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ALISON HAMMOND MAKES Your FREE essential entertainment guide for the Midlands YOUR WISHES COME TRUE... WORCESTERSHIREWHAT’S DECEMBER ON 2017

Worcestershire ISSUE 384 DECEMBER 2017 ’ WhatFILM I COMEDY I THEATRE I GIGS I VISUAL ARTS I EVENTSs I FOOD On worcestershirewhatson.co.uk PARTOF WHAT’S ON MEDIA GROUP inside:

Yourthe 16-pagelist week by week listings guide

BradleyPETER Walsh PAN and Martin Kemp head for Neverland TWITTER:@WHATSONWORCS

lanternSHINE procession A LIGHT celebrates togetherness in Bromsgrove FACEBOOK:@WHATSONWORCESTER

BELSHAZZAR’S FEAST WORCESTERSHIREWHATSON.CO.UK festive folk in Evesham British Heart Foundation F/P December 2017.qxp_Layout 1 22/11/2017 14:24 Page 1 Contents December Warwicks_Worcs.qxp_Layout 1 21/11/2017 16:26 Page 2

December 2017

Contents

Double trouble - two Dames for the price of one at Coventry’s Belgrade Theatre - feature page 8

Steeleye Span Barbara Nice The Snow Dragon the list

English folk icons in special brings her annual Christmas Tall Stories stage legendary tale Your 16-page show at Warwick Arts Centre Cracker to Bromsgrove at Bridge House Theatre week-by-week listings guide page 15 page 20 page 29 page 51 inside:

4. First Word 11. Food 15. Music 20. Comedy 22. Theatre 37. Film 42. Visual Arts 45. Events

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

Managing Director: Davina Evans [email protected] 01743 281708 Sales & Marketing: Lei Woodhouse [email protected] 01743 281703 Chris Horton [email protected] 01743 281704 What’sOn Editorial: Lauren Foster [email protected] 01743 281707 Brian O’Faolain [email protected] 01743 281701 Sue Jones [email protected] 01743 281705 Abi Whitehouse [email protected] 01743 281716 MEDIA GROUP Ryan Humphreys [email protected] 01743 281722 Adrian Parker [email protected] 01743 281714 Contributors: Graham Bostock, James Cameron-Wilson, Heather Kincaid, Katherine Ewing, Jenny Ell, Lauren Cole, Jack Rolfe, Elly Yates-Roberts, Daisy Sparkle, Carol Lovatt Publisher and CEO: Martin Monahan Accounts Administrator: Julia Perry [email protected] 01743 281717 This publication is printed on paper from a sustainable source and is produced without the use of elemental chlorine. We endorse the recycling of our magazine and would encourage you to pass it on to others to read when you have finished with it. All works appearing in this publication are copyright. It is to be assumed that the copyright for material rests with the magazine unless otherwise stated. No part of this publication may be reproduced, or stored in an electronic system, transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopied, recording or otherwise, without the prior knowledge and consent of the publishers. First Word Warwickshire_Worcs December.qxp_Layout 1 21/11/2017 16:25 Page 1

Entertainment news from around the region

Midwinter magic set to delight at Stratford-upon-Avon venue A Stratford-upon-Avon venue is hosting ‘a magical winter extravaganza’ this month. Midwinter Magic Dance-Circus Spectacular (13 - 17 Decem- ber) is promising to take audiences on an intriguing journey through the contemporary gardens of Shakespeare’s New Place - the site of the playwright’s family home - which opened as a visitor last year. Performers from local company Motionhouse will present a series of dance performances and acrobatics inspired by the timeless themes of Shakespeare’s work. Commenting on the event, the venue’s manager, Chloe Mal- endewicz, said: “We’re excited to be working with Motion- house to put on this visual and physical spectacle for visitors to enjoy this festive season. We wanted to use the event to open up a different perspective to Shakespeare, and show how his themes can be explored in a contempo- rary and creative way. “We can’t wait to see what magical acrobatic performances the dancers have in store for us!” For more information about the event, visit shakespeare.org.uk/events.

Coventry music historian with strings of lanterns laced through the boughs of trees and a trail of fairy lights lead- Community parade shines gets an Honorary Degree ing visitors into ‘a magical wonderland’. a light on Bromsgrove Attractions to enjoy include the Mistletoe Bromsgrove plays host to the Festival of Light Garden, a traditional fairground and her- on Sunday 17 December, a community cele- itage-inspired stalls. Mince pies, toasted bration of togetherness and the winter sea- marshmallows and mulled wine help keep son. the chilly midwinter weather at bay. The atmospheric event takes the form of a The events runs from Friday 15 to Saturday 23 large-scale multi-faith lantern procession December. through the town’s centre. Commenting on the festival, Hannah Phillips, Director of Artrix Arts Centre, which is programming the event, said; “We want to unite local people of all genders, nationali- Coventry music historian, journalist and ties, ages, religions and abilities with an in- music museum curator Pete Chambers has spiring and beautiful piece of outdoor art, received an Honorary Doctorate from and we hope that lots of people will join us at Coventry University, in recognition of his Artrix during December to create their own ‘outstanding contribution to the musical lanterns.” For further information about the heritage of Coventry’. Pete received his parade, or to book a free lantern-making Degree last month and now takes his place workshop, visit artrix.co.uk or contact the alongside other musical honorary alumni Scrooge on stilts and venue’s box office on 01527 577330. including Jerry Dammers, Pauline Black, Peter Waterman, Ray King and Tony Iommi. other sights in Solihull! Christmas comes alive across Solihull town centre on the first three Saturdays of Decem- An enchanted Christmas ber, thanks to a ‘selection box’ of festive en- at Kenilworth Castle tertainments for the whole family to enjoy. Attractions include singing lampposts, Kenilworth Castle after dark will have a Scrooge on stilts, a Victorian magician, decidedly enchanted feel about it this naughty elves, storytelling tents for children Christmas. and a visiting choir. The Three Wise Men will The popular venue is being transformed into also be visiting the town centre with their ‘a winter fairytale of light, colour and sound’, camels and dedicated handlers.

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Coca-Cola truck heads to Coventry The iconic Coca-Cola truck is visiting Coventry this month as part of its UK Christmas tour. The truck stops off in the city on 11 December, providing families with the opportunity to explore a ‘snowy winter wonderland’. “Coca-Cola is synonymous with the Christmas season,” says the drinks giant in publi- cising the visit, “and it’s no se- cret that our much-loved truck tour marks the unofficial countdown to Christmas.” For more information, visit coca-cola.co.uk/stories/keep- on-trucking

Makeover for RSC costume workshop The Royal Shakespeare Com- Making Memories at Coventry’s Belgrade Theatre pany’s (RSC) costume work- Coventry’s Belgrade Theatre is once again running its Making Memories initiative this year. shop is to be restored and Designed to help families who are struggling financially or because of illness, the scheme sees the redeveloped, after which it venue partnering with Coventry Foodbank to provide 600 tickets to its panto production of Cinderella. will be opened to the general Commenting on the campaign, Helen Hotchkiss, the Belgrade’s Head of Development, said: “I’d like public for the first time. to say a huge thank you to everyone who donated to Making Memories last year, helping to provide Commenting on the news, people who’re facing a challenging Christmas with a treat that they won’t forget. Spending quality Catherine Mallyon, RSC Execu- time together watching a show and building happy memories for the future can be a luxury that some tive Director, said: “The work- people simply can’t afford. We can’t make people’s problems go away, but we can give them some shop has operated in its respite and help them to feel more positive.” current form since the 1950s. For more information, visit belgrade.co.uk/support-us/makingmemories Every year, millions of people enjoy our costumes, and we know that they’re fascinated by the processes that go into On the run with Amelia Lily joins Shrek The Musical tour making them. Acorns Hospice X Factor favourite Amelia Lily is to share the role of Princess Fiona with “For the first time, we want to Acorns Children’s Hospice Call The Midwife star Laura Main when Shrek The Musical heads out open our workshop to the pub- is holding its 10th anniver- on a national tour. lic, so that people can experi- sary Santa Run at Birming- Directed by Nigel Harman, the produc- ence the craftsmanship and ham’s Cannon Hill Park on tion visits Birmingham, Wolverhamp- skill that goes into making our Saturday 2 December. ton and Stoke-on-Trent next year. beautiful costumes.” Entrants are given a free Commenting on the news, Lily said: fancy-dress Santa suit and “I had my first taste of performing as can take part in either a Princess Fiona back in 2012 when I 5km Santa Run or a 2km donned the famous green dress for a Santa Stroll. Children In Need special. It was an in- Entry is £20 for adults, £10 credible experience, so when the op- for under-16s and includes portunity came up to reprise the role, a Santa suit and a medal... I jumped at the chance. I can’t wait to To sign up for the event, set out on a road trip across the coun- visit acorns.org.uk/santa, try with all my fairytale friends.” For ring 01564 82 5000 or con- more information, visit shrekthemusi- [email protected] cal.co.uk

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Entertainment news from around the region

Pull on your Kinky Boots! Hit musical Kinky Boots is heading to the Midlands next year. Featuring songs by award- winning pop icon Cyndi Lauper, the show stops off at the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre from Tuesday 16 to Saturday 27 October. It then returns to the region early in 2019, running at the Regent Theatre, Stoke-on- Trent, from Monday 28 Jan- uary to Saturday 9 February. Commenting on the produc- tion, Cyndi Lauper said: “It’s been a wonderful ad- venture and a privilege for Festive fun and frivolity as Leamington lights up for Christmas me to play a part in creating Kinky Boots. Everyone can A ‘magical’ lantern parade will once again kickstart the countdown to Christmas in . relate to this universal story, The annual event, taking place on Sunday 3 December, is followed by Christmas carols around the Tree of and I’m overwhelmed that Lights at the town hall. Entertainment is provided by the Royal Spa Brass Band and local singer David Har- people in the UK have em- rop, with reindeer and stilt-walking snowflakes also in attendance! braced it with open arms. Commenting on the parade, Stephanie Kerr, Executive Director of BID Leamington, which organises the I’m thrilled that this fabu- event, said: “We’re once again looking forward to being wowed by the spectacular creations made by peo- lous show will be touring ple of all ages.” For more information, visit leamingtonlanternparade.co.uk. the country!” For more information, visit kinkybootsthemusical.co.uk Pie and politics on Birmingham Royal Ballet joins forces offer in Coventry with Sadlers Wells in new dance project Birmingham Royal Ballet will next year present the first shows to be produced as part of a five-year project called Ballet Now. The new initiative will see two new one-act ballets being created each year for the duration of the project, providing up-and-coming chore- ographers with the chance to lead a creative process in a major ballet company. Commenting on the project, Abigail Reeve, producer of Ballet Now, said: “This is a unique programme of development and new work that Birmingham Royal Ballet is delighted to be launching in associa- tion with Sadler’s Wells. Its aim is to develop the next set of creative Making Merry at Actor and comedian Tom Walker voices for the dance world. The first three choreographers commis- is bringing comic creation sioned through the programme bring with them fresh outlooks and the Herbert Jonathan Pie to Warwickshire. ideas which will excite audiences across the world.” Coventry’s Herbert Art Walker’s character, an opinion- The first Ballet Now commission, choreographed by George Gallery is once again host- ated news reporter, became an Williamson, will be performed as part of the In The Upper Room ing its Making Merry internet sensation following a mixed programme at Birmingham Hippodrome from 20 to 23 June. evening this month (8 De- series of video clips in which he cember). ranted about the state of UK pol- The popular event provides itics. Hailed by impressionist visitors with the chance to Rory Bremner as ‘the most excit- check out local and ethical ing satirical creation since Alan arts & crafts, experience the Partridge’, Pie presents an sights, sounds and smells of evening of political comedy at the season and find unique Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, gifts for family and friends. on Wednesday 7 March. 6 whatsonlive.co.uk First Word Warwickshire_Worcs December.qxp_Layout 1 21/11/2017 16:25 Page 4

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Dinosaurs return to the Midlands Global sensation Walking With Dinosaurs is returning to the Midlands next summer. The hit production, based on the award-winning BBC televi- sion series, has been enjoyed by more than nine million people in 250-plus cities around the world. Popular TV presenter Michaela Strachan will star in the show as ‘Hux- ley’ the paleontologist. Commenting on the produc- tion’s return, Carmen Pavlovic, CEO of Global Creatures, the company producing the show, said: “A new generation is ready to experience these life- size beasts in this awe-inspir- ing spectacle, which has still not been matched in terms of scale and quality. Many of our creatures have ‘evolved’ since the last tour, now featuring Something Beastly this way bounces! distinctive display feathers, head crests and tail fans, re- Midlanders are being invited to unleash their beast at the NEC near Coventry this month, courtesy of flecting recent discoveries the world’s largest inflatable obstacle course. At an impressive 272m in length, The Beast is ‘the ulti- about the physical nature of mate bouncy castle experience for adults’ and features no fewer than 32 obstacles. these massive creatures. This Visitors to the event, which runs from Friday 8 to Sunday 17 December, can also enjoy street food, show remains a must-see for cocktails and craft beers. Live DJs and an ‘extraordinary’ sound and lighting show also feature. audiences of all ages.” Walking With Dinosaurs - Arena Spec- Dickens’ Carol World record attempt as Peter Pan offers tacular gets folky pantomime pleasures in Neverland! shows at Arena The classic story of A Arena Birmingham is this Birming- Christmas Carol gets the month hosting a festive fam- ham from folk music treatment at ily show that’s bidding to 26 to the Herbert Art Gallery enter the record books. 28 July. in Coventry this month The company behind Peter (10 December). Pan: Christmas In Never- Using new lyrics and tra- land is hoping the produc- Adventure park set ditional English folk tion will be confirmed by tunes, GreenMatthews Guinness World Records as to open at the NEC (with special guest Jude the biggest-ever Christmas The company behind Alton Rees of Pilgrims’ Way) show. Towers is next year intending use a blend of voices and Starring Bradley Walsh and to open a £20million ‘Bear instruments to create a Martin Kemp, the produc- Grylls adventure park’ at the musical retelling of tion features numerous NEC near Coventry. Charles Dickens’ sea- ‘stunning’ special effects, Merlin Entertainments has sonal favourite. including a lifesize Jolly Roger galleon which will ‘sail’ around the arena submitted a planning applica- The production is suit- in front of a 10,000-gallon water wall. tion to transform the NEC’s able for audience mem- The show also includes a team of BMX stunt riders, six aerial mermaids, Pavilion building into a brand bers aged eight-plus and a ‘crazy collection’ of trapeze and trampoline stuntmen and ‘the biggest, new attraction featuring a has a running time of scariest animatronic crocodile you’ve ever seen’. range of adventure-style activ- approximately two Peter Pan: Christmas In Neverland runs at Arena Birmingham from 20 to ities. hours. 24 December. whatsonlive.co.uk 7 Double Trouble.qxp_Layout 1 21/11/2017 11:10 Page 1

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by Heather Kincaid

Double Trouble... Dames Iain Lauchlan and Greg Powrie certainly make a gruesome twosome in Coventry Belgrade Theatre’s pantomime production of Cinderella!

With Cinderella being this year’s Belgrade “It’s always a real treat doing panto here “but Greg is just so generous to work with, as Theatre pantomime, Coventry is in for twice because we get a completely new set, props well as being a really good performer. So the fun as the stage is graced by not just one, and costumes every year,” says Iain. “The when it was decided that we’d be doing but two veteran Scottish panto dames. Belgrade is really lucky to have its own Cinderella this year, I asked him to come But audiences might not be the only ones wardrobe and workshop.” down because I needed someone that I really seeing double this Christmas. Fresh from Despite Iain’s extensive dame experience, it’s liked and could trust.” gallivanting around Glasgow, holidaying in the first time in over 20 years he’s played an With the sisters serving a dual function as the Highlands and drinking distilleries dry, Ugly Sister. For Powrie it’s the second year on both baddies and comic relief, Cinderella Cinderella’s Ugly Sisters Dyspepsia and the trot - he was an Ugly Sister in a Lauchlan- often has a different dynamic to other pantos. Listeria head for the Midlands loaded up on penned Imagine Theatre panto at Kirkcaldy’s “Quite often with Cinderella, you don’t have a whisky and pizza crunch (that’s battered, Adam Smith Theatre in 2016. Stepmother,” explains Iain, “or she’s just a deep-fried pizza to the uninitiated). “It’s quite odd to be doing Cinderella two voice off-stage, so the Uglies are the out-and- Joining local legend Iain Lauchlan for his years running because, like Iain, I’ve been out baddies. But in this show, by bringing the Coventry debut is Pitlochry’s own Greg doing Dame for the last however many years Stepmother in, you’ve got a figure for the kids Powrie. The pair play sisters Pepsi and Lizzie and usually there’s an autonomy about that. to really dislike, which helps to soften their respectively. So if you choose to go off-piste, you can. feelings towards the sisters.” “As people here will know, I always play my Whereas with Uglies, it’s a double-act, so “I think that makes it more fun,” adds Greg. dames as Scottish anyway,” says Iain, who in you’ve got to take a bit of a gamble on who “You want to be able to laugh at the Uglies, 2017 is taking part in his 23rd Belgrade panto, the other half is. That’s why you get a lot of but if they’re the only ones making juggling the roles of writer, director and dame comedy double-acts doing it, and duos who Cinderella’s life a misery, it’s more difficult to once more. “This year we’ve definitely got a just do Ugly Sisters and never play dames do that.” independently.” strong Scottish theme, particularly at the Unusually, Maggie Robson will be taking on beginning.” “I’m actually not a great lover of doing two very different maternal guises here, “I think it’s fair to say a lot of English people Cinderella,” Iain admits. “I usually much doubling up as Cinderella’s Stepmother and have certain preconceptions about prefer to be a dame than an Ugly Sister. The her Fairy Godmother. Meanwhile, as Buttons, Scotland,” adds Greg, “some of which are last time I did it must’ve been in the early comic Craig Hollingsworth will move away apocryphal and some of which are true. But ’90s, although I’ve directed it here since then. from his usual on-stage camaraderie with the that’s something that we play on quite a lot - The problem is that sometimes it can become dame, with his and Iain’s characters this time getting drunk and things like that. I’m a bit of a competition. It wasn’t until I first at loggerheads. played it alongside Greg that I felt like this actually really intrigued to see how it’s going “Craig is definitely going to be getting some was how it should be done, where you’re to work because I’ve never done a panto in payback this year,” says Iain, “because he helping each other out rather than England before. I think it’ll be weird - at least pretty much always ends up getting the worst competing.” initially - because Iain and Craig of it in the slosh scenes, whereas this year (Hollingsworth, who plays Buttons) know the It might be Greg’s first time in Coventry, but that’ll be Greg.” audience so well, and then you’ve got this the Caledonian co-stars still have history, “I’ve only known him for two days and I can Scottish upstart coming in!” from Iain’s days as creative director of already sense he’s going to enjoy that,” adds Belgrade panto co-producers Imagine That ‘Scottish theme’ will also be reflected in Greg. the design: the sisters’ top style tips this Theatre. Cinderella was the third pantomime season involve lots of tropical fruit as well as he performed in at Inverness’ Eden Court tartan, which, according to Greg, “never goes Theatre, recruiting Greg as his comedy partner following auditions in Edinburgh. Cinderella shows at Belgrade Theatre, out of fashion”. Take note, Coventry Coventry, until Saturday 13 January fashionistas. “I didn’t know him before that,” says Iain, whatsonlive.co.uk 9 Food December Warwicks_Worcs.qxp_Layout 1 23/11/2017 09:26 Page 1 Food December Warwicks_Worcs.qxp_Layout 1 23/11/2017 09:26 Page 2

Food

whilst refreshingly modern, left ply melted in the mouth. the venue somewhat lacking in My partner’s choice of Chicken atmosphere - something the Breast stuffed with Spinach and manager assured me would soon Apricot in a Korma Sauce was be remedied in the form of an im- every bit as delicious. Poised minent revamp. somewhere between French-style Stick with Amid Palace, though, chicken cordon-bleu and Per- and I promise you won’t be dis- sian-style biriyani, the sweetness appointed! In fact, you’ll wonder of the apricot, coupled with the why you wasted your time on intense richness of the korma anywhere else! sauce, was nothing short of ex- ceptional, whilst the wilted Choosing from the extensive Ap- spinach stuffing provided an ad- petiser menu, it didn’t take long ditional layer of moisture to the to see why Amid Palace had chicken breast, lightly seared earned itself a reputation as one and cooked to just the right side of the best Indian restaurants in of firm. Warwickshire. Presented with theatrical flair and an intricate A brief glance at our neighbours’ eye for detail rarely seen outside desserts - which arrived com- of a Michelin-star restaurant, plete with Heston Blumenthal- every dish was a visual tour-de- style dry ice and spun sugar REVIEW: Amid Palace force in its own right. Not only accompaniment - was further that, but every component on the testimony to Amid Palace’s re- Indian eatery is a roadside revelation plate - from the star of the show freshingly innovative and ambi- to the humble side salad - tious approach. But despite what In the crowded and competitive highly impressive choice of ‘sig- worked perfectly together, ele- our eyes were telling us, our field of contemporary Indian/ nature dishes’, fusing Indian, ment by element, flavour by stomachs were forced to concede Bangladeshi cuisine, it would be Bangladeshi and European influ- flavour, as part of a deliciously defeat. easy to overlook the leafy sub- ences. These range from the pan- conceived whole. From the beau- Marrying entrepreneurial spirit urbs of Nuneaton, Warwickshire, European style Roasted Duck tifully fresh King Prawn Puri with ingenuity and exquisite in the search for culinary innova- Breast with Berry Sauce (served (£4.50) - lightly spiced in oil and flavour combinations, Amid tion. But how wrong you’d be to with Masala Mash) right through cooked to absolute perfection - Palace may not be the most obvi- do so! to the restaurant’s own unique right through to my partner’s ous place in Warwickshire to sit Cushioned between the multicul- take on Fish & Chips (served here choice of lightly battered down to an evening of a la carte tural capitals of Leicester and with a fiery tomato, coriander Spinach Dumplings (£3.50) - dining, but it’s well on its way to Birmingham, Nuneaton’s Amid and chilli ketchup) and 1970s stacked one on top of the other becoming one of the very best! Palace is a foodie’s gem in every curry-house staple Chicken Tikka and served with a dressing of Always on the move, never sense of the word. Masala - re-introduced here in cool yoghurt dip, pomegranate standing still, this roadside reve- the form of the traditional Indian seeds and a layer of spicy sauce - lation has a big future ahead of it The brainchild of Leicestershire delicacy of sweet and sour Old the remarkable flavour combina- - and I, for one, wish the team entrepreneur and restaurant Delhi Chicken. tions (coupled with freshness of every possible success in realis- manager Khalid Hussain, Amid produce) made for a truly im- ing their ambitions. Palace prides itself on an ethos Added to this are a tantalising pressive experience. of ‘never standing still’, offering selection of ‘Amid special’ cur- For five-star flavours with added up a menu that digs deep into ries, ‘clay-oven favourites’ and For my main course I opted for showmanship, a royal reception the traditional roots of Indian ‘fish specials’ which together the non-traditional choice of Sea awaits you at Amid Palace. and Bangladeshi cuisine, whilst help set Amid Palace apart from Bass with Garlic Spinach and Katherine Ewing at the same time pushing the the clichéd ‘curry houses’ of the Tomato Jam (£11.95), accompa- boundaries of region, technique typical UK high street. nied by a side dish of warming Food: nnnnn and flavour to create something Conveniently located for local Tarka Dal (£3.50). Lightly mari- Service: nnnnn remarkably unique and entirely residents, business and passing nated in aromatic spices and in- Ambience: nnnnn unexpected. hotel trade, Amid Palace was, I fused with the subtle yet Overall value nnnnn distinctive tones of South Asia, Bringing together a la carte felt on entering, a tad under- OVERALL nnnnn every mouthful was an explosion restaurant and takeaway service, whelming. Tucked off the A444 of flavours. The sweetness of the Amid Palace Amid Palace’s ambitiously con- in the manner of a drive-by diner tomato jam complemented the Griff Way ceived menu marries tried and or roadside restaurant chain, the fish perfectly, whilst the spinach Nuneaton tested ‘favourites’ - like the clas- clean and crisp interiors, soft- accompaniment, tossed in a rich CV10 7DA sic balti, korma, dupiaza and jal- pine furnishings and light, low- coating of garlic and ghee, sim- Tel: 024 7638 8444 frezi, to name but a few - with a level metallic light fixtures, whatsonlive.co.uk 11 Sold Out F/P December 2017.qxp_Layout 1 22/11/2017 08:27 Page 1 Food December Warwicks_Worcs.qxp_Layout 1 23/11/2017 09:26 Page 4

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Leamington balti wins Celebrate the festive season with a Spanish feast Asian Curry Awards If you’re Christmas shopping in Birmingham con tomate (toasted bread, garlic, tomato and Following recent recognition at the and fancy a bite to eat, take note: Tapas olive oil), Pavo relleno con jamón (roast turkey prestigious national Curry Life Awards, Revolution is celebrating the festive season breast wrapped in serrano ham and filled with Leamington's popular Millennium Balti with a special Spanish Christmas menu. manchego cheese served with new potatoes, restaurant has continued its winning Parties of six or more can enjoy two courses for savoy cabbage and piquillo pepper sauce) and streak at the 2017 Asian Curry Awards. £16.95 (tapas and a main dish) or three courses churros con chocolate. In a ceremony at the Grosvenor House for £19.95 (tapas, a main and a dessert). To book a table at the Grand Central-located Hotel in Mayfair, London, the local Among other delights, the menu features pan Tapas Revolution, call 0121 643 6381. curry house took home the title of ‘best Indian restaurant in Warwickshire’ - in so doing adding another accolade to an already impressive list.

Edwardian tearoom launches 'press for Champagne' service Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery’s Edwardian Tearooms has partnered with the award-winning House of Piper- Heidsieck Champagne to launch a ‘press for Champagne’ service. Each private booth in the Tearooms has been installed with its own Champagne buzzer. One press, and a server will be on hand to guide the table through the full Piper-Heidsieck menu.

Lola’s Cupcakes arrive at Selfridges Cupcake-loving visitors to Selfridges Birmingham should prepare Italian restaurant group opens new Midlands eatery themselves for a real treat, thanks to the recent arrival in the store of Lola’s Leading Italian casual-dining group Cupcakes. Gusto has launched its second restaurant New to the city, Lola’s handcrafts a in Birmingham. wide range of themed cakes and The new 156-cover eatery is located on cheesecakes for customers to enjoy, the corner of the £12million Mulberry either in-store or at home. Walk leisure & retail development in With more than 30 flavours from which Sutton Coldfield. to choose, including vegan pistachio, Gusto offers a menu of freshly prepared gluten-free chocolate and tiramisu - Italian-style dishes. These include 28-day there’s a cupcake to suit every taste. aged premium steak with garlic butter, whole salt baked sea bass infused with lemon and Italian herbs, tagliatelle with prawns & garlic and freshly made pizzas. The venue also boasts a comprehensive worldwide wine list, a selection of unique specials, lunch and brunch options, and a ‘make your own pizza’ children’s menu. The Mere Green branch is the 19th Gusto restaurant to open in the UK. Birmingham’s first Gusto eatery was launched in the city centre in 2016. whatsonlive.co.uk 13 GIGS December Warwicks_Worcs.qxp_Layout 1 23/11/2017 09:30 Page 1

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Gigs

Belshazzar’s Feast The Fleece Inn, Brefforton, Sun 10 December One-time BBC Folk Awards nominees Paul Sartin (of Bellowhead and Faustus) and Paul Hutchinson (of Hoover The Dog) are back on tour with a Christmas-themed show that mixes traditional folk, seasonal music, jazz, classical and more. The pair are good value humour-wise too, so expect their display of fine musicianship to be served up with a healthy side order of spoken, physical, musi- cal and even slapstick comedy.

Goodall album The Whole Thing Is Moving earlier this year. Artrix, Bromsgrove, Sat 23 December Goodall is here joined by percussionist Having received praise from the likes of David Rees-Jones, Jack Smith (drums) and Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, Elbow’s Guy Garvey, singer-songwriter Jack Thom Hollick (bass guitar, synth). Kate Sun 17 December Goodall released funk and afrobeat second Wilkins (piano, synth) performs a solo set. With their 50th anniversary approaching, Steeleye Span play a special show in the com- pany of two of their musical contemporaries, Acoustic Strawbs and Pentangle's Jacqui Mc- Fish Pulled Apart By Horses Shee. The band’s new seven-piece lineup fea- Leamington Assembly, Sun 10 December The Empire, Coventry, Thurs 14 December tures lead singer , Benji Scottish singer-songwriter Derek William Indie rock band Pulled Apart By Horses Kirkpatrick of Bellowhead, Liam Genockey, Dick, better known by his stage name of came to prominence with their self-titled Andrew ‘Spud’ Sinclair, Julian Littman, Jessie Fish, achieved prominence as the lead debut album in 2010. May Smart and newbie Roger Carey. singer and lyricist of neo- The four-piece have since released a further band Marillion during the 1980s. three albums, supported the likes of Biffy He returns to UK stages not only to debut Clyro, Foals and Muse, and recorded a new album Weltschmerz but also to present Takeover for Annie Mac and Radio One. a 30th anniversary performance of Clutching Fourth album The Haze reached number 12 At Straws - his last album with Marillion. in the charts when it was released back in March of this year. John Kirkpatrick Huntingdon Hall, Worcester, Tues 12 December Folk legend John Kirkpatrick’s Carolling And Crumpets show looks at the timeless rituals found in the folklore and folk music of England at midwinter. Expect original songs and a sprinkling of carols both famil- iar and unfamiliar. whatsonlive.co.uk 15 Jersey Boys DPS.qxp_Layout 1 24/11/2017 16:14 Page 1

THE RETURN OF THE JERSEY BOYS Jersey Boys DPS.qxp_Layout 1 24/11/2017 16:14 Page 2

The award-winning jukebox musical telling the story of Frankie Valli And The Four Seasons is returning to Birmingham’s New Alexandra Theatre this month. Heather Kincaid caught up with Jersey Boys stalwart Michael Watson to find out more...

After three years playing Frankie Valli at “Now that I’m 30, I’m right in the middle of “Everyone remembers it differently, as they London’s Piccadilly Theatre, as well as a stint that age range, and starting a family of my say. I think there’s an overarching story that’s understudying the role at the Prince Edward own, so I do feel a deeper connection to the true, but the way each character tells it in Theatre, actor Michael Watson has spent a scenes where Frankie interacts with his wife their monologues might stretch the truth a considerable amount of time trying to get and children. I think I play it more honestly bit. But it’s more complex than that because inside the head of the 1960s music icon. because I know how I’d feel if something like you’re getting different age perspectives as that happened to me.” well. I think that’s the best thing about the But it seems he’s not quite finished with the show - it takes you through the four seasons. character yet. With the smash-hit musical The need for this emotional range and So when you’re with Tommy at the beginning Jersey Boys kicking off a UK tour at the New maturity might go some way to explaining in spring, everything has this kind of wide- Alex this month, Watson is now helping to why Watson was unsuccessful in his first eyed quality about it because they’re all very bring the magic from the West End to the audition for the part at the tender age of 21. young. Then in summer, it’s all bright and West Midlands. We caught up with him to “At the time I felt like they were just starting fun and the band is very successful, and in find out more about the man behind the to get excited about me, but then I did autumn, we have this crash where everything music, and the Four Seasons’ enduring another round and the audition just starts to go wrong. Eventually, you get to appeal. suddenly stopped. It was a couple of years winter, where it’s much darker, with Frankie “All of us playing the members of the Four later when the next opportunity came up, but trudging along doing all these gigs to pay off Seasons have been in the show before, three instead of being put off, the knock had debts.” of us in the West End,” he explains. “With actually made me more determined. I Much has been said about the Four Seasons this production, they’ve really taken their thought, if I could get them interested two as a ‘blue collar’ band, speaking to the time and thought about who they wanted to years ago, I’m definitely ready for it now!” experiences of America’s urban working- be in it, since it’s going to be the only one in It’s a unique and doubtless strange class. Yet at the same time, their appeal the UK when we take it out. Also, because the experience to perform the life story of a clearly reaches beyond national borders, and show hasn’t been running for a little while, I person who’s not only real, but still alive and even across generations. think it’s going to come back very fresh and taking an interest in the show. with a really strong energy, kicking down the “Sometimes after a show, you’ll have door of musical theatre.” “I was actually lucky enough to meet Frankie someone who’s about 15 come up to you and - he came and watched me in the show, and say how much they loved it, but then you’ll Watson isn’t the only one to have stuck with fortunately he shook my hand and gave me also meet someone who’s 65 or 70, who’s the show for a long time. His West End his seal of approval. But I think for me, it was excited to have relived the songs from their predecessor, Ryan Molloy, played the role for more about developing the character that’s in childhood. I think if you asked Frankie or an impressive total of six years. the script, because as much as I might try to Bob Gaudio, they’d tell you that this show “I think for a male in the West End - emulate the legend that is Frankie Valli, I has brought their music to the masses again, especially of a certain height - it’s the don’t want to do an impression.” and made it bigger than they ever expected it ultimate role. Not only do you get to do a to be at this point. But a big part of the Indeed, inaccuracies - or at least differences marathon sing, as an actor it’s hugely appeal is just that the songs are so of opinion - are at the very heart of this story. challenging because you never leave the beautifully simple and elegant. If you look at Jersey Boys is famous for its ‘Rashomon stage, and you have to go from age 15 to 45 in Sherry, for example, it’s about asking effect’ - that is, presenting differing accounts the space of two-and-a-half hours. It’s like someone out, which is something anyone can of events from a variety of perspectives. the musical theatre equivalent of Hamlet - it’s relate to. And they’re so catchy! Start singing Inspired by the lack of information available a true arc of someone’s life you have to go Sherry to anyone, and they’ll sing the repeat about the band members outside their through.” back to you.” glittering pop career, scriptwriters Marshall The extensive period of time the story covers Brickman and Rick Elice based the novel is a crucial part of what holds its actors’ format on interviews they conducted with the interest. As they themselves grow older, their surviving members, complete with Jersey Boys shows at Birmingham’s New understanding of the characters’ journey contradictions. Alexandra Theatre from Saturday 16 deepens. December until Saturday 6 January Classical December Warwickshire .qxp_Layout 1 21/11/2017 11:09 Page 1

16 whatsonlive.co.uk Classical December Warwickshire .qxp_Layout 1 21/11/2017 11:09 Page 2

Classical

Christmas With The Phil St Mary’s Church, Warwick, Sat 16 December The Coventry Philharmonic Orchestra are no strangers to celebrating Christmas, having been formed over 70 long years ago during the Second World War. Their 2017 festive offering sees them turn- ing their attention to the challenge of per- forming the first part of Messiah. Handel’s famous oratorio is certainly get- ting a good airing in Warwickshire this month, with Armonico Consort and Or- chestra of the Swan also performing the piece (see previews left and bottom left). As well as Messiah, the Coventry Phil get their collective teeth into a selec- tion of seasonal music, including a number of much- loved carols. Steven Russell conducts. Armonico Consort Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, Thurs 7 December If you’ve never heard Handel’s Messiah, you’ve missed out on one of music’s most uplifting experiences. The oratorio features a series of much-loved classics, including For Unto Us A An Evening With Child Is Born and the legendary Hallelujah Chorus. Nigel Kennedy This month joining the Midlands-based, period instrument-playing Armonico Consort to perform the work is soprano Elin Manahan Thomas and legendary bass Sir Willard White. Malvern Theatre, Wed 6 - Thurs 7 December And the latter is certainly looking forward to the experience: “Singing with ‘period instru- ments’ feels softer and fragile,” says Jamaican-born opera star Willard. “Paradoxically, No doubt inspired by the finally improv- there is a profound invitation to listen differently. And more care needs to be taken with the ing fortunes of his beloved Aston Villa, vocal presentation, which I, as a singer, need to make.” virtuoso violinist Nigel Kennedy here presents the UK premiere of a brand new project in which he reinterprets the work of American composer George Gershwin. Orchestra of the Swan: Last Night Of The Kennedy’s Malvern concerts also see him Handel’s Messiah Christmas Proms perform pieces by Johann Sebastian Bach, Holy Trinity Church, Stratford-upon-Avon, Symphony Hall, Birmingham, as well as some of his own compositions. Sat 9 December Wed 27 December As with Armonico Consort and the Coventry Just when you thought you’d packed away Phil (see elsewhere on this page), the Or- your union jack flags until next summer, chestra of the Swan is this month taking on along comes a festive-season version of the the challenge of Messiah. Last Night Of The Proms! Handel’s magnificent choral masterpiece Conductor John Pryce-Jones and the Lon- tells the story of Christ's Nativity, Passion, don Concert Orchestra are joined for the Resurrection and Ascension. Hugely popular event by violinist Joo Yeon Sir, baritone with classical music audi- James Cleverton and tenor Samuel Sakker. ences, the oratorio has The programme features, among other been performed in Britain compositions, Vaughan Williams’ The Lark every year since the mid- Ascending and Vivaldi’s Summer from The 18th century. Four Seasons. Unquestionably its best- Proceedings are then rounded off with known section is the Rule, Britannia!, Nessun Dorma and Land rousing Hallelujah Cho- Of Hope And Glory, providing plenty of op- rus, one of the most fa- portunity to burn off those Christmas calo- mous pieces of Baroque ries with some enthusiastic flag waving! choral music ever written. whatsonlive.co.uk 17 The Twang (v2016) Warwickshire.qxp_Layout 1 21/11/2017 11:16 Page 1

18 whatsonlive.co.uk The Twang (v2016) Warwickshire.qxp_Layout 1 21/11/2017 11:16 Page 2

Christmas with The Twang

Voted best Midlands band by What’s On readers in 2016, The Twang this month return to Birmingham’s O2 Academy for their annual festive shindig. We caught up with frontman Phil Etheridge to talk Christmas, collaborations and career highlights...

This year marks the 10th anniversary of How will you be spending Christmas Day ? Who were your musical influences The Twang’s debut album, Love It When I Recovering, I guess. The Brum gig’s on the growing up? Feel Like This. Describe how life’s been 23rd, so the wife’s gonna have to bear with me I liked listening to whatever was on the skate from then to now. till at least Boxing Day. videos. I really liked Op Ivy because of this H We've just been doing lots of the same, really street video where Matt Hensley skated to What’s on the top of your Christmas list? - trying to have as much fun as possible. bad town. I also liked bands like Carter, To be happy and healthy and never have to get We’re fortunate that the band has been the Ned’s, The Wonder Stuff and PWEI because a proper job. biggest part of our lives for going on 10 years my older brother was bang into all that now, and long may that blag continue... The Twang are a Brummie band. What’s it ‘weirdo’ scene. Then, after skating it was I guess the biggest difference is we’ve all like playing to a home crowd? Do the dance, rave, house, whatever you wanna call since had kids and stopped the partying to a shows feel more special? it. I always kinda listened to the music that degree. You don’t wanna be that 40-year-old I used to find them difficult, as I’d put too was happening at the time. I was never really drunk in the corner of a room full of cool 20- much pressure on it being the best night of the one for going back and finding records from year-olds, telling them how your band once year, but now I’ve kinda realised it’s all about the ’60s etc.. not enough time in the day for played Glastonbury… the crowd. We’ve just gotta do what we do and that. We’ve also just released our ‘best of’ - Either it’ll all be grand. Way, It’s The Best Of The Twang - which was You’re well known on the festival circuit. a big moment for all of us. What’s your favourite thing about the city? Do you have a favourite festival? My mom. We’ve just done Beyond The Tracks, which And you’re going to be playing the debut was a really great show for us. It was great to record in its entirety at Birmingham’s O2 What’s your favourite hobby outside of be on the same bill as The Coral again, so I’m Academy this month… music? gonna say that one. Gerv and the rest of the Yeah, we’re super-excited about it and are I run quite a bit to clear the head. Most of the Moseley Folk lot are top. They deserve all the currently in the studio trying to remember friends I’ve made through the band aren’t success they get. how to play the songs. A number of those musicians. Instead they work within fashion tracks we haven’t played since 2007, so it’s or design, or are artists or whatever... I guess What’s your career highlight? been great listening to them again. that’s where my interest lies outside of the I think definitely just getting a record deal band. and handing in my notice at work. I think The Twang tend to tour around Christmas. that’s the best feeling I’ve ever had. Is there a reason for this? What would your dream collaboration or It’s become a bit of a tradition. I think a lot of project be? What does the future hold for The Twang? folk treat it as their Christmas party, so the I’d love to write an album and then have I honestly have no idea, so we’ll just keep on atmosphere’s pretty incredible. The someone completely remix it on a dance tip, keeping on. Christmas gigs have been some of my but everyone wants to write that favourite ever. I’ve noticed a few bands have Screamadelica, don’t they? So maybe if I could started doing it now as well. It’s ‘party just get Calvin Harris to do a tune with us, I The Twang play the O2 Academy, season’, so it makes sense. could get that swimming pool built... Birmingham, on Saturday 23 December.

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Comedy

Omid Djalili Stratford Arts House, Fri 1 December; Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury, Thurs 14 December Award-winning funnyman Omid Djalili is probably one of the most subversive co- medians currently doing the rounds on the UK comedy circuit. An actor as well as a standup, Omid has appeared in numer- ous box office blockbusters, including Gladiator, The Mummy, Sex And The City 2 and the James Bond movie The World Is Not Enough. He’s visiting the Midlands with his cur- rent stand-up show, Schmuck For A Night... “I like the word schmuck,” says Omid. “It means ‘fool’ or buffoon. You have to be a schmuck to do comedy in today’s climate. I’m embracing the schmuck in me to take on the big issues of our day. Plus, it’s a word that ends with ‘uck’, which can only be a good thing...”

Jollyboat The Bramall, Birmingham, Fri 8 December Musical double act Ed and Tommy Croft are a gift from heaven if you’re an out’n’proud geek with a nerdy love of Dungeons & Dragons, Game Of Thrones, Star Wars and the like. If you’re not, there’s the definite possibility that your attention may drift at certain points during the boys’ show. Thankfully the amiable siblings churn out sufficient quality mate- rial to ensure you’re back in the room in two shakes of a dragon’s tail. The Harry & Chris Show Often compared in style to Flight Of The Conchords, the brothers trade well off their near- Artrix, Bromsgrove, Fri 15 December; psychic connection with one another, and are well worth an evening of your time. Stafford Gatehouse Theatre, Twenty pre-show minutes on Wikipedia, genning up on all things nerdy, may further en- Sat 30 December hance your appreciation of their comedy endeavours. Family-friendly fellas Harry Baker and Chris Read combine ‘comedy, melody, po- etry and best-matery’ to excellent effect. Barbara Nice’s Presenting what they refer to as comedy- Christmas Cracker jazz-rap, their songs’ subject matter ranges from panda repopulation to televi- Artrix, Bromsgrove, Tues 12 December; MAC, Birmingham, sion’s Robot Wars, all presented via a win- Fri 15 - Sat 16 December ning blend of catchy tunes and clever Everybody’s favourite Kings Heath wordplay. housewife makes a welcome re- turn to light up the festive season. As well as containing more jokes than you’d find in an oversized yuletide gag-bag (does such a thing actually exist?), Barbara’s festive shows usually feature a tombola and raffle, no shortage of mince pies, and even the odd spe- cial guest or two.

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Reginald D Hunter The Comedy Loft, Birmingham, Fri 15 & Thurs 19 December American funnyman Reginald D Hunter is one of the UK’s most popular comedians. His no-nonsense style and hugely amusing perspectives on the differences between the US and Britain have struck a real chord with his audiences, earning him an impressive legion of admirers. And with regular gigs on TV shows keeping him in the public eye, it's fair to assume his loyal fanbase is just going to keep on growing...

Crisis At Christmas The Glee Club, Birmingham, Mon 18 December Enjoy an evening of quality comedy and help tional charity Crisis, to provide food, warmth the homeless while you’re at it. and vital services for people who’re having to Crisis At Christmas is a unique volunteer ef- live on the streets. fort that provides immediate assistance for Birmingham-born Joe Lycett is host for the homeless people at a critical time of year. evening, with comedy contributions coming And by attending this special event, you’ll be from Harry Hill, Joe Pasquale, Tom Ward, helping to raise much-needed funds for na- Darren Harriot and Kiri Pritchard McLean. Jessica Fostekew Belgrade Theatre, Coventry, Mon 18 December Greg Davies “I exist in real life but am also a comedian, Civic Hall, Wolverhampton, actor and writer,” says Jessica Fostekew. Fri 8 - Sat 9 December “Since 2008 I’ve been throwing this job If you recognise Welsh funnyman Greg around like you would a walnut in a sock.” Davies from the telly but can't quite re- Realising herself to be a feminist “the very call from which programme, it's The In- first time somebody said: You’re really betweeners you're likely to be thinking funny for a woman”, Jessica gets her com- of. Greg played psychotic Head of Sixth edy inspiration from her life, her family and Form Mr Gilbert. witchcraft - although reassuringly she re- As well as being funny, Greg’s other veals that the latter source provides only claim to fame is his height - he’s six feet around one per cent of her material! eight inches tall in his stockinged feet. Feet, by the way, which are a whopping size 13! A big man, then, with an ever-growing reputation on the comedy circuit, he’s currently touring his latest show, You Magnificent Beast. Greg thinks it’s important to be ab- solutely honest about what punters can expect from one of his gigs. “My shows are funny,” he says, “but to be clear, if you're looking for insight into the human condition, you'd be better off eating a bun or picking up a stick...”

whatsonlive.co.uk 21 Joe Lycett for online.qxp_Layout 1 28/11/2017 10:41 Page 1

Joe Lycett Joe Lycett for online.qxp_Layout 1 28/11/2017 10:41 Page 2

Birmingham comedian Joe Lycett is hosting Crisis At Christmas, a charity fundraiser in aid of the homeless, at the city’s Glee Club this month. He will then be returning to Brum next year with his brand new touring show. What’s On caught up with him to find out what audiences can expect...

The phrase ‘bigger and better’ might have contender, but then I listened to the Pointer cool with this’. Even if he’s impeached and been coined specifically for Joe Lycett’s new Sisters’ song and thought, ‘Can I walk on leaves, he’s opened so many doors we’ll touring show. Hitting the road with I’m About feeling confident to this music?’ And yes, I never be able to close in terms of how we To Lose Control And I Think Joe Lycett (more probably can, so let’s name the whole tour expect politicians to behave. People saying on that punning title later), the Birmingham after that. appalling things might not seem that comedian is taking a brand new set of appalling because it’s already normalised.” “Any time I meet a musician, I request that observations, setpieces and gags to larger they write a song with ‘I like it’ in the title. Still, in moments of crisis (and the US going venues than he’s previously appeared in on The thing I love about all this is that there are head-to-head with North Korea over nuclear his solo tours. Not that he’s especially fazed now proper discussions about the title. I’ll be weapons certainly has a 1960s Cuban Missile- by any of it. sitting down with my agent, who also style vibe to it), the world of comedy is “I certainly have some big nights planned on represents Frankie Boyle and Jimmy Carr, always able to thrive. “It’s a good time to be this tour. I said to Sarah Millican that I felt I and the main question is, ‘Which Lycett- an artist because there’s lots to talk about, so had to write a show that was big enough for based pun shall we go for this time?’” weirdly all that stuff helps. Unless things go those venues and, in her infinite wisdom, she In terms of the actual content of his show, Joe to a complete state of emergency, there’s said, ‘No, the show should be good enough always scope for people to hear someone talk has once more rejected the notion of a fixed for 100 people’. So it’s intimidating in terms about the state of things in an intelligent way. theme and instead is riffing on bizarre and of the scale of it and the sense that there’ll be To be honest, though, I don’t know whether funny stuff that’s happened to him in the last a lot of eyes on me, but I always try and do I’m the person to do that. Sure, I can sit here couple of years. “I’m not the sort of writer the best possible show I can. There’s no and talk about it point who can restrict himself to a theme, just in at length, but to actually otherwise.” case nothing good comes of it. I prefer to get construct something that can change people’s minds is quite another thing.” Joe’s comedy career started off at Manchester annoyed about stuff, and then maybe you University (he won the Chortle Student can spot loose themes that you can tie So instead, Joe will be taking his own Award in 2009). He then took several together. This one won’t necessarily be about particular brand of storytelling comedy to his acclaimed shows to the Edinburgh Fringe losing control. Or if it is, it’ll be by pure loyal fanbase. and supported the likes of Jack Whitehall e.” chanc “You should trust that if you find something and the aforementioned Millican in some of Famed for online spats which often become funny, other people will too. The whole thing the nation’s enormo-domes. Given that he’s huge viral hits before making their way into about building up an audience is about played in rooms of all shapes and sizes, he’s his stage act (a local council and an email taking people with you who will be on the in a strong position to know exactly what spammer have previously been put through same page - but some things that I think are works for him. the Lycett wringer), Joe has a new set of hilarious might die a death, so you then try to “The beauty of stand-up is that generally it subjects about which to vent his spleen when reconstruct it. There’s one routine in the new does scale up, and it’s about your ability to he hits the road. These include a curious show that I really care about and really hope connect with an audience. I think arenas pickle he got himself into involving the head works. It’s not quite there yet in terms of might be too big for the type of shows I want office of a financial establishment which took working for an audience, but I believe in that to do, but the theatres are great. I’ll be using exception to an on-the-spot jape featuring a routine, so I will keep developing it to make it PowerPoint again, which gives the crowd friend who worked in a bank’s building, a work. But then there are others that I like but something to focus on, and that can scale up security pass and a ridiculous made-up don’t quite believe in enough to fight for. You as big as you like.” name. “It’s fascinating because this bank have to pick your battles in writing stand-up And so to those pun-based show titles. went back through all my tweets and comedy. Do you want to make that point or Instagram posts to check if I’d done not? If you do, then you always find a way of Having brought us Some Lycett Hot in 2012 something similar in the past. Whoever doing it.” (the show for which he was nominated as could’ve known that a massive bank would best newcomer at the Edinburgh Fringe), he’s have a sense-of-humour failure? So I want to since come up with If Joe Lycett Then You make a point about banks and power and Should Have Put A Ring On It and That’s The the Joe Lycett hosts Crisis At Christmas at Way, A-Ha A-Ha, Joe Lycett. It’s clear, then, way they mould us into what they want us to Birmingham’s Glee Club on Monday 18 that his new show’s title, I’m About To Lose be.” December. Control And I Think Joe Lycett, is simply the Taking a broader view on the world, Joe may He returns to the city with his new tour latest in a well-established tradition. even be having his say on the divisive man in next year, playing the New Alexandra Theatre May and Symphony Hall in “You can’t go too far wrong with the Pointer the White House. “I’ve been writing about him and trolling him a little bit, but haven’t November. Sisters,” Joe insists. “James Acaster suggested we all? It’s like shouting into the void. I Joe will also be stopping off at various that I went the whole hog and went for I’m So haven’t really done much political stuff in my other venues across the Midlands. Joe Lycett, And I Just Joe Lycett, I’m About To stand-up, but I feel that at this point, as Full details of his new tour can be found Lose Control And I Think Joe Lycett. There many of us as possible have to say, ‘We’re at joelycettcomedy.co.uk was another long one that was a strong not Theatre December-2.qxp_Layout 1 23/11/2017 14:02 Page 1

Theatre Festive favourites from around the region

Cinderella Birmingham Hippodrome, Tues 19 December - Sun 28 January Midlands-born soul diva Beverley Knight takes her bow in pan- toland this Christmas, starring as the fairy godmother in this spectacular festive production. She’s joined for a show not to be missed by the hunky and the always delightful Suzanne Shaw. Comedy comes courtesy of Hippodrome panto regular Matt Slack and the still-going-strong Grumbleweeds. Ceri Dupree and Phil Randall don the giant wigs and altogether unpleasant manner to play the not-very-nice Ugly Sisters.

Belgrade Theatre, Coventry, until Sat 13 January This year’s Belgrade Theatre version of the famous fairytale features all the usual panto elements, including slapstick com- edy, audience participation, stunning sets, breathtaking cos- tumes and plenty of singing and dancing. And also very much as usual, the show has been written and directed by Mr Coven- try Panto himself, the inimitable Iain Lauchlan.

Birmingham Hippodrome’s Cinderella Malvern Theatre, Thurs 14 December - Sun 7 January Former contestant and This Morning regular Alison Hammond tops the bill this year, as Malvern’s ever-faithful panto audience is invited to attend Prince Charm- ing’s spectacular ball. Alison is joined by Gemma Naylor from Nick Jr’s Go! Go! Go! show and Paul Hawkyard from CBeebies’ Old Jack’s Boat. Highly rated funnyman Mark James keeps the laughter coming.

Artrix, Bromsgrove, Sat 16 - Sat 23 December With its comical Ugly Sisters, matchmaking fairy godmother, drop-dead-gorgeous Prince Charming, super-cute mice and fits-one-foot-only glass slipper, Cinderella can justifiably lay claim to being the most popular of all pantomimes. This brand new version is being presented by Artrix regulars All & Sundry. Cinderella at Coventry’s Belgrade Theatre Cinderella at Malvern Theatre

Robin Hood & The Babes giving the exact same treatment to its 2017 around which to build a pantomime produc- production. tion of real quality. In The Wood So... they’ve taken the story of Robin Hood, And if previous panto offerings at each of the Stafford Gatehouse Theatre, added a Babe In The Wood or two, stirred in a above-listed venues are anything to go by, Thurs 7 December - Sun 7 January few time-honoured pantomime favourites Sleeping Beauty 2017 is likely to be just that. and then seasoned liberally with all manner Indeed, we’re so confident you’ll be wide- of rock’n’roll hits. eyed with excitement that we’ll even bet our A recipe for success if ever there was one - so best antique spinning-wheel that any snoring brace yourself for a fabulous festive feast of you might hear in the auditorium will only be fun and frivolity. coming from the title character herself! Sleeping Beauty Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury, Sat 2 - Sun 31 De- cember; Blue Orange Theatre, Birmingham, Tues 5 - Fri 8 December; , Leamington Spa, Sat 2 - Sun 31 December; They’ve done it before and now they’re doing Swan Theatre, Worcester, Mon 4 December - it again. Yep, Stafford Gatehouse’s oft-used Sun 7 January strategy of imbuing their annual pantomime The tragic tale of a young princess who’s with a real rock’n’roll flavour has proved so tricked by an evil fairy and pricks her finger popular in previous years that the venue is on a spinning-wheel, causing her to fall asleep for 100 years, offers a great story Sleeping Beauty at the Royal Spa Centre, Leamington Spa 22 whatsonlive.co.uk B.Hipp. Dec. RIGHT HAND FP 2017.qxp_Layout 1 22/11/2017 11:29 Page 1

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Theatre

Jack And The Beanstalk Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, Sat 9 December - Sun 14 January The Wolverhampton Grand is certainly on a roll when it comes to providing high-quality festive fare, with its 2016 panto production having been voted the Midlands’ best Christmas show in the 2016 What’s On Readers’ Awards. And the venue's Christmas 2017 offering looks set to be every bit as energised and entertaining as its illustrious predecessor. Gareth Gates stars as Jack, with Lisa Riley returning to the venue to take the role of Spirit of the Beans. Also getting back in the Grand Theatre panto saddle is ‘queen of the Black Country’ Doreen Tipton, taking on the role of Dame Trott’s lazy neighbour. And speaking of the Dame, pantomime favourite Ian Adams will once again be slapping on the rouge to play her, and no doubt giving his usual outrageous performance. Adam C Booth, mean- while, is two potatoes short of a Christmas dinner as Simple Simon, while familiar television face Graham Cole offers precious little by way of yuletide goodwill as the oh-so-evil Fleshcreep.

The Core, Solihull, Fri 8 - Sun 31 December The fee-fi-fo-fumming ogre isn’t the only pantomime giant for whom the curtain will be coming down at the end of this brand new show... The inimitable Malcom Stent is bidding a fond farewell to pan- toland come the 31st of December, waving adieu after 27 years of writing, directing and starring in Solihull’s favourite yuletide pro- duction. Alongside all the traditional fun and frivolity, Malc’s usual festive sackload of local references will ensure the show has a real ‘made in the Midlands’ feel about it.

Palace Theatre, Redditch, Peter Pan Snow White And The Wed 6 - Sun 31 December Arena Birmingham, Wed 20 - Sun 24 Decem- Seven Dwarfs Everybody knows the story. The nasty old ber; The Place, Oakengates Theatre, Telford, queen is less than keen on her younger and Wed 6 - Sun 31 December Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, Wed 29 November - Sun 7 January more beautiful stepdaughter, who takes Midlands pantomime audiences this year get refuge from her royal evilness by holing up in two chances to fly away with the boy who the deep, dark forest with a household of wouldn't grow up to a magical island filled small but splendidly friendly miners... with adventure. Britain’s winner Jai McDowall Meet a real fairy, marvellous mermaids, won- takes top billing as Snow White’s handsome derful Wendy and the down-on-their-luck prince in this sure-to-be-lively Palace Theatre lost boys. Oh, and beware the ever-so-wicked version... Dave Benson Phillips and Nicole Captain Hook and a very hungry crocodile Faraday (Bad Girls) lend strong support. who goes tick-tock (he swallowed a clock)... Martin Kemp and Bradley Walsh star in the The fact that Snow White is a 24-carat classic Arena Birmingham production, about which of a fairytale means that a pantomime ver- you can read more in the First Word section sion is always a surefire winner. Expect all of this issue (see page four). the usual panto elements in this brand new Theatre Severn offering, including a rouged- up Dame in colourful costumes, oodles of hearty thigh-slapping, singalongs aplenty, slapstick comedy and even a few naughty jokes to make sure the grown-ups don't feel too left out of things. Shropshire's ‘favourite Dame’, Brad Fitt, once more dons the dress (and probably steals the show!).

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Festive favourites from around the region

Aladdin Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent, Fri 15 December - Sun 7 January ‘Son of the Potteries’ Jonathan Wilkes dons the tights to star as the lad himself in this ever-popu- lar pantomime tale. Homecoming hero Jonathan’s a festive fixture at the Regent Theatre nowadays, and is set to play an inevitably significant part in making Aladdin one of the region’s must-see pan- tomimes this Christmas. He’s joined by big pal and fellow Regent panto regular Christian Patter- son, who’ll be giving his usual larger-than-life performance as the Dame, on this occasion Widow Twankey.

Lichfield Garrick, until Sat 6 January A perfect story for an evening of family entertain- ment finds street youth Aladdin trying against all odds to win the hand of the beautiful princess - and being helped in his efforts by the mystical genie of the lamp... CBeebies Cat Sandion stars in this latest version of the classic Arabian Nights tale. She’s joined in the show by Sam Rabone (as Widow Twankey) and Ben Thornton (as Wishy Washy), both of whom scored a massive festive hit in the Garrick’s Christmas 2016 adaptation of Sleeping Beauty.

A Christmas Carol Treasure Island Crimes On The Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Stratford-upon- New Vic Theatre, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Christmas Express Avon, Mon 27 November - Sun 4 February; until Sat 27 January Blue Orange Theatre, Birmingham, Sat 16 - Sat Lichfield Garrick, 30 December Fri 8 December - Sat 6 January Of all Dickens’ festive stories, A Christmas An alternative festive-season comedy for Carol reigns supreme. The covetous sinning adults, Crimes On The Christmas Express of the miserly Scrooge, the eternal hope of- takes its inspiration from sources as diverse fered by Tiny Tim, and the eerie visions of re- as Agatha Christie novels and the Jason demption - visiting Ebenezer in the shape of Bourne movies. The show features a talented three yuletide ghosts (four if you count the cast of four who between them play an im- chain-clanking Marley) - all combine to give pressively wide range of quirky characters, the tale a real olde worlde charm. from jewel thieves and circus performers to The RSC version of the show has been lovelorn porters and sleazy Americans. penned by David Edgar, whose previous work Award-winning theatre company New Old for the Company includes his award-winning Friends present the production, making a adaptation of Dickens’ Nicholas Nickleby. welcome return to the Garrick following a sell-out success at the venue last Christmas. When salty old seadog Billy Bones brings his papers to the Admiral Benbow Inn, he draws young Gem into the adventure of a lifetime, one which will see her not only setting sail in search of buried treasure, but also spending time in the company of a one-legged pirate with murder in mind... Boasting live music, puppetry and swash- buckling sword fights, this brand new stage version of Robert Louis Stevenson’s high-seas adventure is helmed by New Vic Artistic Di- rector Theresa Heskins.

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Theatre Festive shows from around the region

The Hundred And One Dalmatians The REP, Birmingham, Thurs 30 November - Sat 13 January Birmingham Rep is going dotty for dogs this Christmas, cour- tesy of its brand new stage version of The Hundred And One Dalmatians. The REP’s Associate Director, Tessa Walker, takes the helm for the festive-season family show, having previously directed the venue’s yuletide productions of A Christmas Carol and The Lion, The Witch And The Wardrobe. Dodie Smith’s delightful tale has been transformed for the stage by Debbie Isitt, writer and director of the hugely popu- lar Nativity! films. Isitt’s stage show, Nativity! The Musical, began its national tour at The REP in October. Commenting on the venue’s 2017 Christmas offering, Tessa Walker said: “I’m delighted to be bringing to life the magic of The Hundred And One Dalmatians in our unforgettable pro- duction, which features wonderful puppets and new music. Debbie’s adaptation is packed with enchantment and hu- mour, and brings a thrilling new sense of adventure to the story, making it fun for families and friends of all ages.”

Flashdance theatre countless times and in all manner of Skellig ways, including as a ballet, a musical, an New Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham, Mon 4 - Fri 9 December Old Joint Stock Theatre, Birmingham, opera and a traditional pantomime. Wed 20 - Sat 30 December With its cast of nonsensical and amusing Based on the popular ’80s movie of the same David Almond's eerie and magical story tells characters, including the White Rabbit, the name, Flashdance features hit numbers Ma- the tale of a young boy who discovers a Mad Hatter and the March Hare, it invariably niac, Manhunt, Gloria, I Love Rock And Roll strange creature and nourishes him back to makes for a great Christmas show. and the Academy Award-winning What A health. Meanwhile, the boy's baby sister is Read our feature on page 32. Feeling. The show tells the story of 18-year- gravely ill in hospital... The critically ac- old Alex, a welder by day and ‘flashdancer’ claimed Tin Robot Theatre are the company by night, who dreams of winning a place at behind this stage adaptation of Almond's Birmingham Royal the prestigious Shipley Dance Academy. But 1998 Carnegie Medal award winner. will she get to achieve her ambition against Ballet: The Nutcracker all the odds?... Strictly Come Dancing cham- Birmingham Hippodrome, pion Joanne Clifton (pictured) and A1 heart- The Lion, The Witch And until Wed 13 December throb Ben Adams star The Wardrobe Sir Peter Wright’s enchanting version of this firm festive favourite returns to the Hippo- Crescent Theatre, Birmingham, Sun 3 - Sat 16 December drome this month, courtesy of Birmingham Royal Ballet. This much-loved tale from the pen of CS Created in 1990 as a thank you to Birming- Lewis is rightly regarded as an all-time clas- ham for its support of the company following sic of children's literature. The story sees the its move to the Midlands from London’s lion-god Aslan coming to the aid of three Sadler Wells, Wright’s production is seen by youngsters who’ve accidentally stumbled many as the finest interpretation of into his mystical world of Narnia. Tchaikovsky’s magnificent and mesmerising score. In true Christmas spirit, the story follows the Alice In Wonderland young Clara as she’s swept up in a fantasy of The Old Rep, Birmingham, soldiers, giant rats, snow fairies, magic and until Sat 30 December mystery, before fi- A timeless classic telling the magical and de- nally being trans- cidedly topsy-turvy story of a little girl who formed into a falls down a rabbit hole and discovers a beautiful ballerina. weird world, Alice's Adventures In Wonder- A magical, must-see land first made its way onto the stage during show for little its author Lewis Carroll’s lifetime; in 1886, to princesses every- be precise. It’s since been adapted for the where…

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Theatre

Stick Man Birmingham Town Hall, Tues 26 December - Fri 12 January “Scamp Theatre send shivers down my spine,” reveals Julia Donaldson, the co-creator (along with Alex Scheffler) of the hugely popular chil- dren’s book on which this show is based. “They’re so lively and innovative. I love their production of Stick Man, and so do the audi- ences.” Julia’s not wrong - audiences most definitely do love the show, as a smash-hit season in the West End ably demonstrated. Featuring a trio of talented performers, the pro- duction brings together puppetry, songs, live music and ‘funky moves’ to tell the story of Stick Man’s attempts to get back to the family tree. Suitable for children aged three and older.

Snow Mouse semble, “so if you want to find out, then join The Abominable Santa and his friends in this fun-filled family Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, musical, complete with games, giggles and Snowman Fri 1 - Sun 31 December all your favourite Christmas songs.” Artrix, Bromsgrove, Wed 27 December Sounds good to us... The highly rated Moon On A Stick are the en- semble behind this ‘very silly, very snowy ad- Santa’s Christmas Wish venture’. Blending puppetry, live music and pitch-perfect storytelling for youngsters aged Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, Fri 15 to Sun 24 three-plus, the 50-minute production sets out December; Artrix, Bromsgrove, Sun 24 Decem- ber to show that not everything is always quite as it seems. And that includes the legendary Mrs Claus is wondering what Santa wants for Abominable Snowman, who, it turns out, is Christmas, and needs all the help she can get actually quite adorable! to find out. Enter, Dasher the Reindeer, Pom- pom the Penguin and Snowy the Snowman, all of whom think they’ve got the answer... Festive favourites Jingle Bells, When Santa A magical forest full of play, puppetry and Got Stuck Up The Chimney, The Twelve Days music is the delightful setting for this ‘en- Of Christmas, Rudolph The Red-Nosed Rein- chanting winter’s tale for the very young’. deer and We Wish You A Merry Christmas are A child’s wintry-woodland discovery of a among the songs featured in this 40-minute sleeping mouse buried under the snow kick- show. Created for kids aged from two to starts a friendship that soon sees the warm- seven, the production also includes a meet- hearted pair engaging in all manner of and-greet with Father Christmas, who’ll be fun-filled frolics... Presented by Travelling handing out a gift to every youngster. Light and The Egg, the production is suitable for children aged between three months and Home For Christmas four years. Lichfield Garrick, Tues 12 - Sun 31 December Wobbling under the weight of an enormous Santa In Love Christmas tree, a mother is struggling to Arena Theatre, Wolverhampton, Fri 1 Decem- make her way through a to-do list that’s ber; Artrix, Bromsgrove, Sat 2 December longer than her arm. Her festive-season Youngsters always have plenty of questions stress levels are then sent through the yule- to ask about Christmas, and the People’s tide roof thanks to encounters with a host of Theatre Company is here setting out to pro- quirky characters, including clumsy sheep, vide an answer to perhaps the biggest one of lost birds, stranded farmers and mayors in a all - what’s the one thing that Santa secretly pickle... This gentle rhyming story has been loves best? widely praised for its generous helpings of “You’ll never guess,” advise the talented en- wit, warmth and joy. 28 whatsonlive.co.uk Theatre December-2.qxp_Layout 1 23/11/2017 14:24 Page 8

Theatre previews for younger audiences from around the region

Father Christmas MAC, Birmingham, Thurs 30 November - Sat 30 December Raymond Briggs is best known for his story about a little boy who makes friends with a snowman. But talented theatre company Pins And Needles are doing plenty to promote two of the author’s other less-famous tales. Having last Christmas presented an adaptation of his picture book, The Bear, they’re this year returning to MAC with an equally well-received version of another of his stories. Suitable for children aged three and older, Father Christ- mas features songs, live music, playful pup- petry, secret doors, hidden hatches and plenty of trademark Briggs humour. Expect your chil- dren to be suitably enchanted.

Lily And The Little Santa’s Mixed Up Martian We’re Going On A Snow Bear Belgrade Theatre, Coventry, Bear Hunt Thurs 7 - Sun 24 December The Core, Solihull, Wed 20 - Sun 24 December Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, Coventry panto stalwart Iain Lauchlan is the Wed 29 November - Sun 7 January A heartwarming tale of friendship, Lily And talented scribe behind this Imagine Theatre The Little Snow Bear takes place ‘two sleeps Suitable for children aged two-plus, this new show, the fourth in the series. before Christmas’. The story sees Lily head- adaptation of Michael Rosen and Helen Ox- When a space-scooter-riding, multicoloured, ing out into the snowy countryside after dis- enbury’s popular picture book follows the ex- mixed-up Martian with a liking for Mars Bars covering a mysterious trail of footprints... citing adventures of a family as they head out is blown off course by a solar wind, he’s ‘Exquisite puppets, enchanting music and a on an intrepid quest to find a bear. forced to make an emergency landing on magical snowy setting’ are here combined to Catchy songs and interactive scenes are com- earth, where he finds himself coming face-to- create a feelgood family show for children bined with no shortage of swishy swashy face with Santa, Ellie and Rudolph... aged three-plus. grass and oozy, squelchy mud, in a show that Singalong songs, a Santa meet-and-greet and seems certain to keep youngsters well and a gift for every child add to the fun. truly entertained. The Snow Dragon Birmingham Hippodrome, Thurs 21 December - Sun 7 January; Bridge House Theatre, War- wick, Thurs 14 - Fri 15 December Tall Stories have previously presented hit shows The Gruffalo and Room On The Broom. The company here return with the en- chanting story of a young goat named Billy and his encounter with the legendary Snow The Wind In The Willows Dragon (and some very hungry wolves!). The Witches Albany Theatre, Coventry, Malvern Theatre, Sat 16 - Sun 31 December Thurs 7 December - Sat 6 January When you take a Roald Dahl book and have it A firm festive favourite, Kenneth Grahame’s adapted for the stage by hugely respected classic story ably demonstrates the way in children’s playwright David Wood OBE, you which one life can command the full atten- can expect the outcome to be something tion of three others! worth beholding. And that’s certainly the Mole, Badger and Ratty case with The Witches. Dahl’s delightful story simply don’t have time sees a young boy and his grandmother take for any of their own in- on some rather unpleasant ladies - the terests - they’re way too witches of the title - who’d like nothing more busy having to look after than to squish and squelch all the wretched their reckless and irre- children they despise. Presented by the pressible friend, Toad... Malvern Theatre Players.

whatsonlive.co.uk 29 Beverley Knight DPS.qxp_Layout 1 21/11/2017 10:04 Page 1

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by Heather Kincaid

Beverley Knight The Midlands-born Queen of Soul is this month making her panto debut and working her magic in Cinderella at Birmingham Hippodrome...

With her MOBO Award-winning voice, West “The thing about performing here is that interesting than me doing an album on my Midlands singing sensation Beverley Knight people actually know me - a lot of them are own. It would be unprecedented. Thankfully certainly has plenty of experience of casting people who’ve grown up with me or hung out the label were all over it, and both Amber a spell over her audiences. But this with me, which gives it a whole different and Cassidy said yes, so here we are, a new Christmas, the Wolverhampton-born wonder energy. There’s a sense of ownership, I think, vocal supergroup, and I’m really excited! will be exercising magic powers of a very because I’m very much part of the fabric here “We’ve got a mix of old classics like Memory different sort in the guise of Cinderella’s Fairy in the West Midlands. So I can imagine that and Wind Beneath My Wings from Cats and Godmother. trying to get home every night after the show Beaches, and future classics like Helpless Following more than 20 years’ experience as will be a process!” from Hamilton. There are songs that feature a recording artist, and critically acclaimed As one might expect, Christmas in her family in each of our respective shows too - so I’ll be stage performances in The Bodyguard and household has always been very much a doing songs from The Bodyguard and Memphis, Knight now returns to her regional musical occasion. Memphis. And then there are some that have roots, making her pantomime debut at “I come from a massive musical family and all of us singing together as an ensemble.” Birmingham Hippodrome. Flawlessly kitted we do all like to sing, so we do a lot of At the time of writing, details of the script out in sparkly dress and wings, she’s singing together. I don’t know what we’re and songs for Cinderella remain tightly under positively glowing with enthusiasm about the doing this year, but we always end up singing wraps, from the cast as well as the public. task ahead when she meets us for the panto something at Christmas - usually a cappella But fans can rest assured that there’ll be launch - and with good reason. at the dinner table. I love Christmas songs. I ample opportunity to hear Beverley sing, “I’m really looking forward to it!” she gushes. think it’s a beautiful time of year for including in a duet with Hear’Say’s Suzanne “This isn’t just any panto, it’s the biggest one inclusivity and getting together with the Shaw, who takes the title role. in the world, and to have that as my first - I people you love. Have Yourself A Merry Little Suzanne’s Cinderella is certainly blessed in don’t think it gets any better. Often when Christmas I absolutely adore - I’ve sung that a this choice of Fairy Godmother - it’s hard to you’re in theatre over Christmas, you kind of few times myself.” imagine anyone looking more at home in the feel a bit removed from it all. But panto is A rendition of that song is part of a major part. But while it might be Beverley who’s Christmas, so this year I’ll be the one helping new recording project for Knight, undertaken ensuring happy endings both for Cinders and people to get into the Christmas spirit, which together with fellow musical theatre stars her audience, if roles were reversed, what will be brilliant.” Amber Riley and Cassidy Janson. Under the Christmas wishes might she be hoping to It’s not only the unparalleled reputation of banner Leading Ladies, the trio recently have granted? Hippodrome pantos that persuaded her to released their first joint album, Songs From “Well, number one, my Fairy Godmother take up the part. Having previously worked The Stage. would get Wolves into the Premiership,” she with Qdos’ Michael Harrison on The “I’d been in talks with a record label about laughs. “But I think the main thing for me Bodyguard, she was initially asked by the the possibility of recording an album to would be to make all my endeavours really producer if she’d consider appearing in the reflect the work I’ve been doing in theatre successful. If I could be sure that I’ll still be show. That pre-existing relationship was recently, but I wasn’t too sure about it. But doing this when I’m really old, I’d be happy. I certainly a draw, but perhaps even more soon after that, when I was watching Graham love what I do and I want to do it for as long important was the location, enabling her to Norton, Amber Riley came on to promo as I can.” spend the festive season at home surrounded Dream Girls. She’s an amazing singer, and by her family. And if the crowds of fans who suddenly I had this thought that maybe I flocked to meet her at the stage door during could do something with her. And then, Beverley Knight stars as the Fairy The Bodyguard’s Birmingham run are when I saw Cassidy in Beautiful, it just Godmother in Cinderella at Birmingham anything to judge by, she can certainly expect seemed to me that if the three of us did Hippodrome from Tuesday 19 December a warm welcome back. something together, it would be much more until Sunday 28 January. whatsonlive.co.uk 31 Alice in Wonderland DPS.qxp_Layout 1 21/11/2017 16:19 Page 1

WINTER WONDERLAND Alice comes to the Old Rep Theatre for Christmas...

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by Heather Kincaid

Piles of pantos, never-ending Nutcrackers and unreal elements are present from the young audiences. But perhaps as important an abundance of Dickens adaptations: ’tis the beginning, creating a more natural as any individual skill they’ve picked up has season for Theatreland to fall back on tried progression from the ‘normal’ world into a been the chance to play around and enjoy the and tested family favourites. But if you’ve had Wonderland that becomes more weird and process. your fill of more familiar festive fare, there’s wacky as the story progresses. “You’ve got to have a lot of energy,” says still plenty for you and the kids to enjoy There’s also been room for invention in the Caleb’s fellow Acting BTEC student, Ava around Birmingham, including at the city’s score, which combines settings of songs and Ralph. “It’s important to really bring out the Old Rep Theatre, where Birmingham poems from the book with original numbers character in your movements and facial Ormiston Academy (BOA) is putting on a imitating Carroll’s distinctive style. The expressions, much more than you would for brand new version of Alice In Wonderland. Caucus Race, for example, is full of nonsense an adult audience.” “Our vision here at the Old Rep is to provide lyrics, while Off With His Head delights in “I’ve got young family coming to see it,” adds Christmas entertainment using traditional grisly detail. Caleb, “so I already know how full-on you stories for young children, primarily those “The score has all sorts of strange noises in have to be to keep them entertained for two aged four to 10,” explains producer Suzanne it,” says composer Steve Allan Jones. “It’s hours, but it’s so much fun! In Wonderland, Priest. “There’s something about fairytales taken me seven months to put it together, and you get to say and do the most ridiculous and traditional stories that open up it’s unbelievably complicated. I thought it things - it’s really liberating being able to imaginative possibilities in theatre for young would work really well to bring in toy bring out your inner child and stomp around people, as well as giving our creative team the instruments - things like little pianos and on stage!” opportunity to explore fantasy worlds and flutes, and whatever I could find really. Some characters that really come to life on stage. of them are even out of crackers!” Then to leave that question at the end as to But what really makes this production special whether it was real or just a dream - I think is the collaboration between professional and Alice In Wonderland showa at the Old Rep that really excites children’s curiosity.” student cast and crew. Six lead actors work Theatre, Birmingham, until Saturday Emphasising the traditional aspect, this is a alongside an ensemble of post-16 BOA 30 December. largely faithful staging of the novel, a choice students, while BOA and BSA apprentices are made partly with school visits in mind. partnered with the in-house team in areas like Alongside the show, the company has been technical theatre, front of house, marketing running workshops with classes also and stage management. Acting BTEC student studying the book. This approach to the text Caleb Clarke is excited about the skills the can be seen right down to the design, which show has helped them all to develop. takes its cues from John Tenniel’s original “It’s an amazing experience, and so different illustrations. to anything I’ve done at school,” says Caleb. “If you go back to the original books, there “This is actually the first musical I’ve been are lots of really lovely patterns, especially in involved in, so I was a little bit intimidated by the costumes,” says designer Libby Todd. “If it at first. When the audition came along, I you look at a character like the Queen of thought I’d go for it, because if nothing else it Hearts, for example, a lot of versions now just would be good audition experience. So when show her with quite a plain, big red dress, but I found out I’d been cast, I was over the the illustrations are actually very detailed - a moon, because I’d never thought of myself bit like the designs on a pack of cards.” as a singer or dancer before.” That said, there has been some ‘artistic As well as having their own specific licence’. One key element is the inclusion of animal characters to work on, the Tweedledee and Tweedledum (whose first students also understudy lead roles, appearance is in the sequel story, Through are responsible for scene changes, and The Looking Glass), since it was felt the comic get to operate a star attraction of the duo brought something important to the show: the Cheshire Cat puppet, show’s dynamic. Then, there’s the matter of which has been cleverly designed to Alice herself. appear and disappear in stages. “Sometimes with productions of Alice In “It takes seven of us to operate the puppet,” Wonderland, Alice can feel slightly on the explains Caleb. “It’s all in different edge of the show, like an observer rather than sections - so there’s one for the head, an active participant,” says director Scott Le four legs, a body and a tail. It’s really Crass. “I think our version is much more interesting trying to fit everyone in feisty, with lots of get up and go. She’s an when you’re making the full image - adventurer who’s inquisitive and excited and you’ve got to keep a lot in your head intrigued by everything.” to make it work.” Digital projection and puppetry are among As well as puppetry workshops, the elements used to develop a fresh and rehearsals have also involved unique landscape for Wonderland. Rather learning how to fully engage than a sharp transition, strange, slightly

whatsonlive.co.uk 33 Double Trouble.qxp_Layout 1 24/11/2017 16:15 Page 1 Double Trouble.qxp_Layout 1 24/11/2017 16:15 Page 2

by Heather Kincaid

Double Trouble... Dames Iain Lauchlan and Greg Powrie certainly make a gruesome twosome in Coventry Belgrade Theatre’s pantomime production of Cinderella!

With Cinderella being this year’s Belgrade “It’s always a real treat doing panto here “but Greg is just so generous to work with, as Theatre pantomime, Coventry is in for twice because we get a completely new set, props well as being a really good performer. So the fun as the stage is graced by not just one, and costumes every year,” says Iain. “The when it was decided that we’d be doing but two veteran Scottish panto dames. Belgrade is really lucky to have its own Cinderella this year, I asked him to come But audiences might not be the only ones wardrobe and workshop.” down because I needed someone that I really seeing double this Christmas. Fresh from Despite Iain’s extensive dame experience, it’s liked and could trust.” gallivanting around Glasgow, holidaying in the first time in over 20 years he’s played an With the sisters serving a dual function as the Highlands and drinking distilleries dry, Ugly Sister. For Powrie it’s the second year on both baddies and comic relief, Cinderella Cinderella’s Ugly Sisters Dyspepsia and the trot - he was an Ugly Sister in a Lauchlan- often has a different dynamic to other pantos. Listeria head for the Midlands loaded up on penned Imagine Theatre panto at Kirkcaldy’s “Quite often with Cinderella, you don’t have a whisky and pizza crunch (that’s battered, Adam Smith Theatre in 2016. Stepmother,” explains Iain, “or she’s just a deep-fried pizza to the uninitiated). “It’s quite odd to be doing Cinderella two voice off-stage, so the Uglies are the out-and- Joining local legend Iain Lauchlan for his years running because, like Iain, I’ve been out baddies. But in this show, by bringing the Coventry debut is Pitlochry’s own Greg doing Dame for the last however many years Stepmother in, you’ve got a figure for the kids Powrie. The pair play sisters Pepsi and Lizzie and usually there’s an autonomy about that. to really dislike, which helps to soften their respectively. So if you choose to go off-piste, you can. feelings towards the sisters.” “As people here will know, I always play my Whereas with Uglies, it’s a double-act, so “I think that makes it more fun,” adds Greg. dames as Scottish anyway,” says Iain, who in you’ve got to take a bit of a gamble on who “You want to be able to laugh at the Uglies, 2017 is taking part in his 23rd Belgrade panto, the other half is. That’s why you get a lot of but if they’re the only ones making juggling the roles of writer, director and dame comedy double-acts doing it, and duos who Cinderella’s life a misery, it’s more difficult to once more. “This year we’ve definitely got a just do Ugly Sisters and never play dames do that.” independently.” strong Scottish theme, particularly at the Unusually, Maggie Robson will be taking on beginning.” “I’m actually not a great lover of doing two very different maternal guises here, “I think it’s fair to say a lot of English people Cinderella,” Iain admits. “I usually much doubling up as Cinderella’s Stepmother and have certain preconceptions about prefer to be a dame than an Ugly Sister. The her Fairy Godmother. Meanwhile, as Buttons, Scotland,” adds Greg, “some of which are last time I did it must’ve been in the early comic Craig Hollingsworth will move away apocryphal and some of which are true. But ’90s, although I’ve directed it here since then. from his usual on-stage camaraderie with the that’s something that we play on quite a lot - The problem is that sometimes it can become dame, with his and Iain’s characters this time getting drunk and things like that. I’m a bit of a competition. It wasn’t until I first at loggerheads. played it alongside Greg that I felt like this actually really intrigued to see how it’s going “Craig is definitely going to be getting some was how it should be done, where you’re to work because I’ve never done a panto in payback this year,” says Iain, “because he helping each other out rather than England before. I think it’ll be weird - at least pretty much always ends up getting the worst competing.” initially - because Iain and Craig of it in the slosh scenes, whereas this year (Hollingsworth, who plays Buttons) know the It might be Greg’s first time in Coventry, but that’ll be Greg.” audience so well, and then you’ve got this the Caledonian co-stars still have history, “I’ve only known him for two days and I can Scottish upstart coming in!” from Iain’s days as creative director of already sense he’s going to enjoy that,” adds Belgrade panto co-producers Imagine That ‘Scottish theme’ will also be reflected in Greg. the design: the sisters’ top style tips this Theatre. Cinderella was the third pantomime season involve lots of tropical fruit as well as he performed in at Inverness’ Eden Court tartan, which, according to Greg, “never goes Theatre, recruiting Greg as his comedy partner following auditions in Edinburgh. Cinderella shows at Belgrade Theatre, out of fashion”. Take note, Coventry Coventry, until Saturday 13 January fashionistas. “I didn’t know him before that,” says Iain, Christmas Gifts 2017 (gold).qxp_Layout 1 23/11/2017 17:52 Page 1

Going for Gold Check out our top picks of golden gifts on offer at The Mailbox in Birmingham this Christmas...

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1. Lexon Fine Speaker £50.00 from Heal’s 2. Drop tealight holder £16.00 from BoConcept 3. Sophie Hulme Whistle ochré velvet box clutch £575.00 from Harvey Nichols 4. Sophia Webster Chiara rose gold winged leather sandals £525.00 from Harvey Nichols 5. Christmas tree sculptures From £39.00 from BoConcept 6. Olivia Burton Hackney rose gold-plated watch £95.00 from Harvey Nichols

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7. Newbury Cutlery Set £129.00 from made.com 8. Estée Lauder x Victoria Beckham Highlighter £55.00 from Harvey Nichols 9. MEMO Irish Leather Eau De Parfum £195.00 from Harvey Nichols 10. Drop tealight holder £16.00 from BoConcept 11. Iconic London Rose Gold Contour & Conceal Brush Set £43.00 from Harvey Nichols 12. Gestuz velvet robe £199.95 from Harvey Nichols

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Film

Star Wars: The Last Jedi CERT tbc Starring Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, Adam Driver, Daisy Ridley, John Boyega, Oscar Isaac, Andy Serkis, Lupita Nyong'o, Domhnall Gleeson, Laura Dern, Benicio del Toro Directed by Rian Johnson (USA) There are still mysteries to be discovered about the Force, so Rey (Daisy Ridley) teams up with Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill) to uncover them. Harrison Ford will be sadly missed, but at least Princess Leia (Carrie Fisher) is still in on the ac- tion, along with handsome new Resis- tance fighter Finn (John Boyega). The last Star Wars movie, The Force Awakens, expunged the nasty taste left by the previous three, so let’s hope this eighth edition is just as good. According to Boyega, Princes William and Harry play a couple of stormtroopers, which re- ally does give the film some royal ap- proval. May the force be with them. Released Thurs 14 December EDITOR’S CHOICE

Film highlights released in December...

Wonder CERT PG (113 mins) Starring Julia Roberts, Owen Wilson, Jacob Tremblay, Noah Jupe, Izabela Vi- dovic, Mandy Patinkin Directed by Stephen Chbosky (USA) Auggie Pullman is not like other boys. He was born with horrendous facial birth de- fects and has undergone extensive surgery over the years while being home- schooled by his mother. Now, aged 10, he’s going to attend a real school for the first time… Based on the children’s novel by RJ Palacio. Happy End CERT 15 (108 mins) Released Fri 1 December Starring Isabelle Huppert, Jean-Louis Trintig- nant, Mathieu Kassovitz, Fantine Harduin, Franz Rogowski, Laura Verlinden, Toby Jones Love, Cecil CERT 12a (99 mins) Directed by Michael Haneke (Austria/ France/ Germany) Directed by Lisa Immordino Vreeland (USA) Selected to represent Austria in next year’s Documentary on the celebrated fashion pho- Oscars, this is a caustic drama that uses the tographer and Oscar-winning costume de- refugee crisis in Calais for its backdrop. signer Sir Cecil Beaton, with archive For the most part, though, the film focuses interviews of those who knew him and more on a family involved in the construction in- modern footage with those who have felt his dustry and preoccupied with their own artistic influence. The man’s own words - predicaments. The director, Michael Haneke, written in his extensive diaries - are read by is not to be ignored. Rupert Everett. Released Fri 1 December Released Fri 1 December whatsonlive.co.uk 37 Film December.qxp_Layout 1 21/11/2017 10:03 Page 3

Film highlights released in December...

Hollywood's Elite To Wall Street's Billion- Molly’s Game CERT 15 (140 mins) The Man Who aire Boys Club, My High-Stakes Adventure Starring Jessica Chastain, Idris Elba, Kevin In The World Of Underground Poker by Invented Christmas Costner, Michael Cera, Jeremy Strong, Chris O'Dowd Directed by Aaron Sorkin (USA) Molly Bloom herself, the film marks the di- CERT PG (104 mins) rectorial debut of the Oscar-winning screen- Starring Dan Stevens, Christopher Plummer, Molly’s game is poker and she runs a high- writer Aaron Sorkin (The Social Network, A Jonathan Pryce, Miriam Margolyes, Simon powered poker empire for Hollywood A-lis- Few Good Men, Steve Jobs, The West Wing). Callow, Ian McNeice Directed by Bharat Nalluri (Ireland/Canada) ters, top athletes, Wall Street billionaires And it’s the latter’s incomparable dialogue and the Russian mob. It’s all highly illegal that should guarantee Jessica Chastain an Following the story of the creation of Win- and so Molly Bloom finds herself under in- Oscar nomination for best actress. nie-the-Pooh, we now have the story of the vestigation by the FBI. Based on the un- creation of A Christmas Carol. Apparently, Released Wed 20 December wieldly entitled Molly's Game: From Charles Dickens (Dan Stevens) was in dire straits at the time and almost went mad in the confection of his novella, but still man- aged to change how we now view the festive season. Released Fri 1 December

CRITIC’S CHOICE

The Disaster Artist Brigsby Bear CERT 15 (97 mins) CERT 15 (104 mins) Starring Kyle Mooney, Claire Danes, Mark Hamill, Greg Kinnear, Matt Walsh, Michaela Starring James Franco, Dave Franco, Seth Watkins Directed by Dave McCary (USA) Rogen, Alison Brie, Ari Graynor, Josh Hutcher- son, Zac Efron Directed by James Franco James lives underground and is obsessed (USA) with the children’s TV show Brigsby Bear Ad- Not to be confused with Lenny Abrahamson's ventures. Then one day his parents are ar- gripping and moving film Room (2015), rested and he’s told that they aren’t his real Tommy Wiseau's The Room (2003) has been parents and that the show isn’t real either. frequently cited as one of “the worst films James’s life is about to take a dramatic turn… ever made.” This biographical comedy- You certainly can’t fault the film for original- drama charts the making of the latter, based ity and it was well received by the American on the 2013 book of the same name. press. James Franco is said to deliver a career-high Released Fri 8 December performance as Wiseau. Released Wed 6 December Better Watch Out CERT 15 (89 mins) Starring Levi Miller, Olivia DeJonge, Ed Oxen- bould, Patrick Warburton, Virginia Madsen Directed by Chris Peckover (Australia/USA) There are easy babysitting gigs and then there are harder ones. Seventeen-year-old Ashley (DeJonge) thinks she’s in for a straightforward, uncomplicated evening, when her 12-year-old ward, Luke (Miller), tries to seduce her. She really shouldn’t have refused him… Released Fri 8 December

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Film

Menashe CERT U (82 mins) Starring Menashe Lustig, Ruben Niborski, Yoel Weisshaus, Meyer Schwartz Directed by Joshua Z. Weinstein (USA) Menashe works at a grocery store in the Ha- sidic community of Borough Park in Brook- lyn, New York. After his wife died a year ago, Menashe had just his 10-year-old son Rieven to fill his life. But because of Hasidic law, Rieven is taken away from him because a sin- gle father is not deemed suitable for a young lad’s upbringing. So Menashe sets about re- gaining custody of his only child… Filmed entirely in Yiddish. Released Fri 8 December

their sons have committed. Based on the The Dinner CERT tbc 2009 novel by Herman Koch, the drama is Starring Richard Gere, Laura Linney, Steve the fourth directed by Oren Moverman, Coogan, Rebecca Hall, Adepero Oduye, Chloë Sevigny Directed by Oren Moverman (USA) whose films are invariably well met by the critics. Two sets of wealthy parents meet at a fancy restaurant to decide what to do about a crime Released Fri 8 December

Ferdinand CERT PG Jumanji: Welcome With the voices of John Cena, Kate McKinnon, To The Jungle CERT 12a Anthony Anderson, Bobby Cannavale, David Tennant Directed by Carlos Saldanha (USA) Starring Dwayne Johnson, Jack Black, Kevin Hart, Karen Gillan, Bobby Cannavale Ferdinand is not your typical fighting bull. Directed by Jake Kasdan (USA) Stronger CERT 15 (119 mins) He would rather smell the flowers. However, A sort-of sequel to Jumanji, the 1995 fantasy- Starring Jake Gyllenhaal, Tatiana Maslany, when he’s stung by a bee and starts kicking adventure starring Robin Williams, this looks Miranda Richardson, Clancy Brown, Richard up a storm, he is rounded up and dragged off more like a companion piece to Dwayne Lane Jr Directed by David Gordon Green (USA) to Madrid to compete in the ring… Based on Johnson’s Journey 2: The Mysterious Island Jeff Bauman (Gyllenhaal) always wanted to the 1936 children’s book by Munro Leaf. Ap- (2012). Anyway, four teenage friends end up make it up to his ex-girlfriend, Erin propriately, David Tennant voices a bull on a jungle island when they start playing (Maslany). So, when she competed in the called Angus. the video game Jumanji - and, more bizarrely, 2013 Boston Marathon he was determined to Released Thurs 16 December they are transformed into the game’s adult be at the finishing line with an outsize hand- avatars! In 3D. made placard. He made it, but was blown up Released Wed 20 December just as she completed the course. Based on a true story, the film is drawing major Oscar buzz for Gyllenhaal’s performance. Released Fri 8 December

Pitch Perfect 3 CERT tbc Starring Anna Kendrick, Rebel Wilson, Hailee Steinfeld, Brittany Snow, Anna Camp, John Lithgow Directed by Trish Sie (USA) The Barden Bellas are back and have one last chance to perform on tour in Europe. This, we are promised, is the last instalment in what is now a trilogy. Yeh, well, the last film made $287million. Released Wed 20 December whatsonlive.co.uk 39 Coming Out DPS.qxp_Layout 1 21/11/2017 10:06 Page 1 Coming Out DPS.qxp_Layout 1 21/11/2017 10:06 Page 2

by Heather Kincaid

COMING OUT! Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery’s latest exhibition explores sexuality, gender and identity in art

As the UK celebrates 50 years since the Local artists also get a look in, notably with matter, the show should ultimately be partial decriminalisation of homosexuality in three prints by Birmingham photographer celebratory in tone. To this end, Beauchamp 1967, a new exhibition at Birmingham Vanley Burke, capturing scenes from a Pride has aimed to create a lively, relaxed and Museum & Art Gallery (BMAG) explores how demonstration called in protest against the welcoming space, filled with ambient sound shifting attitudes towards the LGBT (lesbian, infamous 1988 Section 28 Act. and vibrant splashes of colour inspired by gay, bisexual and transgender) experience To help make the show more representative Gilbert Baker’s original 1978 Pride flag. have influenced visual art. of Birmingham’s diverse communities, There’ll also be an exciting programme of Part of a three-year national partnership changes have been brought about in shows and activities to enjoy, beginning with between the Arts Council Collection and four consultation with local LGBT groups, notably an action-packed launch developed with UK galleries, Coming Out: Sexuality, Gender over-50s support group Ageing Better, and SHOUT Festival. And Identity comes to BMAG fresh from its Unmuted, a group for BAME (Black, Asian Specially commissioned drag performances, opening at Liverpool’s Walker Art Gallery, but and minority ethnic) LGBT people. Members workshops and rainbow crafts for kids are it’s not simply been a case of transferring the of both groups visited Liverpool to give their among the things to look forward to on exhibition wholesale. The show has been feedback on the original show. opening day. Later in the run, there’ll also be ‘reimagined’ for Birmingham audiences, “What’s interesting is that there were slightly opportunities to take part in a Polari featuring new items and with an extensive contrasting views from the people who could workshop, as well as a Drag And Draw engagement programme and gallery trail remember pre-1967 and those who couldn’t,” session - a twist on the gallery’s popular running alongside. explains curator Lisa Beauchamp. “The Drink And Draw series - that will see drag Among the pieces joining the exhibition here Ageing Better group felt that we needed to queens posing for sketches. will be Grayson Perry’s Claire’s Coming Out explain the context for 1967 more fully, Dress, which he designed and wore to mark because you can’t expect everyone to know his entry into the art world as a transvestite, what that is any more.” Coming Out shows at Birmingham shown alongside his 1996 ceramic Who Am Nevertheless, there was a shared sense by all Museum & Art Gallery from Saturday 2 I?, marking stages in the artist’s personal involved that despite its difficult subject December until Sunday 15 April journey.

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Visual Arts previews from around the region

The Past Is Now: Birmingham And The British Empire Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery, until Mon 12 March A little less than a century ago, the British Em- pire covered a quarter of the world and ruled over 458 million people. But its creation and retention had come at a price, with many lives having been lost along the way. The Past Is Now takes a look at the history of the Empire and, more specifically, Birmingham’s connection to it. Six artists, researchers and ac- tivists have co-curated the display, which fea- tures numerous objects from BMAG’s collection. As well as examining the museum’s own bias in telling difficult narratives, the exhibition also explores other perspectives which have been historically misrepresented. The Past Is Now is located in the museum’s new gallery, Story Lab, a space in which visitors are encouraged to interact, feed back and engage in conversation.

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Visual Arts

Sacred Things Herbert Art Gallery & Museum, Coventry, Fri 1 December - Sun 11 February This thought-provoking exhibition has been cre- ated with the intention of introducing recently arrived Syrians to the people of Coventry. Showcasing the work of photographer and an- thropologist Liz Hingley, Sacred Things ques- tions the importance and impact of ownership, personal experience and cultural concepts of beauty. The Syrians featured in Hingley’s dis- play have come to Coventry as part of a unique United Nations programme.

The Lost Words world. Jackie and Robert’s exhibition - created in Compton Verney, Warwickshire, response to the gradual disappearance of until Sun 17 December nature from children’s stories and imagi- “I want The Lost Words to delight the mind nations - includes a series of immersive and the eye, and send children to sleep floor-to-ceiling graphics. Family interpre- dreaming of wild things,” says Jackie Mor- tation areas and recordings of the duo ris. Jackie’s watercolour paintings are here reading poems also feature. juxtaposed with writer Robert Macfar- The Lost Words experience extends be- lane’s spell-poems to celebrate the rela- yond the gallery into the Compton Verney Walsall Society Of Artists tionship between language and the living grounds via an interactive discovery trail. 68th Annual Exhibition The New Art Gallery, Walsall, Fri 1 December - Sun 21 January Thomas Bock Paintings, drawings, prints, watercolours, Ikon Gallery, Birmingham, sculptures and craftwork are all present and Wed 6 December - Sun 11 March correct in this celebration of local artistic talent, Ikon’s celebration of Thomas Bock with many of the pieces being available for sale. marks the first ever time an exhi- Members of the society will be on hand to bition dedicated to the acclaimed demonstrate their skills every Saturday during artist has been presented here in the exhibition’s seven-week run at the gallery. the UK. Having been apprenticed in Birm- ingham, Bock was convicted of Tales From History ‘administering concoctions of cer- The Barber Institute, Birmingham, tain herbs... with the intent to until Sun 18 February cause miscarriage’. He was sen- Tales From History features rarely shown prints tenced in 1823 to transportation to and drawings by the great Dutch master Rem- Australia, where he went on to be- brandt and his pupils. come one of the country’s most Presented to complement the Barber’s Pride important 19th century artists. And Persecution exhibition, the show includes Best known for his watercolours paintings inspired by stories from the Bible and and his use of pencil, chalk and classical mythology. Among the featured works pastel - although he also used oils are the humorous La- and experimented with photogra- tona And The Lycian phy - Bock painted everything Peasants, the gravely around him, with Tasmanian Abo- serious Death Of the rigines, criminals, free settlers Virgin and the hugely and landscapes all featuring in dramatic Fall Of Icarus. his work. whatsonlive.co.uk 43 Events - December (2016)-1.qxp_Layout 1 21/11/2017 16:21 Page 1 Events - December (2016)-1.qxp_Layout 1 21/11/2017 16:21 Page 2

Events previews from around the region Events

Ice Skate Birmingham Eastside Green, Birmingham, until Sun 7 January Birmingham’s ice rink and big wheel have made a somewhat unexpected but welcome return. It was widely thought that the refurbishment of Cen- tenary Square would mean there was no place for the popular attractions in the city’s 2017 lineup of Christ- mas entertainment. But with the clock ticking down to the festive season, the council’s events team identi- fied an alternative site at Eastside Green, meaning normal yuletide service could be resumed. While the wheel offers the opportunity to enjoy fan- tastic views across the city, the ice rink - complete with a brand new roof - can hold up to 300 people per session. Younger or inexperienced skating enthusi- asts can keep upright by using special penguin skat- ing aids, which can be booked online and in advance. And when skaters have finished their Torvill & Dean routine, they can warm themselves up with some fes- tive fare in the nearby Ice Lounge.

Toy Collectors Fair Magic Lantern Festival Kings Heath Park, Birmingham, NEC, Birmingham, Wed 27 December until Mon 1 January Britain’s biggest toy fair makes its way to As ‘illuminating’ Christmas experi- Birmingham this month to showcase a huge ences go, this one scored a major hit array of collectables. From diecast models by when it debuted last year. Corgi and Dinky through to numerous TV The lakes, woodlands, gardens and and film-related items, this one-day event of- pathways of Kings Heath Park provide fers plenty of interest for enthusiasts. the perfect backdrop against which to Expert toy valuers are on hand to assess visi- enjoy a trail of life-sized and larger- tors' items for free. So if you have a particular than-life lanterns, including a giant piece that you’d like to know more about - or recreation of Birmingham’s iconic li- that you’re maybe intending to sell - why not brary. A food & drink area, a bar, take it along and get it valued? Who knows, Santa's Grotto and a handful of fair- you may be pleasantly surprised... ground rides also feature.

Santa’s Winter Wonderland SnowDome, Tamworth, until Sun 31 December This year’s all-new Santa Show sees Mrs Claus, Francine the Foxtrotting Fairy, Elvis the Penguin and Santa's very own Jingle Belles Band looking to spread festive cheer by creating ‘the best Christmas song ever’. Suitable for all age groups, the show is just one element of the festive fun on offer at Tamworth’s snowy indoor attraction. Visitors can also explore Santa’s Christmas snow trail, take a walk through the enchanted for- est, enjoy a game of snowballs and hitch a ride on a sledge. The less adventurous will be able to observe all the action as they amble along the promenade walkway. There’s even an animal village to visit, where you can meet Santa’s reindeer and say hi to some of his furry friends.

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Events previews from around the region Events

12 Crafts For Christmas Victorian Christmas Coventry Transport Museum, Markets Sat 25 November - Sat 23 December Worcester - Thurs 30 November - With not one, not two, but 12 yuletide craft Sun 3 December; Stratford-upon- activities to enjoy at Coventry Transport Avon - Fri 8 - Sun 10 December; Wolverhampton - Fri 15 - Sun 17 Museum, it’s fair to say the popular venue December is a Christmas cracker of a place to visit if This year marks the 25th anniver- you’re looking to keep your little ones en- sary of Worcester’s hugely popular tertained. Victorian Christmas Market. Youngsters can get hands-on making origi- In addition to the 200 stalls which nal ornaments, festive boxes and gorgeous grace the city’s historic streets - gifts for family and friends. selling crafts, gifts and speciality Sessions include how to make rustic rein- foods - the ever-popular fair also deers, design a new sleigh for Santa and features an array of period enter- send a secret ‘happy holidays’ message. tainment, from choirs and stilt- Not only all this, but Mr Claus himself is walkers to an old-style carousel also in residence, complete with a gift for and barrel organ music... every child, and can be visited via a ride on In contrast to Worcestershire’s an enchanting vintage sleigh... well-established market, Strat- ford’s is debuting this very year. Attractions include choirs, instru- Victorian Christmas mental performances, dance dis- plays, Victorian-themed stilt Blists Hill Victorian Town, Ironbridge, Shropshire, Sat 9 - Sun 10 & Sat 16 - Sun 17 walkers and approximately 150 December stalls... Plenty of Victorian festive cheer is on offer at And also making its first appear- Shropshire’s Blists Hill museum this month, ance in 2017 is Wolverhampton’s as residents busy themselves with prepara- three-day event, featuring more tions for Christmas. than 100 stalls, street artists and a Visitors to the award-winning site can enjoy Victorian funfair. seasonal music from bands and choirs, expe- Commenting on the city’s new ar- rience some festive-style entertainment - in- rival, Councillor Steve Evans said: cluding a singalong with carol singers - and "We anticipate this will be the partake in a spot of Christmas shopping in largest festive market Wolverhamp- the museum’s retail outlet. ton has seen. There will be a vari- And just in case all of the above isn’t quite ety of stalls offering festive enough to ensure your kids are happily enter- goodies, plenty of food and drink, tained, Father Christmas himself - together and fun activities for families to with his reindeer - will be on hand to hear enjoy at this special time of year.” younger visitors’ last-minute gift requests. Merry Minecraft And Santa Hunts A Happy New Robot Black Country Living Museum, Dudley, RAF Cosford Museum, Sat 25 November - Sun 24 December Sat 9 December This one-off technology workshop The rumour that’s flying like a magic rein- offers kids the chance to tackle a deer around the region is that Santa has number of Christmas-themed activ- been spotted at the Black Country Living ities, including advanced features Museum. He seems to be a little limelight- in Minecraft and Christmas coding shy, mind - which is why young visitors to (with a touch of cyber security and the venue are being invited to join festive codebreaking on the side). costumed guides in a search to find him. The workshop is led by qualified Along the way, kids can solve magical teachers from Tablet Academy and clues, sprinkle dust on reindeer shoes and supported by the experienced even send letters up the chimney to learning team at the museum. Santa’s workshop. A surprise gift awaits anybody who succeeds in finding the jolly-faced bearded one...

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Events previews from around the region Events

A Festive Evening Winter Wonderland At BMAG Stoke-on-Trent, until Mon 2 January Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery, Free to enter and returning to the Wed 6 December city for a second year, Stoke-on- Complimentary mince pies and Trent’s Winter Wonderland provides mulled wine kickstart an evening visitors with plenty of opportunity that offers the chance to make to get into the spirit of the season. some late-night festive purchases Attractions include an ice rink, in the gift shop. A chance to exer- Santa’s grotto, a host of Christmas cise the vocal chords is also on the characters, a Christmas market, festive menu for those who fancy a theme park-style rides including a Christmas carol singalong. full-size rollercoaster and a 60m-tall A ‘make your own wreath’ work- sky swing ride, a ghost train and shop features too, although spaces Santa’s train - the latter of which are limited and only available on a will be running around the site’s first come, first served basis. huge Christmas tree... In short, it’s a one-stop shop for fes- tive family fun, and a welcome addi- tion to the Potteries’ lineup of Christmas entertainment.

European Christmas Market Southwater, Telford, Shropshire, until Sat 23 December Now in its second year, Telford’s European Christmas Mar- ket has returned bigger and better than in 2016. Featuring wooden chalets decked with garlands and lights and selling festive gifts from around Europe, the market also includes a funfair for youngsters to enjoy and show- cases local choirs, acoustic bands and plenty of seasonal music. Commenting on the attraction, Councillor Shaun Davies, Victorian Christmas Leader of Telford & Wrekin Council, said: “The market not only showcases food, drink and products from authentic Santa Trail European stallholders, it also gives a number of local busi- Tamworth Castle, Sat 9 - Sun 10 & Sat 16 - Tues 19 December nesses the opportunity to have a stall of their own at an event which is likely to attract thousands of visitors. Youngsters might do well to sink a “We’ve been putting Telford on the map with our astonish- big bowl of energy-boosting por- ing growth over recent years, and this market shows our ridge before heading along to this intention to make the borough a destination of choice.” fun-filled event, because there’s certainly no shortage of activities for them to join in with! Christmas at Birmingham’s After meeting the Victorian house- hold as they busy themselves mak- Botanical Gardens ing ready for Santa’s annual visit, Birmingham Botanical Gardens, until Mon 1 January it’ll be time to head off round the Birmingham Botanical Gardens has been trans- building in search of St Nick him- formed into a ‘winter wonderland’, thanks to an self. Then they can help the cook impressive Christmas light trail. make the Christmas pudding, join Glittering trees, giant crystals, a carol-singing the butler in preparing for Santa’s cedar coppice and a flickering fire garden all fea- midnight feast and assist the ture on a jewel-coloured trail set to seasonal housemaid with the business of music. Other festive attractions for visitors to enjoy decorating the castle. at the Gardens include vintage fairground rides, a And if they have any energy left larger-than-life Christmas tree and a chance to after that little lot, they can visit meet Santa and his elves. The trail is designed to Santa in his grotto and receive a appeal to visitors of all ages. well-earned surprise gift!

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YourYour wweek-eek- bby-weeky-week llistingsistings gguideuide Decemberecember 20172017 thelist

Kasabian at Arena Birmingham - Fri 8 - Sat 9 December

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

What’s On Fri 1 to Sun 10 December Mon 11 to Sun 17 December Mon 18 to Sun 24 December Mon 25 to Sun 31 December

Tom Allen at Royal Spa Festival of Light Bromsgrove Markus Birdman at Abbey A Christmas Carol at the Royal Centre, Leamington Spa at Artrix Arts Centre Theatre, Nuneaton Shakespeare Theatre, Fri 8 December Sun 17 December Fri 22 December Stratford-upon-Avon until Sun 4 February

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thelist Stourbridge OLLING AND CRUMPETS THROUGHOUT DECEMBER Gigs GORILLAZ Sat 2 Dec, Sun 3 Dec, Lichfield Arena Birmingham Guildhall QUENTIN BLAKE: INSIDE STORIES Exhi- STEPS Fri 1 Dec, Arena RAY BLK Sat 2 Dec, O2 ALPHADOG FAMILY bition celebrating the work of one of Visual Arts Birmingham Institute, Birmingham CHRISTMAS TOUR Sun 3 the world’s most important and best- Dec, O2 Academy, THE MAGIC OF MOTOWN loved illustrators, offering a unique in- THE CLONE ROSES Sat 2 Birmingham Artrix, Bromsgrove sight into some of his most Fri 1 Dec, New Alexan- Dec, O2 Academy, BOTOWN - THE SOUL OF PENNY TURNER: THE ART OF POETRY Ex- characteristic and popular creations, dra Theatre, B’ham Birmingham BOLLYWOOD Sun 3 Dec, hibition of work by the poet and self- until Sun 17 Dec DREADZONE Fri 1 Dec, HERMITAGE GREEN Sat 2 The Glee Club, B’ham taught Worcestershire artist, who Actress & Bishop, Birm- Dec, O2 Academy, creates heartwarming and often hu- Herbert Art Gallery & ingham Birmingham EWAN MCLENNAN Sun 3 Dec, Kitchen Garden morous poems and illustrations for Museum, Coventry SUSAN CADOGAN Fri 1 THE MAJOR TOMS Sat 2 children, until Sun 10 Dec Cafe, Birmingham PICASSO: LINOCUTS FROM THE BRITISH Dec, Hare & Hounds, Dec, Hare & Hounds, NEW RACHEL BLACKWELL: THE EN- MUSEUM Birmingham Birmingham DARK SIDE OF THE WALL Exhibition featuring some of Sun 3 Dec, Hare & CHANTED REALM Malvern-based artist BENJAMIN CLEMENTINE MICHAEL MONROE Picasso’s most important works in Sat 2 Hounds, Birmingham Rachel produces paintings that come Fri 1 Dec, Birmingham linocut, presented alongside a selec- Dec, O2 Institute, Birm- from ‘the enchanted realm of imagi- Town Hall ingham CHASE RICE Mon 4 Dec, nation’, and which are often inspired tion of ceramics on loan from Leices- O2 Institute, B’ham FRED ZEPPELIN Fri 1 by the landscape of Britain, Wed 13 ter Arts & Museums Service, until Sun SCOUTING FOR GIRLS Sat Dec, Lichfield Guildhall MASTODON Mon 4 Dec, Dec - Sun 4 Feb 3 Dec 2 Dec, O2 Academy, CRAFTS OF THE PUNJAB: EXPLORE THE Civic Hall, W’hampton STICK TO YOUR GUNS Fri Birmingham V&A SOUTH ASIAN COLLECTION Birmingham Museum & Using 1 Dec, O2 Institute, FRANK CARTER AND THE SIXTH Mon 4 Dec, Art Gallery the exceptional collections of the Vic- Birmingham RATTLESNAKES Sat 2 Mama Roux’s, B’ham toria & Albert Museum, Crafts Of The Dec, O2 Institute, Birm- ‘THE THEATRE OF FEAR!’ KNIGHTS OF THE RAJ Exhibition featur- GOOD CHARLOTTE Fri 1 Punjab presents an extensive range ingham STARRING CREEPER Mon ing rare photographs, unique arte- Dec, O2 Academy, of arts and crafts made across the 4 Dec, O2 Institute, facts, videos, interactive displays and Birmingham FLEETWOOD BAC Sat 2 area from the 2nd to the19th century, Birmingham oral histories that tell the fascinating DAN + SHAY Fri 1 Dec, Dec, Huntingdon Hall, until Sun 21 Jan story of the much-loved British curry, O2 Academy, B’ham Worcester SON LITTLE Mon 4 Dec, Hare & Hounds, Birm- until Sun 7 Jan Leamington Spa Art Gallery & CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT MORETALLICA Sat 2 Dec, ingham BEYOND THE BATTLEFIELD: FACES OF Museum Fri 1 Dec, Warwick Arts The Marr's Bar, Worces- PEACE & WAR Amateur photographer THE BENEVOLENT DESPOT: ALDERMAN Centre, Coventry ter PUMAROSA Mon 4 Dec, Hare & Hounds, B’ham Käthe Buchler photographed the ALFRED HOLT (1858 - 1943) AND THE JAWS Fri 1 Dec, O2 In- THE RPMS Sat 2 Dec, German home front during the First FOUNDATION OF LEAMINGTON ART stitute, Birmingham The Sunflower Lounge, THE MELLSTOCK BAND World War. Her black & white images GALLERY The story of Alderman Alfred Birmingham Tues 5 Dec, Royal Spa ROBBIE WILLIAMS - OLLIE feature members of her family, work- Holt's contributions as a ‘public-spir- Centre, Leamington HUGHES Fri 1 Dec, The HAZEL O'CONNOR Sat 2 ing children and a series called ited resident’, presented through a Spa River Rooms, Stour- Dec, Birmingham Town ‘women doing men’s jobs’, until Sun selection of the paintings he donated bridge Hall BEN HAENOW Tues 5 14 Jan to the gallery and supplemented by THE TAKE THAT EXPERI- Dec, O2 Institute, Birm- FAITH IN BIRMINGHAM, Exploring how photographs and local-history ob- LEWIS CAPALDI Fri 1 ENCE Sat 2 Dec, Artrix, ingham different faiths have influenced and jects, until Sun 7 Jan Dec, O2 Institute, Birm- Bromsgrove KERRANG! TOUR 2017 shaped the city, until Sun 3 Feb 2019 ingham STATUS QUO Sun 3 Dec, Tues 5 Dec, O2 Insti- THE PAST IS NOW: BIRMINGHAM AND Rugby Art Gallery & Museum GRACE LIGHTMAN Fri 1 Civic Hall, Wolver- tute, Birmingham THE BRITISH EMPIRE Exhibition chal- RUGBY OPEN ART EXHIBITION 2017 Dec, The Tin Music And hampton MICK WALL - WALL OF lenging the typical colonial narrative Showcasing the best of art and craft Arts, Coventry SOUND Tues 5 Dec, The used to present the history of the from the region, until Sat 13 Jan RAT PACK SWINGING KARNATAKA Sun 3 Dec, The Robin, Bilston Robin, Bilston British Empire, until Mon 12 Mar CABINETS OF CURIOSITY Exhibition ex- CHRISTMAS SHOW Sat 2 MICHAEL BALL & ALFIE NEW COMING OUT: SEXUALITY, GENDER ploring the museum's social history Dec, Albany Theatre, PHIL COLLINS Sun 3 BOE Tues 5 Dec, AND IDENTITY Ground-breaking exhi- and archaeology collections, until Sat Coventry Dec, Genting Arena, Genting Arena, B’ham bition marking the 50th anniversary 10 Mar STRAIGHT ACES Sat 2 Birmingham of the partial decriminalisation of Dec, Katie Fitzgeralds, JOHN KIRKPATRICK CAR- THE WYTCHES Tues 5 male homosexual acts in England Worcester City Museum & Art and Wales. Featuring over 80 modern Gallery and contemporary artworks by inter- WARHOL TO WALKER: NINE AMERICAN nationally renowned artists who ex- PRINTS FROM POP TO TODAY Exhibition plore themes of gender, sexuality and exploring great American printmak- identity in art, Sat 2 Dec - Sun 15 Apr ing, from Pop Art to the modern day, and including work by Andy Warhol, Compton Verney Gallery, Robert Rauschenberg and Jim Dine. Warwick Part of the British Museum's Ameri- PORTRAIT MINIATURES Over 40 minia- can Dream Spotlight Tour, until Sat 6 ture paintings from the Dumas Jan Egerton Trust Collection, until Sun 17 Dec Other VISUAL ARTS THE LOST WORDS Exhibition combin- KALEIDOSCOPE Through the work of ing the creative talents of over 20 artists, this exhibition brings writer Robert Macfarlane and artist into focus the relationship between Jackie Morris, celebrating the rela- colour and form, rationality and irra- tionship between language and the tionality, order and waywardness in living world, and nature’s power to British art of the 1960s, until Sat 9 spark the imagination, until Sun 17 Dec, Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry Dec Gorillaz - Arena Birmingham

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Friday 1 - Sunday 10 December

Dec, Hare & Hounds, ingham ABBA FOREVER Sat 9 Birmingham THE NIGHT OWL NORTH- Dec, Artrix, Bromsgrove MARILYN MANSON Wed 6 ERN SOUL ALLNIGHTER THE SMYTHS: MORE Dec, Civic Hall, Wolver- Fri 8 Dec, The Night SONGS THAT SAVED YOUR hampton Owl, Birmingham LIFE TOUR Sat 9 Dec, O2 HAPPY MONDAYS Wed 6 MEMORIAM Fri 8 Dec, Academy, Birmingham Dec, O2 Institute, Birm- The Asylum, B’ham ABSOLUTE BOWIE Sat 9 ingham HELLS BELLS Fri 8 Dec, Dec, The Copper ST. AGNES FOUNTAIN The Roadhouse, Birm- Rooms, Coventry Wed 6 Dec, Huntingdon ingham LANY Sat 9 Dec, O2 In- Hall, Worcester JP COOPER Fri 8 Dec, O2 stitute, Birmingham PHIL BEER Wed 6 Dec, Institute, Birmingham PICTURE THIS Sat 9 Dec, The Red Lion Folk CALLUM PICKARD & O2 Institute, B’ham Club, Birmingham THIRD LOOK Fri 8 Dec, JORDAN ALLEN Sat 9 JOHNNY HATES JAZZ The Tin Music And Arts, Dec, The Sunflower PLUS SPECIAL GUESTS Coventry Lounge, Birmingham Wed 6 Dec, Birming- JOY ELLIS Fri 8 Dec, OUR FAVOURITE SONGS ham Town Hall Symphony Hall, Birm- Sat 9 Dec, Warwick Arts TOUCH MY SECRET PLUS ingham Centre, Coventry SUPPORT Wed 6 Dec, ULTIMATE 40 Fri 8 Dec, THE STONES Sat 9 Dec, Kodaly String Quartet - Artrix, Bromsgrove Hare & Hounds, B’ham The River Rooms, The Roadhouse, Birm- FOLK IN THE FOYER: JIM Stourbridge ingham Bach, Elgar & Bottesini, Sun 3 Dec, MORAY Thurs 7 Dec, Classical Music The Great Hall, Berkeley Castle, BLACK PARADE - 00’S BEYOND THE BARRICADE Gloucestershire Evesham Arts Centre EMO ANTHEMS Fri 8 Dec, Sat 9 Dec, Malvern The- KODALY STRING QUARTET Featuring At- THE PALE WHITE Thurs 7 O2 Institute, B’ham atres SYMPHONY, MASS, QUARTET Featuring tila Falvay (violin), Ferenc Bango (vio- Dec, The Sunflower the University of Warwick Symphony KASABIAN Fri 8 - Sat 9 CHRISTMAS WITH THE lin), Janos Fejervari (viola) & Gyorgy Lounge, Birmingham Orchestra, University of Warwick Dec, Arena, B’ham OVERTONES Sat 9 Dec, Eder (cello). Programme includes Chorus & Coull Quartet. Programme CARA DILLON - UPON A STEPS Sat 9 Dec, Symphony Hall, Birm- works by Dohnanyi, Kodaly & Schu- comprises Beethoven's Mass in C & WINTER’S NIGHT Thurs 7 Genting Arena, B’ham ingham mann, Fri 1 Dec, Artrix, Bromsgrove Shostakovich's Symphony No.5, Sun Dec, Artrix, Bromsgrove SENSATERIA Sat 9 Dec, DARKSIDE Sat 9 Dec, CBSO CENTRE STAGE Featuring Marie- 3 Dec, Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry CADET Thurs 7 Dec, O2 The Night Owl, B’ham Civic Hall, Wolverhamp- Christine Zupanic (flute), Katherine PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA & UNIVER- Institute, Birmingham ton Thomas (harp), Amanda Lake (vio- SWEDE DREAMS Sat 9 SITY WOMEN'S CHOIR Programme in- lin), Michael Jenkinson (viola), David THE UNTHANKS - OR- Dec, The River Rooms, MASON HILL Sat 9 Dec, cludes works by J S Bach arr. Elgar Powell (cello). Programme includes CHESTRAL Thurs 7 Dec, Stourbridge The Slade Rooms, & Tchaikovsky, Sun 3 Dec, The Bra- Birmingham Town Hall Wolverhampton works by Mozart & Villa-Lobos, Fri 1 mall, Birmingham ALBION BAND Sat 9 Dec, Dec, CBSO Centre, Birmingham DIAMOND HEAD Thurs 7 MAC, Birmingham DREAMWORKS ANIMA- NATIONAL CHILDREN’S ORCHESTRAS OF Dec, The Robin, Bilston TION IN CONCERT Sun 10 ASHLEY FRIPP LUNCHTIME PIANO CON- GREAT BRITAIN WINTER CONCERT Pro- PLANET LOCO Sat 9 Dec, CERT Programme includes works by J CONFIDENCE MAN Thurs Dec, Arena Birmingham gramme includes works by Gersh- Katie Fitzgeralds, Stour- S Bach, Thomas Adès & Chopin, Fri 7 Dec, Hare & Hounds, REG MEUROSS Sun 10 win, De Falla, Strauss, Ravel & bridge 1 Dec, The Barber Institute, B’ham Birmingham Dec, Kitchen Garden Anderson, Sun 3 Dec, Symphony FLEETWOOD MAC PRE- EX CATHEDRA: CHRISTMAS MUSIC BY Hall, Birmingham UKELELE ORCHESTRA OF Cafe, Birmingham SENTS RUMOURS RAVE CANDLELIGHT Featuring the Ex Cathe- GREAT BRITAIN WITH FLEECY FOLK: BELSHAZ- SING CAROLS WITH THE CITY ORGANIST Sat 9 Dec, Hare & dra Consort & Jeffrey Skidmore (con- BELLS ON Thurs 7 Dec, ZAR’S FEAST Sun 10 AND BIRMINGHAM CATHEDRAL CHOIR Hounds, Birmingham ductor), Sat 2 Dec, St Peter's Church, Symphony Hall, B’ham Dec, The Fleece Inn, Featuring Thomas Trotter (organ), RYDERS CREED Sat 9 Sutton Coldfield David Hardie (conductor) & Jeremy THE SENSATIONAL 60’S Worcestershire Dec, O2 Academy, ARMONICO CONSORT & BAROQUE OR- Nicholas (compère), Mon 4 Dec, EXPERIENCE Thur 7 Dec, WORCESTER CONCERT Birmingham CHESTRA: HANDEL'S FIREWORKS Fea- Birmingham Town Hall Malvern Theatres CLUB PRESENTS: THE turing Christopher Monks (director). MUCH ADO BOUT SOUL CARNIVAL BAND Sun 10 EX CATHEDRA: CHRISTMAS MUSIC BY THE LADY AND THE SAX Programme comprises Dettingen Te Sat 9 Dec, Stratford Dec, Huntingdon Hall, CANDLELIGHT Featuring Ex Cathedra Fri 8 Dec, The Rose Deum, The King Shall Rejoice, Music Artshouse, Stratford- Worcester Consort & Jeffrey Skidmore (conduc- Theatre, Kidderminster upon-Avon, for the Royal Fireworks & Zadfok the tor), Tues 5 Dec, St John's Church, SOLIHULL WINTER FESTI- KODALINE Sun 10 Dec, Priest, Sat 2 Dec, Malvern Theatres Hagley, Birmingham GAGA Sat 9 Dec, The O2 Academy, B’ham VAL CONCERT 4 Fri 8 Rose Theatre, Kidder- EBORACUM BAROQUE: HANDEL’S MES- ORCHESTRA OF THE SWAN: NEW YORK Dec, The Core, Solihull minster THE SEARCHERS IN CON- SIAH Performance in aid of Cancer COMES TO STRATFORD Featuring Pedro CERT Sun 10 Dec, Strat- Research UK, Sat 2 Dec, Great ULTIMATE COLDPLAY Fri 8 SANTA CRUZ + SKARLETT H. da Silva (Portuguese guitar), Lucia Dec, The Marr's Bar, ford Artshouse, Malvern Priory, Worcestershire Caruso (piano) & David Curtis (con- RIOT + SISTER SHOTGUN Stratford-upon-Avon, Worcester Sat 9 Dec, The Flapper, UNIVERSITY CHORUS Featuring Julian ductor). Programme includes works SEBASTIAN TREE + LU- Birmingham LUKE RAINSFORD Sun 10 Wilkins (conductor). Programme by Copland, Pedro H. da Silva & Dec, The Asylum, comprises Rossini’s Little Solemn Lucis Caruso, Tues 5 Dec, Stratford NAFALL Fri 8 Dec, The THE DARKNESS Sat 9 Hockley Mass, Sat 2 Dec, The Bramall, B’ham Artshouse, Stratford-upon-Avon Actress & Bishop, Dec, O2 Academy, Birmingham Birmingham MOSTLY AUTUMN Sun 10 THE BRITISH POLICE SYMPHONY OR- THE MELLSTOCK BAND: WHERE ICICLES Dec, The Robin, Bilston CHESTRA - PROMS NIGHT SPECTACULAR HANG Featuring Dave Townsend LOLLY PARTON - HOME THE LUKA STATE Sat 9 FOR CHRISTMAS Fri 8 THAT'LL BE THE DAY Sat 2 Dec, Birmingham Town Hall (concertina, violin & voice), Tim Hill Dec, The Actress & (clarinets & voice), Phil Humphries Dec, Huntingdon Hall, CHRISTMAS SHOW Sun EX CATHEDRA: MONTEVERDI VESPERS Bishop, Birmingham (serpent & voice), Charles Spicer Worcester 10 Dec, Birmingham (1610) Featuring His Majesty’s Sag- T.REXTASY Sat 9 Dec, (oboes & voice), Tues 5 Dec, Lord Town Hall butts & Cornetts & Jeffrey Skidmore THE MAGIC OF MOTOWN Huntingdon Hall, Leycester Hospital, Warwick Fri 8 Dec, Malvern The- NECRO ‘THE NOTORIOUS (conductor), Sun 3 Dec, Birmingham Worcester SIR WILLARD WHITE atres GORIEST’ EUROPEAN Town Hall Also featuring Eu- BAYSIDE Sat 9 Dec, O2 gene Asti (piano), Wed 6 Dec, TOUR 2017 Sun 10 Dec, ORCHESTRA PRO ANIMA Programme NOTHING MORE Fri 8 Institute, Birmingham The Barber Institute, Birmingham Dec, O2 Institute, Birm- Hare & Hounds, B’ham includes works by Vivaldi, Mozart,

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thelist DANIEL LEBHARDT PIANO CONCERT Pro- LICHFIELD CATHEDRAL CHORUS: HAN- Thurs 7 Dec, The Glee Club, B’ham gramme includes works by Chopin & DEL’S MESSIAH Sat 9 Dec, Lichfield ris’ bestselling Cicero trilogy, Gre- MIKE NEWALL, MANDY KNIGHT, SEAN gory Doran directs, until Sat 10 Feb, Rachmaninov, Wed 6 Dec, Royal Cathedral PERCIVAL & COMIC TBC Thurs 7 Dec, Birmingham Conservatoire The Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon- THE SNOWMAN Watch the film on The Comedy Loft, Birmingham Avon THE LIGETI QUARTET Programme in- screen whilst a professional 26-piece TWELFTH NIGHT JASON MANFORD Fri 8 Dec, Birming- Ade Edmondson & cludes Harrison Birtwistle’s Bach ar- orchestra, featuring some of the ham Town Hall rangements alongside works by country’s top musicians, perform the star in Shakespeare’s Stravinsky, Sofia Gubaidulina & new film’s iconic score, Sat 9 Dec, Coven- YIANNI AGISILAOU Fri 8 Dec, Artrix, tale of unrequited love, until Sat 24 works from Stef Connor, Wed 6 Dec, try Cathedral Bromsgrove Feb, Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Royal Birmingham Conservatoire WORCESTER FESTIVAL CHORAL SOCIETY: THE HIRED MAN CBSO: PROKOFIEV'S CINDERELLA HANDEL’S MESSIAH Sat 9 Dec, Worces- Classic musical tak- Featuring Alexander Vedernikov (con- ter Cathedral ing audiences on an early-20th cen- tury journey from the hard farmlands ductor) & Martin Helmchen (piano). TEWKESBURY TOWN BAND ANNUAL Programme includes works by of the north to the war-torn trenches CHRISTMAS CONCERT Sat 9 - Sun 10 of the Great War, Tues 28th Nov - Brahms & Prokofiev, Wed 6 - Thurs 7 Dec, The Roses, Tewkesbury Dec, Symphony Hall, Birmingham Sat 2 Dec, The Blue Orange The- BIRMINGHAM PHILHARMONIC ORCHES- atre, Birmingham AN EVENING WITH NIGEL KENNEDY Pro- TRA - RUSSIAN DANCE Featuring THE BAND: TAKE THAT’S NEW MUSICAL gramme includes works by Bach, Michael Lloyd (conductor). Pro- Kennedy & Gershwin, Wed 6 - Thurs Tim Firth’s hit boyband musical, gramme includes works by Stravin- Tues 28 Nov - Sat 9 Dec, Regent 7 Dec, Malvern Theatre TOM ALLEN sky & Prokofiev, Sun 10 Dec, Elgar Fri 8 Dec, Royal Spa Cen- Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent G4 CHRISTMAS BY CANDLELIGHT 2017 Concert Hall, Birmingham tre, Leamington Spa ONE MAN, TWO GUVNORS Richard Thurs 7 Dec. St Paul's Church, Birm- CHRISTMAS WITH THE SALVATION ARMY ROB ROUSE, JOLLYBOAT, GEORGE ZACH ingham Bean’s adaptation of Carlo Goldoni’s Featuring guest soloist Abigail John- Fri 8 Dec, The Bramall, Birmingham comedy, Servant Of Two Masters, ARMONICO CONSORT: HANDEL'S MES- son, Sun 10 Dec, Symphony Hall, JOHN HASTINGS, CRAIG MURRAY, ANDRE Wed 29 Nov - Sat 16 Dec, Old Joint SIAH Birmingham Featuring the Armonico Consort VINCENT & DANA ALEXANDER Fri 8 Dec, Stock Theatre, Birmingham & Baroque Orchestra, Elin Manahan The Glee Club, Birmingham WE’RE GOING ON A BEAR HUNT Thomas (soprano), William Towers Featur- (countertenor) Nathan Vale (tenor), MIKE NEWALL, MANDY KNIGHT, SEAN ing catchy songs, interactive scenes Sir Willard White & Angus McPhee PERCIVAL & COMIC TBC Fri 8 Dec, The and plenty of hands-on adventure, (bass) & Christopher Monks (direc- Comedy Loft, Birmingham Wed 29 Nov - Sun 7 Jan, Warwick tor), Thurs 7 Dec, Warwick Arts Cen- Comedy GREG DAVIES Fri 8 - Sat 9 Dec, Civic Arts Centre, Coventry PLAY ON! tre, Coventry Hall, Wolverhampton Luke Players present Rick CITY OF BIRMINGHAM CHOIR: HANDEL’S MAUREEN YOUNGER Fri 1 Dec, Artrix, MIKE NEWALL, MANDY KNIGHT, SEAN Abbot’s story about an amateur the- MESSIAH Featuring the Bromsgrove PERCIVAL & COMIC TBC Sat 9 Dec, The atre group trying to put on a play de- City of Birmingham Choir, City of PHIL JERROD, DYLAN GOTT & COMICS Comedy Loft, Birmingham spite interference from a haughty author, Thurs 30 Nov - Sat 2 Dec, Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, TBC Fri 1 Dec, Cherry Reds Cafe-Bar, JOHN HASTINGS, CRAIG MURRAY, SEAN Adrian Lucas (conductor), Rowan MAC, Birmingham Birmingham COLLINS & DANA ALEXANDER Sat 9 - RAYMOND BRIGGS' FATHER CHRISTMAS Pierce (soprano), Anna Huntley SOL BERNSTEIN, BEC HILL, JARLATH Sun 10 Dec, The Glee Club, B’ham (alto), Bradley Smith (tenor), James REGAN & KEVIN MCCARTHY Fri 1 Dec, Pins & Needles present Raymond Cleverton (bass), Christopher Allsop The Glee Club, Birmingham Briggs’ classic festive tale, Thurs 30 (organ) & Thomas Trotter (harpsi- Nov - Sat 30 Dec, MAC, B’ham chord), Fri 8 Dec, Symphony Hall, SCOTT BENNETT, ADAM BLOOM, NICK ALADDIN Fun-filled family panto star- Birmingham PAGE & COMIC TBC Fri 1 Dec, The Comedy Loft, Birmingham Theatre ring CBeebies favourite Cat Sandion FOLLIA: TELEMANN IN PARIS, 1737-38 as Princess Jasmine, Sam Rabone Join Follia as they celebrate the OMID DJALILI Fri 1 Dec, Stratford as Widow Twankey and Ben Thorn- , GREASE 250th anniversary of the death of Artshouse, Stratford-upon-Avon The original high school mu- ton as Wishee Washee, Thurs 30 Georg Philipp Telemann with a musi- JERRY SADOWITZ Fri 1 Dec, Wulfrun sical, starring Danielle Hope as Nov - Sat 6 Jan, Lichfield Garrick THE HUNDRED AND ONE DALMATIANS cal journey through two of his ground Hall, Wolverhampton Sandy, Tom Parker as Danny and breaking 'Paris Quartets', together LEE NELSON Fri 1 Dec, Dudley Town Louisa Lytton as Rizzo, until Sat 2 Dodie Smith’s delightful tale, with chamber music by his French Hall Dec, Wolverhampton Grand Theatre adapted for the stage by Nativity! contemporaries Jean-Phillippe ALICE IN WONDERLAND writer Debbie Isitt, Thurs 30 Nov - Rameau, Jean-Baptiste Forqueray BEC HILL, HOWARD READ & TIERNAN Modern adap- tation of Lewis Carroll’s classic tale, Sat 13 Jan, The REP, Birmingham and Jean-Claude Balbastre, Fri 8 DOUIEB Sat 2 Dec, The REP, B’ham THE WIZARD OF OZ until Sat 30 Dec, The Old Rep The- Dec, The Barber Institute, B’ham THE JUMPROV CHRISTMAS SPECIAL Sat Oddsocks bring atre, Birmingham another classic adventure to life with CBSO NOTELETS: CHRISTMAS CRACKERS 2 Dec, Crescent Theatre, Birmingham CINDERELLA Panto version of the a hearty dollop of their trademark Featuring Catherine Arlidge (presen- SOL BERNSTEIN, BEC HILL, JARLATH classic rags-to-riches tale, written comedy and a sprinkling of new ter) & the CBSO Brass Ensemble, REGAN & KEVIN MCCARTHY Sat 2 Dec, and directed by Iain Lauchlan, until songs, Fri 1 - Sat 2 Dec, Bridge Fri 8 - Sat 9 Dec, CBSO Centre, The Glee Club, Birmingham Sat 13 Jan, Belgrade Theatre, House Theatre, Warwick Birmingham THE WITCHES FREDDIE QUINN, ADAM BLOOM, NICK Coventry Bear Pit Theatre Com- ORCHESTRA OF THE SWAN: MESSIAH PAGE & COMIC TBC Sat 2 Dec, The A CHRISTMAS CAROL David Edgar’s pany present an amateur staging of Featuring Stacey Watton (conductor), Comedy Loft, Birmingham Louise Kemény (soprano), Helen adaptation of Charles Dickens’ fes- Roald Dahl's fantasy novel, Fri 1 - BARNSTORMERS COMEDY NIGHT Sat 2 Charlston (mezzo-soprano), James tive classic. Phil Davies stars, until Sat 9 Dec, The Bear Pit Theatre - Dec, Artrix, Bromsgrove Atherton (tenor) & Samuel Pantcheff Sun 4 Feb, Royal Shakespeare The- The United Reformed Church, Strat- STAND UP COMEDY SHOWCASE 2 Dec, atre, Stratford-upon-Avon ford-upon-Avon (bass), Sat 9 Dec, Holy Trinity IMPERIUM PART 1: CONSPIRATOR SNOW MOUSE Church, Stratford-upon-Avon MAC, Birmingham Mike Travelling Light & The ESPRESSIVO CHORUS PRESENTS PAUL FOOT Sat 2 Dec, Stafford Gate- Poulton’s adaptation of Robert Har- Egg present ‘an enchanting winter’s CHRISTMAS! Retelling of the Christ- house Theatre ris’ bestselling Cicero trilogy, Gre- tale for the very young’, Fri 1 - Sun gory Doran directs, until Sat 10 Feb, 31 Dec, Warwick Arts Centre, mas story through choral arrange- JASON MANFORD Tues 5 Dec, Hunting- The Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon- Coventry ments of well loved Christmas carols don Hall, Worcester PAUL O’DONNELL: WE’VE GOT EACH & music, Sat 9 Dec, The Bramall, Avon JOHN HASTINGS, CRAIG MURRAY, ANDRE IMPERIUM: PART II DICTATOR OTHER Birmingham Mike Tragic tale following the story VINCENT & STUART MITCHELL Wed 6 - Poulton’s adaptation of Robert Har- of a docker, a waitress and their for- 54 whatsonlive.co.uk The List Warwicks/Worcs Fri 1 - Sun 10 December (v2016).qxp_Layout 1 21/11/2017 11:07 Page 4

Friday 1 - Sunday 10 December

SLEEPING BEAUTY bidden love for one another, Sat 2 Starring Ben Dec, MAC, Birmingham Humphrey as Dame Ginny, Mon 4 SANTA IN LOVE People’s Theatre Dec - Sun 7 Jan, The Swan Theatre, Worcester Company present a ‘fun-filled’ family SLEEPING BEAUTY musical complete with games, gig- Tues 5 - Fri 8 Dec, gles and all your favourite Christmas The Blue Orange Theatre, B’ham SNOW WHITE songs, Sat 2 Dec, Artrix, Broms- Starring Britain’s Got grove THE JUMPROV CHRISTMAS SPECIAL Talent star Jai McDowall as the prince, TV legend Dave Benson Festive-themed 100%-improvised Phillips as Muddles and Bad Girls sketch show for over-18s only, Sat 2 actress Nicole Faraday as the Dec, Crescent Theatre, Birmingham Wicked Queen, Wed 6 - Sun 31 THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE Dec, Palace Theatre, Redditch WARDROBE SANTA'S MIXED UP MARTIAN Amateur staging pre- Join sented by Encore Theatre Academy, Santa, Ellie, Rudolph and a multi- Sat 2 Dec, Norbury Theatre, coloured mixed-up Martian who Droitwich makes an emergency landing on GOODNIGHT MR TOM Amateur staging Earth after being blown off course of Michelle Magorian’s award-win- by a solar wind... Thurs 7 - Sun 24 Dec, Belgrade Theatre, Coventry We’re Going On A Bear Hunt - Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry ning novel, Sat 2 - Sat 9 Dec, Crite- THE WIND IN THE WILLOWS rion Theatre, Coventry Olivier MOTHER GOOSE ‘Vibrant costumes, Award-winning children’s playwright Mike Kenny’s adaptation of Kenneth host of characters, Fri 8 Dec - Sat 6 breathtaking scenery’, music and Jan, Lichfield Garrick Events song, all topped off with ‘a little silli- Graeme’s children’s classic,Thurs 7 THREE BILLY GOATS GRUFF AND OTHER ness’! Sat 2 - Fri 29 Dec, Bedworth Dec - Sat 6 Jan, Albany Theatre, FURRY TAILS CHRISTMAS AT COUGHTON until Sun 3 Widdershins Theatre Civic Hall Coventry Dec, Coughton Court, Alcester THE GOOD, THE BAD AND THE UGLY DEAR SANTA fuse puppetry and music to tell their Featuring music, laugh- BBC GOOD FOOD SHOW Featuring top SISTERS ter and plenty of audience participa- version of the classic Brothers Rootin’ tootin’ spaghetti Grimm tale, Sat 9 Dec, The Hive, UK chefs cooking live, and a huge western in which the glass slippers tion, Fri 8 - Sun 10 Dec, Malvern range of independent producers & Theatre Worcester have spurs and the bells chime at CINDERELLA MR SILLY PANCAKE AND THE LAND OF big bands, until Sun 3 Dec, NEC, high noon, Sat 2 - Sat 30 Dec, Traditional family pan- CAKE AND BISCUITS Birmingham Interactive show Belgrade Theatre, Coventry tomime, Fri 8 - Sat 16 Dec, Hall CHRISTMAS WREATH MAKING WORK- SLEEPING BEAUTY Green Little Theatre, Birmingham featuring original music, puppetry Starring JP McCue FAULTY TOWERS: THE CHRISTMAS DIN- and a ‘stunning’ set, Sat 9 - Sun 10 SHOP until Fri 8 Dec, Kenilworth Cas- & Sean Dodds, Sat 2 - Sun 31 Dec, ING EXPERIENCE Dec, The REP, Birmingham tle ALICE IN WONDERLAND Royal Spa Centre, Leamington Spa Fully immersive the- 12 CRAFTS FOR CHRISTMAS Enjoy 12 SLEEPING BEAUTY atre experience where audience Amateur stag- Written and di- ing presented by Beginners On different ‘car’istmassy craft activities, rected by Ben Crocker, Sat 2 - Sun members become diners in the infa- until Sat 23 Dec, Coventry Transport mous ‘Faulty’ restaurant, Fri 8 - Stage, Sat 9 - Sun 10 Dec, Norbury 31 Dec, The Roses, Tewkesbury Theatre, Droitwich Museum THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE Thurs 21 Dec, The REP, B’ham A HOLLY JOLLY CHRISTMAS JACK & THE BEANSTALK MEET SANTA In an experience unique WARDROBE Malcolm Festive Little Arden Theatre celebration of the Golden Era of Hol- to Birmingham this festive season, Company presents its adaptation of Stent's final pantomime, bringing to visitors are invited to go the North an end a 27-year stint in Solihull's lywood, Sat 9 - Sun 10 Dec, The the CS Lewis classic, Sun 3 - Sat 16 Blue Orange Theatre, Birmingham Pole of the city in the Antartic Grotto, Dec, Crescent Theatre, Birmingham pantoland! Fri 8 - Sun 31 Dec, JACK AND THE BEANSTALK meet the man himself and enjoy the FLASHDANCE Starring The Core Theatre, Solihull cheeky Gentoo penguins in the ex- Strictly champion CRIMES ON THE CHRISTMAS EXPRESS Gareth Gates, Lisa Riley, Ian Adams clusive setting of the ever-so-ever-so Joanne Clifton and A1 heartthrob and Doreen Tipton, Sat 9 Dec - Sun Inspired by Agatha Christie, The 39 chilly Ice Adventure area, until Sat 23 Ben Adams star in a new staging of 14 Jan, Wolverhampton Grand The- Steps and Jason Bourne, and fea- Dec, National Sea Life Centre, Birm- the hit musical, Mon 4 - Sat 9 Dec, atre New Alexandra Theatre, B’ham turing a cast of four bringing to life a ingham BIRMINGHAM FRANKFURT CHRISTMAS MARKET until Sun 24 Dec, Birming- ham City Centre Dance THE FATHER CHRISTMAS EXPERIENCE until Sun 24 Dec, Magic Alley & The THE NUTCRACKER World of Wizard's Thatch, Stratford- Birmingham Royal upon-Avon Ballet presents its world famous pro- duction, which transports audiences SANTA'S WINTER WONDERLAND Explore into an enchanting winter wonder- Santa’s Christmas snow trail, take a land of dancing snowflakes and the walk through the enchanted forest, Sugar Plum Fairy, until Wed 13 Dec, enjoy a game of snowballs and hitch Birmingham Hippodrome a ride on a sledge, until Sun 31 Dec, WHAT THE MOON SAW The Snowdome, Staffs 2Face Dance present an interactive reimagining of DRAYTON'S MAGICAL CHRISTMAS Live Hans Christian Andersen’s classic shows, carols, presents plus much tale, Fri 1 - Sat 2 Dec, The Patrick more until Sun 31 Dec, Drayton Centre, Birmingham Hippodrome Manor Theme Park, Tamworth LET IT SNOW Elite Dance Academy CHRISTMAS AT BIRMINGHAM BOTANICAL presents it annual Christmas show, GARDENS until Mon 1 Jan, Birming- featuring dance styles including tap, ham Botanical Gardens ballet, street, Irish and more... Sun 3 MAGICAL LANTERN FESTIVAL Christ- BRB’s The Nutcracker - Birmingham Hippodrome Dec, The Albany Theatre, Coventry mas-themed event featuring artistic

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DECEMBER 2017

Tues 5 & 19 December Thurs 9 December Mon 11 December THE NUTCRACKER CARA DILLON CHRISTMAS ENCHANTING ROYAL BALLET UPON A WINTER’S NIGHT GOTHIC SCREENINGS HAUNTING SEASONAL TALES

Tues 12 December Weds 27 December Sun 31 December BARBARA NICE’S THE ABOMINABLE NEW YEAR’S EVE CHRISTMAS SNOWMAN PARTY CRACKER PUPPETRY, MUSIC & WITH A DJ AND SELECTION BOX OF ENCHANTING STORYTELLING BEAT BROTHERS SEASONAL FUN

COMING SOON: Maureen Younger, Kodaly Strings, Santa In Love, Barnstormers Comedy, Yianni Agisilaou, Take That Experience, Abba Forever, Big Band At Christmas, Harry & Chris, Cinderella Panto, Goodall, NT Live: Young Marx, King Pleasure & The Biscuit Boys, Johnny Cash Roadshow, The Best Of Wham, Mothership, Oddsocks: Wizard Of Oz, ROH Live: Rigoletto, The Transports, Paul Jones & Dave Kelly, Craig Ogden, Andy Zaltzman, Woodstock Experience, Frankie’s Guys, The Best Of Queen, Eclipse, Germaine Greer, Counterfeit Stones, Samantha Baines, ROH Live: Tosca, Austen The Musical, Leon McCawley, Cloudbusting, Fizzogs, Whitney Houston Live Experience, Bobby Mair, RSC Live: Twelfth Night, Monstersaurus, T.Rextasy, Kitty Macfarlane, Phil Wang, Official Receivers, Fairport Convention...

Free parking on-site Artrix, Slideslow Drive, Bromsgrove, B60 1GN www.artrix.co.uk Box Office: 01527 577330 @artrixarts @artrix arts centre

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Friday 1 - Sunday 10 December

thesculptures, until Monlist 1 Jan, Kings Dec, Baddesley Clinton, Warwick Heath Park, Birmingham DECK THE HALLS! See the historic ICE SKATE BIRMINGHAM Enjoy this win- houses traditionally decorated for ter sport in beautiful city surround- Christmas, Tues 5 - Fri 8 Dec, Avon- ings until Sun 7 Jan, Eastside City croft Museum, Bromsgrove Park, Birmingham DRIFT WHAT YA BRUNG Wed 6 Dec, WORCESTER VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS Santa Pod Raceway, Wellingborough FAYRE Thurs 30 Nov - Sun 3 Dec, CHRISTMAS RAG RUGGING Wed 6 Dec, Worcester City Centre Birmingham Botanical Gardens VEGAN FESTIVAL With over 20 stall- CHRISTMAS HOUSE TOURS Enjoy the holders celebrating everything vegan, house dressed for a traditional Christ- Fri 1 - Sat 2 Dec, FarGo Village, mas, followed by a three-course fes- Coventry tive supper, Wed 6 Dec, Baddesley ACORNS SANTA RUN Charity event in Clinton, Warwick support of local children’s hospice, STEMTASTIC EXPLORERS SLEIGH SPE- Sat 2 Dec, Cannon Hill Park, B’ham CIAL Santa learns to fly - and land CANDLELIT CHRISTMAS Carol singers, safely! Wed 6 Dec, Coventry Trans- bell ringers, live music, roasted port Museum chestnuts, entertainers and snow, Sat TINY TOTS TRAIL OF TREATS Join Mrs 2 Dec, Avoncroft Museum, Broms- Claus at the fireside for milk, cookies grove and a festive story, Wed 6 - Thurs 7 Stemtastic Explorers Sleigh Special - Coventry Transport Museum A CHRISTMAS CAROL TRAIL Follow the Dec, Blists Hill, Ironbridge fully decorated gas-lit streets and tle, Nr Leominster magical trail and see which Christ- THE MANOR BY MOONLIGHT Join the take in the sights, sounds and smells BRITISH MOTOR MUSEUM CHRISTMAS mas characters you bump into, Sat 2 Pakingtons and their friends in the of a magical Christmas past, Fri 8 - CRAFT WEEKEND Motoring-themed - Sun 3 Dec, Croft Castle, Nr Leomin- candlelit hall, and discover the dan- Sat 9 Dec, Black Country Living Mu- Christmas family crafts, Sat 9 - Sun ster gers that await them, Wed 6 - Thurs 7 seum, Dudley 10 Dec, British Motor Museum, Gay- CHRISTMAS GIFT FAYRE Sat 2 - Sun 3 Dec, Harvington Hall, Kidderminster THE STRATFORD-UPON-AVON VICTORIAN don Dec, Upton House & Gardens, Nr GEORGIAN CHRISTMAS TOUR Find out CHRISTMAS MARKET Fri 8 - Sun 10 CHRISTMAS AT CHARLECOTE PARK Join Banbury how Boulton and his friends would Dec, Stratford Town Centre in with mulled wine tasting or write a CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION WEEKEND have celebrated the festive season THE BEAST - THE WORLD'S BIGGEST letter to Father Christmas, Sat 9 - Sun See Santa star in his very own stage during the 18th century, Wed 6 - BOUNCY CASTLE Unleash your beast 10 Dec, Charlecote Park, Warwick show, Sat 2 - Sun 3 Dec, Cadbury Thurs 21 Dec, Soho House, B’ham as the world’s largest inflatable ob- World, Birmingham GINGERBREAD TRAIL Follow the clues stacle course visits Birmingham, Fri 8 round the trail and claim your prize, CROFT'S 1950S CHRISTMAS Sat 2 - Sun - Sun 17 Dec, NEC, Birmingham Sat 9 - Sun 10 Dec, Croome Park, 3 Dec, Croft Castle, Nr Leominster BRITISH MOTOR MUSEUM FESTIVE FAM- Worcester CHRISTMAS AT CHARLECOTE PARK Join ILY FUN Enjoy the Christmas trail and CHRISTMAS WASSAIL Christmas sto- in with mulled wine tasting or write a help Martin the Mechanic get Santa’s ries and carols from Birmingham letter to Father Christmas... Sat 2 - sleigh back on the road, Fri 8 - Sat 23 Crescent Theatre. Mulled wine, a Sun 3 Dec, Charlecote Park, Warwick Dec, British Motor Museum, Gaydon roaring fire and mince pies are in- GINGERBREAD TRAIL Follow the clues BEHIND THE SCENES TOURS Join the cluded! Sat 9 - Sun 10 Dec, round the trail and claim your prize, theatre’s knowledgeable Heritage Coughton Court, Alcester Sat 2 - Sun 3 Dec, Croome Park, Guides and Visitor Services Assis- CHRISTMAS IN THE HOME Step back in Worcester tants as they share captivating stories time and take part in seasonal activi- CHRISTMAS MARKET Sat 2 - Sun 3 from the theatre’s past, Sat 9 Dec, ties, Sat 9 - Sun 10 Dec, Black Coun- Dec, Croome Park, Worcester Birmingham Hippodrome try Living Museum, Dudleyy FATHER CHRISTMAS' WORKSHOP Sat 2 - CHRISTMAS CAROL TRAINS Sing along AN ELIZABETHAN CHRISTMAS Featuring Sun 3 Dec, Croft Castle, Nr Leomin- or just soak up the festive atmo- festive greenery, log fires, carols and ster sphere, Sat 9 Dec, Severn Valley Rail- merriment! Sat 9 - Sun 10 Dec, Harv- way, Bewdley ington Hall, Kidderminster SANTA HUNTS Search for Santa along- TUDOR CHRISTMAS TOURS Featuring VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS Sat 9 - Sun 10 side the museum’s festive costumed pomander making and wassailing, RAGLEY BY CANDLELIGHT EXPERIENCE Dec, Blists Hill, Telford guides, Sat 2 - Sun 3 Dec, Black Wed 6 - Thurs 21 Dec, Blakesley Hall, Sat 9 - Sun 10 Dec, Ragley Hall, Al- Country Living Museum, Dudley Birmingham LADIES KENNEL ASSOCIATION The cester largest dog show in the UK after SANTA STEAM SPECIALS Travel by CHRISTMAS EVENING TOURS 2017 Tour SANTA STEAM SPECIALS Travel by Crufts, Sat 9 - Sun 10 Dec, NEC, steam train from Kidderminster to of the house, beautifully dressed for steam train from Kidderminster to Birmingham Arley, where you can meet Father Christmas, followed by a two-course Arley, where you will meet Father Christmas in his grotto, Sat 2 - Sun 3 supper in the Garden Kitchen Café, CHRISTMAS AT THE CASTLE Sat 9 - Sun Christmas in his grotto, Sat 9 - Sun Dec, Severn Valley Railway, Bewdley Thurs 7 Dec, Packwood House, Soli- 10 Dec, Kenilworth Castle, Kenilworth 10 Dec, Severn Valley Railway, Bewd- SANTA'S SLEEPOVERS Festive sleep- hull A CHRISTMAS CAROL TRAIL Follow the ley over at one of Alton Tower's themed CHRISTMAS HOUSE TOURS Enjoy the magical trail and see which Christ- CHILDREN’S VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS hotels, Sun 3 Dec, Alton Towers, house dressed for a traditional Christ- mas characters you bump into, Sat 9 SANTA TRAILS Meet the Victorian Staffs mas, followed by a three-course fes- - Sun 10 Dec, Croft Castle, Nr household as they ready themselves CHRISTMAS MAGIC LANTERN SHOW Sun tive supper, Fri 8 Dec, Baddesley Leominster for the annual visit of their very spe- 3 Dec, Blakesley Hall, Birmingham Clinton, Warwick CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION WEEKEND cial guest, Sat 9 - Sun 10 Dec, Tam- worth Castle, Staffs RAGLEY BY CANDLELIGHT Sun 3 Dec, WINTER NIGHT MARKET Filled with arti- See Santa star in his very own stage Ragley Hall, Alcester san products, handcrafted goodies show, Sat 9 - Sun 10 Dec, Cadbury HARRY POTTER AND THE CHAMBER OF World, Birmingham SECRETS High definition screening CHRISTMAS HOUSE TOURS Enjoy the and delicious local produce, Fri 8 while a live orchestra performs John house dressed for a traditional Christ- Dec, FarGo Village, Coventry CROFT'S 1950S CHRISTMAS Revel in Williams’ score, Sun 10 Dec, Genting mas, followed by a three-course fes- TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS EVENINGS the post-war festive spirit of the Arena, Birmingham tive supper in the restaurant, Mon 4 Stroll through the museum’s beauti- 1950s, Sat 9 - Sun 10 Dec, Croft Cas-

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thelist SON & MIKE WILMOT Wed 13 Dec, Classical The Glee Club, Birmingham ZOE LYONS, ED GAMBLE, ANDY ROBIN- SON & CHARLIE BAKER Thurs 14 Dec, Music The Glee Club, Birmingham ROB ROUSE, KANE BROWN, MARK SIM- THE SIXTEEN - GLORY TO THE CHRIST MONS & COMIC TBC Thurs 14 Dec, CHILD Featuring Harry Christophers The Comedy Loft, Birmingham (conductor), Mon 11 Dec, Sym- OMID DJALILI Thurs 14 Dec, The phony Hall, Birmingham Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury LUNCHTIME CHRISTMAS MUSIC WITH HARRY & CHRIS Fri 15 Dec, Artrix, THE CHOIR OF ST JOHN'S COLLEGE, Bromsgrove CAMBRIDGE Featuring Andrew Neths- ingha (music director) & Thomas ROB ROUSE, KANE BROWN, REGINALD D Trotter (organ), Mon 11 Dec, Sym- HUNTER & MARK SIMMONS Fri 15 Dec, phony Hall, Birmingham The Comedy Loft, Birmingham BARBARA NICE'S CHRISTMAS CRACKER THE YORK WAITS Celebration of En- glish medieval and Tudor carols, Fri 15 - Sat 16 Dec, MAC, B’ham Queen + Adam Lambert - Arena Birmingham songs & dances for the festive sea- ZOE LYONS, ED GAMBLE, ANDY ROBIN- son, Tues 12 Dec, St Mary's Church, SON & MIKE WILMOT Fri 15 - Sat 16 Thurs 14 Dec, Hunt- Dec, Genting Arena, Warwick Dec, The Glee Club, Birmingham ingdon Hall, Worcester Birmingham Gigs ROB ROUSE, FREDDIE QUINN, MARK BOWIE EXPERIENCE THE SEARCHERS 10TH SIMMONS & COMIC TBC Sat 16 Dec, MOZES ROSENBERG Thurs 14 Dec, Malvern (AND LAST?) ANNUAL The Comedy Loft, Birmingham Theatres CHRISTMAS Sat 16 TRIO Mon 11 Dec, THE LAUGHING SOLE COMEDY FOR KIDS Dec, Huntingdon Hall, Huntingdon Hall, PULLED APART BY Sun 17 Dec, MAC, Birmingham Worcester HORSES Thurs 14 Dec, Worcester ED GAMBLE, JO ENRIGHT, ANDY ROBIN- The Tin Music And HOODIE ALLEN Sat 16 NORMANDIE & WILLIAM SON & MIKE WILMOT Sun 17 Dec, The Arts, Coventry Dec, O2 Institute, RYAN KEY (YELLOW- Glee Club, Birmingham CARD) Mon 11 Dec, O2 THE BIRMINGHAM Birmingham Academy, Birmingham CANOLDIR CHRISTMAS A COUNTRY NIGHT IN SPECTACULAR Thurs 14 NASHVILLE Sat 16 Dec, ROBERT PLANT Tues 12 RICHARD JENKINSON PHD PERFOR- Dec, Birmingham Malvern Theatres Dec, Symphony Hall, MANCE RECITAL Programme includes Town Hall Birmingham GUNS 2 ROSES Sat 16 works by Dohnányi & Kodály, Wed Theatre THE YORK WAITES WITH JAYKAE Fri 15 Dec, O2 Dec, The Copper 13 Dec, The Barber Institute, B’ham Institute, Birmingham Rooms, Coventry DEBORAH CATTERALL THE BIRMINGHAM CANOLDIR CHRIST- MARY CHRISTMAS Nick Wilkes’ sea- Tues 12 Dec, Royal RED SUIT APARATUS Fri KATE RUSBY AT CHRIST- MAS SPECTACULAR Featuring James sonal tale of females, fir trees and Spa Centre, Leaming- 15 Dec, O2 Institute, MAS Sat 16 Dec, Birm- Llewelyn Jones (conductor), Gemini phone numbers, Tues 12 Dec, ton Spa Birmingham ingham Town Hall Brass & Denise Leigh (soprano), Swan Theatre, Worcester ROY WODD ROCK & UB40 Fri 15 Dec, Thurs 14 Dec, Birmingham Town CLOSER ROLL BAND Tues 12 Genting Arena, B’ham Hall Presented by Birmingham Dec, The Robin, Bil- School Of Acting, Wed 13 - Sat 16 SHED SEVEN Fri 15 Dec, MIDLANDS HOSPITAL CHOIR: SING ston Dec, Crescent Theatre, B’ham O2 Academy, B’ham NOEL! Festive concert conducted by RENÉ AND EDITH - LE COMEDY DINNER LIAM GALLAGHER Tues James Llewelyn Jones, Fri 15 Dec, NOTEBENDERS Fri 15 SHOW 12 Dec, Arena Birm- Birmingham Town Hall Inspired by much-loved BBC Dec, Symphony Hall, sitcom ’Allo ’Allo, Wed 13 - Sat 16 ingham THE BBC BIG BAND Featuring Claire Birmingham Dec, The REP, Birmingham DIRTY THRILLS Tues 12 Martin OBE, Sat 16 Dec, Warwick THE OFFICIAL RE- SNOW WHITE Dec, O2 Academy, Arts Centre, Coventry Wed 13 - Sun 31 Dec, CEIVERS Fri 15 Dec, Birmingham Priory Theatre, Kenilworth The Marr's Bar, COVENTRY PHILHARMONIC CHOIR: HAN- TALL STORIES: THE SNOW DRAGON WRETCH 32 Tues 12 Worcester (SPUNGE) Sat 16 Dec, DEL’S MESSIAH PART 1 Sat 16 Dec, St Dec, O2 Institute, Mary’s Church, Warwick Toe-tapping songs and ‘lots of THE BOOTLEG BEATLES O2 Academy, B’ham Birmingham laughs’ for everyone aged three Fri 15 Dec, Symphony ROY WOOD'S ROCKMAS CHRISTMAS WITH KATHERINE JENKINS THE SPIRIT OF JOHN Featuring the London Concert Or- and older, Thurs 14 - Fri 15 Dec, Hall, Birmingham 2017 Sat 16 Dec, Sym- Bridge House Theatre, Warwick COLTRANE Wed 13 Dec, chestra, Anthony Inglis (conductor) BORN IN THE EIGHTIES phony Hall, B’ham Stratford Artshouse, & special guest Mark Vincent, Sun Fri 15 Dec, The River FIVE FINGER DEATH Stratford-upon-Avon 17 Dec, Symphony Hall, B’ham Rooms, Stourbridge PUNCH & IN FLAMES THE BIG BAND AT SHULAH’S CHRISTMAS CABARET Fea- QUEEN + ADAM LAM- Sun 17 Dec, Arena CHRISTMAS Wed 13 turing extracts from The Nutcracker, BERT Sat 16 Dec, Birmingham Dec, Artrix, Broms- The Night Before Christmas & The Arena Birmingham WOLFSBANE Sun 17 grove Snowman, Sun 17 Dec, Huntingdon SOUL STRIPPER Sat 16 Dec, The Asylum, JOOLS HOLLAND & HIS Hall, Worcester Dec, The Marr's Bar, Birmingham RHYTHM & BLUES OR- Worcester GRAVEYARD JOHNNY’S CHESTRA Wed 13 - Sun 17 Dec, The Thurs 14 Dec, Sym- KICK UP THE 80’S Sat 16 Dec, The River Marr's Bar, Worcester CINDERELLA phony Hall, B’ham Alison Hammond stars Rooms, Stourbridge EXTREME Sun 17 Dec, Comedy PETER HOOK & THE alongside Gemma Naylor from Nick O2 Academy, B’ham LIGHT THE FAMILY SILVER Sat Jr’s Go! Go! Go! show, Thurs 14 Thurs 14 Dec, BARBARA NICE'S CHRISTMAS CRACKER The Slade Rooms, 16 Dec, O2 Institute, STEELEYE SPAN Sun 17 Dec - Sun 7 Jan, Malvern Theatres Birmingham Tues 12 Dec, Artrix, Bromsgrove A CHRISTMAS CAROL Wolverhampton Dec, Warwick Arts Charles Dick- Centre, Coventry ZOE LYONS, ED GAMBLE, ANDY ROBIN- MIKE SANCHEZ BAND I LOVE REGGAE Sat 16 ens' supernatural tale of redemp- 58 whatsonlive.co.uk The List NEW Warwicks/Worcs 11-17 December (v2016).qxp_Layout 1 21/11/2017 11:05 Page 2

Monday 11 - Sunday 17 December

Stevens, Christopher Plummer. War- LANTERN FESTIVAL Thurs 14 - Sun 17 Avoncroft Museum, Bromsgrove tion, Sat 16 - Sun 17 Dec, Blue Or- wick Arts Centre, Coventry, Fri 15 - Dec, Witley Court, Great Witley ange Theatre, Birmingham CAROLS AT Led by CINDERELLA Thurs 21 Dec TUDOR MUSIC PERFORMANCES A selec- the choir of St Mary’s and Royal Spa Presented by All & HOME ALONE (U) Comedy/Family. Star- tion of traditional and festive Tudor Brass, Sat 16 Dec, Warwick Castle Sundry, Sat 16 - Sat 23 Dec, Artrix, ring Macaulay Culkin, Joe Pesci. music, Fri 15 Dec, Hall's Croft, Strat- Bromsgrove VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS Sat 16 - Sun 17 THE WITCHES Electric Cinema, Birmingham, Fri 15 - ford-upon-Avon Dec, Blists Hill, Ironbridge, Shrops Coach House Theatre Sat 23 Dec WINTER NIGHT MARKET Filled with arti- present an amateur staging of Roald A CHRISTMAS CAROL TRAIL Which GOODBYE CHRISTOPHER ROBIN (PG) Bi- san products, handcrafted goodies Christmas characters will you bump Dahl's fantasy novel, Sat 16 - Sun ography/Family. Starring Margot Rob- and delicious local produce, Fri 15 31 Dec, Malvern Theatre into? Sat 16 - Sun 17 Dec, Croft Cas- JERSEY BOYS bie, Domhnall Gleeson. Warwick Arts Dec, FarGo Village, Coventry tle, Nr Leominster The story of Frankie Centre, Coventry, Sat 16 Dec TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS EVENINGS Valli & The Four Seasons, Sat 16 CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION WEEKEND ELF (12a) Comedy/Family. Starring Stroll through the museum’s deco- See Santa star in his very own stage Dec - Sat 6 Jan, New Alexandra Will Ferrell, James Caan. Electric Cin- rated gas-lit streets and take in the Theatre, Birmingham show, Sat 16 - Sun 17 Dec, Cadbury A CHRISTMAS WASSAIL 2017 ema, Birmingham, Sat 16 - Sat 23 sights, sounds and smells of a magi- World, Birmingham Mulled Dec; New Alexandra Theatre, Birm- cal Christmas past, Fri 15 - Sun 17 wine and mince pies are served ingham, Sun 17 Dec Dec, Black Country Living Museum, CROFT'S 1950S CHRISTMAS Revel in the post-war festive spirit of the 1950s, from 7pm, Sun 17 - Tues 19 Dec, LOVE ACTUALLY (12a) Comedy/Family. Dudley Crescent Theatre, Birmingham Sat 16 - Sun 17 Dec, Croft Castle, Nr Starring Hugh Grant, Martine Mc- ENCHANTED KENILWORTH CASTLE Ex- Leominster Cutcheon. Electric Cinema, Birming- plore the grounds after dark for a win- ham, Sun 17 Dec ter fairytale of light, colour and SANTA STEAM SPECIALS Travel by steam train from Kidderminster to DIE HARD (15) Action/Thriller. Starring sound, Fri 15 - Sat 23 Dec, Kenilworth Castle Arley, where you will meet Father Film Bruce Willis, Alan Rickman. Electric Christmas in his grotto, Sat 16 - Sun Cinema, Birmingham, Sun 17 Dec SANTA'S SLEEPOVERS A festive sleep- 17 Dec, Severn Valley Railway, Bewd- over at one of Alton Tower's themed INDEPENDENT LISTINGS: THE BIG HEAT (15) Crime/Thriller. Star- ley ring Glenn Ford, Gloria Grahame. hotels, Fri 15 - Sat 23 Dec, Alton Tow- GET OUT (15) Mystery/Thriller. Starring ers, Staffs MEET FATHER CHRISTMAS Receive a MAC, Birmingham, Sun 17 Dec; personalised gift and take part in Daniel Kaluuya, Allison Williams. Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury, Mon 18 A TUDOR CHRISTMAS Discover how the Electric Cinema, Birmingham, Mon hands-on activities, Sat 16 - Sun 17 Dec Tudors celebrated Christmas and the Dec, Hall's Croft, Stratford-upon-Avon 11 & Wed 13 Dec foods they enjoyed during the festive BABY DRIVER (PG) Action/Crime. Star- season, Sat 16 Dec, Hall's Croft, VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS SANTA TRAIL ring Ansel Elgort, Jon Bernthal. Elec- Stratford-upon-Avon Meet the Victorian household as they ready themselves for the annual visit tric Cinema, Birmingham, Tues 12 NEW FILMS ON GENERAL RELEASE: CHRISTMASES PAST Experience the Dec of their very special guest, Sat 16 - Released from Thurs 14 Dec, show- sights and sounds of the festive sea- Tues 19 Dec, Tamworth Castle, Staffs CALL ME BY YOUR NAME (15) ing at selected cinemas son from the 17th century right CHRISTMAS WASSAIL TOUR Let the ex- Drama/Romance. Starring Armie STAR WARS: THE LAST JEDI (12a) through to the 1940s, Sat 16 Dec, Hammer, Timothée Chalamet. Elec- Aston Hall, Birmingham pert guides bring Tudor Christmas to tric Cinema, Birmingham, Tues 12 - Released from Sat 16 Dec, showing life and enjoy some homemade was- at selected cinemas CHRISTMAS CAROL TRAINS Sing along sail as you go! Sat 16 - Sun 24 Dec, Wed 13 Dec or just soak up the festive atmo- FERDINAND (tbc) Shakespeare's Birthplace, Stratford MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET (U) sphere, Sat 16 Dec, Severn Valley Upon Avon Drama/Family. Starring Edmund Railway, Bewdley Gwenn, Maureen O'Hara. Electric CHRISTMAS AT CHARLECOTE PARK Join FROST FAIR Brand new indoor Christ- in with mulled wine tasting or write a Cinema, Birmingham, Tues 12 & mas market with decoration and Thurs 14 Dec letter to Father Christmas, Sat 16 - Events card-making activities, seasonal food Sun 24 Dec, Charlecote Park, War- FILM STARS DON'T DIE IN LIVERPOOL and drink, pop-up performances by wick (15) Biography/Drama. Starring Jamie local musicians, choirs and more, Sat Bell, Annette Bening. Roses Theatre, DECK THE HALLS! Illustrating seasonal 16 Dec, Birmingham Hippodrome GINGERBREAD TRAIL Follow the clues traditions through the ages, Tues 12 - round the trail and claim your prize, Tewkesbury, Tues 12 - Mon 18 Dec FATHER CHRISTMAS AT AVONCROFT Fri 15 Dec, Avoncroft Museum, Sat 16 Dec - Mon 1 Jan, Croome STAR WARS: THE FORCE AWAKENS (12a) Have a go at festive craft while you Bromsgrove Park, Worcester Adventure/Fantasy. Starring Harrison wait for the big man to arrive with his Ford, John Boyega. Electric Cinema, TINY TOTS TRAIL OF TREATS Join Mrs sackful of presents! Sat 16 Dec, FESTIVAL OF LIGHT BROMSGROVE Sun Birmingham, Wed 13 Dec Claus at the fireside for milk, cookies 17 Dec, Artrix, Bromsgrove and a festive story, Wed 13 - Thurs 14 STAR WARS: THE LAST JEDI (12a) Ad- Dec, Blists Hill, Ironbridge, Shrops venture/Fantasy. Starring Mark Hamill, Adam Driver. Electric Cinema, SOHO BY MOONLIGHT Featuring carol Birmingham, Thurs 14 - Thurs 28 singing and costumed guides show- Dec; Malvern Theatres, Thurs 14 - ing how to make traditional Twelfth Sun 31 Dec Cake, Wed 13 - Thurs 14 Dec, Soho IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE (U) House, Birmingham Drama/Family. Starring James Stew- MIDWINTER MAGIC Motionhouse pre- art, Donna Reed. Birmingham Cathe- sent a dance/circus spectacular in- dral, Fri 15 - Sat 16 Dec; New spired by timeless themes of Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham, Sun Shakespeare’s work, Wed 13 - Sun 17 Dec 17 Dec, Shakespeare’s New Place, THE MUPPET CHRISTMAS CAROL (U) Stratford-upon-Avon Comedy/Drama. Starring Michael CHRISTMAS AT THE RACES Thurs 14 Caine, The Muppets. Electric Cin- Dec, Warwick Racecourse, Warwick ema, Birmingham, Fri 15 & Sun 17 CHRISTMAS EVENING TOURS A tour of Dec; New Alexandra Theatre, Birm- the house dressed for Christmas, fol- ingham, Sun 17 Dec lowed by a two-course supper in the THE MAN WHO INVENTED CHRISTMAS Garden Kitchen Café, Thurs 14 Dec, Tudor Christmas - Hall’s Croft, Stratford-upon-Avon (PG) Biography/Comedy. Starring Dan Packwood House, Solihull whatsonlive.co.uk 59 The List NEW Warwicks/Worcs 18-24 December (v2016).qxp_Layout 1 23/11/2017 14:27 Page 1 The List NEW Warwicks/Worcs 18-24 December (v2016).qxp_Layout 1 23/11/2017 14:27 Page 2

thelist Monday 18 - Sunday 24 December CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR Featuring Classical Music the London Concert Orchestra. John Rigby (conductor), the Can- zonetta Choir, The Jingle Belles, LONDON CONCERT ORCHESTRA: CHRIST- Laura Tebbutt (guest singer), Anna MAS CAROL SINGALONG Featuring Patalong (soprano) & Nico Darmanin Adrian Lucas (conductor), the Lon- (tenor), Sat 23 Dec, Symphony Hall, don Concert Orchestra, City of Birm- Birmingham ingham Choir, Nicky Spence (tenor) EX CATHEDRA - ANGELS, STARS & KINGS & Crispian Steele Perkins (trumpet), Featuring Jeffrey Skidmore (conduc- Mon 18 Dec, Symphony Hall, B’ham tor), Alexander Mason (organ) & Lucy LONDON CONCERT ORCHESTRA: CLASSIC Wakeford (harp), Sat 23 Dec, St CAROLS Featuring Adrian Lucas (con- Paul's Church, Birmingham ductor), Nicky Spence (tenor) & CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT Featuring the Crispian Steele Perkins (trumpet), Canzonetta Choir, Mozart Festival Or- Mon 18 Dec, Symphony Hall, B’ham chestra in full period costume, Nika A CHORAL CHRISTMAS Featuring Gori (soprano) & Michael Bawtree Strictly winner and One Show host (conductor). Programme includes as presenter. Simon works by Handel, Gruber, Cullen, Halsey conducts, Tues 19 - Thurs 21 Corelli, Mozart & Bach, Sun 24 Dec, Dec, Symphony Hall, Birmingham Symphony Hall, Birmingham A Christmas Carol: A Folk Opera - Huntingdon Hall, Worccester

Hall AMEN CORNER WITH Gigs A CHORAL CHRISTMAS CHRIS FARLOWE Thurs WITH ORE ADUBA Tues 21 Dec, Huntingdon Comedy Hall, Worcester ELIZA CARTHY & THE 19 - Thurs 21 Dec, ANTHONY KING, JESSICA FOSTEKEW, JU- WAYWARD BAND Mon 18 Symphony Hall, B’ham NATHAN DAWE 0121 LIVE LIAN DEANE & ANDREW BIRD Mon 18 Dec, Birmingham Town Thurs 21 Dec, O2 Insti- VIOLET Wed 20 Dec, Dec, Belgrade Theatre, Coventry Hall The Sunflower Lounge, tute, Birmingham CRISIS AT CHRISTMAS 2017 Mon 18 WHITE TRASH Mon 18 Birmingham THE SUBTERRANEANS Dec, The Glee Club, Birmingham Dec, The Sunflower SYD LAWRENCE ORCHES- Thurs 21 - Sat 23 Dec, EX CATHEDRA: CHRISTMAS MUSIC BY Lounge, Birmingham TRA: MISTLETOE AND The Jam House, B’ham CANDLELIGHT Featuring Jeffrey Skid- TOADALLY FREE COMEDY! Mon 18 Dec, more (conductor), Tues 19 - Sat 23 The Blue Orange Theatre, B’ham SOLID SOUL Mon 18 - MILLER Wed 20 Dec, JAMIE KNIGHT AND THE Dec, St Paul's Church, Birmingham Wed 20 Dec, The Jam Malvern Theatres MANUKA BAND Fri 22 JEN BRISTER, PAUL MCCAFFERY, MICKEY House, Birmingham FLASH-A TRIBUTE TO Dec, Huntingdon Hall, THE SNOWMAN Watch the film on D & SCOTT GIBSON Wed 20 - Sat 23 Worcester Dec, The Glee Club, Birmingham A CHRISTMAS CAROL: A QUEEN Wed 20 Dec, screen whilst a professional 26-piece orchestra, featuring some of the FOLK OPERA Tues 19 The Robin, Bilston POPULATION 7 Fri 22 JULIAN DEANE, QUINCY, ROGER country’s top musicians, perform the Dec, Huntingdon Hall, MICHAEL BUBLE - KAI Dec, The Marr's Bar, MONKHOUSE Thurs 21 - Fri 22 Dec, film’s iconic score, Wed 20 Dec, Worcester MCKENZIE Worcester The Comedy Loft, Birmingham Wed 20 Dec, Worcester Cathedral THE SHADES Tues 19 The River Rooms, BURNSIDE LIVE JUKEBOX MARKUS BIRDMAN, JOHN SCOTT, BEN ARMONICO CONSORT: CAROLS BY CAN- Dec, O2 Institute, Birm- Stourbridge CHRISTMAS PARTY Fri 22 BRIGGS & SCOTT BENNETT Fri 22 Dec, DLELIGHT Soak up the Christmas at- ingham MAD JOCKS & ENGLISH- Dec, The Night Owl, Abbey Theatre, Nuneaton mosphere and enjoy a mix of MEN Birmingham THE STORYBEAST, JONATHAN PELHAM & THE PRODIGY Tues 19 Wed 20 Dec, The seasonal favourites, well-known car- CHRIS PURCHASE Fri 22 Dec, Wolver- Dec, Civic Hall, Wolver- Red Lion Folk Club, THE ALAMO CHRISTMAS ols and new discoveries, Thurs 21 hampton Grand Theatre hampton Birmingham PARTY Fri 22 Dec, The Dec, St Mary's Church, Warwick Night Owl, Birmingham ROFL! COMEDY CLUB Sat 23 Dec, The CHRISTMAS NO. 1 POP UNCOVER Thurs 21 Dec, ANDRE RIEU & THE JOHANN STRAUSS Old Post Office, Burton upon Trent SINGALONG Tues 19 The Marr's Bar, Worces- A FAMILY CHRISTMAS ORCHESTRA Thurs 21 Dec, Genting Dec, Birmingham Town ter WITH THE TOWN HALL Arena, Birmingham GOSPEL CHOIR Fri 22 Dec, Birmingham Town Hall THE BORN AGAIN BEAT- Theatre LES Fri 22 Dec, The Roadhouse, B’ham THE WIND IN THE WILLOWS Drama- FURY Sat 23 Dec, The Link present Alan Bennett's adapta- Marr's Bar, Worcester tion of Kenneth Grahame's CHAS & DAVE Sat 23 much-loved book, Tues 19 - Fri 22 Dec, The Robin, Bilston Dec, Crescent Theatre, Birmingham CINDERELLA IVOR & LYN'S CLASSIC Soul-diva Beverley THE CARICE SINGERS Directed by ROCK NIGHT Sat 23 Dec, Knight makes her pantomime debut George Parris & featuring Lucy Route 44, Acocks alongside Strictly Come Dancing fi- French (cello). Programme includes Green, Birmingham nalist Danny Mac, Hippodrome some of the best choral works for panto favourite Matt Slack, Suzanne THE MOTHERS EARTH EX- Christmas, including works by Cor- Shaw, The Grumbleweeds and Ugly PERIMENT Sat 23 Dec, nelius, Drake, Ola Gjeilo & Vaughan Sisters Ceri Dupree and Phil Ran- The Sunflower Lounge, Williams, Thurs 21 Dec, St Marks dall, Tues 19 Dec - Sun 28 Jan, Birmingham Church, Leamington Spa Birmingham Hippodrome GOODALL Sat 23 Dec, CBSO: CHRISTMAS AT THE MOVIES Fea- PETER PAN - THE WORLD'S BIGGEST Artrix, Bromsgrove PANTO turing Anthony Weeden (conductor), Starring Bradley Walsh and THE TWANG Sat 23 Dec, Gary Williams & Jo Gibb (vocalists), Martin Kemp, Wed 20 - Sun 24 Dec, Eliza Carthy - Birmingham Town Hall O2 Academy, B’ham Fri 22 Dec, Symphony Hall, B’ham Arena Birmingham whatsonlive.co.uk 61 The List NEW Warwicks/Worcs 18-24 December (v2016).qxp_Layout 1 23/11/2017 14:27 Page 3

62 whatsonlive.co.uk The List NEW Warwicks/Worcs 18-24 December (v2016).qxp_Layout 1 23/11/2017 14:27 Page 4

thelist Monday 18 - Sunday 24 December LILY AND THE LITTLE SNOW BEAR house dressed for Christmas, fol- lowed by a two-course supper in the Snowy tale about a lost bear and a Film Events Garden Kitchen Café, Thurs 21 Dec, brave little girl, Wed 20 - Sun 24 Packwood House, Solihull Dec, The Core Theatre, Solihull STAR VEHICLE STORIES Seasonal sto- SKELLIG THE NIGHTMARE BEFORE CHRISTMAS TUDOR MUSIC PERFORMANCES Peas Haunting story of mystery, (PG) Animation/Family. With the ries in the museum, Mon 18 Dec, Coventry Transport Museum Pottage perform a selection of tradi- imagination and childhood, Wed 20 - voices of Danny Elfman, Chris Saran- tional and festive Tudor music Fri 22 Sat 30 Dec, Old Joint Stock Theatre, don. Electric Cinema, Birmingham, DECK THE HALLS! Traditionally deco- Dec, Hall's Croft, Stratford-upon-Avon Birmingham Mon 18 & Wed 20 Dec rated for the festivities, illustrating JACK AND THE BEANSTALK seasonal traditions through the ages, A VERY CARIBBEAN CHRISTMAS: RUM & Wed 20 - GOODBYE CHRISTOPHER ROBIN (PG) Bi- REGGAE Caribbean street food, spe- Sat 30 Dec, Stratford Artshouse, ography/Family. Starring Margot Rob- Tues 19 - Fri 22 Dec, Avoncroft Mu- seum, Bromsgrove ciality rums, cocktails and live music, Stratford-upon-Avon bie, Domhnall Gleeson. Warwick Arts Fri 22 Dec, FarGo Village, Coventry Centre, Coventry, Mon 18 - Thurs 21 SANTA SLEIGH EXPRESS Join the steam Dec train at Kidderminster Station for your THE HOLLY AND THE IVY Historical Christmas music with the Waites of MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS (12a) evening journey with Father Christ- mas to Highley, Tues 19 - Fri 22 Dec, Gloucester, Fri 22 Dec, Harvington Crime/Drama. Starring Kenneth Hall, Kidderminster Branagh, Johnny Depp. Roses The- Severn Valley Railway, Bewdley atre, Tewkesbury, Mon 18 - Thurs 21 TINY TOTS TRAIL OF TREATS Join Mrs FATHER CHRISTMAS AT AVONCROFT Fes- Dec; Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, Claus at the fireside for milk, cookies tive crafts while you wait for the big Fri 22 - Sat 23 Dec and a festive story, Wed 20 - Thurs 21 man to arrive with his sackful of pre- Dec, Blists Hill, Shropshire sents! Fri 22 - Sat 23 Dec, Avoncroft HOME ALONE 2: LOST IN NEW YORK (PG) Museum, Bromsgrove Animation/Family. Starring Macaulay CHRISTMAS CEL- Culkin, Tim Curry. Electric Cinema, EBRATION WEEK- CHRISTMAS CAROL TRAINS Sing along TALL STORIES: THE SNOW DRAGON Birmingham, Tues 19 Dec END See Santa or just soak up the festive atmo- sphere, Sat 23 Dec, Severn Valley THE WAGES OF FEAR (15) star in his very Toe-tapping songs and ‘lots of own stage Railway, Bewdley laughs’ for everyone aged three and Drama/Thriller. Starring Yves Mon- tand, Charles Vanel. Foreign lan- show, Thurs 21 SANTA STEAM SPECIALS Travel by older, Thurs 21 Dec - Sun 7 Jan, - Sat 23 Dec, steam train from Kidderminster to The Patrick Centre, Birmingham guage, subtitled. MAC, Birmingham, Tues 19 Dec Cadbury World, Arley, where you meet Father Christ- Hippodrome Birmingham mas in his grotto, Sat 23 - Sun 24 CINDERELLA ROGUE ONE: A STAR WARS STORY (12a) Festive retelling of the CHRISTMAS EVENING TOUR Tour of the Dec, Severn Valley Railway, Bewdley classic rags-to-riches tale, Fri 22 Adventure/Sci-Fi. Starring Felicity Dec - Sat 6 Jan, Talisman Theatre & Jones, Diego Luna. The Abbey The- Arts Centre, Kenilworth atre, Nuneaton, Thurs 21 Dec MARY CHRISTMAS Nick Wilkes’ sea- DIE HARD (15) Action/Thriller. Starring sonal tale of females, fir trees and Bruce Willis, Alan Rickman. Electric phone numbers, Sat 23 Dec, Swan Cinema, Birmingham, Fri 22 Dec Theatre, Worcester PADDINGTON 2 (U) Adventure/Comedy. A CHRISTMAS CAROL Staging of Starring Sally Hawkins, Brendan Charles Dickens' supernatural tale Gleeson. Electric Cinema, Birming- of redemption, Sat 23 - Sat 30 Dec, ham, Fri 22 - Thurs 28 Dec; Malvern The Blue Orange Theatre, B’ham Theatres, Fri 22 - Sun 31 Dec; War- SANTA'S CHRISTMAS WISH wick Arts Centre, Coventry, Fri 22 - Join in the Sun 24, Wed 27 - Thurs 28 Dec adventure to grant Santa his secret wish, then meet the man himself af- THE MAN WHO INVENTED CHRISTMAS terwards and receive a special pre- (PG) Biography/Comedy. Starring sent, Sun 24 Dec, Artrix, Dan Stevens, Christopher Plummer. Bromsgrove Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury, Fri 22 - Tues 26 Dec

Goodbye Christopher Robin - Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry

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The List NEW Warwicks/Worcs 25-31 December (v2016).qxp_Layout 1 21/11/2017 11:00 Page 2

Monday 25 - Sunday 31 December

MICHAEL LEGACY Thurs SIGNING OFF (UB40 TRIB- Gigs 28 Dec, The River UTE) Fri 29 Dec, The Rooms, Stourbridge Night Owl, Birmingham BAD MANNERS Wed 27 RELEASE Fri 29 Dec, The LETS HAVE A ROCK ‘N’ Dec, The Robin, Bilston Sugarmill, Stoke-on- ROLL PARTY Fri 29 Dec, Trent Genting Arena, Birm- GOSPEL CENTRAL Wed ingham 27 Dec, The Jam ULTRAMEGAOK Fri 29 House, Birmingham Dec, The Marr's Bar, B’SPOKE Fri 29 - Sat 30 Worcester Dec, The Jam House, ROXY MAGIC Wed 27 Birmingham Dec, The Roadhouse, DEFINATELY MIGHT BE Fri Birmingham 29 Dec, The Robin, Bil- SOUL SURVIVORS & THE ston AMEN CORNER Sat 30 DEL CAMINO Thurs 28 Dec, The Robin, Bilston Dec, The Jam House, SEX PISTOLS EXPERIENCE Birmingham Fri 29 Dec, The Road- SKABUCKS Sat 30 Dec, house, Birmingham The Roadhouse, Birm- FAITH - THE GEORGE ingham T.REXTASY Sun 31 Dec, The Robin, Bilston NEW YEAR’S EVE 2017/18 PARTY WITH BEAT BROTH- ERS Sun 31 Dec, Artrix, Bromsgrove NEW YEARS EVE WITH DETROIT SOUL COLLEC- Scamp Theatre’s Stick Man - Birmingham Town Hall TIVE Sun 31 Dec, The Jam House, B’ham GLEY & NICK PAGE Sun 31 Dec, The Comedy Loft, Birmingham Above - Bad Manners at The Robin, Bilston Events DANA ALEXANDER, PAUL MCCAFFERY, MICKEY D & ANDY ROBINSON Sun 31 SANTA'S WINTER WONDERLAND Explore Dec, The Glee Club, Birmingham Santa’s Christmas snow trail, take a 30 Dec, Symphony Hall, Birmingham walk through the enchanted forest, Classical Music NEW YEAR’S EVE GALA Featuring the enjoy a game of snowballs and hitch London Concert Orchestra, Sky In- a ride on a sledge, until Sun 31 Dec, gram (soprano), Alexander James The Snowdome, Tamworth LAST NIGHT OF THE CHRISTMAS PROMS Edwards (tenor) & Anthony Inglis Theatre DRAYTON'S MAGICAL CHRISTMAS Live Featuring the London Concert Or- (conductor). Programme includes shows, carols, presents plus much chestra, John Pryce-Jones (conduc- works by Rossini, Holst, Verdi, STICK MAN more until Sun 31 Dec, Drayton Scamp Theatre adapta- tor), Joo Yeon Sir (violin), James Sibelius, Puccini, Strauss, Brahms & Manor Theme Park, Tamworth, Staffs Cleverton (baritone) & Samuel Elgar, Sun 31 Dec, Symphony Hall, tion of Julia Donaldson & Alex CHRISTMAS AT BIRMINGHAM BOTANICAL Sakker (tenor), Wed 27 Dec Birmingham Scheffler’s popular children’s book Symphony Hall, Birmingham of the same name, Tues 26 Dec - Fri GARDENS Featuring illuminated trail, 12 Jan, Birmingham Town Hall Scented Fire Garden, Tunnel of Light, MUSICALS IN CONCERT: LEADING LADIES THE ABOMINABLE SNOWMAN Mistletoe Moment, Singing Trees & Pup- Featuring the London Concert Or- Santa & his Elves, until Mon 1 Jan, petry, live music and ‘enchanting’ chestra, Richard Balcombe (conduc- Birmingham Botanical Gardens tor), Louise Dearman, Kerry Ellis, storytelling in a snowy adventure for Linzi Hately & Victoria Hamilton-Bar- younger audiences, Wed 27 Dec, MAGICAL LANTERN FESTIVAL Christ- ritt, Thurs 28 Dec, Symphony Hall, Artrix, Bromsgrove mas-themed event featuring artistic Birmingham sculptures, until Mon 1 Jan, Kings Heath Park, Birmingham THE LONDON CONCERT ORCHESTRA: THE BEST OF JOHN WILLIAMS Featuring An- ICE SKATE BIRMINGHAM Enjoy this win- thony Inglis (conductor), Fri 29 Dec, Film ter sport in beautiful city surround- Symphony Hall, Birmingham ings, until Sun 7 Jan, Eastside City Park, Birmingham GLENN MILLER ORCHESTRA Also featur- INDEPENDENT LISTINGS: ing Mark Porter and Catherine Sykes (guest vocalists), Fri 29 Dec, Sym- WONDER (PG) Drama. Starring Julia phony Hall, Birmingham Roberts, Jacob Tremblay. MAC, Birm- THE LONDON CONCERT ORCHESTRA: THE ingham, Fri 29 - Sun 31 Dec MAGIC MOMENTS OF BURT BACHARACH FILM STARS DON'T DIE IN LIVERPOOL Featuring Richard Balcombe (con- Comedy (15) Biography/Drama. Starring Jamie ductor), Graham Bickley, Mary Bell, Annette Bening. Warwick Arts Carewe, & Abbie Osma REAL DEAL COMEDY JAM XMAS SPECIAL Centre, Coventry, Fri 29 - Sun 31 Dec (special guest singers), Sat 30 Dec, Tues 26 Dec, The Comedy Loft, Birm- Symphony Hall, Birmingham ingham TOY COLLECTORS FAIR Explore 550 ANDREW BIRD, STEVE SHANYASKI & NEW FILMS ON GENERAL RELEASE: THE FOUR SEASONS BY CANDLELIGHT stands filled with all kinds of collecta- COMEDY CAROUSEL WITH ANDY ROBIN- Released from Tues 26 Dec, showing Featuring the Mozart Festival Orches- bles, Wed 27 Dec, NEC, Birmingham tra in full 18th Century costume, SON Thurs 28 Dec, The Glee Club, at selected cinemas TUDOR MUSIC PERFORMANCES Tradi- David Juritz (director/violin), Rowan Birmingham MOLLY’S GAME (15) Pierce (soprano) & Crispian Steele tional and festive Tudor music, Fri 29 DANA ALEXANDER, PAUL MCCAFFERY, Released from Fri 29 Dec, showing at Perkins (trumpet). Programme in- Dec, Hall's Croft, Stratford-upon-Avon MICKEY D & JO ENRIGHT (LATE SHOW) selected cinemas cludes works by Vivaldi, Stanley, Sun 31 Dec, The Glee Club, B’ham NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY AT THE RACES Mozart, Handel, Bach & Clarke, Sat HOSTILES (tbc) Sun 31 Dec, Warwick Racecourse IAN COGNITO, MIKE NEWALL, DAVE LON-

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