Number 8 Autumn 2016

As the summer days fade away we’re all set for the autumn nights here at Number 8. The season begins in fine style with the acclaimed National Theatre production of The Deep Blue Sea live via satellite. There’s more top quality theatre, ballet and opera on screen to follow including the Miss Saigon: 25th Anniversary Performance and Bolshoi Ballet’s The Golden Age. For music lovers there’s the opportunity to experience the red carpet premiere of The Beatles : Eight Days a Week from the comfort of your cinema seat, to join in with PODS at the Mamma Mia Singalong and to celebrate The Music of James Taylor and Carole King. Blunderbus Theatre will be bringing a touch of magic to the school holiday with The Sorcerer’s Apprentice and for creative youngsters there’s a Halloween Mask Workshop. Film highlights include a big screen outing for the classic Barry Lyndon, Woody Allen’s hotly anticipated Café Society and French legends Gérard Depardieu and in Valley of Love. The Girl on the Train promises to be thrilling and there are plenty of laughs in store from The Nice Guys and Bridget Jones’s Baby. Looking forward to another great season! Emma Bangham Programme Manager

EVENTS

National Theatre Live: The Deep Blue Sea Live from the National Theatre,

Helen McCrory (Medea, The Last of the Haussmans, Peaky Blinders) returns to the National Theatre in Terence Rattigan’s devastating masterpiece, playing one of the greatest female roles in contemporary drama. Tom Burke (War and Peace, The Musketeers) also features in Carrie Cracknell’s critically acclaimed new production.

A flat in Ladbroke Grove, West London. 1952. When Hester Collyer is found by her neighbours in the aftermath of a failed suicide attempt, the story of her tempestuous affair with a former RAF pilot and the breakdown of her marriage to a high court judge begins to emerge.

Thursday 1 September - 7.00pm Tickets: £15, Students £10 3hrs (inc interval), cert 12A

The Beatles: Eight Days a Week - The Touring Years Live from Leicester Square, London

Join us as the World Premiere of The Beatles: Eight Days a Week is held in London’s Leicester Square and the star-studded red carpet event and the film itself are beamed in live via satellite.

Focussing on the first part of The Beatles’ career (1962 - 1966) and featuring rare and exclusive footage Director Ron Howard’s film takes you from their early days at The Cavern Club in Liverpool to their last concert at Candlestick Park, San Francisco. Produced with the full cooperation of Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, Yoko Ono Lennon and Olivia Harrison the film explores how John, Paul, George and Ringo came together to become this extraordinary phenomenon, ‘The Beatles’, exploring the inner workings of the band, their extraordinary musical gifts and complementary personalities.

Thursday 15 September - 6.00pm Tickets: £12, 16 & under £10

Pershore Operatic & Dramatic Society presents Mamma Mia Singalong

Come along and join in this fun singalong to the much-loved ABBA songs from the smash hit West End show Mamma Mia. Lyrics will be provided and members of PODS will lead the singing accompanied by a live band. So if you’re a Super Trouper, When All is Said and Done what better way to spend your Money, Money, Money than on this uplifting evening of singalong celebration?

Dress for a party night and if the mood takes you slip into your flares and glittery platforms as there’s a prize for the best Dancing Queen (or king!). There are no runners up prizes though - The Winner Takes it All!

This event is a private hire organised by PODS. Proceeds will go to Children in Need and PODS.

Saturday 17 September - 7.30pm Tickets: £10

National Theatre Live: Live from the National Theatre, London

Mack the Knife is back in town! A darkly comic new take on Brecht and Weill’s raucous musical, broadcast live from the stage of the National Theatre.

London scrubs up for the coronation. The thieves are on the make, the whores on the pull, the police cutting deals. Mr and Mrs Peachum are looking forward to a bumper day in the beggary business, but their daughter didn’t come home last night and it’s all about to kick off…

This bold, anarchic production is brought to you by a creative powerhouse; adapted by Simon Stephens, and directed by . With a cast led by Olivier award-winner , and .

Contains scenes of a sexual nature, violence and filthy language.

Thursday 22 September - 7.00pm Tickets: £15, Students £10 3hrs, cert 15

Lakin McCarthy presents Joe Swift: A Man About the Garden

TV presenter Joe Swift digs deep to reveal his fascinating story from his rock ‘n’ roll youth to becoming one of the country’s top garden designers. Hear what really happens behind the scenes at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show and Gardeners’ World and find out what it takes to get a Chelsea Show gold medal. Joe’s TV credits include Gardeners’ World, and the RHS Chelsea Flower Show and he is a regular columnist for The Times and Gardeners World Magazine. Joe will share all this with you, taking questions on his life and career but warns you that answering questions about dead plants isn’t going to be top of his list!

Friday 23 September - 7.30pm Tickets: £16 2hrs (inc interval)

Norma Live from the Royal Opera House, London

Opening the 2016/17 season this striking new production of Norma is distinguished by a superlative cast of internationally renowned singers including Joseph Calleja, Pollione and Sonia Ganassi.

Bellini’s classic bel canto opera is full of wonderful melodies and is especially known for Norma's stunning showpiece aria, Casta Diva.

Royal Opera Music Director Antonio Pappano conducts this stunning cast and Àlex Ollé of Catalan theatre group La Fura dels Baus directs. Ollé brings a modern edge to this timeless tale of love, rivalry and betrayal, set against a backdrop of war driven by the extremes of a fanatically religious society.

Monday 26 September - 7.15pm Tickets: £15, Friends £14, 16 & under £10 3hrs 15mins (inc interval)

Cymbeline Recorded at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Stratford

Melly Still directs this RSC production of Shakespeare’s rarely performed romance. Queen Cymbeline is the ruler of a divided dystopian Britain. When Innogen, the only living heir, marries her sweetheart in secret, an enraged Cymbeline banishes him. Meanwhile, behind the throne, a power-hungry figure plots to seize power by murdering them both…

Featuring Gillian Bevan as Cymbeline, the first woman to take on the role for the RSC, and Bethan Cullinane (King Lear, 2013 Globe Theatre) as Innogen.

“Thrilling, moving and epic.” Whatsonstage.com

Thursday 29 September - 7.00pm Tickets: £14, Students £10 3hrs 30mins (inc interval)

You’ve Got a Friend: The Music of James Taylor & Carole King

From the creators of the smash hit West End show The Simon and Garfunkel Story comes a brand new theatre experience celebrating two of the world’s greatest songwriters of all time - James Taylor and Carole King.

Telling the delicate story of friendship, this musical journey intertwines classic hits such as I Feel The Earth Move, Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow, How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You), Fire and Rain, You Make Me Feel (Like A Natural Woman) and the beautiful You’ve Got A Friend.

Backed by a full band, classically trained singer and pianist Emily Jollands and guitarist Bill Lennon will be performing as these two legendary musicians in this unmissable experience.

Saturday 1 October - 7.30pm Tickets: £17 2hrs 10mins (inc interval)

Pershore & District Branch of The Royal British Legion presents Poppy Concert 2016

Pershore and District Branch, The Royal British Legion invite you to join them for their 2016 Poppy/Proms Concert. Come along for a night of popular tunes from the Great War to modern times, via World War Two. Music and song will be provided by The Band of the West Midlands Fire and Rescue Service, The Pershore Town Choir and The D-Day Dolls.

This event is a private hire organised by The Royal British Legion. Proceeds will go to The Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal.

Saturday 8 October - 7.30pm Tickets: £17 3hrs (inc interval)

King Lear Recorded at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Stratford

RSC Associate Artist Antony Sher plays King Lear, one of the greatest parts written by Shakespeare in this new production directed by RSC Artistic Director Gregory Doran. King Lear has ruled for many years. As age begins to overtake him, he decides to divide his kingdom amongst his children, living out his days without the burden of power. Misjudging his children’s loyalty and finding himself alone in the wilderness, he is left to confront the mistakes of a life that has brought him to this point.

Saturday 15 October - 7.00pm Tickets: £14, Students £10 3hrs 30mins (inc interval)

Miss Saigon: 25th Anniversary Performance Recorded at the Prince Edward Theatre, London

Described by the Daily Telegraph as, "the most thrilling, soaring and emotionally stirring musical with magnificent performances,” the legendary Miss Saigon will be in cinemas for one night only. This spectacular, 25th Anniversary Gala performance of the global stage sensation features appearances by the original cast including and returning to the stage to celebrate the long- running musical hit.

Miss Saigon tells the tragic tale of the young bar girl Kim, orphaned by war, who falls in love with American G.I. Chris only to have their lives torn apart by the fall of Saigon.

Sunday 16 October - 7.00pm Tickets: £13, Friends £12 3hrs 15mins (inc interval), cert 15

Così fan tutte Live from the Royal Opera House, London

How much do you love your partner? How much do you trust them? And can they trust you? Mozart’s classic opera Così fan tutte puts two pairs of lovers to the test.

In this new production, director Jan Philipp Gloger creates a richly theatrical world where two men try to woo each other’s partners for a bet. Don Alfonso - the puppet master of this experiment in love - is here a theatre director who uses all the sets, props and tricks of his trade to challenge the lovers.

This lively and imaginative take on one of the world's best-loved operas is performed by a cast of rising stars conducted by Semyon Bychkov.

Monday 17 October - 6.30pm Tickets: £15, 16 & under £10 3hrs 30mins (inc interval)

The Golden Age Recorded at the Bolshoi Theatre, Moscow

In a seaside town where business and the Mafia are flourishing, the Golden Age cabaret is the favourite haunt of dancers, bandits and young revellers. The young fisherman Boris falls in love with Rita, a beautiful dancer, but she is also the friend of a local gangster…

A on Europe during the roaring ’20s, The Golden Age makes for an original and dazzling production with its jazzy score and music hall atmosphere. This ballet - exclusive to the Bolshoi - has everything, mad rhythms, vigorous chase scenes and decadent cabaret numbers. At its core is a passionate love story featuring beautiful duets between Boris and Rita. The Bolshoi dancers plunge magnificently into every stylised step and gesture.

Thursday 20 October - 7.00pm Tickets: £15, 16 & under £10 2hrs 20mins

Branagh Theatre Live: The Entertainer Live from the , London

Set against the backdrop of post-war Britain, John Osborne’s modern classic conjures the seedy glamour of the old time music halls for an explosive examination of public masks and private torment.

Rob Ashford directs as performer Archie Rice in the final production in the Plays at the Garrick season.

Following on from the brilliant productions of The Winter’s Tale and Romeo and Juliet from Branagh’s year-long residency at the Garrick this production promises to be another hit with audiences and critics alike.

Thursday 27 October - 7.15pm Tickets: £15

Blunderbus Theatre presents The Sorcerer’s Apprentice

Hubble is a little boy with a very big dream, he wants to be a world-class magician. He saves up his pocket money to buy a spellbook and then sets off to Mr Zacoor’s Toy Shop to buy it. But Mr Zacoor is no ordinary shopkeeper, he’s a real life Sorcerer! And he has a very special job for Charlie.

This delightful new show comes to life with an irresistible blend of music, puppetry and storytelling. There’s also an enchanting toy shop setting filled with all sorts of magical surprises!

Little people aged 3-7 will love this funny, heart-warming tale but big people will have lots of fun, too.

“Excellent fun!” The Guardian

Saturday 29 October - 2.30pm Tickets: £8.50, 16 & under £7 55mins

Frankly Sinatra Starring Stephen Triffitt - the World’s No.1 Frank Sinatra

Stephen Triffitt celebrates the golden anniversary of the legendary singer’s famous live recording - Sinatra Live at the Sands - with a brand new show featuring songs from the album and other classics such as Fly Me to the Moon, Mack the Knife, New York, New York, My Way, Under My Skin, Lady is a Tramp and Luck Be a Lady.

Stephen has played three seasons as Frank at the legendary Sands Casino, Las Vegas, performed in The Rat Pack Live from Las Vegas and sold out the and the Royal Festival Hall. Bringing you the swing, swagger and velvet vocals of the classic crooner, Stephen is frankly the best thing since Sinatra himself!

Friday 4 November - 7.30pm Tickets: £20 2hrs (inc interval)

Anastasia Recorded at the Royal Opera House, London

An identity in crisis; a country in revolution. Anastasia is a ballet about one of the great historical mysteries of the 20th century, only recently solved. At the height of the Russian Revolution the royal family were executed but afterwards a young woman appeared - claiming to be the Grand Duchess Anastasia. Unable to remember her past she was presumed by many to be an imposter.

One of Kenneth MacMillan's first creations as Director of The Royal Ballet in 1970, Anastasia is a dramatic exploration of Anna's nightmare of memory and identity, expressed with music by Tchaikovsky and Martinů. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to see a landmark ballet by a major choreographer.

Sunday 6 November - 2.00pm Tickets: £15, 16 & under £10

Exhibition on Screen: The Curious World of Hiëronymus Bosch

Join us for a journey into the critically acclaimed exhibition which brought together almost all of Hiëronymus Bosch’s major paintings and drawings from around the world in his home town of Den Bosch, Netherlands. The powerful exhibition saw almost half a million visitors marvelling at Bosch’s quirky creations.

This film asks just who is Hiëronymus Bosch? Why are his strange and fantastical paintings so popular? How does he bridge the medieval and Renaissance worlds? Where did his unconventional and timeless visions come from?

“One of the most important exhibitions of our century.” The Guardian

Tuesday 8 November - 7.00pm Tickets: £12, Students £10, 16 & under £10 1hr 30mins

Les Contes d’Hoffmann Live from the Royal Opera House, London

The Royal Opera's lavish production of Offenbach's masterpiece, Les Contes d'Hoffmann (The Tales of Hoffmann) is a favourite with audiences. Created by Academy award-winning film director John Schlesinger, this production brings alive a 19th-century world of romance, comedy, mystery and menace.

At the centre of these extraordinary tales of clockwork dolls, magical glasses, ghostly voices and sensual courtesans is the vivid imagination of the drunken Romantic poet Hoffmann played by charismatic young tenor Vittorio Grigolo. Superb baritone Thomas Hampson performs as four different villains. The music includes the famous Barcarolle and the stunning showpieces are perfect vehicles for the vocal virtuosity of Sofia Fomina, Christine Rice and Sonya Yoncheva.

Tuesday 15 November - 6.15pm Tickets: £15, 16 & under £10 3hrs 55mins (inc 2 intervals)

André Rieu: Christmas with André Recorded in Maastricht, Netherlands

With the festive season approaching André Rieu invites you to a never before seen Christmas concert packed with seasonal favourites including Hallelujah, Jingle Bells, White Christmas, Amazing Grace and many more! André will be joined by his famous Johann Strauss Orchestra, sopranos and tenors.

Exclusively for cinemas, André invites his fans to his hometown with an intimate live tour of Maastricht’s magical Christmas highlights, as well as participating in an interactive Q&A hosted by Charlotte Hawkins.

Don’t miss this heart-warming, festive treat!

Saturday 19 November - 5.00pm Tickets: £18 2hrs 5mins, cert 12A

LipService Theatre presents Mr Darcy Loses the Plot

Jane Austen sits writing, her quill scurrying across the vellum. She is dreaming up Darcy, a proud, lip curling, handsome creation in very tight pants. But then a door squeaks, a visitor approaches and Jane hastily hides her work. Left to his own devices, Darcy embroiders his own storyline whilst his creator embroiders her doilies. When Jane returns she finds the plot has moved on and Darcy is dancing to a rather different tune.

Join award-winning comedy duo LipService, makers of Withering Looks and Inspector Norse, to celebrate Jane Austen’s life 200 years on and to explore the world of women writers, scribbling in secret or under pseudonyms, squeezing in their writing amongst taking tea, choosing chintz and the odd attack of the vapours!

Friday 25 November - 7.30pm Tickets: £14, Friends £13

Pershore Operatic & Dramatic Society presents Cinderella

PODS invite you and the whole family to the most perfect pantomime of all - Cinderella. Bring together two ugly sisters, an evil Baroness, the brotherly Buttons, a Prince and his cockney manservant, a fairy godmother, the stroke of midnight, the glass slipper, the carriage, and the rest, as they say is fairy tale history.

PODS are delighted to be joined by some of the children from PODS youth section to bring you a show-stopping pantomime, full of fun and laughter, fabulous music, huge production numbers and even some tap dancing! Don’t miss this sparkling start to your Christmas season.

Monday 5 - Friday 9 December, 7.30pm Saturday 10 December - 2.30pm & 7.30pm Tickets: Mon £11, Tues - Thu £13, Fri & Sat eve £15, Sat mat £11

The Nutcracker Recorded at the Bolshoi Theatre, Moscow

On Christmas Eve, Marie’s wooden nutcracker doll is transformed into a beautiful Prince who takes her on a magical journey. But, before they leave, they must confront the Mouse King and his army…

Christmas would not be complete without the enchanting tale of young Marie and her Nutcracker Prince! Danced by the Bolshoi’s principals, Yuri Grigorovich’s staging of E. T. A. Hoffmann’s fairy tale will transport children and adults alike to a world of festive magic and wonder.

Sunday 18 December - 3.00pm Tickets: £16, 16 & under £10 2hrs 15mins

London Military Band presents Christmas Fantasia Hosted by Iolo Williams

Allan Shellard, former musician from the Grenadier Guards, conducts the London Military Band in this spectacular traditional Christmas concert for all the family. A unique wind ensemble made up of off-duty professional serving military musicians will take to the stage in stunning reproductions of Grenadier costumes, to recreate the traditional military band experience of the past.

Presented by popular TV wildlife personality Iolo Williams.

Brought to you by All Electric Productions.

Thursday 22 December - 7.30pm Tickets: £22, 16 & under £10, 2hrs (inc interval)

Also Booking Now

Bolshoi Ballet: The Sleeping Beauty - Sunday 22 January 2017, 3.00pm; Swan Lake - Sunday 5 February, 3.00pm; Contemporary Evening - Sunday 19 March, 3.00pm; A Hero of Our Time - Sunday 9 April, 4.00pm

Royal Opera: II Trovatore - Tuesday 31 January 2017, 7.15pm; Madama Butterfly - Thursday 30 March, 7.15pm; Otello - Wednesday 28 June, 7.15pm

Royal Ballet: The Dream/Symphonic Variations/Marguerite & Armand - Tuesday 13 June 2017, 7.15pm

Orchestra of the Swan Spring 2017 Concert Series: Friday 17 February - 7.30pm, Friday 24 March - 7.30pm; Friday 28 April - 7.30pm

FILMS

ChickLit (15)

This light-hearted British comedy follows four men who try to raise money to save their local pub by writing an erotic novel. When a pair of eccentric literary agents ( and John Hurt) find them a publisher they realise they have a problem - no one is going to read ‘mummy porn’ written by four blokes! Can an out of work actress solve their money problems?

Fri 2 & Sat 3 Sep - 7.30pm Directed by Tony Britten, 1hr 36mins

The Meddler (12A) With a new iPhone, a swanky apartment and a comfortable bank account left to her by her late husband, Marnie () has happily relocated to be near her daughter. But when Marnie’s frequent texts, unexpected visits and advice begin to strain the mother daughter relationship it looks like it’s time to find new outlets for her eternal optimism and generosity. Mon 5 Sep - 10.30am & 7.30pm (ST); Tue 6 Sep - 7.30pm Directed by Lorene Scafaria, 1hr 43mins, AD)))

Barry Lyndon (12A) Restored by the BFI, legendary director Stanley Kubrick’s masterfully crafted Barry Lyndon is one of his finest and most influential films. Adapted from the William Makepeace Thackeray classic it stars Ryan O’Neal as Redmond Barry an 18th century adventurer who despite the obstacle of his Irish birth, manages to become the wealthy but ill- respected Barry Lyndon.

Thu 8 Sep - 7.30pm Directed by Stanley Kubrick, 1975, 2hrs 57mins

Jason Bourne (12A) Matt Damon returns to his most iconic role in Jason Bourne, the fifth film in the Bourne series. This latest instalment finds the CIA’s most lethal former operative drawn out of the shadows at a time when the world is faced with unprecedented instability. At the same time, a new program has been created to hunt him down. Also starring Alicia Vikander, Vincent Cassel, Tommy Lee Jones and Julia Stiles. Fri 9 & Sat 10 Sep - 7.30pm Directed by Paul Greengrass, 2hrs 3mins, AD)))

The Carer (15) Cooped up in his country estate due to illness, retired Shakespearean actor Sir Michael Gifford (Brian Cox) has become crabby, frustrated and downright rude! When his daughter (Emilia Fox) employs Dorottya (Coco König) a young Hungarian home help, and aspiring actress, to be his carer they instantly clash. Dorottya, however, refuses to be bullied and to the surprise of both, conflict is exactly what they need. Fuelled by quarrels and a mutual love of Shakespeare their relationship sparks and each finds the other an inspiration. Mon 12 Sep - 10.30am & 7.30pm; Tue 13 Sep - 7.30pm Directed by János Edelényi, 1hr 28mins

Golden Years (12A) This British comedy had audiences chuckling in the summer and asking for more screenings. Fate, the pensions crisis, and a refusal to accept the injustice of old age have contrived to force a law abiding retired couple (Bernard Hill and Virginia MacKenna) into a life of crime. Refusing to take the loss of their pensions lying down they start robbing banks! Also starring Alun Armstrong, Simon Callow, Sue Johnston, Philip Davis and Una Stubbs. Fri 16 & Tue 20 Sep - 7.30pm Directed by John Miller, 1hr 36mins

Florence Foster Jenkins (PG) Back by popular demand this is the inspirational true story of New York heiress Florence Foster Jenkins () who pursued her dream to become a great singer despite her hilariously awful singing voice. For years devoted husband St Clair Bayfield (Hugh Grant) protects Florence from the truth, but then she decides to book the Carnegie Hall for a public concert!

A bubbly celebration of the human spirit, the power of music and the passion of amateurs everywhere. Mon 19 Sep - 10.30am & 7.30pm Directed by Stephen Frears, 1hr 50mins, AD)))

The Nice Guys (15) This comedy drama set in 70s Los Angeles, stars Russell Crowe and Ryan Gosling as detectives who team up to trace a missing young woman and stumble into a sprawling conspiracy. “Russell Crowe and Ryan Gosling may be the ‘world's worst detectives’ but they deliver perfect star chemistry in this cracking 70s-set buddy romp.” Radio Times Sat 24 Sep - 7.30pm Directed by Shane Black, 1hr 56mins

Up for Love (12A)

This light-hearted French comedy follows the romance between a divorcee and a man of diminutive stature. Diane (Virginie Efira), a beautiful and witty lawyer, is considering the idea of starting to date again when she receives a phone call from a stranger, Alexandre (Jean Dujardin), who has found her lost mobile. Courteous, funny, and effortlessly charming, Alexandre soon wins Diane over and before she knows it, she’s agreed to a date. But their first meeting comes up a little short…

Mon 26 Sep - 10.30am; Tue 27 Sep - 7.30pm Directed by Laurent Tirard, 1hr 38mins, French with English subtitles

Café Society (12A) Set in the 1930s, this bittersweet romance from Woody Allen follows Bronx-born Bobby Dorfman (Jesse Eisenberg) to Hollywood, where he falls in love, and back to New York, where he is swept up in the world of high society nightclub life. Centering on events in the lives of Bobby's colourful Bronx family, the film is a glittering valentine to the movie stars, socialites, playboys, debutantes, politicians, and gangsters who epitomized the excitement and glamour of the age. Fri 30 Sep - 7.30pm; Mon 3 Oct - 10.30am & 7.30pm (ST); Tue 4 Oct - 7.30pm Directed by Woody Allen, 1hr 36mins, AD)))

Dare to be Wild (PG) From the iconic green hills of Ireland, to the vast deserts of Africa Dare to be Wild takes you on a sweeping romantic adventure. Based on the true story of Irish garden designer, Mary Reynolds (Emma Greenwell), the film follows her pursuit of the highest gardening prize in the land: The Chelsea Flower Show gold medal. But how does a penniless unknown stand a chance? Mary embarks on an Ethiopian odyssey to bring back the one man who can help, botanist Christy Collard. When they meet, romance blossoms … Wed 5 Oct - 1.30pm; Mon 10 Oct - 10.30am & 7.30pm; Tue 11 Oct - 7.30pm Directed by Vivienne De Courcy, 1hr 40mins

Julieta (15) This eagerly anticipated new film from Pedro Almodóvar tells the story of Julieta (played by Emma Suárez and Adriana Ugarte) a 55 year old teacher. Told through Julieta’s letter to her estranged daughter the film tracks her tumultuous life across 30 years, from 1985 to 2015. Julieta is about a mother’s struggle to survive uncertainty. It is also about fate, guilt and that unfathomable mystery that leads us to abandon the people we love. Thu 6 Oct - 7.30pm Directed by Pedro Almodóvar, 1hr 39mins, Spanish with English subtitles

David Brent: Life on the Road (15) Ricky Gervais brings his popular TV character to the big screen in this black comedy. Brent is now a sales rep selling up and down the country but he has never given up the dream of being a rock star. Let down after let down, faux pas after faux pas this mockumentary follows Brent’s last shot at fame. With original music by the man himself Life on The Road is like a comedy musical. It’s exciting, funny, excruciating and a little sad! Fri 7 Oct - 7.30pm Directed by Ricky Gervais, 1hr 36mins, AD)))

Valley of Love (15) Legendary French actors Isabelle Huppert and Gérard Depardieu star in this beautiful exploration of a broken family. Former couple Isabelle and Gérard have not seen each other for years but meet up in the grand landscape of Death Valley, California after receiving a mysterious invitation from their son, six months after his death a result of suicide. The couple’s past and their unresolved feelings play out in hotels and restaurants against the spectacular desert backdrop of Nevada, as they move towards a mysterious epiphany. Thu 13 Oct - 7.30pm; Wed 19 Oct - 1.30pm Directed by Guillaume Nicloux, 1hr 32mins, French with English subtitles

Pride (15) Join us for this special screening to mark National Hate Crime Awareness Week. Set in 1984 during the Miner’s strike Pride tells the story of a group of Gay Pride activists who travel to a village in deepest Wales to offer their support to striking miners. A funny and inspiring tale of how two very different communities overcame their differences and came together to fight against injustice. Starring , and Dominic West. “impassioned and lovable… a richly enjoyable film.” The Guardian Fri 14 Oct - 7.30pm Directed by Matthew Warchus, 2hrs, AD)))

Hunt for the Wilderpeople (cert tbc) This crowd pleasing comedy drama reminds us of what a journey growing up is (at any age). Raised in foster care, defiant city kid Ricky gets a fresh start with a new foster family in the New Zealand countryside. When tragedy strikes and Ricky is threatened with being sent to another home he and his cantankerous Uncle Hec (Sam Neill) go on the run in the bush. As a national manhunt ensues, the outlaws have a choice: to go out in a blaze of glory or overcome their differences and survive as a family. Mon 17 Oct - 10.30am; Tue 18 Oct - 7.30pm Directed by Taika Waititi, running time tbc

Nine Lives (PG)

Perfect for cat lovers this comedy stars Kevin Spacey as a workaholic billionaire who gets magically turned into a cat to teach him to value his family. Tom experiences what life is truly like for the family pet, and as a cat, he begins to see his life from a whole new perspective. Can Tom win back his human existence and return to his family as the husband and father they deserve? Fri 21 Oct - 7.30pm; Mon 24 Oct - 10.30am & 7.30pm Directed by Barry Sonnenfeld, 1hr 27mins, AD)))

Ben-Hur (cert tbc) A remake of the 1959 classic with thrilling action and spectacular set pieces. Ben-Hur tells the epic story of Judah Ben-Hur (Jack Huston), a prince falsely accused of treason by his adopted brother Messala, an officer in the Roman army. Stripped of his title, separated from his family and the woman he loves, Judah is forced into slavery. After years at sea, Judah returns to his homeland to seek revenge, but unexpectedly finds forgiveness and redemption. Also starring Morgan Freeman. Sat 22 Oct - 7.30pm Directed by Timur Bekmambetov, running time tbc

Finding Dory (U) This underwater animated adventure reunites the friendly-but-forgetful blue tang fish Dory, with her friends Nemo and Marlin on a search for answers about her past. What can she remember? Who are her parents? And where did she learn to speak Whale? Tue 25 Oct - 11.00am; Thu 27 Oct - 1.30pm Directed by Angus MacLane & Andrew Stanton, 1hr 43mins, AD)))

Swallows & Amazons (cert tbc)

Set against the breath-taking backdrop of the Lake District, Swallows and Amazons is a heart-warming adventure for all the family. Four children dream of escaping the tedium of a summer holiday with their mother. When given permission to camp on their own island in the middle of a lake they are overjoyed, but soon discover they are not alone… The battle for ownership of the island teaches them survival skills, the value of friendship and the importance of holding your nerve.

Tue 25 Oct - 7.30pm; Fri 28 Oct - 1.30pm Directed by Philippa Lowthorpe, running time tbc, AD)))

Bridget Jones’s Baby (cert tbc) After breaking up with Mark Darcy (Colin Firth), Bridget Jones’s (Renée Zellweger) ‘happily ever after’ hasn’t quite gone according to plan. Fortysomething and single again she decides to focus on her friends and her job as top news producer. For once, Bridget has everything completely under control. That is until her love life takes a turn and she meets a dashing American (Patrick Dempsey) and unexpectedly finds herself pregnant. There’s one major hitch … she can only be fifty percent sure of the identity of her baby’s father. Fri 28 & Sat 29 Oct - 7.30pm; Mon 31 Oct - 10.30am & 7.30pm; Tue 1 Nov - 7.30pm; Sat 5 Nov - 5.00pm Directed by Sharon Maguire, running time tbc

The Idol (PG) This uplifting drama tells the story of Mohammad Assaf a young singer who made headlines in 2013 as the first Palestinian to win the Arab Idol TV competition. Gaza is known as a place of conflict, destruction and despair, but to Mohammed and his sister Nour, Gaza is their home. Mohammad’s band might play on second hand, beaten up instruments but their ambitions are sky-high and nothing less than playing the Cairo Opera Hall will do. It might take them a lifetime to get there - but some dreams are worth fighting for. Thu 3 Nov - 7.30pm Directed by Hany Abu-Assad, 1hr 39mins, Spanish & Arabic with English subtitles

The Girl with All the Gifts (15)

Based on the M. R. Carey bestseller this drama is set in the near future where humanity has been all but destroyed by a mutated disease that turns its victims into flesh-eating “hungries”. A small group of children seem immune to the disease and are being held captive while they are studied and subjected to cruel experiments. One little girl, Melanie (Sennia Nanua), escapes with her teacher (Gemma Arterton). Against the backdrop of a blighted Britain, Melanie must determine her own future and that of the human race. Sat 5 Nov - 7.30pm Directed by Colm McCarthy, 1hr 51mins

Absolutely Fabulous: The Movie (15)

Just as fabulous as ever Edina (Jennifer Saunders) and Patsy (Joanna Lumley) are still oozing glitz and glamour, living the high life, shopping, drinking and clubbing their way around London's hot-spots. Blamed for a major incident at a fashionable launch party Edina and Patsy are caught in a media storm and pursued by the paparazzi. Fleeing penniless to the glamorous playground of the super-rich, the French Riviera, they hatch a plan to make their escape permanent and live the high-life forever more!

Mon 7 Nov - 10.30am & 7.30pm Directed by Mandie Fletcher, 1hr 31mins, AD)))

Things to Come (12A) Isabelle Huppert stars in this poignant drama, an affecting portrait of a woman who, after living comfortably for many years, must suddenly reinvent her life. Nathalie (Huppert) teaches philosophy at a high school in Paris. Married with two grown-up children, she devotes her spare time to the books she publishes, to former students, and to her mother. But one day, Nathalie’s husband announces he is leaving her for another woman, the first of a series of events that will upend her world, and leave her to completely reassess her future… Thu 10 Nov - 7.30pm Directed by Mia Hansen-Love, 1hr 42mins, French with English subtitles

The Magnificent Seven (12A) A re-imagining of the classic 1960 western with an impressive cast led by Denzel Washington. With the town of Rose Creek under the deadly control of industrialist Bartholomew Bogue (Peter Sarsgaard), the desperate townspeople employ protection from a motley group of outlaws, bounty hunters, gamblers and hired guns (Denzel Washington, Chris Pratt, Ethan Hawke, Vincent D’Onofrio, Byung-Hun Lee, Manuel Garcia-Rulfo and Martin Sensmeier). As they prepare the town for the violent showdown, these seven mercenaries find themselves fighting for more than just money. Fri 11 & Sat 12 Nov - 7.30pm Directed by Antoine Fuqua, 2hrs 13mins

Southside with You (cert tbc)

This romantic drama chronicles the summer 1989 afternoon when the future President of the United States of America, Barack Obama, wooed his future First Lady. A young law firm associate, Barack (Parker Sawyers), takes lawyer Michelle (Tika Sumpter) on a daylong ‘date’ that takes them from the Art Institute of Chicago, to a community meeting, a screening of Spike Lee's Do the Right Thing and to the site of their first kiss outside an ice cream parlour. A sweet and charming film about two young people at the beginning of what we know will be a momentous life together. Mon 14 Nov - 10.30am & 7.30pm Directed by Richard Tanne, running time tbc

The Girl on the Train (cert tbc) Based on the best-selling novel this thrilling drama stars Emily Blunt as Rachel a woman who is devastated by her recent divorce. Rachel spends her daily commute fantasizing about the seemingly perfect couple who live in a house that her train passes, until one morning she sees something shocking happen there. The next day, she wakes up with a horrible hangover, various wounds and bruises, and no memory of the night before. She has only a feeling - something bad happened. Fri 18 Nov - 7.30pm; Mon 21 Nov - 10.30am & 7.30pm (ST); Tue 22 Nov - 7.30pm; Wed 30 Nov - 1.30pm Directed by Tate Taylor, running time tbc

Sweet Bean (PG)

Absorbed in sad memories struggling street food vendor Sentaro (Masatoshi Nagase) cooks with skill but without enthusiasm. When Tokue (Kirin Kiki) an eccentric 76-year-old lady applies for the job as his assistant Sentaro is sceptical, but her perfect recipe for sweet bean paste (the mainstay of his menu) convinces him to employ her. It’s not long before the business and their friendship begin to flourish but both are threatened when Tokue’s hidden history and illness is revealed. Thu 24 Nov - 7.30pm Directed by Naomi Kawase, 1hr 53mins, Japanese with English subtitles.

Inferno (12A) The latest film in the series adapted from Dan Brown’s (Da Vinci Code) billion-dollar Robert Langdon series. Inferno finds the famous symbologist (Tom Hanks) on a trail of clues tied to the great Dante himself. When Langdon wakes up in an Italian hospital with amnesia, he teams up with Sienna Brooks (Felicity Jones), a doctor he hopes will help him recover his memories. Together, they race across Europe and against the clock to foil a deadly global plot. Sat 26 Nov - 7.30pm; Tue 29 Nov - 7.30pm Directed by Ron Howard, 2hrs

CREATIVE COURSES

Chance to Dance

Improve strength and flexibility in these enjoyable dance classes specifically tailored for those age 55+. Led by a professional dance tutor, participants will have the chance to learn sequences to music from the past and present, increasing fitness in the process.

No previous experience necessary. Before booking please consult your doctor if you have any concerns regarding your fitness to participate. Mid September start - Weekly Tue, Thu & Fri Classes Cost: £54 (12 wks)

Number 8 Youth Theatre

Led by Jenny Northam, Number 8’s resident Youth Theatre practitioner, these popular classes are ideal for young people who would like to develop acting skills, stagecraft and techniques in a fun, friendly atmosphere. Limited places available. Weekly Wednesdays, 14 September - 7 December (no classes 26 October) Juniors (age 7 - 11) 4.45pm - 6.15pm, £48 (12 wks) Seniors (age 12+) 6.30pm - 8.00pm, £60 (12 wks)

Halloween Mask Workshop

Youngsters are invited to get creative in this spooky Halloween workshop. Taking inspiration from ghostly ghouls and creepy crawlies, youngsters will design and make their own indented and decorated Halloween foil tray mask. Suitable for ages 7 - 11. Thursday 27 October, 10.00am - 12.30pm Cost: £6

Festive Bunting Workshop

Join Sadie Yeomans of Cornerhouse Crafts to hand stitch one of the designs from her Christmas redwork bunting. Everyone will receive a kit to make one mini wallhanging/bunting rectangle and the full pattern to take home. Suitable for beginners and more experienced stitchers, If you have never tried redwork before, come along and have a go! Wednesday 9 November, 10.30am - 12.30pm Cost: £10 (including kit)

GALLERY John Milsom - ‘Land, Sea & Air’ Local artist John Milsom’s paintings and drawings reflect his interest in landscapes which he captures in a variety of mediums. A member of the Guild of Aviation Artists, John has also included a selection of naval aircraft studies in the exhibition. Thursday 25 August - Wednesday 14 September

Schools Showcase 2016 This year’s showcase was inspired by Aztec, Mayan, Egyptian, Brazilian and Aboriginal art. Children from Abbey Park Middle, Holy Redeemer, Vale of Evesham, Overbury First and Bredon Middle schools took part in workshops led by artist Marie-Thérèse King to create this collection of ornate metal masks.

Thursday 15 September - Wednesday 5 October

Number 8 Open Exhibition 2016 Celebrating the best local talent, this exhibition includes work in a variety of different styles and mediums created by artists and photographers from within and beyond the county of Worcestershire. Each piece featured in the exhibition was selected following an open call for submissions.

Thursday 6 October - Wednesday 26 October

Deborah Collum - ‘The Abandoned House’ Is there anything more romantic or more heart breaking than an abandoned house? Once a family home where people lived and died, loved and laughed. In this exhibition of mixed media works the artist explores the stories of those precious, private lives through clues that are left behind. Thursday 27 October - Wednesday 16 November

Terry W Scales - ‘Lightscapes & Landscapes’ An exhibition of recent work by international artist Terry Scales explores the abstract world of reflected light as seen in our highly polished domestic and urban townscapes. The exhibition includes a previously unseen range of digital colour work which captures the patterns and artifice of agricultural landscapes in France. Thursday 17 November - Wednesday 7 December

CRAFT Hazel Morris & Karen Lilley - ‘Reflections’ Jeweller Hazel Morris and glass maker Karen Lilley embrace the challenge of working with reflective materials whilst also maintaining smooth, sharp lines. Their collections incorporate layers, textures and colours. Whilst Hazel draws inspiration from Anglo-Saxon designs, Karen is influenced by age old glass-working traditions such as trailing and feathering. All pieces are one-offs and both artists work to commission. Friday 5 August - Wednesday 14 September

Cut, Fold, Bind - ‘Bound by Books’ This exhibition brings together the work of a group of artists who combine traditional and contemporary approaches to bookbinding with drawing, painting, printmaking and textiles. Alongside showcasing the beauty of this art form these exquisite creations also serve as sketchbooks, diaries, travel journals, notebooks or decorative sculptures.

Thursday 15 September - Wednesday 26 October

Lorraine Powell - ‘Animal Antics’ An exhibition from a local craftsperson whose love of fabrics and shiny buttons has never faltered! Lorraine runs Blueberry Button where she designs and makes animal themed textile gifts and accessories using vintage inspired fabrics, ribbon, buttons and pure wool felt, combined with machine stitching, embroidery and appliqué techniques. The unique pieces included in this exhibition make original gifts for any occasion. Thursday 27 October - Wednesday 7 December

INFORMATION Become a Volunteer

Number 8 exists thanks to the time, dedication and commitment of many volunteers working in a variety of roles across the organisation. If you would like to find out more about volunteering opportunities please contact 01386 555028 / [email protected]

Friends of Number 8

Being a friend... is to be part of Pershore’s Community Arts Centre. Friends subscriptions are an important source of income for Number 8 (a registered charity). The support of Friends plays a vital role in the continuing development and success of Number 8 and helps ensure our long-term viability.

Box Office: 01386 555488

Benefits include:

• Season Brochures delivered to your home in advance of public release

• A week’s priority booking at the start of each season

• Discounts for selected shows

• No additional charge for 3D screenings

• Friends’ Newsletter four times a year

• Exclusive ‘Friends’ Only’ events • Opportunity to vote for and attend ‘Friends’ Choice’ annual free film screening

Individual Membership £15 / Two people residing at the same address £22.50

To become a Friend of Number 8 ring 01386 555488 or email [email protected]

Gift Vouchers Treat someone with a Number 8 gift voucher. Vouchers are available from Box Office in a denomination of your choice and can be used toward payment for any Number 8 film screening or event. The ideal gift anytime of the year! HOW TO BOOK

Box Office: 01386 555488

Open Mon-Sat: 10.00am - 4.00pm and from 6.00pn on performance evenings.

By Phone: You can purchase your tickets instantly by debit/credit card over the phone.

Online: At www.number8.org. Online Transactions will incur a minimal booking fee.

In Person: At our Box Office, Number 8 Centre, 8 High Street, Pershore, WR10 1BG.

Reservations

With the exemption of group bookings we do not take reservations.

General Concessions

Concessions are available, where specified, for children 16 and under, senior citizens, students in full time education and CEA Card holders. Proof of eligibility is required.

School/Group Bookings Discounts are available for group bookings. For every 10 tickets you book the 11th is FREE. To claim this discount please contact Box Office. Advance booking recommended.

Refunds

We regret we are unable to give refunds or exchange tickets unless the event is cancelled.

Admissions

We always recommend that children are accompanied by an adult. However, we will admit children aged 12 and over unaccompanied.

Access

The ground floor of Number 8 is fully accessible with the first row of the auditorium reserved for wheelchair users and disabled patrons. Please advise Box Office if you require additional assistance. The Auditorium is equipped with an infra-red hearing system for films and selected screenings are shown with subtitles for those with hearing loss. These screenings are indicated by an (ST) after the film time. For films where it is available we offer audio description AD))) for customers with sight problems. CEA Card holders can obtain a FREE ticket for a person accompanying them to film screenings. There is no parking within the building for mobility scooters during shows. Rain covers are available on request for scooters parked outside.