Spring 2024 e-Brochure by AnvilArts

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SPRING 2024

A N V I L A RT S .O RG .U K 0 125 6 8 4 424 4 # G REAT PERFO RMANC ELIV E

“ONE OF THE MOST VITAL ARTS ORGANISATIONS IN SOUTHERN ENGLAND”

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The Times

We are a charity The Anvil Trust is the charity behind Anvil Arts, the largest performing arts organisation in Hampshire that operates three fantastic cultural venues. We bring many big names to Basingstoke and attract 200,000 people into the town centre each year, who visit shops, bars, restaurants and hotels, as well as The Anvil, The Haymarket and The Forge. Trust members are local people with specific skills to ensure we meet our charitable objectives. For further details, please contact the Chief Executive.

As an independent charity we can: • Make sure that we present a variety of performances for a wide range of audiences, both popular and specialist • Help Basingstoke gain a reputation as a town with a strong cultural offer, punching above its weight on the national stage • Give opportunities to local children, schools and colleges, young musicians and performers • Work to benefit people on the autistic spectrum and people with dementia, their carers and families, with specially designed projects • Partner with other charities, both local and national, to make our resources go further • Apply for investment from Arts Council England and other support organisations • Make sure that any surplus is reinvested in our work to benefit people in Basingstoke and Hampshire, making the Borough a better place to live and work

Foyer opening hours and pre-show service We will send you a text message 24–48 hours before the performance, with a link to your tickets and other information about your visit. There’s also a quick and easy way to pre-order your drinks. Foyers open from 6pm for evening performances. 2

anvilarts.org.uk

DECEMBER 2023

The Haymarket: 7 – 10 Dec / 10.30am & 1.30pm / Sat & Sun 4pm

Santa is determined to deliver the most fantastic Christmas present to Sarah, but he doesn’t get it right straight away! With the help of his cheeky Elf, he finally settles on something ‘perfect’, just in time for Christmas Eve. From the author of the well-loved children’s book Dear Zoo, Rod Campbell, Dear Santa is an ideal introduction to theatre for those aged two and over. The Christmas cheer continues, with the opportunity to meet Santa in his grotto after the show, where every child will receive an extra special gift! The perfect family show this festive season. £19. Under 16s £17. Relaxed performance £10 (includes £4 booking fee)

Fri 8 Dec / 1.30pm Suitable for: ages 2 and over Running time: 55 minutes, plus meet and greet

“MAGICAL FAMILY TREAT AND A JOY TO WATCH” Mumsnet

DECEMBER 2023

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Insert Event Text

The Anvil:

8 – 31 Dec / see performance diary for times Join Peter, Smee, Tinker Bell, and Ethyl Mermaid on a brand-new swashbuckling adventure full of fun, laughter, and crocodiles! After defeating the evil Captain Hook and his crew of prancing pirates, life has been pretty perfect for Peter Pan. But when a stranger arrives in Neverland, he is forced to question his past and face his future. Will Peter ever grow up? And then there are the rumours...

That a certain someone survived the stormy seas and is seeking revenge! Have you heard them too? People are saying that Hook is back! So watch out, he might be behind you! £33.50, £32.50, £29.50, £23.50. Under 16s and f/t students £3 off, Over 65s £1 off (exc 9 & 10 Dec / 2pm and 16 – 28 Dec). Relaxed performance £12 (includes £4 booking fee)

Tue 12 Dec / 6pm Tue 19 Dec / 2pm

anvilarts.org.uk

JANUARY 2024

The Haymarket: Thu 18 Jan / 7.30pm

MILES JUPP ON I BANG As well as appearances in The Full Monty, The Durrells, and Have I Got News For You, Miles has made an award-winning radio series, published a novel, done a play in the West End and played the Emperor of Austria in a Ridley Scott film. Yet one sunny day in the middle of all this, he suddenly suffered a brain seizure. Obviously, one doesn’t wish to make a big deal of it, but the experience has left him with a story to tell. £26 (includes £4 booking fee) Suitable for: ages 16 and over

The Anvil: Sat 20 Jan / 7pm (Doors)

FISHERMAN’S FRIENDS

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ROCK THE BOAT TOUR – PLUS SUPPORT Tickets for this event have sold out. Please email your name, address and contact number to box.office@anvilarts.org.uk to be added to the waiting list. £38.50, £31.50 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Anvil: Tue 23 Jan / 7.30pm

THE CLASSIC ROCK SHOW THE CLASSIC ROCK FAN’S ULTIMATE LIVE JUKE BOX! The Classic Rock Show is back, bigger and even better. Performed with note-for-note precision, bringing the original era-defining recordings back to life on stage, with an amazing sound and light show to match. Anthem after anthem, riff after riff, and solo after solo, culminating in a show-stopping guitar duel that is not to be missed. £49, £42, £34 (includes £4 booking fee)

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JANUARY 2024

The Anvil: Wed 24 Jan / 7.30pm

THAT’LL BE THE DAY Let the world’s leading rock ‘n’ roll show take you on a journey through the years, celebrating music and comedy from the 50s right the way through to the 80s. Combining uproarious comedy sketches and impersonations with breath-taking vocals and dazzling musicianship, That’ll Be The Day truly is in a league of its own. It’s no wonder this show has been touring solidly for over 35 years and it just gets better and better! £31 (includes £4 booking fee) Suitable for: ages 12 and over (contains adult humour)

The Anvil: Thu 25 & Sun 28 Jan / 8pm

ROMESH RANGANATHAN

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HUSTLE Tickets for this event have sold out. Please email your name, address and contact number to box.office@anvilarts.org.uk to be added to the waiting list. £34 (includes £4 booking fee) Suitable for: ages 14 and over (likely to be swearing and adult content). Children younger than this will not be admitted, even if accompanied by an adult.

The Anvil: Fri 26 Jan / 7.30pm

JONATHAN PIE: HEROES & VILLAINS Jonathan Pie: Hero or Villain? A question often asked and one that Pie hopes to answer in his brand-new show. Join him as he celebrates the UK’s greatest heroes (nurses, Gary Lineker, 24-hour off-licence proprietors) and takes a verbal blowtorch to its villains (The Tories, cyclists). £31.50, £24 (includes £4 booking fee) Suitable for: ages 16 and over 6

anvilarts.org.uk

JANUARY 2024

The Haymarket: Fri 26 Jan / 7.30pm

AN EVENING WITH LAUREL & HARDY

“DON’T MISS THE CHANCE TO ENJOY THE ORIGINAL GENIUSES WHO INVENTED CINEMA COMEDY WITH THE BRILLIANT NEIL BRAND & HIS PIANO” New York Post

presented by Neil Brand Join the leading world expert on silent film and comedy, Neil Brand for his all-new show about the immortal comedy duo. Fully illustrated with stills and clips, culminating in two of the boys’ best silent short films, Big Business and Liberty, this is a show that gets under the skin of two warm, funny men who continue to make the world laugh. £23.50 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Forge: Fri 26 Jan / 7.45pm

HANNAH SCOTT From Suffolk via Italy, Hannah Scott performs contemporary folk music and is building a loyal following thanks to her distinctive voice, strong melodies and thought-provoking lyrics. Her music has been heard in the hit TV series Grey’s Anatomy, on BBC Radio 2 and 6 Music, while praise for her work has arrived from publications such as MOJO, The Guardian and Clash Magazine. £18. Under 25s and f/t students £16 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Anvil: Sat 27 Jan / 7.30pm

CLEARWATER CREEDENCE REVIVAL ‘BAYOU COUNTRY’ 40TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR PLUS BEAUX GRIS GRIS & THE APOCALYPSE Clearwater Creedence Revival are a tribute to and celebration of one of the most recognisable rock groups of all time, Creedence Clearwater Revival. With huge hits such as Proud Mary, Bad Moon Rising, Born on the Bayou, Fortunate Son, and Up Around the Bend, fan favourites are powerfully reprised in this show. £31.50 (includes £4 booking fee)

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JANUARY – FEBRUARY 2024

The Forge: Sat 27 Jan / 7.45pm

NIGEL WEARNE Nigel Wearne is a guitarist and multi-instrumentalist with diverse influences such as Nick Cave, Tom Waits and Rickie Lee Jones. A deep thinker and truth seeker with a penchant for all things peculiar, he sings of human frailty, grace, and the cosmos; songwriting that cuts to the bone. Join Nigel for what promises to be an enlivening and captivating solo performance. £18. Under 16s and f/t students £16 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Forge: Sun 28 Jan / 3.30pm & 7pm

WIFI WARS The live comedy game show where you play along. Log in with your smartphone/tablet and compete in games, puzzles and quizzes to win the show! Hosted by comedian Steve McNeil (team captain, Dara O’Briain’s Go 8 Bit). Different games/quizzes at each show, so come to both! £12.50 (3.30pm, family friendly), £14.50 (7pm) (includes £4 booking fee)

Suitable for: ages 6 and over (matinee) / 12 and over (evening) Please note: all attendees must have a smart mobile phone (fully charged)

The Haymarket: Fri 2 Feb / 7.30pm

ROY ORBISON & THE TRAVELING WILBURYS Celebrate the music of Jeff Lynne’s ELO, Roy Orbison, Bob Dylan, Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers, The Beatles’ George Harrison, and the collective genius that was The Traveling Wilburys. Although The Wilburys never toured, here you have the chance to experience what it might have been like to see them live with their many collaborative hits such as Pretty Woman, Mr Blue Sky, Please Please Me, End of The Line, Blowin’ in the Wind, Only the Lonely, and many more. £29 (includes £4 booking fee) 8

anvilarts.org.uk

FEBRUARY 2024

The Anvil: Thu 1 Feb / 7.30pm

BOURNEMOUTH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Mozart Wind serenade in C minor K388 Vasks Violin Concerto: Distant Light Shostakovich Symphony no. 15 Vadim Gluzman violin Kirill Karabits Mozart’s many wind serenades range from genial entertainments to serious masterpieces, and this C minor work is one of his very best. The soulful and passionate concerto by Vasks which follows was inspired by childhood memories and stars twinkling in the night sky. “This haunting work strives constantly and touchingly towards ‘distant light’” (The Times). The concert ends with Shostakovich’s final symphony, a mysterious work which the composer never explained. The overall tone is reflective, leading to a delicate and subtle ending. £44, £38, £33, £24, £16. Under 25s and f/t students £12 (includes £4 booking fee)

6.30pm / The Forge

The Anvil: Sat 3 Feb / 7.30pm

KODO: WARABE Japanese drumming ensemble Kodo return to bring the spirit of the taiko for a stunning performance that embodies sound, resonance, and physicality. Kodo is the most recognised kumi-daiko (drumming troupe) in the world. They have composed soundtracks to major films, as well as having become the inspiration for many taiko players around the world. £33.50, £29.50 (includes £4 booking fee)

“KODO'S SOUND STRETCHES FROM THE LIGHTEST OF RAINFALL TO CATACLYSMIC THUNDERCLAPS, FROM SILENCE TO A WALL OF SOUND”

The Guardian

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FEBRAURY 2024

The Haymarket: Sun 4 Feb / 7.30pm

THEA GILMORE with support from Liam Frost Thea Gilmore’s intimate concert supporting her bold new self-titled album. With 25 years and 20 records under her belt, Gilmore’s latest finds the singer-songwriter renewing her musical vows. Her live set promises raw emotion and soaring vocals as she performs new tracks alongside career-spanning favourites. £26.50 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Anvil: Tue 6 Feb / 7.30pm

STRANGER SINGS! THE PARODY MUSICAL Tune in, children of the 80s! Join us in the upside-down for this smash-hit new parody musical, Stranger Sings! Straight from off-Broadway, to a UK premiere three month sell-out run in London, this award-winning sci-fi spoof is a wild, irreverent twist on the hit series in all its hair-raising, blockbuster glory. Take a trip with your favourite gang on a night of indulgent pop culture references, heavy synth, poor parenting, dancing demogorgons, and maybe, just maybe, you might find justice for Barb along the way. £40, £36, £32 (includes £4 booking fee) Suitable for: ages 12 and over (some adult language and themes)

The Anvil: Wed 7 Feb / 7pm (Doors)

THE GILMOUR PROJECT AN ALL-STAR BAND EXPLORING THE MUSIC OF PINK FLOYD AND DAVID GILMOUR The Gilmour Project brings together some of music’s most highly esteemed players to explore the Gilmour-years of the Pink Floyd catalogue in all their complexity, alongside notable highlights from Gilmour’s own solo canon. Comprising Jeff Pavar (Crosby, Stills & Nash, David Crosby/CPR), Kasim Sulton (Todd Rundgren, Utopia, Meatloaf), Prairie Prince (The Tubes, Journey, Todd Rundgren), Mark Karan (Bob Weir, RatDog, The Other Ones), and Scott Guberman (Phil Lesh & Friends). Having just completed a 55-date US tour, don’t miss this amazing show coming to the UK for the first time. £57, £46, £34 (includes £4 booking fee) 10

anvilarts.org.uk

FEBRAURY 2024

The Haymarket: Tue 6 Feb / 7.30pm THE TELLING presents

INTO THE MELTING POT by Clare Norburn. Directed by BAFTA-nominated Nicholas Renton Spain, 1492. At twilight on her final night in Seville, a Jewish woman lights the lamps. She is being forced to leave Spain and set sail for an uncertain future. Her story echoes down the ages to the stories of people affected by politics and war today. She tunes into voices of a community of Jewish, Christian, and Muslim women from across the Spanish peninsula. Down the centuries, women’s stories are played out to a rich soundtrack of plaintive Sephardic songs and lively medieval music performed live by The Telling, with full staging and stunning lighting.

“A VERY MOVING EXPERIENCE THAT CAPTURES THE IMAGINATION” Reviews Hub

Be transported back to 15th-century Seville! £20. Under 25s and f/t students £12 (includes £4 booking fee)

Supported by Arts Council England and Shoresh Charitable Trust

FEBRUARY 2024

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The Anvil: Thu 8 Feb / 8pm

ROSS NOBLE JIBBER JABBER JAMBOREE Jibber Jabber Jamboree marks Ross Noble’s 21st solo stand-up tour. To celebrate this milestone, he invites you to join him for an evening of the sort of inspired nonsense that has cemented his place as the supreme master of stream of conscious freewheeling stand-up. See Noble in his natural habitat live on stage. £33 (includes £4 booking fee) Suitable for: ages 15 and over

The Anvil: Sat 10 Feb / 7.30pm

ROYAL CHORAL SOCIETY Academy of St Martin in the Fields Haydn Insanae et Vanae Curae Mozart Clarinet Concerto Requiem James Burke clarinet Keri Fuge soprano Robin Bailey tenor William Gaunt bass Richard Cooke Mozart composed two of his greatest works during the last months of his short life. His hauntingly beautiful Requiem was commissioned by a stranger and unfinished at the composer’s death. His pupil Franz Süßmayr’s first ‘completion’ has been challenged by scholars, and in this concert, the Royal Choral Society will perform the version by Mozart scholar Franz Beyer. Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto – his final orchestral work, and perhaps the greatest concerto written for any wind instrument – is full of rapturous melody and intense harmony. Composed for his friend Anton Stadler, the work showcases the profoundly expressive range of this instrument, especially in the sublime second movement. £44, £34, £24. Under 25s and f/t students £12 Anvil Arts Friends 10% off (includes £4 booking fee)

anvilarts.org.uk

FEBRUARY 2024

The Haymarket: Sat 10 Feb / 7.30pm

MATT FORDE: INSIDE NO. 10 Host of hit podcast The Political Party, Matt Forde (Spitting Image, Have I Got News for You, The British Scandal, The Last Leg) explores the dark comedy horror that is British politics, ahead of the next election. Plus silly voices. £21.50 (includes £4 booking fee) Suitable for: ages 14 and over

The Anvil: Sun 11 Feb / 7.30pm

THE SIMON & GARFUNKEL STORY Direct from a week long run in London’s West End, a sold-out worldwide tour, and standing ovations at every performance, The Simon & Garfunkel Story continues to stun audiences across the globe. Using huge projection photos, original film footage and a full live band performing all the hits including Mrs Robinson, Cecilia, Homeward Bound, and many more. £32.50 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Haymarket: Sun 11 Feb / 7.30pm

JANEY GODLEY ‘NOT DEAD YET’ TOUR Janey Godley is ‘still alive, by popular demand’. There will be voiceovers and anecdotes, straight from the woman who wouldn’t die or shut up. Join Janey as she’s back, and doing what she does best! £27 (includes £4 booking fee) Suitable for: ages 16 and over 13

Box Office 01256 844244

FEBRUARY 2024

The Anvil: Wed 14 Feb / 7.30pm

STRASBOURG PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA Berlioz Rachmaninov Franck Ravel

Overture: Roman Carnival Piano Concerto no. 2 Le Chasseur maudit Suite: Mother Goose La Valse

Nikolay Lugansky piano Marko Letonja We welcome this distinguished orchestra to The Anvil for the first time. Renowned for its performances of Berlioz, the concert opens with his rollicking portrait of a feast day in Rome. The romantic and lyrical character of Rachmaninov’s Second Piano Concerto has deservedly made it a favourite amongst his works. Cesar Franck’s spine-tingling symphonic poem tells the tale of an arrogant huntsman cursed to be forever hunted himself for riding out on a Sunday. The concert ends with two pieces by Ravel, his delicate and touching evocation of six contrasting fairy tales, and the dizzying kaleidoscope of La Valse. £44, £38, £33, £24, £16. Under 25s and f/t students £12 (includes £4 booking fee)

6.30pm / The Forge

The Anvil: Thu 15 Feb / 7.30pm

IT’S A BEAUTIFUL NOISE: ORCHESTRAL EDITION THE DEFINITIVE TRIBUTE TO NEIL DIAMOND Direct from the West End, It’s A Beautiful Noise: Orchestral Edition (featuring Fisher Stevens) celebrates the music of the one and only Neil Diamond. Join us for a special performance as the exceptional orchestra breathes new life into some of the biggest hits, such as Sweet Caroline, Cracklin’ Rosie, Love on The Rocks, I’m a Believer, and Hello Again. £34, £32 (includes £4 booking fee) 14

anvilarts.org.uk

FEBRUARY 2024

The Anvil: Fri 16 Feb & Sun 18 Feb performed by Varna International Ballet, accompanied by Varna International Ballet Orchestra Fri 16 Feb / 2.30pm & 7.30pm

Sun 18 Feb / 1.30pm & 5.30pm

SLEEPING BEAUTY

SWAN LAKE

Every child’s favourite fairy tale, this is the story of love and innocence, mystery and magic, set to Tchaikovsky’s sublime score.

The greatest romantic ballet of all time is brought to life by Tchaikovsky’s haunting and unforgettable score.

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

From the impressive splendour of the Palace ballroom, to the moon-lit lake where swans glide in perfect formation, this compelling tale of tragic romance has it all. From Odile, the temptress in black tulle as she seduces the Prince by spinning with captivating precision, to the spellbound purity of the swan queen, Odette, as she flutters with emotional intensity.

Founded in 1947, the Varna International Ballet returns to the UK following a breathtaking debut tour. Renowned for its awardwinning soloists and magnificent corps de ballet, the company has been delighting audiences for decades at home and abroad with its performances of the highest quality.

The dual role of Odette/Odile is one of ballet’s most unmissable technical challenges.

£48.50, £42.50, £40.50 (includes £4 booking fee). Under 16s half price (excludes booking fee) Under 25s and f/t students £5 off (excludes top price)

Box Office 01256 844244

FEBRUARY 2024

The Haymarket: Thu 15 Feb / 2pm

COMEDY CLUB 4 KIDS It’s a comedy club but for kids, and any adults who enjoy a swear-free hour with the circuit’s best stand-ups and sketch acts. Non-patronising, pure awesome. “THE PERFECT WAY TO ENTERTAIN THE WHOLE FAMILY” Three Weeks £16. Under 16s £14 (includes £4 booking fee) Suitable for: ages 6 to 400! Running time: approx. 60 minutes (no interval)

The Anvil: Sat 17 Feb / 8pm

CHRIS MCCAUSLAND YONKS! You might have seen him on Scared of the Dark, Would I Lie to You?, Have I Got News for You, QI, Blankety Blank, and tons more as well. He’s been called an ‘overnight success’ – even though he’s been doing this for bloody Yonks! Chris McCausland is hitting the road again with another masterclass in stand-up comedy that has literally been Yonks in the making. £26.50 (includes £4 booking fee) Suitable for: ages 16 and over

The Forge: Sat 17 Feb / 8.15pm

CERYS HAFANA Cerys Hafana is a composer and multi-instrumentalist who mangles, mutates, and transforms traditional music. She has won over audiences from Green Man to the Eisteddfod, and from BBC 6 Music Festival to Celtic Connections with her magical, progressive sound, and her second album Edyf was selected as one of The Guardian’s Top Ten albums of 2022. £18. Under 25s and f/t students £16 (includes £4 booking fee)

“PROFOUNDLY BEAUTIFUL... CREATES THICKETS OF WONDER IN BRIGHT SOUNDS” The Guardian

anvilarts.org.uk

FEBRUARY 2024

The Haymarket: 17 – 18 Feb / Sat 3pm / Sun 11am, 1.30pm & 4pm

THERE’S A MONSTER IN YOUR SHOW Based on the best-selling picture book by Tom Fletcher and illustrated by Greg Abbott Tom Fletcher’s interactive adventures for big imaginations are leaping from page to stage, as the beloved Who’s in Your Book? series makes its debut as a brand-new musical show. A group of performers are preparing to start their show, but quickly discover they are not alone on stage. Little Monster wants to be part of the fun too! With an invitation to his friends, Dragon, Alien and Unicorn to join him, you can expect comedy and chaos as they help to create a magical show, learning about the joy of books and friendship along the way. A high-energy 50-minute adventure featuring lively original music, this show is the perfect introduction to live theatre. Expect plenty of playful fun for your littlest ones as their favourite characters come to life in a show that is packed with interactive moments to enjoy together. There’s a Monster in Your Show... and he can’t wait to meet you! £19. Under 16s £17 (includes £4 booking fee) Running time: approx. 50 minutes, no interval Suitable for: ages 2 and over

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FEBRUARY 2024

The Anvil: Fri 23 Feb / 7.30pm

PHILHARMONIA ORCHESTRA Sibelius Lemminkainen’s Return Prokofiev Violin Concerto no. 1 Tchaikovsky Symphony no. 5 Esther Yoo violin Emilia Hoving Sibelius’ energetic piece depicts the hero of the Finnish folklore returning home after success in battle. Prokofiev’s violin concerto has the atmosphere of a fairy tale with the two rhapsodic outer movements divided by a quirky scherzo. Tchaikovsky’s Fifth Symphony was composed on his return to Russia in 1888 after a successful European concert tour. The waltz feel of much of the first movement foreshadows the waltz which takes the place of the usual scherzo. The slow movement is pure melody, while the finale is a burst of orchestral colour. £44, £38, £33, £24, £16. Under 25s and f/t students £12 (includes £4 booking fee)

6.30pm / The Forge The Philharmonia Orchestra is Anvil Arts’ Orchestra in Partnership

The Haymarket: Fri 23 Feb / 8pm

ANDY PARSONS BAFFLINGLY OPTIMISTIC As seen on Netflix, Amazon Prime, BBC iPlayer, Live at The Apollo, and Mock the Week. £21. F/t students £19 (includes £4 booking fee) Suitable for: Strictly 14 and over (likely to be swearing and adult content). Children younger than this will not be admitted, even if accompanied by an adult.

anvilarts.org.uk

FEBRUARY 2024

The Haymarket: Sat 24 Feb / 8pm

ROSIE JONES TRIPLE THREAT Join Rosie in a show guaranteed to be full of unapologetic cheekiness, nonsensical fun, and unadulterated joy from the Triple Threat herself. Best known for her hit travel series’ Trip Hazard and Mission: Accessible, and for numerous appearances on Cats Does Countdown, Mock the Week, and The Ranganation to name just a few! £19 (includes £4 booking fee) Suitable for: ages 14 and over (likely to be swearing and adult content). Children younger than this will not be admitted, even if accompanied by an adult * BSL and/or captioning available upon request. Please contact the box office for more information

The Anvil: Sun 25 Feb / 7.30pm

DR MICHAEL MOSLEY AND DR CLARE BAILEY EAT (WELL), SLEEP (BETTER), LIVE (LONGER)! For the first time ever, Dr Michael Mosley and Dr Clare Bailey are set to embark on a joint UK tour. This husband and wife team have changed tens of thousands of lives with their international bestselling books (The Fast 800), award-winning programmes (Trust Me I’m a Doctor), and podcasts (Just One Thing). With mental and physical health problems on the rise, Michael and Clare will reveal how simple changes can transform your life, so we can all Eat Well, Sleep Better, and Live Longer! £32, £29 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Haymarket: Sun 25 Feb / 2pm

MORGAN & WEST’S MASSIVE MAGIC SHOW FOR KIDS RELENTLESSLY FUNNY AND BURSTING WITH MAGIC FOR AGES 5 TO 105! Roll up, roll up! Morgan & West are back with a massive magic show for kids (and their childish grown-ups)! Expect gawps, gasps, and guffaws in this relentlessly funny and fantastical magic filled extravaganza. £18.50. Under 16s £16.50 (includes £4 booking fee) Suitable for: ages 5 and over Running time: approx. 60 minutes (no interval)

FEBRUARY 2024

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The Haymarket: 27 – 29 Feb / Tue & Wed 7.30pm / Wed 1.30pm / Thu 3.45pm ICARUS THEATRE COLLECTIVE present

JULIUS CAESAR by William Shakespeare

Julius Caesar. A divisive leader who holds awesome power. Concerned that Caesar poses a threat to democracy, revolutionaries take the violent decision to murder him. As the world spins out of control, chaos, horror, and superstition rush in to fill the void. Civil war erupts and a new leader must rise: but at what cost? Shakespeare’s political thriller exposes the ambiguous morality in trying to shift power. As we rage against the crises surrounding us, how far will each of us go for our political principles? Join Icarus Theatre Collective for a boldly modern re-telling of Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar. Set in the near future, the show combines state-of-theart digital technology, fully integrated creative captioning, and classic theatrical magic to highlight the parallels between the gossips and doom-mongers of Ancient Rome, and the power of fake news to destroy our world today. £26. Under 25s and f/t students £16 (includes £4 booking fee) Please note: There is creative captioning for all performances and the production is performed in original verse Creative captions offer an opportunity for deaf and hard of hearing audiences to more fully immerse themselves in a performance. Captions appear on stage by being integrated with a set design matching the style of the show and reflect characterisation and tone.

anvilarts.org.uk

FEBRUARY –MARCH 2024

The Forge: Sun 25 Feb / 7.45pm

BRÌGHDE CHAIMBEUL “AN EXCITING, SOMETIMES BEWITCHING SET OF TUNES”

Scottish smallpipes player Brìghde Chaimbeul has earned a BBC Young Folk Award and a BBC Horizon Award, and performed for heads of state at the COP26 climate conference. Chaimbeul has taken piping beyond folk music, discovering a place where tradition and minimalism meet, offering her the freedom to experiment in sound and create something completely her own.

The Quietus

£19. Under 25s and f/t students £17 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Anvil: Fri 1 Mar / 7.30pm George Hinchcliffe’s

UKULELE ORCHESTRA OF GREAT BRITAIN As soon as The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain walk on stage, you are in safe hands. Witty, quirky and irreverent – praised by Bowie and Eno, promoted by the BBC and raved about by The New York Times, you can expect “an evening of sheer entertainment” from this eccentric group of seasoned performers. £35. Under 25s £25 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Haymarket: Sun 3 Mar / 7.30pm

SIR GEOFF HURST THE FAREWELL TOUR England hat-trick hero Sir Geoff Hurst comes to The Haymarket on his final farewell tour. With his great friend and agent Terry Baker interviewing and gently taking the respectful mickey with him, the England and West Ham United footballer will talk amusingly about his illustrious career, including the 1966 World Cup. The second half will also include a charity auction and your chance to ask questions. £33.50. VIP upgrade £84 (includes £4 booking fee)

Box Office 01256 844244

MARCH 2024

The Anvil: Wed 6 Mar / 7.30pm

PHILHARMONIA ORCHESTRA Tchaikovsky Piano Concerto no. 1 Borodin Symphony no. 2 Rimsky-Korsakov Capriccio espagnol Frank Dupree piano Santtu-Matias Rouvali Tchaikovsky’s piano concerto set the pattern for many future pieces with its dramatic confrontation between heroic soloist and eloquent orchestra. Borodin’s epic second symphony is one of the boldest and most colourful of its time. The composer was at the peak of his powers while writing this work. Rimsky-Korsakov was captivated by the dash and glitter of popular Spanish musical themes, and worked several of them into the striking piece that closes this concert. £44, £38, £33, £24, £16. Under 25s and f/t students £12 (includes £4 booking fee)

6.30pm / The Forge The Philharmonia Orchestra is Anvil Arts’ Orchestra in Partnership

“WORLD-CLASS ORCHESTRAL PLAYING... TOTALLY COMPELLLING” The Guardian

The Anvil: Thu 7 Mar / 7.30pm

PROFESSOR BRIAN COX

Returns Only

HORIZONS: A 21ST CENTURY SPACE ODYSSEY Tickets for this event have sold out. Please email your name, address and contact number to box.office@anvilarts.org.uk to be added to the waiting list. £44 (includes £4 booking fee) Please note: Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult 22

anvilarts.org.uk

MARCH 2024

The Forge: Thu 7 Mar / 7.45pm

JO HARMAN TRIO Widely regarded as one of Europe’s finest soul/blues fuelled voices, Jo Harman remains a genre-defying, independently minded artist of rare credibility. Making sincere and heartfelt music, The Mirror proclaimed her “UK’s finest female soul blues voice” who, according to Classic Rock, writes “lip-biting beautiful songs”.

“A MUST HEAR ARTIST” Jazz FM

£19. Under 16s and f/t students £17 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Haymarket: Fri 8 Mar / 7.30pm

RONNIE, REGGIE AND ME with Fred Dinenage, hosted by Alex Dyke Discover the definitive insight into the life of Britain’s most notorious gangsters, Ronnie and Reggie Kray. TV’s Fred Dinenage was chosen by the twins to tell their official story, and he became one of the very few people allowed into their inner circle. Fred gained an unparalleled insight into their real lives and in this show, he reveals stories and situations for the first time that have never been told publicly before. £25 (includes £4 booking fee) Suitable for: ages 16 and over

The Haymarket: Sat 9 Mar / 7.30pm

SAM SWEENEY BAND Following the colossal success of supporting Bellowhead on their comeback tour in 2022, Sam Sweeney is taking to the road to play his genre-defying landmark album, Escape That, with his all-star band. £24. Under 25s and f/t students £19 (includes £4 booking fee)

Box Office 01256 844244

MARCH 2024

The Anvil: Thu 14 Mar / 7pm (Doors)

JUST MY IMAGINATION THE ULTIMATE TEMPTATIONS REVUE Get ready to groove to the sound of The Temptations. This show will take you back to the heyday of the group, with all the ubiquitous hits including Get Ready, My Girl, Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone, and of course, Just My Imagination. Featuring a cast of dynamic West End performers and some of the UK’s most talented musicians, expect a fresh, exhilarating, and incomparable night of sing-along magic. £39, £36.50, £33.50, £29, £23.50. VIP upgrade £79 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Forge: Thu 14 Mar / 8.15pm

CHARLIE DORE As one of the UK’s most respected songwriters, Charlie Dore’s songs have been recorded by the good and the great including George Harrison, Tina Turner, Celine Dion, and Ricky Ross. Her own albums, described as “eclectic contemporary folk with crunchy lyrics” show her ability to capture the imagination of audiences old and new. With Julian Littman (Steeleye Span). £18. Under 16s and f/t students £16 (includes £4 booking fee)

“A GIFT FOR MELODY, BRAVE, POIGNANT, ENTERTAINING, ORIGINAL” ★★★★ The Guardian

The Forge: Fri 15 Mar / 8.15pm

KATHYRN ROBERTS & SEAN LAKEMAN ALMOST A SUNSET Husband and wife duo Kathryn Roberts and Sean Lakeman’s latest album proves a ‘tour de force’ of musical and lyrical surprises. From their early days in folk supergroup Equation through to their new album, this multi-award winning couple continue to exude class with their exquisite brand of traditional and contemporary acoustic music. £20. Under 16s and f/t students £18 24

(includes £4 booking fee)

anvilarts.org.uk

MARCH 2024

The Anvil: Sat 16 Mar / 7.30pm

WHAT’S LOVE GOT TO DO WITH IT? After a sell-out debut tour, What’s Love Got To Do With It? is back, celebrating the music and sixty-year career of the incredible Tina Turner. Expect a night of high energy and feel-good music, performed by a live band. This joyous show features all the hits, including Proud Mary, River Deep, Simply The Best, Private Dancer, and many more. £39, £33, £29, £24 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Anvil: Sun 17 Mar / 7.30pm SENBLA presents OPERA INTERNATIONAL’s award-winning ELLEN KENT production

MADAMA BUTTERFLY

featuring the Ukrainian Opera & Ballet Theatre Kyiv, with international soloists, highly praised chorus and full orchestra Back by overwhelming public demand, this award-winning opera returns in a new production 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 heartbreaking story of a 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. £45, £41, £37, £33. Over 65s £2 off. Under 25s and f/t students £24.50, £22.50, £20.50, £18.50 (includes £4 booking fee) Sung in Italian with English surtitles *Cast subject to change Buy tickets for both Madama Butterfly and Carmen (Wed 8 May) and get 20% off

Box Office 01256 844244

MARCH 2024

The Forge: Sat 16 Mar / 7.45pm

AGS CONNOLLY

“MODERN DAY TRADITIONALISM OF THE VERY, VERY BEST KIND” Bob Harris

Ags Connolly is widely considered to be one of the best country artists to emerge from the UK. His popularity in the US has grown considerably since the release of Wrong Again, and his emphasis on the traditional sound of country music makes each concert special. £18. Under 16s and f/t students £16 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Forge: Sun 17 Mar / 7.45pm

JO CAULFIELD HERE COMES TROUBLE Hot on the heels of her sell-out Edinburgh Fringe run, Here Comes Trouble is packed with brilliant routines and fantastically embarrassing stories. £19 (includes £4 booking fee) Suitable for: ages 16 and over

The Anvil: Wed 20 Mar / 7.30pm

CHINA SHENZHEN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Tan Dun Chausson Saint-Saëns Respighi*

Excerpts from Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon Poème Introduction and rondo capriccioso Fountains of Rome Pines of Rome

Jiapeng Nie cello Tamsin Waley-Cohen violin Lin Daye After excerpts from Tan Dun’s celebrated and atmospheric Oscar-winning film score, two contrasting pieces for violin and orchestra from nineteenth-century France, the first slow and soulful, and the second sparkling and virtuosic. The concert ends with two of Respighi’s spectacular Roman pieces for large orchestra – suites which give musical depictions of the sights, sounds, landmarks and history of Rome in a tour de force of orchestral colour and imagination. £44, £38, £33, £24, £16. Under 25s and f/t students £12 (includes £4 booking fee)

6.30pm / The Forge 26

* Please note change to previous information

anvilarts.org.uk

MARCH 2024

The Haymarket: 21 – 23 Mar / 7.30pm / Thu 1.30pm / Sat 2.30pm CHAPTERHOUSE THEATRE COMPANY presents

GREAT EXPECTATIONS by Charles Dickens

When young orphan Pip has a fateful encounter with an escaped convict in a marshland graveyard, his life is forever changed. Summoned to the home of reclusive aristocrat Miss Havisham, Pip falls hopelessly in love with her adopted daughter, the cold-hearted Estella. Years later, an anonymous benefactor sends him to become a gentleman. Whisked away from a quiet life in rural Kent to the crowds and chaos of London, the mysteries of his youth pursue Pip through his efforts to win Estella’s heart. The truth of his fortune, when discovered, threatens to undo everything. Join Chapterhouse Theatre Company (A Christmas Carol) in a powerful and theatrical telling of Dickens’ enduring masterpiece. £23.50. Under 16s and f/t students £16 (includes £4 booking fee)

“A FANTASTIC NIGHT’S ENTERTAINMENT” Irish Independent

“FIRST CLASS”

Blackpool Gazette

Box Office 01256 844244

MARCH 2024

The Anvil: Thu 21 Mar / 7.30pm THE VOICE OF THE MOODY BLUES

JUSTIN HAYWARD – THE HARMONY TOUR plus special guest Mike Dawes With a career now in its fifth decade, Justin Hayward OBE is returning to The Anvil. Best known as the vocalist, lead guitarist, and composer for the Moody Blues, whose songs include the masterful Nights in White Satin and Tuesday Afternoon, these laid the foundation for their incredible success story, as well as his continuing solo work. Come and connect with one of music’s keenest talents and hear the music that he loves presented with a truly personal touch. £46.50 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Anvil: Sat 23 Mar / 7.30pm

FROM THE JAM All Mod Cons 45th Anniversary Tour plus special guests Purple Hearts From The Jam were formed in 2006 when Russell Hastings and Rick Buckler (ex-The Jam drummer) joined forces with Bruce Foxton (ex-The Jam bassist and songwriter). They’ll be performing the All Mod Cons album in full, along with more hits and fan favourites. £41.50, £36.50 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Forge: Sat 23 Mar / 7.45pm

RIA LINA RIAWAKENING In the aftermath of a global pandemic, comedian and scientist Ria Lina (Live at The Apollo, Have I Got News For You, Mock the Week) has had a Riawakening, and sees the world differently. Fearless, provocative, and very funny, Ria is the only Filipina comedian in British stand-up, and a hugely admired talent in the comedy industry. £18 (includes £4 booking fee) 28

Suitable for: ages 16 and over

anvilarts.org.uk

MARCH 2024

The Anvil: Sun 24 Mar / 5pm

GIOVANNI PERNICE – LET ME ENTERTAIN YOU The ultimate showman Giovanni Pernice returns with his brand-new show, Let Me Entertain You. Giovanni will be joined by a world-class cast of professional dancers and West End performers to bring you an unforgettable experience. The Strictly Come Dancing champion and BAFTA winner is the epitome of live entertainment. £61, £54, £45. VIP upgrade £120 (includes £4 booking fee) Suitable for: ages 8 and over (may contain haze, smoke, pyrotechnics and flashing lights)

The Forge: Sun 24 Mar / 7.30pm

THE BROTHERS GILLESPIE Described by Folk Radio UK as “showing British acoustic music in its best possible light”, Northumbrian duo The Brothers Gillespie make music that is animated by lyrical songwriting, fine fingerstyle guitar playing, and multi-instrumental musicianship. £18. Under 25s and f/t students £16 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Anvil: Wed 27 Mar / 7.30pm

AN EVENING WITH RICK STEIN A feast for the mind! Multi-award winning chef, restaurateur, writer, and presenter Rick Stein delves into his lifelong love affair with cooking and his unwavering devotion to the brilliance of great British produce in this brand-new UK tour. Revelations from the kitchen, musical delights, poetic interludes, and stories of global adventures are all on the menu, so secure your seats for an evening of entertainment with a culinary master like no other! £39 (includes £4 booking fee) 29

Box Office 01256 844244

MARCH – APRIL 2024

The Haymarket: Wed 27 Mar / 8pm

REGINALD D. HUNTER THE MAN WHO COULD SEE THROUGH SHIT In these supercharged socio-political times, the challenge is more and more becoming separating what’s true and what’s real. Join Reginald D. Hunter for an hour of exploring this phenomenon in this progressive work in a pre-next-variant world. As seen on Live at the Apollo, and 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown. £27 (includes £4 booking fee) Suitable for: ages 18 and over

The Haymarket: Thu 28 Mar / 7.30pm

DOM JOLY – THE CONSPIRACY TOUR TIME TO WAKE UP THE SHEEPLE! Dom Joly has been off travelling the globe again. This time, he’s been looking into some of the strangest and weirdest conspiracy theories. Is the earth flat? Does Finland exist? Did JFK commit suicide? Are UFOs piloted by lizards? In the spirit of fairness, Dom will be inviting the highly respected conspiracy theorist, Dr Julian Northcote, to defend the alternate view. £27.50 (includes £4 booking fee) Suitable for: ages 16 and over

The Anvil: Tue 2 Apr / 6pm

TAYLORMANIA A TAYLOR SWIFT ERAS TRIBUTE CONCERT An award-winning extravaganza that plays tribute to one of the leading contemporary recording artists of our time, Taylor Swift. Katy Ellis, a self-obsessed ‘Swiftie’, along with an incredible live band and dancers, promises to deliver the most authentic recreation of a Taylor Swift show that you will ever see featuring all of the hits, including Shake It Off, Look What You Made Me Do, I Knew You Were Trouble, and many more. £27.50 (includes £4 booking fee) 30

anvilarts.org.uk

APRIL 2024

The Haymarket: Wed 3 Apr / 11.30am & 2.30pm

RUDE SCIENCE The naughtiest, funniest, most revolting science show in the world Brace yourselves for TV Gastronaut Stefan Gates’ hilarious, high-tech, explosive new family show, packed with science stunts, spectacular experiments, and bizarre props. Expect enormous bottoms, fart machines, snot cocktails, urine-powered fireworks, vast whoopee cushions, and vomiting mannequins in this celebration of the fascinating bodily science essential to life. £19. Under 16s £17 (includes £4 booking fee) Suitable for: ages 6 and over

The Anvil: Fri 5 Apr / 7.30pm

ORCHESTRA OF THE AGE OF ENLIGHTENMENT Glinka Overture: Ruslan and Ludmilla Rachmaninov The Rock Grieg Peer Gynt: Suite no. 1 Sibelius Symphony no. 5 Maxim Emelyanychev Glinka’s fizzing, exuberant overture to his opera captures the essence of Pushkin’s magical poem, rooted in Russian fairy tales. The twenty-year-old Rachmaninov’s expressive tone poem The Rock won the enthusiastic admiration of Tchaikovsky. The perennial freshness of Grieg’s much-loved music to Peer Gynt never fails to make an impact in concert. Sibelius’ fifth and most well-known symphony grows from the seed of its tiny opening figure to the most heroic of his seven works in the form culminating in a majestic brass theme. £44, £38, £33, £24, £16. Under 25s and f/t students £12 (includes £4 booking fee)

6.30pm / The Forge

“EMELYANYCHEV BROUGHT GREAT DISCIPLINE TO THE PLAYING... BUT ALSO BAGS OF ENERGY” Bachtrack

The Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment is Anvil Arts’ Orchestra in Association

Box Office 01256 844244

APRIL 2024

The Anvil: Thu 4 Apr / 7.30pm

TINY DANCER: THE MUSIC OF ELTON JOHN A spectacular celebration of one of music’s greatest performers, with Tom Weston, renowned for his uncanny resemblance to Elton John. The air will be filled with the infectious melodies that have become the soundtrack to our lives. From the double platinum Rocket Man to the enchanting Your Song, the energetic Crocodile Rock to the soul-stirring Candle in the Wind, it’s time to relive these greatest hits like never before. £32 (includes £4 booking fee) Early Booking offer: £3 off if booked before Thu 30 Nov

The Anvil: Sat 6 Apr / 7.30pm

THE STEVIE WONDER CELEBRATION This international hit production brings you four decades of the biggest hits and tracks from Stevie Wonder’s vast songbook. You’ll hear wonderfully delivered and truly authentic renditions of Superstition, Signed, Sealed, Delivered, I Just Called to Say I Love You, Living for the City, and many more. Along with on-screen visuals, come and journey through the cultural moments and movements for which Stevie’s music became the soundtrack. £34, £32 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Haymarket: Sun 7 Apr / 7.30pm

BOB HARRIS & COLIN HALL THE SONGS THE BEATLES GAVE AWAY BBC’s Bob Harris, and author/music journalist, and custodian of John Lennon’s childhood home, Colin Hall, share the story behind the songs, the hits, the misses, and the demos that The Beatles never released. £22 (includes £4 booking fee)

anvilarts.org.uk

APRIL 2024

The Anvil: Tue 9 Apr / 2pm & 6pm

EASTER PANTO: BEAUTY & THE BEAST Don’t miss another fun-filled Easter pantomime, Beauty & The Beast. Come along for a school holiday treat for magic, dazzling production numbers, and of course, jokes galore for all the family. Lewis Denny returns alongside an all-star cast to be announced. £26.50. Over 65s, under 16s and f/t students £24.50 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Anvil: Sat 13 Apr / 7.30pm

THE MIGHTY 90s The ultimate pop party celebrating the style, sounds and stars of the 90s. Get ready to sing your heart out with our power pop supergroup, celebrating the hits of Take That, The Spice Girls, Blur, Oasis, Britney, Backstreet Boys, Celine, Whitney, and many more. Featuring a talented cast of singers, dancers, musicians, and the sensational vocals of Cleopatra. £35, £25 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Haymarket: Sat 13 Apr / 2pm

THE AMAZING BUBBLE MAN Louis Pearl explores the breath-taking dynamics of bubbles, combining comedy and artistry with audience participation and enough spellbinding tricks to keep everyone mesmerised. From square bubbles, bubbles inside bubbles, fog-filled bubbles, giant bubbles, bubble volcanoes, tornados and trampolines, to people inside bubbles, The Amazing Bubble Man conjures shrieks of laughter and gasps of amazement from all ages. £18.50. Under 16s £16.50 (includes £4 booking fee)

COMING SOON

Box Office 01256 844244

The Anvil: Tue 16 Apr / 7.30pm

THE BOOTLEG BEATLES Regarded the world over as being the gold standard of tribute, The Bootleg Beatles return for another nostalgic whirlwind trip through the sixties. With fastidious attention to detail, the band manage to spectacularly recreate the sound and look of the Fab Four. £42.50, £38.50, £35.50 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Anvil: Tue 7 May / 7.30pm

SIR TIM RICE MY LIFE IN MUSICALS – I KNOW HIM SO WELL Sir Tim Rice, the multi-award winning, internationally renowned lyricist, is reflecting on his illustrious career at the heart of musical theatre, along with stories of his life. Featuring live performances from some of the UK’s leading West End singers and musicians, performing numbers such as Don’t Cry for Me Argentina, Any Dream Will Do, A Whole New World, Hakuna Matata, and I Know Him So Well. £40.50 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Anvil: Fri 17 May / 7.30pm

AN EVENING WITH GINGER ALDEN ELVIS PRESLEY’S LAST LOVE AND FIANCÉE Join Ginger Alden, the woman who captured Elvis Presley’s heart during his final year, on her debut UK tour. Ginger will share her personal experiences and shed light on the misconceptions and rumours that have swirled around her over the years, providing a special glimpse into her life with the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. 34

£38.50. VIP upgrade £68.50 (includes £4 booking fee)

anvilarts.org.uk

COMING SOON

The Haymarket: 21 – 25 May / 7.30pm / Thu & Sat 2.30pm LONDON CLASSIC THEATRE present

WHAT THE BUTLER SAW Joe Orton’s final, most ambitious play, manic farce and masterclass in fearless comic writing. Orton focuses his wicked sense of humour on a range of targets, including the establishment, an ex-Prime Minister, cross-dressing, misogyny, and the medical profession. He brings together an array of distinctive characters, unflinchingly exploring comic territory few playwrights before or since have dared to visit. £29 (Fri - Sat), £25 (Tue – Thu), £22 (2.30pm). Over 65s £2 off, under 25s and f/t students £12 (includes £4 booking fee)

Suitable for: ages 14 and over (contains strong language and subject matter which the playwright very much hoped audiences would find offensive).

The Anvil: Fri 18 Oct / 7.30pm

DICK AND ANGEL: FOREVER HOME (AVEC LE NITTY GRITTY) Spend an entertaining evening with the stars of Channel 4 hit Escape to the Chateau, Dick and Angel Strawbridge. The pair are heading on the road, sharing the adventures, challenges, and successes of building and living their Chateau dream. From the beginning of their journey to the present day, they will revisit some of their best moments and tell never-before-heard tales. A highly interactive show, with hilarious games and the chance to pose your own questions, you don’t want to miss. £46, £41, £36 (includes £4 booking fee)

The Haymarket: Sun 20 Oct / 7.30pm

ALED JONES FULL CIRCLE Prepare to hear Aled Jones as you’ve never heard him before. After 40 years in the business, he’s looking back on a remarkable career with a one-man show, that will feature never-before-heard music, tales from the decades and for the first time, his story told in his own words. £34. Meet & Greet upgrade £74, VIP upgrade £54 (includes £4 booking fee) 35

Box Office 01256 844244

COMMUNITY EVENTS 2024

The Haymarket: Sat 6 Jan / 2.30pm & 7.30pm

HOSPITAL PANTO

7.30pm Sold Out

THE SOUND OF MUCUS Come along and see some of your local doctors, nurses, and support staff on stage in the next hospital pantomime charity show, based on The Sound of Music but with an NHS twist! All proceeds go to Hampshire Hospitals Charity which helps patients and staff at Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

The Haymarket: 8 – 9 Feb / 7.30pm / Fri 2.30pm

SHERFIELD SCHOOL LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS When orphan Seymour happens across a strange and interesting plant to bring home to Mushnik’s flower shop, suddenly Seymour’s life is on the up. With a new father, a new girlfriend, new-found fame and a flesheating plant… what could possibly go wrong? £18. Over 65s, f/t students and under 16 £15 (includes £3 booking fee)

2.30pm £18. Under 16s £13, 7.30pm (over 16s only) £23 (includes £3 booking fee)

The Haymarket: Sat 27 Jan / 5pm

CHANDELLE STAGE SCHOOL TWINKLING STARS OF 2024 Twinkling Stars of 2024 will give children from Chandelle Stage School the opportunity to perform on a professional stage. All proceeds will be donated to help local children affected by Cystic Fibrosis. £19. Over 65s and under 16s £17 (includes £3 booking fee)

The Anvil: Sun 4 Feb / 3pm

THE BAND OF HIS MAJESTY’S ROYAL MARINES Basingstoke Deane Rotary is once again privileged to host the Band of His Majesty’s Royal Marines. Previous concerts have contained music from movies, swing bands, comedic pieces, popular classical songs often used on TV adverts, and good old-fashioned tunes known by all. The majestic full concert Band of His Majesty’s Royal Marines, the Corps of Drums, and special guests The Chelsea Pensioners, will again make this a very special event. £29.50, £24.50, £18. Under 16s (third price band only) £15 (includes £3 booking fee)

The Anvil: Sat 24 Feb / 7.30pm

BASINGSTOKE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA ROMANTIC TREASURES Dvořák The Noonday Witch Rachmaninov Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini Dvořák Symphony No. 8 in G major Ivana Gavric piano Stephen Scotchmer Steeped in Slavic mythology, Dvořák’s dramatic symphonic poem The Noonday Witch tells the tragic tale of a mother who accidentally smothers her son whilst trying to protect him from the horrible demon of Czech folklore. Rachmaninov’s Rhapsody on a theme of Paganini is based on a Caprice for violin, written by the virtuoso violinist and composer. Ivana Gavric recently performed with the Philharmonia Orchestra at the Royal Festival Hall. Dvořák’s Symphony No. 8 has been described as “a work of sunny exuberance”. It is well-known for its use of Bohemian folk music and dance rhythms. £26.50, £21.50, £14.50. Over 65s £2 off, under 16s £3, f/t students £13.25, £10.75, £7.25 (includes £3 booking fee).

Early Booking Offer: £2 off if booked before Sat 20 Jan

anvilarts.org.uk

COMMUNITY EVENTS 2024

The Anvil: Sat 2 Mar / 7.30pm

The Anvil: Sun 14 Apr / 7pm

MAYOR’S SPRING CHARITY CONCERT

BERKSHIRE YOUTH SYMPHONY

Basingstoke Area Youth Orchestra and Choir return showcasing some of the best musical talent from across the borough. The evening will also feature guest choir Hampshire Harmony to celebrate their 60th anniversary, in a programme that will appeal to all.

Berkshire Youth Symphony Orchestra, the flagship orchestra at Berkshire Music Trust, is the culmination of a student’s orchestral learning, providing members with outstanding training together with musical, cultural and social experiences.

This one night only concert is a great opportunity to support your community, whilst raising money for the Mayor’s charity appeal.

£24. Over 65s and f/t students £21, under 16s £18 (includes £3 booking fee)

£20. Over 65s and f/t students £16, under 16s £13 (includes £3 booking fee) In aid of Shopmobility Basingstoke, Citizens Advise Basingstoke, and Citizens Advice Tadley

The Anvil: 13 – 16 Mar / 7.30pm / Sat 2.30pm

BASINGSTOKE AMATEUR OPERATIC SOCIETY EVITA Experience Eva Perón’s enthralling journey in BAOS’ production of Evita, with music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and words by Tim Rice. Witness her incredible rise from poverty to power through songs like Don’t Cry for Me Argentina, Oh What a Circus, and A New Argentina. £28. Over 65s and f/t students £26, under 16s £24 (includes £3 booking fee)

Early Booking Offer: £24 (includes £3 booking fee) for the first 100 tickets sold for opening night (Wed 13 Mar) An amateur production by arrangement with The Really Useful Group Ltd

anvilarts.org.uk

BOOKING INFORMATION

Seating Plans The Anvil

Booking Details 01256 844244 anvilarts.org.uk box.office@anvilarts.org.uk Churchill Way, Basingstoke, Hampshire RG21 7QR Box Office: situated at The Anvil and The Haymarket main entrances.

Box Office Opening HoursOpen Monday – Mon – Fri, 10am – 2pm Red: Stalls rows A to T Blue: Circle rows A to N

Performance nights Open at 6pm

Purple: Side Circle rows CA to CD and DA to DD Yellow: Choir seats rows A to E

The Haymarket

Call 01256 844244 or email box.office@anvilarts.org.uk Reserved Tickets: held for three days or until an hour before the performance, whichever is sooner. After this time, unpaid reservations will be released. Returns Only Performances: please contact the box office to join the returns list. Some tickets may be released nearer to the performance date. Booking Fee: all ticket prices include a booking fee. The Anvil Trust is an independent educational charity. Without the booking fee, we would not be able to offer the current level and variety of programme at our venues or our extensive work with schools, young people and people living with dementia.

Blue: Stalls rows C to M Orange: Stalls rows N to S Purple: Circle rows A to D plus CC and DD

The Forge

Purple: Rows A to G 38

Group Booking For information on group booking rates and availability, please call 01256 366935 (answer service when not staffed) or email group.booking@anvilarts.org.uk. Alternatively, visit anvilarts.org.uk/groups.

Box Office 01256 844244

GENERAL INFORMATION

You can pay by

Paying less for your tickets

Cards: Mastercard and Visa.

Discounts are available for performances where stated.

We do not accept personal cheques. Please do not send cash through the post. Gift Vouchers: Anvil Arts gift vouchers can be used for tickets at any Anvil Arts venue, and are valid for 24 months. Available from the box office. Please note we do not accept Theatre Tokens. No refunds can be given. We offer ticket cancellation protection – please contact the box office for details, or visit ticketplangroup.com.

Only one discount can apply to any one ticket. You may be asked to provide proof of eligibility. Student tickets cannot be posted out. Please show your ID on collection. For full terms and conditions of sale, contact the box office, or visit anvilarts.org.uk/terms-and-conditions.

Exchange and resale of tickets Once tickets have been printed, they can be exchanged within the run of the same event for tickets of the same value at a cost of 50p per ticket. Lost tickets for reserved seats can be reprinted at a cost of 50p per ticket. We operate a re-sale facility on sold out performances (admin fee applies).

Bars and Refreshments Foyers are open from 6pm for evening performances, and one hour before all others. Out of respect to fellow audience members and performers, re-admission to the auditorium with drinks once a show has started is not permitted. Order your drinks and snacks online prior to the performance. Alternative ordering options are

available from within the venues. Please visit our website for more details. We operate a Challenge 25 Policy in our venues. Please be prepared to show photographic ID on request when purchasing or pre-ordering drinks or products containing alcohol.

Safety and Enjoyment Please ensure you always have your ticket with you as scanned tickets are checked when entering the foyers and auditorium.

We do not permit the unauthorised use of cameras and recording equipment within the auditorium or foyers.

We may on occasions conduct bag and security searches. Large bags will not be permitted into the auditorium.

Please be aware that other audience members may stand or dance during the performance.

We will make every effort to admit latecomers at a suitable break in the performance, but we cannot always guarantee entry. We reserve the right to refuse admission or eject audience members from our venues and events at our discretion, including for behaviour affecting people’s enjoyment of the performance. Please switch your phone off or to silent during a performance or event.

If you experience any problems during a performance or event, please inform a member of staff immediately, so that we can do our best to resolve the issue at the time. Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult ticket holder; Anvil Arts cannot be held responsible for children unaccompanied by an adult. Please be kind to our staff and to each other so that everyone can enjoy the experience. 39

anvilarts.org.uk

GENERAL INFORMATION

Children’s Performances

Conditions of Sale

A limited number of booster seats are available on entry to the auditorium, for use free of charge. Baby changing facilities are available in both venues. Children under 18 months require an Infant in Arms ticket (available at selected performances) for the cost of £3–£4. To book, please call the box office on 01256 844244.

It is the nature of live performance that start and running times may vary, and artists, programmes, and other details may be subject to last minute changes. Anvil Arts reserves the right to introduce discounts and special offers at any time, and these cannot be applied to tickets already purchased. Not all seats may be available at all performances or when booking opens. Details in this brochure were correct at the time of going to press, but changes may be unavoidable.

Access Facilities Access List Anvil Arts operates a free Access List in order to improve our service to patrons with access needs. Registration forms are available from the box office or anvilarts.org.uk/access. Wheelchair Users Our ticket sales counters have drop-down or lowered sections for wheelchair users. We have up to six wheelchair spaces available in The Anvil, one in The Forge and up to two in The Haymarket. We are unable to sell wheelchair spaces or allow transfers out of wheelchairs into seats in the Circle level of The Anvil auditorium. Emergency evacuation from The Haymarket auditorium is via an emergency lift or evacuchair, all other lifts in our venues cannot be used in an emergency. Personal emergency evacuation plans can be made available on request.

Assistance dogs are welcome; please discuss availability of suitable seating areas at the time of booking. Parking Blue Badge parking is available in car parks within a short distance of both The Anvil and The Haymarket. Please visit anvilarts.org.uk/ visit-us/how-to-get-here for full details. Familiarisation Visits If you would like to look at the venues in advance, please call the box office to arrange. Visual Stories Visual Stories for The Anvil and The Haymarket can be found at anvilarts.org.uk/access to assist your visit.

Hearing Enhancement

This brochure is available in large print and Braille on request.

The Anvil and The Haymarket are equipped with infra-red hearing enhancement systems for use with portable headsets and personal induction neck loops. Both are available at the Stalls Foyer counters.

If you require any help in planning your visit, the box office will be happy to help.

For more information visit anvilarts.org.uk/access or accessable.co.uk (search for The Anvil or The Haymarket).

Privacy Anvil Arts is committed to protecting your privacy and to this end has developed a Privacy Policy. We operate and are registered in accordance with current data protection legislation. For more information visit anvilarts.org.uk/privacypolicy. 40

If you have any questions about our Privacy Policy or information we hold about you, email datacontrol@anvilarts.org.uk or write to us at: Information Controller, Anvil Arts, Churchill Way, Basingstoke RG21 7QR.

Box Office 01256 844244

GENERAL INFORMATION

Support The Anvil Trust

Now and in the future The Anvil Trust is a charity. If you like what we do, please consider supporting us. Donations A one-off or regular donation will be used to support our programme of events. The Great Music of the World fund specifically supports the International Concert Series. Please contact the box office for details or visit anvilarts.org.uk/donate.

Become a Friend Enjoy priority booking, no postage charges, advance information and other benefits. Please contact the box office for details or visit anvilarts.org.uk/friends. Make a gift in your will By including The Anvil Trust in your will, you’ll enable us to continue to give the gift of music as well as reducing your inheritance tax bill.

The Anvil Trust is grateful for the support of the following:

Get Involved Every year we work with thousands of people from across the Borough and beyond to explore their creativity in our Community Engagement programme. We provide schools and colleges with opportunities to experience classical and world music, to create their own music and theatre, and to support their careers. We work with people living with dementia

to help them stay connected and tell their stories creatively in our Finding the Words project. Our popular Musication Station encourages the community to try a musical instrument, whatever their age or ability. To find out more visit anvilarts.org.uk/get-involved

42 42 –

THE FURTHER ADVENTURES OF PETER PAN

TENNESSEE COUNTRY CHRISTMAS SHOW

THE FURTHER ADVENTURES OF PETER PAN

THE ALBION BAND CHRISTMAS SHOW

THE FURTHER ADVENTURES OF PETER PAN

A CHRISTMAS CAROL

THE FURTHER ADVENTURES OF PETER PAN

Fri 22 / 2pm & 6pm

Fri 22 / 7.30pm

Sat 23 / 2pm & 6pm

Sat 23 / 7.30pm

Sun 24 / 11am & 3pm

Tue 26 / 3pm

Wed 27 / 2pm & 6pm

Thu 28 / 2pm & 6pm

Fri 29 / 2pm & 6pm

Sat 30 / 2pm & 6pm

Sun 31 / 2pm

TENNESSEE COUNTRY CHRISTMAS SHOW

Wed 20 / 7.30pm

Thu 21 / 7.30pm

THE FURTHER ADVENTURES OF PETER PAN

Wed 20 / 2pm & 6pm

Thu 21 / 2pm & 6pm

PHILHARMONIA BRASS AT CHRISTMAS

THE FURTHER ADVENTURES OF PETER PAN

Sat 16 / 2pm & 6pm

THE FURTHER ADVENTURES OF PETER PAN

BUDDY HOLLY & THE CRICKETERS

Fri 15 / 7.30pm

Tue 19 / 7.30pm

THE FURTHER ADVENTURES OF PETER PAN

Fri 15 / 6pm

Tue 19 / 2pm & 6pm

THE FURTHER ADVENTURES OF PETER PAN

Thu 14 / 10.30am & 6pm

CARA DILLON

THE LOCK IN CHRISTMAS CAROL

Wed 13 / 7.30pm

THE FURTHER ADVENTURES OF PETER PAN

Wed 13 / 10.30 & 6pm

Sun 17 / 2pm & 6pm

THE UNTHANKS

Tue 12 / 7.30pm

Sat 16 / 7.30pm

THE FURTHER ADVENTURES OF PETER PAN

Tue 12 / 10.30 & 6pm

–

THE FURTHER ADVENTURES OF PETER PAN

Sun 10 / 2pm & 6pm

THE FURTHER ADVENTURES OF PETER PAN

Sat 9 / 2pm & 6pm

3 3

DEAR SANTA

Sat 9 / 10.30am, 1.30pm & 4pm

–

Sun 10 / 10.30am, 1.30pm & 4pm DEAR SANTA

THE FURTHER ADVENTURES OF PETER PAN

DEAR SANTA

Thu 7 / 10.30am & 1.30pm

Fri 8 / 10.30am & 1.30pm

DEAR SANTA

Tue 5 / 7pm

Fri 8 / 10.30am & 6pm

BRIDGET CHRISTIE

A CHRISTMAS CAROL

Sun 3 / 7.30pm

THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING… EARNEST?

Sat 2 / 2.30pm & 7.30pm

JO CAULFIELD CHINA SHENZHEN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

Sun 17 / 7.45pm Wed 20 / 7.30pm

WHAT’S LOVE GOT TO DO WITH IT?

Sat 16 / 7.30pm

AGS CONNOLLY

BASINGSTOKE AMATEUR OPERATIC SOCIETY: EVITA

Sat 16 / 2.30pm & 7.30pm

MADAMA BUTTERFLY

KATHRYN ROBERTS & SEAN LAKEMAN

Fri 15 / 8.15pm

Sun 17 / 7.30pm

BASINGSTOKE AMATEUR OPERATIC SOCIETY: EVITA

Fri 15 / 7pm

Sat 16 / 7.45pm

BASINGSTOKE AMATEUR OPERATIC SOCIETY: EVITA CHARLIE DORE

Thu 14 / 8.15pm

JUST MY IMAGINATION

Thu 14 / 7pm Thu 14 / 7.30pm

BASINGSTOKE AMATEUR OPERATIC SOCIETY: EVITA

Thu 7 / 7.45pm

Wed 13 / 7.30pm

JO HARMAN TRIO

Thu 7 / 7.30pm

RONNIE, REGGIE AND ME

PROFESSOR BRIAN COX – RETURNS ONLY

Wed 6 / 7.30pm

SAM SWEENEY BAND

PHILHARMONIA ORCHESTRA

Sun 3 / 7.30pm

Sat 9 / 7.30pm

SIR GEOFF HURST

Sat 2 / 7.30pm

Fri 8 / 7.30pm

GEORGE HINCHCLIFFE’S UKULELE ORCHESTRA MAYOR’S SPRING CHARITY CONCERT

Fri 1 / 7.30pm

MARCH

JULIUS CAESAR

Thu 29 / 3.45pm

BRÌGHDE CHAIMBEUL

Sun 25 / 7.45pm

JULIUS CAESAR

DR MICHAEL MOSLEY AND DR CLARE BAILEY

Sun 25 / 7.30pm

JULIUS CAESAR

MORGAN & WEST’S MASSIVE MAGIC SHOW FOR KIDS

Sun 25 / 2pm

Wed 28 / 1.30pm & 7.30pm

ROSIE JONES

Sat 24 / 8pm

Tue 27 / 7.30pm

BASINGSTOKE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

Sat 24 / 7.30pm

SWAN LAKE

Sun 18 / 1.30am & 5.30pm PHILHARMONIA ORCHESTRA

THERE’S A MONSTER IN YOUR SHOW

Sun 18 / 11am, 1.30pm & 4pm

ANDY PARSONS

CERYS HAFANA

Sat 17 / 8.15pm

Fri 23 / 8pm

CHRIS MCCAUSLAND

Sat 17 / 8pm

Fri 23 / 7.30pm

SLEEPING BEAUTY THERE’S A MONSTER IN YOUR SHOW

Sat 17 / 3pm

IT’S A BEAUTIFUL NOISE: ORCHESTRAL EDITION

Fri 16 / 2.30pm & 7.30pm

COMEDY CLUB 4 KIDS

Thu 15 / 7.30pm

Box Office 01256 844244

Thu 15 / 2pm

FEBRUARY CONT.

THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING… EARNEST?

DECEMBER

Fri 1 / 7.30pm

anvilarts.org.uk

CALENDAR

AN EVENING WITH LAUREL & HARDY

HANNAH SCOTT

CHANDELLE STAGE SCHOOL

CLEARWATER CREEDENCE REVIVAL

NIGEL WEARNE

WIFI WARS

ROMESH RANGANATHAN – RETURNS ONLY

Fri 26 / 7.30pm

Fri 26 / 7.45pm

Sat 27 / 5pm

Sat 27 / 7.30pm

Sat 27 / 7.45pm

Sun 28 / 3.30pm & 7pm

Sun 28 / 8pm

ROSS NOBLE

SHERFIELD SCHOOL: LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS

ROYAL CHORAL SOCIETY

MATT FORDE: INSIDE NO. 10

THE SIMON & GARFUNKEL STORY

JANEY GODLEY

STRASBOURG PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA

Thu 8 / 8pm

Fri 9 / 2.30pm & 7.30pm

Sat 10 / 7.30pm

Sun 11 / 7.30pm

Wed 14 / 7.30pm

Marco Borggreve, Konrad Cwik, © Tom Fletcher. Who’s in Your Book series published by Puffin Books Ltd, Andrej Grilc, Arabella Itani, Kaapo Kamu, Ian Laidlaw, Laura Oja, Raphael Steckelbach

Picture Credits

THE GILMOUR PROJECT

SHERFIELD SCHOOL: LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS

Thu 8 / 7.30pm

INTO THE MELTING POT

Tue 6 / 7.30pm

Wed 7 / 7pm

THEA GILMORE

THE BAND OF HIS MAJESTY’S ROYAL MARINES

Sun 4 / 3pm

STRANGER SINGS!

KODO: WARABE

Sat 3 / 7.30pm

Tue 6 / 7.30pm

ROY ORBISON & THE TRAVELING WILBURYS EXPERIENCE

Fri 2 / 7.30pm

Sun 4 / 7.30pm

BOURNEMOUTH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

Thu 1 / 7.30pm

FEBRUARY

ROMESH RANGANATHAN – RETURNS ONLY

JONATHAN PIE: HEROES & VILLAINS

Fri 26 / 7.30pm

THAT’LL BE THE DAY

Wed 24 / 7.30pm

Thu 25 / 8pm

FISHERMAN’S FRIENDS – RETURNS ONLY

THE CLASSIC ROCK SHOW

Tue 23 / 7.30pm

MILES JUPP

Sat 20 / 7pm

HOSPITAL PANTO: THE SOUND OF MUCUS

Thu 18 / 7.30pm

JANUARY

Sat 6 / 2.30pm & 7.30pm

36 JUSTIN HAYWARD – THE HARMONY TOUR GREAT EXPECTATIONS GREAT EXPECTATIONS FROM THE JAM RIA LINA GIOVANNI PERNICE – LET ME ENTERTAIN YOU THE BROTHERS GILLESPIE AN EVENING WITH RICK STEIN REGINALD D. HUNTER DOM JOLY – THE CONSPIRACY TOUR

Thu 21 / 7.30pm Fri 22 / 7.30pm Sat 23 / 2.30pm & 7.30pm Sat 23 / 7.30pm Sat 23 / 7.45pm Sun 24 / 5pm Sun 24 / 7.30pm Wed 27 / 7.30pm Wed 27 / 8pm Thu 28 / 7.30pm

Sat 13 / 7.30pm

THE MIGHTY 90s

Sat 13 / 2pm

Family Ticket

THE AMAZING BUBBLEMAN

Tue 9 / 2pm & 6pm

The Forge

EASTER PANTO: BEAUTY & THE BEAST

Sun 7 / 7.30pm

Schools rate

BOB HARRIS & COLIN HALL

Sat 6 / 7.30pm

The Haymarket

THE STEVIE WONDER CELEBRATION

Fri 5 / 7.30pm

Group booking rate

ORCHESTRA OF THE AGE OF ENLIGHTENMENT

Thu 4 / 7.30pm

The Anvil

TINY DANCER: THE MUSIC OF ELTON JOHN

Wed 3 / 11.30am & 2.30pm

Key

TAYLORMANIA RUDE SCIENCE!

Tue 2 / 6pm

APRIL

GREAT EXPECTATIONS

Thu 21 / 1.30pm & 7.30pm

Creative Captioning

Signed Performance

Relaxed Performance

anvilarts.org.uk | 01256 844244 | #GreatPerformanceLive Churchill Way, Basingstoke, Hampshire RG21 7QR

The Anvil Trust is an independent educational charity The Anvil Trust Limited Registered in England No 2720007 Registered Charity No 1034961 Registered Office: The Anvil, Churchill Way, Basingstoke, Hampshire RG21 7QR 44

DIRECTIONS

Life Patron: The Lady Sainsbury CBE Patron: The Countess of Portsmouth 44