new conscientious chambermaid working for a home in Napa Valley, but find that the top hotel in Mexico City. It marks the directo- previous owner still wants to keep a very rial debut of the actress Lila Avilés. close eye on it… Released Fri 26 July Released Fri 26 July

Teen Spirit CERT 12a (93 mins) Starring Elle Fanning, Rebecca Hall, Zlatko Buric, Agnieszka Grochowska Directed by Max Minghella (UK/USA) Elle Fanning plays a shy teenager who tries to escape her roots by entering an international That’s ‘current’ as in ‘the flow of electricity’, singing competition. and this is the story of the rivalry between The film, described as a Thomas Edison (Cumberbatch) and George musical drama, marks Westinghouse (Shannon) to power the world the directorial debut of their way. Nicholas Hoult co-stars as another the actor Max Minghella, electrifying inventor, the physicist Nikola son of the acclaimed Tesla. filmmaker Anthony Minghella. Released Fri 26 July Released Fri 26 July whatsonlive.co.uk 35 Visual Arts July -2.qxp_Layout 1 20/06/2019 14:51 Page 1

Visual Arts previews from around the region

Home Of Metal Presents Black Sabbath - 50 Years Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery, until Sun 29 September Home Of Metal, a project devoted to the that was born in and around Birmingham, is the initiative behind this sure-to- be-popular exhibition, which seeks to dissect the key ingredients that came together to create Black Sabbath. Focusing on more than just the band and their Birmingham roots, Home Of Metal has also captured more than 3,000 portraits of Black Sabbath fans across the world, in the process illustrating the diversity of the group’s fanbase. The exhibition also includes a recreation of super- fan Stephen Knowles’ living room - a space that he’s turned into his own mini Sabbath museum - and a number of key costumes loaned by the band. Other on-display items include Ozzy’s glasses, Tony Iommi’s home studio and a part of Bill Ward’s , used in the 1974 Cal Jam, where Sabbath performed in front of 250,000 people.

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Visual Arts

Nick Hynan: Gender Blending Birmingham LGBT Centre, until Mon 26 August This thought-provoking exhibition sees local pho- tographer Nick Hynan chronicling Birmingham’s gender-blending culture. Nick’s aim is to show that drag and cross-dressing is a ‘living and evolving tradition’, and that today’s generation of drag kings and queens have developed a range of styles which allow them to challenge, with increasing confidence, society’s attitudes to gender and sexuality. An ongoing project since 2014, Gender Blending 2019 includes new images being exhibited for the very first time.

A Tea Journey: From The Mountains To The Table Compton Verney, Warwickshire, Sat 6 July - Sun 22 September Compton Verney’s summer exhibition house made of bamboo, which is does exactly what it says on the, er, tea appearing outside Japan for the first time. caddy - telling the story of how Britain’s Also included is an examination of how favourite drink became an everyday tea physically affects the body and can commodity. The exhibition features help in times of shock or grief, and an paintings, poetry, music, a collection of intricate-but-transient wet clay ancient and modern ceramics, a tea installation inspired by tea and created by sensorium and a modern Japanese tea Staffordshire artist Phoebe Cummings.

Drawn Of The Dead: The Comic Art Of Charlie Adlard Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery, until Sun 3 November Opening last month to coincide with work on the Walking Dead comic book. Comics Salopia - Shrewsbury’s new comic The exhibition provides visitors with the A Tale Of Two Empires: Rome book festival - Drawn Of The Dead features chance to take part in a ‘zombie life-draw- a selection of original illustrations by local ing session’, during which they can create And Persia artist Charlie Adlard, best known for his a zombie sketch to take home. Barber Institute, Birmingham, until Sun 15 March 2020 This long-running exhibition is based around the Barber’s extensive Late Roman coin collection and its historically important Sasanian cache (Sasania was the last kingdom of the Persian Empire, nowadays known as Iran). Charting a journey from the third century through to the seventh, the display recounts a story of violence and , peace and tolerance, betrayal and revenge. Along the way, it plots the dynamics that existed between the ancient superpowers of Rome and Persia as they ‘spun humiliating defeats and promoted bloody victories on the small pieces of art circulating in the pockets of the masses’. The exhibition also contemplates the artistic themes and devices the two civilisations had in common.

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Events previews from around the region Events

Picture This! Family Drawing Tour Aston Hall, Birmingham, Tues 23 July - Tues 27 August

Families with creative flair should head to Aston Hall this summer, as the venue is holding a series of special interactive drawing tours. Alongside the opportunity to get sketching, the tour also provides visitors with the chance to find out 1940s Weekend military checkpoints and back in time to about some of the people who’ve explore entertainment, food and fashion 1940s- lived in or visited the venue across Black Country Living Museum, Dudley, style. Sat 12 - Sun 14 July the centuries, and to learn some of Vintage vehicles and 1940s civilians and army The Black Country Living Museum is this the secrets hidden in their personnel will be much in evidence, with portraits. month stepping back in time to the 1940s, to attractions across the weekend including live present the sights and sounds of wartime music, wartime variety shows, austerity-bust- Britain. ing make-do-and-mend workshops, fashion Identity cards in hand, visitors step through The Wilder Side Of shows and street performers. Compton Verney Compton Verney Art Gallery & Park, Sun 7 July Art & Antiques For Everyone The Big Picnic NEC, Birmingham, Thurs 18 - Sun 21 July Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, Stratford-upon-Avon, Sat 20 July Bringing together more than 200 specialist deal- ers, this show is the largest vetted art, interiors & antiques fair outside of London. The event attracts experts from all levels of the antiques world: from dealers with galleries in Celebrate National Meadows Day London’s West End showing works with prices by immersing yourself in nature up to £100,000, to occasional dealers with a pas- and discovering the wildlife sion for buying and selling all kinds of unusual thriving in Compton Verney’s items, with many exhibits priced at under £20. meadows, woods and parkland. Expert seminars and talks by well-known figures Call in at the Pollination Station to from the art and antiques world also feature. understand the importance of bees and other insects to the environ- The annual Big Picnic celebrations are back this ment, or drop into the venue’s month. Taking place in the gardens of Anne Forest School to create some Hathaway’s Cottage, the popular event sees insect-inspired artwork. families packing a food hamper and enjoying a Visitors can also follow badger day’s entertainment. trails, settle down at the bird hide There’s plenty to keep youngsters entertained, and go pond-dipping for with garden games, face painting, magic tricks creepy-crawlies. and puppet theatre all featuring. And be sure to join Hushwings the Plus, if you’re still feeling a bit peckish after owl, who will take you on a chomping your way through a hamper’s-worth of remarkable flying tour of the park home-prepared tucker, there are some sizzling in a 360° virtual reality video barbecue foods available to enjoy. experience.

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Events previews from around the region Events

Birmingham Bubble Rush Cofton Park, Birmingham, Sat 20 July

Raising funds for Acorns Children’s Hospice, the Birming- ham Bubble Rush is back for 2019. Starting in a sea of bubbles, make your way round the course as the Bubble Commandos fire frothy Destination Space: The Moon milkshake bubbles from their foam cannons. Thinktank Science Museum, Birmingham, summer holiday. You'll visit different-coloured Mon 22 July - Fri 30 August Visitors can not only find out about both bubble stations along the route, Blast off! To mark the 50th anniversary of the current and future missions, they can also as you run, jog, walk or dance first moon landing, Thinktank is hosting an discover what it takes to get to the moon and your way to the finish line. action-packed family show throughout the what it’s like to work on the lunar landscape. The event is suitable for all the family, with all ages and abilities welcome to participate. The course is both wheelchair and Camper Jam pushchair-friendly. Weston Park, Staffordshire, Fri 5 - Sun 7 July Camper Jam is celebrating its 12th birthday this Summer Of Spitfire year by promising more family fun than ever RAF Museum, Cosford, before. Attractions include stalls to shop in, bars Mon 1 July - Sun 1 September to cool off in and plenty of live entertainment to RAF Museum Cosford is the place enjoy across the three-day weekend. to head for this summer if you’re a Not only can visitors check out a variety of VW fan of the Spitfire. vehicles, they can also sample entertainment The venue’s line-up of attractions including a tug o’ war, ‘cooking in a camper’ and includes cockpit tours of the a K9 dog show. world’s oldest Spitfire Mk 1, daily The Friday night has a definite rock-tash-tic feel storytelling sessions, and the about it, with performances from Bon Jovi chance to grab a Spitfire selfie Forever and Supreme Queen, while the Saturday with props and costumes. boasts a real ’90s vibe, as The Spice Girlz, Pulp’d New for 2019 is a virtual reality and Blur2 take to the stage. SciFest zone featuring the Spitfire VR University of Wolverhampton, Fri 5 - Sat 6 July Experience, providing visitors with the chance to enjoy the thrill Adults and children of all ages can this month of flying in a Spitfire. get involved in an action-packed day of science, The experience puts you in the technology, engineering and maths (STEM). cockpit and 10,000 feet in the air. The University of Wolverhampton is hosting a Then, once you’re wearing the VR whole range of free workshops, experiments and goggles, you can enjoy a fully games for all the family to enjoy. interactive panoramic view of a Highlights include a pop-up planetarium, real Spitfire flight. robotic coding and a rocket-building workshop.

whatsonlive.co.uk 41 Warwick Castle.qxp_Layout 1 21/06/2019 15:43 Page 1 Wonderful Warwick Discover over 1000 years of history at one of England’s best-loved visitor attractions.

Spectacular shows and attractions, spellbind- grounds, Warwick Castle is the ultimate back- batics, then join the falconer on a quest for ing storytelling and exhilarating experiences drop for spectacular shows. the finest birds in the land. all year round make Warwick Castle one of the Don't miss the UK’s biggest Birds of Prey Plus, enjoy the critically acclaimed Wars Of most exciting historic visitor attractions in Show this Summer, The Falconer’s Quest - The Roses Live jousting show. Experience a Europe. taking place in a stunning riverside location spectacle never before seen in the UK, com- Set in the heart of Shakespeare’s England, with within the grounds of the castle. Search the plete with perilous stunt riders, fearless joust- fascinating architecture and amazing views to skies overhead as free-flying birds of prey ing and state-of-the-art special effects. enjoy in 64 acres of beautifully landscaped take flight in a dynamic display of aerial acro-

and there’s more... No matter what time of year, there’s some- For wannabe princesses, the Princess have been like for Victorian guests by at- thing for everyone at Warwick Castle. Tower is the place to visit. Here, you can tending the venue’s Royal Weekend Party. learn about Guy’s quest to win the hand of In 1898, Frances, Countess of Warwick - who In addition to the seasonal events taking the beautiful Felice before falling foul of an was more affectionately known as Daisy - place at the venue, there’s also a selection of evil sorcerer. Play your part in breaking the hosted a weekend party at which the princi- all-year-round attractions to enjoy. curse and reuniting Felice with her sweet- pal guest was the Prince of Wales, later Ed- These include: heart... ward VII. The party is now reenacted across 12 specially designed rooms, where visitors Ever fancied walking in battle alongside a The world’s first Horrible Histories ® will come across the likes of a young Win- medieval army? With Warwick the King- Maze, featuring fun challenges including a ston Churchill reading a book in the library. chance to survive the trenches, uncover evil maker, you can do just that. Join him and plots and ultimately escape the maze... his soldiers as they prepare for war - and in For more information about events the process experience the sights, sounds at Warwick Castle and to book tickets The Castle Dungeon * which brings to- and smells of medieval England... online, visit warwick-castle.com gether a cast of historic characters, immer- *additional charges apply sive sets, special effects and live shows... Find out what a weekend at the castle would

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Slay the Dragon! action-packed show returns to Warwick Castle...

Entertainment of the highest calibre is al- his nemesis, the fire-breathing dragon. For those wishing to experience even more ways assured at Warwick Castle, but next medieval merriment, the venue also offers a Unique to the Midlands, Dragon Slayer’s month the venue ups the ante once again hog roast or period-themed banquet to finale features a projection canvas measuring with the return of its popular Dragon accompany the show. 31 metres by 80 metres and lit with 150,000 Slayer evening shows. lumens of light - the equivalent to more than Show-only tickets start from £20 per person Back for 2019 following a hugely popular run 500 house lightbulbs. and include car parking. last year, the show is guaranteed to delight For 2019, the action in the castle’s main court- All bookings must be made online in advance visitors of all ages. Performances feature dis- yard combines further fiery elements with - and bear in mind that shows, particularly on plays of fearless horseback fire-jousting, per- even more light projection, pyrotechnics and Saturday evenings, tend to sell out fast. ilous stunt riding and a ‘dazzling’ live performance to create ‘the ultimate confrontation between Guy - a heroic figure thrilling finale’. likened to Robin Hood and Saint George - and

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FEATURE SUMMER OF FUN

With the school holidays once again upon us, parents across the Midlands will no doubt be looking for places to visit and things to do with their kids during the long summer break. We’ve taken a look at what’s happening where and have come up with a few suggestions to get you started...

Have a (pre)fab time at Avoncroft Museum Bromsgrove, Worcestershire, B60 4JR Spread over 19 acres of Worcestershire countryside, England’s first open-air museum covers in excess of 700 years of Midlands history. The site includes a wildflower meadow, period gardens and a traditional cider & perry orchard, as well as a collection of 20-plus historic buildings, ranging in date from Worcester Cathedral’s 14th century Guesten Hall roof to a post-Second World War Birmingham prefab. And if checking out all of the aforementioned attractions works up an appetite, the museum also boasts an award-winning tearoom, Get creative at Thinktank in a child-sized city complete with a selection of cakes or light Thinktank Science Museum, Millennium Point, Birmingham, B4 7XG lunches made with fresh, local produce, some A new mini-city space where children are in MiniBrum has a number of different play of which comes from the museum’s very own charge has opened at Thinktank Science zones, including a home area where period gardens. Museum. children can build their own dens, a burrow For further information, visit MiniBrum is an interactive child-sized world in which to search for hidden animals, a avoncroft.org.uk that allows youngsters to explore and race track inspired by Birmingham’s question their understanding of the STEM upcoming Commonwealth Games, a (science, technology, engineering & construction zone, post office and salon. Go behind the scenes at mathematics) world around them. Through There are also specially designed sensory BBC Birmingham play, children can gain the confidence to zones for babies. BBC Birmingham, The Mailbox, B1 1RF think like scientists in real-life scenarios, For further information, visit testing their ideas, solving problems and birminghammuseums.org.uk/thinktank Step inside BBC Birmingham for a special getting creative. behind-the-scenes tour of the TV & radio studios, providing you with the not-to-be- missed opportunity to find out more about some of the Beeb’s best-known output, Brick-tastic fun at Builder, special party rooms for birthdays including Midlands Today, BBC WM, Asian and other celebrations, a 4D cinema and Network and The Archers (subject to studio Legoland Discovery the popular Miniland area, which can be availability). Centre Birmingham found in every Legoland Discovery Centre Find out what it takes to put together a TV and theme park. news bulletin, learn about working in radio Arena Birmingham, King Edwards Rd, This summer the popular visitor and discover how BBC radio drama is made. Birmingham, B1 2AA attraction is hosting a Lego City: Report You can also try making your very own radio Since its highly anticipated opening last For Duty event, where kids are invited to play, which will then be sent to you as a summer, Legoland Discovery Centre complete building challenges and become memento of your visit. Birmingham has become a firm favourite a Lego City hero. BBC Birmingham tours run on Tuesdays, with families. Wednesdays and Saturdays at 10.30am and Highlight: ‘Big kids’ can take advantage Aimed at children aged three to 10, the 1pm. of adults-only nights on Wed 10 July, Wed centre offers plenty of highly interactive Each tour lasts approximately 90 minutes. 14 Aug and Wed 11 Sept and educational fun. Attractions include a For further information, visit For further information, visit range of Lego play areas, interactive rides, bbc.co.uk/showsandtours/tours/ legolanddiscoverycentre.co.uk masterclasses from the Lego Master Model birmingham

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SUMMER OF FUN

Birmingham in bloom at the Botanical Gardens Birmingham Botanical Gardens, B15 3TR Set in 15 acres of landscaped greenery, Birmingham Botanical Gardens was established in 1829, since which time it’s been one of the city’s top attractions. With four stunning glasshouses - tropical, subtropical, Mediterranean and arid - there are plenty of unusual and amazing-looking plants to discover. The site also has its very own playground, tearoom and garden gift shop, all of which are surrounded by some of the most beautiful gardens in the UK. Plus, every Sunday afternoon until the end of September, musical performances will be taking place in the Victorian bandstand (from 2pm to 4pm). Highlights: Outdoor theatre performances in July and open-air cinema in August For further information, visit their ABCs backwards in an authentic Old-school fun at Black birminghambotanicalgardens.org.uk Edwardian school lesson and watch some Country Living Museum ‘loff out loud’ vintage cartoons in a 1920s Tipton Road, Dudley, DY1 4SQ. cinema. The museum is also hosting, for a third Get stuck into some old-school fun at the year, its hugely popular Summer Lates. Black Country Living Museum this For just a fiver, visitors entering after 5pm summer. The award-winning venue can enjoy family-friendly entertainment boasts more than 30 period shops and until 8pm every Friday during August. houses to explore and features a host of This year sees each evening themed famous characters to help bring the Black around a different decade, from the Country’s fascinating history to life. Roaring ’20s to the Swinging ’60s. Visitors can also challenge themselves to some deceptively simple old-school street Highlights: 1940s Weekend, 13-14 July games outside the back-to-backs, learn For further information, visit bclm.com Gear up for a visit to the British Motor Museum Banbury Rd, Gaydon, Warwickshire, CV35 OBJ Featuring the world’s largest collection of historic British cars, this family-friendly museum offers a colourful insight into the UK’s motor industry. From the popular Time Road to the Under The Skin interactive zone, adults and children alike will find displays and exhibits to surprise and enlighten. The museum tells the story of the birth, decline and rebirth of the motor industry and the cars it produced, as well as celebrating the calmer time checking out a host of exotic Enjoy a summer of thrills skills and creativity of the people who animals, the popular visitor attraction can designed and built them. at Drayton Manor Park certainly meet your summertime needs. This summer sees the venue hosting new Oh, and adrenaline junkies will also be Tamworth, Staffordshire, B78 3TW exhibition The Car. The Future. Me, which pleased to know that the park’s high-rope Home to Europe’s first and only Thomas takes a look back at the inventors of the first adventure course, VertiGo, is reopening on Land, Drayton Manor Theme Park is automobiles and assesses their visions for the Saturday 20 July. offering visitors a summer of fun. future. Special offer: Four tickets for £95 when The venue has more than 100 rides and Highlights: Summer Science Shows every you prebook online attractions across its site, as well as a 15- Wednesday 25 July - 29 August; Daily family For further information, visit acre zoo. So whether you fancy some activities 20 July - 2 September draytonmanor.co.uk white-knuckle rides, including Shockwave For further information, visit and Apocalypse, or would rather have a britishmotormuseum.co.uk

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SUMMER OF FUN

Time travel at Coventry Delve into the deep Gentoo penguin named Flash, who hatched last month. Transport Museum waters of National Sea Following a multi-million pound Millennium Place, Hales Street, Life Centre investment, the popular visitor attraction Coventry, CV1 1JD The Water’s Edge, Brindleyplace, is now also home to a world-class rescue This popular museum not only houses the Birmingham, B1 2HL facility. Visitors can check out a pair of its largest publicly owned collection of British residents, Miley and Boo, two seals who The National Sea Life Centre is home to vehicles on the planet, it also tells the story of each have medical conditions which more than 2,000 creatures (including a a city which changed the world through mean that they wouldn’t survive in the colony of gentoo penguins, black-tip reef transport. wild. sharks and a giant green sea turtle), There are 14 fully accessible galleries to enjoy, Highlights: Pirates And Mermaids, many of which have been rescued or featuring, among other attractions, pioneering until Sun 8 September successfully bred as part of the global Sea bicycles, transport champions, innovative, For further information, visit Life breeding initiative. memorable and luxurious vehicles from the visitsealife.com/birmingham The venue’s latest addition is a baby last 200 years and, last but certainly not least, the world’s fastest vehicle. Visitors can also walk through The Blitz experience or check out one of three 4D simulator rides. This summer the museum is hosting This Makes That With These, new sessions providing families with the chance to create their very own inventions using challenge kits that include mini cycles and gearboxes. For further information about the venue, visit transport-museum.com

Step into the world of shaped the world. Highlights: There’s live theatre from William Shakespeare resident actors at Shakespeare’s Birthplace, Shakespeare’s Birthplace Trust, various contemporary sculptures and landscaped locations in Stratford-upon-Avon gardens to enjoy at Shakespeare’s New Experience what life was like for the Place, nine acres of gardens and orchards world’s most famous playwright as he grew to explore at Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, the up in Stratford-upon-Avon. chance to experience a real working Tudor From the home where Shakespeare was farm at Mary Arden’s Farm, and the born, to the cottage where he courted his opportunity to learn about medicinal Compton Verney is future bride and the site where he raised practices of the Jacobean era at Hall’s Croft. everyone’s cup of tea his family, visitors can walk in the footsteps For further information, visit Compton Verney, Warwickshire, CV35 9HZ of the bard to discover how his work has shakespeare.org.uk Discover the unique delights of Compton Verney this summer, including an award- winning art gallery and family-friendly cafe & gift shop surrounded by 120 acres of stunning parkland and lake. Visitors can wander through the historic ‘Capability’ Brown landscape, marvel at world-class art exhibitions or have fun in the outdoor adventure playground. Drop in any day during the summer holiday and take part in a range of creative and multisensory activities inspired by the gallery’s latest exhibition, A Tea Journey. Participants can explore a variety of teas through their sense of smell and design their very own tea ware. visit comptonverney.org.uk

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SUMMER OF FUN

Experience 900 years of Visit the birthplace of your science knowledge at Enginuity, or try some tile painting at the Jackfield Tile history at Tamworth Castle the Industrial Revolution Museum. Tamworth Castle, Staffordshire, B79 7NA Various locations in and around Ironbridge, Other sites include the Coalport China Shropshire Museum and Coalbrookdale Museum of A World Heritage Site and the beating Iron - not forgetting the magnificent Iron heart of the Industrial Revolution, Bridge itself; the world’s first-ever cast- Ironbridge Gorge is home to 10 award- iron bridge. winning attractions that make for a great Pick up an Annual Passport and make day out. great savings on visits to all sites. Discover what life was like more than 100 For further information, visit years ago by visiting the recreated ironbridge.org.uk Victorian town of Blists Hill, swot up on

Step back in time through 900 years of history at Tamworth Castle. Wander the chambers and hallways and get a real sense of how the Saxons, Normans, Tudors and Victorians spent their time. There are more than 15 fully furnished rooms to discover - and if the weather’s on your side, why not venture up the castle’s tower to enjoy 360° views of the surrounding grounds and the town of Tamworth. Highlights: Castle Storytelling 23-25 July, WW2 In The Castle 30 July - 1 August, Saxons At The Castle 6-8 and 13 -15 August For further information, visit tamworthcastle.co.uk

A summertime adventure to remember at JCA Condover Hall Activity Centre, Shropshire, SY5 7AU Have a truly roarsome time at the safari park West Midland Safari Park. Bewdley, Worcs, DY12 1LF Get ‘up close and personal’ with animals from around the world on West Midland Safari Park’s four-mile drive-through experience. Considered to be one of the most outstanding Not only are there giraffes and lions, Elizabethan manor houses in England, the elephants and ostriches to encounter Grade I listed Condover Hall near Shrewsbury at the popular visitor attraction, combines the charm of rural Britain with the there’s also a discovery trail that’s latest technology to provide visitors of all ages home to a number of species, and the with ‘an adventure to remember’. chance to enjoy a variety of talks and Boasting a range of facilities and innovative shows. activity stations, JCA’s attractions include a Away from the animals, the safari park brand new high aerial trek, an on-site lake and features the UK’s largest animatronic wildlife lake, an indoor sports hall & dinosaur attraction, an Ice Age swimming pool, high & low rope courses, all- experience and Boj’s Giggly Park. weather sports courts and an indoor laser The venue is next month bringing back maze. its Summer Nights late openings (from See advert on page 40 for details on how to 1 August to 1 September) and will be get 10% off bookings on summer dates staying open until 7.30pm For further information, visit For further information, visit jca-adventure.co.uk wmsp.co.uk 50 whatsonlive.co.uk p51 bham.qxp_Layout 1 21/06/2019 16:27 Page 1

whatsonlive.co.uk 51 The List Cover July Birmingham.qxp_Layout 1 20/06/2019 14:56 Page 1

52 whatsonlive.co.uk The List Cover July Birmingham.qxp_Layout 1 20/06/2019 14:56 Page 2

YourYour wweek-eek- bby-weeky-week llistingsistings gguideuide JulyJuly 22019019 thelist

Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat at Birmingham Hippodrome, Tues 2 - Sat 13 July

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

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

Gordon Southern at Madeleine Peyroux at Jonathan Wilson at An Evening Without Kate Bush The Comedy Loft Symphony Hall the Hare & Hounds at Old Joint Stock Theatre Sat 6 July Thurs 11 July Thurs 18 July Fri 26 - Sat 27 July

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thelist THROUGHOUT JULY

RBSA FRIENDS 2019 Annual display of Visual Arts artwork, until Sat 20 July OLIVIA PEAKE NAWM WINNER Blurring Birmingham Museum & the boundaries between painting, Art Gallery sculpture and architecture, Olivia pre- WITHIN AND WITHOUT: BODY IMAGE AND sents a paused moment in her prac- THE SELF Exhibition examining how so- tice that unveils transitions between cial, historical and cultural factors af- colour, paint and support, until Sat 10 fect body image, and how this is Aug expressed through objects and art- URBAN JUNGLE Display featuring works, until Sun 1 Sept botanically inspired craft alongside HOME OF METAL PRESENTS BLACK SAB- graphic architectural jewellery, ceram- BATH - 50 YEARS Exhibition celebrating ics and textiles, until Sat 14 Sept the impact and cultural legacy of NEW MATHE SHEPHEARD RBSA Exhibi- Black Sabbath, until Sun 29 Sept tion featuring watercolour and Indian COLLECTING BIRMINGHAM: WHO IS BIRM- ink paintings inspired by Mathe's trav- INGHAM? Discover new collections that els to Japan 20 years ago, Mon 1 July reflect the experiences of diverse - Sat 17 Aug Birmingham people - from working NEW HEINKE JENKINS RBSA - MIGRANTS lives to community activists and Jack Savoretti - Cannock Chase Forest - Rugeley, Staffs Exhibition of nine lino-cut prints re- protest movements, until Sun 27 Oct flecting the perilous journeys made by The Sunflower BLUE HARLEM Fri 5 July, migrants, Mon 15 July - Sat 7 Sept Lounge, Birmingham Pizza Express Live, Grand Union Gigs NEW RBSA PORTRAIT PRIZE 2019 Bien- BOOTLEG ABBA Thurs 4 Brindley Place, B’ham JOANNE MASDING: BRUNTWOOD COR- nial portrait prize attracting talented KELLY JONES Mon 1 July, Artrix, Broms- GOAT ON A TROLLY Fri 5 NERBLOCK COMMISSION Permanent in- artists from across the UK and be- July, Symphony Hall, grove July, The World Bar, stallation made by artist and Grand yond, Thurs 25 July - Sat 31 Aug Birmingham Resorts World, B’ham Union studio holder Joanne Masding, MINISTRY Thurs 4 July, until Fri 5 July TOVEY BROTHERS Tues O2 Institute, B’ham A NIGHT OF SLIPKNOT 2 July, The Jam The Barber Institute SHAKATAK Thurs 4 July, Fri 5 July, Mama JOYCE TREASURE: HYMNS Autobio- House, Birmingham Roux’s, Birmingham graphical body of work that subjec- PAPER MUSEUM: THE CURIOUS EYE OF The Jam House, Birm- tively responds to racial and gendered CASSIANO DAL POZZO Curiosity and de- THE LOVE BAND FT. ingham THE ELVIS YEARS Sat 6 JOHNNY ECHOLS Tues 2 representation and childhood adver- sire to document the world around EVE SELIS Thurs 4 July, July, Lichfield Garrick July, Hare & Hounds, sity, until Sun 7 July him drove the Italian patron Cassiano The Robin, Bilston PAUL WELLER Sat 6 dal Pozzo to assemble his Paper Mu- Birmingham DOJA CAT Thurs 4 July, July, Cannock Chase seum - a collection of around 10,000 NATHAN GRISDALE Ikon Gallery Tues O2 Institute, B’ham Forest, Staffordshire drawings, watercolours and prints, 2 July, Hare & Hounds, IAGO + YELLOW KING + THE AERODROME – AN EXHIBITION DEDI- until Sun 1 Sept Birmingham THE BLUES BAND - 40 CATED TO THE MEMORY OF MICHAEL YEARS AND BACK FOR KAIROS + JIM HARG- LADY BARBER'S LIFE AND LEGACY Dis- BUCKET AND CO Tues 2 STANLEY Exhibition presented in mem- MORE Fri 5 July, Artrix, REAVES Sat 6 July, The play celebrating the 150th anniversary July, Actress & Bishop, ory of Michael Stanley, curator at Ikon, Bromsgrove Flapper, Birmingham who tragically died in 2012, until Sun 8 of Lady Barber’s birth, until Sun 8 Birmingham MONUMENTS Fri 5 July, ROY ORBISON & TRAVEL- Sept Sept CARACH ANGREN, WOLF- The Flapper, B’ham ING WILBURYS EXPERI- THE FACE OF FASHION Presentation cel- HEART, THY ANTICHRIST ENCE Sat 6 July, Artrix, ebrating portrait miniatures, which & NEVALRA Tues 2 July, CATAPULT CLUB FT. Bromsgrove MAC, Birmingham were popular in Europe from the early Mama Roux’s, B’ham AFTER MIDNIGHT Fri 5 DUPPY DARNCE Sat 6 SHOW YOUR METAL Exhibition that con- 17th century until around the 1850s, July, O2 Academy, HANNAH JOHNSON & July, Mama Roux’s nects metal the material and Metal the until Sun 8 Sept Birmingham THE BROKEN HEARTS Birmingham music, until Mon 26 Aug A TALE OF TWO EMPIRES: ROME AND Wed 3 July, The Jam VOODOO ROOM: A NIGHT CLASSIC IBIZA Sat 6 HOME OF METAL: HAND OF DOOM Collec- PERSIA Exhibition exploring how the House, Birmingham OF HENDRIX, CLAPTON & CREAM Fri 5 July, Lich- July, Ragley Hall, Al- tion of portraits of Black Sabbath fans ancient superpowers of Rome and O, PEACE TOUR FT. JOSH field Garrick cester wearing the ubiquitous battle jacket, Persia spun humiliating defeats and GAUTON, JOSHUA LUKE IKS CROSSFIELD ‘THE until Sun 1 Sept promoted their bloody victories on the SMITH & ATLAS RHOA BROKEN MINDS PRE- SONGBOOK’ Sat 6 July, BEN VENOM: ALL THIS MAYHEM Exhibi- small pieces of art circulating in the Wed 3 July, The Sun- SENTS KENNY KEN Fri 5 Pizza Express Live, tion of work by San Francisco-based pockets of the masses, until Sun 15 flower Lounge, B’ham July, Hare & Hounds, Mar 2020 Birmingham Brindley Place, B’ham artist Ben Venom, featuring large- THE MELVIN HANCOX ONEMAN Sat 6 July, scale textile pieces, customised jean BAND CASH - PAYIN' RESPECT Wed 3 July, The Hare & Hounds, Birm- jackets and clothing, until Sun 8 Sept Other VISUAL ARTS Robin, Bilston TO THE MAN IN BLACK Fri 5 July, The Robin, ingham NEW MADE @ MAC: FAMILY FUN AT MAC NEW SYNERGY SCHOOLS' ART EXHIBITION MFY NATIONAL FESTIVAL Bilston PARTNERS IN CRIME Sat Exhibition of work produced by fami- Work by Synergy Art Group, a collec- Wed 3 - Sat 6 July, 6 July, The World Bar, lies who have taken part in a wide tion of Solihull schools, Wed 3 - Mon Symphony Hall, B’ham JAMES OWSTON QUAR- range of courses at MAC, Sat 13 July - TET Fri 5 July, Sym- Resorts World, B’ham 15 July, The Core Theatre, Solihull KALEIDOSCOPE #13 - Sun 3 Nov phony Hall, B’ham ROAD TRIP Sat 6 July, NEW JACK'S ADVENTURES WITH SALT Ge- THE GOOD WATER / SAM JESS GLYNNE Fri 5 July, The Asylum, B’ham RBSA Gallery ologists investigate the secrets of salt HOLLIS / EAD WOOD using magnets, Mon 8 July - Fri 20 Thurs 4 July. The Night Cannock Chase For- JACK SAVORETTI Sun 7 STEPHEN BUTT ARBSA Exhibition in Sept, Birmingham City University Owl, Birmingham est, Staffordshire July, Cannock Chase which Stephen continues with his Forest, Staffordshire NEW SUMMER EXHIBITION Featuring DAN PIGEON + MYLES A NIGHT OF POP, FUNK theme of the manmade city in har- original artwork, limited editions and NEWMAN + TWELVE AND SOUL Fri 5 July, SELLING LAMB BY THE mony or opposition to nature, until Sat sculpture, Sat 13 - Sun 14 July, White- TWELVE + THE EARNEST Marco Pierre White, POUND Sun 7 July, The 13 July wall, Birmingham SPEARS Thurs 4 July, Birmingham Robin, Bilston

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Monday 1 - Sunday 7 July

Classical Music Theatre BIRMINGHAM BACH CHOIR: SPIRITUALS THE BODYGUARD Alexandra Burke & TO WARM THE HEART Featuring Paul Jennilee Shallow share the role of Spicer (conductor) & Martyn Rawles Rachel Marron in this much-ac- (pianist). Programme includes works claimed romantic thriller based on by Moses Hogan, Rutter, Tippett, Will the film of the same name, until Sat 6 Todd & Paul Spicer, Sat 6 July, July, Wolverhampton Grand Theatre CBSO Centre, Birmingham THE MERCHANT OF VENICE Shake- THE DIVINE BEAUTY CONCERT Pre- speare's controversial masterpiece is sented by Birmingham Cathedral transported to 1950s New York, a city Choir. Featuring David Hardie (con- where communities are divided by ductor) & Ashley Wagner (organist), wealth and religion, until Sat 13 July, Sat 6 July, Birmingham Cathedral Stafford Castle JONATHAN RADFORD IN CONCERT Pro- MEASURE FOR MEASURE Greg Doran gramme includes music by Fauré, directs a new version of Shake- Milhaud, Maurice, De Falla & Albeniz, speare’s ‘problem play’, until Thurs Sat 6 July, St Mary’s Church, Lich- 29 Aug, Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat - Birmingham Hippodrome field Stratford-upon-Avon atre Company present its version of Bickley & Bibi June, Fri 5 July, The ALBION STRING QUARTET: VOICES IN AS YOU LIKE IT Riotous version of Noel Coward's famous play, Sat 6 - Patrick Studio, Birmingham Hippo- DIALOGUE Programme includes works Shakespeare's romantic comedy, Sat 13 July, Crescent Theatre, B’ham drome by J.S Bach, Haydn, Schumann & until Sat 31 Aug, Royal Shakespeare Walton, Sat 6 July, St Michael’s Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon SWEENEY TODD Amateur staging of WHY MUMMY DOESN'T GIVE A ****! Church, Lichfield the story of London’s most infamous Join Gill Sims as she is interviewed THE TAMING OF THE SHREW Shake- barber, Sat 6 - Sat 13 July, 0ldbury about her blog, books, character and CBSO: SO VOCAL SUMMER CONCERT speare's comedy of gender and ma- Rep more! Sat 6 July, Stafford Gatehouse Featuring Ula Webber (conductor), terialism is turned on its head, until Theatre Sun 7 July, CBSO Centre, B’ham Sat 31 Aug, Royal Shakespeare The- DANCING IN THE AIR Music & dance extravaganza transporting audiences EDDIE THE EAGLE Eddie talks through ATEA QUINTET Programme includes atre, Stratford-upon-Avon to the ballroom and featuring the RAF his incredible life-journey, Sun 7 July, works by Briccialdi, Bozza, Nielsen, THE PROVOKED WIFE Outspoken Massed Voluntary Bands, Sun 7 July, Lichfield Garrick Thea Musgrave & Doreen Carwithen, Restoration romp, until Sat 7 Sept, Symphony Hall, Birmingham Sun 7 July, St Mary’s Church, Lich- The Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon- field Avon HMS PINAFORE Charles Court Opera presents its version of Gilbert & Sulli- MICHAEL PETROV IN CONCERT Join the VENICE PRESERVED Fast-paced version van’s celebrated collaboration, Sun 7 award-winning cellist as he performs of Thomas Otway's restoration Film July, Lichfield Guildhall works by J.S Bach & H. Dutilleux, tragedy, until Sat 7 Sept, The Swan INDEPENDENT LISTINGS: Sun 7 July, Lichfield Cathedral Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon SOMETIMES ALWAYS NEVER (12a) Com- JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNI- edy/Drama. Starring Bill Nighy, Alice COLOR DREAMCOAT Tim Rice & An- Lowe. Midlands Arts Centre, Birming- drew Lloyd Webber’s sparkling family Kids Shows ham, until Thurs 4 July; Artrix, Broms- Comedy musical, Tues 2 - Sat 13 July, Birm- HORRIBLE HISTORIES - TERRIBLE TU- grove, Fri 5 - Thurs 11 July ingham Hippodrome DORS From the horrible Henries to the ROCKETMAN (15) Biography/Drama. JOSH PUGH & HANNAH SILVESTER Wed end of evil Elizabeth, hear the leg- Starring Taron Egerton, Jamie Bell. 3 July, Cherry Reds Cafe-Bar, B’ham BORIS THE MUSICAL 2: BREXIT HARDER Blowfish Theatre's revised and up- ends (and the lies!) about the tortur- Midlands Arts Centre, Birmingham, PHIL NICHOL & BOBBY MAIR Wed 3 dated musical about Boris Johnson ing Tudors, Wed 3 - Sat 6 July, The Mon 1 July July, The Patrick Kavanagh, Moseley and Brexit, Wed 3 - Sun 7 July, Old Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham THE PHOTOGRAPH (15) JOHN HASTINGS, DANNY MCLOUGHLIN & Joint Stock Theatre, Birmingham HORRIBLE HISTORIES - AWFUL EGYP- Comedy/Drama. Starring Nawazud- COMEDY CAROUSEL WITH ANDY ROBIN- PRIDE & PREJUDICE Chapterhouse TIANS From the fascinating Pharaohs din Siddiqui, Sanya Malhotra. For- SON Thurs 4 July, The Glee Club, Theatre Company present an out- to the power of the Pyramids, dis- eign language, subtitled. Midlands Birmingham door staging of Jane Austen’s time- cover foul facts about death and Arts Centre, Birmingham, Mon 1 July ROB ROUSE, THE NOISE NEXT DOOR, less classic, Thurs 4 July, Mitton decay with the meanest mummies in MIDSOMMAR (15) Drama/Horror. Star- DAVE TWENTYMAN & COMIC TBC Thurs Manor, Staffordshire Egypt, Wed 3 - Sun 7 July, The ring Florence Pugh, Will Poulter. Elec- 4 July, The George Hotel, Lichfield OLIVER! Presented by the Brit Youth Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham tric Cinema, Birmingham, from Mon 1 SCOTT BENNETT, JOHN HASTINGS, Theatre Sutton Coldfield, Thurs 4 - July HENRY PARKER & RUDI LICKWOOD Fri 5 Sat 6 July, The Crescent Theatre, DETECTIVE PIKACHU (PG) Action/Ad- - Sat 6 July, The Glee Club, B’ham Birmingham venture. Starring Ryan Reynolds, LOST VOICE GUY, FREDDY QUINNE, GOR- A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM Odd- Dance Justice Smith. Artrix, Bromsgrove, DON SOUTHERN (PICTURED) Sat 6 July, socks’ 30th anniversary production, Sat 6 July; Midlands Arts Centre, The Comedy Loft, Birmingham Fri 5 - Sat 6 July, Midlands Arts Cen- WORCESTERSHIRE DANCING Celebrat- Birmingham, from Sat 6 - Thurs 11 tre, Birmingham ing dance in education across the July county, Wed 3 July, Artrix, Broms- MUSICAL THEATRE YOUTH SUMMER grove SHOWCASE Birmingham Hippo- NEW FILMS ON GENERAL RELEASE: drome’s Musical Theatre Youth Com- ROMEO & JULIET Ballet Cymru pre- sents its version of the Shake- Released from Tues 2 July, showing pany celebrate the theatre’s 120th at selected cinemas birthday, Sat 6 July, The Patrick Stu- speare’s iconic love story, Sat 6 July, dio, Birmingham Hippodrome Abbots Bromley School, Lichfield SPIDERMAN: FAR FROM HOME (tbc) A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM Pre- ANNA (15) sented by the Crescent Theatre Com- MIDSOMMAR (tbc) pany, Sat 6 - Sun 7 July, Blakesley THE QUEEN'S CORGI (PG) Hall, Birmingham Talks VITA AND VIRGINIA (12a) THIS HAPPY BREED The Crescent The- HIT THE ODE Performance poetry night featuring Chiedu Oraka, Jodi Ann whatsonlive.co.uk 55 The List Birmingham 1-7 July.qxp_Layout 1 20/06/2019 11:45 Page 3

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thelist Monday 1 - Sunday 7 July Stratford-upon-Avon Events TRIUMPH NATIONAL WEEKEND The TR Drivers National Weekend returns to LEGO CITY Explore what the city of the the British Motor Museum to join the future would look like and build awe- BMC & Leyland Show, Sat 6 - Sun 7 some creations, until Sun 1 Sept, July, British Motor Museum, Gaydon, Legoland Discovery Centre, B’ham Warwickshire PIRATES AND MERMAIDS Join ‘the ulti- LARGE MODEL AIR SHOW Scale models mate underwater adventure’ this of iconic aircraft take to the skies, Sat summer, until Sun 8 Sept, National 6 - Sun 7 July, RAF Cosford, Nr Sea Life Centre, Birmingham Wolverhampton THE FALCONER'S QUEST Seventy high- THE ORDINARY VICTORIANS Celebration flying birds of prey take to the skies, of the common Victorian worker as until Thurs 31 Oct, Warwick Castle Sarehole Mill’s 19th century heyday LAVENDER MONTH AT BLAKESLEY HALL is recreated, Sun 7 July, Hall Green, Lavender-themed activities in Birmingham Blakesley's gardens, Tues 2 - Wed 31 SUNDAY TOUR OF SOHO HOUSE Take a July, Blakesley Hall, Birmingham tour of Matthew Bolton’s house and DUDLEY CASTLE TOUR Back by popular gain an intimate insight into life in a Colmore Food Festival demand, Wed 3 July, Dudley Castle Georgian family home, Sun 7 July, Victoria Square, Birmingham, Fri 5 - Sat 6 July HOME OF METAL LATE Late-night ac- Soho House, Birmingham cess to the Home Of Metal Presents: BEST OF HANDSWORTH Debut event The Midlands’ biggest free-to-enter food & drink festival returns to Black Sabbath - 50 Years exhibition, aiming to promote the area’s rich cul- Birmingham’s Victoria Square this month. Thurs 4 July, Birmingham Museum ture and history by giving people the The annual Colmore Food Festival, sponsored by law firm DWF, And Art Gallery opportunity to experience the tastes, attracts more than 30,000 visitors each year. The price of food is sounds, artists, products and people MOSELEY FESTIVAL Fun community capped at £4 and drinks at £5, ensuring visitors can enjoy a bite to event featuring a Moseley Bake Off of Handsworth, Sun 7 July, Soho eat and a tasty tipple without breaking the bank. and a Lord of the Rings-themed after- House, Birmingham noon tea, Thurs 4 - Sun 7 July, Mose- FIRE SERVICE PRESERVATION GROUP 999 This year’s line-up features dishes including frozen strawberry & ley Park & Pool, Birmingham SPECTACULAR Featuring displays of clotted cream sandwich from Adam’s, king prawn katsu & rice A NIGHT OF POP, FUNK AND SOUL Ex- vehicles and equipment ‘through the from Chung Ying Central and salt beef brisket pastrami, home- pect everything from Stevie Wonder ages’, Sun 7 July, British Motor Mu- made pickles & horseradish cream from Opus. and Michael Jackson to Chaka Khan seum, Gaydon, Warwickshire and Annie Lennox, Fri 5 July, Marco BMC & LEYLAND SHOW Show celebrat- Pierre White, The Cube, Birmingham ing the vehicles produced by BMC, 7 July, Wulfruna Street, W‘hampton Hannah Peel & Will Burns, Sophia EXPLORASAURUS EVENING Have a go British Leyland and Rover Group, TOPIARY GIN FESTIVAL 2019 Featuring Thankur and Hinako Omori, Fri 5 - at some dinosaur-themed craft activi- Sun 7 July, British Motor Museum, local gin distilleries and live music, Sun 7 July, Feanedock, The National ties, Fri 5 July, Dudley Canal and Tun- Gaydon Sun 7 July, Barceló Billesley Manor Forest, Staffordshire nel Trust THE FORD SHOW Featuring Fords of all Hotel, Near Stratford-Upon-Avon THE CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL Featuring MOTUL FIM SUPERBIKE WORLD CHAMPI- types, RWYB, Ford drag demos, club major world premieres, world-leading ONSHIP Returning for 2019 with a new displays, live entertainment, stunts ensembles & much-loved regulars, race format and a red-hot challenger, and lots more, Sun 7 July, Santa Pod Fri 5 - Sun 7 July, various locations in Fri 5 - Sun 7 July, Donington Park Raceway, Wellingborough Festivals and around Cheltenham CAR CHASE HEROES Three to six-mile NAPTON MUSIC FESTIVAL Line-up in- NOISILY FESTIVAL Line-up includes Ex- circuit set to challenge drivers of cludes Kazabian, ABBA Chique, trawelt Live, Opiuo, Captain Hook every skill level, Fri 5 - Sun 7 July, Clemency, Fri 5 - Sat 6 July, Napton and Alex Stein, Fri 5 - Sun 7 July, Stoneleigh Park, Kenilworth Food & Drink on the Hill, Warwickshire Coney Woods, Noseley Hall, Leices- ter CAMPER JAM Music line-up includes COLMORE FOOD FESTIVAL The Mid- ALSO FESTIVAL ALSO is the renowned Bon Jovi Forever, Supreme Queen lands’ biggest free-to-enter food & ideas, music and experiential festival GODIVA FESTIVAL 2019 Line-up in- and Phats & Small. Special displays, drink festival, Fri 5 - Sat 6 July, Victo- from Salon London, Fri 5 - Sun 7 July, cludes Levellers and Busted, Fri 5 - Cooking in a camper & Tug of War ria Square, Birmingham Park Farm, Compton Verney, War- Sun 7 July, War Memorial Park, wickshire Coventry also feature, Fri 5 - Sun 7 July, We- LONGTON BEER FESTIVAL Enjoy a wide ston Park, Staffordshire selection of beers and ciders in the TIMBER FESTIVAL Line-up includes INFLATABLE 5K Featuring up to 15 cobbled courtyard, Fri 5 - Sat 6 July, mega-sized obstacles, making it the Gladstone Pottery Museum, Stoke- biggest Inflatable 5k obstacle event on-Trent ever created, Sat 6 July, Wolver- TOM KERRIDGE PRESENTS PUB IN THE hampton Racecourse PARK Laid-back celebration of ‘the MANDAEAN DAY Featuring music, talks very best food, drink and music the and films exploring the Mandaean country has to offer’, Fri 5 - Sun 7 Faith, Sat 6 July, Birmingham Mu- July, St Nicholas Park, Warwick seum And Art Gallery RAIL ALE TRAIL The Churnet Valley JEWELLERY QUARTER HERITAGE WALK A Railway’s Rail Ale Trail features bars guided walk looking at the people, at each of the three stations and a places and themes that have helped pub at each station, Fri 5 - Sun 7 July, to shape the district, Sat 6 July, Mu- Churnet Valley Railway, Froghall, seum of the Jewellery Quarter, Birm- Staffordshire ingham WOLVERHAMPTON FESTIVAL OF FOOD & STRATFORD RIVER FESTIVAL 2019 Free DRINK Featuring the city’s largest ever family event on the banks of the River selection of independent producers, Avon, Sat 6 - Sun 7 July, Riverside, brewers and tastemakers, Sat 6 - Sun Timber Festival - The National Forest, Staffordshire

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thelist Monday 8 - Sunday 14 July drei Ionita (BBC New Generation Classical Artist) & Polly Leach (Mezzo So- prano). Programme includes works by Shostakovich & Elgar, Sat 13 Music July, Lichfield Cathedral LAURA ZHANG PIANO CONCERT Pro- gramme includes works by Beethoven, Brahms & Chopin, Mon 8 July, St Michael’s Church, Lichfield Comedy THE MESSIAH - COME & SING! Featur- ing international soloists Rebecca CARL DONNELLY Wed 10 July, The Bottone (soprano) & Polly Leach Patrick Kavanagh, Moseley (mezzo), plus Robert Murray (tenor) CARL DONNELLY, JO CAULFIELD Thurs & David Ireland (bass), Mon 8 July, 11 July, Midlands Arts Centre, Birm- Lichfield Cathedral ingham DANIEL LEBHARDT PIANO CONCERT TOM STADE, THE NOISE NEXT DOOR, Programme includes works by J.S COMEDY CAROUSEL WITH ANDY ROBIN- Bach, Bartok & Liszt, Tues 9 July, SON Thurs 11 July, The Glee Club, Kiss - Arena Birmingham Wade St Church, Lichfield Birmingham THE MOZARTISTS Featuring Louise GEIN'S FAMILY GIFT SHOP, BENEIDICT BEAUTIFUL LITTLE FREEDOM OF MOVE- Alder (soprano), Oliver Wass POPE, HANNAH PLATT & JACK TOPHER FOOLS + AMALIA + MENT Fri 12 July, Hare Gigs (harpist) & Gavin Edwards (horn), Fri 12 July, Cherry Reds Cafe-Bar, EMILY TAYLOR & CLAU- & Hounds, B’ham Tues 9 July, Lichfield Cathedral Birmingham THE PHYSICS HOUSE DIA WHITTLE + AN- PAPER BUOYS & SOCIAL MATHILDE MILWIDSKY VIOLIN CONCERT TOM STADE, THE NOISE NEXT DOOR, BAND/MAN PUNCHES DREW MORAN + BRIONY CONTRACT Fri 12 July, Also featuring John Reid on piano. PHIL JERROD & COMIC TBC Fri 12 - Sat CLOUD Mon 8 July, The CRADDOCK Thurs 11 Actress & Bishop, Programme includes works by Szy- 13 July, The Glee Club, Birmingham Flapper, Birmingham July, The Sunflower Birmingham Lounge, Birmingham manowski, H. Wieniawski & Chopin GEOFF BOYZ, MIKE COX, JOHN LYNN & KISS Tues 9 July, THE COLOUR SIX Fri 12 arr. Milstein, Wed 10 July, Wade St RESERVOIR 5 Thurs 11 HAYLEY ELLIS Sat 13 July, The Com- Arena Birmingham July, The World Bar, Church, Lichfield July, The Jam House, edy Loft, Birmingham EMMA JOHNSON Tues 9 Resorts World, B’ham Birmingham CBSO: CELLOS HEAD NORTH Pro- ANDREW MAXWELL Sat 13 July, St July, The Jam House, THE DRIFTERS Fri 12 gramme includes works by Saari- WATERMARK LIVE Thurs Mary’s Church, Lichfield Birmingham July, Lichfield Garrick aho, Pärt, Sibelius, Nielsen & Grieg, 11 July, Hare & ALL SEEING EYES Tues Thurs 11 July, CBSO Centre, B’ham Hounds, Birmingham SINGLE BY SUNDAY Fri 9 July, Hare & 12 July, The Asylum, CHLOÉ PIANO TRIO Programme in- A FLOCK OF SEAGULLS Hounds, Birmingham Birmingham cludes works by Schumann & Thurs 11 July, The WORCESTERSHIRE Mendelssohn, Thurs 11 July, Wade Theatre Robin, Bilston LA DHARMA + THE YOUTH JAZZ ORCHESTRA VERSE + ESTHER St Church, Lichfield EDUCATING RITA Stephen Tompkinson BOWIE EXPERIENCE Fri AND WYJO2 WITH SPE- TURNER Sat 13 July, WILLIAM FOX ORGAN RECITAL Pro- and Jessica Johnson star in Willy 12 July, The Alexandra CIAL GUEST ALAN The Sunflower gramme includes works by J.S Russell’s comedy classic, Mon 8 - Theatre, B’ham BARNES Wed 10 July, Lounge, Birmingham Bach, Mozart, Saint-Saëns & Elgar, Sat 13 July, Wolverhampton Grand Artrix, Bromsgrove DESPERADO - EAGLES THE JO BALDWIN BAND Thurs 11 July, Lichfield Cathedral Theatre GREATEST HITS TOUR Fri THE STEVIE AND RAY Sat 13 July, The World VOCES8 British vocal ensemble who AROUND THE WORLD IN 80 DAYS Pre- 12 July, Artrix, Broms- SHOW Wed 10 July, Bar, Resorts World, perform an extensive repertoire both sented by Blue Orange Devising & grove The Robin, Bilston Birmingham in a cappella concerts and in collab- Performance Class, Tues 9 - Wed 10 ANDY BLACK Thurs 11 FLASH - A TRIBUTE TO BLOC PARTY - SILENT oration with leading orchestras, July, The Blue Orange Theatre, Birm- July, O2 Institute, QUEEN Fri 12 July, The ALARM Sat 13 July, O2 Thurs 11 July, Lichfield Cathedral ingham Robin, Bilston Birmingham Academy, Birmingham SIRIUS CHAU FLUTE RECITAL Also fea- GODSPELL Amateur staging per- MADELEINE PEYROUX KANVAS + KALEIDOE CALL OF THE CROW: THE turing Kumi Matsuo on piano. Pro- formed by Musical Youth Theatre WITH EMILY BARKER BAY + TALL STORIES Fri INFERNAL SEA AND gramme includes works by Poulenc, Stafford, Wed 10 - Sat 13 July, Thurs 11 Symphony 12 July, The Sunflower MORE Sat 13 July, Fauré, Dutilleux, Chaminade & Stafford Gatehouse Theatre Lounge, Birmingham Hall, Birmingham Scruffy Murphys, Birm- Jonathan Dove, Fri 12 July, St Mary’s THE DISAPPEARANCE OF ELIZA GREY RUN IN RED Thurs 11 BOLLYWOOD BRASS ingham Church, Lichfield Thought-provoking play about what July, Scruffy Murphys, BAND Fri 12 July, Mid- VENOM Sat 13 July, O2 CBSO NOTELETS Featuring Jane makes people invisible and whether Birmingham lands Arts Centre, Institute, Birmingham Wright (presenter) & the CBSO 'mini- it’s possible to change, Thurs 11 Birmingham orchestra', Fri 12 - Sat 13 July, July, Sutton Coldfield Town Hall GOUGEWAY Sat 13 July, CBSO Centre, Birmingham The Actress & Bishop, WHADDYA KNOW... WE’RE IN LOVE! The Birmingham MILOS MILIVOJEVIC: ACCORD FOR LIFE Foundry Group return with a new The award-winning Serbian-born foot-tapping family show featuring THE BACKBONE SLIPS classical artist presents a pro- live music & new songs and Radio 4 Sat 13 July, The Night gramme featuring works from his regular David Mounfield (Count Owl, Birmingham debut solo CD Accord For Life, Sat Arthur Strong), Thurs 11 July, St SOME GUYS HAVE ALL 13 July, Wade St Church, Lichfield Mary’s Church, Lichfield THE LUCK 2019 Sun 14 90TH GALA CELEBRATION CONCERT SNOWFALL IN JULY Starbuck Theatre July, The Alexandra Featuring Ian Clarke (conductor). Company present an original acous- Theatre, Birmingham Programme includes works by Rut- tic musical which follows young gui- THE SEX PISSED DOLLS ter, Haydn & Lionel Bart, Sat 13 July, tarist Jack as he learns that you can't Sun 14 July, The Wolverhampton Grammar School run from your problems and who Robin, Bilston EMILY SUN VIOLIN RECITAL Sat 13 July, you are, Thurs 11 - Sat 13 July, Old GHUM + AUFBAU PRIN- Wade Street Church, Lichfield Joint Stock Theatre, Birmingham CIPLE Sun 14 July, The BBC NATIONAL ORCHESTRA OF WALES OFFSTAGE Ephemeral Ensemble pre- Sunflower Lounge, Featuring Ainars Rubikis (cellist), An- sent a compassionate exploration of Madeleine Peyroux - Symphony Hall, Birmingham Birmingham whatsonlive.co.uk 59 The List Birmingham 8-14 July.qxp_Layout 1 20/06/2019 11:51 Page 3 The List Birmingham 8-14 July.qxp_Layout 1 20/06/2019 11:51 Page 4

thelist Monday 8 - Sunday 14 July suicide, Fri 12 July, Lichfield Garrick Blum, Tim Blum. Electric Cinema, MACBETH The Malachites present a Birmingham, from Wed 10 July new version of Shakespeare’s bloodi- THE MATRIX (15) Action/Sci-Fi. Starring est play, Fri 12 July, Lichfield Guild- Keanu Reeves, Laurence Fishburne. hall Mockingbird Cinema, Birmingham, BRAZEN Lorna Meehan’s autobio- Fri 12 July graphical spoken-word journey, ex- THE DEAD DON'T DIE (15) Comedy/Hor- ploring coming of age, the nature of ror. Starring Bill Murray, Adam Driver. hero worship and the difficulty of just Electric Cinema, Birmingham, from being yourself, Fri 12 July, A.E Harris, Fri 12 July Birmingham GLORIA BELL (15) Comedy/Drama. FEAR AND MISERY OF THE THIRD REICH Starring Julianne Moore, John Tur- Young Rep 18 - 25s present a new turro. Artrix, Bromsgrove, Fri 12 - production of Bertholt Brecht's clas- Wed 17 July sic play, Fri 12 - Sat 13 July, The REP, PAW PATROL: MIGHTY PUPS (U) Anima- Birmingham tion/Adventure. Artrix, Bromsgrove, SOME GUYS HAVE ALL THE LUCK Cele- Sat 13 July brating the life and career of Rod DON'T LOOK NOW (15) Horror/Thriller. Stewart, Sun 14 July, The Alexandra Starring Julie Christie, Donald Suther- Theatre, Birmingham land. Mockingbird Cinema, Birming- VICTORIA’S DIARIES Preview perfor- ham, Sun 14 - Mon 15 July Summer In Southside - various locations in & around Birmingham Hippodrome mance of Tell Tale’s new play mark- ham Cocktail Weekend, Sat 13 July, Packwood House, Solihull ing 200 years since the birth of Birmingham Museum And Art Gallery Queen Victoria, Sun 14 July, The Blue NEW FILMS ON GENERAL RELEASE: 'MORRIS GANG' DANCING Traditional Orange Theatre, Birmingham 1940S EVENING Dress up and jitterbug dances with the Blists Hill Morris Released from Wed 10 July, showing and jive your way through a night of Gang, Sun 14 July, Blists Hill Victo- at selected cinemas 1940s-style entertainment, Sat 13 rian Town, Ironbridge, Shropshire ANNABELLE COMES HOME (tbc) July, Black Country Living Museum, SUMMER FETE Featuring a bouncy Dudley Kids Shows ARMSTRONG (PG) castle and inflatable slide, face paint- SUMMER IN SOUTHSIDE Expect an ing, a Punch & Judy show, games THE DEAD DON'T DIE (15) TREASURE ISLAND Chapterhouse The- abundance of family fun, extraterres- and activity stalls, Sun 14 July, atre Company present a brand new THE INTRUDER (tbc) trial antics, street performances, food Blakesley Hall, Birmingham adaptation of Robert Louis Steven- KURSK: THE LAST MISSION (tbc) stalls and more, Sat 13 - Sun 14 July, son’s swashbuckling tale, Wed 10 Southside, Birmingham STUBER (tbc) July, Birmingham Botanical Gardens CHATEAU IMPNEY HILL CLIMB Featuring BEN AND HOLLY'S LITTLE KINGDOM £500million-worth of classic cars, su- Festivals Magical musical adventure for percars and hypercars, Sat 13 - Sun 2000TREES Line-up includes You Me younger audiences, Wed 10 - Thurs Events 14 July, Chateau Impney, Droitwich At Six, Frank Turner & The Sleeping 11 July, The Alexandra Theatre, Birm- LEGO CITY 1940S WEEKEND Spend the weekend Souls and While She Sleeps, Thurs ingham Explore what the city of the future would look like and build awe- in wartime Britain, Sat 13 - Sun 14 11 - Sat 13 July, Upcote Farm, Chel- some creations, until Sun 1 Sept, July, Black Country Living Museum, tenham Legoland Discovery Centre, B’ham Dudley ROCK AND BIKE FEST Line-up includes PIRATES AND MERMAIDS Join ‘the ulti- ELIZABETHAN PAGEANT Celebrate Ke- Toyah, The Macc Lads, The Quire- Cabaret mate underwater adventure’ this nilworth’s Elizabethan heyday with boy, Thurs 11 - Sat 13 July, Carnfield THE DREAMBOYS ‘The UK’s most summer, until Sun 8 Sept, National music, falconry displays and ‘a feast Hall, Alfreton famous girls night out’, Sat 13 July, Sea Life Centre, Birmingham of entertainment’, Sat 13 - Sun 14 LICHFIELD ARTS’ FUSE FESTIVAL 2019 July, Kenilworth Castle The Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham ADVENTURE BIKE RIDER FESTIVAL Fea- Line-up includes A Different Thread, turing trails, test ride areas, off-road- SUMMER OF FUN Enjoy live shows with YIKES and CityLightz, Fri 12 - Sun 14 ing and live music, Fri 12 July, Ragley the Fat Controller in Thomas Land or July, Beacon Park, Lichfield Hall, Alcester join Rory as he travels across numer- THE MOSTLY JAZZ FUNK AND SOUL FES- ous continents, Sat 13 July - Sun 1 Talks BEHIND BARS: GHOSTS OF THE LOCK-UP TIVAL Line-up includes Burt Sept, Drayton Manor Them Park, Bacharach, The Jacksons, The Brand SUSIE DENT Find out about the curi- Join West Midlands’ writers as they Staffordshire New Heavies, Fri 12 - Sun 14 July, ous, unexpected and downright sur- take visitors on a theatrical journey HEART OF ENGLAND BIKE RIDE The 14th Moseley Park, Birmingham real origins of the words we use through the cells, corridors and stair- annual charity ride, Sun 14 July, every day, Tues 9 July, Artrix, Broms- ways of an eerie Grade II listed grove prison, Fri 12 - Sat 13 July, The Lock- Up, Steelhouse Lane, Birmingham DRAGSTALGIA 2019 Weekend dedi- cated to drag racing, hot rods and Film bikes from a bygone era, Fri 12 - Sun 14 July, Santa Pod Raceway, Welling- INDEPENDENT LISTINGS: borough THE KEEPER (15) Biography/Drama. ADULT JEWELLERY WORKSHOP: SILVER Starring David Kross, Freya Mavor. PENDANT Learn a variety of jewellery- Artrix, Bromsgrove, Mon 8 July making techniques from contempo- CRUISING (18) Crime/Drama. Starring rary jeweller Grace Page, Sat 13 July, Al Pacino, Paul Sorvino. Midlands Museum of the Jewellery Quarter, Arts Centre, Birmingham, Wed 10 Birmingham July EDWARDIAN TEAROOMS LATE: BIRMING- PENNY SLINGER: OUT OF THE SHADOWS HAM COCKTAIL WEEKEND The museum (18) Documentary. Starring Maria once again joins forces with Birming- Summer Fete - Blakesley Hall, Birmingham whatsonlive.co.uk 61 The List Birmingham 15-21 July.qxp_Layout 1 20/06/2019 14:09 Page 1

thelist door staging of Jane Austen’s time- Classical Music less classic, Wed 17 July, Birming- ham Botanical Gardens PADMORE & LEWIS: SCHUMANN’S HE’D MURDER ME Baby Grace Theatre DICHTERLIEBE Featuring Mark Pad- Company present a Yorkshire-style more (tenor) & Paul Lewis (piano). coming-of-age story, Wed 17 - Thurs Programme includes works by 18 July, The Blue Orange Theatre, Brahms, Mahler & Schumann, Sun Birmingham 21 July, Birmingham Town Hall FRANKENSTEIN Blue Orange Arts fuse NATIONAL SCHOOLS SYMPHONY OR- fast-paced storytelling and physical CHESTRA 25TH ANNIVERSARY CONCERT theatre in a 'faithful' hour-long telling Sun 21 July, Symphony Hall, B’ham of Mary Shelly's classic novel, Wed 17 - Sat 20 July, The Blue Orange Theatre, Birmingham Comedy HYMNS FOR ROBOTS Production that fuses Noctium’s unique, heightened TOADALLY FREE COMEDY Mon 15 July, Living Colour - The Mill, Digbeth performance style with analogue and The Blue Orange Theatre, B’ham digital music, Thurs 18 July, Midlands July, The Jam House, CUSTARD CONNECTION STEVE WILLIAMS, LARRY DEAN, COMEDY Arts Centre, Birmingham Birmingham Sat 20 July, Albert’s Gigs CAROUSEL WITH ANDY ROBINSON Thurs KEVIN, KING OF EGYPT New show from Shed, Shrewsbury SUPREME QUEEN Fri 19 18 July, The Glee Club, Birmingham comic, poet & psychiatric nurse Rob GLEN - THE GLEN CAMP- July, Wolverhampton DIANE SHAW Sat 20 JOSH WOLF Fri 19 July, The Glee Club, Gee, Thurs 18 - Fri 19 July, Old Joint BELL STORY Tues 16 Grand Theatre July, Pizza Express Birmingham Stock Theatre, Birmingham July, The Crescent Live, Brindley Place, NEUROSIS WITH SPE- STEVE WILLIAMS, LARRY DEAN, SOL SCENES FROM A BRUMMIE ILIAD Actor Theatre, Birmingham Birmingham CIAL GUEST GODFLESH BERNSTEIN & EVELYN MOK Fri 19 - Sat Roderick Smith breathes new life into THE MARTIN TROTMAN Fri 19 July, Birming- THE LONG RYDERS Sat 20 July, The Glee Club, Birmingham the classic story of heroes and gods BAND Tues 16 July, ham Town Hall 20 July, Hare & whilst celebrating the local vernacu- The Jam House, Birm- JIMMY CARR Sat 20 July, Wolver- ABBA REUNION Fri 19 Hounds, Birmingham lar, Fri 19 - Sat 20 July, The REP, ingham hampton Grand Theatre July, Artrix, Broms- JAMIE TILLER Sat 20 Birmingham RUDI LICKWOOD, JOE ROWNTREE, STE- BURSTERS Tues 16 grove July, Hare & Hounds, HMS PINAFORE Fresh take on the G&S July, The Mill, Digbeth, FANO PAOLINI & BARRY DODDS Sat 20 ANDY OLIVERI AND THE Birmingham favourite, Sat 20 July, Stafford Castle Birmingham July, The Comedy Loft, Birmingham MOUNTAINEERS Fri 19 THE CREATURE APPEAL MUSICAL THEATRE OPEN MIC NIGHT PAUL SMITH Sun 21 July, The Alexan- LIVING COLOUR Wed 17 July, The Castle & Fal- + REAL COOL + AFTER- Local companies and singers show- dra Theatre, Birmingham July, The Mill, Digbeth, con, Birmingham GLOW + THE RESER- case their talents, Sat 20 July, Old Birmingham GLEE FAMILY COMEDY SHOW, JARRED THE SUPERSKAS Fri 19 VOIR CATS Sat 20 July, Joint Stock Theatre, Birmingham The Sunflower CHRISTMAS & HOBBIT Sun 21 July, The NECRONMODICOL Wed July, The Robin, Bil- GO JAPESH*T Thespianage Produc- Lounge, Birmingham Glee Club, Birmingham 17 July, Hare & ston tions present a short, improvised Hounds, Birmingham MANCHESTER SPECIAL A FINE SUMMER’S DAY comedy in which the audience has EASY COMPANY + KAN- Fri 19 July, Hare & FT. CRYWANK, SLING- the power to throw the performers a VAS + SOUKI + Hounds, Birmingham SHOT DAKOTA + MORE curveball, Sat 20 July, The Blue Or- DROUGHT ON MARS + Sat 20 July, The Flap- Theatre ange Theatre, Birmingham MICHAEL MESSER’S JOSEPH T WARD Wed per, Birmingham RUBY REDFORT MITRA Fri 19 July, Ar- Lauren Child’s super- NOT JUST WILLIAM Tell Tale’s family 17 July, The Sunflower trix, Bromsgrove GURDAS MAAN Sat 20 spy lands on the Old Rep stage for show pays tribute to Shakespeare Lounge, Birmingham July, Arena B’ham her biggest adventure ever!, Mon 15 - and some of the folk tales that in- DECADES Fri 19 July, EASY STAR ALL-STARS Wed 17 July, The Old Rep Theatre, spired his most famous plays, Sun 21 The World Bar, Re- WHITE FLAG DARES Sat Thurs 18 July, O2 Insti- Birmingham July, The Blue Orange Theatre, Birm- sorts World, B’ham 20 July, The Night tute, Birmingham Owl, Birmingham UPDOWNSIZING Ginny Davis' one- ingham SONGS FROM YUZOO Fri JONATHAN WILSON woman play, which 'captures the 19 July, Pizza Express THE KILLAZ UK Sun 21 Thurs 18 July, Hare & essence of middle class family life', Live, Brindley Place, July, The Robin, Bil- Hounds, Birmingham ston Tues 16 July, The Blue Orange The- Birmingham atre, Birmingham Kids Shows YR HERITAGE #4: KER- BORN IN THE 80’S Sat HEAVENS DOOR Sun 21 MES / DANGER OF LOVE THE COLOR PURPLE Inspiring musical THE PAPER MOON Gentle first theatre 20 July, The World Bar, July, The Bramall, + SUPPORT Thurs 18 based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning experience for babies and very Resorts World, B’ham Birmingham July, Hare & Hounds, novel by Alice Walker and the classic young children, Wed 17 July, Mid- FLARES + PRETTY VILE Birmingham SURF'S UP - SUMMER movie of the same name, Tues 16 - lands Arts Centre, Birmingham DAYS '65 Sat 20 July, Sun 21 July, The Sun- Sat 20 July, Birmingham Hippodrome DR FEELGOOD Thurs 18 flower Lounge, B’ham Artrix, Bromsgrove THE NIGHTINGALES 1950s-set comedy presented by the Lichfield Players, Tues 16 - Sat 20 July, Lichfield Gar- rick LITTLE MISS SUNSHINE Mark Mor- aghan (Coronation Street) & Lucy O'Byrne (Evita) star in a brand new staging of the award-winning com- edy, Tues 16 - Sat 20 July, The Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham ALICE IN WONDERLAND Stage 2 pre- sent a reworked version of Lewis Car- ROMEO & JULIET Outdoor presentation roll's timeless classic, Wed 17 - Sat by Heartbreak Productions, Wed 17 20 July, Crescent Theatre, B’ham July, Brueton Park, Solihull AN OGRE’S TALE Featuring children PRIDE & PREJUDICE Chapterhouse from The Star Project Droitwich and Jonathan Wilson - Hare & Hounds, Birmingham Theatre Company present an out- The Star Project Barnt Green, Sun 21 62 whatsonlive.co.uk The List Birmingham 15-21 July.qxp_Layout 1 20/06/2019 14:09 Page 2

Monday 15 - Sunday 21 July

July, Artrix, Bromsgrove Birmingham, Sun 21 July TWINKLE & TEDDY'S GRAND ADVENTURE ALADDIN (U) Adventure/Comedy. Star- Presented by babyballet Halesowen ring Will Smith, Naomi Scott. Artrix, & Stourbridge Central, Sun 21 July, Bromsgrove, Sat 20 - Mon 22 July; Stourbridge Town Hall Midlands Arts Centre, Birmingham, RASTAMOUSE & DA EASY CREW Join Sun 21 - Thurs 25 July Rastamouse & Da Easy Crew for ‘a boombastic 25-minute set filled with reggae riddims and lots of fun, fol- lowed by a meet-and-greet’, Sun 21 Events July, Sutton Coldfield Town Hall LEGO CITY Explore what the city of the future would look like and build awe- some creations, until Sun 1 Sept, Legoland Discovery Centre, B’ham Dance PIRATES AND MERMAIDS Join ‘the ulti- MADHEAD National Youth Dance Com- mate underwater adventure’ this pany fuse contemporary dance, summer, until Sun 8 Sept, National physical theatre and hip-hop, Wed 17 Sea Life Centre, Birmingham Rudy Redfort - The Old Rep, Birmingham July, The Patrick Studio, Birmingham BRINDLEY FILM FESTIVAL Musical it’s learning to sword fight, shooting a COSFORD FOOD FESTIVAL Featuring a Hippodrome blockbusters on the big screen, Mon bow & arrow or transforming into a lit- tasty line-up of 100 local producers, HERE COME THE BOYS Starring Strictly 15 - Sun 21 July, Brindleyplace, Birm- tle lord or lady, there’s plenty of Sat 20 - Sun 21 July, RAF Cosford, Nr Come Dancing professional dancers ingham hands-on fun to keep the kids enter- Wolverhampton Aljaž Škorjanec, Giovanni Pernice BMAG BABIES Creative, interactive and tained, Sat 20 July - Sat 24 Aug, Kenil- KENILWORTH FOOD FESTIVAL Celebra- and Gorka Marquez, Sat 20 July, sensory play with colours, textures worth Castle tion of the town’s restaurants, bars Symphony Hall, Birmingham and sounds, Wed 17 July, Birming- FREDDO'S TREASURE TROVE Cadbury’s and cafes, as well as some of the ham Museum And Art Gallery Freddo dons his captain’s hat to teach finest regional food & drink produc- ART & ANTIQUES FOR EVERYONE The little ones what it takes to become a ers, Sun 21 July, Kenilworth Talks largest vetted fair outside London pirate on the seven seas, Sat 20 July - featuring a wide range of antiques, Sun 1 Sept, Cadbury World, Birming- EXPEDITION WITH STEVE BACKSHALL art and decorative interior pieces, ham Behind-the-scenes stories and film Thurs 18 - Sun 21 July, NEC, B’ham HISTORIC HEROES Uncover inspiring Festivals clips from Steve‘s new 10-part TV se- WHISKY & TWILIGHT TOURS The popu- stories and follow in the footsteps of UPTON BLUES FESTIVAL Line-up in- ries, Wed 17 July, Birmingham Town lar twilight guided tour returns with a Black Country heroes, Sat 20 July - cludes Kyla Brox, Wille and the Ban- Hall whisky twist, Fri 19 July, Museum of Sun 1 Sept, Black Country Living Mu- dits and Dino Baptiste, Thurs 18 - the Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham seum, Dudley Sun 21 July, Upton upon Severn, SUMMER FAYRE Featuring stalls, crafts, OLD FORD RALLY A day dedicated to Worcestershire games, food & lots more... Fri 19 Film Classic Fords, Sun 21 July, British NOZSTOCK Line-up includes Rudimen- July, Birmingham Cathedral INDEPENDENT LISTINGS: Motor Museum, Gaydon, Warwick- tal (DJ Set), Soul II Soul and Sleaford SAOC 60TH ANNIVERSARY MEETING Cel- shire Mods, Thurs 18 - Sun 21 July, Brom- RORY'S WAY (12a) Drama. Starring ebrating 60 years of the Sunbeam SUMMER CRAFT FAIR Outdoor market yard, Herefordshire Thora Birch, Brian Cox. Midlands Arts Alpine, Fri 19 - Sun 21 July, British featuring a wide range of crafts and SUPERSONIC FESTIVAL Line-up in- Centre, Birmingham, Wed 17 July Motor Museum, Gaydon, Warwick- gifts to buy, Sun 21 July, Sarehole Mill, cludes: Neurosis, The Body and THE DISH (12a) Crime/Drama. Starring shire Hall Green, Birmingham Jerusalem In My Heart, Fri 19 - Sun Sam Neill, Billy Mitchell. Midlands INTERSTELLAR: MOON LANDING 50th 21 July, Various locations throughout Arts Centre, Birmingham, Thurs 18 Anniversary of the 1969 Apollo 11 Birmingham July moon landing. Music includes tracks BIRMINGHAM, SANDWELL & WESTSIDE DIEGO MARADONA (12a) Documen- from David Bowie, Coldplay, Muse, Food & Drink JAZZ FESTIVAL Line-up includes Swing tary/Sport. Starring Diego Armando ELO, Pink Floyd, Emersson Lake & THE GREAT BRITISH SUMMER TASTING Cafe, The Hot Club, and The Great Maradona. Artrix, Bromsgrove, Fri 19 Palmer, Jamiroquai, Kraftwerk, Daft WITH CHASE Enjoy a taste of summer Birmingham Trombone Company, Fri July Punk, Elton John and many more, by sampling a range of exotic gins 19 - Sun 28 July, various locations Sat 20 July, Birmingham Cathedral THE LION KING (PG) Animation/Adven- and vodka with the Herefordshire- throughout Birmingham ture. Starring Seth Rogen, Donald SUPERCAR FEST Showcase of the best based Chase Distillery, Fri 19 July, Glover. Electric Cinema, Birmingham, modern-day and classic supercars Black Country Living Museum, Dudley from Fri 19 July ever built, Sat 20 July, Shelsley Walsh VITA & VIRGINIA (12a) MOON LANDING PARTY Special party to Biography/Drama. Starring Gemma celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Arterton, Elizabeth Debicki. Electric first Apollo moon landing, Sat 20 July, Cinema, Birmingham, from Fri 19 Thinktank Science Museum, B’ham July CAPRI 50TH ANNIVERSARY RALLY Cele- APOLLO 11 (U) Documentary/History. bration of 50 years of the Ford Capri Starring Buzz Aldrin, Joan Ann at the British Motor Museum, Sat 20 Archer. Electric Cinema, Birmingham, July, British Motor Museum, Gaydon, from Fri 19 July; Midlands Arts Cen- Warwickshire tre, Fri 19 - Wed 24 July BEHIND BARS: GHOSTS OF THE LOCK-UP STAR TREK - THE MOTION PICTURE (U) Join West Midlands’ writers as they Adventure/Sci-Fi. Starring William take visitors on a theatrical journey Shatner, Leonard Nimoy. Midlands through the cells, corridors and stair- Arts Centre, Birmingham, Sat 20 July ways of an eerie Grade II listed STAN & OLLIE 15) Comedy/War. Star- prison, Sat 20 & Sun 21 July, The ring Charles Chaplin, Paulette God- Lock-Up, Steelhouse Lane, B’ham National Youth Dance: Madhead - Birmingham Hippodrome dard. Midlands Arts Centre, GET HANDS-ON WITH HISTORY Whether whatsonlive.co.uk 63 The List Birmingham 22-31 July.qxp_Layout 1 21/06/2019 12:34 Page 1

thelist Botanical Gardens Classical Music A MATTER OF LAW Two Jens & Me Theatre Company present a court- CBSO YOUTH ORCHESTRA ACADEMY room drama centred around male Featuring Michael Seal (conductor), domestic abuse, Thurs 25 - Sat 27 Jamal Aliyev (cello) & the CBSO July, The Blue Orange Theatre, Birm- Youth Orchestra Academy. Pro- ingham gramme includes works by Weber, Shostakovich & Dvorak, Sun 28 July, FRANKENSTEIN Illyria theatre company Birmingham Town Hall present an outdoor staging of Mary Shelley’s Gothic tale, Fri 26 July, Packwood House, Solihull AN EVENING WITHOUT KATE BUSH Comedy Cabaret evening in which Sarah- Louise Young explores the music and DANIEL MUGGLETON & LOYISO GOLA mythology of one of the most influen- Mon 22 July, The REP, Birmingham tial voices of British music, Fri 26 - MICHELLE WOLF Tues 23 July, The Sat 27 July, Old Joint Stock Theatre, Glee Club, Birmingham Birmingham GLENN WOOL Wed 24 July, The Patrick Kavanagh, Moseley TROY HAWKE & PAUL SINHA Thurs 25 July, Midlands Arts Centre, B’ham Lime Cordiale - O2 Academy, Birmingham GLENN WOOL, FERN BRADY & COMEDY CAROUSEL WITH ANDY ROBINSON Thurs July, The Slade TABLE SCRAPS Fri 26 25 July, The Glee Club, Birmingham Rooms, W’hampton July, Hare & Hounds, Gigs GLENN WOOL, FERN BRADY, KAI THE RAT PACK The UK's official number Birmingham CATAPULT CLUB FT. LAST HUMPHRIES & TOM HOUGHTON Fri 26 - one Rat Pack tribute act, Fri 26 July, REDDIE FOR FREDDIE AGONY Fri 26 July, O2 CIVIL WRONGS Fri 26 & Sat 27 July, The Glee Club, B’ham The Crescent Theatre, Birmingham QUARTET Tue 23 July, Academy, Birmingham Sat 27 July, The Jam HANCOCK & CO James Hurn's popular The Jam House, Birm- ALFRED KAINGA, NELSON GOMBAKOMBA LIV WARFIELD Fri 26 House, Birmingham ‘one man many voices’ celebration of ingham JNR 11, MISSMOREAL AND MRLORRAINE July, Pizza Express, CHEMIKILL, THE UNRE- Sat 27 July, The Bramall, Birmingham Hancock's Half Hour, Sat 27 July, The SHONEN KNIFE Wed 24 Birmingham SOLVED, GHOST OF MA- Old Rep Theatre, Birmingham CHRISTIAN REILLY, NAOMI COOPER, TOM July, Hare & Hounds, CHINES Sat 27 July, O2 ATTORC UK TOUR Fri 26 HOUGHTON & CRAIG MURRAY Sat 27 THE WINTER’S TALE REVISITED One- Birmingham Academy, Birmingham July, Scruffy Murphys, July, The Comedy Loft, Birmingham hour adaptation of one of Shake- PETE KENT Wed 24 Birmingham COPE + RXPTRS Sat 27 speare’s later plays, Sun 28 July, The July, The Robin, Bil- CRIMSON CHILD Fri 26 July, The Flapper, Blue Orange Theatre, Birmingham ston Birmingham July, The World Bar, WE’LL BE IN TOUCH Joanna Gay’s play THE SHUFFLEPACK Wed Resorts World, B’ham DEAF BALLOONS + Theatre exploring lasting friendships, Sun 28 24 July, The Jam DEAFS DOOR + HEAD- July, The Blue Orange Theatre, Birm- #DXP19 DRAG EXPLO- SUNDOWN Taking Chances present a House, Birmingham WIRED Sat 27 July, The ingham SION Fri 26 July, O2 In- moving drama about two seemingly Flapper, Birmingham KING PLEASURE AND stitute, Birmingham very different people who have more THE BISCUIT BOYS THE RAT PACK Fri 26 FOR THE LOVE OF BRIAN in common than they think, Mon 22 - Thurs 25 July, Sutton July, The Crescent Sat 27 July, Hare & Wed 24 July, The Blue Orange The- Coldfield Town Hall Theatre, Birmingham Hounds, Birmingham atre, Birmingham Kids Shows CROBOT Thurs 25 July, THE EXPE- THEY WHO DARE Sat 27 AMÉLIE Danny Mac & Audrey Brisson MISTER MAGNOLIA Folksy Theatre fuse O2 Institute, B’ham RIENCE Fri 26 July, The July, The World Bar, star in a new musical based on the live music, puppetry & audience in- WHITESNAKE UK Fri 26 Robin, Bilston Resorts World, B’ham much-loved film of the same name, teraction in an outdoor adaptation of MORTELLICA Sat 27 Mon 22 - Sat 27 July, The Alexandra Quentin Blake’s wacky adventure, July, Route 44, B’ham Theatre, Birmingham Tues 23 July, Martineau Gardens, Birmingham KD LANG Sat 27 July, HAIR Jake Quickenden, Daisy Wood- Symphony Hall, Birm- Davis & Marcus Collins star in the ELMER THE PATCHWORK ELEPHANT ingham 50th anniversary production of the Based on the classic children's book iconic musical, Tues 23 - Sat 27 July, of the same name, Tues 23 - Wed 24 STEVIE WONDER: THE Wolverhampton Grand Theatre July, The Core Theatre, Solihull HITS Performed live by 16-piece orchestra, THE LION, THE WITCH & THE WARDROBE Sat 27 July, Birming- A Lichfield Garrick Community Musi- ham Town Hall cal production, Tues 23 - Sat 27 July, Lichfield Garrick Cabaret STRESS RELEASE + TINA T'URNER TEA LADY'S STEAMY BATH TUB + LOUIS ANNIE Jodie Prenger stars as Miss BINGO Laugh, dance and play to win CROFT Sat 27 July, The Hannigan in a new version of the as Tina spins her cage of balls to a Actress & Bishop much-loved rags-to-riches tale, Tues high-energy ’80s soundtrack, Thurs Birmingham 23 July - Sun 11 Aug, Birmingham 25 July, Old Joint Stock Theatre, Hippodrome LIME CORDIALE Wed 31 Birmingham July, O2 Academy, A VOLATILE HISTORY OF CHEMISTRY In- Birmingham teractive time-travelling adventure ROSALIE CUNNINGHAM through the history of chemistry, Wed 24 July, Stafford Gatehouse Theatre BAND Wed 31 July, The Events Slade Rooms, Wolver- A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM Pre- hampton sented by Chapterhouse Theatre LEGO CITY Explore what the city of the Liv Warfield - Pizza Express Live, Birmingham Company, Wed 24 July, Birmingham future would look like and build awe-

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Monday 22 - Wednesday 31 July

some creations, until Sun 1 Sept, Aston Hall, Birmingham LEGOLAND Discovery Centre, B’ham FAIRY DOOR CRAFT Welcome fairies PIRATES AND MERMAIDS Join ‘the ulti- into your garden by creating your mate underwater adventure’ this very own fairy door to take home, summer, until Sun 8 Sept, National Wed 24 July, Sarehole Mill, Hall Sea Life Centre, Birmingham Green, Birmingham NIMROD TOURS Step on board the SMETHWICK ENGINE STEAMING DAY Nimrod XV249 and learn about its in- Chance to view the Smethwick En- telligence-gathering role in the Royal gine, the oldest working steam en- Air Force, Mon 22 - Wed 31 July, RAF gine in the world, Wed 24 July, Cosford, Nr Wolverhampton Thinktank Science Museum, B’ham DESTINATION SPACE THE MOON Family LITTLE SKIPPERS: CANAL LIFE Boat trip show explaining the Apollo pro- followed by a ‘make & do’ session in- gramme, what it takes to get to the spired by activities associated with moon and what life is like working on the canal, Wed 24 - Thurs 25 July, the lunar landscape, Mon 22 July - Fri Dudley Canal and Tunnel Trust 30 Aug, Thinktank Science Museum, JUNGLE WALKIE TALKIES ACTIVITY Make Birmingham yourself a jungle walkie talkie, Thurs ANIMAL MASK CRAFT ACTIVITY AT 25 July, Blakesley Hall, Birmingham LEGO City; Report for Duty - LEGOLAND Discovery Centre, Birmingham BLAKESLEY HALL Create your own ani- KIDS JEWELLERY WORKSHOP Design HERITAGE DIESEL GALA AND BUS RALLY QUARTER Find out about the work un- mal mask, Tues 23 July, Blakesley and create either a bracelet or pen- Chance to re-live the ’60s and ’70s by dertaken by women from the late Hall, Birmingham dant, Thurs 25 July, Museum of the checking out a collection of heritage 1800s through to the 1980s, Sat 27 THIS MAKES THAT WITH THESE - PEDAL Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham diesel locomotives, Fri 26 - Sun 28 July, Museum of the Jewellery Quar- POWER Create your own inventions TALL TALES: SLEEPING BEAUTY Interac- July, Gloucestershire Warwickshire ter, Birmingham with the museum’s challenge kits, tive telling of Sleeping Beauty, Fri 26 Railway, Broadway BRITISH DRIFT CHAMPIONSHIP The Tues 23 July, Coventry Transport Mu- July, Aston Hall, Birmingham PLANT HUNTERS’ FAIR Traditionally ‘premier UK competitive drift series’, seum BUG JAM 33 VW festival ‘bringing to grown plants for every type of gar- Sat 27 - Sun 28 July, NEC, B’ham PICTURE THIS! FAMILY DRAWING TOUR life the very essence of VW and den, Sat 27 July, National Memorial MEDIEVAL OPEN DAY Celebrate all Tap into your inner artist via this inter- Campervan culture’, Fri 26 - Sun 28 Arboretum, Staffordshire things medieval, Sun 28 July, Weoley active drawing exploration of Aston July, Santa Pod Raceway, Wellingbor- WOMEN'S WORK IN THE JEWELLERY Castle Ruins, Birmingham Hall, Tues 23 July - Tues 27 Aug, ough

whatsonlive.co.uk 65 The List Birmingham 22-31 July.qxp_Layout 1 21/06/2019 12:34 Page 3

thelist Monday 22 - Wednesday 31 July #EV ELECTRIC VEHICLES FESTIVAL Go 31 July, Sarehole Mill, Hall Green, back in time and then into the future, Birmingham Sun 28 July, British Motor Museum, FALCONRY DAY Get up close and per- Gaydon, Warwickshire sonal with falcons, owls, hawks and SUMMER TILE DECORATING WORKSHOPS eagles, Wed 31 July, Birmingham Create your own ceramic master- Botanical Gardens piece, Mon 29 July - Fri 2 Aug, Jack- field Tile Museum, Jackfield, Ironbridge, Shropshire THIS MAKES THAT WITH THESE - WIND Food & Drink UP ENGINES Find out about engines WORCESTER FOOD FESTIVAL Showcas- that were wound up with a starter ing more than 60 food & drink stalls, handle, and make a mini engine to food & drink matching sessions, take home, Tues 30 July, Coventry cookery demonstrations and master- Transport Museum class workshops by a number of well- WW2 IN THE CASTLE Commemorating established chefs, Sat 27 - Sun 28 the 75th anniversary of the D Day July, Worcester City Centre landings. Try your hand at firefighting, The Human League - Solihull Summer Fest, Tudor Grange Park, Solihull learn about wartime communications, The Orielles, Tracyanne & Danny and SOLIHULL SUMMER FEST Line-up in- have a go at decoding secret mes- Kero Kero Bonito, Fri 26 - Sun 28 cludes The Human League, The sages and meet the billeting officer, Festivals July, Butterley Station, Ripley, Der- Vamps, and The Proclaimers, Sat 27 - Tues 30 July - Thurs 1 Aug, Tamworth WARWICK FOLK FESTIVAL Line-up in- byshire Sun 28 July, Tudor Grange Park, Soli- Castle cludes Billy Bragg, Skerryvore and CARFEST NORTH Line-up includes Bev- hull WATT 2019: CRAZY SCIENCE Take part Karan Casey, Thurs 25 - Sun 28 July, erley Knight, All Saints and Clean MADE FESTIVAL Line-up includes Andy in hands-on science inspired by the Warwick School Bandit, Fri 26 - Sun 28 July, C, Chase & Status and Sub Focus experiments of James Watt and his BAREFOOT FESTIVAL Line-up includes Bolesworth Castle, Tattenhall b2b Dimension, Sat 27 July, Perry Lunar Society friends, Wed 31 July, Mr B The Gentleman Rhymer, DEERSTOCK MUSIC FESTIVAL 2019 Un- Park, Birmingham Soho House, Birmingham Moscow Drug Club, Josephine and known Era, Def Goldblum and Pretty INNER CITY LIVE Line-up includes MONSTER MASKS CRAFT Scare your The Artizans, Fri 26 - Sun 28 July, Babs, Fri 26 - Sun 28 July, Newton Doves, Johnny Marr, The Coral & The friends and family by making your Prestwold Hall, Loughborough Cross Country Course, Nottingham Twang, Sun 28 July, Perry Park, Birm- own ‘mythical monster’ mask, Wed INDIE TRACKS 2019 Line-up includes ingham

4 Oct 19 SOLIHULL The Core 0121 704 6962 15 Oct 19 DUDLEY Town Hall (matinee) 01384 815577 16 Oct 19 BRIDGNORTH 01746 766477 Theatre On The Steps 23/24 Oct 19 KIDDERMINSTER Rose Theatre 01562 743745 27 Nov 19 REDDITCH Palace Theatre 01527 65203

12 Mar 20 TAMWORTH Assembly Rooms 01827 709618 13 Mar 20 WORCESTER The Swan 01905 611427 2 Apr 20 LICHFIELD Garrick 01543 412121

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66 whatsonlive.co.uk Belgrade Theatre Full July 2019.qxp_Layout 1 20/06/2019 12:38 Page 1 Place In The Sun Full July 2019 .qxp_Layout 1 21/06/2019 15:14 Page 1