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LAURA MVULA - Your FREE essential entertainment guide for the Midlands INTERVIEW INSIDE

ISSUE 376 APRIL 2017 IMNHMWA’ NAPRIL 2017 BIRMINGHAM WHAT’S ON Birmingham ’

WhatFILM COMEDY I THEATRE I GIGS I VISUAL ARTS I EVENTSs I FOOD Onbirminghamwhatson.co.uk PARTOF WHAT’S ON MEDIA GROUP TWITTER@WHATSONBRUM BIRMINGHAMWHATSON.CO.UK

Tango at The Hippodrome Contents April Birmingham.qxp_Layout 1 22/03/2017 14:01 Page 1 Contents April Birmingham.qxp_Layout 1 22/03/2017 21:01 Page 2

April 2017

Contents

La Cage aux Folles - John Partridge talks about his role in the hit West End musical feature on page 26

Shake It Up! Laura Mvula Disney On Ice the list

the best places in town to enjoy in conversation with the What’s celebrates 100 years of magic at Your 16-page a sinfully sugary delight On Readers’ Award winner the Genting Arena week by week listings guide Feature page 13 page 20 page 43 page 51 inside:

4. First Word 11. Food 16. Music 24. Comedy 28. Theatre 39. Film 42. Visual Arts 45. Events

@whatsonbrum fb.com/whatsonbirmingham @whatsonbirmingham Birmingham What’s On Magazine Birmingham What’s On Magazine Birmingham 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 WhatsOn Editorial: Lauren Foster [email protected] 01743 281707 Sue Jones [email protected] 01743 281705 MAGAZINE GROUP Brian O’Faolain [email protected] 01743 281701 Abi Whitehouse [email protected] 01743 281716 Ryan Humphreys [email protected] 01743 281722 Adrian Parker [email protected] 01743 281714 Rhian Atherton [email protected] 01743 281726 Contributors: Graham Bostock, James Cameron-Wilson, Heather Kincaid, David Vincent, Katherine Ewing, Lauren Cox 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 April Brum NEW.qxp_Layout 1 22/03/2017 14:03 Page 1

Entertainment news from around the region

Arts Council funding for city centre Dance Hub Arts Council England has confirmed that it will provide £5million to develop a Dance Hub at Birmingham’s Hippodrome theatre over the next three years. The new space will include a large studio, of- fice spaces and meeting rooms that will con- nect to studio, performance and social spaces within the wider complex. Commenting on the project, Peter Knott, Area Director of Arts Council England, said: “As the nation’s developer of arts and culture, we want to invest in bold schemes. The Birmingham Dance Hub promises to be just that, enticing audiences and enhancing the city’s reputation. “When artists and creatives think of a great place to locate their practice, we want them to recognise Birmingham and the wider city re- gion as the place to choose.”

Flatpack Festival returns Fancy dress is encouraged, and one of the Route confirmed for new featured venues will be holding a Disney sin- Vélo Birmingham bike ride Birmingham’s Flatpack Film Festival is re- galong. For more information and to pur- Full details of the Vélo Birmingham 100-mile turning for an 11th year. chase tickets, visit eventbrite.co.uk fully closed cycling road route have been an- The popular event has built its reputation on nounced. presenting a package of entertainment that Strictly judge brings new The autumn event, taking place on Sunday brings together animation, music, artists’ 24 September and starting on the city’s Broad film, archive discoveries, offbeat shorts and Dusty Springfield musical Street, will take 15,000 cyclists on a ‘breath- live cinema. to Birmingham theatre taking journey’ from city to country, passing This year’s festival takes place at venues A ‘heartwarming’ new musical showcasing through Dudley, Herefordshire, Sandwell, across the city from Tuesday 4 to Sunday 9 the songs of Dusty Springfield is stopping off Staffordshire and Worcestershire. April. in Birmingham this autumn. To find out more, visit vélobirmingham.com Highlights include a ‘feast’ of David Lynch films, drop-in activities for younger visitors Directed and choreographed by Strictly Come to enjoy in the Colour Box strand of the pro- Dancing judge Craig Revel Horwood, Son Of Iconic Longbridge music gramme, a wide range of quirky movies and A Preacher Man visits the city’s New Alexan- venue gets a makeover more than 20 short-film premieres. dra Theatre from Tuesday 12 to Saturday 16 Visit flatpackfestival.org.uk for more infor- September. The production will feature a se- Local rock legends The Steve Gibbons Band mation and to book tickets. lection of the late singer’s best-loved songs - are this month (1 April) kickstarting a pro- including the famous title track, with which gramme of live performances at the newly re- she enjoyed a transatlantic hit in 1968. furbished Austin Club in Birmingham’s Tickets for the show are on sale now and can Longbridge area. be purchased at atgtickets.com/birmingham. In its heyday, The Austin would regularly For more information about the production, host star names on its stage, including Bob visit sonofapreachermanmusical.com Monkhouse, The Searchers, Georgie Disney pub crawl in Brum Fame and Joe A Disney-themed pub crawl is coming to the Longthorne. streets of Birmingham this month (Friday 21 The venue’s new & Saturday 22 April). season of live Tickets for the event cost £5 and include a shows also in- professional pub tour guide, free goodies cludes perform- along the way, free entry to all the venues vis- ances by a number ited on the tour, special drinks promotions of top tribute acts. and free entry to the after-party location. 4 whatsonlive.co.uk First Word April Brum NEW.qxp_Layout 1 22/03/2017 14:03 Page 2

First Word

Biannual festival REP Christmas show now on sale... showcases new Birmingham Repertory Theatre is going dotty for dogs this local theatre work Christmas when it presents a brand new stage version of The A biannual festival showcasing new Hundred And One Dalmatians. theatre work from the Midlands is The REP’s Associate Director, Tessa Walker, takes the helm for taking place in Birmingham this the festive-season family show. Tessa has previously directed month. the venue’s yuletide productions of A Christmas Carol and The First Bite, which also visits Leicester Lion, The Witch And The Wardrobe. and Derby, features 18 local compa- nies presenting ‘new ideas and ex- Dodie Smith’s delightful tale has been transformed for the stage tracts from shows’. by Debbie Isitt, writer and director of the hugely popular Nativ- Three of the companies will be cho- ity! films. Isitt’s stage show, Nativity! The Musical, begins its sen to receive a commission of national tour at The REP in October. £3,000 to develop their work. Tickets for The Hundred And One Dalmatians, which runs from Previous shows supported by the Thurs 30 November to Sat 13 January, are available now from First Bite Festival include Caroline Horton's award-winning You’re Not the REP box office on 0121 236 4455 or at birmingham-rep.co.uk Like The Other Girls Chrissy - which has toured since 2010 and been viewed by over 10,000 people - and Joan, by Milk Presents, which won a BRB announces new ballet season Fringe First at the Edinburgh Festival Firm family favourite Aladdin will kickstart Birmingham last summer. First Bite takes place at mac birming- Royal Ballet’s 2017/18 season in the autumn. ham on Saturday 22 April. Artistic Director David Bintley’s critically acclaimed show, which boasts music by award-winning composer Carl Davis, heads up a year-long programme of dance work that also Afterlife explored features Sir Kenneth MacMillan’s Romeo & Juliet, Concerto in Birmingham’s and Elite Syncopations. Jewellery Quarter Sir Peter Wright’s Nutcracker puts in its usual and always A Midlands collective of professional greatly appreciated festive appearance, and is followed a and non-professional theatre makers month later by his exquisite production of The Sleeping is this month performing a new play Beauty. ‘for and about Birmingham’. For full details of the company’s season, visit brb.org.uk Theatre Birmingham’s The Other Side is a site-specific, script-in-hand presentation taking place in the city’s Jewellery Quarter and based Fine Art Society around the subject of the Afterlife. Authors under the The show is being performed at St at the Barber Paul’s Church from Friday 21 to Sun- spotlight at new event day 23 April and then at Birmingham An ongoing series of lec- Birmingham Literature Festival’s (BLF) & Midland Institute on Thurs 11 & Fri tures for art enthusiasts is annual October event is this year being 12 May. being held at the Barber In- joined by a Springtime edition, taking For more information, visit theatre- stitute of Fine Arts by the birmingham.co.uk. place at various venues across the city Birmingham Evening Deco- from 21 to 23 April. rative Fine Art Society Launched to celebrate BLF’s 20th an- Rose And Rosie, (BEDFAS). niversary, the new festival features ap- The non-profit organisation Exposed in Brum! pearances by bestselling novelist hosts a lecture at the presti- Comedy favourites Rose & Rosie are Lionel Shriver and outspoken Birming- bringing their Exposed tour to Birm- gious art gallery each ham MP Jess Phillips. Others making a ingham’s o2 Institute this month (27 month and also organises welcome contribution to the event are April). special-interest days and nature writer Alys Fowler, the beetle- The recently married couple are best ‘bitesize’ events. known for sharing snippets of their loving MG Leonard, debut author Olivia This month’s lecture, Wag- lives on YouTube, where between Sudjic and local writer Luke Kennard. ons West: Images Of The them they’ve accumulated almost The Spring edition of the festival also one million subscribers. American Frontier, is given includes writing workshops, the Publicising their touring show, the by Ian Beckett, Professor of launch of a new anthology of Asian duo said: “With limited skills, zero Military History at the Uni- writing, two family illustration events boundaries and below-average IQ, versity of Kent. this is an experience you’ll never for- and an evening with five Romanian The talk takes place at the get...but will wish that you could!” poets. For the full programme, visit Barber on Thursday 27 To check out their videos, visit birminghamliteraturefestival.org .com/user/RoseEllenDix April. whatsonlive.co.uk 5 Spring Walks Birmingham.qxp_Layout 1 22/03/2017 14:11 Page 1 Spring Walks Birmingham.qxp_Layout 1 22/03/2017 14:12 Page 2

Put a Spring in your step

After what’s felt like an eternally long winter, warmer days are now finally on the horizon. With that in mind, What’s On has put together a list of its favourite spring walks in and around Birmingham. Breathe in the fresh air, bask in the sunshine and revel in the beauty of the lush greenery surrounding Britain’s second city - it’s not all concrete and high-rises!

Kings Heath Park Lickey Hills Country Park Doublet pub and make your way north along Take a look at the beautiful plants and One of Birmingham’s most varied and the Birmingham & Fazeley Canal before flowers around this family-friendly urban treasured parks, Lickey Hills covers more entering and exploring the park. park - the first to achieve Green Flag status in than 500 acres and is located just 10 miles Dog Ln, Sutton Coldfield, B76 9JD Birmingham. The 35 acres of green space south west of Birmingham. Walk to the top of have colourful seasonal bedding schemes, Beacon Hill, the park’s most famous Beacon Park herbaceous borders and a refurbished pool viewpoint, and enjoy panoramic views of This beautiful park in the heart of Lichfield area. You can extend your walk to cover both Birmingham, the Black Country, the Malvern features gardens with stunning floral Kings Heath Park and the nearby historic Hills and beyond. displays, avenues of trees and historic Highbury Park. Warren Ln, Lickey, B45 8ER statues. With play areas for children, a Vicarage Rd, Kings Heath, B14 7TQ boating pool, woodlands, a pond and a Sandwell Valley Country Park bluebell wood, Beacon Park has something Harborne Walkway There are plenty of accessible routes to take for everyone. This walkway follows the route of a disused through this vast nature reserve. Attractions Swan Road, Lichfield, WS13 6QZ railway which was closed in 1963. The route include more than 660 acres of beautiful runs from Harborne to Summerfield Park, country park, a fully restored and working Clent Hills which is also a beautiful spot for a spring Victorian farm, a museum and award- Located just 10 miles away from Birmingham, walk. From there, you can visit Edgbaston winning tearooms. Clent Hills is one of the most popular hill- Reservoir or join the canal network and walk Salter's Ln, West Bromwich, B71 4BG walking sites in the country. The National into Birmingham city centre. Trust-protected park offers a delightful haven Park Hill Rd / Forrest Drive, Birmingham, Sutton Park away from the hustle and bustle and comes B17 9HW Covering more than 2,400 acres, Sutton Park complete with spectacular hilltop views and is the seventh largest urban park in Europe stunning woodland walks. New Hall Valley Country Park and offers seven beautiful lakes, extensive Hagley Wood Ln, Stourbridge, DY9 9JR This stunning nature reserve, located in ancient woodlands, marshes, wildlife and between Wylde Green and Walmley, consists more. There are many well-signposted routes Cannon Hill Park of ancient woodland, historic wetland to take throughout the former medieval deer Birmingham’s most popular park, located grazing meadows, part of Plants Brook park, allowing you to experience the best of less than two miles from the city centre, is stream and a working 17th century corn mill. the picturesque nature reserve. home to a boating lake, beautiful Officially opened in 2005, this 200-acre Park Rd, Sutton Coldfield, B74 2YT surrounding walks and popular arts ‘hidden gem’ boasts a large network of paths, multiplex mac Birmingham. With lots for the making it ideal for casual walkers, keen Kingsbury Water Park kids to do, it’s a great choice for a fun family cyclists and families alike. With 15 stunning lakes located within more day out. Wylde Green Rd, Sutton Coldfield, B76 1NL than 600 acres of lush green space, 2 Russell Rd, Birmingham, B13 8RD Kingsbury Water Park is a popular waterside attraction. Start your walk at the Dog & whatsonlive.co.uk 7 Gary Delaney DPS.qxp_Layout 1 22/03/2017 14:09 Page 1

FEATURE

Gary Delaney

Solihull’s king of the one-liner talks Twitterati, visualisation, and why Midlands audiences are amongst the best...

In a meme-dominated era, half the Solihull's own king of the one-liner is comics thought I was mad for giving away country seems to fancy themselves among those who've made the most of the material for free,” explains Gary. “But I on the internet. But though new medium, ideally suited to the pithy, very quickly built up a decent base on Twitter offers users the possibility of well-formed jokes he favours. But there there, and when I did my first Edinburgh fleeting fame for one good gag, social are difficulties, too. Ahead of his show in 2010, about a quarter of the media stars fall as quickly as they rise. forthcoming stand-up show at the Old tickets were sold to people who had seen And as the pros like Gary Delaney will tell Rep Theatre, we spoke to Delaney about my stuff online. Now everybody puts you, sustaining that success is where the the internet, memory palaces and how to jokes on Twitter, it's nowhere near as real hard graft comes in, from slogging craft the perfect show. effective.” through the touring admin to making sure “When I started on Twitter back in 2008, Being drowned out by Twitterati vying for he writes enough to use online and in live nobody was putting jokes on it, and other attention isn't the only pitfall for a sets.

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by Heather Kincaid

creative on social media today. As Twitter another two-thirds. So it's roughly the you can flesh out with additional use has expanded and his followers have best third of the best third that actually material. Some crowds are a bit more arty swelled in number to more than 60,000, end up in the show.” and prefer things more subtle and Delaney's had to be more circumspect highbrow; others like things a bit ruder Writing them is one thing, but about what he shares, so as not to spoil and darker. Personally I like to have a bit remembering 200 unconnected jokes material for his gigs. Moreover, he's had of both because it gives texture to the while up on stage without a prompt is run-ins with other websites publishing his show, but often I'll lean a bit more one quite another. For comedians who tell jokes without consent and failing to credit way or the other. The biggest laughs come stories or deal with themes or issues, at him as the original author. when an audience finds you 'cheeky', and least one thought will follow naturally that's not always going to be the same “Many years ago a comic would have 20 from another. But for a one-liner point.” minutes of killer jokes that would serve specialist like Delaney, the pressure's them for their career. Unless they did even greater. Of course, when you're trying to edit them on Saturday night telly, they could down, it helps to be married to a “I don't actually have a great natural carry on using them in the clubs for years successful comedy colleague. In 2013, memory, but I knew a few comics had and nobody would know or mind because Delaney married Sarah Millican, and explored this before, and I read up on audiences changed so much. Now your while testing material out on loved ones is memory systems, mainly in a book called best stuff gets burnt really quickly a “wearying” rookie error, having Moonwalking with Einstein. You know because even if you've never shared it someone to come along with you to new- how on Sherlock he has his 'Memory publicly yourself, other people will put it material nights and give constructive Palace'? Well, it's exaggerated in that, but online. It's frustrating, but I think on criticism is a definite bonus. they're actually a real thing. It's what the balance I've probably gained more in Greeks and the Romans used to use “Generally you already know whether marketing than I've lost in material, and before printing, when academics had to something has worked or not anyway, so ultimately something that forces you to learn these huge amounts of data. the most useful notes are suggestions for keep writing a junkload of new material how you might fix something that didn't helps make you a better writer.” “It's all based on visualisation. The quite work, or even just noticing that the human brain is still a caveman's brain, In the case of a comic who trades on reason a certain joke didn't land was which is why it's much easier for us to quickfire wordplay, “junkload” might well because somebody opened a door at the learn locations than numbers and words. be an understatement. Each new show back of the room and nobody heard the So you take what you already know, and contains around 200 jokes sifted out from punchline.” you map what you want to learn onto it. literally thousands of discarded ideas. When I do a show, every joke is stored in Originally hailing from near Birmingham, “It takes me about three years to write a my head as a mental image of different and having performed his first new show, so I don't feel any shame in points around my house, beginning with professional gig in Moseley, it's perhaps trying to squeeze two years out of a tour! when I wake up in bed in the morning, not surprising that the I'm basically always trying to write jokes, and ending with when I walk out of my (along with his wife's native North East) is though I do it a bit more attentively when front door. I'm pretty sure every one-liner among his favourite places to tour. I've got to get a new show together. The comic uses some variation on this. It “Comics always say their favourite crowds jokes themselves just come from things I probably takes me about five hours to are whoever they're trying to sell tickets hear - I used to carry a notebook around fully memorise a show, but once you've to, but I do genuinely look forward to but now I just jot things down in my got it, you have a bit of freedom to move Brum, Coventry, Newcastle and phone. around within that.” Sunderland because they're really fun “Every week or two, I'll book myself into a This flexibility is crucial for a stand-up, and up for it. Nobody's so up their own new-material night somewhere - often the particularly in terms of playing to bottom that they take things seriously and Birmingham Glee or the Manchester different sorts of audiences. Delaney is a get offended, but they're still sharp Comedy Store. Then I'll take my list of firm believer in the idea that a good enough to get something that's a little bit ideas, pick maybe 20 or 30 that I think should be able to perform to subtler, so that gives you more variety in have legs, write them up into proper jokes different crowds in different sorts of the sort of jokes you can do.” and read them out on the night to find the venues. best ones. From there, I'll get it down to “For me, there's a certain core of about 70 about the best third, which I'll start Gary Delaney plays the to 80% of a set that always works and is dropping in at the beginning of current Theatre, Birmingham, on there for everyone, like a skeleton that tour shows, and then I'll probably lose Thursday 6 May

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Food

Newly launched ‘food tour’ set to explore Birmingham city centre’s culinary hotspots A monthly ‘food tour’ has been launched in Birmingham. Described as ‘a relaxed, guided walk with gastronomical flavour’, the tour provides participants with the chance to sample offerings from the city's local independent restaurants, cafes and street food providers. Commenting on the new initiative, its founder and host, Rhiannon Simp- son, said: “The tour is like a lazy, grazing lunch with sites, facts and fun along the way. My aim is to engage guests, share stories about this fantas- tic city and promote the best local, independent food businesses.” The food tour's up-and-coming dates are Saturday 8 April and Saturday 6 May. Both tours take place in the city centre from midday to 4pm.

mouthwatering sides. On Cal’s carrots to cool the mouth, Buf- advice, we ordered a house falo & Rye wings are a must- cheese burger, buffalo brisket order for meat lovers. burger, chilli cheese fries and Our culinary trip to Americana buffalo chicken wings. The pit- was topped off by a very gener- smoked pulled pork also caught ous portion of chilli cheese fries - my eye. an addictive combination of The brunch menu was short but house fries topped with beef inviting, with a poached chilli, cheese, American mus- egg/guacamole combo, French tard, chopped gherkins and toast and pancakes. jalapeños. The house cheese burger fea- To truly complete the Buffalo & tured a double beef patty, Ameri- Rye experience, we ordered a can cheese and classic burger couple of hard shakes - thick sauce, lettuce, tomato and milkshakes filled with salted grilled gherkin accompaniment. caramel, chocolate sauce, a shot The delicious brioche bun was so of rum and topped with whipped packed with filling that it felt cream. An indulgent, boozy heavy! The patties were smoth- treat! REVIEW: Buffalo & Rye ered in melted cheese and the All our food was hot, delicious Authentic Stateside experience... meat was tender and rich. An ex- and served very quickly. Our cellent classic burger. server, Cal, was enthusiastic and Claiming to offer a taste of Amer- falo & Rye is ideally located to The buffalo brisket burger gave friendly, happy to recommend icana in the centre of Birming- provide a great start to a night us a chance to try some of the his personal favourites from the ham, Buffalo & Rye is the newest out. It’s also a perfect stop-off in house speciality pit-smoked menu. addition to the Bitter & Twisted which to refuel during a shop- meats. Very juicy and tasty, this From the delicious dirty burgers family. ping spree. burger packed a real punch, with to the face-melting chicken a lot of smoky barbecue flavour Known for their high-quality On arrival, we were immediately wings, Buffalo & Rye was an au- in the beef. The addition of red food and quirky theming, Bitter greeted by our server, Cal, who thentic Stateside experience that cabbage was an inspired choice, & Twisted restaurants are firm showed us to a high table next to satisfied all of our meaty crav- adding a delicious crunch. favourites with Brummie clien- the bar. On first entry, Buffalo & ings. Emma Cann tele. Rye oozes understated cool, its The buffalo chicken wings, highly recommend by Cal, were Food: nnnnn So will this latest foray into the low lighting, retro furnishings so dangerously tasty they should Service: nnnnn world of dirty burgers, gourmet and indie-rock soundtrack tak- only have been served post-wa- Ambience: nnnnn hot dogs and smoked meats ing me back to Reading Festival tershed. So spicy it felt like they Overall value nnnnn prove to be another fantastic ad- circa 2005. might melt my face off - yet also OVERALL nnnnn dition to Birmingham’s foodie The menu is simple. Buffalo & addictively sticky - the wings scene? Rye sticks to what all Bitter & were the highlight of the menu Buffalo & Rye Twisted restaurants do best - a 11 Bennetts Hill Just a two-minute walk from New and certainly lived up to their Street Station (right next to the selection of burgers, hot dogs, Birmingham ‘finger-lickin' delicious’ descrip- B2 5RS company’s Bodega venue), Buf- signature smoked meats and tion. Served with sour cream and Tel: 0121 643 3312

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by Lauren Cox Shake it up! It’s time to treat yourself and indulge in some sinfully sugary delights. Birmingham is full of hidden gems serving up everything from locoshakes to freakshakes and all-round-crazy shakes. We’ve handpicked some of the city’s best guilty pleasures so that you can shake it up in style.

Rub Smokehouse Rock66 American Diner MyCookieDough Forget everything you think you know This colourful American-style diner serves Open since October last year, about shakes - Rub Smokehouse push all a classic range of flavours - but the real MyCookieDough create heavenly thick the boundaries with their epic Way Out stars of the show are the VIP shakes. Dough Shakes which are made by West. It consists of a triple waffle bacon Options include a Dime Has Left The blending ice cream, fresh cookie dough cheeseburger on a Dr Pepper and West Building - a Dime bar mixed with vanilla and a choice of classics such as chocolate, Ruby Lager shake coated with Nutella and ice cream and topped with whipped cream, Oreo, mocha and caramel. M&Ms. Wow! It’s probably best not to count chocolate sauce and buttons - and a Galaxy Treat yourself and go for a VIP with the calories in this one... Also on the menu Rain; Galaxy chocolate with vanilla ice Nutella or a limited-edition caramelised are beer shakes such as a pumpkin pie with cream topped with toffee sauce and more Biscoff. West Hefeweizen, and milkshakes with a chocolate. £3.95 - £4.65 suggested shot of spirit for an extra £2. The Milkshake lovers are spoilt for choice here. Bullring Shopping Centre, Lower Mall, selection includes a honeycomb £3 - £4.50 cheesecake shake with Jack Daniels. Birmingham B5 4BA 891 Washwood Heath Rd, Birmingham £4.95 - £19.95 B8 2NA 4 Regency Wharf, Broad St, Birmingham B1 1DS

Eis Cafe by choosing any bourbon, spiced rum or you like (including salted caramel and This cafe is a sugar addict’s paradise. Try the Baileys for an additional £2.75. coffee) and take it to the next level by adding Monster Marshmallow Oreo, the Mr Nutella £4.75 - £7.95 crispy bacon or real fruit. with Pretzels or the new post-workout Loco- 92 New St, Birmingham B2 4BA £4.75 Protein-Shake, made using whey protein and Bullring Shopping Centre, Middle Mall, topped with Nutella, whipped cream and a Ed’s Shakes Birmingham B5 4BA huge s’mores doughnut. Other flavours Ed’s world-famous extra-thick milkshakes include old-school bubblegum, strawberry Cherry Reds cheesecake and mouthwateringly good are made with real ice cream and sweet combinations of Ferrero Rocher, Kinder ingredients including butterscotch, Biscoff, Vegans, fear not! Birmingham’s best-loved Bueno and Nute. Reese’s peanut butter and more. You can quirky cafe blends its milkshakes with dairy- make it a malt for an extra 45p or make it a free or real ice cream and a range of flavours, £3.50 - £7.50 skinny with 90% less fat if you’re determined including coconut, peach and mint. And 500 Coventry Rd, Small Heath B10 0UN to be good. that’s not all - treat yourself to one of the £4.55 - £5.30 following boozy milkshakes: Cherry Bomb Byron with spiced rum and coconut, Night Sky Bullring Shopping Centre, Upper Mall, Mocha with Kahlua, or Bourbon Vanilla - a This restaurant offers the ultimate treat. Birmingham B5 4BA Indulge in an Oreo or Reese’s freakshake - an vanilla shake with Buffalo Trace bourbon. extra-thick milkshake stacked with vanilla Five Guys £3 - £6 ice cream, brownie, whipped cream and 88 - 92 John Bright St, Birmingham B1 1BN chocolate and caramel sauces, all topped Bacon in your milkshake. Why not? Start with crushed honeycomb. Or upgrade from a with a unique creamy vanilla base, classic-flavoured milkshake to a hard shake customise it with as many of the 11 mix-ins as whatsonlive.co.uk 13 Readers' Awards Birmingham Davina DPS MM.qxp_Layout 1 22/03/2017 20:56 Page 1

Readers’ What’sOn Awards WINNERS announced... With over 45,000+ votes cast in the What’s OnReaders’ Awards 2017 - we are delighted to announce your winners...

Midlands Large Theatre Best Kids Show Best Midlands Arts/ WINNER WINNER Disney On Ice presents Frozen Cultural Festival Birmingham RUNNER-UP Gangsta Granny WINNER Birmingham Comedy Festival Hippodrome RUNNER-UP Best Amateur Wolverhampton Dramatic/Operatic Group Grand Theatre WINNER Wolverhampton Musical Comedy Company (MUSCOM) Midlands Arts Centre RUNNER-UP Old Joint Stock Musical WINNER mac, Birmingham Theatre Co. RUNNER-UP Warwick Arts Centre Best Amateur Production Best Touring Musical WINNER Legally Blonde - WINNER Mamma Mia! Stourbridge Amateur Operatic Society RUNNER-UP Mary Poppins RUNNER-UP Jekyll & Hyde - Bournville Musical Theatre Company Best Touring Play Best Dance Production WINNER The Full Monty RUNNER-UP International Dance WINNER Birmingham Royal Ballet’s RUNNER-UP Of Mice & Men Festival Birmingham The Nutcracker Best Home-Produced Show In The RUNNER-UP Matthew Bourne’s Best Exhibition Midlands Sleeping Beauty WINNER Wildlife Photographer of the WINNER Gangsta Granny - Birmingham Year 2016 - Wolverhampton Art Gallery Stage Company RUNNER-UP Inspire 16 - Birmingham RUNNER-UP The Wind In The Willows - Museum & Art Gallery The Old Rep Best Independent Best Pantomime Cinema In The Midlands 2016/17 WINNER Electric WINNER Aladdin - Wolverhampton Cinema - Birmingham Grand Theatre RUNNER-UP Light RUNNER-UP Dick Whittington - House Media Centre - Wolverhampton

Best Midlands Comedian Best Classical Production WINNER Greg Davies inc Opera RUNNER-UP Joe Lycett WINNER WNO - Sweeney Todd RUNNER-UP Birmingham Opera Best Midlands Company - Dido ‘n’ Aeneas Comedy Break-through Best Orchestra/Choir WINNER WINNER CBSO Sarah Johnson RUNNER-UP Birmingham Philharmonic RUNNER-UP Orchestra Tom Christian

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Readers’ Awards

Best Midlands Comedy Night Best Midlands Live Band Best Midlands WINNER Comedy Carousel at The Glee WINNER The Twang Retail Shopping Club, Birmingham RUNNER-UP Ned’s Atomic Dustbin Centre RUNNER-UP Comedy at Henry Tudor WINNER Bullring - House, Shrewsbury Best Midlands Chef Birmingham WINNER Glynn Purnell (Purnell’s, Bham) RUNNER-UP intu Best Midlands Music Venue RUNNER-UP Adam Stokes (Adams, Merry Hill - (Large: 1000+ capacity) Birmingham) Brierley Hill WINNER Symphony Hall Best Midlands Food Festival Midlands Entertainment - Birmingham WINNER Ludlow Food Festival Personality of the Year Award RUNNER-UP RUNNER-UP Great British Food Festival WINNER Doreen Tipton O2 Academy - - Shugborough RUNNER-UP Julie Walters Birmingham Best Midlands Best Midlands Music Festival Street Food WINNER Shrewsbury Folk Festival Vendor RUNNER-UP Moseley Folk Festival WINNER Buddha Belly Best Midlands Musician RUNNER-UP WINNER Laura Mvula Vegan RUNNER-UP Libby Gliksman Grindhouse And the winners in your region...

Birmingham Best Outdoor Event Best Nightclub WINNER Magical Lantern Festival at WINNER Snobs Best Arts/Theatre Venue Botanical Gardens RUNNER-UP The Rainbow Venue RUNNER-UP Birmingham Pride WINNER The REP Best Independent Retail Store RUNNER-UP mac Birmingham Best Indoor WINNER The People Shops - Kings Heath Best Music Venue Event RUNNER-UP Loki Wine, WINNER Hare & Hounds, Kings Heath WINNER MCM RUNNER-UP The Jam House Comic Con RUNNER-UP BBC Good Food Show Best Gallery Exhibition Venue WINNER Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery RUNNER-UP Ikon Best Street Food Event WINNER Digbeth Best Independent Coffee Shop Dining Club WINNER Six Eight Cafe Best Visitor Attraction RUNNER-UP RUNNER-UP Damascena Coffee House WINNER Birmingham Botanical Gardens Brum Yum Yum RUNNER-UP Cadbury World Best Independent Restaurant Best Festival WINNER Purnell’s in Cornwall Street WINNER RUNNER-UP Carters of Moseley Moseley Folk RUNNER-UP Best Independent Bar Birmingham WINNER The Plough in Harborne Comedy Festival RUNNER-UP Old Joint Stock Theatre, Temple Row

whatsonlive.co.uk 15 Classical & Gigs April NEW.qxp_Layout 1 22/03/2017 14:44 Page 1

Classical

Ex Cathedra: Bach’s St John Passion Symphony Hall, Birmingham, Fri 14 April A favourite at Eastertide, Bach’s St John Passion - a re-telling of Christ’s betrayal and death - continues to be one of classi- cal music’s most profound experiences. Performed by the Ex Cathedra Consort and Baroque Orchestra under the direc- tion of conductor Jeffrey Skidmore, the work is on this occasion framed in its liturgical context, the concert also includ- ing congregational hymns, organ works, readings and two motets.

Murray Perahia: Beethoven’s Emperor Concerto Symphony Hall, Birmingham, Wed 5 April Murray Perahia is here reunited with the Academy of St Martin in the Fields for a concert that forms part of the American pianist’s 70th birthday celebrations. The all-Beethoven pro- gramme features the composer’s First Symphony and his Romance for violin and orchestra No1. But it’s undoubtedly the Emperor concerto (his final piano concerto, written between 1809 and 1811) that will be the highlight of the evening.

Britten Oboe Quartet Cesar Franck Birmingham Bach Artrix, Bromsgrove, Fri 7 April Piano Quintet Choir: Handel’s Messiah It’s been said of oboist Nicholas Daniel and violinist Jacqueline The CBSO Centre, Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton, Shave that, were there to be assembled a chamber music equiv- Birmingham, Thurs 27 Fri 14 April April alent of a fantasy football team, they would both undoubtedly One of the city's oldest musical groups be in the squad. They’re joined in the Britten Oboe Quartet by Birmingham Conserva- here gets its collective teeth into the chal- two other hugely talented musicians - cellist Caroline Dearnley toire senior tutor Robert lenge of performing Handel’s magnificent and Clare Finnimore on viola. The evening’s programme in- Markham is the man at choral masterpiece, a work which tells the cludes compositions by Mozart, Lennox Berkeley, Moeran, the piano for this per- story of Christ's Nativity, Passion, Resur- Schubert, Richard Rodney Bennett and Françaix. formance of Belgian rection and Ascension. composer César Unquestionably the best-known section of Franck’s extraordinar- the work is the rousing Hallelujah Chorus, ily uninhibited work. one of the most famous pieces of Baroque Composed in 1879, the choral music ever written. piece is widely re- garded to be one of Franck's greatest achievements. Robert is joined for the concert by Gabriel Dyker and Amanda Lake (violins), Adam Romer (viola) and David Powell (cello).

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Gigs

Ed Sheeran Barclaycard Arena, Birmingham, Fri 28 - Sat 29 April Sheeran’s new album, ÷, has taken the music world by storm, hitting the number one spot on the UK Album Chart and filling nine of the top 10 places on the singles charts. The album has also reached number one in the US, Australia, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, New Zealand and Sweden, to name but a few... Taking place as part of his highly anticipated 2017 tour, the critically acclaimed singer-songwriter’s Birmingham shows have both sold out.

Caro Emerald ioned her very own niche - a polished fusion of pop, jazz and swing. Symphony Hall, Birmingham, Her second album, The Shocking Miss Emer- Sat 1 - Sun 2 April ald (2013), entered the Official UK Albums Since the release of her 2010 multi-platinum Chart at number one and sold over two-and- debut album, Deleted Scenes From The Cut- a-half million copies. ting Room Floor, Caro Emerald has fash-

Rag’n’Bone Man Bruno Mars O2 Academy, Birmingham, Mon 24 April Barclaycard Arena, Birmingham, Temples Rory Graham - better known as Rag’n’Bone Mon 24 - Tues 25 April O2 Institute, Birmingham, Sun 2 April Man - released his first hit single, Human, Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter, Kettering-based psychedelic rock band Tem- on Columbia Records back in July last year. record producer, voice actor and choreogra- ples achieved great critical acclaim follow- His debut album of the same name has pher Bruno Mars became recognised as a ing the release of their debut offering, Sun reached number one in numerous countries, solo artist after his vocals featured on Structures. The album not only featured in including the UK, France and the Nether- B.o.B’s Nothin’ On You and Travie McCoy’s the top 10 in the UK Album Charts but was lands. Billionaire. Mars is one of the best-selling also named Rough Trade’s Album Of The Fresh off the back of winning both the artists of all time, having sold in excess of Year in 2014. British Breakthrough Act and the Choice 100 million singles and albums worldwide. James (vocals and ), Tom (bass and Award at the 2017 Brits, he here showcases His three albums to date are Doo-Wops & backing vocals), Sam (drums) and Adam his musical mix of soul and hip-hop as part Hooligans, Unorthodox Jukebox and the (keys) are this month visiting Birmingham of his new UK tour. hugely anticipated 24K Magic. in support of second album Volcano, re- cently released on Heavenly Records. The Who Barclaycard Arena, Birmingham, Wed 12 April Joining The Beatles and The Rolling Stones, My Generation, Won’t Get Fooled Again and Pinball Wizard legends The Who complete the holy trinity of British rock. The band are here performing a special acoustic presenta- tion of their rock opera/double album Tommy, as well as a selection of their great- est hits. The evening also features a brand new video programme specially produced for the tour.

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Festivals

SUMMER FESTIVAL GUIDE As another summer approaches, we're already looking forward to the warm weekends of the 2017 festival season, promising pop par- ties, metal mayhem, indie extravaganzas and some folking good fun, along with (mostly) jazz, funk and blues. Over the winter, we asked you to vote for the best venues and events across the region - and now that the polls have closed, we can officially reveal a hand- ful of the finalists. Here are your favourite music festivals, plus a few more to watch out for in the coming months.

Cheltenham Jazz Festival Swingamajig Shrewsbury Folk Festival Various venues, Wed 26 April - Mon 1 May The Rainbow Venues, Birmingham, West Midlands Showground, Shrewsbury, This six-day celebration ranks among the Sun 30 April Fri 25 - Mon 28 August country's best-loved jazz events, attracting in Voted the Midlands' Best Music Festival by excess of 20,000 visitors each year. you, our readers, Shrewsbury Folk has long Taking place in the centre of Cheltenham, the been a firm fixture in any folkie's calendar. festival brings together up-and-coming UK Some of the finest folk acts from across the talent with international icons of the highest UK and further afield gather here each year calibre. Previous star contributors have in- to share songs and stories, dancing and cluded Eartha Kitt, Van Morrison, Stephane drinks. Steeped in history, Shrewsbury is the Grappelli and Ornette Coleman. perfect setting for this celebration of cen- And it's not just for die-hard jazz enthusiasts turies-old tradition, yet it’s far from stuffy. either. With its friendly atmosphere, diverse Vintage glamour meets 21st century electron- With an emphasis on collaboration and a acts and mix of free and paid concerts, Chel- ica in a show like no other, curated by Birm- growing move towards inventive fusion tenham Jazz is a great way to introduce the ingham's very own Electric Swing Circus. styles, the folk scene is where you'll find uninitiated to what the genre has to offer. Set against the dramatic backdrop of Dig- some of the most interesting and original 2017 line-up includes: Laura Mvula, Gregory beth's railway arches in the city's old indus- artists performing in Britain today. Porter, Jack Savoretti, Will Young, Paul Car- trial heartland, Swingamajig fuses 1920s 2017 line-up includes: Chris Difford, Jim rack, Ben Folds, Jamie Cullum, Rick Wake- decadence with jungle, hip-hop, gypsy jazz Moray, Jon Boden, The Unthanks, Sam man, Mica Paris & Booker T Jones and pounding electrobeats. Expect circus Carter, Oysterband, The Young'uns, Loudon and cabaret, toe-tapping dance classes, spec- Wainwright III, Le Vent du Nord, The Rheni- tacular showmanship, an extensive vintage gan Sisters and The Transports market, well-dressed punters and an eclectic, off-the-wall array of sights and sounds. Music line-up includes: The Correspon- dents, Featurecast, Electric Swing Circus, Freestylers & Sir Real, Sam & The Womp, Rhino & The Ranters, Dutty Moonshine, Mr Switch and C@ in the H@ Cabaret line-up includes: Miss Betsy Rose, Florian Brooks, Vicky Butterfly, The Flaming Feathers, Joe Black, Dr A Szydlo and Missy Malone

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Festivals

V Festival Godiva Festival The Acoustic Weston Park, Staffordshire, War Memorial Park, Festival Of Sat 19 - Sun 20 August Coventry, Fri 7 - Sun 9 July Great Britain Bringing together the Among Coventry's claims Uttoxeter Racecourse, biggest artists from across to fame is being home to Fri 2 - Sun 4 June all genres, Virgin's V Festi- the UK's biggest and best Standing out from the val has, over the last 20 free music festival. crowd of ever-louder elec- years, blossomed into one of the UK's “We’ve always been proud of the Godiva tronic festivals, The Acoustic Festival of biggest and best-known music events. Festival,” Councillor Abdul Khan told the Great Britain marks a welcome return to the Born in 1996 when Pulp frontman Jarvis Coventry Telegraph. “It brings a massive basics of good quality music. Cocker put forward the idea of playing in profile to Coventry as a city." Stripped back, unplugged performances are two outdoor venues over two days, V Festi- Over the years, the festival’s hosted an array the focus of this relaxed, friendly event: be- val is unique in taking place in two separate of big-name acts, from The Happy Mondays yond that, it's open to music of all genres. locations simultaneously. Chart-topping to Mercury Rev, The Enemy to Echo & The With a five-star-rated camping infrastruc- acts take to stages in Staffordshire and Bunnymen and Buzzcocks to The Boomtown ture, glamping options, seated food tents Chelmsford, visiting one on Saturday and Rats. With Coventry having now entered its and kids' play areas, it's the perfect way to the other on Sunday. City of Culture bid, expect a festival that's spend a lazy weekend with the family. bigger and better than ever, with markets, a 2017 line-up includes: P!nk, Jay Z, Rudi- 2017 line-up includes: Fairport Convention, mental, Pete Tong, Craig David, Ellie Gould- funfair, and family-friendly shows and activ- ities in addition to a fabulous music line-up. Wishbone Ash, Nell Bryden, Hoosiers, Nick ing, Jess Glynne, Stormzy, George Ezra, Harper, Seize The Day, Boy On A Dolphin, Emeli Sandé, Jason Derulo, Madness and 2017 line-up includes: The Darkness, Tom Ed Tudor-Pole, Bar-Steward Sons Of Val Dizzee Rascal Clarke (The Enemy) and The Stranglers Doonican

Moseley Folk Festival Slam Dunk Birmingham Pride Moseley Park, Birmingham, NEC, Birmingham, Sat 27 May Birmingham Gay Village, Sat 27 - Sun 28 May Fri 1 - Sun 3 September It’s 20 years since Birmingham Pride took a Tucked away behind the busy streets of first tentative step onto the city’s events cal- Birmingham, Moseley Park is one of the endar. city's many hidden gems. Each year, as the Plenty has changed since 1997’s debut bash, festival season draws to a close, it's trans- not only with regard to the festival itself but formed into an enchanting escape by one of also in terms of the LGBT community’s na- the Midlands' best-loved music festivals. tional profile. Traditional folk & low-fi acoustic sets blend As usual, this year’s event has plenty of seamlessly with dreamy electropop, psyche- great entertainment on offer. The line-up in- delia and indie favourites against a magical cludes popular music acts performing on the backdrop of bright hippie colours, lush fo- main stage, the Manchester Airport-spon- liage and a beautiful lake. The perfect way to sored cabaret marquee, a dance arena, a see out the summer. women’s arena and a host of community 2017 line-up includes: Laura Marling (pic- Showcasing the best in contemporary emo, stalls. A Saturday lunchtime carnival parade tured), Jose Gonzalez, Amy MacDonald, Kate punk and ska, this three-stop touring festi- through the city streets provides a lively and Rusby, Shovels & Rope, Courtney Marie An- val last year moved its Midlands date from colourful curtain-raiser to a weekend of fun drews and John Moreland Wolverhampton to the NEC, allowing for and partying. easy access from across the country. 2017 line-up includes: Dua Lipa, Basement Linked to the Leeds-based club nights and Jaxx, Gabrielle (pictured), Sophie Ellis-Bex- indie record label of the same name, Slam tor, Jonas Blue, Jamelia, Louisa Johnson, Dunk takes place over the May bank holiday Saara Aalto, M.O. weekend and boasts more than 40 acts over multiple stages, as well as DJ sets, exclusive signings and a riotous afterparty to round things off. 2017 line-up includes: Enter Shikari, Don Broco, Bowling For Soup, Neckdeep, Less Than Jake, Reel Big Fish, Deaf Havana, Beartooth, Tonight Alive and We Are The Ocean

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INTERVIEW

22 whatsonlive.co.uk Laura Mvula DPS.qxp_Layout 1 22/03/2017 15:06 Page 2

by Lauren Foster

LauraVoted Best Midlands Musician in the What’s On Readers’ AwardsMvula 2017, Laura Mvula’s road to soul-singing stardom started with the a capella group Black Voices. A Birmingham Conservatoire graduate, she started writing music while working as a supply teacher, and has recently written the score for the Royal Shakespeare Company's latest production of Antony And Cleopatra. Laura took time out from her busy schedule to big up her Brummie roots...

What’s your earliest musical memory the critics say, as I know it’s just a longer, but it was such a special of performing, Laura? sublime production and I’m super proud experience for me. My brother and sister It happens to be at the Midlands Arts of the music. The RSC has been such a joy were playing in the orchestra also. As far Centre. When I was 11, I entered a to work with, and it’s all been a superb as my career goes, that will remain one of competition where I gave my first piano learning curve for me. Off the back of this, my highlights. I’d love to do more in theatre. recital, playing Gypsy Tango. What’s your favourite memory of being Equipped with the experience you’ve How did your involvement in the a Birmingham Conservatoire student? gained over the past 12 years as a project come about? I would say meeting my ex-husband. I professional musician, what advice The director, Iqbal Khan, was set on to my remember the day I met him. We had to would you give to your younger self as first album by his fiance, Kim, who’s also sing in the chorus - the whole year group. an undergraduate at Birmingham a director. Iqbal just decided that he’d like I would also say my final recital. That was Conservatoire? to work with me, so I met up with him at the first time I gave a singing I would say, be yourself, work really hard Shoreditch House in London and he performance. and exercise more. I would’ve encouraged asked me whether I’d consider writing the Do you have any plans to visit the new myself to have gotten better sleeping music for Antony And Cleopatra. Of venue when it opens this summer? course I jumped at the opportunity. He habits too. Yeah, I’d love to, if I get the invite. It was interested in my writing style and my would be amazing to play there as well! If What’s surprised you most on your philosophy that there are no rules - or if I ever have children, I’d love them to go journey from Black Voices to where you do have rules in writing, then just there too. you are today? break them. Being able to perform to lots of people What are you most proud of as a You’re up for Soul Artist Of The Year in throughout the year and still feel Brummie? the Jazz FM Awards. How important passionate each time. I’m impressed with are such nominations and, hopefully, My schools, my Brummie accent, Cannon the progress in my voice. I’m not as subsequent award wins? Hill Park and Aston Villa. nervous as a performer these days. I used to hate talking, full stop - both in between Awards kind of mean everything and So is Birmingham still home? songs and in interviews - but now I quite nothing at the same time. I try to be Not any longer. I live in London out of like it. appreciative of any acknowledgement, peer pressure, but my mum still lives in but at the same time, I’ve sort of given up Birmingham. Is there a single artist who’s been your chasing awards. I realised that the most biggest inspiration? important thing for me is writing music Finally, what would you like to say to At the moment my biggest inspiration is that connects with people. As long as I the readers of What’s On who voted my younger brother, James. I went to see see evidence of that, which I do every day, you Midlands Musician 2017? then I’m okay. his first gig with his string quartet, Dixit, I just want to say a really big, genuine last Saturday. They totally blew me away. Amongst your many collaborations, is thank you. It means so much to even be I bought their music on iTunes and I’ve there one which remains the most considered. Big up Birmingham! been listening to it ever since. memorable? Tell us about writing the score for I think my collaboration with The Antony And Cleopatra at the RSC... Laura plays Cheltenham Jazz Festival Metropole Orkest, which was directed by on Wednesday 26 April. It’s my very first composer gig - and so far, Jules Buckley, the conductor. We recorded For more information and tickets, so good. We have opening night on an album together at Abbey Road which is head to cheltenhamfestivals.com Thursday [23 March], so I guess that will basically an orchestral version of my first be judgement day. I don’t really care what album. I think we did two days, or maybe

whatsonlive.co.uk 23 Comedy April NEW MM.qxp_Layout 1 22/03/2017 14:45 Page 1

Angela Barnes Foxlowe Arts Centre, Leek, Staffordshire, Thurs 6 April; The Comedy Loft, B’ham, Fri 14 - Sat 15 April

When her inspirational dad died in 2008, Angela Barnes decided to follow the ad- vice he’d given her and launch a career in stand-up comedy. And judging by the success which has fol- lowed, she certainly made the right deci- sion. A BBC New Comedy Awards winner, An- Andy Parsons: Peak Bullsh*t gela recently took over as the host of Radio Four Extra's topical sketch show, Evesham Arts Centre, Fri 7 April; Ludlow Assembly Rooms, South Shropshire, Sat 8 April; Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, Thurs 27 April; The Old Rep, Birmingham, Sat 13 May; Newsjack. “As a self-confessed lifelong Huntington Hall, Worcester, Fri 19 May; Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, Sun 28 May radio comedy nerd,” she said of her new With complimentary reviews including such observations as 'what he lacks in hair, he more role when it was announced in December, than makes up for in originality', Andy Parsons is a sharp and topical comedian who's well “I don't think 'dream job' is too strong a known from TV show Mock The Week and topical monthly podcast, The Slacktivist Action phrase. Hopefully there'll be some inter- Group. esting stories to get stuck into - heaven “If I have to summarise the new show,” he says of Peak Bullsh*t, which tours to the Mid- knows 2016 was a bit of a slow burner on lands in the coming months, “it's asking, has the world gone mad, what it means to be the news front..." British in 2017, what it means to be a patriot - and is it true that we only like immigrants if they can win us gold medals at the Olympics?” Andy’s big bag of jokes includes: “If you’ve been affected by any of the issues raised in Rob tonight’s episode of EastEnders, they must have been acting better than they usually do.” Deering Henry Tudor House, Marcel Lucont’s Whine List Shrewsbury, Wed 26 April The Slade Rooms, Wolverhampton, Thurs 6 April; Royal Spa Centre, Leamington Spa, Thurs 27 April Rob Deering has Marcel Lucont’s current touring show is de- successfully scribed by the French flaneur’s publicist as “a built on the ben- kind of self-help group where everyone poten- efit of having a tially leaves more depressed. Expect louche mus- face that was ings, deadpan wit and Gallic superiority.” made for comedy by turning himself into It’s a description which will undoubtedly chime a rather splendid example of a profes- with people when they go to see the show - al- sional comedian. He’s been described as a though leaving at the end of the evening feeling man with