Staffordshire Cover December 2019.qxp_Staffordshire Cover 22/11/2019 15:50 Page 1
PETER PAN FLIES INTO Your FREE essential entertainment guide for the Midlands STAFFORD GATEHOUSE STAFFORDSHIREWHAT’S ONDECEMBER 2019
Staffordshire ISSUE 408 DECEMBER 2019 ’ WhatFILM I COMEDY I THEATRE I GIGS I VISUAL ARTS I EVENTSs I FOOD On staffordshirewhatson.co.uk
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THE ARTHUR MARK BRZEZICKI’S DOHERTY BAND DRUM CLINIC FRIDAY 13 DECEMBER TUESDAY 21 JANUARY @ 7.30PM @ 7.30PM
DAMIAN WILSON & SPIRIT OF THE ADAM WAKEMAN DANCE SUNDAY 12 JANUARY SUNDAY 2 FEBRUARY @ 7.30PM @ 7.30PM
IVAN BRACKENBURY THE TINA TURNER SUPPORTS TOM BINNS EXPERIENCE THE PSYCHIC COMEDIUM FRIDAY 14 FEBRUARY 14+ SUNDAY 19 JANUARY @ 7.30PM @ 7.30PM
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BOX OFFICE 0178585 661908019080 BOOK ONLINE www.staffordgatehousetheatre.co.uk EASTGATE STREET, STAFFORD, ST16 2 LT Contents December Wolves/Shrops/Staffs.qxp_Layout 1 22/11/2019 14:38 Page 2
December 2019
Contents
Hi-Dick-Hi! Su Pollard and Jeffrey Holland reunite in Dick Whittington at the Wolverhampton Grand... page 26
Ex Cathedra The King And I Enchanted Weston the list
perform festive favourites from West End musical dances into explore an illuminated Your 16-page around the globe... the Midlands for Christmas wonderland this festive season week-by-week listings guide page 16 page 20 page 47 page 51 inside:
4. First Word 12. Food 17. Gigs 19. Comedy 24. Theatre 34. Film 36. Visual Arts 41. Events
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Entertainment news from around the region
An illuminating Christmas show Lichfield Cathedral’s award-win- ning Christmas light-and-sound show is making a welcome re- turn for 2019. Once again facilitated by artistic collaboration Luxmuralis, the show is entitled The Beginning and features artwork produced in collaboration with thousands of local school children. Christmas visitors to the cathe- dral can enjoy the lights from 16 to 21 December. Tickets are sold in 15-minute time slots. Entry to the Cathedral Close will be at the allotted ticket time.
Opera production looking The award will enable the venue to start a month. major fundraising & project plan that will see Waltzing its way into Arena Birmingham for the pawfect pooch... the most significant investment in the the- from Thursday 16 to Sunday 19 January, the Has your dog got star quality? atre’s main auditorium for over 30 years. sequin-filled show features TV judges Shirley If so, there’s a chance they could appear in The work is set to improve customer experi- Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood and Bruno the Ellen Kent production of Puccini’s fa- ence, increase accessibility and enable more Tonioli. Taking to the dancefloor with their mous opera, La Boheme, when it visits the people to engage with the New Vic’s shows, professional dance partners are celebrities Wolverhampton Grand on 26 January. education and community work. Karim Zeroual, Kelvin Fletcher, Saffron To audition your pooch, send a photograph Barker, Mike Bushell, Alex Scott, Emma to [email protected]. Include in the Barton and Catherine Tyldesley. email your contact number and address, as If you’re a fan of the hit BBC TV show, this is well as the breed, height, weight, age and definitely an evening out not to be missed... name of your canine companion. Be sure to state that you wish your dog to be considered for inclusion in the Wolverhamp- ton Grand performance of the production. If your audition is successful, the Ellen Kent company will contact you a week before the show. A tale of young love for Stafford Shakespeare 30th Stafford Shakespeare Festival has announced that it will be celebrating its 30th anniversary year in 2020 by presenting a production of Cinema showings mark Romeo & Juliet. Friends’ 25th anniversary The show will be performed outdoors at The Showcase cinemas in Dudley and Stafford Castle from 25 June to 11 July. Walsall are this month hosting three special For more information and to book tickets, screenings to celebrate the 25th anniversary visit staffordgatehousetheatre.co.uk Staffordshire theatre wins of hit US comedy series Friends. funding for refurb project The cinemas will be showing 12 remastered- Strictly - live and on tour... in-4K fan-favourite episodes across three The New Vic Theatre in Newcastle-under- With 2018 winner Stacey Dooley taking on nights - Sunday 8, Wednesday 11 and Sunday Lyme has been awarded £353,225 by Arts the presenting role, the Strictly Come 15 December. Council England to help upgrade its famous Dancing Live tour is back with a bang next To book tickets, visit showcasecinemas.co.uk theatre-in-the-round.
4 whatsonlive.co.uk First Word Wolves_Shrops_Staffs December copy.qxp_Layout 1 22/11/2019 16:01 Page 2
First Word
Walking In The Chris Ramsey bringing Air at Lichfield new show to the Midlands Cathedral Midlands-based lovers of quality comedy get Fans of festive family plenty of opportunity to indulge their interest favourite The Snowman have next year when Chris Ramsey heads out on a the chance to go Walking In UK tour. The Air once again this As well as being a highly rated stand-up on the Christmas. UK circuit, Geordie boy Chris has also devel- A screening of the much- oped an impressive TV career, appearing on loved animated version of shows including 8 Out Of 10 Cats, Celebrity Raymond Briggs’ story is Juice, South Shields-set sitcom Hebburn and taking place this month at the the 2019 series of Strictly Come Dancing. cathedrals of Coventry and The critically acclaimed comedian is stopping Lichfield - and in both cases off at a number of venues in the region, includ- will be accompanied by a live ing Shrewsbury’s Theatre Severn on 4 April. orchestra. The event, which To check out all of Chris’ Midlands gigs, visit also features new animated his website: chrisramseycomedy.com film A Donkey’s Tale, takes place at Coventry Cathedral on Saturday 7 December and Warm your cockles in then at Lichfield Cathedral on Friday 27 December. a festive tipi! Telford Christmas Market is now open (until Mon- day 23 December) and features some brand new ad- ditions, including a Santa’s Grotto - he’s there on selected dates - and a double hat tipi, designed to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere in which visitors and shoppers can sit back and enjoy a favourite tipple at Jukes Bar. The market also fea- tures its usual selection of unique artisan stalls and food outlets.
Lionel Richie to A Question Of Shrewsbury named one of the tour Hello show Sport turns 50 UK’s top 10 Christmas towns West Midlands fans of inter- Shrewsbury is one of the top 10 UK towns in which national superstar Lionel to spend Christmas, according to a list compiled by Richie can enjoy an evening holiday-cottages booking site Snaptrip. in the singer’s company next Describing the town as offering ‘an enchanting summer by making a beeline Christmas in a historical setting’, Snaptrip said: for North Wales. “Christmas in Shrewsbury is a special time indeed. Lionel will be taking his Hello The cobblestone streets of this medieval town come touring show to Wrexham alive with fairy lights, lantern parades and groups Racecourse on Thursday 4 of carol singers. As well as a jam-packed schedule June. For tickets, visit Ticket- of Christmas events, the town is also brimming with master.co.uk The BBC’s A Question Of Sport - the world's cosy cafes, traditional pubs and plenty of lovely longest-running TV sports quiz - is celebrat- shops - the perfect setting for a lazy winter’s after- ing its 50th anniversary in 2020 with a live noon.” tour. The show will feature host Sue Barker and resident team captains Matt Dawson and Phil Tufnell, along with big-name guests from across the sporting world. The tour stops off at Birmingham’s Sym- phony Hall on Monday 27 April. Tickets are now available and can be pur- chased at ticketmaster.co.uk whatsonlive.co.uk 5 First Word Wolves_Shrops_Staffs December copy.qxp_Layout 1 22/11/2019 16:02 Page 3
First Word
Give a little this Up close and festive season personal with Sex Acorns Children’s Hospice is Pistols frontman appealing for donations to Sex Pistols and Public Image ensure its network of shops is Ltd star John Lydon is visiting fully stocked in the run-up to the Midlands next autumn with Christmas. a Q&A tour. Acorns needs £27,000 per day Coinciding with the publication to provide its care & support of his new book, I Could Be services. The charity’s network Wrong, I Could Be Right, the of more than 50 shops across tour - which bears the same title the West Midlands plays a key - will see Lydon reflecting on his role in helping to raise the nec- controversial career during a essary funds. series of informal shows com- Anyone who would like to do- prising conversation and audi- nate toys can take them along ence questions. to their local Acorns shop. To check out John’s numerous To find the one nearest to you, Midlands dates and to book visit acorns.org.uk/shop-loca- tickets, visit johnlydon.com tor
Join CluedUpp’s Santa’s Sleepovers at Alton Towers Sneaky Finders Midlands families can get into the Christmas spirit by enjoying spe- Think you have what it takes to cial Santa's Sleepovers at Alton Towers Resort this month. catch a killer? If so, make sure Taking place on 1 & 8 December, and then every day from the 14th to that you’re in Shrewsbury on the 23rd, the Sleepovers see the popular Staffordshire theme park Saturday 18 January to take being transformed into a winter wonderland. Attractions include the part in CluedUpp’s Sneaky chance to enjoy family-friendly rides, a unique visit to Santa, a festive Finders Detective Day - an out- evening meal and a pantomime version of Robin Hood. door sleuthing challenge that's just like a giant version of pop- ular boardgame Cluedo. Delay for Tamworth Assembly Rooms Transporting participants back The reopening of Tamworth Assembly Rooms following a multi-mil- to the 1920s, the Peaky Blin- lion pound refurbishment & restoration project has had to be post- ders-inspired murder-mystery poned until the New Year. Light House to event will see more than 100 “The project has not been without its challenges,” explains Council- host vegan fair teams compete to catch a killer. lor Rob Pritchard, Deputy Leader of Tamworth Borough Council. “The Wolverhampton's Light House CluedUpp murder-mysteries building has held many secrets of its poor condition right up to the unfold virtually via an award- venue is hosting a vegan Christ- end of the refurbishment programme, and this has resulted in sub- mas fair on Saturday 14 Decem- winning app. The game is en- stantial additional works being required. tirely self-guided. To find out ber. “All our efforts are focused on getting the venue open as soon as pos- Taking place from midday till more and book your place, visit sible, but we need to be 100% reassured that the building is com- cluedupp.com 8pm, the event will feature pletely ready to welcome our audiences. We want that first experience vegan stallholders, live music, back to be amazing and memorable for all the right reasons.” carol singers and an art exhibit. Entry to the festival is £3, or free John Cleese turns playwright with debut for visitors under the age of 11. farce that’s coming to Wolverhampton Wolverhampton Grand Theatre is next year staging a brand new farce written by comedy legend John Cleese. Bang Bang!, starring Tessa Peake-Jones, Tony Gardner & Wendi Pe- ters, will run at the venue from Tuesday 12 to Saturday 16 May. Marking Cleese’s stage writing debut, the play is based on Georges Feydeau’s Monsieur Chasse and is being described as a ‘delicious blend’ of French farce and Fawlty Towers. Tickets for the show can be purchased at grandtheatre.co.uk or by ringing the venue’s box office on 01902 429212. 6 whatsonlive.co.uk First Word Wolves_Shrops_Staffs December copy.qxp_Layout 1 22/11/2019 16:02 Page 4 It Takes Two - Panto Double Acts.qxp_Layout 1 22/11/2019 09:55 Page 1
ItIt’s said that Takes good things come in pairs - think Two... Morecambe & Wise, The Two Ronnies, Ant & Dec, Laurel & Hardy, French & Saunders. The list goes on... Some pairings are long term, others are just for Christmas. We asked some of the region’s premier panto partnerships what they liked (and disliked) about their festive sidekick...
Jonathan Wilkes and Christian Patterson star in Sleeping Beauty at the Regent Theatre, Stoke
Jonathan Wilkes stars as Most irritating thing about Christian? Funniest moment starring together? Muddles Hmm… He never shares food - he’s like Joey When we did Peter Pan, Jonny ripped his from Friends! trousers - and I mean really ripped his What do you like best about Christian? What would be the most apt Christmas gift trousers! We couldn’t continue for about five He makes me laugh on a minute-by-minute you could buy Christian? minutes because Jonny literally wanted every basis! He’s hilarious! single audience member to see just how badly It would have to be a vegan hamper because What’s his star quality? he’d ripped his trousers - they were literally he loves food. I don’t know if anyone’s hanging off him! I was laughing so much that Christian’s comedy timing is incredible, and noticed, but he loves food! his ability to know what I’m about to say I had tears in my eyes and pains in my stomach! before I say it is brilliant. Christian Patterson stars as Most irritating thing about Jonny? Funniest moment starring together? the Dame There are so many to choose from over the He has the concentration span of a streak of What do you like best about Jonny? years, but I think the funniest moment has to lightning! I always start the first day of be when we were in Dick Whittington and an Jonny is unbelievably kind - he’s incredibly rehearsals by telling the cast that we only inflatable sausage got bigger and bigger. So generous as a person and a performer. It’s have Jonny until 3.30pm every day... he funny! almost impossible for me even to imagine not literally can’t concentrate or sit still after that! standing next to Jonny at Christmas time! I I have to send people to look for him! Most of honestly believe that Jonny is the best the time he’s watching the ensemble rehearse frontman in panto...and he’s a very good or bothering his wife... the wonderful, friend too! I love him dearly. beautiful, kind and long-suffering Nikki Wilkes, the best choreographer in all of Pantoland! What do you consider to be What would be the most apt Christmas gift his star you could buy Jonny ? quality? Jonny doesn’t ask for much, his pleasures are His energy is beyond very simple! Two shows every day is compare! He’s like the incredibly hard work and takes its toll, so Duracell bunny! Honestly, after the shows Jonny likes to take a shower he’s like a big kid! Even and sit in his dressing room with a cold beer. Mickey, his son, calls him Last year I bought him a box of Corona and the ‘man-child’! He’s also put it in his dressing-room fridge. He was over incredibly charming! the moon! When you add those two factors to the fact that Catch Jonny and Christian in Sleeping he’s also incredibly Beauty at the Regent Theatre, Stoke-on- funny, it’s the perfect Trent, from Friday 13 December to Sunday combination! 5 January.
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Su Pollard and Jeffrey Holland star in Dick Whittington at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre
Su Pollard stars as Queen Rat doing his own one-man show based around What would be the most apt Christmas gift them, so what I’d like to do is edit a Laurel & you could buy Su? What do you like best about Jeffrey? Hardy film with him superimposed into the A grow bag, so that she could grow her own Jeffrey is such a warm and welcoming man. scenes. He’d love that! tomatoes, which she loves. He always makes you feel completely at ease, especially because he’s such a reliable person Jeffrey Holland stars as to work with. Catch Su and Jeffrey in Dick Whittington at Merchant Fitzwarren Wolverhampton Grand Theatre from Sat- What’s his star quality? What do you like best about Su? urday 7 December to Sunday 12 January. He has a winning smile. Her presence on stage and screen. She’s a Funniest moment starring together? cut above the rest! It has to be one of our times together on Hi- What’s her star quality? de-Hi! One time, Jeffrey was dressed as a fire- place, so he couldn’t even go to the toilet and Her amazing singing voice. There’s had to move sideways like a crab! That was nothing she couldn’t sing. very funny. Also, one time, our characters Funniest moment starring were looking at old film reels that went in the together? projector at the pictures. My character, Peggy, Our funniest moment together has thought it was a wedding or a party, but it to be appearing in an early turned out to be a rather naughty adult film. episode of Hi-de-Hi dressed as Jeffrey and I were in stitches. a pantomime horse! She was Most irritating thing about Jeffrey? the back end and I was in I wouldn’t say it’s irritating, but Jeffrey can be front! a little over-cautious. That isn’t always a bad Most irritating thing thing, but I always want him to have as much about Su? fun as possible doing his work. We jokingly She’s always so nice to call him ‘the vicar’ because sometimes he people. She makes needs to loosen up a bit - but it’s all done in time for everyone, so good spirits. it’s hard to find a fault! What would be the most apt Christmas gift you could buy Jeffrey? Jeffrey is a massive Laurel & Hardy fan, even
Carl Dutfield and Tim Ames star in Jack And The Beanstalk at The Place, Telford
Carl Dutfield stars as Jack Tim Ames stars as Dame Trott Most irritating thing about Carl? What do you like best about Tim? What do you like best about Carl? His non-stop infectious enthusiasm before I’ve had my first coffee of the day. His professionalism and his ability to have a His non-stop infectious enthusiasm. He’s like laugh. a permanent little ray of sunshine. What would be the most apt Christmas gift you could buy Carl? What’s his star quality? What’s his star quality? A small step ladder. He seems like he’s always up for a laugh, The fact that he’s so tiny. He takes up very which for me is what a Dame needs in order little space in the dressing room. I do like to to be great. His star quality would be his give- spread out. Catch Carl and Tim in Jack And The it-a-go attitude. Funniest moment Beanstalk at The Place, Telford, from Funniest moment starring together? starring together? Wednesday 11 December to Sunday 5 January. That would be seeing Tim running around the The moment when nei- corn field, in the rain, dressed as a Dame. ther of us can remember Most irritating thing about Tim? the next line and we just stare at each other with Being bloody good at what he does, and blind panic in our eyes. knowing that I have to step up my game to Although that never reach his standard. actually happens, What would be the most apt Christmas gift of course, you could buy Tim? because we are A pair of doc martens - the masculine boot professionals, that any woman can wear. daaahling!
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Eric Smith and Brad Fitt star in Aladdin at Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury
Eric Smith stars as Brad Fitt stars as the audience, it was a very sombre moment Emperor of China Widow Twankey with suitably heart-wrenching music. We were back-lit from above, and the wig I was What do you like best about Brad? What do you like best about Eric? wearing gave me a shadow that looked like Brad has infinite patience - and he’s no doubt I like the fact that when I’m stood next to him Mickey Mouse. I pointed down to it and whis- told you that working with me over the years, on stage, he makes me look a better actor pered, ‘Hello Pluto’ into Eric’s ear. The next he certainly needs it! He is kind and has a than I really am! In all seriousness, though, I thing you could see was the shadow of Eric’s wicked sense of humour. You learn to watch love his attitude to everything I present him shoulders rising and falling like a fiddler’s out when you see that deadpan face, because with. Around September, when things start to elbow. We both lost it, and thankfully did a surely something is coming your way! ramp up for the pantomime season, Eric will lot of upstage acting during that scene. What do you consider to be his star get little texts from me saying things like, My favourite ever moment, though, I wasn’t quality? ‘What do you look like in lycra’ or ‘When did actually onstage with Eric. It was last year in you last shave your legs’, and Eric will know Mother Goose. Earlier in the year, I’d had an A critic once said of Brad that ‘he has funny that I’ve got something planned. I’ve yet to idea that Eric and Matt should come on bones’ - and indeed he has. He could read the suggest something to him that he’s not gone dressed as Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman phone book and make it funny! He has that with. Even when he thinks it might not be - or Wrinkled Man, as the character became. I innate sense of comedy timing and does funny, he trusts me implicitly - which might hadn’t seen Eric in the whole get-up until the Dame better than anybody else I know - but well be his downfall! first show. When he walked on in hot pink don’t tell him I said that! What do you consider to be his heels and a black trouser suit, I completely Funniest moment starring together? star quality? lost it. At the time, I was stood in the wings It has to be in last year’s Mother Goose. All dressed as a flamingo, so I had nothing to His timing is impeccable - he always manages pantomimes have a party, and Brad’s idea laugh about really! to leave the bar before it’s his round! Eric is was that Matt Dallen (Billy Goose) and I wonderful to work with. Over the years, he’s Most irritating thing about Eric? (Squire Squashem) should host the party with grown as the foil or the butt of many of my Where do I begin?! To be fair, I can’t think of a Strictly Come Dancing theme. Brad and I jokes. It’s all done with sincerity, and I’m glad anything irritating about Eric. After nine years would do a quick change and come back on to say that Eric can always laugh at himself - together, we know exactly how the other one stage dressed as Tess and Claudia. The audi- which is great because otherwise he’d be works and we dovetail very nicely together ence were crying with laughter! There have missing out on the joke of the century… onstage and off. been so many funny moments. We laugh our way through the whole run each year! Funniest moment starring What would be the most apt Christmas gift together? you could buy Eric? Most irritating thing about Brad? I’ve had several He’s a man of simple pleasures is Eric. My He’s always right! You can deliver a line and funny moments on- first thought is a blow-up mattress for his think you’ve got it just about perfect, and stage with Eric. dressing room, but to be honest, Eric Smith then Brad, in his kind way, will take you to During Sleeping could fall asleep on a washing line or a one side and suggest it might be better if you Beauty many galloping hedgehog. If money were no object, did it a slightly different way. And he’s right years ago, I had to I’d get him a nice cruise or a couple of weeks every time. put my arm around on a Greek island. Eric values his downtime, What would be the his shoulder and and his wife, Linda, values her holidays. most apt Christ- console him at the fu- Perhaps I’d send him off on a family holiday mas gift you could neral of Sleeping with his nearest and dearest. Or maybe just buy Brad? Beauty. We had socks. A Girl’s World styling our backs to head. Hours of fun! Catch Eric and Brad in Aladdin at Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, from Wednesday 4 December to Sunday 12 January. It Takes Two - Panto Double Acts.qxp_Layout 1 22/11/2019 09:56 Page 4
Rebecca Keatley and Sam Rabone star in Cinderella at Lichfield Garrick Theatre
Rebecca Keatley stars as she have any eyebrows? All the best people loves playing with my Frankie - that's my dog! Fairy Godmother have a good fringe - Miss Keatley, Claudia So I think she'd love a puppy! Then a holiday Winkleman, Dawn French, the fairy in Yeovil! to New Zealand. She works so hard all year What do you like best about Sam? Long live the fringe! round, I think she could do with a break, and His voice. You know Sam's in the vicinity even What do you consider to be her star going to New Zealand would force her to have if you can't see him. His beautiful Sutton quality? some ‘me time’. That's what the 24-hour flight Coldfield tones fill a room. is for. Once she's there, she'll be white water She is a star - and like all the best stars, she rafting and scaring the locals with a haka in What do you consider to be Sam’s star should only come out at night. Everyone no time! quality? looks better by the light of the moon! She's a His sense of humour. He's always got a joke gem and gets the comedy of the fairy. She up his sleeve. delivers the lines with a twinkle in her eye - Catch Rebecca and Sam in Cinderella at Funniest moment starring together? try and spot it under the fringe! Lichfield Garrick Theatre from Thursday 28 November to Sunday 5 January. Probably when I messed up on stage. I mis- Funniest moment starring together? pronounced, in Welsh, the name of the The first time I called her Alex Jones on stage, longest train station in Wales. He absolutely she wasn't ready for it! I'm not sure who ribbed me for that on stage. He completely found it funnier, her or the audience! corpsed me. Last time we were on stage together was three Most irritating thing about Sam? years ago, and I've slept a few times since then, so that's the one I can remember. I'm His boundless energy. He never, ever tires. It's hoping for lots more this year in Cinderella. less irritating and more unbelievable. You'll have to book tickets to enjoy more What would be the most apt Christmas gift funny moments! you could buy Sam? Most irritating thing about Rebecca? Now, I may be way off the mark here, but I She doesn't like condiments of the reckon a cooking gadget. He's very handy in saucy variety! Who doesn't like the kitchen. His lemon drizzle is to die for. If ketchup with their chips! However, you're reading this, Sam, you know what you annoyingly she's one of those irritatingly can give me as a Christmas gift! lovely people who doesn't get on your nerves at all! She's just too damn nice. Sam Rabone stars as Buttons She's definitely hiding something under What do you like best about Rebecca? that fringe! Her fringe. Anyone who can keep a fringe that What would be the most apt Christmas well-maintained is a champion in my book! It gift you could buy Rebecca? offers intrigue and mystery. What's under I know you shouldn't give dogs as Christ- there? Where does the forehead end? Does mas gifts, but when she visits, she
Other festive shows in the Midlands this Christmas...
Snow White at Birmingham century and located in Birmingham) is The Boy In The Dress at the RSC, Hippodrome, Sat 21 Dec - Sun 2 Feb helmed by Liam Steel, who last Christmas Stratford-upon-Avon, until Sun 8 Mar Lesley Joseph tops the bill as the Wicked directed The Rep’s acclaimed production of David Walliams’ critically acclaimed Queen and is joined by X-Factor winner Joe The Wizard Of Oz. children’s story about friendship and the acceptance of others is here being McElderry, the ever-popular Matt Slack, Puss In Boots at Belgrade Theatre, performed on stage for the very first time. Coronation Street’s Faye Brookes and Coventry, until Sat 11 Jan Britain’s Got Talent finalists Flawless. Having not been performed at the Belgrade Peter Pan at Stafford Gatehouse, Andrew Ryan and Doreen Tipton also for many a year, this new production of Mon 13 Dec - Sun 5 Jan feature on the bill. Puss has been left in the capable hands of Coronation Street and EastEnders actor Ian Peter Pan at Birmingham Repertory the ever-magnificent Iain Lauchlan, a man Reddington takes on the role of Captain Theatre, Sat 30 Nov - Sun 19 Jan who’s been writing and starring in the Hook in what the show’s producers are This ‘thrillingly reimagined’ version of the venue’s festive shows for more years than promising will be ‘a high-energy, localised JM Barrie classic (the show is set in the 21st he probably cares to remember. production’.
whatsonlive.co.uk 11 Food December Wolves_Shrops_Staffs-Davina.qxp_Layout 1 22/11/2019 16:58 Page 1
Food
but we were certainly off to a for everyone to enjoy, no matter good start. The salty parma ham what their age. For example, the nicely complemented the creamy dessert menu features more cheese, and the bread was well sophisticated options such as baked. We liked that you could lemon posset with ginger nut order a single portion, whereas biscuit, alongside white choco- most restaurants only offer shar- late cookie ice cream s’mores - an ing boards. option which one would imagine After a short wait, during which would be more appealing to the we admired the decor, our pizzas younger generation. We ordered arrived. There are six gourmet the latter and the house choco- pizzas to choose from, reason- late brownie with salted caramel ably priced at between £10 & ice cream. We felt like a couple of £12, as well as three children’s big kids - but in a good way, of pizzas, all priced at £6. Gluten- course! The brownie was exem- free bases are available on plary and ticked all the boxes - request. We were instantly set on warm, rich, gooey, moreish and the Strawberry Fields lamb, downright delicious. The s’mores chimichurri, pomegranate and were equally as naughty. We left REVIEW: The Furnace Kitchen mint yogurt dressing pizza. feeling completely satisfied and However, we struggled to choose found ourselves recommending New family-friendly eatery ticks all the between the other three gourmet The Furnace Kitchen to everyone boxes at Ironbridge museum site pizza topping options: slow- in the pub the following evening, cooked pork belly, red onion as well as to friends and family Summer 2019 saw HRH Princess Food Show and TV appearances, jam, Appleby smoked cheese and alike. Alexandra open new eatery The Marcus has worked alongside the mustard dressing; wild mush- Current opening hours are Tues- Furnace Kitchen at the Iron- Ironbridge Trust to create and room, Shropshire salumi cured day to Saturday 8.30am to 5pm bridge Gorge Museums site in launch this stylish new eatery. pork, garlic & chive butter; and and Sunday 9am to 5pm, with Coalbrookdale. Daily menu options include courgette, black pepper chicken the pizza & cocktails night run- Offering a new and relaxed brunch (light and fluffy blue- curry, fresh coriander, fennel ning every Friday evening from dining experience and making berry pancakes with maple seeds and pickled chilli. They all 6pm to 9pm. There’s a plan to use of fresh and locally sourced syrup, and The Furnace Full sounded equally delicious. In the introduce more evening dining in food, The Furnace Kitchen serves English), small plates (pork end we opted for the pork. the future. The venue has also brunch, lunch, main meals, belly, honey, soy & sesame and Both pizzas featured a beautiful announced that it will be launch- cakes and coffee & tea. smoked ham hock & mustard medley of high-quality and com- ing ‘soon-to-be-famous Sunday lunches’ - which I for one can’t The venue itself is stunning. terrine with house piccalilli), plementary topping ingredients - wait to try, if the quality of the Located within the former Long starters (gnocchi, Shropshire but it was the dough that was the pizzas is anything to go by! Warehouse of the historic Coal- coppa, Montano cheese & sage real star of the show. It was an brookdale Company, where rail- butter), mains (Hobson beer absolute triumph. Perfection, Marcus and the Trust have done way wagons would once have battered hake & chips with tartar in fact. Soft in the middle but a fantastic job with The Furnace been loaded, it features open sauce) and a range of salads, crisp on the outside, it couldn’t Kitchen. The decor, the quality of brickwork, exposed concrete & sandwiches and desserts. have been cooked any better. the produce, the ambience, the wood and blends the contempo- My partner and I visited The Both pizzas showcased just the welcoming and friendly staff, rary with the historic. Floor-to- Furnace Kitchen on a Friday right amount of topping and even the toilets, are all of the ceiling windows also feature, as evening to experience the restau- were of a decent size. I genuinely highest quality. Everything is do tiles from the nearby Jackfield rant’s weekly pizza & cocktails couldn’t pick a favourite - they spot-on. Pay it a visit - you won't Tile Museum, filament bulb night. All the pizzas are cooked were both superb. be disappointed. Lauren Foster pendant lights aplenty and a fresh to order in the gas-fired Our side order of house chips navy-and-gold theme. Gozney pizza oven. was thoroughly enjoyable too. Food: nnnnn The menu showcases a mix of We kicked off proceedings with a Fluffy on the inside but with a Service: nnnnn modern British cuisine and Miners Board, which featured satisfying outer-layer crunch, Ambience: nnnnn European classics, all hand- cured meats, two Shropshire they were perfectly cooked and Overall value nnnnn made in the state-of-the-art cheeses - a blue and a medium - seasoned. No sauce was OVERALL nnnnn kitchen by a talented team over- and freshly baked bread and required, which in my book is seen by celebrity chef Marcus garlic bread. Out of habit I the key to a successful chip. The Furnace Kitchen Bean. Best known for winning automatically ordered a local I applaud Marcus’ menu choices. Coach Road Channel Four’s Iron Chef UK, as beer, so unfortunately can’t com- Being a family-friendly establish- Telford TF8 7DQ well as for numerous BBC Good ment on the cocktail element, ment, there are options available Tel: 01952 435968 12 whatsonlive.co.uk Food December Wolves_Shrops_Staffs-Davina.qxp_Layout 1 22/11/2019 16:58 Page 2 Food December Wolves_Shrops_Staffs-Davina.qxp_Layout 1 22/11/2019 16:58 Page 3
14 whatsonlive.co.uk Food December Wolves_Shrops_Staffs-Davina.qxp_Layout 1 22/11/2019 16:59 Page 4
Food
Hairy Bikers riding into the region in 2020 Following a major UK tour earlier this year, national treasures Si King and Dave Myers - aka The Hairy Bikers - have announced a 2020 tour. Offering an entertaining evening of cooking and conversation, the tour stops off at Victoria Hall, Stoke, on 16 October, Symphony Hall, Birmingham, on 18 October and Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, on 29 October. Tickets for the shows are on sale now.
Smokin! Hickory’s opens in Shrewsbury Hickory’s Smokehouse has chosen Shrewsbury to open its 11th restaurant. Located alongside the River Severn and next to The Armoury pub, Hickory’s is ‘fanatical about flames, silly about smokers and utterly obsessed with the smells, tastes and traditions of the Deep South’. The eatery’s menu - available daily from 9am to 11pm - includes steaks, fajitas, skewers, southern fried chicken, burgers, smokehouse classics such as An oat so tasty start to the day as young Shropshire ribs and Texas-style beef brisket, and entrepreneur launches breakfast delivery start-up (most mouthwateringly of all) ‘the ultimate Smokehouse Platter’. Shropshire entrepreneur Alex Jenkins has and Cinnamon & Raisin. For porridge, there’s Breakfast options, cocktails and launched a breakfast delivery start-up called Carrot Cake, Cinnamon & Raisin, Cherry milkshakes also feature. Oat Pantry. Bakewell, Simply Nutty and Dark Chocolate & With a subscriber base that spans the length Cherry.” and breadth of the UK - and a little bakery in All of Oat Pantry’s products are free from gluten Wem - Oat Pantry is championing local produce and dairy, making them suitable for people and Shropshire’s entrepreneurial spirit nation- with a range of dietary requirements. wide. The packaging is 100% plastic-free. “Currently, we’re focused on porridge and You can find Oat Pantry's produce at The Allot- granola,” says Alex. “It was a year’s-worth of ment in Shrewsbury, Battlefield 1403 and Moor experimenting with flavours to come up with Farm. our current selection. We have five core flavours To find out more, visit oatpantry.com for granola and five for porridge. For granola, Read our full interview with Alex at there’s Cherry Bakewell, Maple & Pecan, whatsonlive.co.uk Peanut Butter & Chia, Dark Chocolate & Cherry whatsonlive.co.uk 15 Classical December Wolves Shrops.qxp_Layout 1 20/11/2019 14:02 Page 1
Classical
Lichfield Cathedral Chorus: Messa di Gloria Lichfield Cathedral, Sat 7 December Lichfield Cathedral Chorus currently com- prises around 120 members and has been making music since 1959 - for its first 50 years under the name of Lichfield Cathe- dral Special Choir. This latest concert sees the Chorus per- forming Giacomo Puccini’s highly oper- atic Messa di Gloria and Ralph Vaughan Williams’ folksy Fantasia On Christmas Carols... And speaking of Christmas carols, there’ll be a few of those included as well, to ensure the concert audience head for home in a suitably festive frame of mind.
Ex Cathedra: Christmas Music By Candlelight St Chad’s Church, Shrewsbury, Fri 6 December; St Peter’s Collegiate Church, Wolverhampton, Sat 7 December; St John’s Church, Hagley, Birmingham, Tues 10 December; St Paul’s Church, Birmingham, Wed 18 - Sat 21 & Mon 23 December What better way to get into the Christmas senting its annual and atmospheric Christ- spirit than by enjoying an evening in the mas Music By Candlelight event, an evening company of one of the country’s finest that features festive favourites from around choral music ensembles. the globe and across the ages, interspersed Under the directorship of its founder, Jeffrey with a variety of seasonal readings. Skidmore, Ex Cathedra is this month pre- A Choral Christmas Symphony Hall, Birmingham, Beethoven’s Ninth Handel’s Messiah Wed 18 - Fri 20 December This lively evening in the company of the Symphony Hall, Birmingham, Abbey Church, Shrewsbury, City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra Mon 30 December Sat 21 December has become a firm festive family favourite, Beethoven fans will surely take a much- providing the perfect opportunity to tem- needed break from finishing off the festive porarily park the pressures of preparing turkey in order to enjoy this Royal Philhar- for Christmas in favour of enjoying a monic Orchestra concert, complete with couple of hours of traditional carols and contributions from Birmingham Choral excellent musicianship. There are singa- Union and the City of Birmingham Choir. long opportunities to savour too, not to Alongside a performance of the composer’s mention the added attraction of humorous monumental ‘Choral’ symphony, with its readings by the delightfully sardonic Hugh climactic Ode To Joy, the concert also Dennis (pictured). features Beethoven’s piano concerto No5, Shrewsbury School Community Choir here Emperor. Solo contributors to the concert take on the challenge of Handel’s magnifi- include soprano Lauren Fagan (pictured). cent choral masterpiece, a work which tells the story of Christ's Nativity, Passion, Res- urrection and Ascension. Hugely popular with classical music audi- ences, the oratorio has been performed in Britain every year since the mid-18th cen- tury. Unquestionably the best-known sec- tion of the work is the rousing Hallelujah Chorus, one of the most famous pieces of Baroque choral music ever written.
16 whatsonlive.co.uk GIGS December Wolves_Shrops_Staffs.qxp_Layout 1 20/11/2019 14:03 Page 2
Gigs
Belshazzar’s Feast Henry Tudor House, Shrewsbury, Sun 1 December Folk duo Belshazzar’s Feast are Paul Sartin (Faustus and Bellowhead) and Paul Hutchin- son (Pagoda Project and resident accordion tutor for English Folk Dance & Song Society). Those attending the pair’s annual sell-out Christmas shows can look forward to a mix of seasonal songs and tunes, classical music, pop, music hall and traditional folk - all topped off with audience participation and lashings of wry humour.
Dreadzone Denise van Outen and Alison Goldfrapp. One of the most energetic, exciting and Newhampton Arts Centre, Wolverhampton, powerful live bands to emerge from the post- Fri 6 December rave scene, they’re moving forward as a five- Presenting an eclectic fusion of dub, reggae, piece after parting ways with their guitarist, techno, folk and rock music, Dreadzone and are now focusing more on the electronic formed in 1993, during their early years and dub elements of their stage show. employing backing vocalists who included
Buzzcocks Beans On Toast The Slade Rooms, Wolverhampton, The Sugarmill, Stoke-on-Trent, Thurs 12 December Thursday 19 December Buzzcocks are genuine, 24-carat punk-rock royalty, having formed, along with the Sex Pistols and the Clash, the original holy trin- ity of British punk. Superstar groups such as REM, Nirvana and Green Day have all been Fight The Bear happy to acknowledge the influence which Albert’s Shed, Shrewsbury, Fri 13 December the Bolton-originated band had on their Shropshire’s very own Fight The Bear have music. Influential in terms of both the inde- recorded three albums - Gutter Love (2006), pendent record movement and the Man- Dead Sea Fruit (2009) and 38 Degrees (2013) - chester music scene, the band were once featured on BBC Radio One and 6 Music hailed ‘The Beatles of punk’, their sound playlists and completed multiple tours across being described as a fusion of pop crafts- the UK and Europe. manship and rapid-fire punk energy. The four-piece return to Shrewsbury to pres- ent a Christmas special. RSVP on the Albert’s Shed website for free entry. The Urban Voodoo Machine The Robin, Bilston, Wed 11 December “We’re not Americana and we’re definitely Climate emergency, Boris as PM, rail-melt- not retro,” says Urban Voodoo Machine lead ing heatwaves, a No-Deal Brexit... Paul-Ronney Angel. “I write songs about Given all of the above, Beans On Toast living in London right now - although hav- decided that the obvious title for his new ing a shit time, no money, heartbreak, men- album of social-commentary songs, released tal illness, addiction and suppression from this very month, was The Inevitable Train the big guy is kinda universal and timeless, I Wreck! guess…” Emerging from the London folk scene over a Expect blasting guitars, bass & drums, decade ago and singing mainly about sex, shrieking saxophone, washboard shenani- drugs and politics, the artist otherwise gans and a pure, unadulterated sense of known as Jay McAllister is a surefire bet for fun... an entertaining evening out. whatsonlive.co.uk 17 Snowdome FP Dec 2019.qxp_Layout 1 20/11/2019 14:11 Page 1 Comedy December 2019.qxp_Layout 1 20/11/2019 14:17 Page 2
Comedy
Adam Kay Victoria Hall, Stoke-on-Trent, Tues 17 December After watching an Adam Kay performance, Stephen Fry declared, “This made me very, very happy.” Numerous sell-out years at the Edinburgh Fringe and tens of millions of YouTube hits later, former obstetrician and gynaecologist Adam is this month visiting the Midlands with his latest show about the NHS, Twas The Nightshift Before Christmas - ‘a love letter to all those who spend their festive season on the front line, removing babies and baubles from the various places they get stuck...’
Jim Jefferies Resorts World Arena, Birmingham, Thurs 5 December Boasting a brash confrontational style that observations along the same lines as the goes down a treat in all manner of far-flung following: “The Bible’s too wordy. The 10 destinations around the world, Australian- Commandments are a load of shit. You don’t born Jim Jefferies is one of the fastest-rising need all these things. The Bible should be stars on the global comedy circuit, delighting one sheet of paper, and on that sheet of and shocking his audiences in equal mea- paper it should say: ‘Try not to be a c**t’.” sure. Jim stops off in Birmingham this month with His brand of comedy is most definitely not for his latest show, The Night Talker Tour. the faint-hearted, and includes plenty of
COBO: Kings Of Comedy Justin Moorhouse Tom Binns The Glee Club, Birmingham, Stafford Gatehouse, Fri 6 December; Warwick Cornbow Hall, Halesowen, Fri 6 December Sun 29 December Arts Centre, Coventry, Sat 7 December BRMB presenter Tom Binns became former Now here’s a show that should help keep Justin Moorhouse BRMB presenter Tom Binns on Christmas you in a festive mood post-Christmas and is a naturally and Day 2009. It was on that day that he stopped pre-New Year... COBO, standing for Comedy seriously funny the Birmingham radio station’s broadcast of Of Black Origin, makes a welcome return to stand-up - which the Queen's Speech, declared it to be “Two the Glee Club with this special yuletide isn’t something words: Bor-ring”, and played the Wham! edition. Taking to the stage on this occasion that can be said song Last Christmas instead. are Danny ‘Slim’ Gray and Kane Brown. about every co- According to Tom, there’s plenty more to median who picks that story than meets the eye, but the abso- up a mic and fires lute bottom line is that he was subsequently off an evening’s- sacked from the station. worth of material. Not that the dismissal has weighed too Audience mem- heavily on his career in the years which bers catching his have followed, thanks in no small measure act for the first time will find themselves in to his impressive comic talent. the company of a seasoned pro who knows He’s best known on the circuit for his alter exactly how to work a crowd. Although his egos, Ivan Brackenbury - accent and style of delivery call to mind Peter an inept hospital radio DJ Kay, Moorhouse is very much his own man, - and Ian D Montford - a presenting an evening of well-honed, hugely man whose propensity for enjoyable, adult-themed entertainment. getting things wrong He visits the Midlands with his Northern belies his belief that he’s Joker tour. Britain's top psychic. whatsonlive.co.uk 19 Milton Jones online.qxp_Layout 1 02/12/2019 11:20 Page 1 Milton Jones online.qxp_Layout 1 02/12/2019 11:20 Page 2
MILTON: IMPOSSIBLE Comedian Milton Jones chats ahead of his brand new tour...
Forget James Bond, Jason Bourne, Ethan it stays in the show. So I would never have got myself, as the programme is endlessly re- Hunt. There’s a new spy in town - and he’s to point B without going through the dreadful peated on Dave. But I watch them from be- not dressed in a neat tuxedo or head-to-toe point A. hind a sofa a bit. I’m very grateful to Mock camouflage. He’s wearing a garish Hawaiian The Week for giving me a wider platform and Do you end up with a lot of great jokes that shirt! a slightly different audience. It’s a younger just don’t fit into the theme or narrative of That’s right, Milton Jones - Mock The Week’s audience, and those people will come to a the show? resident oddball, Radio Four regular and king tour show, sometimes even bringing their of the surreal one-liner - is back on tour; and Yeah, I do. As I said, there are about 250 jokes grandparents or parents. My audiences are a this time he’s an international man of mys- in the show, but I reckon I end up writing motley selection of people - which I quite like, tery. about 350. A lot of them are then used some- actually. The wild-haired joke-teller might not be the where else - in the next tour, on radio, on How do you cater for different generations obvious choice for a secret agent, but in Mil- Mock The Week - so they’re never wasted. And in the same audience? ton: Impossible, the 55-year-old comic will be if they’re particularly brilliant, then I might go taking his audience through an action-packed out of my way to include them in the show! I’m aware that if I make a reference to Insta- gram or something, I’m going to lose everyone story via hundreds of his trademark, When do you consider a joke ‘finished’? exquisitely crafted examples of wordplay. over 50. But that’s fine because overall my ref- What’s On caught up with the Live At The When I’ve got an idea across in the minimum erences are quite general, and even if you did- Apollo star ahead of his UK tour, to check he’s number of words, then I know it’s done. n’t get it, the joke’s only going to last 20 had the proper training... And what makes the perfect joke? seconds, so there’ll be something else along soon enough. The new tour is called Milton: Impossible. If a gag works, it makes a cartoon in some- What made you decide on the spy theme? one’s head - a very brief picture where they You have another Radio Four series in the works, then there’s the tour and more Basically I came up with the title before the think they know where it’s going, and then Mock The Week episodes. What’s next show! I thought to myself, that sounds good, you pull the carpet from under them and it after all that? so I made a rod for my own back by theming becomes apparent that the joke was all about it. But sometimes it’s easier to write to a something else all along. It’s reverse engi- I don’t have anything else planned, but who theme than have a completely blank page. neering from an idea or a phrase. knows what will turn up? Sometimes the un- The show is based on Mission: Impossible, Your last tour played to more than 100,000 expected things that come along are the most but Mission: Impossible has a huge budget people, and you’ve appeared on Mock The interesting - other quiz shows, a corporate and lots of special effects. My show is just me, Week over 40 times. What’s more fun to event abroad, Celebrity Mastermind. some hats and about 250 jokes. It’s low-tech do, a live show or a TV appearance? What was your specialist subject on instead of high-tech. They’re both good in different ways. Going to Celebrity Mastermind? a small place on a Saturday night where So just like your last two tours - Milton Potatoes. Jones is Out There and The Temple Of Daft they’re all determined to have a great laugh - - this show has a narrative element to it? in one sense I don’t think that can be beaten. Potatoes?! With radio or television, you’re only as good If you’re going to do a show for over an hour, I mean, if I’d taken it seriously I’d have done as the edit, and it’s out of your control. That you can’t just tell bits. That’s what I do on something like Arsenal. But when he an- may well work in your favour or it may not. Mock The Week and Live At The Apollo, nounced it - “your specialist subject is pota- With Mock The Week, when I think I’ve done which is fine, but you want something with toes” - the audience all laughed and I thought a bad show, I’ll watch it back and think, Oh, it the veneer of satisfaction, otherwise it’s too to myself, in a way, I’ve chalked up! I came was all right. But when I think I’ve done a re- fragmented. This show’s got an interrogation last obviously. But I’m employed as a come- ally good show, I’ll watch it back and think, scene, a car chase with a swivel chair, and I dian. It’s entertainment. If I get to do it again, “Oh, it was all right. It all evens out. end up escaping on top of a Vince Cable Car. I’ll choose carrots. It’s not strictly realistic; it’s as daft as ever. Do you always watch your Mock The Week Before touring, you perform work-in- appearances back? progress shows to test your material. How Yes, because I need to know what they used Milton Jones in Milton: Impossible stops important are those previews? and what they didn’t. Doing several episodes, off at Dudley Town Hall on 7 February, William Aston Hall, Wrexham, on 20 They’re very important. Even after all these the same subjects may come back, so obvi- February and Victoria Hall, Stoke-on- years, I’ll think I’ve written the best joke ever ously I don’t want to say the same thing that’s Trent, on 21 February. and it turns out to be one of the worst jokes already been aired. And then, occasionally, ever. But what I’ve improvised off the back of I’ll be channel-flicking and I’ll come across The King and I.qxp_Layout 1 22/11/2019 15:57 Page 1
20 whatsonlive.co.uk The King and I.qxp_Layout 1 22/11/2019 15:57 Page 2
by Jenny Ell & Lauren Cole
West End and Broadway smash hit spends Christmas in Brum...
ShallThe King And I follows the flourishing We friendship ofDance? the mid-19th century King of Siam and Anna, his children’s recently widowed British governess. Returning performers Jose Llana and Annalene Beechey explain more about this regal musical...
Rodgers & Hammerstein are one of the most in each venue we go to. In America, whether Bart Sher is the Tony Award-winning director famous composer-lyricist duos of all time. the audience is more conservative or liberal, behind this particular production of The King The release of their musicals, The King And I, it’s cathartic to see a story that was set 150 And I. So what have Sher and the other The Sound Of Music and Oklahoma!, marked years ago still apply today. If our show can be creatives brought to the table? a golden age for the lavish world of musical an example of how you can lead with “We’re bringing the exact same show on tour theatre. kindness, as opposed to leading with failure, as was on Broadway,” explains Jose. “It’s a we’ve done our job. There’s a line in the show Reprising their roles in The King And I are different company, but still features Catherine that I say about the King fearing colonisation, Broadway’s Jose Llana and the West End’s Zuber’s costumes and Michael Yeargan’s sets. so he wants to build a fence around Siam. Annalene Beechey, Sher went directly to the source at the This often reminds people about Trump want- Rodgers & Hammerstein Foundation and Jose’s first professional acting role was play- ing to put up a wall. So that got lots of laughs found the original script that they rehearsed ing a supporting character in The King And I in the US - sometimes uncomfortable laughs, with on day one of the original 1951 Broadway over 20 years ago: “I can only describe the as it’s quite close to home! People thought production. He went back to that script to experience as someone inviting me to put on we’d written that line into the show, but it was revive many of the political lines that had my dad’s shoes and walk around the house actually in the original script from when the been lost on the way to Broadway, as he pretending to be him. My entry into perform- show premiered 70 years ago.” wanted to remind the audience of the political ing was playing the Young Lover in the last The King is quite a controversial character in climate in 1862. He also wanted to strengthen Broadway revival in 1996, so I always saw the terms of his attitude towards women, which Anna’s and Lady Thiang’s characters to a King as someone played by an older man; Jose certainly recognises: “I approach his greater extent than had happened in the past. men who I looked up to. It’s been a sexism as part of the growth that he makes complete joy and a profound experience to “We also have to remember that the show was within the show. I don’t defend the misogyny, come back to this show, but this time I’ll be written post-World War Two, when a lot of but I have to remind myself of the way that putting on the royal robes. Also, to have American and British audiences had never life was structured in the Siamese monarchy. someone like our director, Bartlett Sher, to been to Asia. There wasn’t a lot of Asian The polygamy was established so that he had guide me through the process has been representation back then, so there was a lot of blood ties to every province in Siam. The amazing. This production in particular has orientalism and otherness on stage. The power of the story is that through Anna’s abil- meant so much to me that I’ve stayed with it design was purposely slightly garish in order ity to show the King’s head wife, Lady Thiang, for the last few years. We did it on Broadway to be a little shocking. But now most people that a woman’s intelligence is not to be taken four years ago, toured the US for the last two have at least seen photos or videos of the for granted, nor underestimated, she is able years, and now I get to tour the UK with the East. The challenge was to make it as opulent to prove that she’s not only equal to the King lovely Annalene as Anna. It’s a very as they could, but also be respectful and but actually knows more than he does. We’re sentimental show for me in that way.” authentic to the actual time.” really proud that The King And I is one of It isn’t lost on Jose that The King And I seems many examples in the Rodgers & Hammer- So what does Jose think is the reason behind to have more resonance today than ever stein anthology where there’s a strong, out- the continuing popularity of Rodgers & Ham- before: “The biggest and most unfortunate spoken female character at the core. I’m merstein’s musicals? similarity that American and British people proud to have my niece come to see the show “They define family entertainment, and it’s currently share is that our governments are and look up to Anna, Lady Thiang and even great to be able to go home and talk about not really in the best situation right now. To Tuptim. All three women test the system in something important after a show too. A lot of perform in a show about a world leader very different ways, speaking their minds and their musicals - The King And I, The Sound Of bringing Anna - a foreigner - in to help him demonstrating enormous strength.” Music and South Pacific in particular - educate his children seems to read differently whatsonlive.co.uk 21 The King and I.qxp_Layout 1 22/11/2019 15:57 Page 3
address racism and difficult issues but in a all about you, getting to like you, getting to Such a huge role doesn’t come without its comfortable way so that you can bring your hope you like me’. It speaks volumes.” challenges, however... children along. I think the genius of Rodgers & The King And I is based on Margaret Landon’s “It’s a very physically and vocally demanding Hammerstein is that they’re able to relay these novel, Anna And The King Of Siam, which was part,” explains Annalene. “There’s a lot of really important life lessons in a package of in turn a fictional reimagining of the real Anna dialogue and long scenes, which are great to catchy melodies and beautiful songs. It’s so Leonowens’ memoirs. Anna was governess to get your teeth into as an actor, but then you lovely to look out to the audience and see sev- King Mongkut of Siam’s children in the early realise that you have to sing at the end too! eral generations watching together. There’s no 1860s. Added to this, I’m in a corset for the entire better way to spend an afternoon with the fam- three-hour show and carrying very heavy ily! “The company and associate director brought costumes - including the iconic dress for Shall some books into rehearsals early on and, with Annalene Beechey, who returns to the role of We Dance?, which weighs three stone!” huge respect to Deborah Kerr (who played the Anna Leonowens, agrees: “The King And I has part in the film version), they painted a slightly And yet Shall We Dance is a stand-out such a connection to family, so it’s appropriate different picture of Anna. This woman was ex- moment for both performers... that we’re playing in Birmingham over the traordinarily courageous. She was recently festive season; a time for families to come “If we’ve done our jobs properly throughout widowed and had a 12-year-old son, yet she together and share in something special. This the show, the audience will have been angry still moved to a country that wasn’t colonised certainly gives the show its longevity. with us or laughed with us,” says Annalene. to teach the King of Siam’s children. As a “So when we get to the moment during Shall “There are also some wonderful female mother myself, I don’t think I would be brave We Dance? when we come together and the characters in Rodgers & Hammerstein’s shows, enough to do that - even today, when everyone King takes Anna’s waist, you can often hear at a time when there generally weren’t great is more travelled. Anna is feisty, brave and not an audible gasp from the auditorium.” roles for women. Occasionally, female roles are afraid to stand up for something she believes just seen as money notes and big songs. We in. I wish I had a little bit more of that myself! “The audience has been waiting for this have beautiful musical numbers in this show But at the same time, she is very understand- moment,” Jose adds, “and it’s a legacy we are that involve intimate storytelling, such as ing of the King’s values and is accepting of happy to continue - if not a responsibility. during Getting To Know You, but they’re so what he’s trying to achieve. He’s trying to bring People are waiting for that dress, and it’s a much more than just pleasant tunes. Some- knowledge of her world into his, and in doing beautiful thing.” times when you know a song so well, you have so, make his court and country more under- to stop yourself and really listen to the lyrics. standing of other cultures. They want the two They’re so relevant to what we’re dealing with cultures to progress together, which is ex- The King And I shows at The Alexandra today in terms of the UK being divided. The tremely admirable.” Theatre, Birmingham, from Tuesday 10 lyrics are ‘getting to know you, getting to know December to Saturday 4 January.
Did you know...
The King & I has been seen by Each of the 22,000 flowers in the Over 250 sq. metres of gold leaf has 1 million people globally garden were made by hand been used in the production
The show is a winner of multiple Nearly 2 miles of fabric was used to It takes 8 trucks to move the production awards, including four prestigious create the award-winning costumes between theatres Tony Awards
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Panto Festive favourites from around the region
Royal Spa Centre, Leamington Spa
Birmingham Hippodrome Swan Theatre, Worcester Snow White sion is always a surefire winner. Expect all heartland of Brummie territory... the usual elements, including rouged-up Presumably working on the principle that if Swan Theatre, Worcester, Mon 2 December - dames in colourful costumes, plenty of thigh- she keeps on the move, the Wicked Queen Sun 5 January; Royal Spa Centre, Leamington Spa, Sat 7 December - Sun 5 January; Artrix, slapping and slapstick comedy, singalongs will never catch her, Snow White is very sen- Bromsgrove, Sat 14 - Sun 22 December; aplenty to enjoy, and even a few naughty sibly taking shelter in a variety of locations The Regal, Tenbury, Wed 18 December - Fri 3 jokes to make sure the grown-ups don't feel across the Midlands this Christmas. She can January; Birmingham Hippodrome, Sat 21 December - Sun 2 February too left out of things. be seen getting along famously with her Lesley Joseph top-bills as the Wicked Queen seven new-found chums in all of the above- Everybody knows the story - the nasty old at Birmingham Hippodrome, where she’s listed venues. queen’s less than keen on her younger and joined by X-Factor winner Joe McElderry, the A notable contributor to one of the shows is more beautiful stepdaughter, who takes ever-popular Matt Slack, Coronation Street’s Imelda Staunton. The Oscar-nominated ac- refuge from her royal evilness by holing up in Faye Brookes and Britain’s Got Talent final- tress is the patron of Worcester’s Swan The- the deep, dark forest with a household of ists Flawless. Andrew Ryan is the man atre and is giving a voice to the Magic Mirror vertically challenged miners... charged with the task of getting all Damed in the venue’s Worcester Repertory Company The fact that Snow White is a 24-carat classic up, while ‘lazy cow’ Doreen Tipton brings her production. of a fairytale means that a pantomime ver- ‘strung’ Black Country accent into the very
Cinderella Keatley as Cinders’ Fairy Godmother and sees the much-loved Sam Rabone making a wel- Lichfield Garrick, until Sun 5 January; Palace come return to the venue to play comedy Theatre, Redditch, Mon 9 December - Sun 5 January; Prince of Wales Centre, Cannock, sidekick Buttons. Sat 21 - Sun 29 December At the Palace Theatre in Redditch, X-Factor With its comical Ugly Sisters, matchmaking winner Ben Haenow will have glass slipper in fairy godmother, drop-dead-gorgeous Prince hand as he searches for his true love, with Charming, super-cute mice and fits-one-foot- Emmerdale's Sapphire Elia (pictured left) only glass slipper, Cinderella can justifiably eventually providing the delightfully dainty lay claim to being foot he’s been looking for. the most popular of Meanwhile, Prince of Wales Centre patrons all pantomimes. who enjoyed last year’s adventure with Dick The Lichfield Gar- Whittington will be delighted to know that rick version stars it’s the same production team who’re present- ing this year’s pantomime. CBeebies' Rebecca Lichfield Garrick 24 whatsonlive.co.uk B.Hipp. Dec. RIGHT HAND FP 2019.qxp_Layout 1 22/11/2019 11:25 Page 1
Audio Described BSL Interpreted Captioned Relaxed See website
Performance Performance Performance Performance for details. 0844 338 5000* birminghamhippodrome.com *Calls cost 4.5p per min plus access charge.
Thu 6 & Until Sat 21 Dec - Sat 14 Dec Sun 2 Feb Fri 7 Feb
Tue 11 - Tue 18 - Wed 8 - Sat 15 Feb Sat 29 Feb Sat 11 Apr
Mon 13 - Mon 20 Apr Thu 7 May Sat 18 Apr - Sat 2 May
Tue 12 - Fri 19 - Tue 30 Jun -
Sat 30 May Sat 27 Jun Sat 18 Jul
Brad Fitt Theatre Severn.qxp_Layout 1 28/11/2019 15:07 Page 1
if the shoe fitts...
Panto favourite Brad Fitt steps back into his high heels as he returns as the dame for Theatre Severn’s pantomime...
Firstly, how does it feel to be a new-found Arts Theatre, where I was the company man- What keeps drawing you back to Theatre international superstar? ager working backstage, and I used to write Severn? Is this because of Brad Pitt? It’s alright, actu- jokes for him. Then he left and they asked me This is my ninth year. Paul Hendy, the pro- ally. It’s actually happened before, when peo- to write the panto one year, so I fell into writ- ducer, came to see me in Cambridge when I ple have misspelt my name in reviews and ing it. Then they asked me to direct it, so I fell was there, and I think every year for about things like that, but I don’t think they’ve man- into directing it, and one year they asked me three years he kept offering me one of his aged to print such a large banner before. The to be in it, and I said, ‘That’s a stupid idea, shows, but I was under contract to Cam- next day, The Sun got in touch, it was on Sky I'm not going to do that, I've never been on bridge. One year he phoned me and asked News, the radio in Spain. He’s been after this stage before’. It was Cinderella and eventually whether I would like to go and do Chatham in job for years! He wouldn’t be able to do it, but I said I'd do it because I love panto. So then I Kent, and I said no. Then the next year, he then I wouldn’t be able to do what he does. did it and that was it, I've done it ever since. phoned and asked whether I wanted to do So every Christmas, there I am, putting the Crawley, but I wasn’t fussed on going there ei- You’re no stranger to the world of pan- tights on. It’s always a bit of a shock come the ther. The third year he phoned me, I hadn’t tomime. What is it that attracts you to autumn when I have to get everything down signed a contact with Cambridge and he said spending a season in panto? from the loft again, and my boobs have gone a that he had Shrewsbury available - a new the- I love it! I never trained as an actor, I trained bit flat in the suitcase and I need to plump atre that had just opened. I googled Shrews- as a stage manager. I used to work for Christo- them up a bit, and I get the makeup out. I love bury and I thought, ‘That looks nice, I like pher Biggins for years and used to write little it, though. I love panto! that’, so that was it. So then I came to Shrews- bits for him. He did five years at Cambridge Brad Fitt Theatre Severn.qxp_Layout 1 28/11/2019 15:07 Page 2
by Lauren Foster
bury, loved it, and I've had a lovely time here. after year. It’s like seeing your friends again. then Boxing Day I'm up at 5am to drive back You have a shorthand with the audience be- You see the same families at the stage door. I here for 7am to get ready for a matinee. That’s cause you come back year after year, so you always used to go out and have pictures the toughest thing. don't have to do all that ‘my name’s Widow taken. Now people will show me pictures of You’ve played many a panto role. Which Twankey’ thing. People know what to expect, me with their kids when they were four, and character’s your favourite? so I can just come on and shout, ‘Hello now their kids are 13 and it’s part of their Shrewsbury’ and we’re back where we left off. Christmas tradition. I love meeting people. My favourite panto is Dick Whittington; I It’s like those close friends who you don’t Because I'm dressed as a Dame and have all think because Sarah the Cook is a good char- speak to for ages but when you phone them this makeup on, I go around Shrewsbury and acter, it’s a bit nautical, you get on the ship, up, you just pick up from where you left off. nobody knows who I am. I can slip out and go and I just like the story. When I did Cinderella That’s what my relationship is with Shrews- and buy unhealthy food and stuff like that here at Theatre Severn and I played Buttons, I bury. and nobody’s watching me. didn’t think I was going to enjoy it. I assumed I was going to be an Ugly Sister, and Paul said What are you looking forward to most Panto can be very gruelling. Do you have a that I couldn’t be one because we couldn’t about performing in Aladdin? fitness routine to get you festive-ready? have people booing me in Shrewsbury, so I'd Aladdin is a good one. It’s magical, it’s a I’m quite an active person in life; I'm always have to be either Buttons or Dandini. I’d never lovely story, and it’s nice to meet up with old busy. I’ve got three foster children who keep been on stage dressed as a man before, but I friends like Eric and Victoria, who I've worked me busy, I’ve got an allotment, I do loads of really enjoyed it - I had a great time! I wasn’t with a lot in the past. And then it’s nice to different jobs and I'm always on the go. I do getting changed 36 times a day either - I had have new people join the company too. It’s have a gym membership, which I haven’t re- just two costumes. When you’re doing this, nice to have a bit of familiarity, but Harry and ally used for a while, but I do have one. I’m you’re getting changed 30 times a day. That’s David I’ve seen before. I know that their work not sat there watching Homes Under The what keeps me fit - I don’t need the gym! is good, and I'm looking forward to working Hammer, eating pot noodles. When I'm doing When does your prep for panto begin? with them. I’ve worked with Phil before, but panto, I do take vitamins and things like that, not on stage, so I'm looking forward to that. as you do have to look after yourself. I have Before this one is over, Paul Hendy will be It’s nice. We all live all over the country, and my flu injection because you don’t want to be talking to me about what the next one is we’re all thrown together at Christmas and ill - that’s the worst thing! When I'm doing going to be. Once we’ve got through re- you have to get on. It’s a nice family atmo- the show, I make a drink with hot water, hearsals and we’re into the run of Aladdin, sphere. You bond quickly because you’re chopped-up ginger, apple cider vinegar, he’ll start talking about next year because thrown together over Christmas - you only get Manuka honey, lime juice and fresh rosemary. they’ll want to take pictures and they’ll want one day off - so if you don’t like each other, It’s all anti-inflammatory, healthy bacteria, to get posters up, etc. To be honest with you, you’re stuffed really. etc. Never use lemon juice! Lemon is acidic it’s continuous. You never, ever stop. and lime is acetic. Lemon juice will strip the Have you played the character of Widow Do you feel there are any subjects which lining of your throat whereas lime juice just Twankey before? are out of bounds in terms of making kills bacteria. There’s my tip for today - you jokes? She’ll be nine years older. She might not slip shouldn’t have hot honey and lemon. over as much. I have to think of my hips There are pantos that go a bit near the nowadays because it’s very dangerous when What’s your earliest memory of panto? knuckle. I don’t think we do, really. I would you get to my age. I don’t think she’ll be any Going to see the Norwich Theatre Royal panto never tell a joke that was offensive or rude. different at all. I don’t think my Dame is dif- when I was five or six. I remember coming Sometimes you can use a double entendre - ferent. You only get one thing with me. I’m home from school and my mum saying that but then that’s in your mind, that’s not me. not Brad Pitt; I can’t do Benjamin Button or we were going to the panto that evening and I'm just saying whatever it is that I'm saying, Mr & Mrs Smith. With me you get the one trying to make me sleep beforehand because and if you start laughing because you think character. it was an evening show. I remember having to it’s dirty, that’s your mind, not my mind. You lie down on the sofa and my mum closing the have to blame yourself. Why are Midlands audiences the best? curtains and not being able to sleep - I was Bar prep for Aladdin, what else have you They come year in, year out. They have the too excited! I think it was Benny from Cross- been up to since Mother Goose last year? same seats. It’s amazing. I’ll be here on Box- roads - I’m sure it was Cinderella. I remember ing Day, and you look out and think ‘That an Ugly Sister coming out, and she was quite This year I’ve booked tours of The Woman In family sat there last Boxing Day’. They go out tall and had ping-pong balls down her tights Black, An Inspector Calls and I've been asso- and they pick the same seats. I usually pick in front of her knees, which I thought was hi- ciate producer for Toast, which is a show on men in the audience, and I keep this little larious. I loved it. about Nigel Slater. So I’ve got three shows out book of their names, and it’s amazing how on the road. I’m going round the country at the very same day one year on, you see the What are your favourite and least favourite the minute with An Inspector Calls. I’ve writ- same people in the audience. When I see that, aspects of appearing in panto? ten Basildon and Welwyn Garden City panto I can look in my book and see that his name I love the families. It’s a feelgood thing. It’s a scripts - Dick Whittington and Snow White was Leonard, and low and behold you come wonderful thing to be able to do something And The Severn Dwarfs respectively. I’ve got out and there he is. They're thrilled because I that makes a lot of people happy. If you make my allotment as well, so I've grown some very come out and go, “Leonard, there you are’ someone happy or make somebody laugh, it’s nice asparagus this year. I’ve kept busy! and they go, ‘Oh my god, he remembers me’. I a nice feeling, isn’t it? If you do that twice a do remember; there are certain people who I day to 700 people, it’s a lovely feeling! That’s do remember - Leonard’s family, for example. what I like. It’s tough being away from your You can see Brad Pitt at Widow Twankey There’s a postman who comes; his family are family - I have children and I'm married. It’s in Aladdin at Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury always in the same seats and they come year tough. You get one day really, Christmas Day, from Wed 4 December - Sun 12 January Theatre December 2019.qxp_Layout 1 21/11/2019 16:11 Page 3
Panto more festive favourites from around the region
Dick Whittington Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, Sat 7 December - Sun 12 January With ex-Corrie favourite Ryan Thomas taking the title role and one-time Hi-De-Hi! duo Su Pollard and Jeffrey Holland lending their comic flair, the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre’s 2019 pantomime production looks set to be every bit as energised and entertaining as any of its illustrious predecessors. The story of a young man who heads for London in search of fame and fortune is one of the most popular of all pantomimes, not least because of the top adventures in which the happy-go-lucky Dick finds himself involved. Joining Ryan, Su and Jeffrey in the cast are Ian Adams - taking on the role of the Dame for a fourth consecutive year at the Grand - and comedian and celebrity impressionist Aaron James, who’s making his Wolves pantomime debut.
Aladdin sal Friar Tuck from eating everything in his Sleeping Beauty path, the festive season also finds Sherwood Blue Orange Theatre, Birmingham, Forest’s most famous resident getting tangled Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent, Wed 4 - Sun 8 December; Theatre Severn, Fri 13 December - Sun 5 January Shrewsbury, Wed 4 December - Sun 12 up in all manner of pantomime traditions January; Malvern Theatres, Thurs 12 Decem- (custard pie, anyone?). The tragic tale of a young princess who’s ber - Sun 5 January With King Richard away negotiating a trade tricked by an evil fairy and pricks her finger deal with Europe - he may be some time! - the on a spinning wheel, causing her to sleep for sheriff hatches an evil plan. But he’s reck- 100 years, offers a great story around which oned without our dashing hero, a Santa’s to build a pantomime production of real Sack-worth of audience participation and quality. And judging by its festive offerings in more corny gags than you could fit into an previous years, the Regent’s 2019 presenta- oversized Christmas stocking. tion is likely to be just that. ‘Son of the Potteries’ Jonathan Wilkes dons the tights to take top billing in the ever-popu- Peter Pan lar pantomime tale. Homecoming hero Jonathan’s a festive fixture Stafford Gatehouse, Flying carpets at the ready, boys and girls... Mon 13 December - Sun 5 January at the Regent Theatre nowadays, and is set to play an inevitably significant part in making A perfect story for an evening of family enter- Coronation Street and EastEnders actor Ian Sleeping Beauty one of the region’s must-see tainment finds street youth Aladdin trying Reddington is delighted to be returning to pantos this Christmas. against all odds to win the hand of the beau- Stafford to play Captain Hook, particularly as Jonathan is joined by his faithful panto com- tiful princess - and being helped in his en- the town was the scene of what he considers panion, Christian Patterson, who will be get- deavours by the mystical genie of the lamp... to be his greatest ever theatrical triumph - ting all frocked up to star as the Dame. One of the Midlands favourite and best-es- Richard III at Stafford Castle back in the tablished pantomime Dames, Brad Fitt, is 1990s. once again being over-enthusiastic with the Peter Pan’s producers are promising ‘a high- A Christmas Carol eye-liner at Shrewsbury’s Theatre Severn energy, localised show packed with all the (pictured above). Malvern’s version of the fa- Crescent Theatre, Birmingham, ingredients that make pantomime such an Tues 3 - Sat 14 December mous tale stars Only Fools And Horses unforgettable experience for the entire fam- Of all Charles Dickens’ festive stories, A favourite John Challis. ily”... What more could a panto-loving the- Christmas Carol reigns supreme. The cov- atre-goer possibly want? etous sinning of the miserly Scrooge, the Robin Hood: The eternal hope offered by Tiny Tim, the eerie Pantomime Adventure visions of redemption - visiting Ebenezer in the shape of his long-deceased partner Jacob The Core, Solihull, Selected dates between Marley and three seasonal ghosts - all com- Fri 13 December - Sun 5 January bine to give the tale a real olde worlde charm. As if Robin Hood didn't already have enough Indeed, if you want to get yourself into the on his plate dealing with the dastardly Sher- festive spirit, there can surely be no better iff of Nottingham, wooing the delicious Maid way than by revelling in the magic of this Marion and wondering how to stop the colos- most famous of yuletide tales.
26 whatsonlive.co.uk Theatre December 2019.qxp_Layout 1 21/11/2019 16:11 Page 4 The Snow Queen Old Rep.qxp_Layout 1 02/12/2019 11:21 Page 1
Let it snow...
Hans Christian Andersen’s Snow Queen is casting her icy spell over Birmingham’s Old Rep Theatre this festive season. The show’s director, Alec Fellows-Bennett, explains more...
Hans Christian Andersen’s tale of the infa- explains Alec. “The title immediately says looking after your own interests - the things mous Snow Queen has had a profound winter, and because of films like Frozen, that lead to people’s ruin. Whereas if you’re impact on countless other stories, including which take a very different interpretation of inclusive and look at things from other peo- The Lion, The Witch And The Wardrobe, Hans Christian Andersen’s story, there’s a ple’s perspectives, then the ice melts and we Disney’s Frozen and classical ballet The very particular vision and a widespread popu- get to the spring. The Snow Queen has comic Nutcracker. This Christmas sees Birming- larity surrounding The Snow Queen. Its characters and lots of goblins, fairies and ham’s Old Rep theatre present its own take on themes are also what I look for in a good other beasties and mythical creatures, while The Snow Queen, a show that’s directed by festive yarn. Dickens started it off by writing A also conforming to that tradition of the moral Alec Fellows-Bennett. Christmas Carol and injecting morals and the quest, where all the characters get it right in ‘Christmas message’ into his story. The Snow the end.” “The Snow Queen has all the elements you’d Queen certainly carries on that idea of coming want from a Christmas period show,” Alec firmly believes that the changes made to together. It’s a story of isolation, and about The Snow Queen Old Rep.qxp_Layout 1 02/12/2019 11:21 Page 2
by Lauren Cole
The Snow Queen by writer Toby Holst have cause we’ve got the Birmingham Ormiston signer. In fact, one of the dance routines for ransformed the story: “Hans Christian Ander- Academy (BOA) students working with us, last year was made up entirely of sign. We sen’s original isn’t actually very good! It’s Part of my responsibility is to run it like any didn’t know if it would work or not, but we bizarre because it has obviously influenced so other professional production, to give them had such positive feedback on last year’s many other stories. It’s iconic, but when you that insight. We don’t give them any special efforts that we’re getting even more sign actually sit down and read it, it’s almost like a treatment - they do a professional job on a language into the movement of the charac- repository for all the short stories that he professional schedule. We put on the same ters. Sign is fantastic for storytelling.” couldn’t work out how to finish or fit else- with the BOA students as we would with a So why has Alec continued to return to the where. This young boy, Kai, gets stolen by the professional chorus and dancers. Old Rep throughout his career? Snow Queen - no one knows why and it’s “When Barry Jackson first thought of the Rep never explained - and his best friend, Gerda, “They keep having me back! I started my pro- as a professional company, as opposed to a has to rescue him. Gerda goes on loads of fessional life in this theatre 20-odd years ago. pro-amateur company, the idea was that it adventures on the way to getting to the Snow I started in the youth theatre here, training would be where young actors came to cut Queen’s palace - none of which have anything since I was nine or 10. Back in those days, their teeth on new plays, new writing and to do with getting there. So the story sort of Birmingham Stage School was based here at new interpretations of classics like Shake- doesn’t hang together. the theatre, and they had a pool of young speare. George Bernard-Shaw wrote plays to actors and professionals who would get audi- “As a result, other versions of it have picked premiere here and be performed by bright tions first when the main Rep, Alexandra out other characters to carry the story along. young things. Those upcoming actors went on Theatre or the Hippodrome were casting. There’s a very tiny mention about the sisters to be Laurence Olivier, Ralph Richardson and Working here feels like going home. This was in the original story, and that’s what Disney Edith Evans - these great names of 20th cen- where I made all those early connections to picked out and ran with for Frozen. We’ve tury theatre. But they all came here to learn the theatre world and discovered what it was done a little prologue to the main story. I sup- their craft. I’m very proud to continue that like to be on stage. If I could only perform or pose it’s about how prejudice came into the legacy of the building and establishment.” direct for the last ever time in one place, I’d world. So when Gerda is on her adventures, As well as giving the performers of the future choose the Old Rep. Having gone on to be on it’s the people who help and hinder her - and a space to learn, The Snow Queen’s run will stage all over London, the UK and America, why they do so - that we’ve picked out to include relaxed and BSL performances. this would still be the place I’d come back to. I focus on. We’re hoping that this makes it into think what gives a theatre its personality, one coherent story.” “The key word is family. This is a show for identity and language is more what it pro- everyone. Theatre is a communal activity. We The Old Rep’s version of The Snow Queen is duces itself than what tours to it. I’m so proud do everything we can to be inclusive. I would more than just a play for the festive season… to be a part of that.” never want a person to sit at home and think it’s actually a Christmas musical! that, because their child has some sort of Alec’s focus is firmly on getting The Snow “Our original score has been written to coin- disability of any description, the theatre isn’t Queen right for Birmingham audiences: “We cide with our brand spanking new script. The for them. I understand, of course, parents can live in uncertain economic times, and for Snow Queen isn’t quite like a pantomime. It’s worry about affecting other people’s enjoy- many, the Christmas period is the only time of Christmas, and I can’t have a scene with a ment when, for example, they bring their year a family might splash out on theatre tick- goodie creeping up behind a baddie without autistic child to the theatre. Therefore, ets for everyone - even though we do try to someone shouting, ‘He’s behind you!’. I’m not relaxed performances are great, because par- keep our prices as affordable as possible. going to stop anyone from doing that, but it’s ent and child can feel absolutely happy that What I always want my audiences to leave not there as a traditional panto piece. We’re everyone in that room is either in the same feeling is that they shared a wonderful experi- doing something different, although it’s still boat, or completely understands what they’re ence. The 19th century idea of the fourth wall very funny. going through and doesn’t mind if they need between the actors and the audience is abso- to get up and move around or shout out. lute nonsense - the theatre is all about togeth- “Steve Allen-Jones is brilliant at composing, We had a massive uptake on our relaxed erness. We as actors and theatre-makers rely and he’s really got to know the Old Rep audi- performances last year and almost tripled our on the audience to lie and tell themselves that ence over the last few years. Toby Hurst will uptake on previous years. It’s wonderful! what’s happening on stage is real, and the go away and write a whole page of dialogue audience relies on us to tell a great story and and Steve will come back and say that he’s “We’re doing the same with the signed perfor- pretend the audience isn’t there at the same incorporated a song. So I would go as far as to mances. It’s all about making sure anyone time. Theatre is a load of people in a room say that what we produce here now are Christ- can see our show. Last year we experimented silently agreeing to all tell the most wonderful mas musicals. They’re not Les Mis or Phan- in seeing if we could somehow effectively get lie - and that makes anything possible. tom Of The Opera, where everything is sung sign language into the actual performance, Theatre is like nothing you can ever experi- all the way through, but I think that now the and we’re looking to expand that this year. ence elsewhere, and if people coming to see songs have become so integral to the story- The people who do the signing to accompany The Snow Queen leave believing in the magic telling, then yes, we do produce Christmas the show came into Pinocchio rehearsals last of theatre, then we will have done our jobs musicals here at the Old Rep. And it’s a year and helped us incorporate sign language right.” Christmas musical with puppets, too!” into our choreography. If you don’t speak sign, you wouldn’t have noticed it in our The Snow Queen’s cast combines professional shows, but if you do, then you can under- actors and students. The Snow Queen shows at The Old Rep, stand sections of the dialogue without having Birmingham, until Monday 30 December. “Our production doesn’t change simply be- to constantly look over to the side to see the Grandpa's Great Escape Dec online.qxp_Layout 1 28/11/2019 15:08 Page 1 Grandpa's Great Escape Dec online.qxp_Layout 1 28/11/2019 15:08 Page 2
by Lauren Cole
the elderly escape artist David Walliams talks about having his children’s book, Grandpa’s Great Escape, adapted for the stage - and the show is in Birmingham over Christmas!
David Walliams’ much-loved children’s book, we’ve got Kevin Cecil, who co-wrote the is something you really can’t find elsewhere.” Grandpa’s Great Escape, follows a young boy screenplay for Grandpa’s Great Escape with Writing his next story is continually at the named Jack as he tries to rescue his confused me, to do the script for the arena tour, and forefront of David’s mind... grandfather - a World War Two RAF veteran - Phil McIntyre Entertainments Ltd is also on from a retirement home... board. They’re a company that’s used to “I’m always writing a new book. There will be doing massive productions; they do the big more out by the end of the year. I had a Almost two years after a BBC film adaptation tours for popular comedians and things like novella in February, a book of short stories of the book lit up New Year’s Day, Grandpa’s the Strictly Come Dancing UK tour, so they over the summer and a novel. As soon as I fin- Great Escape visits Birmingham this month as definitely know how to do things on a big ish one, I’m starting the next, and the novels part of an arena tour. scale. Nigel Planer - who’s one of my comedy especially take a really long time to get right. “Grandpa’s Great Escape came from a number heroes from when I was a teenager, because Plus, now I’ve got an audience, they’re ex- of ideas for a story,” explains David Walliams. he was in The Young Ones - is a great choice pecting it to be as good as the last one, so I “I really wanted to do a great escape from an for Grandpa. I’m sure he’ll get all the comedy have to work doubly hard to get them as good old people’s home, and I wanted to write a and sadness out of the writing.” as I possibly can. Also, I don’t tend to write story for kids about dementia. I thought that sequels for anything; I always write stories David believes Grandpa’s Great Escape is the it would be really good to combine the comic with a new situation and a new set of charac- perfect feelgood family story for the festive idea with the more serious. Stories that have a ters, so I’m always moving forward. That’s season. range of emotions from sad to funny are al- quite exciting but also difficult. You go ways very engaging. It was kind of a hark “We’ve always made these little films for the through so many emotions writing a book, es- back to all the films I used to watch with my BBC around Christmas, so it seems natural to pecially when it’s late at night and you’re hit dad or grandad as a kid, like The Great Es- do the show around this time too. At Christ- by the enormity of the task and you despair cape, Reach For The Sky and Where Eagles mas, everyone is in the mood for a family and get a little tearful! I’m very, very lucky to Dare. thing. I think sometimes it feels like time just have all this variety in my career. I never get stops and everyone’s stuck in limbo between stuck in a rut, feeling like I’m doing the same “Sometimes as a writer you’re not completely the moment they’ve eaten the last bit of old thing. I always love the fresh challenges satisfied with your work. You’ll walk down Christmas dinner and given the last presents and doing something that has a chance of the street a couple of months later and think, until after Boxing Day. No one really knows failure. if only I’d done this or that. But with what to do with themselves. That’s why so Grandpa’s Great Escape, I was really, really “There’s great pleasure in books, and it’s a many TV things do so well over Christmas, pleased with the story and even more de- great shame if young people don’t get to expe- even if they’re not necessarily a Christmas lighted with the TV adaptation, which had rience that. I don’t think it’s a good idea to be story - as is the case with my adaptations. To Tom Courtenay as Grandpa and Jennifer snobby about books, especially when it go see a show together at the theatre is a wel- Saunders as the matron of the old people’s comes to kids, because they should read what come distraction. For many, Christmas might home. I then hoped that we’d be able to do they want for pleasure or they’ll never get into be the only time they treat the family to a something else with it, and the idea came up it. Some really reluctant readers want some- show all year. There’s definitely enough in the that we could turn it into a spectacular the- thing palatable - they want to read Wimpy story of Grandpa’s Great Escape for both kids atre show with a real-life Spitfire in the arena! Kid, not Dickens. I go into schools and talk to and adults to enjoy. kids to find out what they want. I always ask “I was really set on getting an amazing team “There’s something special about witnessing them who hates reading, and there are always together for it, and we got Sean Foley in to di- a live event. As much as I love going to the some who put up their hands. I feel like I rect. He’s an incredible performer, director cinema, it doesn’t quite do it in the same way want to inspire them and reach out to them.” and writer, especially in comedy, and was as the theatre because it’s a slightly colder ex- part of the amazing company, The Right Size. perience. No one claps at the end or laughs Grandpa’s Great Escape shows at Arena They’re particularly famous for The Play What out loud as much, but being in the theatre Birmingham on Monday 23, Tuesday 24 & I Wrote, about Morecambe & Wise. I was sure and right there sharing that special moment Thursday 26 December. that Sean would make it hilarious. Then Theatre December 2019.qxp_Layout 1 21/11/2019 16:11 Page 5
more festive favourites from around the region
Puss In Boots Belgrade Theatre, Coventry, until Sat 11 January A show which is being referred to as ‘the cat’s whiskers’ by producers Imagine The- atre, Puss In Boots tells the tail, sorry, tale, of a fabulous feline who outwits both a king and an ogre to make his master the top, er, dog... Having not been performed at the Belgrade for many a year, this new production of Puss has been left in the capable hands of the ever-magnificent Iain Lauchlan, a man who’s been writing and starring in the venue’s fes- tive shows for more years than he probably cares to remember. Having written the script, Iain will once again be donning the comedy wig and applying far too much blusher to star as the show’s pantomime Dame, a role which he’s very much made his own in recent times. Expect an evening of purr-fectly splendid family entertainment.
Jack And The Beanstalk Adapted and helmed by the venue’s Artistic How The Grinch Director, Theresa Heskins, the production The Place, Oakengates, Telford, Wed 11 features ‘imaginative storytelling, live music, Stole Christmas! December - Sun 5 January; Attic Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, Thurs 12 December - humour, puppetry and plenty of festive Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham, Sun 5 January magic’. Tues 3 - Sat 7 December Jack and his mum are hard-up and have no In a writing career spanning 60-plus years, choice but to take their cow to market to raise American author Theodor Seuss Geisel, bet- some much-needed cash. However, Jack ter known as Dr Seuss, produced some of the being Jack, he decides to trade her in (the 20th century’s best-loved children’s stories. cow, that is, not his mum) for a handful of Among these was his 1957 rhymed-verse magic beans, which then grow into a real book, How The Grinch Stole Christmas!. ogre of a beanstalk. And speaking of ogres... The famous festive tale finds the grumpy Coronation Street’s Oliver Mellor top-bills in Mount Crumpit-dwelling creature of the title Telford as Fleshcreep, while across the region deciding that it’s high time he stole Christ- in Stratford, a mas from the Whos, the endlessly joyful brand new townsfolk at the bottom of the mountain who version of the are positively bursting with annoying holiday popular fairytale The Snow Queen cheer... is presented by The Old Rep, Birmingham, X-Factor's Matt Terry stars as Young Max in until Mon 30 December; Albany Theatre, this musical version of the popular story. highly rated Coventry, Mon 9 - Sat 28 December theatre company Tread The The Snow Queen is ruler of all she surveys. Boards. When she kidnaps young Kai, it’s left to his Charlie And The friend, Gerda, to save him from a bleak future in the frostbitten wastelands... Christmas Cat This much-loved Hans Christian Andersen Lichfield Garrick, various dates between The Prince And story is presented at The Old Rep by the Fri 6 - Tues 24 December The Pauper creative team behind the theatre’s 2018 pro- Advertised as ‘festive, fun and purrfect for all New Vic Theatre, Newcastle-under-Lyme, duction of Pinocchio. The new show comes the family’, Charlie And The Christmas Cat is until Sat 25 January complete with ‘an epic original score, spell- being presented by the Lichfield Garrick Pro- An interesting and imaginative choice for a binding storytelling and more than a pinch of duction Company for children aged between Christmas show, Mark Twain’s famous story Christmas magic’. two and seven. is here being produced by the creative team The Albany’s version, meanwhile, sees the It’s the most magical night of the year - what behind the New Vic’s adaptations of The Bor- critically acclaimed Ceridwen Theatre Com- better time for Charlie and his feline friend to rowers, Treasure Island and the UK Theatre pany making a welcome return to the Coven- head off on an unforgettable adventure?... Award-winning The Snow Queen. try venue.
28 whatsonlive.co.uk Theatre December 2019.qxp_Layout 1 21/11/2019 16:11 Page 6
Theatre
Peter Pan The Rep, Birmingham, Sat 30 November - Sun 19 January Fly away to Neverland with the boy who wouldn't grow up, meet a real fairy, marvel- lous mermaids, wonderful Wendy and the down-on-their-luck lost boys. Oh, and beware the ever-so-wicked Captain Hook and a very hungry crocodile who goes tick-tock (he swallowed a clock!). This ‘thrillingly reimagined’ version of the JM Barrie classic (the show is set in the 21st cen- tury and located in Birmingham) is helmed by Liam Steel, who last Christmas directed The Rep’s acclaimed production of The Wiz- ard Of Oz.
Raymond Briggs’ cheeky Elf, he finally settles on the perfect rations, disaster strikes. prezzie... Intending to begin his countdown to the big Father Christmas Youngsters get the chance to enjoy a meet- day by opening the windows of his giant Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, and-greet with Santa after the show. Christmas calendar, he finds that not only is until Sun 29 December said enormous item well and truly broken, but all the magical goodies contained inside Kipper’s Snowy Day it have mysteriously disappeared. With Christmas suddenly under threat, the Midlands Arts Centre, Birmingham, until Tues 31 December jolly bearded one needs as much help as he can get, which is where the show’s young Slot Machine Theatre present a show that’s audience comes in - not to mention Dotty the actually an amalgamation of two books by Elf, Dasher the Reindeer, Jack Frost and Pom- award-winning children’s author Mick pom the Penguin... Inkpen: Kipper’s Snowy Day and Kipper’s Presented by the company which last year Christmas Eve. performed Santa’s Christmas Party. For those not in the know, Kipper is a dog who’s been delighting generations of young Raymond Briggs is best known for his story readers for the past 30 years. Penguins about a little boy who makes friends with a This is Slot Machine’s first-ever stage adapta- tion of the much-loved books and sees Kip- The REP, Birmingham, snowman - but talented theatre company Wed 4 - Sat 14 December Pins And Needles are doing plenty to pro- per and his friends, Tiger and Arnold, going Friendship, fun, identity and the ever-chang- mote one of the author’s slightly less famous on an adventure in the snow. ing meaning of family are among the themes tales this festive season. Suitable for children being explored in this returning theatre & aged three and older, Father Christmas fea- dance production for children aged three and tures songs, live music, playful puppetry, older. secret doors, hidden hatches and plenty of Inspired by a true story reported in the New trademark Briggs humour. Expect your chil- York Times, the show focuses on two male dren to be suitably impressed. Chinstrap penguins named Roy and Silo. Living alongside other penguin pairs in Cen- Dear Santa tral Park Zoo, they determine to try and hatch a rock in place of an egg - a decision that sees Malvern Theatre, Tues 3 & Wed 4 December; Birmingham Town Hall, Fri 6 & Sat 7 Decem- them embarking on a most unexpected ber; Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, Fri 13 - Tues adventure... 24 December Presented with the intention of giving chil- Santa’s Christmas dren aged two to seven both a fun introduc- Countdown tion to theatre and a memorable yuletide treat, Dear Santa tells the tale of Father Brewhouse Arts Centre, Burton-upon-Trent, Thurs 19 December; Artrix, Bromsgrove, Christmas’s backfiring attempts to sort out Mon 23 & Tues 24 December the most fantastic of festive gifts for a girl Just when Santa Claus thinks everything’s named Sarah. With the assistance of his going swimmingly with his Christmas prepa-
whatsonlive.co.uk 29 Nia Gwynne Peter Pan The REP.qxp_Layout 1 02/12/2019 10:58 Page 1 Nia Gwynne Peter Pan The REP.qxp_Layout 1 02/12/2019 10:58 Page 2
You’ll be Hooked... Nia Gwynne stars as Hook in the reimagined production of Peter Pan at Birmingham Repertory Theatre...
How did your playing Captain Hook at The creates a world which is both fantastical and Have you noticed any significant changes Rep come about, Nia? weirdly familiar. The result is spooky and hi- in British theatre since you entered the Like most actors, it started with a phone call larious at times. Our Peter and Wendy are profession? from my agent asking me if I was interested in rooted in a contemporary world; they’re ut- The most significant change for me is a very the role and the project. After replying with a terly recognisable as modern children who recent one. It’s the opening up of casting to definite yes, I then went for an initial audi- sound and look like their audience. This gives include more women and BAME actors. It’s tion. I then had what’s called a recall - a fur- the story a freshness and vitality that will taken a while but hopefully people will see ther audition - where we read more of the hopefully resonate with a 2019 Birmingham themselves more diversely represented on script and had a short sword-fighting session. audience. stage. I bemoan the lack of stories being told A few days later, my agent called to say they Why do you think the story of Peter Pan about and by working-class voices. That feels wanted me to play the part. I said yes. Loudly. has been so successful over so long a pe- like it’s got worse. What attracted you to the role? riod of time? If you could make a single change to ‘how It’s Captain Hook! What’s not to love?! It’s ultimate fantasy. People fly, there are pi- things are’ in terms of British theatre, rates, fairies, a battle between innocence and what would it be? How are you hoping to make your inter- evil and a thoroughly nasty baddie. As an More money for arts organisations outside pretation of the character distinctive from adult, I think there are times when you long London. others? for the joy and irresponsibility of youth that I won’t be trying to make it consciously dis- Peter and the Lost Ones represent. As a child How will you be spending Christmas Day? tinctive; it’ll just be me trying to make it make you delight in seeing that portrayed. With my partner and our four-and-a-half-year- sense in our version of the story. I’m a mother, old son in front of the fire, eating too much Your theatre credits include films like so that may bring a different flavour to Hook’s and watching Christmas films. Tolkien and Darkest Hour and stage adap- relationship to the children in the play - what tations of classical works such as Timon Of What’s the best Christmas gift you’ve ever it means to be a mother or not. Really I’m just Athens and Titus Andronicus. If you could received and the one you’re proudest of trying to concentrate on making my character perform in only one of those genres for the having given? make sense. It’s great that the part is finally rest of your acting career, which would being played by women. JM Barrie wrote it for My partner always gives me really well- you choose and why? an actress, but the actor playing Mr Darling thought-out things - stuff he knows I’ll love. had a word and got to play the part instead. Theatre. I love the discipline, the camaraderie Anything that makes my son excited and my and knowing it’s different every night. Shame partner happy makes me proud. It’s usually What do you think The Rep’s version of the the money is terrible. chocolate. Job done. show will provide for audiences that’s dif- ferent from any other versions they might You trained at RADA. Do you believe that If you had to spend Christmas Day on a have seen? training at an academy or other such pres- desert island with just one character from tigious school gives you significant advan- Peter Pan, who would you choose and Where to start? As far as the staging, the tech- tages as an actor over performers who’ve why? niques used for the flying scenes are thor- entered the profession via a different oughly acrobatic and haven’t been seen at The Tinkerbell. She’s lawless; fairies don’t have to route? Rep before. Some of it is like aerial ballet. abide by the rules. And with a sprinkle of her Breathtaking! We’ve got street dance, rap, and It was my only way to get seen and get a foot fairy dust she could teach me to fly. the most kick-ass Wendy and Tinker Bell in the door. I cherish the voice training. I don’t think it’s necessary to go to drama you’re ever likely to see. They literally kick pi- Peter Pan: Reimagined shows at the Birm- rate butt. The design is stunning. In our con- school, but for me, I didn’t know how else to get into the business. ingham Repertory Theatre from Saturday temporary version, Neverland is magically 30 November to Sunday 19 January. created using mundane every-day objects. It Club 2B Belgrade.qxp_Layout 1 02/12/2019 11:22 Page 1
LEAVE REALITY BEHIND... Director Corey Campbell talks about immersive theatre experience Club 2B, showing at Coventry’s Belgrade Theatre this month...
Club 2B is an intriguing piece of immersive Hera and their reincarnations as iconic tion, revenge, adultery and the male-written theatre that tackles famous stories of love and figures we all know and love. female narrative. Throughout history men revenge throughout the ages - all with an have written for women. For example, Lady “We focus on Zeus and Hera’s quite danger- Ancient Greek twist. Presenting a fusion of a Godiva was depicted just as a woman who ous love for one another,” explains the 1930s Berlin cabaret club, a Secret Cinema rode a horse naked, rather than the powerful event’s director, Corey Campbell. “Zeus is event and an underground prohibition-era land-owning woman she really was. So what very unfaithful and Hera is very jealous, nightclub, it’s an exclusive event for theatre- we do with the script is suggest that Zeus had continually taking her anger out on women lovers, the adventurous and party animals his part to play in twisting her narrative - and he’s been unfaithful with. What Club 2B sug- alike. the same with figures like Marilyn Monroe. gests is that Zeus and Hera come back as all We take Zeus and Hera’s relationship right the Eat, drink and party alongside Zeus, the kinds of different characters we recognise, way through the ages to 2019, where Hera Greek King of all Gods and men (disguised as such as Marilyn Monroe and Jay Gatsby. We meets Zeus at this nightclub and demands her charismatic club owner ‘Z’), his jealous wife definitely address the themes of reconcilia- revenge on him for his treatment of her.” Club 2B Belgrade.qxp_Layout 1 02/12/2019 11:22 Page 2
by Lauren Cole
So what can audiences expect from Club 2B? cal director. Then, after the show, we’re just ing on the role of Zeus in Club 2B.” free-styling. Our band are ready for requests “They can expect a lot of dancing, live music, So how did the show come about? and even karaoke-type singing. As our band singing, acting - this is an interdisciplinary takes a break and the night fades, a DJ takes “People would always contact me to ask me to performance. We’ll have magicians, photo over, and that will more than likely focus on bring my energy to their events, in the hope booths...there’ll also be some special guests popular culture. But within the show itself, that it would increase their footfall. So what on different days. You’ll get the same high- the genre really varies, and I’d say the only we started to do at Strictly Arts wasn’t neces- quality main performance, where you sit in thing we don’t cover is Heavy Metal. We’re sarily an immersive theatre experience but a cabaret seating and engage with the show, focusing on the eras the story comes from - so clubbing experience. We would have little but each fully immersive, improvised after- the Ancient Greek era will have folk music, shows in nightclubs. For example, we had a party will be slightly different. I think being the 1930s will be Gatsby’s era, the 1950s will Peaky Blinders room in a club in Birmingham. able to leave the theatre thinking, ‘Wow, I had have a heavy jazz sound - right the way They had a secret door in this nightclub via a a great dance and a good laugh’ is amazing. I through to the 2019 contemporary space, bookcase, which led to this little smoking know that this show will leave people where we can really experiment.” area. So Strictly Arts used to occupy that area surprised and saying they didn’t know theatre as Peaky Blinders or all sorts of other themes could be like this - so exciting, so innovative. Corey feels that Christmas through to New each week. People started to hear about this Audiences are so passive in the theatre some- Year’s Eve is the perfect time of year for an club that had a little show in it and it got times, and Club 2B is all about getting in- immersive theatre piece: “Around the festive really popular, so we started to move around volved. I’m expecting people to want photos period we have a lot of pantomimes, which to other cities like Manchester. I thought how with Zeus and to get up and dance with him. are really a phenomenal British art form of amazing it would be if we could establish that We’re definitely breaking convention - espe- their own, but I felt like Coventry needed and same feeling, energy and vibe in an actual cially because there’ll be a bar where you can deserved something that could bring a diverse theatre. Then along came the opportunity to get drinks within the theatre piece itself. Get- group of people together from different do Club 2B at the Belgrade.” ting a drink is part of the show, and Z is going cultures, backgrounds and religions. I find to give you the opportunity to do that that immersive theatre, where you allow your- Given his reputation for theatrical innovation, throughout the night. This is an experience self to be embedded into the narrative of the it’s no surprise that Corey will also be co-artis- like no other…” very performance you’ve gone to see, is a tic director of the Belgrade programme for really binding experience. There’s no better Coventry’s year as City of Culture in 2021. And what involvement will the audience have time for something of that nature than the in the storytelling? Christmas period. The opportunity to bring a “Strictly Arts is a multi-disciplinary arts com- pany telling the Afro-Caribbean story, which “Anyone coming to see Club 2B will have to be piece like Club 2B into the Belgrade Theatre in is something that I’m very, very passionate ready to become fully involved and throw this period is all about reconciliation of love. about. That’s obviously something I’ll take themselves into the whole experience. We Coventry has reconciled the masses, espe- forward to the Belgrade, but I’ll also be look- obviously don’t expect you to do anything in cially through music, since way back when - ing at the stories of other marginalised com- particular or get up and perform, but we may think of The Specials, and even before that munities. The Belgrade Theatre should be a refer to audience members as specific individ- with its nightclub scene. That’s a legacy of home and a hub, where any community can uals within the story. Those immersive Coventry that I want to continue.” come to express themselves - be it from the moments are embedded into the script, and Corey certainly boasts impressive credentials, stage or as an audience member in dialogue that character will be represented by a differ- as both a performer and a creative. As well as with a performance. I intend to plough that ent person each day. That’s what’s so exciting being artistic director of Strictly Arts Theatre vision right the way through the 2021 City of about this show - every single performance Company, who were behind critically ac- Culture programme. As an Afro-Caribbean will be unique. Then, at each after-event, you claimed Edinburgh Fringe sell-out show Free- man myself, my attention does tend to lie can fully place yourself in the world we’ve man, he was also associate & movement there, but diversity on the whole should be of created and can continue to enjoy the charac- director for the recent UK tour of Noughts And the utmost importance in theatre - and not ters you’ve seen and made. I would encourage Crosses - an adaptation of Malorie Blackman’s just when it comes to race, but a whole man- audiences to come as characters they’ve groundbreaking Young Adult novel. ner of things, from age and economic back- created - whether that be their own creation ground to religion. The next shows that I have or someone from their favourite book or film - “I was supposed to be stepping back from in mind will be new for Strictly Arts. Even and fully get into our nightclub experience.” performing for a little while because I’ve Club 2B is quite new for our style, but we’re headed up all of our shows at Strictly Arts Club 2B offers a fusion of eras not only in really going to start taking more risks. I would and really led from the stage. But when I terms of its characters but also its music. really love for Coventry to be behind me as we spoke to my team, they said it’d be a real embark on this journey.” Club 2B is the place “In the show itself we have near enough all shame if I didn’t perform in this one too. So to be.” genres of music. We have lyrics coming from I’ll definitely be making an appearance, along very recognisable songs in popular culture, with some of my colleagues from Freeman. but put over a very 1930s composition. Then It’s really exciting because I was going to Club 2B shows at the Belgrade Theatre, we’ve also done the same thing in reverse, really miss performing. I was trying not to tell Coventry, from Wednesday 11 to Tuesday where we have poetry that dates back to the you because it’s meant to be a secret, but 31 December. 1950s put into contemporary rap by our musi- you’ve really pulled it out of me - I will be tak- Theatre December 2019.qxp_Layout 1 22/11/2019 16:23 Page 7
Theatre more festive favourites from around the region
The Nutcracker Birmingham Hippodrome, until Sat 14 December Sir Peter Wright’s enchanting version of this festive family favourite shows at the Hippo- drome courtesy of Birmingham Royal Ballet. Created in 1990, Sir Peter’s production is seen by many as the finest interpretation of Tchaikovsky’s magnificent and mesmerising score. In true Christmas spirit, the story follows a young girl named Clara as she’s swept up in a fantasy of soldiers, giant rats, snow fairies, magic and mystery, before finally being transformed into a beautiful ballerina. This is a magical must-see show for little princesses everywhere…
The Boy In The Dress Santa who reckons he’s the real Kris Kringle Grandpa’s Great Escape (which, like St Nick, is another name for Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Stratford-upon- Santa). Not that any of society’s serious Arena Birmingham, Avon, until Sun 7 March Mon 23 & Tues 24, Thurs 26 December grown-up types give his claim the time of David Walliams’ day, of course. After all, when it comes to It’s tough being in an old folk’s home when critically acclaimed believing in a supernatural entity whose once upon a time you were a World War Two children’s story about traditional visual presentation involves the flying ace. Even so, the spirit of adventure friendship and the sporting of a big white beard, the greater continues to burn brightly in Grandpa, who acceptance of others number of folk prefer to pin their colours to enlists the help of his grandson, Jack, to plot is here being per- the mast of that all-powerful fella in the a daring escape from Twilight Towers. But lit- formed on stage for Bible... tle do they know that the sinister Matron the very first time. Swine is onto them... “The Boy In The Dress is about what it means This first-ever staging of David Walliams’ to be different,” explains David. “I thought a My Cousin Rachel hugely popular children’s book stars former boy going to school dressed as a girl would Young One Nigel Planer in the title role. speak to the wider implications of being dif- Malvern Theatres, Tues 3 - Sat 7 December “It’s a great honour to be asked to play ferent, which is something most people prob- Daphne du Maurier’s menacing psychologi- Grandpa in the live version of this amazing ably feel at some point in their lives. cal thriller has twice been made into a film, and cockle-warming story by David “It’s ultimately a feelgood family show. Even most recently in 2017 starring Rachel Weisz. Walliams,” says Nigel. “It’s set to be such an though it’s a story with children at its centre This new touring production of the best- amazing spectacular, and I can’t wait to drive and is super-fun for a young audience, it’s selling novel sees the eponymous character a tank and fly a lifesize Spitfire over Birming- very grown up in other ways. I think everyone being played by Helen George, best known as ham audiences!” will feel really uplifted at the end of it!” Trixie Franklin in BBC One’s cosy Sunday night drama, Call The Midwife. While visiting Italy, wealthy landowner Miracle On 34th Street Ambrose Ashley meets and marries distant Old Joint Stock Theatre, Birmingham, relation Rachel and then unexpectedly dies. Thurs 5 - Thurs 24 December When Rachel disappears, Ashley’s young Most people who delight in the magic of the ward, Phillip, can’t help but wonder whether festive season will surely have seen at least his guardian’s new wife might have had one of the two movie versions of this splen- something to do with his untimely death. didly charming story. The more recent film, But when Phillip then encounters Rachel in made in 1994, starred Richard Attenborough Cornwall - and despite his considerable mis- as the sleigh-riding Saint Nicholas. givings about her - he soon finds himself The story revolves around a department-store falling for her undeniable charms.
30 whatsonlive.co.uk Mailbox Full December 2019.qxp_Layout 1 22/11/2019 16:19 Page 1 G4 Christmas.qxp_Layout 1 20/11/2019 14:22 Page 1
Dreaming of a G4 Christmas...
Classical popera stars G4 were runners-up on series one of The X-Factor. The quartet chat to What’s On ahead of their Christmas concert in Birmingham...
Vocal troupe G4’s classical-style delivery of or the worst idea in the world. G4 are ‘yes’ we owe it to them to give an honest and emo- pop songs has seen them enjoying plenty of men! It’s also rare to have such a range of tive performance of our work! chart-topping success, with two of their voices in one group, so we’re able to go to Mike: Even if a whacky idea doesn’t work out, albums going platinum. places other acts can’t. Particularly with Jon’s it always inspires something else totally voice going so high - the sky really is the limit. There have been a few line-up changes to the unique. We don’t like playing it safe, and While a lot of groups have to stick to one key, group since they finished runners-up on the when we’ve worked with people who want to we can change it up and keep pushing our- first-ever series of The X-Factor. Original kind of create us in this image of the typical selves. members Jonathan Ansell (tenor) and Mike classical crossover group, it just hasn’t Christie (baritone) are nowadays joined by Jonathan: Our shows are very much our own worked. When we launched, we were some- relative newcomers Lewis Raines (second takes, interpretations and creations on stage, thing totally new to the industry, and it’s tenor) and Duncan Sandilands (bass). which is what gets us so excited about important that we stay true to ourselves. singing. We sing our interpretations of what What’s the key to G4’s continuing success? What are the highlights of the Christmas the best parts of popular songs are, which tour for you as performers? Lewis: We always do our medleys and gives us such a unique personal connection to arrangements ourselves - for both Christmas everything we do. I think that’s why we’re still Mike: We get to perform in such amazing tours and our other tours. We’re never short of going 15 years on. If people have got through venues, particularly a lot of cathedrals and ideas, and we’re always willing to give some- the Christmas markets to our show without grand buildings, like Birmingham Town Hall. thing a go before deciding whether it’s genius getting delayed eating all the hotdogs, then That really sets the tone, and the tour takes
32 whatsonlive.co.uk G4 Christmas.qxp_Layout 1 20/11/2019 14:22 Page 2
by Lauren Cole
on this really magical feeling. Last year’s ties to be in films and feature on soundtracks, Lewis: For me, it was when the Red Arrows Christmas tour saw us perform at Blackpool so I’m actually in the choirs of Four Weddings welcomed us to Jersey when we went to Tower Ballroom for the first time, so that was And A Funeral. Rowan Atkinson was so perform there. Obviously we also remember a particular highlight for us. It’s such an supportive. And the actress Sarah Crowe we the shows, but it’s always those little iconic building and so beautiful. We were instantly recognised because she was in a moments that stand out. For example, Jon has there just a week after Strictly Come Dancing certain cream cheese advert with a high, really got me into fishing. All our tours are full were, so we fed off the buzz from that, too. squeaky voice in the clouds. If you’re a certain of amazing memories, both on and off the age, you’ll know what I’m talking about! It stage, that we could sit and talk about for Lewis: As a local, I’ve been to Blackpool really was an amazing experience that hours. many, many times, but the ballroom was just inspired me to keep singing for life. I think it incredible to perform at, and we’re excited to Duncan: The first time we rehearsed together can be really difficult for boys because return this year too. What I love most about after I joined was a really exciting moment for singing just isn’t seen as cool. Bands and pop touring at this time of year, though, is that me. There’d been all this talk about G4’s fresh acts are different because obviously men like there are always amazing Christmas markets look, but we hadn’t sung together yet. When Ed Sheeran and Lewis Capaldi are huge icons, right on our doorstep. we actually did, it was just the most lovely but classical singing, and choirs in particular, blend, and you don’t always get that straight Duncan: I’m a big kid and always will be. I are seen only as a thing for girls. away with groups - they can take a long time absolutely love Christmas, and being able to Lewis: I didn’t start singing until I was about to find their stride. Singing together for that work over this period and sing in some beau- 16. I was doing GCSE music because I thought first time in full voice and realising we worked tiful venues is a real treat. Talking of Black- it was one of those subjects where I could just together was amazing - and also a massive pool, it’s the Pleasure Beach I’m looking mess around. It got to the summer and I re- relief! forward to - great way to warm up the voice! alised I had an exam coming up, but I didn’t You also have some very dedicated fans... What’s different about G4 Christmas? actually play an instrument, so I ended up singing. I had a lovely school experience, but Lewis: We’re so lucky to have fans who just Jonathan: We do some of the same songs there’s still that stigma around boys singing. connect with us and keep coming back to see each year because there’s such a need for If you’re not in the sports teams with the lads us perform again and again. nostalgia around the festive period. We have being a manly man, then you’re admitting some great singalong moments. We’ve created that you’re different. That’s really hard, par- Jonathan: We literally do have women who our own version of Mariah Carey’s All I Want ticularly for youngsters. throw their bras onto the stage. There were For Christmas. It’s amazing to get that oppor- these two ‘bra ladies’ in particular - and some tunity to play with an entirely different ar- Duncan: I was lucky at my school in that we bras they were, too... more like UFOs! I was rangement of something the audience knows. were encouraged to do sport and music. You’d always concerned for the safety of people in It’s nice to see the audience like our version of see our headmaster both on the sidelines at their vicinity because they’d lift the bras up such a popular festive track. We don’t like to the rugby match and in the cathedral, cheer- and start swinging them around - everybody sing songs the exact same way the audience ing on the chamber choir. I should really pay near them had to duck! expects. We love medleys, particularly at tribute to my mother, who introduced me to Mike: We’re using their words, to be fair. They Christmas time because there are so many to such an eclectic mix of singers - from Gilbert were very open about their hammock-sized get in there. & Sullivan to Bessie Smith. I was unfortunate in my cathedral-choir aspirations, though, bras. We’ve had knickers thrown at us too, Mike: We also have some really wonderful because I auditioned a little late and my voice and flowers. All sorts. I think what’s so hum- children’s choirs at every date. They’re the had started to break quite early. That almost bling is having so many people supporting us. next generation of singers, and seeing their killed my singing career and I remember Our shows are great because we get a good enthusiasm, funny Christmas hats and smil- taking a few years out, but it was thanks to mix of superfans and people who’ve never ing faces is just lovely for us. Each choir will school again that I got back into it. seen us live before but remember us from The choose a soloist to sing the first verse of Once X-Factor or something similar. We also get a In Royal David’s City, which they will perform Do you have a favourite G4 moment? lot of husbands being dragged along by their a capella in front of the audience. That’s a wives to see us, and then they end up becom- Mike: I think for me it was when our first particularly special moment because you can ing bigger fans than their wives! They come album went to number one. We literally just see the confidence and joy that that opportu- along determined not to enjoy it, but in the went on The X-Factor for a laugh and didn’t nity brings them. end they have a great time. It’s really touch- really expect to get anywhere. Jennifer Lopez ing. We get so many gifts too, particularly What was the inspirational music moment had released an album that same day and we around Christmas, which is very generous of for each of you when you were youngsters? outsold her - it was incredible! We also did the everyone. Late Late Show in Ireland, and it was so weird Jonathan: For me, there wasn’t really a to be recognised by famous people. It didn’t moment - apparently I was just always loud! help that Andrea from The Corrs was there, so One day my shouting just turned into singing, I was a bit of a mess - and Caprice was one of I suppose! I confused everyone at school the guests too! We had to fly back to London G4 Christmas shows at Birmingham Town because I was a prop in the rugby team but for an early-morning interview, and she came Hall on Tuesday 10 December. The boys also sung ‘like a girl’ in the choir with my into our dressing room and invited us on a return to the region next autumn for G4 unbroken voice. night out after the show. We were gutted to Live 2020, playing Theatre Severn, Mike: I was a chorister from the age of eight have to turn her down. It’s moments like that Shrewsbury, on Sunday 13 September and to 13, and that really set me up for a music where we realised how insane the entire Forest Arts Centre, Walsall, on Saturday career. I had some really amazing opportuni- experience was going to be. 3 October.
whatsonlive.co.uk 33 Film December (2 pages).qxp_Layout 1 20/11/2019 15:22 Page 1
Film
Motherless Brooklyn CERT 15 (144 mins) Starring Edward Norton, Bruce Willis, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Alec Baldwin, Willem Dafoe, Bobby Cannavale, Cherry Jones Directed by Edward Norton (USA) Based on the 1999 novel by Jonathan Lethem, this crime drama sees Edward Norton as a 1950s’ private investigator with Tourette’s syndrome. The actor previously directed the romantic comedy Keeping The Faith (2000). Released Fri 6 December
CRITIC’S CHOICE
balletic look at the life of a tribe of cats Cats CERT tbc called the Jellicles. However, a wonderfully Starring James Corden, Judi Dench, diverse cast and a screenplay by Lee Hall Jason Derulo, Idris Elba, Jennifer Hudson, CERT 12a (92 mins) Ian McKellen, Taylor Swift, Rebel Wilson, and Tom Hooper promises much, once one Ordinary Love Francesca Hayward can come to accept James Corden and Starring Lesley Manville, Liam Neeson, Directed by Tom Hooper (UK/USA) Taylor Swift as credible kitties. Tom Hooper David Wilmot, Amit Shah Directed by Lisa Barros D'Sa and It’s hard to imagine a film version of previously brought the stage musical Les Glenn Leyburn (UK/Ireland) Andrew Lloyd Webber’s feline musical, but Misérables to the screen, following his A middle-aged woman struggles to come to then the stage show was no small feat, Oscar-winning The King’s Speech, so the terms with her breast cancer. From a screen- either. Essentially a musical adaptation of project is in good paws. TS Eliot's poetry collection Old Possum's play by the Northern Irish playwright Owen Released Fri 20 December McCafferty. Book Of Practical Cats, the show was a Released Fri 6 December
Honey Boy CERT 15 (94 mins) Lucy In The Sky Jumanji: The Next Level Starring Shia LaBeouf, Lucas Hedges, CERT 15 (124 mins) CERT 12a Noah Jupe, FKA Twigs, Maika Monroe, Starring Dwayne Johnson, Jack Black, Starring Natalie Portman, Jon Hamm, Natasha Lyonne Kevin Hart, Karen Gillan, Nick Jonas, Zazie Beetz, Dan Stevens, Colman Directed by Alma Har'el (USA) Awkwafina, Danny DeVito Domingo, Ellen Burstyn Directed by Jake Kasdan (USA) Taking the title from his childhood nick- Directed by Noah Hawley (USA) name, Shia LaBeouf documents his early The success of Jumanji: Welcome To The years and relationship with his dad. He wrote Jungle (2017) surprised everyone, not least the film as part of his rehabilitation pro- Sony Pictures. Less surprising is the new gramme and plays his own father. sequel (Welcome To The Jungle was, itself, a sequel to the original Jumanji of 1995). Here, Released Fri 6 December Spencer has vanished into the world’s most dangerous video game and his friends must team up again to find him. Expect arid deserts and snow-whipped mountains. Released Wed 11 December
Loosely inspired by real events, the character of Lucy is based on the NASA as- tronaut Lisa Nowak who, following a lengthy period aboard the Space Shuttle Discovery, began to lose touch with reality. It seems that there can be crime after space… Released Fri 6 December
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Film highlights released in December...
Black Christmas CERT tbc Starring Imogen Poots, Lily Donoghue, Aleyse Shannon, Brittany O'Grady, Cary Elwes Directed by Sophia Takal (USA/New Zealand)
This is unusual. This slasher pic set on a EDITOR’S CHOICE sorority campus happens to be a remake of the remake (2006) of the somewhat Star Wars: The Rise clash between the Resistance and the First unremarkable 1974 original Black Christmas. Order. The good news is that JJ Abrams Filmed in New Zealand (on the South Island). Of Skywalker CERT tbc returns to the fold, after directing Episode Released Fri 13 December Starring Carrie Fisher, Mark Hamill, VII - The Force Awakens (2015), the high- Adam Driver, Daisy Ridley, John Boyega, est-grossing Star Wars film yet. And by Oscar Isaac, Anthony Daniels, Naomi Ackie, Domhnall Gleeson, Richard E Grant, salvaging footage from the last two instal- The Courier CERT 18 (99 mins) Lupita Nyong'o, Keri Russell, ments, Carrie Fisher’s Princess Leia will Ian McDiarmid, Billy Dee Williams Starring Olga Kurylenko, Gary Oldman, appear in a leading role, thanks to the leg- Directed by JJ Abrams (USA) Dermot Mulroney, William Moseley, Amit Shah erdemain of the various scriptwriters Directed by Zackary Adler (USA/UK) Are you excited yet? It’s been a long time employed on the project. Anthony Daniels, A London-based courier (Kurylenko) finds coming, but The Rise Of Skywalker is the who recreates his turn as the humanoid that a package she’s transporting is a bomb. final nail, um, segment, in the nine-part droid C-3PO, will be the only actor to have And, back in New York, a heinous Gary space opera that is Star Wars. It will high- appeared in all nine Star Wars films. light the end of the on-going tiff between Oldman tries out one of his interesting Released Thurs 19 December accents. Expect some strong violence and the Jedi and the Sith as well as an almighty bloody imagery. Released Fri 20 December Playing With Fire Spies In Disguise CERT PG CERT PG (106 mins) With the voices of Will Smith, Tom Holland, Little Women CERT PG (135 mins) Starring John Cena, Keegan-Michael Key, Rashida Jones, Ben Mendelsohn, Starring Saoirse Ronan, Emma Watson, John Leguizamo, Brianna Hildebrand, Rachel Brosnahan, Karen Gillan Florence Pugh, Laura Dern, Dennis Haysbert, Judy Greer Directed by Nick Bruno and Troy Quane (USA) Timothée Chalamet, Meryl Streep Directed by Andy Fickman (USA) Directed by Greta Gerwig (USA) We all know that children are a match for anybody (cf. Kindergarten Cop with Arnold Schwarzenegger). Here, in this family- friendly comedy, a gang of tough firefighters find themselves outclassed by three kids they have rescued. Released Thurs 26 December
Following the American Civil War, the four This is the third film this year in which Will March sisters adapt to a grown-up world. Smith has lent his voice to a digital version of Based on Louisa May Alcott's beloved 1868 himself. Here, he plays Lance Sterling, the novel, this is the eighth time that the story world's most awesome spy who is acciden- has been put on film. Scripted by the tally turned into a pigeon. From the company actresses Greta Gerwig and (an uncredited) that brought us Ice Age and Rio. It’s for kids, Sarah Polley. of course. Released Thurs 26 December Released Thurs 26 December whatsonlive.co.uk 35 Visual Arts December.qxp_Layout 1 20/11/2019 17:07 Page 1
Visual Arts previews from around the region
Dressed To The Nines Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery, Sat 7 December - Fri 4 September Dressed To The Nines is a particularly appropriate exhibition to view at this time of year, with Christmas parties, nights on the town and more formal gatherings in plentiful supply and all requiring a serious amount of thought about what to wear. Taking a look at the subject of dressing up and going out, and covering the period from around 1850 up to the present day, the exhibition highlights some of the changes which have occurred in the types of clothing that are worn for special occasions. Featured in the show are a number of garments, accessories and full outfits from the city’s dress collection, included among which are a 1930s beaded evening dress, an embroidered court uniform which belonged to Neville Chamberlain and cocktail dresses by Christian Dior and Norman Hartnell. Oh, and shoes. Lots and lots of shoes...
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Visual Arts
Meryl McMaster: As Immense As The Sky Ikon Gallery, Birmingham, Wed 4 December - Sun 23 February “I want to bring specific awareness to the broad consequences of colonisation, and how the men- tality of greed and/or lack of foresight is still impacting us today,” explains Canadian artist Meryl McMaster, who is here presenting her first UK solo exhibition. “At the same time, my work isn’t intended to resolve this dilemma but rather to create an opportunity for introspection and conversation. “Each of us has a complicated relationship with the past, with gaps and biases. It’s important to expose and explore these gaps, so that we may encounter our next moments better prepared.” The Bloomsbury Effect Wolverhampton Art Gallery, Sat 14 December - Sun 16 February This new exhibition is part of an ongoing a Courtaulds factory was in operation project by the Courtauld Gallery which is from 1927 to 1970. designed to reignite links between the The exhibition comprises three prestigious collection and its industrial heritage. early 20th century British paintings on The initiative sees the Gallery engaging loan from the Courtauld Gallery. with communities living in areas near to The paintings can be viewed alongside the where textile company Courtaulds Ltd Wolverhampton Society of Artists once had a significant industrial presence. Centenary Exhibition. One such place is Wolverhampton, where Crafting A Better Future Midlands Arts Centre, Birmingham, until Sun 1 March When is an exhibition of scarves more than just an exhibition of scarves? When it’s aiming to raise people’s awareness of homelessness, that’s when... The work of the West Midlands Craft Group, the 70-plus on-show creations have been produced as part of a project designed to be supportive of homeless people and those living in unsafe or unsuitable accommodation. The group elected to focus on the scarf in particu- lar because they considered it to be a symbol of something which many people are able to take for granted, but which the homeless most definitely are not - comfort. Alongside the display of scarves, the exhibition also features photographs of craft workshops which the group has been running in Birmingham for people who have experienced or are experi- Changing Times: Humour And Satire encing homelessness. Enginuity, Coalbrookdale Museum Of Iron, Ironbridge, Shropshire, until Fri 28 February A free exhibition, Changing Times: and the possibilities that it held. Humour And Satire showcases a mix of Once ‘railway mania’ had gripped the na- satirical prints and objects from the mu- tion, music, books and games were quick seum’s Elton Collection, dating from the to feature the new wonders of steam, as mid-18th century onwards. well as to ridicule the popularity of cheap
credit: @kategreenphotog The prints and objects on show made fun excursion trains and the overcrowding at of new technology such as steam power train stations and seaside resorts.
whatsonlive.co.uk 37 8 Reasons to visit Bullring.qxp_Layout 1 22/11/2019 12:19 Page 1
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Advertorial
8 REASONS TO VISIT BULLRING & GRAND CENTRAL
THISThe countdown to the big dayCHRISTMAS is on, and Christmas has never looked better at Bullring & Grand Central. There are so many reasons to visit the centre - we’ve picked eight of our favourites below…
The Bull’s Christmas Outfit Once Upon A Time in 1 5 Birmingham Would it even be Christmas if the Bull wasn’t all dressed up? He’ll be wearing his panto- Just imagine... 88,000 fairy lights inspired costume from Friday 29 November - and a whole lot of Christmas, and of course he’ll be selfie-ready. mixed with cocktails and a light refracting jelly dessert… Now you’ve got Once Upon A Time in Snow House Birmingham! Open daily until late in 2 the old Jamie’s Italian restaurant. The Snow House is back on St Martin’s Balcony, offering great views of the city and a range of beers and wine, mulled wine and 6 Christmas Boogaloo hot chocolate. Open daily until late. Bullring & Grand Central have teamed up with Birmingham Hippodrome to throw a Christmas party to rival all Christmas parties. 3 PAW Patrol Trail Intrigued? Head to St Martin’s Square on Help the pups save Christmas by taking part Saturday 14 & Sunday 15 December. in the PAW Patrol trail. Maps are available from Bullring & Grand Central’s Customer Under Wraps Service Desks, with pups located throughout 7 Boutique the centre. If you’ve ever struggled with those difficult-to-wrap gifts, Christmas Movie Screenings we have great news - the 4 Bullring & Grand Central You can shop and dine, then watch some of Under Wraps Boutique will your favourite festive classics on the big be open on Thursday 19 & screen in St Martin’s Square on Thursdays Friday 20 December. With an and Sundays in December. international wrapping expert- Thursday 28 November 6pm: Elf led team, you’ll be able to choose from five different Sunday 1 December 2pm: The Grinch disguised options so that the Thursday 5 December 6pm: Nativity! recipient has no idea what’s inside. Sunday 8 December 2pm: Home Alone Thursday 12 December 6pm: And of course, the shops and Miracle On 34th Street 8 restaurants... Thursday 19 December 6pm: The Holiday With lots of new shops and restaurants, Sunday 22 December 2pm onwards: The including LEGO, H&M HOME, Levi’s and Muppet Christmas Carol and Polar Express Indian Streatery, your options are endless.
Find out more about what’s new and what’s happening at Bullring & Grand Central by visiting bullring.co.uk
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Events previews from around the region Events
Toy Collectors Fair NEC, Birmingham, Fri 27 December Britain’s biggest toy fair makes its way to Birmingham this month to showcase a huge array of collectables. From diecast models by Corgi and Dinky through to numerous TV and film-related items, this one-day event offers plenty of interest for enthusiasts. Expert toy valuers are on hand to assess visitors' items for free. So if you have a particular piece that you’d like to know a little bit more about - or that you’re maybe intending to sell - why not take it along and get it val- ued? Who knows, you may be pleasantly surprised...
Marvel Universe LIVE Universe LIVE! returns to the city with a brand new show. The production features cutting- Wales Comic Con: Arena Birmingham, Thurs 5 - Sun 8 December edge special effects, pyrotechnics, 3D video Telford Takeover Comic book superheroes including Spider-Man, projection, aerial stunts, martial arts and dar- Telford International Centre, the Avengers and Doctor Strange smash their ing motorcycle displays. Shropshire, Sat 7 & Sun 8 way into Birmingham this month as Marvel December Wales Comic Con this month crosses the border to bring ‘a big- ger and better event’ to Telford for the very first time. A whole host of big names from the world of TV and film will be taking part in the event across the weekend, with Guardians Of The Galaxy’s Sean Gunn and Michael Rooker and Harry Pot- ter’s David Bradley and Matthew Lewis being joined by former Doctor Whos David Tennant (pictured) and Matt Smith.
PAW Patrol Pups Save pops up across Birmingham city centre. Chase, Marshall, Skye and the gang will be in lo- Christmas Trail cations including Selfridges, John Lewis and The Birmingham city centre, until Fri 3 January Mailbox. Pick up a trail map to take part in a Pups Save PAW Patrol fans get to meet the canine stars of Christmas mission and be in with a chance of the hit Nick Jr TV show this Christmas, as a toy winning £250-worth of shopping vouchers. brick trail featuring 21 characters and buildings whatsonlive.co.uk 41 Events December.qxp_Layout 1 21/11/2019 09:40 Page 3 Events December.qxp_Layout 1 21/11/2019 09:40 Page 4
Festive events previews from around the region Events
Christmas At The Castle Warwick Castle, until Tues 31 December If you’re looking for places to take the kids for some seasonal fun this Christmas, Warwick Castle should certainly be on your radar. Attractions include ‘magical sto- rytelling experiences’ with Mr & Mrs Claus and their merry elves, the chance to enjoy breakfast with Santa and his wife, Christ- mas feasts and medieval ban- quets, Santa sleepovers, a special carol-singing session and a brand new ice rink.
Ice Skate Birmingham accommodates up to 300 people per session and is this year weather-proofed thanks to the addi- Centenary Square, Birmingham, tion of a roof. Younger or inexperienced skating until Sun 12 January enthusiasts can keep upright by using special Ice Skate Birmingham and the Big Wheel make a penguin skating aids. And when skaters have welcome return to Centenary Square. finished their Torvill & Dean routine, they can While the wheel offers the opportunity to enjoy warm themselves up with some festive fare in the fantastic views across the city, the ice rink nearby Ice Lounge.
Santa At The Valley Candlelit Sandwell Park Farm, West Bromwich, Christmas every Sat and Sun between 7 - 22 December, plus Mon 23 December Avoncroft Museum, Bromsgrove, Sat 7 December Sandwell Park Farm this month opens its doors Guests are invited to enjoy a for families to visit Santa in his grotto. traditional English Christmas at Not only can little ones say hello to the cheery Avoncroft this month, as the bearded one himself, they can also meet and museum gets into the festive greet his trusty reindeer as they prepare for their spirit by presenting the sights Christmas duties. and sounds of Christmases past. Traditional Punch & Judy shows run throughout With costumed reenactors occu- each day, with other attractions including circus pying the historic buildings, skills workshops and children’s crafts. entertainment comes in the form Hot food & drink outlets ensure visitors young Santa Safari of street performances, star and old can keep up their energy levels as they West Midland Safari Park, Bewdley, gazing and a selection of festive busy themselves getting into the festive spirit. various dates throughout December music performed by, among Families visiting West Midland Safari Park this others, choirs and bell ringers. festive season can meet an elf, climb on board a Younger visitors can enjoy a sleigh and head for the North Pole. special reindeer trail and railway And that’s just for starters! Having arrived at rides on the miniature Santa their destination, young visitors can then say Express. hello to Santa Claus, tell him what’s on their And to top off what promises to Christmas wish-list and pose with the great man be a throughly enjoyable day, while a helpful elf takes a picture. Father Christmas will be paying a But wait, there’s more... After meeting Santa, visit to the site too - a site, we children can also select their own present in the should add, that will be splen- elves’ workshop and sample a special walk- didly illuminated by candlelight! through ‘discovery trail’... whatsonlive.co.uk 43 Events December.qxp_Layout 1 21/11/2019 09:40 Page 5
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Festive events previews from around the region Events
Christmas at Shakespeare’s Birthplace Shakespeare’s Birthplace, Stratford-upon-Avon, various dates in December Throughout December, families can discover the stories behind some of Shakespeare's most famous ousted monarchs, includ- ing the likes of Caesar, Cleopatra and Richard III, to name but three... Other attractions at the venue this month include Flowers Of Winter (Sat 14 December - Sun 5 January) - an exhibition of floral displays inspired by traditional winter blooms - and Come A-Was- Victorian Christmas bands fill the streets with festive cheer. sailing (Mon 30 December - Wed 1 Families can enjoy a range of workshops, in- Blists Hill Victorian Town, Ironbridge, January) - a chance to participate Sat 7 & Sun 8 and Sat 14 & Sun 15 December cluding candle dipping and Christmas card in the precursor to the modern- making, while entertainment in the Big Top day activity of carol singing. Enjoy a traditional Victorian Christmas in the comes in the form of circus acts, Punch & Judy recreated town of Blists Hill at Ironbridge shows and pantomime performances. Gorge this festive season. Across two week- Visitors wanting to meet Santa and his elves ends, the site will be decorated with twinkling can board a train and journey along the wood- Ebenezer’s lights and sparkling snow as choirs and brass land to the hillside grotto. Christmas Carol Tudor World, Stratford-upon-Avon, on selected dates between Wed 11 - Tues 24 December Meet Santa at Sea Life Santa’s Winter Wonderland National Sea Life Centre, Birmingham, Snowdome, Tamworth, Staffs, until Mon 23 December until Tues 31 December This year’s all-new Santa Show sees the white- bearded one preparing for his big festive per- formance of The Twelve Days Of Christmas - but finding his efforts somewhat hampered by two elves who have a decidedly different perspective on how to present a yuletide showstopper... Suitable for all age groups, the show is just one element of the festive fun on offer at Tamworth’s Back by popular demand, snowy indoor attraction. Ebenezer Crouch’s A Christmas Visitors can also explore Santa’s Christmas snow Carol tours will be haunting trail, take a walk through an enchanted forest, Tudor World in the lead-up to enjoy a game of snowballs, hitch a ride on a Christmas. sledge, meet Santa’s furry friends and check out Meet Scrooge, Jacob Marley, Mr & the brand new traditional children’s carousel. Mrs Cratchit and all the little The National Sea Life Centre is bringing the Cratchits, Mr & Mrs Fezziwig and North Pole to Birmingham’s Brindleyplace this a whole host of other equally Christmas. memorable characters - includ- Visit the Antarctic Ice Cave, take your little ones ing, of course, the ghosts of to meet Santa (and receive a free gift from him) Christmas Past, Present and Yet- and check out a family of cheeky Gentoo pen- To-Come. guins in the exclusive setting of the Ice Adven- There’s every chance that this will ture area. prove to be the very best fun Families can also pay a visit to the 4D cinema to you’ve ever had while in the enjoy a screening of classic festive favourite The company of a grumpy old man! Polar Express. whatsonlive.co.uk 45 Events December.qxp_Layout 1 21/11/2019 09:40 Page 7
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Festive events previews from around the region Events
The Polar Express Train Ride Train departs Birmingham Moor Street Station, until Sun 22 December The Polar Express train rides re- turn to Birmingham this Christ- mas. The popular motion picture film is being theatrically recreated so that families can immerse them- selves in the sights and sounds of a classic children’s story. Youngsters are invited to join in the fun with the movie’s charac- ters, while the event also features carol singing and a visit from Santa.
Santa Family Days biggest Christmas tree - standing at 39 feet and brought to life by 23,000 LED lights - taking pride Millennium Point, Birmingham, of place. Attractions include a host of free activi- Sun 8, Fri 13, Sat 19 December ties to keep youngsters entertained, and the Millennium Point is transformed into a winter chance to have a photo taken with Santa (who’ll wonderland this month, with Birmingham’s be handing out a special gift to every child).
Christmas Through Time Black Country Living Museum, Dudley, Enchanted Weston until Tues 24 December Weston Park, Shifnal, nr Telford, Visitors to the Black Country Living Museum Shropshire, can take in the sights, sounds and smells of Fri 13 - Sat 21 December long-ago Christmases this month, thanks to a The Weston Park woods are this brand new immersive experience. month transformed into an illumi- Christmas Through Time starts way back dur- nated wonderland for a second ing Queen Victoria’s reign, carries on through year running, with towering trees to the 1930s, and provides plenty for families and historic landmarks colour- to see and do - from making plum puddings fully lit up along a half-mile route. and writing Christmas cards to enjoying a After completing the enchanted selection of classic movies in the venue’s walk, visitors can enjoy street 1920s Limelight Cinema. food and cocktails around fire pits in the courtyard, or pick up some Christmas at last-minute gifts from local pro- Compton Verney ducers at the indoor market. Compton Verney Art Gallery & Park, Warwickshire, Sun 1 - Sun 15 December Compton Verney is certainly helping families get into the Christmas spirit this month. Young visitors to the popular venue are invited to join Mother Christmas as she shares some of her favourite festive stories, while Father Christ- mas and his reindeer will also be on hand to say a cheery hello. There are Christmas paper crafts to enjoy too, providing families with the chance to make festive garlands, floral wreaths, tree decorations and advent calendars.
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Festive events previews from around the region Events
Statfold Santa Express Statfold Barn Railway, nr Tamworth, until Sun 22 December All aboard the Statfold Santa Express! Taking place every pre-Christmas weekend in December, this fam- ily-friendly event sees visitors climb aboard Santa’s magical steam train and journey to the North Pole. Once arrived, there’s plenty for youngsters to see and do, including paying a visit to Santa’s reindeer, decorating cook- ies with Mrs Claus and selecting their very own special gift on a visit to the toy shop.
Fairy Tale Christmas As visitors explore the mansion’s many magnifi- cent rooms, they’re in for a pleasant surprise or Aston Hall, Birmingham, Sat 7 & Sun 8, Sat 14 & Sun 15 December several, with much-loved fairytale characters and pantomime favourites turning up in all man- Aston Hall will be displaying its finest festive ner of places! The chance to warm up by a roar- decor mid-month, as it hosts a family-friendly ing fire further adds to the weekend’s appeal. weekend designed for people of all ages to enjoy
Enchanted Witley Court Witley Court & Gardens, Worcestershire, Thurs 5 - Sun 8 December The grounds of Witley Court are once again being transformed into an illuminated wonderland this festive season. An ‘enchanting experience of light, colour and Santa Safari sound’ sees tunnels and pathways lit with twin- kling lights, with glowing canopies and the Hawkstone Park, Weston-under- Redcastle, North Shropshire, grand fountain radiating a spectrum of colour. until Mon 23 December Once guests have made their way around the Little ones can enjoy a magical illuminated world, they can enjoy a selection of adventure and meet Santa at festive food & drink, numerous Christmas games Hawkstone Park Follies this and some sure-to-be-fun fairground rides. Vintage Sleigh Ride & Christmas. Jump into one of the park’s Land Winter Wonderland Rovers to enjoy a journey through Coventry Transport Museum, the illuminated woodland to Mon 2 - Mon 23 December Santa’s spectacular network of Coventry Transport Museum this year includes a caves. brand new walk-through winter wonderland in Hawkstone’s friendly elves will its line-up of Christmas attractions. keep you entertained as you wan- Also featured is a reindeer-pulled vintage sleigh, der around the fairy-lit caverns leading families to Lapland for a meet-and-greet and tunnels, finally arriving at with Santa Claus, who’ll be listening to Christ- your ultimate destination - the mas wishes and pointing youngsters in the direc- magical grotto itself, where every tion of the elf’s toy shop to pick up a special child will receive a special gift festive gift. from Santa.
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Your week- by-week listings guide December 2019 thelist
Peter Pan at Stafford Gatehouse Theatre, Fri 13 December - Sun 5 January
Music I Comedy I Theatre I Dance I Film I Events I Visual Arts I and more!
What’s On Sun 1 to Sun 8 December Mon 9 to Sun 15 December Mon 16 to Sun 22 December Mon 23 to Tues 31 December
Christmas at Shugborough Christmas at Coalbrookdale Javier Jarquin at Christmas Through Time at Historic Working Estate Museum of Iron The George Hotel, Lichfield Black Country Living Museum until Sun 22 December Sat 14 & Sun 15 December Sun 22 December until Tues 24 December
whatsonlive.co.uk 51 The List Shrops/Staffs/Wolves 1 - 8 December.qxp_Layout 1 22/11/2019 12:22 Page 1
thelist CLAIRO Wed 4 Dec, O2 O2 Academy, B’ham THROUGHOUT DECEMBER Gigs Institute, Birmingham WHITESNAKE UK + OLD MUNA Wed 4 Dec, O2 GLORY AND THE BLACK CAROLE - THE MUSIC OF REFRAMING THE WILD: HUMANS, ANI- Institute, Birmingham RIVIERA Fri 6 Dec, CAROLE KING MALS AND ART 1750-1950 Exhibition Sun 1 Eleven, Sandyford, Visual Arts Dec, Victoria Hall, LOW ISLAND Wed 4 exploring the relationships between Stoke-on-Trent Stoke-on-Trent Dec, The Sugarmill, humans, animals and artworks Stoke-on-Trent CAPTAIN STINGRAY’S New Art Gallery - Walsall PROGFATHERS + BLANK from 1750 to 1950, until Sun 5 Jan GROOVE MACHINE Fri 6 MANUSKRIPT Sun 1 NEW SARAH TAYLOR SILVERWOOD - ARTS AWARD EXHIBITION Exhibition by Dec, Albert’s Shed, Dec, The Robin, Bil- KATHLEEN AND SALLY SERIES Body of students from Wolverhampton Shrewsbury drawings based on text and images ston Schools showcasing artwork created FREEDOM ‘19 Fri 6 Dec, abstracted from photographs, letters, CHRIS CLEVERLEY by utilising recycled materials pro- Sun 1 Forest Arts Centre, and documents relating to the two Dec, Hare & Hounds, vided by SCARF, until Sun 19 Jan Walsall creators and donors of the Garman Birmingham TIM MARA: NOT POP? Exhibition bring- Ryan Collection, Kathleen Epstein SURFS UP Fri 6 - Sat 7 ing together a selection of works by NIKKI ROUS Sun 1 Dec, (née Garman) and Sally Ryan, Sat 21 Dec, Theatre On The the late Irish printmaker, Tim Mara, Albert’s Shed, Shrews- GRANDSLAM + HOL- Dec - Sun 7 June Steps, Bridgnorth until Sun 29 Mar bury LOWPOINT Wed 4 Dec, UK FOO FIGHTERS Sat 7 FRANK TURNER & THE Eleven, Sandyford, 50 YEARS ON: THE NORTHERN IRELAND Dec, O2 Academy, Himley Hall & Park, Dudley SLEEPING SOULS Stoke-on-Trent COLLECTION REVISITED Exhibition fea- Sun 1 Birmingham DUDLEY SOCIETY OF ARTISTS EXHIBI- turing new acquisition Rocket Man, Dec, Symphony Hall, MIDLAND Thurs 5 Dec, GUNS OR ROSES TION until Fri 20 Dec by Northern Irish artist Gerry Glea- Birmingham O2 Institute, B’ham Sat 7 Dec, Eleven, Sandy- son, and also including items from RIDE CHRISTMAS EXHIBITION until Fri 20 Dec Sun 1 Dec, O2 In- JOSEPHINE DAVIS’ ford, Stoke-on-Trent the gallery’s nationally important col- stitute, Birmingham SATORI Thurs 5 Dec, lection of art relating to the Troubles, MEMPHIS MAY FIRE + ECHOBELLY “STRIPPED Newhampton Arts Newcastle Borough Museum until Sun 29 Mar WALKWAYS + SPECIAL BACK” Sun 1 Dec, O2 Centre, W’hampton & Art Gallery GUESTS Sat 7 Dec, The NEW WOLVERHAMPTON SOCIETY OF Academy, Birmingham SAM FENDER Thurs 5 Sugarmill, Stoke-on- B(U)Y ME FOR CHRISTMAS! Exhibition ARTISTS CENTENARY EXHIBITION Exhibi- THE MIDNIGHT BEAST - Dec, O2 Academy, Trent where visitors can buy exclusive tion documenting the story of the So- 10TH ANNIVERSARY Birmingham hand-made gifts and featuring work ciety, featuring a selection of works THE FUTUREHEADS Sat TOUR Sun 1 Dec, O2 CALEB HAWLEY by 30 artists, until Sun 5 Jan by WSA’s alumni, Sat 14 Dec - Sun Thurs 5 7 Dec, O2 Institute, Academy, Birmingham 16 Feb Dec, Hare & Hounds, Birmingham THE DARKNESS Sun 1 Birmingham BON GIOVI Sat 7 Dec, Potteries Museum & Art Dec, O2 Academy, JAKE MARTIN Thurs 5 The Robin, Bilston Gallery - Stoke-On-Trent Other VISUAL ARTS Birmingham Dec, Katie Fitzgerald’s, WINGWALKERS Sat 7 POTTERS LANE Visit a world inspired NOTES FROM SHROPSHIRE The Year's GEOFF LAKEMAN Stourbridge Sun 1 Dec, Albert’s Shed, by JK Rowling’s famous characters, Paintings by Michelle Anderson, until Dec, Lichfield Guildhall GENO WASHINGTON AND Shrewsbury until Sun 22 Dec Fri 6 Dec, Gallery3, Shrewsbury BELSHAZZAR’S FEAST THE RAM JAM BAND THE WEEKEND ANTHEMS THROUGH THE WARDROBE Step WILD ABOUT STAFFORDSHIRE - CELE- Sun 1 Dec, Henry Thurs 5 Dec, The BY KILLERSTREAM Sat 7 through the wardrobe and enter the BRATING 50 YEARS OF STAFFORDSHIRE Tudor House, Shrews- Robin, Bilston Dec, The River Rooms, enchanted forest of Narnia, frozen in WILDLIFE TRUST Open art exhibition bury ELVANA: ELVIS FRONTED Stourbridge perpetual winter, until Sun 22 Dec celebrating the beauty of Stafford- BILLY BRAGG Sun 1 - NIRVANA Fri 6 Dec, O2 shire’s wildlife and wild places, until THE FAIM Sat 7 Dec, O2 NEW ARRIVALS: 2018 Display of flora Tues 3 Dec, O2 Insti- Institute, Birmingham Tues 17 Dec, Museum of Cannock Institute, B’ham and fauna never before seen in the tute, Birmingham THE ILLEGAL EAGLES Fri county, until Wed 1 Jan Chase, Staffordshire UNDER A BANNER, THE SIGRID Mon 2 Dec, O2 6 Dec, Dudley Town ARTS AND CRAFTS EXHIBITION Show GIFT AND THIS WINTER STAFFORDSHIRE HOSPITALITY: CERAM- Academy, Birmingham Hall Sat 7 Dec, The Slade ICS THAT CATER TO THE WORLD Exhibi- featuring locally made arts and crafts, SOEUR + IN THE CARDS ELO AGAIN Fri 6 Dec, Rooms, Wolverhamp- tion exploring the 300-year history of until Mon 23 Dec, Qube Gallery, Os- + LYSANDER Mon 2 The Robin, Bilston ton North Staffordshire ceramics created westry, North Shropshire Dec, The Sugarmill, SPICE FOREVER - SPICE for the hospitality industry, until Sun THE GRAND AT 125 Exhibition cele- THE REGULARS Sat 7 Stoke-on-Trent GIRLS TRIBUTE Fri 6 19 Jan brates 125 years of the Grand The- Dec, Ludlow Brewery, Dec, The River Rooms, atre, until Sat 28 Dec, EMELI SANDÉ Mon 2 South Shropshire Dec, Symphony Hall, Stourbridge Wolverhampton City Archives BOB FOX Sat 7 Dec, The Willow Art Gallery, Birmingham RURAL SURREALISM AND WINTER EXHI- REBECCA DOWNES Fri 6 Lichfield Guildhall Oswestry MEMPHIS MAY FIRE Dec, The Slade BITION Exhibition exploring the use of NICK HARPER + INCE ART & CRAFT 2019 Including works by Tues 3 Dec, O2 Rooms, W’hampton dream imagery, folklore and fantasy BABIES + TURNING Nefelibata Photography -four photo- Academy, Birmingham in the traditions of painting, sculpture DREADZONE Fri 6 Dec, BLACK + LIKE LIZARDS graphic artists based in Anglesey - and print, until Sun 26 Jan, Twenty BAD MANNERS Tues 3 Newhampton Arts Sat 7 Dec, Katie Shropshire Guild of Contemporary Twenty Gallery, Ludlow Dec, The Mill Digbeth, Centre, W’hampton Fitzgerald’s, Stour- Craft and Borderland Visual Arts, until Birmingham DONAE’O Fri 6 Dec, O2 bridge Sat 11 Jan WINTER EXHIBITION Broad range of Members' new work for sale, includ- ABSOLUTE ELVIS FEAT Academy, Birmingham RICHARD SHINDELL Sun ing unique handcrafted cards, jew- JOHNNY LEE MEMPHIS CATAPULT CLUB: THE 8 Dec, The Hive, Weston Park ellery, paintings, photography, Tues 3 Dec, The PUNK MONKEYS Fri 6 Shrewsbury ceramics, glass, wood, textiles and Robin, Bilston NEW HALLS YOUNG ARTIST COMPETI- Dec, O2 Institute, MOSTLY AUTUMN Sun 8 mixed-media pieces, until Tues 28 TION 2019 All shortlisted artwork will WILD FRONT AND POLAR Birmingham Dec, The Robin, Bil- Jan, VAN Gallery, Darwin Shopping be on show, Sun 1 - Tues 31 Dec STATES Tues 3 Dec, O2 THE SMYTHS - 35TH AN- ston Centre, Shrewsbury Academy, Birmingham Wolverhampton Art Gallery NIVERSARY TOUR Fri 6 MICHAELA AND BEN FOL- CHANGING TIMES: HUMOUR AND SATIRE THE OVERTONES XMAS Dec, O2 Academy, GER Sun 8 Dec, KEITH PIPER: BODY POLITICS. WORK Exhibition exploring the prints and 2019 Tues 3 Dec, Sym- Birmingham Albert’s Shed, Shrews- FROM 1982 – 2007 Exhibition bringing objects that poked fun at new tech- phony Hall, B’ham THE HIGH CONTRAST bury together key works from across the nology such as steam power and the BAND Fri 6 Dec, O2 In- first three decades of Keith’s career, possibilities it held, until Fri 28 Feb, KIM CYPHER BAND Wed THE GET BACK BEATLES stitute, Birmingham until Sun 1 Dec Enginuity Museum, Ironbridge 4 Dec, Lichfield Guild- Sun 8 Dec, Lichfield hall BJORN AGAIN Fri 6 Dec, Guildhall 52 whatsonlive.co.uk The List Shrops/Staffs/Wolves 1 - 8 December.qxp_Layout 1 22/11/2019 12:22 Page 2
Sunday 1 - Sunday 8 December
CELTIC CHRISTMAS STRINGS Sat 7 Dec, Classical Bitterley Village Hall, Ludlow, South Shropshire JANE HAMLET (SOPRANO) IN CONCERT LICHFIELD CATHEDRAL CHORUS: MESSA Sun 1 Dec, Shrewsbury Cathedral DI GLORIA Sat 7 Dec, Lichfield Cathe- EX CATHEDRA: BACH MASS IN B MINOR dral Featuring the Ex Cathedra choir & LUDLOW CHORAL SOCIETY: JOYEUX Baroque Orchestra, Jeffrey Skidmore NOËL Programme includes works by (conductor) and Elizabeth Adams, Charpentier & Saint-Saëns, Sat 7 Katie Trethewey & Amy Wood (sopra- Dec, St Laurence’s Church, Ludlow, nos), Sun 1 Dec, Birmingham Town South Shropshire Hall CAROL SINGING IN CATHEDRAL SQUARE BIRMINGHAM PHILHARMONIC ORCHES- Sat 7 Dec, Cathedral Square, B’ham TRA: SNOW AT CHRISTMAS Featuring Richard Laing (conductor). Pro- EX CATHEDRA: CHRISTMAS MUSIC BY gramme includes works by Rimsky- CANDLELIGHT Popular festive concert Korsakov, Prokofiev, Tchaikovsky & featuring Jeffrey Skidmore at the Silvestri, Sun 1 Dec, Sutton Coldfield helm, Sat 7 Dec, St Peter’s Church, Town Hall Wolverhampton CITY SONGBIRDS CHRISTMAS CONCERT WOMBOURNE & DISTRICT CHORAL SOCI- Mon 2 Dec, Victoria Hall, Stoke-on- ETY: MESSIAH Sat 7 Dec, Church of St Trent John in the Square, Wolverhampton FRANÇOIS LELEUX: MENDELSSOHN Fea- THE BRITISH POLICE SYMPHONY OR- turing François Leleux (conductor/ CHESTRA: PROMS NIGHT SPECTACULAR Oboe) and Hanna Hipp (mezzo so- Sat 7 Dec, Symphony Hall, B’ham prano). Programme includes works SHREWSBURY YOUTH CHAMBER CHOIR by Mendelssohn & Berlioz, Wed 4 Sun 8 Dec, Shrewsbury Cathedral Dec, Birmingham Town Hall BIRMINGHAM PHILHARMONIC ORCHES- Curtains - Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent SHREWSBURY SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA: TRA: SNOWMAN AT CHRISTMAS Featur- OUT OF THIS WORLD Featuring music ing Richard Laing (conductor) and Dec, Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent by Holst & Strauss alongside scores Chris Passey (narrator). Programme A CHRISTMAS CAROL Presented by The from Star Trek and A Space Odyssey, includes the works of Blake, Rimsky- Theatre Crescent Theatre Company, Tues 3 - Wed 4 Dec, Alington Hall, Shrews- Korsakov and Prokofiev, Sun 8 Dec, THE SNOW QUEEN Hans Christian An- Sat 14 Dec, The Crescent Theatre, bury School Birmingham Town Hall dersen's family classic follows the ad- Birmingham BARCLAY’S PENSIONERS CAROL SERVICE ventures of inseparable friends Kai & Wed 4 Dec, Birmingham Cathedral Gerda, until Mon 30 Dec, The Old SOME EXPLICIT POLAROIDS Royal Birm- Rep Theatre, Birmingham ingham Conservatoire’s Theatre THE LEPROSY MISSION CAROL SERVICE Comedy Company presents Mark Ravenhill’s Wed 4 Dec, Lichfield Cathedral PETER PAN JM Barrie's swashbuckling satirical urban fairytale, Wed 4 - Sat 7 FRANÇOIS LELEUX PLAYS MOZART Also ELEANOR TIERNAN, CARL DONNELLY, creation flies into Birmingham for Dec, The Patrick Studio, Birmingham featuring Emmet Byrne (oboes), SCOTT GIBSON & COMIC TBC Wed 4 - Christmas, until Sun 19 Jan, The REP, Hippodrome Sun 8 Dec, The Glee Club, B’ham Birmingham Oliver Janes & Joanna Patton (clar- HENRY V Royal Birmingham Conser- inets), Nikolaj Henriques & Margaret JIM JEFFERIES Thurs 5 Dec, Resorts A MUSEUM IN BAGHDAD A story of trea- vatoire Theatre Company presents its Cookhorn (bassoons) and Elspeth World Arena, Birmingham sured history, desperate choices and version of Shakespeare’s epic history Dutch, Martin Wright, Mark Phillips & VINCE ATTA, ANNETTE FAGON, DAN the remarkable Gertrude Bell, until play, Wed 4 - Sat 7 Dec, The Cres- Jeremy Bushell (horns), Thurs 5 Dec, Sat 25 Jan, The Swan Theatre, Strat- SMITH & COMIC TBC Thurs 5 Dec, cent Theatre, Birmingham CBSO Centre, Birmingham ford-upon-Avon Stourbridge Town Hall THE IMPROLECTUALS Improv ‘super- I FAGIOLINI: LEONARDO DA VINCI - SHAP- THE PRINCE AND THE PAUPER IAN BRACKENBURY, CHE BURNLEY & ROB Featuring group’ featuring improvisers from ING THE INVISIBLE Featuring Robert imaginative storytelling, live music, MULLHOLLAND Thurs 5 Dec, The around the Midlands, Thurs 5 Dec, Hollingworth (conductor) and Profes- humour, puppetry & festive magic, George Hotel, Lichfield Arena Theatre, Wolverhampton sor Martin Kemp. Programme in- until Sat 25 Jan, New Vic Theatre, cludes works by Tallis, Howells, JUSTIN MOORHOUSE Fri 6 Dec, Newcastle-under-Lyme RICK WAKEMAN - THE GRUMPY OLD Cipriano de Rore, Monteverdi & Stafford Gatehouse Theatre CHRISTMAS SHOW Evening of ‘spell- THE BOY IN THE DRESS World premiere binding piano music and side-split- more... Thurs 5 Dec, Symphony Hall, FRANK SKINNER Fri 6 Dec, William based on David Walliams' bestselling ting stories’, Thurs 5 Dec, Victoria Birmingham Aston Hall, Wrexham book and featuring songs by Robbie Hall, Stoke-on-Trent PETER DONOHOE PLAYS HAYDN Pro- NICK PAGE, SEAN PERCIVAL, DAVE LONG- Williams and Guy Chambers, until MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET: A LIVE MUSI- gramme includes works by Haydn, LEY Fri 6 - Sat 7 Dec, The Comedy Sun 8 Mar, Royal Shakespeare The- CAL RADIO PLAY Featuring live Foley Schubert, Webern and Brahms, Fri 6 Loft, Birmingham atre, Stratford-upon-Avon Dec, Birmingham Conservatoire effects and a score of holiday carols, HAYLEY ELLIS & SALLY-ANNE HAYWARD KING JOHN Shakespeare’s rarely per- Thurs 5 - Tues 24 Dec, The Old Joint CITY OF BIRMINGHAM CHOIR: MESSIAH Sat 7 Dec, Midlands Arts Centre, formed tale of a nation in turmoil, Stock Theatre, Birmingham Fri 6 Dec, Symphony Hall, B’ham Birmingham until Sat 21 Mar, The Swan Theatre Stratford, Stratford-upon-Avon CHRISTMAS CAROL CASEBOOK: AWAY IN CELTIC CHRISTMAS STRINGS Fri 6 Dec, TOM BINNS, IVAN BRACKENBURY & A DANGER Festive farce featuring Silvester Horne Institute, Church WAYNE BEESE Sat 7 Dec, Whitchurch CHRISTMAS WASSAIL Fusion of words ‘murder, mayhem and more Christ- Stretton, South Shropshire Civic Centre, North Shropshire & music for the festive season, Fri 29 mas puns than you can wave your Nov - Sun 1 Dec, Oldbury Rep CONCERT IN THE ROUND Featuring COMEDY IN THE MET Sat 7 Dec, conductor’s baton at’, Thurs 5 Dec - Sarah Westwood (soprano), David Stafford Gatehouse Theatre ERIC’S CHRISTMAS PANTO Festive Sat 4 Jan, Lichfield Garrick favourite packed with ’60s music, Joyce (violin), Ruth Henley (cello) & ROB ROUSE, EDD HEDGES, CHRIS WASH- MRS PEACHUM’S GUIDE TO LOVE & MAR- Mon 2 - Sat 14 Dec, New Vic Theatre, Richard Silk (chamber organ), Fri 6 INGTON & DAMION LARKIN Sat 7 Dec, RIAGE (A RADICAL REWORKING OF THE Newcastle-under-Lyme Dec, St Chad’s Church, Shrewsbury Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent BEGGAR’S OPERA) Mid Wales Opera CURTAINS presents a new one-act opera con- PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA Sat 7 Dec, LAUGHING SOLE COMEDY CLUB FOR Jason Manford stars in a ‘hilarious’ whodunnit packed full of cerning ‘love, loyalty & London gin’, Elgar Concert Hall, Royal Birming- KIDS Sun 8 Dec, Midlands Arts Cen- ‘catchy songs, unforgettable charac- Fri 6 Dec, Castle Hall, Bridgnorth, ham Conservatoire tre, Birmingham ters and plot twists’, Tues 3 - Sat 7 South Shropshire whatsonlive.co.uk 53 The List Shrops/Staffs/Wolves 1 - 8 December.qxp_Layout 1 22/11/2019 12:22 Page 3
music music music
STEVE STEINMAN'S YOU WIN AGAIN CELEBRATING THE GROEGE MICHAEL VAMPIRES ROCK GHOST TRAIN THE MUSIC OF THE BEE GEES LEGACY FEATURING WAYNE DILKS Fri 17 Jan @ 7.30pm Sat 18 Jan @ 7.30pm Sat 25 Jan @ 7.30pm
dance music family
18+ DANCE TO THE MUSIC PRINCE TRIBUTE THE ADVENTURE OF HOSTED BY JAKE QUICKENDEN ENDORPHINMACHINE PINOCCHIO Sat 25 Jan @ 3.00pm Fri 31 Jan @ 7.30pm Sat 1 Feb @ 7.30pm
special comedy music
PSYCHIC MEDIUM COUNT ARTHUR STRONG BOOGIE WONDERLAND TONY STOCKWELL IS THERE ANYBODY OUT THERE? Thurs 6 Feb @ 7.30pm TWC GP 01458 Tues 4 Feb @ 7.30pm Wed 5 Feb @ 8.00pm
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thelist Sunday 1 - Sunday 8 December ket Hall, Shrewsbury, Mon 2 Dec through the magical portal to the Pantomime Dance TOLKIEN (12a) Biography/Drama. Star- North Pole, until Tues 24 Dec, Na- ring Nicholas Hoult, Lily Collins. tional Forest Adventure Farm, Burton THE NUTCRACKER Birmingham Royal ALADDIN X-Factor’s Wagner & Stourbridge Town Hall, Mon 2 Dec Upon Trent Ballet presents its annual staging of Britain’s Got Talent’s Donchez Dacres DRAYTON'S MAGICAL CHRISTMAS Meet Peter Wright’s world-famous festive THE CIAMBRA (15) Crime/Drama. Star- star alongside TV & radio personality Father Christmas in the Castle of production, until Sat 14 Dec, Birming- ring Pio Amato, Iolanda Amato. For- Dee ‘White Dee’ Kelly, until Sun 1 Dreams, experience ‘magical’ char- Dec, Stourbridge Town Hall ham Hippodrome eign language, subtitled. The Hive, Shrewsbury, Fri 6 Dec acter parades, live shows, falling snow and ‘spectacular’ fireworks, THE AERONAUTS (PG) Adventure/Biog- until Tues 31 Dec, Drayton Manor raphy. Starring Felicity Jones, Eddie Theme Park, Tamworth Talks / Redmayne. Old Market Hall, Shrews- bury, Fri 6 - Thurs 12 Dec SANTA'S WINTER WONDERLAND This year’s all-new Santa Show sees the Spoken Word THE WIZARD OF OZ (U) Adventure/Fam- white-bearded one preparing for his ily. Starring Judy Garland, Frank Mor- NO SUCH THING AS A FISH: THE BOOK OF big festive performance of The gan. Light House Media Centre, Twelve Days Of Christmas, until Tues THE YEAR 2019 Join the award-win- Wolverhampton, Sun 8 Dec ning podcast team as they fill us in 31 Dec, The Snowdome, Tamworth on the year we didn’t know we’d lived THE SNOW HOUSE BAR The bar makes through... Tues 3 Dec, Birmingham NEW FILMS ON GENERAL a welcome return to Birmingham’s Town Hall RELEASE: Bullring, complete with its super-pop- JACK AND THE BEANSTALK Presented Released from Fri 6 Dec, showing at ular VIP igloos, until Sun 5 Jan, The by Stoke Amateur Theatre Society selected cinemas Bullring Shopping Centre, B’ham (SATS), until Sun 8 Dec, Mitchell Arts Centre, Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent GREMLINS (12a) ICE SKATE BIRMINGHAM Ice Skate Cabaret Birmingham and the Big Wheel make CINDERELLA Festive family favourite HONEY BOY (15) a welcome return, until Sun 12 Jan, starring Rebecca Keatley (CBeebies) RUPAUL’S DRAG RACE Live on stage LUCY IN THE SKY (15) Centenary Square, Birmingham and Sam Rabone, until Sun 5 Jan, and hosted by Drag Queen Extraordi- MOTHERLESS BROOKLYN (15) Lichfield Garrick naire Alyssa Edwards, Sun 1 Dec, BBC GOOD FOOD SHOW WINTER Annual The Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham ORDINARY LOVE (12a) show offering plenty of opportunity to SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS purchase tasty food & drink for Amateur staging presented by Christmas, Thurs 28 Nov - Sun 1 Dec, CWAGMS, Wed 4 - Sat 7 Dec, Prince NEC, Birmingham of Wales Centre, Cannock Film Events ART & ANTIQUES FOR EVERYONE The ALADDIN Fun-filled family pantomime INDEPENDENT LISTINGS: largest vetted art, antiques and interi- featuring Brad Fitt as Widow Twankey CHRISTMAS WREATH MAKING WORK- ors fair outside London and featuring & BBC Radio Shropshire presenter SORRY WE MISSED YOU (15) Drama. SHOP Learn a new skill and create a Eric Smith, Wed 4 Dec - Sun 12 Jan, Starring Kris Hitchen, Debbie Honey- beautiful traditional Christmas wreath 180 specialist dealers, Thurs 28 Nov - Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury wood. Stoke Film Theatre, Fri 29 - Sat to make sure your door is the best Sun 1 Dec, NEC, Birmingham 30 Nov & Tues 3 Dec dressed in town! until Tues 17 Dec, SANTA SAFARI A ‘magical adventure’ SLEEPING BEAUTY Thurs 5 - Sun 8 The British Ironwork Centre, Os- Dec, Festival Drayton Centre, Market DOCTOR SLEEP (15) Fantasy/Horror. by Land Rover through the illumi- westry, North Shropshire Drayton, North Shropshire Starring Ewan McGregor, Rebecca nated woodland to see Santa in his Ferguson. Light House Media Centre, THE POLAR EXPRESS TRAIN RIDE The- real hillside grotto, Fri 29 Nov - Mon DICK WHITTINGTON Starring Su Pol- Wolverhampton, Fri 29 Nov - Wed 4 atrical recreation of the popular mo- 23 Dec, Hawkstone Park & Follies, lard, Ryan Thomas, Jeffrey Holland, Dec tion picture film, until Sun 22 Dec, Shrewsbury Aaron James & Ian Adams, Sat 7 Dec Birmingham Moor Street - Sun 12 Jan, Wolverhampton Grand THE REPORT (15) Drama/Thriller. Star- MINICHRISTMAS Activities include tree Theatre ring Adam Driver, Annette Bening. MEET SANTA Visit the Antarctic Ice decorating, paper-chain making and Light House Media Centre, Wolver- Cave, meet the man himself and snowflake cutting, Sat 30 Nov - Sun 1 hampton, Fri 29 Nov - Thurs 5 Dec check out a family of cheeky Gentoo Dec, Thinktank Science Museum, Birmingham THE IRISHMAN (15) Biography/Crime. penguins, until Mon 23 Dec, National Kids Shows Starring Robert De Niro, Al Pacino. Sea Life Centre, Birmingham THE BABY TO TODDLER SHOW Featuring Light House Media Centre, Wolver- CHRISTMAS THROUGH TIME Step back more than 100 brands covering ev- KIPPER'S SNOWY DAY Original songs & hampton, Fri 29 Nov - Thurs 5 Dec in time to discover a brand new im- erything from prams and furniture to music, puppetry and humour com- mersive experience, taking in the toys and clothing, Sat 30 Nov - Sun 1 bine in a stage version of Mick OFFICIAL SECRETS (15) sights, sounds and smells of Christ- Dec, NEC, Birmingham Inkpen’s much-loved book, until Tues Biography/Drama. Starring Keira mases past, until Tues 24 Dec, Black SANTA AND STEAM Santa’s on board 31 Dec, Midlands Arts Centre, B’ham Knightley, Matthew Goode. Old Mar- ket Hall, Shrewsbury, Fri 29 Nov - Country Living Museum, Dudley and bearing gifts for youngsters, HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS Thurs 5 Dec; Wem Town Hall, North NORTH POLE ADVENTURE Journey while there’s a glass of sherry for the Join in the festive fun with a produc- Shropshire, Wed 4 - Thurs 5 Dec tion which critics have called 'a ge- nius of a show’, Tues 3 - Sat 7 Dec, LOVE ACTUALLY (15) Drama/Romance. The Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham Starring Hugh Grant, Martine Mc- Cutcheon. Arena Theatre, Wolver- PENGUINS Show for children about hampton, Mon 2 Dec friendship, fun, identity and the ever- changing meaning of family, Wed 4 - MEET ME IN ST LOUIS (U) Sat 14 Dec, The REP, Birmingham Comedy/Drama. Starring Judy Gar- land, Margaret O'Brien. Wem Town DEAR SANTA Rod Campbell's festive Hall, North Shropshire, Mon 2 Dec tale for younger audiences, Fri 6 - Sat 7 Dec, Birmingham Town Hall EXTREMELY WICKED, SHOCKINGLY EVIL AND VILE (15) Biography/Crime. Star- CHARLIE & THE CHRISTMAS CAT ‘Adven- ring Lily Collins, Zac Efron. Edge Arts ture-packed festive show that’s just Centre, Much Wenlock, Shropshire, purrrfect for all the family’, Fri 6 - Tues Mon 2 Dec 24 Dec, Lichfield Garrick TOP HAT (U) Comedy/Musical. Starring Fred Astaire, Ginger Rogers. Old Mar- Drayton’s Magical Christmas - Drayton Manor Park, Tamworth
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COMING SOON...
4 December, 7.30pm The P Word: Roy McFarlane & Liz Lefroy Tickets: £7
7 December, 10am - 1pm Festive Family Funday
Tickets: £8 includes a gift from Santa
16 - 18 December, 10am, 12pm & 2.30pm Halfmoon: Glisten
Tickets: £12 1 Adult & 1 Child
18 December, 7.30pm Once Upon A Wednesday: “Wassail” Sarah Matthews & Doug Eunson Tickets: £7.50
19 December, 11am & 4pm Santa's Christmas Countdown
Tickets: £10
20 December, 7.30pm Festivities With Friends
Tickets: £8
21 December, 7.30pm Rat Pack Christmas Show
Tickets: £21
Friday 24th January 11am & 1.30pm The Goose Who Flew
Tickets: £8
Thursday 30th January, 8pm Mark Watson: Infinite Show
Tickets: £19 Box office: 01283 508100 BOOK ONLINE AT www.brewhouse.co.uk Brewhouse Arts Centre Union Street, Burton-upon-Trent Staffordshire DE14 1AA
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thelist Sunday 1 - Sunday 8 December grown-ups, Sat 30 Nov - Sun 1 Dec, - Tues 24 Dec, Legoland Discovery 12 Dec, Blakesley Hall, Birmingham to Santa’s grotto is the perfect way to Churnet Valley Railway, Froghall, Centre, Birmingham GEORGIAN CHRISTMAS TOURS See the start the festive season, Sat 7 - Sun 8 Staffs CHRISTMAS AT THE CASTLE Attractions house decorated with festive green- Dec, Apley Farm Shop, Norton, nr SANTA SPECIALS Steam train ride include ‘magical storytelling experi- ery and find out how Boulton and his Shifnal, Shropshire through the Severn Valley with Santa, ences’ with Mr & Mrs Claus and their friends would have celebrated the CHRISTMAS MARKET Featuring street Sat 30 Nov - Sun 1 Dec & Sat 7 - Sun merry elves, the chance to enjoy festive season during the 18th cen- food, live music and over 50 stalls 8 Dec, Severn Valley Railway, Bewd- breakfast with Santa and his wife, tury, Wed 4 - Thurs 19 Dec, Soho selling festive gifts and treats from ley, Nr Kidderminster Christmas feasts and medieval ban- House, Birmingham local producers and artisans, Sat 7 - SANTA SAFARI Meet an elf, climb on quets, Santa sleepovers, a special CHRISTMAS CRACKER CRAFTING AT Sun 8 Dec, World of Wedgwood, board a sleigh and head for the North carol-singing session and a brand SOHO Get into the Christmas spirit by Stoke-on-Trent Pole, Sat 30 Nov - Sun 1 Dec, West new ice rink, Sat 30 Nov - Tues 31 designing your own cracker, Wed 4 - CHRISTMAS AT THE CASTLE Browse Midland Safari and Leisure Park, Be- Dec, Warwick Castle Thurs 19 Dec, Soho House, B’ham seasonal gifts & craft stalls. Chil- wdley, Nr Kidderminster MORNING EXPLORERS The museum MARVEL UNIVERSE LIVE! Action-packed dren’s activities include horse & car- SANTA HUNTS Help the museum's fes- opens early for those wanting to ex- battle to defend the universe from riage rides, musical performances tive costumed guides look for Santa, plore in a quiet and welcoming envi- evil, Thurs 5 - Sun 8 Dec, Arena Birm- and the chance to meet Father Sat 30 Nov - Sun 1 Dec, Black Coun- ronment, Sun 1 Dec, Thinktank ingham Christmas, Sat 7 - Sun 8 Dec, Hartle- Science Museum, Birmingham bury Castle, Kidderminster try Living Museum, Dudley CAROL EVENING Traditional evening in CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS Enjoy a day SANTA'S SLEEPOVER Experience ‘the Shugborough's historic Park Farm CHRISTMAS MARKET Featuring unique out that's ‘choc-full of festive fun’, Sat most magical Christmas Escape’ with Yard, Fri 6 Dec, Shugborough His- and contemporary gifts, including 30 Nov - Sun 1 Dec, Cadbury World, Santa's Sleepover, Sun 1 Dec, Alton toric Working Estate, Stafford homemade preserves, jewellery and Birmingham Towers, Stoke-on-Trent children's clothing, Sat 7 - Sun 8 Dec, WINTER FESTIVAL CRAFT & FOOD FAYRE Bantock House & Park, W’hampton CHRISTMAS AT COALBROOKDALE Say GEORGIAN CHRISTMAS TOURS See the Featuring local products made by hello to Santa in his woodland grotto, house decorated with festive green- local people, Fri 6 Dec, Wem Town MEET FATHER CHRISTMAS Meet Father Sat 30 Nov - Sun 1 Dec, Coalbrook- ery and find out how Boulton and his Hall, North Shropshire Christmas and Mary in a traditional friends would have celebrated the grotto, Sat 7 - Sun 22 Dec, Middle- dale Museum of Iron, Ironbridge, CHRISTMAS TILE DECORATING WORK- Shropshire festive season during the 18th cen- port Pottery, Staffordshire tury, Sun 1 Dec, Soho House, B’ham SHOPS Use a fun tube-lining tech- MOROCCAN FIRE NIGHTS ‘Fusing in- nique to produce your own ceramic SANTA'S GROTTO Make your museum credible entertainment with a deli- SALOP SANTA DASH & ELF DASH Sun 1 masterpiece, Fri 6 - Sat 7 Dec, Jack- visit extra special by popping along cious festive feast and a Dec, Love2Stay, Shrewsbury field Tile Museum, Ironbridge, Shrops to the festive family grotto, Sat 7 - spectacularly themed environment’, A FAIRY TALE CHRISTMAS Watch out for Sun 22 Dec, Birmingham Museum CHRISTMAS CAROL TRAINS Sing along And Art Gallery Sat 30 Nov - Sun 22 Dec, NEC, Birm- the fairies and their special tales, or just soak up the festive atmo- ingham meet Santa and his elves at the North sphere, Sat 7 Dec, Severn Valley Rail- CHILDREN'S VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS STATFOLD SANTA EXPRESS Climb Pole and check out Krazy Kris and way, Bewdley, Nr Kidderminster SANTA TRAILS Meet the Victorian aboard Santa’s magical steam train his madcap pantomime, Sun 1 Dec, household readying themselves for Dudley Canal and Tunnel Trust FESTIVE FAMILY FUNDAY Host of yule- the annual visit of their very special and journey to the North Pole, Sat 30 tide activities, including stories Nov - Sun 22 Dec, Statfold Barn Rail- TALL TALES: BEAUTY AND THE BEAST guest, Sat 7 - Mon 23 Dec, Tamworth around the fireplace and a visit from Castle way, Tamworth STORY TOUR Interactive telling of the Santa, Sat 7 Dec, Brewhouse Arts CHRISTMAS AT SHUGBOROUGH See the traditional story, Sun 1 Dec, Aston Centre, Burton upon Trent SANTA'S SLEEPOVER Experience ‘the Hall, Birmingham most magical Christmas Escape’ with mansion, servants' quarters and Park CHRISTMAS AT WOLVES ART GALLERY Farm House decorated for Christmas, SANTA'S GROTTO Whether it’s their first Santa's Sleepover, Sun 8 Dec, Alton Meet Santa and pick up a mini gift. Towers, Staffordshire Sat 30 Nov - Sun 22 Dec, Shugbor- Christmas or a family tradition, a visit Make a Christmas craft to take home ough Historic Working Estate, to Santa’s Grotto is the perfect way to and follow a trail around the galleries, Staffordshire start the festive season, Sun 1 Dec, Sat 7 Dec, Wolverhampton Art Apley Farm Shop, Norton, Nr Shifnal, Gallery Shropshire ARTISAN MARKET AT THE WORLD OF THINKTANK ELF HUNT Pick up a finder’s WEDGWOOD Featuring over 50 stalls sheet and record all the elves you full of fine foods from local producers find as you explore the museum, Sun and hand-crafted products, Sat 7 - 1 - Mon 23 Dec, Thinktank Science Sun 8 Dec, World of Wedgwood, Museum, Birmingham Stoke-on-Trent STORY TIME WITH FATHER CHRISTMAS CHRISTMAS AT COALBROOKDALE Say Lively and informal event with Father hello to the man himself in his wood- Christmas and his gnomes, Mon 2 - SANTA'S GROTTO Meet Santa and his land grotto, Sat 7 - Sun 8 Dec, Coal- Thurs 19 Dec, Attingham Park, brookdale Museum of Iron, team of elves, Sat 30 Nov - Mon 23 Shrewsbury Dec, The British Ironwork Centre, Os- Ironbridge, Shropshire westry, North Shropshire STEAM IN LIGHTS Illuminated adven- CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS Enjoy a day ture along the Severn Valley, com- CHRISTMAS IN THE COURTYARD Enjoy ATTINGHAM CHRISTMAS: INSPIRED BY out that's ‘choc-full of festive fun, Sat plete with ‘a dazzling extravaganza of 7 - Sun 8 Dec, Cadbury World, B’ham warm drinks and mince pies, sing NATURE Visit the mansion’s individu- magical creatures, sparkling lights, along with carols and make Christ- ally themed rooms, specially deco- snowfall and thrills’, Tues 3 - Sat 7 SANTA AND STEAM Santa’s on board mas decorations, Sun 8 Dec, Birm- rated to represent nature, both local Dec, Severn Valley Railway, Bewdley, and bearing gifts for youngsters, ingham Back to Backs and exotic, Sat 30 Nov - Mon 23 Dec, Nr Kidderminster while there’s a glass of sherry for the Attingham Park, Shrewsbury grown-ups, Sat 7 - Sun 8 Dec, Chur- CAROLS IN THE CAVERNS Musical tour SANTA SAFARI Families visiting West net Valley Railway, Froghall, Staffs through the caverns as the choir joins SANTA'S GROTTO After receiving a spe- Midland Safari Park this festive sea- your boat for an intimate and uplifting cial gift from Santa, it’s off to see his son can meet an elf, climb on board VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS Sat 7 - Sun 8 start to the Christmas season, Sun 8 reindeer as they prepare for their a sleigh and head for the North Pole, Dec, Blists Hill Victorian Town, Iron- Dec, Dudley Canal and Tunnel Trust busiest night of the year, Sat 30 Nov - bridge, Shropshire Wed 4 - Sun 8 Dec, West Midland Sa- CHRISTMAS AT MILLENNIUM POINT Meet Tues 24 Dec, Dudley Zoological Gar- fari and Leisure Park, Bewdley, Nr CHRISTMAS FOOD & CRAFT FAYRE Com- dens Santa, take part in craft workshops, Kidderminster prising over 100 stalls, Sat 7 - Sun 8 browse stalls and enjoy family enter- CHRISTMAS BRICKTACULAR Seasonal TUDOR CHRISTMAS TOURS Special Dec, Weston Park, Nr Shifnal tainment, Sun 8 - Thurs 19 Dec, Mil- build activities and holiday theming guided tours exploring Christmas in SANTA'S GROTTO Whether it’s their first lennium Point & Eastside Park, throughout the attraction, Sat 30 Nov the time of the Tudors, Wed 4 - Thurs Christmas or a family tradition, a visit Birmingham whatsonlive.co.uk 57 BUTTERMARKET Full Page in What's On February 2019.qxp_Layout 1 22/11/2019 13:17 Page 1 The List Shrops/Staffs/Wolves 9 - 15 December.qxp_Layout 1 22/11/2019 12:25 Page 2
thelist Monday 9 - Sunday 15 December Gigs Classical Comedy GEORGE HINCHLIFFE GOD SAVE OUR QUEENS - THE TOUR UKULELE ORCHESTRA OF Music Tues 10 Dec, The Glee Club, B’ham GREAT BRITAIN Mon 9 WINCHESTER CATHEDRAL CHOIR: SOL BERNSTEIN, ALLYSON SMITH, PAUL Dec, Symphony Hall, LUNCHTIME CHRISTMAS MUSIC Featur- MCCAFFREY & ANDY ROBINSON Wed Birmingham ing Andrew Lumsden (conductor) 11 - Sun 15 Dec, The Glee Club, THE BIG BAND AT and Thomas Trotter (organ). Pro- Birmingham CHRISTMAS - WITH FIVE gramme includes works by Cor- ADAM BLOOM, LEO KEARSE & PETE STAR SWING Tues 10 nelius, JS Bach and aar Wilberg, OTWAY Thurs 12 Dec, The Comedy Dec, Dudley Town Hall Mon 9 Dec, Symphony Hall, B’ham Loft, Birmingham NEW POWER GENERA- CHOIRS AT CHRISTMAS Mon 9 Dec, BARBARA NICE'S CHRISTMAS CRACKER TION - CELEBRATING Victoria Hall, Stoke-on-Trent Thurs 12 - Fri 13 Dec, Midlands Arts PRINCE Tues 10 Dec, G4 CHRISTMAS Tues 10 Dec, Birming- Centre, Birmingham O2 Institute, B’ham The Ronaldos - Havana Republic, Shrewsbury ham Town Hall DANIEL SLOSS Fri 13 Dec, O2 HOT SNAKES Tues 10 PABLO FERRÁNDEZ PIANO RECITAL Also Academy, Birmingham Dec, Hare & Hounds, FRIENDS AS THE ROY THE STONES Fri 13 - featuring Luis Del Valle (piano). Pro- ADAM BLOOM, SEAN PERCIVAL & DAVE Birmingham ORBISON STORY Fri 13 Sun 15 Dec, Theatre gramme includes works by Bruch, LONGLEY Fri 13 Dec, The Comedy Dec, Prince Of Wales On The Steps, Bridg- TALON Wed 11 Dec, Brahms, Shostakovich and Anton Loft, Birmingham Prince Of Wales Cen- Centre, Cannock north, South Shrops Garcia-Abril, Wed 11 Dec, Sym- JOHN ROBERTSON & COMICS TBC Fri 13 tre, Cannock DRUNKEN DOLLY Fri 13 THE MAGIC OF MOTOWN phony Hall, Birmingham Dec, Katie Fitzgerald's, Stourbridge BEABADOOBEE + NO Dec, Katie Fitzger- Sat 14 Dec, Prince Of CBSO: MIGRA CONDUCTS BRAHMS Fea- ADAM BLOOM, LEO KEARSE & PETE ROME + OSCAR LANG ald’s, Stourbridge Wales Centre, Can- turing Mirga Gražinyt -Tyla (conduc- OTWAY Sat 14 Dec, The Comedy Wed 11 Dec, The Sug- ROD STEWART Fri 13 nock tor), Thomas E. Bauerė (baritone) & Loft, Birmingham armill, Stoke-on-Trent Dec, Arena B’ham GO WEST FEATURING the CBSO Youth Chorus. Pro- gramme includes works by Elgar, ELEANOR TIERNAN, WILSON MILTON, THE URBAN VOODOO CHILDCARE Fri 13 Dec, COX AND RICHARD DAVE TWENTYMAN & DAMION LARKIN MACHINE Wed 11 Dec, The Sugarmill, Stoke- DRUMMIE Sat 14 Dec, Jörg Widmann and Brahms, Thurs Sat 14 Dec, Regent Theatre, Stoke- The Robin, Bilston on-Trent The Robin, Bilston 12 Dec, Symphony Hall, B’ham on-Trent NADINE BENJAMIN IN CONCERT Also PETE TONG PRESENTS KICK UP THE 80’S Fri 13 OF KINGS AND CAPTAINS IBIZA CLASSICS Wed 11 Dec, The Robin, Bil- Sat 14 Dec, Katie featuring Gomez Ferrer (tenor) and Dec, Arena B’ham ston Fitzgerald’s, Stour- Chris Hopkins (piano). Programme bridge includes extracts from Verdi’s Otello, HISS GOLDEN MESSEN- JOY DIVISION TRIBUTE Ballo and Il Trovatore, Thurs 12 Dec, Theatre GER Wed 11 Dec, Hare 'TRANSMISSION' & DE- KATE RUSBY Sat 14 Royal Birmingham Conservatoire THE SNOW QUEEN Hans Christian An- & Hounds, B’ham PECHE MODE TRIBUTE Dec, Town Hall, B’ham dersen's family classic follows the 'THE DEVOUT'. Fri 13 ROY WOOD’S ROCKMAS MIDLANDS HOSPITALS CHOIR: CAROLS DERMOT KENNEDY Wed adventures of inseparable friends Dec, The Slade Sat 14 Dec, Sym- FOR CLIC Fri 13 Dec, Birmingham 11 Dec, O2 Academy, Kai & Gerda, until Mon 30 Dec, The Rooms, W’hampton phony Hall, B’ham Town Hall Birmingham Old Rep Theatre, Birmingham CBSO: FRIDAY NIGHT CLASSICS: STAR THE CHATS Wed 11 THE STONES Fri 13 Dec, WE LOVE THE 90'S Sat WARS Featuring Stephen Bell (con- PETER PAN JM Barrie's swashbuck- Dec, O2 Institute, Theatre On The Steps, 14 Dec, Arena B’ham ductor), Fri 13 Dec, Symphony Hall, ling creation flies into Birmingham Birmingham Bridgnorth, Shropshire HAPPY MONDAYS Sat Birmingham for Christmas, until Sun 19 Jan, The DWEEZIL ZAPPA - HOT BIG COUNTRY Fri 13 14 Dec, O2 Institute, REP, Birmingham MOZART’S CLARINET QUINTET Featur- RATS LIVE! Wed 11 Dec, The Mill Digbeth, Birmingham ing Mark Tocknell with the Wenlock A MUSEUM IN BAGHDAD A story of Dec, Town Hall, B’ham Birmingham BROKEN WITT REBELS Quintet, Fri 13 Dec, St Chad’s treasured history, desperate choices MAX & IGGOR CAV- CATAPULT FT. HIT THE Sat 14 Dec, O2 Insti- Church, Shrewsbury and the remarkable Gertrude Bell, ALERA: RETURN BE- FLOOR Fri 13 Dec, O2 tute, Birmingham until Sat 25 Jan, The Swan Theatre, LICHFIELD CATHEDRAL CHOIR: CHRIST- NEATH ARISE Thurs 12 Academy, Birmingham Stratford-upon-Avon BLONDIED Sat 14 Dec, MAS BY CANDLELIGHT Sat 14 Dec, Dec, O2 Academy, ARTHUR DOHERTY BAND Eleven, Sandyford, Lichfield Cathedral THE PRINCE AND THE PAUPER Featur- Birmingham Fri 13 Dec, Stafford Stoke-on-Trent ing imaginative storytelling, live THE PEOPLE’S ORCHESTRA: SOMETHING FASTLOVE - A TRIBUTE Gatehouse Theatre music, humour, puppetry & festive QUILL Sun 15 Dec, MAGICAL Sat 14 Dec, West Bromwich TO GEORGE MICHAEL magic, until Sat 25 Jan, New Vic GHETTS Fri 13 Dec, O2 Prince Of Wales Cen- Town Hall Thurs 12 Dec, Arena Institute, Birmingham tre, Cannock Theatre, Newcastle-under-Lyme HALESOWEN CHORAL SOCIETY: CAROLS Birmingham THE BOY IN THE DRESS World pre- FIGHT THE BEAR Fri 13 RAYMOND FROGGATT & BY CANDLIGHT Featuring Steve Davis FRED ZEPPELIN Thurs miere based on David Walliams' Dec, Albert’s Shed, HIS BAND Sun 15 Dec, (conductor) & Sarah Marshall 12 Dec, The Robin, bestselling book and featuring Shrewsbury The Robin, Bilston (soloist), Sat 14 Dec, St Margaret’s Bilston songs by Robbie Williams and Guy KINGS OV LEON Fri 13 BOTOWN- THE SOULS Church, Hasbury, Halesowen HOBO JOHNSON & THE Chambers, until Sun 8 Mar, Royal Dec, Eleven, Sandy- OF BOLLYWOOD Sun 15 FESTIVAL CHOIR: A NIGHT OF A THOU- LOVEMAKERS Thurs 12 Shakespeare Theatre, Stratford- ford, Stoke-on-Trent Dec, The Glee Club, SAND VOICES Sun 15 Dec, Dudley Dec, O2 Institute, upon-Avon BBMAK Fri 13 Dec, O2 Birmingham Town Hall Birmingham KING JOHN Shakespeare’s rarely per- Academy, Birmingham IO EARTH CHRISTMAS BIRMINGHAM BACH CHOIR: SERVICE OF RONALDOS Thurs 12 formed tale of a nation in turmoil, MOTIONLESS IN WHITE PARTY Sun 15 Dec, NINE LESSONS & CAROLS Service of Dec, Havana Republic, until Sat 21 Mar, The Swan Theatre, Fri 13 Dec, O2 Insti- Hare & Hounds, Birm- bible readings & carols, Sun 15 Dec, Shrewsbury Stratford-upon-Avon tute, Birmingham ingham St Alban the Martyr, Birmingham BUZZCOCKS Thurs 12 THE KING & I Tony Award-winning DENIS COLEMAN Fri 13 AN EVENING WITH LEAD LONDON CONCERT ORCHESTRA Featur- Dec, The Slade Rodgers & Hammerstein classic. Dec, O2 Institute, SINGER OF SOIL AND ing Freddie Tapner (conductor), Rooms, W’hampton FORMERLY DROWNING Jose Llana & Annalene Beechey Birmingham Laura Tebbutt & Tim Howar (guest star, Tues 10 Dec - Sat 4 Jan, The COUNTERFEIT Thurs 12 POOL - RYAN MCCOMBS ESSENTIAL 80’S V 90’S singers) & the Jingle Belle Dancers, Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham Dec, O2 Academy, Sun 15 Dec, The Fri 13 - Sat 14 Dec, Sun 15 Dec, Symphony Hall, B’ham Birmingham Robin, Bilston WHEN WE ARE MARRIED Stoke Rep The River Rooms, JON BARTON ORGAN RECITAL Sun 15 Players present an amateur staging BARRY STEELE & Stourbridge Dec, Shrewsbury Cathedral whatsonlive.co.uk 59 The List Shrops/Staffs/Wolves 9 - 15 December.qxp_Layout 1 22/11/2019 12:25 Page 3
thelist sights, sounds and smells of Christ- mases past, until Tues 24 Dec, Black Film Country Living Museum, Dudley INDEPENDENT LISTINGS: IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE (U) Family/Fan- tasy. Starring James Stewart, Donna Reed. Arena Theatre, Wolverhamp- ton, Mon 9 Dec ALADDIN (PG) Adventure/Family. Star- ring Will Smith, Mena Massoud. Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock, South Shropshire, Mon 9 Dec SATURDAY NIGHT FEVER (U) Drama/Music. Starring John Travolta, SANTA'S WINTER WONDERLAND This Karen Lynn Gorney. Mitchell Arts year’s all-new Santa Show sees the Centre, Stoke-on-Trent, Tues 10 Dec white-bearded one preparing for his big festive performance of The SCROOGE (U) Comedy/Family. Starring Twelve Days Of Christmas, until Tues Alistair Sim, Kathleen Harrison. Lud- 31 Dec, The Snowdome, Tamworth low Assembly Rooms, South Shrop- shire, Tues 10 Dec DRAYTON'S MAGICAL CHRISTMAS Meet Father Christmas in the Castle of Peter Pan - Stafford Gatehouse Theatre THE GOOD LIAR (15) Drama. Starring Dreams, experience ‘magical’ char- Helen Mirren, Ian McKellen. Wem acter parades, live shows, falling of JB Priestley’s provincial comedy, Coronation Street actor Oliver Mellor Town Hall, North Shropshire, Tues 10 Tues 10 - Sat 14 Dec, Stoke Reper- as Fleshcreep & comedy star Carl snow and ‘spectacular’ fireworks, & Thurs 12 Dec; Old Market Hall, until Tues 31 Dec, Drayton Manor tory Theatre Dutfield as Jack, Wed 11 Dec - Sun 5 Shrewsbury, Fri 13 - Thurs 19 Dec Jan, The Place, Telford Theme Park, Tamworth THE GOOD SOUL OF SZECHUAN Royal WOMEN IN LOVE (15) Drama/Romance. Birmingham Conservatoire’s Theatre MOTHER GOOSE Fun-filled egg-strava- THE SNOW HOUSE BAR The bar makes Starring Alan Bates, Oliver Reed. The a welcome return to Birmingham’s Company presents its version of ganza for the festive season, Fri 13 - Hive, Shrewsbury, Wed 11 Dec Bertolt Brecht’s exploration of the Sun 22 Dec, Forest Arts Centre, Wal- Bullring, complete with its super-pop- human soul, Wed 11 - Sat 14 Dec, sall YESTERDAY (12a) Comedy/Fantasy. ular VIP igloos, until Sun 5 Jan, The Starring Himesh Patel, Lily James. Bullring Shopping Centre, B’ham The Patrick Studio, Birmingham Hip- PETER PAN Starring Coronation podrome Ludlow Assembly Rooms, South ICE SKATE BIRMINGHAM Ice Skate Street’s Ian Reddington as Captain Shropshire, Sat 14 Dec BEYOND THE BARRICADE The best of Hook and Corey Jones as Peter Pan, Birmingham and the Big Wheel make Broadway and the West End, Thurs Fri 13 Dec - Sun 5 Jan, Stafford Gate- A CHRISTMAS CAROL (U) Drama/Family. a welcome return, until Sun 12 Jan, 12 Dec, Prince Of Wales Centre, Can- house Theatre Starring George C. Scott, Frank Fin- Centenary Square, Birmingham nock lay. Old Market Hall, Shrewsbury, Sat STEAM IN LIGHTS A ‘spectacular’ illu- SLEEPING BEAUTY Starring Potteries 14 Dec ANNIE JNR Amateur staging of the panto royalty Jonathan Wilkes and minated adventure along the Severn smash-hit musical, Sat 14 Dec, The Christian Patterson, Fri 13 Dec - Sun LAST CHRISTMAS (12a) Comedy/Ro- Valley with ‘a dazzling extravaganza Brewhouse Arts Centre, Burton-upon- 5 Jan, Regent Theatre, Stoke-on- mance. Starring Emilia Clarke, Henry of magical creatures, sparkling lights, Trent Trent Golding. Wem Town Hall, North snowfall and thrills’, Tues 10 - Sat 14 Shropshire, Sat 14, Mon 16 - Tues 17 Dec, Severn Valley Railway, Bewdley A CHRISTMAS WASSAIL Festive feast of & Thurs 19 Dec music, comedy & spoken word, Sat NO AMPS, NO CHAT, NO CHARGE 14 Dec, Hartelbury Castle, Kidder- WEST SIDE STORY (PG) Drama/Musical. Monthly acoustic evening featuring minster Kids Shows Starring Natalie Wood, George some of the Midlands’ best songwrit- Chakiris. Light House Media Centre, ers, Wed 11 Dec, Arena Theatre, CHARLIE & THE CHRISTMAS CAT ‘Adven- Wolverhampton, Sun 15 Dec Wolverhampton ture-packed festive show that’s just purrrfect for all the family’, until Tues SANTA SAFARI Meet an elf, climb on Pantomime 24 Dec, Lichfield Garrick board a sleigh and head for the North Pole, Wed 11 - Sun 15 Dec, West CINDERELLA Festive family favourite KIPPER'S SNOWY DAY Original songs & Events Midland Safari and Leisure Park, Be- starring Rebecca Keatley (CBeebies) music, puppetry and humour com- wdley, Nr Kidderminster and Sam Rabone, until Sun 5 Jan, bine in a stage version of Mick MOROCCAN FIRE NIGHTS ‘Fusing in- Lichfield Garrick Inkpen’s much-loved book, until Tues credible entertainment with a deli- ILLUMINATED ARBORETUM ‘Wander cious festive feast and a through the woodlands washed with DICK WHITTINGTON Starring Su Pol- 31 Dec, Midlands Arts Centre, Birm- spectacularly themed environment’, colour, listen to the subtle sounds of lard, Ryan Thomas, Jeffrey Holland, ingham until Sun 22 Dec, NEC, Birmingham the landscape and be captivated by Aaron James & Ian Adams, until RAPUNZEL Saltmine Theatre Company the memorials shown in another Sun 12 Jan, Wolverhampton Grand presents the much-loved Brothers THE POLAR EXPRESS TRAIN RIDE The- light’, Wed 11 - Fri 20 Dec, National Theatre Grimm children’s tale, Fri 13 Dec, atrical recreation of the popular mo- Memorial Arboretum, Alrewas, Stourbridge Town Hall tion picture film, until Sun 22 Dec, ALADDIN Fun-filled family pantomime Birmingham Moor Street Staffordshire featuring Brad Fitt as Widow Twankey DEAR SANTA Rod Campbell's festive CHRISTMAS IN THE COURTYARD Enjoy & BBC Radio Shropshire presenter tale for younger audiences, Fri 13 - MEET SANTA Visit the Antarctic Ice warm drinks and mince pies, sing Eric Smith, until Sun 12 Jan, Theatre Tues 24 Dec, Theatre Severn, Cave, meet the man himself and along with carols and make Christ- Severn, Shrewsbury Shrewsbury check out a family of cheeky Gentoo penguins, until Mon 23 Dec, National mas decorations, Thurs 12 Dec, ALADDIN Mon 9 - Sun 15 Dec, Ruge- MOONBEAM ON A CAT’S EAR Jabuti The- Sea Life Centre, Birmingham Birmingham Back to Backs ley Rose Theatre, Rugeley, Staffs atre present ‘a perfect seasonal treat SHUGBOROUGH'S CHRISTMAS SHINDIG for families & younger children’, Sat CHRISTMAS BRICKTACULAR Seasonal TINDER-ELLA Adults-only panto, Tues Highlights include a drop-in work- 14 - Sun 15 Dec, Newhampton Arts build activities and holiday theming 10 - Sat 14 Dec, The Blue Orange shop with The Crafty Hen, free mulled Centre, Wolverhampton throughout the attraction, until Tues Theatre, Birmingham 24 Dec, Legoland Discovery Centre, wine, music and exclusive discounts ALADDIN Traditional family pan- SANTA IN LOVE ‘Fun-filled family musi- Birmingham in the shop, Thurs 12 Dec, Shugbor- cal complete with games, giggles ough Historic Working Estate, tomime, Tues 10 - Tues 31 Dec, Sut- CHRISTMAS THROUGH TIME Step back ton Coldfield Town Hall and all your favourite Christmas Staffordshire songs’, Sun 15 Dec, Prince Of Wales in time to discover a brand new im- MAC GIN & JAZZ CLUB: FESTIVE EDITION JACK AND THE BEANSTALK Starring Centre, Cannock mersive experience, taking in the 60 whatsonlive.co.uk The List Shrops/Staffs/Wolves 9 - 15 December.qxp_Layout 1 22/11/2019 12:25 Page 4
Monday 9 - Sunday 15 December
Step into the festivities with a gin or just soak up the festive atmo- cocktail in hand, listening to ‘the best sphere, Sat 14 Dec, Severn Valley live jazz around’, Fri 13 Dec, Mid- Railway, Bewdley, Nr Kidderminster lands Arts Centre, Birmingham THE FESTIVE GIN TRAIN Travel through CHRISTMAS TILE DECORATING WORK- the Severn Valley in a 1936-built luxu- SHOPS Try a fun tube-lining technique rious first-class carriage (once hauled to produce your own ceramic master- by the Flying Scotsman) whilst sip- piece, Fri 13 - Sat 14 Dec, Jackfield ping gin cocktails, Sat 14 Dec, Sev- Tile Museum, Telford, Shropshire ern Valley Railway, Bewdley, Nr WINTER LIGHTS AT HIMLEY HALL A ‘for- Kidderminster est of light’ designed to show off the CHRISTMAS AT COALBROOKDALE Say natural beauty of Himley Hall and hello to the man himself in his wood- parkland, Fri 13 - Sun 15 Dec, Himley land grotto, Sat 14 - Sun 15 Dec, Hall & Park, Dudley Coalbrookdale Museum of Iron, Iron- A FAIRY TALE CHRISTMAS Watch out for bridge, Shropshire the fairies and their special tales, SANTA SPECIALS Steam train ride meet Santa and his elves at the North through the Severn Valley with Santa, Pole and check out Krazy Kris and Sat 14 - Sun 15 Dec, Severn Valley his madcap pantomime, Fri 13 - Sun Railway, Bewdley, Nr Kidderminster 15 Dec, Dudley Canal and Tunnel SANTA AND STEAM Santa’s on board Christmas at Coalbrookdale - Coalbrookdale Musuem of Iron, Ironbridge, Shropshire Trust and bearing gifts for youngsters, ENCHANTED WESTON Featuring a while there’s a glass of sherry for the Hall and encounter some of your 15 Dec, Apley Farm Shop, Norton, Nr colourful illuminated winter walk and grown-ups, Sat 14 - Sun 15 Dec, favourite fictional characters, Sat 14 - Shifnal, Shropshire a pop-up courtyard festival, Fri 13 - Churnet Valley Railway, Froghall, Sun 15 Dec, Aston Hall, Birmingham CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS Enjoy a day Sat 21 Dec, Weston Park, Nr Shifnal Staffs VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS Sat 14 - Sun 15 out that's ‘choc-full of festive fun’, Sat A CHRISTMAS SING-ALONG SPECTACU- FATHER CHRISTMAS AT BLAKESLEY HALL Dec, Blists Hill Victorian Town, Iron- 14 - Sun 15 Dec, Cadbury World, LAR Meet some of your favourite Meet Father Christmas and see bridge, Shropshire Birmingham princesses and much-loved charac- Blakesley Hall dressed for Christmas, SANTA'S GROTTO Whether it’s their first SANTA'S SLEEPOVER ‘Experience the ters, Sat 14 Dec, Stourbridge Town Sat 14 - Sun 15 Dec, Blakesley Hall, Christmas or a family tradition, a visit most magical Christmas Escape’ with Hall Birmingham to Santa’s grotto is the perfect way to Santa's Sleepover, Sat 14 - Mon 23 CHRISTMAS CAROL TRAINS Sing along FAIRY TALE CHRISTMAS Explore Aston start the festive season, Sat 14 - Sun Dec, Alton Towers, Stoke-on-Trent
whatsonlive.co.uk 61 The List Shrops/Wolves/Staffs 16 - 22 December.qxp_Layout 1 22/11/2019 12:28 Page 1
thelist TAIR BARRIE Thurs 19 Dec, The Com- Gigs Classical Music edy Loft, Birmingham ALISTAIR BARRIE, DAVE LONGLEY & SWEET FEATURING ANDY SING CAROLS WITH THE CITY ORGANIST MATT RICHARDSON Fri 20 - Sat 21 Dec, SCOTT Mon 16 Dec, AND LICHFIELD CATHEDRAL CHOIR Fea- The Comedy Loft, Birmingham The Robin, Bilston turing Thomas Trotter (organ), Mon BRIAN & KRYSSTAL, SIMON LOMAS, STEELEYE SPAN 50TH 16 Dec, Birmingham Town Hall DAVE TWENTYMAN & DAMION LARKIN ANNIVERSARY TOUR REGGAE PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA: Sat 21 Dec, Regent Theatre, Stoke- 1969 - 2019 Mon 16 FESTIVE EXTRAVAGANZA Wed 18 Dec, on-Trent Dec, Birmingham Birmingham Town Hall JAVIER JARQUIN (PICTURED) & IAN Town Hall CBSO: A CHORAL CHRISTMAS Featuring STONE, TOM KING & PHILIP SIMON Sun AITCH Tues 17 Dec, O2 Simon Halsey (conductor) & the 22 Dec, The George Hotel, Lichfield Institute, Birmingham CBSO Chorus. Hugh Dennis pre- THE ALBION BAND Tues sents, Wed 18 - Fri 20 Dec, Sym- 17 Dec, New Vic The- phony Hall, Birmingham atre, Newcastle-under- EX CATHEDRA: CHRISTMAS MUSIC BY Lyme CANDLELIGHT Popular festive concert THE FRANKI VALLI featuring Jeffrey Skidmore at the helm, Wed 18 - Sat 21 Dec, St Paul's STORY Tues 17 Dec, The Bootleg Beatles - Symphony Hall, Birmingham The Robin, Bilston Church, Birmingham STEVE HARLEY AND Town Hall THE BOOTLEG BEATLES BIRMINGHAM CANOLDIR MALE CHOIR & Tues 17 Dec, Sym- COCKNEY REBEL Fri 20 JEZ LOWE & THE BAD PHOENIX SINGERS Two local choirs phony Hall, B’ham Dec, The Robin, Bil- PENNIES Sat 21 Dec, combine, under the leadership of ston Lichfield Guildhall James LLewelyn Jones, Thurs 19 SLOW READERS CLUB Dec, Birmingham Town Hall Wed 18 Dec, The THUNDER - XMAS SHOW THUNDER HAMMER Sat Slade Rooms, Wolver- Fri 20 Dec, O2 21 Dec, The Sugarmill, MARK BEBBINGTON IN RECITAL Thurs hampton Academy, Birmingham Stoke-on-Trent 19 Dec, Stoke Repertory Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent CHRISTMAS WITH BON GIOVI CHRISTMAS THE JOHNNY CASH TENORS UN LIMITED PARTAY Fri 20 Dec, ROADSHOW Sat 21 CELTIC CHRISTMAS STRINGS Fri 20 Wed 18 Dec, The Eleven, Sandyford, Dec, Victoria Hall, Dec, Chelmarsh Parish Hall, Nr Robin, Bilston Stoke-on-Trent Stoke-on-Trent Bridgnorth, South Shropshire Theatre CELTIC CHRISTMAS CONCERTS IN THE ROUND Seasonal ALTER BRIDGE Wed 18 UB40 - CHRISTMAS THE SNOW QUEEN Hans Christian An- STRINGS Fri 20 Dec, music performed by Gill Styles & Dec, Arena B’ham HOMETOWN SHOW Sat dersen's family classic follows the ad- Chelmarsh Parish Hall, Richard Walker, Fri 20 Dec, St Giles LICHFIELD JAZZ CHRIST- 21 Dec, Arena Birm- ventures of inseparable friends Kai & Nr Bridgnorth, South ingham Church, Shrewsbury MAS SPECIAL Wed 18 Shropshire Gerda, until Mon 30 Dec, The Old Dec, The Cathedral THE JETS + THE DELRAY CHRISTMAS CRACKER WITH ALED JONES Rep Theatre, Birmingham LIQUOR & POKER Fri 20 Hotel, Lichfield ROCKETS Sat 21 Dec, Also featuring Adrian Lucas (conduc- THE KING & I Tony Award-winning Dec, The River Newhampton Arts tor), London Concert Orchestra, City Rodgers & Hammerstein classic. HANNAH JOHNSON & Rooms, Stourbridge Centre, Wolverhamp- of Birmingham Choir and Jennifer Jose Llana & Annalene Beechey star, THE BROKEN HEARTS France (soprano), Sat 21 Dec, Sym- Wed 18 Dec, Hare & THE SPACEHOPPERS Fri ton until Sat 4 Jan, The Alexandra The- phony Hall, Birmingham Hounds, Birmingham 20 Dec, Katie Fitzger- SONIC BOOM Sat 21 atre, Birmingham ald’s, Stourbridge TOWN HALL GOSPEL CHOIR CHRISTMAS THE KING IS BACK Dec, Albert’s Shed, PETER PAN JM Barrie's swashbuckling Thurs SPECIAL Sat 21 Dec, The Bradshaw 19 Dec, Dudley Town VERTIGO BAND Fri 20 Shrewsbury creation flies into Birmingham for Hall, Royal Birmingham Conserva- Hall Dec, Albert’s Shed, SHOWADDYWADDY - Christmas, until Sun 19 Jan, The REP, toire Shrewsbury CHRISTMAS PARTY Sat Birmingham SONS OF PITCHES Thurs SHREWSBURY SCHOOL COMMUNITY 19 Dec, Hare & JOHNNY CASH ROAD- 21 Dec, The Robin, A MUSEUM IN BAGHDAD A story of trea- CHOIR: HANDEL’S MESSIAH Sat 21 Dec, Hounds, Birmingham SHOW Sat 21 Dec, Vic- Bilston sured history, desperate choices and toria Hall, Stoke-on- Abbey Church, Shrewsbury the remarkable Gertrude Bell, until MACCA Thurs 19 Dec, RAT PACK CHRISTMAS Trent THE FRONCYSYLLTE MALE VOICE CHOIR Sat 25 Jan, The Swan Theatre, Strat- Newhampton Arts SHOW WITH SPECIAL Sat 21 Dec, New Vic Theatre, New- ford-upon-Avon Centre, W’hampton THE WONDER STUFF Sat GUESTS DON MACLEAN caslte-under-Lyme 21 Dec, O2 Academy, AND CHARLEY TOULAN THE BOY IN THE DRESS World premiere NOUGHTY NINETIES Birmingham Sat 21 Dec, The Brew- EX CATHEDRA: ANGELS, STARS & KINGS based on David Walliams' bestselling Thurs 19 Dec, The house Arts Centre, Featuring Ex Cathedra Academy of book and featuring songs by Robbie River Rooms, Stour- DAVID LIVE - THE DAVID Burton-upon-Trent Vocal Music, Jeffrey Skidmore (con- Williams and Guy Chambers, until bridge BOWIE TRIBUTE SHOW CHRISTMAS CELEBRA- ICONIC 80’S Sat 21 ductor) and Alexander Mason Sun 8 Mar, Royal Shakespeare The- BEANS ON TOAST + TION PARTY Sat 21 Dec, Dec, The River (organ), Sat 21 Dec, St Paul's atre, Stratford-upon-Avon TENSHEDS Thurs 19 Eleven, Sandyford, Rooms, Stourbridge Church, Birmingham KING JOHN Shakespeare’s rarely per- Dec, The Sugarmill, Stoke-on-Trent formed tale of a nation in turmoil, Stoke-on-Trent NATHAN DAWE #0121 THE CLAUSE Sat 21 Sun 22 Dec, O2 until Sat 21 Mar, The Swan Theatre, MAETLIVE & THE NEVER Dec, O2 Academy, Academy, Birmingham Stratford-upon-Avon NEVERLAND EXPRESS Birmingham UNFORTUNATE: THE UNTOLD STORY OF Thurs 19 Dec, The SAVING GRACE FEATUR- Comedy URSULA THE SEA WITCH Musical par- Robin, Bilston FIRES THAT DIVIDE Sat ING SUZI DIAN AND TOMMY SANDHU, ESHAAN AKBAR, MAU- ody from the award-winning Fat Ras- 21 Dec, Katie Fitzger- ROBERT PLANT Sun 22 REEN YOUNGER & MARLON DAVIS Tues BARRY STEELE & cal Theatre Company, Mon 16 - Sun ald’s, Stourbridge Dec, Birmingham 17 Dec, The Glee Club, Birmingham FRIENDS Fri 20 Dec, 22 Dec, Patrick Studio, Birmingham HERITAGE & TIN TINS Town Hall Victoria Hall, Stoke-on- ADAM KAY Tues 17 Dec, Victoria Hall, Hippodrome Trent CHRISTMAS PARTY Sat FLASH - A TRIBUTE TO Stoke-on-Trent 21 Dec, Hare & QUEEN Sun 22 Dec, SEARCH FOR THE SECOND STAR Immer- JANE MCDONALD Fri 20 Hounds, Birmingham The Robin, Bilston DANA ALEXANDER, DALISO CHAPONDA, sive theatre experience to coincide Dec, Arena B’ham ANDY ASKINS & MICKEY D Wed 18 - with the venue's Christmas produc- TALON - THE BEST OF THE TWANG Sun 22 - Sun 22 Dec, The Glee Club, B’ham tion of Peter Pan, Thurs 19 - Sat 21 KNE Fri 20 Dec, O2 In- THE EAGLES Sat 21 Mon 23 Dec, O2 Insti- Dec, The REP, Birmingham stitute, Birmingham Dec, Birmingham tute, Birmingham DAVE LONGLEY, FREDDY QUINN & ALIS- 62 whatsonlive.co.uk The List Shrops/Wolves/Staffs 16 - 22 December.qxp_Layout 1 22/11/2019 12:28 Page 2
Monday 16 - Sunday 22 December
DARK TALES IN WINTER Two classic KIPPER'S SNOWY DAY Original songs & the Arena to celebrate Christmas with Victorian ghost stories, each newly music, puppetry and humour com- live entertainment, crafts, and mince adapted for the stage by a contem- bine in a stage version of Mick Events pies, Wed 18 Dec, Arena Theatre, porary playwright and brought to life Inkpen’s much-loved book, until Tues MOROCCAN FIRE NIGHTS ‘Fusing in- Wolverhampton by a single performer, Thurs 19 - Sat 31 Dec, Midlands Arts Centre, Birm- credible entertainment with a deli- CAROLS IN THE SQUARE Wed 18 Dec, 21 Dec, Arena Theatre, Wolverhamp- ingham cious festive feast and a Shrewsbury Town Centre ton GLISTEN Interactive performance for spectacularly themed environment’, until Sun 22 Dec, NEC, Birmingham SANTA SAFARI Meet an elf, climb on GEORGE'S MARVELLOUS MEDICINE Blue babies and their grown-ups, Mon 16 - board a sleigh and head for the North Orange Arts presents its version of Wed 18 Dec, The Brewhouse Arts THE POLAR EXPRESS TRAIN RIDE The- Pole, Wed 18 - Tues 24 Dec, West the Roald Dahl classic, Sat 21 - Sun Centre, Burton-upon-Trent atrical recreation of the popular mo- Midland Safari and Leisure Park, Be- 29 Dec, The Blue Orange Theatre, SANTA’S CHRISTMAS COUNTDOWN Join tion picture film, until Sun 22 Dec, wdley, Nr Kidderminster Birmingham Birmingham Moor Street Dotty the elf, Dasher the reindeer, CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS Enjoy a day A DICKENSIAN CHRISTMAS Featuring Jack Frost and Pompom the penguin CRAFTY CHRISTMAS WORKSHOPS until out that's ‘choc-full of festive fun’, Fri Robert Powell & Susan Jameson, in a ‘fun, festive, musical adventure Mon 23 Dec, Shrewsbury Shopping 20 - Mon 23 Dec, Cadbury World, Sun 22 Dec, Festival Drayton Centre, for younger audiences’, Thurs 19 Centres - Darwin & Pride Hill Birmingham Market Drayton, North Shropshire Dec, The Brewhouse, Burton-upon- MEET SANTA Visit the Antarctic Ice Trent Cave, meet the man himself and check out a family of cheeky Gentoo Pantomime penguins, until Mon 23 Dec, National Film Sea Life Centre, Birmingham ALADDIN Traditional family pan- CHRISTMAS THROUGH TIME Step back tomime, until Tues 31 Dec, Sutton INDEPENDENT LISTINGS: in time to discover a brand new im- Coldfield Town Hall ROCKETMAN (15) Biography/Drama. mersive experience, taking in the CINDERELLA Festive family favourite Starring Taron Egerton, Jamie Bell. sights, sounds and smells of Christ- starring Rebecca Keatley (CBeebies) Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock, mases past, until Tues 24 Dec, Black and Sam Rabone, until Sun 5 Jan, South Shropshire, Mon 16 Dec Country Living Museum, Dudley Lichfield Garrick BLINDED BY THE LIGHT (12a) CHRISTMAS BRICKTACULAR Seasonal A FAIRY TALE CHRISTMAS Watch out for the fairies and their special tales, PETER PAN Starring Coronation Comedy/Drama. Starring Billy Barratt, build activities and holiday theming meet Santa and his elves at the North Street’s Ian Reddington as Captain Ronak Singh Chadha Berges. Stour- throughout the attraction, until Tues Pole and check out Krazy Kris and Hook and Corey Jones as Peter Pan, bridge Town Hall, Mon 16 Dec 24 Dec, Legoland Discovery Centre, his madcap pantomime, Fri 20 - Mon until Sun 5 Jan, Stafford Gatehouse A CHRISTMAS CAROL (U) Birmingham Drama/Family. 23 Dec, Dudley Canal and Tunnel Theatre Starring George C. Scott, Frank Fin- CHRISTMAS AT THE CASTLE Attractions Trust JACK AND THE BEANSTALK Starring lay. Old Market Hall, Shrewsbury, include ‘magical storytelling experi- SANTA AND STEAM Santa’s on board Coronation Street actor Oliver Mellor Tues 17 - Tues 24 Dec ences’ with Mr & Mrs Claus and their and bearing gifts for youngsters, as Fleshcreep & comedy star Carl THE GOOD LIAR (15) merry elves, the chance to enjoy Drama. Starring while there’s a glass of sherry for the Dutfield as Jack, until Sun 5 Jan, The breakfast with Santa and his wife, Helen Mirren, Ian McKellen. Old Mar- grown-ups, Fri 20 - Mon 23 Dec, Place, Telford, Shropshire ket Hall, Shrewsbury, Wed 18 Dec Christmas feasts and medieval ban- quets, Santa sleepovers, a special Churnet Valley Railway, Froghall, SLEEPING BEAUTY Starring Potteries STAR WARS: THE RISE OF SKYWALKER carol-singing session and a brand Staffordshire panto royalty Jonathan Wilkes and (12a) Adventure/Sci-Fi. Starring Billie new ice rink, until Tues 31 Dec, War- CHRISTMAS CAROL TRAINS Sing along Christian Patterson, until Sun 5 Jan, Lourd, Daisy Ridley. Light House wick Castle or just soak up the festive atmo- Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent Media Centre, Wolverhampton, Thurs SANTA'S WINTER WONDERLAND This sphere, Sat 21 Dec, Severn Valley ALADDIN Fun-filled family pantomime 19 - Mon 30 Dec year’s all-new Santa Show sees the Railway, Bewdley, Nr Kidderminster featuring Brad Fitt as Widow Twankey LOVING VINCENT (12) Animation/Biog- white-bearded one preparing for his CHRISTMAS AT COALBROOKDALE Say & BBC Radio Shropshire presenter raphy. Starring With the voices of big festive performance of The hello to the man himself in his wood- Eric Smith, until Sun 12 Jan, Theatre Douglas Booth, Jerome Flynn. The Twelve Days Of Christmas, until Tues land grotto, Sat 21 - Sun 22 Dec, Severn, Shrewsbury Hive, Shrewsbury, Fri 20 Dec 31 Dec, The Snowdome, Tamworth Coalbrookdale Museum of Iron, Iron- DICK WHITTINGTON Starring Su Pol- FROZEN 2 (U) Animation/Adventure. DRAYTON'S MAGICAL CHRISTMAS Meet bridge lard, Ryan Thomas, Jeffrey Holland, With the voices of Idina Menzel, Kris- Father Christmas in the Castle of THE FESTIVE GIN TRAIN Travel through Aaron James & Ian Adams, until ten Bell. Wem Town Hall, North Dreams, experience ‘magical’ char- the Severn Valley in a 1936-built luxu- Sun 12 Jan, Wolverhampton Grand Shropshire, Fri 20 - Tues 24 Dec; Old acter parades, live shows, falling rious first-class carriage (once hauled Theatre Market Hall, Shrewsbury, Fri 20 - Tues snow and ‘spectacular’ fireworks, by the Flying Scotsman) whilst sip- CINDERELLA A ‘magical’ family pan- 31 Dec until Tues 31 Dec, Drayton Manor ping gin cocktails, Sat 21 - Sun 22 tomime, Sat 21 - Sun 29 Dec, Prince LAST CHRISTMAS (12a) Comedy/Ro- Theme Park, Tamworth Dec, Severn Valley Railway, Bewdley, Of Wales Centre, Cannock mance. Starring Emilia Clarke, Henry THE SNOW HOUSE BAR The bar makes Nr Kidderminster SNOW WHITE & THE SEVEN DWARFS Golding. Old Market Hall, Shrews- a welcome return to Birmingham’s TEA WITH SANTA AT THE FURNACE Featuring Lesley Joseph, Matt Slack, bury, Fri 20 - Tues 31 Dec Bullring, complete with its super-pop- KITCHEN Sat 21 - Sun 22 Dec, Coal- Joe McElderry, Faye Brookes, Flaw- A SHAUN THE SHEEP MOVIE: FARMAGED- ular VIP igloos, until Sun 5 Jan, The brookdale Museum of Iron, Iron- less, Doreen Tipton & Andrew Ryan, DON (U) Animation/Comedy. With the Bullring Shopping Centre, B’ham bridge, Shropshire Sat 21 Dec - Sun 2 Feb, Birmingham voices of Andy Nyman, Justin ICE SKATE BIRMINGHAM Ice Skate SANTA SPECIALS Steam train ride Hippodrome Fletcher. Festival Drayton Centre, Birmingham and the Big Wheel make through the Severn Valley with Santa, Market Drayton, North Shropshire, a welcome return, until Sun 12 Jan, Sat 21 - Tues 24 Dec, Severn Valley Sat 21 Dec Centenary Square, Birmingham Railway, Bewdley, Nr Kidderminster OLIVER! (U) Musical/Family. Starring STEAM IN LIGHTS A ‘spectacular’ illu- SANTA'S GROTTO Whether it’s their first Kids Shows Mark Lester, Ron Moody. Light House minated adventure along the Severn Christmas or a family tradition, a visit Media Centre, Wolverhampton, Sat CHARLIE & THE CHRISTMAS CAT ‘Adven- Valley, with ‘a dazzling extravaganza to Santa’s grotto is the perfect way to 21 Dec ture-packed festive show that’s just of magical creatures, sparkling lights, start the festive season, Sat 21 - Tues purrrfect for all the family’, until Tues WONDERFUL LIFE (U) Family/Fantasy. snowfall and thrills,’ Tues 17 - Sat 21 24 Dec, Apley Farm Shop, Norton, Nr 24 Dec, Lichfield Garrick Starring James Stewart, Donna Reed. Dec, Severn Valley Railway, Bewdley, Shifnal, Shropshire Ludlow Assembly Rooms, South Nr Kidderminster DEAR SANTA Rod Campbell's festive DIRTY VEGAN: FESTIVE EDITION Special Shropshire, Sat 21 Dec tale for younger audiences, until Tues FESTIVE FRIVOLITIES 2019 Join the late-night festive edition, Sun 22 Dec, 24 Dec, Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury staff, associate artists and partners of Midlands Arts Centre, Birmingham
whatsonlive.co.uk 63 The List Wolves/Staffs/Shrops 23 - 31 December.qxp_Layout 1 22/11/2019 12:50 Page 1
64 whatsonlive.co.uk The List Wolves/Staffs/Shrops 23 - 31 December.qxp_Layout 1 22/11/2019 12:50 Page 2
thelist Monday 23 - Tuesday 31 December DEFINITELY MIGHT BE + FEATURING MEL DAY Gigs ADORED Fri 27 Dec, Mon 30 Dec, The Classical Theatre The Robin, Bilston Robin, Bilston THE BEST EVER ALL-TIME EX CATHEDRA: CHRISTMAS MUSIC BY THE SNOW QUEEN Hans Christian An- THE INDIGO MACHINE EGO FRIENDLY Tues 31 CHRISTMAS PARTY WITH CANDLELIGHT Popular festive concert dersen's family classic follows the ad- Sat 28 Dec, Albert’s Dec, Albert’s Shed, THE BRIGHT EYES AND featuring Jeffrey Skidmore at the ventures of inseparable friends Kai & Shed, Shrewsbury Shrewsbury THE JAGUARS Mon 23 helm, Mon 23 Dec, St Paul's Church, Gerda, until Mon 30 Dec, The Old Rep Dec, The Robin, Bil- FLASH - TRIBUTE TO SOUL AGENDA Tues 31 Birmingham Theatre, Birmingham QUEEN Sat 28 Dec, The Dec, Havana Republic, ston LONDON CONCERT ORCHESTRA: CHRIST- THE KING & I Tony Award-winning River Rooms, Stour- Shrewsbury MICHAEL BUBLE EXPERI- MAS CAROL SING ALONG Featuring Rodgers & Hammerstein classic. Jose bridge ENCE FEATURING MIKE MODERN DAY COWBOYS, Jonathan Cohen (conductor/ presen- Llana & Annalene Beechey star, until APPLETON Mon 23 Dec, DIRTY DC Sat 28 Dec, HAIR TO THE THRONE ter), Louise Dearman (guest singer) & Sat 4 Jan, The Alexandra Theatre, The River Rooms, The Robin, Bilston AND MEANSTREAK Tues the London Concert Chorus, Mon 23 Birmingham Stourbridge BEBE AND THE TROJANS 31 Dec, Eleven, Dec, Symphony Hall, Birmingham Sandyford, Stoke-on- PETER PAN JM Barrie's swashbuckling THE UPBEAT BEATLES Sat 28 Dec, Katie MOZART FESTIVAL CHORUS: CAROLS BY Trent creation flies into Birmingham for Tues 24 Dec, The Fitzgerald’s, Stour- CANDLELIGHT Featuring Susanna Hur- Christmas, until Sun 19 Jan, The REP, Robin, Bilston bridge GIANT AND THE rell (soprano) & Steven Devine (con- Birmingham GEORGES PLUS THE ductor). Programme includes works THE TEXELS Thurs 26 WEST COAST EAGLES LOVELESS Tues 31 Dec, A MUSEUM IN BAGHDAD A story of trea- Dec, Albert’s Shed, WITH SPECIAL GUESTS by Cullen, Handel and Bach, Tues 24 Katie Fitzgerald’s, sured history, desperate choices and Shrewsbury NASHVILLE HEART Sat Dec, Symphony Hall, Birmingham Stourbridge the remarkable Gertrude Bell, until Sat 28 Dec, Eleven, LONDON CONCERT ORCHESTRA: LAST THE STRAIGHT ACES 25 Jan, The Swan Theatre, Stratford- Sandyford, Stoke-on- ICONIC 80’S V 90’S Tues Thurs 26 Dec, Katie NIGHT OF THE CHRISTMAS PROMS Fea- upon-Avon Trent 31 Dec, The River turing Robin Lyn Evans (tenor), James Fitzgerald’s, Stour- THE BOY IN THE DRESS World premiere Rooms, Stourbridge Cleverton (baritone) & John Pryce- bridge COZY POWELL BIRTHDAY based on David Walliams' bestselling Jones (conductor). Programme in- BASH Sun 29 Dec, The T.REXTASY - GET IT ON book and featuring songs by Robbie DIZZY LIZZY Fri 27 Dec, cludes works by Strauss, Rossini and Robin, Bilston Tues 31 Dec, The Williams and Guy Chambers, until Katie Fitzgerald’s, Rimsky-Korsakov, Fri 27 Dec, Sym- MAINLY MADNESS Sun Robin, Bilston Sun 8 Mar, Royal Shakespeare The- Stourbridge phony Hall, Birmingham 29 Dec, Eleven, HOT CLIMATE NEW YEAR atre, Stratford-upon-Avon PURE WHITNEY HOUS- LONDON CONCERT ORCHESTRA: THE BEST Sandyford, Stoke-on- PARTY Tues 31 Dec, KING JOHN Shakespeare’s rarely per- TON Fri 27 Dec, The OF JOHN WILLIAMS Featuring Anthony Trent Ludlow Brewery, formed tale of a nation in turmoil, until River Rooms, Stour- Inglis (conductor ). Programmes in- THE SOUL SURVIVORS South Shropshire Sat 21 Mar, The Swan Theatre, Strat- bridge cludes iconic film scores of John ford-upon-Avon Williams, Sat 28 Dec, Symphony Hall, Birmingham LONDON CONCERT ORCHESTRA: THE MUSIC OF ZIMMER VS. WILLIAMS Featur- ing Anthony Inglis (conductor ), Sun Pantomime 29 Dec, Symphony Hall, Birmingham CINDERELLA A ‘magical’ family pan- ROYAL PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA: tomime, until Sun 29 Dec, Prince Of BEETHOVEN'S NINTH Featuring Lauren Wales Centre, Cannock Fagan (soprano) & Kathryn Rudge ALADDIN Traditional family pantomime, (mezzo-soprano), Mon 30 Dec, Sym- until Tues 31 Dec, Sutton Coldfield phony Hall, Birmingham Town Hall LONDON CONCERT ORCHESTRA: NEW CINDERELLA Festive family favourite YEAR'S EVE GALA Featuring Ilona Dom- starring Rebecca Keatley (CBeebies) nich (soprano), Alexander James Ed- and Sam Rabone, until Sun 5 Jan, wards (tenor) & Anthony Inglis Lichfield Garrick (conductor). Programme includes PETER PAN Starring Coronation Street’s works by Grieg, Puccini and Verdi, Ian Reddington as Captain Hook and Tues 31 Dec, Symphony Hall, B’ham Corey Jones as Peter Pan, until Sun 5 Jan, Stafford Gatehouse Theatre JACK AND THE BEANSTALK Starring Comedy Coronation Street actor Oliver Mellor as Fleshcreep & comedy star Carl MICKEY D, PAUL THORNE & COMEDY Dutfield as Jack, until Sun 5 Jan, The CAROUSEL WITH ANDY ROBINSON Fri 27 Place, Telford, Shropshire Dec, The Glee Club, Birmingham DICK WHITTINGTON Starring Su Pollard, MICKEY D, PAUL THORNE, LOUISE YOUNG Ryan Thomas, Jeffrey Holland, Aaron & ANDY ROBINSON Sat 28 Dec, The James & Ian Adams, until Sun 12 Jan, Glee Club, Birmingham Wolverhampton Grand Theatre COMEDY IN THE MET Sat 28 Dec, ALADDIN Fun-filled family pantomime Stafford Gatehouse Theatre featuring Brad Fitt as Widow Twankey KANE BROWN, SLIM & COMIC TBC Sun & BBC Radio Shropshire presenter 29 Dec, The Glee Club, Birmingham Eric Smith, until Sun 12 Jan, Theatre GLEE FAMILY COMEDY SHOW Sun 29 Severn, Shrewsbury Dec, The Glee Club, Birmingham SNOW WHITE & THE SEVEN DWARFS ROBERT WHITE, MICKEY D, ANDY ROBIN- Featuring Lesley Joseph, Matt Slack, SON & COMIC TBC Tues 31 Dec, The Joe McElderry, Faye Brookes, Flaw- Glee Club, Birmingham less, Doreen Tipton & Andrew Ryan, until Sun 2 Feb, Birmingham Hippo- LOL COMEDY CLUB Tues 31 Dec, Re- drome gent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent
whatsonlive.co.uk 65 The List Wolves/Staffs/Shrops 23 - 31 December.qxp_Layout 1 22/11/2019 12:50 Page 3
thelist Monday 23 - Tuesday 31 December ten Bell. Festival Drayton Centre, Mar- THE POLAR EXPRESS TRAIN RIDE The- Dreams, experience ‘magical’ char- Kids Shows ket Drayton, North Shropshire, Fri 27 atrical recreation of the popular mo- acter parades, live shows, falling Dec tion picture film, until Sun 22 Dec, snow and ‘spectacular’ fireworks, GRANDPA'S GREAT ESCAPE Nigel Planer MALEFICENT: MISTRESS OF EVIL (U) Ad- Birmingham Moor Street until Tues 31 Dec, Drayton Manor takes the lead in a brand new staging venture/Family. Starring Angelina CRAFTY CHRISTMAS WORKSHOPS until Theme Park, Tamworth of David Walliams’ bestselling chil- Jolie, Elle Fanning. Festival Drayton Mon 23 Dec, Shrewsbury Shopping THE SNOW HOUSE BAR The bar makes dren’s book, Mon 23 - Tues 24 Dec & Centre, Market Drayton, North Shrop- Centres - Darwin & Pride Hill a welcome return to Birmingham’s Thurs 26 Dec, Arena Birmingham shire, Fri 27 Dec MEET SANTA Visit the Antarctic Ice Bullring, complete with its super-pop- WE'RE GOING ON A BEAR HUNT ‘Catchy TRAVELS WITH MY AUNT (PG) Adven- Cave, meet the man himself and ular VIP igloos, until Sun 5 Jan, The songs, interactive scenes and plenty ture/Comedy. Starring Maggie Smith, check out a family of cheeky Gentoo Bullring Shopping Centre, B’ham of hands-on adventure’ combine in Alec McCowen. Festival Drayton Cen- penguins, until Mon 23 Dec, National ICE SKATE BIRMINGHAM Ice Skate this adaptation of Michael Rosen & tre, Market Drayton, North Shrop- Sea Life Centre, Birmingham Birmingham and the Big Wheel make Helen Oxenbury's much-loved picture shire, Fri 27 Dec CHRISTMAS THROUGH TIME Step back a welcome return, until Sun 12 Jan, book, Thurs 26 Dec - Sun 12 Jan, Centenary Square, Birmingham Birmingham Town Hall in time to discover a brand new im- mersive experience, taking in the STEAM IN LIGHTS A ‘spectacular illumi- sights, sounds and smells of Christ- nated adventure’ along the Severn Events mases past, until Tues 24 Dec, Black Valley with ‘a dazzling extravaganza Film MOROCCAN FIRE NIGHTS ‘Fusing in- Country Living Museum, Dudley of magical creatures, sparkling lights, snowfall and thrills’, Tues 24 Dec, INDEPENDENT LISTINGS: credible entertainment with a deli- CHRISTMAS BRICKTACULAR Seasonal cious festive feast and a build activities and holiday theming Severn Valley Railway, Bewdley, Nr ABOMINABLE (U) Animation/Adventure. spectacularly themed environment’, throughout the attraction, until Tues Kidderminster With the voiced of Chloe Bennet, Al- until Sun 22 Dec, NEC, Birmingham 24 Dec, Legoland Discovery Centre, TOY COLLECTORS FAIR Explore over bert Tsai. Festival Drayton Centre, Birmingham 500 stalls packed with all kinds of col- Market Drayton, North Shropshire, lectable toys, trains and models for Mon 23 Dec SANTA'S WINTER WONDERLAND This year’s all-new Santa Show sees the sale, Fri 27 Dec, NEC, Birmingham LAST CHRISTMAS (12a) Comedy/Ro- white-bearded one preparing for his SANTA SAFARI Meet an elf, climb on mance. Starring Emilia Clarke, Henry big festive performance of The board a sleigh and head for the North Golding. Festival Drayton Centre, Twelve Days Of Christmas, until Tues Pole, Sat 28 - Sun 29 Dec, West Mid- Market Drayton, Shropshire, Mon 23 31 Dec, The Snowdome, Tamworth land Safari and Leisure Park, Bewd- Dec; Lichfield Garrick, Fri 27 Dec DRAYTON'S MAGICAL CHRISTMAS Meet ley, Nr Kidderminster FROZEN 2 (PG) Animation/Adventure. Father Christmas in the Castle of With the voices of Idina Menzel, Kris-
66 whatsonlive.co.uk BRB Swan Lake Full December 2019.qxp_Layout 1 21/11/2019 08:52 Page 1 Alton Towers Xmas Full December 2019.qxp_Layout 1 20/11/2019 11:42 Page 1