New Alexandra Theatre Autumn 2011 Season Brochure by Jacky Barron

best new musical (Olivier

Awards

2011)

autumn 2011 BOX OFFICE 0844 871 3011 (bkg fee) www.newalexandratheatre.co.uk

Welcome

Welcome to the New Alexandra Theatre’s latest season brochure. This season we’re painting the town pink as we party with the all time classic musical Grease and the award-winning smash hit Legally Blonde, two of the best feel-good musicals around. The Alex continues its promise to bring you the very best in touring productions, starting in September, with David Essex’s All the Fun of the Fair, direct from the West End having just been nominated for Best Musical of 2010. Taking us into the beginning of next year we have the brand new tour of South Pacific which promises to be a stunning and definitive production of the show, then the chaotic Knights of the Round Table return with the hilarious Monty Python musical Spamalot. Following sensational reviews at the National Theatre, we’re delighted to present One Man, Two Guvnors with the wonderful James Corden. Directed by Nicholas Hytner and adapted by Richard Bean, The Guardian has proclaimed this production as ‘the funniest in the National’s history’. Be sure to book early as tickets are already selling fast. We also continue to bring you the hottest names in comedy including Reginald D Hunter, Russell Kane, Chris Addison and Omid Djalili to name but a few. If you would like more information on any of our shows please visit www.newalexandratheatre.co.uk and sign up to our online mailing list or you can join our Facebook page or follow us on Twitter, where you’ll be the first to get all our latest updates. If you have any comments or feedback please let me know kimgladston@ theambassadors.com and I look forward to welcoming you to the theatre in the very near future. Kim Gladston General Manager

SOUTH PAcific tue 7 - sat 18 feb

banner Diary 2011/12 august Stage experience: Bugsy malone Thu 25 - Sat 27 Aug

September Colin fry Sat 3 Sep Super trouper Thu 8 Sep All the fun of the fair Fri 16 - Sun 18 Sep The Jungle Book Tue 20 - Sat 24 Sep marty wilde mon 26 sep puppetry of the penis in 3d tue 27 sep

madama butterfly Sat 29 Oct j.a. story sun 30 oct the ladyboys of bangkok mon 31 oct

march

dominic kirwan thu 3 nov essence of ireland fri 4 nov dons of comedy SAT 5 NOV the drifters Sun 6 Nov

elvis on tour thu 10 nov

October

80’s mania fri 11 nov

Gardeners’ question time sun 23 oct roary the racing car Mon 24 Oct Sally Morgan Tue 25 Oct Halfway to Paradise Wed 26 Oct Vampires Rock Thu 27 Oct respect la diva fri 28 oct

south pacific tue 7 - sat 18 feb

jerry sadowitz wed 2 nov

survive! Fri 30 Sep

One Man, two guvnors Tue 18 - Sat 22 Oct

February

balletboyz mon 27 feb

Reginald D Hunter Wed 9 Nov

russell kane sun 16 oct

Grease Tue 6 - Sat 31 Dec

november

Roy ‘chubby’ brown Wed 28 Sep

Legally Blonde Tue 4 - Sat 15 Oct

December

chris addison thu 15 mar spamalot mon 26 - sat 31 mar

april peppa pig wed 11 & thu 12 apr sally morgan tue 17 apr

milton jones sat 12 nov BLUE MOUNTAIN PRESENTS: forgive me! SUN 13 NOV buddy mon 14 - sat 19 nov wbos presents the producers Tue 22 - Sat 26 Nov omid djalili sun 27 nov christmas with the rat pack mon 28 nov - sat 3 dec

Ambassador Theatre Group (ATG) is the largest theatre operator in the world combining its international stature with core local values. As a successful and respected theatre provider, ATG has years of experience helping millions of customers enjoy the very best theatre and live entertainment - and now it’s your turn to be part of it.

Stage Experience 2011 Bugsy Malone is presented by arrangement with Warner/Chappell Music Limited administered by Boosey & Hawkes. Libretto by Alan Parker, words and music by Paul Williams.

‘A splendid night’s entertainment comparing favourably with many professional companies’ the Stirrer

The New Alexandra Theatre is delighted to be producing our annual Stage Experience project for a ninth consecutive year! Bugsy Malone is a high-octane musical telling the story of gang warfare in 1920’s New York, where Fat Sam and Dandy Dan are battling for control of the streets. With Dandy Dan’s dreaded ‘splurge gun’ outwitting Fat Sam at every turn, Sam turns to Bugsy Malone – a part-time gangster of undeniable charm and charisma but whose attentions are continually diverted towards Hollywood wannabe Blousey Brown. Packed with gangsters and showgirls, Bugsy Malone careers through twists and turns galore to the final showdown at Fat Sam’s Grand Slam that will have audiences laughing with delight! Stage Experience is an intensive two week project that gives young people across the West Midlands the chance to train and perform in a professional theatre, under the guidance of a director, choreographer, musical director or behind the scenes with our technical team. Stage Experience brings out the absolute best in our region’s young performers in a production of the highest standard that you won’t want to miss!

‘top marks for another terrific show’ the observer 4

‘It’s a fair bet that some of the youngsters in this spectacular show will eventually make acting their professional careers’ Walsall Advertiser Quotes and images from previous Stage Experiences West Side Story, Fame and Oliver!

thu 25 - sat 27 aug Thu - Sat Eves 7.30pm Sat Mat 2.30pm L G C Details page 26

0844 871 3011 (fees apply) www.newalexandratheatre.co.uk

roll on up, see the main attraction, get your money ready, let’s take a ride

‘BEST NEW WEST END MUSICAL 2010’ What’s On Stage Nomination

‘genuinely touchingwell worth a spin’ the daily telegraph

Following a record breaking West End season at the Garrick Theatre where it was nominated for Best New West End Musical 2010 by ‘What’s On Stage’, David Essex and Boogie Nights creator Jon Conway invite you on a rollercoaster ride of a musical, underscored by a helter-skelter of David Essex hits such as: Winter’s Tale, Hold Me Close, Gonna Make You A Star, Me And My Girl - Nightclubbing, Silver Dream Machine, and Rock On. Inspired by David’s album, All The Fun Of The Fair, David plays fun fair owner Levi Lee, recently widowed and father of a rebellious teenage son. Like father like son, they’ll take you for a ride. Danger and mysticism lurk in the future, as predicted by the gypsy fortune teller who is in love with Levi. Dodgems and motorbikes, crafty cons and candy floss, fairground horses and fights, along with romance and rock and roll mean you’re sure to go on a rollercoaster of a ride, but beware, all is not always fun at the fair! ‘It’s a great night out’ Simon Bates - Radio Legend www.allthefunofthefairmusical.com Photo by Paul Marc Mitchell

fri 16 - sun 18 sep Fri 5pm & 8pm, Sat 2.30pm & 7.30pm, Sun 2.30pm L G C Details page 26

0844 871 3011 (fees apply) www.newalexandratheatre.co.uk

A wild adventure for the whole family

‘animal magic!’

★★★★ BIRMINGHAM mail The Birmingham Stage Company is proud to present Rudyard Kipling’s classic story about Mowgli, a young boy who is raised in the jungle by a family of wolves. When Shere Khan the tiger swears to kill the child, Baloo and Bagheera agree to take the boy to the man village for his safety. But the jungle holds dangers and surprises for them all – and Mowgli’s extraordinary adventure has just begun. If you’re looking for a magnificent experience for all the family, then don’t miss this acclaimed production of Kipling’s timeless story!

★★★★ ‘This exhilarating, rip-roaring show ticks all the boxes for a great family treat’ Time Out See a trailer of the show at www.birminghamstage.com 6

FAMILY TICKET JUST £44* * 4 people, including at least 2 children

Tue 20 – Sat 24 Sep Tue 7pm Wed & Thu 10.30am & 1.30pm Fri 10.30am & 7pm Sat 2.30pm & 7pm L G E F C Details page 26

0844 871 3011 (fees apply) www.newalexandratheatre.co.uk

‘Slapstick, satire and gags galore: a classic comedy hilariously updated’ THE TIMES

Cast David Benson, Oliver Chris, Polly Conway, James Corden, Jolyon Dixon, Tom Edden, Martyn Ellis, Derek Elroy, Trevor Laird, Claire Lams, Paul Lancaster, Fergus March, Gareth Mason, Fred Ridgeway, Daniel Rigby, Jemima Rooper, Clare Thomson, Suzie Toase Director Nicholas Hytner by Richard Bean based on The Servant of Two Masters by Carlo Goldoni, with songs by Grant Olding

Associate Director Cal McCrystal Designer Mark Thompson Lighting Designer Mark Henderson Music Grant Olding Sound Designer Paul Arditti

Direct from the National Theatre, James Corden plays Francis Henshall in this new English version of the classic Italian comedy - where sex, food and money are high on the agenda. Following his success with Gavin and Stacey, Corden is reunited with National Theatre Director Nicholas Hytner for the first time since the worldwide hit The History Boys.

‘The feel good hit of the summer. An evening of riotous delightI found myself physically incapable with laughter.’ Daily Telegraph

HHHHH HHHHH HHHHH HHHHH HHHHH Daily Express

Daily mail

the guardian

the Independent

Photographs © Johan Persson

sunday times

Fight Director Kate Waters Choreographer Adam Penford

tue 18 - sat 22 oct Tue - Sat Eves 7.30pm Thu & Sat Mats 2.30pm L G C Details page 26

0844 871 3011 (fees apply) www.newalexandratheatre.co.uk

winner! best new musical 20 ‘simply blows other musicals out of the water. SENSATIONAL’ The Sun

★★★★

‘Smart, sassy, SPECTACULAR’ The Daily Telegraph

★★★★

‘Hysterically funny’ The Mail On Sunday

11 Olivier Awards

Starring

West End legend

Dave Willetts as Callaghan

neil toon (hollyoaks) as Warner

For the first time ever, the West End & Broadway sensation, 2011 Olivier Award winner (Best New Musical) and winner of Best New Musical Whatsonstage.com Awards, Legally Blonde The Musical comes to Birmingham. Based on the hit movie starring Reese Witherspoon, this critically acclaimed new musical is created by a top-of-their-class creative team, led by Tony Award-winning director and Olivier Award-nominated choreographer Jerry Mitchell (Hairspray). College sweetheart and homecoming queen Elle Woods doesn’t take no for an answer. So when her boyfriend, Warner, dumps her for someone serious, Elle puts down the credit card, hits the books, and heads for Harvard Law School. Legally Blonde The Musical will take you from the social whirl of California Campus life to Harvard’s Halls of Justice with the brightest new heroine (and of course, her Chihuahua, Bruiser).

and introducing

faye brookes as Elle

This all singing, all dancing, feel-good musical comedy will be the highlight of your year and the most fashionable ticket in town. The verdict? This much fun shouldn’t be legal!

‘Perfection’ The Independent

★★★★★ Time out

Tue 4 - sat 15 oct Mon - Sat Eves 7.30pm Wed & Sat Mats 2.30pm L G E c Details page 26

0844 871 3011 (fees apply) Original poster concept designed by Aka. Photo Uli Webber.

www.newalexandratheatre.co.uk

‘perfect. everything a musical should be’ bbc

‘Probably the most satisfying jukebox musical of all time’ The Stage

‘Its Buddy brilliant’ Oh Boy! ‘The World’s most successful Rock ‘n’ Roll musical’ is back! Come and see why this sensational show remains loved by audiences and critics alike. A phenomenally multi-talented cast come together to tell Buddy Holly’s story, from his meteoric rise to fame to his final legendary performance at The Surf Ballroom in Clear Lake, Iowa. Together they present two terrific hours of his greatest hits, including the timeless classics That’ll Be The Day, Peggy Sue, Oh Boy, Rave On, Everyday and many more. With the Big Bopper’s Chantilly Lace and Ritchie Valens’ La Bamba completing a stellar musical line up, Buddy is a not-to-be-missed evening of family entertainment that will have music lovers from 8 to 80 toe-tapping, hand-clapping and rocking in the aisles! 10

The sun

Mon 14 – Sat 19 Nov Mon - Sat Eves 7.30pm Wed & Sat Mat 2.30pm L G Details page 26

0844 871 3011 (fees apply) www.newalexandratheatre.co.uk

The funniest show in town a Reich laugh!

Outrageous, hilarious and a teeny bit controversial; Mel Brooks’ The Producers is the smash hit musical comedy that has taken Broadway and the West End by storm. Based on the 1968 cult film of the same name, The Producers became Broadway’s biggest ever hit, winning a record-breaking 12 Tony Awards – including Best Musical and Original Score. The plot follows a washed-up producer who teams up with his timid, starry-eyed accountant to get rich quick by creating the most tasteless musical ever staged and then pocketing the investors’ cash when it folds on the first night. They are sure they have found the perfect show in ‘Springtime For Hitler’, a Nazi romp, and proceed to hire the worst cast they can find. But then things go hysterically and horribly wrong! With a kickline of sexy goose-stepping stormtroopers, a chorus of sex mad old ladies and with more limp wristed parodies than a gay fancy dress party, The Producers may offend but you’ll be laughing too hard to care! This is a rare opportunity to see one of the jewels in the crown of musical theatre. If you want an evening full of laughs and sidesplitting fun, join WBOS at the New Alexandra Theatre as we bring a little of Hitler’s Springtime to Birmingham. This amateur production is given by arrangement with Josef Weinberger Ltd on behalf of Music Theatre International of New York

TUE 22 – SAT 26 NOV Tue - Sat Eves 7.30pm Sat Mat 2.30pm G L C Details page 26

0844 871 3011 (fees apply) www.newalexandratheatre.co.uk

THE COOLEST CHRISTMAS PARTY!

‘Tis the season to be merry!’ Beat the winter blues with the special Christmas version of the hit show for the festive season. Take a trip back in time to the glamorous, glitzy nights of Las Vegas in the late 1950s and early 60s where, in the company of three of the world’s most popular entertainers, the fabulous Burrelli Sisters and The Rat Pack Big Band, you will experience Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr & Dean Martin performing at the famous Sands hotel. Hit follows hit, including: Witchcraft, The Lady is a Tramp, Mr Bojangles, I’ve Got You Under My Skin, That’s Amore, Everybody Loves Somebody Sometime, New York, New York, My Kinda Town, Fly Me to the Moon, Sway, Volare, Me And My Shadow, My Way, Memories Are Made Of This and many more. Seasonal classics include: Baby it’s Cold Outside, Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, Let it Snow, Let it Snow, White Christmas, Winter Wonderland & Auld Lang Syne. If you wish you’d swung with the hardest partying pack in town, now’s your chance! 12

‘For fans of all ages, it’s the swinging-ist, ring-a-DING-IEST, night in town’ The sun

‘Absolutely superb - left me breathless with pleasure’ The telegraph

MON 28 NOV – SAT 3 DEC Mon - Sat Eves 7.30pm Wed & Sat Mats 2.30pm L G C Details page 26

0844 871 3011 (fees apply) www.newalexandratheatre.co.uk

the international smash hit musical comedy

As many tickets were soldalot AND MANY FOLKS DID LAUGHALOT This theatre did thinkalot And henceforth brought back Spamalot

NOW SEEN BY OVER ½ MILLION ACROSS THE UK! Audiences all around the world have been roaring with laughter since Monty Python’s Spamalot, by Eric Idle and John Du Prez, won the Tony Award for Best Musical in 2005. Spamalot tells the legendary tale of King Arthur and dcancelle the Knights of the Round Table and features a bevy( health +) safety (or possibly a brace) of beautiful show girls, witch burnings not to mention cows, killer rabbits and French people. The show features the hilarious songs He Is Not Dead Yet, Knights Of The Round Table, Find Your Grail and of course the Nation’s Favourite Comedy Song Always Look On The Bright Side Of Life

‘laughalot’ the times

‘Glorious, irresistible silliness’ The Sunday Times

Todd Carty aka Tucker, expert ice-skater and EastEnders stalwart stars as Patsy.

‘i felt i might actually die of laughter’ the independent

‘fantastic fun!’ The Express

MON 26 – SAT 31 MAR Mon – Sat Eves 7.30pm Wed & Sat Mats 2.30pm L G E C B Details page 26

0844 871 3011 (fees apply) www.newalexandratheatre.co.uk

www.greasethemusical.co.uk

‘the No.1 GREATEST MUSICAL!!!’ ‘100 GREATEST MUSICALS’, CHANNEL 4

hoPeLeS SUMMeR NIGhtS S DeVoteDLY the to YoU SANDY YoU’Re At oNe th t AN GReASeD LIGhtNIN ’ IW

GReASe IS the WoRD AND MANY MoRe!

The No.1 Greatest Musical, Grease, is back at the New Alexandra Theatre for 4 weeks only! Danny Bayne (winner of ITV’s Grease Is The Word, Hairspray) returns as Danny with Carina Gillespie (Grease, Buddy) as Sandy. Dust off your leather jackets, pull on your bobby-socks and take a trip to a simpler time as ‘bad boy’ Danny and ‘the girl next door’ Sandy fall in love all over again. It’s the original High School musical, featuring all the unforgettable songs from the hit movie including You’re The One That I Want, Grease Is The Word, Summer Nights, Hopelessly Devoted To You, Sandy, Greased Lightnin’ and many more. So throw your mittens around your kittens and Hand Jive the night away with the show that’ll make you want to stand up and shout, ‘A-wop-bop-a-loo-bop, A-wop-bam-boom!’

‘IT’S ELECTRIFYING - GO, GO, GO!’ Neil Sean, Sky News

‘grease is still the word’ sunday telegraph Photographs of West End company and of Danny Bayne and Carina Gillespie by Paul Coltas

tue 6 - sat 31 dec Week 1 Tue - Fri Eves 7.30pm, Wed Mat 2.30pm, Sat 5pm & 8.30pm Week 2 Mon - Fri Eves 7.30pm, Wed Mat 2.30pm, Sat 5pm & 8.30pm Week 3 Mon - Fri Eves 7.30pm Wed & Sat Mat 2.30pm Week 4 Mon - Sat Eves 7.30pm, Tue, Wed & Sat Mat 2.30pm L G E C Details page 26

0844 871 3011 (fees apply) www.newalexandratheatre.co.uk

‘RAPTUROUS AND REVELATORY!’ New York Times

‘THE BEST RODGERS & HAMMERSTeIN IN A GENERATION’ Washington Post

‘THIS IS RAVISHING, BREATHTAKING THEATER’ VARIETY

THE SMASH HIT Broadway SHOW DIRECT FROM LONDON’S BARBICAN

Winner of 7 Tony Awards! NEW YORK’S Lincoln Center Theater production of

rodgers & hammerstein’s

‘SIMPLY WONDERFUL, BEGUILING THEATRICAL MAGIC’ new york Post

This breathtaking and lavish Lincoln Center Theater production reinvented Rodgers and Hammerstein’s classic musical. It swept the 2008 Tony Awards, played for two years to sold-out houses on Broadway and was televised across America. With a cast and live orchestra of 50, this international hit landmark production brought to you by the producers of West Side Story and Guys and Dolls arrives at the New Alexandra Theatre for 2 weeks only. Metropolitan Opera Director and Winner of Tony Award for Best Director, Bartlett Sher, directs one of the finest musicals ever written. The score includes Some Enchanted Evening, I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Outta My Hair and There is Nothin’ Like a Dame. Don’t miss this once in a lifetime opportunity to witness one of the greatest musicals of all time, as the critics agree, ‘THIS IS A SHOW YOU WILL REMEMBER FOREVER.’

Supported by

TUE 7 - SAT 18 FEB Mon-Sat Eves 7.30pm Wed & Sat Mats 2.30pm L G E C Details page 26

0844 871 3011 (fees apply) www.newalexandratheatre.co.uk Photo of Paulo Szot and Samantha Womack (Original London cast) ©Lucy Williams Original Broadway production photography Joan Marcus

FOR ONE NIGHT ONLY colin fry THE PEOPLE’S MEDIUM SAT 3 SEP 7.30pm L C G Don’t miss one of the most celebrated Psychic Mediums Colin Fry as he delivers messages of love and comfort in his brand new Free Spirit Show. Be stunned by his breathtaking accuracy and compassion in this all new show as he conducts an evening of intimate communication with your loved ones. Colin Fry of Television’s 6th Sense, Psychic Private Eyes The Three Mediums and Colin Fry Live!

super trouper thu 8 sep 7.30pm L F G Super Trouper formerly ABBA Mania, is now accepted as the world’s number one touring production. Featuring a special concert presentation, which celebrates the music of ABBA in a respectful and enjoyable way, reviving special memories of when ABBA ruled the airwaves. So dig out those platforms, dust down those flares and thank ABBA for the music.

Marty Wilde & The Wildcats BORN TO ROCK AND ROLL! mon 26 sep 7.30pm One of the greatest names of 50s and 60s music looks back at a career spanning over fifty years of Rock and Roll. Join Marty as he presents a stunning evening of Rock memories from his own vaults and also pays homage to friends who helped shape the nature of British Rock and Roll. Including his personal favourites Bad Boy, Jesamine, Teenager in Love, Rubber Ball, Jezabel, Sea of Love and many more.

puppetry of the penis in 3d BRAND NEW SHOW TUE 27 SEP 8pm L C G B The astonishing and unforgettable Puppetry Of The Penis is back with a cutting-edge brand-new-show and after working with the same people who brought you James Cameron’s Avatar, this time incredibly it’s in 3D! ‘Dementedly good fun’ Vanity Fair WARNING - This show is non-sexual and contains full frontal male nudity. Adults Only.

www.newalexandratheatre.co.uk

roy ‘chubby’ brown live WED 28 SEP 7.30pm G L Get ready for a barn-storming night of jokes, banter and hilarious mickey-taking from Britain’s most outrageous comedian, bar none! Laugh till it hurts as Chubby rips into his live audiences with a non-stop battering ram of laugh-out-loud comedy - guaranteed! Get the hottest ticket in town, but be warned - If easily offended please stay away! Adults only

GALA NIGHT CAST INCLUDES LES DENNIS ‘I would not have missed this for the world’ Lord Mayor Solihull

‘A fantastic uplifting night at the theatre!’ Sarah Minton - Harp News

survive! SEVEN LIVES – ONE JOURNEY FRI 30 SEP 7.30pm L C Seven people come together with nothing in common - or so it appears. West End Director Carole Todd leads a star studded cast, with music from the sensational West End Gospel Choir. Based on true inspirational stories Survive! is a powerful and uplifting show not to be missed. FULL DETAILS AT www.surviveshow.com Supporting UK Cancer Charities Dame Judi Dench - Patron DAVEY/PRICE PRODUCTION

russell kane MANSCAPING SUN 16 OCT 8pm Join Fosters Comedy Award Winner and star of loads of stuff on telly, Russell Kane as he mercilessly explores the ridiculous state of masculinity in the modern world. He shaves his chest fur. You watch and laugh. Parental Guidance is advised.

★★★★★ ‘A seriously good comedian’ The Times

Gardeners’ Question Time YOUR FAVOURITE GARDENERS LIVE ON STAGE FOR one NIGHT ONLY! SUN 23 OCT 7.30pm Now touring across the UK for the very first time comes one of Britain’s most famous and endearing institutions, BBC Radio 4’s Gardeners’ Question Time. See resident chair Eric Robson at the New Alexandra Theatre with his panel of expert gardeners including Chris Beardshaw, Matt Biggs, Bob Flowerdew, Pippa Greenwood, Bunny Guinness, Anne Swithinbank, Christine Walkden and Matthew Wilson.

book now 0844 871 3011 (bkg fee)

FOR ONE NIGHT ONLY roary the racing car Champion of Champions MON 24 OCT 1pm B F Roary, the number 1 little race car ‘zooms’ into Birmingham in a brand new live stage show! It’s the day of the ‘Champion of Champions’ race at Silver Hatch and Roary is all set to battle it out with Maxi, Cici and all the other cars to win the race and lift the trophy! So who will win the race and be crowned the champion?

sally morgan psychic sally on the road TUE 25 OCT 7.30pm sold out New date on sale TUE 17 APR 7.30pm G Fresh from her new TV Series - ‘Psychic Sally On The Road’ on SKY LIVING, Britain’s best loved celebrity psychic, Sally Morgan returns by overwhelming public demand. Her reputation has been built from her close relationship with many high profile celebrities. Sally now brings her amazing abilities and her tremendous personality to the stage with a unique theatrical experience.

halfway to paradise the billy fury story WED 26 OCT 7.30pm L c The story of a shy young boy from Liverpool who went on to become one of Britain’s best loved rock stars. Now in its 15th year and still furiously rockin’, his own band Furys’ Tornados with the beautiful voice of Colin Gold re-play live his timeless 29 hit records. ‘A great 60’s night out!’ The stage

THU 27 OCT 7.30pm G C L

ic r a ss a k ul Cl Roc ac t

steve steinman’s cult rock show

Spec

vampires rock

Steve Steinman plays the supremely evil Baron Von Rockula owner of the Live and Let Die club, in search of a new bride. Along with Steve Steinman a full cast of superb singers, dancers and a formidable band blast their way through some of the greatest ever rock anthems including; We Will Rock You, Bat Out of Hell, Sweet Child O’ Mine and I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll! Suitable for ages 8+

www.newalexandratheatre.co.uk

FRI 28 OCT 7.30pm Respect La Diva is from the creator of the hit West End show Thriller Live and is an entertaining and uplifting musical celebration paying tribute to Aretha Franklin, Diana Ross, Tina Turner, Whitney Houston, Dusty Springfield, Mariah Carey, Beyonce and many more great female singers. Starring Sheila Ferguson, Denise Pearson, Katy Setterfield, Zoe Birkett and Andy Abraham. Along with a full live band and dancers, there are over 30 classic songs for all to enjoy! www.respectladiva.com SAT 29 OCT 7.30pm L C F G Derek Block & Blackburn International proudly present an Ellen Kent Production. Featuring the internationally acclaimed Ukrainian National Opera of Kharkiv. With handpicked soloists, highly-praised chorus and full orchestra. Back by overwhelming public demand, this awardwinning Opera returns with exquisite sets including a spectacular Japanese garden and fabulous costumes including antique wedding kimonos from Japan. One of the world’s most popular operas, Puccini’s Madama Butterfly tells the heart-breaking story of the beautiful young Japanese girl who falls in love with an American naval lieutenant – with dramatic results. Highlights include the melodic Humming Chorus, the moving aria One Fine Day and the unforgettable Love Duet. This production will be sung in Italian with English surtitles.

‘THIS IS A BUTTERFLY TO CHERISH’ MANCHESTER EVENING NEWS

j. a. story The History of Jamaica SUN 30 OCT 3.30pm & 7.30pm C See the award-winning J.A. Story musical extravaganza with a cast of characters including ‘Bob Marley’ and ‘Ian Fleming’. ‘The audience were thoroughly entertained and engaged from start to finish. I enjoyed it’ Trevor Nelson www.jastory.com

book now 0844 871 3011 (bkg fee)

FOR ONE NIGHT ONLY the ladyboys of bangkok FUR COATS AND FRENCH KNICKERS MON 31 OCT 7.30pm L G C Featuring stunning costumes, gorgeous sets plus a fantastic line up of show-stopping numbers from Rihanna, Lady GaGa to Tom Jones, Shirley Bassey along with a tribute to Take That & The Village People. A stunning Las Vegas style finale, hilarious comedy acts and a 16 strong beautiful Thai cast who just happen to all be men – this is the greatest party night around which has been seen by over 1 million people. Recommende d for Ages 14+

jerry sadowitz COMEDIAN, MAGICIAN, PSYCHOPATH! WED 2 NOV 8pm L C Age restriction 18+ Adults Only If you like Pol Pot, you’ll love Jerry Sadowitz with his incorrigible smile and his propensity to hurl his underwear at female members of the audience, you’ll be so helpless with looking for the police, you’ll forget how much you paid to get in! ‘THE MOST EXCITING ACT IN TOWN’ METRO ‘Funniest comedian in Britain’ the guardian

dominic kirwan through the years THU 3 NOV 7.30pm Dominic Kirwan is widely regarded as one of the finest entertainers that Ireland has produced with his dynamic, vibrant performing style, coupled with his rich voice and wide repertoire. Through the years has something for music fans of all ages with a fresh look at the finest in Country, Pop, Traditional Irish music and of course his trademark show-stopping ballads.

essence of ireland - Bigger and Better 5 STAR IRISH MAGIC FRI 4 NOV 7.30pm Now with their biggest and most talented cast of dancers, singers and musicians, Essence of Ireland combines breathtaking dance routines with the very best of Irish music and a touch of Irish craic, all cleverly woven into a heart-warming tale. Described by the Southampton Echo as ‘better than Riverdance and Lord of the Dance’, the unique and critically acclaimed Essence of Ireland is a breathtaking show like no other, taking theatres by storm. 22

www.newalexandratheatre.co.uk

dons of comedy Award Winning Comedians SAT 5 NOV 8pm Curtis Walker, Felix Dexter, Felicity Ethnic & Slim - the best of Britain’s award winning comedians come together for this exclusive Black History Month comedy special. Witness history in the making as we celebrate with the real Dons of Comedy, our history, our culture and our lifestyle in the only way we know how - with a smile! A night of true heavyweight comedy, pound for pound the best jokes that will knock you clean off your seat! Suitable for ages 16+

the drifters IN CONCERT SUN 6 NOV 7.30pm As one of the biggest selling groups of all time, The Drifters has featured over 65 different vocalists in almost six decades. The current recording line-up perform new material alongside the group’s greatest hits including Under The Boardwalk, Save The Last Dance, Up On The Roof, Kissin In The Back Row, Saturday Night At The Movies and many more. www.theofficialdrifters.com

reginald d hunter SOMETIMES even THE DEVIL TELLS THE TRUTH WED 9 NOV 8pm For ages 16+ ‘HIS PRESENCE AND INTELLIGENCE MAKE HIM ONE OF THE MOST BRILLIANTLY UNPREDICTABLE COMICS IN THE COUNTRY’ The sunday times ‘MAGIC - HIS IS A PERFECT SET’ The guardian

elvis on tour THE LEGEND CONTINUES TOUR THU 10 NOV 7.30pm L C G The multi award-winning Elvis on Tour returns to Birmingham with this full evening show featuring Gordon Hendricks, the outright winner of the Elvis European Champion January 2011 held in Birmingham along with his band and singers. It’s Elvis as you like it, from the early Rock ‘n Roll days through the Vegas years. Pure Entertainment. Pure Elvis. www.gordon-hendricks.com

book now 0844 871 3011 (bkg fee)

FOR ONE NIGHT ONLY 80’s mania BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND FRI 11 NOV 7.30pm L C G Step back in time and join Europe’s Premier 1980s Experience with over 35 chart-topping smash hits Live in Concert! Adam Ant, Nena, The Human League, Madonna, Duran Duran, Boy George, Cyndi Lauper plus many more - recreated live on stage. Dig out your 80s fashions and prepare to party! Now officially endorsed by 1980’s Top of the Pops and Radio 1 Presenter Mike Read who will also feature in the show via big screen!

milton jones LION WHISPERER SAT 12 NOV 8pm Milton Jones - you know the weird bloke with the shirts from Mock the Week. As well as star of the Michael McIntyre Roadshow and the voice of 9 series for Radio 4 (including The Very World of Milton Jones and Another Case of Milton Jones) and all sorts of other radio and telly as well. Awards too. Well it’s his new show with new stuff, not in his last show. YouTube him or something! www.miltonjones.com ‘SULTAN OF THE SURREAL’ THE GUARDIAN

forgive me! BLUE MOUNTAIN THEATRE SUN 13 NOV 7.30pm G Blue Mountain Theatre puts today’s much maligned ‘Younger generation’ under the microscope in Forgive Me! Under the watchful eye of a talented cast including Charles Tomlin, Allison Mason and Terri Salmon, our family’s fortunes are laid bare in this side-splitting comedy of manners. Never forget -’what sweet nanny goat a go run him belly’unless of course it’s laughter! Suitable for Ages 14+

omid Djalili tour of duty SUN 27 NOV 7.30pm For ages 16+ Multi award-winning stand-up, television and movie star, Omid Djalili is back on tour with his brand-new comedy show. A firm favourite at the Edinburgh Festival with his legendary performances, Omid’s stand-up awards include; ’Time Out Award’ - for Best Stand Up and the ‘EMMA Award’. ‘Much of his material is as thought-provoking as it is funny’ News of the World

www.newalexandratheatre.co.uk

balletboyz THE TALENT

chris addison

MON 27 FEB 7.30pm L C

THE TIME IS NOW, AGAIN

Following their explosive sell-out UK performances earlier this year, these nine remarkable young dancers explode onto the stage in this feast of exhilarating live dance, cleverly fused with the company’s trademark use of film and behind the scenes footage. ‘Rippling torsos, reckless leaps and a happy sense of shared joy in their physicality - IRRESISTIBLE’ Daily Express

THU 15 MAR 8pm Fresh from The Thick of It, Mock The Week, Have I Got News For You and his sell-out 2010 tour, the man who put the ‘Chris Addison’ into, ‘I see Chris Addison is touring again,’ has written a brand new show, The Time Is Now, Again. Top-class stand-up from one of the classiest, toppiest stand-ups around. You should come and see him.

theatre tours

peppa pig Peppa Pig’s Treasure Hunt WED 11 & THU 12 APR 10am, 1pm & 4pm F Ahoy there me Hearties! Peppa Pig and her friends are going on a treasure hunt and need your help! Following the incredible sell-out success of Peppa Pig’s Party, Peppa is back with a brand-new show featuring true-to-life puppets, perfect sing-along songs and a new story that will charm and delight all her fans. Full sail! Ahoy! Arrrrr! www.peppapiglive.com

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to go backstage at the Alex? Why not book one of our upcoming tours? Each tour will give you a unique insight into one of the most historic theatres in the West Midlands. See the dressing rooms that have housed the stars, visit the backstage areas that are the workhouse of theatre life and finally step on stage at the Alex and in doing so join with some of the greats of English theatre.* Our upcoming schedule includes: Sat 15 Oct Wed 7 Dec Sat 22 Oct Sat 10 Dec Sat 19 Nov Wed 14 Dec Tours are from 10.30am till 12noon, cost £7.50 per person and must be booked in advance. You can either book at the Box Office in person or call the Groups Department on 0844 372 7272 (Mon-Fri 10am-6pm). For group organisers looking to arrange a tour for their party please email birminghamgroups@theambassadors.com or call the Groups Department to arrange. *Access to the stage is not always possible due to visiting company policy. Please note the tour covers all parts of the theatre and this includes many stairs.

book now 0844 871 3011 (bkg fee)

booking information

Telephone Bookings Ticketmaster 0844 871 3011 (bkg fee) (24 hr booking line) Calls charged at national rate, subject to bkg/ transaction fee. Groups Hotline 0844 871 3031 By phone Mon - Fri 10am - 6pm In person 12 - 6pm Online www.NewAlexandraTheatre.co.uk Postal Bookings State the performance and choice of seats, enclosing a cheque or Postal order. Mail to: The Box Office, New Alexandra Theatre, Station Street, Birmingham, B5 4DS. Cheques should be made payable to The Ambassador Theatre Group Venues. Please also include on the back of the cheque the 16 digit card number and expiry date and issue number if there is one.

Equal access for all Service for patrons with disabilities. For further information on our services and facilities including signed performances please call the Disability Hotline on 0121 230 9077 (Mon - Sat 12pm - 6pm) or via email at access4allbirmingham@ theambassadors.com

where we are Car parking couldn’t be easier. We recommended the Albany car park which is only a 1 minute walk away on St Judes Passage. Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Postcode for Sat Nav is B5 4AN.

venue improvements The ticket price for certain shows may include a £1 contribution to the theatre’s restoration fund. Regular attendees will have noticed the Alex’s recent facelift with improvements to the signage and lighting on the front of the building.

Medium /Therapist/Clairvoyant By attending this event you agree that you have sought the services provided of your own accord and understand that it is a holistic experiment and experience. The medium/ therapist/ clairvoyant may give you information that could bring about a positive change in your life, but any changes that you make are your personal and legal responsibility.

The work on the seating inside the auditorium continues, the front section of the stalls is now complete and work on the second section has started. general Information All telephone and online bookings made

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Design SWD swd.uk.com Print John Good

The New Alexandra Theatre reserves the right to make such alterations that become necessary. If you wish to comment on any aspect of your Ticketmaster or internet booking please call Ticketmaster customer services on 08444 999 999.

G GROUPS AND SCHOOLS For events marked this way a group rate applies. Group rates are available for parties of 10 people or more. Group rates do not always apply to each price band. Not always available Friday and Saturday evenings. Different

Prices are correct at the time of going to press, however we reserve the right to change or vary prices at any time.

We regret that we cannot refund or exchange tickets.

Concessions may be restricted to certain price levels and performances and can be withdrawn by management without notice. Only one concession can be applied at any one time and proof of status is required.

CORPORATE HOSPITALITY Select one of our packages or we can tailor individual events to your requirements. Contact our Groups Department on 0844 871 3031 for more information.

concessions Shows with these symbols have the following concessions available: C Seniors / Children / Students / Reg. Unemployed L LiveCard holders G Groups of 10 or more e Schools f Family (4 tickets max 2 adults) B Early Booking

through ticket agents for most shows are subject to a per ticket booking fee. In all cases there is a Ticketmaster handling fee. An additional credit/debit card surcharge may apply for certain events when booking in person at the box office.

IN Person Visit the Box Office at the New Alexandra Theatre Mon - Sat 12noon - 6pm (8pm on event nights). The Box Office is located at the front of the theatre on Suffolk Street Queensway.

rates apply to some shows. Call the Groups Hotline for details. Special rates are also available for mid-week matinees and schools for selected performances. For full details of the range of prices on offer please call the Groups Hotline on 0844 871 3031

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BOX OFFICE New Alexandra Theatre, Station Street, Birmingham, B5 4DS

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PRICE BAND

Bugsy Malone

£16.50

£14.50

Grease Mon - Thu eves Mid week mats Fri & Sat perfs

£35 £29.50 £37.50

£32 £26.50 £34.50

£29 £23.50 £31.50

£26 £20.50 £28.50

£20 £17.50 £23.50

£38 £32.50 £40.50

South Pacific Mon to Thu Eves & Sat Mats Wed Mats Fri & Sat Eves

£39.50 £34.50 £42.50

£34.50 £29.50 £37.50

£29.50 £24.50 £32.50

£24.50 £19.50 £27.50

£19.50 £14.50 £22.50

£45 £39.50 £47.50

£24

£21

£18

£16

Colin Fry

All tickets £17.50

Super Trouper

All tickets £19.50

The Jungle Book Marty Wilde

£28.50

£25

£22

£19

£16.50

£33.50

£30

£27.50

£24.50

£21.50

£18.50

£35

£16

£14

£12

Chris Addison

£19.50

£18.50

£16.50

Spamalot Mon – Thu Eves & Sat Mat Wed Mat Fri & Sat Eves

£33.50 £27.50 £37.50

£28.50 £24.50 £32.50

£23.50 £19.50 £26.50

£18.50 £16.50 £21.50

£14.50 £12.50 £17.50

£38.50 £32.50 £42.50

Peppa Pig

£15.50

£13.50

£20

Puppetry Of The Penis in 3D

All tickets £18.50

Roy ‘Chubby’ Brown

All tickets £21

Survive!

£23.50

£19.50

£15.50

Legally Blonde Mon - Thu eves Fri & Sat perfs Wed mat

£39.50 £45 £29.50

£37.50 £39.50 £22.50

£29.50 £32.50 £18.50

£22.50 £25 -

£18.50 £19.50 -

£59.50 £59.50 £49.50

£28.50 £25.50 £29.50

£22.50 £19.50 £23.50

£19.50 £16.50 £20.50

£16.50 £13.50 £18.50

All tickets £15.50

Sally Morgan

All tickets £23.50

Halfway to Paradise

All tickets £19.50 £24

£22

£24.50

£22.50

£20.50

£18.50

Madama Butterfly

£40.50

£33.50

£22

£14.50

All tickets £20

J.A. Story The Ladyboys of Bangkok

All tickets £21

Jerry Sadowitz

All tickets £19

Dons of Comedy

STALLS

£18

£16

£24.50

£23

£21

£18.50

The Drifters

All tickets £25

Reginald D Hunter

All tickets £21

Elvis On Tour

£23.50

£20.50

80’s Mania

£20.50

£18.50

All tickets £18.50

Milton Jones

All tickets £25

Forgive Me!

Buddy Mon eve Tue - Thu eves & both mats Fri & Sat eves

£25.50 £28.50

£21.50 £24.50

£17.50 £21.50

WBOS: The Producers

£22.50

£19.50

£15.50

£12.50

£18.50

All tickets £20

Omid Djalili Christmas with The Rat Pack Mon – Thu Eves Wed Mat Fri Eve & both Sat Perfs

GRAND CIRCLE

DRESS CIRCLE

Respect La Diva

Dominic Kirwan

Price band S related to Superior seats situated in the auditorium

A-L

All tickets £22.50

Roary the Racing Car

Essence of Ireland

All tickets £24.50

A-M

£25.50 £22.50 £26.50

Gardener’s Question Time

Vampires Rock

Sally Morgan

All tickets £21

All tickets £18.50

Russel Kane One Man, Two Guvnors Tue-Thu eves & Sat mats Thu mat Fri & Sat eves

BalletBoyz

A-S

All The Fun Of The Fair Fri early & Sat mat Fri & Sat eve & Sun mat

£27 £23

£24 £20

£20 £17

£16 £13

£32 £28

£29

£26

£23

£19

£34

STAGE

Ambassador theatre group The New Alexandra Theatre is operated by the Ambassador Theatre Group (ATG), who have a total of 39 venues across the UK, including 12 in the West End, and 27 regionally. ATG’s impressive portfolio of West End theatres includes Apollo Victoria, Comedy, Donmar Warehouse, Duke of York’s, Fortune, Lyceum, Phoenix, Piccadilly, Playhouse, Savoy, Trafalgar Studio 1 and Trafalgar Studio 2. ATG’s regional theatres include Aylesbury Waterside Theatre; New Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham; Theatre Royal Brighton; Bristol Hippodrome; Churchill Theatre Bromley; Edinburgh Playhouse; Leas Cliff Hall, Folkestone; King’s Theatre and Theatre Royal, Glasgow; Grimsby Auditorium; Liverpool Empire; Palace Theatre and Opera House, Manchester; Milton Keynes Theatre; New Theatre, Oxford; Richmond Theatre; Southport Theatre; Regent Theatre and Victoria Hall, Stoke-on-Trent; Sunderland Empire; Princess Theatre, Torquay; New Wimbledon Theatre and New Wimbledon Studio; The Ambassadors Woking encompassing the New Victoria and Rhoda McGaw Theatres and the award-winning Ambassador Cinemas; Grand Opera House, York. ATG is also one of the country’s foremost theatre producers, in Britain and internationally. Current and recent ATG co-productions include The Misanthrope starring Damian Lewis and Keira Knightley; Legally Blonde, West Side Story, Guys and Dolls, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Sunset Boulevard, Spamalot and South Pacific.

More Shows More Savings Join LiveCard and get access to amazing ticket offers at the New Alexandra Theatre and in up to 39 Ambassador Theatre Group venues across the UK. There are great offers and priority booking, ensuring you get the best seats at the best price all for £30! LiveCard now gives you:

EXCLUSIVE PRIORITY BOOKING at your home venue GREAT 2 FOR 1 OFFERS TICKET OFFERS IN UP TO 39 VENUES ACROSS THE UK OFFERS FOR WEST END SHOWS

Join now & start saving today! Call 0844 871 7633 Apply online www.atgv.co.uk/livecard Visit New Alexandra Theatre, Station Street, Birmingham B5 4DS

legally blonde

one man, two guvnors

on Tue 4 Oct, £6 off top 3 prices Mon-Thu*

2 FOR 1

on Tue 18 Oct, £3.50 off Wed & Thu*

on Tue 6 Dec 7.30pm, £6 off top 2 prices Mon-Thu*

2 FOR 1

*No concessions on Friday late/Saturday late both performances (exc Access Seats) No concessions on Premium Seats.

grease