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Double Edinburgh Comedy Award-nominee and star of Live At The Apollo returns with a brand new hour of "confessional storytelling at its funniest" (Herald ★★★★★). 

As seen on Michael McIntyre's Big Show, Mock The Week and Roast Battle.

"Destined to become a household name" Telegraph ★★★★

Nominee for Edinburgh Comedy Award for Best Show 2018.
Winner of the Amused Moose Comedy Award for Best Show 2016.
Nominee for Edinburgh Comedy Award for Best Newcomer 2015.

Rescheduled from Friday 22nd May 2020, Friday 11th September 2020 and Saturday 17th July 2021

This highly acclaimed production continues to captivate audiences across the UK with its spectacular celebration of the classic songbook that made The Carpenters a legend in the world of popular music, selling over 100 million albums and singles.

This brand new show for 2021 once again features the outstanding vocal talents of Claire Furley, with Musical Director Phil Aldridge leading The Carpenters Story Orchestra as they re-create Richard Carpenter’s original orchestral arrangements.

Featuring all of the Carpenters hit songs including (They Long To Be) Close To You, Yesterday Once More, We’ve Only Just Begun, Superstar, A Song For You, Rainy Days & Mondays, Goodbye to Love and many more!

The Nowhere Office

Julia Hobsbawm OBE is an entrepreneur, public speaker, and Chair of The Workshift Commission. In The Nowhere Office, Julia proposes a radical new way of thinking about work. Taking a strategic view of issues such as endemic stagnant productivity; the crisis of stress; repurposing offices for more creative interaction; and satisfying the demand for more purposeful work with greater work/life balance. Julia Hobsbawm argues persuasively that now is the time to develop something better, more meaningful, and crucially, more workable.

Interviewed by Professor Sir Cary Cooper.

Image credit: Giacomo Cannata

Piano

Felix Mendelssohn Five Songs Without Words
C Schumann Romance in E Flat minor, Op. 11 No. 1
R Schumann Carnaval Op. 9
F Chopin 24 Preludes Op. 28

Following his last-minute step-in last summer, we are excited to invite back the outstanding pianist, Charles Owen.

Charles enjoys an extensive international career performing a wide-ranging repertoire to outstanding critical acclaim. For this concert, Charles brings together four iconic, interconnected 19th century musicians to create a programme of enormous emotional range, creativity, and invention. Piano music was forever changed by the genius of Mendelssohn, Chopin and the Schumanns, taking the instrument and its repertoire to the greatest of imaginative heights.

There will be an interval.

For more information on the 2022 festival visit www.buxtonfestival.co.uk

To purchase wheelchair accessible seating, please contact the BIF Box Office on 01298 72190

A Buxton International Festival Production, with the Northern Chamber Orchestra.

Gioachino Antonio Rossini (1792 –1868)

Set in the 16th century Scottish Highlands, La donna del lago is an opera of love, loyalty and lochs with expansive ensembles and sparkling orchestration.

Based on the epic poem The Lady of the Lake by Sir Walter Scott, the title heroine Elena is being pursued by not one but two tenors: King James V, disguised as the humble Uberto and his enemy and rival in love, Rodrigo. Complicating matters further, Elena herself loves Malcom (a trouser role) the son of one of the king’s political adversaries. Political alliances are stretched to their limit as all three vie for Elena’s attention against a backdrop of escalating war and deception. Will love make or break a divided Scotland?

La donna del lago, one of the most lyrical of Gioachino Rossini’s operas will be conducted by the Festival’s Artistic Director, Adrian Kelly, and directed by internationally renowned Jacopo Spirei. Jacopo Spirei has directed several of Rossini’s lesser-known operas, including most recently Ermione at Naples’ Teatro San Carlo.

The dynamic cast of singers is lead by Irish soprano Máire Flavin, who makes her debut at the Festival. Also singing in Buxton for the first time are tenors Nico Darmanin and John Irvin, both seasoned performers of Rossini, and ENO Harewood Artist, bass baritone David Ireland. Completing the cast is mezzosoprano Catherine Carby, known to Buxton audiences for her performances in La finta giardiniera and The Dancing Master.

The libretto by Andrea Leone Tortola is based on the French translation of The Lady of the Lake.

Sung in Italian with English side-titles.

Thanks to members of the La donna del lago Syndicate for their support.

For more information on the 2022 festival visit www.buxtonfestival.co.uk

To purchase wheelchair accessible seating, please contact the BIF Box Office on 01298 72190

Standing Only – There is no provision for seating in this venue for thisevent. If you are unable to comfortably stand for the duration of theshow, we may be able to assist with access seats. We cannot guarantee thataccess seats in this venue will provide a clear and uncompromised view of thestage.

The Impossible Gentlemen were founded over a decade ago by internationally acclaimed piano sensation Gwilym Simcock and Salford guitarist and UK treasure Mike Walker.  The 2022 version welcomes new UK bass and drums superstars Laurence Cottle and Ian Thomas. Three albums on from their original line-up, the new unit promises to be nothing less than remarkable with four unique talents, all superb players, coming together to create something new and powerful.

Gwilym Simcock Piano
Mike Walker Guitar
Laurence Cottle Bass
Ian Thomas Drums

“Crazy name, crazy group, but crazy like foxes“. The Evening Standard *****

“world-class jazz – nothing short of sensational” The Guardian

For more information on the 2022 festival visit www.buxtonfestival.co.uk

To purchase wheelchair accessible seating, please contact the BIF Box Office on 01298 72190

Sam Rapley Sax and clarinet

Laura Jurd Trumpet

Matt Robinson Piano

Conor Chaplin Bass

Following the success of their eponymous EP in 2015, Fabled Trio released their debut album, Short Stories, to widespread critical acclaim in 2018. Drawing inspiration from Debussy, Tom Jobim, Tigran Hamasyan and Bon Iver, the music of Fabled explores the wealth of textures, harmonies and grooves available in the traditional jazz quintet setting. Heavily influenced by music for film and the relationship between music and storytelling, they are always searching for their own new ways to tell the classic, age-old stories.

Fabled Trio are joined by special guest Laura Jurd, who has developed a formidable reputation as one of the most distinctive and creative composer-performers to emerge from the UK in recent years.

‘Fabled’s every piece has its own melodic twists and turns, creating a series of real musical page-turners.’ All About Jazz

‘Rapley proves to be a sensitive and adaptable composer, his ability to craft calming melodies and rich textures brings an emotional weight and modernity to the majority of these recordings.’ – Mojo Magazine

For more information on the 2022 festival visit www.buxtonfestival.co.uk

To purchase wheelchair accessible seating, please contact the BIF Box Office on 01298 72190

AMC Gospel Choir offer a full-on Sunday gospel performance with a live band. AMC have toured with Hacienda Classical, have featured on Songs of Praise and have performed with Manchester Camerata. This punchy band, with mesmerising singers, make foot-stomping, on-your-feet music that combines gospel, sass and Motown. Expect rich, vibrant and joyful sounds guaranteed to make you move.

Neil has booked AMC four times and he understands why people love this group and six singers, ‘there is a direct connection between the band and the audience, so many good feelings spread amongst the room. The choice of songs, the love for the expression of joy. Combine the vocals with such great musicians and we have a recipe for success.’

For more information on the 2022 festival visit www.buxtonfestival.co.uk

To purchase wheelchair accessible seating, please contact the BIF Box Office on 01298 72190

Spend an afternoon in the company of one of Britain’s favourite (and naughtiest) national treasures, Miriam Margolyes, as she shares stories from her remarkable life.

BAFTA-winning actor, voice of everything from Monkey to the Cadbury’s Caramel Rabbit, creator of a myriad of unforgettable characters from Lady Whiteadder to Professor Sprout, Miriam is one of the most recognisable actresses working today. Now, at the age of 80, she has finally decided to tell her life story in her bestselling, award-winning memoir, This Much Is True.  

In conversation for this exclusive event, Miriam will take you on an extraordinary adventure through a truly independent mind and life. Find out how being conceived in an air-raid gave her curly hair, what pranks led to Miriam being known as the naughtiest girl Oxford High School ever had and how she ended up posing nude for Augustus John as a teenager. With a cast list stretching from Scorsese to Streisand, a cross-dressing Leonardo di Caprio to Isaiah Berlin, the evening promises to be jam-packed with jaw-dropping anecdotes.

Reliably outrageous and always entertaining, join Miriam for a riotous evening as full of life and surprises as the actress herself.

‘There is no one on earth quite so wonderful as Miriam Margolyes’ Stephen Fry 

Every ticket includes a paperback copy of This Much Is True.

A Salzburg State Theatre production in association with Buxton International Festival

Gaetano Donizetti (1797–1848)

Donizetti’s opera is a delightful parody about a regional opera company’s preparation for a performance of an opera seria.  The singers are continually fighting over who has the most important role, with everything threatening to descend into chaos.  Then Agatha, the aging diva on whom the plot is centred, announces she is taking over. The role is written for a baritone and George Humphreys (who sang the title role in Eugene Onegin in 2019) slips into the role of the indestructible Agatha as if born to it.

The opera was first performed in Naples, and Donizetti makes witty musical references to two of Rossini’s operas written for the city, Otello and La donna del lago. The score is a delightful combination of fresh, energetic ensembles and virtuosic arias. Stephen Medcalf directs the production, teaming up with Kit Hesketh-Harvey to create a new English version for Buxton which take a look behind the scenes of an entirely fictional provincial opera company. Iwan Davies conducts the Northern Chamber Orchestra.

Adapted from plays by Simeone Antonio Sografi, new English version by Kit Hesketh-Harvey

For more information on the 2022 festival visit www.buxtonfestival.co.uk

To purchase wheelchair accessible seating, please contact the BIF Box Office on 01298 72190

The BBC Young Musician of the year 2018 brings his hard-hitting quartet to the festival. Playing inspired tunes from Dizzy, Clifford Brown, Dexter Gordon and Ornette Coleman, Xhosa stamps his own style on the classic jazz quartet. No longer a ‘rising star’, he’s now firmly established on the scene thanks to many festival appearances and his debut album K(no)w Them, K(no) Us with featured guest artists saxophonist Soweto Kinch and pianist Reuben James.

Xhosa Cole is an embodiment of the success of numerous community arts programmes in Birmingham including the Midland Youth Jazz Orchestra, Jazzlines Ensemble and Birmingham Music Service. Having grown up in Handsworth and first played the Tenor at Andy Hamilton’s Ladywood Community Music School, he’s now among a long legacy of Birmingham Saxophonists including Soweto Kinch and Shabaka Hutchings. Xhosa has performed twice at the BBC Proms, composed music for the Ripieno Players, a Birmingham-based String Orchestra, recorded saxophone for Mahalia’s debut album ‘Love and Compromise’, completed a 22-date UK tour, all along side his studies as a scholar at Trinity Laban Conservatoire. Xhosa also received the Parliamentary Jazz Award for ‘Best Newcomer’ in 2019 and Jazz FM ‘Breakthrough act of the year’.

Xhosa Cole Saxophone
Nathan England Jones Drums
Steve Saunders Guitar
Josh Vadiveloo Double Bass

‘The 24-year-old tenor saxophonist/composer is a British sensation’ DOWNBEAT

‘One of the most exciting releases of the year…’ Jazzwise

For more information on the 2022 festival visit www.buxtonfestival.co.uk

To purchase wheelchair accessible seating, please contact the BIF Box Office on 01298 72190

Clare Teal
Joe Webb Piano
Giacomo Smith Clarinet & Sax
Pete Horsfall Trumpet
Dave Archer Guitar
Simon Little Bass
Ed Richardson Drums

Expect exhilarating swing as award-winning jazz vocalist and Radio 2 presenter Clare Teal, and a 6-piece band, celebrate 100 years of popular music.

Their programme features some of the greatest songs from the American and British Songbooks, as well as contemporary writers. The song list will include gems made famous by the first giants of the jazz age that still sound fresh and relevant today. Clare is always an entertaining and humorous host, and the evening will be packed with anecdotes and rich jazz infused repertoire. This promises to be full of joyous, uplifting and inspirational music performed by the very best.

For more information on the 2022 festival visit www.buxtonfestival.co.uk

To purchase wheelchair accessible seating, please contact the BIF Box Office on 01298 72190

Kirk McElhinney Guitars/Vocals
John Ellis Piano/Vocals
Andy Hay Drums

A very cool, mellow gig to close our weekend festival, Kirk calls his sound Urban Folk. Described by Nitin Sawney as ‘a melting pot of sonic bliss’, Kirk is joined by two artists in their own right to form this beautiful sound.

Andy Hay on drums recently released his second album after the acclaimed “Many Rivers” made its mark on the British music scene.

Long time collaborator John Ellis has worked with The Cinematic Orchestra, Corinne Bailey Rae, Lily Allen, Tom Jones and so many more

All three blend together vocally and musically with real fire and soul.
 
Kirk is a national treasure and to see him with the trio is to see him truly in his element. His songs and his delivery have an uncanny ability to capture people’s hearts and move minds and bodies.

For more information on the 2022 festival visit www.buxtonfestival.co.uk

To purchase wheelchair accessible seating, please contact the BIF Box Office on 01298 72190

Regenesis: Feeding the World Without Devouring the Planet

Around the world, farming has been wiping out vast habitats, depleting freshwater, polluting oceans, and accelerating global heating, while leaving millions undernourished and unfed. Increasingly, there are signs that the system itself is beginning to flicker. George Monbiot suggests there is another way and shows how the hidden biological universe beneath our feet could transform what we eat and how we grow it – from the fruit and vegetable growers who cultivate pests as well as potatoes; through producers of perennial grains who are liberating their fields from ploughs; and much, much more.

Interviewed by Mark Cocker.

Sponsored by Buxton Civic Association

For more information on the 2022 festival visit www.buxtonfestival.co.uk

To purchase wheelchair accessible seating, please contact the BIF Box Office on 01298 72190

Thinking Better: The Art of the Shortcut

How do you remember more and forget less? How can you earn more and become more creative just by moving house? And how do you pack a car boot most efficiently? Mathematics is full of better ways of thinking, and with over 2,000 years of knowledge to draw on, TV favourite and Oxford mathematician Marcus du Sautoy interrogates his passion for shortcuts. After all, shortcuts have enabled so much of human progress, whether in constructing the first cities around the Euphrates 5,000 years ago, using calculus to determine the scale of the universe or in writing today’s algorithms that help us find a new life partner.

Interviewed by Gerry Northam.

For more information on the 2022 festival visit www.buxtonfestival.co.uk

To purchase wheelchair accessible seating, please contact the BIF Box Office on 01298 72190

G Ligeti Musica ricercata, Op. 1 No. 1-8
F Liszt Funérailles
R Wagner (arr. Z Kocsis) Prelude from Tristan und Isolde
R Wagner (arr. F Liszt) Isolde’s Liebestod from Tristan und Isolde
F Schubert Sonata in B flat major, D. 960

Joanna MacGregor CBE is one of the world’s most innovative musicians. She has appeared as a soloist with the world’s leading orchestras, performing in over eighty countries. Joanna has premiered many landmark works – from Harrison Birtwistle to John Adams and James MacMillan – and is a regular broadcaster, appearing regularly at the BBC Proms.  At the heart of her programme are transcriptions of the Prelude and Liebestod from Wagner’s seminal music drama Tristan und Isolde.

This event has an interval.

For more information on the 2022 festival visit www.buxtonfestival.co.uk

To purchase wheelchair accessible seating, please contact the BIF Box Office on 01298 72190

A Buxton International Festival Production

Johann Hasse (1699 –1783)

Johann Hasse was one of the most prominent and revered composers of his lifetime and was hailed as ‘superior to all other lyric composers’ by the
18th-century music critic Charles Burney. His music, characterised by its melodic beauty and formal balance, was performed across Europe with his operas and oratorios filling theatres in Dresden, Naples, Venice, Vienna and Warsaw. Following his death, his reputation receded, and his work has been largely forgotten by modern audiences. This production provides a rare opportunity to enjoy the splendour of Hasse’s music, which so captivated listeners nearly three centuries ago.

Antonio e Cleopatra was one of Hasse’s earliest Italian works and was first staged in 1725 to an elite audience near Naples. The melodic score and deft characterisation made it an instant hit. The historical tale is relayed as a serenata, through an emotional conversation between Mark Anthony and Cleopatra. The two characters deliberate their future in the wake of their defeat by Rome, with Mark Antony declaring that his love for the Egyptian Queen means more to him than the throne. Whilst Cleopatra reciprocates his feelings, she fears she will lose her freedom because of the Roman victory. She would rather die than be a slave, and so the pair agree a suicide pact.

Soprano Ellie Neate sings the role of Cleopatra. Recent highlights include Gretel in Hansel and Gretel with the British Youth Opera/Silent Opera and La Fée at the Guildhall School. Mezzo-soprano Thalie Knights’ most recent highlights include the title roles in Handel´s Agrippina at Dartington Arts Festival, and in Tamerlano for the Cambridge Handel Opera Company.

Musical director Satoko Doi-Luck is a founding member of the baroque ensemble Ceruleo, and most recently visited Buxton with Burying the Dead, a concert play about the life and music of Henry Purcell in 2018.

Libretto by Francesco Ricciardi. Sung in Italian with English side-titles.

There is no interval for this event.

For more information on the 2022 festival visit www.buxtonfestival.co.uk

To purchase wheelchair accessible seating, please contact the BIF Box Office on 01298 72190

The hilarious Sarah Millican is back on tour with a Bobby Dazzler of a new stand-up show.

In this, her sixth international tour, you’ll learn about what happens when your mouth seals shut, how to throw poo over a wall, trying to lose weight but only losing the tip of your finger, a surprisingly funny smear test, and how truly awful a floatation tank can actually be.

Sarah has spent the last year writing jokes and growing her backside. She can’t wait to get back on the road and make you laugh.

sarahmillican.co.uk
@sarahmillican75

Age Guidance: Not Suitable for under 16s

On The Cusp: Days of ‘62

The ‘real’ Sixties began on 5 October 1962. On that remarkable Friday, the Beatles hit the world with their first single, Love Me Do, and the first James Bond film, Dr No, had its world premiere in London: two icons of the future heralding a social and cultural revolution. On the Cusp continues David Kynaston’s ground-breaking history of post-war Britain and takes place during the summer and early autumn of 1962.  These were charged months, thick with incident, including The Rolling Stones’ debut at the Marquee Club, the last Gentlemen versus Players match at Lord’s, and the issue of Britain’s relationship with Europe starting to divide the country.

Britain would never be the same again after these months. Sometimes indignant, sometimes admiring, always empathetic, On the Cusp evokes a world of seaside holidays, of church fetes, of Steptoe and Son – a world still of seemingly settled social and economic certainties, but in fact on the edge of fundamental change.

Interviewed by Sarah Ward.

Basie & Beyond

The NYJO 18-piece ensemble performs classic works led by their Artistic Director, Mark Armstrong.

Since roaring from the American imagination over a hundred years ago, jazz has been thrilling audiences across the world. William James Basie is an icon. His impact on the jazz canon cannot be overstated. He formed the Count Basie Orchestra in 1935 and led the ensemble for over 50 years. As jazz transitioned from the dance floor to the concert platform, Basie kept the spirit of swing alive, transforming the music for the atomic era, but keeping true to the soul of its roots.

This programme explores the impact on popular music made by Basie and the twentieth-century Black American artists that followed: Frank Foster, Dizzy Gillespie, Tadd Dameron, Oliver Nelson, Quincy Jones, Thad Jones. To their lives and struggle we owe an unpayable debt.

‘I have been in love with swing since playing Splanky for the first time as a teenage trumpet player. As I have explored this music I have drawn constant inspiration from the combination of a great groove and the variety of colours that skilled writers create, from raw excitement to subtle, expressive textures. To work out how to take the music forward we need to celebrate its past, acknowledging that although we may not have had the experiences and background of the musicians who created it, we can learn something of this through their music and demonstrate its importance and vitality to a modern audience. This is especially true when it’s performed by musicians of the same kind of age as the members of these bands were back in the day. I hope you enjoy listening to this music as much as the band enjoy playing it!’ – Mark Armstrong

For more information on the 2022 festival visit www.buxtonfestival.co.uk

To purchase wheelchair accessible seating, please contact the BIF Box Office on 01298 72190

Ben Crosland Bass
Theo Travis Saxes
John Etheridge Guitar
Steve Lodder Piano/keyboards
Nic France Drums

Ray Davies’ songs are rooted in the blues, music hall, popular song, variety and musical theatre – the perfect vehicles for jazz interpretation. Ben Crosland began his musical education at the age of 13 by taking up the drums, and the Kinks’ singles were constantly on the Dansette as he played along in his bedroom. Fifty years on, as bandleader and composer/arranger, he is again discovering new subtleties and strengths in these wonderful compositions and has assembled a quintet of international quality to perform these imaginative arrangements.

‘Ray Davies’ tunes – evocative, catchy and deceptively simple. By recasting them in the jazz idiom and delicately elaborating their harmonies, bassist and composer Ben Crosland brings them out in a fresh glow. It’s remarkable how comfortable these melodies sound in their new settings’. – The Observer

‘Given the number of hit songs Ray Davies has written over his years fronting The Kinks, it’s astonishing that nothing like this CD has ever seen the light of a laser… So you wait fifty years for one song and then twelve expertly arranged jazz covers of The Kinks’ music arrive at once…

What distinguishes this set are the sensitive and sophisticated arrangements….This is a very welcome release of deft and intelligent interpretations, celebrating the idiosyncratic songs of Ray Davies, a man without whom twentieth century popular music would certainly have been the poorer’. – All About Jazz

For more information on the 2022 festival visit www.buxtonfestival.co.uk

To purchase wheelchair accessible seating, please contact the BIF Box Office on 01298 72190

Salford Community Leisure’s Dance Team are delighted to be able to welcome you back to The Lowry Theatre to celebrate our Street Dance Showcase- ‘Out with the old, in with the new’.

Over 100 SCL Street Dancers from across the city will come together to dazzle and  astound you with their street dance skills and talents. Join us in our celebration of dance!

Broken Heartlands: A Journey Through Labour’s Lost England

Sebastian Payne, Whitehall Editor for the Financial Times, makes a political road-trip through ten constituencies that made up Labour’s ‘red wall’. Originally from the North East himself, he sets out to uncover the real story of what turned these traditionally Labour seats to the Conservatives for the first time in living memory at the 2019 election. On the way, he explores significant and nuanced social and economic forces decades in the making, including generational shift, the changing nature of work, de-industrialisation and struggling public services.

Lee Martin for Gag Reflex Presents…

Jon Courtenay: The Big C

Edinburgh Preview

Having triumphed on Britain's Got Talent, Jon combines comedy, music and drama in a brand new show exploring the true story of his television success while secretly fighting for his life. Accompany him backstage as he wrestles jokes and jeopardy to survive not only the competition but also to just….survive. Doctors and Nurses, Judges and Jokers all become players in Jon’s musical journey through jubilation, heartache, tumours and television. Reminding you that laughter can be the best medicine, but so can immunotherapy.

As seen on Ant and Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway

“WONDERFUL” Simon Cowell

Musicians Of Jewish Origin

Jeremy Sassoon Piano & Vocals
Nicola Farnon Bass
Phil Johnson Drums

 ‘Jeremy Sassoon packed out the house, had the audience, of all ages, up on their feet, dancing. He is a fantastic storyteller and talented musician, with beautiful interpretations of classic songs’ JW3

Renowned UK singer-pianist Jeremy Sassoon narrates and performs his history of Jewish songwriters from the piano, supported by his trio. The show starts with the golden era of Gershwin and the Great American Songbook and continues right up to the 21st century, spanning artists such as Carole King, Paul Simon, Billy Joel, Randy Newman and Amy Winehouse. Jeremy is a captivating host and raconteur, armed with witty repartee and some surprising and little-known facts.

Expect great music, several laughs, some audience participation and a few surprises as Jeremy takes you on his personal journey through the contribution of Jewish songwriters to the wonderful world of contemporary music.

‘Sassoon is a charming and witty front-man, one of his skills being that he can make the audience feel immediately at ease…’ London Jazz News

‘An exceptional alliance of Art & Entertainment’ Manchester Jazz Festival

For more information on the 2022 festival visit www.buxtonfestival.co.uk

To purchase wheelchair accessible seating, please contact the BIF Box Office on 01298 72190

Join us for a night in the beautiful surroundings of the Octagon as we take a step back in time.

Our very own 10-piece big band, a swinging rhythm section plus three saxophones, two trombones and two trumpets.  Guest singers are Andy Bayley and Emma Holcroft who will play the songs that makes you want to dance.

During the first set, as you sit back and enjoy a drink, our professional ballroom dancers will show you the moves, from tango to foxtrot, to jive to rumba. After the interval, the floor is open for us all to have a go. So, be brave, bring your dancing shoes and get ready to dance. Waltz to Moon River, quickstep to Sing Sing Sing and get your Latin moves ready for Perhaps Perhaps Perhaps.

For more information on the 2022 festival visit www.buxtonfestival.co.uk

To purchase wheelchair accessible seating, please contact the BIF Box Office on 01298 72190

Breadsong: How Baking Changed Our Lives

Breadsong is an inspiring story of the life-saving power of discovering a passion.

Around the time she turned 14, Kitty began experiencing anxiety, slowly disconnecting from everyone around her, until she discovered baking bread and came to a stunning realisation: bread is alive. One loaf quickly escalated into an obsession, and Kitty felt better than she had for a long time. Within nine months, Kitty and Al opened The Orange Bakery – and they haven’t stopped since.

Expect cinnamon buns and banter at this BIF Lifestyle Event.

Interviewed by Martin Latham.

Piccadilly, a black & white silent film with an introduction by John Shapcott and live accompaniment by pianist Ashley Thompson.

Directed by Ewald André Dupont, with a screenplay by Arnold Bennett, the Jazz Age film Piccadilly (1929) contrasts London’s glamorous West End night life with a threatening Limehouse underworld. Martin Scorsese calls it ‘Bold, beautifully crafted…one of the truly great films of the silent era’. Anna May Wong’s performance as the scullery maid who becomes an overnight cabaret sensation made her the first Chinese American super star, whilst giving the film classic status.

Ashley Thompson’s live musical accompaniment recreates the immediacy of music and image that made silent cinema so magical.

For more information on the 2022 festival visit www.buxtonfestival.co.uk

To purchase wheelchair accessible seating, please contact the BIF Box Office on 01298 72190

In conversation with Mark Cocker

On the Trail of Wolves: A British Adventure in the Wild West

When TV Presenter Philippa Forrester and her nature-loving family moved to the wilds of Grand Teton National Park, they quickly learned to love the wildlife of Wyoming and nearby Yellowstone. But nothing she had learned from her studies in the UK could have prepared her for the reality of living amongst the grizzlies, elk and wolves of her new home nor the antipathy of some of her neighbours about sharing their land with wolves. Philippa journeyed with conservationists, rangers, hunters and ranch owners to investigate when, and why, opinions on wolves became so polarised.

For more information on the 2022 festival visit www.buxtonfestival.co.uk

To purchase wheelchair accessible seating, please contact the BIF Box Office on 01298 72190

S Feshareki Venus/ZOREH

A Glazunov Concerto for Alto Saxophone and String Orchestra Op. 109

C Shaw Entr’acte (version for string orchestra)

E Elgar Introduction and Allegro (with the Brodsky Quartet)

P Tchaikovsky Souvenir de Florence (version for string orchestra)

This concert brings together two outstanding ensembles, both hailing from Manchester and both celebrating their 50th anniversary. Joining them for this festive occasion is one of British music’s brightest young stars, saxophonist Jess Gillam. She plays Glazunov’s expressive and virtuosic Concerto for Alto Saxophone. The programme also features two compelling works by young female composers, Shiva Feshareki and Caroline Shaw and concludes with Tchaikovsky’s Souvenir de Florence, inspired by the composer’s rejuvenating stay in Italy in 1890.

A musical force of nature, Jess Gillam has been forging her own adventurous path since she shot to fame becoming the first saxophonist to reach the finals of BBC Young Musician and the youngest ever soloist to perform at the Last Night of the Proms. Passionate about inspiring and bringing joy to people through music, Jess invites audiences on journeys of musical discovery through her electrifying performances and eclectic programming.

Her infectious enthusiasm and passion for classical and non-classical music lights up every stage and in her newly formed Jess Gillam Ensemble she brings together a group of brilliant musicians who share her bold, uplifting and open-minded approach. After topping the classical charts with her latest album TIME, Jess performs music from the record  This promises to be an explosive concert designed to showcase the diversity, dynamism and versatility of the saxophone, and to inspire audiences to reflect, dance and smile!

For more information on the 2022 festival visit www.buxtonfestival.co.uk

To purchase wheelchair accessible seating, please contact the BIF Box Office on 01298 72190

Spider Woman: A Life

As President of the Supreme Court, Lady Hale won global attention in finding the 2019 prorogation of Parliament to be unlawful. Yet that dramatic moment was merely the pinnacle of a career of pioneering judicial reform.

How does a self-professed ‘girly swot’ get ahead and become the most senior judge in the country in a profession dominated by men? A lifelong smasher of glass-ceilings, who took as her motto ‘women are equal to everything’, her landmark rulings in areas including domestic violence, divorce, mental health and equality were her attempt to correct that.

Sponsored by No.6 The Square Tearooms

For more information on the 2022 festival visit www.buxtonfestival.co.uk

To purchase wheelchair accessible seating, please contact the BIF Box Office on 01298 72190

Dominic Halpin Guitar and Vocals
Ben Wiltshire Bass
Richard Wetherall Piano
Jonathan Price Drums
Kim Nishikawara Saxophone

Dominic Halpin & The Honey B’s present live music at its very best. Great jazz and swing tunes from Dean Martin, Bobby Darin, Elvis Presley, Louis Prima and Frank Sinatra amongst many others. The Honey B’s are just the best swing band, playing great music from the 1950s onwards. My Baby Just Cares For Me, Fly Me To The Moon, Buono Sera, The Way You Look Tonight, I’m in the Mood, Americano and many, many more.

 It’s hard to compare Dominic to anyone, but waiter if you please: ‘Two shots of Italian Dean Martin croon, a slice of Frank Sinatra swing, blend that together with a healthy dash of good old Elvis… Bang! you have it’… Waiter, make mine a double – shaken AND stirred!

For more information on the 2022 festival visit www.buxtonfestival.co.uk

To purchase wheelchair accessible seating, please contact the BIF Box Office on 01298 72190

In conversation with Iain Dale

Beyond a Fringe: Tales from a Reformed Establishment Lackey

From his prep school years, through the Army to Cambridge, the City of London and the Palace of Westminster, Mitchell has passed through a series of British institutions at a time of furious social and political change.  In the process he has become rather more cynical about the British Establishment. Beyond a Fringe reflects on the perils and pleasures of loyalty, whether to a party, to individuals or to one’s own principles. Expect engaging honesty and hilarious political anecdotes with irresistible insider gossip from the heart of Westminster.

Nigel Price Guitar
Ross Stanley B3 Hammond Organ
Joel Barford Drums
Vasilis Xenopoulos Tenor Saxophone

If you like your jazz fast and hard and appreciate the beautiful sound of the Hammond Organ, this is the gig for you.

The Nigel Price Organ Trio, nominated for the 2021 Parliamentary Jazz Award for ‘Best ensemble’ (they won in 2010) and winners of the 2016 British Jazz Award for ‘Best Small Group’, will be playing selections from their vast back catalogue as well as the recently released and critically acclaimed Wes Re-Imagined (2021 Ubuntu), an album that celebrates the compositions of jazz guitar icon Wes Montgomery, but reworked into new, exciting and unexpected feels.
 
They will be joined by the jazz saxophone virtuoso Vasilis Xenopoulos. Expect a night of exciting interplay, outrageous solos and a few laughs too!

For more information on the 2022 festival visit www.buxtonfestival.co.uk

To purchase wheelchair accessible seating, please contact the BIF Box Office on 01298 72190

The Presidents: 250 Years of American Political Leadership

American politics remains deeply divided but in so many ways it always had been. Anglo-American relations were also fraught for much of the first 150 years of the new American Republic. Only since the 1940s has the supposed ‘special relationship’ existed. Our discussion will explain why slavery and race have transcended the term of office of every President.  Broadcaster Iain Dale leads his expert line up, consisting of former US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy Colleen Graffy; former BBC North American Editor Justin Webb; and Ambassador to the US (1997- 2003) Sir Christopher Meyer.

For more information on the 2022 festival visit www.buxtonfestival.co.uk

To purchase wheelchair accessible seating, please contact the BIF Box Office on 01298 72190

A new guide to science, art, sex and death from the New York Times bestselling
author of Love Wins

In Everything is Spiritual, the author Rob Bell explores how ideas about creation, love and connection
shaped him and how they shape every one of us. Bell observes that more than anything, people want to
understand their purpose here on earth. And when you embrace who and where you come from, including
your wounds, your pains and your regrets, you will discover that lurking there in the mess of life is an
invitation to expand - just as the universe has been expanding for 13 billion years.

Written in a lyrical, almost stream of consciousness style this wide-ranging book shares stories from Bell's
life to illuminate lessons about the world around you to help you find purpose, meaning and connection.

'Rob Bell might have left the church, but he will always be my minister - in the purest and most uncorrupted
sense of that word. Nobody else can take ancient teachings and modern science, and blend them together
into wisdom that makes sense to me, and heals me. Rob's unorthodox and bold thinking stirs my
intellect, comforts my heart and makes me believe that - within all the frightening chaos of the unknowable
universe - I still have a sacred place. His work is a sacred gift to a troubled world.’

Elizabeth Gilbert, New York Times bestselling author of Big Magic

Rob Bell is the New York Times bestselling author of ten books, including Velvet Elvis, Drops Like
Stars and Love Wins, which have been translated into 25 languages. His podcast, called RobCast, was in the
iTunes 'Best of 2015' list. He's toured with Oprah, has been profiled in The New Yorker, and in
2011, TIME magazine named him one of the 100 Most Influential People in the World.
He does regular shows at Largo, a comedy and music club in Los Angeles, where he lives with his wife
Kristen and their three kids.

*Under 14s must be accompanied by an adult.

Ian Shaw Vocals
Barry Green Piano
Dave Ohm Drums
Simon Little Bass
David Preston Guitar

Award-winning vocalist and ‘a true song stylist for our times’ Downbeat, USA

Shaw salutes two song writing titans and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame artists in this tribute to David Bowie and Joni Mitchell.

Shaw has recorded a critically highly praised album of Joni Mitchell (Drawn To All Things) and has a personal connection to both, which is the core of this exciting show. In this performance, Ian is joined by his band to play his arrangements of these songs by two of the most popular and influential artists of recent decades.

For more information on the 2022 festival visit www.buxtonfestival.co.uk

To purchase wheelchair accessible seating, please contact the BIF Box Office on 01298 72190

with Rakesh Joshi
Renowned musicians will accompany on Sitar, Veena, Bansuri, Santoor, Guitar, Tabla, Mridangam, Percussions & Choir singers.

Newly composed and popular bhajans, based on various ragas and divine mood.
Please come to enjoy the soothing, uplifting and joyful songs, accompanied by an ensemble of Indian & Western musicians.

Based on the picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler

A mouse took a stroll through the deep dark wood…
Join Mouse on a daring adventure through the deep, dark wood in Tall Stories’ magical, musical adaptation of the classic picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler.

Searching for hazelnuts, Mouse meets the cunning Fox, the eccentric old Owl and the high-spirited Snake. Will the story of the terrifying Gruffalo save Mouse from ending up as dinner for these hungry woodland creatures? After all, there’s no such thing as a Gruffalo – is there?

Songs, laughs and monstrous fun for children aged 3 and up and their grown-ups, in the much-loved show that’s toured Britain and the world!

Standing Only – There is no provision for seating in this venue for thisevent. If you are unable to comfortably stand for the duration of theshow, we may be able to assist with access seats. We cannot guarantee thataccess seats in this venue will provide a clear and uncompromised view of thestage.

DIVORCED ★ BEHEADED ★ LIVE!

The international smash hit musical SIX makes its royal return to Salford!

Multi award-winning, with a spectacularly successful sound-track storming charts across the globe, this sell-out Tudor take-off has ‘an incredibly strong and powerful message. Boundary-pushing, genre-redefining’ (The Australian) and is ‘pure entertainment’ (The New York Times).
 
From Tudor Queens to Pop Princesses, the six wives of Henry VIII take to the mic to tell their tales, remixing five hundred years of historical heartbreak into an 80-minute celebration of 21st century girl power. These Queens may have green sleeves but their lipstick is rebellious red.

Think you know the rhyme, think again...

Divorced. Beheaded. LIVE!

★★★★★
‘The most uplifting new British musical I have ever had the privilege to watch’
Evening Standard

★★★★★
‘80 minutes of exhilarating entertainment from 6 killer Queens.
They will, they will rock you!’
Daily Express

★★★★★
‘SIX is a marvellous show. A royal treat’
Daily Telegraph

★★★★★
‘Smart. Sassy. I’d give this ridiculously fun musical six stars if I could”
Sunday Express

★★★★★
‘Captivating and exhilarating. Do yourself a favour and go and party with SIX.
You won’t regret it!’
Attitude

★★★★
‘Bursting at the corset with 21st Century sass and attitude’
Daily Mail

The Totally Football Show Live with James Richardson

 
The Totally Football Show heads up to (Greater) Manchester for their first ever appearance at The Lowry. 

Join Jimbo and Totally stalwarts Michael Cox (The Athletic) and Duncan Alexander (Opta) for some puns and punditry as the Premier League and Champions League approach squeaky bum time. Plus, they'll bring the Inter-Totally quiz to the stage, and tell tales far too salacious for the regular pod. Other guests to be announced.

IDENTICAL is the twin-sational new musical based on Erich Kästner’s novel THE PARENT TRAP.

This classic tale tells the story of twin girls separated at birth and reunited by chance at a summer camp ten years later. To get to know their parents and reconcile the two halves of their family, they decide to swap places and live each other’s lives.

Best known for the ever-popular Disney movies which made stars of Hayley Mills in 1961 and Lindsay Lohan in 1998. This world premiere is directed by Trevor Nunn responsible for some of the world’s greatest musicals (Les Misérables, Starlight Express, Cats and Sunset Boulevard) and comes from the producer of Top Hat, The Play That Goes Wrong and the international hit musical Six.

Identical has music and lyrics by George Stiles and Anthony Drewe, the multi award-winning writers of the West End hit Honk! who also created a new score for the international smash-hit Cameron Mackintosh/Disney production of Mary Poppins, and a book by Stuart Paterson.

IDENTICAL is the must-see musical of the summer.

Age guidance: 8+

Now seen by a live audience of over 250,000 to nightly standing ovations and rave reviews, join us for 'Ireland: The Show'! Featuring an all-star cast of the Emerald Isle's most talented singers and performers, accompanied by the fabulous Keltic Storm Band and world champion Gael Force Irish dancers from Kerry, Mayo and Clare. This unmissable show will take you on a journey through the decades of a globally loved culture.

The show, which has received high acclaim, will feature all the well-known ballads and singalongs like 'Dirty Old Town', 'The Town I Loved So Well', 'Tell Me Ma' and 'The Irish Rover', to name a small few. Add to that a string of hilarious stories and jokes from our award-winning Tyrone comedian Gary Gamble, and topped off with energetic reels and jigs from our fiddling Derry maestro Richie Remo and the talented vocals of Donegal singer Elaine Boyle!

If it’s all things Irish you like, then this is the show for you.  Guaranteed to take you to Ireland and back in one night!

 
“Riverdance meets Mrs Brown at an Irish hooley” - The Irish World.

“Superb from Start to finish and will have you clapping and singing all night long, this show is going to be a global success” - Stage Magazine

“Over 1,500 5 Star reviews”

YOU’RE INVITED TO THE BIG TOP BIRTHDAY!

Join Sarah and her best friend Duck as they plan the ultimate circus soiree to help Scarf Lady celebrate her birthday. With entertainment lined up from a whole host of your favourite friends, including The Ribbon Sisters, The Shallots, Flamingo & John and Umbrella, the party is ready to go! Let’s just hope the weather holds out…

Bursting with all the charm from the BAFTA award-winning CBeebies show, Sarah and Duck’s enchanting world is brought to life by the team behind The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show and Twirlywoos Live.  Packed full of puppetry, storytelling and music, Sarah & Duck’s Big Top Birthday promises to be a celebration for the whole family!

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 
‘A must see. Equally as enjoyable for little people and big people!’
Kiddomag

★ ★ ★ ★ ★
‘Like the cartoon has come to life’
What’s Good To Do

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 
‘It wove a magical spell over the whole theatre. A hugely enjoyable and utterly charming show’
Theatre News

" NOBODY DOES IT BETTER The biggest and best and most in Demand Gn'R tribute in Europe"
It does not get any closer than this people. Gn’Re have the only singer able to deliver the exact same unique vocal style and stage show synonymous with Classic Axl Rose.

Gn’Re have the only tribute band guitarist OFFICIALLY SUPPORTED by MARSHALL AMPS, just like the legend SLASH himself.

Together with 4 other Gn’R clones, these guys deliver a sound and look that is unequalled by any other band.
Since their very first gig the Guns N' Roses Experience train has been rolling at an incredible pace, visiting various Middle Eastern countries, mainland Europe, Cyprus, Ireland and all of the major venues in the UK.
With a true GN’R sound and stage show, In a bone-crushing two hour set all the essentials are covered with breathtaking accuracy including Welcome To The Jungle, November Rain, Sweet Child O' Mine, Paradise City, Mr. Brownstone, You Could Be Mine, Nightrain, Rocket Queen, Knocking on Heaven’s Door and so much more...
Don’t miss the chance to see the most authentic live Guns ‘N Roses experience touring today.

As the dust settles and we emerge blinking into the dawn of a new year, the men and women of this great country will need answers. Answers that they know they need, answers to questions they never knew existed.

And when that moment comes, who better to show the way, to provide those answers, than the people’s man of the people, the Pub Landlord? Steeped in the deep and ancient barroom wisdom of countless lock ins, the Pub Landlord is there to show the way.  Wherever you are, he will - within sensible travel limits and theatre booking policy - come, offering people thirsty for common sense a full pint of the good stuff.

‘Stand up Gold’
The Guardian

‘A supremely polished performer’
★★★★★
Mail on Sunday

‘Wickedly witty Stuff’
★★★★
The Telegraph

Caggie explores the challenges and opportunities that come with change and our individual quest for authenticity. This podcast aims to bring calm and clarity during times of transition – underpinned by the astrological transit known as your Saturn Return, each episode is uniquely guided by the resident astrologer Noura Bourni, interweaving themes from the guests and astrology.

Caggie speaks to thought leaders, and industry experts with guests including the likes of Elizabeth Day, Mark Groves, Steven Bartlett, Niomi Smart, Jordan Stephens, The Holistic Psychologist, Julia Samuels, Lacy Phillips, Dr Tara Swart and Mo Gawdat. The podcast uses Astrology as a lens in which to navigate your own personal development to make the listeners feel seen.

Russell Kane's bringing to town his gut-punch funny, searing, award-winning take on the two years we’ve just gone through. Hailed as the The Guardian's Number 1 comedy performance to come out of 2020 (The Guardian are miserable and usually hate everything) - this high-octane show brings nuclear-energy belly laughs and pant-wetting observations which prove laughter really is the best medicine* (*actually, it’s probably hospital medicine).

Russell Kane has two chart-topping, award-bagging podcasts: Man Baggage and BBC Radio 4’s Evil Genius. He is a regular on Channel 4, BBC, and ITV: all the usual shows you see funny people on. He’s also a writer, actor, and presenter. He drinks lots of coffee and is ‘like that in real life’.
 
He was the first ever comedian to bag the two most prestigious comedy awards on earth in the same year, for the same show: The Dave's Edinburgh Comedy Awards (formerly The Perrier), and The Melbourne International Comedy Festival Award, (formerly known as the Barry Award). He’s also a raving bighead that likes listing his achievements.

 ‘Russell Kane has made his name with verbose, hyperactive comedy – and he shows no sign of slowing down’ (THE I)

‘Fierce, funny and heartfelt... a thrilling reminder of what comedy can do’ (THE GUARDIAN)

‘Storming physical comedy... splendidly manic’ ***** (MAIL ON SUNDAY)

THEY’RE BACK!

MyMy! How can you resist!?!

My My! pays homage to the original Swedish sensations through capturing Abba’s great sense of fun, recreating their incredible unique sound and combining this into a fun filled evening of sing-along, dance-along magic!

Let us thrill you with a mix of iconic costume and a touch of audience participation that only a Veritas production can provide. Featuring such unforgettable hits as “Waterloo”, “Mamma Mia” and “Dancing Queen”, this fantastic cast of West End performers are guaranteed to liven up your night and keep you dancing till dawn!

“This is an amazing tribute with charisma oozing from the girls. The theatre took on a party atmosphere and the standing ovation was virtually throughout the whole show! All I can say is, you are entertainment at its best,’ Thank You for the Music’ and ‘Gimme Gimme Gimme’ more!”
 – North West End review

For group bookings of 10 or more, please contact the venue directly on events@thebowdonrooms.co.uk

Lipstick On Your Collar is back with its brand new show

Step back in time to the golden era of music where the jukebox roared and feet didn't touch the floor. Get your dancing shoes at the ready, grab yourself a milkshake and relax - you are in for an evening of back to back hits from the 1950s and 60s!

From the birth of Rock n Roll through to the Beat Group sounds of the British Invasion and beyond, the show is packed with over forty hits from the likes of Connie Francis, Brenda Lee, Buddy Holly, Chuck Berry, The Beatles, The Ronettes, Cliff Richard, Cilla Black and many more.

Performed by a full live band, featuring some of the country's top musicians, this incredible show features excellent vocals, tight harmonies and an infectious sense of fun.

Dancing in the aisles is strictly compulsory so bring your dancing shoes and let the good times roll!

This concert spectacular celebrates the fabulous music and tells the incredible story of the world-famous Rat Pack.

Led by a bona fide star of swing music, ‘Ray Quinn’.

Ray’s debut album, ‘My Way’, features songs from this golden era of music and entered the UK album chart at number one. It sold 127,000 copies in its first week of release before being certified platinum, selling over 250’000 worldwide.

Featuring all the greatest hits of Sammy Davis Jnr, Dean Martin, Frank Sinatra and many more timeless classics from the stars of swing and rat pack.

The comedian and writer David Baddiel’s book Jews Don’t Count is a bestseller. It was The Times Politics Book of The Year 2021. A tightly-written polemic that sets out Baddiel’s view that in the current political climate - with its intense focus on racism and discrimination against all minorities, one minority - the one that has suffered discrimination the longest - has been forgotten. It has been described by Stephen Fry as “a masterpiece.” 

Join David for a night of forthright conversation about, and readings from, the book. He will answer all your questions about the subject of modern anti-semitism: and also, if you insist, ones about football.

Catherine Bohart loves control, hates change and is a serial planner. It’s been an interesting couple of years…

A blisteringly funny new stand-up show filled with horrendous life advice, cheery nihilism and reluctant self-discovery from one of the UK and Ireland’s most exciting comics.

As seen and heard on The Mash Report, Immaculate (Comedy Special) on Amazon Prime Video, A League Of Their Own, Mock The Week, 8 Out Of 10 Cats, Roast Battle, The Stand Up Sketch Show, Jon Richardson: Ultimate Worrier, The News Quiz and The Guilty Feminist Podcast.

Praise for This Isn't For You:

‘As sharp as it is tender… a show that’s worth holding on to’ ★★★★ The Guardian

‘Touching, funny… a great show’ ★★★★ The Evening Standard

‘She keeps the laughs coming’ ★★★★ The Times

‘Cool-headed, honest and witty’ ★★★★ Chortle

‘Endearingly honest… the laugh count is high’ ★★★★ The Arts Desk

‘Rip-roaring stand-up… brings the house down’ ★★★★ Londonist

Described as 'a truly gifted stand up' by The Sunday Times, join Joanne as she revisits her
irreverent and critically acclaimed show The Prosecco Express.

Due to a relentless ageing process, Joanne is suddenly in her late thirties with no husband,
no kids, no pension and no plan. She is full of questions: if she doesn’t birth anything, who will
be obligated to watch her die so she doesn’t have to do it alone? Can she start a GoFundMe
page to get a golden tomb built for single people to get buried in together, or do we all just get
thrown into a mass grave and covered in cat hair? When a man on a dating app identifies as
'spiritual', is it safe to assume he has the personality of a spoon? If you do all your drinking in
the bath, can you write it off as self-care? 'Dark, hilarious, strangely reassuring' [The
Independent], Joanne is on a mission to solve absolutely nothing.

‘Next stop, Netflix’ The Irish Daily Star ★★★★★
‘Joyously nuts’ The Examiner ★★★★★
‘The most exciting thing to happen to Irish comedy in years’ ★★★★★
‘Please bring your friends and laugh until you cry’ EDINBURGH REPORTER ★★★★
‘Authentic, hilarious comedy’ Deadline
‘Terrifyingly funny’ The Evening Standard

“We have discovered a star.”— Simon Cowell

“A comedy superstar was born tonight.” — David Walliams

Britain’s Got Talent 2022 winner Axel Blake is heading out on the road with his new show, ‘In Style’. The tour will see him perform all across from September 2022 through to April 2023 including a date at London’s Eventim Apollo (where his winning performance took place).

From the wilds of Dunstable, Axel Blake arrived on the country’s living room screen’s in style as Simon Cowell’s golden buzzer on Britain’s Got Talent. His observational comedy paired with his witty charm captivated the audience propelling him to be crowned 2022 Champion of the hit show. Axel is continuing to chase his dreams and will be appearing on the 2022 edition of the Royal Variety Show and is hitting the road with his first ever national tour – Axel Blake is coming to your town – In Style.

A show about sexy things (awkward), private things (oh no) and a woman trying to sit on the face of time to keep it still (hot, right?). You’ve seen Jess on Live at the Apollo, QI and on Harry Hill's Clubnite amongst other TV shows. She's a regular co-host of The Guilty Feminist Podcast, the host and creator of The Hoovering Podcast and you hear her regularly on BBC R4's News Quiz and Now Show. 

Jess was nominated for the Dave Edinburgh Comedy Award – Best Show 2019 with her last show Hench, and she won Best Show and Best Breakthrough Act in the Chortle Awards 2020.

Promoter Credit: Little Wander

Photo Credit: Matt Stronge 

THE DOUBLE OLIVIER AND TONY AWARD-WINNING WEST END AND BROADWAY SMASH-HIT TOURS THE UK AND IRELAND FOR THE FIRST TIME.

WRITTEN AND DIRECTED BY CONOR MCPHERSON
MUSIC AND LYRICS BY BOB DYLAN

Celebrated playwright Conor McPherson (The Weir, The Seafarer) boldly reimagines the legendary songs of Bob Dylan, like you’ve never heard them before, in GIRL FROM THE NORTH COUNTRY. A heart-breaking and universal story about family and love, hailed by the Observer as the 'NO.1 THEATRE SHOW OF THE YEAR'.

It’s 1934 in the heartland of America and we meet a group of wayward souls who cross paths in a time-weathered guesthouse. Standing at a turning point in their lives, they realize nothing is what it seems. But as they search for a future, and hide from the past, they find themselves facing unspoken truths about the present.

Now audiences in _______ have the chance to experience this 'magnificent' (Standard), 'astonishing' (Guardian) and 'piercingly beautiful' (Independent) production brought vividly to life by an extraordinary company of actors and musicians.

"BOB DYLAN's songs have never sounded so
HEARTBREAKINGLY PERSONAL & UNIVERSAL.
AS CLOSE AS MORTALS COME TO HEAVEN ON EARTH"
- Ben Brantley, The New York Times (Critics Pick)

★★★★★
"A show that transports the soul. Incredible"
Times

★★★★★
"Powerful, affecting and original."
Sunday Express

★★★★★
"Conor McPherson weaves magic with Bob Dylan's songs"
The Observer
★★★★★
Guardian, FT, Telegraph, Independent, Broadway World, City AM, Whatsonstage.

THE UK PREMIERE TOUR OF HELEN FORRESTER'S - TWOPENCE TO CROSS THE MERSEY - A BRAND NEW STAGE PRODUCTION NOT TO BE MISSED!

ADAPTED BY ROB FENNAH - DIRECTED BY GARETH TUDOR PRICE
STAR STUDDED CAST FROM STAGE AND SCREEN - MARK MORAGHAN, LYNN FRANCIS, PARRY GLASSPOOL, JENNY MURPHY, DANIEL TAYLOR, LYNNE FITZGERALD, ROB HUDSON, ROY CARRUTHERS AND CHLOE McDONALD

Adapted from Helen Forrester's million-selling autobiography, Twopence To Cross The Mersey is a stunning period drama set in the early 1930's in the midst of the Great Depression.

In 1931 Helen's spendthrift father was declared bankrupt, forcing the family to leave behind the nannies, servants, and beautiful middle-class home in the gentler Southwest of England.
With nothing more than the clothes they stood up in, the family of nine took the train to Liverpool where they hoped to rebuild their shattered lives. It came as a terrible shock to find the thriving, wealthy port Helen's father remembered as a boy, the place his own father made his fortune, had long since gone.

While 12-year-old Helen's inept parents searched unsuccessfully to find work, she was taken out of school to look after her six younger siblings and the full burden of keeping house fell on Helen's young shoulders.
Having never had to manage a family budget in their previous life, the Forrester's found themselves relying on meagre handouts from the local parish, charity organisations and the kindness of strangers.
But, at the age of 14, Helen had finally had enough of her miserable existence, and so began a bitter fight with her mother and father to attend evening school in an effort to educate herself and make her own way in the world.
But Helen's parents had no intention of releasing their unpaid slave. They had other plans for their selfish daughter.

What the media said about previous Twopence To Cross The Mersey productions:
"Absolutely Amazing" - BBC Radio 4
"The Theatrical Equivalent Of A Page Turner" - The Stage
"Emotional & Powerful" - British Theatre Guide
"A Brilliant Production - A Real Hit" - Cheshire Today
"Totally Compelling" - Liverpool Echo

~ A Brand New Knight Out! ~

An Evening With Geoffrey Boycott last appeared on stage in 2017. A great deal has happened since then - in the cricket world, the world at large and in the world of our Geoffrey. He has had major heart surgery, become a grandfather for the first time and finally been honoured with a long-overdue knighthood.

Geoffrey’s many fans have expressed their deep disappointment at his disappearance from our airwaves. So, in a packed autumn where England are competing for the T20 World Cup and battling with the old enemy to wrest back control of The Ashes, they will be delighted for this chance to hear what Geoffrey thinks about - well, everything!

Forthright honest views, hilarious anecdotes, personal film footage from an incredible career and a chance for the audience to ask Sir Geoffrey their own questions. It’s a brilliant new evening with our brand new knight.

As ever, this cricket event is being run in aid of the Professional Cricketers’ Association and we raise money from the evening for the Professional Cricketers’ Trust.

Sir Tony Robinson will be live on stage for an intimate evening looking back at his career on stage and screen, together with his literary accomplishments, in what will be a spectacular evening.

Join us to hear the lowdown on his many exploits and endeavours and expect plenty of fascinating anecdotes and peeks behind the scenes.

Follow Sir Tony's journey from child actor to Blackadder's immortal Baldrick and from Time Team to everybody's favourite history presenter.

This evening will be hosted by television legend Jenny Powell and you will also have a chance to ask your own burning question in an audience Q & A.

Limited VIP seating is available for the front 3 rows with each ticket guaranteeing you a personal meet & greet experience with Sir Tony Robinson and you will also receive your own personal souvenir photograph with Sir Tony Robinson to remember this special night.

Don't miss this rare opportunity to experience an amazing evening in the uniquely entertaining company of one of the country's best-loved performers and true national treasure.

Tickets are limited for this event, which is exclusively presented at The Bowdon Rooms for one night only.

Fans of The Beatles prepare to be wowed by the world’s favourite Liverpool-born tribute to the Fab Four.

The Mersey Beatles have been rocking sold-out shows around the globe since 1999 with their truly authentic and widely acclaimed celebration of John, Paul, George and Ringo.

The band – who clocked up more than 600 appearances in a 10-year residency at Liverpool’s legendary Cavern Club – brilliantly exude the inner and outer spirit of the original Fab Four.

Throughout two unforgettable hours, they take the audience on a fabulous ride through the ‘mop top’ hits of Beatlemania, the psychedelic creativity of Sgt Pepper to the melodic wonder and energy of the Fab Four’s later work.

Jon Culshaw (Dead Ringers, The Impressions Show) stars in this funny, affectionate and poignant celebration of the much-missed comedy legend. Join Les as he summons forth a wealth of characters and incidents from his eventful life and career, as he travels on Concorde at twice the speed of sound 68,000 feet above the Earth, in this new play from BAFTA and Olivier Award winning writer Tim Whitnall and director Bob Golding.

Presented by: So Comedy & Broken Robot Productions
Age guidance 14+

Argentine Tango King and Strictly Come Dancing legend, Vincent Simone, returns to the
stage in the Autumn of 2022 with his brand new show… ‘Tango Passions’.

Accompanied by world-class Argentine Tango specialists, let the original Italian stallion
take you on a journey to Buenos Aires and enjoy his dancing, tales and poetry about the
history of the Argentine Tango.

Vincent will also be joined by his professional dance partner, Ksenia Zsikhotska from
DWTS Ireland and The Ballroom Boys.

Featuring music from Astor Piazzolla and Gotan Project.

A sexy, steamy, passionate night not to be missed!

Produced by Paul Irving of Strictly Theatre Co.

Edinburgh Comedy Award "Best Show" nominee Glenn Moore is one of the best joke writers of his generation and is back on tour in Autumn 2022.

Expect a "comedy masterclass" (The Times) and a high-energy barrage of the most jokes you've ever heard humanely fit into one stand-up show.

As seen/heard on Mock The Week (BBC2), The Stand-Up Sketch Show (ITV2),The Dave Berry Breakfast Show (Absolute Radio) and The Now Show (BBC Radio 4).

"The best showcase of pure joke-writing skill I've seen" - ★★★★ The Guardian

"Brilliantly original" - ★★★★ Chortle

“Exquisitely crafted gags” - ★★★★ Evening Standard

After four sell out Monday Matinee shows Andy returns with another Monday afternoon extravaganza of live entertainment from some of the UK’s finest performers.

The UK’s number one Billy Joel tribute returns by popular demand alongside pop/soprano sensation Helen England. It’s a variety show of the highest order with Soul, Swing, Pop and sing-along classics on the  menu. Comedy and hosting duties will be provided by Justin Moorhouse as we welcome back the good times. Book early to enjoy a brilliant afternoon of entertainment with Stockport’s premier live entertainer and his fabulous guests.

The true story of the world’s most unlikely buoy-band.

When a group of Cornish fisherman come together to sing the traditional sea shanties they’d sung for generations, they hoped to raise a few quid for charity. Nobody, least of all them, expected the story to end on the Pyramid stage of Glastonbury…

FISHERMAN’S FRIENDS is a brand-new musical based on the true story of the Cornish singing sensations, and the hit 2019 film.

A group of fishermen are spotted by a fish-out-of-water music manager on a trip from London, who must learn there is more to life then selling your sole for fifteen minutes of fame.

Packed with more musical treats than you can fit in a lobster pot, this is a feel-good voyage about friendship, community and music which smashed box office records when it premiered in Cornwall in Autumn 2021. So climb aboard, find your sea legs and allow yourself to fall for this critically acclaimed musical, hook, line and sinker.

Come and experience the sounds and smells of steam as you take the controls and drive/fire one of our steam locomotives.

There are two participants per session and on our morning one you’ll meet the crew over breakfast in our café and be given an introductory briefing covering what to expect, safety and how a steam locomotive works.  You’ll then split up with one of you being aboard the footplate to drive/fire the locomotive yourself (under expert supervision of course!) for one round trip of the line.  You’ll then swap over and spend a second trip with the Guard understanding this aspect of our train operations.  Afterwards you’ll enjoy lunch in our café with the crew and meet the afternoon participants who will be eager to hear your stories of your time onboard.

For the afternoon session you’ll do exactly the same, but enjoy lunch first followed by coffee and cake at the end of your time with us.

The duration of this experience is 3½ hours

Celebrating 60 magical years of Motown, immerse yourself in the sound of a generation as The Magic of Motown returns to the stage!

Get ready to Reach Out for a brand new show in 2020 with all your favourite Motown songs.

You will be going Loco down in Acapulco, as we take you along memory lane with all the Motown classics from artists such as Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross, Stevie Wonder, The Temptations, The Supremes, The Four Tops, Martha Reeves, The Jackson 5, Smokey Robinson and many, many more.

Enjoy favourites including Heard It Through The Grapevine, Mr Postman, My Girl, Stop In The Name of Love, Ain't No Mountain High Enough and more!

This is Motown at its very best; signed sealed and delivered, touring the nation. The show of the year!

This is a tribute show and is no way affiliated with any original artists/estates/management companies or similar shows.

Promoter reserves the right to alter the programme.

Marc Bolan, with his band T.Rex, was one of the most flamboyant and charismatic stars of the original glam rock era.

Based on Alice Walker’s Pulitzer prize-winning novel and adapted for the stage by Pulitzer Prize and Tony award-winner Marsha Norman, Allee Willis, Brenda Russell and Stephen Bray, The Color Purple tells the powerful and life-affirming story of courageous heroine Celie. Abused and oppressed throughout her youth, Celie embarks on a journey through joy, despair, anguish and hope, discovering her own unique voice thanks to the incredible women in her life. From an unbreakable bond with her sister Nettie, to friendship with fiercely independent Sofia and a life-changing affair with glamorous singer Shug Avery, Celie learns to love herself.

With a profoundly evocative score by Grammy award-winners Brenda Russell, Allee Willis and Stephen Bray and drawing inspiration from jazz, ragtime, gospel and blues, this landmark musical celebrates life, love and the strength to stand up for who you are and what you believe in.

Unfolding Theatre in association with LittleMighty presents

HOLD ON LET GO

Alex is 56. Luca is half his age.

Alex has an encyclopaedia in his head. Luca has one on her phone.

Alex can’t recall his mother’s voice or most of the 1980s. But he can instantly bring to mind his mother’s cooking and his family’s stories of the Spanish Civil War.

Luca worries that she can’t remember the important stuff – things that might make the world a better place. Her journey sucks her into a black hole crammed full of everything she’s ever forgotten.

A poignant, personal meditation on the gaps in our memories, Hold On Let Go asks what we want to pass on to future generations. It’s a show that bakes bread, dances on the kitchen table and wonders what is left when words are gone.

Director: Annie Rigby (Putting The Band Back Together), Writer: Luca Rutherford, Songwriter: Paul Smith (Maxïmo Park), Performers: Luca Rutherford and Alex Elliott, Sounds: Mariam Rezaei, Choreographer: Liv Lorent, Dramaturg: Selina Thompson (salt.).

“Packed with clever ideas… A show to remember” - **** - THE SCOTSMAN

Embark on a thrilling night of adventure with a brand-new collection of short films from the world’s most prestigious mountain film festival!

The Banff Mountain Film Festival joins the world’s best adventure film-makers and explorers as they push themselves to the limits in the most remote and stunning corners of the globe. Witness epic human-powered feats, life-affirming challenges and mind-blowing cinematography – all on the big screen!

There are two shows, each with an entirely different selection of brand new films for 2022 - the Blue Film Programme (20 May) and the Red Film Programme (14th October)

Double the adventure by coming to both! (Click here to book the bundle)

An adrenaline-fueled, not-to-be missed event with free prize giveaways that is guaranteed to ignite your passion for adventure, action and travel!

See www.banff-uk.com for more details.

PHOTO CREDIT: Basecamp, Denali National Park, Alaska © Christian Pondella

BORN TO EXIST: the woman I know

By Joseph Toonga 

This Hip Hop Dance Theatre Production forms Toonga’s third part of his Nationally acclaimed, Hip Hop Dance trilogy that invites change, and a sense of overcoming stigmas society holds towards ethnic minorities. Analysing representation with an intersectional focus to show untold, underrepresented, individual journeys.
 
Joseph combines his research with his own experiences and the cast to manifest what is means to be a human and show it in all it’s ugliness, beauty, contradictions and complexity. 

Joseph’s choreographic style is used as a conduit for trauma, fed through a vacuum of movement and given to audiences.
 
This work brings together a powerhouse of creatives, lighting design by Simisola Majekodunmi, an original score from Michael ‘Mikey J’ Asante and dramaturg Peggy Olislaegers and provides the platform for ultimate activism.

Alongside this theatre production Joseph is collaborating with three afro Brazilan female creatives to establish a social programme in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The progamme ‘Young, Gifted & Black’ works to support and empower low-income black female teenagers favela’s in Rio through dance

“My job is to somehow make them curious enough and persuade them by nook or crook to get more aware of themselves, where they came from, what they are into and what is already there and to bring it out. This is what compels me to compel them and I will do it by what ever means necessary” Nina Simone, 1969 

Commissioned by Theatre Boulevard, The Place & DanceEast, supported by Redbridge Drama Centre, South East Dance and the Arts Council England.

"Toonga’s choreography sits neatly alongside the cultural signifiers of black culture" - Lorna Irvine, fjord review

15 year-old Reece is roughly accosted by the police outside M&S. 

His teacher Gillian watches as his face is pressed into the wet gravel with a policeman’s knee in his back, frozen out of fear for her own safety. 

The next day Reece locks them both in her classroom, refusing to relinquish the key. He wants her to pay – and to fully understand the pain her inaction has caused. 

My Voice Was Heard But It Was Ignored is an urgent interrogation of racial identity, written by Nana-Kofi Kufuor and directed by Dermot Daly. 

Produced by award-winning Red Ladder Theatre Company

2022 will see The Proclaimers heading into the recording studio to record their 12th studio album, followed by festival appearances in the summer and a 35-date UK & Ireland tour from October to December.   

Strikingly individual, twin brothers Craig and Charlie Reid emerged 35 years ago with their debut album This Is The Story and Top 3 single Letter from America. Since then, their enduring appeal across generations has have over the years seen them enjoy huge success across the globe.

The Proclaimers songs are timeless, capturing a gamut of human emotions, written with poignancy, emotional honesty, political fire, and wit. Their songs feature at weddings, funerals and everything in-between and there is one song, an early celebration of falling head over heels in love that is known the world over and has become a staggering global anthem. 

The Proclaimers have carved out a niche for themselves in the netherworld where pop, folk, new wave, and punk collide. In the process, they have enjoyed Gold and Platinum singles and albums in UK, USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.

On BBC Radio 4’s Desert Island discs, David Tennant describes his first track by The Proclaimers - "I could have chosen any and every track from this band, probably my favourite band of all time. They write the most spectacular songs, big hearted, uncynical passionate songs."

www.proclaimers.co.uk

Written by Willy Russell, the legendary BLOOD BROTHERS tells the captivating and moving tale of twins who, separated at birth, grow up on opposite sides of the tracks, only to meet again with fateful consequences.

Few musicals have been received with such acclaim as the multi-award-winning Blood Brothers. Bill Kenwright’s production surpassed 10,000 performances in London’s West End, one of only three musicals ever to achieve that milestone. It has been affectionately christened the ‘Standing Ovation Musical’, as inevitably it “brings the audience cheering to its feet and roaring its approval” (The Daily Mail).

The superb score includes Bright New Day, Marilyn Monroe and the emotionally charged hit Tell Me It’s Not True.

Fresh from Live at The Apollo, Mock The Week, and The Last Leg, Best Newcomer nominee Maisie Adam is back with a brand new show for 2022, ‘Buzzed’.

Rammed with witty observations, high-octane energy and some right good jokes.  This high-energy show promises to be better than whatever else you had planned (unless you had plans to go dancing with Cher). 

Her jokes were spot on, her stories magnificent and magnificently told.
Bruce Dessau

There's no denying that Maisie Adam is phenomenal
The Scotsman

Presented by Mick Perrin Worldwide
Recommended 15+

Crown Ballet
Presents

Sleeping Beauty – a spectacular fairy-tale
Music by Pyotr I. Tchaikovsky

Every child’s favourite fairy-tale, Sleeping Beauty is the classic story of love and innocence, mystery and magic set to Tchaikovsky’s sublime score. After a very long break we are proud to present to you the UK Premier of this ballet company from Moldova.

Stunning choreography, sumptuous costumes and wonderful sets form the fantasy world in which the Lilac Fairy struggles against the evil Carabosse.

Outline based on the fairy-tale by Charles Perrault, the Sleeping Beauty tells of the Princess Aurora, cursed at her christening by the evil Carabosse to prick her finger one day on a spindle and die.

Thanks to the timely intervention of the Lilac Fairy, she doesn’t die, but sleeps for a hundred years.

Woken by a prince, who has battled through the Enchanted Forest to reach her, they marry at a ceremony attended by nursery rhyme characters like Puss in Boots and all the other forest creatures.

There are no scores more successful in supporting the full range of ballet than those by Tchaikovsky.
Highlights include the Famous ‘Rose Adagio’ when Princess Aurora is introduced to four princes.

A wonderful evening out and memories which you will cherish long after the final curtain falls.

International tribute artiste Wayne Dilks and his band pay tribute to the late George Michael in this stunning show.

The former frontman, producer of “Faith” (2017- 2018) and “Freedom!’19” returns with his new production - “The George Michael Legacy”

Wayne has been a George Michael tribute artiste for 20 years, dedicating his professional career to pay homage to the late pop phenomenon.
He delivers his heartfelt tribute to the global superstar in a sensitive and spectacular way, receiving 5 star reviews nationwide.

Join Wayne and his incredible band for a celebration of George’s fantastic 35 year career with songs from his Wham days up to his final album, Symphonica.

Crown Ballet
Presents

Swan Lake – The greatest of all romantic ballets
Music by Pyotr I. Tchaikovsky

Crown Ballet presents to you the most famous Ballet of all time. Swan Lake is one of Tchaikovsky’s best works, featuring some of ballet’s most memorable music and breath-taking dance. After a very long break we are proud to present to you the UK Premier of this ballet company from Moldova.

Swan Lake is a tale of two young women, Odette and Odilie, who resembles each other so strikingly one can easily be mistaken for the other.

It is the compelling legend of a tragic romance in which a princess, Odette, is turned into a swan by an evil curse. Prince Siegfried chances upon a flock of swans while out hunting. When one of the swans turns into a beautiful young woman he is instantly captivated – will his love prove strong enough to break the evil spell that she is under?

Swan Lake is full of mystery and romance and has captured the imagination of generations over the years and it continues to attract worldwide audiences, young and old.

A wonderful evening out and memories which you will cherish long after the final curtain falls.

Harry is back with brand-new amazing jokes in an all-singing, all-dancing one-man spectacular.

“I hadn’t realised how much I missed performing live until lockdown stopped me from doing it,” says Harry, “It’s great to be going back on stage and the good news is I am planning a very silly show.”

Audiences will meet Harry’s new baby elephant, Sarah, and Ian, The Information Worm.

Harry will also be joined by Stouffer the Cat (his famous sidekick) who commented “what can I tell you? When Harry calls you say yes – end of!”

‘Genius’ The Times

‘Genius’ The Daily Mirror

Presented by Mick Perrin Worldwide in association with Blue Book Artist Management

‘Monsters are real. Ghosts are real too. They live inside us and sometimes, they win” – Stephen King

Comedy IT-girl Elf Lyons floats around the UK with her new horrifying comedy show inspired by Stephen King. Part Mad Clown comedy spectacle, part Hammer Horror – in Raven,  Elf becomes your own personal Pennywise as she merges horror techniques with old school storytelling to make you laugh and shiver in equal measure.  

Get a glass of Red Rum, bring your pal Tony and laugh with Elf forever and ever. It will be a Misery if you can’t come. 
Directed by Leland Gaunt.

*No cats allowed*  

Edinburgh Comedy Award Best Show Nominee as seen and heard on BBC Radio 4, BBC Radio 1, Dave and BBC Three.

“This is comedy as enchantment, a show so beguiling that you don’t just love it, you somehow fall in love with it.”
The Scotsman

“Expert clowning that’s by turns charming, silly, touching and catastrophic”
The Times 

“If you prefer your comedy going to the edge then toppling right off that edge try Lyons.”
Evening Standard

“Lyons has genuine funnybones – a surprisingly rare commodity even in comedy”
Chortle

“A fast talking, smart-thinking standup for whom the adjective “kooky” could have been invented for.”
The Guardian

EDINBURGH COMEDY AWARD BEST SHOW NOMINEE 
MALCOLM HARDEE AWARD FOR COMIC ORIGINALITY NOMINEE 
ADELAIDE FRINGE ‘PICK OF THE FRINGE’ WINNER 
FRINGE WORLD ‘BEST COMEDY SHOW’ NOMINEE 
BRITISH VOGUE’S ’20 NAMES OF NOW’ 
BBC NEW TALENT HOTLIST 

MAN UP – DRAG KING – FINALIST

A Tribute to Whitney Houston

Fresh from her show-stopping Britain’s Got Talent finals appearance, Belinda Davids returns to the UK with her acclaimed stage show.

Whitney’s musical legacy is brought to life in this critically acclaimed tribute show described as “mind-blowingly spot on”.

Be stunned by the breathtaking vocals of Belinda Davids – a RiSA chart-topping artist in her home country of South Africa - who has performed alongside the likes of Keri Hilson, Keyshia Cole and Monica and featured on Fox TV’s ‘Showtime at the Apollo’ and BBC1 TV’s ‘Even Better Than the Real Thing’.

With the accompaniment of a live band, backing vocalists and choreographed dancers, plus state-of-the-art sound, lighting, vision and theatrical effects, this is a beautifully crafted tribute to one of the world’s most revered singers.

*Not associated with the Estate of Whitney Houston

A one-of-a-kind film & music experience:

“The Magical Music of Harry Potter” is a unique and enchanting evening where original actors, star soloists, a choir and an orchestra bring the boy wizard’s world to life!

The program includes soundtracks by four-time Oscar winner John Williams, Nicholas Hooper, Patrick Doyle and Golden Globe winner Alexander Desplat.

The evening becomes truly spellbinding with illusions from Rob Lake, one of the world's leading magicians, featured on “America's Got Talent” and Disney's Cruise Line.

A musical play adapted and directed by DAVID WOOD
Based on the book by JUDITH KERR

Direct from the West End, the Olivier Award nominated smash hit show, The Tiger Who Came to Tea returns on tour.

The doorbell rings just as Sophie and her mummy are sitting down to tea. Who could it possibly be? What they certainly don’t expect to see at the door is a big, stripy tiger!

Join the tea-guzzling tiger in this delightful family show; packed with oodles of magic, sing-a-long songs and clumsy chaos. Don’t miss this stunning stage adaptation of the classic tale of teatime mayhem... expect to be surprised!

Running time: approx 55 minutes (no interval).
Suitable for children aged 3+.

★★★★
‘This Tiger is the cat’s meow’
The Times

★★★★
‘A rare and grreat achievement’
Mail on Sunday

★★★★
‘All the fun of the fur’
Daily Express

★★★★
‘Perfectly pitched’
Daily Telegraph

★★★★★
‘Delightful’
Whatsonstage.com

Local lad and star of Britain’s Got Talent and BBC One’s All Together Now, Rob Bowden King comes to The Bowdon Rooms for his first ever solo concert in his home town of Altrincham.

Labelled a “West End wonder in the making” by Simon Cowell, Rob takes you on a personal journey through his favourite songs from the West End musicals that formed his love for theatre.
He is joined on stage by some special guests and the stunning Magic Voices Choir, this is set to be a magical evening not to be missed!

** Postponed from Friday 22 July 2022**

Join much loved children’s author and illustrator Nick Sharratt for a special Halloween themed drawalong. He’ll be sketching gently spooky characters from a selection of his fun-filled picture books, including the hugely popular You Choose’, Shark in the Park’ and ‘Pants’ series. And you can draw along with him!

Nick has illustrated over 300 books and has worked with top authors including Julia Donaldson, Michael Rosen and Kes Gray. He’s also the illustrator of Dame Jacqueline Wilson’s phenomenally successful children’s novels. Nick’s been awarded a gold Blue Peter badge too!

This event is ideal for Nick's younger fans. Bring pencils, paper and something to lean on. 

Running time 75 minutes with no interval. 4+. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

One of the UK’s most popular live concert experiences, The Story of Guitar Heroes has garnered critical acclaim both at home and abroad for its incredible homage to some of the most influential and iconic guitarists from the past 50 years of popular music.

Featuring some of the UK’s most talented musicians, the show includes classic hits from guitar legends Jimmy Page, Hank Marvin, Chuck Berry, Jimi Hendrix, Brian May, Eric Clapton, Mark Knopfler, Slash and many more!

Using state-of-the-art video projection the show journeys through five decades, from 1950s Rock & Roll through to the most creative and inspirational guitar heroes of the modern era.

The Story of Guitar Heroes continues to attract ever-growing audiences of men, women and children of all ages. Renowned for its versatile world-class musicianship, the show recreates the unique sounds of each guitar legend with incredible accuracy, utilising no less than 30 different authentic guitars!

“Every lick is expertly played by highly experienced, gifted musicians”

“Amazing show, amazing musicians!”

Dave Gorman, the man behind Dave TV’s hit show Modern Life Is Goodish as well as Are You Dave Gorman? and Googlewhack Adventure, is back on the road with a brand new live show, Powerpoint To The People

The 'high priest of the comedy Powerpoint talk' (The Times) is touring again - as much as anything to demonstrate that a powerpoint presentation doesn't have to involve a man in a grey suit standing behind a lectern and saying 'next slide please'. We've all had enough of that, so let's put it all behind us and never speak of it again - there are far more important things to analyse. Well... they're more important in Dave's head anyway. 

‘hugely entertaining’★★★★ The Times

‘Gorman creates real magic from the unlikeliest of sources’ ★★★★ 
The Mail on Sunday

‘beautifully constructed’ ★★★★ 
The Arts Desk

‘exquisitely constructed show from a comic who is at the top of his game’ ★★★★ 
The Evening Standard

THE ACCLAIMED STAGE VERSION OF THE NATION’S FAVOURITE MOVIE

Bill Kenwright presents:

THE SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION

Based on the short novel by Stephen King

Adapted by Owen O’Neill and Dave Johns  
Directed by David Esbjornson

Based on the 1982 novella Rita Hayworth and The Shawshank Redemption, the play examines desperation, injustice, friendship and hope behind the claustrophobic bars of a maximum-security facility. The 1994 feature film regularly voted Britain’s favourite ever movie, starred Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman and was nominated for seven Academy Awards.
 
Despite protests of his innocence, Andy Dufresne is handed a double life sentence for the brutal murder of his wife and her lover. Incarcerated at the notorious Shawshank facility, he quickly learns that no one can survive alone. Andy strikes up an unlikely friendship with the prison fixer Red, and things take a slight turn for the better. However, when Warden Stammas decides to bully Andy into subservience and exploit his talents for accountancy, a desperate plan is quietly hatched…

Friendsical is an original and unique new parody musical inspired by the gang in Friends, the iconic TV show.

When Ross's wife leaves him for another woman, he fears he will never find love again. But then Rachel runs back into his life... will he end up with his one true love?

With original new songs such as (He's her) Lobster!, Richard's Moustache and You're Over Me, When Were You Under Me?, the gang take on naked Thursdays, a power cut, and a dinosaur convention! What could possibly go wrong?

Friendsical will feature a surprise guest star

Spend an evening with the BBC Gardeners’ World presenter and gardening writer, Monty Don, as he shares his passion for gardens and the unique role they play in human inspiration and wellbeing.

Monty has been making television programmes for over 30 years and has been lead presenter of the BBC’s Gardener’s World since 2003. Since 2011 the programme has come from his own garden, Longmeadow, in Herefordshire.

For these exclusive events, Monty will share tales from his career in gardening, detail his favourite gardens – both ancient and modern, and reveal how he fell in love with the natural world. Discover how he created his beautiful garden at Longmeadow, the gardening practices he considers to be the most useful and important, and the magical impact of the changing of the seasons on each part of the garden.

With something for seasoned gardeners and green-fingered novices alike, don’t miss the opportunity to join Monty for a timely and thought-provoking celebration of the ever-surprising and comforting presence of nature. Challenging the norms, sharing practical advice, and answering your gardening conundrums, this is the ultimate Monty Don experience.

From the police beat to the Hollywood movie screen to a Five Nations Grand Slam and MasterChef final, Martin Bayfield has had a varied life! 

Join former England international and true giant of the game Martin Bayfield as he embarks on his ‘Rugby Legends’ UK tour. 
Martin says,
“This is the game I want to celebrate. The game of my youth, the game that became my family, the game that took me around the world and opened the door to so many unexpected wonders.
If you’ve played the game, you’ll nod your head and chuckle. If Rugby is new to you, you’ll shake your head in disbelief. It shouldn’t work, but it does, and that’s why I love it so much.
Joining me on this journey down Amnesia Avenue will be some great names from the game. Players who have made their mark, but perhaps more importantly players who for me have added the colour and the chaos.”

Bedford 1975: a 5’4” 8-year-old Martin was finding himself useless at every sport he tried, describing his attempts at football as “woefully poor” and cricket “dangerously poor”, but swimming? “I was good at that. Slightly niche, but I’ll take it”!  It would all change when a coach threw an odd-shaped ball accompanied by the wise words, “Hey, shorty, you’ll like this game”.

47 years on and Martin’s passion for the ‘insanely bonkers’ game has not diminished; now a top commentator for the sport with a successful TV and film career alongside motivational speaking work, he still relishes his playing career during the early years of the game, when internationals ran out alongside the club stalwarts and legends rubbed shoulders with the well-meaning incompetent.

The audience can expect stories with soon to be announced special guests about international games, local teams; legends emerging from coal mines, farms, police stations, classrooms, universities. Matches played on 6” of grass, mud in the winter, hard pan in the autumn and spring months.  Riotous end of season tours and half cooked lasagne or chilli con carne after the game washed down with beer, then the long, meandering journey home. 

What I Talk About When I Talk About The Tour de France.

After a year away from the front line, ITV’s Tour de France commentator Ned Boulting returns with a fresh assault on our cycling senses.

The cunningly entitled Retour de Ned is an indispensable theatrical road map for anyone aspiring to wear the yellow jersey on the Champs Elysées: a really very rough guide to the tactics (pedal faster) and challenges (not pedalling fast enough) which will need to be deployed to win the biggest bike race in the world. Along the way, there will be time to call to mind the greatest racers of the age, and to do hopelessly bad impressions of them. There will be scope to celebrate all that is French about France, and all that is Tourish about the Tour: Stuff like ignoring 12th century cathedrals, peeing at the side of the road, pushing spectators over, punching demonstrators and generally behaving like a shaven-legged hooligan for a month while riding over entire mountain ranges.

So come along for another ride through the peaks and troughs of the silliest and the grandest month of the year, as Ned hands out his copious, thoroughly unreliable, advice on How To Win The Tour de France. Or if not that, then at least How To Watch It On The Telly.

Based on the Sunday Times bestseller which inspired one of this century’s most treasured films, The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel takes us on a journey to India with an eclectic group of British retirees as they embark on a new life.
The luxury residence is far from the opulence they were promised, but as their lives begin to intertwine, they are charmed in unexpected and life-changing ways.

Starring the icon of Hollywood’s Golden Age, Academy, BAFTA and Golden Globe-Award winner, Hayley
Mills (Wild at Heart, Pollyanna, The Parent Trap), household favourite and screen and stage star Paul
Nicholas (Jesus Christ Superstar, Just Good Friends, Eastenders).

The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel is a joyous comedy about taking risks, finding love and embracing second
chances, even in the most surprising of places.

Further casting to be announced.
“I am delighted to join the company of The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, as this beautiful story of love and
the importance of new beginnings receives a new life as a fantastically feel-good show. Tales that warm
the heart and lift the spirit are a much-needed tonic at this time and I am thrilled to be visiting so many
of the UK's beautiful towns and cities as part of the production's exciting journey, later this year."
Hayley Mills

"I'm so thrilled that my characters are stepping into a new life on the stage. They've been waiting
impatiently for the curtain to rise, and none of them is getting any younger. So welcome again to the
Marigold Hotel! We've assembled an amazing cast, so I hope they bring you plenty of laughs, and some
warm sparks of recognition."
Deborah Moggach

Phizzical, Belgrade Theatre Coventry and New Wolsey Theatre present

Love and betrayal in the golden age of Bollywood cinema. Laila, a blooming starlet is romanced by the dashing hero Sikandar in the 1970s. They star in blockbuster musicals where heroes wear their hearts on their sleeves and rescue beautiful damsels from the clutches of villains who pave the mean streets of Bombay with gold.

Laila and Sikandar’s passion is ignited secretly between the pop and disco numbers. Soon the boundaries between what is real and what is imaginary start to blur. When the deceit is unmasked, the intensity of their emotions threatens to burn everything in the city of hope and dreams. Will there be a happily ever after for the star crossed lovers?

What songs may do...

by Rendez-Vous dance
 

What Songs May Do…is the highly anticipated first full-evening production by award-winning choreographer, former National Dance Company Wales dancer and Rendez-Vous dance  artistic director: Mathieu Geffré.
 

Revealed by Nina Simone’s songs, this duet exposes with an unapologetic passion the fractured relationship of a once romantic couple as they delve into their past in an attempt to rebuild their future together. Through Simone’s music, this dance piece shines a light on our deep rooted connection to memories through music and proposes the power of what songs may do. Poetic, passionate, physical and emotional, What songs may do… is an inclusive dance piece that celebrates love in all its diversity.
 

Choreography: Mathieu Geffré (he/they)

Dramaturgy: Andrew Gardiner (he/they)

Performers: Oliver Chapman (he/him) and Paolo Pisarra (he/him)

Lighting Designer and Technical Manager: Rachel Shipp (she/her)

Creative Producer: Rachel Jean Birch (she/her) - Moving Art Management

Tour Booker: Sarah Trist (she/her)

Digital Designer: Cave and Sky (he/him)

Noel Fitzpatrick returns to the stage this autumn with a brand-new show which will delight animal lovers of all ages and anyone who feels like they need some love, hope and healing in their lives.
 
Following his hugely popular tour in 2018, An Evening with Noel Fitzpatrick will give audiences a unique opportunity to gain an intimate insight into Noel’s extraordinary bionic world and the animals who have inspired him along the way.

Noel will share a rollercoaster ride of successes and failures, demonstrating why love really is all that matters – and how our animal friends can teach us very important life lessons, which can make us better people.

There will be some unexpected surprises and thoughts about the nature of stress and survival against the odds - and the future of humans and animals on our planet - that will truly give you cause to stop and think about your own future too.

Noel continues to strive toward a more loving and understanding society for humans and animals alike - in a world that needs healing now more than ever.
 

Tilted in association with Soho Theatre presents

BROWN GIRLS DO IT TOO: MAMA TOLD ME NOT TO COME

Created by and starring Poppy Jay and Rubina Pabani

‘THE FUNNIEST WOMEN IN BRITAIN’ The Times
 

Fierce, funny, and wonderfully frank, Poppy and Rubina have sex and they aren’t ashamed to talk about it.  Their critically acclaimed podcast Brown Girls Do It Too (‘Best Podcast of the Year’ British Podcast Awards 2020, Asian Media 2021), explores messy realities, fantasies, sexpectations and navigating life and relationships as British Asian women. 

Two seasons in, they have amassed fans who love their honesty and openness (love a period sex sesh…anyone else?) and faced enormous backlash online for breaking the silence on sex in Asian communities.

Bringing their characteristic candour, quick wit and infectious personalities to the stage, Poppy and Rubina reflect on the seminal moments from their lives from first orgasms and loves, to racism and family politics. Expect songs, sketches, and some very graphic content!

This is a celebration of brown British women, genital warts and all.

Please note: This show contains language that could be deemed offensive, such as swearing and adult references.  

Frantic Assembly presents its award-winning and electrifying take on Shakespeare’s tragedy of paranoia, sex and murder. Othello’s passionate affair with Desdemona becomes the catalyst for jealousy, betrayal, revenge and the darkest intents.

Frantic Assembly takes Shakespeare’s muscular and beautiful text, combines its own bruising physicality, and presents an Othello firmly rooted in a volatile 21st century. This is a world of broken glass and broken promises, of poisonous manipulation and explosive violence.

As relevant today as it ever was, Othello exposes the tension, fear and paranoia buried beneath the veneer of our relationships and how easily that can be maliciously exploited.

Following highly acclaimed runs in 2008 and 2014, audience favourite Othello returns this autumn with an updated version for 2022.

Soul II Soul will bring THE FEEL FREE tour to The Stockport Plaza in 2022.

The legendary British RnB group will be performing hits from their back catalogue, which includes songs from the iconic debut album Club Classics Vol. One.

Soul II Soul was founded in London in the late 80s and quickly became one of the most important sound-systems in the country and the world, selling over 10 million albums worldwide. They won two Grammy Awards, and have been nominated for five Brit Awards—twice for Best British Group. Founder Jazzie B also co-wrote and produced a series of tracks with the Godfather of Soul himself, James Brown, and produced artists such as Teena Marie and Cheryl Lynn.

Multi-award-winning New Old Friends are touring another dose of mirth, murder and mayhem, this time with a side of tennis. Lord Knows the chair of The Wombledon International tennis tournament has died and his son, Hugh, is suspicious. The police won’t take the case so Hugh calls in Perry & Penny Pink, private investigators.

What transpires has all the hallmarks of the company’s particular brand of theatrical hilarity: a cast of four performers play countless characters with quick-fire changes and quicker wits. The Bath-based group have built a national reputation with their wildly inventive set-pieces, twisty plots and commitment to unadulterated entertainment. Crimes on Centre Court, based on a story from New Old Friends’ award-winning podast (#2 in iTunes fiction chart), is set to serve up a summertime treat sweeter than strawberries and cream.

Press for previous New Old Friends shows:

“Celebrations of theatricality… worthy of The 39 Steps” - The Times
“Crammed to the gills with knife-sharp visual gags and murderously bad puns” - The Financial Times
“As effervescent as a sip of Champagne” - The i Paper
“A non-stop bonanza of wit” - British Theatre Guide

resented by Bill Elms Productions and On Song Productions

Judy Garland and Liza Minnelli are back together again thanks to a sensational musical experience, Judy and Liza.

Crown Ballet
Presents

Sleeping Beauty – a spectacular fairy-tale

Music by Pyotr I. Tchaikovsky

Every child’s favourite fairy-tale, Sleeping Beauty is the classic story of love and innocence, mystery and magic set to Tchaikovsky’s sublime score. After a very long break we are proud to present to you the UK Premier of this ballet company from Moldova.

Stunning choreography, sumptuous costumes and wonderful sets form the fantasy world in which the Lilac Fairy struggles against the evil Carabosse.

Outline based on the fairy-tale by Charles Perrault, the Sleeping Beauty tells of the Princess Aurora, cursed at her christening by the evil Carabosse to prick her finger one day on a spindle and die.

Thanks to the timely intervention of the Lilac Fairy, she doesn’t die, but sleeps for a hundred years.

Woken by a prince, who has battled through the Enchanted Forest to reach her, they marry at a ceremony attended by nursery rhyme characters like Puss in Boots and all the other forest creatures.

There are no scores more successful in supporting the full range of ballet than those by Tchaikovsky.

Highlights include the Famous ‘Rose Adagio’ when Princess Aurora is introduced to four princes.

A wonderful evening out and memories which you will cherish long after the final curtain falls.

Le Gateau Chocolat lifts the lid on buried trauma and timeless mythology with his new show, PANDORA, accompanied by Manchester Camerata orchestra.

When the Pandora of ancient Greece dared to open a forbidden box, she let loose all the evils of the world. When Le Gateau Chocolat opens the modern equivalent, what will he discover?
 
A world premiere performance, commissioned by The Lowry.

If you are travelling on our Santa Trains , you can park hassle free Heywood Station

WHAT'S INCLUDED

Upon arrival, admire the beautifully dressed Bury Bolton Street Station with its many Christmas trees and decorations. Take a steam train ride to Rawtenstall and back through the Irwell Valley - journey time approximately 80 minutes Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere with a beautifully decorated train interior.   Meet Santa his elves and a whole cast of characters.

DONT TAKE OUR WORD FOR IT!

"A really lovely day out. Our 5 year old loves trains and we have visited other days out on the railway but I have to say this one was brilliant. The staff on board are very good and friendly, we all really enjoyed our day and our gifts." - 07Cinta, Tripadvisor

"Came here with my youngest daughter, thoroughly enjoyed it. The staff were exceptional and were right in the groove and the steam train added to the nostalgia. Love it, everyone should try this. highly recommended!" - KarlB, Tripadvisor

"We took our 5 year old granddaughter for the Santa Special. From the minute we stepped into the station the level of enthusiasm from the staff was totally infectious. We handn't a clue what to expect but we loved every single second!" - Donna-Marie, Tripadvisor

"Absoloutely amazing first experience of the East Lancashire Railway, the Santa Special was such a wondeful experience. I went with my husband, in-laws and 20 month old son and he loved every minute. Such a magical time for the whole family!" - Heidi W, Tripadvisor

Returning by popular demand - Fleetingwood Mac!

We are Fleetingwood Mac, an exciting tribute to the legendary band Fleetwood Mac.

We didn’t just want to be another tribute band, with tacky wigs and fancy dress outfits. Instead we wanted to bring across the live sound of Fleetwood Mac, with just one guitar, a keyboard, a drum kit, a man on the bass and of course, the vocals!

As much as we aim to create a genuine Fleetwood Mac sound, we can’t help but give it a modern edge, it’s just the way we play. How else are five people supposed to play tribute to a band that have lasted nearly 50 years?

A band who have over time have featured eight different Guitarists & Vocalists. A band that tour arenas all over the world, with six extra touring musicians. A band that started out as part of the sixties British Blues Invasion and ended up as one of the biggest mainstream groups of the eighties. Let’s not even get into the scandals, relationships and excesses……

We work hard in rehearsals to get the details right and do justice to some classic songs that play a huge part in many people’s lives.

We also want to introduce the songs to a new generation of Fleetwood Mac fans, who just like ourselves, weren’t even born when the band were in their prime. We do not go on stage pretending to be Fleetwood Mac, instead we go on as who we are, five young musicians who love the music, and want to share the music of one of the worlds greatest bands to a wider audience.

Songs you can expect to hear at our shows

Rhiannon, Go Your Own Way, Oh Well, Tusk, Everywhere, Songbird, Gold Dust Woman, Don’t Stop, You Make Loving Fun, Black Magic Woman, Dreams, Little Lies, Gypsy, Say You Love Me, The Chain, Landslide, Seven Wonders, Stand Back, Second Hand News, Isn’t it Midnight, Sara, Shake Your Money Maker, Big Love, Paper Doll, World Turning, Edge Of Seventeen

For group bookings of 10 or more, please contact the venue directly on events@thebowdonrooms.co.uk

Iggety ziggety zaggety zoom!

Jump on board the broom with the witch and her cat in Tall Stories’ fun-filled adaptation of Room on the Broom, the best-selling picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler.

The witch and her cat are travelling on their broomstick when they pick up some hitch-hikers – a friendly dog, a beautiful green bird and a frantic frog. But this broomstick’s not meant for five and – CRACK – it snaps in two... just as the hungry dragon appears!

Will there ever be room on the broom for everyone? Find out in the magical Olivier Award nominated show for everyone aged 3 and up.


“Undeniably charming… Winning performances, jaunty songs and some delightful puppetry… A sweet little enchantment.” ★★★★ Time Out

“Children’s theatre doesn’t come much better than this.”★★★★ The Stage

“A perfect introduction to the theatre.” ★★★★ Sunday Express

“Very catchy songs, brilliant puppets and a fantastically animated cast.” ★★★★★ Families Magazine
Artwork Guidelines
 
Room on the Broom © Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler 2002 – Macmillan Children’s Books
Based on the best-selling book by Julia Donaldson & Axel Scheffler

Key members of the 1960’s Manfred Mann line-up re-formed as The Manfreds in 1991 following what turned out to be a very successful and enjoyable reunion for Tom McGuinness’ 50th birthday celebration.

Original Manfred Mann members Paul Jones, Mike Hugg and Tom McGuinness , and former member Mike d’Abo, are joined by Rob Townsend, formerly of Family, on drums, Marcus Cliffe on bass and Simon Currie on saxophone & flute, as the exciting new line-up of The Manfreds.

This line up featuring Paul Jones, Tom McGuinness, Mike Hugg, plus Rob Townsend, Marcus Cliffe & Simon Currie, are becoming well known for their show of ‘Hits, Jazz & Blues’. A wonderful mix of Manfred Mann hits along with some solo material from all involved and a few surprises along the way too!

Book your tickets now.

Change is always hard and what better person to lead the men, selflessly by the hand into the new world than TV’s Jayde Adams.

Multi award winning comedian and actress, Jayde Adams’ critically-acclaimed special was released on Amazon Prime to worldwide applause, was longlisted for an Emmy and has amassed over 156 million views.

Jayde stars in Sophie Willan’s BAFTA winning TV series Alma’s Not Normal (BBC Two), the upcoming Take That movie Greatest Days and also stars in Neil Gaiman’s Good Omens (Amazon Prime) She is the co-host of the BAFTA nominated series Snackmasters and Netflix smash hit, Crazy Delicious.

Britain is honoured to have spawned two of the most gifted mystics in the world.  The coiffured titans of the Unknown-  the flamboyant Clinton Baptiste and his Scottish nemesis Ramone Tamine.

Both claim to be a true mystical seer. Something each claims the other isn’t!

Now the time has come for them to meet onstage in a once in a lifetime event to truly decide who holds the title as Britain’s Greatest Paranormalist.

As featured in Peter Kay’s Phoenix Nights…it’s Clinton Baptiste – and his arch psychic enemy Ramone from Clinton’s massively popular podcast.

**Rescheduled date to be confirmed**

For the first time ever in the North West, join the legendary Sir Ranulph Fiennes for a fully immersive and exclusive black tie GALA DINNER, presented at The Bowdon Rooms for one night only.

Guests will enjoy a red carpet, Champagne reception while enjoying live entertainment and Art installations showcasing Sir Ranulph Fiennes’ many expeditions.

The Grand Edwardian Ballroom will be your Everest Base camp for the evening, a spectacular 3 course meal will be served while you enjoy live on stage entertainment and have the rare opportunity to bid on one of a kind pieces of memorabilia.

What makes this event truly spectacular is that each guest will get the opportunity to meet the legend himself and have a professional souvenir photograph to commemorate your evening.

This is truly a once in a lifetime opportunity to experience ‘The World's Greatest Living Explorer’, As described by the Guinness Book of Records.

Educated at Eton College and Following in his father’s footsteps, he served with the Royal Scots Greys before joining the SAS.

In 1968 he joined the army of the Sultan of Oman and was later awarded the Sultan’s Bravery Medal by HM the Queen.

Having led 22 major expeditions to remote parts of the world, including both Poles, Ranulph Fiennes is the only man alive to have travelled around the Earth’s circumpolar surface.

He was the first explorer to completely cross the Antarctic continent unsupported.

In 2009, aged 65, Fiennes climbed to the summit of Mount Everest. As a result, he became the oldest Briton ever to summit Everest.

Since 1969, when he led the British Expedition on the White Nile, Ranulph Fiennes has been at the forefront of many groundbreaking exploratory expeditions.

“My admiration for Ran is unbounded, and thank God he exists. The world would be a far duller place without him”
HRH Prince Charles

Dress Code: BLACK TIE

For group bookings of 10 or more, please contact the venue directly on events@thebowdonrooms.co.uk 

Tickets include a three course dinner with dietary options available*

*email venue directly with dietary requirements after ticket purchase

How the Boy became a Man. How the Man became a Legend.

From the writer of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz comes the world premiere of Claus The Musical. Based on the beloved children’s book The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus by L. Frank Baum, this brand-new musical is as magical as Christmas itself.

With spellbinding songs from Andy Collyer, heart-warming storytelling, enchanting sets, and a whole load of festive fun, discover the story of Claus and how he became a man forever in our hearts, and on Christmas Eve, forever in our skies.

Abandoned as a baby in the magical Forest of Burzee, he is gifted to Necile, a wood nymph, who showers him with love and names him Claus.  With a helping hand from the mystical inhabitants of the forest – Fairies, Knooks and Ryls – she teaches him that kindness is the most important lesson of all, a gift that Claus eventually shares with us, as he embarks on a journey to bring the miracle of Christmas to the whole world.

Adapted for the stage by Simon Warne, Claus will warm the hearts of kids from 1 to 92, and is a truly joyful production for the whole family to cherish and enjoy together.

Make Christmas in 2022 unforgettable and book now!

Tickets for The Green Room: Simon Kempston at The Stockport Plaza

Stephen Daldry’s multi award-winning National Theatre production of JB Priestley’s classic thriller returns.

Hailed as the theatrical event of its generation, winning more awards than any other production in history, An Inspector Calls has thrilled more than 4 million people worldwide. 

When Inspector Goole arrives unexpectedly at the prosperous Birling family home, their peaceful dinner party is shattered by his investigations into the death of a young woman. His startling revelations shake the very foundations of their lives and challenge us all to examine our consciences. More relevant now than ever, this is a must-see for a whole new generation of theatregoers.

Running time 1hr 50mins (no interval)