Part of the Newark Jazz Festival 2010.

TJ Johnson is one of the UK s finest jazz and blues singers currently working in the UK. A professional musician since he was 15, he’s also an accomplished pianist and respected bandleader. 

A true ambassador of the soul, TJ sings songs of love lost and gained, of life wholesome and corrupt, songs of hope, songs of the night, all delivered with the true passion and boozy swagger of only a man who has been there and knows (Who wrote this? They’re dead right!).

Backed by his band of top, young British musicians TJ’s extraordinary blend of music transcends the boundaries of jazz, blues, soul, country and gospel - he just sings great songs. His influences may include Ray Charles, Dr John, Louis Armstrong, Johnny Cash, BB King, Nina Simone, Alberta Hunter, Frank Sinatra, Jimmy Witherspoon and more, but TJ Johnson stamps his hallmark on everything he plays. His distinctive voice and relaxed stage manner brings the band and the audience together to create an intimate and exciting atmosphere that is hard to beat. A great way to close the 2010 Festival.

Ticket includes glass of wine.

Part of the Newark Jazz Festival 2010.

Dutch virtuoso Tim Kliphuis is recognised as one the world's finest jazz violinists with a spirit and style reminiscent of the late, great swing fiddler, Stéphane Grappelli and a real love for melody. This acclaimed band celebrates Grapppelli’s achievement - and much more - with great warmth. Tim is joined by longstanding accomplices guitarist Nigel Clark, bassist Roy Percy and - this is a special treat - award-winning pianist David Newton to reform the quartet that sold-out at the last Newark Jazz Festival! Book now - or regret it!

The venue, an atmospheric former garage converted to a high quality wine outlet is worth a visit in its own right.

Tim’s appealing blend of Gypsy Jazz, classical, World Music and Folk crosses boundaries to create music that’s fresh, new and always full of great tunes. His “funky slurs, whooping hoedown flourishes” (Time Out), “elegant tone and carefree spirit” (Scotsman) have charmed audiences from Canada to Lebanon; his acclaimed workshops have also brought together musicians from all over the world.

Tim is also running a Swing Improvisation workshop for musicians of all abilities in partnership with Newark’s School of Instrument Making on May 22nd.

Part of the Newark Jazz Festival 2010.

A world-class performer, Tim’s diverse output and skill as a collaborator with others has surprised and captivated listeners for many years, making him harder to define or pin down. As well as his many works for orchestra and various ensembles, jazz listeners have also been used to him tearing around at Ronnie Scott’s club with Chick Corea and others.

Tim will bring the best out of Derby’s Hot House Band - Jon Eno’s acclaimed youth project and East Midlands Young Jazz Awards winning jazz orchestra - with an exciting collaboration commissioned especially for the Festival. Tim is no stranger to working in churches and cathedrals with his Acoustic Triangles project. Expect to swing in style!

Garland was the 2006 “Musician Of The Year” in the UK’s parliamentary Jazz Society Vote and winner of BBC Jazz award for innovation, for his Lighthouse project and the highly acclaimed CD “If The Sea Replied.”

"Garland is quietly becoming one of the most important British jazz musicians in years" - Jazzwise
"Garland has always sounded special, blessed with a weighty tone that makes you switch on and want to listen, he is creative at speed and swings with momentum and grace" - Time Out

Part of the Newark Jazz Festival 2010.

This exciting young piano trio is led by pianist and composer Tom Cawley (Acoustic Ladyland keyboardist) and features bassist Sam Burgess and drummer Joshua Blackmore. Curios followed their best album nomination for ‘Hidden’ with the richly deserved Best Band title at the last ever BBC Jazz Awards. A brand new album ‘Closer’ is set to cement their reputation.

Drawing on Cawley’s eclectic passions (including iconic pianist Brad Mehldau to whom he pays tribute on ‘Bradford’) Curios’ musical world shifts effortlessly from moments of real beauty to passages of fiery explosiveness. Underpinned by Blackmore’s edgy, dynamic drumming and Burgess’ rhythmic drive the group visits the outer boundaries of the jazz piano trio’s possibilities.

Cawley’s passionate music and expressive playing enables them to explore an enthralling world that is in turns beautiful, fun, searching and wild, but always powerfully compelling.

Great value and a stunning venue.

“Never less than spellbinding” - The Independent
“Full of surprises and commanding a huge expressive and dynamic range” - The Observer
“A shining light for British jazz” - Musician magazine

Part of the Newark Jazz Festival 2010.

The opening concert of the 2010 Festival features one of Britain’s brightest and most versatile jazz stars. Trumpeter Enrico Tomasso leads a hot sextet formed for Newark Jazz Festival only! His band includes eight times Top UK Jazz Pianist David Newton, Ronnie Scott’s Big Band musical director Pete Long on saxes and clarinet and Guy Barker’s in-demand trombonist Alistair White.

This will be a sell-out - dazzling, high-octane mainstream jazz with a real kick! Book early.

Enrico, son of the fine jazz clarinettist Ernie Tomasso,began playing trumpet aged five, absorbing and meeting many greats such as Benny Goodman, Dizzy Gillespie, Maynard Ferguson and the Basie and Ellington bands. But his biggest inspiration was Louis Armstrong who he met and played with when Louis toured England in the sixties and they remained firm friends until his death

A real showman, Enrico played for twelve years with the Pasadena Roof Orchestra, enjoys a busy studio career with the likes of Bryan Ferry, Clare Teal, Marc Almond and plays on John Altman's film scores. He performs regularly with Ray Gelato.

Attend all events included in the Liberation Festival, Jersey, from 7th - 10th May 2010. VIP or Standard prices available.

ABOUT THE LIBERATION FESTIVAL
The second Liberation Festival stars 10 internationally acclaimed artists, performing beautiful, dramatic and atmospheric music in stunning settings combined with community & educational events in the beautiful island of Jersey. The Festival's theme explores the artistic freedom and the power of music to liberate the spirit. Listen to exciting young rising stars including Nicola Benedetti the former Classic FM Artist of the Year, the multiple award winning soprano Elizabeth Watts, and the acclaimed Sitkovetsky Trio with the Jersey Chamber Orchestra.

Promenade at the Fête de la Musique at Mont Orgueil Castle, enjoy a stunning night of concertos starring six soloists and the Jersey Chamber Orchestra, picnic to jazz at Hamptonne, or go to sea for a yacht concert in the Bay of St Aubin.

Part of the Liberation Festival 2010, Jersey.

A musical feast of multiple performances all over the medieval castle features, at the centre, a concert of Opera arias from the Royal Opera House star Elizabeth Watts.  Elizabeth who has won multiple awards including the Singer of the World Lieder Prize, will be performing classic Opera highlights from Mozart’s Don Giovanni to the Marriage of Figaro as well as other popular arias accompanied by the Eden Sinfonia.  

The dramatic setting in a marquee overlooking Grouville Bay will make this an evening to remember.  Guests can enjoy the surrounding Fete de la Musique with over two hundred Jersey musicians performing chamber music from quartets, harp recitals, choirs, to trumpet fanfares and ending with some Jazz with the Well Swung Jazz Orchestra.  Eat your fill from the Hog Roast in the Middle Ward or enjoy a selection of food and fine wines.

Opera concert programme:
Soloist:  Elizabeth Watts   
“One of the most beautiful voices in a generation”   International Record Review
Eden Sinfonia
Conductor: Daniel Cohen

Tickets are available in the Marquee for the Opera concert or as just a ground pass into the castle for all performances excluding the Opera.
VIP Tickets include champagne reception with the soloists before the concert from 6.30pm, in the interval and after the concert.

ABOUT THE LIBERATION FESTIVAL
The second Liberation Festival stars 10 internationally acclaimed artists, performing beautiful, dramatic and atmospheric music in stunning settings combined with community & educational events in the beautiful island of Jersey. The Festival's theme explores the artistic freedom and the power of music to liberate the spirit. Listen to exciting young rising stars including Nicola Benedetti the former Classic FM Artist of the Year, the multiple award winning soprano Elizabeth Watts, and the acclaimed Sitkovetsky Trio with the Jersey Chamber Orchestra.

Promenade at the Fête de la Musique at Mont Orgueil Castle, enjoy a stunning night of concertos starring six soloists and the Jersey Chamber Orchestra, picnic to jazz at Hamptonne, or go to sea for a yacht concert in the Bay of St Aubin.

Part of the Liberation Festival 2010, Jersey.

A stunning Gala concert to celebrate the Liberation of Jersey features music written in times of peace between the wars.  Elgar’s Introduction and Allegro, written in 1905, is one of his most beautiful works.  It draws on transcendent welsh folk melodies as well as paying considerable homage to Bach by the use of a dramatic fugue.  The double violin concerto is one of the master’s great works - with the majestic slow movement separating virtuoso playing and sparring between the two violins and the orchestra.  The final concerto in the programme, Mendelssohn’s Concerto for Violin and Piano, was written by the man who played a significant part in Bach’s revival.  It is a tour de force of adolescent brilliance written after the end of the Napoleonic Wars.  

The soloists include the recent Classic FM Artist of the Year Nicola Benedetti, the members of the highly acclaimed Sitkovetsky Trio, as well young rising star Wen Xiao Zheng a recent prize winner at the ARD international festival.

A pre-concert talk by one of the soloists will take place in the main auditorium at 7pm.

VIP Tickets include champagne reception with the soloists in the Berni Suite at the Opera House before the concert from 7.30pm, in the interval and after the concert.

Programme:
Elgar - Introduction and Allegro (1905)
Soloists: Nicola Benedetti (Violin), Alexander Sitkovetsky (Violin), Wenxiao Zheng (Viola) & Leonard Elschenbroich (Cello)
J.S. Bach - Double Violin Concerto in D minor (1730)
Soloists: Nicola Benedetti & Alexander Sitkovetsky
Mendelssohn - Concerto for Violin and Piano in D minor (1823)
Soloists: Wu Qian & Alexander Sitkovetsky

Jersey Chamber Orchestra
Conductor: Daniel Cohen

ABOUT THE LIBERATION FESTIVAL
The second Liberation Festival stars 10 internationally acclaimed artists, performing beautiful, dramatic and atmospheric music in stunning settings combined with community & educational events in the beautiful island of Jersey. The Festival's theme explores the artistic freedom and the power of music to liberate the spirit. Listen to exciting young rising stars including Nicola Benedetti the former Classic FM Artist of the Year, the multiple award winning soprano Elizabeth Watts, and the acclaimed Sitkovetsky Trio with the Jersey Chamber Orchestra.

Promenade at the Fête de la Musique at Mont Orgueil Castle, enjoy a stunning night of concertos starring six soloists and the Jersey Chamber Orchestra, picnic to jazz at Hamptonne, or go to sea for a yacht concert in the Bay of St Aubin.

Part of the Liberation Festival 2010, Jersey.

A family day of jazz at the beautiful Jersey Heritage site Hamptonne. Jacqui Dankworth & her Trio perform popular jazz classics and a stunning collection of originals either written or co-written by Jacqui, along with a selection from her favourite songwriters including James Taylor, Sting and Randy Newman.

Already established as one the country’s leading jazz vocalists, Jacqui’s live concert showcases her unique versatility and effortless mastery of a wide spectrum of genres, drawing on jazz, folk, soul and blues, as well as her acute sensibility as a songwriter and lyricist.

Come with a hamper and a bottle of champagne or enjoy the delicious catering provided by Jersey Potteries. Doors open at 12.30.

Children Free.
Lawn ticket holders are advised to bring a picnic blanket.
VIP Tickets include a food buffet and wine as well as a chance to meet the soloists.

Programme:
Jacqui Dankworth and her Jazz Trio
“Just Fantastic”, Michael Parkinson

ABOUT THE LIBERATION FESTIVAL
The second Liberation Festival stars 10 internationally acclaimed artists, performing beautiful, dramatic and atmospheric music in stunning settings combined with community & educational events in the beautiful island of Jersey. The Festival's theme explores the artistic freedom and the power of music to liberate the spirit. Listen to exciting young rising stars including Nicola Benedetti the former Classic FM Artist of the Year, the multiple award winning soprano Elizabeth Watts, and the acclaimed Sitkovetsky Trio with the Jersey Chamber Orchestra.

Promenade at the Fête de la Musique at Mont Orgueil Castle, enjoy a stunning night of concertos starring six soloists and the Jersey Chamber Orchestra, picnic to jazz at Hamptonne, or go to sea for a yacht concert in the Bay of St Aubin.

Part of the Liberation Festival 2010, Jersey.

The Sitkovetsky Trio and celebrated friends perform Schubert’s celebrated “Trout” Quintet based on the story of a trout’s attempt to escape to freedom as well as Tchaikovsky’s passionate Trio relating to the loss of an artist.

The “Trout” is one of Schubert’s most delightful works describing a fish darting joyously about in a clear stream to elude a fisherman. The repeated melody is effortless, thoroughly enchanting and further enlivened by a leaping, joyous figure evoking the trout darting across the stream.

Tchaikovsky’s Trio pays tribute to a former teacher, paying tribute to his skills with a virtuoso piano part, as well as rejoicing in his love of folk like themes recalling a day when the two friends had gone for a picnic in the mountains near Moscow and were given an impromptu performance of folk music by peasants.

The soloists include Nicola Benedetti - the recent Classic FM Artist of the Year, Stacey Watton - one of the great Double Bass players of his generation, the highly acclaimed Sitkovetsky Trio, as well as young rising star Wen Xiao Zheng - a recent prize winner at the ARD international festival.

The concert will be preceded by a question and answer session with the soloists at 7pm.

VIP Tickets include champagne reception with the soloists.

Programme:
Schubert - “Trout” Quintet in A Major
Tchaikovsky - Trio in A minor
Soloists: Sitkovetsky Trio, Nicola Benedetti (Violin), Wenxiao Zheng (Viola) & Stacey Watton (Double Bass)

ABOUT THE LIBERATION FESTIVAL
The second Liberation Festival stars 10 internationally acclaimed artists, performing beautiful, dramatic and atmospheric music in stunning settings combined with community & educational events in the beautiful island of Jersey. The Festival's theme explores the artistic freedom and the power of music to liberate the spirit. Listen to exciting young rising stars including Nicola Benedetti the former Classic FM Artist of the Year, the multiple award winning soprano Elizabeth Watts, and the acclaimed Sitkovetsky Trio with the Jersey Chamber Orchestra.

Promenade at the Fête de la Musique at Mont Orgueil Castle, enjoy a stunning night of concertos starring six soloists and the Jersey Chamber Orchestra, picnic to jazz at Hamptonne, or go to sea for a yacht concert in the Bay of St Aubin.

Sparks will fly this year as the West End Premiere of FLASHDANCE – The Musical explodes onto the stage at the Shaftesbury Theatre from September 2010.

Set in Pittsburgh, USA, FLASHDANCE tells the story of 18 year old Alex, a welder by day and ‘flashdancer’ by night, whose dream is to obtain a place at the prestigious Shipley Dance Academy.

Based on the Paramount Pictures film (Screenplay by Tom Hedley and Joe Eszterhas, story by Tom Hedley) FLASHDANCE is an unmistakably unique musical about holding onto your dreams and love against all the odds. The show features an iconic score including the smash hit "Maniac", along with “Manhunt”, "Gloria", “I Love Rock & Roll” and the Academy Award winning title track "Flashdance - What a Feeling" as well as 10 original songs created for the musical.

Full of pulsating raw energy and breathtaking choreography by Arlene Phillips (Strictly Come Dancing, Grease, Starlight Express, Saturday Night Fever) FLASHDANCE – The Musical promises to be the theatrical event of the year – so take your passion and make it happen!

UNITE is an exploration, through music, of exile, emigration and movement in space and time across Europe, mixing traditional music from the British Isles and Eastern Europe with electronic beats. Familiar traditional songs and forgotten popular songs are given a new and radical twist with breakbeat and dubstep influences. Expect and eclectic array of artists; inclucing Tim and Hamid from TGU, singer-songwriter Jim Moray, Martin Furey, the Perunika trio, visuals and more surprises!

Saxophonists Andy Schofield and Jo McCallum have created a dynamic new 17 piece jazz orchestra.  The line-up unites established artists with the finest of the region's young emerging talent, as they storm through a selection of original works by North West composers and arrangers.

Their new project for 2010, supported by Arts Council England profiles two national guitar greats, Mike Walker (Jacqui Dankworth, Mike Gibbs, etc.) and Stuart McCallum (Cinematic Orchestra, Don Weller, etc.).  The music of these artists has been arranged for the jazz orchestra with guest appearances from these incredible musicians.

This concert will begin at 8pm

This collaboration between the great French jazz trumpeter Erik Truffaz and the extraordinary funk/soul/blues beatbox stylings of Simple Spirit's vocalist Sly Johnson has thrilled audiences across the world.

Erik Truffaz mines the world to create his unique form of jazz - the so-called 'European sounds' are really the sounds of the global village in the digital age. Fusing these world, electronic and ambient influences with an ongoing love for the music of Miles Davis and an incredible minimalist style, has led to a sound that is all his own and exemplified  beautifully in this wonderful partnership with Sly Johnson (aka The Mic Buddah/The Beatboxologist) -  a member of the acclaimed French rap collective Saian Supa Crew.
Band on the Wall is now delighted to bring this sensational duo to its Manchester stage.

"Truffaz plays less like Miles than a jazz-rock [Brian] Eno, making rapturous atmospheres from a minimum of notes ... a jazz with brawn, soul and plenty of wide open space." - David Fricke

This concert will begin at 8pm

The launch of a brand new Manchester-based record label Caserta Red.

Formed in and run from Manchester the label have their own inhouse PR team and have already established themselves as a home for quality music whose artist portfolio includes some of the regions's most loved artists including acclaimed Failsworth rock band Puressence.

This evening features a live performance by James Mudriczki & Lowell Killen followed by Caserta's latest signing - young guitar band Glass who will showcase their debut album Teenage Galaxies.

The band features Paul Baird on vocals/guitar, Martin Cowan on bass and Chris Norwood on drums.

£10 admission includes a copy of Glass' album (to be collected upon arrival).

This event will begin at 7.30pm.

Performing collaboratively for the first time, prepared piano player Hauschka, 12-string guitarist James Blackshaw, and singer/songwriter Nancy Elizabeth play their beautifully matched music together in a contoured programme of solo and ensemble performances. 

The Kept Impulses tour brings together three gifted young music makers who weave traditional folk, contemporary classical and modern song into textured, emotional and transfixing songs and musical suites. The prepared piano player Hauschka (FatCat) from Germany, singer/multi-instrumentalist Nancy Elizabeth (Leaf Label) from Manchester, and the 12-string guitarist James Blackshaw (Young God) from Hastings, Kent are brought together for this special tour to entice concert halls with their beautifully matched music. All three have the endearing talent of being able to harness wild impulses into measured and musical journeys that run deep.

Each artist will perform their own material each night, with the other two musicians guesting on selected tracks. The ensemble will also perform material devised collaboratively together for the very first time. The acts are distinct but musically complimentary and these collaborations are an exciting prospect, combining Hauschka's percussive piano interventions with James Blackshaw's cascading acoustic guitar and Nancy Elizabeth's pure and emotive vocals.

This concert will begin at 7.30pm.

The internationally-acclaimed collaboration featuring two of the world's greatest blues slide guitarists performing together on our Manchester stage. A sensational night of pure and blissful music in the company of two major forces in the history of the blues.

Louisiana Red was born in Alabama in 1932, and is one of the last great bluesmen still performing, who earned his place in the blues via the harsh realities of life and who learned his craft from the fathers and grandfathers of the blues; Son House, Elmore James, Lightnin’ Hopkins, Arthur Crudup, Robert Nighthawk, Muddy Waters and John Lee Hooker.

When Louisiana Red performs, the songs are often only a launch pad for expressing his immediate feelings, in the almost lost tradition of spontaneous composition that goes back to the original Delta Blues artists and even further to the West-African griots. From the old acoustic Delta sounds of Robert Johnson, all the way to the urban electric Chicago style of his mentor Muddy Waters, Louisiana Red’s great versatility shines.

Michael Messer was born in  Middlesex in 1956, and is recognised as one of the leading slide guitarists and blues innovators around the world.  His playing encompasses the entire history of the blues, but is uniquely contemporary and highly individual.  Being an English bluesman with an international reputation for slide guitar is a rarity in itself and Messer’s obsessive appetite for knowledge of his art is virtually unrivalled. The American magazine, Spirit listed Michael as one of the greatest slide guitarists ever alongside Duane Allman and Ry Cooder. 

This seated concert will begin at 8pm

Band on the Wall is delighted to host The Virginmarys Cast The First Stone album launch show

In an era where they say that less is definitely more,The Virginmarys are the real deal. Never being a band to do things by halves the young Macclesfield power trio have built a reputation for themselves with a three pointy attack: Explosive live performances, killer songs that will have you hanging from the edge of your seat and an unbelieveable belief and sheer passion that's poured into everything they do.

Drawing on influences that range from the early blues to heavy rock by the way of psychedelica of the late 60s & 70s, The Virginmarys continue to wow both critics and fans alike with their powerful & unique sound.

2009 saw The Virginmarys playing to strong audiences in their local area & have now started to spread their magic further afield. Having just recorded their debut alhum Cast The First Stone with GUN singer Toby Jepson in the producer's chair & legendary Mike 'Aerosmith/Ac/Dc/Metallica/Cult' Fraser clearing his desk to get involved by mixing the album.

This hotly tipped awaited debut is released at The Band On The Wall and has been preceded by Classic Rock magazine tipping them as one of their top bands to watch out for in 2010.

With support tours with GUN , New Model Army and Medina Lake already confirmed The Virginmarys are off & running!  

Tickets for the show include a copy of the brand new album which can be collected upon entry of the show.

This event will begin at 7.30pm.

Brighton has always been a breeding ground for new bands and exploratory music. This tour features the foremost representatives of the city's most exciting and critically acclaimed musical export of recent times, the Willkommen Collective - a loose-knit community of musicians and bands sharing lo-fi, nu-folk and alt-country roots.

Beloved of Brian Eno, Guy Garvey and Bob Harris, The Leisure Society made national headlines last year with an Ivor Novello nomination and will be joined by Sons of Noel and Adrian - The Willkommen's post-folk orchestra recently seen touring with Mumford & Sons and playing alongside Laura Marling.

This concert will begin at 8pm.

Tickets to Canadian comic Stewart Francis live with his latest show, Tour de Francis, at the New Victoria Theatre, Woking.

Great Comedians Come in Cycles.

As seen on 'Mock The Week', 'Michael McIntyre's Comedy Roadshow' and '8 Out Of 10 Cats'.

"A brilliant comic brain... this stand-up cracks some of the best one liners I've ever heard...." - Guardian

"One of the funniest comedian's in the world..." - The Late Late Show

This choreography has developed out of a ten-week course in contemporary dance technique and creative movement. The starting point for this course was a metronome (a device to mark time) and the concept of time. Movement material has been manipulated in response to time, and time has played a part in creating the choreography. This unique work has been choreographed by Ruth Tyson-Jones and the participants.

Presented by Ad Hoc Dance.

Jesca Hoop was born in Southern California to strict Mormon parents. She grew up singing traditional folk tunes in four-part harmony, but soon broke away from this background, becoming a homesteader and working with children. As a nanny for Tom Waits and Kathleen Brennan’s three children, Hoop gained both musical experience and notoriety; Waits said of Jesca, 'Her music is like going swimming in a lake at night'. Following exposure through radio station KCRW, Jesca toured with Polyphonic Spree, Mark Knopfler, Andrew Bird and Elbow – with Guy Garvey also dueting with Hoop on her latest acclaimed album Hunting My Dress.

‘One of alternative folk-pop’s most arresting recent arrivals, singing like an outcast angel and writing like a restless explorer’ - The Sunday Times

‘There’s a thin line between genuine eccentricity and precious affectation of weirdness, but Jesca Hoop walks it well’ - The Guardian

‘Exudes oodles of charisma and originality, thanks mostly to Hoop’s delightfully freaky take on traditional folk convention‘ - BBC Music

This concert will begin at 8pm.

Tickets to afternoon racing at Newmarket, the middle day of the Cambridgeshire Meeting featuring The Sakhee Oh So Sharp Stakes, The Nayef Joel Stakes, The Cheveley Park Stakes and The Shadwell Middle Park Stakes.

First Race: 1.30pm
Last Race: 5.30pm

Tickets to afternoon racing at Newmarket, the first day of the Cambridgeshire Meeting featuring The Somerville Tattersall Stakes.

First Race: 2.00pm
Last Race: 5.30pm

Tickets to afternoon racing at Newmarket, the final day of the Cambridgeshire Meeting featuring The Kingdom of Bahrain Sun Chariot Stakes and The totesport.com Cambridgeshire Stakes.

First Race: 1.50pm
Last Race: 5.25pm

Tickets to afternoon racing at Newmarket.

Friday 17th September
First Race: 2.30pm
Last Race: 5.25pm

Saturday 18th September- Racing South Africa Day         
First Race: 2.00pm
Last Race: 5.30pm

Tickets to The Love Nest at the Rhoda McGaw Theatre, Woking.

Camus Productions present Stepping Out - The Musical!

Stepping Out is all about the trials and tribulations of the members of a north London tap dancing beginners class. There is enough interaction between the pupils to fill several soap operas as they confide in and bicker with each other. But each has their solo moment as they perform one of the many beautiful songs. Finally it all comes together in a rousing finale as the class display their newly acquired tap dancing skills at a charity gala.

Sir Peter Hall’s production of one of Alan Ayckbourn’s best loved works.
 
Bedroom Farce
 
Four couples, three bedrooms, two celebrations, one blazing row and an illicit kiss (or two). Alan Ayckbourn’s ingenious comedy shines a brilliant spotlight onto the trials and tribulations of suburban marriage.
 
Trevor and Susannah have a problem relationship which requires urgent attention. What better solution than to talk it over with family and friends? Preferably in their respective bedrooms and ideally in the middle of the night. Inevitably, one problem relationship tends to spark off another.
 
When you have friends like Trevor and Susannah, nobody gets much sleep.
 

Experience Level Rating: Event suitable for beginners/experienced investigators. Past investigations have deemed this venue extremely scary.

Join us for this exclusive and special night where you will get to uncover the most haunted aspects of Chester, one of England's most haunted cities! The event is certainly not for the faint hearted and will take you to places with extreme paranormal activity....can you handle it?

Chester is a ghost hunter's heaven. Join a night-time Ghost Walk around the eerie haunts of Chester's mysterious and murky past. Tour the ancient, walled city after dark, visit well-known spooky and scary places, and hear spine-chilling tales of ghosts, spectres, and things that go bump in the night... was that a cold breeze or a spirit walking past you? Join us and find out!

The tour will start at 9pm and will last approximately an hour and 30 minutes before we are dropped off at the very haunted Stanley Palace! For the meeting point for this event please see information detailed below.
 
The Stanley Palace Haunting's
Chester's picturesque Stanley Palace is one of the most atmospheric and haunted buildings within the city walls. The ancient half-timbered, black-and-white, haunted mansion on Watergate Street was once the town house of James Stanley, the 7th Earl of Derby. Following the Parliamentarian's resounding victory in the English Civil War, the outspoken Earl foolishly voiced his Royalist opinions once too often - openly supporting the exiled King Charles II. Predictably, the Earl was arrested in 1651, tried, and convicted of treason. Surrounded by Roundhead troopers, he was then kept under strict house arrest in Stanley Palace before being escorted to Bolton for execution.

His last days were undoubtedly traumatic as he said a final goodbye to his family and friends. Today, his ghost still wanders wearily through the ground floor rooms, dressed forever in his smartest court finery. Strangest of all, however, is the fact that he appears as if in a photographic negative - with a dark face, black shirt, and white jacket. But quite why that is, no one can explain.

Stanley Palace has had its share of visitors and many have told afterwards of the strange and chilling presence they felt whilst visiting. Many have reported hearing children’s giggles, and soft moans and murmurs.

The figure of a lady dressed in 17th Century clothing has on a number of occasions been seen entering the Queen Anne Room, footsteps have been heard in the gallery and strange smells filling the air at any time of the day. Will we encounter the Monks that once dwelled on this site? You may even catch a glimpse of a Roman soldier as he wanders between the two worlds! The Ghost Hunt will commence around 11pm, the evening will start with a Medium Workshop and Ghost Hunt of the location. Full use of our paranormal equipment is available throughout the night but we encourage guests to bring along their own camcorders and cameras. Tea and Coffee will be served throughout the night, as NO Supper Buffet is served we encourage you to bring your own snacks.

The event will commence at 9pm, please arrive at the meeting point at 8.45pm. Please note there is no designated parking at Stanley Palace, car parking will be in nearby car parks. No food will be served on this event only hot drinks; we therefore encourage you to bring additional snacks for the night. Flat comfortable shoes must be worn on the night and we ask you to bring extra layers of clothing, it can get cold in the venue later on in the night. We encourage you to bring your own cameras and camcorders to use on the night and a torch. The event will draw to a close at 4am.

The evening will draw to a close with a sum up of any activity caught throughout the evening. Full use of our paranormal equipment is available throughout the night but we encourage guests to bring along their own camcorders and cameras. Tea and Coffee will be served throughout the night, as there is NO supper buffet on this event we encourage you to bring your own snacks. This event is suitable for guests 18 years of age and over.
 
Full Itinerary:
Ghost Walk around Chester before being dropped off at Stanley Palace.
Introduction from our Paranormal Team and Medium at Stanley Palace.
Medium Workshop and Ghost Walk of the location with our Medium
Equipment Demonstration
Full use of Paranormal Equipment throughout the night at both locations.
Chance to be involved in seances and other paranormal experiments.

Meeting Point for Event:
Please note the meeting point for this event is Chester Tourist Information Centre, Town Hall, Northgate Street, Chester, CH1 2HJ
Please note that there is no on site parking, parking will be in nearby car parks or street parking.

*PLEASE NOTE WE WILL MEET YOU AT THIS POINT AT 8.45PM*

The British Grand Prix is one of the highlights of the British sporting year and most sought after events in the Motor Racing calendar.

The package includes a selection of London or Luton based hotels and a choice of 3 Day tickets for use 9, 10 & 11th July 2010. 2 day transfers on Saturday 10th and Sunday 11th July are included in all packages from hotels to Silverstone and return.

This British Grand Prix hotel package includes:

• A choice of hotel accommodation between 9th - 11th July 2010 inclusive based on two people sharing a twin/double room
• Full English Breakfast
• Return private coach transfers with assistance from your hotel to Silverstone Race Circuit on Saturday 10th and Sunday 11th July
• A Choice of 3 Day Tickets

Experience Level Rating: Event suitable for beginners. Location not investigated before but documented paranormal activity has been experienced/witnessed.

The Queen Railway Hotel opened its doors for receiving guests on 21st April 1860. Costing £29,000 this premier hotel was full of sumptuous furnishings and Cheshire Hunt often used the stable facilities, this area is now the hotel car park.

On the 26th November 1861 a fire broke out in the roof and quickly spread to the upper floors, the cause was never established. No structural damage was incurred and the hotel continued to trade whilst refurbishment took place. Most furnishing's and fittings were rescued from the building and stored in the train station (which is opposite the hotel).

Charles Dickens and Lilly Langtry stayed when they played at the Music Hall. In 1867 a sister hotel, The Queen Commercial (now known as the Town Crier) was opened. During the construction of City Road a tunnel was incorporated to link the two hotels. The tunnels exist to this day, but are no longer in use. The hotel is said to be haunted by many a ghostly spirit, spotted by staff members and guests alike. Most activity is centered around the Albert Lounge with staff reporting sightings and also in the Edward Suite which use to be a Gentleman's Lounge used by the high society guests of the hotel. An area of bedrooms used by the staff in 1858 is also said to be an area of paranormal activity.

The event will commence at 9pm, please arrive at the venue between 8.45pm and 9.00pm. No food will be served on this event only hot drinks; we therefore encourage you to bring additional snacks for the night. Flat comfortable shoes must be worn on the night and we ask you to bring extra layers of clothing, it can get cold in the venue later on in the night. We encourage you to bring your own cameras and camcorders to use on the night and a torch. The event will draw to a close at 3am.

Full use of our paranormal equipment is available throughout the night but we encourage guests to bring along their own camcorders and cameras. Tea and Coffee will be served throughout the night, as there is NO Supper Buffet served we encourage you to bring your own snacks. This event is suitable for guests 18 years of age and over.

The evening will consist of:
Introduction from our Paranormal Team
Ghost Walk of the location with our Medium
Equipment Demonstration
Full use of Paranormal Equipment throughout the night
Chance to be involved in paranormal experiments throughout the night

Directions to Venue
The Queens Hotel, City Road, Chester, CH1 3AH
Sat Nav Postcode: CH1 3AH. On site parking is available.

Experience Level Rating: Event suitable for beginners. Location not investigated before but documented paranormal activity has been experienced/witnessed.

Join us as we give you the opportunity to investigate one of Bolton's most haunted and historic locations....the Olde Man and Scythe AND the Olde Trinket Shop! Limited to just 18 tickets this will be a small and intimate ghost hunt, book early to avoid disappointment!

Ye Olde Man & Scythe is one of the best known pubs in Bolton town centre, one of the oldest public houses in the United Kingdom and is reputedly haunted by James Stanley, 7th Earl of Derby amongst others. Ye Olde Man & Scythe has stood in Churchgate since the 12th century.

The earliest mention of the pub dates to 1251 and a Royal Charter giving permission for a market to be held in by the Earl of Derby who owned the property where the building stands. The pub has undergone some structural changes and according to a date stone was rebuilt in 1636, though some of the cellar dates back to the earlier building. The sign depicts a man holding a scythe. Around the time of the Royal Charter of 1251, Ye Olde Man & Scythe passed from the Ferrers (Earl of Derby) family to the Pilkingtons through marriage. The crest of the Pilkingtons is that of a man mowing with a scythe which relates to a family legend concerning one of their ancestors who disguised themselves as a mower to avoid capture around the time of the Norman conquest.

The Pilkingtons fought for Richard III at the Battle of Bosworth on 22 August 1485 and Leonard Pilkington was executed for this in Leicester. The whole Pilkington family manor and estate was then passed to by Henry VII to Thomas Lord Stanley, the newly created Earl of Derby after the earldom had been re-introduced. Sir Thomas Pilkington of Pilkington is mentioned in the roll call for the Battle of Bosworth fighting for the Yorkist Richard and he later died at the Battle of Stoke in 1487.

There is said to be many a ghostly going's on in the walls of the buildings. Ye Olde Man & Scythe is said to be haunted by a young girl named Jenny and the ill fated James Stenley, 7th Earl of Derby, who has reputedly been seen in the Museum Room. An article by Jennifer Minard dated 2006 and entitled ‘TV Shuts Door On Haunted Hostelry’ in which she explains that representatives from Living TV examined the pub for a possible appearance on Most Haunted, but it was deemed unsuitable as the haunted rooms did not have doors on them. Jennifer’s article mentions that the pub is said to haunted by 20 ghosts!

The event will commence at 10pm, please arrive at the venue for 10.00pm when the doors will open. No food will be served on this event only hot drinks; we therefore encourage you to bring additional snacks for the night. Flat comfortable shoes must be worn on the night and we ask you to bring extra layers of clothing, it can get cold in the venue later on in the night. We encourage you to bring your own cameras and camcorders to use on the night and a torch.

Please note that you will get to investigate the Olde Trinket Shop from 10pm until 1am and then Olde Man and Scythe Pub from 1am until 4am. The event will draw to a close at 4am. Full use of our paranormal equipment is available throughout the night but we encourage guests to bring along their own camcorders and cameras. Tea and Coffee will be served throughout the night, as there is NO Supper Buffet served we encourage you to bring your own snacks. This event is suitable for guests 18 years of age and over.

Directions to Venue
The Olde Man and Scythe, 12 Church Gate, Bolton, BL1 1HL
Sat Van Postcode: BL1 1HL. Please note there is no designated parking with this venue, parking is street parking near the venue.

Following sellout performances at Tristan Bates and the Tara Studion, One Mind Theatre Company present 'Eight' by Ella Hickson - Directed by Nick Ewans and Renu Arora.

A prostitute clinging to traditional values; a high flyer with his world blown apart; a trendy gallery owner with a suicidal lover; a single mum seeing a glimpse of middle class security; a teenager escaping to a world of secrets; a cheating and cheated lover; a traumatized soldier with unusual ‘friends’:  in monologues they reveal inner worlds.

Cinnamon Jive Easter Ball at The Cinnamin Club.

Gerald the giraffe was not a good dancer. Every year he dreaded the great Jungle Dance, where all the animals turned up to jump and prance. The lions dance the tango, the warthogs waltz, the chimps do the cha-cha and the rhinos rock ‘n’ roll. But Gerald the giraffe is clumsy and all the other animals laugh at him. Embarrassed and sad, he wanders off, until, one beautiful moonlit lit night he comes across a friendly cricket who helps him discover his own sweet song to dance to...! Everyone is invited to the ‘Jungle Dance’, so put on your glam rags and don’t forget your dancing shoes! With original music and songs, our storytellers whisk you away on a journey, deep, deep into the jungle. Told with bewitching music, breathtaking imagery, and beautifully carved puppets, this uplifting tale of individuality promises to melt even the coldest of hearts

The brilliant Image Musical Theatre returns with A Little Princess, interactive sing a long fun for all the family. This wonderful story of a parentless girl courageously resisting hunger and cruelty at the hands of her headmistress, Miss Minchin, is one of the most inspiring of all the children's classics. You can be the star of the show with the opportunity for some children to take part as actors and the whole audience as the chorus singers - this is family theatre at its very best.

The Yellow's on the Broom 2010

Sillyflatt Farm, Inverbervie

11th International Music & Arts Festival
22nd & 23rd May 2010 - 7.30pm

The annual event hosting a renowned variety of international and world-class Scottish acts for another fun-packed weekend!

Something for everyone! Intermingled with live music on the main stage are other magic, aerial and surprise acts.

The Festival is having its eleventh consecutive year at Sillyflatt Farm, Inverbervie, on the evenings of Saturday May 22nd, and Sunday May 23rd 2010 at 7.30PM. Sillyflatt Farm is situated one mile south of the 'Royal Burgh' of Inverbervie, and is accessed directly from the A92 Stonehaven to Montrose "Coast Road", near the turn-off for the coastal village of Gourdon.

With expensive and packed festivals taking over Scotland’s entertainment calendar and becoming uniformly muddy, looking for that something extra that celebrates Music and the Arts can be difficult. Then there's the Yellow's on the Broom Festival - and it's in a barn!

The Yellow’s on the Broom Team once more present international world-class acts at their eleventh festival on Saturday and Sunday 22nd & 23rd of May at Sillyflatt Farm, Inverbervie.

Argentine Tango and Cumbia on Saturday and Sunday from Manosanta for all lovers of Latin rythm and finally, on Sunday, the passion culminates with Scotland's own Donnie Munro Band.

FROM his days as lead singer with Runrig to fronting his own band, Donnie Munro has always thrilled and moved audiences with his unique voice and style and now, the famous frontman, with seven of Scotland’s finest musicians, will be appearing at the eleventh Yellow's on the Broom International Music & Arts Festival on Sunday 23 May 2010.

As Donnie himself says "I have always believed that music is only really fully brought to life by the great chemistry of performer and audience coming together through live performance to share in the emotion and passion of the song and it is very much a two way process in which (the) audience plays a very major part".

Manosanta live in the 'Midi' area of the South of France near Avignon. From Argentina, their song lyrics follow the "Tangueros" tradition infused with Latin Hip Hop and an African tonality - truly enchanting. This is the only UK opportunity to catch these big names of the French and World Music festival scene.

Appearing over the evenings of the weekend are other six bands on two stages, spectacular aerial acts, an illusionist and various other surprises. The emphasis is on quality and unusual acts that represent Scottish and international music and dance. The culinary arts are also not left out as catering on site provides ample refreshment with hamburgers, German wurst, Scottish stovies and French crepe and gallettes.

Other attractions are music, craft and dance tuition workshops offered in the afternoons by festival performers and other experts These workshops take place in the delightful setting of the Mill of Benholm - only 5 minutes drive or a pleasant half hour's country walk from Sillyflatt Farm.

The packed program of this popular Mearns two day festival takes place inside a barn transformed by the dedication of the teams of volunteers and the generosity of the farm owner. Seating at genuine 'Biergarten' tables on wooden flooring provides for good views of the two stages and the dance floor area.

As a family-friendly festival, the organisers would like to stress under 18s must be accompanied by an adult. The festival has a professionally run bar so there is no requirement to bring alcoholic drinks to this event - any drinks brought in will be confiscated. Also to note is that the doors open at 7.15, music starts at 7.30pm and doors close at 10.00pm.

LINE-UP

Saturday 22nd May
Main Stage: Headline Act TBC, Manosanta, The Moozie Allstars + more TBC
Side Stage: Harry Mudini + more TBC

Sunday 23rd May
Main Stage: Donnie Munro & Band, Manosanta + more TBC
Side Stage: Harry Mudini + more TBC

Special Acts TBC

Join the talented young performers from The Lowry Summer Schools as they present the exciting work they have created during their week-long residency.

Whether it’s painting, drawing and designing or acting and singing, there’s something for everyone.

The Hellfire Club is the bastard child of the Hellfire Festival and will be bringing terror to a venue near you as it tears around the UK with reckless abandon!

Friday 7th May - Sunday 9th May 2010
Club Revolution (formerly The Park), Peterborough

Day and Weekend tickets now available!

LINE-UP

Friday 7th May (doors 5.45pm)
Devil Sold His Soul
Shaped By Fate
Abel Is Dying
Hang The Bastard
Allure In Grace
The Fake Exterior

PLUS FREE ENTRY TO CODE RED ROCK NIGHT WITH YOUR TICKET

Saturday 8th May (doors 2.00pm)
Deez Nuts
The Ghost Inside
Awaken Demons
TRC
This Is Colour
Breakeven
Pay No Respect
While She Sleeps
Broken Jaws

PLUS SPECIAL GUEST DUBSTEP/DRUM N BASS DJ SETS FROM GEORGE 'DOOGE' NOBLE (EX YOUR DEMISE VOCALS) ON SATURDAY 8TH MAY.

Sunday 9th May (doors 2.00pm)
The Ghost Of A Thousand
The Eyes Of A Traitor
Postmortem Promises
The Argent Dawn
Carcer City
Heart In Hand
The More I See
Tides Of Virtue
Heart Of A Coward

Rising film star, Mitchell Green, is every girl's fantasy and soon to become a household name, thanks to his devilish agent Diane, who excels at navigating the choppy waters of Hollywood.

With Mitchell on the brink of superstardom, Diane encounters one teensy weensy obstacle - she can’t seem to stop her leading man from coming out of the closet. With Mitchell spending days and nights with his new 'friend' Alex, and Alex’s beautiful girlfriend Ellen (yes girlfriend!) causing a drama of her own, what lengths will Mitchell go to play the part? And will there be a Hollywood ending when the credits role?

Douglas Carter Beane's Tony award-nominated comedy, hilariously satirizes the superficial world of show-business and the game-playing of the movie industry.

Starring Tamsin Greig, Rupert Friend, Gemma Arterton and Harry Lloyd.

Not recommend for children under the age of 15yrs.

‘Tart, smart and on the money…TERRIFIC’
The Daily Telegraph ****


‘Tamsin Greig shines…DIABOLICALLY FUNNY’’ - The Guardian **** 


‘Terrific performances’ - Sunday Express ****


‘Tamsin Greig is magnificent’
Mail on Sunday ****

‘Very Funny’
Sunday Telegraph ****

‘Douglas Carter Beane’s ferociously funny play’
Sunday Express ****

Legendary singer and songwriter David Essex stars in the new Jon Conway (Boogie Nights) musical All The Fun Of The Fair,

featuring a mix of David Essex hits alongside brand new songs.

Set against the backdrop of a travelling funfair All the Fun of the Fair is the brand new action packed, rock ‘n’ roll musical with a heart warming story.

Inspired by David’s debut album All The Fun Of The Fair this musical features a helter-skelter of hits such as;

Winter’s Tale, Hold Me Close, Gonna Make You A Star, Me and My Girl Nightclubbing, Silver Dream Machine & Rock On.

BOOK BY JON CONWAY
MUSIC & LYRICS BY DAVID ESSEX
DIRECTED BY DAVID GILMORE

'We want the forest to be kept as it is, always. We want the sky to remain clear, the darkness to really fall and the stars to be seen.' Davi Kopenawa, Yanomami, Brazil.

Survival International is proud to announce ‘WE ARE ONE – a celebration of tribal peoples’, a fundraising evening in aid of Survival International created and directed by Mark Rylance.

The evening will be a performance of tribal prose and poetry from some of the UK and Hollywood’s leading actors and musicians including Mackenzie Crook, Sinead Cusack, Colin Firth, Emilia Fox, Michael Gambon, Sophie Okonedo, Mark Rylance, Danny Sapani, John Sessions, Kevin Spacey, Juliet Stevenson, Ken Stott, Zoe Wanamaker and James Wilby, and a special performance by Bruce Dickinson, Ian Paice and Jon Lord. *

This unique theatrical event is inspired by the words and images of tribal peoples featured in the recently published book ‘WE ARE ONE – a celebration of tribal peoples’, created and edited by Jo Eede and published by Quadrille Publishing, to mark the 40th anniversary of Survival International.

Survival International is a human rights organization that supports tribal peoples, helping them to protect their lives, lands and futures. Mark Rylance has been a supporter of Survival for many years. He said: ”As a child, I was enriched and inspired by the lives and stories of the world's tribal peoples. As an adult, I have also been inspired by the ceaseless work of the organization Survival International, and their movement to protect these tribes - from the rainforest of the Amazon to the icy reaches of the Arctic.

A new anthology called 'We are One' portrays tribal peoples today - their communities, art, humour, rituals, languages and wisdom, as well as their connections to their homelands and their struggle for recognition and survival - through a powerful collection of prose, poetry and photographs.

To celebrate 40 years of Survival's work and enjoy the beauty of the spoken word from such rich oral cultures, I am gathering my friends from the theatre on the set of Jerusalem for a wonderful spring afternoon of eloquent recitals and stunning images from 'We are One’.

To hear such moving words from our brothers and sisters who still live so intimately attached to their lands, is to be reminded that they have much to share with the world, and that we all have a deep need for a sense of belonging to each other, and to nature.”

(*cast subject to availability)

A brand new production of the classic musical, The Fantasticks is coming to London, opening in May 2010 at the Duchess Theatre.

Directed by Amon Miyamoto, a new production of this much-loved musical will invigorate and illuminate the show with fresh visual, emotional and musical energy. Designer Rumi Matsui joins Miyamoto on The Fantasticks following their previous collaboration on the Broadway production of Pacific Overtures for which Matsui’s work was Tony Award nominated. Lighting design will be provided by 2009 Tony Award winner Rick Fisher.

The Fantasticks tells an allegorical story, loosely based on the play The Romancers (Les Romanesques) by Edmond Rostand, concerning two neighboring fathers who put up a wall between their houses to ensure that their children fall in love, because they know children always do what their parents forbid. After the children do fall in love, they discover their fathers' plot and each go off and experience the world. Finally they return to each other and the love they had, having learned from the world to recognise their true feelings. Elements of the musical are drawn from the story of Pyramus and Thisbe, its story winding its way through Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet and A Midsummer Night's Dream as well as Donizetti's L'Elisir d'Amore and Rostand's play. Tom Jones and Harvey Schmidt’s classic score feature’s titles including Much More, I Can See It and the instantly familiar Try To Remember.

The Fantasticks first played in New York nearly fifty years ago and has since become the longest running show of any kind in the United States and the longest running musical in the world. It has played in over 2000 cities and towns in the States, in more than 10,000 productions. Internationally more than 700 productions have been staged in 67 countries.


Cast

Up and coming stars, Lorna Want and Luke Brady will play the young lovers in this new production of The Fantasticks. They will be joined by a hugely experienced and impressive cast which includes musical theatre favourites David Burt and Clive Rowe in the roles of the two fathers, as well as Edward Petherbridge and Paul Hunter who will play the roles of Henry and his sidekick Mortimer. The character of El Gallo around whom much of the twists and turns of the plot happen will be played by Hadley Fraser and finally the role of the mute will be played by Carl Au.

Directed by Amon Miyamoto, a new production of this much-loved musical will invigorate and illuminate the show with fresh visual, emotional and musical energy. Designer Rumi Matsui joins Miyamoto on The Fantasticks following their previous collaboration on the Broadway production of Pacific Overtures for which Matsui’s work was Tony Award nominated. Lighting design will be provided by 2009 Tony Award winner Rick Fisher.

Things never run according to plan. Tim just wanted to find a hotel. Unfortunately Stanley had other ideas. A tramp in Brighton...during conference season....with a bag of glue and a stack of magazines. What could possibly go wrong?

12 PERFORMANCES ONLY

MGM legend and star of Singing in the Rain, The Unsinkable Molly Brown, Thats Entertainment, The Bodyguard, and Will and Grace, Debbie Reynolds celebrates 50 years of show business in this award winning one woman show.

Winner of The American Comedy Award, Nominated for two Golden Globes and an Academy Award, Debbie Reynolds comes to the Apollo Theatre direct from America, where she has become a national institution.

A bundle of energy, charm and beauty, Debbie Reynolds is a genuine film star. This unique presentation features actual MGM film footage as she talks about her glittering career, her many husbands and her incredible life of song and dance.

Lesley Sharp, Iain Glen, Harry Treadaway, Jessica Raine and Malcolm Storry unite in Frank McGuinness’ version of Henrik Ibsen’s gripping, classic tale of hope in the face of infidelity and deceit.

Controversy and hidden pasts are suddenly and painfully exposed as wealthy widow Mrs Alving prepares to open a new orphanage in memory of her seemingly beloved husband. Her treasured son Oswald’s return from Paris and her relationship with old friend Pastor Manders are no longer the source of joy they once were, as secrets are turned into a frightening and desperate reality.

LIMITED SEASON 11 FEBRUARY TO 27 MARCH

Noel Coward’s dazzling comic masterpiece provides a riotous show down between two of the screen’s most magnetic stars, Kim Cattrall and Matthew Macfadyen, when Private Lives opens in the West End February 2010.

Glamorous, rich and reckless, Elyot and Amanda have been divorced from each other for five years. Now both are honeymooning with their new spouses in the South of France. When by chance they meet again across adjoining hotel balconies, their insatiable feelings for each other are immediately rekindled. Without a care for scandal, new partners or memories of what drove them apart in the first place, they hurl themselves headlong into love and lust…

Kim Cattrall is the winner of a Golden Globe Award, an Emmy Award and a Screen Actor's Guild Award and has received worldwide acclaim for her role as femme-fatale Samantha Jones in Sex and the City. Her films include Porky’s, Police Academy, Star Trek VI, Mannequin and The Tiger’s Tail. Her West End credits include Whose Life Is It, Anyway? and The Cryptogram and she made her Broadway debut starring opposite Ian McKellen in Chekhov’s Wild Honey. Born in Liverpool, she was recently the subject of BBC’s Who Do You Think You Are?

Matthew Macfadyen is best-known for his role as Tom Quinn in the BBC series Spooks. Other television roles include the recent five part BBC drama Criminal Justice II , the 2008 BBC adaptation of Dickens’s Little Dorrit and he won the Best Actor award at the Royal Television Society 2007 Awards for Secret Life. Film credits include Mr Darcy in the 2005 film of Pride and Prejudice, and the Sheriff of Nottingham in Russell Crowe's forthcoming Robin Hood.

Director of the National Theatre from 1988-1997, Richard Eyre has won five Olivier Awards, four Evening Standard Awards, three Critics’ Circle Awards and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Directors Guild. His numerous acclaimed theatre productions range from Guys and Dolls and Mary Poppins to works by Shakespeare, Tennessee Williams, David Hare and Alan Bennett. The BBC production Tumbledown won him the 1988 BAFTA Award for Best Director and his film work includes The Ploughman's Lunch, Iris, Stage Beauty and Notes on a Scandal.

The final act for the 2010 Newmarket Nights is now confirmed!  X Factor Finalists, Stacey, Olly, Jamie, Danyl and Lucie will perform on Friday 18th June.

Newmarket Nights are the hottest ticket for a summer Friday night out in the East of England!  The racing gets under way early evening and concludes as nights falls, immediately followed by a spectacular open air concert by a top band or artiste.  The atmosphere sizzles and the bars remain open until the conclusion of the concert.

Newmarket Racecourse is delighted to announce that MADNESS will be returning to Newmarket Nights in association with Heart FM on Friday 6th August. This will be the third time Madness have been part of the Newmarket Nights line-up following sell-out performances in 2007 and 2008.

MADNESS are the ultimate British singles band, holding the record for British single sales in the 1980’s when over 6 million Madness singles were bought by the British public. Over a thirty year career, their string of Top Ten hits are part of the lifeblood of British popular music and their influence on generations of musicians cannot be overstated.

With their latest album, ‘The Liberty Of Norton Folgate’, collecting continuous praise from the critics and re-establishing the band in the UK Top Five, is the ultimate Madness Best Of and a great introduction to or reminder of one of the UK’s most cherished bands.

Stephen Wallis, Managing Director, Newmarket Racecourses said, “We are extremely thrilled to be welcoming back Madness to Newmarket. Their previous two performances in 2007 and 2008 were two of the best Newmarket Nights ever and Madness were hugely popular with the crowd.” Stephen continued, “It was no surprise to us that Madness sold-out very quickly both times and therefore urge our customers to book early for this year’s event to avoid disappointment.”

Newmarket Nights are the hottest ticket for a summer Friday night out in the East of England!  The racing gets under way early evening and concludes as nights falls, immediately followed by a spectacular open air concert by a top band or artiste.  The atmosphere sizzles and the bars remain open until the conclusion of the concert.

Treat yourself and the children to a little celeb-spotting and mark the end of the summer holidays with a day out at Sandown Park for Variety Club Day.

Our annual Variety Club Day is always a huge draw for families and celebs alike and for over half a century, it's been a firm favourite among seasoned race-goers and children of all ages- including many grown-up ones! The important purpose of the day is to raise much-needed funds to improve the lives of many sick, disabled and disadvantaged children throughout Great Britain.

As always at this ultimate family day, there'll be plenty of complimentary entertainment planned with games galore.

SEASON
Flat (2pm-6pm)

TIMES
Gates Open: 12.00pm
First Race: 2.05pm
Last Race: 5.30pm

An evening of flat racing at Sandown Park.

SEASON
Flat (6pm-9pm)

TIMES
Gates Open: 4.00pm
First Race: 5.50pm
Last Race: 8.35pm

An afternoon of flat racing at Sandown Park.

SEASON
Flat (2pm-6pm)

TIMES
Gates Open: 12.00pm
First Race: 2.20pm
Last Race: 5.10pm

An afternoon of flat racing at Sandown Park.

SEASON
Flat (2pm-6pm)

TIMES
Gates Open: 12.00pm
First Race: 2.15pm
Last Race: 5.35pm

Afternoon/Evening horse racing at Kempton Park. Flat racing takes place at Kempton Park all year round thanks to our state-of-the-art all-weather track. Afternoons are laid-back and casual, and weekend racing is something the whole family can enjoy.

Season: Flat

Tickets to prog eclectitians Panic Room performing at The Met.

Panic Room features current and ex-members of Karnataka, Mostly Autumn and Fish's band. While the music has progressive elements it also appeals to a much broader audience with its melodic and powerful song-writing. Although primarily a rock band, folk, jazz and world music influences also ripple through the mix to produce a unique and individual sound. Inventively melodic guitar solos, interweaving keyboard lines and a subtly powerful rhythm section are topped off with the stunning voice of Anne-Marie Hedler, a very individual and emotional singer whose soaring melodies and inventive lyrics draw the listener into new worlds.

Panic Room are Paul Davies, Jonathan Edwards, Gavin John Griffiths, Anne-Marie Hedler and Alun Vaughan.

The hobopop collective adds to the distinctive and accomplished duo of kirsty mcgee & mat martin the skills of two of the country's most exciting emerging jazz musicians. the quirky and inspired double bass of nick blacka (aim, mrs columbo) and imaginative drumming of rob turner (neil yates' new origins, magic hat ensemble) add dimensions of jazz and rockabilly to mcgee's already exceptional rootsy songwriting and martin's sensitive banjo and guitar playing; shading and colouring the songs with grainy 'hobopop' style.

Scottish firebrands Breabach are one of the most talked about bands on the folk scene. Their innovative Celtic style shows flare, excitement and diversity rarely seen from such a young group. The band have received two nominations two years in a row from the Scottish Trad Music Awards for Best Scottish Folk Band.

Please note change to previously advertised date.

In the first half, expect Cathy’s writing in film, theatre and song performed by actors who have been integral to the growth and reputation of this unique organisation, including sketches that premièred at Studio Salford’s Embryo Nights, plus scenes from future plays, including Tuesday’s August Class.

The second half is her Manchester Evening News Award-winning play Moving Pictures – a witty and heartfelt tale of the first meeting of two sisters.

By Cathy Crabb.
Presented by Mediamedea.

Who is Santa Claus? Where did he come from? And why on earth does he climb down the chimney?

Follow the early life of Santa Claus, from his being abandoned in the forest and adopted by the wood-nymphs, making the very first toys to his final quest for immortality. Find out why we hang stockings, why he climbs down the chimney and meet the original reindeer Glossie and Flossie as well as the chilly rogue Jack Frost. With original music and lots of audience participation this is a wonderful seasonal show from Artsdepot and Big Wooden Horse, creators of venue favourites The Night Before Christmas and Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!

Based on the book by L Frank Baum
Adapted for the stage by Adam Bampton-Smith

An Artsdepot and Big Wooden Horse co-production.

As the first year for the new Centre for Advanced Training Scheme in Dance draws to a close, this celebratory evening will showcase the CAT students as they perform work choreographed by leading professionals.

No trip to London would be complete without seeing the sights at night time. Our vintage red double Decker bus will cruise the London streets taking in such magical sights as Westminster Abbey, Downing Street, Big Ben and Trafalgar square before we head for the London Eye. Our fast track ticket allows you to enjoy the breathtaking views of London from your capsule without the need to queue up!.

After the flight we head towards the imposing Tower of London and the majestic Tower Bridge. Sit back and enjoy the fascinating commentary from your professional guide who will regale you with stories of Londons past and present.

Headsets will be provided. French, Spanish, Italian, German, Mandarin, Japanese and Hindi languages available.

Tour Info

Times: Daily from 7.30pm

Departs from Grosvenor Victoria

Please call 0207 404 5100, 24 hours in advance to reconfirm your tour.

Departing on our Vintage Red Double Decker bus, enjoy a panoramic tour taking in the sights of Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and the London Eye before enjoying a traditional British Fish & Chip supper inside a historic London pub.

After dinner take advantage of our shuttle service that travels through the West End and will drop you off within walking distance of most theatres. Our staff will be happy to assist you in making sure you get to your show on time.

Headsets will be provided. French, Spanish, Italian, German, Mandarin, Japanese and Hindi languages available.

Tour Info

Times: Daily except Sundays @ 4.45pm

Departs Grosvenor Victoria

Please call 0207 404 5100, 24 hours in advance to reconfirm your tour.

After enjoy the sights and sounds of London we will take in the inspection of the Guards at Horseguards Parade rather than the Changing of the Guards.

Following the panoramic tour we travel to your venue of choice. Choose between Madame Tussauds, London Eye. London Dungeons or the Tower of London.

Tour Info

Times: Daily @ 1.30pm

Departs from Victoria Coach station

Please call 0207 404 5100, 24 hours in advance to reconfirm your tour.

After enjoy the sights and sounds of London, purchase a ticket for the London Eye, The London Dungeons. The Tower of London or Madame Tussauds and our bus will take you to the door of your chosen location.

Tour Info

Times: Daily from 08:15am

Departs Victoria Coach Station

Please call 0207 404 5100, 24 hours in advance to reconfirm your tour.

It’s love at first dance when young Romeo Montague tricks his way into the lavish masked ball of the Capulet family. The Capulets and Montagues are sworn enemies and the passion between Romeo and the beautiful Juliet Capulet is quickly forbidden. Boldly forgoing the approval of their families, the young lovers play by their own rules and soon their dangerous seduction is filled with secrets, as the star-crossed pair hatch a perilous plot. Can Romeo and Juliet play tricks with life and death? Or will death play a final trick on them?

With a sweeping score by Sergei Prokofiev and soaring choreography from the master of modern ballet, Kenneth MacMillan, Romeo and Juliet continues to be the all-time classic love story.

Music: Sergei Prokofiev
Choreography: Kenneth MacMillan
Designs: Paul Andrews
Lighting: John B Read

Production sponsored (1992) by The Friends of Covent Garden. 

**** The Independent, Financial Times, Birmingham Post

Presented by Birmingham Royal Ballet.

If you’ve ever believed in fairytales and looked out of the window for the brightest star in the night sky, then let your dreams take flight this Christmas and join us on a thrilling musical journey to Neverland for an unforgettable treat for all the family.

Based on J.M. Barrie’s beloved story that has enchanted children of all ages for nearly 100 years, the classic tale of a boy who never grows up is brought magically to life in this spectacular new production.

Stunning scenery, swashbuckling sword fights and breathtaking flying, accompanied by soaring music from a 14 piece orchestra, make this the North West’s must-see seasonal treat.

So with the help of Tinkerbell and a sprinkle of fairy dust, travel with Peter and Wendy on the greatest, most heart-warming, exciting adventure of all time, to a place far far away, where magic and dreams really do come true.

Peter Pan is the ultimate fantasy adventure for young and old alike and one not to be missed!

What better way to see the highlights of London than from onboard a vintage Red double Decker bus? Enjoy great views of Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and the London Eye as we meander through the streets and history of our great city, all brought to life by our professional guide.

Have your cameras at the ready as we stop for photos at Sir Christopher Wrens masterpiece, St. Pauls Cathedral where Admirals Nelson and Wellington lie buried and where Princess Diana was married. Then join us at the Tower of London that was built nearly a thousand years ago, during the reign of William the Conqueror, and is now home to the Crown Jewels protected by the famous Beefeaters. The imposing former palace was once used as a fortress and a prison and your guide will take you to see Traitors Gate where prisoners entered the Tower for the last time!

Next we take a leisurely cruise on the River Thames that passes Shakespeares Globe, Cleopatras Needle and London Bridge before we arrive at Westminster pier, rejoin the bus and head for Buckingham Palace. Here we make our way to the perfect spot to watch the world famous inspection of the Guards at Horseguards Parade rather than the Changing of the Guards.

Tour Info

Daily from 1.30pm

Departs from Victoria Coach station at 1.30pm.

Running Time: 3.5 Hrs

Please call 0207 404 5100, 24 hours in advance to reconfirm your tour.

What better way to see the highlights of London than from onboard a vintage Red double Decker bus? Enjoy great views of Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and the London Eye as we meander through the streets and history of our great city, all brought to life by our professional guide.

Have your cameras at the ready as we stop for photos at Sir Christopher Wrens masterpiece, St. Pauls Cathedral where Admirals Nelson and Wellington lie buried and where Princess Diana was married. Then join us at the Tower of London that was built nearly a thousand years ago, during the reign of William the Conqueror, and is now home to the Crown Jewels protected by the famous Beefeaters. The imposing former palace was once used as a fortress and a prison and your guide will take you to see Traitors Gate where prisoners entered the Tower for the last time!

Next we take a leisurely cruise on the River Thames that passes Shakespeares Globe, Cleopatras Needle and London Bridge before we arrive at Westminster pier, rejoin the bus and head for Buckingham Palace. Here we make our way to the perfect spot to watch the world famous Changing of the Guard ceremony as the soldiers, dressed in their fabulous tunics and busbies march to military music. What a morning!

NB If the guard change is not taking place; we still stop for photos of the Horseguards.

Headsets will be provided. French, Spanish, Italian, German, Mandarin, Japanese and Hindi languages available.

Tour Info

Departs Daily from Victoria Coach Station at 08.15am Gates 4-7.

The tour will finish in Victoria at 11.45 am.

Running Time: 3.5 Hrs

Please call 0207 404 5100, 24 hours in advance to reconfirm your tour.

Singer, musician & songwriter Natalie Merchant was previously the lead singer in 10,000 Maniacs the early 80’s American alternative/college rock band whose hits include ‘Peace Train'.

Natalie left 10,000 Maniacs in 1993 to pursue a solo career & to date she has released four solo albums including 1995’s ‘Tigerlily’ which which included the top 10 American single ‘Carnival’. Her new album ‘Leave Your Sleep’ will be released on 12th April.  

“I suppose I am a survivor since I am still here recording an album,” says Marc Almond.

With Soft Cell, the first successful British electro-duo in partnership with Dave Ball, Marc achieved a string of international hits - biggest of all, their version of northern soul classic Tainted Love, while Memorabilia is cited as the first techno record ever.

10 million-plus worldwide record sales later, Soft Cell are a British icon, influencing several subsequent generations of musicians - from Pulp, The Pet Shop Boys and Suede, to Goldfrapp and onto Antony Hegarty of Antony & The Johnsons fame.

Stardom Road was the first album recorded since his near-fatal accident. With one exception, it’s an album of covers, chosen and sequenced to tell Almond’s story.

It resembles not just an album but a play, which clearly suits a man who comes alive on stage, whose songs have always resembled dramas, whether they are underpinned by fizzy synth-pop, 60s-inspired pop kitsch-arama, bare-naked acoustic ballads or orchestrated splendour.

World Première

Britain’s national contemporary dance company returns to its partner venue with a brand new programme of imaginative, ambitious and high quality dance.

This autumn, Rambert is delighted to première its exciting new work Awakenings. A collaboration between theatrical choreographer Aletta Collins and celebrated American composer Tobias Picker, this is the first dance interpretation of Oliver Sacks’ book of the same name, made famous by the 1990 Hollywood film starring Robin Williams and Robert De Niro. Awakenings is a beautiful piece of dance full of high emotion, energy and drama.

Christopher Bruce’s award-winning and uplifting Hush and Merce Cunningham’s RainForest complete the bill.

With 22 of the world’s finest dancers and incredible live music from the Rambert Orchestra, the company continues to be at the very heart of British dance.

‘Where contemporary dance is concerned, Rambert sets the standard for quality and diversity.’ - The Times

*Fri 24 September 1.30pm features an introduction by Mark Baldwin and performances of Hush and Awakenings only.

Having enjoyed sensational reviews, Bill Kenwright’s ‘Amazing’, ‘Superb’, ‘Wonderful’ and ‘Brilliant’ production of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s sparkling family musical continues to enjoy huge success across the country with standing ovations at every performance.

Retelling the biblical story of Joseph, his eleven brothers and the coat of many colours, this magical musical is full of unforgettable songs including Any Dream Will Do, Close Every Door To Me and One More Angel.

‘Joseph returns in all its glory.’ - Daily Mail
‘A superb piece of entertainment. I was thrilled.’ - Daily Mirror

Mixing nightclub vibes with West End production values, Blaze is a high-energy theatrical show of non-stop dance from some of the world’s hottest DJs, B-Boys and street dancers.


Directed by top West End director and choreographer Anthony Van Laast (Mamma Mia!, Sister Act), Blaze features 16 of the best street dancers and breakers in the world, choreography from some of the hottest names in dance and stunning set designs by Es Devlin (set designer for Kanye West, Mika, Take That and Pet Shop Boys and the upcoming Lady Gaga tour).

Join The Hairy Bikers for an evening of cooking, chatting and laughs. The stars of six hugely successful series on BBC2; most recently their hugely acclaimed Hairy Bikers Tour of Britain was watched by 4 million viewers. Their successful year was rounded off when Dave won BBC’s Celebrity Mastermind, while Si took an admirable second place in BBC2’s The Weakest Link. Live cooking, much talk of motorbikes - and they’re clever too – not to be missed!

Following sell-out successes in the West End, Toronto and Miami, and based on the iconic seventies film that launched Jimmy Cliff onto the world stage, this exhilarating production tells the story of a country boy who makes for the bright lights of Kingston, Jamaica with high hopes of becoming a reggae star.


When the harsh reality of the music scene drives him into a fast and furious life as an outlaw, he would rather die than give up his dream!


All the songs that made the movie so unforgettable are here – You Can Get It If You Really Want, Many Rivers To Cross, Higher and Higher, Rivers of Babylon and The Harder They Come – all performed live by the hottest reggae band this side of the Atlantic.

‘The band is tight, the clothes are right – it’s a sure-fire smash hit.’ - Time Out
‘A superb production that faithfully captures not just the movie’s music and characters, but also its soul.’ - Evening Standard
‘An astonishment in every way; an exhilarating bleeding-at-the-edges slice of Jamaican life that feels as if life, music and dance are all one.’ - The Guardian
‘The coolest show in town by miles.’ - The Sunday Times

The Carpenters story is one that is filled with the joy of overwhelming success and the sadness of a life cut short.

With their light, airy melodies and meticulously crafted, clean arrangements, the Carpenters stood in direct contrast with the excessive, gaudy pop/rock of the '70s, yet they became one of the most popular artists of the decade.

Between 1970 and 1984, the Grammy Award-winning duo had 10 gold singles, nine gold albums, one multi-platinum album and 17 singles in the Billboard Top 20, 12 in the Top 10, three number 1 songs and six songs at number 2.

Tickets to Alan Bennett’s The Habit of Art at The Lyric Theatre, The Lowry, Manchester.

After a sell-out success in London, Alan Bennett’s latest play comes to The Lowry. The Habit of Art looks at the unsettling desires of two difficult men, in an imagined meeting between W H Auden and Benjamin Britten. It reflects on growing old, creativity and inspiration, and on persisting when all passion’s spent; ultimately on the habit of art.

‘Alan Bennett the maestro returns with a multi-layered masterpiece.’ ***** - The Independent
‘The glorious quality of writing, and Nicholas Hytner’s flawless production, carry you along on a wave of pleasure.’ ***** - Mail on Sunday
‘Another absolute cracker, often wonderfully and sometimes filthily funny, but also deeply and unexpectedly moving.’ ***** - The Daily Telegraph

Captioned Performance Fri 8 October 7.30pm. Captioned by Stagetext.
Audio Described Performance Sat 9 October 2pm. Touch Tour 1pm. Audio Described by Vocaleyes.

It’s a wolf eat duck world. But it’s a world where little boys can find extraordinary courage and catch the wolf!

Prokofiev’s story of the irreverent Peter has resonated deeply with generations of children enchanted by its power and sense of fun. Now BreakThru Films and Se-ma-for Studios, in collaboration with BAFTA-winning director Suzie Templeton, bring this mesmerising and enchanting classic to its humorous and exhilarating best for the big screen.

The film, which has no vocals, will be accompanied with live music from Manchester Camerata.

‘Peter’s adventures look wonderfully exciting and Prokofiev’s score helps, too, in a thrillingly beautiful animation.’ - The Sunday Times

The joy of this film is the care, sensitivity and imagination that  matches even Prokofiev’s work.’ - The Independent

The author of What The Dog Saw, Outliers, The Tipping Point and Blink.

Described by The Observer as ‘The most influential thinker of the iPod generation’, best-selling author Malcolm Gladwell returns to the UK with a new live show to mark the publication of his new book What The Dog Saw. This is a rare live opportunity to see Malcolm's brilliantly entertaining amalgam of storytelling and intuitive thinking, which has captivated UK audiences both in the West End and on tour.

Direct from the USA and embarking on her first tour of the UK, Lisa Williams is an internationally acclaimed, Medium and Clairvoyant. With a remarkable ability to communicate with loved ones and friends whom have passed over to the other side, Lisa works with spirit guides and loved ones of the audience. Sharing her gift through audience readings she helps to resolve past issues, informing them of situations that they may find themselves in and providing closure and healing.

Born in England, Lisa was discovered by Merv Griffin, the American television host and media mogul, and has her own hit show ‘Lisa Williams, Life Among the Dead’, on Lifetime Television in the US. As well as appearing on ‘Good Morning America’, ‘Oprah’ and ‘The Jimmy Kimmel Show’, Lisa’s book has also been now been published. Combining personal readings, Reiki and Crystal healing, experience the unique talents and phenomenon that is Lisa Williams.

“If it is a dream then you will never wake up. If it is reality then where is the door leading out of this world?”

Described as radical, progressive, non-traditional and stylish, blackSKYwhite's performances are always magical sights, impossible to classify and genuinely genre-defying.

Their spectacular performances incorporate human animation, a cacophony of electronic music and stunning lighting - creating the effect of something unreal which draws you into a world of great illusion.

A nightmare vision of an alternative reality.

Suitable for ages 12+.

Enter the flamboyant and magical flamenco world of Andalusian dance, song and guitar. On this tour Jaleo are joined by new dancers, including sensational new stars Mª José León and Adolfo Vega.

Fusing the essential elements of flamenco with their own inimitable and charismatic brand of Spanish passion and emotion, Jaleo unleash the raw energy and sensuous rhythms inherent within flamenco.  A potent cocktail of explosive footwork, haunting singing, virtuoso guitar playing and percussive handclapping from southern Spain, with some of flamenco’s finest award-winning artists.

Join the Inscape Summer Music Festival for a selection of music and songs performed by pupils and students from Special Educational Needs schools in Greater Manchester.

World Première

To celebrate the 50th anniversary of Britain’s longest-running and most-watched soap opera, come to The Lowry and see the highlights of five decades of Coronation Street, performed live in under two hours.
With a script by Corrie’s own writing team covering over 7,000 episodes and more than 2,000 storylines, including 115 deaths, 37 births and 86 marriages, The Rovers Return suffers one lorry crash, two births, one condemnation, one fire and only two changes of wallpaper.

Catch Weatherfield’s finest and see all your much-loved characters including: Ena Sharples, Hilda Ogden, Percy Sugden, Alf Roberts, Ken and Deirdre Barlow, Curly Watts, Richard Hillman, Karen McDonald, Jack Duckworth, Bet Lynch and many many more.

Relive your favourite memories from the programme – see the viaduct collapse, the coach crash and the tram run over Alan. See Frank capture Valerie, Tracy kill Charlie, Todd kiss Nick, and Gail marry Brian, Martin, Richard and Joe! All this reduced to two hours of mind-boggling stage craft!

Presented by Phil McIntyre Entertainments and ITV.

Verve, the award-winning postgraduate performance company of the Northern School of Contemporary Dance, return to The Lowry with an invigorating mixed bill of new dance works created by leading international choreographers.

Expect an evening of energetic, thought-provoking contemporary dance performed by some of Europe’s most talented young dancers, fresh from intensive technical training at some of Europe’s leading conservatoires. The variety of choreographic styles and ideas will appeal to all, whilst the phenomenal strength and energy of the dancers will impress and inspire.

Once upon a time, in the depths of the ocean, a mermaid princess is singing, and a young prince is drowning… she saves him… he kisses her… I love you, you love me… the mermaid exchanges her tail and sublime voice for two legs, but the prince, alas, marries another!

Combining music, dance, physical performances and ravishing costumes, Kismet’s simply staged and brilliantly inventive style will transport you from a shipwreck in the depths of the ocean to a prince’s castle, from a sea witch’s cavern to a cloud of sea mist lifting to the skies.

From the company who brought us The Snow Queen last Easter, Teatro Kismet’s The Mermaid Princess is a rare and wonderful opportunity to experience world-class family theatre like no other. Don’t miss this chance for a truly extraordinary experience that promises to make a huge impression on all who encounter it.

“Teatro Kismet is a wonderful Italian company that constantly creates visually ravishing work for family audiences… The result is work that is full of wonder and doesn’t patronise the audience.” - Lyn Gardner, The Guardian

Ages: 8+
1hr 5mins

Tickets to legendary 60s group The Zombies live at the Quays Theatre, The Lowry, Manchester.

After reuniting in 2008 to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the release of seminal album Odyssey Oracle, The Zombies return to touring in 2010, performing bonafide classics like She’s Not There and Time Of The Season.

Featuring original Zombie members Colin Blunstone and Rod Argent, this show will evoke the spirit of the swinging 60s, with classic song-writing and accomplished musicianship proving that The Zombies’ music is as enjoyable and relevant today as it was more than 40 years ago.

Sujata Mohapatra performs her latest repertoire of stories, dramatic interpretations and choreography. A compelling dancer, with a following across cultures, ages and countries, she has helped transform the popularity of Odissi, the ancient art form of Eastern India, with dazzling performances worldwide. With striking sculpturesque poses, a radiant presence and displays of intricate footwork, Sujata Mohapatra possesses a rare combination of intensity and spontaneity, and is renowned for her grace, depth of expression and technical perfection.

A stage adaption of Chaucer's classic work, The Canterbury Tales, at The Quays Theatre, The Lowry, Manchester.

At the Tabard Inn, London, some time in the 14th century, a motley group of individuals gather for their pilgrimage to Canterbury Cathedral. On the way, they regale each other with their colourful tales to pass the time of day, and thus unfolds one of the greatest collections of stories ever told.

The Canterbury Tales is human nature at its best and worst, and it’s wickedly entertaining. Experience theatrical riches including: love stories, rude stories and farce most lewd, chivalry, villainy, mirth and merriment, poetry and puppetry and a good dose of song and dance.

Mike Poulton’s deliciously witty adaptation, first toured by the RSC, reclaims The Canterbury Tales for contemporary audiences with a fresh script that simply begs to be performed.

Reworked again for Northern Broadsides, The Canterbury Tales is the perfect play for this charismatic company of multi-talented actors who constantly delight Lowry audiences with their infectious exuberance and enthusiasm.

‘(Northern Broadsides’) actors seize on the givens of their characters, breathe vigour and energy into the poetry and let the story take hold. The result is riveting, powerful theatre - a tornado of emotions.’  - The Stage

‘…the sheer dedication and drive of the company…takes your breath away, pushing you to your feet come curtain call.’  - The Daily Telegraph

Northern Broadsides in partnership with the New Vic Theatre.

By Geoffrey Chaucer. A new version by Mike Poulton. Directed by Conrad Nelson.

Tickets to Showstoppers at the Quays Theatre, The Lowry, Manchester.

A brand new musical is created from scratch at each performance of this award-winning production, which has played sell-out seasons in London’s West End and at the Edinburgh festival.

Audience suggestions help to create a show on the spot, as the all-singing, all-dancing cast improvises with unpredictable and frequently hilarious results. Packed with drama, dazzling dance routines and catchy melodies, Showstopper! leaves delighted audiences singing all the way home.

‘Having now seen Showstopper! twice, I can testify that not only is each performance achingly funny, it’s a genuinely new full-length musical every time. Worth seeing again and again.’ ***** - Time Out

Tickets to Samyoga: The Divine Union at the Quays Theatre, The Lowry, Manchester.

Bharatanatyam, a timeless form of Indian dance, takes audiences on a musical and dramatic journey while portraying a range of emotions and fascinating stories.

Shijith and Parvathy Nambiar are amongst India’s finest young stars of the dance form and widely tipped for international fame. They present a contemporary view of three episodes from the Indian literary epics: Tamil, Sanskrit and Telugu. The choreography and music expresses the beauty of Sringara (love) as told through the stories of Rama and Sita, Shiva and Parvathi and Krishna and Rukmini.

Former frontman of legendary 70s innovators Van Der Graaf Generator, Hamill continues to produce unique, cutting edge albums that number the likes of Graham Coxon, John Lydon, Mark E. Smith and Jello Biafra as fans.

Peter Hammill began his career with Van Der Graaf Generator, the chaotic and highly influential underground 70s group. His solo career has embraced over 20 albums of quirky and highly original music and he has written for ballet, film and TV. Peter’s work has always been independent and uncompromising, he believes that it is more important to apply literacy, intelligence and passion to the making of music than to chase after commercial success.

A unique and singular talent.

Tickets to MAPAS (Salford Music and Performing Arts Service) Summer Showcases at the Quays Theatre, The Lowry, Manchester.

Salford Primary School Showcase (Mon & Tue)
A celebration of the year’s work featuring ensembles from the schools involved in the Wider Opportunities project. There will be a wide range of ensembles performing including Wind Bands, Brass Bands, Samba Bands, Guitars and Steel Pans.

Choral Showcase (Wed & Thu)
Featuring massed choir performances of the satellite choirs run by MAPAS, the evening includes a performance of the BBC version of Macbeth performed by the Massed Choirs, Salford Youth Training Choir and Salford Senior Theatre Company.

Tap and chat with dance legend Lionel Blair at the Quays Theatre, The Lowry, Manchester.

Following a triumphant sell–out at the Edinburgh Fringe 2009, the legendary Lionel Blair appears at The Lowry for the first time. Amidst beautifully choreographed songs such as Me And My Shadow and They Can’t Take That Away From Me, Lionel captivates his audience with spellbinding anecdotes; from tea at Number 10 to personal engagements with Liza Minnelli and his legendary performances with Sammy Davis Jnr. Share in this gem which revisits one of the most colourful showbiz careers of all time.

Tickets to High Tease at the Quays Theatre, The Lowry, Manchester.

Celebrate the wonderful variety of the burlesque genre with this uproarious revue of razor-wit and frisky antics.

Reviving and re-imagining this multi-faceted theatrical craft in all its glorious forms, High Tease showcases the very best of true burlesque – a provocative blend of new variety, historical chic and contemporary cabaret. Dazzling and beguiling, expect to experience the daring antics of scantily attired showgirls, whimsical visual satirists, the sultriest of sirens, the edgiest musical-comedy masters, unexpected marvels and a feast of current puns.

‘Hilarious! A wonderful show – I loved it.’ - Ben Elton

Grab a seat and tuck in as comedy combines with inventive cuisine in this wonderfully funny and laid back evening's entertainment.

Think Ready Steady Cook but with great cooking (Hardeep was runner-up on the first series of Celebrity Masterchef) and funny anecdotes, all delivered by Glaswegian Hardeep in his own unique, articulate and utterly charming way.

Having debuted and sold-out at the 2009 Edinburgh Fringe Festival, this extended, two-course version of The Nearly Naked Chef, combines more of Hardeep’s winning talents and recipes.

Tickets to Comedy for Christies at the Quays Theatre, The Lowry, Manchester.

The very best of the Manchester comedy scene unite to bring you an amazing night of laughs to raise money for Christies. The line-up includes award-winning acts that have performed around the world along with a very special guest headliner.

Starring If.Comedy award-winner Sarah Milican, Jason Cook, City Life finalist Phil Buckley and Manchester’s premier comedy team Slaughterhouse Live.

This exciting new initiative gives schools and youth groups around the country the opportunity to stage their own productions of the award-winning show, Billy Elliot the Musical. Participating groups will perform a shorter version of the script and score, specially adapted for the Billy Elliot Youth Theatre. Selected schools will be invited to perform as part of a series of regional showcases culminating in the Billy Elliot Youth Theatre West End Gala at the Victoria Palace Theatre, Billy’s London home, in July 2010.

One of Ireland's most successful musical exports, Duke Special, returns with three unique new projects to be released simultaneously on March 8th 2010 in a box set under the title "The Stage, A Book & the Silver Screen".

After playing a set of stunning and intimate show in London, Belfast and Dublin last week, Duke Special has announced a string of dates across UK theatres in May.

Duke Special has also confirmed a new single "Wanda, Darling of the Jockey Club", taken from "The Silent World of Hector Mann" album to be released on May 17

“Just one more thing…”

Middle Ground Theatre Company presents Prescription Murder, featuring the legendary Dirk Benedict as Lieutenant Columbo in his first ever case.

Psychiatrist Roy Fleming and his wife are celebrating their anniversary when he is called to deal with a female patient.

On returning, he has to soothe his angry wife with the promise of a vacation. When Fleming’s wife is found dead, Columbo is brought in to investigate and seeds of doubt are planted in his mind… In this, Columbo’s first ever outing, we see the genius of the character made famous by Peter Falk as he pits his wits against a master criminal.

International star Dirk Benedict is known by millions for his roles as Templeton "Faceman" Peck in The A-Team and Lieutenant Starbuck in Battlestar Galactica. He is joined by Patrick Ryecart plus a full supporting cast.

The classic musical of two starry-eyed lovers - Billy Bigelow, an uncivilised but handsome carousel ride attendant, and Julie Jordan, a naive and innocent mill worker. Inevitably they get married but their relationship sours when Billy becomes increasingly violent. Featuring a memorable and celebrated score, including The Carousel Waltz, If I Loved You, June is Bustin' Out All Over and the show-stopping You'll Never Walk Alone.

Music by Richard Rodgers.

Book and lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein IIBased on the play Liliom by Ferenc Molnar as adapted by Benjamin F Glazer.

An amateur production by arrangement with Josef Weinberger Ltd.

Presented by Salford Music Theatre Company.

Twinkle was an 80s Bhangra Star with the world at his feet. Now he’s a washed-up has-been, unemployed and on the scrap heap. Will he ever find his magic and shine again or will fate make him change his tune?

Charting the rise of British Bhangra in the UK, from the fields of the Punjab to the sequin-clad headbands of the 80s through to the R&B fusion of the present day; Rifco Arts’ new musical promises a twinkling night of glitz, live music and song!

Shake your shoulders; tap your toes - Britain’s Got Bhangra! This show is guaranteed to lift you from the dhol drums!

Star of the BAFTA Award-winning Boogie Beebies, catch the much-loved Pete Hillier in his hit show Boogie Pete Live - featuring all your favourite songs and dances including Go, Go Mango and Hey Monkey!

Join Pete as he shows you some moves, some magic and some silliness in this fun-packed show for children of all ages.

Boogie Pete will be coming to meet, greet and sign autographs after the show!

Suitable for ages 2+.

Milapfest in association with The Lowry presents Timeless, a stunning showcase of young British dancers, each bringing a fresh perspective to the classical dance forms of India.

Firmly established as a hugely successful event, this year's Timeless features brand new works from some of the UK’s most dynamic young performers presenting four major classical dance styles of India.

"I know everything now I'm 15. Except... I don't."

When I Grow Up To Be A Man follows Lola on a journey to find her place in the world, a place she can finally be comfortable in. Only comfort like this isn't an easy find and she must fight through social 'normality' and gender traps that surround her - and perhaps us all.

Presented by Unearthed Theatre.

By Ellie Rose.

Anita Parry stars in this one-woman comedy about love, work, letting go and finding out who we really want to be from Oldham-born writer Josie Melia.

Susan is a long-term supermarket checkout operator from Oldham. She’s never had to give much thought to role models – that is until she gets promoted and is forced to adopt one. Oscar-winning actress and international star Helen Mirren is an unlikely choice, but once Susan starts to ask herself What would Helen Mirren do?, there’s no going back to Baskets Only. Fresh from creating a buzz at Brighton Fringe Festival 2009, Anita Parry plays Susan in this new one-woman comedy drama about love, work, letting go and finding out who we really want to be.

“Nearly time for Corrie. Got to make time for Corrie, haven’t you? You get yourse’n some sleep, Rose. While you’ve got the chance, like.”

Dark, harrowing but bleakly funny. Rose and Daniel come round in a dank cellar to find themselves tied to metal bed frames. Their abductor, Curtis, soon makes himself known and outlines the horrific fate he has in store for them.

Contains strong language and adult themes.

Suitable for ages 15+.

Presented by Balloonhead Productions.

By Ian Winterton.

Is eternal youth an ugly obsession or does plastic make perfect? When Leslie goes undercover to investigate the New You Cosmetic Surgery Clinic she gets more than she bargained for. As strangers in search of their ‘New Selves’ wait to be clinically corrected, vanity and opinions collide. But what will they discover and will plastic surgery really make their lives so much better? A hilarious (Botox) injection of humour exploring society’s ever-growing obsession with body image and celebrity culture.

Presented by Meant-2-Play Productions.

Written by Caroline Mentiplay. Directed by Helen Parry.

This darkly comic, tongue-in-cheek and highly imaginative play is inspired by the cult novel The Dice Man by Luke Rhinehart.

A psychiatrist decides to make every decision by following options given to the dice. As he delves further into giving up responsibility for his actions, and introduces a patient to the same idea, mayhem ensues and society’s rules become twisted...

After performances in the USA, Israel, Hong Kong and Africa this gripping and thoroughly entertaining play tours again for the first time since 2001.

Presented by Company Gavin Robertson.

Chekhov's final masterpiece The Cherry Orchard gets a compelling and unique overhaul in this fresh and powerful adaptation.

The first production premièred as part of Liverpool’s Capital of Culture 08, and was developed by the UK's award-winning Kolectiv Theatre Company in a ground-breaking collaborative project with Iran's Bazi Theatre Company and Knjazevsko Srpski Teatar, Serbia, the first presentation.

Volatile aristocrat Ranyevskaya returns after years of self-imposed exile to discover that her home and beloved cherry orchard is to be auctioned to pay off the family debt. Love clashes with ambition, and modernity with tradition in this fast-paced and emotional performance based on Chekhov's much loved play.

Presented by Kolectiv Theatre UK.

Have you ever wondered how you turn a relatively normal human being into a dependent gambling addict? Then hold onto your seat, as you are taken at break-neck speed through the mysterious and mesmerising world of the casino.

A straight-talking croupier introduces three exhilarating accounts of life inside the four walls of the gambling superhighway, stripping away the glitz and glamour to reveal a harsh reality of debt and desperation in this energetic tale of corruption and despair.

Presented by Dead Square Productions.

With six specialist musicians, five solo voices and fourteen instruments, this high-energy sextet has wowed listeners and dancers alike with its unique presentation of the best of 30s, 40s and 50s Swing.

See why sold out notices and standing ovations are regular features at performances by these international artistes, who have established a reputation as Europe’s top Western Swing band in theatres, festivals and dance halls. Return to the 1940s and share the sweet Swing sensation that is – The Swing Commanders!

Stories old and new come alive in this magical puppet show. Marvel as everyday objects such as buckets, umbrellas, rags and pegs, turn into puppets before your eyes to run, jump, play and dance! Follow Little Peg Legs, who goes in search of a friend and a house that no wolf can blow down; on the way you may see a magic beanstalk grow and meet a giant! Featuring popular stories and brilliant puppetry, this imaginative play is full of action and clever use of objects.

Suitable for ages 3+.

Presented by Objects Dart.

A new play by Mike Heath.

When Jay receives an invitation to his cousin's wedding, he decides that he absolutely cannot go alone. But, being overly choosy, he realises he’ll have to make some changes before that significant other falls into his lap.

With an alcoholic mother with an inherent inability to keep anything to herself, secrets and lies from the past come to bite Jay in places he wasn't quite expecting in this popular comedy from Mike Heath (The Game of Two Halves, 2009).

Presented by Mediamedea in conjunction with Studio Salford.

Following the success of Flyaway Katie (2009), Long Nose Puppets return.

Ben is delighted when he opens his present and finds a penguin inside. “Hello, Penguin!” says Ben. Penguin says nothing. What can Ben do to make Penguin speak? Follow the twists and turns of this wonderful tale, in which a silent Penguin turns marvellously eloquent and a little boy finally gets his heart’s desire.

Exciting, surreal and full of surprises, Penguin features lively songs by Tom Gray of Gomez.

Suitable for ages 3-7.

Presented by Long Nose Puppets.

Winner of The Stage ‘Best Solo Performer 2009’ Award.

One Actor. One hour. One man’s epic quest to reunite with his family and seek his bloody revenge. 'Best of the Fringe' (The Observer) Lecoq-trained company Ad Infinitum return to The Lowry (Behind the Mirror, 2008) to reinvent the timeless Greek myth. Passionate, highly physical and poignant storytelling brings this breathtaking adventure to life. A journey that will ignite the imagination and awaken the senses…

‘Theatre Ad Infinitum have moved to the front of the pack.’ - The Guardian

Presented by Ad Infinitum.

Stitch is hitting the gay scene of Hull. Or at least dipping his toe in the water while staying with his heavily pregnant sister Liz and her shabby sofa-loving partner Mark. But why won’t Stitch let anyone into the bathroom even though Liz is dying for a pee? And who is the man in the giant penguin costume?

A comedy about knitting, penguins and Battenberg cake from the company that brought you Company Along The Mile (The Lowry, 2009).

Presented by Milan Govedarica.
By Tom Wells.
Directed by Chris Hill.

Part love story, part magic show, Love and Other Magic Tricks reveals the smoke and mirrors between a couple as they search for that delicate balance between love and need.

Inspired by the magical realism of Gabriel Garcia Marquez, the comical strangeness of Kafka and the longing of Edward Hopper, the debut show from standnotamazed brings to life a world where anything can happen. The cast features international performance artists Maya Politaki and award-winning contemporary magician John Van der Put.

Enter the strange and rather bizarre universe of a wild balloon tamer, where surreal and stupid things happen. Seamlessly combining circus skills, physical theatre and silent comedy, first class performer and consummate clown, Danny Schlesinger, creates an utterly joyous experience loaded with participation, surprises and laughs.

Warning! Features loud balloon pops!

Suitable for ages 4+.

Imagine a world where a single test can determine your future.

New ways of seeing the brain have radically changed how we see ourselves, and will continue to do so. Interior Traces - a powerful multi-media performance combining speech, live music and video – tells the stories of two people struggling to regain control over their lives, in a near future when scans and genetic tests are part of everyday life.

Presented by The Identity Project from The Welcome Trust.

Following three sell-out Edinburgh Festivals and an Edinburgh Comedy Award nomination (formerly the Perrier/If.Comedy), the Ants (BBC1, E4, Radio 4) bring their unique blend of fast-paced sketch comedy to a town near you.

The only show in the country where, not only do you get an evening of ground-breaking new comedy, but also dinner, a romantic walk home and who knows? You might even be invited in for coffee…

‘The best sketch show of 2009, rock ‘n’ roll hysteria meets sharp and brilliant comedy.’ ***** - Time Out on Idiots of Ants Live

A tale of obsession and murder; inspired by the works of Edgar Allan Poe and Alfred Hitchcock.

Ernest spends his days watching the beautiful woman who lives in the apartment opposite but when he sees her with another man, he flies into a jealous rage with deadly consequences…Slowly Ernest’s guilt sends him on a spiralling descent into madness. With live music, inventive design, narrative twists and turns and physical storytelling, expect a thrilling and terrifying experience.

‘A gloriously gothic production.’ **** - The Daily Telegraph on Ernest and the Pale Moon

Presented by Les Enfants Terribles in association with Pins and Needles Productions.

Winner of the Three Weeks Editor's Award 2009.

Former submariner Eric has taken the Edinburgh Fringe by storm for the last two years, and now he brings his acclaimed one-man show to The Lowry as part of a national tour.

With the aid of astonishing visuals, Eric gives you an insider's view of the mysterious world beneath the waves in a nuclear submarine and transports you to an underwater existence where edgy camaraderie, black humour, death and destruction are the closest of bedfellows!

NewUpNorth perform pieces of raw, new and exciting writing that has never been brought to the North West. Formed out of the barrels of the recession, three young actors decided that the best way to get work was to create it themselves.

With rave reviews in Edinburgh, London and New York, this award-winning show features four beautifully composed monologues which mix ironic comedy, brutal honesty and surprising poignancy. Don’t miss your chance to see this vibrant new company!

By Ella Hickson
Directed by Katie Lewis

An unusual story of love and loss, set in the world of Music Hall and Variety, inspired by the films of Fellini and Charlie Chaplin. The Great Tourrinos meet again, having spent many lonely years apart. Now reunited, they will entertain us again with one last turbulent performance of magic, song, fire – eating, mind-reading and… memory. This is a magical tale of a life, lived between worlds. The two performers have been described as a tour de force – blazing with incandescent energy.

‘A magical tale of a life lived between worlds.’ - Gloucestershire Echo

Tickets to Die Roten Punkte performing live at The Studio, The Lowry, Manchester.

The 2009 Edinburgh Fringe smash and Total Theatre Award nominee Die Roten Punkte return to the UK. If you like Tim Minchin, The Mighty Boosh or Flight of the Concords, you will love comedy's most infamous indie rock duo. The utterly dysfunctional Berlin siblings Otto and Astrid present their unique confection of Kraftwerk, Plastic Bertrand and The Ramones. Their songs are ridiculously infectious and their live show is one of the most irreverent and hilarious gigs you are ever likely to see.

Tickets to Bridget Christie live at The Studio, The Lowry, Manchester.

Bridget Christie has been a regular on the sketch and stand-up circuit for the last 5 years. She was a finalist in the Funny Women Final 2004, nominated for the Leicester Mercury Comedian of the Year 2005, won the inaugural Funny Women Best Show Fringe Award 2007 and was nominated for the Chortle Best Breakthrough Act 2009. She performs stand up as herself and also as an ant. If you have seen an ant on the circuit recently and didn't know who it was, it is Bridget Christie. Or it might be an ant.

Bridget's latest show , Bridget Christie: My Daily Mail Hell, is about her five years spent working on the paper's gossip column.

Join us for an evening of dazzling music and hilarious banter from Billy Mitchell (former singer with Lindisfarne) and Bob Fox (one of North-Eastern England’s finest singer-guitarists). Both are fine individual singers and together they are masters of vocal harmony. Billy and Bob are also talented instrumentalists and accompany themselves on six- and twelve-string guitars and mandolins.

Having cherry-picked from their wide-ranging repertoires, this North-Eastern flavoured show features songs (including several Lindisfarne classics) celebrating the richness of life on both sides of the Tyne and beyond.

Lewis Carroll’s timeless classic is brought to life in this delightful and imaginative play for the whole family.

Alice’s adventures begin when, one Summer’s afternoon, she follows a white rabbit down a rabbit hole. There she meets all kinds of strange and wonderful characters, taking tea with The Mad Hatter and playing croquet with The Queen of Hearts.

Physical theatre, puppetry, live music, audience interaction and an explosion of colour bring to life the original story of Alice’s extraordinary adventures.

Suitable for ages 4+.

Presented by Uncontained Arts in association with Buxton Opera House.

A morbid show-woman and a sinister preacher invite you to their bizarre exhibition of curious nameless bodies. Be wary how close you get to the exhibits and indeed the proprietors; both have dangerous implications!

Delving into the strange world of waxworks, creator of Carnesky’s Ghost Train (now permanently situated in Blackpool), Marisa Carnesky brings a spectacular walk-through show experience featuring charismatic singer Rasp Thorne, magic effects by renowned illusionist Paul Kieve and circus artists including star of La Clique Marawa The Amazing.

Tickets to La La Luna at The Lyric Theatre, The Lowry, Manchester.

What if the light in the moon went out...and what if you were the one responsible for finding a replacement light bulb? This is just the beginning of one very strange night – a night called LaLaLuna.

Combing circus theatre with film, this surreal and whimsical tale follows the moon’s caretaker as he struggles to re-light the darkened moon.

Pocked a moonbeam and take a journey to a place where gravity isn’t always on its best behavious – an extraordinary theatrical journey for adults and children alike.

‘The show injects real joie de vivre.’ - The Stage

New production

The centrepiece of Donizetti’s historical opera is a clash that never took place, between Elizabeth I and Mary, Queen of Scots. Charting events leading to Mary’s execution, Donizetti courted controversy by treating such powerful material, and the opera was initially banned.

Maria Stuarda is one of Donizetti’s most dramatic and affecting works, and with soprano Antonia Cifrone (Lady Macbeth here in Spring 2008) and mezzo Sarah Connolly (Romeo in I Capuleti e i Montecchi last Autumn) battling it out as the rival queens, fireworks are forecast.

Sung in Italian with English titles
Lasts approximately 2 hours 30 minutes

Olivia Fuchs’s production of Rusalka reveals all the tragic beauty of Dvořák’s operatic masterpiece: as Anna Picard wrote in the Independent on Sunday, ‘fascinating, well-directed, expertly sung and acted . . . this is another unmissable production from Opera North’.

Suffused with music that is by turns earthy and ethereal, the opera relates the story of a water nymph who yearns to be part of the human world. The haunting score is famed for Rusalka’s poignant ‘Song to the Moon’, and this production is altogether a spell-binding experience.

Sung in English
Lasts approximately 3 hours 15 minutes

Join Playback Theatre Manchester for a special evening of improvisational storytelling. Through the unique combination of audience, actors and musicians, Playback will transform your real life experiences instantaneously into theatre. The dynamic improvisation skills and ensemble work can bring laughter, tears, enchantment and connections across the whole audience. Come and watch or take the opportunity to tell your story and experience the magic of Playback as it is played back to you.

Suitable for ages 10+.

This award-winning musical hit tells the story of seventeen Broadway dancers all auditioning for spots in a chorus line.

Set on the stage of a Broadway theatre during an audition for a musical, the audience is given a glimpse into the personalities of the performers and the choreographer as they describe the events that have shaped their lives and their decisions to become dancers.

Featuring a cast of nineteen plus fabulous show-stopping routines with amazing choreography, A Chorus Line is a must-see for anyone who loves the world of dance.

Featuring songs such as What I Did For Love, I Can Do That, Dance Ten Looks Three and the sensational finale with One, this show is sure to thrill and delight every age group. Don't miss this spectacular performance!

Tickets to a stage adapation of Dickens' classic A Christmas Carol at the Quays Theatre, The Lowry, Manchester.

Tickets to Adrian Edmondson and the Bad Shepherds live at the Quays Theatre, The Lowry, Manchester.

Adrian Edmondson was a teenager when punk arrived. The songs of The Sex Pistols, The Clash, The Jam and The Stranglers were the soundtrack to his life through the late 70’s and early 80’s, and like a lot of people of his generation he was fond of playing these songs to himself at home on his acoustic guitar.

Cut forward to 2007: after a boozy pre-Christmas lunch in Soho, Ade stumbled along to Denmark Street, home of many alluring musical instrument shops, and whilst inebriated, ‘accidentally’ bought a mandolin. Surprised to see it sitting there in his kitchen the following morning he nevertheless picked it up, worked out a few chords, and started playing the same songs with a mandolin accompaniment – it sounded really interesting.

He was touring with the Bonzos at the time and he brought his mandolin along, and with Neil Innes on acoustic guitar, they had a go at London Calling in the dressing room. It sounded good, but Neil said ‘What you need are some brilliant folk musicians.’

Ade got in touch with Troy and Maart and they were both immediately up for it. As soon as he explained the idea to Troy: ‘Punk songs with a Celtic feel.’ Troy replied ‘Why not The Model by Krafwerk as well? I’ve always wanted to play that on the pipes.’

They met for a couple of days to mess about with the idea. If it didn’t work they could all just walk away. But within the first hour they knew they were onto something. In the two days they drank numerous beers, ate 2 curries and arranged 8 songs - and the band was born.

The Bad Shepherds are TROY DONOCKLEY, ADRIAN EDMONDSON and ANDY DINAN.

Edinburgh Comedy Award and Time Out Award nominee Andrew Maxwell is one of the most talented stand-up comedians in the UK. A sell-out hit in both the UK and Ireland, come and see the star of Have I Got News For You, Argumental, Celebrity Juice and Amnesty International’s Secret Policeman’s Ball perform his first national tour.

“One of the best comics around... A consummate raconteur” - Time Out

“A brilliant show... commands the audience's attention from start to finish” - Observer

“Fiercely funny and utterly invigorating” - Times

Dress to impress for a divinely decadent evening as Manchester’s hugely successful monthly cabaret night returns with Lesbian Vampire Queen Rosie Lugosi playing host to a variety of mesmerising acts that are guaranteed to entertain.

So join us in the plush red setting of the Quays Theatre, which has been transformed with table seating so you can enjoy a drink whilst taking in the show, then stay on for some late night dancing to the smooth and sassy retro tunes from DJ Mikey Wong.

Presented by The Slippery Belle in collaboration with The Lowry.

Dress to impress for a divinely decadent evening as Manchester’s hugely successful monthly cabaret night returns with Lesbian Vampire Queen Rosie Lugosi playing host to a variety of mesmerising acts that are guaranteed to entertain.

So join us in the plush red setting of the Quays Theatre, which has been transformed with table seating so you can enjoy a drink whilst taking in the show, then stay on for some late night dancing to the smooth and sassy retro tunes from DJ Mikey Wong.

Presented by The Slippery Belle in collaboration with The Lowry.

Comedian and presenter, best known as host and civilising influence on the hugely influential “Mock the Week” on BBC2. He crops up regularly on TV and radio, and was recently one of the “Three Men in a Boat”. A consummate performer in his own right, Dara recently published “Tickling The English” – an hilarious collection of observations and anecdotes from an Irishman living among the English.

“If you don’t laugh at O’Briain check your pulse. You must be dead.” (The Evening Standard)

The show which sold out and wowed audiences on, Enigma  returns to The Lowry to stun and shock again.

Be prepared for a once-in-a-lifetime theatrical experience when the master of psychological illusion returns to the stage with Derren Brown: Enigma.

Derren will once again bewilder, baffle and bewitch and show why he is one of the country’s most revered live performers; a master of magic, mind control and psychological illusion.

Suitable for ages 12+.

'A spectacular night of entertainment. Derren Brown is, without a shadow of a doubt, this country’s greatest illusionist. His latest show sees him climb heights rarely, if ever, achieved by any other legend of the magical arts. Some of the illusions are beyond mind-boggling and do truly beggar belief. Derren Brown, you put Merlin to shame.'
Time Out

David Toole is acclaimed for his work as an actor and dancer on stage and screen. His biggest fan is about to partner him in an extraordinary duet. How will Lucy Hind fare? How will she contain herself in the presence of her idol? An extraordinary journey of self-discovery awaits them both in this incredibly funny, moving and soberingly incisive satirical dance piece.

A duet, written, directed and performed by David Toole and Lucy Hind, one with no legs, one with no clue.

School is in session, pop is on the syllabus and it’s time to get educated.

By the time class is dismissed, you’ll know your Kate Bush from your Kate Nash, your D-I-S-C-O from your D-I-V-O-R-C-E and your Eternal Flame from your That’s Not My Name.

Catch Frisky and Mannish prior to the West End, as they twist and shout you through fifty years of pop with astonishing musical skill and a death-defying lack of restraint.

‘School was never, ever this much fun ... White hot ... Slick, polished and accessible feel-good stuff ... Frisky & Mannish haven’t so much arrived as been flown in by private jet as fully blown superstars.’ ***** Time Out

Tickets to country legend Glenn Campbell live at The Lowry in Manchester.

Glen Campbell is a bonafide living legend who’s career spans five decades and fans that cross Generational and International borders. This man has sold 45 million records, starred in True Grit with John Wayne, and played guitar for both Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley!


True pop music royalty, his hits include By The Time I Get To Phoenix, Gentle On My Mind, Galveston, Wichita Lineman and – of course – the seminal Rhinestone Cowboy. A superb musician and songwriter – and a fabulous raconteur.

Katy Brand is taking her Big Ass on tour. Join the British Comedy Award Winner and star of ITV2's Katy Brand's Big Ass Show, Have I Got News For You and Peep Show, for an evening of anarchic comedy, celebrity satire, music spoofs and much, much more. Following the success of her hit TV show, Katy is returning to her live roots with this silly, sassy and smart evening of comedy. Featuring old favourites and new material, there's something here for everyone.

Kevin’s recent Edinburgh Comedy Award nomination and his stand out performance on Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow (BBC ONE, June/October 2009) have highlighted an exceptional 12 months for the young Glaswegian comic. With his hotly anticipated DVD on the way and a string of high profile television appearances including Live at the Apollo (BBC1), 2010 is destined to be his year.

Kevin’s delightfully well observed debut show reveals his inner-most thoughts on a variety of topics from his home-land of Scotland to the world beyond. His unique brand of social commentary, astute observations and sharp one-liners arguably make him the hottest act to come out of Scotland in the last ten years.

“... master of stand up at just 22. This is unmissable stuff ” The Mirror *****

“Observational comedy at its very best” Edinburgh Evening News *****

One fateful night in Paris in the 1950s the poet Rodolfo meets the beautiful seamstress Mimi.

They fall passionately in love, but Mimi is incurably ill and the unbearable pressure of this eventually causes their relationship to crumble.

Mimi, alone and near death, sends word that she wants to spend her last hours with Rodolfo, but can he reach her before it is too late?

Directed by Phyllida Lloyd, whose stage production and film of the hit musical Mamma Mia! have created a global phenomenon, this production of Puccini's masterpiece that is not to be missed. Get the tissues ready - you'll need them!

Sung in Italian with English titles.

Cameron Mackintosh is delighted to announce the exciting new 25th anniversary production of the World’s Longest Running Musical, Les Misérables will be coming to The Lowry in August 2010 for 2 weeks only.

Heading a magnificent new cast is Broadway and West End star John Owen Jones, hailed by the New York Post as the best Jean Valjean since Colm Wilkinson, and West End stars Earl Carpenter as Javert and Gareth Gates as Marius. The legendary score includes the songs, ‘I Dreamed a Dream’, ‘On My Own’, ‘Stars’, ‘Bring Him Home’, ‘Do You Hear the People Sing’, ‘One Day More’, ‘Empty Chairs at Empty Tables’, ‘Master of the House’ while the new sets feature spectacular designs inspired by the paintings of Victor Hugo.

This is a strictly limited season so don’t miss your chance to experience this unforgettable show. Dream the dream and book now!

Orchestra Pit
Please note when booking your tickets that Rows A&B in the Stalls are removed as an orchestra pit, making Row C the front row.

More than three years after the gold-selling Fires, Nerina Pallot has shaken up her sound, shrugged off the spectre of singer/songwriter and produced an album of clever, classy pop, including the new single Real Late Starter.

It is taken from the brand new album The Graduate, aptly named owing to the fact Nerina recently graduated with a First in English literature.

Paul Merton, one of the country's funniest and best-loved performers, sets out in Spring 2010 on a brand new UK-wide tour with his world renowned Impro Chums.

Paul and his chums, Mike McShane, Lee Simpson, Richard Vranch and Suki Webster will create a new and unique comedy show every single night, based entirely on suggestions from the audience, their own finely honed improvisational skills and an almost manic compulsion to show off.

Reginald is one of the few performers to have been nominated for the Perrier Award in three consecutive years. He has performed around the world and has appeared in some of the UK’s most popular primetime TV programmes including 8 Out Of 10 Cats, Never Mind the Buzzcocks and QI. He is a frequent guest on Have I Got News For You.

Ruby had it all – career, dream house, husband, kids – but people soon realised something was wrong when she painted her house the same colour ‘beige’ for the 47th time. There was only one thing for it – send her to the Priory!

Told with wit, humour and a lot of heart, this is Ruby at her belting best – when she’s losing it!

“Ruby Wax is on razor sharp form. I laughed and I cried. Don’t miss it!” Adam Helliker, Sunday Express

Based on his best selling book The Hacienda - How Not To Run A Club, the bass slinging Manchester legend tells the story of the iconic club, New Order, Joy Division and the Madchester scene, from the haze of 80s acid house to the 90s gangs, drugs and corporate greed.

A funny and engaging raconteur, Hooky’s personal account of the people and the era is sadder, scarier and stranger than you could imagine.

Hear the stories that were not allowed in the book. A tale of fun, success, lost money; featuring multi media footage and a Q&A session.

Salford's only new music festival has hosted shows by names like Marina And the Diamonds and The Tings Tings. Founded in 2005, more than 40 new, live acts have performed annually since on the May Bank Holiday weekend, across six, seldom-used venues along Chapel Street.

Last year saw a stage hosted by Radio One's new music... lover, Huw Stephens, with festival appearances by bands spanning the sonic spectrum from Talibam to Mayming, the Lexie Mountain Boys to Whisky Cats, Hooker to Solar Fire Trio.

The twelve-hour-aural-orgy is moving west this year taking in the Kings Arms, Islington Mill, the Salvation Army's music hall, St Philips Church, The Crescent and the Pint Pot's two-tiered venue on the University of Salford Campus. Its bigger than before, with better sound systems and music keeps getting better.

Acts set to appear will be announced soon, and the festival is in the process of applying for a late licence too - making for a Chapel-Street-wide party, from 3pm to 3am.

Tickets for this years event are now on sale and are priced £15!

FEATURING*:
Lamb & Wolf, Chrome Hoof, Divorce, Breaking Colts , Klaus Kinski, Bo Ningen, Room Tones, Danny Norbury, Dean McPhee, The Boats, Mind on Fire vs WotGodForgot, Seaming, The Laze, The Legend Of The Seven Black Tentacles, Levenshulme Bicycle Orchestra, Hey! Manchester vs SWN, Damon & Naomi, Jesca Hoop (solo), Y Niw, Comfortable on a Tightrope, Talk Normal, Pheremoans, Leveret, Way Through, Sex Hands, Dinner Party, Waiters, Bring on the Dancing Horses, Egyptian Hip Hop, Wu Lyf, Postcards From Manchester, The Rural Alberta Advantage, Islet, Help Stamp Out Loneliness, Your Mama's Cookin', Liz Green, Serious Sam Barrett & David Broad, Elvis In Disguise, Zacc Rogers, 'Rockabilly Bingo', Paradox, Neil Bell, Mike Garry, Neil Campbell, Chris Kille...

PLUS MANY MORE TBC

*Line-up subject to change

Brandon Thomas' RAUCOUS and ROLLICKING farce

"I'm no ordinary woman..."

Charley's aunt is about to arrive and she holds the key to everything.  Charley's in love with Amy, but if they're to be engaged before she goes away he'll need his aunt's agreement.  Jack's in love with Kitty, but if they're to get together before she goes away with Amy, he'll need Charley's aunt to act as chaperone.
 
So when the aunt's arrival is delayed, Charley's and Jack decide there's only one thing for it.  An emergency aunt is called for, and in their desperation they think the eccentric Babberley just might save the day,  But whilst the-impostor-aunt starts to play fast and loose with his part, the-real-aunt is getting ever closer, and it isn't long before the misunderstandings and misdemeanours are spiralling out of control in Brandon Thomas' RAUCOUS and ROLLICKING farce.

Directed by Braham Murray
Designed By Johanna Bryant

Press Night Performance
Monday 28 June
 
After Show Discussion
Thursday 5 August
 
Audio Described Performance
Saturday 31 July at 4pm
 
BSL Interpreted Performance
Friday 6 August at 7.30pm
 
Suitable for ages 12+

Bernard Shaw's SPARKLING and BITING classic

"You have no idea how frightfully interesting it is to take a human being and change her into a quite different human being..."

When Henry Higgins makes a bet with Colonel Pickering that he can turn a cockney flower girl into a lady, he sets out to change Eliza Doolittle completely and equip her for life in high society - but he reckons without the spirit and strength of Eliza herself in Bernard Shaw's SPARKLING and BITING classic.

Directed by Greg Hersov
Designed By Ashley Martin-Davis
Lighting Designer Mark Jonathan

Press Night Performance
Monday 17 May
 
After Show Discussion
Thursday 10 June
 
Audio-Described Performance
Saturday 12 June at 4pm - preceded by a Touch Tour
 
BSL Interpreted Performance
Tuesday 15 June at 7.30pm
  
Theatre Lunch
Friday 11 June at 12 noon
 
Suitable for ages 12+

Shakespeare's ANARCHIC and MAGICAL comedy

"I see two husbands, or mine eyes deceive me..."

Many years ago, Egeon, his wife Aemilia, their twin sons and twin servants were shipwrecked.  Egeon, one son and one servant were separated from the rest and have travelled the world in search of their other halves ever since.  Now, with the most chaotic of consequences, fate is finally about to bring them all together - and with no-one sure who's who and what's what, confusion is sure to threaten the reunion in Shakespeare's ANARCHIC and MAGICAL comedy.

Press Night Performance
Tuesday 6 April
 
After Show Discussion
Thursday 6 May
 
Audio-Described Performance
Saturday 8 May at 4pm
 
BSL Interpreted Performance
Friday 7 May at 7.30pm
  
Suitable for ages 12+

WORLD PREMIERE of Matthew Dunster's sensual and sinister adaptation

War is Peace.  Freedom is Slavery.  Ignorance is Strength.

Winston Smith rewrites history for the Ministry of Truth, but when he's handed a note that says simply 'I love you' by a woman he hardly knows, he decides to risk everything in a search for the real truth.  In a world where cheap entertainment keeps the proles ignorant but content, where a war without end is always fought and the government is always watching, can Winston possibly hold onto what he feels inside?  Or will he renounce everything, accept the Party's reality and learn to love Big Brother?  This is a world premiere of Matthew Dunster's SENSUAL and SINISTER adaptation of George Orwell's classic.

After Show Discussion
Thursday 18 March

Audio Described Performance
Saturday 13 March at 4pm - preceded by a Touch Tour

BSL Interpreted Performance
Tuesday 23 March at 7.30pm

Suitable for ages 15+

Running time
3 hours

Susan Pritchard is Darren Pritchard’s mother. 
She is fifty-five and he is thirty.
Darren lives at home with Susan, in the house he grew up in. 
Darren is a dancer and Susan is a cleaner.
They dance together at home to John Holt, Althea and Donna and Diana Ross.
You’d spot that they were mother and son instantly.

As part of a unique commission by Queer Up North, Susan and Darren prepare for one of their famous parties in the iconic Sachas Hotel.  Along the way there will be intimate conversation, devastation and a lovely buffet.  Friends and neighbours might pop in.  Come and join the party.

Susan & Darren is an event with dancing created with and performed by dancer Darren Pritchard and his mum, Susan.  Susan & Darren returns to Queer Up North, updated and reinvented for 2010, to kick off its 18th Birthday celebrations in style with a special site-specific version at Sachas, complete with buffet, bar and disco.

Pre-Show Workshop
Darren Pritchard will lead a dance workshop before each performance of Susan & Darren which will alter the course of that night’s show.  All ages & levels of dance experience are welcome.  Free to ticket-holders, but booking is essential.  Please book by emailing contact@queerupnorth.com with Susan and Darren in the title of the email and which night you’re attending and your ticket reference number in the base of your email.  We’ll then send you a confirmation email for the workshop. 

A World Of Music In The Hills...

Knockengorroch World Ceilidh 2010

27th - 30th May 2010

Featuring:

THE BEAT - EAT STATIC
TREACHEROUS ORCHESTRA
KING CREOSOTE - SKA CUBANO

Lunasa - Besh O Drom - The Ukrainians
Pathaan - Sheelanagig - Kissmet
Jesca Hoop - Flutatious - Zubzub
Mungos Hi-Fi - Kakatsitsi Drummers
Den Collective - Captain Slackship's Mezzanine Allstars
Cold Up Norf Records - Sequoia Soundsystem

PLUS MORE TBC

Also:
Workshop, Dance Tent, Crafts, Kids Area, Hot Tub, Real Ales, Shopping, Healing Area, Open Mic, Cabaret, Camping, Cinema

All prices inclusive of camping, all entertainments and workshop participation.

YOU MUST ALSO PURCHASE A VEHICLE PARKING PASS IF YOU WISH TO BRING YOUR VEHICLE ONTO THE FESTIVAL SITE (available separately).

TERMS & CONDITIONS

• YOU MUST HAND IN YOUR TICKET TO THE BOX OFFICE ON ARRIVAL. DO NOT LEAVE YOUR TICKET BEHIND – NO TICKET MEANS NO ADMISSION AND YOU WILL HAVE TO PAY AGAIN ON ARRIVAL.

• ALL TICKETS PURCHASED AFTER 15.5.10 FROM THIS WEBSITE OR BY TELEPHONING THE FEST OFFICE WILL BE HELD AT THE BOX OFFICE FOR COLLECTION ON ARRIVAL. THEY WILL NOT BE SENT OUT.

• YOUR VEHICLE MAY BE SEARCHED BY FESTIVAL STAFF WHEN YOU ARRIVE.

• IN THE EVENT OF ANTISOCIAL, UNRULY, UNSAFE OR ILLEGAL BEHAVIOUR, OR IN THE EVENT OF NON-COOPERATION WITH EVENT STAFF, YOU MAY BE REQUIRED TO LEAVE THE SITE. IN THIS CASE, NO RE-ADMISSION WILL BE PERMITTED..

• THE FESTIVAL ORGANISERS, KNOCKENGORROCH COMMUNITY INTEREST COMPANY, WILL NOT BE HELD LIABLE FOR ANY LOSS, INJURY OR DAMAGE SUSTAINED WHILST ATTENDING THE DOONHAME DOONHAME HAIRTH 2009, INCLUDING ACCESSING AND EXITING THE EVENT BETWEEN THE A713 AND THE FESTIVAL CAMPING AREAS AND THE FESTIVAL ARENA EXCEPT IN RESPECT OF DEATH OR PERSONAL INJURY RESULTING FROM THE PROMOTER’S NEGLIGENCE OR WHERE THERE IS ANY LOSS OR DAMAGE TO THE PERSONAL PROPERTY OF THE TICKET HOLDER WHILST ATTENDING, ACCESSING OR EXITING THE FESTIVAL AS ABOVE, AND THIS IS CAUSED BY THE NEGLIGENCE OF THE ORGANISERS. IN THE CASE OF DAMAGE TO THE TICKETHOLDER’S PROPERTY CAUSED BY THE ORGANISERS’ NEGLIGENCE, THE ORGANISERS’ LIABILITY SHALL BE LIMITED TO THE REASONABLE COST OF EITHER REPAIRING OR REPLACING SUCH PROPERTY SUBJECT TO FAIR WEAR AND TEAR.

• ALL TICKET HOLDERS CONSENT TO ANY OFFICIAL FILMING AND SOUND RECORDING AS MEMBERS OF THE AUDIENCE AND TO THE USE, REPRODUCTION, STORAGE AND BROADCASTING OF SUCH FILMS AND RECORDINGS (INCLUDING ANY COPIES MADE) BY THE ORGANISERS

USEFUL INFO

• ONLY 3 OR 4 DAY TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE IN ADVANCE. INFO AND PRICES FOR SAT AND SUNDAY TICKETS WILL BE POSTED CLOSER TO THE FESTIVAL DATE DEPENDING ON AVAILABILITY. WE STRONGLY ADVISE BUYING TICKETS IN ADVANCE TO BE SURE OF ATTENDING.

• THE FESTIVAL IS SITUATED 4 MILES OFF A PUBLIC ROAD IN THE SOUTHERN UPLANDS. PLEASE BE PREPARED FOR A DRIVE INTO THE HILLS ON NARROW ROADS. TAKE IT SLOWLY [MAX 10MPH], ENJOY THE SCENERY AND ALLOW PLENTY OF TIME TO GET THERE.

• KNOCKENGORRCH LIES IN THE HEART OF SHEEP COUNTRY. ONCE YOU HAVE LEFT THE A713, YOU MUST DRIVE SLOWLY [MAX 10MPH] AS THERE WILL BE YOUNG LAMBS AND SHEEP ON THE UNFENCED ROAD. TAKE IT SLOWLY, AND WATCH OUT, ESPECIALLY FOR THE LAMBS.

• THERE IS FOOD, DRINK AND OTHER STALLS AT THE FESTIVAL, BUT THERE ARE NO SHOPS OR ATM BANK MACHINES WITHIN 10 MILES, SO MAKE SURE YOU BRING EVERYTHING YOU NEED AND ENOUGH MONEY TO LAST YOU.

• O2, ORANGE AND 3 ONLY RECEIVE MOBILE PHONE SIGNALS ON SITE. THERE IS A FESTIVAL PHONE FOR USE IN EMERGENCY ONLY.

• COME PREPARED FOR ALL WEATHER CONDITIONS, BRING ENOUGH BEDDING (IT CAN BE COLD AT NIGHT) AND WATERPROOFS IN CASE IT IS WET (ALSO SHORTS AND SUNSCREEN!)

• NO PRIVATE SOUND SYSTEMS ARE PERMITTED ANYWHERE ON SITE.

• DOGS: ONLY DOGS WITH RESPONSIBLE OWNERS WILL BE PERMITTED ON SITE. ALL DOGS MUST BE LEASHED AT ALL TIMES AND ALL DOG MESS CLEARED UP.

• IT IS ILLEGAL TO SMOKE IN ANY OF THE FESTIVAL’S COVERED VENUES – PLEASE SMOKE ONLY OUTDOORS.

• PLEASE RESPECT THE UNSPOILT UPLAND LANDSCAPE – DO NOT MOVE STONES FROM OLD DYKES OR CLIMB ON THEM, DO NOT LIGHT FIRES DIRECTLY ON THE GRASS-USE THE WHEELHUBS PROVIDED, PAY HEED TO ALL SIGNAGE.

Romiley Little Theatre presents the stage version of TV's 'Allo 'Allo!

'Allo 'Allo! follows the adventures of René, the hapless café owner in war-torn occupied France, as he and his wife, Edith, struggle to keep for themselves a priceless portrait stolen by the Nazis and endeavour to repatriate two British airmen with the help of the Resistance. The Führer is to visit the town. René will need all the wit he can muster to save his café and his life ...!

An amateur production.

Crying in the Chapel: Strangeways - An Inside Account by Stafford, Coghill and Clarke

Ten years after it was first performed at Contact, Fink On return with theatre that pulls no punches in highlighting the conditions and the treatment of the inmates before, during and after the Strangeways riots of 1990.

'Audiences were shocked at how deeply it touched them. Jackpot! **** Four stars' - The Big Issue

'Top of the world Ma...' - Alive

'Scrupulously researched play about the Strangeways Prison Uprising, Highly recommended' - Metro News

BSL interpreted performance: Thu 6 May 2010, 8:00pm

Post show playback: Thu 29 April and Thu 6 May immediately after the performance

Tickets to Manchester post-punk leg-ends The Chameleons, ably supported by Hans Islandm Big Moneymaker and The Damp, LIVE at Soundhouse in Bolton

You must purchase a vehicle parking pass to bring your vehicle onto the festival site.

Parking passes are available for vehicles of different tonnage:

Vehicle up to 1 tonne (standard cars and small vans): £12.00
Vehicle 1-3 tonnes (transit vans, campervans, cars + caravans): £17.00
Vehicle over 3 tonnes: £22.00

Parking passes alone do not allow entry to the festival site. You must hold a valid festival ticket in order to access the site (available separately)

“Impressive emotional power… The script is shrewd and funny and very eloquent about twentieth-century art”. - TIME OUT Critics’ Choice

Internationally-acclaimed American artist Julian Barker, whose fame ranks alongside that of Andy Warhol and Francis Bacon, has just months to live. Ravaged with pancreatic cancer, Julian retreats to his East Hampton beach house to prepare for artistic immortality. He is cared for by his younger partner Chad, who is set to inherit his multi-million dollar estate and his priceless iconic paintings. The peace is interrupted by Julian’s former lover Marcus, who is determined to stake his claim and further complicated by the arrival of Chad’s own younger boyfriend, a seemingly naïve 23-year old model. With Julian’s death imminent, each man jockeys for position and control.

“Reitz delights in the untidy dynamics between these four characters” - WHAT’S ON STAGE

“An engaging and truthful portrayal of the human condition” FRINGE REVIEW

“Superb new play from a writer who truly knows his art” MUSIC OMH

Boris Johnson and his Sodding Bicycle examines the rise of  Boris Johnson as scholar, journalist, , and TV celebrity to become England’s most popular and unpopular politician.

Set during the now infamous Olympic Games acceptance ‘wiff-waff’ speech, it charts his life and career from his birth in New York to London Mayor via Eton, Wolverhampton, and Clwyd South, calling at er…um…errr…Liverpool and erm….ummm…Portsmouth.
 
Written by Steve Haythorne & Ann Jeffs
Directed by Carole Copeland
Boris Johnson – Rob Laughlin

An Evening with Gervase Phinn will have you in stitches, as he shares his hilarious tales of life as a schools inspector in the Yorkshire Dales. Dubbed the James Herriot of schools this best selling author, Radio and TV personality is not to be missed!

One of Britain’s most popular writers and performers, Gervase is best known for his five autobiographical novels: The Other Side of the Dale, Over Hill and Dale, Head Over Heels in the Dales and Up and Down in the Dales, The Heart of the Dales. With his keen ear for the absurd and sharp eye for the ludicrous, Gervase Phinn has delighted audiences all over the UK with stories of his experiences as a school inspector.

Gervase embarks on his 9th national tour that takes in over 40 nights. His shows have received rave reviews all across the country.

“Gervase Phinn is one of the most accomplished public speakers of any kind. A natural storyteller, he combines the timing of the professional comedian with palpable warmth and the ability to deliver a message that is just more than a series of jokes”. The Times

Tickets to The Hired Man at the Rhoda McGaw Theatre, Woking.

Tamzin Outhwaite (Boeing Boeing, Hotel Babylon, Eastenders), who plays the title role of Charity Hope Valentine, will lead the cast in the West End transfer of the Tony Award-winning musical, Sweet Charity.

Sweet Charity follows the misadventures of love encountered by the gullible and guileless Charity Hope Valentine, a woman who always gives her heart and her dreams to the wrong man. Cy Coleman’s score features favourite hits such as Hey, Big Spender; If My Friends Could See Me Now and The Rhythm of Life.

With book by Neil Simon, music by Cy Coleman and lyrics by Dorothy Fields, Sweet Charity is directed by Matthew White, choreography is by Stephen Mear, set design by Tim Shortall, costume design by Matthew Wright, musical supervision and direction by Nigel Lilley, orchestrations by Chris Walker, lighting by David Howe and sound design by Gareth Owen.

Chris Wood & Andy Cutting performing at The Met.

With this exclusive packaged hotel deal you can choose from the range of "Carmen" tickets and choose your duration at our selection London of hotels.

The O2 is set to host its first fully staged opera.

Carmen, the world's most popular opera, will take over The O2 in May 2010 for just three performances and follows on from highly successful and popular classical stagings of Carmina Burana, Andrea Bocelli and the world premiere of Ben Hur Live at the venue.

Directed by David Freeman, founder of The Opera Factory and whose previous credits include Madam Butterfly Tosca and Carmen at the Royal Albert Hall, his production of Bizet's masterpiece comes to The O2 on a grand and spectacular scale. From the very first note to the final tragic chords, this stunning in-the-round production vividly portrays the powerful story of lust, superstition and murder that passionately unravels with fatal consequences.

Carmen is presented by Raymond Gubbay and The O2 and will be performed by a superb cast of over 150 artists, including dancers, acrobats and fire-eaters. The wonderful set and fabulous costumes will bring to life the dusty atmosphere of the town square, the cool night air of the smugglers' mountain hideout and the colourful festivities outside of the bullring in Seville.

Sung in English, Bizet's unforgettable score contains some of opera's finest arias and best loved music. The rousing Song of the Toreador, the beguiling Seguidilla, the tantalising Habanera and the enchanting Flower Song - sensual music that perfectly captures the very essence of Spain. Accompanied by The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Gareth Hancock, this world class company of singers, musicians and artists will provide an unforgettable production of Bizet's Carmen, staged on an epic scale at The O2.

The principle roles will be shared by Cristina Nassif and Louise Poole (as Carmen) and John Hudson and Philip O'Brien (as Don Jose).

Please note this show will be performed in Russian with NO translation.

Demarche of Enthusiasts is a combined story of the modern Russian classics. Popular actor Alexander Filippenko brings to life excerpts from Sergei Dovlatov, Vladimir Vyssotsky, Vasily Aksenov and Bulat Okudzhava, marshalling them under a single epigraph: “All of us hail from the 1960s. To be perfectly honest, we lived better then than now. Although the life itself is better now than it was then…” This comparison – however tragic, illogical and sad it may sound – is also irrepressibly funny, giving Filippenko ample opportunity to make his audience laugh and cry, almost at the same time.
 

Traditions are kept alive as a result of ones ancestral ties. Asere, a group of young Cuban musicians, follows in the footsteps of the forefathers of the Cuban Son. Ignacio Piñiero, Miguel Matamoro, Arsenio Rodriguez, and all those masters of the Cuban Son that came before these young musicians are paid homage in this debut release. While bands like Irakere, Los Van Van, and NG La Banda experiment with the basic structure of Cuban music, it has been la vieja guardia that has had the greatest impact on the international music market.

British guitarist Allan Holdsworth (born Aug 6, 1946 in Bradford, Yorkshire, England) occupies a legendary status among players of his instrument. Most of his work has been in the realm of electric jazz fusion and progressive rock, though he has also dabbled in more straight-ahead rock and jazz. Aside from many solo albums, he has performed with Bill Bruford (both in his band and in UK), Soft Machine, Gong, Tony Williams, Jean-Luc Ponty, and many others.

Mersey stars The Christians were prime movers in the soul scene that emerged out of England's North West at the end of the 80s. Along with other iconic bands such as Swing Out Sister, M People and Simply Red, they brought a slicker, sophisticated, soul-flecked sound to the charts at the end of that heady decade. Now Gary Christian is back - still sporting the Raybans, incredibly rich and sultry voice and the string of gorgeous songs that made a million women swoon. Expect the hits including Harvest For The World, Words, Hooverville, Forgotten Town and of course the massive Ideal World. Advance booking strongly recommended.
This concert will begin at 8.30pm

Trembling Bells are Alex Neilson's song-based group who seek to 'reanimate the psychic landscapes of Great Britain and relocate them to some vague, mythic land where basic human crises are encountered and conquered'.
Watch them live and you soon realise these intriguing ambitions are realised brilliantly as Trembling Bells synthesise earlie musik modes and traditional folk with pure psychedelic noise, bombastic classic rock and wonderful vocals to create a true departure into virgin territory. Strangely strange but oddly normal - catch this wonderfully eccentric band who create a clearing amongst the trees of Albion's more enchanted forests and invite you to come in and listen...

Sigur Ros meets Battles meets Tortoise in the guise of Vessels whose soaring ambient soundscapes morphing into exploding guitars, twisted dance beats and genuinely thrilling live sets have quickly earned them the title of saviors of the revitalized UK post-rock scene. 

Hunter is a British blue-eyed soul singer whose smokey mellifluous voice has been compared to his influences like Sam Cooke, Georgie Fame and Jackie Wilson. Hunter began his roots music career in the 1980s under the name Howlin’ Wilf. His later solo recordings feature rhythm and blues in the style of the 1950s and 60’s, pitched between R&B, early rock and roll, and early soul.

Newmarket Racecourses is delighted to announce that RAZORLIGHT, one of the UK’s leading rock bands will be performing at this year’s Newmarket Nights in association with Heart FM on Friday 23rd July.

The band consisting of Johnny Borrell (vocals/guitar), Carl Dalemo (bass), Bjorn Agren (guitar) and Skully (drums) formed in London in 2002 and quickly became one of the key guitar bands of the following decade. Altogether they have sold 4 million albums, played sold out arena tours, headlined numerous festivals and appeared on the cover of magazines from NME to Vogue.

Their debut album 'Up All Night’ was released in 2004 and reached number three in the UK Album Chart. The album included the single, “Somewhere Else”, which peaked at number two on the UK singles chart.

Razorlight released their self-titled second album in July 2006 and it debuted at number one in the UK. The lead single from the album, "In The Morning”, peaked at number three in the UK and follow up 'America' went straight to number one, while turning the band into an international phenomenon with airplay success across Europe and beyond.

In 2007, Razorlight were nominated for two BRIT Awards including 'Best Song' for “America” They were also nominated for two NME Awards for 'Best Band' and 'Best Album'. 

Their third album, Slipway Fires was released in November 2008 with the lead single “Wire to Wire” reaching number five in the UK charts. In 2009, they headlined the O2 Arena and played before The Killers headline slots at some of the summers' major festivals.

The band are currently working on their fourth album, set to keep them up there as one of the most compelling, maverick guitars bands to have emerged from the UK in recent years.

Stephen Wallis, Newmarket Racecourses Managing Director said “We are delighted to be announcing Razorlight as our fifth act for this year’s Newmarket Nights. Razorlight bring a different dimension to the already great line-up and we still have two more exciting acts to announce.”

Stephen continued “Tickets for this year’s Nights are selling phenomenally fast and so I would urge people to book early in order to ensure their ticket.”

Newmarket Nights are the hottest ticket for a summer Friday night out in the East of England!  The racing gets under way early evening and concludes as nights falls, immediately followed by a spectacular open air concert by a top band or artiste.  The atmosphere sizzles and the bars remain open until the conclusion of the concert.

Be one of the first to to see “The Little Big Club - Live in Concert” - a brand new singing and dancing stage show that brings together an ensemble of the world most popular and best loved preschool characters in one exciting adventure!

The new 90-minute theatrical and musical extravaganza from Premier Stage Productions, Barney^TM, Bob the Builder^TM, Angelina Ballerina^TM, Pingu^TM, Fifi Forget-me-Not^TM and Fireman Sam^TM together on stage for the very first time and offers something younger members of the family will never forget!

So come along and be part of the magic....

Enjoy a feast of top class racing and stunning fashions at the region’s most stylish summer event!  It’s the East of England’s answer to Royal Ascot on a smaller and much more intimate scale, with racegoers encouraged to dress up in their finest clothes on all three days. 

There is only one Newmarket July Festival, but three days to enjoy it!


The fashions will dazzle, the racing will pulsate, the atmosphere will crackle...on these three summer days in July, there's only one place to be! 

The quality of the racing is exceptional on all three days, with the glittering highlights coming on the first and last days when the two biggest races are run.

On the Wednesday pride of place goes to the Etihad Airways Falmouth Stakes, one of the top races of the season for fillies, while on the Friday there is all the drama and excitement of Europe's premier sprint race, the Darley July Cup.

The glamour and the fashion are also intrinsic features on all three days.  The Thursday may be Ladies Day, but people dress up on the Wednesday and Friday as well with a sensational array of prizes on offer for those deemed to be the best dressed.

The magical trees, the immaculate lawns, the warm sunshine (we hope!), the atmospheric bars and restaurants, the stunning outfits and eye-catching hats, the magnificent thoroughbreds and the electric buzz of the betting ring....all play their part in making the Newmarket July Festival a veritable summer treat.  Don't miss it!

Enjoy a feast of top class racing and stunning fashions at the region’s most stylish summer event!  It’s the East of England’s answer to Royal Ascot on a smaller and much more intimate scale, with racegoers encouraged to dress up in their finest clothes on all three days. 

There is only one Newmarket July Festival, but three days to enjoy it!


The fashions will dazzle, the racing will pulsate, the atmosphere will crackle...on these three summer days in July, there's only one place to be! 

The quality of the racing is exceptional on all three days, with the glittering highlights coming on the first and last days when the two biggest races are run.

On the Wednesday pride of place goes to the Etihad Airways Falmouth Stakes, one of the top races of the season for fillies, while on the Friday there is all the drama and excitement of Europe's premier sprint race, the Darley July Cup.

The glamour and the fashion are also intrinsic features on all three days.  The Thursday may be Ladies Day, but people dress up on the Wednesday and Friday as well with a sensational array of prizes on offer for those deemed to be the best dressed.

The magical trees, the immaculate lawns, the warm sunshine (we hope!), the atmospheric bars and restaurants, the stunning outfits and eye-catching hats, the magnificent thoroughbreds and the electric buzz of the betting ring....all play their part in making the Newmarket July Festival a veritable summer treat.  Don't miss it!

Enjoy a feast of top class racing and stunning fashions at the region’s most stylish summer event!  It’s the East of England’s answer to Royal Ascot on a smaller and much more intimate scale, with racegoers encouraged to dress up in their finest clothes on all three days. 

There is only one Newmarket July Festival, but three days to enjoy it!


The fashions will dazzle, the racing will pulsate, the atmosphere will crackle...on these three summer days in July, there's only one place to be! 

The quality of the racing is exceptional on all three days, with the glittering highlights coming on the first and last days when the two biggest races are run.

On the Wednesday pride of place goes to the Etihad Airways Falmouth Stakes, one of the top races of the season for fillies, while on the Friday there is all the drama and excitement of Europe's premier sprint race, the Darley July Cup.

The glamour and the fashion are also intrinsic features on all three days.  The Thursday may be Ladies Day, but people dress up on the Wednesday and Friday as well with a sensational array of prizes on offer for those deemed to be the best dressed.

The magical trees, the immaculate lawns, the warm sunshine (we hope!), the atmospheric bars and restaurants, the stunning outfits and eye-catching hats, the magnificent thoroughbreds and the electric buzz of the betting ring....all play their part in making the Newmarket July Festival a veritable summer treat.  Don't miss it!

British rock'n'roll band Razorlight have been confirmed as the third band to perform at Sandown Park's Music Nights in July.  Performing live after the last race, fans will be able to sing along with their most popular hits in a 90 minute live set.

The day will consist of a full afternoon of horse racing with the band taking to the stage shortly after the last race.  The crowd will be able to enjoy hits including the Number One chart topper “America”, along with “In The Morning” and the lead single from their third album, Slipway Fires, “Wire to Wire”.

Tickets include access to an evening of thrilling racing, commencing at 6:05pm, after which the concert will start from 9:00pm (approx).

EPSOM DOWNS RACECOURSE SPARES SOME 'FEELING' FOR HAITI

Epsom Downs Racecourse has today announced that the five-piece Brit Award nominated British Band, 'The Feeling' will be playing after racing on Thursday 15th July 2010. This is the penultimate act to be announced for Epsom Live!; a series of five Thursday evening fixtures featuring thrilling racing concluding with a live outdoor concert.

In recognition of the recent Haiti disaster, Epsom Downs Racecourse will donate £1 of every ticket sold for The Feeling race meeting in the month of February to a charitable organisation helping the aid effort.

The Feeling, have enjoyed hit singles since 2006 including 'I Thought It Was Over', 'Fill My Little World', 'Sewn' and 'Never Be Lonely'. Their debut album 'Twelve Stops and Home' reached number two in the charts with their last album 'Join With Us' making it to number one. Their third album is expected to do the same when set to be released in the Autumn. Racegoers will be able to enjoy songs from their latest album as well as some of their earlier hits.

Rupert Trevelyan, Managing Director of Epsom Downs Racecourse commented; "We are very pleased with the variation of the bands we have confirmed for Epsom Live!, as we are confident that each act will appeal to a range of music and racing fans alike. The Haiti disaster has shocked the world and we are pleased we can offer our financial support towards this grief stricken country."

The Feeling is the fourth band to be announced for the Epsom Live! events - a series of five consecutive Thursday evenings in July. Combining the very best of music and racing these exciting events offer great value entertainment on a summer's evening at a venue just 30 minutes from the centre of London.

MADNESS TO PLAY EPSOM LIVE!
YOU’LL BE MAD TO MISS IT

The strongest ever line up for the Epsom Live! series comes to a grand finale with a live performance from Suggs and the boys from Madness who will be entertaining the crowds after racing at Epsom Downs Racecourse on Thursday 29th July. Epsom Live! has it all this year with pop, soul and indie performances from a host of top, chart topping bands and is set to end with an explosive and memorable performance by Madness.

The band is Britain’s most successful chart band in music history, having had 21 top-twenty singles in a seven year period from ’78-’86, and many more since (over 30 in total), which include ‘It Must Be Love’, ‘Embarrassment’, ‘Baggy Trousers’, ‘My Girl’ and ‘One Step Beyond’. Madness went on in 2009 to further release their critically acclaimed studio album ‘The Liberty of Norton Folgate’ last year.

Rupert Trevelyan, Managing Director for Epsom Downs Racecourse commented: “The line up for Epsom Live is now complete and we are really looking forward to staging such entertaining events in July. Our music evenings have proved hugely popular amongst both racing and music fans alike over the last few years and we believe 2010 offers the best line up yet. To avoid disappointment, make sure you book early as we are anticipating sell out crowds.”

Lip Service - Best Bits, a celebration of the best work over 25 years of LipService lunacy.

Tickets to Sassoon, Bentley & Friends live at The Cinnamon Club in Manchester.

Back to the tried and tested format, Sassoon & Bentley with Dave Walsh on drums return to The Lounge. Great jazz, great fun and I am sure many suprises along the way. A guest or 2 will drop in as usual, and we have Paul's very special vocals on some swing, jazz, ballads and gospel.

BRAND NEW SPRING 2010 SHOW!

Prepare for a party as the legendary That’ll Be The Day, the UK’s most successful touring rock ‘n’ roll production returns with a Brand New Spring 2010 Show.

Trevor, Gary and the gang bring on back the good times with a combination of their unique comedy routines mixed with back to back non-stop classic gold hits from the 1950s through to the 70s to produce a show with a real feel good party atmosphere!!

We guarantee you’ll be on your feet and dancing before the night is over!!

DON’T MISS THIS PARTY!!

‘WHAT A GREAT VALUE FOR MONEY SHOW THAT’LL BE THE DAY IS. NOT TO BE MISSED!!’ – The Daily Mail

Starring Mark Rylance, David Hyde Pierce and Joanna Lumley
 
By David Hirson
Directed by Matthew Warchus
 
American playwright David Hirson's rollicking 1991 play, La Bête, is a comic tour de force about Elomire (David Hyde Pierce), a high-minded classical dramatist who loves only the theatre, and Valere (Mark Rylance), a low-brow street clown who loves only himself. When the fickle princess (Joanna Lumley) decides she’s grown weary of Elomire's royal theatre troupe, he and Valere are left fighting for survival as art squares off with ego in a literary showdown for the ages.
 
La Bête will star Tony and Olivier Award winner Mark Rylance (Jerusalem, Boeing-Boeing), Tony and Emmy Award winner David Hyde Pierce (Dr Niles Crane in Frasier) and BAFTA Award winner Joanna Lumley (Patsy Stone in Absolutely Fabulous) and will be directed by the multi award-winning Matthew Warchus (The Norman Conquests, God of Carnage, Boeing-Boeing).

Four Ladies – Pearl, Jan, Shelley and Linda – are celebrating with the trip of a lifetime to the Land of Oz, a journey that becomes a voyage of personal discovery set against the haunting back drop of Ayres Rock....

Amateur Transplants (aka deviant doctors Adam Kay and Suman Biswas) sing smutty songs at a piano.

They are "Superbly politically incorrect, gloriously funny" (Scotsman), "Very very funny indeed" (Radio 1) and "A cult hit" (Sunday Times). 6 million people downloaded the London Underground Song - you were potentially one of them.

Tickets to The Wailing Souls live at Band On The Wall Manchester. The concert will be followed by a reggae club night featuring the King Cosmic Sound System (tickets available separately).

The Wailing Souls are part of the small surviving group of reggae and roots originators still musically active today. The legendary group dates back to the late 1960s. The Wailing Souls members got their start learning from reggae icon Joe Higgs in Jamaica's Trench Town yards and sung alongside other emerging groups at the time including Bob Marley & The Wailers. By the '70s The Wailing Souls attracted interest from preeminent reggae producer Coxson Dodd and began a fruitful recording career. Four decades later the group has amassed three Grammy nominations, has been critically lauded for albums released by Island, Tuff Gong and CBS Records and gained a widespread international following.

The Wailing Souls saw large success in the early '90s featuring songs on soundtracks including the certified gold album for Disney's film Cool Runnings. Their 1992 album All Over The World also achieved a great deal of success for the group, selling over 800,000 copies.

The Wailing Souls pushed the musical limits of the reggae genre with that release, blending sounds of funk, r&b, and country into their roots tradition, securing their reputations as pioneers in the genre.

Fusing the harmonies of Motown with the roots and dancehall sounds of reggae, The Wailing Souls persist as one of the most powerful forces in Jamaican music. To this day, the group continues to release provocative, highly regarded regarded albums and is one of the most popular live reggae acts on the scene.

Tickets to The Snake Davis Band live at Band On The Wall, Manchester.

Snake Davis is well established as one of the UK's leading Saxophonists. He is in demand from the biggest names on the British Popular music scene, as well as visiting artists from overseas. In recent years he has been extremely busy and in the public eye. As resident saxophonist on "Tonight With Jonathon Ross" he played with the likes of, James Brown, Smokey Robinson, Chaka Khan and many more. He has been seen regularly on TV with the Eurythmics, M-People and B*Witched and presented a Saxophone "Masterclass" programme for ITV. He played all featured Saxophone and Flute parts - on record and tour - for Lisa Stansfield and M-People.

Tickets to 21st century urban roots mistresses Po' Girl, plus their special guest JT Nero, live at Band On The Wall in Manchester.

PO' GIRL
The interplay between Allison Russell, Awna Teixeira, Benny Sidelinger, and Mikey "Lightning" August is truly something to behold. They are distinct voices with incredible harmonies; multiple instrumentalists who bring the perfect sound to each song and songwriters who pen poetic tunes you’ll find yourself humming. Po’Girl showcases a wide array of instruments-from gutbucket bass, accordion, clarinet, banjo, dobro, guitar, to electric bass, glockenspiel, piano, harmonica, bicycle bells, drums-- and they all frequently trade off instruments with each song. Their fluid and joyous musicality is one of the group's most endearing and irresistible features.

Impossible to put this band in a tidy little box—they’re equally at home in Douala, Cameroon playing the Massao World Music Festival, as they are at the International Jazz Festival in Montreal, the Winnipeg Folk Festival, the Woodford Music Festival in Australia or just playing for fun for the people in Vondel Park, Amsterdam.

Suffice to say Po'Girl makes 21st Century roots music, urban roots – never derivative, not faithfully aping a beloved tradition. Russell, Teixeira, Sidelinger, and August don't re-hash the old forms, they reshape and reinvigorate them for new ears. Like genuine gypsies, they wander and play - out on the international road bringing their unique brand of pan North Americana to a widespread audience 250 to 300 days of the year… Always restless, more often than not bone-tired, they write their flashes of sadness, their loss, their good love, their faint dreams of home into songs that matter deeply to them. Like any good art, they are little acts of self-rescue. So you should listen. You aren't much different from them, and who couldn't use a little rescuing these days?

Po'Girl released their 4th studio album 'Deer in the Night' to critical acclaim in May 2009- they followed that up with ' Po'Girl Live' in July 2009 - a live album recorded at various shows over the last year - which captures some of the energy and excitement of a real time Po'Girl concert.

The band spent 3 weeks in January 2010 recording their new album "Follow Your Bliss" in Chicago, Illinois with the fantastic Zach Goheen at the helm. "Follow Your Bliss" will be released in April/May 2010 in Europe and on June 8th, 2010 in North America. It will be available for digital download worldwide as of May 2010.

JT NERO
JT Nero has single handedly re-invectified the spiritual matrix of early 21st century Chicago. With one single hand, he has harnessed his own sadness, love of intercourse and super-acute awareness of human frailty into demons/demons, his first release. With his other hand, he continues to make rhetorical gestures that at first seem effeminate but are totally not. Part Shaka Zulu, part Handmaidens Tale, this sad, sweet music will hurt you in the worst way.

Tickets to the King Cosmic Sound System live at Band On The Wall, Manchester.

Late night dub reggae party with King Cosmic Sound cranking up the bass on the famous Band on the Wall sound system till 3am.

This event will begin at 11pm. This club night follows a live concert by legendary reggae act The Wailing Souls (tickets available separately).

A new comedy from BAFTA Award-winner and author of Rising Damp Eric Chappell

In life, Dave Thursby was a hugely successful television comedian, loved by the public. In death, he leaves his wife, agent and close companions bereft. They are going to miss Dave terribly. Some of them may even be out of work. Unless, of course, the repeats, television specials, biographies and newspaper tell-alls can fill the vacuum. And who is best placed to exploit the legacy?

Crammed with great jokes, Tom Conti leads a fantastic cast of performers, in this hilarious and fast paced comedy from the author of such classic TV Series as Rising Damp, Duty Free, Only When I Laugh and Home to Roost. Eric Chappell's script reflects a lifetime of working with comedians and he understands the ego of comic genius better than most – exposed hilariously in Wife After Death.

Tickets to Argentine Alaskan troubadour Kevin Johansen's live collaboration with mouth-accordion playing cartoonist Liniers and his amazing overhead projector (no, really) at Band On The Wall, Manchester.

Might sound odd, will be great.

Keith Prowse Tickets (part of the Seatem Group of companies) is proud to be the official online ticketing partner of Sing-a-long-a Productions in London.

The Rocky Horror Picture Show (certificate 12) is the Campest Cult Classic of all time and now you can enjoy it like never before. Now with on-screen lyrics and all the favourite sing-a-long-a features, it has never been so much fun. Your live host will lead you through a choral warm-up, judge the fancy dress competition and award prizes but it is YOU, the audience, who are the stars as you howl the night away! Made in 1975 with Tim Curry as Frank 'n' Furter, Susan Sarandon as Janet, Richard O'Brien as Riff Raff and Meatloaf as Eddie, The Rocky Horror Picture Show is the craziest, most action-packed, romantic, scary Transylvanian party of all time. It's packed full of terrific numbers including 'The Timewarp', 'Sweet Transvestite', 'There's a Light', 'I'm Going Home', 'Whatever Happened To Saturday Night?' and 'Science Fiction Double Feature'. Now at long last The Rocky Horror Picture Show gets what it's been SCREAMING for - the full Sing-a-long-a treatment that you love so well. If you've done The Time Warp before, you'll never have done it quite like this! Here are a few more details about the show:

Fancy dress

It's not compulsory to dress up but many people do and it really adds to the fun. Dip into the wardrobe of your imagination and surprise us with your creation.

The pre-show

There is a 30-minute pre-film show during which the host leads you through a vocal warm-up, prepares you for special moments throughout the film and judges the fancy dress competition. Everyone receives a free goody bag with special props for the "magic moments" that make the evening go with a bang.

Running time

With pre-show, the evening lasts about 2 hours 30 mins, including an interval.

The interval

This takes place after about one and a quarter hours and lasts for 15 minutes. Most venues we play at have a bar, which is usually open throughout the evening.

Suitability for children

The Rocky Horror Picture Show is a 12 certificate film in the UK and so you can only attend if you are 12 or older. Much of the content of the film is raunchy and may not be suitable for the faint-hearted! Remember that the first rule of Sing-a-long-a is THERE ARE NO RULES!

Flat racing plus X-Factor concert family day with a host of entertainment and a concert post racing with stars of the X-Factor! 

Timings:
Gates Open: TBC
First Race: 1.50pm
Last Race: 5.20pm
Bars Close: Approximately 8.00 pm

X FACTOR TRIO COMING TO CARLISLE RACECOURSE

Three of the most popular and successful singers from the latest X Factor series are to perform live at Carlisle Racecourse this summer.

Runner-up Olly will be joined by fellow finalists Jamie and Lucie for the open-air Carlisle X Factor concert at the Durdar track on Sunday 25th July 2010.

The trio will entertain thousands of fans following an afternoon's flat racing and family fun day.

The concert, promoted by the Stobart Group, will feature Olly Murs, the 25 year old Essex boy and runner-up in the X Factor final, Jamie Archer, better known as Jamie Afro after his famously big hair, and Lucie Jones, the 18 year old from South Wales whose rendition of I Will Always Love You was surely one of the best auditions of the series.

All three battled their way from anonymity to take their place among the final 12 in the 2009 series of the X Factor.

Tickets cover both the day's racing and the concert.

Horse racing in the historic border city of Carlisle dates back to at least the 16th Century and each year Carlisle Racecourse holds the Cumberland Plate and Carlisle Bell races, carrying on a tradition which dates back to that era.

Amongst it's innumerable 'claims to fame', Carlisle launched the first operational Tote on British racecourses in 1929 and notably Red Rum won at the Carlisle September meeting prior to each of his Grand National wins.

Progressive upgrading of the facilities has taken place over the years but none as significant as the construction of a brand new 'state-of-the-art' The Edinburgh Woollen Mill Grandstand which opened in October 2002. Race goers can now enjoy superb horse racing from their own private box or in the luxury of the Swifts Restaurant.

Located just off Junction 42 of the M6, Carlisle Racecourse offers superb facilities for both race day and non race day events with seven large hospitality rooms all over looking the stunning Cumbrian countryside, a superb exhibition hall, restaurant, multiple bar facilities and over 250 acres of parkland.

Afternoon racing over the jumps at Wincanton.

Afternoon racing over the jumps at Wincanton.

Family attractions include behind the scenes tour, meet the jockeys, running race on the track and lots more!

Evening racing over the jumps at Wincanton.

With live music.

Afternoon racing over the jumps at Wincanton.

Featuring Somerset themed attractions with the Mangled Wurzles playing live.

Afternoon racing over the jumps at Wincanton.

Including the Best Dressed Lady competition.

Some have hailed The Pretty Things' acoustic performances at The Eel Pie Club as "the best ever!"  Original Pretty Thing, Phil May is on lead vocals, guitar and blues harp,  Dick Taylor (original Pretty Things, also an original Rolling Stone) is on acoustic, slide and lead guitar, and Frank Holland on acoustic, slide guitar, backing vocals and harp.

The Pretty Things were the 'Original Bad Boys of Rock' and their first 3 singles 'Rosalyn', 'Don't Bring Me Down' and 'Honey I Need' all made the charts.  The band then moved from rhythm n blues, through psychedelia, a rock opera, and heavy metal - and now again back to the music that made them famous - rhythm n blues.  The Pretty Things continue their evolution as an enduring musical force, having released 25 CDs, 2 dvd's and had 4 books written on them.

Support from talented young duo, The Malchicks.

The end of term party at Cheltenham, giving the amateur jockeys their chance to take centre stage at racing's own theatre of dreams. The last chance to see racing at Cheltenham for almost six months. This is always a popular fixture, which invariably takes place in warm early summer sunshine and produces six fascinating and well contested races.

Enjoy everything that Cheltenham has to offer at a more relaxed oace than The Festival, with three more days of highly competitive action. The crowds may be a little smaller at this meeting than in March, but the action on the track still raises the pulse, with Friday being the first chance of the season to enjoy evening racing at Cheltenham.

After racing on Wednesday you can enjoy another evening at the Brightwells Bloodstock Sale in The Centaur, which has produced record-breaking turnover in recent years.

World Premiere
 
A celebration of a great English heroine, Anne Boleyn dramatises the life and legacy of Henry VIII’s notorious second wife. Anne Boleyn is traditionally seen either as a pawn manipulated by an ambitious father and his friends into the King’s bed, or as a sexually licentious predator, even a witch.
 
But Brenton puts a very different Anne – and her ghost – on the Globe stage. Witty and confident in her sexuality, she takes on the vicious world of Tudor Court politics. She is in love with Henry but also in love with the most dangerous ideas of her day. Conspiring with the exiled William Tyndale, the great translator of the Bible who was to be burnt as a heretic, Anne plots to make England Protestant, forever.
 
Award-winning playwright Howard Brenton’s previous work includes In Extremis at Shakespeare's Globe (2006 and 2007).

World Premiere
 
What is madness? What is sanity? It is 18th-century London, noisy and chaotic. The city’s ancient hospital for the insane is under the supervision of the prejudiced Dr Sidney Carew and his imbecile son, whose interests lie in containing rather than curing their patients. But with the arrival of the lovely country girl, May, and the appointment of a more enlightened and sympathetic governor, this inhuman regime starts to crumble, along with the sanity of the asylum keepers themselves.
 
Employing a cast that includes doctors (some mad), patients (some sane), a homicidal painter and a hypochondriac poet, and set against an anarchic backdrop of binge drinkers, gin sellers and ballad singers, Bedlam combines dance and song with scenes of lust, violence, absurd comedy and unexpected romance.

A revival of the 2008 hit
 
’Christopher Luscombe’s production brims with humanity, ingenuity and irresistible charm… not just theatre but the capital at its very best.’ Sunday Telegraph
 
‘A wonderfully warming comedy, stuffed to bursting with belly laughs.’ The Times
 
’The feel-good hit of the summer.’ Daily Telegraph
 
Imagining that Mistress Ford and Mistress Page have each fallen for him, the fat knight Sir John Falstaff decides to seduce them both, as much for their husbands’ money as for their personal charms. Wise to the old rogue’s tricks, the women turn the tables on him with a series of humiliating assignations and a very damp, extremely smelly laundry basket.
 
Featuring many characters from Henry IV Parts 1 and 2, Shakespeare’s brilliantly constructed farce, which gave birth to a tradition that reaches down to the modern TV sitcom, returns to the Globe after delighting audiences in 2008.
 

Hotspur is dead and Prince Hal has proved his mettle on the battlefield, but Henry IV lies dying and the rebels, though scattered, show no sign of declaring their allegiance to the Crown. Even Falstaff is forced out of the taverns to raise a scratch militia in the country. But will his attachment to the rising Hal be rewarded with promotion and the life of ease he feels sure he deserves?
 
At least the equal of Part 1, Henry IV Part 2 includes some of the greatest moments in Shakespeare: the deathbed scene of the old King, when Hal contemplates the crown; the reunion of Falstaff with his old boon companion, Justice Shallow; and Hal's devastating rejection of Falstaff himself.
 
This production will employ Renaissance staging and costume.

Prince Hal, son of Henry IV, seems to be squandering his life among the whores, boozers and petty rogues of Eastcheap. And the greatest of these rogues is the fat knight, Sir John Falstaff, a liar, glutton, lecher, cheat, braggart, fool and sponger who also possesses wit, warmth, intelligence and a gigantic sense of fun. But beside these scenes of glorious misrule gathers a nationwide rebellion led by the Duke of Northumberland and his charismatic son, Hotspur.
The first instalment of Shakespeare's gripping account of the rise of Hal from idle barfly to monarch-in-waiting combines compelling power politics with the hilarious antics of Falstaff, Shakespeare's greatest comic creation.
This production will employ Renaissance staging and costume.

The Tudor Court is locked in a power struggle between its nobles and the Machiavellian Cardinal Wolsey, the King's first minister and the most conspicuous symbol of Catholic power in the land. Wolsey's ambition knows no bounds and when his chief ally, Queen Katherine, interferes in the King's romance with Ann Bullen, he brings gigantic ruin upon himself, the Queen and centuries of English obedience to Rome.
 
Famous in its own day as Shakespeare's most sumptuous and spectacular play, Henry VIII is a gorgeous pageant of masques and royal ceremony; a blaze of fireworks, cannonfire, red satin and cloth-of-gold. But within the passages of grandeur works the mind of the mature Shakespeare: psychological and political insight, language of great depth and power and, in the figures of Wolsey and Katherine, two of his most vivid and memorable characters.
 

When three witches tell the general Macbeth that he is destined to occupy the throne of Scotland, he and his wife choose to become the instruments of their fate and to kill the first man to stand in their path, the virtuous King Duncan. But to maintain his position, Macbeth must keep on killing - at first Banquo, his old comrade-in-arms; and later, as the atmosphere of guilt and paranoia thickens, anyone who seems a threat to the tyrant and his fear.
 
From its first moments to the last fulfilment of the witches' prophecy, Shakespeare's gripping account of the psychological experience of murder enthralls the imagination. In scenes of nightmarish vividness and language of haunting power, Macbeth represents the profoundest engagement with the forces of evil in all drama.

Afternoon racing at Warwick including the listed Eternal Stakes.

The midsummer highlight of the flat season at Warwick is the listed Eternal Stakes with over £30,000 in prize money up for grabs.

First Race: 2.20pm
Last Race: 4.50pm

Season: Flat

Evening racing at Warwick.

First Race: 6.40pm
Last Race: 9.10pm 

Season: Flat

Afternoon racing at Warwick on the Easter bank holiday.

Season: Flat

Afternoon racing at Warwick.

First Race: 2.20pm
Last Race: 5.50pm

Season: Flat

Afternoon racing at Warwick.

Bank Holidays at Warwick see a family festival atmosphere descend upon the turf with top-notch family entertainment throughout the race day.

Season: Flat

The story of Cinderella is one of the best-known fairytales, and Frederick Ashton’s full-length version for The Royal Ballet has all its familiar ingredients. A downtrodden young girl, a glass slipper and a handsome prince combine to make the perfect piece of story-telling, and with a fairy godmother around, anything can happen: pumpkins become coaches, rags turn to ball gowns and there’s bound to be a happy ending. Ashton’s ballet draws together a wealth of wonderfully drawn characters, portrayed against the evocative themes and colours of Prokofiev’s great orchestral score.
 
This is a mysterious and magical fantasy world, where the comedy of Cinderella’s pantomime step-sisters – unlucky in looks and love – provides the perfect foil for the developing romance of Cinderella and the Prince. Cinderella is a family event full of the magic of not just of the fairy godmother, but of The Royal Ballet too.
 

Three ballets by Kenneth MacMillan celebrate his unique talent and versatility. MacMillan’s vision has been vital in shaping The Royal Ballet’s style and repertory, and what better way to appreciate his art than with this rare chance to experience three contrasting works in a single performance. Abstract, dramatic, humorous – this programme gives a wonderfully varied introduction not just to MacMillan’s work but to the beauty and dramatic power of ballet itself. Concerto, to Shostakovich’s Second Piano Concerto, contrasts moments of exuberance and elegiac reflection. The Judas Tree places a single woman among 13 men to enact a harrowing event that is recognizably contemporary but with biblical overtones. Its specially commissioned score will be conducted by Music Director of The Royal Ballet Barry Wordsworth. Elite Syncopations completes the programme with a sparkling evocation of a dance hall that brings ragtime rhythms to the dance and a ragtime band to the stage.

Bill Bryden’s beautiful production of The Cunning Little Vixen brings charm, wit and a wonderful life-affirming message to The Royal Opera. Inspired by a cartoon of the exploits of the feisty little Vixen Sharp-Ears, the opera brings to life the world of the forest. Not only do we meet the people who live by it and pass through it, but also come across all the creatures who live there – caterpillars, badgers, dragonflys, frogs and, of course, the Vixen herself. From her youthful escapades in the chicken house to her courtship with a handsome fox, this is a wonderful tale of the richness of the cycle of life.
 
Charles Mackerras, the champion of Czech music and the great interpreter of Janácek, conducts a cast who combine great singing and acting to bring to life the engaging characters in this special world – a lovelorn schoolteacher, a tipsy priest, a poacher. And then there is the gamekeeper who observes the changing seasons in the forest and encounters our heroine on several occasions, each with different consequences. The evocative and rapturous music and the touching story make this a truly captivating opera for young and old.

Think……FANTASY. Think…… FEATHERS….Think…. FANTASTIC!

The fabulous Lady Boys of Bangkok are back in spectacular style with the new 2010 production of the country’s favourite cabaret party show.

It’s non-stop entertainment all the way. From Lady Gaga to the Saturdays …from Sarah Brightman to Bryan Adams... from a fantasy in outer space to the intensity of sensuous Latin rhythms…. from West End musical to Hollywood blockbuster…. the hits keep on coming as only Lady Boys of Bangkok can deliver. Also singled out for special attention is their favourite Thai TV show – BANGKOX GOT TALENT. But other than saying they are inviting some “celebrity guests” they are keeping the details very close to their ample bosoms.

In a flamboyant extravaganza combining the heady spice of Bangkok's exotic nightlife with the glamorous showgirl appeal of Las Vegas, The Lady Boys of Bangkok is staged in the unique ambiance of the Sabai Pavilion, in Derby, Brighton, Bristol, Manchester, Edinburgh, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, Leeds and Belfast. Early booking is advisable. Between Sabai Pavilion seasons, a theatre show tours the UK (for your nearest theatre please check in “venues” section).

Performed by 16 of the world’s most beautiful show-girls (who just happen to be men!) it’s the show everyone talks about! Whether it is the trade-mark painstakingly immaculate make up; the glittering array of designer-inspired hand-made outfits; the sheer effervescence and style of the performance; the show-stopping choreography or the saucy – but never crude or vulgar – comedy.

There will be more costumes (nearly 500) than ever before to , quite literally, cover the vast range of production numbers - ranging from Starship Troopers to hot–blooded Latins; from stylised casual summer wear to fantastic feathers and even from the historical to the hysterical.

When it comes to Fantasy & Feathers – no-one does it better than the fabulous LADY BOYS OF BANGKOK.

The fantasy starts as soon as you enter the fully carpeted Sabai Pavilion. You have left behind your daily existence and are transported to Bangkok’s exotic nightlife. Inhale the aroma of freshly prepared Thai food – then choose from a range of mouth-watering dishes. The licensed bars in the foyer and auditorium are stocked with a wide range of beers, spirits, wines and soft drinks. The Boudoir is stocked with an amazing range of delightful souvenirs, novelties, hats, masks and exclusive Lady Boys of Bangkok DVDs – the perfect reminder of a great night out.

In the Cabaret Room, you will be escorted to your table by Thai hostesses wearing traditional silk costumes. Hugely popular with hen parties and office outings, there’s a buzz of excited anticipation as the house-lights dim and the Master of Ceremonies, Sak, announces - "The Lady Boys of Bangkok are here for (sic) entertain you!"

Direct from the heart of Bangkok’s exotic nightlife, you will be entertained – like no one has entertained you before! - by 16 of the world’s most stunningly beautiful representatives of the Third Sex (Kathoey) – the sensational Lady Boys Of Bangkok. It’s the best party night in town!

BOOK NOW for the ultimate cabaret party night out. The Lady Boys of Bangkok - Feathers & Fantasy - a world in which everything is not quite what it seems.

PS:  don’t forget there’s a whole range of souvenirs, novelties and Lady Boys of Bangkok branded goods to take home for your family and friends!

*Seating at performances in the Sabai Pavilion is at cabaret tables. Seating at other venues is in theatre rows.

ADMISSION
Premium Seats £26/£22 concession
Standard Seats £22/£19 concession, Students £10
Restricted View £17 all seats (Students £10)
No Concessions Fri/Sat
Friday 18th June only – 7pm & 9.15pm – £12 ALL SEATS

Improbable Fiction being performed at Rhona McGaw Theatre.

They're back – the legendary Original Tribute to the Blues Brothers comes back to the UK at last!!!

The show that started it all has been selling out all over Europe these past few years, but Jake and Elwood Blues know that home is where the heart is...  Last time they were here, they smashed, crashed and crooned their way through sell-out shows in the UK – no one does it like these brothers and they’re back to show you just why they are the best...

Featuring original members from that West End run, the (all new!!!) 'Original' show brings you all those amazing favourite moments and songs with a few new twists, a few new moves and a clean, freshly laundered suit...

The boys are joined by the sassy Bluettes, three amazing ladies with voices to knock you clean off your perch...  So don the sunglasses, dig out your best pork pie hat, and buff up those dancing shows, because the Blues Brothers cordially request your presence for a night of the best music, the best moves and the best comedy you’re likely to see this side of Chicago.  Just don’t tell the Police, OK...?!

All your favourite songs are here – of course!!!  Everybody, Shake Ya Tail Feather, Sweet Home Chicago, Think, Respect, Gimme Some Loving, and loads, loads more!!!

Featuring some of the most famous and inspiring stage music ever written, including the classic songs Don’t Cry For Me Argentina, On This Night Of A Thousand Stars, Oh What A Circus, You Must Love Me and Another Suitcase In Another Hall, Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s extraordinary musical Evita arrives at The Lowry.

Bringing to life the dynamic, larger-than-life persona of Eva Peron, wife of former Argentine dictator Juan Peron, Evita tells the story from her young and ambitious beginnings to the enormous wealth and power she gained and her ultimate rise to sainthood.

With more than 20 major awards to its credit, including the Oscar-winning film version starring Madonna and Antonio Banderas, and featuring one of the most coveted roles in musical theatre, this brand new production of the smash hit show truly promises to be ‘the theatrical event of the year.’

Directed by Bob Tomson and Bill Kenwright
Designed by Matthew Wright
Choreographed by Bill Deamer
Lighting by Mark Howett
Sound by Ben Harrison
Orchestration by Andrew Lloyd Webber and David Cullen
Musical Director and Arrangements David Steadman

Peppa is a playful little piggy who lives with her younger brother George, Mummy Pig and Daddy Pig. Through everyday adventures she plays games, makes new friends and enjoys her absolute favourite activity – jumping up and down in muddy puddles!

Today it’s a bright and sunny day. It’s also a very special day. It’s Peppa Pig's birthday. So, come and join the fun with Peppa and George, Suzy Sheep, Danny Dog and Emily Elephant. A charming, original and imaginative show, full of brand new songs, muddy puddles and oinks!

This BAFTA-Award-winning children's TV favourite is recreated live on stage with magical puppets for the first time from the producers of LazyTown Live! (The Lowry, 2009).

Afternoon racing at Sandown Park.

SEASON
Flat (2pm-6pm)

TIMES
Gates Open: 12.00pm
First Race: 2.05pm
Last Race: 5.00pm

Afternoon racing at Sandown Park.

SEASON
Flat (2pm-6pm)

TIMES
Gates Open: 12.00pm
First Race: 2.10pm
Last Race: 4.55pm

Summer afternoon racing at Sandown Park.

SEASON
Flat (2pm-6pm)

TIMES
Gates Open: 12.00pm
First Race: 2.10pm
Last Race: 5.00pm

With Radiohead, Robert Wyatt and Damon Albarn amongst their fans, The Unthanks occupy a unique place in music.

Sisters Rachel and Becky Unthank are unsentimental storytellers outside of time, forging links between folk worlds old and new.

Formerly known as Rachel Unthank & The Winterset, they are the British counterpart to Sufjan Stevens, Tom Waits and Fleet Foxes. Their second album The Bairns was Mercury Music Prize nominated and their new album Here's The Tender Coming features in almost every UK poll for Albums of the Year.

‘Absolutely Exquisite.’ - Paul Morley

It's the start of the flat season and now that the evenings are longer and lighter it's a perfect excuse for a celebration.

What could be more relaxing than to unwind with friends and family at the end of a busy day, watching some cracking flat racing as the sun slowly sinks over the Surrey countryside?

SEASON
Flat (6pm-9pm)

TIMES
Gates Open: 4.00pm
First Race: 5.50pm
Last Race: 8.35pm

Luka Bloom performing at The Met, Main Theatre.

The affinity that the Irish feel for the turf is legendary and their appetite for living has assured the Emerald Isle's place in racing.

No doubt then, that Irish Day at Sandown Park is one of the most sociable and atmospheric occasions in our racing calendar.  Watch top horses and jockeys in action along with the a whole range of Irish-themed entertainment.  And to top it the day, there'll be live music after the final race from a tribute band who are guaranteed to get the crowd rocking into the evening.

So come along and join in the fun with the people who invented it.

SEASON
Flat (2pm-6pm)

TIMES
Gates Open: 11.45am
First Race: 1.45pm
Last Race: 5.10pm

Soul diva Maggie Bell joins forces with Blues Band guitar wizard Dave Kelly and the mighty British Blues Quartet (Zoot Money, Colin Allen, Colin Hodgkinson and Miller Anderson) for an evening of soul and blues classics - with some thumping rock'n'roll thrown in.

Afternoon racing at Sandown Park.

SEASON
Flat (2pm-6pm)

TIMES
Gates Open: 12.00pm
First Race: 2.15pm
Last Race: 5.05pm

The Coral-Eclipse needs little introduction, ranking among the premier flat racedays in the country, and always attracting a glittering field of the best horses and star jockeys.  The day is without doubt the biggest social occasion in the Sandown Park calendar, featuring plenty of entertainment for all racegoers.

Whether you're a full-on racing buff or you simply enjoy a good party with a little flutter on the side, the Coral-Eclipse is an absolute summer must, a day to throw caution to the wind; an absolute summer must.

SEASON
Flat (2pm-6pm)

TIMES
Gates Open: 11.30am
First Race: 2.05pm
Last Race: 5.30pm

Our Blue Square Brigadier Gerard Evening is the best-kept secret in the UK racing calender, featuring the highest quality evening racing staged anywhere in the country with over £200,000 in prize money on offer to the winning owners.

Brigadier Gerard was one of the best and most popular racehorses of the 20th Century, winning 17 of his 18 races.

SEASON
Flat (6pm-9pm)

TIMES
Gates Open: 4.00pm
First Race: 6.05pm
Last Race: 8.50pm

The Friday features our first flat racing of the year and always inspires superb performances on the track and a thrilling atmosphere around the course.

Being the end of the week, it’s also the perfect chance to get together with friends and colleagues and celebrate the arrival of Spring.

One of the finest acoustic finger-style and slide guitar players in the world, twice-winner of Musician Of The Year BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards and nominated for Musician of the Year 2009. Martin Simpson's interpretations of traditional songs are masterpieces of storytelling. His solo shows are intense, eclectic, spellbinding and deeply moving. His new album True Stories was released this year to great acclaim.

It’s the turn of the season and the scene is set for a unique mixture of flat and jump racing at this historic race day.  The bet365 Gold Cup, previously know as the Whitbread Gold Cup, has attracted some legendary winners over the years – Desert Orchid, Arkle and Special Cargo, to name just a few.  It is always among the most popular races in our calendar and is a must-see event.

Besides the racing, the day offers a rare opportunity to witness a parade of the jump season’s equine champions, which in 2009 included Kauto Star, Denman, Mon Mome, Big Bucks and Voy Por Ustedes.  Industry champions are also honoured prior to racing with an awards ceremony for the Champion Jockey, Trainer and Owner, and the unique character of the meeting is further reflected by our Flat vs Jump jockeys race, which launches the afternoon’s card.

The day has become renowned for its after-party, which in recent years has featured Irish rock from The Saw Doctors.  2010 will be no different, with live music courtesy of The Saw Doctors after racing to bring the festivities to a rousing finale in the Parade Ring.

A story of friendship, fish pie and flick-to-kick football Andy Green's dad is good at Subbuteo; hopeless with spaghetti. So when Andy's mum dies, he does the decent thing - he takes a month off work and moves back home with his dad to teach him how to cook. Fighting memories, and occasionally each other, the pair boil pans and set grills on fire. Can their relationship survive? Or is this is one kitchen nightmare even Gordon Ramsay couldn't fix? A brand new bittersweet comedy from the writer of My Favourite Summer. This play may contain strong language.

The Met's community jazz orchestra, fronted by Munch Manship, presents a spring gig with the best of jazz, hot and cool... classics and new originals.

Joining hands across the water are top American songwriter and instrumentalist Tim O'Brien with Scotland's talented Kris Drever.

Django Bates (born October 2, 1960 in Beckenham, Kent, United Kingdom) is a composer and virtuoso multi-instrumentalist. He plays the piano, keyboards and the tenor horn. He is widely regarded as one the most creative musicians in the world. Bates rose to prominence in Loose Tubes, a jazz orchestra which was considered the UK's most exciting and inspirational groups in the 1980s. It played a key role in re-energising the British jazz scene.

Following her sell-out concert last year, Manchester's favourite daughter returns for a very special 2-night residency at Band on the Wall.
Vocalist with Lamb, Manchester's Lou Rhodes solo work veers away from that band's trip hop groove into an intriguing folk style. Nominated for a Mercury Music Prize for 2006's Beloved One, this self-confessed 'emotional junkie' produces deeply romantic ballads swathed in fragile acoustic guitars, violin and double bass.
This concert will begin at 8pm.

The daughter of strict Baptist ministers in Dallas, Texas - only two kinds of music were allowed in N’dambi’s house – gospel and country. Church was the center of the family‟s life in every way and there was no middle ground. Secular music was forbidden, but its irresistible allure eventually trickled into her life and began impacting the maturing young singer.

"...the most exciting artist since the likes of F-ire collective, Polar Bear and Acoustic Ladyland...." Observer Music Monthly ***** 
Child prodigy pianist Neil Cowley grew up to discover fame and fortune working with some of the best soul artists of the day such as Brand New Heavies, Gabrielle, The Pasadenas and Zero 7 before forming his own acclaimed band Fragile State.
Since those heady days Cowley has very much rediscovered himself forming his own piano trio featuring Richard Sadler on Double Bass and Evan Jenkins on drums. Their debut album Displaced which won the coveted Best Album at the 2007 BBC Jazz Awards. Expect their trademark energetic and forceful melodies, catchy hooks, soulful moments and thrilling climaxes. Another perfect night at The Band.
This concert will begin at 8pm.

Sarah Borges performing at Band On The Wall.

Sketch Pistols perfomring at Band On The Wall.

Often referred to as Poland's answer to The Pogues, Warsaw Village Band describe themselves as "hardcore folk" and, somewhat more enigmatically, as Polish "roots music from the ancient to the future". Certainly on their recent tour of the USA they stunned audiences and critics alike with their ferocious playing that mixes traditional Slavic melodies and wonderful  drone harmonies with wild rhythms bordering on reggae and (dare we say it?) dance music influences. And all played out on violins, cello, hammered dulcimer, hurdy gurdy, Polish frame drum and more - Gogol Bordello eat your heart out.

Oink oink - it's Peppa Pig!

Peppa is a playful little piggy who lives with her younger brother George, Mummy Pig and Daddy Pig. Through everyday adventures she plays games, makes new friends and enjoys her absolute favourite activity – jumping up and down in muddy puddles!

Today it’s a bright and sunny day. It’s also a very special day. It’s Peppa Pig's birthday. So, come and join the fun with Peppa and George, Suzy Sheep, Danny Dog and Emily Elephant. A charming, original and imaginative show, full of brand new songs, muddy puddles and oinks!

This BAFTA-Award-winning children's TV favourite is recreated live on stage with magical puppets for the first time from the producers of LazyTown Live! (The Lowry, 2009).

Ruthin Goal Most Haunted Ghost Hunt

Experience Level Rating: Event suitable for beginners/experienced investigators. Past investigations have deemed this venue extremely scary.

Ruthin Goal ceased to be a prison in 1916 when the prisoners and guards were transferred to Shrewsbury. The County Council bought the buildings in 1926 and used part of them for offices, the county archives, and the town library. During the Second World War the prison buildings were used as a munitions factory, before being handed back to the County Council, when it was the headquarters of the Denbighshire Library Service. In 2002 the Goal was extensively renovated and reopened as a museum.

The Goal is said to be haunted by many a spirit! Its certainly possible that John Jones, or'Coch Bach Y Balsa' as he was known, still haunts the building. He succeeded in escaping from the Goal twice, once on 30th November 1879 with three others while staff were having supper and secondly on 30th September 1913. This last escapade was to prove fatal. After living rough on the Nantclwyd Estate for 7 days, one of his pursuers, Reginald Jones-Bateman, shot him in the leg. John Jones died from shock and blood loss.

And what of William Kerr? Probably the Goal's most infamous Golfer, renowned for treating the inmates so badly, he was feared. Despite his reputation with the inmates , he was a loyal servant to the Goal and popular amongst the staff of the time. Serving in the Goal from 1871 to 1892, he used to ban prisoners from food, exercise and beat them if he deemed that they had misbehaved. He used to taunt them, banging on doors and whipping them at all times of the day, and jangle the cell keys outside the cells, infuriating inmates. His spirit still seems to linger, and he is commonly seen by staff and guests alike, and previous investigations have recorded the banging on cell doors, commonly associated with the infamous William Kerr. He left the Goal age 57 one day, and vanished. No one knows what happened to him. The Gaoler feared by many just seemed to 'vanish'.

Full use of our paranormal equipment is available throughout the night but we encourage guests to bring along their own camcorders and cameras. Tea and Coffee will be served throughout the night, as NO Supper Buffet is served we encourage you to bring your own snacks. This event is suitable for guests 18 years of age and over. The evening will start with a Introduction from our team, Ghost Walk with our Psychic Medium, Psychic Workshop and an Introduction and equipment demonstration. Our fully experienced paranormal team and medium will be on hand to guide you with paranormal experiments such as seances.

The event will commence at 9pm, please arrive at the venue between 8.45pm and 9.00pm. There is on site parking at the Venue. No food will be served on this event only hot drinks; we therefore encourage you to bring additional snacks for the night. Flat comfortable shoes must be worn on the night and we ask you to bring extra layers of clothing, it can get cold in the venue later on in the night. We encourage you to bring your own cameras and camcorders to use on the night and a torch. The event will draw to a close at 3am.

The evening will draw to a close with a sum up of any activity caught throughout the evening. Full use of our paranormal equipment is available throughout the night but we encourage guests to bring along their own camcorders and cameras. Tea and Coffee will be served throughout the night, as there is NO supper buffet on this event we encourage you to bring your own snacks. This event is suitable for guests 18 years of age and over.

Colvin Quarmby's powerful original songs, intelligent - often ingenious lyric and fine musicianship have built this five-piece band a strong word-of-mouth national following. Thier musical style stubbornly refuses to be pigeonholed, hardly surprising when they combine guitars, drums and percussion with fiddle, cello, squeezebox and spine tingling five part vocal harmonies. Setting them apart from the rest is creative from man Gerry Colvin. His energy is infectious, joyous and endearing, a great gig here 2 years ago.

A most welcom return for the Kyla Brox Trio. A voice of unparalleled quality on the British Blues scene, Kyla delivers raw, raunchy tunes and powerful blues with great style. Whether she is singing Etta James, Nina Simone or her own original material, she has a delivery that wraps you up in the stories she is telling. This gig works really well in The Lounge.

After a gap year, we welcome back Acoustic Alchemy. Renowned guitarists Miles Gilderdale and Greg Carmichael power Acoustic Alchemy, who have visited the Club many times. "The band has been through a lot of changes over the years, but the concept of two acoustic guitars has always been the emotional centrepiece which draws people close, the positive spirit behind our music and album titles comes from the wonderful relationship we have with them."

Snake Davis is most probably best known for playing the sax for M People and Heather Small.

Last time Terri came with her duo, she tore the place up. Great vocals, raw emotion and some performer. Now back with her six piece jazz funk band, we will move to a Friday night and mix jazz with blues and funk. Ian Shaw said, "a phenomenal soul blues singer, world class". Come and find out what he was talking about you will not be disappointed.

After 3 performances in 2009 we return with Totally Swing and who better than Mark Maclaren to lead us away and onto the dance floor. Classic tunes, some crooning and smooching and great music to dance to including Sinatra, Harry Conwick, Michael Buble and the rat pack. This is a dance night, the guys have been working on their set list and there will be many new songs played here for the first time.

Three fabulous walks put you at the heart of the world's most exciting city:

CHANGING OF THE GUARD WALK

Sponsored by Crest of London

See Buckingham Palace, St James's Palace and the regiments that guard them in this exciting walk as you march alongside the guards at Buckingham Palace.*

Departs daily @ 10:30am from The Original London Visitor Centre

LONDON LEGENDS

Sponsored by 'Ripley's Believe It or Not!'

Be Amazed! The Beatles almost arrested, TV born in a backstreet, Jimi Hendrix's last gig, tickets for the ill-fated Titanic - it's strange, it's true, it's Rock 'n' Roll!

Departs daily @ 1:00pm from The Original London Visitor Centre

JACK THE RIPPER WALK

Sponsored by The London Dungeon

Walk in the footsteps of the world's most infamous serial killer as we reveal his murderous tale from the dark street of Whitechapel in 1888.

Departs daily @ 3:30pm from The Original Tour stop at the Tower of London on Tower Hill

* On non-guard change days walks go to Buckingham Palace and to St James's Palace where you can take photos of sentry boxes. The guard change does not take place if it is raining.
** All tours take approximately 90 minutes. Please note that the Jack the Ripper walk will finish at Aldgate East tube station and not at one of our bus stops.

Tour Info

Changing of the Guard Walk - departs daily @ 10:30am

London Legends - departs daily @ 1:00pm

Jack the Ripper - departs daily @ 3:30pm

The Original London Visitor Centre opening hours for voucher redemption:

Monday-Saturday: 8:30am to 6:00pm
Sunday & Bank Holidays: 9:00am to 5:30pm

Running Time: 90 minutes on each tour

All vouchers must be redeemed on the day of the first walk from The Original London Visitor Centre,17-19 Cockspur Street, Trafalgar Square, London, SW1Y 5BL.

The July Course resides alongside the National Stud on the approach to the town and is home to all Newmarket’s summer race meetings. From mid-June to the end of August it provides the perfect setting for a fantastic day’s racing thanks to its unique rustic charm.

Open air bars, the sun dappling through the trees and the thatched roofed buildings make up the character of this distinctive and much loved course.

First Race: 1.50pm
Last Race: 5.05pm

The July Course resides alongside the National Stud on the approach to the town and is home to all Newmarket’s summer race meetings. From mid-June to the end of August it provides the perfect setting for a fantastic day’s racing thanks to its unique rustic charm.

Open air bars, the sun dappling through the trees and the thatched roofed buildings make up the character of this distinctive and much loved course.

First Race: 2.10pm
Last Race: 5.30pm

The July Course resides alongside the National Stud on the approach to the town and is home to all Newmarket’s summer race meetings. From mid-June to the end of August it provides the perfect setting for a fantastic day’s racing thanks to its unique rustic charm.

Open air bars, the sun dappling through the trees and the thatched roofed buildings make up the character of this distinctive and much loved course.

First Race: 2.00pm
Last Race: 5.20pm

Evening racing on the flat at Kempton Park.

Evening racing on the flat at Kempton Park.

An afternoon of flat racing at Kempton Park.

FREE Family Fun for the kids!  KIDS GO FREE!

Gates open
12.05pm

First race
2.05pm

Last race
5.25pm

An afternoon of flat racing at Kempton Park.

Free Family Fun for the kids!  KIDS GO FREE!

Gates open
12pm

First race
2pm

Last race
5pm

Boy band and chart toppers JLS are the headline act for Haydock Park Racecourse's music night on 19th June.

Runners-up in the X Factor in 2008, their first two singles have gone to the top of the radio airplay charts, and the group have just released their debut album which sold half a million copies in three weeks.

The most successful new group of the year, they embarked on a UK tour to sell-out audiences in December 2009.

First Race 6.35pm - Last Race 9.05pm. JLS to perform after the last race.

Racing sponsored by supporters of Cancer Research UK. Gates open 6.40pm. Racing followed by Live Music Act. Further details to follow.

The Extras Package gives you great flexibility while in London as you do not need to pre book your attractions.

Simply turn up and enjoy for only 40.00 per person - A saving of 30% on standard prices

1. Madame Tussauds - Recieve a voucher which can be exchaged directly at the venue any date until November 2010 to Visit Madame Tussauds where you can experience what it is like to be famous as you join a host of the world's hottest celebrities

2. Shakespeare Globe Theatre Tour & Exhibition - Recieve a Voucher which can be exchaged directly at the venue any date until November 2010 to have a guided tour of Shakespeare's Globe Theatre where storytellers take you on a fascinating half-hour tour of the auditorium. Journey through time to Elizabethan London with their colourful tales of the 1599 theatre experience as well as the reconstruction process of the 1990's and how the wooden 'o' works today as an imaginative and experimental theatrical space. This is the World's largest exhibition devoted to Shakespeare.

3. Bronze Cheque - Valid for a three-course meal with coffee at one of a selection of London restaurants

All this for just 40.00 per person - A saving of 18.00

Additional Information

Attraction vouchers can be exchanged at the venues any date until November 2010

Hours of Operation

Opening hours vary for each restaurant; please confirm when making your reservation.

Note:
To avoid disappointment, you are advised to make a reservation prior to arrival at your chosen restaurant as these are popular restaurants. Listed rates do not include gratuity; gratuity for your server is at your discretion. If you order additional products, you must pay the restaurant directly.

Cheques are not valid for dining on Christmas Day, New Years Eve, or Valentines Day. Each cheque is valid for a three-course meal for one person; each course has three options to choose from. All meals are subject to availability; you may need to contact more than one restaurant to secure a reservation. Cheques are not transferable and cannot be exchanged for cash, either wholly or partly. Each cheque is valid until the date of expiration shown on your printed voucher.

The Mikhailovsky Theatre presents the revival of Vakhtang Chabukiani’s masterpiece Laurencia, based on the play Fuente Ovejuna by Lope de Vega. Chabukiani was one of the first to create a new choreographic language by means of his own particular blend of folk dance and classical ballet. In his ballet to the music by Alexander Krein, Chabukiani asserted the importance of male dance, furthering in particular the notion of the “heroic” style. Laurencia was premiered of 1939 at the Kirov Theatre. Leading parts were performed by Natalia Dudinskaya (Laurencia), Vakhtang Chabukiani (Frondoso) and Tatiana Vecheslova (Pascuala). In 1956 the ballet was staged at the Bolshoi Theatre where Vakhtang Chabukiani partnered Maya Plisetskaya.

In 2010, London will be the first city in the world to witness this historical revival of the famous ballet, after a fifty year absence from stage, in a new full-length production created for the Mikhailovsky by Mikhail Messerer.

Please note: there are no surtitles in this production.

Irish pop group sensation, WESTLIFE are the second band confirmed for the Sandown Park Music Nights this summer.  Performing live after racing, the crowds will be able to enjoy hits from their latest album ‘Where we are’ as well as a mix of their classic songs.

Westlife, who are starting a UK summer tour this year called ‘The Where we are Tour’, is made up of Mark Feehily, Shane Filan, Kian Egan and Nicky Byrne.  The group is the only act in UK history to have their first seven singles go straight to Number 1 and have since gone on to sell over 45 million records worldwide.  It has also been announced that they are the "second biggest selling artist" and the "biggest selling band of the decade" in the UK.

Spending much of 2009 hidden away in studios across Europe and the US, Westlife have been quietly creating their most exciting album to date.  ‘Where We Are’ features work from pop’s finest craftsmen, including Grammy nominated Ryan Tedder (Leona Lewis, Beyonce) Steve Robson (James Morrison, Take That) Steve Booker (Duffy) Louis Biancaniello and Sam Watters (Whitney Houston, Anastacia.) and Shaznay Lewis, who co-writes a track with band member Mark Feehily.

Westlife are at peak performance, match fit and ready for the second chapter of their incredible history!

Tickets include access to an evening of thrilling racing, commencing at 5:40pm, after which the concert will start from 8:45pm (approx).


SEASON
Flat (6pm-9pm)

TIMES
Gates Open: 4.00pm
First Race: 5.40pm
Last Race: 8.25pm

The stage life of Giselle wasn't an easy one. After the premiere of 1841 featuring Carlotta Grisi and Lucien Petipa, the ballet was performed in France till 1863, when it disappeared from the repertoire. Giselle was forgotten in its motherland but became a most frequently shown ballet on the Russian stage. In 1842, the ballet was staged in St.Petersburg. At the beginning of the 20th century during the ground-breaking Diaghilev’s Russian Seasons, the French saw their national ballet, faithfully nurtured in Russia.

The Mikhailovsky Theatre’s 2008 production of Giselle by Nikita Dolgushin, a specialist in historical works, managed to amaze both the public and the critics. Dolgushin, a noble Albrecht in his time as a dancer, inspired the creation of the ballet and delicately united dance and pantomime. The choreographer revealed the essence of the romantic ballet: the story of Giselle is told in the language of ballet classicism. Together with Vyacheslav Okunev, who designed the epitome of romantic settings, Dolgushin created a production that was described by a British critic ‘an exemplary Giselle’.

Please note: there are no surtitles in this production.

Swan Lake is the jewel in the repertoire of the Mikhailovsky Theatre and the highlight of its London season in 2010. This is a revival of the historical Bolshoi Theatre staging in 1956 - an exquisite production with choreography by Alexander Gorsky and Asaf Messerer. The triumphal restaging of this Swan Lake at the Mikhailovsky Theatre in September 2009 was devised by Mikhail Messerer, the company’s ballet master in chief. The epoch of Alexander Gorsky saw the next phase in the evolution of dance following the ballet classicism of Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov. The staging boasts the superb sets and costumes by renowned Russian theatre designer of Georgian origin, Simon Virsaladze. The legend of a young prince finding his true love, a swan princess bewitched by an evil genius, offers all the dancers of the company a great opportunity to show their talents.

Please note: there are no surtitles in this production

This ballet enchants you from its very first minute. The harmony of the melodic and ear-catching music by Karen Khachaturian, bright sets and costumes by Valery Leventhal and vivid choreography by Genrikh Mayorov, perfect both for children and for grown-ups, made it a real blockbuster. In London, an extra element is added: specially for the noisy auditorium of chattering youngsters a narrator will deliver the storyline and introduce the characters. The fairy-tale story by Italian author Gianni Rodari tells of the adventures of the Little Onion boy (in Italian, Cipollino), who fights the unjust treatment of his fellow vegetable folk (his little girlfriend Radish, old Mr Pumpkin, handyman Master Grape) by the fruit “aristocracy” (foppish Prince Lemon, martinet Signor Tomato and Countesses Cherries). Even though the ballet was created especially for young people, it never lacks “serious” choreography of classical ballet. The principals of the Mikhailovsky Ballet really enjoy themselves turning from Siegfrieds and Odettes into ‘vegetables’ and ‘fruits’. The rhythms of dance, the portrayal and humour of the characters and the exceptional performances will keep everyone enthralled.

Please note: there are no surtitles in this production

An exhilarating performance showing the talents of the Mikhailovsky dancers, it was greeted with countless curtain calls and critical appreciation when they made their London debut in July 2008. This season the Triple Bill programme contains Halte de Cavalerie (Cavalry Halt) by Marius Petipa, giving the audience a second chance to see the classic gem created in 1896 to music by Ivan Armsheimer, and a new piece created especially for the Mikhailovsky Ballet by Viacheslav Samodurov to music by Domenico Scarlatti. The Divertissements will crown the programme. They include Asaf Messerer’s thrilling pas de deux Spring Waters to the music of Sergei Rachmaninov, staged by Mikhail Messerer and a pas de deux from the Mikhailovsky’s production of Spartacus choreographed by Georgy Kovtun. It is a great opportunity to see both contemporary and classical ballets performed by true virtuosi.

Please note: there are no surtitles in this production.

Tickets to folk wünderkind Jon Boden and his band The Remnant Kings at The Met, Manchester.

A show for all ages that takes you back to a time when entertainment was great. Starring the powerhouse performance of TV legend Stu Francis backed by a full supporting professional cast, live music, hilarious comedy and feats of great danger and skill, this is a show not to be missed.

Prepare for a party as the legendary rock 'n' roll production That’ll Be The Day visits with a brand-new show.

Trevor, Gary and the gang bring back the good times with a combination of their unique comedy routines and non-stop hits from the 1950s through to the 70s - a show with a real feelgood party atmosphere!

Bradley Walsh has established himself as one of Britain's most versatile and popular entertainers. Arguably best known for playing Danny Baldwin in Coronation Street, for which he was won Best Dramatic Performance in the British Soap Awards, Bradley also won acclaim for his part in Law & Order UK and has also found time to host a number of TV quiz shows. For this fantastic show Bradley will be cutting loose with his own brand of stand-up comedy in which he will be casting a gaze on the ordinary and making it hilarious. Get your tickets early for an evening of laughter and fun you'll long remember.

‘ABBA MANIA’ is now accepted as the world’s Number One touring production, featuring a special concert presentation, which celebrates Abba’s music in a respectful and enjoyable way, reviving special memories of when Abba ruled the airwaves.

Fresh from a smash hit tour of the South Africa, America and Hong Kong in 2009 ‘ABBA MANIA’ returns to the UK to bring old and new Abba fans a night not to be missed.

If you’re looking for an excuse to party, reminisce or simply be entertained by the best music there has ever been, then ABBA MANIA is for you! Join in and enjoy all of your favourites including: ‘Mamma Mia’, ‘Voulez Vous’, ‘Dancing Queen’, ‘Winner Takes, It All’, ‘Super Trouper’ and many more.

Fancy dress recommended!

Avenue Q continues the contagious, fun-filled, frolic-fueled adventure that has captured the hearts of theatre-goers everywhere. 
 
Join the residents of Avenue Q in their new home at the Wyndham's theatre on Charing Cross Road. Described as “Pant Wettingly Funny”, Avenue Q ingeniously combines a cast of humans and puppets who tackle subjects such as dating, racism, internet porn, being gay and finding your purpose in life. Avenue Q is very much the perfect musical for our time.
 
Don’t delay – book your tickets today!

Tickets to U2 tribute U-ZU live at the Garrick in Stockport.

U2 are one of the biggest bands in the world today, thrilling audiences and selling outconcerts across the globe. By their popularity they have spawned a number of tribute acts. Based in Blackpool U-ZU are the North West of England's leading U2 tribute act.

So what makes U-ZU almost like the real thing? They produce an accurate reflection of a U2 gig. Having studied them on tour and meticulously analyzing and recreating highlights of the bands history, from the early 80s classics of New Years Day and I Will Follow taking things up to date with Beautiful Day, Vertigo, One and City of Blinding Lights. However, this is not just a covers band playing U2 numbers, the songs have been carefully crafted and adapted together with choreography to provide an authentic U2 live arrangement and feel which provides the illusion of the real thing.

U-ZU are made up of an accomplished line-up of 5 professional musicians with a combined musical background of over 100 years, along with their own sound and lighting engineer. U2 gigs sell out within hours, U-ZU are a way to access the music and stage show of a real U2 gig.

The Ultimate Girls Night Out!
Laugh out loud!
Witty, provocative and deeply poignant.

Satirical drama by David Hare.....Rev Lionel Espy is facing criticism from the Bishop of Southwark over his leadership of his inner city team ministry.

Tickets to Pink Floyd tribute Darkside live at The Garrick in Stockport.

The band was formed in the summer of 2005 by guitarists Andy Baker and Chris Clowsley as a result of their desire to not only play but perform the music of Pink Floyd with the same sense of adventure and experimentalism that made the band so unique in the Sixties and Seventies. From the outset their concept has been to capture both the spirit and the tonality of the music without being afraid to add to or adapt the originals to provide that genuine ‘live’ feel.

Andy and Chris have over sixty years of playing experience between them and grew up to the sounds of Gilmour bending guitar notes to perfection and spending hours working out just how you get ‘that’ sound.

They are joined by Jim Cooper, a fantastic young musician who can find his way around the five-string and fretless bass with the same sense of space and timing as Waters, Andy Dyehouse who has the ability to nail the right keyboard sound and also blows a mean sax and the powerhouse that is Stevie G on percussion. Stevie has been on the rock circuit for longer than he cares to admit to but is relishing the new challenge that Mason’s unique and quirky drum style is presenting.

Tickets to the classic rock sound of Cardiff's The Reasoning live at The Met, Manchester.

The Reasoning are a Cardiff-based seven-piece rock band, formed in 2005. The band features the song-writing talents of Matthew Cohen (bass), Dylan Thompson (lead guitar/lead vocals) and Rachel Cohen (lead vocals) - the latter having been voted Best Female Vocalist by the UK's Classic Rock Society for an unprecedented four consecutive years. Following the recruitment of guitarist Owain Roberts in 2008, a brand new line-up was established in 2009, featuring Jake Bradford-Sharp (drums), Maria Owen (acoustic guitar/vocals) and Tony Turrell (keyboards/vocals), who complete this outstanding group of experienced musicians.

With this recent recruitment, professional horizons for The Reasoning are very bright indeed, and it is with great excitement that the band embark upon this next stage of their increasingly successful musical journey.

Promoted by Comet Music and Cathedral Management

Support comes from Morpheus Rising.

Finbar Furey comes from a unique pedigree - an all Ireland Uillean Pipe Champion and whistle player, singer/songwriter as well as playing 5-string banjo, and guitar.

Finbar has been round the block, recording for Transatlantic records in the 60's and achieving fame as lead singer/ frontman of The Furey Brothers and Davey Arthur.

Now he works solo, which balancing his folk roots with songs such as Now and Forever and New York Girls, which was his handlebar moustache swinging contribution to Martin Scorsese's Gangs of New York...

Chickenshed's explosive dance theatre company turns its attention to the proliferation of knife crime amongst young people.

Using words, movement and projection alongside a contemporary score of hip-hop and dance music, Crime of the Century packs a frightening punch. The story is based on interviews with victims, perpetrators, families, surgeons, police officers and ex-offenders.

"Emotive and shocking, Chickenshed theatre company's Crime of the Century is a raw and brutal study of the social engineering that affects so many young people today." - Edinburgh Evening News

A tiny boat, a little lost man and the great wide ocean... How did he get there? How can he get home? And why does that fish keep biting him on the bottom?

Singing whales, acrobatic dolphins and a multitude of deep-sea creatures swim to the surface in this fantastic aquatic adventure.

This show features puppetry, animation, live-music, physical comedy and just the odd squirt of water. Suitable for all ages (5 and over). Prsented by Stuff and Nonsense Theatre Company.

The brilliant Image Musical Theatre returns with A Little Princess, interactive sing a long fun for all the family.

This wonderful story of a parentless girl courageously resisting hunger and cruelty at the hands of her headmistress, Miss Minchin, is one of the most inspiring of all the children's classics.

You can be the star of the show with the opportunity for some children to take part as actors and the whole audience as the chorus singers - this is family theatre at its very best.

La Fille mal gardée (or The Wayward Daughter) is one of Frederick Ashton’s most charming ballets. Its combination of lighthearted story, beautiful solos and pas de deux and lively ensembles have made it a timeless classic of the Royal Ballet repertory and an audience favourite every time. Haystacks and chickens, ponies and storms, and a charming tale of young love in a picturesque rural scene – everything sparkles with a winning combination of uplifting and expressive dance, vibrant colour and lyrical music. This is a great introduction to ballet for newcomers of any age.
 
In the story, young Lise, the ‘wayward daughter’ of the title, is determined to marry Colas, the son of a farmer, for love. But her guardian aunt Widow Simone would rather she married the child-like Alain for money and status. The battle of wits and wills that follows is full of humour — and at every turn, Lise manages to stay one step ahead of her guardian. There are no prizes for guessing what the happy ending will be. Whether in the expressive power of the lovers’ pas de deux, the quirky characterizations of Widow Simone and Alain, or the shared joy of the rustic dances, this is a work to coax smiles and leave indelible memories

It’s La dolce vita with a twist in this sparkling production of Rossini’s opera of comic confusion – Il turco in Italia. Naples in the 1960s is the setting for a riotous and stylish staging by the ever-popular directors Moshe Leiser and Patrice Caurier, returning for its first revival by The Royal Opera since its acclaimed premiere in 2005. When a handsome Turkish prince arrives in pursuit of one of his harem he can have no idea of the unintended consequences in store when he falls for the charms of a bored housewife — whose husband not surprisingly objects. Add a smooth lady’s man and a poet who sees everything as the subject for his new play, then just watch as the cast get hopelessly knotted in intrigues, plots and doppelgangers.
 
Once again, the performers are stellar indeed — top Royal Opera favourites acclaimed in this difficult and delightful Italian repertory. Ildebrando d’Arcangelo as the prince and Aleksandra Kurzak as the errant wife lead a cast guaranteed to bring out the sparkle of one of Rossini’s most engaging scores. There are wonderful ensembles, a great quintet and witty duets that give every opportunity for brilliant singing. Under the baton of Maurizio Benini, with the precision of the Orchestra of the Royal Opera House and the versatility of the Royal Opera Chorus, this is a rare occasion to bring out the full thrill of Rossini in live performance.
 

Verdi's Aida returns to the Royal Opera stage in a new production with a world-class cast headed by Marcelo Alvarez as the warrior Radames and Micaela Carosi as the captured princess of the title. This is a society from long ago, ordered by ritual, obesessed with death, driven by war and power. How can the future love of prisoner and captor survive against such forces? The intensity and tragedy of the story inspired Verdi to some of his most haunting, powerful and famous music. From the seductive slave dances to the triumphal march, from the passion of 'Celeste Aida' to the hauntingly heart-rending finale, this is some of the most memorable music that often seems to suspend time itself make Aida one of the unique experiences of opera.
 
The new production is by internationally acclaimed director David McVicar, who has several of The Royal Opera's most popular productions to his name. There are striking designs to evoke a strange and distant culture, there is the characteristically intense focus of McVicar's production. And of course there is glorious music given full reign by the forces of the Royal Opera's new Aida a star event of the whole Season.

Karen Matheson has captivated audiences around the world and sold over a million records as the lead singer of the best-selling, internationally-renowned Celtic supergroup Capercaillie. Performing here as a solo artist, she has released three albums incorporating traditional and contemporary songs in English and Gaelic.

Shetland folk four-piece Filska have built their music on the islands' tradition of fiddle playing. Featuring acclaimed Shetland fiddler Jenna Reid, the band have a highly unique and innovative sound derived from their fresh and dynamic approach to Shetland traditional music.

Enjoy an intimate evening enjoying Fairport Convention's acoustic take on folk-rock music from the band renowned for inventing the British folk-rock scene in the 1960s. Fairport are winners of the coveted BBC Radio 2 Lifetime Achievement Award and their classic Liege and Lief has been voted most influential folk album of all time by Radio 2 listeners.

Clarence House is the official residence of TRH The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall and the homeof the Princes William and Harry. From 1953 to 2002 it was the home of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother. Visitors are guided around the five ground-floor rooms where The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall undertake official engagements and receive guests from around the world.

Clarence House is open to the public between August and October each year. Visitors are given a guided tour of the five rooms and adjoining spaces on the ground floor. All tickets are timed and must be pre-booked.

Members of the public are able to see items from the Royal Collection and from the collection of Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother. The Queen Mother’s collection is particularly strong in 20th Century British art, with important works by John Piper, Graham Sutherland, W. S. Sickert and Augustus John.

The decoration of the rooms retains the ambience created by The Queen Mother, and much of her collection of works of art and furniture are in their former positions.

Tickets to the pioneering American singer/songwriter live at The Lowry, Manchester.


In the early to mid-1980s, she emerged from the same Greenwich Village folk scene that had spawned Bob Dylan and Joan Baez twenty years previously.


Although her work borrowed much from folk's tradition of storytelling through song, her gentle yet powerfully political acoustic pop brought singles such as "Marlene on the wall', 'Luka' and the hugely successful 'Solitude Standing' album to a global audience. In 1990, her career received an extra boost when UK-based rap duo DNA released a remix of a cappella song 'Tom's Diner', which charted world-wide.


She has inspired a whole new generation of musicians - Beth Orton and Alanis Morrisette spring to mind - and tonight is another chance to hear those beautiful songs and Suzanne's hauntingly fragile vocals. Wonderful.

Afternoon/Evening horse racing at Kempton Park. Flat racing takes place at Kempton Park all year round thanks to our state-of-the-art all-weather track. Afternoons are laid-back and casual, and weekend racing is something the whole family can enjoy.

Season: Flat

Afternoon Flat Racing at Kempton Park.

Gates open
12.10pm

First race
2.10pm

Last race
5.30pm

Afternoon racing at Huntingdon featuring Huntingdon's most prestigious race the totesport Peterborough Chase.

In past years the Peterborough Chase has been won by many progressive chasers including Edredon Bleu, Best Mate and Racing Demon. This day is sure to attract competitive fields.

Gates open: 10.30 am
First race: 12.30 pm
Last race: 3.30 pm

Evening racing at Huntingdon.

Sunday afternoon horse racing at Huntingdon.

Evening racing at Huntingdon.

Dress to Impress at Huntingdon Racecourse on Ladies Evening. Have a night out with the girls at Huntingdon Racecourse’s most glamorous race meeting.

Gates open 4.20pm
First race 6.20pm
Last race 8.50pm

Afternoon racing at Huntingdon.

Evening racing at Huntingdon.

With this exclusive packaged deal you will receive ticket(s) to “The Farnborough Air Show" at the Farnborough Aerodrome and accommodation at the nearby Premier Travel Inn - Basingstoke, a short rail ride away.

Farnborough International Airshow 2010 will take to the skies in what will mark the 47th biennial show. Open to the public on the 24th-25th July, the show will maintain its status on the airshow calendar as one of the most diverse and largest of its kind. The event is held at the famous Farnborough Aerodrome which links back to aviation from the very beginning of man's quest for air. This historic landmark opens its gates over the weekend to demonstrate to the public a combination of civil and military aircraft displaying historic to modern day technology. The Farnborough International Airshow 2010 is marked as the must-see family event guaranteed to be fun-fuelled and enjoyed by any age group.

Exhibits

The show boasts a vast showground and located among the displays are the four large exhibition halls. These halls house the 1,393 exhibiting companies which make up the global Aerospace Industry. From nuts & bolts to aero engines or ejector seats to hostess trolleys, this is where the Aerospace Industry gathers to exchange information and to make business. And you can witness it first hand. The trade stands remain open for the public weekend and the companies participating can give you an informative insight into some of the most up to date technology never seen before. Some of the larger exhibits include Airbus, Boeing and Rolls-Royce to name but a few. Included within these exhibits are a number of specialised pavilions. These pavilions concentrate on specific sectors within Aerospace and present a larger display.

The International Space Pavilion hosts a number of companies within the space sector and over the public weekend, the International Space Pavilion gets interactive and a series of seminars will take place which are perfect for educating children and getting them involved and excited by Space.

The UAV Pavilion is the display of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles. The UAV pavilion holds a high interest with public visitors due to their air capabilities and for the obvious reason – they are unmanned! The exhibits and static aircraft display is a must see attraction.

Display's / Airshow

Undoubtedly, the main attraction at this event is its participating aircraft. The flying display starts at 12.30 and runs until 5pm, giving 4 ½ hours of exhilarating first-class entertainment. The flying displays a wide range of civil airliners, military jets, historic aircraft and aerobatics