Birmingham - What's On guide - From December 2022

Dreamgirls

There’s a story behind every dream

Welcome to The Alexandra Birmingham!

What an amazing year we’ve had at The Alexandra. Jam-packed with unforgettable show-stoppers and incredible theatrical talent, I am thrilled for you all to see what further delights we have in store over the coming months.

One new development that happened earlier this year was our involvement in Birmingham Heritage Week 2022, our first foray into wider Birmingham heritage tours, in partnership with Birmingham City Council and Birmingham Museum’s Trust. This has encouraged us to restart our venue tour programme, so look out for the opportunity to join us one weekend very soon. I’m also delighted to share that we are revamping our free ATG Access Membership Scheme. We’re working to improve the booking process and enable more services to be booked online.

Back in September, we proudly marched in Birmingham’s Pride parade, marking 25 years of Pride and Protest. Colleagues from across The Alex took to the streets, representing our theatre as a safe space, a friend and an ally to LGBTQIA+ communities across the Midlands.

On behalf of everyone here at The Alexandra, we are incredibly grateful for your ongoing support and appreciation for our beautiful theatre. We hope you enjoy reading our latest What’s On guide and here’s to another fabulous season of live theatre.

, Theatre Director

Simon Creed

The Rocky Horror Show

They’re your Dreamgirls, Birmingham

On Monday 26th September, we were thrilled to host a launch event for the iconic musical, Dreamgirls.

This live and unplugged performance, featuring Nicole Raquel Dennis (Effie White), Natalie Kassanga (Deena Jones), Paige Peddie (Lorrell Robinson) and Brandon Lee Sears (Jimmy Early), provided the local Birmingham press a chance to meet the cast and experience the music from this show in the intimate surroundings of The Alex’s Piano Bar.

Expect glitz, glamour and gorgeous vocals when Dreamgirls takes over Birmingham this Christmas. The show’s festive residency kicks off at our 121-year-old theatre on Tuesday 6th December, playing until New Year’s Eve, so why not add a bit of extra sparkle to your 2022 celebrations and book your tickets today.

Photography by Jonathan Hipkiss .

Girl from the North Country

The iconic music of Bob Dylan is reimagined in this award-winning musical.

WHAT’S ON this season

From show-stopping musicals to family favourites, here are a few of our season highlights...

Annie

It’s a hard-knock life for little Annie... until Tomorrow. Enjoy her rollercoaster journey from orphan to heroine in this global hit.

The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel

An uplifting story about a group of British retirees who embark on a new life in India.

Johannes Radebe Freedom Unleashed

TV dancing sensation and international champion

Johannes is known for making a splash with his explosive routines on Strictly Come Dancing.

The King and I

The greatest musical from the golden age of musicals with one of the finest scores ever written including Whistle a Happy Tune and Getting to Know You.

The Rocky Horror Show

It’s time to perfect your pelvic thrust as we get ready to do the Time Warp again.

The Mirror Crack’d

When an American film star buys the village manor house, strange things start to happen in sleepy St. Mary Mead...

Prue Leith

With all the right ingredients for an entertaining evening, enjoy anecdotes and tips from the award-winning GBBO judge.

Contents

Dreamgirls p9

Jurassic Live p10

Access p11

Girl from the North Country p13

Agatha Christie’s The Mirror Crack’d p14 The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel p17

The King and I p19

Group Bookings p20

Death Drop –Back in the Habit p21

Steel Magnolias p22 The Rocky Horror Show p25 Annie p26

Ellen Kent’s Aida & Madama Butterfly p29 Home, I’m Darling p30

Heathers The Musical p32 The Ocean at the End of the Lane p34

Wish You Were Dead p35

Demon Dentist p36

One Night Only p39 – 43 Diary p45

As a thank you for your ongoing support, we’ve extended our Price Promise! You can book up to four Price Promise tickets at £13 each, making it the perfect way to enjoy the magic of live theatre with friends or family. Keep an eye out for our logo in the brochure and book online selecting the £13 Price Promise seats. To book, simply select your chosen show, click ‘buy tickets’ and choose your £13 Price Promise seats.

WHAT’S THE DEAL?

From Blue Light to Limelight

It’s Your Dreamgirl

We caught up with Nicole Raquel Dennis, who will be taking to our stage as Effie White in the dazzling and multi award-winning, Dreamgirls

What’s it like to be back on-stage and playing in such a culturally significant production with Black women at its core?

There were so many moments of the pandemic where we were like, ‘Are we going to go back or are we not?’, so there was a lot of push and pull. So, for it to be happening finally, and with this show, is so important. But to be playing these characters that are just so strong and so powerful after this past year is like the most dreamy combination. And for ourselves, as well as to uplift who we are as people, to bring us back up into that place of feeling good about ourselves, our culture is incredible. Very, very humbled to be part of this show.

You’ve worked with Jennifer Hudson on The Voice UK, what was that like, especially now having this full-circle moment?

When anyone says anything about Jennifer Hudson it still feels very surreal, like, ‘that happened’. She was my coach on The Voice, and I think because she came from a background of reality TV as well, she had a lot of genuine wisdom. She was so patient and so understanding.

Although you’re playing the same role, what do you bring to your version of Effie?

With something so iconic like this, it’s so easy to compare people who played this. But I think I

have to remember I’m a completely different person to who they are, so I would never bring something that they’ve brought... I can also recognise who I am as an actress as well, and put my own stamp on it. When I did it in the West End, I was the youngest Effie. I think it’s one of those things where, over the course of the tour, I can find new things that make it very personal and my own.

What life lessons have you learned through Effie?

She’s taught me a lot, in Act 1 we see Effie very overly confident, and we see her in a very different place in the second act, she’s much older and wiser in some respects, it’s taught me to balance that a lot. I think staying humble in this industry is so important and you can get completely swept away with the industry and Effie has taught me that a lot. It’s a very strong female show, which is so empowering. especially as Black people to fully

Photography by Matt Crockett . © Dreamgirls UK Tour 2021.

Celebrate this Christmas with an extraordinary story and the unforgettable, spine-tingling vocals that send audiences wild! This spectacular, multi award-winning musical production features the classic songs, And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going, Listen, I Am Changing and One Night Only.

Meet The Dreams – Effie, Lorrell and Deena –three talented young singers in the turbulent 1960s, a revolutionary time in American music history. Join the three friends as they embark upon a musical rollercoaster ride through a world of fame, fortune and the ruthless realities of show business. Ages 6+

Photos by Matt Crockett

COFFEE, CAKE & CADENZAS

Strings, woodwind and brass ensembles will be presenting beautiful programmes at 1pm on the first Friday of the month, completely free of charge to the audience. You can find out more on our website ATGTICKETS.COM/Birmingham

Join Jurassic Live for a roar-some adventure at the UK’s biggest and best award-winning dinosaur show! Featuring mind-blowing special effects, professional puppeteers and the UK’s most realistic dinosaurs, this 90-minute full stage production is a show not to be missed! Jurassic Live really is the greatest dinosaur show on earth!

Aimed at the whole family, from 2 to 102, this comedic and thrilling, new family fun stage adventure follows our team of dino rangers on the hunt for a missing baby dinosaur.

ACCESS PERFORMANCES

Here at The Alex we are proud to open our doors to everybody and make theatre accessible to all. We continue to work hard to improve our access offering, including programming a variety of tailored performances which allow more people to enjoy the magic of theatre.

Our upcoming access performances include:

AUDIO DESCRIBED PERFORMANCES

Dreamgirls Sat 10 Dec 2.30pm

Steel Magnolias Wed 22 Mar 2023 7.30pm

The Ocean at the End of the Lane Wed 24 May 2023 7.30pm

CAPTIONED PERFORMANCES

Dreamgirls Thu 15 Dec 7.30pm

Annie Thu 13 Apr 2023 7.30pm

The Ocean at the End of the Lane Sat 27 May 2023 2.30pm

SIGNED PERFORMANCES

Dreamgirls Sat 10 Dec 2.30pm

The King and I Wed 1 Mar 2023 7.30pm

Death Drop – Back in the Habit

Fri 17 Mar 2023 8.30pm & Sat 18 Mar 2023 5pm Sara Pascoe Sun 19 Mar 2023 7.30pm

The Rocky Horror Show Wed 29 Mar 2023 7.30pm

Annie Wed 5 Apr 2023 7.30pm

Home, I’m Darling Thu 27 Apr 2023 7.30pm

Heathers The Musical Thu 18 May 2023 7.30pm

The Ocean at the End of the Lane Wed 24 May 2023 7.30pm

Did you know, that for every performance (not just access performances), we have a dedicated Access Ambassador on hand to ensure any access patrons have everything they need?

Join our Access Membership Scheme – call 0121 230 9077 (Open Mon – Fri, 10am – 4pm)

Registration is free, really easy and will ensure that our dedicated staff get you the right seats and performances, every time you book!

Here at The Alex we continue to strive to provide the best theatre experience we can for our access patrons.

For further information please email birminghamboxoffice@theambassadors.com or visit atgtickets.com/birmingham

A Beautiful Story Told in Words and Music

Lose yourself in Girl from the North Country.

Brightness flickers fitfully in the bleak, beautiful landscape of Girl from the North Country, a rich and strange marriage of the talents of the Irish playwright Conor McPherson and the Nobel Prize-winning American songwriter Bob Dylan. The setting for this haunting musical melodrama of unmoored lives is, after all, a premature winter. It is a portrait of the intertwining lives of several tenants living in a boarding house in Duluth, Minnesota, (Dylan’s birthplace), in late 1934, during the height of the Great Depression.

So, when something such as joy, hope or love promises to light up the night in this ravishing production, you probably wouldn’t think it would stand much of a chance against the prevailing darkness. This is the story of an age of privation and separation, in which homes are lost and families riven.

Yet when the people on-stage sing, huddled together before old-time microphones as if they were by campfires, they seem to conjure light and warmth out of the darkness that surrounds them.

If you’re a hardcore Dylan fan, you’ll be familiar with the songs that underscore the stories – each one personal and, at the same time universal. As for the sweet, sorrowful voices, backed by fiddles and piano, they seem to come, beseechingly, from half-remembered family histories you might have been told by your grandparents.

As arranged and orchestrated by the British composer Simon Hale – in collaboration with McPherson, the show’s director as well as its writer – the songs exist independently of their creator’s much-imitated voice. You hear them ripening into new fullness.

Girl from the North Country debuted at London’s Old Vic Theatre in 2017, eight months after Dylan’s 2016 Nobel Prize for Literature was announced. Five years earlier, McPherson had been approached by representatives of Dylan about using the songwriter’s catalogue as the basis for a musical. In his plays, Shining City and The Night Alive, McPherson had already demonstrated a mystical appreciation of music as an expression of the spirituality in life.

McPherson never uses songs as a substitute for, or as an extension of, dialogue. Only occasionally does a number – such as the 1966 classic, I Want You, seem to directly echo the thoughts of the characters singing it. Instead, every ensemble member becomes part of a choir with soloists, which is as close and persuasive as a Greek chorus that we’re ever likely to see in this day and age.

The production’s alternating visions of a claustrophobic boarding house and desolate roads give a mythic quality to the silhouetted figures who step from the shadows to sing and play instruments. Heartbreak may be masked by hoedowns, but every moment is a celebration of hope.

Written by Ben Brantley, The New York Times

Frances McNamee as Elizabeth Laine in Girl from the North Country. Photo by Johan Persson .

Double Olivier and Tony® Award-winning, West End and Broadway smash hit Girl from the North Country tours the UK for the first time.

Celebrated playwright Conor McPherson boldly reimagines the legendary songs of Bob Dylan like you’ve never heard them before. An uplifting and universal story about family and love. Now audiences in Birmingham have the chance to experience this ‘MAGNIFICENT’ (Evening Standard – London), ‘ASTONISHING’ (The Guardian) and ‘PIERCINGLY BEAUTIFUL’ (Independent) production brought vividly to life by an extraordinary company of actors and musicians.

BROADWAY BABY

Miss Marple returns to the stage.

1960s England and a wind of change is blowing through the land. It has even reached the sleepy village of St. Mary Mead. Jane Marple, confined to a chair after an accident, is wondering if life has passed her by. Then there is a vicious murder, and Miss Marple must unravel a web of lies, tragedy and danger.

Starring Susie Blake as Miss Marple (Victoria Wood’s As Seen on TV, Coronation Street, Mrs. Brown’s Boys), Sophie Ward (A Very British Scandal, Holby City, Land Girls) and Joe McFadden (Holby City, Heartbeat and Strictly Come Dancing 2017 winner)

Based on The Sunday Times bestseller that 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 Hayley Mills, Paul Nicholas, Rula Lenska

Getting to know you!

The true story behind the musical classic, The King and I.

The King and I, created by composers Rodgers and Hammerstein, premiered on Broadway in 1951. It ran for nearly three-anda-half years, making it the fourth-longest running Broadway musical at that time. Thanks to an award-winning score and its enigmatic love story, it has entranced generations of audiences. But what was the true story behind this fantastic musical? In 1950, theatrical attorney Fanny Holtzmann was looking for a vehicle for her client, actress Gertrude Lawrence. She read Margaret Landon’s novel, ‘Anna and The King of Siam’ which was based on the memoirs of Anna Leonowens, governess to the children of the King of Siam during the 1860s. After trying to court Rex Harrison for the part of King Mongkut, Rodgers and Hammerstein settled on a young actor called Yul Brynner. While many actresses have portrayed Anna on-stage, Brynner came to dominate this role and the musical, starring in a four-year national tour and a 1985 Broadway run shortly before his death.

The real-life story of Anna and King Mongkut of Siam is as awe-inspiring as the musical’s magnificent score. Anna was a woman ahead of her time; a single mum looking for employment – and a little adventure – in a foreign land. King Mongkut was keen to progress his country and revered all things ‘Western’. He encouraged his 39 wives and concubines, along with his 82 children to have a ‘European style education’ and ensured his

children benefited from learning about languages, science, geography and astronomy. He championed women’s rights and banned forced marriages, encouraging all the royal concubines to find husbands of their own. It is still debated in Thailand today how much her influence affected the world view of Mongkut’s successor. In her memoirs, Anna claims that introducing Mongkut’s son to ‘Uncle Tom’s Cabin’ inspired him to abolish slavery when he succeeded the throne.

At the heart of the musical is the unrequited love story between King Mongkut and Anna, a depiction that was deemed disrespectful in Thailand, leading to the musical being banned in the country for several years. While their ‘love’ was probably highly romanticised, their relationship was one of great mutual respect at the very least. Anna served at court for six years, eventually becoming Mongkut’s language secretary, a position that held political influence. In 1868, while she was on leave in England, King Mongkut died. Anna and her son were mentioned in the King’s will, but never received their legacy. Anna’s son remained in contact with Mongkut’s son, and even held a commission in the Siamese army. Anna continued to teach, travel and write.

Both Anna and the King were independent spirits and, if they were alive today, their politics would probably be in tune with the progressive 21st century. The story of Anna and The King is one that will be told in music and dance for years to come.

The multi Tony® and Olivier Award-winning musical, Rodgers and Hammerstein’s The King and I returns to the UK, following its critically-acclaimed sold-out season at The London Palladium.

The greatest musical from the golden age of musicals – with one of the finest scores ever written, including Whistle a Happy Tune and Shall We Dance – features a company of over 50 world-class performers and a full-scale orchestra. A celebration of the lavish heritage and the very best in romantic musical theatre from an unparalleled, multi award-winning creative team.

DIRECTED BY BARTLETT SHER

Diversity at The Alexandra. Photo by Jonathan Hipkiss

Legendary drag queens and stars of RuPaul’s Drag Race, JujuBee (Death Drop), Cheryl Hole (Celebrity Juice, The Only Way is Essex) and Victoria Scone lead an all-drag cast including Drag King superstar LoUis CYfer in this comedy thriller. A gaggle of fierce Nuns are confined to their Convent. But their peace and tranquillity is shattered by a serial slayer slashing their way through the sisters. With the help of an unexpected visitor from the Vatican, can Mother Superior and the rag-tag Sisters of St. Babs save their convent, save souls, and save themselves?

‘WITTY, WARM AND UPLIFTING.’

THE GUARDIAN

Steel Magnolias is the hilarious and heart-warming true story that inspired the hit film starring Dolly Parton and Julia Roberts.

Featuring an all-star cast including Laura Main (Call the Midwife), Lucy Speed (The Archers, The Bill) and Diana Vickers (Dial M For Murder, The Rise and Fall of Little Voice).

Six women come together in a small town beauty salon in the American South and prove that female friendship conquers all. Faced with the highs and lows of love and life, and amongst the chaos of work, marriage and children, they unite to gossip, unwind and set the world to rights.

This iconic comedy is the perfect ticket for every generation and proves that one hair appointment might just change your life.

Ready to thrill you with fun and naughty moments, Richard O’Brien’s legendary rock ‘n’ roll musical, The Rocky Horror Show, is the guaranteed party we all need now, playing to standing ovations and sell out houses.

Directed by Christopher Luscombe, The Rocky Horror Show is a party everyone is invited to, featuring timeless classics, including Sweet Transvestite, Dammit, Janet, and of course, the pelvic-thrusting, show-stopping Time Warp. Ages 12+. Contains scenes of an adult nature.

Set in 1930s New York during The Great Depression, brave young Annie is forced to live a life of misery at Miss Hannigan’s orphanage. Her luck soon changes when she’s chosen to spend a fairytale Christmas with famous billionaire, Oliver Warbucks Meanwhile, spiteful Miss Hannigan has other ideas and hatches a plan to spoil Annie’s search for her true family…

With its Tony® award-winning book and score, including the unforgettable songs It’s The HardKnock Life, Easy Street, I Don’t Need Anything But You and Tomorrow, you can bet your bottom dollar that you’ll love it!

CRAIG REVEL HORWOOD AS MISS HANNIGAN

THEATRE TOURS

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to go backstage at The Alex, our theatre tours 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!*

After your tour you can join us for a free hot drink in our Piano Bar.

New dates to be announced soon, visit our website for details

ATGTICKETS.COM/ Birmingham

*Access to the stage is not always possible due to visiting company policy. Please note that the tour covers all parts of the theatre and that includes many stairs.

YOUR NAME ON IT

Treat a loved one, leave behind a memory or celebrate a moment.

We’ve been here over 120 years, why not be a part of 120 more?

Name a seat in our auditorium for £250 and take your place in our theatre.

To find out more and put your name on it, please email –birminghamboxoffice@theambassadors.com

Sung in Italian with English surtitles.

Sung in Italian with English surtitles.

fabulous costumes, such as antique wedding kimonos from Japan.

‘THIS IS A BUTTERFLY TO CHERISH.’ –Manchester Evening News

Aida returns with a stunning, traditional production of this magnificent story of war, jealousy and revenge. Includes the classic Triumphal March, featuring a temple dance, cascades of glittering gold and amazing fire performers.

Madama Butterfly returns with exquisite sets, including a spectacular Japanese garden and

*Cast subject to change.

AIDA: WED 7.30PM

MADAMA BUTTERFLY: THU 7.30PM

TICKETS FROM £13

ATG THEATRECARD Best offer – £5 off GROUPS Offer – £4 off per ticket for groups of 6+

BOOK BOTH OPERAS TOGETHER & SAVE 20%

Senbla presents Opera International’s award-winning Ellen Kent Productions, featuring the Ukrainian Opera & Ballet Theatre Kyiv

Starring Ukrainian soprano Alyona Kistenyova, Korean soprano Elena Dee, French soprano Olga Perrier and Ukrainian mezzo-soprano Natalia Matveeva with full orchestra.*

BAFTA-winner Jessica Ransom (Doc Martin, Armstrong and Miller, Horrible Histories), Diane Keen (Doctors, Rings on Their Fingers, The Cuckoo Waltz) and Neil McDermott (EastEnders, The Royal) lead the cast in this thought-provoking new comedy by Laura Wade (Posh/The Riot Club) about one woman’s quest to be the perfect 1950s housewife.

Home, I’m Darling premiered at Theatr Clwyd in 2018 and played acclaimed seasons at the National Theatre and in the West End, winning the 2019 Olivier Award for Best New Comedy.

Photographers Jack Merriman and Manuel Harlan.

CITY AM Greetings and salutations!

Westerberg High’s Veronica Sawyer is just another nobody dreaming of a better day. But when she joins the beautiful and impossibly cruel Heathers and her dreams of popularity may finally come true, mysterious teen rebel JD teaches her that it might kill to be a nobody, but it is murder being a somebody.

Winner of the 2019 WhatsOnStage Award for Best New Musical, Heathers The Musical is based on the eponymous 1988 movie starring Winona Ryder and Christian Slater. Ages 14+

Photos of previous cast.

From the imagination of Neil Gaiman, best-selling author of Coraline, Good Omens and The Sandman (now a major Netflix series), comes the National Theatre’s major new stage adaptation of The Ocean at the End of the Lane.

Illustration by Nicolas Delort

Photography by Manuel Harlan .

Best-selling

Detective

Adapted

author Peter James returns to the stage with an all-star cast including Casualty’s George Rainsford and Clive Mantle plus Coronation Street star Katie McGlynn.

Superintendent Roy Grace and Cleo Morey take their first holiday together, hoping for a break from their dark worlds of murder and the mortuary. But their dream escape turns out to be the holiday from hell.

exclusively for the stage, Wish You Were Dead is Peter James’ latest instalment of the Grace Series.

Join Alfie and Gabz on this fabulous adventure, as they investigate the strange events happening in their home town! Children are leaving their teeth for the tooth fairy and waking up to find odd things under their pillows!

Alfie and Gabz are determined to get to the bottom of the mystery – but no one could have dreamed what they would discover when they come face-to-face with the Demon Dentist herself, in this hilarious and thrilling story!

WIN

TICKETS TO SEE HARRY POTTER AND THE CURSED CHILD And a one-night stay at a Radisson Blu Edwardian Hotel

Enter our prize draw to be in with a chance to win a pair of tickets to Part One and Part Two of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child in the West End at London’s Palace Theatre, plus a one-night stay at one of London’s Radisson Edwardian Blu hotels. To enter, simply sign up to hear from The Alexandra by scanning the QR code below or visiting atgtix.co/harrypotterprizedraw.

SCAN TO ENTER

Open to all UK residents (excluding Northern Ireland) aged 18 years or over, who have entered the prize draw between 9am Tuesday 8th November and 11pm Thursday 15th December 2022 by signing up to receive marketing emails from ATG. The prize is two tickets to see Part One and Part Two of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child at the Palace Theatre London, on selected dates until 30th June 2023 (excluding Saturday performances, half term performances and peak performances. Subject to availability and as determined by ATG) plus a one night stay at a Radisson Edwardian Blu hotel in London (excluding between 27th December 2022 to 2nd January 2023). The winner will be selected and notified no later than Thursday 22nd December 2022. For the full prize draw terms and conditions please view online at atgtix.co/hptermsandconditions

Whether you attend our workshops as part of a school group visit, as a young person or as an adult, our Creative Learning programmes have been tailored with you in mind. We’re here to bring out your passions for the theatre, music and the arts in general; whether your interest lies in performing or creating, or you’re fascinated with the technical side of the theatre and what goes on behind the scenes. Contact us to find out more about how to get involved with:

To find out more about how to get involved, email us at HeadCLCP@theambassadors.com All activities are subject to availability and may change without notice.

SING-A-LONG-A THE GREATEST SHOWMAN

Look out ‘cause here it comes. Sing-a-long-a brings you the latest smash hit film musical with lyrics on screen that everyone can’t stop singing! Join our live host as you sing, learn some new dance moves and have fun using your free prop bag. Ages 5+

SUN 15 JAN 2PM

TICKETS FROM £17.50

UNDER 16s OFFER AVAILABLE

THE MAGIC OF THE BEATLES THE GET BACK TOUR

Come together, right now to enjoy The Magic of the Beatles – She Loves You, A Hard Day’s Night, Help!, I Feel Fine, Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, Hey Jude, Get Back and more. All you need for an evening of million-selling memories.

FRI 20 JAN 7.30PM

TICKETS FROM £25

ATGTICKETS.COM/Birmingham

90s LIVE

Come on, Barbie, let’s go party! We spice up your life, taking you back for good, hitting you one more time with the ultimate 90s party night out! From Take That to Oasis, Spice Girls to S Club, Britney to B*witched – we set you free and pump up the jam.

THU 19 JAN 7.30PM

TICKETS FROM £13

ATGTICKETS.COM/Birmingham

THE CHICAGO BLUES BROTHERS CRUISIN’ FOR A BLUESIN’ TOUR

The Chicago Blues Brothers have put the band back together and are Cruisin’ for a Bluesin’. Visiting the music capitals of the USA for one night of spectacular live music by this awardwinning show.

SAT 28 JAN 7.30PM

TICKETS FROM £23.50

ATGTICKETS.COM/Birmingham

BERT KREISCHER

TOPS OFF WORLD TOUR

Renowned comedian, podcast host, and author Bert Kreischer will be bringing his party-boy antics and comedy stylings to Birmingham on his Tops Off World Tour this January. Ages 16+. Under 18s must be accompanied by an adult.

SUN 29 JAN 7PM

TICKETS FROM £33.15

ATGTICKETS.COM/Birmingham

MIKE OLDFIELD’S TUBULAR BELLS 50TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

The iconic masterpiece is performed live with a full band, conducted and arranged by Mike Oldfield’s long-term collaborator Robin Smith. Tubular Bells is a journey through classical, jazz, folk, prog rock and electronica.

MON 13 FEB 7.30PM

TICKETS FROM £29.65

ATGTICKETS.COM/Birmingham

THE PSYCHOLOGY OF SERIAL KILLERS WITH JENNIFER

REES

Join expert forensics lecturer Jennifer Rees to explore one of forensic psychology’s most troubling topics. She will debunk common serial killer myths – you may be surprised by what you learn! Ages 14+

WED 8 MAR 7.30PM

TICKETS FROM £21

ATGTICKETS.COM/Birmingham

WHAT’S LOVE GOT TO DO WITH IT? A TRIBUTE TO TINA TURNER

Expect a night of high energy rock and soul, showcasing the music of legend Tina Turner, featuring hits including Private Dancer, Proud Mary, The Best and more, performed by an incredible cast and live band.

SAT 11 MAR 7.30PM

TICKETS FROM £32.65

ATGTICKETS.COM/Birmingham

PRUE LEITH NOTHING IN MODERATION

Prue will take audiences through the ups and downs of being a successful restaurateur, novelist, businesswoman and Great British Bake Off judge – feeding the rich and famous, cooking for Royalty and even poisoning her clients. Ages 12+

SUN 12 MAR 7.30PM

TICKETS FROM £29.40

ATGTICKETS.COM/Birmingham

SEVEN DRUNKEN NIGHTS

THE STORY OF THE DUBLINERS

The ultimate feel-good Irish show returns to theatres in 2023, in partnership with Tourism Ireland. This hugely talented cast of musicians and singers bring the music of this iconic group back to life.

SUN 26 MAR 7.30PM

TICKETS FROM £24.50

ATGTICKETS.COM/Birmingham

SARA PASCOE SUCCESS STORY

Sara Pascoe presents her biggest and best tour to date, examining what it is to be successful, how we define it and how it feels when what we want eludes us. Star of her BBC2 stand-up special, and host of Live at the Apollo and The Great British Sewing Bee. ★★★★ – The Guardian

SUN 19 MAR 7.30PM

TICKETS FROM £19.40 ATGTICKETS.COM/Birmingham

MENOPAUSE THE MUSICAL 2 CRUISING THROUGH MENOPAUSE

Starring Mary Byrne (The X Factor), Annabel Giles (TV Personality), Rebecca Wheatley (Casualty) and Susie Fenwick (West End Star), Cruising Through Menopause is the hysterical sequel to the smash hit show Menopause The Musical. Ages 16+

FRI 21 APR 5.30PM & 8.30PM

TICKETS FROM £36

ATGTICKETS.COM/Birmingham

BOWIE EXPERIENCE

Bowie Experience is a spectacular concert celebrating the sound and vision of David Bowie. A must-see for all Bowie fans, the latest production features all the hits from A to Ziggy, bringing the golden years of David Bowie to the stage.

SAT 22 APR 7.30PM

TICKETS FROM £27.75

ATGTICKETS.COM/Birmingham

NORTHERN LIVE DO I LOVE YOU

Keeping faithful to the original sounds of the underground movement that started on dance floors in the North, and eventually swept the nation, including an 11-piece band with four lead vocalists performing over 30 original hits.

WED 10 MAY 7.30PM

TICKETS FROM £13

ATGTICKETS.COM/Birmingham

THAT’LL BE THE DAY

That’ll Be The Day is back with another incredible show celebrating the golden age of rock ‘n’ roll and pop from the 50s to the 80s. Hilarious comedy sketches combine with brilliant vocals and superb musicianship to bring you the ultimate feel-good experience. Ages 12+

SUN 23 APR 7PM

TICKETS FROM £13

ATGTICKETS.COM/Birmingham

JIMMY CARR TERRIBLY FUNNY 2.0

Jimmy’s brand new show contains jokes about all kinds of terrible things. Terrible things that might have affected you or people you know and love. But they’re just jokes – they are not the terrible things. All new material for 2023.

Ages 16+

FRI 12 MAY 8PM

TICKETS FROM £38.15

ATGTICKETS.COM/Birmingham

JOHANNES RADEBE FREEDOM UNLEASHED

Freedom Unleashed sees Johannes joined by a diverse, world-class cast of talented dancers and singers in this melting pot of South African rhythms and huge party anthems – with a touch of ballroom magic thrown in.

SAT 13 MAY 7.30PM | TICKETS FROM £13 ATGTICKETS.COM/Birmingham

HELLO AGAIN THE NEIL DIAMOND SONGBOOK

Using evocative imagery, video and narration to enhance the magic, this acclaimed production will take you on a musical journey through Neil Diamond’s glittering 50-year career.

SUN 14 MAY 7.30PM | TICKETS FROM £13 ATGTICKETS.COM/Birmingham

A COUNTRY NIGHT IN NASHVILLE

Direct from London’s Royal Albert Hall, this show perfectly captures the energy and atmosphere of a honky tonk in downtown Nashville. With songs from Johnny Cash to Alan Jackson, Dolly to The Chicks, Willie Nelson to Kacey Musgraves. Don’t miss this incredible show.

SAT 10 JUN 7.30PM | TICKETS FROM £26.75 ATGTICKETS.COM/Birmingham

WALK RIGHT BACK

THE EVERLY BROTHERS STORY

Follow the sad yet glorious story of The Everly Brothers, featuring hits including Bye Bye Love, All I Have To Do Is Dream and Cathy’s Clown, plus many more classics from those ‘harmonies from heaven’.

SUN 18 JUN 7.30PM | TICKETS FROM £13 ATGTICKETS.COM/Birmingham

FRANKIE BOYLE LAP OF SHAME

Frankie Boyle’s on tour. Buy a ticket, because by the time he arrives, the currency will be worthless and you and your neighbours will be part of a struggling militia that could probably use a few laughs. Ages 16+

MON 26 JUN 7.30PM | TICKETS FROM £29.65 ATGTICKETS.COM/Birmingham

December

Tue 6 – Sat 31 Dreamgirls

2.30pm & 7.30pm

See website for details

Sat 10 Dec 2.30pm

Sat 10 Dec 2.30pm

Thu 15 Dec 7.30pm

January 2023

Sun 15 Sing-a-Long-a The Greatest Showman 2pm

Wed 18 Mind Mangler 7.30pm

Thu 19 90s Live 7.30pm

Fri 20 The Magic of The Beatles –The Get Back Tour 7.30pm

Sat 21 & Sun 22 Jurassic Live 12pm (Sat & Sun) 5pm (Sat)

Sat 28 The Chicago Blues Brothers –Cruisin’ for a Bluesin’ 7.30pm

Sun 29 Bert Kreischer –Tops Off World Tour 7pm

February

Tue 7 – Sat 11 Girl from the North Country 7.30pm 2.30pm (Wed & Sat)

Sun 12 The Girls Bathroom – Live 7pm

Mon 13 Mike Oldfield’s Tubular Bells 7.30pm

Tue 14 – Sat 18 The Mirror Crack'd 7.30pm 2.30pm (Wed & Sat)

Tue 21 – Sat 25 The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel 7.30pm (Tue, Wed, Fri & Sat) 2.30pm (Wed, Thu & Sat)

Fri 21 Menopause The Musical 2 –Cruising Through the Menopause

5.30pm & 8.30pm

Sat 22 Bowie Experience 7.30pm

Sun 23 That'll Be The Day 7pm

Tue 25 – Sat 29 Home, I'm Darling 7.30pm 2.30pm (Wed, Thu & Sat) Thu 27 Apr 7.30pm

May

Sun 7

The Elvis Tribute Artist World Tour 7.30pm

Wed 10 Northern Live –Do I Love You 7.30pm

Fri 12 Jimmy Carr –Terribly Funny 2.0 8pm

Sat 13 Johannes Radebe –Freedom Unleashed 7.30pm

Sun 14 Hello Again –The Neil Diamond Songbook 7.30pm

Tue 16 – Sat 20 Heathers The Musical 7.30pm 2.30pm (Wed, Thu & Sat)

Thu 18 May 7.30pm

Tue 23 – Sat 27 The Ocean at the End of the Lane 7.30pm 2.30pm (Wed, Thu & Sat)

Wed 24 May 7.30pm Wed 24 May 7.30pm Sat 27 May 2.30pm

Wed 31 Psychic Sally 7.30pm

June

Sat 4 Mar The King and I 7.30pm 2.30pm (Wed, Thu & Sat) Wed 1 Mar 7.30pm

Tue 28 –

March

Wed 8 The Psychology of Serial Killers With Jennifer Rees

7.30pm

Sat 11 What's Love Got To Do With It – A Tribute to Tina Turner 7.30pm

Sun 12 Prue Leith –Nothing in Moderation 7.30pm

Mon 13 – Sat 18 Death Drop –Back in the Habit 8pm (Mon – Thu) 5pm & 8.30pm (Fri & Sat)

Sun 19 Sara Pascoe – Success Story 7.30pm

Tue 21 – Sat 25 Steel Magnolias 7.30pm 2.30pm (Wed & Sat)

Wed 22 Mar 7.30pm

Sun 26 Seven Drunken Nights 7.30pm

Mon 27 –Sat 1 Apr The Rocky Horror Show 7.30pm (Mon – Thu) 5.30pm & 8.30pm (Fri & Sat)

Wed 29 Mar 7.30pm

April

Mon 3 – Sat 15 Annie 7.30pm 2.30pm (Wed & Sat)

Wed 5 Apr 7.30pm

Thu 13 Apr 7.30pm

Wed 19 Ellen Kent – Aida 7.30pm

Thu 20 Ellen Kent –Madama Butterfly 7.30pm

Thu 1 Tim Vine – Breeeep! 7.30pm

Sun 4 Mrs Kapoor’s Daughter’s Wedding 2 Mauritius 6.30pm

Mon 5 Race Chaser 8pm

Thu 8 & Fri 9 Penn & Teller 7.30pm

Sat 10 A Country Night in Nashville 7.30pm

Sun 18 Walk Right Back –The Everly Brothers Story 7.30pm

Tue 20 – Sat 24 Wish You Were Dead 7.30pm 2.30pm (Wed & Sat)

Mon 26 Frankie Boyle –Lap of Shame 7.30pm

Wed 28 –Sat 1 Jul Demon Dentist 1.30pm (Wed) 10.30am & 6.30pm (Thu) 6.30pm (Fri) 11am & 3pm (Sat) For

PUT YOUR BUSINESS IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Your Brand. Our Audiences. Partner with Birmingham’s best looking theatre.

Whether you’re looking to raise your business’s profile, impress clients with a VIP visit to the theatre they won’t forget or treat your staff to a whole host of benefits – including regular special ticket offers, complimentary theatre tours and exclusive event invites – partnering with The Alex couldn’t be easier!

To find out more please email simoncreed@theambassadors.com

THANK YOU TO OUR OFFICAL PARTNERS

Arts and culture are the beating heart of Birmingham and we always welcome support from our partners.

BOOKING & VENUE INFORMATION

BUY YOUR TICKETS

ATGTICKETS.COM/Birmingham*

Groups & Schools: 0207 206 1174

Mon – Fri, 9am – 5.30pm

ATGTICKETS.COM/Groups

Box Office: Opens 2 hours prior to performance commencing. The Box Office will open every Wednesday afternoon between 12pm – 5pm. *Fees apply. Calls to 02 & 03 numbers are charged at standard geographic rate and included in any call plan minutes

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

@thealexbham

FIND OUT MORE

For further information about shows including running and performance times as well as parking, pre-theatre drinks and hospitality please visit ATGTICKETS.COM/Birmingham

The Alexandra, Suffolk Street Queensway, Birmingham B5 4DS

We are delighted to welcome you to our venue, where we want everyone to enjoy the show. With that in mind, we politely ask that you show consideration to your fellow audience members, who have come to enjoy the performances on-stage. We all have a part to play in making sure the theatre is a fantastic experience for all – you can help by ensuring the professionals on-stage are the only people entertaining us with their performances, and being kind to our dedicated staff, who are here to keep everyone safe. Anti-social behaviour towards our staff or other customers will not be tolerated.

TICKET PRICES

Based on the popularity of a performance and ticket availability, prices can change at any point during the show’s on-sale period. Due to the varying nature of our shows and their set design, we cannot guarantee an unrestricted view from all seats at all times. For the most up-to-date information please check online, call or visit our Box Office.

ATG TheatreCard, group ticket prices and any special offers or concessions, are subject to availability and can change or be withdrawn at any time. Family tickets are for 4 people with a maximum of 2 adults. ATG TheatreCard offers are for a maximum of 4 tickets per card. All discounts and concessions apply to selected seats, prices and performances.

atgtickets.com/theatre-card-terms-and-conditions

CHILDREN

No children under 5 admitted to venue except where stated at time of booking that the show is suitable for under 5s. All under 16s must be accompanied by an adult 18+ and supervised at all times. There must be 1 adult for every 10 children. Children under 18 months will only be admitted to shows they may attend (pantomimes and shows for under 5s only). Children (18 months – 15 years incl.) require full price tickets if no child concessions available at time of booking.

EQUAL ACCESS FOR EVERYONE

Full details of our Access services are available from atgtickets.com/access along with accessibility information for our venue atgtickets.com/birmingham

Register with our free Access Membership Scheme to book accessible seats online. Contact our Access Champion for accessibility advice via our website atgtickets.com/access/contact-us

Or call our dedicated Access Assistance line 0333 009 5399*

For our D/deaf and hard of hearing customers our Type Talk number is 18001 0333 009 5399

*Calls to 02 & 03 numbers are charged at standard geographic rate and included in any call plan minutes.

We offer: Audio Described, Captioned, Relaxed, Signed performances & Touch Tours highlighted on show pages in this brochure and our online calendar.

This brochure is available as an accessible download from the venue page on our website, or contact us to request an alternative format.

CONDITIONS OF SALE

Our full terms and conditions are available online atgtickets.com/terms-and-conditions

INFORMATION ABOUT FEES

Up to £1.75 from each ticket sold is used for the upkeep and improvements to your theatre. We spend this wisely to give you the best experience possible, provide equal access for everyone and offer creative learning opportunities in local communities across the UK.

Additional fees may also apply where we sell tickets for non-ATG theatres, or for selected big name shows and performances. These additional fees may take the form of a per ticket booking fee and/or a one-off transaction fee. Please check our website for the most up-to-date ticket prices and fees.

The information in this brochure is correct at the time of going to press. We reserve the right to make alterations to the published programme of events, their prices, concessions, offers and fees.

SUSTAINABILITY

We work to continuously improve our environmental performance and find solutions that reduce environmental impact, therefore this brochure is printed on responsibly sourced paper. Please continue to help the environment by recycling or passing onto a friend.