sOn ’

INSIDE MAGAZINE GROUP 1462-7035 ISSN What THE DEFINITIVE DEFINITIVE THE LISTINGS GUIDE LISTINGS interview inside interview interview inside interview interview inside interview Dan Ryan Dan for his latest role latest his for Neal Foster Neal

EMELI SANDE BRIT AWARD-WINNER BACK IN THE REGION Skins actor clocks on on clocks actor Skins Ben Richards Ben celebrates twenty years... twenty celebrates Birmingham Stage Company Stage Birmingham working 9 To 5 in the Midlands the in 5 To 9 working 2012 ISSUE 323 NOVEMBER 323 ISSUE gets ready to rock and shock.... and rock to ready gets £1.80 .co.uk

whatsonlive www. THE MIDLANDS ESSENTIAL ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE ENTERTAINMENT ESSENTIAL MIDLANDS THE Midlands Cover - November_24-7 Cover 29/10/2012 17:43 Page 1 Page 17:43 29/10/2012 Cover - November_24-7 Cover Midlands MIDLANDS WHAT’S ON ISSUE 323 NOVEMBER 2012 PART OF MIDLANDS WHAT’S ON MAGAZINE GROUP PUBLICATIONS grand_whatson FP nov_Layout 1 29/10/2012 14:30 Page 1 Great Theatre at the Grand!

TUES 6 - SAT 10 NOV TUES 20 - WED 21 NOV THURS 22 - SAT 24 NOV

Bilston Operatic SADLER’S WELLS PRESENTS Company presents...

MUSIC AND LYRICS BY JERRY HERMAN AN AMATEUR PRODUCTION

“ZANY AND ZIPPY, HILARIOUS AND HEARTWARMING. A WINNER” Ballet Girls & Hip Hop Boys!

MON 26 NOV - SAT 1 DEC SAT 8 DEC - SUN 20 JAN MON 28 JAN - SAT 2 FEB

TUES 12 - SAT 16 FEB ALSO BOOKING TUES 19 - SAT 30 MARCH ‘BRILLIANT! ITEXPLODESLIKEGLITTERINGFIREWORKS’ BILL KENWRIGHT TUES 22 JANUARY BY ARRANGEMENT WITH THE REALLY USEFUL GROUP PRESENTS SHAKESPEARE 4 KIDZ: THE TEMPEST THURS 24 JANUARY REAL DIAMOND A BIRTHDAY CONCERT FRI 25 JANUARY JACKSON LIVE IN CONCERT SUN 27 JANUARY THE GLENN MILLER ORCHESTRA MON 4 - SAT 9 FEBRUARY AGATHA CHRISTIES LYRICS BY MUSIC BY GO BACK FOR MURDER TIM RICE SUN 17 - TUE 19 FEBRUARY THE RUSSIAN STATE BALLET OF SIBERIA SAT 23 FEBRUARY BILLY FURY YEARS SUN 24 FEBRUARY CIRCUS HILARIOUS

Follow us on @WolvesGrand Like us on Facebook: Wolverhampton Grand

Box Office 01902 42 92 12 BOOK ONLINE AT www.grandtheatre.co.uk Contents November_Layout 1 29/10/2012 16:41 Page 1

November 2012

Editor: INSIDE: Davina Evans [email protected] 01743 281708 The Ladykillers Editorial Assistants: Brian O’Faolain West End show arrives [email protected] in the Midlands p29 01743 281707

Adrian Parker [email protected] 01743 281714 Sales & Marketing: Jon Cartwright [email protected] 01743 281703 Chris Horton [email protected] 01743 281704

Subscriptions: Adrian Parker [email protected] 01743 281714 Dan Ryan Managing Director: interview inside p8 Paul Oliver [email protected] 01743 281711 Publisher and CEO: Martin Monahan [email protected] 01743 281710

Graphic Designers: Lisa Wassell Chris Atherton 9 To 5 The Musical - read the interview with Ben Richards on page 6 Accounts Administrator Julia Perry [email protected] 01743 281717 Website Development: TO GET THE VERY Kevin Bridges Jim Pallett p4 LATEST LISTING News Scottish stand-up back in Contributors: the region p26 Graham Bostock, INFORMATION, Alev Dervish, Music p13 James Cameron-Wilson, VISIT: Jessica Matthews, Jack whatsonlive.co.uk Emeli Sande Rolfe, Jan Watts, Anita Comedy p26 Champanari INCLUDING returns to Birmingham p13 Head Office: BOOKING ONLINE 4/5 Dogpole, Shrewsbury, Theatre p29 Shropshire. SY1 1EN The Midlands’ most Tel: 01743 281777 comprehensive Fax: 01743 281744 entertainment website Dance p46 e-mail: [email protected] Film/DVD p49 Visual Arts p57 This publication is Follow What’s On... printed on paper from a sustainable source and is Events p61 produced without the use of elemental chlorine. .com/whatsonlive November 2012 We endorse the recycling Clubbing/Gay p85 of our magazine and MTWTFSS would encourage you to Like us on... 1 2 34 pass it on to others to p86 read when you have Books/TV 5 6 789 10 11 finished with it. 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 facebook.com/whatsonlive Eating Out p87 ’ 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 WhatsOn 26 27 28 29 30

MAGAZINE GROUP 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. News November_Layout 1 29/10/2012 16:44 Page 1

News A ROUND-UP OF LOCAL AND NATIONAL ENTERTAINMENT NEWS

Graduates and guest exhibitors announced for Centrepiece 2012 Organisers of one of the Midlands’ finest showcases of contemporary jewellery have announced that this year’s event is to feature work from six new graduates and five guest exhibitors. Centrepiece 2012 brings together the collective talents of thirty designer-mak- ers. Designers Andrea Korsgen and Isabella Hart will be returning to the Midlands just in time for the event following a visit to Southern India to share their skills - estab- lishing a jewellery partnership with Mercy Mission welfare society in the process. An annual event at Birmingham’s Symphony Hall, Centrepiece offers visitors an opportuni- ty to purchase a range of unique, locally designed items, and this year runs from 14 November to 23 December.

Marcus Collins to star in Hairspray X Factor star is to join the cast of Hairspray when it embarks on a second UK tour next year. Marcus will play Seaweed Stubbs - the son of DJ Motormouth Maybelle and love inter- est of Penny Pingleton - when the production stops off at the Birmingham Hippodrome in May. He will be joined by Waterloo Rd actor Mark Benton, who’ll assume the role of the larger-than-life Edna Turnblad. Ex-EastEnder Lucy Benjamin stars as the scheming Velma Von Tussle, while new- comer Freya Sutton takes the role of big-haired teenager Tracy Turnblad. Of his forthcoming role, Marcus said: “I can’t express how thrilled I am to be joining the tour of Hairspray. It’s been a pretty amazing year for me, and now to be cast in my dream role feels like a new part of the adventure! Having trained in musical theatre since my early teens, I’m really itching to get into rehearsals, and so excited to be working with Mark, Lucy and the rest of the company.” LG Arena scoops top award Birmingham’s LG Arena has added yet another accolade to its collection, scooping Domestic Goddess in Brum Culture and shopping... Live Music Business Awards’ ‘Best Venue Teamwork - Arena’ gong at a recent awards Celebrity chef, journalist and ‘Domestic Visiting Birmingham’s top museums and art ceremony in London. This follows hot on the Goddess’ Nigella Lawson makes an appear- galleries is being made easier early next heels of the venue achieving seventh posi- ance at Waterstones book store in month courtesy of the return of the ever-pop- tion in Pollstars list of the Top 100 arenas Birmingham’s New ular Art Bus. On Saturday 1 December, the worldwide. Guy Dunstan, General Manager Street late this tour bus will once again be visiting six of the of the Arena, said of the Live Music Business month. Nigella’s in city’s galleries - Ikon, the Barber Institute of Awards success: “We’re thrilled with our town on 27 Fine Arts, mac, Birmingham Museum & Art achievement. Just being two out of the three November to pro- Gallery, RBSA Gallery and Eastside Projects. finalists is a massive coup, but actually win- mote her latest cook- Ikon will be offering special discounts for Art ning the award is the icing on the cake. And book, Nigellissima, Bus users and a four-course menu in Cafe what’s more humbling is to know we’ve been which features over Ikon for just £25. voted for by industry peers - so they’re one hundred Italian telling us we’re the best in the UK!” recipes.

New director announced Birmingham’s Barber Institute has announced that Nicola Kalinsky has been appointed as the venue’s new director. Nicola, who is currently Deputy Director and Chief Curator at the Scottish National Portrait Gallery, National Galleries of Scotland, will take up her new post on 14 January - just in time to play a major role in the Barber’s eightieth anniversary programme.

4 www.whatsonlive.co.uk News November_Layout 1 29/10/2012 16:44 Page 2

Spoken Word artist to share his near-death experience This month sees West Midlands-born poet and writer Richard Tyrone Jones bring his Big Heart to his home city of Wolverhampton. In 2010, the former Wolverhampton Grammar School pupil received a very unwelcome thirtieth birthday present - heart failure. Having battled back from the brink of death, Richard - armed with a pen and pacemaker - started writing about the experience of living with a condi- tion that will ‘almost certainly kill him’. The resulting work of theatre, Richard Tyrone Jones’s Big Heart, received much critical acclaim when it appeared at the 2012 Edinburgh Fringe, and shows at the Arena Theatre, Wolverhampton, on 28 November as part of a UK-wide tour.

Michael Jackson in Birmingham... Cirque du Soleil’s Michael Jackson The Immortal World Tour is to visit Birmingham next year following an acclaimed run at the O2 in London. The production, which is primarily aimed at Jackson’s army of long-standing fans, has been described by our What’s On reviewer as ‘a visual delight’, with ‘the troupe stunning the audience with their synchronicity, aerial acrobat- ics, animal impersonations and light fantastic firework display’. Michael Jackson The Immortal World Tour stops off at the National Indoor Arena on Tuesday Staffordshire craft show 26 March, with tickets, starting at £40, now available. Read the full review of the O2 show at back on course... www.whatsonlive.co.uk The Shire Hall Gallery’s annual Contemporary Craft Fair makes a welcome IN BRIEF Shropshire venue completes first phase of return this month. Entitled Handmade, the Classic meets multi-million pound refurbishment fair showcases works by artists from across Shropshire’s Telford Ice Rink - which is home to the town’s two the region and beyond, and offers visitors contemporary for hockey teams, the Telford Tigers and Telford Titans - is being the opportunity to buy original and hand- calendar shoot given its first facelift since 1984, with the initial phase of a £4mil- crafted items. The event takes place on 2 & lion refurbishment programme now complete. The majority of the 3 November. Worcester’s The Hive has proved to be a money is being spent on improving the venue’s general appear- perfect model of con- ance and providing a new barrier to meet hockey regulations. The temporary design in second phase of the refurbishment, due for completion by more ways than one. 26 November, sees the introduction of Telford Soft Play in the The building, which building’s new was officially opened extension. A new- by HRH The Queen in look reception and July, was recently bar area, which selected as the back- will be leased to drop for a photo shoot an external com- for MOG magazine’s pany some time in calendar for 2013. the near future, MOG magazine is a will be built in the new publication aimed final phase of the at Morgan owners and overhaul. enthusiasts across the world, while The Hive is becoming globally Professional Association of Alexander Teachers recognised and was Arts funding awarded to recently shortlisted in Recreational Course in the Alexander Technique the World Architectural Starting Early January 2013 community art agency Festival 2012. If you have had lessons in the Alexander Technique for about a Midlands-based community art agency year or attended an Introductory Evening Class, or a module in the Multistory has announced that it’s been Alexander Technique at a university or equivalent then you are eligible awarded more than £300,000 funding by the to join the PAAT Recreational Course. The Recreational Course will Arts Council for its Open For Business proj- ect. The award will allow the organisation to offer guidance in deepening your understanding, knowledge and forge ahead with its plan to promote the application of the Technique – and you get to do it in company. untold story of British manufacturing and The 12-week course is held in Birmingham. industry through the lenses of the world’s greatest photographers. The overall objec- For an application form, please contact the PAAT Secretary tive of the project is to create an exhibition on 01743 241478 or email [email protected] which, as well as being staged locally, will also be relevant to a larger-scale show. www.paat.org.uk

www.whatsonlive.co.uk 5 Ben Richards interview_Layout 1 29/10/2012 17:16 Page 1

It’s been incredible. “ Standing ovations and lots of laughter. We couldn’t ask for more.”

Ben Richards talks about working 9 To 5 in the Midlands...

6 www.whatsonlive.co.uk Ben Richards interview_Layout 1 29/10/2012 17:16 Page 2

interview...

Probably best recognised for playing Bruno Milligan in Footballers’ Wives, and more recently PC Nate Roberts in , Ben Richards has also made numerous appearances in the West End - including an acclaimed turn as Sky Masterson in Guys And Dolls. Having recently battled with cancer, Ben’s back and fighting fit, appearing as egotistical boss Franklyn Hart in Dolly Parton’s 9 To 5 The Musical. What’s On’s Alev Dervish recently met up with him to find out about his latest role... The last twelve months have presented Do you have anything in common with it’s the show that launched me. Since then you with very tough physical and your character, Franklin Hart Jr? I’ve played a footballer, a physio, a gambler, emotional challenges beyond your I think all men have the ability to look at a an unemployed stripper and a ! control. But rather than choosing to take it woman and be distracted. A gentleman Very varied! somewhat easier, you’re embarking on a wouldn’t look, but we’ve all probably had a demanding tour. Where do you get your good peek! So we have the ability to display Are there any roles that you’d rather energy and motivation from? certain Franklin J Hart characteristics. The forget? I had two choices; either beat this or die, and difference with Franklin is that he loves all Yes! There’s some stuff that I’ve done on TV I wanted to beat it. The alternative wasn’t an that. But I like to think I’m a modern, which has been really cheesy, and some option. I surrounded myself with positivity Noughties man who behaves in a fairly performances on film that I’ve not been at all and just got through it. My family and best gentlemanly manner. happy with. mate were amazing, I had a great bunch of chemotherapy and radiotherapy nurses Who’s been the worst boss you’ve ever Have you ever turned down a role and around me, and a fantastic oncologist and had to work for? later regretted it? surgeon. I worked in a champagne and oyster bar No, my gut reaction has always been right. It’s not been easy, and at times I’ve been to where the boss had his head firmly up his some very dark places. But I’m very rectum. He was so rude and demanding. A Is there a particular musical in which fortunate to have come out the other end, ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ doesn’t go amiss! you'd really like to perform in the future? and by Christmas I should have finished all If they ever did a musical of Baz Luhrmann’s my chemo treatment. I’ve got a job that I What’s proving to be the most challenging Moulin Rouge, I’d love to be in that. love. I’m working with an amazing company aspect of performing in 9 To 5? doing an exciting new show and playing a Getting the balance right with this character - What have you got planned for the near really great role. so that he’s horrible but believable - has future? been tricky, but it’s been fun to tap into that I’m in a film called Chakara, which should be How did starring in 9 To 5 The Musical dark side of the personality and savour it. out soon. We shot that in India and Spain come about? That and the fact that it’s very physically and it was a great experience. Then I’m off to I was in a hospital bed when my agent called demanding. I’m trussed up, lifted up, beaten LA in February to audition for some pilots. to tell me I’d got the role. It was perfect up and tied up. And I even throw Bonnie I’ve been wanting to go for a while. I was timing. It gave me something to look forward Langford around the stage at one point. meant to go last year, but became ill. So I’ll to and get fit for, so it was absolutely definitely get out there this time... fantastic. Do you have a favourite scene? I personally enjoy singing Here For You; it’s Finally, what’s the most important lesson 9 To 5 has now opened in Manchester. a lot of fun. Natalie’s song Get Out And Stay you’ve learned from the events of the past What’s the reaction been like so far? Out is really beautiful, although I think my ten months? It’s been incredible. Standing ovations and favourite moment is Change It. Be honest with yourself. This is not a lots of laughter. We couldn’t ask for more. rehearsal, so enjoy life! Do you have a particular routine that you Are you a big Dolly Parton fan? perform before you go on stage? Yeah, who doesn’t love her? Apart from making sure I’m vocally and physically warmed up, checking my water at What’s your favourite Dolly Parton song? the side of the stage, and also making sure I love the song that I sing in the musical, my hair and make-up is done, I’m ready to Here For You; it’s just beautiful. I also defy go. you not to love Shine Like The Sun. It’s such a great end to Act One. The show is just And how do you wind down post- filled with great songs. Dolly’s so talented, performance? it’s ridiculous. I find a nice glass of rioja does the trick!

How hands-on has she been with the When did you realise you wanted to be an production? actor? She’s very involved creatively with the show I’ve always known I wanted to perform. and speaks to the directors. She’s constantly When I used to watch my sisters dance, I tweaking it to get it right, and has added new wanted to join in. I was like Billy Elliott at the songs to the production. The show has back of the class. changed an awful lot since the American tour, and it’s just perfect now. It’s the right So was dance your first love? length and there are no dull moments, so it’s Absolutely; the singing and acting came just full speed ahead from the first song later. onwards. It’s a fun-filled, action-packed two hours. We should have seat belts on those Can you remember your first professional seats! role? I think it was probably panto, somewhere. Or Did you have to learn any new disciplines it could have been as a dancer in Paignton. for this role? I wouldn’t say I had to learn any new What's been your favourite role to date? Ben Richards stars in 9 To 5 The Musical at disciplines, but I did have to find the nasty I’ve been lucky in the sense that all the roles the Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent, from side of me and really explore that. My I’ve played have been so much fun and a Mon 19 to Sat 24 November, and at the New character is horrible! challenge in their own right. It would Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham, probably have to be Saturday Night Fever, as from Mon 17 December to Sat 5 January.

www.whatsonlive.co.uk 7 Dan Ryan interview_Layout 1 29/10/2012 14:01 Page 1

There have been very few things that I’ve “ done that my kids have been able to come and see, but I’m thrilled that they’ll be able to come and see this.”

Dan Ryan on why clocking on in Stratford is like coming home...

Although his name’s not instantly recognisable, Dan Ryan is nonetheless an actor whose CV boasts a vast and eclectic array of TV, film and stage work, including Skins, The Street, Linda Green and, more recently, Mount Pleasant. This month sees Dan returning to Stratford-upon- Avon and the Royal Shakespeare Theatre - the venue where he started his career over twenty years ago - to don whiskers and a tail for the RSC’s Christmas production of The Mouse And His Child. What’s On caught up with him to find out what audiences can expect......

The Royal Shakespeare Company has classically Christmas and classically a family wouldn’t appeal to. Tamsin (Oglesby) has produced some great Christmas classics show. There have been very few things that come up with a great adaptation. Also, we’ve in the past, not least among which is the I’ve done that my kids have been able to got the benefit of the genius of Paul Hunter multi-award-winning Matilda. So how will come and see, but I’m thrilled that they’ll be (Co-Artistic Director), who I think is an this year’s show compare? able to come and see this. For one of them, extraordinary deviser of this kind of work. No pressure there, eh?! But, as with Matilda, it’ll be the first thing he’s ever seen me in... The Mouse And His Child is one of those Is it a story that you were familiar with as great epic productions. It’s huge-scale, and So have your kids given you any tips on a child? is a journeying play about a clockwork how you should approach the role? No, I didn’t know it at all. It’s funny, I’ve mouse and his child who get left on a Well, they sort of creep up on me when I’m spoken to a lot of people about this and I rubbish dump where all the rats live. One of learning lines at home and ask: “is that how don’t know how well it travelled from the the main rats, Manny rat, becomes obsessed you’re going to do it, dad?”. My fourteen- States to over here, being an American with them and they end up going on this year-old thinks he’s a bit smart, and he’s book. I know for sure that people will be huge voyage which sees them trying to find commented that he’s not sure this is really going out and buying the book after they’ve their way back to the toy shop. There’s so for him. But I’ve assured him that he’s going seen this, because it’s just one of those much to the story - it’s very funny, it’s got to be absolutely captivated by it. I really do perfect bedtime stories. I remember when singing, has absolutely beautiful music and think it has something very special, and I Harry Potter came out and I was reading my is also very moving at times. I think it’s don’t think there’s an age group that it kids the story; when they dropped off, I’d be

8 www.whatsonlive.co.uk Dan Ryan interview_Layout 1 29/10/2012 14:01 Page 2

absolutely furious, because I needed to get in A Midsummer Night’s Dream there, which to the end of the chapter. So I’d carry on is still one of my favourite on-stage interview... sitting there reading the story out loud, doing memories. So it really does feel like a home all the voices. When I first read this, I to me, and I’m so pleased to be coming to remember thinking it had the same sort of the new theatre, and trying to make my mark hour sitcom which we had to take to the feel to it. It’s the sort of story where you want there. So much has happened in the last BBC in order to do a table read - that’s to get to the end of each chapter and find twelve years, both personally and basically where the powers-that-be come in out what happens next. For adults, there are professionally, and I’ve always been gutted and have a listen. They really liked the some great themes that we can relate to, not to be asked back, but hopefully this will essence of it, and they really liked the and it’s all beautifully portrayed in the book. be the first return of many. relationship, but they didn’t think it was BBC One material. They weren’t sure if it was So what was the initial appeal of Your repertoire includes stage, TV and BBC Two material either, and they didn’t appearing as a clockwork mouse? film. How easy is it to adapt from one to think it was suitable for BBC Three. In the I was offered another play somewhere else the other? end they decided not to take it. At that point, at the same time, but what this clarified for Friends who aren’t actors often ask which I BBC’s head of comedy got offered the job of me - when I was approached for the role - prefer, but I find it very difficult to say, head of comedy at Sky, and it was the first was that I wanted a different sort of because they each involve different thing she commissioned, because she loved challenge. A lot of the plays which I’ve done disciplines. For me, what drags me from one it so much. However, she thought it needed have been fairly political or to do with race. to the other is the writing. In terms of the a different format. It took two years to get They’ve all been brilliant productions but skills involved, I don’t really think about from that first table read to us finishing the Posh, which has just been in the West End, I going from one to the other. That said, if I go first series. But I’m really proud to be part of did originally at The Royal Court, and onto the telly after doing this, I’ll probably be it. It’s got a great cast - I love working with Number Eleven and Fallout, which I did at asked, “can you stop doing that ridiculous Pauline Collins and Bobby Ball - and it’s got the Donmar - are all quite challenging pieces walk”, or, “can you stop twitching your nose, a great heart. It’s not strictly a family show, for an audience to watch. What I decided and make your ears a bit smaller”. but it’s got a hugely loyal following who love here was that I wanted a challenge for me, the relationships in it. I don’t think there’s and when this came up, it felt like exactly the You’ve played both lighthearted and been a show like it since Cold Feet; a show right thing to do. The other piece that I was darker roles during your career, so is it in which people are so drawn to the offered was very similar to something I’d always just about the script? characters, and interested in what’s going to done before, and I’d gotten to the point, at I suppose I’m very lucky regarding the happen to them next. forty-four, where I’d started thinking ‘what’s variety of stuff that comes my way. I guess next?... What do I want to do next?’. I haven’t there are certain casting directors who think Are there plans for any more? sung on stage for probably twenty years, of me as ‘nice dad’, or as ‘the nice bloke We hope to do more, but there’s been no and I realised it was something that I wanted who lives up the road’. And then there’s decision made by Sky yet. They’re so prolific to do. I wanted to be involved in something another group who think of me as this with what they’re making at the moment. where people left the theatre feeling upbeat, horrible murdering person. And then there There’s so much new stuff all the time, but I and this will certainly put audiences in the are those who think, ‘Dan Ryan, oh he’s do think they could be swayed by the die- Christmas spirit. funny’. So I guess I’m in the middle of this hard Mount Pleasant fans who are constantly and get taken along in different directions. I on at me on Twitter to see if there’s going to So have there been any new disciplines certainly think that I’m very lucky to be able be a new series. Truth is, I really don’t know. that you’ve had to master for the role? to do that. Well, there’s dancing. I’m not a great mover, What have you got lined up when The but that’s part of the challenge. I’m loving Professionally, where do you see yourself Mouse And His Child finishes its Stratford the singing and I’m loving the dancing. long-term? run early next year? We’re just working on the finale piece at the I’ve never really held any strong ambitions, In an ideal world we’d see Mount Pleasant moment, and it’s all very exciting... apart from wanting to play King Lear, which start filming in February. It would be great to is something I’ve wanted to do since leaving finish this, have a few weeks off, and then go Is it a fully costumed role, or is it a case drama school at twenty-one. That text had a on and shoot another series. I’m under of just donning some ears and painting huge impact on me when I was younger, and option to do it, but at the moment the diary some whiskers on your face? it’s just gone on from there. Generally, I like is blank. But it could just as easily end up The amount of characters that everyone is being taken wherever the wind blows me, being full. playing is extraordinary, so there are quick and I’m fortunate that it keeps blowing me to changes galore going on, because you’ve really nice places. Do you find it unnerving that you don’t got rats, you’ve got shrews and probably have anything lined up? about six different types of birds depicted in You say, apart from King Lear, there aren’t Not really. I guess it’s all part and parcel of the show. A lot of it is done symbolically, and any roles that you’ve hankered after. But being an actor. It’s funny, because I do seem you have no doubt as to what the characters isn’t it true that you once begged Russell to be someone who works an awful lot, but I are, but it’s not going to have that Beatrix T Davies for a part in ? often finish a job with nothing to start. That’s Potter sort of look. When we started Yes, I pretty much did. It was when my boys normally the way it works. With TV these rehearsals we had racks and racks of ex- were little - both were at the perfect age for days, you audition on the Tuesday and the RSC costumes around and hundreds of watching Doctor Who, and they were both show starts shooting on the Sunday. It’s a props, so the way that it’s been brought absolutely obsessed with it. I went to an very quick turnaround. I’ve got to the point together is very organic. The costume awards thing in Monte Carlo and the now where I finish a job and think, ‘right, design has come very much from what feels producer, who I knew, was there, so I said, what’s next?’. I’m not one of those actors right - the shrews are all at war, so they’ve “if you don’t get me in this show, I will haunt who has jobs lined up. I probably had the got army fatigues on, but you’ll know that you”. I’d worked with both Russell and Phil worst year I’ve ever had about five years they’re shrews and you’ll know that the rats Collinson, the producer, before. Three of my ago, when nothing was coming in. Suddenly, are rats. Myself and Bettrys Jones, who best friends had already appeared in the you think, ‘wow, what have I done wrong?’, plays the child, have certainly got very series, and I saw my involvement as a way of but it’s just the nature of the business. I challenging costumes, being clockwork toys. earning the respect I deserved from my kids. guess one of the things about not being I had my first fitting yesterday and thought, Then, when I did get a part, they were all placed in a particular box is that it means ‘well that’s going to be rather warm for two “great, dad, what are you playing? Are you you’re never the obvious choice. So you hours a night’. playing an alien?”. When I said, “no, I’m just may end up being out of work for a little a human”, they were, “oh, that’s a bit while. It may look like I’m working constantly, It’s twelve years since you last performed disappointing”. You can’t win, can you? but it’s certainly not the case. in Stratford. What does it mean to you to be back working for the RSC? How did your role in Mount Pleasant, My very first time on the stage was at currently being screened on Sky, come Stratford, and me wanting to become an about? Dan Ryan appears in The Mouse And His actor came from visiting Stratford on a school When I first got approached, Sally Lindsay Child at The Royal Shakespeare Theatre, trip. I’ve done Richard III there, which toured had already been cast and they were looking Stratford-upon-Avon, from Saturday 17 and then returned, and I also played Bottom for the Dan character. Originally it was a half- November to Saturday 12 January 2013

www.whatsonlive.co.uk 9 Neal Foster interview_Layout 1 29/10/2012 14:18 Page 1

The cast of James And The Giant Peach Neal Foster twenty years on and still going strong...

From small acorns... Back in 1992, Neal Foster had a theatre company but nowhere to house it. Two decades on, Neal’s Birmingham Stage Company (BSC) has become so successful that it’s never short of a place to call home, with theatres across the world eager to stage one of its many highly rated productions. What’s On caught up with Birmingham-born Neal to find out how BSC is intending to celebrate twenty glorious years...

Next month is Birmingham Stage How did the creation of Birmingham Stage They agreed on the basis that there would Company’s twentieth birthday. How does Company come about? be no funding and no support. In fact, they the company plan to celebrate? I had a small theatre company and was charged me to rent the theatre, and the Good question. We’re so busy we haven’t looking for a base in which to reside. I amateurs charged me to hire the lighting. I actually planned a party yet, but I think we’ll looked at different theatres which weren’t have no idea how I did it, but here we are have more cause for celebration if we can being used around the country and came some twenty years later! get through all the shows we’ve got planned across the Old Rep theatre in Birmingham. It for this autumn. We’ve actually got five was a coincidence that I was from And you’re still completely independent, shows on for Christmas. In terms of big Birmingham, but I didn’t know about the Old surviving entirely on box office sales... events, we’re looking more towards our Rep theatre - a lot of people, even now, still Yes, we’re one hundred percent reliant on twenty-first anniversary next year. don’t know about it. It was this wonderful box office sales. I suppose it would be an auditorium in pristine condition, but it was achievement just to have survived, but I’m So how are you planning to mark that only being used for about five months of the pleased to say that we have, in fact, momentous occasion? year, by amateur societies - some of which flourished. I suppose it took a while for me to We’ll be bringing a special production of are still using it today. It took a year for me to realise that actually not having any public Horrible Histories to Birmingham, to the Old persuade the City Council to let me base my funding was quite liberating - being able to Rep, and we’ll probably plan an office company at the theatre. Finally, they agreed, do what we wanted, how we wanted, and to celebration around that. and we launched our first show in 1992. take risks. We’ve always been able to do the

10 www.whatsonlive.co.uk Neal Foster interview_Layout 1 29/10/2012 14:18 Page 2

kind of work that we wanted to do without saw expanded on in later stories. What I love having someone looking over our shoulder about it is it’s epic. It starts quite domestically, interview... saying, ‘should you really be doing that, then the peach ends up flying into the air, shouldn’t you be doing this?’. Eventually, that sailing over the ocean and eventually landing became an enjoyable thing, but in the in New York. It’s got a great epic appeal, and people to leave the theatre feeling different; beginning it was quite tough-going - although that’s always a great challenge for us as either happier or more reflective, or having a we were lucky in that we had some very big producers. better understanding of themselves, or successes early on from a commercial point knowing something that they hadn’t known of view. Our first Christmas show, The There are obviously some great props two hours earlier when they walked in. Fantastic Mr Fox - which was the first needed in the production. Who’s professional Christmas production to be responsible for those? Do you think the public are now more shown at the Old Rep for twenty years - I have a fantastic creative team. We’ve got switched on about what they want to see? actually had seventeen-and-a-half thousand Colin Richmond, who’s a very experienced The only thing we’ve found over the last few people come to see it. That shows how designer - he’s created the most fantastic set. years is that people are more inclined to go important Roald Dahl has always been to us We’re just working out how we can afford it at and see what they really know well, rather as a company. The theatre only has three the moment - it’s expensive but it’s absolutely than take a risk on things they don’t know so hundred-and-seventy-six seats, and we had genius, and if we can put everything on stage well. It’s a shame, as there’s a lot of all those thousands of people come through that he’s created in this beautiful model that’s wonderful stuff out there which isn’t the doors to see that show. Artistically, our sitting in our office, then it’s going to be necessarily well known, but I think because first anniversary production, Cat On A Hot Tin sensational. of the recession, people are taking fewer Roof, was considered by most people to be risks in terms of what they choose to see. the best production in Birmingham for about You first presented James And The Giant twenty years. So from a commercial and Peach more than ten years ago. How will Which is the company’s most toured artistic point of view, we made quite an this latest incarnation differ? production? impact early on, and I would say that those I think it will be very different. As a company, It has to be George’s Marvellous Medicine, two productions were crucial to the future we’re ten years further on. We’ve got much which we’ve been doing since 1995. I think success of the company. It wasn’t long more experience and expertise, and we also we’ve done about eight or nine productions, afterwards that Richard Dreyfuss came over have far greater resources. As a company and it never fails to delight. It’s such a from America to direct Hamlet, and Jonathan we’ve come on leaps and bounds, so there fantastic story, and we never get bored of it. Church directed The Crucible for us. He’s are a lot more possibilities open to us. In fact, we’re doing it in Cambridge this now running Chichester, and also ran the Christmas, and we just know it’s going to be Birmingham Rep, so big things happened So what would you say has been the a fantastic experience. It’s just a faultless quite quickly. highlight in the company’s twenty-year piece of theatre. history? Is your role now purely managerial? There have been a lot, which has been How do you personally select pieces to No, I’m still acting in the Horrible Histories interesting. I would say we’ve had something perform? show in the West End. I’m an actor who runs wonderful happen every year. From the point I choose the play first, and if I think there’s a a theatre company. Most companies are run of view of children’s shows, it would have to great part for me, I choose to be in it. I by a director; this company is the other way be The BFG, The Jungle Book and Horrible choose plays very much on the basis of what round. Histories - at the moment we’re having a I think it will do to the audience. Will it take tremendous amount of fun with that. Then them on a journey that’s worth going on? Will Do you personally decide which shows you’ve got Skellig and The Firework Maker’s they have felt that they’ve ‘gone somewhere’ you’re going to produce? Daughter. In fact, I think everything we’ve by the end of the show? My test for knowing Yes, generally I tend to decide what we’re ever done has been a highlight. It’s all been whether a theatre production has worked is doing. I’ve got a fantastic team. There are just very special. whether the audience felt they had left the four of us who run the whole outfit, which, by theatre and journeyed into the world they comparison with companies like the So how long does it take to get a show to saw before them. Birmingham Rep or the RSC, is an extremely the stage? small number, yet I think we may actually Normally, I would say eighteen months. So looking ahead, what have you got produce more shows. planned for 2013? That’s a lot of work, especially when Horrible Histories and James And The Giant What is it about Roald Dahl’s stories that you’ve got so many productions showing Peach continue to tour, and Barmy Britain will make them so appealing to adapt for the at any given time... continue in the West End. Then we’ll have stage? Yeah, I don’t really know how we do it. What some new programming towards the end of Well, he was a genius. I also think his key we like to do is forward-plan as much as the year. We’ve also got a few international feature was that he didn’t patronise children possible, to avoid getting caught out. We dates, with Horrible Histories going to Hong at all. He takes you on such amazing always try to be ahead of ourselves. As a Kong and Singapore, Australia and maybe adventures, a lot of which writers nowadays company we’ve got quite a good reputation New Zealand. would have to be very brave to write. For with the theatres that we tour to, because example, George’s Marvellous Medicine is we’re always ahead of ourselves and we’re How does it travel? about a boy who goes around the house always the first with the marketing. Every year Brilliantly. They absolutely love it, and I love finding all the liquids he can to mix into a we have a theatre phone us asking, “can you foreign audiences. They’re so engaged, have potion to give to his grandma. A lot of writers help us out, we don’t know what to do for such a great time and are always willing to would think twice about writing that today, Christmas. Can you do something for us?”. take part. We’re also about to take Horrible worried that a child might go off and do it, Maybe we’ve hit upon something by having Histories to Dubai, Bahrain and Abu Dhabi, but children absolutely know fantasy from such a small team. Although it seems so few and I kind of know already that it’s going to reality, and they love the adventures he of us are doing so much, there’s something be fantastic. creates. He’s also incredibly funny in a really to be said for sitting around a small office genuine and clever way, and he creates and working together, because we’re You’re very well travelled as a company - some extraordinary characters. I think it’s constantly checking up on and knowing what both internationally and throughout the UK great writing, and I have no doubt that we’re all doing. Again, I also think it’s a virtue - so how does the Midlands compare as a people will still be reading his books in a of having no funding. There’s no safety net; theatre destination? hundred years time. I think they must have no one to bail us out if anything goes wrong. Very well. I think we’re nicely spoilt in the been classics the moment he put pen to Midlands with what we’ve got, and paper. Twenty years in, how would you Birmingham is still the theatre that I most summarise the secret of your success? enjoy coming back to. It’s still our home. So is there a particular Dahl story that you I would like to think it’s because we produce favour? very good productions, and that when our I think our forthcoming Christmas show, audiences put their hard-earned cash on the Birmingham Stage Company present James James And The Giant Peach, is one that’s counter to purchase a ticket for one of our And The Giant Peach at The Old Rep, always appealed to us. It was his first story, shows, they know they’re going to get Birmingham from Wednesday 14 November so it’s got all the initial ingredients that you something special. My major aim is for to Saturday 2 February 2013

www.whatsonlive.co.uk 11 Music November_Layout 1 29/10/2012 14:15 Page 1 Music November_Layout 1 29/10/2012 14:15 Page 2 Music

Bat For Lashes HMV Institute, Birmingham, Thurs 1 November Making a mark with her unique sartorial and musi- cal style, Natasha Khan has been singing about love, loss and suffering since the release of debut album Fur And Gold in 2006. Having followed it up with the more commercially successful Two Suns in 2009, she’s now back from a three-year hiatus and boasting a more sophisticated sound. Posing nude for the cover of The Haunted Man, Khan has said she chose a "specifically unsexy pose" to make a point about the music industry's treatment of fe- male artists.

Elbow National Indoor Arena, Birmingham, Wed 28 November Rizzle Kicks British band Elbow have played together since 1990, picking up the 2008 Mercury Music O2 Academy, Birmingham, Prize for their album The Seldom Seen Kid. In 2012, the group released First Steps, the Sat 17 - Sun 18 November BBC theme for the London Olympics. Originally called Mr Soft, their music embraces vari- Having the dubious honour of being the second ous genres, including indie rock, art rock, new prog, post-Britpop and, most evidently, al- most illegally downloaded act in the UK (behind Ed ternative rock. Sheeran), youngsters Jordan ‘Rizzle’ Stephens and Harley ‘Sylvester’ Alexander-Sule are on the road again. Playing two Birmingham dates on a tour that Emeli Sandé takes them across the UK and Europe, the Mama Symphony Hall, Birmingham, Thurs 8 November Do The Hump stars have recently recorded a com- edy track with DJ Chris Moyles. Spending eight If you’re not ‘in the know’ about Emeli Sandé, the fact that she performed at both the weeks in the top-twenty with their hit single Down opening and closing ceremonies of the London 2012 Olympics offers excellent evidence With The Trumpets and scooping three MOBO of her current high standing in the music industry. The Scottish recording artist and song- nominations, the twenty-year-olds have had a busy writer first came to public attention in 2009 when she featured on rapper Chipmunk’s Dia- year. mond Rings track, after which she contributed to rapper Wiley’s Never Be Your Woman before finally releasing her first solo single, Heaven, in August 2011. As well as her career as a singer, Emeli has also written for numerous artists (including Lloyd, , Gabrielle, , , Cheryl Cole and Tinie Tempah) and has even been called “my favourite songwriter” by no less a Godlike entity than Mr Simon Cowell. Expect ever-greater things from Ms Sandé in the years to come...

The Wedding Present O2 Academy, Birmingham, Thurs 15 November; The Assembly, Leamington Spa, Tues 20 November British indie rock group The Wedding Present have been gigging since 1985, when the group was formed following the demise of the Lost Pandas. With influences including The Fall, Buzzcocks and Gang Of Four, the band is best known for playing fast-paced indie rock. There’ve been numerous line-up changes down the years, with vocalist and guitarist David Gedge having been the band's only constant member.

www.whatsonlive.co.uk 13 Music November_Layout 1 29/10/2012 14:16 Page 3 Music November_Layout 1 29/10/2012 14:16 Page 4

Music PREVIEWS

Madina Lake Kasbah, Coventry, Sat 24 November; HMV Institute, Birmingham, Fri 30 November Hailing from , , this highly rated quartet was formed by identical twin brothers Nathan and Matthew Leone. Creat- ing first band The Blank Theory in 1998, the brothers then won US TV show Fear Factor, the $50,000 prize money from which helped them set up Madina Lake. This seven-date Trilogy Finale Tour sees the band playing their From Them, Through Us, To You album from start to finish, as well as a range of other material. Red Jumpsuit Apparatus supports. WIN TICKETS whatsonlive.co.uk Evanescence to enter National Indoor Arena, Birmingham, Thursday 8 November Founded in Arkansas in 1995 by singer/pianist Amy Lee and guitarist Ben Moody, rock band Evanescence enjoyed a staggering success with their debut album Fallen (from which came best-known hit Bring Me To Life), racking up no fewer than seventeen million sales worldwide and winning a pair of Grammy Awards into the bargain. The band have undergone numerous line-up changes since that initial success, but continue to strike all the right ‘dark rock’ chords Terri Walker with their dedicated legion of fans. They’re joined for their Birmingham gig by Utah-based The Drum, Birmingham, Sun 25 November band The Used. Born Chanelle Gstettenbauer but thankfully changing her name to the more easily pro- Spiritualized Martyn Joseph nounceable Terri Walker, this highly rated Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, Wed 7 Novem- singer-songwriter specialises in R&B, soul, Sunday 4 November ber; Huntingdon Hall, Worcester, Thurs 29 neo soul, hip-hop soul and UK garage. Re- November Formed in Rugby by Jason Pierce, aka leasing her debut album, Untitled, in 2003 to J.Spaceman, after the fall of his previous Welsh singer-songwriter Martyn Joseph is great critical acclaim, Walker has since gone band Spaceman 3, Spiritualized has been best known for his lyrics of protest and social on to cut three more albums, 2005’s L.O.V.E, playing psychedelic trance music since 1990. lament, presented against a backdrop of 2006’s I Am, and last year’s Walk With Me, as Recently released seventh album Sweet Celtic and folk music. "I can’t decide whether well as providing the majority of the vocals for Heart And Sweet Light made the UK top- I’m primarily a musician or an activist,” says Shanks & Bigfoot's debut album Swings & twenty, and has been described as ‘bruised Joseph. “I guess it’s all part and parcel of the Roundabouts. and tender, yet genuinely radiant’. Having same thing for me.” Independently releasing played festivals including his first studio album, I'm Only Beginning, in Wilderness and this 1983, his career has not only spanned thirty- summer, the band returns odd years but also three different labels - to the touring circuit with six Sony, Grapevine and his own Pipe Records. UK gigs. Support on the He continues to tour extensively, both in the night comes from Roy and UK and abroad. the Devil’s Motorcycle. Hare & Hounds, Birmingham, Wednesday 28 November Acoustic group The Staves com- prise three sisters from Watford - Emily, Jes- Ben Howard sica and Camilla. The trio appeared on Tom O2 Academy, Birmingham, Sat 24 November Jones’ 2010 album Praise And Blame and then on 's third album, 100 Acres Raised by musical parents in picturesque Of Sycamore. Other career highlights have Devon, Ben Howard is strongly influenced by included supporting on their 2012 artists from the 1960s and ’70s, including tour of the US and Canada, and performing Joni Mitchell and . Unusually quiet with The Civil Wars - a gig which brought when it comes to the media and interviews, them to public attention in America for the Ian Parker almost all of his success has come from con- first time. stant touring, word The Jam House, Birmingham, of mouth and a Tuesday 6 November; The Robin, Bilston, Sun 16 December hardworking street team. Ben is Boasting a distinctive bitter-sweet vocal deliv- closely associated ery and a penchant for writing brutally honest with the surfing lyrics, Ian Parker was born in Birmingham scene, and be- and brought up in Stourbridge. Ian began lieves the travelling playing the guitar at the age of eight, having nature of surf- been inspired by The Beatles, and released lovers has played his debut album, Inside, in 2003 (at the age an important role in of twenty-seven). His musical genres include spreading the blue-eyed soul, folk rock, blues-rock and word. acoustic rock.

www.whatsonlive.co.uk 15 Music November_Layout 1 29/10/2012 14:16 Page 5

16 www.whatsonlive.co.uk Music November_Layout 1 29/10/2012 14:16 Page 6

Music PREVIEWS

The Civil Wars Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, Thursday 8 November Spellbinding singer-songwriters Joy Williams and John Paul White are fairly new to the game of being, er, spellbinding singer-song- writers, but they’ve wasted no time in creat- ing a great big splash in the rough, tough world of the music industry. The talented US- born pair have bagged not only one but two coveted Grammy Awards, picking up the 2012 gongs for Best Folk Album and Best Country Duo/Group Performance. Debut album Barton Hollow has garnered plenty of praise, and with Joy and John’s stated inter- est being in writing and performing songs about ‘the good, the bad and the ugly of rela- tionships’, it looks like the duo have got more than enough left in their locker to ensure that they’ll continue to cause a significant stir in the months and years ahead. Marilyn Manson National Indoor Arena, Thurs 29 November A double dose of shock rock is on the menu when the self-proclaimed God Of F*** joins forces with Rob Zombie for this Midlands gig. Christened with the far-from-shock-rock name of Brian, Marilyn Manson’s name-change saw him juxtaposing the names of 1960s American cul- tural icons Marilyn Monroe and serial killer Charles Manson. He also decided to juxtapose out- rageous visual and vocal styles, his celebrity then being further enhanced by his penchant for controversial lyrics (not to mention by the aforementioned decision to dub himself the God Of F***, a title that’s always likely to cause a bit of a stir!).

Trampled By Turtles Yashin Hare & Hounds, Birmingham, The Slade Rooms, Wolverhampton, Sunday 18 November Thurs 15 November Hailing from Duluth, Minnesota, this indie folk When school friends Paul Travers (guitarist) band is most famous for both their fast-paced and Andrew McShane (bassist) discovered Steel Panther songs and plaintive ballads. Notorious for that they had similar music tastes to An- playing high-energy concerts, they’ve cited drew’s university pal Michael Rice (vocalist), Civic Hall, Wolverhampton, Tues 6 November Townes Van Zant, Bob Dylan, and it seemed sensible for the three of them to Profane and humorous lyrics are the name of Ralph Stanley as inspirations. The multi-in- think about forming a band. Drummer David the game as far as Steel Panther are con- strumentalists’ genre-defying songs explore Beaton was added to the musical mix and cerned, although they’re pretty heavily into love, life and the everyday, and feature both Glaswegian post-hardcore band Yashin was presenting exaggerated on-stage personas old-time and orchestral harmonies, as well as formed. The boys quickly built up a consider- too, reimagining and parodying the glam plenty of banjo frolics. Following on from a able following, thanks in the main to their metal music and lifestyle of the 1980s. The summer show at Lollapalooza, they appear in time on tour with fellow Scottish band Flood band hails from Los Angeles and, at the time Birmingham as part of their first ever UK and Of Red, and followed up with two EPs in 2008 of writing, have released three albums. Ireland tour. - Pay To Play and Miles Away But Getting Closer. Rice opted out in the autumn of that year, and was replaced by Harry Radford and Spector Kevin Miles, after which the group released The Sugarmill, Stoke-on-Trent, its debut album Put Your Hands Where I Can Sat 3 November; HMV Institute, Birmingham, See Them. Wed 7 November; Kasbah, Coventry, Sat 15 December London-formed five-piece indie rock band Spector have been described as "somewhere between Roxy Music and the Strokes, and Kanye West, Pulp and Frank Sina- tra". It’s also been said that they’re "reminis- cent of The Walkmen mainlined into The Killers’ chugga-train drive". The band's debut album, Enjoy It While It Lasts, reached num- ber twelve in the UK albums chart, going to number one on the Official Record Store Megson Chart during the week of its release. The Hive, Shrewsbury, Sun 11 November Since releasing first album On The Side in 2004, husband-and-wife team Stu and Deb- Dreadzone bie Hanna have gone on to develop an envi- The Robin, Bilston, Fri 23 November able reputation on the English folk music Presenting an eclectic fusion of dub, reggae, circuit. The duo have been hailed as both techno, folk and , Dreadzone fresh and innovative (a description which is formed in 1993, during their early years em- hardly surprising given that Debbie is classi- ploying backing vocalists who included cally trained and Stu’s a former punk!) and Melanie Blatt, and Alison specialise in self-composed melodies which Goldfrapp. Their second album, 1994’s Sec- bring together intimate harmony singing and ond Light, was championed by the legendary multi-instrumental acoustic playing. John Peel, who cited it as one of his favourite albums of all time.

www.whatsonlive.co.uk 17 Music November_Layout 1 29/10/2012 14:48 Page 7

OPENING 1st NOVEMBER 2012

LICHFIELD GUILDHALL NOVEMBER Fri 2nd to Sun 4th Nov LICHFIELD ROOTS & Duelling Pianos is FOLK FESTIVAL your new high-energy, NOVEMBER OFFER live music bar 2 COCKTAILS FOR £5* OR that is guaranteed A FREE BOTTLE OF WINE to keep you and WITH A MEAL FOR TWO* your mates *Excludes Saturdays. See web site for full terms singing and and conditions. dancing all night long! DRESS TO PARTY featuring Aly Bain/Kieran Goss/Jack McNeil & Charlie www.duellingpianobars.co.uk Heys/Lucy Ward/The Lock In - Pint Size with Damien Bar- 0121 695 9206. ber ...plus much more! email: [email protected] Tickets: Full festival (including work- Regency Wharf, Broad Street, Birmingham B1 2DS shops) £48/£45 concessions/£41 mem- bers/£30 students, Friday evening DuellingPianoBars @Duelling_Pianos £12/£11 concessions/£10 members/£8 students, Saturday afternoon FREE, Saturday evening £18/£17 conces- sions/£16 members/£11 students, Sun- day evening £22/£21 concessions/£20 members/£14 students, Sunday full day (including workshops) £28/£27 concessions/£26 members/£17 stu- dents

Sun 11th Nov, 8.00pm PAUL COX & CHARLIE FABERT Tickets: £12/£11 concs /£10 members/ £7 students

Sat 17th Nov, 7.30pm GARRICK THEATRE THE LOCK IN TIME GENTLEMEN PLEASE SHOW FEATURING DAMIEN BARBER Tickets: £14/£13 concs /£12 members/ £7 students

Sun 18th Nov, 8.00pm LAURA ZAKIAN Tickets: £12/£11 concs/£10 mem- bers/£7 students Fri 23rd Nov, 8.30pm THE MONSTER CEILIDH BAND Tickets: £10/£9 concs/ £8 members/£6 students Sat 24th Nov, 8.00pm THE PRODUCERS Tickets: £12/£11 concs/£10 mem- bers/£7 students ARTRIX, OAKENGATES THEATRE THEATRE ON THE BROMSGROVE @ THE PLACE STEPS, BRIDGNORTH For a programme or further information contact: TICKETS : £16.50* TICKETS : £15* TICKETS : £17* Donegal House, Bore Street, Lichfield. WS13 6LU Sat 10 & Sun 11 Nov Sat 24 Nov, 7.30pm Fri 7 & Sat 8 Dec BOX OFFICE 01543 262223 01527 577330 01952 382382 01746 763257 www.lichfieldarts.org.uk www.atrix.co.uk www.theplacetelford.co.uk www.theatreonthesteps.co.uk * booking charges may apply You can now book on-line www.lichfieldarts.org.uk

18 www.whatsonlive.co.uk Music November_Layout 1 29/10/2012 14:16 Page 8

STICKY WICKET AND HIS 9 GIG REVIEWS LISTINGS PIECE SWING ORCHESTRA Music Music Huntingdon Hall, Worcester 30H!3 02 Academy, For further reviews, visit www.whatsonlive.co.uk For full listing information on gigs, Birmingham including times and dates, visit TWIN ATLANTIC 02 Acad- www.whatsonlive.co.uk emy, Birmingham THE ELO EXPERIENCE Ultravox Prince Of Wales Centre, Symphony Hall, Birmingham DAY CONCERT FEATURING Cannock THUR 1 NOV FAIRPORT CONVENTION, To compliment the release of Brilliant TOO PETTY - TRIBUTE TO THE DYLAN PROJECT AND TOM PETTY & THE HEART- earlier this year - the first new album for THE DRIFTERS Palace ANNA RYDER (SIC) Birm- BREAKERS Cox's Yard, nearly two decades from messrs Ure, Theatre, Redditch ingham Town Hall Stratford-upon-Avon Cann, Currie and Cross - and the re- SHAM 69 The Robin, Bil- THE STORY SO FAR & THE IDIOT BASTARD BAND ston GNARWOLVES Kasbah, Comic supergroup fea- lease of their similarly titled new single, Coventry Ultravox last month played the Midlands MARTY WILDE'S ROCK 'N' turing Ade Edmundson, ROLL PARTY Victoria FRED ZEPPELIN The Pub- Phill Jupitus, Neil Innes to the obvious delight of their fans. Kick- Hall, Hanley, Stoke-on- lic, West Bromwich & Rowland Rivron, ing straight off with the new single, they Trent TODAY’S TEARDROPS Birmingham Town Hall then performed the track New Euro- Midge Ure BRENDAN SHINE The Tribute to Roy Orbison EUREKA MACHINES The peans from the Vienna album. The set Place, Oakengates The- and Gene Pitney, Prince Marr's Bar, Worcester Of Wales Centre, Can- included such classics as Vienna, Hymn, Dancing With Tears In My atre, Telford BOOTLEG BLONDIE The Civic nock Eyes and Reap The Wild Wind, as well as seven tracks from the new Roadhouse, Birming- Hall, Wolverhampton JOE BROWN Palace The- ham album. All were greeted with great enthusiasm by the audience - al- STARS IN YOUR EYES atre, Redditch SPECTOR The Sugarmill, though the band’s interaction with their fans was far less in evidence Four vocalists pay hom- SABATON Wulfrun Hall, Stoke-on-Trent than during their gigs on previous tours. Closing track Contact age to some of the Wolverhampton 93, TOP BUZZ & RATTY.. worlds biggest musical 60S GOLD FEATURING HMV Institute, Birming- seemed a curious choice with which to finish, feeling somewhat out GERRY & THE PACEMAK- of context with the rest of the more-upbeat selection of songs, but all stars, including Barbra ham Streisand, Michael ERS, THE ANIMALS, PJ GLORY DAYS - BRUCE in all, this was a great night out for loyal fans of Ultravox. Buble, Tina Turner and PROBY AND CHIP HAWKES SPRINGSTEEN TRIBUTE Peter Ward IIIII Rod Stewart, Prince Of Civic Hall, Wolverhamp- The Assembly, Leam- Wales Centre, Cannock ton ington Spa SAM KELLY The Rain- CHRIS FARLOWE Hunt- TRADITIONAL AFRICAN bow, Birmingham ingdon Hall, Worcester GOSPEL CONCERT Dudley Kelly Clarkson WAYNE SHORTER QUAR- A WHOLE LOTTA LED The Concert Hall LG Arena, Birmingham TET Birmingham Town Place, Oakengates The- 2:54 Sunflower Lounge, atre, Telford “I’ve been in this industry for ten years,” Hall Birmingham TERRA NAOMI HMV Insti- THE ELO EXPERIENCE Vic- JIM MORAY mac, Birm- said Grammy-winning Kelly Clarkson on tute, Birmimngham toria Hall, Hanley, ingham more than one occasion at the LG, the BAT FOR LASHES HMV In- Stoke-on-Trent JD AND THE FDCS, latest stop-off on her Stronger arena stitute, Birmingham DARKSIDE PRESENTS THE GLASSGUNS, LIPSHOCK, THE SUBS The Jam FLOYD EXPERIENCE The EAST TOWN PIRATES & tour. While it’s difficult to believe that a Robin, Bilston decade has flown by since she won the House, Birmingham QUESTIONS OF ANGELS TO KILL A KING, LULU & THE PHIL BOND QUARTET O2 Academy, Birming- first American Idol in 2002, Clarkson’s FITZ Hare & Hounds, Symphony Hall, Birm- ham polished, powerful vocals, not to men- Birmingham ingham ESCAPE IN PARIS, THIS tion confident, breezy interaction with TOTOL FOREIGNER The INTO THE SHADOWS For- BURNING AGE, BOLSHIRE her adoring fans, offered plenty of evi- Slade Rooms, Wolver- est Arts Centre, & THE SCRIBERS The SILENT FILTER, GREEN- dence that she is nowadays a highly experienced performer who’s hampton Ballroom, Birmingham INSOLITO, SHE SCREAMS WOOD PARK, THE well-accustomed to commanding the stage. There were belting pop ENEI ALBUM TOUR Hare MURDER, JOSEF AND THE CROOKED EMPIRE & & Hounds, Birmingham ballads aplenty, including Since You’ve Been Gone, Mr Know It All, FRITZIS, DAKOTA RUINS & FIRST CLASS TRAMP O2 SOLID SOUL The Jam latest release Catch My Breath and the self-penned Because Of You, SHAES TO FALL O2 Acad- Academy, Birmingham House, Birmingham while ‘the overcoming of adversity’ was a constant theme of her emy, Birmingham AMONG THE ECHOES THE COMMANDMENTS IAN MCCULLOCH The PLUS SPECIAL GUESTS The River Rooms, back-catalogue selection (her Greatest Hits-Chapter One album is The Flapper, Birming- out at the end of 2012). Kelly was, however, quick to point out that Sugarmill, Stoke-on- Stourbridge Trent ham she embraces many a genre of music, and among cover songs JOSEPHINE FOSTER & THE STORY SO FAR & SUN 4 NOV (which included a rather good version of Fun’s We Are Young) even LUCY ANNE SALE Taylor’s GNARWOLVES Kasbah. paid tribute to Brummie band with a rendition of their John’s House, Coventry Coventry SPARZANZA, NG26 & DR TEETH ALBUM LAUNCH THE BIG BAND Crewe hit Changes. A country ‘duet’ of Don’t You Wanna Stay was also Cox’s Yard, Stratford- served up, courtesy of a larger-than-life hologram of Jason Aldean. RAISE THE ALARM The Lyceum Asylum, Bimingham upon-Avon FOREVER IN BLUE JEANS But the highlight of the night, and returning once again to that all-im- THE KILLERS LG Arena, MISTA JAM The Butter- Theatre Severn, portant Clarkson theme of empowerment, was closing song Birmingham market, Shrewsbury Shrewsbury Stronger, which brought the entire audience to its feet. RAUL D’OLIVEIRA The EUREKA MACHINES & METAL HAMMER RAZOR Claire Lloyd IIIII Yardbird, Birmingham DRAG The Asylum, Birm- TOUR FEATURING DEVIL ingham SOLD HIS SOUL, HEIGHTS, DOC DANEEKA & BEN- HEART OF A COWARD AND FRI 2 NOV JAMIN DAMAGE Hare & STEAK NUMBER EIGHT 02 Hounds, Birmingham Academy, Birmingham Katie Melua LICHFIELD ROOTS & FOLK I O EARTH The Robin, SOLID SOUL The Jam FESTIVAL, Lichfield Symphony Hall, Birmingham Bilston House, Birmingham Guildhall, Staffordshire SPIRITUALIZED Warwick Appearing from behind the rich red vel- THE CROOKES The Sug- KINGS OV LEON River Arts Centre, Coventry vet curtain, a tiny woman dressed in a armill, Stoke-on-Trent Rooms, Stourbridge PETER KNIGHT’S black flamenco-style outfit walked on DAVID J PLUS VERY SPE- GIGSPANNER Kitchen CIAL GUEST Garden Cafe, Kings stage. The small lady with the big voice The Ballroom, Birming- SAT 3 NOV then played Piece By Piece, a haunting, Heath, Birmingham ham JOSHUA JAMES The touching start to the evening, with just CHARLIE LANDSBOROUGH Yardbird, Shrewsbury her guitar for company. Katie was then Theatre Severn, PANDORA'S BOX Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry CHRIS HELME Hare & joined by her Secret Symphony string Shrewsbury Hounds, Birmingham FRANK & WALTERS HMV JAZZ MORLEY Taylor quartet for renditions of If I Were A Sail- John’s House, Coventry THE BOTS WITH YOUTH Institute, Birmingham MAN The Flapper, Birm- boat, I’d Love To Kill You and Closest JASPER IN THE COMPANY JOE BROWN Palace The- atre, Redditch ingham Thing To Crazy. The simplicity of the arrangements and the sweet OF OTHERS The Marr's PHANTOM LIMB The Iron- sound of the strings were sublime. Then, with a band behind her, Bar, Worcester THE PROCLAIMERS War- wick Arts Centre, works, Oswestry, North stand-out tracks The Flood, The Night I Dreamed I Was Awake and NO SPRING CHICKEN The Shropshire Roadhouse, Birming- Coventry Two Left Feet showed off her ability to move from cabaret singer to THE JOHNNY CASH ROAD- THINK BIG TOUR O2 ham Academy, Birmingham diva. Once again alone, she closed with audience requests Spiders ROBBIE WILLIAMS TRIB- SHOW Artrix, Broms- MON 5 NOV Web and I Cried For You, and showed yet again why she’s one of UTE NIGHT Whittlebury grove the UK’s best selling artists. Alev Dervish IIIII Hall Hotel & Spa T-REXTASY The Robin, DAVE PEGG'S 65TH BIRTH- Bilston DAVID ESSEX Symphony

www.whatsonlive.co.uk 19 Music November_Layout 1 29/10/2012 14:16 Page 9

DEAF HAVANA Kasbah, IAN MCNABB The Slade KATHRYN ROBERTS & GUESTS The Rainbow, LISTINGS Coventry Rooms, Wolverhampton SEAN LAKEMAN Birmingham Music EVANESCENCE National HOLOGRAMS PLUS SUP- Newhampton Arts Cen- BUCK 65 HMV Institute, Indoor Arena, Birming- PORT FROM EAGULLS tre, Wolverhampton Birmingham For full listing information on gigs ham Hare & Hounds, B’ham SAD CAFE Robin 2, Bil- CHRIS BOWDEN QUARTET including, times and dates, visit SNARKY PUPPY Hare & DEVLIN, KREPT & KONAN ston The Jam House, Birm- Hounds, Birmingham HMV Institute, Birming- ingham www.whatsonlive.co.uk RALPH MCTELL Hunting- ham POLLY & THE BILLETS don Hall, Worcester MAXIMO PARK HMV Insti- SUN 11 NOV DOUX Kitchen Garden EMELI SANDE Symphony tute, Birmingham Cafe, Kings Heath, Hall, Birmingham try Hall, Birmingham HARDRIDE The Road- Birmingham MOTORHEAD Civic Hall, THE BORN FREE TOUR EASY STAR ALL-STARS house, Birmingham GORDON HENDRICKS IS SAINT SAVIOUR & WALL Wolverhampton The Assembly, Leam- The Robin, Bilston KEEP IT CASH - TRIBUTE ELVIS Artrix, Broms- Hare & Hounds, Birm- THE TWANG Wulfrun ington JOOLS HOLLAND & HIS TO JOHNNY CASH The grove ingham Hall, Wolverhampton MABON Huntingdon RHYTHM & BLUES OR- Ballroom, Birmingham LANDMARQ The Robin, REVOKER, SACRED INGRID MICHAELSON The Hall, Worcester CHESTRA Victoria Hall, SPICE GIRLS TRIBUTE MOTHER TONGUE & CY- Glee Club, Birmingham ROLLING BACK THE Bilston Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent NIGHT Whittlebury Hall PAUL COX & CHARLIE TOTA OH SLEEPER O2 Acad- YEARS Dudley Concert O2 Academy, THE CIVIL WARS Warwick FABERT emy, Birmingham Hall Hotel & Spa Lichfield Guild- Birmingham THE CRIBS The Assem- Arts Centre, Coventry MELINGO mac, Birming- hall bly, Leamington Spa FRR LIVE, TRIVAX, GLASS ham 02 WED 7 NOV BULLET, EYES WIDE OPEN VAULT OF EAGLES, THIS Academy, Birmingham WED 14 NOV & EDGE OF REASON O2 WICKED TONGUE & MAN- THE LIVE BOX FEATURING SANDI THOM The Robin, Academy, Birmingham SIZE The Rainbow, Birm- THE ARUAN ORTIZ & TUES 6 NOV LARRY MCRAY BAND ingham MICHAEL JANISCH QUIN- THE STYLISTICS The Jam Bilston House, Birmingham MIKE PETERS 02 Acad- Hare & Hounds, B’ham BOMBSQUAD The Temple TET Hare & Hounds, CATFISH KEITH The Iron- @ The HMV Institute, Birmingham ROYAL REPUBLIC The BROADWAY PLUS VIOLET, emy, Birmingham Slade Rooms, Wolver- ATLANTIS & AURORA The MARTY WILDE'S ROCK 'N' works, Oswestry, North Birmingham MATRACA BERG The As- Shropshire A CELEBRATION OF NEIL sembly, Leamington hampton Ballroom, Birmingham ROLL New Alexandra PARKWAY DRIVE The CRIBS HMV Institute, Theatre, Birmingham , CANTER- DIAMOND Performed by Spa BURY & THERE FOR TO- Wayne Denton, Tam- STIFF LITTLE FINGERS Ballroom, Birmingham Birmingham PUNCH BROTHERS 02 DJ FRESH (LIVE) HMV In- SAINT SAVIOUR The Academy MORROW Kasbah, worth Assembly Rooms The Slade Rooms, Coventry SAM AND THE WOMP 02 Wolverhampton stitute, Birmingham Slade Rooms, Wolver- CHICAGO BLUES BROTH- SUPERSILENT FEAT. JOHN hampton ERS Crewe Lyceum CHRISTIAN KANE & BRIAN Academy, Birmingham ARCHITECTS, DEEZ NUTS, NUTTER The Asylum, , OCEANS BURY TOMORROW & ACA- PAUL JONES & LUCIDA IAN PARKER The Jam MARTYN JOSEPH Theatre GRANDE Birmingham Birmingham ATE ALASKA & AURORA CIA STRAIN HMV Insti- House, Birmingham Severn, Shrewsbury Town Hall HOLLY THOMAS The The Asylum, Birming- tute, Birmingham THE PROCLAIMERS Birm- A SKYLIT DRIVE The Sug- JOHN WILLIAMS AND Yardbird, Birmingham ham AMY CAN FLYY The Ball- ingham Town Hall armill, Stoke-on-Trent JOHN ETHERIDGE ROB BARRON TRIO Bra- THE SUPERSKAS room, Birmingham MARTIN STEPHENSON HOODED FANG Hare & Malvern Theatres mall Music Building Newhampton Arts Cen- MAGGIE BOYLE WITH Solihull Arts Complex Hounds, Birmingham KIERAN GOSS Stafford Foyer, Barber Institute, tre, Wolverhampton PAUL DOWNES Kitchen BATES & MCBAIN - ECLEC- SPECTOR, SWIM DEEP & Gatehouse Theatre Birmingham THE COUNTERFEIT Garden Cafe, Kings TIC COLLECTION FEATUR- SPLASH! HMV Institute, SLADE AND SWEET New STONES The Roses, Heath, Birmingham ING FORMER ELO2 Birmingham Alexandra Theatre, Tewksbury SEA OF BEES & BAR- FRONTMAN PHIL BATES THE SOUNDS OF SIMON - FRI 9 NOV Birmingham OASIS V THE STONE BAROSSA AND TINA MCBAIN Lich- SIMON & GARFUNKEL Hare & DAVID ESSEX Victoria ROSES field Garrick TRIBUTE Kitchen Garden The River Hounds, Birmingham Hall, Hanley, Stoke-on- ROY ORBISON AND KRISTINA TRAIN The Cafe, Kings Heath, Rooms, Stourbridge SILENT FILTER, LAUREN Trent Glee Club, Birmingham Birmingham FRIENDS Stratford Civic PRYKE, BRAINS FOR BILLY WALTON BAND The CLAUDIA BRUCKEN 02 JACK WHITE O2 Acad- Hall SAT 10 NOV BREAKFAST, WINSTON’S Robin, Bilston Academy, Birmingham emy, Birmingham THE ROYAL SOUTHERN BIG BROTHER, ALICE JAZZ MORLEY Hare & ROLLING BACK THE JIM CAUSLEY & JENN BROTHERHOOD The COLEY & ABILENE O2 Hounds, Birmingham YEARS Dudley Concert WITTS The Red Lion, Robin, Bilston THE SKYNYRD EXPERI- Academy, Birmingham SAM CARTER The Red Hall Kings Heath, Birming- LET'S HANG ON - THE ENCE The Marr's Bar, , BOY Lion, Kings Heath, BELLOWHEAD Wulfrun ham MUSIC OF FRANKI VALI & Worcester JUMPS SHIPS & THE HID- Birmingham Hall, Wolverhampton KREG VIESSELMAN & THE FOUR SEASONS The ROCK SOUND RIOT 2012 ING PLACE The Sug- JACQUI DANKWORTH & STEEL PANTHER Civic CLIFF HANDS Taylor Place, Oakengates The- HMV Institute, Birming- armill, Stoke-on-Trent DAVOD GORDON St Hall, Wolverhampton John’s House, Coventry atre, Telford ham MEGSON The Hive, Chad’s Church, NIGHTWISH 02 Acad- ANDY OLIVERI & HEINZ- MAYBESHEWILL 02 Acad- FROM THE JAM Shrewsbury Shrewsbury emy, Birmingham SIGHT The Yardbird, emy, Birmingham The Assembly, Leam- ULI JON ROTH BAND The JAMIE SMITH’S MABON Birmingham ONE NIGHT IN VEGAS ington Spa MON 12 NOV River Rooms, Stour- Huntingdon Hall, Crewe Lyceum MR BEN The Jam bridge Worcester \THUR 8 NOV ONCE IN A LIFETIME FEA- House, Birmingham GONG The Robin, Bil- TURING DAVID CASSIDY, DINGUS KHAN The Sug- JAKE BUGG, FINDLAY & ston LEO SAYER, HOT CHOCO- armill, Stoke-on-Trent TOM ODELL HMV Insti- THUR 15 NOV ALEX WILSON'S JAZZ TRIO EDDIE AND THE HOT RODS LATE AND SMOKIE LG THE KINX Cox's Yard, tute, Birmingham Warwick Arts Centre, The Roadhouse, Birm- Arena, Birmingham Stratford-upon-Avon THE BOOTLEG SIXTIES Coventry ingham COLVIN QUARMBY PLUS TAKE IT EASY - EAGLES WITH THE OVERTURES FOR THOSE ABOUT TO KERRY ELLIS & BRIAN CONOR MAYNARD HMV KEVIN O'REGAN BAND TRIBUTE BAND Bloxwich Belgrade Theatre, ROCK FEATURING MAY The Assembly, Institute, Birmingham Cox's Yard, Stratford- Library Theatre Coventry LIVEWIRE THE AC/DC Leamington Spa JAZZ MORLEY The Slade upon-Avon HOPSIN 02 Academy, GOJIRA The Slade SHOW AND THE ZZ TOPS SAVAGES The Rainbow, Rooms, Wolverhampton MR BEN The Jam Birmingham Rooms, Wolverhampton The Robin, Bilston Birmingham THE OFFICIAL RECEIVERS House, Birmingham MUSICAL PICNIC: SOUZA RACHEL SAGE Kitchen THE SENSATIONAL 60'S BRASSTRONAUT John BAND The Jam House, GREG WILSON Hare & WINDS Symphony Hall, Garden Cafe, Kings EXPERIENCE FEATURING Taylor’s House, Coven- Birmingham Hounds, Birmingham Birmingham Heath, Birmingham THE TREMELOES, MAR- GORDON HENDRICKS IS MARCUS FOSTER & SPE- MALADE & THE DREAM- ELVIS Artrix, Broms- CIAL GUEST Hare & ERS Victoria Hall, grove Hounds, Birmingham Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent WIDE EYED & HEAVY ICONS OF COUNTRY Tam- ELIZA SHADDAD Sym- WAVES Sunflower worth Assembly Rooms phony Hall, Birmingham Lounge, Birmingham STEALING SHEEP Kas- THE WEDDING PRESENT TUNGSTEN DEAD BEATS, bah, Coventry 02 Academy, Birming- FRAMED, CAL 22 & THE AMY CAN FLYY The Ball- ham PROSPECTS O2 Acad- room, Birmingham THE LEGENDS OF SWING emy, Birmingham HADDO - FOLK MUSIC Lichfield Garrick HOT CLUB DE SWING & FROM THE BRITISH ISLES THE STYLISTICS Lichfield THE ELECTRIC SWING CIR- The Lion Hotel, Shrews- Garrick CUS COMES HOME Hare bury MAD DOG MCREA & & Hounds, Birmingham COSMO JARVIS HMV In- PRIMER The Flapper, stitute, Birmingham Birmingham TUES 13 NOV UGLY DUCKLING The Ball- LUCY ROSE Kasbah, room, Birmingham BAND OF HORSES HMV Coventry FOCUS The Robin, Bil- DIANE SHAW The Butter- Institute, Birmingham ston YASHIN PLUS DEAR SU- market, Shrewsbury ADAM ANT & THE GOOD, ABSOLVA The Asylum, PERSTAR, HATE THE FAITH MAD AND THE LOVELY AND ENVY OF THE STATE Birmingham POSSE Victoria Hall, THE SOUL SURVIVORS The Slade Rooms, Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent Wolverhampton The River Rooms, YOUNG MAN & SPECIAL Stourbridge SOUL PATCH The Jam

20 www.whatsonlive.co.uk Music November_Layout 1 29/10/2012 14:16 Page 10

House, Birmingham OF FRIENDS The Robin, gent Theatre, Hanley, ingham Town Hall emy, Birmingham Worcester BELLOWHEAD The As- Bilston Stoke-on-Trent THE BACHELORS Crewe MIKE SILVER The Roses, SONIC BOOM SIX, IMPE- sembly, Leamington Spa CUSP Symphony Hall, SWING LEGENDS Bed- Lyceum Tewksbury RIAL LEISURE, MIXTAPE BONZO DOG DOO DAH Birmingham worth Civic Hall LAURA ZAKIAN Lichfield SAINTS & NIGHTLIFE 02 BAND The Queen's Hall, BOMBSQUAD HMV Insti- SPEECH DEBELLE HMV Guildhall WED 21 NOV Academy, Birmingham Nuneaton tute, Birmingham Institute, Birmingham SEETHER 02 Academy, RUNRIG Civic Hall, F****D UP & SPECIAL GENTLEMAN’S DUB CLUB HATS OFF TO LED ZEPLIN Birmingham Wolverhampton GUESTS The Rainbow, The Assembly, Leaming- Theatre Severn, LA SHARK 02 Academy, THE DYLAN PROJECT The AYNSLEY LISTER BAND Birmingham ton Spa Shrewsbury Birmingham Robin, Bilston The Robin, Bilston ALUNAGEORGE Hare & MUMIY TROLL & TEXAN PEACOCKS Cox's THE STRAWBS The Robin, BUDDY HOLLY & THE THE RAT PACK IS BACK Hounds, Birmingham ECHOTAPE The Rainbow, Yard, Stratford-upon- Bilston CRICKETERS New Palace Theatre, Red- THE BLACK MIRRORS, SIX Birmingham Avon HORSE, WITH FULL BAND Alexandra Theatre, ditch TOWNS, THE RUBY DUKES KING CHARLES O2 Acad- THE MANFREDS Birming- mac, Birmingham Birmingham MULATU ASTATKE War- & THE DISCLOSURE PROJ- emy, Birmingham ham Town Hall WOODEN HORSE Kitchen EUROPE 02 Academy, wick Arts Centre, Coven- ECT The Sugarmill, NICK PRIDE & THE PIMP- THE NOTORIOUS BROTH- Garden Cafe, Kings Birmingham try Stoke-on-Trent TONES WITH THE TITANICS ERS The Roadhouse, Heath, Birmingham FEEDER Civic Hall, JOHN DIPPER & LUKE CLUB SMITH PLUS SUP- Hare & Hounds, Birm- Birmingham STRAIGHT ON RED Cox’s Wolverhampton DANIELS ‘SUN STATIONS’ PORT The Flapper, Birm- ingham MIKE PETERS WITH SUP- Yard, Stratford SAM AND THE WOMP 02 Hare & Hounds, Birm- ingham STEVE CRADOCK The But- PORT FROM JOE SILVA STARS AND FLIGHTS, LUNA Academy, Birmingham ingham KREG VIESSELMAN The termarket, Shrewsbury The Marr's Bar, KISS, DRONES & THE LION SHOW OF HANDS Theatre RAGDOLLS - TRIBUTE TO Ironworks, Oswestry, GENTLEMAN’S PISTOLS, Worcester The Roadhouse, Birm- Severn, Shrewsbury JERSEY BOYS Tamworth North Shropshire DESERT STORM & DIA- ADAM ANT & THE GOOD, ingham NETSKY Kasbah, Coven- Assembly Rooms VEXXEN & MOODY MOND LIL The Asylum, MAD AND THE LOVELY try JOSIE LONG Taylor John’s BOMBER O2 Academy, Bimingham POSSE The Ballroom, MON 19 NOV GONG The Assembly, House, Coventry Birmingham MANY EYES, OCCOEUR & Birmingham Leamington Spa MISSING ANDY The As- CLUB SMITH Flapper, SEVENTH HORIZON The SGT. PEPPER'S ONLY DART THE EARL GREY The sembly, Leamington Birmingham Ballroom, Birmingham BOARD BAND Dovehouse JOAN ARMATRADING Vic- Slade Rooms, Wolver- Spa KIDS WE USED TO BE, WE BORN IN THE USA The Theatre, Solihull toria Hall, Hanley, hampton SAM MARCHANT The ARE SAVIOURS, ALL Roses, Tewksbury KARNATAKA The Assem- Stoke-on-Trent BUCKCHERRY HMV Insti- Yardbird, Birmingham THOUGHT OUT & LAUREN UB40 - LABOUR OF LOVE bly, Leamington Spa PASSION PIT, CHURCHES tute, Birmingham BRIGITTE BERAHA QUAR- PRYKE The Roadhouse, Tribute band, The River THE CR00KES, HEY & CHAD VALLEY HMV In- PEACE & SPECIAL GUESTS TET Fri 23 Nov, Sym- Birmingham Rooms, Stourbridge SHOLAY & BLACK MARKET stitute, Birmingham The Sugar Mill, Stoke- phony Hall, Birmingham EMPIRE A BLAST WITH FINE ARTS Sunflower JUAN ZELEDA, BENJAMIN on-Trent DREADZONE The Robin, Lounge, Birmingham BRASS Royal Spa Cen- OWEN & JOE KARCHUD ALCHEMY DUO & EWAN Bilston SAT 17 NOV DON LETTS Hare & tre, Leamington Spa 02 Academy, Birming- MCLENNAN The Red BEYOND THE BARRICADE Hounds, Birmingham THE CHRISTIANS The ham Lion, Kings Heath, Victoria Hall, Hanley, POST DESCARTES & Roses, Tewksbury DARKSIDE PRESENTS THE GREG LAKE New Alexan- Birmingham Stoke-on-Trent JAPANESE FIGHTING FISH FLOYD EXPERIENCE dra Theatre, Birming- SEPREVATION, CRANIA- LEVELLERS 02 Academy, The Flapper, Birming- Stafford Gatehouse ham TION & REGURGITATE LIFE Birmingham ham FRI 16 NOV Theatre TYLER JAMES The Glee The Asylum, Birming- THE LANCASHIRE HOT- GUNS VS ROSES The Iron- RUFUS WAINWRIGHT Club, Birmingham ham POTS 02 Academy, Birm- works, Oswestry, North MYSTERY JETS HMV In- GOSPEL CENTRAL The ingham ARENA The Assembly, Symphony Hall, Birm- Shropshire stitute, Birmingham Jam House, Birming- FRANK TURNER & THE Leamington Spa ingham ENDLESS KNOT Taylor PINK MOON BY NICK SLEEPING SOULS REVIVAL TOUR 2012 FEA- THE RED LEMONS The John’s House, Coventry ham Civic DRAKE Kitchen Garden TURING CHUCK RAGAN, Jam House, Birming- THE KRYSTALLETTES & JU- Hall, Wolverhampton Cafe, Kings Heath, CORY BRANAN, EMILY ham LIAN SMITH Nailcote Hall, THUR 22 NOV THERAPY 02 Academy, Birmingham BARKER, JAY MALINOWSKI, THE DUALERS The Berkswell, Warwickshire Birmingham AND ROCKY VOTOLATO The Robin, Bilston GRIMPEN MIRE, SLAB- FOUR PARTS GUITAR Ballroom, Birmingham JAKE & ELWOOD & THE DRAGGER & UNDERSMILE TUES 20 NOV CASTLES HMV Huntingdon Hall, BLOOD ON THE DANCE- BLACK RHINO BAND Vic- The Asylum, Birming- Institute, Birmingham Worcester FLOOR, IT BOYS & THE toria Hall, Hanley, ham LIL' JIMS BIG SQUEEZE MONSTER CEILIDH BAND OCEAN’S EYE HMV Insti- Stoke-on-Trent ANNIE MAC PRESENTS... THE WEDDING PRESENT The Roadhouse, Birm- Lichfield Guildhall tute, Birmingham RIZZLE KICKS 02 Acad- The Rainbow, Birming- The Assembly, Leam- ingham THE DRIFTERS Prince Of MENTALLICA The Road- emy, Birmingham ham ington Spa MAD CADDIES The Ball- Wales Centre, Cannock house, Birmingham PINT SHOT RIOTS, DELTA PAPER TIGERS The Sugar JULIE DEXTER The Jam room, Birmingham THE CARPET CUTOUTS CHINA CRISIS Cox's Yard, RHYTHM, MILLION EM- Mill, Hanley, Stoke-On- House, Birmingham DECIBEL ENSEMBLE FEA- The Rainbow, B’ham Stratford-upon-Avon PIRE, FOREVER TONIGHT Trent BUDDY HOLLY & THE TURING PAUL DUNMALL A DR FEELGOOD Cox's PETER HOOK AND THE & GETAWAY CLUB 02 HENNA Newhampton CRICKETERS Theatre E Harris Building, Birm- Yard, Stratford-upon- LIGHT Kasbah, Coventry Academy, Birmingham Arts Centre, Wolver- Severn, Shrewsbury ingham Avon EZIO The Glee Club, GLENN MILLER ORCHES- hampton SOWETO KINCH TRIO The- CELTIC FIDDLE FESTIVAL ROXY MAGIC AND JEAN Birmingham TRA Dudley Concert AC/DC - DIRTY DC The atre Severn, Shrews- New Vic Theatre, New- GENIE The Slade THE UPBEAT BEATLES Soli- Hall River Rooms, Stour- bury castle-under-Lyme Rooms, Wolverhampton hull Arts Complex CLASSIC CLAPTON Hunt- bridge PACO PENA: QUIMERAS MOTOWN'S GREATEST DETROIT SOUL The Jam STUDIO UNPLUGGED Soli- ingdon Hall, Worcester Birmingham Town Hall HITS - HOW SWEET IT IS House, Birmingham hull Arts Complex PAUL CARRACK Royal SUN 18 NOV DIRTY THREE The Glee Theatre Severn, Shrews- THE QUO The Road- THE ALBION BAND Hunt- Spa Centre, Leaming- Club, Birmingham bury house, Birmingham ingdon Hall, Worcester ton Spa JACK DEJOHNETTE QUIN- JIMMY BUCKLEY Theatre THE SCOPYONS The THE SOUNDS OF SIMON - SPUNGE 02 Academy, TRAMPLED BY TURTLES TET Adrian Boult Hall, Severn, Shrewsbury Marr's Bar, Worcester A TRIBUTE TO SIMON AND Birmingham Hare & Hounds, Birm- Birmingham RAYMOND FROGGATT MATT CORBY, BEARS DEN GARFUNKEL The Place, THE ILLEGAL EAGLES Vic- ingham HEATHER FINDLAY WITH Prince Of Wales Centre, & LUCY MASON HMV In- Oakengates Theatre, toria Hall, Hanley, Stoke- RIZZLE KICKS 02 Acad- HER BAND The Robin, Cannock stitute, Birmingham Telford on-Trent emy, Birmingham Bilston URBAN FOLK QUARTET TIPITINA The Garden ONE NIGHT OF QUEEN Re- GERRY MCAVOY'S BAND ZAPPA PLAYS ZAPPA Birm- THE FEELERS O2 Acad- Huntingdon Hall, House, Hagley Rd,

www.whatsonlive.co.uk 21 Music November_Layout 1 29/10/2012 14:16 Page 11

22 www.whatsonlive.co.uk Music November_Layout 1 29/10/2012 14:16 Page 12

Music LISTINGS

For full listing information on gigs including, times and dates, visit www.whatsonlive.co.uk

Birmingham Birmingham KIDS IN GLASS HOUSES JEAGA & SILENT BLACK- HMV Institute, Birming- OUT The Ironworks, Os- ham westry, North ALL THE YOUNG The Shropshire Sugarmill, Stoke-on- FRANK TURNER THE Trent SLEEPING SOULS The As- THE LIEUTENANTS The sembly, Leamington Ballroom, Birmingham Spa 4 PARTS GUITARS Hunt- THE PRODUCERS Lichfield ingdon Hall, Worcester Guildhall, Staffordshire DJ DEREK Newhampton MOTOWN MAGIC The All The Young - The Sugarmill, Stoke-on-Trent Arts Centre, Wolver- River Rooms, Stour- hampton bridge GRAFHAM WATER SAILING GET CAPE, WEAR CAPE, Centre, Leamington Spa BROWNFIELD BYRNE CLUB & RADIO BLACK FLY - SOLO ACOUSTIC FLASH - A TRIBUTE TO QUINTET FRI 30 NOV SAT 24 NOV The Hive, FOREST DJS The Rain- Hare & Hounds, Birm- QUEEN The Robin, Bil- Shrewsbury bow, Birmingham ingham ston MAGNUM The Assembly, SOIL & FOZZY 02 Acad- FRED ZEPPELIN The THE MANFREDS Victoria NOKE Warwick Arts Cen- SUN 25 NOV Leamington Spa emy, Birmingham Roadhouse, B’ham Hall, Hanley, Stoke-on- tre, Coventry RYAN LESLEY WITH FULL THE VACCINES 02 Acad- MADINA LAKE, RED JUMP Trent SOLEY MOURNING The LIVE BAND HMV Institute, emy, Birmingham SUIT APPARATUS, ACTION SQUEEZE Symphony Marr's Bar, Worcester WILKO JOHNSON The Birmingham EVAN DANOD & JULIANA BLAST HMV Institute, Hall, Birmingham HOT RED CHILLI PEPPERS Robin, Bilston THE RIFLES The Sug- HATFIELD HMV Institute, Birmingham MARTIN TROTMAN BAND The Roundhouse, Birm- SLADE AND SWEET Victo- armill, Stoke-on-Trent Birmingham THE SUBTERRANEANS Symphony Hall, Birm- ingham ria Hall, Hanley, Stoke- BONAFIDE The Slade SUBTOTAL, ACTION RE- The Jam House, Birm- ingham PETER HOOK AND THE on-Trent Rooms, Wolverhampton PLAY & OUR DAYS ingham TG COLLECTIVE mac, LIGHT The Sugarmill, THE STYLISTICS Civic WASTED O2 Academy, TIGERTAILZ The Slade Birmingham Stoke-on-Trent Hall, Wolverhampton WED 28 NOV Birmingham Rooms, Wolverhampton THE ROZ BRUCE INFU- LEGENDS OF ROCK FEA- THE 02 Academy, CHRISTIAN REILLY PLUS THE NORTH SEA SCROLLS SION, PIG PLASTIQUE, TURING: MEGADETH TRIB- Birmingham SUPPORT Hare & The Glee Club, Birming- COPPER LIGHTS & KEVIN UTE, REINVENTING TREND THE QUIREBOYS The ACKER BILK & THE PARA- Hounds, Birmingham ham JAMES HADLEY O2 Acad- OVERKILL AND MENTAL- Slade Rooms, Wolver- MOUNT JAZZ BAND New URBAN FOLK QUARTET TALON - THE BEST OF THE emy, Birmingham LICA The Slade Rooms, hampton Vic Theatre, Newcastle- Tamworth Assembly EAGLES Malvern The- SUBSTANCE THROWBACK Wolverhampton JOHN WHEELER OF HAY- under-Lyme Rooms atres XMAS PARTY FEAT. DETROIT SOUL The Jam SEED DIXIE The Sug- TRIO VD & THREENIL THE SUBTERRANEANS SILENT FILTER FT. THE MAGOO & MAD FLOW House, Birmingham armill, Stoke-on-Trent Hare & Hounds, Birm- The Jam House, Birm- ROZ BRUCE INFUSION 02 Hare & Hounds, Birm- MADINA LAKE Kasbah, BETH ORTON The Assem- ingham ingham Academy, Birmingham ingham Coventry bly, Leamington Spa ELECTRIC BOYS The PLAY OUT Sampad con- BOAT TO ROW, MISTY’S FOALS & PETIT NOIR The GORDON HENDRICKS IS RODDY WOOMBLE The Slade Rooms, Wolver- cert featuring Jesse BIG ADVENTURE, YOUNG Sugarmill, Stoke-on- ELVIS The Place, Oaken- Hive, Shrewsbury hampton Bannister, Zoe Rahman, RUNAWAYS & CHARLOTTE Trent gates Theatre, Telford BROOM BEZZUMS The THE STAVES & LUKE Seb Rochford & Kenny CARPENTER 02 Acad- MURDER OF CROWS PLUS THE PRODUCERS Lich- Marr's Bar, Worcester SITAL-SINGH Hare & Higgins; Elgar Concert emy, Birmingham SPECIAL GUESTS The field Guildhall TERRI WALKER & KOF The Hounds, Birmingham Hall, Bramall Music ELKIE BROOKS Royal Spa Flapper, Birmingham THE CARPET CRAWLERS Drum, Birmingham JULIAN SMITH Malvern Building, Birmingham Huntingdon Hall, BEN CALVERY & THE Theatre Worcester SWIFTS Kitchen Garden TESTAMENT Wulfrun THE "BEE GEES" NIGHT Cafe, Kings Heath, Hall, Wolverhampton FEVER PARTY Nailcote Birmingham NEEDTOBREATHE 02 Music Venues Box Office Hall, Berkswell, War- RODRIGO Y GABRIELA Academy, Birmingham wickshire HMV Institute, Birming- ELBOW National Indoor BEN HOWARD 02 Acad- ham Birmingham THE GLEE CLUB Staffordshire Arena, Birmingham 0871 472 0400 emy, Birmingham HOSPITALITY HMV Insti- COLIN BLUNSTONE & 02 ACADEMY LICHFIELD GUILDHALL THE COMPLETE STONE tute, Birmingham 0121 622 8250 THE YARDBIRD 01543 262223 BAND Huntingdon Hall, 0121 212 2524 ROSES 02 Academy, Worcester ADRIAN BOULT HALL THE SUGARMILL, HANLEY Birmingham L.A. GUNS PLUS SUP- 0121 331 5901 Black Country STOKE-ON-TRENT SILENT FILTER FT. RONIN, MON 26 NOV THE ASYLUM 01159 454 593 PORT FROM DAM DICE CIVIC HALL, WOLVERHAMPTON KHAOS THEORY, MY AND THE NEW SAINTS 0121 233 1109 TAMWORTH ASSEMBLY ROOMS 0870 320 7000 01827 709618 HEROINE, ABBERLINE AND THE CORONAS The Ball- The Robin, Bilston THE BALLROOM, DALE END TOM WALKER 02 Acad- 0121 448 0797 DUDLEY CONCERT HALL VICTORIA HALL, HANLEY room, Birmingham 10CC Victoria Hall, Han- 01384 815577 emy, Birmingham THE BARBER INSTITUTE 0870 060 6649 BETH ORTON The Glee ley, Stoke-on-Trent FOREST ARTS CENTRE THE COUNTERFEIT BIG SEAN HMV Institute, 0121 414 7333 STAFFORD GATEHOUSE Club, Birmingham 0845 111 2898 01785 254653 STONES The Robin, Bil- Birmingham BIRMINGHAM TOWN HALL CONVERGE 02 Academy, 0121 780 3333 NEWHAMPTON ARTS CENTRE ston Birmingham THE VIEW The Sugarmill, 01902 572090 STEVE HARLEY & COCK- CBSO CENTRE Warwickshire MARTIN BARRE'S NEW Stoke-on-Trent THE PUBLIC, WEST BROMWICH 0121 780 3333 COX’S YARD, STRATFORD NEY REBEL Symphony DAY The Robin, Bilston THE HURLING BOYS The 0121 533 7161 Hall, Birmingham CUSTARD FACTORY, 01789 404600 MATTHEWS SOUTHERN Red Lion, Kings Heath, ROBIN 2, BILSTON 0121 224 7777 THE ASSEMBLY, LEAMINGTON MID-DAY MANTRA: RA- COMFORT Kitchen Gar- Birmingham 01902 401211 JESH DAVID Symphony FLAPPER 0121 236 2421 01926 311311 den Cafe, Kings Heath, RAVENS & CHIMES Taylor STOURBRIDGE TOWN HALL THE KASBAH, COVENTRY Hall, Birmingham Birmingham John’s House, Coventry HARE & HOUNDS 01384 812812 BEYOND THE BARRICADE 0121 444 2081 024 7655 4473 AKALA O2 Academy, MIKE TRAMP The Asy- WULFRUN HALL, HMV INSTITUTE NAILCOTE HALL, AT CHRISTMAS Palace lum, Birmingham WOLVERHAMPTON Birmingham 0121 643 0428 BERKSWELL Theatre, Redditch ELLIOT BROOD Hare & 0870 320 7000 PATRICK WOLF Warwick ISLAND BAR 02476 46 6174 Hounds, Birmingham 0121 632 5296 STRATFORD CIVIC HALL Arts Centre, Coventry SHARON SHANNON The THUR 29 NOV Shropshire THE JAM HOUSE 01789 207100 GL LIVE PRESENTS AFFIN- Assembly, Leamington THE EDGE ARTS CENTRE, ITY - ONE NIGHT, ONE 0121 200 3030 TAYLOR JOHN’S HOUSE, Spa BUDDY WHITTINGTON & MUCH WENLOCK COVENTRY GOD, ONE PEOPLE Featur- LG ARENA 01952 728911 CENSOR YOURSELF MUSIC HIS BAND The Robin, 0844 338 8000 024 7623 0699 ing Breaker, Ni Sheng & THE HIVE, SHREWSBURY PRESENTS... Cox’s Yard, Bilston NIA Natty Joshia, The Drum, Stratford 01743 234970 Worcestershire Birmingham MARTYN JOSEPH Hunt- 0844 338 8000 ingdon Hall, Worcester THE IRONWORKS, OSWESTRY HUNTINGDON HALL / SWAN HUSTLE VI, COLD FIELDS, THE RAINBOW 01691 679123 ROB ZOMBIE AND MARI- 0121 772 8174 THEATRE 01905 611427 PRISMS & RED BULL TUES 27 NOV THEATRE SEVERN, LYN MANSON TWINS OF RED LION FOLK CLUB MARR’S BAR, WORCESTER Hare & Hounds, Birm- SHREWSBURY 01743 281281 EVIL TOUR National In- 0121472 4253 01905 613336 ingham THE PLACE, OAKENGATES, THE FUREYS The Robin, door Arena, B’ham THE ROADHOUSE THE RIVER ROOMS, NEW KILLER SHOES, SIX- TELFORD 01952 382382 STOURBRIDGE Bilston THE UPBEAT BEATLES 0121 459 5660 TYFOURS & PURPLE WEM TOWN HALL 01384 397177 Royal Spa Centre, SYMPHONY HALL STEREO The Flapper, THE SOFT MOON, DRAC- 01939 232299 ULA LEWIS, THE Leamington Spa 0121 780 3333

www.whatsonlive.co.uk 23 Classical November_Layout 1 29/10/2012 16:51 Page 1

Classical Music PREVIEWS Royal Ballet Sinfonia Concert Birmingham Cathedral, Sat 17 November Performing regularly for some of the world’s greatest ballet companies - includ- ing the Royal Ballet, Paris Opera Ballet, New York City Ballet, the Kirov and La Scala Ballet, as well as our very own Birm- ingham Royal Ballet - the Royal Ballet Sin- fonia is most certainly one of Britain’s busiest ballet orchestras. This unique con- cert at Birmingham’s beautiful Anglican Cathedral opens and closes with two Tchaikovsky classics - Fantasy Overture from Romeo And Juliet and Symphony No.5 in E minor op.64. It also sees the orchestra - under the directorship of Koen Kessels - join forces with Canon Marcus Huxley and the Birmingham Cathedral Choir in a performance of John Rutter’s beautiful and much-acclaimed Gloria.

Andrea Bocelli LG Arena, Birmingham, Sat 10 November One of (if not the) most successful opera singers of modern times, Andrea Bocelli's talent is so awesome that he can turn his voice to pretty much anything, whether it be Verdi or Puccini, Mascagni or Massenet. The best-selling solo artist in the history of classical music, Bocelli lost his sight at the age of twelve after accidentally being hit on the head during a football match and suffering a brain haemorrhage. In 2010, he was honoured with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for his contribution to live theatre.

Royal Shrewsbury Birmingham Bach Choir Philharmonic Symphony Lichfield Cathedral, Sat 24 November Orchestra Returning to Lichfield’s historic cathedral, Orchestra the acclaimed Birmingham Bach Choir Warwick Arts Cen- Allington Hall, here present the composer’s Christmas tre, Coventry, Wed Shrewsbury School, 28 November Oratorio. First performed in the 1730s, Wed 21 November Bach's beautiful festive classic has Acclaimed Scottish- Founded in 1888, become a firm yuletide favourite. Written in born conductor the Shrewsbury six sections, it tells the story of the birth of Rory Macdonald Symphony Orches- Jesus, complete with angels, shepherds takes the helm for tra is one of the and the gift-bearing Three Kings. Perform- this latest RPO con- country’s oldest pro- ing the entire Oratorio, the choir are joined cert to be staged at fessional orchestras. by The Musical And Amicable Society Butterworth Hall. Originally known as Baroque Orchestra, conducted by Paul Celebrity Piano Recital With Sibelius’ Symphony the Shrewsbury Spicer. Soloists are soprano Sofia Larsson, Evgeny Kissin No.5 - regarded as Orchestral Society, countertenor Leo Tomita, Evangelist Rupert one of the simplest the orchestra today Charlesworth, tenor Stuart Jackson and Symphony Hall, Birmingham, tunes ever written - Thurs 15 November boasts a member- baritone Ed Ballard. promises to be the ship in excess of Having joined the esteemed Gnessin perfect climax to a forty-five, and pres- School of Music for gifted children at the concert of ‘ravish- ents performances age of six, Russian-born Evgeny Kissin is ing’ twentieth cen- in and around the today internationally recognised as one of tury music. Vaugh- county of Shrop- the greatest pianists of his generation. an Williams’ Fanta- shire. This month Stopping off at Birmingham’s Symphony sia on a theme by sees the orchestra Hall as part of a three-date UK tour, Kissin Thomas Tallis, welcome guest here presents a rare recital of the great Delius’ The Walk To pianist Viv McLean classical and romantic repertoire, perform- The Paradise Gar- into the fold, to per- ing Haydn’s Sonata No 59 in E flat (Hob. den and form one of the best XVI:49), Beethoven’s Piano Sonata in C Shostakovich’s known and most minor, Op 111, Schubert’s Impromptus in F Concerto for Trum- loved piano concer- minor (Op 142 No1), G flat, B flat and A flat pet and Piano also tos of all time - the (Op 90 No4) and Liszt’s Hungarian Rhap- feature. Grieg in A minor. Paul Spicer sody No 12. 24 www.whatsonlive.co.uk Classical November_Layout 1 29/10/2012 16:51 Page 2

ORCHESTRA OF THE SINGERS: HOPE, FAITH, Indian classical and tra- Centre, Coventry LISTINGS SWAN: VIVALDI'S FOUR LIFE, LOVE Programme ditional folk accompa- THE POWER OF MUSIC Classical SEASONS Featuring includes works by Brit- nied by tabla and saxo- Lyric and dramatic David Le Page (violin) & ten, Randall Thompson, phone, Sat 24 Nov, song from 17th-Century For full listing information on classical David Curtis (conduc- Britten, Bantock, Elgar Symphony Hall, Birm- Italy featuring mezzo concerts, including times and dates, tor). Programme & Parry, Sun 18 Nov, ingham Susan Buckley and visit www.whatsonlive.co.uk includes works by Elgar Concert Hall, Bra- SINFONIA OF BIRMING- tenor Mark Tucker, Wed Respighi, Warlock & mall Music Building, HAM Featuring Michael 28 Nov, Elgar Concert CBSO LEONSKAJA PLAYS Grieg, Dukas & Strauss, Vivaldi, Tue 13 Nov, Birmingham Seal (conductor). Pro- Hall & The Dome, GRIEG Featuring Alexan- Fri 9 Nov, Symphony Stratford Civic Hall DAME GILLIAN WEIR This gramme includes works Bramhall Music Build- der Vedernikov (con- Hall, Birmingham ALBERT HERRING English concert forms part of by Schubert, Berlio & ing, Birmingham ductor) and Elisabeth JOSEPH TONG & WAKA Touring Opera present the internationally Brahms, Sat 24 Nov, WAREN MAILLEY-SMITH Leonskaja (piano). Pro- HASEGAWA Programme Benjamin Britten’s clas- acclaimed concert CBSO Centre, Birming- PIANO CONCERT Thurs gramme to include to include works by sic comic depiction of organist's final tour and ham 29 Nov, Warwick Arts works by Sibelius, Schubert, arr. Schoen- English village life, Tue features works by JS BIRMINGHAM FESTIVAL Centre, Coventry Grieg and Rachmani- berg, John McCabe & 13 Nov, Malvern The- Bach, Sweelinck, CHORAL SOCIETY Direct- THE REVOLUTIONARY nov, Thurs 1 Nov, Sym- Debussy, Fri 9 Nov, atres Franck, Peeters, Saint- ed from the Chamber DRAWING ROOM WITH phony Hall, Birming- Barber Concert Hall, CBSO THE YEAR 1912: Saens, Widor, Durufle, Organ by Patrick Larley, COLIN LAWSON (CLAR- ham Birmingham BRAVE NEW WORLDS Sergei Slonimsky & Sat 24 Nov, Adrian INET) Programme ROYAL NORTHERN COL- UNIVERSITY MUSIC SOCI- Featuring Jac van Mushel, Mon 19 Nov, Boult Hall, Birmingham includes works by LEGE OF MUSIC ETY: LULLABY OF WINTER Steen (conductor). Pro- Symphony Hall, Birm- CHANDOS SYMPHONY Hummel, Haydn & LUNCHTIME CONCERT Fri 9 Nov, Elgar Concert gramme includes ingham ORCHESTRA Programme Mozart, Fri 30 Nov, Thurs 1 Nov, Warwick Hall, Bramall Music Schoenberg's Five BEETHOVEN PIANO CON- includes works by Royal Pump Rooms, Arts Centre, Coventry Building, Birmingham Pieces for Orchestra & CERTOS NOS 1 & 3 Fea- Strauss, Anderson, Leamington Spa ROYAL PHILHARMONIC MAGGINI STRING QUAR- Mahler's Symphony No turing the Mahler Farnon, John Frith, CHRISTOPHER ORTON ORCHESTRA: ORGAN TET Programme 7, Wed 14 Nov, Sym- Chamber Orchestra & Coates, John Williams, (RECORDER) & SLAVA GALA Featuring organist includes works by phony Hall, Birming- Lief Ove Andsnes Massenet and von SIDORENKO (PIANO) Pro- Stephen Disley and the Mozart, Ireland & ham (pianist). Programme to Suppe, Sun 25 Nov, gramme includes works City of Birmingham Mendelssohn, Fri 9 IN FRONT OF NATURE include works by Malvern Theatres by York Bowen, Choir, Fri 2 Nov, Sym- Nov, Royal Pump CONCERT Featuring Beethoven & Stravin- TOO HOT TO HANDEL Thomas Simaku & Wes- phony Hall, Birming- Rooms, Leamington Malin Christensson sky, Tue 20 Nov, Sym- Armonico Consort inter- sely, Fri 30 Nov, Barber ham Spa (soprano), Christopher phony Hall, Birming- prets the music of the Concert Hall, Birming- SERIOUS CABARET Mary MUSICAL PICNIC: SOUZA Maltman (baritone) & ham Baroque in a unique ham Carewe and Philip May- WINDS Tuck into a Joseph Middleton FIBONACCI SEQUENCE way for the twenty-first CBSO CENTRE STAGE Pro- ers investigate serious morning of musical (piano). Programme Programme includes century, Sun 25 Nov, gramme includes works and not-so-serious entertainment for all the includes works by works by Mozart, Bar- Theatre Severn, by Mozart & Bliss, Fri composers’ flirtations family, Sat 10 Nov, Grieg, Schubert, Wolf & ber, Koechlin & Shrewsbury 30 Nov, CBSO Centre, with cabaret and jazz Symphony Hall, Birm- Purcell, Wed 14 Nov, Poulenc, Wed 21 Nov, UNIVERSITY MUSIC PHIL- Birmingham throughout the 20th ingham Barber Concert Hall, Maidment Hall, Shrews- HARMONIC ORCHESTRA century, Fri 2 Nov, BRAHMS REQUIEM Feat. Birmingham bury School Programme includes CBSO Centre, Birming- Paul Leddington Wright CELEBRITY PIANO CBSO THE BIRMINGHAM works by Michael Zev ham & Simon Over (conduc- RECITAL WITH EVGENY BEETHOVEN CYCLE: MASS Gordon, Mahler & Classical RUSSIAN MASTERPIECES tors), The Southbank KISSIN Thurs 15 Nov, IN C Featuring Olari Elts Elgar, Sun 25 Nov, FOR PIANO TRIO Featur- Sinfonia, The St Symphony Hall, Birm- (conductor), Anna Elgar Concert Hall, Box Office ing Joanne Quigley, Michael Singers & The ingham Leese (soprano), Kai Bramhall Music Build- Jonathon Aasgaard & Parliament Choir, Sat 10 TOM LINDSAY LUNCHTIME Ruutel (mezzo), Ben ing, Birmingham ABBEY CHURCH, David Quigley. Pro- Nov, Coventry Cathe- PIANO CONCERT Thurs Johnson (tenor), BCMG’S ZIGZAG ENSEM- SHREWSBURY gramme includes works dral 15 Nov, Warwick Arts Stephen Loges (bass) BLE Sun 25 Nov, CBSO 01743 232723 CITY OF BIRMINGHAM by Rachmaninov & Centre, Coventry & the CBSO Chorus, Centre, Birmingham ADRIAN BOULT HALL, Shostakovich, Fri 2 CHOIR: BRAHMS & FLORIAN KITT (CELLO) & Thurs 22 Nov, Sympho- ORGAN CONCERT WITH B’HAM Nov, Barber Concert RAUTAVAARA Featuring ALMA MARIA LABRA- ny Hall, Birmingham THOMAS TROTTER Mon 0121 331 5901 Hall, Birmingham Adrian Lucas (conduc- MAKK (PIANO) Pro- BEYOND CLASSICAL: 26 Nov, Birmingham ARTRIX, BROMSGROVE CBSO CENTRE STAGE tor), Eloise Routledge gramme includes works STRING THEORY Pro- Town Hall 01527 577330 Featuring Elisabeth (soprano), Robert Rice by Schumann, Nigel gramme includes works BRODSKY QUARTET: Leonskaja (piano), Zoe (bass) & Roger Judd Osborne & Britten, Fri by Tchaikovsky, Dvorak WHEEL OF 4TUNES Mon BARBER CONCERT HALL Beyers (violin), Eliza- (organ). Programme to 16 Nov, Barber Concert & Borodin, Thurs 22 26 Nov, Birmingham 024 7637 6707 beth Golding (violin), include Rautavaara On Hall, Birmingham Nov, Symphony Hall Town Hall BIRMINGHAM Catherine Bower (viola) The Last Frontier & MALVERN FESTIVAL CHO- Cafe Bar, Birmingham HEPPELWHITE PIANO TRIO CONSERVATOIRE Brahms' Ein Deutsches & David Powell (cello), RUS Programme COULL QUARTET Pro- WITH CHUEN AN CHERN 0121 331 5901/2 Fri 2 Nov, CBSO Cen- Requiem, Sat 10 Nov, includes works by Han- gramme includes works Programme to include BIRMINGHAM HIPPO- tre, Birmingham Symphony Hall, Birm- del & Bach, Sat 17 Nov, by Schubert, works by Haydn, DROME CBSO LEONSKAJA PLAYS ingham Malvern Theatre Shostakovich & Boulanger, Chopin, 0844 338 5000 GRIEG Sat 3 Nov, Sym- ANDREA BOCELLI Sat 10 THE CWMBACH MALE Beethoven, Thurs 22 Prokofiev, Brahms & phony Hall, Birming- Nov, LG Arena, Birm- CHOIR IN CONCERT Sat Nov, Warwick Arts Cen- Piazzolla, Tues 27 Nov, BARBER INSTITUTE, ham ingham 17 Nov, The Roses The- tre, Coventry Bridge House Theatre, BIRMINGHAM THE YORK WAITS WITH EX CATHEDRA CONSORT: atre, Tewksbury THE FIBONACCI QUARTET Warwick 0121 414 7333 LIKE UNTO MY SORROW DEBORAH CATTERALL WIND BAND & SAXO- Programme includes BENJAMIN BRITTEN BIRMINGHAM TOWN HALL (SINGER) Sat 10 Nov, The Orato- Tues 6 Nov, St PHONE ENSEMBLE Pro- works by Barber, CHRISTMAS CONCERT 0121 780 3333 Mary’s Church, War- ry, Birmingham gramme includes works Mozart & Poulenc, Tues 27 Nov, Warwick CBSO CENTRE, wick BIRMINGHAM SYMPHONIC by William Himes, Thurs 22 Nov, Malvern Arts Centre, Coventry BIRMINGHAM CBSO AUTUMN CON- WINDS 20TH ANNIVER- Edward Gregson, Eric Theatre JOHN IRELAND: A SEMI- 0121 780 3333 TRASTS Featuring SARY GALA CONCERT Sat Whitacre & Nigel Hess, MARC ANDRE HAMELIN CENTENARY TRIBUTE Andrew Manze (con- 10 Nov, CBSO Centre, Sat 17 Nov, Elgar Con- PIANO CONCERT Pro- Featuring Kenneth COVENTRY CATHEDRAL ductor) & Rainer Gib- Birmingham cert Hall, Bramall Music gramme includes works Hamilton on piano, 02476 521200 bons (oboe). Pro- DORRIDGE MUSIC Building, Birmingham by Bach, Faure, Ravel Tues 27 Nov, Elgar LICHFIELD GARRICK SCHOOL IN CONCERT gramme includes works ROYAL BALLET SINFONIA & Liszt, Fri 23 Nov, Concert Hall, Bramall 01543 412121 by Mozart', Vaughan Featuring more than CONCERT Sat 17 Nov, Malvern Theatres Music Building, Birm- ROYAL PUMP ROOMS, Williams & Schumann, three hundred musi- Birmingham Cathedral EARLY MUSIC ENSEMBLE ingham LEAMINGTON SPA Wed 7 Nov, Symphony cians performing an MOZART REQUIEM Fea- Fri 23 Nov, Birmingham CBSO BENEDETTI PLAYS 01926 410 410 Hall, Birmingham eclectic range of music, turing Sue Tyson Cathedral SZYMANOWSKI Featuring JEPHTHA Performed by from classical to rock, (soprano), Victoria CBSO PLAYERS Pro- Kazushi Ono (conduc- ST LAURENCE’S CHURCH, Welsh National Opera, Sun 11 Nov, Symphony Shone (contralto), gramme includes works tor). Programme to LUDLOW Wed 7 Nov, Birming- Hall, Birmingham Stephen Newlove by Haydn & Mozart, Fri include works by Dvo- 01584 872150 ham Hippodrome CARNABY STREET! A fes- (tenor), Quentin Brown 23 Nov, CBSO Centre, rak, Syzmanowski & STRATFORD CIVIC HALL THE LIGHTENING THIEVES tive programme of wind (bass) & Patrick Larley Birmingham Bartok, Wed 28 Nov, 01789 207100 LUNCHTIME CONCERT & brass featuring (conductor), Sat 17 CBSO WHAT THE WORLD Symphony Hall, Birm- SYMPHONY HALL, Thurs 8 Nov, Warwick Simon Hogg, Jordan Nov, St Laurence’s NEEDS NOW... The music ingham BIRMINGHAM Arts Centre, Coventry Wooler & Paul McGrath Church, Ludlow, South of Burt Bacharach fea- ROYAL PHILHARMONIC 0121 780 3333 CBSO ' CAR- (conductors), Mon 12 Shropshire turing Richard Bal- ORCHESTRA Featuring TOON CLASSICS Featur- Nov, Warwick Arts Cen- CBSO FAMILY CONCERT: combe (conductor), Rory Macdonald (con- VICTORIA HALL ing Michael Seal (con- tre, Coventry THE MAD HATTER'S TEA Graham Bickley, Sarah ductor), Natasha STOKE-ON-TRENT ductor) & Sue Perkins ORGAN CONCERT WITH PARTY Featuring Lark and Alison Jiear Paremski (piano) and 0844 871 7649 (presenter). Programme THOMAS TROTTER Pro- Michael Seal (conduc- (vocalists), Fri 23 Nov, Mike Allen (trumpet). WARWICK ARTS CENTRE to include works by gramme includes works tor) & Alisdair Malloy Symphony Hall, Birm- Programme to include 02476 524524 Tchaikovsky, Stravinsky, by Buxtenhude, Pierne, (presenter), Sun 18 ingham works by Vaughan Elgar, Liszt, Henry Lionel Rogg, Smith & Nov, Symphony Hall, MID-DAY MANTRA: Williams, Shostakovich, Mancini, Wagner, Rossi- Reger, Mon 12 Nov, Birmingham RAJESH DAVID Vocalist Delius & Sibelius, Wed ni, Danny Elfman, Birmingham Town Hall BIRMINGHAM UNIVERSITY Rajesh David performs 28 Nov, Warwick Arts

www.whatsonlive.co.uk 25 Comedy November_Layout 1 29/10/2012 13:58 Page 1 Comedy

Chris Ramsey Comedy Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, Wed 14 November; Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, Sun Box Office 25 November; Stafford Gatehouse Theatre, Sat 15 December ALEXANDRA THEATRE, BIRMINGHAM Fosters’ Edinburgh Comedy Awards nominee 0844 871 3011 Chris is a real rising star. As well as being a ARTRIX, BROMSGROVE highly rated stand-up on the UK comedy cir- 01527 577330 cuit, he's also fast developing an impressive BEDWORTH CIVIC HALL telly career, having recently appeared along- 02476 376707 side and Gina McKee in the north- BIRMINGHAM TOWN HALL 0121 780 3333 ern sitcom Hebburn. Gags include: "My venue COX’S YARD for the Edinburgh Festival is a portacabin, it's 01789 404600 literally a portacabin! I'm a Geordie, in a THE DRUM, BIRMINGHAM Portacabin. I was going to call the show Auf 0121 333 2444 Wiedersehen Pet Live", and "People some- DUDLEY CONCERT HALL times have trouble understanding my Geordie 01384 815 577 GLEE CLUB, BIRMINGHAM accent when I perform. 0871 4720400 I walked on stage once HIGHLIGHT, BIRMINGHAM, in Nottingham and 0844 844 0044 shouted 'Alreet?' The HUNTINGDON HALL, entire crowd just sat in WORCESTER, 01905 611427 shocked silence. I THE JAM HOUSE, swear I heard one BIRMINGHAM bloke say, 'I think he's 0121 200 3030 Swiss! That must have KITCHEN GARDEN CAFE, BIRMINGHAM been a yodel'.” 0121 443 4725 LG ARENA, BIRMINGHAM 0844 338 8000 Steve Hughes LUDLOW ASSEMBLY Artrix, Bromsgrove, Thurs 1 November; ROOMS The Public, West Bromwich, Sat 3 November; 01584 878141 The Slade Rooms, Wolverhampton, Sun 4 John Shuttleworth MAC, BIRMINGHAM November; The Glee Club, Birmingham, Sun Stafford Gatehouse Theatre, Sat 3 November; 0121 446 3232 25 November; Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, Birmingham Town Hall, Wed 21 November PALACE THEATRE, Sun 9 December REDDITCH Perhaps the most talented comedian ever to emerge from the fair 01527 65203 Boasting a reputation for hard-edged social steel city of Sheffield, John Shuttleworth is a raconteur par excel- THE PUBLIC, WEST commentary, not to mention a big beard, lence, an accomplished musician, and a man who long ago BROMWICH Aussie funnyman and ex-heavy metal drummer ascended like one of his own beloved pigeons into the upper eche- 0121 533 7161 REGENT THEATRE, STOKE- Steve Hughes stops off in the Midlands as part lons of the showbusiness world. This gig offers the perfect opportu- ON-TRENT of a UK-wide tour. Steve's built up a loyal UK nity for Midlands-based lovers of light comedy and understated but 0844 871 7649 following thanks to up-to-the-minute fashions to enjoy an evening in the company of Mr RICOH ARENA, COVENTRY storming sets on Shuttleworth, care of his creator Graham Fellows, a one-time chart- 0844 873 6565 Michael McIntyre’s buster with the unforgettable hit Jilted John. THE ROSE THEATRE, KIDDERMINSTER Comedy Roadshow 01562 743745 (BBC1), Stand Up For ROYAL SPA CENTRE, The Week () Kevin Bridges LEAMINGTON SPA and One Night Stand Birmingham Hippodrome, Sun 11 November; Victoria Hall, Stoke-on- 01926 334418 Trent, Mon 12 November; Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, Fri 23 STAFFORD GATEHOUSE (Dave), and promises to November; Civic Hall, Wolverhampton, Sat 24 November THEATRE offer a thought-provok- 01785 254653 Kevin Bridges was launched into the ing and decidedly SOLIHULL ARTS COMPLEX amusing night out. comedy stratosphere at the still-tender 0121 704 6962 age of eighteen, when he reached THE SLADE ROOMS, the finals of the So You Think You're WOLVERHAMPTON Rob Rouse Funny? talent contest at the 2005 0870 320 7000 Edinburgh Fringe. Since then, the SYMPHONY HALL, Artrix, Bromsgrove, Tues 13 November; BIRMINGHAM Stafford Gatehouse Theatre, Fri 16 November; Scotish-born stand-up has been 0121 780 3333 Huntingdon Hall, Worcester, Fri 30 November making comedy look like the easi- TAMWORTH ASSEMBLY est gig in the world, engaging his ROOMS Boasting a plethora of TV credits, including 01827 709618 audience with a laid-back style of ITV's Celebrity Juice and Dave's One Night THEATRE SEVERN, delivery and bags and bags of Stand, Rob's hyperactive SHREWSBURY high-quality wit. Jokes include, 01743 281281 brand of humour is “Americans go up to Edinburgh VICTORIA HALL, HANLEY, much in demand, a fact Castle and think it’s a high STOKE-ON-TRENT that's evidenced by his 0844 871 7649 school - every lunchtime success in winning the WARWICK ARTS CENTRE they hear gunfire.” 02476 524524 annual So You Think WEST BROMWICH TOWN You’re Funny? award, an HALL accolade also picked up 0121 596 4429 by equally high-profile WULFRUN HALL, purveyors-of-mirth Dylan WOLVERHAMPTON 0870 320 7000 Moran and Lee Mack.

26 www.whatsonlive.co.uk Comedy November_Layout 1 29/10/2012 13:58 Page 2

ING SHAZIA MIRZA AND MERCEDES BENSON & MC Comedy LISTINGS MAUREEN YOUNGER Wed 14 Nov, Kitchen Garden For full listing information on comedy Cafe, Kings Heath, Birmingham gigs including times and dates visit ARTHUR SMITH EXPOSED! www.whatsonlive.co.uk Wed 14 Nov, The Glee Club, Birmingham STEVE HUGHES Thurs 1 THE LAUGHING SOLE JETHRO Thurs 15 Nov, Nov, Artrix, Bromsgrove FEATURING THE NOISE New Alexandra Theatre, TIM KEY - MASTERSLUT NEXT DOOR Wed 7 Nov, Birmingham Thurs 1 Nov, mac, The Public, West ANDY ASKINS, MARTIN Birmingham Bromwich MOR & IAN COPPINGER KUM N AVALOFF COMEDY DAVE FULTON, JOHN Thurs 15 Nov, The Glee NIGHT Thurs 1 Nov, GAVIN, OWEN O’NEILL & Club, Birmingham Stourbridge Town Hall DOMINIC FRISBY Thurs 8 PAUL CHOWDRY Thurs FRISKY & MANNISH - Sat 10 Nov, The Glee 15 Nov, The Place, Thurs 1 Nov, Wulfrun Club, Birmingham Oakengates Theatre, Hall, Wolverhampton AN EVENING WITH JULIAN Telford PATRICK MONAHAN Thurs CLARY Fri 9 Nov, IAN D MONTFORT & IVAN 1 Nov, Hare & Hounds, Stafford Gatehouse BRACKENBURY Thurs 15 Birmingham Theatre Nov, Hare & Hounds, PETE JOHANSSON, DAN PAUL CHOWDRY Fri 9 Birmingham NIGHTINGALE, JOE ROWN- Nov, New Alexandra DANIEL SLOSS AND KAI TREE & THE NOISE NEXT Theatre, Birmingham HUMPHRIES Thurs 15 DOOR Thurs 1 - Sat 3 PAUL FOOT Fri 9 Nov, Nov, The Glee Club, Nov, The Glee Club, The Glee Club, Birmingham Birmingham Birmingham STEWART FRANCIS Thurs MARTIN MOR, TREVOR MIKE WILKINSON, RON 15 Nov, Malvern CROOK, TOPPING & VAUDRY, JOJO Theatres BUTCH, TOBY HADOKE Fri SUTHERLAND & WAYNE ANDY ASKINS, MARTIN 2 Nov, Highlight DEAKIN & JONNIE PRICE MOR, IAN COPPINGER & Comedy Club, Fri 9 Nov, Highlight JAMES MULLINGER Fri 16 Birmingham Comedy Club, & Sat 17 Nov, The Glee UPFRONT COMEDY PRES- Birmingham Club, Birmingham ENTS BLACK HISTORY WITTANK Stars of PAUL FOOT Fri 16 Nov, MONTH COMEDY SPECIAL BBC3's Live at The The Slade Rooms, Feat. Slim, Dane Electric bring their lav- Wolverhampton Baptiste & Maureen ish parade of inventive ROB ROUSE Fri 16 Nov, Younger, Fri 2 Nov, The characters and sketch Stafford Gatehouse Drum, Birmingham magnificence to the Theatre Craig Murray - Worcestershire County Cricket Club KILL FOR A SEAT COMEDY stage, Fri 9 Nov, PHIL BUTLER, BRENDAN CLUB Featuring Elis Theatre Severn, DEMPSEY, DALISO Telford BOYZ, SEAN COLLINS Fri Oakengates Theatre, James and David Trent, Shrewsbury CHAPONDA & DANNY ANDY ROBINSON, MICK 23 - Sat 24 Nov, Telford Fri 2 Nov, mac, JONATHAN MAYER, TOM MCLAUGHLIN Fri 16 - Sat FERRY, JOE LYCETT & Jongleurs Comedy ALUN COCHRANE Thurs Birmingham WRIGGLEWORTH, GOR- 17 Nov, Highlight DAVID HADINGHAM Fri 23 Club, Birmingham 29 Nov, The Glee Club, PATRICK MONAHAN, JOE DON SOUTHERN & RUDI Comedy Club, Nov, The Glee Club, GAVIN WEBSTER, MARK Birmingham BOR, SMUG ROBERTS & LICKWOOD Fri 9 - Sat 10 Birmingham Birmingham MAIER, RAY BRADSHAW & NEIL DELAMERE, KELLY WILL-E-ROBO Fri 2 - Sat Nov, Jongleurs ALAN DAVIES: LIFE IS KEVIN BRIDGES: THE RON VAUDRY Sat 24 KINGHAM & ROGER 3 Nov, Jongleurs Comedy Club, PAIN Fri 16 - Sat 17 STORY CONTINUES Fri 23 Nov, Highlight Comedy MONKHOUSE Thurs 29 - Comedy Club, Birmingham Nov, Warwick Arts Nov, Warwick Arts Club, Birmingham Fri 30 Nov, The Glee Birmingham KEN DODD Sat 10 Nov, Centre, Coventry Centre, Coventry KEVIN BRIDGES Sat 24 Club, Birmingham JOHN SHUTTLEWORTH Crewe Lyceum SEAN PERCIVAL, MIKE STAND-UP COMEDY Nov, Civic Hall, KANE BROWN, JOHN Sat 3 Nov, Stafford JOJO SUTHERLAND, DAVE NEWALL, NATHAN CATON SHOWCASE Fri 23 Nov, Wolverhampton RYAN & KOJO Thurs 29 - Gatehouse Theatre TWENTYMAN, WAYNE & PHIL WALKER Fri 16 - mac, Birmingham CHRIS RAMSEY Sun 25 Fri 30 Nov, Jongleurs MARTIN MOR, MATTHEW DEAKIN & ANDREW RYAN Sat 17 Nov, Jongleurs GREG DAVIES Fri 23 Nov, Nov, Warwick Arts Comedy Club, OSBORN, TOPPING & Sat 10 Nov, Highlight Comedy Club, New Alexandra Theatre, Centre, Coventry Birmingham BUTCH & TOBY HADOKE Comedy Club, Birmingham Birmingham JEREMY HARDY Sun 25 ROB ROUSE Fri 30 Nov, Sat 3 Nov, Highlight Birmingham Sat 17 Nov, PAPPYS Fri 23 Nov, The Nov, The Place, Huntingdon Hall, Comedy Club, JIMMY TARBUCK Sat 10 Birmingham Glee Club, Birmingham Oakengates Theatre, Worcester Birmingham Nov, Stafford Hippodrome GAVIN WEBSTER, Telford JIMMY CARR Fri 30 Nov, STEVE HUGHES Sat 3 Gatehouse Theatre BARNSTORMERS COMEDY ANDREW BIRD, RAY PAUL FOOT Sun 25 Nov, Warwick Arts Centre, Nov, The Public, West PAPPY'S Sat 10 Nov, Sat 17 Nov, Solihull Arts BRADSHAW & PAUL Stafford Gatehouse Coventry Bromwich Artrix, Bromsgrove Complex MYREHAUG Fri 23 Nov, Theatre Fri 30 Nov, STEVE HUGHES Sun 4 ALUN COCHRANE Sat 10 THE LICHFIELD GARRICK Highlight Comedy Club, STEVE HUGHES Sun 25 Stourbridge Town Hall Nov, The Slade Rooms, Nov, Wem Town Hall, COMEDY CLUB Sat 17 Birmingham Nov, The Glee Club, PAUL KERENSA, CRAIG Wolverhampton North Shropshire Nov, Lichfield Garrick BARNSTORMERS COMEDY Birmingham MURRAY, RO CAMPBELL & DAN CLARK: LIVE Sun 4 STEWART FRANCIS Sat THE BOY WITH TAPE ON NIGHT Line-up tbc Fri 23 GREG DAVIES Sun 25 MC TONY VINO Fri 30 Nov, The Glee Club, 10 Nov, Warwick Arts HIS FACE Sun 18 Nov, Nov, Belgrade Theatre, Nov, Theatre Severn, Nov, Worcestershire Birmingham Centre, Coventry Lichfield Garrick Coventry Shrewsbury County Cricket Club MAGNIFICENT 7 PAPPY'S Sun 11 Nov, ANDI OSHO Sun 18 Nov, KAREN BAYLEY, CHRIS MARCUS BRIGSTOCKE FEATURING RICHARD Warwick Arts Centre, The Glee Club, MCCAUSALD, GEOFF Wed 28 Nov, The Place, BLACKWOOD, GLENDA Coventry Birmingham JAXSON, SLIM, MR CEE, KEVIN BRIDGES Sun 11 LEE NELSON Sun 18 QUINCY, WAYNE 'DIBBI' Nov, Birmingham Nov, Warwick Arts ROLLINS AND HOST Hippodrome Centre, Coventry KENNEDY Sun 4 Nov, ALEXEI SAYLE Sun 11 JETHRO Mon 19 Nov, New Alexandra Theatre, Nov, The Glee Club, The Place, Oakengates Birmingham Birmingham Theatre, Telford DARA O'BRIAIN Sun 4 MARK WATSON Sun 11 ROBIN INCE Wed 21 Nov, Nov, Birmingham Nov, Theatre Severn, The Glee Club, Birmingham Hippodrome Shrewsbury Doors open 7pm PAUL FOOT Sun 4 Nov, LEE NELSON Mon 12 JOHN SHUTTLEWORTH Hot Walk-up buffet available until 8pm Wed 21 Nov, Comedy Acts on at 8.30pm Warwick Arts Centre, Nov, New Alexandra Candle Lit Tables Coventry Theatre, Birmingham Birmingham Town Hall ANDY ROBINSON, MICK Tickets in advance £12 PAUL CHOWDRY Sun 4 KEVIN BRIDGES Mon 12 WCCC Members £10 Nov, Warwick Arts Nov, Victoria Hall, FERRY, JOE LYCETT & Mc-Tony Vino Pre-Ordered Food £8 Centre, Coventry Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent SALLY ANN HAYWARD call 01905 337933 for tickets or email [email protected] for more infomation RHOD GILBERT - THE MAN ROB ROUSE Tue 13 Nov, Thurs 22 Nov, The Glee Club, Birmingham Over 18’s Advised. Acts are not guaranteed. WITH THE FLAMING Artrix, Bromsgrove Tickets are non-refundable BATTENBURG TATTOO CHRIS RAMSEY Wed 14 FASCINATING AIDA: THE TOUR Tue 6 - Wed 7 Nov, Theatre Severn, CHEAP FLIGHTS TOUR Paul Craig Ro Nov, Warwick Arts Shrewsbury Thurs 22 Nov, Warwick Kerens Murray Campbell Centre, Coventry BOBBY DAVRO - FACE Arts Centre, Coventry “attitude, style and “An instant crowd pleaser “Hugely entertaining DAVID O'DOHERTY Wed 7 HOPPER TOUR Wed 14 LENNY HENRY: POP LIFE diamond-sharp wit” with a charismatic mock- and funny as hell” confrontational style” Nov, The Glee Club, Nov, Lichfield Garrick Thurs 22 Nov, The Birmingham LAUGHING COWS FEATUR- Place, Oakengates, www.whatsonlive.co.uk 27 TheatreNovember_Layout129/10/201216:28Page1 Theatre November_Layout 1 29/10/2012 17:32 Page 2 Theatre

WIN TICKETS whatsonlive.co.uk 9 To 5: The Musical to enter Regent Theatre, Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent, Mon 19 - Sat 24 November; New Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham, Sun 16 December - Sat 5 January "I'm so excited that 9 To 5 the Musical is coming to the Midlands," their sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot of a boss. The show says Dolly Parton, looking ahead to the stage version of the hit movie features eighteen original Dolly Parton numbers, including, from her and TV series from the early 1980s. "I'm hoping you have as much last two albums, Backwoods Barbie, Shine Like The Sun, Get Out fun watching it as I had writing the music for it. 9 To 5 the Musical is And Stay Out and Let Love Grow. perfect for anyone who's ever wanted to string up their boss, which is 9 To 5 stars Natalie Casey as Judy Bernly, Jackie Clune as Violet almost all of us. So come join the fun!" Newstead, Bonnie Langford as Roz Keith, Amy Lennox as Doralee As with the movie and the spin-off TV series, the stage version cen- Rhodes and Ben Richards as Franklin Hart. Read our interview with tres around the story of three office workers who turn the tables on Ben on page 6 The Ladykillers Malvern Theatre, Mon 26 November - Sat 1 December; Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton, Mon 28 January - Sat 2 February This classic black comedy may be best known as a 1950s Ealing film, but its stage adaptation has nonetheless garnered plenty of praise too, enjoying a sell-out season in the London West End. For those unfamiliar with the legendary Alec Guinness film, it tells the story of a sweet little old lady, alone in her house, who finds herself pitted against a gang of criminal misfits intent on pulling off a brilliantly con- ceived heist. The Play What I Wrote director Sean Foley is the man at the helm, while Clive Mantle, Chris McCalphy, William Troughton, Shaun Williamson and Michelle Dotrice star. WIN TICKETS whatsonlive.co.uk to enter Grease The Musical The Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton, Mon 26 November - Sat 1 December Dust off your leather jackets, pull on your bobby-socks and get ready for the most fun-filled, high-octane rock’n’roll party of them all. Grease is the original High School musical, featuring all the unforgettable songs from the hit movie, including You’re The One That I Want, Grease Is The Word, Summer Nights, Hopelessly Devoted To You, Sandy, Greased Lightnin’ and many more. Danny Bayne, winner of ITV’s Grease Is The Word, stars as Danny alongside Carina Gillespie as Sandy.

www.whatsonlive.co.uk 29 TheatreNovember_Layout129/10/201216:29Page3 TheatreNovember_Layout129/10/201216:29Page4

Theatre PREVIEWS Wounded TA Centre, Kings Heath, Birmingham, until Sat 10 November This site-specific new ghost story is being presented at the TA Field Hospital in Birm- ingham by the Birmingham Repertory The- atre and the Wellcome Trust. Set in two time zones a near-century apart, it tells the story of wounded World War One soldier Alfred Seddon, and the curious impact which he begins to have on Kate Mulligan, a Combat Medical Technician being treated in the self- same hospital, but ninety-four years later...

American Idiot New Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham, Mon 26 November - Sat 1 December Featuring the music of Green Day, American Idiot stops off in the Midlands direct from Broad- way, and tells the story of three lifelong friends who are forced to choose between their Medea dreams and the safety of suburbia in a post-9/11 world. Charles Isherwood of The New York Times described the show as ‘thrilling, emotionally charged, and as moving as any Broadway Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, musical I’ve seen this year’, which pretty much means the show comes highly recommended! Tues 13 - Sat 17 November This modern version of Euripides’ classic tragedy is here presented by Headlong, and Me, Mum And Dusty Twelfth Night explores the inner turmil of a woman strug- Belgrade Theatre, Coventry, gling to come to terms with her husband’s Springfield Thurs 8 - Sat 10 November infidelity, the challenges of motherhood and Old Joint Stock Theatre, Birmingham, As with many Shakespearean comedies, the effects of sleep deprivation. Trapped in Thurs 1 - Fri 2 November; Artrix, Broms- Twelfth Night is based on mistaken identity, her marital home with a seemingly hopeless grove, Sat 3 November with Viola disguising herself as a boy and future stretching out ahead of her, she A comedy which focuses on the bond causing all sorts of awkward romantic begins to contemplate revenge, and may between mothers and daughters, Me, Mum shenanigans. The wooing of the beautiful even be driven to commit the most unimag- And Dusty Springfield also reflects on the Lady Olivia by Duke Orsino is soon thrown inable of crimes... fact that some people are perhaps not quite off the rails. The play is made by the sub- what they seem, and con- plot, in which the merciless Sir Toby Belch templates the ways in and his foolish companion Sir Andrew which ‘we cope with loss Aguecheek seek to humiliate the pompous when it’s just too late’. Malvolio, and achieve their aim with more Written and performed by than a little style... This acclaimed production Stephanie Ridings, it’s a is here brought to the stage by all-male the- short one-woman show atre company, Propeller. that’s received great reviews and comes com- plete with a lovely twist. Kabaddi, Kabaddi, Kabaddi Arena Theatre, Wolverhampton, Mon 19 November; The Public, West Bromwich, Wed 21 November 42nd Street This powerful drama shifts from the red dust Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton, of the Punjab to the Olympic stadiums of until Sat 3 November Europe, exploring the Indian sport of Kabad- di and its place on the world stage. The play This classic musical made a real splash is described by its producers as a drama when it first landed in 1980, picking up a 'about sport, nationality and belonging, with Tony Award for being the best new show on a haunting love story at its heart'. the block. It's based on the 1933 movie of the same name, which in turn was based on The Edge the novel by Bradford Ropes, and tells the mac, Birmingham, Tues 6 - Fri 9 November inspiring story of small town Peggy Sawyer's Following an incident in the street with an rise from chorine to Broadway star. Songs elderly drunkard, a young man named Ron include Lullaby Of Broadway, We're In The finds his life unexpectedly compromised, as Money, Keep Young And Beautiful, I Only his living room becomes a battleground Have Eyes For You, and, of course, the spec- between the old and the new, the past, the tacular title number itself. West End veterans present and the future. This dark, compelling Dave Willetts and the ever-wonderful Marti comedy comes from the pen of Edward Webb ensure that this latest touring version Bond, a man considered by many to be the of the hit show is in the very safest of hands. UK's greatest living playwright.

www.whatsonlive.co.uk 31 TheatreNovember_Layout129/10/201216:29Page5

32 www.whatsonlive.co.uk TheatreNovember_Layout129/10/201216:29Page6

Theatre PREVIEWS L.O.V.E Arena Theatre, Wolverhampton, Tues 13 - Wed 14 November Described as 'an immoderate Shakespeare- an ménage à trois, with a touch of Shirley Bassey', Volcano Theatre's violently passion- ate classic features three lovers as they wrestle breathlessly with some of the great- est poems in the English language.

Karl Howman who appears in The Mousetrap The Mousetrap Malvern Theatre, Mon 19 - Sat 24 November; New Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham, Misery Mon 4 - Sat 9 February; Regent Theatre, Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent, Mon 18 - Sat 23 February Not only has everyone heard of The Mousetrap, everyone's seen it too - haven't they? Okay, Stafford Gatehouse Theatre, Thurs 15 November; Arena Theatre, Wolverhampton, maybe not, but as the show is this year celebrating its sixtieth year in the West End, it's fair to Fri 12 November say its capacity to put bums on seats is absolutely beyond question. The world's longest run- ning show, the famous play has been performed almost twenty-five thousand This two-hander is best known, of course, times, and turns up in the Midlands on its first ever tour. This particular production features from its 1990 film incarnation starring Kathy Bruno Langley, Karl Howman, Thomas Howes, Graham Seed, Steve France, Jemma Walker Bates and James Caan. Adpated from the and Jan Walters. story by Stephen King, it focuses on the hor- rific fate that befalls romance novelist Paul Sheldon when, after crashing his car on a era’s most famous non-Shakespeare plays. snow-covered road, he finds himself strand- Circus Of Horrors: Curse Of Presenting a world of magic, mischief and ed in an isolated farmhouse, cut off from The Devil Doll the macabre, the work everyone except his rescuer - a woman who tells the cautionary tale claims to be his 'number one fan'... Belgrade Theatre, Coventry, Wed 14 of the brilliant Dr Faus- November; Civic Hall, Wolverhampton, Fri 25 January tus, whose insatiable desire for knowledge An off-kilter affair that bears more resem- and unlimited power blance to a freak show than any modern def- spurs him on to make a inition of a circus, is a pact with the devil; a side-step into a world beyond both political pact from which, correctness and good taste. It brings togeth- inevitably, no good can er all the more extreme acts associated with possibly come... circus and takes them to the edge of reason. This latest production is described by its publicity The Haunting as ‘a whirlwind journey Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, though 1927 Berlin, Mon 5 - Sat 10 November between world wars in the roaring twenties, a One of Charles Dickens’ lesser known works, decadent decade and The Haunting tells the story of David Filde, a Some Like It Hip Hop the birth of the Cabaret’. young book dealer who’s employed by a Should be good. family friend to catalogue a rare and anti- Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton, quated collection of books in a crumbling Tues 20 - Wed 21 November moorlands mansion. But when he finds his ZooNation’s comical tale of love, mistaken work interrupted by a series of strange and identity, cross-dressing, gender stereotypes Boris Godunov mysterious events, David realises he must and revolution tugs its forelock in the direc- The Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, convince his sceptical employer to accompa- Thurs 15 November - Sat 30 March tion of both Billy Wilder's classic movie Some ny him on a journey towards the very edge Like It Hot and Shakespeare's ever-popular Alexander Pushkin's drama tells the story of of terror... comedy, Twelfth Night. the lead character's rise to power in late-six- teenth century Russia. Although he takes the throne with an air of humility following the death of the great Tsar Ivan the Terrible, Boris Godunov is nonetheless the subject of great rumour and speculation, with many believing that he has secretly murdered the rightful heir... Dr. Faustus The Roses, Tewksbury, Wed 14 November Christopher Marlowe's sixteenth century exploration of debauchery, intrigue, obses- sion and fascination is one of the Elizabethan

www.whatsonlive.co.uk 33 TheatreNovember_Layout129/10/201216:29Page7

Thursday 1st November, 7.30pm STARS IN YOUR EYES Barbra Streisand, Michael Buble, Tina Turner and Rod Stewart A fantastic 2 hour show playing homage to some of the worlds biggest musical stars.

Friday 2nd November, 7.30pm TODAYS TEARDROPS Paul Joplins and his musicians A fantastic tribute to Roy Orbison & Gene Pitney

Saturday 3rd November, 7.30pm ELO EXPERIENCE A group of talented musicians are currently touring UK theatres bringing the most popular songs back the the stage.

Sunday 11th November, 7.30pm REMEMBER THE HEROES Featuring Andy Reiss, Steve Ashcroft & Martin Lewis with a full supporting cast and surprise guests

Thursday 22nd November, 7.30pm RAYMND FROGGATT An evening with Raymond Froggatt is pure magic, an evening not to be missed.

Friday 23rd November, 7.30pm THE DRIFTERS The Drifters are back on the road in the UK performing both the classic hits from the last six decades and their superb new material.

MON 24 - MON 31 KEITH DE’WINTER KATIE MCGLYNN DECEMBER AS DAME DOLLY AS FAIRY CUPCAKE

34 www.whatsonlive.co.uk TheatreNovember_Layout129/10/201216:29Page8

Theatre LISTINGS Soul Sister - Belgrade Theatre, Coventry For full listing information on theatre productions including times and dates visit www.whatsonlive.co.uk

Tina Turner, until Sat 3 Week Commencing Nov, Belgrade Theatre, Coventry THUR 1 NOV DRACULA Blue Orange Arts present their ver- RING Fuel present a sion of the Bram Stoker sound journey in com- classic, until Sat 3 Nov, plete darkness that The Blue Orange The- forms part of a brand atre, Birmingham new commissioning DISNEY ON ICE: PASS- and artist development PORT TO ADVENTURE programme at Warwick Join Mickey and Minnie Arts, until Thurs 1 Nov, as they embark on a Warwick Arts Centre, magical journey that Coventry will see the popular duo ABSURD PERSON SINGU- - together with many of LAR Alan Ayckbourn's their Disney friends - award-winning 70s visit an array of exciting classic, until Sat 3 Nov, destinations, until Sun 4 New Vic Theatre, New- Nov, National Indoor castle-under-Lyme Arena, Birmingham BLOOD BROTHERS Willy THE DARK AT THE TOP OF Russell's musical set in THE STAIRS until Sat 10 his native Liverpool. Nov, Belgrade Theatre, Marti Pellow and Niki Coventry WOUNDED Site-specific Evans star, until Sat 3 low Assembly Rooms, shares behind-the- play, Fri 2 - Sat 3 Nov, GRIMM TALES The Uni- Nov, Birmingham Hip- new play that promises to provide audiences South Shropshire scenes stories and Malvern Priory versity of Wolverhamp- podrome JONTY HEARNDEN - takes questions from DON GIOVANNI Mid ton Drama department HAUNTING JULIA Duncan with an authentic expe- rience of war time care WHAT'S IN YOUR ATTIC? the audience, Fri 2 Nov, Wales Opera present present Carol Ann Preston, Richard Join Jonty as he shares Lichfield Garrick Mozart’s tragic tale of Duffy's adaptation of O’Callaghan and Joe and history, until Sat 10 Nov, TA Centre, Kings behind-the-scenes 2 DEEP Physical comic love, lust, betrayal and four of the Brothers McFadden star in Alan secrets and stories, theatre from Rannel revenge, Fri 2 - Sat 3 Grimm’s most famous Ayckbourn’s haunting Heath, Birmingham THE MERRY WIVES OF Thurs 1 Nov, Lichfield Theatre Company, Fri 2 Nov, Ludlow Assembly tales, including Hansel study of grief, obses- Garrick Nov, The Roses, Tewks- Rooms, South Shrop- & Gretel, Ashputtel, sion and the supernatu- WINDSOR Anita Dobson makes her RSC debut THE GOOD PERSON OF bury shire Rumpelstiltskin and ral, until Sat 3 Nov, SEZUAN A new version PIFF THE MAGIC DRAGON ME, MUM & DUSTY Snow White, Sat 3 Nov, Malvern Theatres in Phillip Breen's ver- sion of Shakespeare's of Brecht’s classic com- Unique magic show, Fri SPRINGFIELD New, one- Birmingham Library SURPRISES World pre- edy which sets the 2 Nov, Stafford Gate- woman black comedy Theatre miere production of great comedy, until Sat 12 Jan, Royal Shake- story in 1980s Jamaica house Theatre reflecting upon the THE HAIRY BIKERS Every- Alan Ayckbourn's latest - a time of political vio- POP ICONS 2012 Per- bond which binds one's favourite culinary comedy drama, a play speare Theatre, Strat- ford-upon-Avon lence and gang war- formance from some of mothers and daughters, experts present an with its head in the fare, Thurs 1 - 2 Nov, Worcestershire's most Sat 3 Nov, Artrix, evening of world- future and its heart in THE ORPHAN OF ZAO The RSC present James The Drum, Birmingham talented young vocal- Bromsgrove inspired cooking, sto- the past, until Sat 3 THE ENORMOUS TURNIP ists, Fri 2 Nov, Artrix, EMBRACED BURLESQUE ries and hearty laughs, Nov, New Vic Theatre, Fenton’s adaptation of the first Chinese play to Stuff and Nonsense Bromsgrove Sat 3 Nov, Newhamp- Sun 4 Nov, Civic Hall, Newcastle-under-Lyme Theatre Company fuse INSPECTOR NORSE Lip ton Arts Centre, Wolver- Wolverhampton TREASURE ISLAND Ama- be translated for the West, until Thurs 28 eccentric puppetry and Service present a hampton teur production pre- live music to present Swedish self-assembly A KICK IN THE BAUBLES sented by The Derek March, Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon their version of the crime thriller featuring a MIG present an ama- Week Commencing Grant Organisation, world-famous children’s drunken moose..., Fri 2 teur prouduction of until Sat 3 Nov, Lichfield THE HAIRY BIKERS Every- MON 5 NOV one's favourite culinary story, Thurs 1 - Fri 2 Nov, Arena Theatre, Gordon Steel's festive Garrick Nov, Warwick Arts Cen- Bromsgrove play, Sat 3 Nov, Stafford YOU'RE ONLY YOUNG experts The Hairy Bik- ers present an evening tre, Coventry ROMEO AND JULIET Gatehouse Theatre DRIVING MISS DAISY TWICE Ian Dickens Pro- ME, MUM & DUSTY REVISITED Physical pro- MISS SAIGON The Musi- ductions present Ron of world-inspired cook- Timeless American play ing, stories and hearty SPRINGFIELD New, one- duction which follows cal Theatre Production which inspired the Aldridge's touching woman black comedy the lovers’ journey with Company present an comedy. Melvyn Hayes laughs, Wed 1 Nov, Academy Award-win- Royal Spa Centre, which reflects upon the live music, singing, amateur production of ning film. Gwen Taylor (It Aint Half Hot Mum) bond which binds dagger juggling and Claude-Michel Schön- stars, until Sat 3 Nov, Leamington Spa and Don Warrington RING Fuel present a mothers and daughters, sword fighting, Fri 2 berg and Alain Boublil’s star, Mon 5 - Sat 10 Crewe Lyceum Thurs 1 - Fri 2 Nov, Old Nov, Netherton Arts much-heralded musi- A NIGHT IN VENICE Tin- sound journey in com- Nov, Malvern Theatres plete darkness that Joint Stock Theatre, Centre, Dudley cal, based on Puccini’s THE HAUNTING A spook- kers Farm present a Birmingham PINOCCHIO Image Musi- Madame Butterfly, Sat 3 new production that, forms part of a brand tacular play adapted new commissioning THE CANTERBURY TALES cal Theatre present a Nov, The Place, Oaken- from the ghost stories set in modern-day Italy, Tacit Theatre present production with won- gates Theatre, Telford satirises the Berlusconi and artist development by Charles Dickens. programme at Warwick Geoffrey Chaucer's derful songs, great cos- UNCLE BERT’S COW Ama- David Robb (Downton regime and includes bawdy epic, Thurs 1 - tumes and the opportu- teur production for chil- clandestine relation- Arts, Wed 1 Nov, War- Abbey) and James wick Arts Centre, Sat 3 Nov, Lichfield nity for audience partic- dren, Sat 3 Nov, The Roache star, Mon 5 - ships, mistaken identi- Garrick ipation, Fri 2 Nov, Soli- Swan Theatre, Worces- ties, seduction and Coventry Sat 10 Nov, Theatre NT LIVE: TIMON OF CALENDAR GIRLS Ama- hull Arts Complex ter Severn, Shrewsbury scandal, until Sat 3 teur production pre- THE HAIRY BIKERS Every- A NIGHT OF MUSICALS Nov, Crescent Theatre, ATHENS Part of the THE MEE CLUB A feelgo- National Theatre Live sented by Abbey Fore- one's favourite culinary Featuring music from od cabaret of perform- Birmingham gate (SURC) Drama experts present an more than twenty musi- BOUNCERS John God- season, featuring the ance poets, storytellers, best of British theatre Group, Thurs 1 - Sat 3 evening of world- cals. Michael Courtney authors and stand-ups ber's classic comedy. Nov, Theatre Severn, inspired cooking, sto- stars, Sat 3 Nov, Soli- Ian Reddington, Ace broadcast live, Thurs 1 with live music to fol- Nov, Warwick Arts Cen- Shrewsbury ries and hearty laughs, hull Arts Complex low, Tues 6 Nov, Bhatti, Don Gilet and VULGARITIES Total Arts Fri 2 - Sat 3 Nov, DIRTY DANCING TRIBUTE William Ilkley star, until tre, Coventry & Malvern Kitchen Garden Cafe, Theatre Community Theatre Malvern Theatres SHOW Featuring all the Kings Heath, Birming- Sat 3 Nov, Regent The- presents a humourous FLYING HIGH Worcester hits from the iconic atre, Stoke-on-Trent AN EVENING WITH BOYCIE ham Only Fools And Horses show packed with dou- Musical Theatre Com- movie, Sat 3 Nov, Bed- THE COMING STORM 42ND STREET Tony ble meanings, Thurs 1 - pany present a fusion worth Civic Hall award-winning musical. star John Challis talks Forced Entertainment about his career, Thurs Sat 3 Nov, Tamworth of comedy, dance and MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTH- present what’s Dave Willetts, Marti Arts Centre song, Fri 2 - Sat 10 ING The Crescent The- Webb and Mark Bram- 1 Nov, Solihull Arts described as an exhiler- Complex LAWRIE MCMENEMY - ON Nov, The Swan Theatre, atre Company present ating new show which ble star, until Sat 3 Nov, THE BALL During an Worcester their version of Shake- The Grand Theatre, SCARECROW atjc The- fuses the theatre atre Company present evening hosted by BBC MACBETH Worcester speare's romantic com- group’s trademark Wolverhampton Radio's Mike Osman, Repertory Company edy, Sat 3 - Sat 17 Nov, SOUL SISTER Brand new Mike Kenny’s black humour and acclaimed children’s ex-football manager present their version of Crescent Theatre, Birm- anarchic performance musical inspired by the Lawrie McMenemy Shakespeare’s bloody ingham life and times of Ike and play, Thurs 1 Nov, Lud- style, Tues 6 - Wed 7

www.whatsonlive.co.uk 35 TheatreNovember_Layout129/10/201216:29Page9

36 www.whatsonlive.co.uk TheatreNovember_Layout129/10/201216:29Page10

turing all the songs from the much-loved Theatre LISTINGS iconic movie, Thurs 8 Nov, The Place, Oaken- For full listing information on theatre gates Theatre, Telford productions, including times and THE FITZROVIA RADIO dates, visit www.whatsonlive.co.uk HOUR Acclaimed pro- duction that recreates the unique spirit of the Nov, Warwick Arts Cen- one's favourite culinary radio plays of the tre, Coventry experts present an 1940s, Thurs 8 Nov, THE GOVERNMENT evening of world- Royal Spa Centre, INSPECTOR Northern inspired cooking, sto- Leamington Spa Broadsides present a ries and hearty laughs, THREADBARE GREEBO 2 new version of Nikolai Wed 7 Nov, Victoria Headed Pigeon Pro- Gogol's celebrated Hall, Hanley, Stoke-on- ductions present a sur- comedy, Tue 6 - Sat 10 Trent real tale concerning a Nov, New Vic Theatre, NICK BAKER: WEIRD boy made out of cloth, Newcatle-under-Lyme CREATURES A new show mad scientists and talk- MOTHER COURAGE AND packed with stories ing tapeworms, Thurs 8 HER CHILDREN Black- about discovering, Nov, Arena Theatre, eyed Theatre present meeting and filming an Wolverhampton Lee Hall's translation of array of weird and won- THE POMEDY SHOW An Bertolt Brecht's twenti- derful creatures, Wed 7 electric mix of eth century master- Nov, The Place, Oaken- Jamaican comedy and piece, Tue 6 Nov, gates Theatre, Telford poetry celebrating Malvern Theatres JEPHTHA Performed by laughter, love and THAT’LL BE THE DAY Welsh National Opera, learning for the entire Rock’n’roll spectacular Wed 7 Nov, Birming- family and community, featuring music from ham Hippodrome Fri 9 Nov, Arena The- the 50s, 60s & 70s, OH, WHISTLE... OH, WHIS- atre, Wolverhampton Tues 6 - Wed 7 Nov, TLE, AND I'LL COME TO NEIL INNES: SHORT STO- The Roses, Tewksbury YOU, MY LAD A tale of RIES, TALL SONGS Neil THE COMING STORM nocturnal horror on the performs a poignant, Forced Entertainment Suffolk coast, consid- humorous and topical present a new show ered by many to be MR one-man show, spiced which fuses their trade- James's masterpiece, with anecdotes of his mark black humour, Wed 7 Nov, Lichfield life and times in the arresting images and Garrick worlds of media and anarchic performance FELICITY ASTON: ALONE showbusiness, Fri 9 style, Tue 6 - Wed 7 IN ANTARCTICA A talk Nov, Stourbridge Town Nov, Warwick Arts Cen- from the first woman in Hall tre, Coventry history to ski across DR. PHIL'S RUDE HEALTH THE GHOST'S TOUCH Antarctica alone, Wed 7 SHOW Fri 9 Nov, Royal Kicking Off - Old Joint Stock Theatre, Birmingham Rumpus Theatre Com- - Sat 17 Nov, Malvern Spa Centre, Leaming- pany present a haunt- Theatres ton Spa ing show which sees ALADDIN Indigo Moon Ainsworth & Kevin ing new play by John LES MISERABLES COUNT MAGNUS - TWO Lovers Rock ambassa- Theatre presents a Sacre star, Mon 12 - Goodrum, Tue 6 - Wed (SCHOOL EDITION) BMOS GHOST STORIES BY M R dors Janet Kay, Caroll large-scale shadow Sat 17 Nov, The Grand 7 Nov, Arena Theatre, Youtheatre present an JAMES A travel writer's Thompson & Victor puppet production of Theatre, Wolverhamp- Wolverhampton epic musical based on over-inquisitiveness Romero Evans share the classic children’s ton THE EDGE Big Brum Victor Hugo's leads to a breathless, stories from back in the tale, Sun 11 Nov, The- MEDEA Headlong pres- Theatre present a com- acclaimed novel, Wed 7 diabolical chase from day, Fri 9 - Sat 10 Nov, atre Severn, Shrews- ent Mike Bartlett's new pelling, dark comedy - Fri 9 Nov, Old Rep, darkest to rural The Drum, Birmingham bury version of Euripides' exploring what it is to Birmingham Essex, Fri 9 Nov, Hunt- MILKSHAKE! LIVE Featur- classic tragedy, Tue 13 be human in the com- EVENING OF MEDIUMSHIP ingdon Hall, Worcester ing the presenters and Week Commencing - Sat 17 Nov, Warwick plex world of today, WITH ANDREW DEE Wed COSI FAN TUTE Welsh characters from the Arts Centre, Coventry Tues 6 - Fri 9 Nov, mac, 7 Nov, The Slade National Opera present Channel 5 programme - MON 12 NOV L.O.V.E Volcano Theatre Birmingham Rooms, Wolverhamp- Mozart's insightful com- including Noddy, Fifi, return with their theatri- ANNIE GET YOUR GUN ton edy, Fri 9 Nov, Birming- Roary, Mr Men & cal landmark based on Amateur production COUNT MAGNUS - TWO ham Hippodrome Bananas in Pyjamas, THE KILLING OF SISTER Shakespeare's Sonnets presented by St GHOST STORIES BY M R TWO MONOLOGUES ON Sat 10 Nov, Stourbridge GEORGE The nonentities with a touch of Shirley Alphege Musical Pro- JAMES A travel writer's MENTAL HEALTH: I CARE Town Hall present Frank Marcus’ Bassey, Tue 13 - Wed duction Society, Tue 6 - over-inquisitiveness AND SIMONE A woman THANKS FOR THE MEMO- witty and poignant 14 Nov, Arena Theatre, Sat 10 Nov, Solihull Arts leads to a breathless, with bi-polar disorder RY Impresario and comedy, Mon 12 - Sat Wolverhampton Complex diabolical chase from and her carer invite the Music Hall authority 17 Nov, The Rose The- SUMMER HOLIDAY Red- HELLO DOLLY Amateur darkest Sweden to rural audience to witness Duggie Chapman atre, Kidderminster ditch Operatic Society production presented Essex, Thurs 8 Nov, and reflect on their shares his memories AN EVENING WITH PAM present a new produc- by Bilston Operatic Lichfield Garrick experience. Presented from Music Hall to Vari- AYRES Mon 12 Nov, tion which promises to Company, Tue 6 - Sat GREAT EXPECTATIONS by Newman University ety, Sat 10 Nov, Lich- Lichfield Garrick take audiences on a 10 Nov, The Grand The- Everyman Theatre pres- College, Fri 9 Nov, mac, field Garrick GOOD GRIEF Penelope holiday they’ll never for- atre, Wolverhampton ent a promenade per- Birmingham TALBOT HOUSE - A HOME Keith stars in a stage get... Tue 13 - Sat 17 WHEN WE ARE MARRIED formance of Dickens' WITTANK Comedy show FROM HOME Peter Gill's adaptation of Keith Nov, Palace Theatre, Stafford Players present classic tale, Thurs 8 - that fuses inventive feelgood play set Waterhouse’s best-sell- Redditch an amateur production Sat 10 Nov, The Hive, characters with authen- around a Belgium ing comic novel, Mon VAMPIRES ROCK Musical of JB Priestley's 1938 Worcester tic sketches, Fri 9 Nov, house which became a 12 - Sat 17 Nov, stage show which, set play, Tue 6 - Sat 10 TWELFTH NIGHT Pro- Theatre Severn, refuge for allied troops Malvern Theatres in New York in the year Nov, Stafford Gate- peller present an all- Shrewsbury during World War II, Sat INSPECTOR DRAKE 2 The 2030, follows the rising house Theatre male production of KICKING OFF Frank 10 Nov, Huntingdon Flying Ducks return of the undead while set ASYLUM DIALOGUES Shakespeare's comedy Bramwell's latest play Hall, Worcester with another instalment to some of the greatest Human Rights theatre of mistaken identity, looks forward to a JUNK Theatrical per- of inspired buffoonery rock anthems ever, Tue group Ice and Fire transformation and future, a time when formance from four which sees the 1930s 13 Nov, New Alexandra present a script-in-hand deception, Thurs 8 - today is but a dim guys who collectively cult detective tracking Theatre, Birmingham performance which, Sat 10 Nov, Belgrade memory and when present four elements down a ruthless serial REMEMBER WHEN Neil written by Sonja Lin- Theatre, Coventry hope is the only way of performing art, killer who commits a Sands and his West den, draws on real life LA BOHEME Welsh forward... Fri 9 - Sat 10 humorous dance rou- hat-trick of murders in a End cast perform a mix- encounters between National Opera present Nov, Old Joint Stock tines, harmonised hat shop, Mon 12 Nov, ture of great songs with asylum seekers and a major new production Theatre, Birmingham singing, acting and tal- The Swan Theatre, stunning costumes and British citizens, Wed 7 of Puccini's much-loved XANTHE GRESHAM - BABA ented percussion, Sat Worcester lashings of good-old Nov, Newhampton Arts romantic opera that YAGA AND THE VIRGIN Fri 10 Nov, The Place, CALENDAR GIRLS Tim fashioned festive fun, Centre, Wolverhampton sees internationally 9 Nov, Lichfield Garrick Oakengates Theatre, Firth’s acclaimed Tue 13 Nov, The Place, AND THEN THERE WERE acclaimed director WIFE AFTER DEATH The Telford drama inspired by a Oakengates Theatre, NONE Wythall Theatre Annabel Arden make Billesley Players pres- A FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS A true story and featuring Telford Company present her company debut, ent Eric Chappell’s Diwali celebration fea- a stellar cast. Lesley PHANTOMS AND THE Agatha Christie’s best Thurs 8 - Sat 10 Nov, sparkling comedy, Fri 9 turing South Asian Joseph, Sue Holder- MUSICALS Barry Walk- ever selling thriller, Wed Birmingham Hippo- - Sat 10 Nov, Dove- dance, music and song ness, Ruth Madoc, er's Smackee makes a 7 - Sat 10 Nov, Palace drome house Theatre, Solihull from regional artists, Kathryn Rooney, Camil- welcome return, bring- Theatre, Redditch A NIGHT OF DIRTY DANC- LOVERS ROCK MONO- Sat 10 Nov, Arena The- la Dallerup, Helen Fras- ing the latest and great- HAIRY BIKERS Every- ING Concert show fea- LOGUES A heart-warm- atre, Wolverhampton er, Deena Payne, Kacey est from London's West

www.whatsonlive.co.uk 37 TheatreNovember_Layout129/10/201216:29Page11

BROMSGROVE’S THEATRE, CINEMA, NOVEMBER LIVE MUSIC AND COMEDY VENUE HIGHLIGHTS

Sat 10th November Mon 12th November Tues 13th November PAPPY'S: LAST. THE LOCK IN ROB ROUSE SHOW. EVER FOLK & HIP HOP DANCE HONEST, FRANK & 5-STAR EDINBURGH EXTRAVAGANZA WITH SERIOUSLY FUNNY FESTIVAL COMEDY SHOW THE DEMON BARBERS STAND-UP

Sun 18th November Tues 20th November Thurs 22nd November FRED MACAULAY THEA GILMORE ANDY STAR OF TV AND BBC ONE OF THE UKS MOST FAIRWEATHER LOW RADIO 4S NEWS QUIZ ENDURING SINGER- PEDIGREE THAT ROCK SONGWRITERS DREAMS ARE MADE OF

FORTHCOMING CINEMA: Hope Springs (12A) // Lawless (18) // Orphee (PG) // Holy Motors (18) // Skyfall (12A)

The new Artrix brochure is available to download on www.artrix.co.uk For bookings & full details log onto www.artrix.co.uk or phone 01527 577330 Artrix, Slideslow Drive, Bromsgrove B60 1PQ Free parking on-site

Tues 6th Nov at 7.30pm Mon 19th Nov at 7.30pm Wed 7th Nov at 1.30pm and 7.30pm Pursued by a Bear Productions in Rumpus Theatre co-production with Kali Theatre presents presents the ghost’s touch kabaddi, A haunting new play based kabaddi, kabaddi on the chilling tale A powerful drama about sport, by Wilkie Collins. nationality and belonging. Supported by Black Country Touring Tickets: £9 full price and £7 concs. All matinee tickets £5. Tickets: £9 full price and £7 concs.

Thurs 8th Nov at 7.30pm Two Headed Pigeon Wed 21st Nov at 7.30pm Thurs 22nd Nov at 1.30pm and 7.30pm Oddsocks Theatre Company presents presents the threadbare greebo adventures A fairytale about mental illness of and social exclusion. robin hood Supported by Black Country Touring and Outside Centre. An energetic romp 11+ for all the family. Tickets: £12 full price and £10 concs. Tickets: £9 full price and £7 concs. All matinee tickets £5.

NOVEMBER NOVEMBER SHOWS Sat 10th Nov at 7.30pm Wed 28th Nov at 7.30pm Surdhwani, Sampad and Arena Theatre present Richard Tyrone Jones presents festival richard tyrone of light jone’s big heart A Diwali celebration How do you fight back when Wulfruna Street, featuring South Asian your heart tries to kill you? Wolverhampton dance, music and song from regional artists. WV1 1SE All Tickets: £5 Tickets: £9 full price and £7 concs. Box Office 01902 321 321 For details of other shows this month please visit our website: www.arena.wlv.ac.uk

38 www.whatsonlive.co.uk TheatreNovember_Layout129/10/201216:29Page12

Sat 17 Nov, Lichfield Gar- ning show goes on tour for rick the first time, Mon 19 - Sat Theatre LISTINGS HENNA British Punjabi sto- 24 Nov, Malvern Theatres rytellers Peter and Gorg SOME LIKE IT HIP HOP A For full listing information on theatre pro- Chand take the audience comic tale of love, mistak- ductions, including times and dates, visit on a journey to incredible en identity, cross-dressing, www.whatsonlive.co.uk landscapes, with tales of gender stereotypes and love, loss, betrayal and revolution, Tue 20 - Wed Bollywood dancing! Sat 17 21 Nov, The Grand The- BIRMINGHAM’S End and Broadway, Tue 13 atre Nov, Newhampton Arts atre, Wolverhampton Nov, Belgrade Theatre, 2DEEP Ranell present a Centre, Wolverhampton MOTHERLAND Funny and PREMIER PUB Coventry hip-hop comedy full of THE MOUSE AND HIS CHILD moving exploration of DIM SUM NIGHTS Site-spe- jaw-dropping skills with a The RSC present Tamsin what it means to be a THEATRE cific new show from Yellow futuristic twist, Thurs 15 Oglesby's adaptation of woman that is both funny Earth Theatre Company Nov, Arena Theatre, Russell Hoban's acclaimed and moving, Tue 20 - Wed which fuses unique theatre Wolverhampton children's tale, Sat 17 Nov 21 Nov, Warwick Arts Cen- Thursday 1st Nov 7:30pm and Chinese food, Tue 13 - AN EVENING WITH ANDREW - Sat 12 Jan, Royal Shake- tre, Coventry Friday 2nd Nov 7:30pm Thurs 15 Nov, Ming Moon MOTION Presented by Wen- speare Theatre, Stratford- BOOGIE NIGHTS Musical fea- ME, MUM & DUSTY Restaurant, Birmingham lock Poetry Festival, Thurs upon-Avon turing the best disco hits SPRINGFIELD KNICK KNACK AND DOO DAD 15 Nov, The Edge Arts A CHRISTMAS CAROL Dick- that the 70s had to offer... - REASONS TO BE CHEERFUL Centre. Much Wenlock, A new comedy sprinkled with Dusty lyrics ens' Christmas classic is Tue 20 - Sat 24 Nov, Royal and coated with a song or two. Reflecting Lyngo Theatre present a South Shropshire here adapted and directed Spa Centre, Leamington brand new show for chil- THE SHOWSTOPPERS A on the bond that binds mothers & daugh- by New Vic Artistic Direc- Spa ters, people who are not quite what they dren which, set on an brand new musical come- tor, Theresa Heskins, Sat STORYTELLING CAFE A dou- island piled high with rub- dy is created from scratch seem and how we cope with loss when 17 Nov - Sat 19 Jan, New ble-bill feat. Rachel Murray it’s just too late. £11/£9 bish, tells a tale of friend- at each performance of Vic Theatre, Newcastle- and Helen Appleton, Wed ship, Tues 13 Nov - Sun 2 this award-winning pro- under-Lyme 21 Nov, Kitchen Garden Saturday 3rd Nov 2:30pm & 7:30pm Dec, mac, Birmingham duction. Audience sugges- Cafe, Kings Heath, Birm- DISNEY'S BEAUTY AND THE tions spontaneously Week Commencing ingham OUR KYLIE’S BEAST Get Your 'Wigle' On become an all-singing, all- WE HOPE THAT YOU'RE GETTIN’ WED present an amateur pro- dancing show on the spot, MON 19 NOV HAPPY... Made In China A funny yet touching play about the duction of the much-loved Thurs 15 Nov, Solihull Arts present an examination of trials and tribulations of every family family favourite, Wed 14 - Complex what it means to be a wedding that you have ever been to! A Sat 17 Nov, Theatre Sev- BORIS GODUNOV Michael SILVER BELLS CHRISTMAS tuned-in, delusional and true feel-good show, Our Kylie's Gettin’ ern, Shrewsbury Boyd directs Adrian SHOW Performance fusing unwitting consumer in a Wed will make you laugh and bring a CIRCUS OF HORRORS: CURSE Mitchell's adaptation of the music of Christmas hyper-communicative tear to your eye. £10 / £8 OF THE DEVIL DOLL A whirl- Alexander Pushkin's politi- present with the spirit of world, Wed 21 - Thu 22 wind journey though 1927 cal Russian drama, Thurs Christmas past. Leah Bell, Nov, Warwick Arts Centre, Berlin - a decadent decade 15 Nov - Sat 30 Mar, The Fri 9th Nov 7:30pm Johnny de Little, Peter Coventry Sat 10th Nov 2pm & 7:30pm and the birth of the Swan Theatre, Stratford- Donegan, Jason King, THE ADVENTURES OF ROBIN KICKING OFF Cabaret, Wed 14 Nov, Bel- upon-Avon Jason Jones & The Silver HOOD Oddsocks present a grade Theatre, Coventry BONZO DOG DOO DAH BAND Birmingham, England. The Riots, Belles Dancers, Mon 19 heart-warming romp suit- 2011/2025. What happened, was it all DR. FAUSTUS New adapta- A blend of music, comedy Nov, Tamworth Assembly able for all the family, com- tion of Marlowe’s play, and performance art, a dream that went horribly wrong? Rooms plete with live music, Frank Bramwell's latest play looks for- Wed 14 Nov, The Roses, Thurs 15 Nov, The Queen's KABADDI. KABADDI, KABADDI action and plenty of audi- Tewksbury Hall, Nuneaton ward to a future when hope is the only Pursued By A Bear Pro- ence participation, Wed 21 way forward... £12 / £10 HANDA’S SURPRISE Little PIFF THE MAGIC DRAGON IN ductions present a power- Nov, Arena Theatre, Angel Theatre present a JURASSIC BARK Debut UK ful new drama about sport, Wolverhampton blend of physical perform- tour, Fri 16 Nov, The Pub- nationality and belonging, KABADDI KABADDI KABADDI Saturday 17th November 7:30pm ance, puppetry, live music lic, West Bromwich with a haunting love story Gripping new drama about URBAN TARAB and song, combined to CABARET EVENING OF at its heart, Mon 19 Nov, sport, nationhood and create an intimate, magical ENTERTAINMENT Walsall Arena Theatre, Wolver- belonging, with a haunting OPEN STAGE production with audience Operatic Society presents hampton love story at its heart, Wed Come and join us for a night out with participation, Wed 14 Nov, a relaxed evening of music HANDA’S SURPRISE Little 21 Nov, The Public, West a difference; this is belly dance - but Newhampton Arts Centre, from the West End, classic Angel Theatre present a Bromwich not as you know it! There are many different styles and Wolverhampton musicals and films in the blend of physical perform- A MAN FOR ALL SEASONS moods to enjoy including fusions of FARM BOY New Percpec- informal setting of Lichfield ance, puppetry, live music The story of Thomas More, Flamenco, Gypsy and Indian dance.. tives Theatre Company Garrick's cabaret-style stu- and song, combined to the man who stood up to present their version of dio, Fri 16 Nov, Lichfield create an intimate, magical King Henry VIII when the To book: www.pedralta.com Michael Morpurgo’s Farm Garrick production with audience King rejected the Roman Boy - the compelling BROADWAY AND BEYOND - participation, Mon 19 Nov, Catholic Church to obtain sequel to the award-win- THE MAGIC LIVES ON Selec- The Edge Arts Centre, divorce and remarriage, 21st-24th Nov - 7.30pm ning War Horse, Wed 14 tion of forty musical num- Much Wenlock, South Wed 21 - Sat 24 Nov, 24th & 25th Nov - 2.30pm Nov, Ludlow Assembly bers from a century of Shropshire Stratford Civic Hall HONK! Rooms, South Shropshire Broadway shows, Fri 16 THE PAPER CINEMA'S BOOGIE NIGHTS: THE 70S OJSMTC presents Stiles and Drewe's THE CANTERBURY TALES Nov, The Place, Oaken- ODYSSEY BAC Take Out MUSICAL The heart-warm- award winning musical based on the Tacit Theatre present Geof- gates Theatre, Telford presents a retelling of ing story of Roddy, a Jack- Hans Christian Anderson tale about frey Chaucer's bawdy epic, OFFA'S POETS IN CAPTIVITY Homer's epic poem, Mon the-lad whose life of birds, the ugly duckling. £12 - £15 Wed 14 - Thurs 15 Nov, Offa's Poets present an 19 - Tue 20 Nov, Warwick booze and boogies is Belgrade Theatre, Coven- evening of entertaining Arts Centre, Coventry about to be turned upside- Wed 28th Nov 7:30pm try poetry made in the West 9 TO 5: THE MUSICAL New down, Wed 21- Sat 24 THE PRODUCERS A pro/am Midlands. Performers musical comedy based on Nov, Forest Arts Centre, DICKENS’ TALES: BLEAK production presented by include Emma Purshouse, the multi-award-winning Walsall HOUSE Curtain Call productions, Jeff Phelps, Win Saha and movie starring Dolly Par- A MAN FOR ALL SEASONS Using a fusion of narration, original Wed 14 - Fri 16 Nov, Dave Reeves, Fri 16 Nov, ton. Bonnie Langford, Second Thoughts Theatre text and the interweaving of his char- Crewe Lyceum Arena Theatre, Wolver- Natalie Casey, Jackie Company present their acter creations, experience the PORNOGRAPHY Combining hampton Clune, Amy Lennox and version of Robert Bolt’s retelling of Dickens' unforgettable and Simon Stephens’ visceral HOKE'S BLUFF Action Hero Ben Richards star, Mon 19 play, Wed 21 - Sat 24 Nov, haunting novel. £10 / £8 play with uncompromising present an underdog story - Sat 24 Nov, Regent The- Stratford Civic Hall performance and design, that shifts and re-arranges atre, Hanley, Stoke-on- HONK! The Old Joint Stock Thursday 29th November 8pm this production will ask the trite conventions and Trent Musical Theatre Company you to consider your own narratives of American ROBIN PRINCE OF SHER- present their version of FOGHORN IMPROV responsibility for a national teen movies to talk about WOOD Presented by St Stiles & Drewe's acclaimed Using audience suggestions, Foghorn tragedy, Wed 14 - Sat 17 what it means to be a win- Augustines Musical The- musical that's based on Improv University will educate on a Nov, Warwick Arts Centre, ner on the inside, Fri 16 - atre Company, Mon 19 - Hans Christian Andersen's fascinating and utterly pre-existant Coventry Sat 17 Nov, Warwick Arts Sat 24 Nov, Solihull Arts classic children's tale, Wed subject. Disclaimer: facts contained in JAMES AND THE GIANT Centre, Coventry Complex 21 - Sun 25 Nov, Old Joint this show may not be entirely accurate PEACH Birmingham Stage THE NEW BLACK SHOWCASE THE MEE CLUB A feelgood Stock Theatre, Birming- £7.50 Company present Roald Raw readings of short, cabaret of performance ham Dahl's classic adventure sharp, new plays from poets, storytellers, authors CALENDAR GIRLS Amateur for children, Wed 14 Nov - some of the West Mid- and stand-ups with live production presented by Sat 2 Feb, Old Rep, Birm- lands’ newest communi- music to follow, Tues 20 Stourbridge Theatre Com- Tel: 0121 200 0946 ingham ties, Fri 16 - Sat 17 Nov, Nov, Kitchen Garden Cafe, pany, Thurs 22 Nov, Stour- MISERY Stage play adapt- Belgrade Theatre, Coven- Kings Heath, Birmingham bridge Town Hall & 0845 680 1926 ed from Stephen King's try THE MOUSETRAP Celebrat- AN AUDIENCE WITH COLIN email:[email protected]. award-winning dark and TIME GENTLEMEN PLEASE! ing sixty incredible years FRY An evening of medi- twisting tale, Thurs 15 Nov, The UK's no.1 folk and hip- www.oldjointstocktheatre.co.uk on stage, this world umship, Thurs 22 Nov, or on-line at: www.oxboffice.com Stafford Gatehouse The- hop dance extravaganza!, famous and longest run- New Alexandra Theatre,

www.whatsonlive.co.uk 39 Theatre November_Layout 1 29/10/2012 17:03 Page 13

NOVEMBER

CALL FOR YOUR SCARECROW PIFF THE MAGIC DRAGON BROCHURE TODAY Thurs 1 Nov, 11am JURASSIC BARK A story packed with music, movement and Fri 2 Nov puppetry for children Wed 7th November Piff the Magic Dragon and their families, embarks on his first followed by an NICK BAKER: major UK tour accom- interactive workshop. panied by Mr Piffles the World's First Mil- Tickets £6 / £5.50 (show) WEIRD CREATURES lion Dollar Chi- and £6 / £5.50 (workshop) 7.30pm. Tickets £14 / £12 concs huahua™. 8.00pm, £14.00, £12.00 concs TIMON OF ATHENS Fri 9th November JOHN SHUTTLEWORTH Thurs 1 Nov, GATEHOUSE THEATRE 7pm LET'S HANG ON Sat 3 Nov Streamed live via 7.30pm. Tickets £15 / £13 concs satellite from the The Sony and Perrier National Theatre. nominated Shuttleworth Simon Russell ventures beyond the gar- Beale takes the title role in Fri 16th November den gate to tread the Shakespeare’s fable of consumption, debt mean streets of Britain to and ruin. Tickets £15 / £14 BROADWAY AND decide which is better: 8.00pm, £16.00, £15.00 concs City life or country living? DON GIOVANNI BEYOND : THE MAGIC Fri 2 & Sat 3 Nov, 7.30pm LIVES ON EYES FRONT! Mid Wales Opera presents 7.30pm. Tickets £15 / £14 concs GATEHOUSE THEATRE the tragic tale of love, lust, betrayal and revenge. Tue 13 Nov A brand new production, Sat 17th November Isla St Clair presents this bound to set your heart delightfully nostalgic, racing. poignant and humorous Tickets £20 / £18.50 THE SOUNDS OF SIMON: look at the effects of music A TRIBUTE TO SIMON in wartime. As well as per- WILL HOLLAND’S forming a selection of pop- COOKING DEMONSTRATION AND GARFUNKEL ular songs Isla tells the sto- ries behind them. 7.30pm, £12.00, £10.00 concs Sat 10 Nov, 10.30am 7.30pm. £15 / £13 concs Will Holland, Chef Patron KEIRAN GOSS at La Becasse, host s a GATEHOUSE THEATRE fundraising event for Mon19th November Ludlow Assembly Rooms. JETHRO 2012 Wed 14 Nov Tickets £10 Ireland's leading song- 7.30pm. Tickets £19.50 writer and performer, Kieran Goss’s music has FARM BOY won him fans across the globe, but if his songs Wed 14 Nov, 8pm Fri 23rd November have brought him star- Michael Morpurgo’s dom, it's Kieran's live compelling sequel to the THE LADY BOYS OF shows which have made award-winning War Horse him a legend in his home- brought to life by New BANGKOK - CARNIVAL land, selling out venues Perspectives Theatre 7.30pm, £14.00, £11.00 concs for over 20 years Company. QUEENS Tickets £12 / £10 7.30pm. Tickets £20 / £18.50 concs MANCHESTER CAMERATA MOZART’S FLUTE CONCERTO THE LOCK IN Fri 16 Nov, 7.30pm Sat 24th November Fri 16 Nov The UK’s number one Gábor Takács-Nagy contin- folk and hiphop dance GORDON HENDRICKS IS ues his exploration of twen- extravaganza. . tieth century British string ELVIS music with two more minia- Tickets £16.50 / £14.50 7.30pm, Tickets £15 ture masterpieces – Vaugh- an Williams’ folk-immersed OLA ONABULE Five Variants for Strings and Harp, and Elgar’s beautifully Sat 17 Nov, 8pm Wed 28th November melodic An evening of powerful MARCUS BRIGSTOCKE: Chanson de Matin et de soul and jazz music not Nuit. 7.30pm, £15.00, £13.00 concs to be missed.. THE BRIG SOCIETY PAUL FOOT Tickets £15 / £14 8pm, Tickets £15 KENNY LARCH IS DEAD Sun 25 Nov THE MADRIGIRLS Fri 7th - Mon 31st December Fri 23 Nov, 7.30pm Expect the unexpected Charming acapella music from the man The Inde- to compliment Ludlow’s pendent described as “sublime, original and bril- Medieval Fayre weekend. BOOK liant”. A BBC New Come- Tickets £12 / £11 NOW! dy Award and Daily Tele- graph Open Mic winner, Various Times, Tickets £14 - £48 recent UK TV credits include “Russell Howard’s Good News” BBC3. 7.30pm, £12.50 1 Mill Street, Ludlow, Shropshire SY8 1AZ BOOKONLINE 01584 878141 www.ludlowassemblyrooms.co.uk Box Office 01785 254653 www.staffordgatehousetheatre.co.uk

40 www.whatsonlive.co.uk TheatreNovember_Layout129/10/201216:30Page14

Theatre LISTINGS The Lady Boys Of Bangkok - The Place, Oakengates, Telford For full listing information on theatre productions, including times and dates, visit www.whatsonlive.co.uk

Birmingham don's West End, Sat 24 ANGELINA BALLERINA - Sun 25 Nov, Arena THE MOUSICAL Thurs 22 Theatre, Wolverhamp- - Sat 24 Nov, The ton Grand Theatre, Wolver- COLDER THAN HERE The hampton Crescent Theatre Com- THE LADY BOYS OF pany present Laura BANGKOK - CARNIVAL Wade's dark but QUEENS Join the festivi- translucent play of love, ties as sixteen of the death and grief, Sat 24 world’s most entrancing Nov - Sat 1 Dec, Cres- beauties take you on a cent Theatre, Birming- carnival parade, Fri 23 ham Nov, The Place, Oaken- THREE MEN IN A BOAT gates Theatre, Telford The award-winning MISERY Stage play Original Theatre Com- adapted from Stephen pany present Jerome K King's award-winning Jerome’s modern clas- dark and twisting tale, sic, Sun 25 Nov, Forest Fri 23 Nov, Arena The- Arts Centre, Walsall atre, Wolverhampton ARMONICO CONCERT: TOO THE BOSS RULES - HOW HOT TO HANDEL The BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN story of two lovers care- JONES' BIG HEART Poet new book Destiny In Fri 30 Nov, Warwick HELLO, DOLLY! CHANGED MY LIFE! Join fully intertwines the and spoken word per- The Desert, Thurs 29 Arts Centre, Coventry Described as one of the Sarfraz Manzoor on a most ravishing of Han- former Richard Tyronne Nov, Malvern Theatres THE EMPEROR’S NEW brassiest Broadway humorous journey back del’s arias from his Jones presents a solo THE ADAM AND ANT CLOTHES Luke Players musicals of all time, to his childhood, where many operas, romping debut in which he SHOW - ILLUSIONS AND present David Foxton’s Hello Dolly follows the the songs from The from drama to comedy, shares his near death MAGIC Fri 30 Nov, The play for children which spirited Dolly Levi, a Boss hold the key to from tragedy to laugh- experience with the Hive, Shrewsbury merges two popular professional matchmak- escaping from Luton ter, Sun 25 Nov, The- audience, Wed 28 Nov, EMPIRE Reckless Sleep- tales, Fri 30 Nov - Sat 1 er intent on bringing and finding the woman atre Severn, Shrews- Arena Theatre, Wolver- ers explore the notion Dec, mac, Birmingham love to the great and of his dreams, Fri 23 bury hampton of the United Kingdom, ERIC IN WONDERLAND good of Manhattan, Fri Nov, The Drum, Birm- SLEEPING BEAUTY Fes- Europe, and the shifting New Vic's Uncle Eric is 30 Nov - Sat 12 Jan, ingham Week Commencing tive show promising state of global politics back and ready to mur- The Curve, Leicester HANDA’S SURPRISE Little stunning sets, spectac- with people from Aus- der yet another literary CINDERELLA Traditional Angel Theatre present a MON 26 NOV ular costumes and tralia, Belgium and the classic, Fri 30 Nov - Sat Family Pantomime, Fri blend of physical per- sparkling performanc- UK in a work-in- 15 Dec, New Vic The- 30 Nov - Mon 3 Dec, formance, puppetry, es, Wed 28 Nov - Sat 5 progress piece as part atre, Newcastle-under- Crewe Lyceum live music and song, THE LADYKILLERS Gra- Jan, Belgrade Theatre, of Triggered@Warwick, Lyme combined to create an ham Linehan's new Coventry intimate, magical pro- adaptation of the cele- THE WIND IN THE WIL- duction with audience brated Ealing comedy, LOWS Alan Bennett's participation, Fri 23 Mon 26 Nov - Sat 1 stage adaptation of Nov, The Hive, Shrews- Dec, Malvern Theatres Kenneth Grahame's bury AMERICAN IDIOT New CELEBRATING classic tale, Wed 28 MOTHER COURAGE AND musical that's based on Nov - Sat 19 Jan, Cres- 100 YEARS OF HER CHILDREN Black- Green Day's Grammy cent Theatre, Birming- eyed Theatre present Award-winning album ham ENTERTAINMENT Lee Hall's translation of of the same name, Mon THE ADVENTURES OF Bertolt Brecht's twenti- 26 Nov - Sat 1 Dec, ROBIN HOOD Oddsocks eth century master- New Alexandra Theatre, November 2012 present a heart-warm- piece, Fri 23 Nov, The- Birmingham ing romp suitable for all atre Severn, Shrews- GREASE THE MUSICAL Tues 30th Oct - Sat 3rd Nov, 7.30pm the family, complete bury Mon 26 Nov - Sat 1 Sat Mat 2.30pm with live music, action THE VAGINA MONO- Dec, The Grand The- and plenty of audience LOGUES Eve Ensler's atre, Wolverhampton YOU’RE ONLY participation, Wed 28 hilarious Broadway and KABADDI KABADDI Nov - Sat 1 Dec, Bridge YOUNG TWICE West End smash hit is KABADDI Gripping new House Theatre, War- back, featuring a new drama about sport, Tickets from £12.00 - £18.50 C wick all-star cast including nationhood and FEEL GOOD MUSICAL Sun 4th November, 7.30pm Clare Buckfield, Vicky belonging, with a Reach Musical Theatre Entwistle and Hayley haunting love story at present an array of THE BIG BAND Tamaddon, Fri 23 Nov, its heart, Tues 27 Nov, West End showstop- C Tamworth Assembly mac, Birmingham Tickets from £16.00 pers including Mamma Rooms FASCINATING AIDA Star- Mia!, We Will Rock You Wed 7th November, 8.00pm APPLAUSE A cabaret of ring Dillie Keane, Liza and Wicked, Thurs 29 song and dance, Sat 24 Pulman & Ander- Nov - Sat 1 Dec, Arena CHICAGO BLUES BROTHERS Nov, Dovehouse The- son, Tue 27 Nov, Birm- Theatre, Wolverhamp- Tickets from £17.00 / £19.00 / £21.00 atre, Solihull ingham Town Hall ton EMBRACED BURLESQUE POETRY BITES WITH WE'RE GOING ON A BEAR Fri 9th November, 7.30pm Sat 24 Nov, Newhamp- JONATHON & MARIA TAY- LOR HUNT Expect catchy ton Arts Centre, Wolver- Tues 27 Nov, ONE NIGHT IN VEGAS songs, interactive hampton Kitchen Garden Cafe, scenes and plenty of Tickets from £16.50 / £17.50 C TWO WRONGIES WORLD Kings Heath, Birming- ham hands-on adventure in OF WRONG A risque SOLIHULL GANG SHOW this stage adaptation of Sat 10th November, 7.00pm dance-comedy that cel- 2012 Based on the orig- the much-loved picture ebrates the glitz and KEN DODD inal Ralph Reader con- book written by Michael glamour of show time cept, Solihull Gang Rosen and illustrated Tickets £20.50 C while exploring the sad Show presents a fusion be Helen Oxenbury, and grubby truths that Sat 18th November, 7.30pm of singing, dancing and Thurs 29 Nov - Sun 30 sometimes lurk behind comedy, Tue 27 Nov - Dec, Warwick Arts Cen- the spotlight, Sat 24 THE BACHELORS Sat 1 Dec, Solihull Arts tre, Coventry Nov, Malvern Theatres C Complex AN AUDIENCE WITH Tickets £15.50 IN THE SPOTLIGHT RSM's AN EVENING WITH DAVID JONATHAN DIMBLEBY A annual showcase fea- DIMBLEBY Wed 28 Nov, show which marks the turing students from the Ludlow Assembly seventieth anniversary stage academy togeth- CREWE LYCEUM I HEATH STREET I CREWE I CW1 2DA Rooms, South Shrop- of the Battle of El er with professional shire Alamein in 1942, the performers from Lon- 01270 686 777 www.lyceumtheatre.net RICHARD TYRONNE subject of Dimbleby’s

www.whatsonlive.co.uk 41 TheatreNovember_Layout129/10/201216:30Page15

COMING SOON TO THEATRE SEVERN

FRIDAY 9 NOVEMBER WitTank

"A dazzling display of sketch genius... There isn't a single down moment in WitTank's exhilaratingly perfect set" 'LIST

SATURDAY 17 NOVEMBER

You’ll feel like you've travelled back in time when you experi- ence these 8th - 10th November 7.45pm (3pm matinee) four top class musi- Blue Orange Theatre, Birmingham - 0121 212 2643 cians on 15th November - Stafford Gatehouse Theatre stage, recreating Led Zeppelin's 17th November - Helmdon Reading Room, Northants magical 18th November - North Hall, Leamington Spa concerts. 23rd November - Arena Theatre, Wolverhampton

TUESDAY 20 NOVEMBER SOWETO KINCH TRIO Award-winning jazz alto saxophonist and hip hop star Soweto Kinch celebrates the Autumn release of his new studio THE EASY WAY TO double album titled 'The Legend of Mike Smith' with a UK tour This stunning show is based on 'The Seven BOOK Deadly Sins'. Expect the unexpected! YOUR TICKETS WEDNESDAY 21 NOVEMBER ONLINE SHOW OF HANDS Powerhouse band Show of Hands come to the Theatre Severn in a year that sees them play the Royal Albert Hall as they cele- brate 20 years of an incredible partnership that has put them right at the top of British folk. whatsonlive.co.uk

VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO VIEW MORE The most comprehensive what’s on listings website SHOWS! for Birmingham and the West Midlands

Frankwell Quay, Box Office 01743 281 281 Shrewsbury, Shropshire, Book Online www.theatresevern.co.uk SY3 8FT

42 www.whatsonlive.co.uk TheatreNovember_Layout129/10/201216:30Page16

Theatre REVIEWS

Here are a few of the theatre productions we reviewed from last month. For further theatre reviews, visit, www.whatsonlive.co.uk A Tender Thing The Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon So Friar Lawrence’s message does arrive and Romeo and Juliet live. In fact, they live into old age and have to face the all too common dilemmas: personal care, terminal illness, death. This Romeo and his Juliet still love each other, and Ben Power’s clever script samples and remixes Shakespeare’s words to make a strong new narrative. If you’re a teenager, then the original Romeo And Juliet prob- ably holds an added poignancy for you. So does this play for the older members of the audience. It portrays old age head on, and we all hope that we have a love that can hold us in its arms until the end. The play is set by the sea, cleverly evoked through video design by Jacques Collin. The motion back and forth, and the repetition of the tide, is echoed through time, movement and lan- guage. The direction by Helens Kaut-Howson and Blue/Orange movement by Jane Gibson works to make this a New Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham memorable piece of theatre. However, the crown- Blue/Orange has lost none of the pizazz so evident in its first production at the ing glory is the performances of Kathryn Hunter as National Theatre back in 2000. It’s a fantastic play which chooses to tread where very Juliet and Richard McCabe as Romeo; now I will few care to go, dealing with the issue of mental health and, more specifically, the believe forever A Tender Thing, rather than Shake- treatment of schizophrenia. This is theatre, not a documentary about the NHS, so we speare’s original play. Jan Watts IIIII accept the crisp, low set that is charmingly clinical, but not like a real hospital. The hubbub of hospital life is also missing from the play, which features just three men and a water cooler. The script is powerful, because it’s impossible to know where these characters are going, and the outcome is left unresolved, allowing the audience to draw its own conclusions. Robert Bathurst as Robert, Gerard McCarthy as Bruce and Oliver Wilson as Christopher are foils in movement, speech and language, pre- cipitating a serious debate within a cynical and corrupt framework. However, this is not a glum evening. On the contrary, it’s a very funny one. There’s only one joke in the text, but the juxtaposition of the performances make it a riot. This is excellent theatre. If only the NHS had the same amount of time for patients in the real world. Jan Watts IIIII

Theatre Box Office

Birmingham OLDBURY REP, OLDBURY Warwickshire 0121 552 2761 BRB: Swan Lake ALEXANDRA THEATRE BEDWORTH CIVIC HALL 0844 871 3011 THE PUBLIC, WEST BROMWICH 024 7637 6707 Birmingham Hippodrome 0121 533 7161 BIRMINGHAM HIPPODROME BELGRADE THEATRE, COVENTRY Birmingham Royal Ballet’s production of 0844 338 5000 Shropshire 024 7655 3055 Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake was an excellent piece of BIRMINGHAM REP BRIDGE HOUSE THEATRE, WARWICK THE BELFREY, WELLINGTON modern ballet. The Birmingham Hippodrome 0121 236 4455 01926 776438 01952 222277 played host to a full house, who were treated to the THE BLUE ORANGE THEATRE THE DREAM FACTORY THE EDGE, MUCH WENLOCK 0121 212 2643 01926 419555 Ivanov and Petipa version to this classic folk story of 01952 728911 CRESCENT THEATRE ROYAL SHAKESPEARE love, romance and evil. All four acts were exquisite- THE HIVE, SHREWSBURY 0121 643 5858 THEATRE, STRATFORD-UPON-AVON ly performed by the main protagonists, with Sir 01743 234970 DOVEHOUSE THEATRE 0844 800 1110 Peter Wright having ensured that the dance in Swan LUDLOW ASSEMBLY 0121 706 7139 ROYAL SPA CENTRE Lake is immaculately choreographed. A special ROOMS 01584 878141 THE DRUM 0121 333 2444 LEAMINGTON 01926 334418 THE PLACE, OAKENGATES, TELFORD mention goes to Nao Sakuma, as Odette and Odile, WARWICK ARTS CENTRE COVENTRY MAC 0121 446 3232 01952 382382 and Chi Cao as Prince Siegfried. Act Three brought 02476 524524 OLD JOINT STOCK THEATRE a real sense of grandeur to proceedings, with ‘the THEATRE SEVERN, SHREWSBURY 0121 200 0946 01743 281281 night of the Ball’ scene perfectly performed by the Worcestershire OLD REP 0121 245 4455 WEM TOWN HALL company. Each of Prince Siegfried’s three potential SOLIHULL ARTS COMPLEX 01939 232299 ARTRIX ARTS CENTRE, brides and their entourage livened up the evening 0121 704 6962 BROMSGROVE 01527 577330 with an opulent act of dance. Birmingham Royal Staffordshire THE HIVE 01905 822866 Ballet certainly achieved a high standard with this Black Country LICHFIELD GARRICK HUNTINGDON HALL, WORCESTER latest presentation of Swan Lake, and I’m certain ARENA THEATRE 01543 412121 01905 611427 that the company WOLVERHAMPTON NEW VIC 01782 717962 MALVERN THEATRE 01902 321321 PRINCE OF WALES will perform with 01684 892277 similar excellence BLOXWICH THEATRE CENTRE, CANNOCK 01922 653183 01543 578762 NORBURY THEATRE, DROITWICH in its forthcoming 01905 770154 DUDLEY CONCERT HALL REGENT THEATRE, STOKE production of Cin- 01384 812812 0870 060 6649 PALACE THEATRE REDDITCH 01527 65203 derella, which FOREST ARTS CENTRE, WALSALL STAFFORD GATEHOUSE begins on 21 01922 654555 01785 254653 ROSE THEATRE, 01562 743745 November. GRAND THEATRE, STOKE REPERTORY THEATRE Parv Gandham 01902 429212 01782 209784 SWAN THEATRE, WORCESTER 01905 611427 IIII I NEWHAMPTON ARTS CENTRE 01902 572090

www.whatsonlive.co.uk 43 TheatreNovember_Layout129/10/201216:30Page17

44 www.whatsonlive.co.uk TheatreNovember_Layout129/10/201216:30Page18

Theatre WEST END Douglas Hodge to star as Willy Wonka Multi-award-winning actor Douglas Hodge has confirmed that he’s to take the lead role in Sam Mendes’ much-anticipated stage pro- duction of Charlie And The Chocolate Facto- ry. Hodge, who has extensive TV, film and stage credits to his name, will assume the role of Willy Wonka when the musical enjoys its world pre- miere at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane on 25 June next year. David Hare’s play transfers to the West End Rupert Everett and Freddie Fox are to reprise their roles as Oscar Wilde and Lord Alfred Douglas when Neil Armfield’s acclaimed pro- duction of David Hare’s The Judas Kiss transfers to the West End in January. The Judas Kiss is centred around the relationship between Wilde and Douglas, and concen- trates on two critical points during Wilde’s final years - the eve of his arrest at the Cado- Alistair McGowan to star in anniversary production of Our House gan Hotel and a night in Naples after his Casting for a celebratory performance of Tim original West End cast members, including release from two years Firth’s Olivier Award-winning musical Our EastEnders actress Tameka Empson, who’ll imprisonment. The House is now complete, with impressionist reprise her role as Billy. Chris Carswell stars Judas Kiss shows at and actor Alistair McGowan confirmed to join as Joe Casey, Madness frontman the Duke of York’s The- the production as Mr Pressman. The one-off plays Joe’s dad, Miria Parvin appears as atre from 17 January tenth anniversary show at the Savoy Theatre Sarah and Wendi Peters takes on the role of to 6 April. on 11 November also features some of the Joe’s mum Kath.

WICKED Apollo Victoria booking until 17 Dec WAR HORSE New Lon MAGISTRATE Olivier WEST END LISTINGS: Theatre, booking until 2012 don Theatre, booking National Theatre, 14 27 Apr 2013 GOODNIGHT MISTER TOM until 26 Oct 2013 Nov 2012 - 22 Jan 2013 MATILDA THE MUSICAL Phoenix Theatre, 22 WOMAN IN BLACK For- MIDSUMMER NIGHTS MUSICALS Cambridge Theatre, DRAMA Nov 2012 - 26 Jan tune Theatre, booking DREAM Noel Coward booking until 22 Dec 2013 until 14 Dec 2013 Theatre, 7 Sept 2013 - AMERICAN IDIOT Ham- 2013 BERENICE Donmar HEDDA GABLER Old Vic 16 Nov 2013 mersmith Apollo The- PHANTOM OF THE OPERA Warehouse, booking Theatre, booking until ONE MAN, TWO GUVNORS atre, 3 - 16 Dec 2012 COMEDY Her Majesty's Theatre, until 24 Nov 2012 10 Nov 2012 Haymarket Theatre BILLY ELLIOT – THE MUSI- booking until 26 Oct CHANGELING Young Vic MOUSETRAP St Martins Royal, booking until 31 CAL Victoria Palace 39 STEPS Criterion The- 2013 Theatre, 20 Nov 2012 - Theatre, booking until Aug 2013 Theatre, booking until atre, booking until 30 ROCK OF AGES Shaftes- 15 Dec 2012 21 Dec 2013 Mar 2013 PRIVATES ON PARADE 21 Dec 2013 bury Theatre, booking CHARIOTS OF FIRE OUR BOYS Duchess BOY WITH TAPE ON HIS Noel Coward Theatre, 1 BLOOD BROTHERS until 17 Feb 2013 Gielgud Theatre, book- Theatre, booking until FACE Duchess Theatre, Dec 2012 - 2 Mar 2013 Phoenix Theatre book- ROOM ON THE BROOM ing until 2 Feb 2013 15 Dec 2013 17 dec 2012 - 5 Jan TWELFTH NIGHT Apollo ing until 10 Nov 2012 Lyric Theatre, 21 Nov 2013 Theatre, 2 Nov 2012 - 3 BODYGUARD Adelphi 2012 - 13 Jan 2013 CONSTELLATIONS SCENES FROM AN EXECU- Feb 2013 Theatre 6 Nov 2012 - SCROOGE THE MUSICAL Duke Of York Theatre, 9 TION Lyttelton National CHORUS OF DISAP- YES, PRIME MINISTER 27 Apr 2013 London Palladium The- Nov 2012 - 5 Jan 2013 Theatre, booking until 9 PROVAL Harold Pinter Trafalgar Studios, book- CABARET Savoy Theatre atre, booking until 5 DAMNED BY DESPAIR Dec 2012 Theatre, booking until 5 ing until- 12 Jan 2013 booking until 19 Jan Jan 2013 Olivier National Theatre, Jan 2013 2013 SHREK THE MUSICAL JERSEY BOYS Prince Drury Lane, Theatre Edward Theatre, book- Royal, booking until 24 ing until 17 Feb 2013 Feb 2013 KISS ME KATE Old Vic SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN Theatre, 20 Nov 2012 - PalaceTheatre, booking 2 Mar 2013 until 31 Aug 2013 LES MISÉRABLES STOMP Ambassadors Theatre, booking until Queen's Theatre book- 22 Dec 2013 ing until 26 Oct 2013 THRILLER LIVE Lyric The- LET IT BE Prince Of atre, booking until 3 Wales Theatre, booking Mar 2013 until 19 Jan 2013 TOP HAT Aldwych The- LION KING Lyceum The- atre, booking until 28 atre, booking until 14 Apr 2013 Apr 2013 VIVA FOREVER! Piccadilly LOSERVILLE Garrick The- Theatre, 27 Nov 2012 - atre, booking until 2 1 June 2013 Mar 2013 WE WILL ROCK YOU MAMMA MIA! Novello Dominion Theatre, Theatre, booking until booking until 23 Mar 13 Apr 2013 2013 Loserville - Garrick Theatre

www.whatsonlive.co.uk 45 Sonia Sabri interview 1_Layout 1 31/10/2012 11:39 Page 1

London is so cut-throat whereas in Birmingham “ artists support each other. I make a point of giving work to musicians and dancers based in Birmingham. We’re very much home grown...”

Sonia Sabri Brummie through and through... Sonia Sabri interview 1_Layout 1 31/10/2012 11:39 Page 2

interview...

This year celebrating its tenth anniversary, Birmingham-based Sonia Sabri Company has earned itself an international reputation for its performances of the South Asian art form Kathak. What’s On recently caught up with artistic director Sonia to talk about the company - and why her Birmingham roots are such an important element of her success.

For those not in the know, how would you turn me into a Bollywood actress. So I went traditions - have mirrored what we’ve done. describe Kathak dance? to the Birmingham School of Speech and We’ve been at the forefront of creating new It’s a dance style from the northern part of Drama for about ten years from the age of ideas, and that’s what we intend to continue the Indian subcontinent. Kathak literally seven, and also became involved in doing for the next ten years. means a storyteller. So primarily, when it first dancing. It was quite by accident that I got began as an art form, people used to into Kathak. I was first enrolled at mac for a And are your current objectives the same portray stories through mime, song, lyrics South Indian dance classical style, which as those you had when you started? and what we nowadays know as rapping my dad didn’t really know much about. We They’re bigger! The ethos of the company is and beatboxing. The latter has actually arrived earlier than scheduled and there was to challenge and broaden people’s existed in Kathak song from the time of its a Kathak class already taking place, so he perspectives of what Kathak is, and we’re creation. There’s also the technical part of thought I might as well jump into that one. I always looking at ways of delivering not only Kathak, which we refer to as pure dance - a haven’t looked back. Over the years, my the dance vocabulary but also the real demonstration of rhythms and body dad’s dream of me going to Bollywood philosophy of Kathak. We’re always looking movements. It’s quite a skilled and very subsided, because dance is a very for a narrative in which to convey a story. technical subject within the Kathak form. disciplined form - particularly Kathak, which What we do is look at ways of conveying that There’s also a lot of footwork and interaction is a very grounded art form. It really sorts narrative either on a solo basis or by working with tabla, which is the main percussion you out if you’re an un-sorted person, and it as part of a collaboration with another dance instrument. It’s one of those all-round art gives you a real focus in life. Bollywood may form or another artist. When we talk about forms where you can communicate through be fun and glamourous by comparison, but collaboration, it’s about having a dialogue on expression. It’s also very dramatic. It has it’s not a world in which one would and off stage. So we’re not forcing anything links with flamenco; what we know as necessarily say they could feel safe and to happen, such as ‘you follow my flamenco today is actually a combination of happy. technique’, or ‘I’ll follow your technique’. It’s what used to be the native Spanish dance about how techniques come together. Out and Kathak. The Kathak gypsies travelled Do you see dance as a useful tool in most recent project, Kathakbox, toured across to Europe and arrived in Southern breaking down social and cultural internationally for two years, and we brought Spain - in Andalucia - where they generated barriers? contemporary and African dance to that. We an ongoing collaboration, the result of which It’s really another language, one that’s found that, although we’re very different in is what’s today known as flamenco. beyond the barriers of words. I think we the way we use our vocabulary, there’s a can use the medium of dance to explore common thread in how we engage with the This year marks the company’s tenth any topic, be it romantic, tragic or social. audience. For example, a lot of people aren’t anniversary. How are you planning to It’s really an amplification of what we feel aware that rap and beatbox derived from celebrate? and what we’re sometimes afraid to say. Indian traditions. They think it’s something We’re doing a short national tour, which We perform to a very mixed audience - very current and something that America premieres our new show Kaavish at including people from orthodox invented. Beatbox is a major context of Capstone Theatre in Liverpool then comes communities who sometimes believe that Kathak, so when we showcase that with to mac in Birmingham on 24 November. The dance and music aren’t things we should Kathakbox, people are really amazed. The mac, I would say, is very much my second be celebrating, but who nonetheless turn parallels between hip-hop dance and Kathak home, because I started my training there up and take away something quite are common, it’s just that people aren’t when I was eight and now I teach there. I’m meaningful. At the other end of the aware of them, so part of our job is to re- a Company Associate Artist there as well. In spectrum, we perform to people who are educate, re-inform and surprise our Liverpool, one of our key commissioners avant-garde - cutting-edge audiences audiences. Milapfest has commissioned the celebratory who’re amused by what we have to say programme, so it’s apt that we should through our music and our dance. So yes, I Do you always look to strike a balance perform it there first. The mac is also think we have to drop the labels and look between the more traditional and the generously supporting us, providing a lot of at Kathak for what it is. It’s as urban elements of your performances? space and technical facilities and hosting an contemporary as any Western dance When we talk about tradition, it’s not about exhibition which will be supplementary to aesthetic. It’s a timeless art form which will reinventing old repertoires, it’s about a the performance. After November, we continue to evolve. It enables us to express particular classical format; a particular style perform in India, and then return to tour a ourselves - and as humans, we need an which you perform. The repertoire can be as further five or seven dates, culminating in a outlet for doing that. ‘here and now’ as you like. It can be about performance at London’s Royal Festival Hall. the Conservative Party and its agenda if you After that, we’ll go into creating our new Have you seen audience attitudes towards want it to be, but it’s done through a classic show. dance change over the past ten years? format of Kathak. Urban, I would say, is Absolutely! When I first decided that I much more a reflection of the movement Has work already begun on that? wanted to start a company, people imagined vocabulary I’ve developed by working with a We’ll be doing some research and that we would perform traditional Kathak lot of younger dancers who’re influenced by development work between our mac show dance - there’s a particular format that one street dance and hip-hop. It’s quite a broad and when we leave for India. There’ll also be performs - but from the outset we decided to subject in itself. Our audiences for both a two-week R&B with some dancers. do something more challenging. In the first strands are growing. year we produced a digital project which You mentioned starting your dance brought together live music, live dance and How does the understanding and training at the age of eight. Do you come live digital interactivity on stage. That interpretation of dance differ between the from a dance background? completely challenged people’s perceptions UK and India? No, not at all. I think my love of dance came of what Kathak was, what Kathak could I think India is slowly accepting the about as a result of the aspirations of my become, and what the Sonia Sabri Company contemporising of traditional art forms - parents - particulary my dad, who always could do. From that time on, we’ve always although it’s looking through a very different wanted to be a Bollywood actor. He ran tried to create something which is lens when it does that, because people in away from home and ended up in Mumbai, groundbreaking and pioneering. I feel proud India are still very much grounded in their but didn’t get anywhere with it. He to say that we’ve presented something that’s spiritual and cultural roots. To present anything eventually ended up in England, got married very new and very different. And although which is a really challenging art form is seen and had two kids. I was the first born, and I people have said that it’s controversial, as taking a risk. As an art form it can do more guess he put all his energies into trying to traditions - particulary the South Asia than tell stories about gods, goddesses and Sonia Sabri interview 1_Layout 1 31/10/2012 11:39 Page 3

time?’. She’s also created some very stunning pieces of work which take her art form to a completely different dimension.

How do you balance your time between the educational side of the company and performing? We’re now beginning to delegate more work. I now have dancers coming through who can deliver workshops and perform. It’s all about legacy as well. I can’t be dancing forever, and my work should continue when I’m not here, but I can only do that through dancers and musicians who have trained through the company. A lot of our company dancers are going out and work-shopping, which frees me up to do what I should be doing - the work which needs more time; the choreography, the performing and the creating of works for the company.

What does it mean to you as a company to have finally secured funding from the Arts Council? It’s a wonderful feeling. We’ve been knocking on their door for the past nine years. I’ve always believed that the company has delivered new work and groundbreaking pieces within South Asian dance which really ticks all their boxes. But no doubt the Arts Council has had its own agenda, and I suppose they only have a certain amount of money to allocate at any given time. But I can now understand why they’ve given it to me, as they probably think they’ve had enough of me love. It’s a language through which you can particular piece of music, or when something saying the same thing over and over again. say and explore anything. Some of the dance evokes a particularly strong image in my mind. And we do an awful lot of international work. styles in India are related to festivals, particular It’s a very strong internal feeling that I get. There’s no other dance group in the Midlands religious ceremonies and different parts of the That’s when I begin to play in the studio. Then, that does as much international touring. I don’t religious calendar, and it’s sometimes difficult through listening and moving, things begin to like to blow my own trumpet but there aren’t a to move away from that. That said, it’s happen. Over time, when you begin to lot of small-scale companies who do forty becoming more progressive, and people like improvise and play, you create phases and shows in a tour, so we’re in a very privileged ourselves are working with organisations there dance segments. That’s when the music no position. However, I wish that they’d to produce more hybrid-based choreographic longer plays a major part in the delivery, recognised us earlier on, because we could workshops and masterclasses. I was born because you’ve found something else to hang have done something really, really fantastic. here, I trained here, and so my understanding on to. The music eventually will stop being of body alignment is subconsciously informed part of it. It’s just a stimulus to feed an idea. I How will the funding be spent? by other dance forms that I’m watching and then work with Sarvar Sabri, who’s our Musical It’s not a great amount but it will enable us to absorbing here in the UK. This means that my Director, and explain the kind of sounds I’m sort ourselves in terms of space. It allows us cultural landscape and my dance landscape is hearing. Or he may have seen what I’ve to recruit a couple of part-time staff, but very different, because I’m accessing created and have some tune in his head, and that’s about it. contemporary, African and flamenco dance. In a piece develops from there. India, all you see is Indian dance. The How much of your success do you reference points are therefore very different Do you give yourself a timescale? attribute to your Birmingham roots? over there. I don’t think it’s as black and white as that. I An awful lot of it. I’m a Brummie-trained usually have an idea early on whether dancer, because my teacher was from here, Do you adapt your performances when in something’s going to work, and if it doesn’t, and mac has been there all along, offering India? then I lay it to rest. Obviously, if I’m working on support. Also, I met my husband Sabri here - No, I don’t change. I would just choose things a commissioned piece, I have to make sure he’s the Musical Director - and if it wasn’t for deliberately not from the repertoire - for that I have something I can create. It has to be the one hundred-and-ten percent effort that example, a political piece that has nothing to something that interests me. If I’m generally he gives to the company, we wouldn’t have a do with India. I’d also concentrate on Kathak’s excited about it, then I know I can make it company. If the two of us hadn’t put in so more Islamic influences, which don’t get work. much personal time and investment, we celebrated enough. wouldn’t have lasted for even two years. The Is there a fellow artist who’s proved to be a amount of times we’ve been up at 2am Would you ever choose Indian subject big inspiration to you over the years? sticking labels on flyers... I consider myself matter and use it as a reference point? There are a lot of people, actually. I think really fortunate to be in Birmingham. I’ve I have done, certainly. It always seems new to Richard Alston is someone who’s been a huge been given numerous invitations to move to them, because my way of moving and the inspiration, because his relationship with London - because that’s where it all happens shapes that I devise are very different to those dance and music is very similar to mine. He’s - but I’ve always turned them down. I’ve of a Kathak dancer who lives in India. also mentored one of our research projects, seen the people who’ve gone there and offered his pearls of wisdom and given us, as they’re really struggling. London is so cut- What’s your starting-point when devising a a company, some great feedback. Richard throat; in Birmingham, artists support each new piece? loved Kathakbox and invited us to perform at other. I also make a point of giving work to I would say that music is a very big stimulus. It The Place in London as part of their fortieth musicians and dancers based in can be anything; rock, jazz, Purcell - anything. anniversary programme. It was there that he Birmingham. We’re very much home- I could also be influenced by something I’ve announced to the whole auditorium that he grown... heard on the news, or by a walk in the park. was ‘a real fan of Sonia Sabri’... Shobana Inspiration can come from anywhere. Jeyasingh is another choreographer who I really admire. She’s very interesting, because What inspires you to take something to the she asks similar questions about her style of Sonia Sabri Dance Company appear at mac next stage? dance to those that I ask, like ‘why can’t it be Arts Centre, Birmingham, from Fri 23 & Sat When I start to get goose pimples with a classical and contemporary at the same 24 November. Sonia Sabri interview 1_Layout 1 31/10/2012 11:39 Page 4

Theatre REVIEWS

Here are a few of the theatre productions we reviewed from last month. For further theatre reviews, visit, www.whatsonlive.co.uk The Hairy Bikers New Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham The Hairy Bikers took to the stage at the New Alexandra Theatre last month with their Larger Than Live Tour. Having watched and enjoyed many of their television shows, I wondered how their seemingly natural, easy banter would work in a theatre environment, what delicious culinary delights Cirque du Soleil - Michael Jackson: The Immortal World Tour they would conjure up, and how they would London’s O2 Arena otherwise fill the promised two hours and ten With hoards of fans dressed in their finest MJ attire, this was clearly a night for lifelong minutes in front of a live audience. Michael Jackson admirers. After a grand entrance - though, Flashing images of Michael showed him at the start of his career with the Jackson 5, his disappointingly, not by motorcycle - the first extraordinary talent and star quality already much in evidence. Coupled with displays of course began, the guys introducing video clips on-stage contortion and magic, the images made for sensory overload. of their ‘best bits’. I began to worry about what Smooth Criminal kicked off the discography, the song accompanied by high-energy the evening might hold, and whether their easy dancers strutting their stuff in sharp suits and shiny boots. The first half of the evening was way with each other was actually just a front. rounded off with a live interpretation of the seminal Thriller, which almost raised the roof. But the bikers love to engage with the audience Part two kicked off with Beat It, while Heal The World and Earth Song reminded the - and when they did, their relaxed repartee was audience of MJ’s messages of peace, love and unity. His Scream duet with sister Janet much in evidence. People were invited to join followed. them on stage, either to be cooked for or to A visual delight, the troupe stunned the audience with their synchronicity, aerial acrobatics, become contestants, as Si and Dave became animal impersonations and a light fantastic firework display. The show ended with Man In gameshow hosts. Overall, the show didn’t really The Mirror, accompanied by an announcement about Jackson’s death. The report was a seem to know what it was supposed to be, and reminder to the audience of the significance of the O2, the venue where his comeback mostly I felt awkward for the Hairy Bikers. I tour had been scheduled to begin in July 2009. Jackson died on 25 June. didn’t go back for the second course. Without question, this show is the next best thing to seeing Michael Jackson in concert. Ted Finlay III II Alev Dervish IIIII

THE EASY WAY TO BOOK YOUR TICKETS ONLINE

whatsonlive.co.uk

The most comprehensive what’s on listings website for Birmingham and the West Midlands Dance November_Layout 1 29/10/2012 14:03 Page 1 Dance

Batsheva Ensemble Birmingham Hippodrome, Tues 13 - Wed 14 November Tel Aviv-based Batsheva Ensemble this month make their way to the Midlands as part of an extensive UK debut tour. The Ensemble is the jun- ior branch of Israel’s world-renowned contemporary dance group Batsheva Dance - a company consisting of more than three hundred inter- national dancers recruited from some of the world’s most prestigious dance schools. Led by artistic director Ohad Naharin, the Ensemble here perform Deca Dance - a production which brings together memorable segments from the choreographer’s past twenty years. Performed to an eclectic mix of music - from Vivaldi to Dean Martin and The Beach Boys - this much-produced and critically acclaimed piece is constantly updated to ensure each performance is given a fresh look.

The Lock In Rambert Dance Artrix, Bromsgrove, Mon 12 November; Ludlow Assembly Rooms, Company South Shropshire, Fri 16 November; Lichfield Garrick, Sat 17 November Regent Theatre, Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent, Wed 14 - Fusing two worlds at different ends of the spectrum, The Lock In Thurs 15 November sees some of the UK’s oldest dance forms brought ‘bang up to date’. The brainchild of award-winning folk band The Demon Maintaining their status as Barbers, this cross-genre performance commences with a group of one of Britain’s finest and street dancers arriving at an apparently deserted pub. most popular dance com- Soon, the more traditional regulars panies, Rambert Dance this arrive, and the ultimate in month head back to the dance stand-offs Midlands with their latest ensues. Expect creation. Labyrinth Of Love sword dances per- sees Irish choreographer formed with Marguerite Donlon make snooker her debut with the compa- ny, showcasing a powerful cues, pub and often humorous explo- bouncers ration of the ups and downs dancing the of love, a piece which fea- Morris and tures movements inspired B-boys flirt- by poems and prose span- ing with ning more than two thou- clog girls... sand years.

46 www.whatsonlive.co.uk Dance November_Layout 1 29/10/2012 14:03 Page 2

Festival Ballet present Sonia Sabri Dance Company LISTINGS the much-acclaimed Dance mac, Birmingham, Fri 23 - Sat 24 November Dance comic ballet set to Delibes beautiful score, Box Office Midlands-based Sonia Sabri Company For full listing information on dance, Tue 20 Nov, Lichfield blends elements of British and Indian culture including times and dates, visit Garrick NEW ALEXANDRA in performances which fuse music, move- MOTHERLAND Tues 20 - THEATRE, BIRMINGHAM www.whatsonlive.co.uk 0844 871 3011 ment and words to great effect. This year Wed 21 Wed, Warwick ARTRIX ARTS CENTRE, sees the company mark its tenth anniversary Arts Centre, Coventry COPPELIA Vienna Thurs 15 Nov, Regent THE NUTCRACKER The BROMSGROVE with a new production entitled Kaavish, Festival Ballet present Theatre, Hanley, Stoke- Vienna Festival Ballet 01527 577330 which traces Sonia’s artistic journey. the much-acclaimed on-Trent present Tchaikovsky's ARENA THEATRE THE NUTCRACKER Featuring live performance, archive footage comic ballet set to world famous classical WOLVERHAMPTON Delibes beautiful score, Presented by Moscow ballet, Wed 21 - Thu 22 01902 321321 and narrative, Kaavish sees Indian classical Thurs 1 Nov, Bedworth Ballet La Classique, dancer and choreographer Ash Mukherjee Nov, Lichfield Garrick BEDWORTH CIVIC HALL Civic Hall Thurs 15 - Sat 17 Nov, CINDERELLA 024 7637 6707 perform as guest artist, while a live Indian MOTHERLAND Vincent Belgrade Theatre, Birmingham Royal Dance Theatre present Coventry BIRMINGHAM rock music arrangement is provided by Ballet present one of HIPPODROME an ensemble of eleven ESSENCE OF IRELAND Sonia’s husband Sarvar Sabri. Audiences David Bintley’s most 0844 338 5000 men, women and chil- Exploration of Irish will also be treated to three live excerpts of celebrated creations to CRESCENT THEATRE, dren in a fusion of myths through narra- date, Wed 21 Nov - past productions, comprising Shobana dance, text and live tion, Irish music & BIRMINGHAM Jeyasingh’s Neon Dream, Drishti and Nisbet. Sun 8 Dec, 0121 643 5858 music that explores dancing, Sat 17 Nov, Birmingham Read our interview with Sonia at gender and hypocrisies New Alexandra THE DRUM, BIRMINGHAM Hippodrome 0121 333 2444 www.whatsonlive.co.uk in modern society, Theatre, Birmingham SONIA SABRI DANCE THE LOCK IN GRAND THEATRE Thurs 1 - Fri 2 Nov, The Some of COMPANY Celebratory Patrick Centre, the UK’s oldest forms WOLVERHAMPTON, double-bill tracing 01902 429212 Birmingham of dance are brought Sonia Sabri’s artistic Hippodrome bang up to date as LICHFIELD GARRICK journey, Fri 23 - Sat 24 01543 412121 PACO PENA - QUIMERAS they collide with some Nov, mac, Birmingham A fusion of Spanish of the youngest in an TANGO PASION Fusion of MAC, BIRMINGHAM 0121 446 3232 and African music and exciting new dance traditional and modern dance which celebrates show, Sat 17 Nov, dance styles together SOLIHULL ARTS COMPLEX immigration and shared Lichfield Guildhall with live music, Sun 25 0121 704 6962 URBAN TARAB cultures, Fri 2 Nov, Open Nov, Regent Theatre, STAFFORD GATEHOUSE Warwick Arts Centre, stage night presented Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent THEATRE Coventry by Pedralta World THERE IS HOPE Rosie 01785 254 653 INFUSION CONTEMPO- Fusion Belly Dance, Kay Dance Theatre THE ROSES THEATRE, RARY DANCE WEEKENDER Sat 17 Nov, Old Joint present a brand new, TEWKSBURY An energetic fusion of Stock Theatre, hard-hitting contempo- 01684 295 074 dance forms which Birmingham rary dance work which THEATRE SEVERN, NATIONAL DANCE takes Vanley Burke’s takes a look at modern SHREWSBURY COMPANY WALES exhibition as an inspira- Triple morality, physicality 01743 281281 tion, looking at dance bill of international and the presence of WARWICK ARTS CENTRE, steeped in mythical his- work, Mon 19 Nov, spirituality in our lives, COVENTRY Theatre Severn, tory and giving it a con- Tue 27 Nov, Arena 02476 524524 temporary twist, Sat 3 - Shrewsbury Theatre, W’hampton Sun 4 Nov, mac, COPPELIA Vienna Birmingham WENDY HOUSTOUN'S 50 ACTS Wendy Houston presents a spirited retaliation against ageism and other mod- ern rubbish involving Vincent Dance Theatre: manifestos, songs, apologies and errors... Motherland Thurs 8 - Fri 9 Nov, The Patrick Centre, Birmingham Warwick Arts Centre, THE EASY WAY TO Hippodrome, Thurs 1 - Fri 2 November; Coventry Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, Tues 20 - ARTHUR PITA: GOD’S Wed 21 November GARDEN Based on the parable of The Prodigal BOOK Since its formation in 1994, Vincent Dance Son, Arthur Pita’s pro- Theatre has earned itself a national and duction fuses dance international reputation for providing engag- with live fado music to ing dance theatre which broaches an array bring to life the intensi- YOUR TICKETS ty and drama of rustic of thought-provoking subject matter, in par- village life, Thurs 8 - Fri ticular gender politics. In Motherland, the 9 Nov, Patrick Centre, ensemble of eleven men, women and chil- Birmingham ONLINE dren blend dance, text and live music to take Hippodrome a look at the gender they were born into and THE LOCK IN Some of the UK’s oldest forms the price they are paying for it. of dance are brought bang up to date as they collide with some of the youngest in an exciting new dance show, Mon 12 Nov, Artrix, Bromsgrove DECA DANCE Presented by Israeli contemporary dance ensemble Batsheva Dance, Tue whatsonlive.co.uk 13 - Wed 14 Nov, Birmingham Hippodrome RAMBERT DANCE COMPANY: LABYRINTH OF LOVE TOUR Triple-bill of The most comprehensive what’s on listings website works featuring Marguerite Donlon's for Birmingham and the West Midlands Labyrinth Of Love, Nijiinsky's L'Apres-midi d'un faune & Mark Baldwin's What Wild Ecstasy, Wed 14 -

www.whatsonlive.co.uk 47 Film November main_Layout 1 29/10/2012 14:13 Page 1

HE MIDLANDS ESSENTIAL ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE

THE MIDLANDS ESSENTIAL ENTERTAINMENT GUID

MAY 2012 .co.uk £1.80 ISSUE 317 whatsonlive ISY SUTTIE www. DOBBY IN THE MIDLANDS INTERVIEW INSIDE...

www.whatsonlive.co.uk £1.80 ISSUE 319 JULY 2012 DIRTY INSIDE THE DEFINITIVE LISTINGS GUIDE DANCING HIT MUSICAL IN TOW Elaine C Smith portrays Susan Boyle interview inside Ali Bastian interview inside INS Rhys Dar Kiwi comedia tour in the re interview in Patri Hod having suc with Miran interview in THE DEFINITIVE LISTINGS GUIDE

What’sOn MAGAZINE GROUP

  

Wha

MAGAZ

Chris and the boys come to the Midlands... Queen of Reinvention in the Midlands...

   Film November main_Layout 1 29/10/2012 17:06 Page 2

Film TO WATCH THE LATEST MOVIE TRAILERS, VISIT: www.whatsonlive.co.uk

From FRI 16 NOV

The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 2 CERT 12a Starring Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson, Taylor Lautner, Billy Burke, Peter Facinelli, Michael Sheen, TOP 5 Dakota Fanning Directed by Bill Condon (USA) FILM BOX OFFICE The wait has been unbearable (at least, for Twitards). But now you can witness the conclusion to the phe- nomenally popular film series based on the phenomenally popular novels by Stephenie Meyer. It won’t be Skyfall (12a) giving too much away to remind one that Bella Swan is now a vampire and that she and R-Patz (er, 1 Edward Cullen) have sired a baby, Renesmee. In the fifth and final film, young Renesmee is wrongly iden- tified as an ‘immortal child’ and all hell breaks loose. Meanwhile, in real life, KStew and R-Patz are back together again (at least, at the time of going to press). 2 Madagascar 3 (3D) (PG)

The Master CERT 15 (144 mins) 3 Hotel Transylvania (3D) (U) Starring Joaquin Phoenix, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Amy Adams, Laura Dern, Ambyr Childers Taken 2 (12a) Directed by Paul Thomas Anderson (USA) 4 A new film from writer-director Paul Thomas Anderson is now an event. Think Boogie Paranormal Nights, Magnolia, Punch-Drunk Love and 5 Activity 4 (15) There Will Be Blood and you get the drift. He’s already been nominated for an Oscar three times for his screenplays, and the smart money is on him winning next year. Joaquin Phoenix, who was last seen on screen playing a bloated version of himself in the pseudo-documentary I’m Still Here, plays a World War Two veteran, Freddie Quell. Unable to cope with his drunkenness and post-traumatic stress disorder, Quell finds salvation in a philosophical movement known as The Cause, run by one Lancaster Dodd (Hoffman). Any intentional compar- From isons to the Scientology movement have FRI 16 been hotly denied. Anyway, The Master has already won the FIPRESCI Prize for Best Skyfall NOV Film at this year’s Venice Film Festival.

www.whatsonlive.co.uk 49 Film November main_Layout 1 29/10/2012 16:47 Page 3

FilmNEW RELEASES

Released from Fri 2 Nov

For A Good Time Call CERT 18 (85 mins) Starring Ari Graynor, Lauren Miller, Seth Rogen, Justin Long, Mimi Rogers, Nia Vardalos Directed by Jamie Travis (USA) If you liked Bridesmaids… Women are con- tinuing to show that they can be funny, sexy and raunchy, and this independent American comedy focuses on two roommates who dabble in the phone sex business. The movie was actually written for Ari Graynor (Caitlin Rucker in The Sopranos), who has made it her own, while the script was based on the experiences of the screenwriters From Lauren Miller and Katie Anne Naylon. FRI 16 NOV

Argo CERT 15 (120 mins) Mental CERT 15 (116 mins) Starring Ben Affleck, Bryan Cranston, Alan Starring Liev Schreiber, Toni Collette, Arkin, John Goodman, Kyle Chandler Anthony LaPaglia, Caroline Goodall, Kerry Directed by Ben Affleck (USA) Fox Directed by P.J. Hogan (Australia/USA) To perhaps many people’s surprise, Ben Set in New South Wales, Mental is the story Affleck has emerged as one of the most of an unhinged hitchhiker (Toni Collette) competent directors currently working in who arrives in the suburbs to play nanny to Hollywood. Following his directorial forays a family of dysfunctional girls. A bracing with Gone Baby Gone and The Town, Affleck examination of mental illness, Mental shows is getting more positive buzz with Argo. A that Australian cinema has lost none of its political thriller set around the rescue of six bite (or sense of humour). Hogan, inciden- American diplomats during the 1979 hostage tally, previously directed Muriel’s Wedding crisis in Iran, the film is produced by George (with Toni Collette) and My Best Friend’s For A Good Time Call Clooney. Wedding.

50 www.whatsonlive.co.uk Film November main_Layout 1 29/10/2012 14:13 Page 4

Rust And Bone CERT 15 (123 mins) Starring Marion Cotillard, Matthias Schoenaerts, Armand Verdure, Bouli Lanners Directed by Jacques Audiard (France/Belgium) Jacques Audiard doesn’t paint in black and white. He paints in vivid strokes of grey, tan and ecru. He also presents us with complex, flawed characters in narratives that seem to build rather than unfold. Ali (Schoenaerts) is a man seemingly on the run, a man probably on the wrong side of the law and with a young son in tow. Stéphanie (Cotillard) trains killer whales for a marine park in the environs of Nice. A chance encounter brings Ali and Stéphanie together, two souls who could not be less alike but are thrown in sync by cir- cumstance. A powerful drama adapted from a short story by Craig Davidson (from his eponymous collection), Rust And Bone is not as satisfying a film as Audiard’s The Beat That My Heart Skipped or A Prophet, but is still a cinematically potent experience. Mlle Cotillard is wonderful, and exposed as a woman clawing her way back from an imagi- nary crisis, while the Belgian Schoenaerts certainly lives up to the physical demands of his role. And there are some truly memorable moments.

(Pine). When Sam returns to Los Angeles for CERT tbc his father’s funeral, he discovers that the lat- Gambit ter has left his fortune to somebody Sam has- Starring Colin Firth, Cameron Diaz, Alan Rickman, Tom Courtenay, Stanley Tucci, n’t even heard of… Cloris Leachman Directed by Michael Hoffman (USA/UK) The good news is that the screenplay is by Joel and Ethan Coen. The bad that the Coen brothers have not always succeeded Released from Fri 9 Nov with remakes (cf. The Ladykillers, True Grit). This one is a comedy crime caper updated from the 1966 romp of the same name starring Shirley MacLaine (of Here Comes The Boom Downton Abbey fame) and Michael Caine. CERT 12a (103 mins) Starring Kevin James, Salma Hayek, Henry Winkler Directed by Frank Coraci (USA) End Of Watch CERT 15 (109 mins) Kevin James hasn’t had much luck with the Starring Jake Gyllenhaal, Michael Peña, Anna critics since his breakthrough performance in Kendrick, America Ferrera, Cody Horn Hitch (2005), opposite Will Smith. And his Directed by David Ayer (USA) last movie, Zookeeper, was a lemon. Still, Released from Wed 21 Nov Cop movies, especially actioners set within Kevin James diehards can now see him as the province of the LAPD, are hardly original an overweight biology teacher who decides Hollywood fodder. What separates End Of to take up mixed martial arts to aid the Watch from more recent outings is that the finances of his school. Silver Linings Playbook CERT tbc principal grunts, Brian Taylor (Gyllenhaal) and Starring Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Lawrence, Mike Zavala (Peña), are actually decent guys. Robert De Niro, Jackie Weaver, Chris Tucker, Julia Stiles Played out as a diary of their lives (there are Directed by David O. Russell (USA) cameras everywhere), the film succeeds in building a convincing chemistry between the It’s that time of year. So many films opening two officers (something sadly lacking in the around now seem to be emblazoned with recent Sweeney update). Furthermore, the Oscar potential. This comedy-drama (adapt- edgy camerawork adds considerable sus- ed from the 2008 novel by Matthew Quick) is pense to the action sequences, many of getting major buzz for Jennifer Lawrence, which are acutely thrilling stuff. But it’s the who plays a edgy, profanity-streaked performances that young widow ultimately distinguish this policier. involved with a bipolar man Here Comes The Boom (Cooper). Some say the Oscar is People Like Us CERT 12a (114 mins) already hers. A Starring Chris Pine, Elizabeth Banks, Olivia comedy rooted Wilde, Jon Favreau, Michelle Pfeiffer, Mark in serious issues Duplass Directed by Alex Kurtzman (USA) and real people, Don’t let the fact that Alex Kurtzman co-wrote the film is anoth- Transformers: Revenge Of The Fallen and er critical hit for Cowboys & Aliens fool you. His first film as its director, David O Russell (The director is a very human drama about a silver- Silver Linings Playbook tongued New York salesman called Sam Fighter). www.whatsonlive.co.uk 51 Film November main_Layout 1 29/10/2012 14:13 Page 5

GET YOUR FREE COPY DELIVERED TO YOUR DOOR EVERY MONTH

...you just pay for the postage and packing! Yes, we know you’re wondering what the catch is. Well, there isn’t one! We’ve ripped up our subscription rates so that more of you can get the No.1 listings magazine in the Midlands delivered direct to your front door every month. And at just £2 an issue to cover the postage and packing, there’s never been a better time to get it delivered! It’s easy - just call our Subscription Hotline on 01743 281714 Simply pay the postage and packing cost of £2 per issue by debit or credit card!

All you need to do now is choose the regional edition you would like... Midlands What’s On Magazine or Birmingham What’s On; Worcestershire What’s On; Warwickshire What’s On; Shropshire What’s On; Staffordshire What’s On; Black Country What’s On

54 www.whatsonlive.co.uk Film November main_Layout 1 29/10/2012 14:13 Page 6

From FRI 23 NOV

Nativity 2: Danger In The Manger! CERT U (105 mins) Starring , Pam Ferris, Jessica Hynes, Marc Wootton, Joanna Page Directed by Debbie Isitt (UK) The trouble with improvised comedies is that you can never tell whether or not they will work. The first Nativity! (2009), with Martin Freeman, was predictable, implausible and OTT. In the sequel, David Tennant plays identical twin brothers teaching at rival schools. Then they enter their respective classes into a 'Sing a Song for Christmas' competition.

Released from Fri 30 Nov

Great Expectations CERT 12a (129 mins) Starring Jeremy Irvine, Robbie Coltrane, Helena Bonham Carter, Ralph Fiennes, Jason Flemyng, Holliday Grainger Directed by (UK/USA) Great Expectations is a whopping novel (185,258 words). Even so, film- makers have repeatedly tried to grapple with its labyrinthine plot strands and soap operatic twists. Mike Newell, who will forever be known as the director of Four Weddings And A Funeral, has failed admirably with the material. His evocation of Dickensian London is more Dickensian than any before it; his casting choices are daring and largely successful. But he cannot escape the constraints of the plot, and in its final third the film unravels in a ludicrous torrent of flashbacks shot with a fish-eye lens. By then the pile-up of coincidences, Pip’s petulance and Ralph Fiennes’ Magwitch-as-Fagin, my dear, have become too much. On the plus side, Jason Flemyng is a wonderful Joe Gargery and John Mathieson’s cine- matography is effectively painterly.

The Trouble With The Curve CERT 12a (111 mins) Starring Clint Eastwood, Amy Adams, Justin Timberlake, Matthew Lillard, John Goodman Directed by Robert Lorenz (USA) When Clint Eastwood, aged 78, starred in Gran Torino (2008), scep- tics presumed he was too old to make a dent at the box-office. In the event, the movie grossed $270 million and remains Clint’s highest- grossing hit to date. Now aged 82, he plays a baseball scout who takes his daughter (Adams) along on his final recruiting trip.

The Trouble With The Curve

www.whatsonlive.co.uk 53 Film November main_Layout 1 29/10/2012 14:13 Page 7

Beloved 15 ing a dutiful housewife The Imposter 15 concert at London’s O2 A-Z LISTINGS Real-life mother and who hatches a desperate Bart Layton’s debut fea- Arena. Showing at OMH, Film daughter Chiara plan to protect her family ture centres on a young Shrewsbury, Sun 4 Nov after her husband suffers Mastroianni and Frenchman who con- Les Jeux Interdits All films are currently on general release Catherine Deneuve star in a heart attack. Showing at vinces a grieving Texan (Forbidden Games) 12a unless otherwise stated. For full listing a romantic drama which mac, Birmingham, Tues family that he’s their six- Wartime drama concern- follows the loves and 20 - Thurs 22 Nov teen-year-old son, who’s information, including times and dates, ing a young French girl losses of a mother and been missing for three visit www.whatsonlive.co.uk Ginger And Rosa 12a orphaned in a Nazi air daughter over a forty-year years. Showing at Stoke Elle Fanning, Annette attack who is befriended period. Showing at The Film Theatre, Thurs 1 Nov Assembly Rooms, South Benning and Christina by the son of a poor 360 Edge Arts Centre, Much Shropshire Hendricks star in the lat- farmer. Showing at Anthony Hopkins, Jude Wenlock, South The Italian Job PG Law, Rachel Weisz and est film from critically Screening of the classic Warwick Arts Centre, Anna Karenina 12a Shropshire, Mon 26 Nov Ben Law star in Peter acclaimed filmmaker action-comedy starring Coventry, Tues 20 Nov Keira Knightley and Jude Morgan’s dramatic Blow-Up 15 Sally Potter, which Michael Caine. Showing Law star in the latest and Looper 15 thriller. Showing at Stoke In 1960s London, a suc- explores the friendship at Electric Cinema, much-acclaimed adapta- Emily Blunt and Bruce Film Theatre, Fri 2 & Sat 3 cessful young photogra- between two inseparable Birmingham, Sat 10 Nov tion of Tolstoy’s political Willis star in a sci-fi action- Nov pher on a trip to a local girls in 1962 London. romance. Showing at er set in 2072. Showing at park photographs a mys- Showing at mac, Keep The Lights On 18 Warwick Arts Centre, Light House Media 5 Broken Cameras 15 terious beauty, but soon Birmingham, Fri 9 - Thurs What begins as a highly Coventry, Fri 9 - Mon 12 & Centre, Wolverhampton, Intimate first-hand discovers something dis- 15 Nov; Warwick Arts charged first encounter Wed 14 Nov; Wem Town Thurs 1 Nov; Warwick Arts account of non-violent turbing when he develops Centre, Coventry, Fri 16 - soon becomes some- Hall, North Shropshire, Centre, Coventry, Fri 2 - resistance in the the pictures. Showing at Thurs 22 Nov; OMH, thing much more in Ira Wed 28 - Thurs 29 Nov Thurs 8 Nov; Stoke Film Palestinian village Bil’in, Warwick Arts Centre, Shrewsbury, Mon 19 - Sachs’ latest drama. Theatre, Fri 16 & Sat 17 threatened by encroach- Coventry, Fri 2 & Sat 3 Wed 21 Nov Showing at mac, Nov; mac, Birmingham, ing Israeli settlements. Nov Birmingham, Sat 10 Nov; Showing at Warwick Arts Goodnight Mr Tom PG Light House Media Fri 16 - Tues 20 Nov Centre, Coventry, Wed 14 Call Me Kucha tbc John Thaw stars in an Centre, Wolverhampton, Monsieur Lazhar 12a - Thurs 15 Nov; mac, Documentary following award-winning adaptation Wed 14 Nov Comedy-drama set in a Birmingham, Tues 27 - gay rights activist of Michael Morpurgo’s Montreal public grade Wed 28 Nov WATCH David Kato as the novel. Showing at Killing Them Softly 15 school. Showing at Wem tries to repeal Warwick Arts Centre, Brad Pitt and Ray Liotta Town Hall, North 2 Days In New York Uganda’s homopho- Coventry, Sat 10 Nov star in a crime thriller THE FILM Shropshire, Tues 6 Nov; 15 bic laws and liberate based on the novel Hit So Hard The Edge Arts Centre, Sequel to the his fellow LGBT men Cogan’s Trade by Documentary featuring Much Wenlock, South acclaimed Two Days TRAILERS AT and women, or George V Higgins. footage shot by Patty Shropshire, Mon 19 Nov In Paris. Julie Delpy ‘kuchus’. Showing at Showing at Stoke Film and Chris Rock star. whatsonlive.co.uk Schemel, the acclaimed Theatre, Thurs 22 Nov Warwick Arts Centre, Moonrise Kingdom PG Showing at The Edge Arts and openly gay drummer Coventry, Thurs 22 Nov Bill Murray and Bruce Centre, Much Wenlock, for Courtney Love’s semi- Kiss Me15 Willis star in Wes South Shropshire, mon 5 Cloudburst 15 nal rock band Hole. Swedish romantic drama Anderson’s latest tale of Nov Romantic comedy road Showing at Light House concerning Mia and Frida small-town characters Beasts Of The Southern movie starring Olympia Media Centre, who, both in their thirties, who come together in the About Ely (Darbareye Elly) Wild 12a Dukakis and Brenda Wolverhampton, Mon 12 meet for the first time at form of a search party tbc Acclaimed fantasy drama Fricker. Showing at mac, Nov their parents’ engage- convened to look for a Persian mystery story that about Hushpuppy, a fear- Birmingham, Fri 9 Nov ment party. Showing at offers a revealing look at less six-year-old girl, liv- Holy Motors 18 mac, Birmingham, Tues pair of young lovers the Iranian middle-class ing with her father in ‘the Coraline 12a Leos Carax’s bizarre 13 Nov who’ve eloped in 1960s and how a simple lie can Bathtub’, a fictitious Dakota Fanning, Teri metaphysical journey New England. Showing at open up a trail of prob- southern Bayou commu- Hatcher, between life, love and The Last Man On Earth Wem Town Hall, North lems. Showing at Royal nity. Showing at mac, and Jennifer Saunders death, featuring the PG Shropshire, Thurs 8 Nov extraordinary French Post-apocalyptic 1964 Spa Centre, Leamington Birmingham, Fri 16 - lend their voices to this Mythical Monsters Spa, Sat 10 - Wed 14 Nov animated adventure actor Denis Lavant in a horror fantasy starring Thurs 22 Nov Special screening featur- based on Neil Gaiman’s variety of roles. Kylie Vincent Price. Showing at ing a selection of chil- African Oasis The Best Exotic Marigold international bestselling Minogue also stars. mac, Birmingham, Sun 4 dren’s favourite monsters, Documentary about the Hotel 12a book. Showing at mac, Showing at OMH, Nov including The Gruffalo Handsworth Cultural Judi Dench, Maggie Birmingham, Sat 3 Nov Shrewsbury, Tues 13 - Centre in Birmingham, an Smith, Penelope Wilton & Thurs 15 Nov Lawless 18 and The Gruffalo’s Child, oasis of cultural activities Celia Imrie star as a Diana Vreeland: The John Hillcoat’s authentic, Showing at Warwick Arts for the area’s black com- group of retired Brits who Eye Has To Travel PG Hope Springs 12a gritty and uncompromis- Centre, Coventry, Sat 17 munity. Showing at mac, descend on a hotel in An intimate portrait of the Romantic comedy star- ing crime drama which, Nov ring Meryl Streep and set in America’s deep Birmingham, Thurs 29 Udaipur, only to find that life and work of leg- The Nine To Five Nov endary fashion icon and Tommy Lee Jones as a south in the Depression it’s not as they were led to Experience18 Harpers Bazaar editor middle-aged couple who, era, tells the tale of a believe. Showing at Join Charlie Hides (aka Amour 12a Diana Vreeland. Showing after thirty years of wed- gang of bootleggers Ludlow Assembly Rooms, Kandi Kane Baxter) for a Drama concerning an at mac, Birmingham, lock, feel the need to whose livelihood is threat- South Shropshire, Tues 27 bawdy and irreverent elderly couple whose & Thurs 29 Nov Wed 14 - Thurs 15 Nov seek marriage coun- ened by a new deputy’s bond of love is severely selling. Steve Carrell also desire to cut their profits. screening of the camp tested when one of the Beauty 18 The Doors: Live At The stars. Showing at Artrix, Showing at Artrix, classic starring Dolly two suffers a stroke. Oliver Hermanus’ drama Hollywood Bowl ‘68 12a Bromsgrove, Mon 5- Fri 9 Bromsgrove, Wed 14 - Parton, Jane Fonda and Showing at mac, tells the story of Francois Screening of what’s Nov; Ludlow Assembly Thurs 15 Nov; Ludlow Lily Tomlin. Showing at Birmingham, Fri 30 Nov van Heerden, a mid-for- often described as the Rooms, South Assembly Rooms, South mac, Birmingham, Fri 16 ties, white, Afrikaans- best Doors performance Shropshire, Tues 6 - Shropshire, Tues 27 & Nov The Angel’s Share 12a ever captured on film. Thurs 29 Nov speaking family man liv- Thurs 8 Nov; Wem Town Now Is Good 12a Comedy-drama which Showing at OMH, ing in Bloemfontein. Hall, North Shropshire, Dakota Fanning stars as sees acclaimed British Showing at mac, Shrewsbury, Mon 12 Nov Tues 13 & Thurs 15 Nov; Led Zeppelin: director Ken Loach tackle Celebration Day PG seventeen-year-old Tessa Birmingham, Sun 11 Nov Artrix, Bromsgrove, Mon Scott in a film adaptation Scotland’s underclass. Elena 15 19 - Wed 21 Nov Experience Led Showing at Ludlow Russian drama concern- Zeppelin’s historic 2007 of Jenny Downham’s

TRE, WOLVERHAMPTON 0871 224 4007 Warwickshire Worcestershire CINEMA Box Office 01902 716055 OAKENGATES PICTURE ODEON, COVENTRY ARTRIX, BROMSGROVE ODEON MERRY HILL, HOUSE 0871 224 4007 01527 577330 DUDLEY 0871 22 44007 01952 615607 Birmingham LIBRARY THEATRE ODEON, NUNEATON MALVERN THEATRE 0121 303 2868 SHOWCASE, DUDLEY WEM TOWN HALL AMC Broadway Plaza, Five 0871 224 4007 0845 287 2146 0871 220 1000 01939 232299 Ways 0121 450 6800 MAC 0121 446 3232 SHOWCASE, WALSALL SHOWCASE, COVENTRY WAREHOUSE, ODEON 0871 224 4007 CINEWORLD Broad St, B’ham 0871 220 1000 Staffordshire 0871 220 1000 KIDDERMINSTER 0871 200 2000 REEL Quinton 0121 421 01562 747773 APOLLO, STAFFORD APOLLO 4, LEAMINGTON CINEWORLD Solihull 5316 Shropshire 0871 220 6000 SPA 01926 427 448 VUE, WORCESTER 0871 200 2000 SHOWCASE 0871 220 1000 OMH SHREWSBURY CINEWORLD, BURTON- ROYAL, LEAMINGTON SPA 0871 224 0240 ELECTRIC, B’ham VUE CINEMA Star City 08712 01743 281281 UPON-TRENT 0871 200 2000 01926 334418 Visit whatsonlive.co.uk 0121 643 7879 240 240 CINEWORLD, SHREWSBURY STOKE FILM THEATRE, WARWICK ARTS CENTRE for venue website EMPIRE 0871 471 4714 0871 200 2000 01782 411188 Black Country COVENTRY 02476 524524 details THE GIANT SCREEN AT MAJESTIC, BRIDGNORTH ODEON TAMWORTH MILLENNIUM POINT CINEWORLD WOLVERHAMP- 01746 761815 0871 224 4007 0121 202 2222 TON 0871 200 2000 ODEON TELFORD For full listing information, including times and dates, LIGHT HOUSE MEDIA CEN- visit www.whatsonlive.co.uk

54 www.whatsonlive.co.uk Film November main_Layout 1 29/10/2012 14:13 Page 8

novel Before I Die. be lover (Bruel).Showing elist struggling with writer’s stars. Showing at Royal, Take This Waltz15 Birmingham, Fri 2 - Thurs Showing at Ludlow at Warwick Arts Centre, block whose eponymous Leamington Spa, Fri 2 - Michelle Williams and 8 Nov; Stoke Film Assembly Rooms, South Coventry, Sun 18 Nov protagonist miraculously Wed 7 Nov; OMH, Seth Rogan star in Theatre, Tues 13 & Thurs Shropshire, Mon 12 - Tues materialises.Showing at Shrewsbury, Fri 2 - Thurs Sarah Polley’s romantic 15 Nov; Light House Parlez-moi de Vous15 13 Nov OMH, Shrewsbury, Fri 16 - 8 Nov comedy, which ques- Media Centre, The story of Melina, a late- Thurs 22 Nov tions how long-term W’hampton, Fri 16 - On The Roadtbc night presenter of a radio The Shining15 relationships affect love, Thurs 22 Nov Adventure drama based programme devoted to Rust And Bone15 Stanley Kubrick’s classic sex and the way we look on Jack Kerouac’s seminal emotional and sexual Jacques Audiard’s 1980 thriller starring Jack Vito at ourselves. Showing at pseudo-autobiography. problems.Showing at acclaimed subtitled drama Nicholson.Showing at Documentary which Ludlow Assembly Showing at Warwick Arts Warwick Arts Centre, follows a father who, put in Electric Cinema, explores the story of Vito Rooms, South Centre, Coventry, Fri 2- Coventry, Mon 19 Nov charge of his young son, Birmingham, Thurs 8 Nov; Russo, founding father of Shropshire, Mon 19 - Thurs 8 Nov; Royal Spa leaves Belgium to live with mac, Birmingham, Fri 23 - the gay liberation move- Tues 20 Nov Centre, Leamington Spa, The Perks Of Being A his sister and her husband Sat 24 Nov ment and author of The Wallflower12a Fri 16 - Thurs 22 Nov; as a family.Showing at To Rome With Love12a Celluloid Closet.Showing Emma Watson stars in Skyfall12a Ludlow Assembly Rooms, Electric Cinema, An all-star cast come at mac, Birmingham, Sun Stephen Chbosky’s Daniel Craig returns as Ian South Shropshire, Wed 21 - Birmingham, Fri 9 - Thurs together in this Woody 11 Nov romantic drama which Fleming’s James Bond Thurs 22 Nov; Stoke Film 15 Nov; mac, Birmingham, Allen comedy, which fol- explores numerous con- 007 in the longest-running Walkabout12a Theatre, Fri 23, Sat 24 & Fri 23 - Thurs 29 Nov lows the intertwining temporary issues. film franchise of all time. Adventure drama set in Tues 27 Nov romances, adventures Showing at OMH, The SapphiresPG Showing at Malvern the Australian outback. and predicaments of visi- Once Upon A Time In Shrewsbury, Fri 9 - Thurs Feel-good movie set in Theatre, until Thurs 8 Nov; Showing at Warwick Arts tors to, and residents of, Anatolia15 15 Nov Australia in 1968 and Electric Cinema, Centre, Coventry, Fri 2 & Rome. Showing at Acclaimed crime drama telling the story of four Birmingham, until Thurs 15 Sat 3 Nov Electric Cinema, that’s based on the real life Private Peaceful12a aboriginal sisters who Nov; OMH, Shrewsbury, Birmingham, Mon 19 experiences of one of its Maxine Peake stars in become the southern Fri 23 - Thurs 29 Nov We Are PoetsPG Nov; Ludlow Assembly writers.Showing at The Michael Morpurgo’s clas- hemisphere’s answer to An uplifting and inspiring Rooms, South Edge Arts Centre, Much sic rites-of-passage story The Supremes.Showing Strawberry Fields15 documentary follows a Shropshire, Sat 24 & Wenlock, South Shropshire concerning two brothers at Warwick Arts Centre, Frances Lea’s low-budget group of young perform- Mon 26 Nov who fall for the same girl. Coventry, Fri 23 - Thurs 29 drama set in the transitory ance poets from Leeds, OrpheePG Showing at mac, world of strawberry pick- chosen to represent the Nov Une Vie Meilleure15 Jean Cocteau’s 1950s Birmingham, Fri 2 - Tues 6 ers in the Kent country- UK in the annual poetry A touching film that romantic fantasy.Showing Nov; Warwick Arts Centre, Searching For side. Showing at mac, slam competition. explores the basic desire at Artrix, Bromsgrove, Sat Coventry, Fri 9 - Mon 12 Sugarman12a Birmingham, Mon 5 - Showing at Wem Town to improve your circum- 17 Nov Nov A heartwarming and sur- Thurs 8 Nov Hall, North Shropshire, stances amidst the cur- prising documentary Thurs 22 Nov rent financial turmoil. Pandora’s BoxPG Room 23715 about the enigmatic The Suicide Shop (Le Showing at Warwick Arts GW Pabst’s 1929 silent Documentary about hid- 1970s folk singer Magasin des Suicides)15 What Are They Telling Centre, Coventry, Fri 16 film follows the rise and fall den meanings in Stanley Rodriguez.Showing at Quirky French animation Us It’s Illegal For? Nov of captivating and amoral Kubrick’s The Shining. Ludlow Assembly which imagines a city Young People from young prostitute Lulu. Showing at Electric where the most success- Telford New Town exam- Rooms, South Untouchable15 Showing at Warwick Arts Cinema, Birmingham, Sun ful shop is the one that ine the statement that Shropshire, Mon 5 Nov French biographical Centre, Coventry, Sat 3 Nov 4 - Thurs 8 Nov; mac, sells poisons and ropes ‘home taping is illegal’ drama concerning a Birmingham, Sun 25 - Mon Shadow Dancer15 to help you end your life. and speak to the BPI, paraplegic aristocrat Paris-Manhattan15 26 Nov Andrea Riseborough Showing at Warwick Arts Island Records, and Paul who takes on a young A romantic comedy cen- stars as an informant for Centre, Coventry, Sat 17 Weller of the Style black man from ‘the proj- tered on a Woody Allen- Ruby Sparks15 M15 who spills the beans Nov Council.Showing at mac, ects’ as his careworker. obsessed pharmacist Paul Dano (Little Miss in order to protect her Birmingham, Thurs 29 Showing at mac, (Taglioni) and her would- Sunshine) stars as a nov- son. Clive Owen also Nov

DVD NEW RELEASES Joyful Noise PG Killer Joe 18 Queen Latifah and Dolly Matthew McConaughey Parton play two dames stars as the eponymous who lock horns in a fight killer hired by a young to win the National drug dealer to take out Joyful Noise his evil mother in order Competition. to collect the insurance. Released 5 November Released 5 November Katy Perry: Part Of Me PG Documentary featuring scenes from Katy Perry’s California Dreams world tour which also takes a trawl through her life, touching on her divorce from Russell Brand. Released 5 November Seeking A Friend For The End Of The World 15 Steve Carell plays a morose insurance bro- ker whose wife leaves him after the earth is given three weeks O’Dowd and Megan Fox family film from Wahlberg), who finds before its collision with Men In Black 3 PG also star. Aardman Animations his relationship with his an asteroid called Tommy Lee Jones Released 12 November that follows the misad- girlfriend threatened Matilda. However, after and Will Smith star as ventures of Father when she objects to befriending his neigh- government agents Christmas’s son, Arthur. Ted’s obnoxious and bour Penny, played by assigned to monitor Released 19 November crude behaviour. Margin Call 15 Keira Knightley, he finds extraterrestrials living Released 26 November himself on a road trip Thriller set in an invest- undercover in New The Lorax U where anything can ment bank during the York. Released 5 Nov Animated adventure happen. early stages of the eco- with a strong environ- Released 5 November nomic downturn - aka Friends With Kids 18 mental message, based the Great Recession. Jennifer Westfeldt on the children's book The Stellar cast includes writes,directs and stars Friends With Kids by Dr Seuss and featur- Kevin Spacey, Jeremy in a romantic comedy ing the voice talents of Irons and Demi Moore. about two thirtysome- Arthur Christmas U Zac Efron and Taylor Released 12 November thing best friends who Billy Nighy, Imelda Swift. decide to have a baby Staunton, Hugh Lawrie Released 19 November together while continu- and James McAvoy 15 ing to date other peo- lend their voices to this Ted ple. Adam Scott, Chris acclaimed animated Ted is the constant com- panion of John (Mark Ted www.whatsonlive.co.uk 55 Visual Arts November_Layout 1 29/10/2012 16:35 Page 1 Visual Arts November_Layout 1 29/10/2012 16:35 Page 2 Visual Arts

Beat Streuli: New Street Ikon Gallery, Birmingham, Wed 21 November - Sun 3 February Close-up images of people, often captured unawares as they make their way along city streets, are the stock-in-trade of highly rated Swiss artist Beat Streuli. This latest exhibition of his work blends photography, video and digital projections to present a celebration of an artist whose cre- ations have offered a thought-provoking reflection on modern life and times. Huge images from Streuli’s extensive archive, capturing human moments in cities such as Sydney, Brussels, New York, São Paulo, Guangzhou and Cape Town, wallpaper Ikon’s first floor, and are complemented by a slide and video installation featuring thou- sands of snapshots taken in Castellón (Spain) and Birmingham during summer 2012.

Beat Strueli - Birmingham Fiona Rae: Maybe You Can Live On The Moon In The Next Century New Art Gallery, Walsall, until Sun 30 December Drawing inspiration from a wide range of sources and artists, former Goldsmiths Art College pupil Fiona Rae first came to prominence in 1988 when she featured in Damien Hirst’s group show Freeze. This saw Rae’s international reputation develop at high speed, resulting in a nomination for Tate’s Turner Prize in 1991. Having since been exhibited widely in museums and galleries, Rae’s Revealed: Government Art Collection work continues to be held in high regard, and fea- Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery, Fri 16 November - Sun 24 February tures in many private and public collections throughout the world. This particular exhibition Works by LS Lowry, Bridget Riley, Grayson Perry, Martin Creed and Andy Warhol all fea- brings together paintings created between 2000 ture in this latest major exhibition to grace the Gas Hall at Birmingham Museum and Art and 2011, a period which saw Rae introduce dra- Gallery. For the very first time, more than two hundred works of art - ranging from histori- matic changes to her artistic practice. cal to contemporary - are being brought together under one roof to tell the story of the Government Art Collection since it began in 1898. The exhibits all come from Government buildings across the world, with many having been commissioned for new embassy buildings or to record important national events. Horses The Barber Institute, Birmingham, until Wed 30 January Man’s relationship with domestic horses is here explored through a series of prints and drawings from the Barber’s collection. Rarely seen photographs of Sir Henry and Lady Barber, both keen equestrians, feature in the exhibition, and are presented alongside Ferdinand Victor Eugene Delacroix’s A Study Of A Horse (pictured).

www.whatsonlive.co.uk 57 Visual Arts November_Layout 1 29/10/2012 16:35 Page 3

range of handcrafted to any environment in PREVIEWS LISTINGS items, until Sun 18 Nov, which he’s working, VisualArts VisualArts Red House Glass Cone, until Sat 1 Dec, Warwick Stourbridge Arts Centre, Coventry For full listing information on Visual Art SOUREN MOUSAVI SOLO CASTLE HIGH ART Annual Ongoing exhibitions exhibitions, including times and dates, EXHIBITION Featuring exhibition by the muse- visit www.whatsonlive.co.uk works inspired by the um’s local school, until Iranian artist’s journey to Sat 1 Dec, Dudley His Dark Materials: ANTONY DONALDSON THE EMBROIDERERS freedom, until Sun 18 Museum & Art Gallery Exhibition featuring GUILD This exhibition, Nov, Gallery 150, MADE TO MAKE Discover New Art By Adie Blundell early works from the mounted as a tribute to Leamington Spa the wealth of talent and Herbert Art Gallery, Coventry, ‘60s & '70s alongside athletes around the LEGEND! Hands-on fami- inspiration developed in Sat 24 November - Sun 17 March more recent pieces, world, features no fewer ly exhibition that the region as eight until Sat 3 Nov, than three thousand explores tales of dash- alumni of the Questioning the nature of human existence, Wolverhampton Art embroidered postcard- ing knights and brave Birmingham Institute of this debut solo exhibition from Coventry- Gallery sized images depicting princesses. An event Art and Design’s School based artist Adie Blundell uses large-scale DRAWBRIDGE ART GROUP the life and times of part-funded by the of Jewellery MA show- detailed drawings of ravens, albatrosses and AUTUMN EXHIBITION until over two hundred sport- Worcestershire case their recent work, other bird-like creatures to explore our pre- Sat 3 Nov, Solihull Arts ing nations, until Sun 4 Archeological Society, until Sat 1 Dec, Bilston Nov, Artrix, Bromsgrove until Sat 24 Nov, Craft Gallery carious position in Complex WORCESTER SOCIETY OF Worcester City Art TRANSPLANTATION: A the world. Sculptures MUSCLES, BALLS & Gallery & Museum BOWLS Exhibition which ARTISTS Sixty-fifth annu- SENSE OF PLACE & CUL- formed from various al exhibition, until Sat 10 HARMINDER JUDGE: IN TURE Exhibition which new and reclaimed explores the history of sport in Shakespeare’s Nov, Worcester City Art THIS STRANGE HOUSE brings together leading items - including time, until Sun 4 Nov, Gallery & Museum Sinister and enigmatic UK & Australian-based latex, plaster, salt and Nash’s House & New OTHER PLACES Exhibition presentation comprising makers of narrative jew- iron - also feature, Place, Stratford-upon- of work by Ann film, digital prints and ellery, until Sat 1 Dec, Avon Wilkinson and Anne sculptural installation, Bilston Craft Gallery and reflect the multi- until Sun 25 Nov, The ple obsessions which A CENTURY OF ART The Guest exploring the hid- TRANSITIONS: DRAWINGS den narratives that New Art Gallery, Walsall FROM THE COLLECTION OF dominate the artist’s work of both current and past members of reside in our everyday FUNCTION III MIMA This exhibition of life. the Coventry and places yet exist only in Photographic competi- works from the collec- Warwickshire Society of our imagination, until tion providing a plat- tion of mima Artists (CWSA) is here Sat 10 Nov, Bilston form for the region's (Middlesbrough Institute showcased in a cele- Craft Gallery best young, creative tal- of the Arts) presents Pop Highlights bration of the group’s BLACK HISTORY MONTH ent, until Sun 25 Nov, drawings by several key one hundred year histo- Members of The Barber Institute, artists in post-war Wolverhampton Art Gallery, Birmingham America, many of whom Sat 17 November - Wed 15 May, 2013 ry, until Sun 4 Nov, Wolverhampton’s Herbert Museum & Art diverse communities REDDITCH: MEDIEVAL are best known for An eye-catching fibreglass maquette of King Gallery respond to the city’s art BEGINNINGS TO THE working in three dimen- sions, until Sat 1 Dec, Kong by Nicholas Monro features alongside YAEL BARTANA EXHIBI- collection, until Sat 10 GREAT WAR The first in a Nov, Wolverhampton Art series of projects and Warwick Arts Centre, works by Andy Warhol, Peter Blake, Roy TION Trilogy of films Coventry based on the activities Gallery events to celebrate the Lichtenstein and Richard Hamilton in this, the fiftieth anniversary in THE BIG DRAW: DOT TO latest display of Pop Art to grace the of the Jewish AUTUMN SHOWCASE Renaissance Movement Featuring an array of 2014 of Redditch being DOT Project that pushes Wolverhampton Art in Poland, until Sun 4 autumnal artwork, until designated a New the boundaries on a Gallery. New works November, Ikon, Sat 17 Nov, Bilston Craft Town, until Sun 25 Nov, classic childhood activi- gifted to the collec- Birmingham Gallery Forge Mill Needle ty, until Sun 2 Dec, mac, Museum, Redditch Birmingham tion by well-known art THE LIDICE STORY VANLEY BURKE: BY THE Exhibition commemo- RIVERS OF BIRMINAM THE OLYMPICS Exhibition LIVING CITY Sarah collectors Jean and of paintings, sculpture, Taylor Silverwood’s Eric Cass are also on rating the seventieth Photographic exhibition anniversary of the that documents the his- ceramics and textiles, works examine the display, including destruction of the small tory of Handsworth's all inspired by the relationship between sculptures by Allen mining village of Lidice Jamaican community Olympic Games and humans and architec- Jones and Karel Jacqueline by Andy Warhol in Czechoslovakia, until since the mid-1960s, the Olympic Torch ture through a series of (c) Andy Warhol Estate, DACS, Parade, until Sat 20 drawings and text- Appel. London 2012 Sun 4 Nov, The until Sun 18 Nov, mac, Potteries Museum, Midlands Arts Centre, Nov, The Willow Gallery, based pieces, until Sun Stoke-on-Trent Birmingham Oswestry, North 2 Dec, The Barber Shropshire Institute, Birmingham ANN VERONICA THE ART OF SURVIVAL Painters And Players JANSSENS: OSCAR Video This exhibition, forming MAN OF NOTE Exhibition JODIE CAREY: SOLOMON’S portrait of the Brazilian part of Conjunction 12, that celebrates Harry KNOT Using a wide Shire Hall Gallery, Stafford, architect Oscar features various surviv- Eccleston's legacy as range of media, Jodie Sat 10 November - Sun 6 January Niemeyer at the age of ing specimens and frag- an artist and printmak- Carey’s work explores er, until Sat 1 Dec, John Prescott Knight (1803-1881) is the only one hundred-and-two, ile fragments - ranging ideas of time, memory Wolverhampton Art and materiality, of time Stafford-born artist with a national reputation. until Sun 4 Nov, Ikon from ancient artefacts to Gallery, Birmingham contemporary artworks, Gallery passing, memories fad- Although now largely forgotten, in his time he until Sun 18 Nov, The AENEAS WILDER: UNTI- ing, of absence and was a highly regarded painter of portraits TONY AREFIN EXHIBITION loss... until Sun 30 Dec, Exhibition celebrating Potteries Museum & Art TLED 162 See the Gallery and genre scenes. He was also the son of Gallery, Stoke-on-Trent transformed through The New Art Gallery, the work of graphic Walsall actor and comedian Edward Knight, a man designer Tony Arefin MADE @ THE CONE intervention by Aeneas who was closely linked with the earliest days (1960-2000), until Sun 4 Working with a diverse Wilde - an artist who THE DIG! Exhibition Nov, Ikon Gallery, range of media, the develops complex, showcasing archaeolog- of theatre in Stafford. This entertaining exhibi- extraordinarily beautiful ical finds uncovered so tion brings the intriguing story of the theatre Birmingham Made@The Cone col- lective create a stunning structures in response far, until Mon 31 Dec, in nineteenth century Stafford together with Staffordshire County Council’s important and recently conserved collection of JP Knight 01384 812745 STAFFORDSHIRE MUSEUM, paintings. Museums & Art Galleries DUDLEY MUSEUM SHUGBOROUGH & ART GALLERY 01889 881388 Birmingham NUMBER NINE THE GALLERY 01384 815575 Warwickshire 0121 643 9099 LIGHT HOUSE MEDIA CENTRE ARTIFEX Sutton Coldfield COMPTON VERNEY GALLERY WOLVERHAMPTON 0121 323 3776 RBSA GALLERY 0121236 01926 645500 4353 01902 716055 BARBER INSTITUTE HERBERT ART GALLERY THREE WHITE WALLS THE NEW ART GALLERY 0121 414 7333 COVENTRY 02476 832386 GALLERY WALSALL 01922 654400 BIRMINGHAM MUSEUM & MEAD GALLERY WARWICK 0121 643 0078 RED HOUSE GLASS CONE ART GALLERY 0121 303 02476 524524 2834 01384 812750 ROYAL PUMP ROOMS Black Country WOLVERHAMPTON ART THE BURROWS GALLERY, 01926 742700 THE CUSTARD FACTORY BANTOCK HOUSE GALLERY 01902 552055 0121 224 7344 WOLVERHAMPTON Worcestershire 01902 552195 Staffordshire CASTLE GALLERIES WORCESTER CITY ART 0121 633 0015 BILSTON CRAFT GALLERY THE POTTERIES MUSEUM & GALLERY 01905 25371 IKON GALLERY 01902 552507 ART GALLERY 01782 232323 0121 248 0708 BROADFIELD HOUSE GLASS SHIREHALL GALLERY Visit whatsonlive.co.uk MUSEUM, DUDLEY STAFFORD 01785 278345 for venue website details

58 www.whatsonlive.co.uk Visual Arts November_Layout 1 29/10/2012 16:35 Page 4

from Birmingham's own Sun 27 Jan, The Barber VisualArts LISTINGS collection, until Sun 13 Institute, Birmingham Jan, Birmingham SCOOTERMANIA For full listing information on Visual Art Museum & Art Gallery Showcase of British exhibitions, including times and dates, THROUGH OUR HANDS scooters from the ‘50s Exhibition featuring & ‘60s, until Sun 3 visit www.whatsonlive.co.uk works from ten textile March, Coventry artists, national and Transport Museum Nash’s House & New the Birmingham-based international, who STAFFORDSHIRE HOARD: Place, Stratford-upon- charity Cerebral Palsy approach quilting as a DARK AGE DISCOVERY Avon Midlands, until Tues 1 contemporary art form, Featuring more than until Sun 13 Jan, The TAKING ACCOUNT OF OUR Jan, Birmingham two hundred pieces Royal Pump Rooms, PAST Find out about the Museum & Art Gallery from the fabulous Master Of Light - Artifex Gallery, Birmingham Leamington Spa story of the Smith, Son WEST MIDLANDS OPEN Anglo-Saxon hoard, and Wilkie accountants A biennial collaboration CITY OF HOME BY ALINA until Sun 1 Sep, 2013, Fri 2 Nov - Sat 1 Dec, MISTER VOLDER GOES TO cataloguing project, between Birmingham KISINA Photographic The Potteries Museum Urban Coffee Company, THE CITY Taking an including behind-the- Museum’s Trust and exhibition by the & Art Gallery, Stoke-on- Church St, Birmingham ambiguous short story scenes images of con- Wolverhampton Art Ukraine-born artist that Trent ELIZABETH CADD An exhi- as their starting point, artists Rebecca Hurst servation and storage of Gallery, until Sat 5 Jan, captures her home ARTIST ROOM A year- bition of watercolours, and Ben Pacey use the records, until Mon W’hampton Art Gallery town of Kiev in a half- long exhibition featuring collage and monoprints simple materials and 31 Dec, Wolverhampton abstract, half-represen- sculptures, paintings by Shropshire-based DINOSAURS UNCOVERED low-fi digital techniques City Archives tational format, until Fri and prints. This display artist Elizabeth Cadd, Unique exhibition fea- to create compelling, 25 Jan, Light House will be accompanied by including paintings of THE STORIES OF SHAKE- turing life-size atmospheric images, Media Centre, a series of inspired Shropshire, Italy and SPEARE Joint exhibition dinosaurs, real and Sat 10 Nov - Sun 13 Wolverhampton satellite exhibitions, the Dorset coast, Fri 2 from the Royal replica fossils and Jan, mac, Birmingham Shakespeare Theatre holographic video pre- BACK TO THE FUTURE events and activities Nov - Fri 21 Dec, & the Shakespeare sentations by wildlife Exhibition exploring the through the course of Ludlow Assembly CELEBRATION OF YOUNG Birthplace Trust, until expert Chris Packham, world-renowned glass the year, until Sat 27 Rooms, South ACHIEVEMENT A celebra- Mon 31 Dec, Royal until Sun 6 Jan, collections and Oct, 2013, The New Art Shropshire tion of creative work by Shakespeare Theatre, Herbert Art Gallery & archives in the Dudley Gallery, Walsall EMILIA NYLEN - past and current pupils at a local school in Stratford-upon-Avon Museum, Coventry Borough, demonstrat- MASTER OF LIGHT Lawrie BODYSCAPES Exhibition ing their importance to Wolverhampton, Sat 17 DEAR SHAKESPEARE HORROR IN HOLLYWOOD: Williamson’s exhibition that records the shape, the region's contempo- Nov - Sat 15 Dec, New display that show- THE JAMES WHALE STORY of original oil paintings structure and fabric of rary glass-makers and Bilston Craft Gallery cases a small but rare Featuring previously & works on paper, the human body, Wed 7 designers, until Sun 27 collection of letters writ- unseen cartoons, paint- Thurs 1 - Fri 30 Nov, Nov - Sun 2 Dec, Artrix, PENN HOSPITAL: EXPLOR- Jan, Broadfield House ten by famous authors, ings and illustrations by Artifex Gallery, Bromsgrove ING THE HISTORY A part- Glass Museum, from Oscar Wilde to Dudley-born film direc- Birmingham A DICKENSIAN CHRIST- nership exhibition Kingswinford between W’hampton Bram Stoker, until Mon tor James Whale, until JOHN PAUL VILLAFRATI: MAS Exhibition which Culture, Arts and 31 Dec, Nash’s House Sat 1 Jan, Dudley IN FRONT OF NATURE WORKING OUR WAY WEST marks the anniversary Heritage Learning and & New Place, Stratford- Museum & Art Gallery The first ever UK exhibi- Exhibition of artwork year of Charles Dickens tion devoted entirely to Community upon-Avon LOVE AND DEATH: VICTO- from Simon Randall & two hundredth birthday, the paintings and Engagement Team and EMPOWERED: THE ART RIAN PAINTINGS FROM Carla Smith, all of which Wed 7 Nov - Sat 13 career of one of the Black Country AND HISTORY OF CERE- THE TATE Exclusive exhi- is themed on the stories Jan, Bantock House Scandanavia's most Partnership NHS BRAL PALSY MIDLANDS bition featuring iconic and characters featured Museum, important painters, Foundation, Sat 17 Nov Paintings and sculpture paintings from the Tate on John Paul’s new EP, Wolverhampton Thomas Fearnley, until - Sat 15 Dec created by artists from alongside related works Working Our Way West,

www.whatsonlive.co.uk 59 Events November_Layout 1 29/10/2012 14:09 Page 1

CHRISTMAS CHRISTMAS SANTA @ THE CONE FESTIVAL CRAFT 8, 9, 15, 16, 22 AND 23 DEC 24 – 25 NOV, 10AM – 4PM MARKET Meet Santa, do a trail, make a craft, FREE 24 – 25 NOV, 10AM – 4PM Glassblowing demonstrations, watch glassmaking. FREE £7 / £5 babe in arms gift shop grotto, craft activities, Craft stalls, children’s trail meet Santa and Mrs Claus glassblowing demonstrations, WINTER TRAIL 1 DEC - 6 JAN. BROADFIELD CLOSED ON MONDAYS FREE Looks for the festive clues BACK TO THE FUTURE MADE @ at the Cone and Broadfield UNTIL 27 JAN THE CONE An exhibition celebrating UNTIL 18 NOVEMBER ADULT CRAFT CLASSES 1, 8, 15 Dec – Kiln fused glass @ Cone - £21 400 years of glass making: Handcrafted items by the 30 Nov, 21 Dec – Various crafts @ Broadfield - exciting and innovative cone’s creative tenants £5.25 new work created by PLUS West Midlands glass artists HAVE A GO DAY FAMILY CRAFTS inspired by pieces from the 8 Dec – Broadfield - £3.75 museum’s world-renowned 3 NOVEMBER Try your hand at a collection craft with the tenants: Visit the website for a full programme. From £5

CHRISTMAS OPENING TIMES: CLOSED 24 DEC 2012 - 12 JAN 2013

60 www.whatsonlive.co.uk Events November_Layout 1 29/10/2012 14:09 Page 2 Events

WIN TICKETS whatsonlive.co.uk to enter The Footman James Classic Motor Show NEC, Birmingham, Fri 16 - Sun 18 November Attracting over ninety thousand visitors from all over the world, and Other attractions at the three-day event include the Wheeler Dealer featuring more than twelve hundred cars, the Footman James Classic Live Stage - hosted by TV motoring show presenters Mike Brewer Motor Show is considered to be the UK equivalent of France’s and Ed China - an impressive Restoration Theatre, where a team of Retromobile and Germany’s Techno Classica - both internationally mechanics will be on hand to show visitors how to restore a cher- acclaimed events in the motoring calendar. Featuring exhibits from ished classic car, and more than three hundred trade stands featur- Britain’s best motoring clubs, the Footman James provides a show- ing a wide range of parts, spares, tools and memorabilia. New for case for rare marques - ranging from pre-war through to retro clas- 2012, and a scoop for racing enthusiasts, Hammerite Waxoyl, a sics - American muscle cars, Japanese performance cars and British brand by AkzoNobel, will be displaying the Vodafone McLaren sports cars. Mercedes Formula One car. The BBC Good Food Show NEC, Birmingham, Wed 28 November - Sun 2 December James Martin and James D’Acampo are just two of the famous faces who’re appearing at this winter version of the acclaimed BBC show, an event that’s positively packed with inspiring ideas for budding chefs and food enthusiasts. In keeping with the current trend for baking, this year’s event sees the introduc- tion of The Great British Bake Off stage, where familiar faces from the popular TV programme will host a packed timetable of events. And if you’re lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of the Antiques For Everyone NEC, Birmingham, Thurs 1 - Sun 4 November judges - the queen of cakes A special display of rare and unusual oil lamps is sure to prove a major at this Mary Berry and month’s Antiques For Everyone. More than eighty individual lamps belonging to collector master baker Nigel Reynolds feature at this year’s winter show, complimenting the usual vast array of fine Paul Hollywood. art and antiques that make this twice yearly get-together such a popular event for collectors and enthusiasts from across the world. www.whatsonlive.co.uk 61 Events November_Layout 1 29/10/2012 14:09 Page 3

62 www.whatsonlive.co.uk Events November_Layout 1 29/10/2012 14:09 Page 4

Events PREVIEWS Crafts For Christmas NEC, Birmingham, Thurs 8 - Sun 11 November The perfect event for craft enthusiasts, this annual gathering brings together three shows under one roof. Crafts For Christmas offers a huge selection of handmade gifts from hundreds of exhibitors, and includes a brand new Graduate Area featuring works by newly qualified British designers and makers. Cake International, meanwhile, provides handy hints and tips for would-be makers, while Art Materials Live offers the perfect opportunity for visitors to view stunning dis- plays and works of art, as well as discover- ing new methods, materials and techniques.

International Dirt Bike Show Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire, Thurs 1 - Sun 4 November Continuing with the successful low cost admission initiative introduced last year, this year’s International Dirt Bike Show sees well-known motorcycling brands Honda, KTM, Suzuki, Kawasaki and Husaberg exhibit at the event for the first time. Key attractions for 2012 include the Extreme Mountain Bike Show where Danny Butler will lead his team in displays of skill, agility and choreographed routines and the have-a-go activity zone, where children from five to eleven can experience the fun of riding a restricted 50cc motorcycle on a specially design circuit. Other highlights include stage shows, a trials zone and the Evoshock Moto Jumble where enthusiasts can purchase second-hand parts, spares, tools, accessories, jumble, old books and the like. GCCF Supreme Cat Show NEC, Birmingham, Sat 24 November Birmingham International of local carol singers and schoolchildren will Now here's a purr-fect opportunity to get 'up also be staging special performances in close and purr-sonal' with marvellous mog- Tattoo Victoria Square during the run-up to gies aplenty! The Supreme Cat Show brings National Indoor Arena, Birmingham, Christmas. together pussies and kittens of all shapes, Sat 24 - Sun 25 November sizes, breeds and pedigrees, and features More than one thousand military musicians breeders talks, a ‘best decorated pen’ com- and performers from across Europe and the petition, both pedigree and non-pedigree UK are lined-up to perform at this year’s cats in competition, and lots of trade stands Tattoo. The Band of the Irish Guards takes selling everything a cat and its owner could the lead at a show which also includes enter- possibly need. So if you love your common- tainment courtesy of the Royal Air Force or-garden moggy and are 'feline' in the mood Cosford Queen’s Colour, the United for what should be a great day out, then this Kingdom Disco Display Team, the is the show for you! Birmingham Tattoo Town Crier and the Racing Dogs ‘Flybelt’ Competition. Blitz Family Day Coventry Transport Museum, Herbert Art Gallery & Museum & Coventry Cathedral, Gorgeous Craft Show Sat 17 November Enginuity, Ironbridge, Shropshire, Sat 17 - Sun 18 November Families visiting three of Coventry’s main attractions are provided with an insight into A wealth of ideas for Christmas gifts is once what life was like during World War Two this again on offer at this annual selling exhibi- month, with different activities taking place at tion, which brings together works from some each location. The activities on offer include of the region’s best designer-makers and ‘make do and mend’, wartime cooking, purveyors of quality produce. With items for codebreaking and first aid. The event, in sale at prices to suit all pockets, this annual commemoration of the anniversary of the showcase of some of ‘Shropshire’s finest’ Coventry Blitz, is free of charge, and children features an array of unique and interesting who complete three or more activities will items, from fine furniture, ceramics, glass- receive a special Blitz Family Day badge in ware, textiles and jewellery through to recognition of their achievement. Frankfurt Market mouthwatering cakes, chutneys, meats and Birmingham City Centre, sweet treats. Thurs 15 November - Sat 22 December Birmingham’s Frankfurt Market is now well known throughout the UK for being the largest outdoor Christmas market in the country. Celebrating its eleventh year, the market is a focus for the second city’s festive celebrations, offering a wide range of tradi- tional handmade toys, art and items from throughout the world, as well as plenty of food and drink, including German mulled wine (Glutelin), grilled sausages, vegetarian options, pretzels and German beer. Groups

www.whatsonlive.co.uk 63 Events November_Layout 1 29/10/2012 14:09 Page 5

Events PREVIEWS Worcester Victorian Christmas Fayre Worcester City Centre, Thurs 29 November - Sun 2 December This year marks the twentieth anniversary of Worcester’s hugely popular festive celebra- tion. The annual event, which attracts in excess of one hundred thousand visitors, is regarded as the leading themed street mar- ket in the West Midlands, and this year opens with a lantern procession through the city. In addition to the one hundred-and-forty stalls which grace Worcester’s historic streets - selling crafts, gifts and speciality foods - this ever-popular event also features an array of period entertainment, from choirs and juggling stiltwalkers to a period carousel and barrel organ music.

Ludlow Medieval Christmas Fayre Ludlow Castle, South Shropshire, Sat 24 - Sun 25 November Motley minstrels, chivalrous knights, courtly ladies, firebreathing jesters, a giant monk and a duo of medieval musicians offer just a taste of the entertainment which awaits visitors to Ludlow’s Medieval Christmas Fayre. Just what the doctor ordered to get you in the festive spirit, this popular two-day event provides a perfect opportunity to purchase unusual Christmas gifts, peruse plenty of displays and enjoy numerous medieval performances. It also offers the chance to sample some of the town’s many culinary delights, which, given Ludlow’s reputation as a purveyor of fine food, should certainly prove to be well worth a nibble.

64 www.whatsonlive.co.uk Events November_Layout 1 29/10/2012 14:09 Page 6

Events LISTINGS

For full listing information on Events including times and dates visit, www.whatsonlive.co.uk

Cottage & New Place, Week Commencing Stratford-upon-Avon FAMILY FUN DAYS - HAL- THUR 1 NOV LOWEEN Spooky out- door trails with take- SPOOKTACULAR HALF home activities, until TERM FUN until Fri 2 Sun 4 Nov, Packwood Nov, Museum of House, Warwickshire Cannock Chase HALLOWEEN FAMILY FUN HALF TERM FAMILY FUN TRAIL Discover spooky AT THE FARM Featuring secrets & ghastly tales, spooky crafts, pumpkin until Sun 4 Nov, carving, fun quizzes Stokesay Castle, South and trails, until Fri 2 Shropshire Nov, Shugborough HALLOWEEN HOLIDAY Historic Working Estate, TRAIL A family trail with Staffordshire a Halloween theme to CERAMIC DROP-IN lead you around the WORKSHOPS Offering grounds and keep your visitors a chance to cre- little ones entertained, ate their very own hal- until Sun 4 Nov, loween ceramic mon- Attingham Park, Nr ster, until Fri 2 Nov, Shrewsbury Coalport China DAYTIME FAMILY HAL- Museum, Ironbridge, LOWEEN HAUNTED CAS- Shropshire TLE until Sun 4 Nov, Aztec Weekend - Cadbury World, Birmingham MAD SCIENCE WEEK Tamworth Castle SPOOKTACULAR! A week HALLOWEEN HALF TERM ANTIQUES FOR EVERYONE Nov, The Shire Hall CRAFT FAIR Sale of work FLIP ANIMATION Dip of mad science work- AT THE MONKEY FOREST Britain’s premier dedi- Gallery, Stafford by local makers, your toes into the world shops where visitors Featuring a variety of cated antiques event, ALLSORTS ART FAIR including pottery, fab- of animation and bring can create gloopy lava ghoulish activities Thurs 1 - Sun 4 Nov, Featuring an assort- rics and jewellery, Sat 3 your imagination to life lamps, make fake throughout the week, NEC, Birmingham ment of art and craft Nov, Bantock House using a range of 2-D blood, discover bulging until Sun 4 Nov, SUPER SLAM WRESTLING work, oil paintings, Museum, and 3-D techniques, brains, spin edible spi- Trentham Monkey A brand new line-up of watercolours, photogra- Wolverhampton Sat 3 Nov, ders’ webs and blow Forest, Stoke-on-Trent top stars from America phy, textiles, sculptures, AZTEC WEEKEND Sat 3 - Wolverhampton Art up pumpkins, until Fri 2 HALLOWEEN HAUNTINGS face the best of British jewellery, glassware, Sun 4 Nov, Cadbury Gallery Nov, Arena Theatre, Take a trip along the talent in a two hour, feltwork and much World, Birmingham ANTIQUE AND Wolverhampton site’s Halloween activity action-packed event for more... Sat 3 Nov, ON DESIGN A day devot- COLLECTORS FAIR Sun 4 TILE DECORATING arcade where wacky all the family to enjoy, Solihull Arts Complex ed to design, including Nov, The Three WORKSHOPS Make your games, pumpkin carv- Fri 2 Nov, Royal Spa HALLOWEEN CRUISE A a talk with curator and Counties Showground, own 'terrifying tile' with ing and spooky stories Centre, Leamington spooky evening of leading designer Malvern the spookiest of await... until Mon 5 Spa magic, illusion, mind- James Langdon and an ANTIQUE & COLLECTORS designs, until Fri 2 Nov, Nov, Park Hall HANDMADE CONTEMPO- reading and hypnotism afternoon symposium FAIR Sun 4 Nov, Castle Jackfield Tile Museum, Countryside RARY CRAFT FAIR with Rob Chapman, Sat about design in a fine Square, Ludlow Ironbridge, Shropshire Experience, Oswestry, Featuring a wide variety 3 Nov, Sabrina Boat, art context, Sat 3 Nov, AUTUMN JEWELS - HOLI- North Shropshire of crafts to suit all Victoria Quay, Ikon Gallery, DAY ACTIVITIES REDDITCH: MEDIEVAL pockets, Fri 2 & Sat 3 Shrewsbury Birmingham Seasonal craft activities BEGINNINGS TO THE including pumpkin GREAT WAR The first in a carving!, until Fri 2 Nov, series of projects and REMEMBER, REMEMBER THE 5TH OF NOVEMBER Worcestershire County events to celebrate the Museum, Hartlebury fiftieth anniversary in BONFIRE & Nov, Blists Hill, Castle 2014 of Redditch being FIREWORK DISPLAY Ironbridge, HALLOWEEN FAMILY FUN designated a New Fri 2 Nov, Hickman Shropshire TRAIL until Sat 3 Nov, Town, until Sun 25 Nov, Park, WARWICK TOWN Kenilworth Castle Forge Mill Needle Wolverhampton BONFIRE & FIRE- TECHNO TERRORS Join Museum, Redditch FIREWORKS CELE- WORKS Sat 3 Nov, the drop-in workshop HALLOWEEN ARTS & BRATION Fri 2 Nov, Warwick and build the meanest, CRAFTS Spooktacular Trentham Estate, Racecourse scariest Techno Terror workshop run by a pro- Staffordshire BONFIRE NIGHT AND you can!, until Sun 4 fessional artist, Thurs 1 TRADITIONAL FIREWORKS Sat 3 BONFIRE EVENING Nov, Shugborough Nov, Enginuity, Nov, Solihull Arts Firework extravaganza - Blists Hill, Ironbridge Ironbridge, Shropshire Complex Sat 3 Nov, Black Historic Working THE HAUNTED CASTLE ADULT CRAFT WORKSHOP Country Living Estate, Raceway, stalls, catering and Frightful family fun this - CANAL ART COASTER Museum, Dudley Staffordshire Northampton the Beacon Radio Halloween, with creepy Learn the techniques of BROWNHILLS BON- BONFIRE GALE Sat 3 FIREWORK FESTIVAL Roadshow, Sun 4 characters galore, traditional canal art FIRE & FIREWORK Nov, Kenilworth Sat 3 Nov, West Nov, Weston Park, spookily themed walk- painting and make your DISPLAY Sat 3 Nov, Castle, Midlands Safari Staffordshire ing trails and haunted own decorative coast- Holland Park, Warwickshire Park, Bewdley TODDLER BONFIRE towers and turrets, until er... Thurs 1 Nov, Brownhills MALVERN ROUND TABLE FIRE- NIGHT - NO BANGS! Sun 4 Nov, Warwick Walsall Museum OSWESTRY BONFIRE FIREWORKS Sat 3 WORKS DISPLAY Sat Enjoy the crackling Castle SCARY SOCK MONSTER & FIREWORKS Sat 3 Nov, The Three 3 Nov, Tudor bonfire being lit HALLOWEEN HAPPENINGS PUPPETS Drop-in work- Nov, Brogyntyn Counties Grange Park, and join in with the AND FOCUS ON FAWKES shop to create a scary Park, Oswestry, Showground, Solihull special bonfire until Sun 4 Nov, The sock monster puppet North Shropshire Malvern VIKINGS AND FIRE- songs, Mon 5 Nov, Commandery, for Halloween, Thurs 1 BONFIRE & FIRE- HIMLEY BONFIRE & WORKS Sun 4 Nov, Avoncroft Museum, Worcester Nov, Bilston Craft WORK DISPLAY Sat 3 FIREWORKS Sat 3 Tutbury Park, Bromsgrove HALLOWEEN MAIZE MAZE Gallery Nov, West Park, Nov, Himley Hall & Staffordshire FIREWORKS SPEC- SPOOKTACULAR! A FOOD & CRAFT MARKET Wolverhampton Park, Dudley BONFIRE & FIRE- TACULAR Mon 5 spooky spectacular for Thurs 1 Nov, Castle BONFIRE & FIRE- FIREWORKS FRENZY WORKS NIGHT Sun 4 Nov, Pype Hayes families, until Sun 4 Square, Ludlow WORKS NIGHT Sat 3 Featuring Jet vehi- Nov, West Midlands Park, Nov, The Follies, GHOST TOUR OF THE Nov, Ragley Hall, cles, monster truck Showground, Wolverhampton Hawkstone Park, North CASTLE Wrap up warm Warwickshire and stunts, topped Shrewsbury WILLENHALL BON- Shropshire for a guided tour where FIREWORKS NIGHT off with a huge BONFIRE & FIRE & FIREWORK SPOOKY SHAKESPEARE you’ll encounter ghosts Family fireworks bonfire and firework FIREWORK DISPLAY Sat 10 Nov, Halloween-inspired fun, from the castle’s histo- and hot metal display, Sat 3 Nov, EXTRAVAGANZA Willenhall until Sun 4 Nov, Hall's ry, Fri 2 Nov, extravaganza, Sat 3 Santa Pod Featuring fun fair, Croft; Nash's House, Whittington Castle, Anne Hathaway’s North Shropshire BONFIRE EVENTS IN YOUR AREA

www.whatsonlive.co.uk 65 Events November_Layout 1 29/10/2012 14:09 Page 7

glowing rangoli pat- Nurse, Tue 13 Nov, activities designed for CHRISTMAS RETAIL LISTINGS terns and a unique Lichfield Garrick the whole family to SHOWCASE Featuring an Events glowing Diva dance, LUDLOW LECTURES enjoy, Sat 17 Nov, array of locally pro- Sat 10 Nov, The New Series of six lectures on Moseley Old Hall, duced wares, Tues 20 For full listing information on Events Art Gallery, Walsall the history and land- Wolverhampton Nov - Sat 12 Jan, including times and dates visit, BIRMINGHAM PARADE scape of Ludlow and DIWALI CELEBRATIONS Bilston Craft Gallery See Father Christmas the Marches, Tue 13 Mark the festival of light SPOTLIGHT Put your www.whatsonlive.co.uk lead a magical parade Nov, Ludlow Assembly with traditional music, own object under the as Birmingham’s count- Rooms, South lights and dancing, Sat spotlight, Wed 21 Nov, AUTUMN WALK Take a PUBLIC DRIFT DAY Wed 7 down to Christmas Shropshire 17 Nov, The Potteries Birmingham Museum & walk through the park Nov, Santa Pod begins... Sat 10 Nov, SERVANT TOURS Service Museum & Art Gallery, Art Gallery with head Gardener Raceway, Northampton starting at Victoria with a smile as Stoke-on-Trent LUDLOW LOCAL PRODUCE Martin Gee, Sun 4 Nov, WINTER TOUR Chance to Square, Birmingham Victorian servants take GORGEOUS A unique MARKET Thurs 22 Nov, Weston Park, see the house after the WHAT THE DICKENS? - A visitors on a tour of showcase of the Castle Square, Ludlow, Staffordshire season has ended, VICTORIAN MURDER MYS- their working lives, Tues region's finest designer- South Shropshire ARTS AND CRAFTS Thurs 8 Nov, Soho TERY Evening of thrills 13 Nov, Wightwick makers and Shropshire WINTER TOUR Chance to POTTERY A short course House, Birmingham & surprises as Mr Manor, Wolverhampton food producers, Sat 17 see the house after the for adults which focus- LUDLOW LOCAL PRODUCE Dickens is confronted CIVIC SOCIETY LECTURE - Sun 18 Nov, Enginuity, open season has es on the gallery's dis- MARKET Thurs 8 Nov, with a most grisley Wed 14 Nov, Ludlow Ironbridge, Shropshire ended, Thurs 22 Nov, play of arts & crafts Castle Square, Ludlow, crime, Sat 10 Nov, Assembly Rooms, CRAFT & CHRISTMAS Soho House, ceramics - in particular South Shropshire Worcestershire County South Shropshire GIFT FAYRE Sat 17 - Sun Birmingham Ruskin Pottery - to HOBBY CRAFTS 2012 The Museum, Hartlebury FOOD & CRAFT MARKET 18 Nov, Himley Hall & FESTIVE GIFT FAIR Thurs inspire participants to ideal place to purchase Castle Thurs 15 Nov, Castle Park, Dudley 22 - Sun 25 Nov, NEC, create their own your creative craft GRAND SLAM OF DARTS Square, Ludlow, South CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR Birmingham objects in three half- materials!, Thurs 8 - Sat 10 - Sun 18 Nov, Shropshire Chance to purchase CHARLES DICKENS’ FEAST day sessions, Sun 4 Sun 11 Nov, NEC, Civic Hall, TOUR WITH DAI MORGAN innovative works from OF FESTIVE FRIGHTEN- Nov, Birmingham Birmingham Wolverhampton EVANS Take an exclu- some of the region's ERS! Performance by Museum & Art Gallery CRAFTS FOR CHRISTMAS ARTS AND CRAFTS sive tour of Wroxeter most creative people, Don’t Go Into The BRIDAL FAYRE Sun 4 Thurs 8 - Sun 11 Nov, POTTERY A short course Roman City and the Sat 17 - Sun 18 Nov, Cellar Theatre co, Fri Nov, Wolverhampton NEC, Birmingham for adults which focus- Roman Town House Coventry Transport 23 Nov, Bantock House Wanderers Football CAKE INTERNATIONAL Fri es on the gallery's dis- with Professor Dai Museum & Museum, Club 9 - Sun 11 Nov, NEC, play of arts & crafts Morgan Evans, Thurs ANTIQUE & COLLECTORS Wolverhampton FAMILY SUNDAY: EXPLOR- Birmingham ceramics - in particular 15 Nov, Wroxeter FAIR Sun 18 Nov, Castle NATIONAL ENGINEERING ING CLAY INTERNATIONAL MODEL Sun 4 Nov, Ruskin Pottery - to Roman City, Shropshire Square, Ludlow, South & CONSTRUCTION BOAT SHOW The New Art Gallery, An exhibi- inspire participants to THE SKILLS SHOW A Shropshire RECRUITMENT Walsall tion dedicated to all create their own ceram- unique opportunity for WINTER WONDERLAND EXHIBITION Fri 23 - Sat aspects of marine mod- ic objects in three half- visitors to be inspired Sun 18 Nov, Museum 24 Nov, NEC, elling, Fri 9 - Sun 11 Week Commencing day sessions, Sun 11 by skills in action, of Cannock Chase Birmingham MON 5 NOV Nov, Warwickshire Nov, Birmingham Thurs 15 - Sat 17 Nov, FRIENDS CRAFT FAIR AND CHRISTMAS RAG RUG Exhibition Centre Museum & Art Gallery The NEC, Birmingham CAROLS Sun 18 Nov, WREATH MAKING WORK- FAMILY ART DAY Creative AMERICAN STYLE BIRMINGHAM FRANKFURT Birmingham Botanical SHOP With craft special- team activities for all WRESTLING Sun 11 Nov, CHRISTMAS MARKET Gardens ist Jessie Lindon, Fri 23 CONSERVATION TOUR OF the family to enjoy, Sat The River Rooms, Thurs 15 Nov - Sat 22 ARTS AND CRAFTS - Sat 24 Nov, Back to THE STAFFORDSHIRE 10 Nov, Warwick Arts Stourbridge Dec, Birmingham City POTTERY A short course Backs, Birmingham HOARD Mon 5 Nov, Centre, Coventry CHRISTMAS CRAFT & Centre for adults which focus- FIRE 2012 Two days of Birmingham Museum & ST MARY'S HOSPICE GIFT FAYRE Sun 11 Nov, SILVER JEWELLERY es on the gallery's dis- impartation, ministry & Art Gallery CHARITY BAZAAR Join St Shrewsbury Town WORKSHOP Made To play of arts & crafts teaching, Fri 23 - Sat 24 WWE WORLD TOUR Live Mary's Hospice for their Football Club Make exhibitor ceramics - in particular Nov, LG Arena, televised event featur- annual Christmas Katherine Richmond Ruskin Pottery - to Birmingham ing some of the biggest Bazaar, Sat 10 Nov, Week Commencing showcases different inspire participants to BIRMINGHAM names on the profes- Birmingham Botanical metalworking tech- create their own ceram- INTERNATIONAL TATTOO sional wrestling circuit, Gardens MON 12 NOV niques to enable you to ic objects in three half- Featuring marching Mon 5 - Tue 6 Nov, LG MAD JACK’S RACE design and produce day sessions, Sun 18 bands, dog display Arena, Birmingham Annual five mile run your own piece of jew- Nov, Birmingham teams, field guns and LUDLOW LECTURES around the park in AUTUMN TEA DANCE Mon ellery, Fri 16 Nov, Museum & Art Gallery all the trappings that Series of six lectures on association with the 12 Nov, Solihull Arts Bilston Craft Gallery CAMPERS CHRISTMAS A make up a military the history and land- Shrewsbury Athletics Complex THE FOOTMAN JAMES Christmas light show spectacle, Sat 24 - Sun scape of Ludlow and Club, Sat 10 Nov, CONSERVATION CENTRE CLASSIC MOTOR SHOW with a difference - see 25 Nov, National Indoor the Marches, Tue 6 Attingham Park, OPEN WEEK Gain exclu- Fri 16 - Sun 18 Nov, the camper vans and Arena, Birmingham Nov, Ludlow Assembly Shrewsbury sive behind-the-scenes NEC, Birmingham scooters blinged with MOTORCYCLE LIVE Rooms, South MEMORY BOOKS WORK- access to aircraft con- SPANISH RIDING SCHOOL lights and decorations Featuring displays from Shropshire SHOP Make up a scrap servation work and OF VIENNA Highly in front of the museum, all the major bike man- POETRY CAFE Featuring book about your fami- have a rare opportunity trained horses and rid- Sun 18 Nov, Coventry ufacturers, a line-up of a new theme every ly... Sat 10 Nov, Walsall to view current projects, ers from the four hun- Transport Museum new models, off-road month, Wed 7 Nov, Local History Centre Mon 12 - Sat 17 Nov, dred-and-thirty-year-old CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR machines, classic Ludlow Assembly DIWALI: GLOW Activities RAF Cosford, Nr High School for Get in the mood for favourites, custom and Rooms, South include traditional con- Wolverhampton Classical Christmas and choose touring bikes, along Shropshire temporary dance per- THE 23RD ERASMUS Horsemanship return to from a wide range of with the latest in scoot- CONSERVATION TOUR OF formances and work- DARWIN MEMORIAL Birmingham to present locally produced arts, ers and mopeds, Sat THE STAFFORDSHIRE shops, Dhol drumming LECTURE Lichfield their new show, crafts and festive pro- 24 Nov - Sun 2 Dec, HOARD Wed 7 Nov, and mehndi – henna Science and Imperial Dream, Fri 16 - duce for use as really NEC, Birmingham Birmingham Museum & hand patterns. Also a Engineering Society Sun 18 Nov, National unique Christmas gifts, G.C.C.F SUPREME CAT Art Gallery children’s workshop presents Great Ideas of Indoor Arena, Sun 18 Nov, SHOW Prestige event in DRIFT WHAT YA BRUNG making ultra violet Biology with Sir Paul Birmingham Dudmaston Estate, Nr the feline calendar - the DRIFT WHAT YA BRUNG Bridgnorth, Shropshire Crufts of the Cat Fancy, PUBLIC DRIFT DAY Sat 17 Sat 24 Nov, NEC, Nov, Santa Pod Week Commencing Birmingham Raceway, Northampton THE BIRMINGHAM BLITZ FAMILY DAY MON 19 NOV VINTAGE, CRAFTS & Experience life during CURIO BAZAAR Including WWII at three Coventry more than sixty stalls venues, Sat 17 Nov, LUDLOW LECTURES showcasing wares from Coventry Transport Series of six lectures on vintage & collectable Museum, Coventry the history and land- traders, handmade Cathedral & The scape of Ludlow and crafts by local designer Herbert Museum & Art the Marches, Tue 20 makers, speciality food Gallery Nov, Ludlow Assembly & great gift ideas for LOCAL HISTORY FAIR Rooms, South Christmas. Live music Featuring stalls repre- Shropshire from the 40s & 50s and senting historical MEET THE HOUSEKEEP- a vintage ladies’ hair groups and societies ERS Spend a morning salon also feature... Sat from in and around the with the dedicated and 24 Nov, Birmingham local area, as well as highly skilled Museum And Art family-friendly activities, Conservation Gallery Sat 17 Nov, W’hampton Housekeepers and the ART BOOK & ZINE FAIR City Archives House Steward, Tues Sat 24 Nov, The New IF YOU GO DOWN TO THE 20 Nov, Wightwick Art Gallery, Walsall WOODS... Fun woodland Manor, Wolverhampton ROCK AND FOSSIL

66 www.whatsonlive.co.uk Events November_Layout 1 29/10/2012 14:09 Page 8

IDENTIFICATION Have and children’s shows, LUDLOW MEDIEVAL Rooms, South Week Commencing CHRISTMAS WREATH your rocks and fossils Sat 24 - Sun 25 Nov, CHRISTMAS FAYRE Shropshire MAKING Expert driven identified by resident Hatton Country World, Jesters, entertainers MON 26 NOV NATIONAL TRUST workshop where visi- experts, Sat 24 Nov, Warwick and historical re-enact- LECTURE Discover why tors can learn about the Dudley Museum & Art EVENING TOURS BY CAN- ments create a perfect we celebrate Christmas different techniques Gallery DLELIGHT Sat 24 - Sun atmosphere in which to CHRISTMAS CERAMIC in the way we do, Wed used to make wreaths TRADITIONAL CRAFT FAIR Nov, Back to Backs, get ahead with your WORKSHOP Christmas- 28 Nov, Royal Spa before getting creative Featuring thirty stalls, Birmingham Christmas shopping, themed clay modelling Centre, Leamington and making their very locally produced food, THE WINTER Sat 24 - Sun 25 Nov, workshop, Mon 26 Nov, Spa own festive decoration craft demonstrations, MEMORABILIA SHOW The Ludlow Castle, South Coalport China FOOD & CRAFT MARKET to take home, Fri 30 children’s craft activities longest running and Shropshire Museum, Ironbridge, Thurs 29 Nov, Castle Nov, Kenilworth Castle and entertainment, Sat most established event CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL Shropshire Square, Ludlow, South A CRAFTPLAY CHRISTMAS 24 Nov, Shropshire for fans of movies, cult AND CRAFT FAYRE FROM PARK TO PLATE Shropshire AT BANTOCK Explore all Wildlife Trust, TV, comics, video Featuring glassmaking Warden-led two hour FANCY EVERGREENS: A that glitters and shim- Shrewsbury games, sport & music... demonstrations, open guided walk though the BEGINNERS GUIDE TO mers in a special sea- TOWN CHRISTMAS Sat 24 - Sun 25 Nov, studios, stalls, trails parkland, Tues 27 Nov, TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS sonal sensory and cre- LIGHTS SWITCH-ON Sat NEC Birmingham and craft activities for Charlecote Park, DECORATIONS Featuring ative event for children children, Sat 24 - Sun 24 Nov, Castle Square, WARLEY NATIONAL Warwickshire a short tour of the aged nought to four 25 Nov, Red House Edwardian Locksmith’s Ludlow, South MODEL RAILWAY MEET NIGELLA LAWSON years, Fri 30 Nov, Glass Cone, Dudley House and demonstra- Shropshire EXHIBITION Annual Chance to meet the Bantock House & 11TH MALVERN DRIVE IN tions on how to make SOFT LEATHER GARLAND national model railway Domestic Goddess and Museum, CLASSIC CAR & BIKE different types of tradi- Wolverhampton - ADULT WORKSHOP Join exhibition, Sat 24 - Sun purchase a signed AUTOJUMBLE Sun 25 tional evergreen CHRISTMAS AT tutor Sarah Benson and 25 Nov, NEC, copy of her latest book, Nov, The Three arrangements - just in COUGHTON See the make your own beauti- Birmingham Nigellissima, Tues 27 Counties Showground, time for advent, Thurs house decorated for ful soft leather gar- CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION Nov, Waterstones, New Malvern 29 Nov, The Christmas before the WEEKEND Sat 24 - Sun Street, Birmingham land... Sat 24 Nov, CRAFT FAIR Sun 25 Nov, Locksmith’s House, family arrives, and cele- Walsall Leather 25 Nov, Cadbury World, DRIFT WHAT YA BRUNG Ford Green Hall, Stoke- PUBLIC DRIFT DAY Wed Willenhall brations begin... Fri 30 Museum Birmingham on-Trent VALUATION DAY: FINE ART Nov, Coughton Court, FESTIVE MEDIEVAL BAN- SANTA HUNTS Embark 28 Nov, Santa Pod CHRISTMAS MEDIEVAL Raceway, Northampton & ANTIQUES Fieldings Worcestershire QUETS Evening of mirth, on a fun-filled search MARKET Sun 25 Nov, THE BBC GOOD FOOD Auctioneers will be on FROST FAIR Annual merriment & festivities, for Santa as costumed Castle Square, Ludlow, SHOW WINTER 2012 The hand to value your event featuring quality Sat 24 Nov, Coombe guides and magical South Shropshire biggest winter foodie ceramics, jewellery, col- local craft and food Abbey, Warwickshire clues point the way to TOY COLLECTORS FAIR event of the year, with lectables, clocks, stalls and plenty of FLIGHTS OF FANCY Santa’s workshop, Sun 25 Nov, The Three speciality producers watches, books etc... inspiration for where a surprise gift Brand new event featur- Counties Showground, and live demos from Thurs 29 Nov, Bantock Christmas gifts, Fri 30 awaits, Sat 24 - Sun 25 ing puppets and mem- Malvern top chefs including House & Museum, Nov - Sun 2 Dec, orabilia from the iconic Nov, Black Country CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR James Martin, Hairy Wolverhampton Attingham Park, science fiction shows of Living Museum, Dudley Sun 25 Nov, Highbury Bikers and Gino BONNETS UP DAY An Shrewsbury Gerry & Sylvia CHRISTMAS GROTTO No Hall, Moseley, D’Acampo... Wed 28 opportunity for techni- NATIVITY TRAIL Telling Anderson, Sat 24 - Sun child’s Christmas would Birmingham Nov - Sun 2 Dec, NEC, cally minded types to the original Christmas 25 Nov, RAF Museum, be complete without a STIR UP SUNDAY Make Birmingham get under the bonnets story through the eyes Cosford, Shropshire trip to see Father your very own THE LUDLOW PUDDING of three of the Heritage of some of the world’s SANTA’S SPECTACULAR Christmas, Sat 24 - Sun Christmas pudding to EXPERIENCE Promising a Motor Centre's cars, Fri greatest artists, Fri 30 GROTTO & FARM VILLAGE 25 Nov, Birmingham take home, Sun 25 great day out for food- 30 Nov, Heritage Motor Nov - Mon 24 Dec, FUN Featuring fun fair Museum & Art Gallery Nov, Warwickshire ies!, Wed 28 Nov, Centre, Gaydon, Birmingham Museum & rides, reindeer hunt Museum, Warwick Ludlow Assembly Warwickshire Art Gallery

www.whatsonlive.co.uk 67 Events November_Layout 1 29/10/2012 14:09 Page 9

Variety is the Life Of Spice..

Come out to play with a huge network of new friends. A warm welcome awaits you!

Wouldn’t you love to be invited to places you’ve always wanted to go. Get your FREE comprehensive join a thriving club of 3000 friends Events take place at locations information pack today call: in the West Midlands (and 15,000 across the West Midlands. Lots of our members are single and come 0121 353 6161 (24 hours) nationally!) who really know how along on there own, but we also email [email protected] to enjoy themselves? welcome couples and groups of or visit www.spicebham.com friends. There’s no hidden agenda Well here’s your chance. We’re a – we’re just one happy family of friendly, local action, adventure and friends. Members are all ages social group offering a wide variety (18–80!) and from all walks of life. of opportunities for our members to have fun together. The one unifying factor of anyone joining Spice is that they want to live There’s literally something for life to the full. everyone; be it the latest adrenaline pumping outdoor activities… Membership is equivalent to the weekends & holidays… sports nights… workshops on fascinating cost of just a pint of beer a week. subjects… or social nights including In fact, our money back promise So what will theatre, parties and ‘behind the means that satisfaction is you be doing scenes’ visits to all sorts of unusual guaranteed. tomorrow?

“It’s an opportunity to get to do lots of things you wouldn’t otherwise do Events November_Layout 1 29/10/2012 14:09 Page 10

What our members are up to in November 2012 Thursday 1st November I Rally Driving Lesson Wednesday 21st November I Turkish Bath and Swim I Halesowen and Quinton Pub Night I Badminton For Fun - Coventry I Movember 2012 - Join our Spice Team Sunday 11th November I Badminton For Fun - Wolverhampton I Nine Steps to Happiness I Badminton at NIA I Proof House Private Tour I Beginners Horse Trek I Cotswold Outdoor Discount Evening I Birmingham at War Afternoon Walk I Personal Safety for Women Friday 2nd November I Go Ape in Cannock I Pub Games Night I Helicopter Lesson I Halloween Sleepover Party Night I Malverns South and Eastnor Ramble Thursday 22nd November I Segway Intro and Woodland Race . Saturday 3rd November at Garlands I Cooking Masterclass Show - Easy Christmas Entertaining I Barnt Green + Lickey Hills Ramble Monday 12th November I Curry and Quiz - Wolverhampton I Deer Walk with a Ranger at I Furry Fables -Stories of our British Bradgate Park I Badminton For Fun - Worcester Mammals I Off Road Karting I Spice Book Club I Sandra's Bon Voyage Party Friday 23rd November I Sandra's Bon Voyage Party Tuesday 13th November Accomodation packages I Indoor Shooting I Scuba Taster Morning Experience I Asian Funeral Home Talk and Tour I Murder Mystery Evening at I The Idiot B*stard Band I Solihull Pub Night Dunsley Hall I Walk with Wolves - Bedford I Unihoc (Mixed Indoor Hockey) I Shootout and Party Food at the I Western Style Rifle Shooting Afternoon Kiddies Playcentre! I Wyre Forest Mountain Biking Wednesday 14th November I Spice Hits Town at the Jam House + Map Reading I Welsh Cottage Walking Break I Badminton For Fun - Coventry Sunday 4th November I Badminton For Fun - Saturday 24th November Wolverhampton I Fire Eating Workshop (in tribute to Bob) I Badminton at NIA I Caer Carodoc Ramble I Firework Spectacular at Tutbury I Slade and Sweet Live In Concert I Early Morning At Dudley Zoo I Glass Art Workshop I Stylistics at the Jam House I Hoar Cross Easy Ramble and Lunch I Golf - Learn to Play in a Day I Sutton Pub Night I Jazz Night and Chinese Meal (Warwickshire) I Kurburgring Karting! I Land Yachting Introduction Thursday 15th November I McLaren MP4-12C Thrill I Power Kiting and Kite Buggy Full Day I Off Road Driving Day at Wrexham I Whittington + Hopwas Moderate I Blacksmithing Evening I Rally Driving Lesson Ramble I Ghost Walk of Sutton Coldfield I Symonds Yat Adventure Mission I Wrekin Ramble I Warwick / Leamington Pub Night Sunday 25th November Monday 5th November Friday 16th November I Aircraft Wreck Trek I Badminton For Fun - Worcester I Friday Fish and Chips Race Night I Clent Easy/Moderate Ramble I Llangollen Luxury Walking Weekend I Glass Art Workshop Tuesday 6th November I Mendips and Cheddar Gorge I Learn to Horse Ride in a Day Walking Weekend I Mickleton Ramble I Adventure Golf at Star City! I Serenity Weekend I Quad Bike Trekking at Garlands I Life Behind The Lens I Spanish Riding School of Vienna I Make up Application Skills for Beginners Monday 26th November Saturday 17th November Wednesday 7th November I Badminton For Fun - Worcester I BBC Birmingham Behind the I Learn to Snowboard Course I Badminton For Fun - Coventry Scenes I Recreational Skiing I Badminton For Fun - Wolverhampton I Barn Dance and Supper I Singers Hill Synagogue Visit I Curry and Quiz - Solihull I Beginners Motorbiking I Ski Lesson - Beginners I Felicity Aston - Alone in Antarctica I Broadway Ramble I Tubing Session I Fencing for Beginners I Fast Effective Reading Day Workshop I Tamworth and Lichfield Pub Night I Glass Blowing Workshop - Make a Tuesday 27th November I Walking With The Wounded Christmas Bauble I Lichfield Cathedral Library Tour I Blacksmithing Evening Thursday 8th November I Trick Horse Riding I Cinderella by Birmingham Royal Ballet I Vulcan Bomber Restoration I Confessions of a Tour Guide I Indian Dhol Drumming Experience I Indoor Climbing at Redpoint I Preview Evening (MAC) I What to Wear Workshop I Rodizio Rico Dining Experience at Wednesday 28th November The Cube Sunday 18th November I Badminton For Fun - Coventry Friday 9th November I Dance Routine to "I Gotta Feeling!" I Badminton For Fun - Wolverhampton I How to Make Friends and Influence I Badminton at NIA I Ballachulish Bargain Break People I Quiz I Coniston and South Lakes Walking I Medieval Jousting Weekend I Microlighting Experience Flight Thursday 29th November I New Members Easy Walking Weekend I Mountain Biking for Beginners I Night in the Trenches I SWAT Training Mission I Movember Moustached Mexican Meal I North Downs Walking and Social I Ultimate Craft Day at Redhouse Cone I Unihoc (Mixed Indoor Hockey) Weekend I Wilmcote Easy Ramble Friday 30th November Saturday 10th November Monday 19th November I Charity Sleep Out I Abseiling for the Terrified I Badminton For Fun - Worcester I Portland and Dorset Walking Weekend I Barber Institute Tour I Bromsgrove Pub Night I The Merry Wives Of Windsor I Glass Blowing Workshop - Make a I Windermere Hydro Walking Weekend Christmas Bauble Tuesday 20th November I York Christmas Markets Social and Party I Hawks, Owls, Tudors and Battles Weekend I Kinder Scout Night Ramble I Drumming Experience for Beginners I Kinder Southern Edge Day Ramble I Kings Heath Pub Night I Knowle Easy Ramble I Ten Pin Bowling (Broadway Plaza) I Lichfield/Trent Valley Easy Moderate For future listings visit: Cycle www.spicebham.com I Practical Tactical Airsoft Shooting

...and meet lots of people you wouldn’t otherwise meet”. Jamie, Spice member Christmas Feature _Layout 1 29/10/2012 16:37 Page 1 Christmas Feature _Layout 1 29/10/2012 17:17 Page 2 Christmas countdown... As preparations for the forthcoming festivities gain momentum, What’s On takes a look at what Midlands audiences can expect from yet another bumper festive season of entertainment on offer in the region...

The Midlands has always attracted some of the biggest names in at the Regent Theatre, making a welcome return to the Potteries to showbiz for the Christmas period, and 2012 is certainly no exception. star in Cinderella, while a Christmas show with a difference is heading Birmingham Hippodrome favourite Brian Conley will be up for some to Birmingham’s New Alexandra Theatre, where Bonnie Langford swashbuckling fun at the venue when he heads an impressive cast in takes top billing in Dolly Parton’s 9 To 5 The Musical. a festive version of Robinson Crusoe. He’s joined for the occasion by Alan Bennett’s adaptation of Kenneth Grahame’s much-loved chil- Birds Of A Feather star Lesley Joseph. Meanwhile, over in dren’s tale The Wind In The Willows is sure to provide yet another fes- Wolverhampton, the Grand Theatre plays host to veteran entertainer tive treat, courtesy of the Birmingham Repertory Theatre (showing at Keith Harris and chums Orville and Cuddles, who’ll be performing Birmingham’s Crescent Theatre). alongside Benidorm and Loose Women presenter Sherrie Hewson, So why not check out our full run-down of ‘what's on where and with former Corrie shopkeeper Reg Holdsworth, and local lass Niki Evans who’ this forthcoming Christmas - we've included ticket prices as well, in what’s sure to be a ‘giant’ performance of Jack And The Beanstalk. to help you make an informed decision about how best to enjoy the Stoke on Trent’s favourite Jonathan Wilkes will be shining his buttons festive season 2012...

HELLO, DOLLY! Fri 30 CINDERELLA Fri 7 - Mon CINDERELLA Featuring Hippodrome, £14.00 - Festive show LISTINGS Nov - Sat 12 Jan, The 31 Dec, The Place, Jonathan Wilkes, Thurs £37.50 Curve, Leicester, £9.75 Oakengates Theatre, 13 Dec - Fri 4 Jan, 9 TO 5: THE MUSICAL - £30.50 Telford, £8.00 - £14.50. Regent Theatre, Hanley, New musical comedy For full listing information on theatre ERIC IN WONDERLAND Fri Family tickets £45.00 - Stoke-on-Trent, £9.50 - starring Bonnie productions, including times and dates, 30 Nov - Sat 15 Dec, £48.00 £30.25 Langford, Natalie visit www.whatsonlive.co.uk New Vic Theatre, ALICE IN WONDERLAND CINDERELLA Starring Casey, Jackie Clune, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Fri 7 Dec - Sun 6 Jan, Ruth Madoc, Jamie Amy Lennox and Ben KNICK KNACK AND DOO THE WIND IN THE £16.00 - £21.00 Lichfield Garrick, Rickers and Emma Richards, Mon 17 Dec - DAD Presented by WILLOWS Alan Bennett's SLEEPING BEAUTY £13.50 - £22.50 Nowell, Thurs 13 Dec - Sat 5 Jan, New Lyngo Theatre, The stage adaptation of Starring Linda Nolan as JACK AND THE Sun 6 Jan, Malvern Alexandra Theatre, Lowry and mac, Tues 13 Kenneth Grahame's the Evil Carabosse, BEANSTALK Featuring Theatre, £11.00 - Birmingham, £15.00 - Nov - Sun 2 Dec, mac, classic tale, Wed 28 Mon 3 - Sun 30 Dec, Loose Women presen- £22.00 £42.00 Birmingham, £8.00 Nov - Sat 19 Jan, Palace Theatre, ter Sherrie Hewson as BEAUTY AND THE BEAST: PUSS IN BOOTS Thurs 20 JAMES AND THE GIANT Crescent Theatre, Redditch, £14.50 - Lady Temple Savage, THE ROCK 'N' ROLL PANTO Dec - Tue 1 Jan, Bridge PEACH Birmingham Birmingham, £9.00 - £17.50. Family tickets alongside Keith Harris, The classic fairytale is House Theatre, Stage Company pres- £28.00 £61.00 Orville and Cuddles, given a rock'n'roll twist, Warwick. Tickets from ent Roald Dahl's classic SLEEPING BEAUTY CINDERELLA Tue 4 - Sat Sat 8 Dec - Sun 20 Jan, Thurs 13 Dec - Sat 12 £9.50 adventure for children, Featuring Iain Lauchlan 29 Dec, Bedworth Civic The Grand Theatre, Jan, Stafford THE SELFISH GIANT Wed 14 Nov - Sat 2 as the Dame, Wed 28 Hall Wolverhampton, £15.50 Gatehouse Theatre, Sealegs Puppet - £25.50 £16.95 (£12.95). Family Feb, Old Rep, Nov - Sat 5 Jan, THE LION, THE WITCH Theatre Company pres- £50.00 Birmingham, £12.00 - Belgrade Theatre, AND THE WARDROBE CRACKERS A brand new, ent an adaptation of £18.50. Family tickets Coventry, £12.00 - Wed 5 - Sat 8 Dec, crazy Christmas come- DICK WHITTINGTON Oscar Wilde's fairytale, £56.00 £20.50 Dudley Little Theatre dy, Sat 8 - Sat 22 Dec, Starring Malcolm Stent, Fri 21 - Sat 22 Dec, Belgrade Theatre, Fri 14 Dec - Mon 14 Stafford Gatehouse THE MOUSE AND HIS WE'RE GOING ON A BEAR JACK AND THE Coventry, £7.75 - Jan, Solihull , £7.00. Family CHILD Tamsin Oglesby's HUNT Adapted from the BEANSTALK Thurs 6 Dec adaptation of Russell picture book written by £14.25 (£7.50 - £12.25) Complex, £11.00 - ticket £24.00 - Sun 13 Jan, Theatre £17.50 Hoban's acclaimed chil- Michael Rosen and Severn, Shrewsbury, GRIMM TALES Presented THE GRUFFALO'S CHILD dren's tale, Sat 17 Nov - illustrated by Helen £12.00 - £16.00 by Poole Hayes Youth PETER PAN Sat 15 Dec - Tall Stories return with a Sat 12 Jan, Royal Oxenbury, Sat 1 - Sun Theatre, Wed 12 - Sun Sat 29 Dec, Blue musical stage adapta- SNOW WHITE Shakespeare Theatre, 30 Dec, Warwick Arts Fri 7 - Mon 16 Dec, Arena Theatre, Orange Theatre, tion of Julia Stratford-upon-Avon. Centre, Coventry, 31 Dec, Royal Spa Wolverhampton, £9.00 Birmingham Donaldson's award-win- Tickets from £14.00 £12.00 (£10.00) Centre, Leamington (£7.00) ning story, Sat 22 Dec - Spa, £8.50- £13.50 ROBINSON CRUSOE AND A CHRISTMAS CAROL Sat CINDERELLA Presented THE CARIBBEAN PIRATES Wed 16 Jan, 17 Nov - Sat 19 Jan, by Image Theatre, Fri Starring Brian Conley Birmingham Town Hall, New Vic Theatre, 30 Nov - Mon 31 Dec, and Lesley Joseph, Sat £10.50 Newcastle-under-Lyme, Crewe Lyceum, £14.00 15 Dec - Sun 27 Jan, £14.00 - £21.00 (£10.00) Birmingham

www.whatsonlive.co.uk 71 Christmas Feature _Layout 1 29/10/2012 16:37 Page 3 Christmas Feature _Layout 1 29/10/2012 16:37 Page 4

Christmas 2012 with The REP With music and merriment, The Wind in The Willows @ The Crescent Theatre Sheepcote St, Birmingham B16 8AE will keep you entertained and enthralled, no matter 28 November to 19 January what your age! Tickets from £9, with Family Tickets available

Birmingham Repertory Theatre Company presents

By Kenneth Grahame, adapted for the stage by Alan Bennett, additional lyrics and music by Jeremy Sams

Book Online birmingham-rep.co.uk Box Office 0121 236 4455 Registered Charity No.223660

www.whatsonlive.co.uk 73 Christmas Feature _Layout 1 29/10/2012 16:37 Page 5

74 www.whatsonlive.co.uk Christmas Feature _Layout 1 29/10/2012 16:37 Page 6

Box Office 01743 281 281 Book Online www.theatresevern.co.uk

www.whatsonlive.co.uk 75 Christmas Feature _Layout 1 29/10/2012 16:37 Page 7

76 www.whatsonlive.co.uk Christmas Feature _Layout 1 29/10/2012 16:37 Page 8

www.whatsonlive.co.uk 77 Christmas Feature _Layout 1 29/10/2012 16:38 Page 9

LUDLOW CASTLE, LUDLOW, SHROPSHIRE

Saturday 10am ~ 9pm (last admission 8.30pm) Sunday 10am ~ 4pm (last admission 3.30pm)

3 SHOWS PRICE OF 1 Over 100 stalls selling seasonal gifts with a medieval flavour WITH MORE MUSIC, MINSTRELS, MERRIMENT AND MIRTH THAN EVER BEFORE Knights ~ Dragons ~ Giants ~ Juggler Minstrels ~ Dancers ~ Storytellers PLUS The bone-crunching Plantaganet’s Combat Stanchester Quire’s Saturday Night Christmas Carols Thurs 8 - Sun 11 November Wynndebagge’s Winter Warmer Show OPEN 9.30AM - 5.30PM (SUN 5.00PM) Falconry Displays ~ Motley Minstrels’ Gathering The Bed of Nails and Fire Juggling

For details & tickets ring Exclusive Ludlow Visitor Information Centre on 01584 875053 Show Offers or visit our website... & Free Workshops!

Buy tickets on-line www.ichf.co.uk OVER SAVE or phone Ticket Hotline 01425 277988 . Tickets: Adults £9 in advance, £11 on the door EXHIBITORS!400 00 Seniors £8 in advance, £10 on the door £2OFF Children under 16 FREE if acc by parent EACH ADULT AND SENIOR TICKET ORDERED BY 5PM MON 5TH NOVEMBER

The world’s largest Sugarcraft, Cake Decorating & Baking Show! 9-11 NOVEMBER Media SponSor Open 9.30am - 5.30pm (Sunday 5pm) Separate Separate Entry Price Tickets: Adults £10 in advance, What’s On International Entry Fee MAGAZINE GROUP £12 on the door Seniors £9 in advance, £11 on the door Christmas Feature _Layout 1 29/10/2012 16:38 Page 10

www.whatsonlive.co.uk 79 Christmas Feature _Layout 1 29/10/2012 16:38 Page 11 Christmas Feature _Layout 1 29/10/2012 16:38 Page 12

www.whatsonlive.co.uk 81 Christmas Feature _Layout 1 29/10/2012 16:38 Page 13

82 www.whatsonlive.co.uk Christmas Feature _Layout 1 29/10/2012 16:38 Page 14

THE Great Barr HOTEL

Christmas Parties from £17.95 Inc. buffet & disco Christmas Family Sunday Lunch Adults from £16.95, Children from £10.95 Sing-a-long Lunch £15.95 Inc. 3 course Christmas meal, raffle, bingo & hits from “the blitz” Christmas Day lunch Adults £59.50, Children £29.95 New Years Eve from £39.95 Inc. Gala Buffet & Disco

Full Christmas Brochure BOOKINGS Available to download from 0800 www.thegreatbarrhotel.com 373 853

Great Barr Hotel, Pear Tree Drive, Great Barr. B43 6HS Tel: 0121 357 1141

www.whatsonlive.co.uk 83 Classifieds - Nov_Layout 1 29/10/2012 13:56 Page 1 classifieds

GREAT CAR PARKS THROUGHOUT THE MIDLANDS

INCLUDING OUR HURST ST CAR PARK IN THE HEART OF SOUTHSIDE, BIRMINGHAM JUST 200 YARDS FROM THE BIRMINGHAM HIPPODROME THEATRE, THE GLEE CLUB AND ARCADIAN CENTRE

TO FIND YOUR NEAREST CAR PARK OR TO DISCOVER THE BENEFITS OF A SEASON TICKET VISIT: www.ncp.co.uk

Taking all Christmas party bookings now! Special Offers & Party Packages BOOK on all business staff parties. NOW! G V.I.P Areas G Extensice Luxurious Bar, G Private Waitress Service & Sexy Dancers Around G Ladies Welcome

Tel: 0121 643 8553 [email protected]@thesunsetclub.co.uk www.thesunsetclub.co.uk. 89 Holloway Head, Birmingham City Centre B1 1QP

84 www.whatsonlive.co.uk Clubbing Gay - November_Layout 1 29/10/2012 15:51 Page 1 Clubbing

BIRMINGHAM AIR Heath Mill Lane, Digbeth, B9 4AL. Tel: 0121 766 6646 BAMBU Kottwall House, Wrottesley Street, B5 4BN Tel: 0121 6224124 BUSHWACKERS 103 Edmund St, B3 2HZ Tel: 0121 236 4994 FLARES NIGHTCLUB 55 Broad St, B15 1AY Tel: 0121 252 3100 GATECRASHER 183 Broad St, B15 1DA Tel: 0121 525 1300 02 ACADEMY 16-18 Horsefair, Bristol St, B1 1DB Tel: 0121 622 8250 REFLEX 36-37 Broad St, B1 2DY Tel: 0121 643 0444 SNOBS NIGHTCLUB 29 Paradise Circus, Queensway, B1 2BJ Tel: 0121 643 5551 BLACK COUNTRY OCEANA WOLVERHAMPTON Bilston Rd, Wolverhampton Tel: 0845 402 5290 SHROPSHIRE C:21 NIGHTCLUB 21 Abbey Foregate, Shrewsbury, SY2 6AE Tel: 01743 271821 BUTTERMARKET Howard Street, Shrewsbury Tel: 01743 281712 VELVET 13 Castle Foregate, Shrewsbury SY1 2DJ Tel: 01743 281712 FEVER 19 - 21 Hills Lane, Shrewsbury Party mischief on the cards in Brum SY1 1QU Tel: 01743 247508 The Custard Factory, Birmingham, Thurs 8 - Sat 10 November & Thurs 15 - Sat 17 November THE OFFICE 27a Market Street, Oakengates TF2 6EN Tel:01952 616536 Two weekends of ‘epic clubbing adventures’ are on the cards this month when The Town rolls into PUSSYCATS NIGHT CLUB 17 Tan Bank, Birmingham for the first ever time. The Old Library in the city’s Custard Factory is playing host to Wellington, TF2 6EJ Tel: 01952 224260 what’s being described as ‘the ultimate funhouse’, bringing together exciting DJs and live acts. The SPIRIT NIGHTCLUB 18 Abbey Foregate, party fun is kicked off on the first Thursday by the Scratch Perverts - aka Tony Vegas and Prime Cuts Shrewsbury, SY2 6AE Tel: 01743 355055 - who’re considered to be among the best turntablists in the world today. The Other Tribe, Stealing Signs, Chew Lips, Leftside Wobble, Sam Redmore and DJ Sam Pepper are just a handful of the STAFFORDSHIRE other acts booked to appear. For a full line-up, visit, www.thetown.co.uk COURTURE & NOIRE ET BLANC 139 Newport Rd, Stafford, ST16 2EZ Tel: 01785 244755 GAY NIGHTCLUBS LIQUID Brunswick St, Stoke-on-Trent, ST1 Gay SCENE 1DR Tel: 01782 284333 BIRMINGHAM REFLEX 3-5 Brockley Square, Stoke-on- CLUB CHIC 28 Horsefair, B1 1DD. Trent ST1 5LY Tel: 01782 206170 reschedule Nightingale date Tel: 0121 666 6808 TRINITY NIGHTCLUB Spinning School THE CORE Sherlock Street, B5 6NB Tel: 0121 622 2797 Lane, Tamworth,ST1 1DR Tel: 01827 58772 Nightingale Club, Birmingham, Sat 17 November X Factor 2011 winners Little Mix are set to bring their brand of THE NIGHTINGALE Kent St, B5 6RD high-energy pop to Birmingham’s gay village mid-month Tel: 0121 622 1718 WARWICKSHIRE THE VILLAGE INN & UNDERGROUND CAREYS NIGHTCLUB Hereford Place, when they perform at the Nightingale Club. The British four- 152 Hurst St, B5 6RY Tel: 0121 622 4742 piece, comprising Perrie Edwards, Jesy Nelson, Leigh-Anne Coventry CV1 3JZ Tel: 02476 227 397 BLACK COUNTRY EVOLVE NIGHTCLUB 2 Spencer Street, Pinnock and Jade Thirlwall, shot to stardom last year when they became the first group ever to win The X Factor. The girls THE LION Birchills St, Walsall, WS2 8NG Leamington Spa, Coventry CV31 3NF Tel: Tel: 01922 610977 01926 881449 were first scheduled to appear at the Nightingale back in GORGEOUS Salop St Wolverhampton, JJ’S Skydome Leisure Park, Croft Rd, September, but had to cancel due to illness. Let’s hope WV3 0SR Tel: 0844 357 8570 Coventry CV1 3AZ. Tel: 02476 555913 they’re on top form for this, their debut solo gig in the city... LIQUID & ENVY Leicester Road, SHROPSHIRE Nuneaton CV11 4B. Tel: 02476 344216 C21 18-21 Abbey Foregate, Shrewsbury. SY2 6AE Tel: 01743 271821 (MON ONLY) REFLEX Church St, Nuneaton, CV11 4BW SPIRIT 22 Abbey Foregate, Shrewsbury, Tel: 02476 344216 SY2 6AE Tel: 01743 355055 (MON ONLY) WORCESTERSHIRE STAFFORDSHIRE BUSHWACKERS Trinity St, Worcester THE FACTORY Bryan St, Hanley, Stoke- On-Trent, ST1 2AA Tel: 01782 478799 WR1 2PW Tel: 01905 26878 TRAMPS Angel Place, Worcester WR1 WARWICKSHIRE 3QN Tel: 019905 26936 RAINBOWS Short St, Coventry CV1. VELVET LOUNGE Angel Place, Worcester Tel: 02476 551738 WR1 3QN. Tel: 01905 619966 WORCESTERSHIRE VELVET CLUB Angel Row, Worcester, WR1 3QN Tel: 01905 20218

www.whatsonlive.co.uk 85 Books-TV November_Layout 1 29/10/2012 13:54 Page 1 Books TV

Camp David By David Walliams As one half of the award-winning comedy duo behind much-loved TV series Little Britain, David Walliams earned instant celebrity status, with people around the country mimicking some of the show’s many famous catchphras- es, including, "eh eh eh eh" and "computer says no". But behind the comedy lies a man who’s both complex and fascinating; a man who possesses a sharp intel- lect, a sensitive disposition and a refreshing honesty - and who’s often described as 'a bundle of contradictions'. Now, with the publication of his autobiography, readers are provided with a wealth of material to help them unravel the mystery that is David Walliams. Providing a candid insight into his life, Camp David tells of Walliams’ childhood growing up in the ‘posh to bring new crime thriller end’ of Banstead in the 1970s, his strained relationship with his father, and why he remains a ‘mummy’s boy’ to this very day... to the BBC... Award-winning Gavin And Stacey star James Corden has joined forces with fellow actor Matthew Baynton (Deano in Gavin And Pete Townshend: Who I Am Stacey) to produce a new crime caper for the BBC. The new six-part comedy thriller centres around two hapless office work- By Pete Townshend ers who become inadvertently caught up in a criminal conspira- cy and find themselves hurled into a deadly underworld. Regarded as one of the greatest musical Corden and Baynton began devising the storyline when they talents Britain has ever produced, Pete worked together on Gavin And Stacey, and Baynton recently Townshend is not only the principle song- commented that he was excited to be finally ‘making it a reality’. writer and lead guitarist for The Who, he’s Filming on The Wrong Mans commences in January. also credited with being the creator of the concept album, has worked as a literary editor, developed scripts for stage and TV, and written songs that have defined a Casting announced for The Syndicate generation. Now, in what’s being Casting for a second series of the much-acclaimed drama The described as one of the most eagerly Syndicate has been announced by the BBC. Mark Addy (Great awaited autobiographies of recent times, Expectations), Alison Steadman (Gavin And Stacey), Jimi Mistry Townshend shares stories from his incred- (EastEnders), Siobhan Finneran (Downton Abbey) and Natalie ible life, describing what it’s like to be one Gavin (Prisoners’ Wives) have all been confirmed for the six-part of the world’s most respected musicians series, which follows a syndicate of five poorly paid Bradford in one of rock’s greatest ever bands, and why he’s wanted to give it all up. hospital workers who share a life-changing win on the lottery.

Rod: The Autobiography Filming begins on new ITV drama ITV has announced that filming on the latest addition to their By Rod Stewart TOP 5 portfolio of new drama has now commenced. Set during the Described as ‘the rock autobiography of BOOKS London Blitz of 1940, Murder On The Home Front is loosely the decade’, Rod Stewart’s new book based on the memoirs of Molly Lefebure, a World War Two sec- offers an entertaining and revealing The Casual Vacancy retary to Home Office Pathologist and pioneer of modern foren- sics Keith Simpson. Shedding new account of the rock’n’roll lifestyle of one of 1 JK Rowling Britain’s most endearing artists. Now a light on the everyday horrors of living in a city gripped by fear, Murder On dedicated family man, Rod’s fifty years as Cheryl: My Story a musician have seen him produce one of The Home Front follows the working 2 Cheryl Cole the most memorable rock anthems of all relationship of Dr Lennox Collins - a pathologist new to murder cases - time, be inducted into the Hall of Fame Jamies 15-Minute Meals twice, perform the world’s largest ever and his secretary Molly Cooper. Jamie Oliver concert, and play out his not-so-private life 3 Together, the two discover that a seri- - the marriages, divorces and affairs with al killer is at large under cover of the some of the world’s most beautiful women The Hairy Dieters Blitz, and set about convincing - for all the world to see. This honest and 4 The Hairy Bikers Lennox’s unsympathetic boss to have frank account charts the journey that Rod faith in their methods and theories. took from being a plumber’s son in North Fifty Shades Freed Patrick Kennedy and Tamzin London to an international star. 5 EL James Merchant head the cast, with the series due for screening next year. Tamzin Merchant

86 www.whatsonlive.co.uk Eating Out November_Layout 1 29/10/2012 14:04 Page 1 Eating Out Restaurant in search of reviewers... Birmingham’s Strada restaurant is on the lookout for budding reviewers willing to sample its new autumn menu. Twenty people, local to Birmingham, will be selected from those who submit an entry on the Strada website - closing date 9 November. Successful candidates will then be invited to pop along and titillate their taste- buds with some of the eatery’s new, freshly pre- pared authentic dishes. These include Strozzapreti Pugliese, Pizza Speck, Pollo Milanese and Tegamaccio, a Puglia-style stew of red mullet, clams, squid, mussels and prawns in a piquant home-made tomato and white wine sauce. For visitors with a sweet tooth, the tiramisu and the Cioccolato Fondente, with its melting chocolate centre, should prove the ulti- mate temptation. Interested in becoming a reviewer? Visit www.strada.co.uk for more details. Avant le theatre... le Truc this we discovered while panion stayed with the din- REVIEW talking with Le Truc’s ner menu and had what he General Manager Tim, described as the best lamb Le Truc is situated on whose enthusiasm for both shank he’d ever tasted - Ladywell Walk in the food and art was conta- beautifully flavoured and Arcadian Centre, just a gious. accompanied by fantasti- stone’s throw away from But this was all an added cally cheesy Chez Jules the Birmingham Strada bonus - we came for the gratin. My choices, all from Hippodrome. As such, it’s food, after all! Two menus the a la carte, cost £18.50. an obvious place to grab a were on offer; the dinner My co-diner’s, from the Midlands chef through to final bite to eat before a show - menu, available from 5pm dinner menu, £13.50 (£18 which is exactly what we Liam Davies, chef at the Bar 8 Brasserie at to 7.30pm, and the a la with wine and coffee). did. Hogarth’s Hotel near Dorridge, Solihull, has carte. Individually, they Water was provided at the The restaurant presents a earned himself a place in the finals of a national offered a varied selection - table, so there was no fine wooden façade, with cookery competition. Liam - who works under together, we were spoiled pressure to buy drinks - numerous windows Martin Blunos, Hogarth’s Michelin-starred for choice. After some my glass of sauvignon was through which to preview Culinary Director deliberation on our part most definitely wanted! the venue’s curious décor. - will join mentor and knowledgeable assis- Although our meal was Inside, its appearance is chef Paul Foster tance from our lovely wait- enjoyed at a leisurely smart-casual and stylish, from Tuddenham ress, a decision was made pace, we still got to the with more than a nod to Mill in Suffolk in - chicken liver parfait with theatre in good time. But artistic decadence, the the final of toast, pear and apple chut- we didn’t have the chance main wall being decorated Visionary Chef ney for me; potted shrimp to sample from the dessert with caricatured portraits of 2012 at and toast for my dining menu or sip cocktails after- Serge Gainsbourg, lit by Northampton companion. My parfait was wards in the chic bar area, boudoir-style chandeliers. City College on indeed ‘parfait’; amazingly so a return visit to Le Truc This obvious homage is a 29 November. Liam Davies light and flavoursome, with is most definitely sur les clue to the connections Le the sweet chutney a deli- cartes. Ted Finlay Truc has with both the cious accompaniment. My Birmingham restaurants Birmingham and European fellow diner enjoyed the Food: IIII I sparkle for Diwali art scene. The restaurant shrimp, which came with Service: IIIII was recently involved in Ambience: IIII I Diwali, the Indian festival of light, takes place more than a hint of lemon. the visual pop culture festi- IIII I mid-month, and two Birmingham restaurants For main course, there was Overall value val Eye Candy, and this IIII I have announced that they’re to celebrate the only ever one choice for OVERALL month is one of a number me - the cassoulet; a occasion with special Diwali-related menus. of venues in both hearty feast of traditional Le Truc, Moseley’s fine dining Itihaas restaurant is offering Birmingham and Berlin to French sausage, chicken 21 Ladywell Walk, a special Diwali Thali for guests to enjoy between be hosting the art exhibi- and cannellini beans Birmingham, 5 and 9 November, while over in Hall Green, The tion Frame, which show- cooked in a rich tomato B5 4ST Horseshoe Bar and Restaurant is planning an cases work by both local sauce. I love it, and I was- Tel: 0121 622 7050 evening of glitz and glamour with Bombay Bling and international artists. All on 17 November. n’t disappointed. My com- www.whatsonlive.co.uk 87 Eating Out November_Layout 1 29/10/2012 14:04 Page 2

Restaurant REVIEWS Restaurant LISTINGS For full listing information on Variety is the spice restaurants, including opening times and type of cui- of life... sine, visit: www.whatsonlive.co.uk CHUNG YING Buildings, James St, St Located near the Hippodrome’s Birmingham 16-18 Wrottersley Paul’s Square, B3 1SD side entrance, Chung Ying Street, B5 4RT 0121 0121 212 3664 AALTO RESTAURANT 622 5669 THE LOFT LOUNGE Garden has occupied its spot in Hotel La Tour, Albert 143 Bromsgrove St, Birmingham’s China Town since Street, Birmingham B5 CHUNG YING GARDEN 17 B5 6RG 0121 622 5JT 0121 718 8000 Thorpe St, B5 4AT 1987. 0121 666 6622 2444 AL FRASH 186 Ladypool With its low ceilings, and tables CIELO 6 Oozells Square, LOVES The Glasshouse, Road, Sparkbrook, B12 accommodating large parties as Brindleyplace, B1 2JB Browning St, B16 8FL 8JS 0121 753 3120 well as couples and small 0121 632 6882 0121 454 5151 THE ASQUITH 11 Newhall CITY CAFE GRILL Hylton MANIC ORGANIC groups, it was easy to feel at Street, Birmingham, Garden Inn, 1 46 Poplar Road, home on our visit. While this B3 3NY 0121 200 1588 Brunswick Square, B14 7AG 0121 441 Cantonese restaurant doesn’t ASHA’S 12-22 Newhall Brindleyplace, B1 2HW 3802 pling the restaurant’s famous Street, B3 3LX 0121 possess the flash contemporary 0121 643 1003 MAHARAJA 23/25 Hurst 200 2767 interiors of some of its newer dim sums - there are two pages’ COFFEE ROOM BAR & St, B5 4AS 0121 622 worth of fillings from which to AZZARI TOO BISTRO Hurst St, B5 2641 neighbours, what it does offer in 204 Lightwoods Rd, choose. These were positively 4TD 0121 605 4343 MECHU 47 - 59 Summer spades is variety; this became B67 5AZ 0121 429 COTE The Mailbox, Row, B3 1JJ 0121 212 divine, and at prices of between 6621 quickly apparent when we were B1 1RX 0121 631 1587 1661 £2 and £4, are a real must-have BANK 4 Brindleyplace, presented with a menu which CUCINA RUSTICA 24 METRO BAR & GRILL 73 B1 2JB 0121 633 4466 resembled the This Is Your Life whenever you visit. Ludgate Hill, B3 1DX Cornwall St, B3 2DF Mains, again, were very gener- BAR EPERNAY 171-172 0121 233 2277 0121 200 1911 book - complete with its own Wharfside Street, ous in size. I opted for a rather DEL VILLAGGIO MILLER & CARTER 178- contents page! The Mailbox, B1 1RL spicy vegetarian Ma Por tofu Unit 528, Middle Mall, 180 Wharfside St, The Choices included meat-based 0121 632 1430 The Bullring. B5 4BE (£8.50), which packed a real Mailbox, B1 1RN dishes ranging from paper- BAR ESTILO 10-114 0121 643 1400 0121 643 7738 punch. Wharfside St, The wrapped venison to deep-fried DEOLALI BAR RESTAU- MINT Yew Tree Retail Mailbox, B1 1RF 0121 Although near fit-to-burst, we RANT Park, Stoney Lane duck, seafood dishes aplenty, 643 3443 finished with very reasonably 23A St Mary's Row, Yardley, B25 8YP and options for those wishing to BARNT GREEN INN Moseley B13 8HW 0121 789 8908 priced desserts (the drinks, too, Kendal End Rd, Rednal 0121 442 2222 sample a set menu or deluxe MIRAGE FUSION were well priced by restaurant B45 8PZ 0121 445 banquet. Vegetarians were also DUET CUISINE Unit 1, Broadway Casino, 4949 very well catered for on a menu standards, again making Chung Fort Dunlop. B24 9FD Broadway Plaza BARAJEE 265 Broad St, 0121 748 1234 that boasted plenty of food typi- Ying Garden a thumbs-up for Ladywood Middleway, group visits.) B1 2DS 0121 643 6700 EDMUNDS 6 Brindley B16 8LP 0121 456 cal to Hong Kong. And, if a BELLA ITALIA 102 New place, B1 2JB 0121 5557 favourite Cantonese or Chinese The upstairs function room has St, B2 4HQ 0121 633 4944 played host to a variety of MOUNT FUJI The dish happened to be absent, 6431548 FUMO 1 Waterloo Street, Bullring, B5 4BH 0121 the chefs - some of whom have events over the years, but BERLIOZ Burlington Birmingham B2 5PG 633 9853 Arcade, New St, B2 0121 643 9979 been with the restaurant for apparently restaurant diners OLD JOINTSTOCK PUB 4 could soon be treated to live 4JQ HARJEES SPICES 512 Temple Row, B2 5NY twenty years - were happy to 0121 633 1737 Stratford Road, music as part of their dining-out 0121 200 1892 whip it up. BLUE MANGO Regency Sparkhill, Birmingham, NATHANIEL’S RESTAU- experience. If so, we will most B11 4AH Some starters seemed a little Wharf, Broad St, B1 RANT 13 St Mary’s Row, 0121 773 6130 pricey, particularly the deep- certainly be making a return 2DS Moseley, Birmingham, 0121 633 4422 THE HORSESHOE BAR & fried mixed vegetables I visit, to sample a few more of B13 8HW, 0121 449 BLUE GINGER 32 Poplar RESTAURANT 1214 9618 the three hundred-plus dishes Stratford Road, B28 ordered, which, at £8, rivalled Road, Kings Heath, OLD SPECKLED HEN the cost of the vegetarian on offer. Claire Lloyd B14 7AD 0121 444 9BH 0121 777 2340 Mere Green Road, mains. However, when a huge 0999 Sutton Coldfield. B75 IIII I ITIHAAS 18 Fleet St, B3 plate arrived, it was evident that Food: BLUU Fleet St, Summer 5BL 0121 308 9410 IIII I Row, B3 1JH 0121 236 1JL 0121 212 3383 I should have shared it Service: OPUS 54 Cornwall St, III II 9013 ITIHAAS BRASSERIE B3 2DE 0121 200 2323 (although as it was delicious, I Ambience: Selfridges Food Hall, BRANDED BULL STEAK- THE ORIENTAL The would have found that difficult!). Overall value IIII I HOUSE 175 Broad Bullring, Birmingham B5 4BP 0121 212 3383 Mailbox, 128-130 My dining companion tucked OVERALL IIII I Street, B15 1DT 0121 Wharfside St, B1 1RQ JAMIES ITALIAN Middle 643 5968 0121 633 9988 into battered butterfly king Mall, Bullring Shopping BUONISSIMO 1 Albany PASTA DE PIAZZA 11 prawns. While undoubtedly Chung Ying Garden Rd, Harborne, B17 9JX Centre, B5 4BE 17 Thorp Street 0121 270 3610 Brook Street, St Paul’s good, at a cost of £11 the 0121 426 2444 Square, B3 1SA JIMMY SPICES Regency prawns should perhaps have Birmingham China Town BYZANTIUM 11 York 0121 236 5858 Wharf, Broad St, B1 been fully shelled. We both fol- B5 4AT Road, Kings Heath, PEACHY KEENS 1741 B14 7SA 0121 444 2DS 0121 643 2111 lowed up our starters by sam- Tel: 0121 666 6622 JUJU’S Canal Square, Coventry Road, Yardley 5444 B26 1DS 0121 764 CAFE IKON 1 Oozells B16 8EH 0121 456 3384 5519 Square, Brindleyplace, PENNY BLACKS B1 2HS 0121 248 3226 THE JUNCTION 212 High Street, Harborne, B17 The Mailbox, 132-134 CAFE ROUGE 9PT 0121 428 2635 Wharfside St, B1 1XL Brindleyplace, Broad 0121 632 1460 KINNAREE THAI 22 Street, B1 2HJ 0121 PEPPERS 5b Broad LOOKING FOR A 643 6556 Waterfront Walk, B1 1SN. 0121 665 6568 Street, Birmingham B15 CAFE SOYA Unit 2, 1EJ 0121 633 4411 RESTAURANT ON YOUR LA BANCA 1986 Upper Dean Street B5 PICCOLINO 4SG 0121 622 3888 Pershore Road, DOORSTEP? Cotteridge, Kings 9 Brindleyplace, B1 CARLUCCIO’S The Norton, Birmingham 2HS 0121 634 3055 Water’s Edge, B30 3AS 0121 459 PITCHER & PIANO Brindleyplace 2204 Brindleyplace, B1 2HP B1 2HP 0121 633 9262 VISIT LA BASTILLE 220 0121 643 0214 CELEBRITY INDIAN Corporation St, B4 6QB PONTE DI LEGNO 44-44a 44 Broad St, B1 2HP 0121 236 1171 Woodbridge Rd, 0121 643 8969 whatsonlive.co.uk LAS IGUANAS Arcadian Moseley, B13 8EJ THE CHAMELEON 1 Centre, Hurst St, B5 0121 449 8064 Victoria Square, B1 4TD 0121 622 4466 POPPY RED Arcadian 1BD 0121 643 2233 The most comprehensive what’s on listings website LA PLANCHA 113 Centre, Birmingham B5 CHEZ JULES 5a Ethel St, Alcester Road, 4TD 0121 687 1200 for Birmingham and the West Midlands B2 4BG 0121 633 Moseley, Birmingham PUNJABI HAVELI 1558 4664 B13 8DD 0121 449 Stratford Rd, Hall CHI 61 Newhall St, 5430 Green, B28 9HA 0121 B3 3RB 0121 233 3150 LASAN 3-4 Dakota 745 3636

88 www.whatsonlive.co.uk Eating Out November_Layout 1 29/10/2012 14:04 Page 3

PURNELL’S 55 Cornwall ARBOUR LIGHTS 127-128 St, B3 2DH 0121 212 Lichfield Street, Walsall 9799 WS1 1SY 01922 613361 PUSHKAR 245 Broad St, BANKS BISTRO Chapel B1 2HQ 0121 643 7978 Ash, Wolverhampton THE RECTORY 50-54 St WV1 4EP 01902 238433 Paul’s Sq, B3 1QS BELLA 82 Chapel Ash, 0121 605 1001 Wolverhampton. 01902 RED PEPPERS 117 427555 Wharfside St, B1 1RF BENGAL FUSION 174 High 0121 643 4202 St, Lye, Stourbridge DY9 ROSE MURREE 94 -96 8LN. 01384 891111 Hagley Rd, Edgbaston, BILASH 2 Cheapside, B16 8LU 0121 456 4500 Wolverhampton, WV1 SABAI SABAI 1TU 01902 427762 25 Woodbridge Rd, THE BLUE BRICK Moseley, B13 8EH Broad Gauge Way, 0121 4494498 Wolverhampton WV1 SAN CARLO 4 Temple St, 1AA 01902 875301 B2 5BN 0121 633 0251 BRAVACCIOUS 4 Upper SHAH’S Unit 16, 1160 Green, Wolverhampton Warwick Road, Acocks WV6 8QQ 01902 Green B27 6BP 0121 756052 707 8297 CAFE CHAMPAGNE 253- SHIMLA PINKS 215 Broad 255 Bilston Road, St, B15 1AY 0121 633 Wolverhampton WV2 0366 2JN 01902 458024 SHOGUN TEPPANYAKI CASA CASITA Upper The Mailbox, 27 - 29 Gornal, Dudley. DY3 Wharfside St, B1 1RD 1UP 01902 676754 Edmunds, Birmingham 0121 632 1253 CATELLANI’S 6 School St, SIMPSONS, 20 Highfield Wolverhampton, WV1 4LP 01902 424440 road, Dorrington, 01743 277140 01691 670970 Rd, Edgbaston B13 3DU 4LR 01902 428928 RISTORANTE ROMAGNA 4 Shropshire SY5 7JD MAD JACKS 15 St Mary’s ZIZZI RISORANTE 39-40 0121 454 3434 CINNAMON COURT Bentley Upper Green, Tettenhall, 01743 719100 St, Shrewsbury, SY1 High Street, Shrewsbury THE SLUG AND LETTUCE, Mill Way, Walsall WS2 Wolverhampton WV6 DRAPERS 10 St Mary’s St 1EQ 01743 358870 SY1 1SF 01743 353232 0BP 0121 568 6664 Brindley Place, 8QQ 01902 756052 Shrewsbury, SY1 1DZ THE MALTHOUSE The Birmingham B1 2HL THE COWSHED Clive SAFFRON Wolverhampton 01743 344679 Wharfage, Ironbridge 0121 633 3049 Farm Clive Rd, Road, Oldbury B69 4RR THE FEATHERS Brockton, TF8 7NH 01902 433712 Staffordshire SPICE EXCHANGE, Pattingham, WV6 7EN 0121 552 1752 Much Wenlock TF13 6JR 01902 701888 MORGANS 1 Bellstone, NO 5 Gaol Mews, 1845 Pershore Rd SIMON’S 520 Chester Rd, 01746 785202 Shrewsbury SY1 1HU Aldridge, Walsall, WS9 Stafford ST16 3AN Kings Norton, B30 3DJ THE CROOKED HOUSE FENNELS 8 Market Place, 01743 239114 0121 451 1007 Coppice Hill, Himley DY3 0PU 0121 580 9293 01785 22 9900 Shifnall TF11 9AZ 01952 MR UNDERHILLS Dinham STRADA 109-111 4DA 01384 238583 SPICES Hollywell Rd, 95 HIGH GREEN Cannock. 463020 Weir, Ludlow Shropshire Wharfside St, The THE DITCH 1 Town Hill, Wednesbury. WS10 7PA WS11 1BH 01543 THE FOX INN 46 High St, SY8 1EH 01584 874431 Mailbox B1 1XL Walsall, WS1 2EU 0121 502 0720 573905 Much Wenlock TF136AD THE MYTTON & MERMAID 0121 643 7279 01922 643215 THE SPRINGHILL 01952 727292 1709 THE BASSERIE 3-5 Warstones Rd, Penn, Atcham, Shrewsbury, Lombard St, Lichfield. SYRIANA 1 Constitution DON SALVO 25 Darlington FRANK CAFE BAR 128 Wolverhampton WV4 SY5 6QG 01743 761220 WS13 6DP 01543 Hill, B19 3LG 0121 Street, Wolverhampton Frankwell, Shrewsbury 4LB 01902 342530 THE OLD ORLETON INN 257986 2369444 WV1 4HW 01902 712819 SY3 8JX 01743 354422 THE SUMMERHOUSE 92 Holyhead Rd, BELLA ITALIA 20 TGI FRIDAYS 180 Hagley DUNSLEY HALL Dunsley THE GOLDEN CROSS 14 Road, Edgbaston, Rd, Kinver, DY7 6LU Gospel End Rd, Dudley Wellington, TF1 2HA Greengate St, Stafford, DY3 4AN 01902 676 Princess St, Shrewsbury, 01952 255011 ST16 2HS Birmingham B16 9NY 01384 877077 SY1 1LP 01743 362507 0121 454 1930 102 THE OLD RECTORY HOTEL 01785 211968 THE FAIRLAWNS AT GRANARY BAR & GRILL THAI EDGE 7 Oozells Sq, ALDRIDGE 178 Little THORNESCROFT & RESTAURANT Lowe Hill CHANDLERS Corn Bridgnorth Rd, Weston Park, Weston- Road, Wem, Shropshire Exchange, Conduit St, B1 2HL 0121 643 3993 Aston Road, Aldridge, under-Lizard, Nr Shifnal, Walsall WS9 0NU 01922 Wolverhampton, WV6 SY4 5UA 01939 233233 Lichfield, WS13 6JU TIN TIN CANTONESE, 7EQ 01902 700 253 TF11 8LE 01952 852107 The Waters Edge, 455122 THE PEACH TREE 21 01543 416688 THE WOODMAN Claverley, HADLEY PARK HOUSE Brindleyplace, B1 2HL FARADAYS The Abbey Foregate, THE CORNER HOUSE Wolverhampton WV5 Hadley Park, Telford TF1 0121 633 0888 Shrewsbury, SY2 6AE Second , Burton- Waterfront, Brierley Hill, 7DG 01746 710 553 6QJ 01952 677269 ULYSSES Dudley, DY5 1UR 01743 355055 On-Trent DE14 2WF 42a Bristol THE HAYWARDS at The 01384 482 882 THE PLUME OF FEATHERS 01283 542321 Street, B5 7AA 0121 622 Lion Hotel, Wyle Cop, FIVE RIVERS Harley, Shrewsbury SY5 CURRY KUTEER 31 3159 Vicarage Shropshire Shrewsbury SY1 1UY Greengate Street, THE VAULTS Newhall Place, Walsall WS1 3NA 01743 353107 6LP 01743 727360 01922 646164 AFTAB 25 High St, Stafford ST16 2HY Place, Newhall Hill, HILL VALLEY HOTEL THE POUND AT LEEBOT- FOUR STONES Ironbridge TF8 7AD 01785 253279 B1 3JH 0121 212 9837 Adam’s Tarporley Road, WOOD Leebotwood, Nr 01952 432055 ESSENCE OF THE ORIENT VMF - ASTON VILLA FOOT- Hill,Clint, Stourbridge, Whitchurch SY13 4HA Church Stretton SY6 BALL CLUB Villa Park, DY9 9PS 01562 883260 ALBRIGHT HUSSEY 6ND 01694 751477 27 Broad Eye, Stafford Ellesmere Rd, 0844 879 9049 Trinity Rd, B6 6HE 0121 FRANZLS 151 Milcote Rd, RENAISSANCE, 29a ST16 2QB 01785 Shrewsbury, SY4 3AF THE INN AT GRINSHILL 326 1570 Smethwick, B67 5BN Princess St,Shrewsbury, 229988 01939 290 523 The High Street, WAGAMAMA 0121 429 7920 SY11LW 01743 354289 FOUR SEASONS Swinfen Brindley Grinshill, Shrewsbury, FRENCH CONNECTION BISTRO JACQUES 77/77a Hall Lichfield, WS14 Place, birmingham B1 SY4 3BL 01939 220410 ROMOLO Victoria Avenue, 2HL 0121 643 7656 3 Coventry St, Mardol, Shrewsbury SY1 9RE 01543 481494 1PZ 01743 272586 KING & THAI Avenue Rd, shrewsbury SY1 1HH THE WAREHOUSE CAFE Stourbridge DY8 1EP THE GREEN ROOM Castle 54- Broseley, Telford TF12 01743 233244 57 Allison Street, 01384 390940 BUTLERS Park St, Shifnal, Dyke, Lichfield WS13 TF11 9BA 01952 5DL 01952 882004 SARACENS Shrewsbury Digbeth, B5 5TH FRENCH HEN Bromsgrove Rd, SY4 4AG 01939 6HR 01543 412121 0121 633 0261 Rd, Clent, Stourbridge 460662 THE KNIGHTON HOTEL INDIAN VILLAGE Broad Street, Knighton, 210877 WING WAH DY9 9PY 01562 883040 CASA NARANJO Barracks 8 Lombard St, Lichfield. 278 Powys LD7 1BL 01547 SEBASTIANS 45 Willow St, GOLDEN MOMENTS 2-3 Passage, Wyle Cop, WS13 6DR 01543 Thimblemill Lane, B7 520530 Oswestry SY11 1AQ 5HD 0121 327 7879 Ablewell St, Walsall WS1 Shrewsbury SY1 01743 253415 588165 LA BÉCASSE 17 Corve St, 01691 655444 WOKTASTIC 2EQ 01922 640363 INDICA Virage Park, Paradise Ludlow, SY8 1DA 01584 SHALIMAR 23 Abbey Place, B3 3HJ 0121 236 LE BRASSERIE 5 Lower CASA RUIZ 45 High Cannock. WS11 0HN 872 325 Foregate, Shrewsbury 3130 Mill Street, Street, Bridgnorth, WV16 08712 070417 Kidderminster. DY11 4DX 01746 218 084 LA DOLCE VITA 35 Hills SY2 6AE 01743 366658 WONGS 5-11 Fleet St, B3 JASMINE PEKING 21 High 6UU 01562 744976 Lane, Shrewsbury SY1 SHERAZ 79 Wyle Cop, 1JP 0121 212 1888 CHEZ MAW Best Western St, Eccleshall, Stafford MADE IN THAI Darlington Valley Hotel, Buildwas 1QU 01743 249126 Shrewsbury SY1 1UT ZIZZI ST21 6BW 01785 183 High St, St, Wolverhampton WV1 Rd, Ironbridge, TF8 7DW LA LANTERNA The Old 01743 242321 Harborne B17 9QE 851200 4HW 01902 312512 01952 432247 Vestry, St Julian's THE SILVERTON 0121 428 4228 also at the Old LA DOLCE VITA 19 Stafford PARADISE BALTI 7 Lower Church, Shrewsbury The Mailbox B1 1RL THE COTTAGE Tern Hill, Dairy, 9-10 Frankwell, Mill Street, Kidderminster SY1 1UH 01743 233552 St, Stone ST15 8QW 0121 632 1333. Market Drayton TF9 3PX Shrewsbury SY3 8JY 01785 817 985 DY11 6UU 01562 60479 01630 638984 LION & PHEASANT 50 01743 248000 10 Poplar Rd, Solihull, THE LODGE 24 THE MANGO TREE Chester CROMWELLS 11 Dogpole, Wyle Cop Shrewsbury B91 3AB 0121 704 5030 TIN TINS Wellington Birmingham Road, Road, Stonnall, Walsall Shrewsbury SY1 1EN SY1 1XJ 01743 770345 ZORBAS 359-361 Olton Road, Telford TF2 8AJ Shenstone. WS14 0LQ WS9 9HJ 01922 457344 01743 361440 THE LION QUAYS Moreton, Boulevard, Solihull B27 01952 608688 01543 483334 THE PIE FACTORY 50 Hurst DA VINCI’S 26 High St, Oswestry SY11 3EN 7DP 0121 706 4709 TRAITORS GATE Castle St, MALABAR 1-2 Water Lane, Tipton DY4 9AB Ironbridge, TF8 7AD 01691 684300 Water Lane, Shrewsbury Street, Stafford, ST16 0121 557 1402 01952 432250 LOCH FYNE Talbot House, SY1 2BX 01743 249152 2AG 01785 227 500/600 Black Country RED FORT Fold St, DORRINGTON OLD HALL Market Street, Wolverhampton, WV1 Shrewsbury SY1 1LG THE WALLS Welsh Walls, MARLOES 13 London PERSIAN CUISINE Main Oswestry SY11 1AW

www.whatsonlive.co.uk 89 Eating Out November_Layout 1 29/10/2012 14:04 Page 4

Restaurant LISTINGS

Road, Newcastle under Coventry CV1 5RU 0247 Lyme, ST4 1LQ 01782 622 1100 661983 CARLUCCIOS 13 THE MILL 1 Mill St, Waterside, Stratford- Stone, ST15 8BA 01785 Upon-Avon CV37 6BA 818456 01789 267424 THE NAVIGATION INN CASTLES 6 Castle St, Newport Road, Gnosall, Warwick. CV34 4BP Stafford ST20 0BN 01926 492525 01785 822327 CATALAN 6 Jury St , OLD VICARAGE 2 Main St, Warwick CV34 4EW Branston, Burton, DE14 01926 498 930 3EX 01283 533222 THE CHURCH STREET PASTICHE BISTRO 1 - 2 TOWNHOUSE 16 Church Mill Street, Stafford, Street, Stratford-upon- ST16 2AJ 01782 263 Avon CV37 6HB 01789 737 262222 THE PEARL18 Market St, EGO 29 The Square, Kidsgrove, ST7 4AB Kenilworth, CV8 1EF 01782 788887 01926 864463 THE PEAR TREE Swinfen, FINEST CATCH B’ham Rd, Nr. Lichfield, WS14 9QR Henley in Arden. B95 01543 481807 5QR 01564 793783 PORTOFINO 38-40 Marsh FIVE RIVERS 20-22 St Stoke-On-Trent, ST1 Victoria Terrace, 1JD 01782 209444 Leamington Spa, CV31 THE RED ROOM 7 3AB 01926 431999 Wagamma, Birmingham Newcastle Road, GEORGETOWN 23 Sheep Congleton CW12 4HN St, Stratford-Upon-Avon, 01260 297871 CV37 6EF 01789 Stratford-Upon-Avon, Coventry, CV1 1GS THE CHASE INN Chase Worcester Rd, THE SWAN HOTEL 46 204445 CV37 6QZ 01789 02476 846762 Rd, Upper Colwall, Bromsgrove. B61 7AE 404919 Malvern. WR13 6DQ 01527 578888 Greengate Street, HELP OUT MILL Heather TAILORS 22 Market Place, 01684 540276 Stafford ST16 2JA Rd, Shakerstone, OSCARS 39 Chandos St, Warwick CV34 4SL MASSALLA LOUNGE 35 01785 258142 Nuneaton. CV13 0BT Leamington Spa, CV32 01926 410590 CHESTERS 51 New St, Broad St, Worcester THORNBURY HALL, RASOI 01530 260666 4RL 01926 452807 THAI ELEPHANT Worcester, WR1 2DL WR1 3NH 01905 01905 611638 729955 Lockwood Rd, Kingsley HOGARTH’S HOTEL 4 PEEL’S Hampton Manor, 20 Regent St, Holt, Stafford ST10 2DH Ashes Rd, Solihull, B93 Hampton-in-Arden, Leamington Spa, CROWN & SANDYS MUG HOUSE Claines 01538 750831 8QE 01564 779988 Solihull, B92 0EN 01675 Warwick CV32 5HQ Main Rd, Ombersley, Lane, Worcester WR3 446080 01926 886882 WR9 0EW 01905 WOLSELEY ARMS HORTONS 165 High 7RN 01905 456649 620252 Wolseley Bridge, Street, Solihull B91 3ST PREZZO 1-3 High St, THE TREVELYAN Warwick OLD RECTIFYING HOUSE Stafford ST17 0XS 0121 709 3177 Warwick CV34 4AP Rd, Stratford-upon-Avon, EWE & LAMB Hanbury North Parade, Worcester 01889 883179 01926 475867 CV37 ONR Rd, Bromsgrove. B60 WR1 3NN 01905 INDIA RED 1-2 Abbey St, 01789 295252 4DN 01527 871929 619622 Nuneaton. CV11 5BP QUEANS RESTAURANT 15 02476 342090 Dormer Place, WARWICK SPICE 24 Smith THE FIG TREE 99 Church ON THE ROCKS, Worcester Warwickshire Leamington Spa CV32 St, Warwick CV34 4HS Street, Gt Malvern, Rd, Bromsgrove. B61 JIMMY SPICES 64-66 5AA 01926 315522 01926 491736 WR14 2AE 01684 7AE 01527 882412 7 SQUARE 7 Old Square, Station Rd, Solihull, B91 569909 Warwick CV34 4RA 3RX 0121 709 2111 RESTAURANT 23 THE VINE INN 86 - 88 PORTOFINO, 6 Worcester 34 Hamilton Terrace, West St, Warwick CV34 FOUR SEASONS 61 Rd, Droitwich. WR9 8AD 01926 411 755 LE BISTRO PIERRE Swans Holly Walk Leamington 6AW 07873 219005 Lowesmoor, Worcester 01905 794799 NO. 9 CHURCH STREET Nest, Bridgford, Stratford Spa, CV32 4LY 01926 WR1 2RS 01905 27026 Stratford upon Avon, upon Avon. CV37 7LT ZIZZI 85-87 Regent PORTWAY ITALIAN, 422422 Warwickshire CV37 6HB 01789 264804 Square House, Parade, FUSION BRASSERIE Alcester Rd, Redditch. ROBBIES 74 Smith St, Leamington Spa CV 32 Hawbridge, Stoulton, B48 7HT 01564 824794 01789 415522 MATRICARDIS 97 High St, Warwick CV34 4HU 4NL Worcester WR7 4RJ PUCCINI'S, ART KITCHEN 7 Swan St, Henley in Arden. B95 12 Friar St, 01926 400470 01905 840647 Warwick CV34 4BJ 5AT 01564 792735 ZORBA’S Olton Boulevard, Worcester WR12LZ 01926 494303 ROOFTOP RESTAURANT Solihull. B27 7DP 0121 THE GARDENERS ARMS 01905 27770 MERCHANTS Swan Street, @ The RST, Waterside, 706 4709 Vines Lane, Droitwich. RAJDOOT Cutnall Green, AUBERGINE 32 Smith St, Warwick CV34 4BJ Stratford-upon-Avon, WR9 8LU 01905 772936 Droitwich. WR9 0PW Warwick CV34 4HS 01926 403833 01926 400 086 CV37 6BB 01789 THE GATE 36 Dodford Rd, 01299 851000 NAYA 148 High St, 01926 852980 403449 Worcestershire Bournheath, RILY’S The Quadrant, THE ALMANACK Abbey Henley in Arden. B95 SAFFRON GOLD Market St, Bromsgrove Redditch B98 8AE 01527 End North, Kenilworth 5BS 01564 793089 ANAKARI 47 The Tythings, CV8 1QJ 01926 353637 Westgate House, Worcester. WR1 1JT B61 9JR 01527 878169 60544 NAILCOTE HALL Nailcote Warwick CV34 4DE 01905 21412 THE INN AT STONEHALL ROSADOS’S 2 Finstall Rd, THE BLUEBELL 93 High Lane, Berkswell, 01926 402061 Stonehall Common, Aston Fields, Street, Henley-in-Arden, Coventry, CV7 7DE ANGEL CHEF 1 Angel St, THE SAXON MILL Worcester, WR5 3QG Bromsgrove. B60 2DZ Warwickshire, B95 5AT 02476 466174 Worcester WR1 3QT 01564 793049 Coventry Rd, Guys Cliffe, 01905 731131 01905820462 01527 889948 NICOLINIS 14 The Parade, Warwick CV34 5YN KING CHARLES II King SAFFRON BISTRO 15 New BLUE BISTRO 21 Spon St, Leamington Spa, CV32 ANUPAM 85 Church 01926 492 255 Charles House, New St, St, Worcester WR1 2DP Coventry, CV1 3BA 024 4DW 01926 421620 Street, Malvern. WR14 7622 9274 SIGNATURES @ The 2AE 01684 573814 Worcester WR1 2D 01905 610505 ONE ELM 1 Guild St, BROWNS Earl St, Belgrade Theatre, BACCHUS 44 Worcester 01905 22449 SINGAPORE 29 Friar St, Road, Bromsgrove B61 L’AMUSE BOUCHE 51 Worcester WR1 2NA 0TA 01527 877557 Graham Rd, Malvern. 01905 613005 BENEDICTOS 34 Sidbury, WR14 2HU 01684 THAI GALLERY 26-32 Friar 572427 St, Worcester WR1 2LZ (ESt 86) Worcester WR1 2HZ thE dINNEr cLub 01905 21444 LANGTREYS 89a High St, 01905 25451 a rEcIpE for fINE food aNd Good compaNy BINDLES 55 Sidbury, Bromsgrove. B61 8AQ THAI LOTUS 147 Worcester. WR1 2HU 01527 878242 Worcester Rd, 01905 611120 LITTLE VENICE 1 - 3 St Bromsgrove. B61 7HN 01527 882606 SINGLE? BRAMBLINGS Hither Nicholas St, Worcester Green Lane, Redditch, WR1 1UW 01905 THAI RAMA Walwyn Rd, B98 9BE 01527 406600 726126 Gt Malvern. WR13 6QX For the more discerning 01684 541563 BROWNS 24 Quay St, LOTUS HOUSE 33 unattached person, age 30-45 or 45+ THE WILDMOOR OAK Worcester. WR1 2JJ Ombersley St, Droitwich. Top Road, Wildmoor, 01905 23263 WR9 8QX 01905 Events weekly include dining out, dinner dances, black tie balls, 770079 Bromsgrove B61 0RB THE BRIDGE INN Plough 0121 453 2696 theatre, parties, weekends away and holidays abroad. Rd, Tibberton, Droitwich. MAEKONG THAI 12 WR9 7NQ 01905 Not a datING aGENcy 345874 THE BROOK INN Elcocks To get your restaurant listed here Bank, Redditch. B97 (day) (Eve/W-end) 01244 677030 /01244 548816 5UD 01527 543209 e: [email protected] BROWNS 24 Quay St, or call Jon Cartwright www.thedinnerclubuk.com Worcester WR1 2JJ on 01743 281703 01905 26263

90 www.whatsonlive.co.uk p91 (IBC) R1_Layout 1 29/10/2012 09:23 Page 1

CELEBRATE

ChristmasWITH US....

Nestled in the heart of St. Paul's Square and against the backdrop of the stunning St Paul's Cathedral, Cucina Rustica is the perfect setting for your stylish and indulgent Christmas party.

We are determined to make it a Christmas dining experience you won't forget with our beautiful location, added festive treats that await you at your tables.

VIEW OUR DELECTABLE CHRISTMAS 2012 MENU WHICH IS NOW LIVE ON OUR WEBSITE! Cucina Rustica Tel: 0121 233 2277

Saint Paul's Square, 24 Ludgate Hill, Birmingham, B3 1DX Email: [email protected] web: www.cucinarustica.co.uk Kasbah (FP-Nov)_Layout 1 29/10/2012 09:08 Page 1