“One
of the most vital arts organisations in southern England” 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 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. Our activities are worth £7.3m to the local economy every year, and support 130 jobs in addition to our own staff.
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 Visit anvilarts.org.uk/about-us to find out more.
Support The Anvil Trust
Now and in the future
We need your support to ensure our work continues to enrich lives in Basingstoke and the region.
Donations A one-off or regular donation will be used to support our programme of events and community engagement. Please contact the box office for details or visit anvilarts.org.uk/donate
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:
The Anvil: Sat 6 Sep / 7.30pm
Miriam Margolyes
From A to Z
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.
£73.50, £63.50, £54.50, £39.50 (includes £4 booking fee)
All tickets include a copy of Miriam’s newest book.
Suitable for: ages 16 and over
This performance will be BSL signed
The Haymarket: Fri 5 Sep / 7.30pm
Women in Rock
Women in Rock celebrates the sensationally strong female leaders of rock, including Blondie, Suzi Q, Janis Joplin, Heart, Joan Jett, Pink, Kiki Dee, Bonnie Tyler, Cher, and so many more!
With a cast of world-class musicians and vocalists that deliver a blistering two-hour performance, you’ll be rocking out with hit after hit, from Piece of My Heart and Black Velvet to Y ou Oughta Know and Left Outside Alone.
£30 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Anvil: Fri 12 Sep / 7.30pm
Tim Peake Astronauts
The Quest to Explore Space Tour
In this new production, Tim Peake shares the remarkable stories of some of his fellow astronauts and explores the spectacular evolution of space travel.
The journey has only just begun... come and join Tim for this one-of-a-kind show!
£40.50 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Anvil: Thu 18 Sep / 7.30pm
The Illegal Eagles
The Illegal Eagles make a welcome return with a brand-new production, promising more of their trademark musical prowess, acute attention to detail, and incredible showmanship.
Featuring the very best from the Eagles’ catalogue of hits, including Hotel California, Desperado, Life in the Fast Lane, and many more.
£40.50 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Anvil: Sun 14 Sep / 7.30pm
Jason Manford
A Manford All Seasons
Jason Manford is back with his brand-new live show, which is sure to be “expert observational comedy” (The Guardian) mixed with “comic gold” (Mail on Sunday).
£44, £38 (includes £4 booking fee)
Suitable for: ages 14 and over
The Forge: Thu 18 Sep / 7.45pm
The Rheingans Sisters
The Rheingans Sisters remain one of the most visionary acts on the British folk scene today.
Previous winners of BBC Radio 2 ’s Folk Award for Best Original Track, and nominees for Best Band, with their distinctive blended sound of fiddles, voices, feet, banjos, electric guitar, synths, and the powerful bass drones of the medieval tambourin à cordes.
£22 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Haymarket: 18 – 20 Sep / 7.30pm / Sat 2.30pm
Proteus presents
The Law of Mayhem
The year is 1949, and Roberta Cowell; racing driver, RAF pilot and ‘It’ girl, meets Michael Dillon; a ship’s doctor who pursued Buddhism into the high Himalayas. Together they will change the course of British transgender history. Yet after just three short years, they never speak again.
Separated by time and space, Michael and Roberta meet for one last impossible encounter, to find out if the thing that brought them together was the same thing that broke them apart – The Law of Mayhem .
Joyful, uplifting and full of heart, award-winning local theatre company Proteus bring this true story, rooted in Basingstoke, to the stage for the first time.
£26. 2pm £24. Under 25s and f/t students £12 (includes £4 booking fee)
Suitable for: ages 14 and over
The Anvil: Fri 19 Sep / 7.30pm
Alan Davies Think Ahead
Returns Only
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.
£33.50 (includes £4 booking fee)
Suitable for: ages 12 and over
The Anvil: Sat 20 Sep / 3.30pm & 7.30pm
Cirque: The Greatest Show – Reimagined
Starring Britain’s Got Talent Golden Buzzer winner Max Fox* Cirque – The Greatest Show is back, bolder than ever!
This family-friendly spectacle fuses musical theatre with breathtaking circus acts, featuring world-class performers in an electrifying display of agility, colour, and excitement. Don’t miss this vibrant, Reimagined show!
£36, £32 (includes £4 booking fee)
*Star names appear at selected performances, cast subject to change without notice
The Forge: Fri 19 Sep / 7.45pm
Ilario Ferrari Trio
Blending jazz improvisation with vocal harmony, and cinematic storytelling, the Ilario Ferrari Trio stands out as a genre-crossing voice in today’s jazz panorama. Their vibrant interplay, and rich emotional palette create a sound that is both fresh and deeply expressive.
£24. Under 25s and f/t students £19 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Anvil: Sun 21 Sep / 7.30pm
The Greatest Love of All
A Tribute to Whitney Houston starring Belinda Davids
Whitney Houston’s musical legacy is brought to life in this renowned tribute concert. Be stunned by the breathtaking vocals of Belinda Davids – as seen on Britain’s Got Talent, Showtime at the Apollo, and winner of the BBC’s Even Better Than The Real Thing.
£34 (includes £4 booking fee)
Not associated with the Estate of Whitney Houston
The Haymarket: Tue 23 Sep / 7.30pm
Dyad Productions present Austen’s Women
– Lady Susan
A comedy based on Jane Austen’s first full-length work from 1794.
In this wickedly funny tale of high society meet devil-may-care black widow, Lady Susan, hunting down not one, but two fortunes. But has she met her match?
£20. Under 25s and f/t students £15
(includes £4 booking fee)
The Haymarket: Sun 21 Sep / 7.30pm
Tom Houghton
Deep
Selling Fast
After a phenomenal, sold-out international tour, the man who asked us, “Do you ski?” is turning everything upside down and asking, “Do you scuba?”.
In a world full of relentless clickbait, online distractions, and brain-rotting content, Tom’s racing brain finally became too much for him.
£24. Over 65s, under 16s, and f/t students £21
(includes £4 booking fee)
Suitable for: ages 14 and over
The Haymarket: Wed 24 Sep / 7.30pm
Andy Sheppard Quartets
Andy Sheppard has established himself as one of Britain’s foremost tenor and soprano saxophonists.
Few artists enjoy such a vast musical output as Andy. A musician with an unceasingly evolving nature, writing for diverse settings from solo to big band and chamber music, hear his latest music from his new quartet.
The Anvil: Tue 23 Sep / 7.30pm
Philharmonia Orchestra
Sibelius Finlandia
Beethoven Piano Concerto no. 3
Stravinsky Suite: The Firebird (1945)
Víkingur Ólafsson piano
Santtu-Matias Rouvali
The Philharmonia Orchestra celebrates its 80th birthday this season, with Víkingur Ólafsson as the Featured Artist.
Finlandia , part of a suite which Sibelius wrote for a patriotic pageant in 1900, is possibly his most famous and stirring piece.
The opening movement of Beethoven ’s Third Piano Concerto is full of tension and drama. The slow movement is a lyrical dialogue between the soloist and woodwinds, while the vivacious finale is punctuated with quicksilver piano cadenzas.
The Firebird was Stravinsky ’s first big success, a richly coloured ballet score based on a Russian folk tale. It is glittering, imaginatively orchestrated music, with a rhythmic impetus all Stravinsky’s own.
£46, £42, £35, £27, £18. Under 25s and f/t students £12 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Forge / 6.30pm
The Philharmonia Orchestra is Anvil Arts’ Orchestra in Partnership
The Haymarket: Thu 25 Sep / 7.30pm
Scummy Mummies: Hot Mess
It’s time for a mum’s night out! Helen and Ellie are back with a brand-new comedy that will have you laughing till you wee.
From menopause to mansplaining, teenagers to Tinder, no subject is safe. Featuring new songs, sketches, stand-up, and of course, sparkly new catsuits.
£25 (includes £4 booking fee)
Suitable for: ages 18 and over (and no babies in arms). Contains strong language and sexual references
The Haymarket: Fri 26 Sep / 7.30pm
This Flight Tonight
The Songs of Joni Mitchell
The Anvil: Fri 26 Sep / 7.30pm
The Music of Animation – In Concert
Hosted by Ali Plumb
Join The Studio Orchestra as they return to celebrate the unforgettable soundtracks of animated cinema.
Hosted by BBC Radio 1’s film critic, Ali Plumb, the 60-piece orchestra will take you on a magical journey. Featuring music from How to Train Your Dragon, Beauty and the Beast, Shrek, Chicken Run, Up, and more.
£54.50, £44.50, £34.50, £28.50 (includes £4 booking fee)
Paul Zervas and Kathryn Pepper have a deep love for late ‘60s and early ‘70s USA West Coast folk-rock. They have been creating and performing original music for over a decade.
Joined by their five-piece band, they will perform Joni Mitchell’s highly regarded Blue album in its entirety, featuring hits such as A Case of You, Little Green, and California.
£29 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Anvil: Tue 30 Sep / 7.30pm
An Audience with Stuart Broad
presented by Laithwaites
The Haymarket: Sun 28 Sep / 8pm
10cc’s Graham Gouldman & Heart Full of Songs
Join 10cc co-founder Graham Gouldman for a rare, stripped-back performance of the songs he wrote for 10cc, The Hollies, Herman’s Hermits, The Yardbirds, Wax, and more.
Performed by a hand-picked semi-acoustic four-piece band, Heart Full of Songs features favourites from across Graham’s career, plus music from his latest solo album, I Have Notes
A special evening of well-crafted songs, performed by the songwriter himself.
£36.50 (includes £4 booking fee)
Join one of England’s greatest cricketers, Stuart Broad , one year on after taking his final wicket. He’ll reflect on the highs and lows of his sensational 17-year career, as well as the new challenges he faces beyond the boundary rope.
£54, £44, £39. VIP upgrade £69
(includes £4 booking fee)
Suitable for: ages 10 and over
The Anvil: Thu 2 Oct / 8pm
Ardal O’Hanlon
Not Himself
Towel Animals? AI? Chair Yoga? Cauliflower as a main course? Yes. Yes. Yes. And Yes. No current idiocy is left un-examined. With a highly developed sense of the ridiculous and proper comedy bones, Not Himself is a testament to the healing power of humour. And the joy of jokes.
£30 (includes £4 booking fee)
Suitable for: ages 16 and over
The Anvil: Fri 3 Oct / 7.30pm
Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra
Howard The Butterfly Effect
Rachmaninov Piano Concerto no. 1
Shostakovich Symphony no. 10
Sir Stephen Hough piano
Mark Wigglesworth
Dani Howard’s The Butterfly Effect explores in music the idea that a small event in one place can have dramatic consequences in another.
Rachmaninov ’s concerto is an attractive, rhapsodic work, full of youthful vigour. The composer revised and improved it in later life without sacrificing its essential freshness.
The Tenth is perhaps Shostakovich ’s finest symphony – an epic journey, powerful and dramatic, yet with moments of touching simplicity. The first three movements including a menacing, whirlwind scherzo, are balanced by a more optimistic finale completed after the death of Stalin.
£46, £42, £35, £27, £18. Under 25s and f/t students £12 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Forge / 6.30pm
The Haymarket: Fri 3 Oct / 7.30pm
Rosie Jones
I Can’t Tell What She’s Saying
Join self-professed prick Rosie Jones as she heads back out on the road with her brand-new stand-up show. She’s talking about the big stuff: being single, the pressures of representing huge sections of the population, gravy... oh, and boobs.
£22 (includes £4 booking fee)
Suitable for: strictly 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.
and/or
request.
The Anvil: Wed 8 Oct / 7.30pm
An Evening with Snooker Greats Black Ball
– 40th Anniversary Tour
with Steve Davis , Dennis Taylor & John Virgo
Come and join Steve Davis and Dennis Taylor as they recreate the famous 1985 World Snooker Final; arguably the greatest game ever played. With commentator John Virgo as your host and referee for you to pose the questions you always wanted to ask.
£39. VIP upgrade £79 (includes £4 booking fee)
Suitable for: ages 14 and over (possible strong language and stories of a certain nature)
The Haymarket: Sat 4 Oct / 7.30pm
Simon & Oscar – The Songs of Ocean Colour Scene
Get up close and personal with Ocean Colour Scene ’s Simon Fowler and Oscar Harrison Intimate acoustic performances of big hits, anthems, deep cuts, and choice picks from the band’s songbook.
£36.50 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Forge: Wed 8 Oct / 7.45pm
Alex Wilson & Omar Ríos Meléndez
The Art of Deep Connection
A dynamic new acoustic duo bringing together the combined mastery of guitarist Omar Rios Meléndez and pianist Alex Wilson . With years of musical collaboration and a shared passion for Latin American, jazz, and flamenco traditions, their performances blend fiery virtuosity with profound musical sensitivity.
£24. Under 25s and f/t students £19 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Anvil: Thu 9 Oct / 7.30pm
Bickram Ghosh presents
One World
A global fusion concert
Bickram Ghosh tablas, handsonic, body percussion
Jesse Banister saxophone (UK)
Abhishek Mallick electric sitar (India)
Pranav Dath drums (India)
We’re thrilled to present One World , a spectacular musical journey brought to life by the tabla maestro Bickram Ghosh . This unforgettable concert brings together world-class musicians from India and the UK in a dazzling fusion of rhythm, melody, and cultural synergy.
The evening opens with dynamic selections from Bickram Ghosh ’s critically acclaimed album Rhythmscape . Audiences will be swept away by the soulful interplay between Jesse Banister on saxophone and Abhisek Mallick on sitar, while Ghosh and electrifying multi-percussionist Pranav Dath lay down a powerful, pulsating groove.
In the second half, prepare for a percussive showdown like no other — a breathtaking rhythmic dialogue between Ghosh and Dath that pushes the boundaries of drumming brilliance. It’s a thrilling demonstration of why Ghosh is hailed as one of the greatest percussionists on the global stage.
The evening culminates in a moving tribute to the Ravi Shankar, the sitar virtuoso and spiritual father of world music. It’s a fitting finale to a night that celebrates unity, artistry, and the universal language of rhythm.
Join us for One World – a concert that promises to stir your soul and leave you inspired.
£30 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Haymarket: Fri 10 Oct / 7.30pm
Imagine – Lennon
The Haymarket: Thu 9 Oct / 7.30pm
Jimeoin Pandemonium
A hilarious evening with one of live comedy’s true masters, on his brilliantly funny new tour!
Jimeoin ’s cheeky no-gimmicks sense of humour, superb material, and broad appeal keeps audiences in stitches across the globe.
The Irishman from Australia’s shows are a guaranteed fun night out with great craic and even better jokes.
£27.50 (includes £4 booking fee)
Suitable for: strictly ages 14 and over
Experience an unforgettable evening celebrating the legacy of John Lennon, brought to life by Tyson Kelly – known for his striking portrayal in the number one Beatles tribute, The Bootleg Beatles.
Kelly’s uncanny look and sound-a-like embodies his voice, presence, and artistry with remarkable authenticity. Backed by a five-piece band, he presents an elegant journey through the brilliant music of Lennon (and McCartney), sharing first-hand stories behind the songs.
£31 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Anvil: Sat 11 Oct / 8pm
Paul Merton & Suki Webster’s Improv Show
Paul Merton and Suki Webster , two of the UK’s leading improvisers, present an evening of wonderfully unscripted cutting-edge humour.
Expect a show full of fast, fabulously funny improvised games, scenes, stories, and laugh-out-loud surrealism as these two masters of comedy improvisation join forces with their very special guests to create cascades of laughter and joyful silliness.
£30 (includes £4 booking fee)
Suitable for: ages 14 and over
The Anvil: 13 – 14 Oct / 7.30pm
Returning to Basingstoke after nearly 30 years, forget feel good, Buddy – The Buddy Holly Story is feel great!
Experience the drama, passion, and excitement as a multitalented cast of actor-musicians tell Buddy Holly’s story, from his Texas rockabilly beginnings to international stardom, and his renowned final performance at the Surf Ballroom in Clear Lake, Iowa, before his tragic death at the age of just 22.
Featuring two terrific hours of the greatest songs ever written, including That’ll Be The Day, Oh Boy, Rave On, La Bamba, Chantilly Lace, Johnny B. Goode, Raining in My Heart, Everyday, Shout , and many more, this show is just Peggy Sue-perb!
£38, £29. Under 25s £5 off, over 65s £2 off (includes £4 booking fee)
The Haymarket: Tue 14 Oct / 7.30pm
Apollo Theatre Company presents
Round The Horne
60th Anniversary Tour
From the producers of the UK tour of Hancock’s Half Hour, comes another radio comedy live on stage.
The Anvil: Sun 12 Oct / 7.30pm
An Evening with Nicola Benedetti
Join Nicola Benedetti , “the country’s favourite violinist” (The Times) as she returns for her first solo tour in over ten years, opening here at The Anvil.
Combining stunning performance with storytelling, Nicola shares a selection of shorter works – from romantic to virtuosic to folk. Nicola will be joined by fellow musicians, Brazilian guitarist Plínio Fernandes , and accordionist Samuele Telari
£40, £35, £28, £18. Under 25s and f/t students £12 (includes £4 booking fee)
From 1965-68 there wasn’t a bigger radio programme than Round the Horne. Every Sunday 15 million people would gather around the wireless to listen to Kenneth Horne and his merry crew get up to all sorts of mischief.
Round the Horne still endures today, 60 years on.
£25 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Haymarket: Thu 16 Oct / 7.30pm
Paul Zerdin
The Jaw Drop UK Comedy Tour
Get ready for a night of laughter and jaw-dropping entertainment with America’s Got Talent winner Paul Zerdin .
Featuring his remarkable talents as a ventriloquist, the show brings to life a delightful cast of characters, plus his famous human dummy routine with an exciting new twist.
£26.50. Under 16s, f/t students, and over 65s £25 (includes £4 booking fee)
Suitable for: ages 14 and over
The Anvil: Thu 16 Oct / 7.30pm
Brno Philharmonia Orchestra
Brubeck Brandenburg Gate, Revisited
Glass Mishima Concerto (UK premiere)
Dvořák Symphony no. 9
Freddy Kempf piano (Brubeck)
Pavel Zlámal saxophone (Brubeck)
Marek Švestka bass (Brubeck)
Radek Tomášek drums (Brubeck)
Maki Namekawa piano (Glass)
Dennis Russell Davies
We welcome back this great orchestra for what is sure to be a memorable concert.
Dave Brubeck ’s Bach-like Brandenburg Gate , originally performed by his famous quartet, was successfully ‘revisited’ in 1961, in a wonderful version for quartet and orchestra.
Philip Glass ’ dramatic and colourful score for the film Mishima forms the basis of his last concerto, performed by one of his foremost interpreters.
Dvořák ’s enchanting Sixth Symphony is one of his most attractive and enjoyable works, with a genial first movement and tender slow second movement. The third incorporates the energetic Czech furiant dance, before a jubilant finale.
£46, £42, £35, £27, £18. Under 25s and f/t students £12 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Forge / 6.30pm
The Anvil: Fri 17 Oct / 7.30pm
The Repair Shop Live
Secrets From The Barn
The Repair Shop is stepping out of the barn and onto the stage for an exciting new live tour!
Join the experts Steve Fletcher, Suzie Fletcher, Will Kirk, and Kirsten Ramsay, as they share heartfelt anecdotes, cherished memories, and behind-the-scenes stories and secrets from life inside the barn.
£39.50 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Haymarket: Fri 17 Oct / 7.30pm
Sh!t-faced Shakespeare Hamlet
Sh!t-faced Shakespeare celebrate 15 years on the wagon with one of the Bard’s most popular tragedies, Hamlet
Featuring a cast of professional Shakespearean actors, this quirky production takes an unpredictable twist each night, as one performer is chosen to be deliberately intoxicated for up to four hours before showtime. The rest of the cast must improvise their way through the unpredictable chaos that springs from their inebriated colleague’s booze-fuelled antics.
£29 (includes £4 booking fee)
Suitable for: ages 16 and over
“These songs are meant to be sung and heard, and I am really happy that Leo is carrying the torch”
Van Morrison
The Anvil: Sat 18 Oct / 7.30pm
The Van Morrison Alumni Band
featuring the musicians who toured and recorded with Van Morrison
Curated and hosted by renowned saxophonist, broadcaster, and long-time collaborator Leo Green who has performed on seven of Van Morrison’s albums and toured with him around the globe.
£29.50 (includes £4 booking fee)
Please note: Van Morrison does not appear in the show
The Haymarket: Sat 18 Oct / 7.30pm
Jenny Eclair
Jokes, Jokes, Jokes, Live!
In celebration of the release of her hilarious memoir of the same name, comedian, novelist, and professional show-off Jenny Eclair is back with a brand-new autobiographical show. Still gigging to sell-out crowds forty years later, Jenny invites you to look back at what she can remember before she forgets everything.
£29 (includes £4 booking fee)
Suitable for: ages 14 and over (may contain strong language and sexual references)
The Anvil: Sun 19 Oct / 7.30pm
The Billy Joel Songbook
Following a previous sell-out tour, the hugely renowned singer-songwriter and pianist Elio Pace , along with his incredible band, is set to thrill audiences once more with the smash-hit, award-winning show, The Billy Joel Songbook
£32.50, £26.50 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Haymarket: Wed 22 Oct / 7.30pm
An Intimate Evening with Trevor Horn
Adventures in Modern Recording
Following the publication of his best-selling memoir, Trevor Horn talks about his exploits as a bona fide legend of pop.
From Frankie Goes to Hollywood and ABC, to Pet Shop Boys and Grace Jones, Horn has produced them all.
£33. M&G upgrade £84, VIP upgrade £49 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Haymarket: Sun 19 Oct / 7.30pm
Wishbone Ash
Experience the remarkable musicianship of the band whose twin-guitar sound inspired so many that followed.
Wishbone Ash return to the UK with a show featuring much-loved hits from their multi-million selling albums such as The King Will Come, Throw Down the Sword, and Blowin’ Free , along with songs from a back catalogue spanning over 55 years.
£36.50 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Haymarket: Thu 23 Oct / 7.30pm
Dyad Productions present
That Knave, Raleigh
The Anvil: Thu 23 Oct / 7.30pm
Elkie Brooks
The Long Farewell Tour
With an incredible 64 years of performing live, Elkie Brooks will embark upon her Long Farewell Tour
An exceptional performer with an unmistakable voice, Elkie never fails to captivate her audience.
Don’t miss this wonderful opportunity to see a truly remarkable artist.
£44, £39 (includes £4 booking fee) Selling Fast
Award-winning Dyad Productions (Lady Susan, Christmas Gothic, Austen’s Women) return to the Elizabethan era exploring the highs and lows of one of Britain’s most famous men, explorer, sailor, dandy and warrior, Sir Walter Raleigh.
The final chapter of Raleigh’s life is perhaps the most daring, strange and utterly heart-breaking. See the fall from grace taken directly from historical records and marvel at the man who seized every opportunity to create a legacy which spans the centuries.
£20. Under 25s and f/t students £15 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Anvil: Fri 24 Oct / 8pm
Henning Wehn
Acid Wehn
Award-deserving German comedy ambassador Henning Wehn takes an unbiased look at climate change, a topic sure to delight audiences – and no surprise.
After all, everyone loves talking about the weather. Rain or shine, all will be fine. Or maybe it won’t. Who knows?! Come along... or else.
£31.50, £29.50 (includes £4 booking fee)
Suitable for: ages 16 and over
The Anvil: Sat 25 Oct / 7.30pm
Justin Hayward
Forever Autumn Tour
Plus special guest Mike Dawes
The Haymarket: Fri 24 Oct / 7.30pm
Nashville Meets London presents: The Wandering Hearts plus special guests
Known for their rich harmonies, British folk-Americana band
The Wandering Hearts bring their latest album, Déjà Vu – a reimagining of the 1970 album by Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young – to the stage.
Breathing new life into well-loved songs with heartfelt storytelling and fresh energy, don’t miss this intimate evening of emotion, connection, and beautifully crafted sound.
£34 (includes £4 booking fee)
Justin Hayward OBE has enjoyed a career which is now in its fifth decade. The vocalist, lead guitarist, and composer for The Moody Blues, had hits including the masterful Nights in White Satin, Tuesday Afternoon, Question and The Voice.
Don’t miss this rare chance to connect with one of music’s keenest talents, and to hear the songs that he loves, presented with a truly personal touch.
£49, £43 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Forge: Sat 25 Oct / 7.45pm
Apollo Theatre Company presents Ode
To Joyce
The songs and monologues of Joyce Grenfell Joyce Grenfell was one of the greatest female entertainers of the twentieth century.
In this gem of nostalgia, which recreates the setting of one of Joyce’s stage shows, Cheryl Knight captures her spirit. Woven between the well-known songs and monologues are some of her more delicate and poignant pieces, as well as some rare and exclusive material.
Truly a labour of love, this show brings back to life an extraordinary personality.
£20 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Haymarket: Fri 31 Oct / 7.30pm
Beth Nielsen Chapman & Judie Tzuke
Join two of the most revered female singer-songwriters for an evening of unparalleled music. Appearing together on stage for the first time to perform songs such as Stay With Me Till Dawn, Sand and Water, Bring The Rain, This Kiss , and their stunning collaboration, Safe.
£44 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Haymarket: Tue 28 Oct / 1pm & 3.30pm
Tom Gates EPIC Stage Show
Based on the best-selling books by Liz Pichon , Tom Gates EPIC Stage Show brings to life the illustrations and music that makes Tom Gates hugely popular around the world.
With catchy tunes and hilarious performances, this fantastic new stage show brings the best of The Brilliant World of Tom Gates into one live performance!
£20.50. Under 16s £19.50 (includes £4 booking fee)
Suitable for: ages 5 and over
The Haymarket: Sat 1 Nov / 8pm
Steve Knightley
and The Winter Yards Band
Steve Knightley is launching a brand-new four-piece band.
With Midnight Mango’s support, he joins forces with guitar virtuoso David Delarre , master percussionist Evan Carson , and double bass expert John Parker . This lineup delivers an immersive, high-energy take on Winter Yards . Experience Steve’s music like never.
Support from True Foxes
£30 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Anvil: Tue 4 Nov / 7.30pm
Philharmonia Orchestra
The Anvil: Sun 2 Nov / 4pm
Imperial Classical Ballet presents
The Nutcracker
Christmas simply wouldn’t be complete without a trip to experience the magic of the world’s most beloved ballet – The Nutcracker . With snow flurries, sweets, princes, magic, and love, this enchanting production captures the essence of the holiday season.
Set to Tchaikovsky’s enchanting score, including the beloved Waltz of the Flowers and the Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy, the show continues to captivate audiences of all ages.
£44, £39. Under 25s and f/t students £2 off (includes £4 booking fee)
Wagner Tristan and Isolde: Prelude and Liebestod Strauss Four Last Songs Tchaikovsky Symphony no. 6 (Pathétique)
Masabane Cecilia Rangwanasha soprano Thomas Søndergård
Wagner ’s endlessly unresolved harmonies in Tristan and Isolde influenced composers for decades but it’s the emotional charge they convey that hits home.
Strauss ’ Four Last Songs sum up his lifelong love affair with the soprano voice and bid farewell to his composing career in music of rare beauty. The Philharmonia was the orchestra for their world première in 1950.
Tchaikovsky ’s Sixth Symphony has probably been written about more than the other five combined, but whatever its significance in the composer’s life, its overwhelming impact is not in doubt. From the uneasy first movement to the groundbreaking slow finale, it wears its heart on its sleeve.
£46, £42, £35, £27, £18. Under 25s and f/t students £12 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Forge / 6.30pm
The Philharmonia Orchestra is Anvil Arts’ Orchestra in Partnership
“This is an exceptional voice, sumptuous in tone... her singing combined beauty with great depth of feeling and was outstanding throughout – a great artist”
Guardian
The Anvil: Wed 5 Nov / 7.30pm
Anton Du Beke at the Musicals
Strictly Come Dancing ’s Anton Du Beke takes to the stage with his live band, guest singer, and dancers for a fab-u-lous evening. Anton will be performing numbers from some of his favourite musicals; expect a glamorous evening from West End and Broadway shows. Plus, behind the scenes stories from his time on Strictly that will have you laughing out loud.
Don’t miss this special opportunity to get up close to the King of the Ballroom!
£59, £52, £49 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Haymarket: Wed 5 Nov / 7.30pm
One Man Star Wars Trilogy
Officially endorsed by Lucasfilm, One-Man Stars Wars Trilogy has been performed for over a million Star Wars fans where Charles Ross singlehandedly plays all the characters with spot-on vocal impressions, sings the music, flies the ships, fights the battles and condenses the plots of three films into one!
£24.50 (includes £4 booking fee)
Suitable for: ages 6 to Yoda!
The Anvil: Fri 7 Nov / 7.30pm
Stewart Lee vs The Man-Wulf
In this brand-new show, Stewart Lee shares his stage with a tough-talking werewolf comedian from the dark forests of the subconscious who hates humanity. The Man-Wulf lays down a ferocious comedy challenge to the culturally irrelevant and physically enfeebled Lee. Can the beast inside us all be silenced with the silver bullet of Lee’s unprecedentedly critically acclaimed style of stand-up?
£32 (includes £4 booking fee)
Suitable for: ages 14 and over
The Haymarket: 6 – 8 Nov / 7.30pm / Sat 2pm
Rumpus Theatre Company presents
Sorry, I Love You…
by John Goodrum
As Helen sits dejectedly on a pavement, having just broken up with Pete, the next two people she meets prove to be very significant in her life – a tramp, and Jools, a friend of her ex. A romance develops between Helen and Jools, and very soon she finds herself accompanying the separated father-of-two on a world-wide business tour. The ups and downs of their love affair are witnessed by a number of hotel receptionists, a café owner, a zoo-keeper, and various others who all bear the uncanniest resemblance to the tramp.
Whimsical, funny, charming and heady with romance, Sorry, I Love You proves that relationships sometimes need a little help – and that that help can come from the least expected sources!
£26. 2pm £24. Under 25s and f/t students £15.50. Friends £21 (6 Nov) (includes £4 booking fee)
Sat 6.30pm
The Anvil: Sat 8 Nov / 8pm
Omid Djalili Namaste
The Persian Comedy Powerhouse peacefully bows to his inner anger, and unleashes a torrent of comedic vitriol upon the current state of this dangerously messed up planet.
No government gets a green card. No audience member leaves the venue with an ounce of laughter left in them.
You have been warned.
£34 (includes £4 booking fee)
Suitable for: ages 16 and over
The Haymarket: Sun 9 Nov / 7.30pm
Rob Newman
Where The Wild Things Are
From Rob Newman comes a barnstorming new stand-up show about where we are and where we’re going. From future cities and philistine film directors to Dorothy Parker’s Multiverse Diaries. Throw in Pythagorean gangsters, intellectual bingo callers and a crazy character called Arlo – and the result is a hilarious tour de force.
£24 (includes £4 booking fee)
Suitable for: ages 14 and over
The Anvil: Sun 9 Nov / 7pm (Doors)
Fisherman’s Friends
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.
£41, £32.50 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Anvil: Tue 11 Nov / 7.30pm
Kevin Bloody Wilson
The Dilligaf Guy, Live! Featuring Jenny Talia from Australia
It’s been more than 40 years since Kevin Bloody Wilson dropped his very first album. Fast forward 20 releases later, and this Aussie’s international fan base just keeps growing, proving that his no-BS, PC-free style is here to stay.
£39.50 (includes £4 booking fee)
Suitable for: ages 16 and over
The Forge: Tue 11 Nov / 7.45pm
Riley Baugus
Riley Baugus represents the very best of old time American banjo and song. His powerful singing voice and his expert musicianship place him squarely in the next generation of the quality roots tradition.
The Haymarket: Tue 11 Nov / 7.30pm
Griff Rhys Jones
The Cat’s Pyjamas
Griff Rhys Jones is back on the road with a brand-new stand-up show.
The performance always varies as he rambles on the developing national permacrisis. Age. Family. Fraud. Nostalgia. The TikTok generation.
Griff is best known for his countless TV appearances, including Smith & Jones , and one quarter of the groundbreaking Not the Nine O’Clock News.
£31 (includes £4 booking fee)
Suitable for: ages 14 and over
£21. Under 25s and f/t students £19 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Haymarket: Thu 13 Nov / 8pm
Ivo Graham: Orange Crush
Where is Ivo Graham from? And where exactly is he going? And will he please just slow down?
The Taskmaster promise-squanderer, published author and gig pig welcomes you to the latest chaotic chapter of his career. A show about hats, haters and hometown heroes. You’ve seen him on panels and podcasts and pegging it through train stations: now come and see his new orange threads in the flesh.
£22 (includes £4 booking fee)
Suitable for: strictly 14 plus. Likely to be swearing and adult content
The Haymarket: Fri 14 Nov / 7.30pm
Hal Cruttenden
Can Dish It Out But Can’t Take It
Hal is back with a brand-new show that promises to stick it to ‘The Man’, as long as ‘The Man’ doesn’t stick it back to him.
With his trademark hard-hitting ‘take no prisoners’ comedy, he will be hilariously pontificating on subjects like middle aged dating, social media and the insanity of modern politics. He believes that, after you’ve seen the show, you’ll feel exactly the same way.
£24 (includes £4 booking fee)
Suitable for: ages 16 and over
The Anvil: Fri 14 Nov / 7.30pm
Classical Kate Bush
Cloudbusting with West London Sinfonia World renowned tribute band Cloudbusting – The Music of Kate Bush will be joined by over 40 members of West London Sinfonia with a programme spanning Kate’s hugely successful catalogue of albums.
£44, £40, £36 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Anvil: Sat 15 Nov / 7.30pm
Sara Pascoe
I Am a Strange Gloop
Have you ever been awake in the middle of the night and thought something so smart and astute that you couldn’t wait for the world to wake up so you could tell them?
This show is that thought. In that it doesn’t make much sense and is a bit weird on reflection.
£30. Over 65s and f/t students £26 (includes £4 booking fee)
Suitable for: ages 14 and over (includes strong language)
The Forge: Sat 15 Nov / 7.45pm
Nosferatu:
A Symphony of Horrors
The Haymarket: Sat 15 Nov / 3pm
Vincent Simone
Tango Passions
Argentine Tango King and Strictly Come Dancing superstar, Vincent Simone , returns to the stage with Tango Passions
Let the original Italian stallion take you on a journey to Buenos Aires and tell the tale of love, passion, and lust, set at the turn of the 20th century, featuring music from the likes of Astor Piazzolla and Gotan Project.
It’s sexy, steamy, and passionate!
£42, £38 (includes £4 booking fee)
The silent masterpiece with a brand-new live score Nosferatu (1922), the first cinematic interpretation of Bram Stoker’s Dracula is just as powerful and unsettling today as when it first thrilled cinema goers 100 years ago.
Chris Green (Poldark, Shakespeare’s Globe) performs his new score live, a haunting blend of electronic and acoustic instruments for a genuinely remarkable experience.
£16. Under 25s £14 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Anvil: Wed 19 & Fri 21 Nov / 8pm
Chris McCausland
Yonks!
Selling Fast
After a previous sell-out show, Chris McCausland is hitting the road again with another masterclass in stand-up comedy that has literally been Yonks! in the making.
He’s been called an “overnight success” – even though he’s been doing this for bloody Yonks!
£34 (includes £4 booking fee)
Suitable for: ages 16 and over
The Anvil: Tue 18 Nov / 8pm
Terje Isungset Ice Quartet
Ice music pioneer, Terje Isungset , returns with his exquisite quartet featuring voice, ice harp, ice horn, iceophone, ice percussion, and ice bass.
Prepare to be transported by the extraordinary, beautiful, and ethereal sounds like nothing you have heard before. This is spellbinding and unforgettable music.
£25 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Anvil: Thu 20 Nov / 8pm
Ross Noble
Cranium of Curiosities
Roll up, roll up! Or use a more conventional form of transport to get to the show. It’s entirely your choice. Unless you accidentally become trapped in a barrel. Should that happen, then just find an incline and start rolling to see the one and only Ross Noble !
£34 (includes £4 booking fee)
Suitable for: ages 15 and over
The Anvil: Sun 23 Nov / 7.30pm
The Stylistics
Greatest Hits and More
The Forge: Fri 21 Nov / 11am, 1pm & 2.15pm
You Are The Sun
You are the Sun is a love song to nature for babies and grownups.
Combining the joy of gentle classical singing and sensory play, it is an invitation to see beauty in the smallest things and to let plants be our guides.
Help us celebrate the gift of nature as we conjure a world out of breath, water, sunlight and soil in this magical musical adventure for 0–2s.
£15 (1 adult & 1 child) (includes £4 booking fee)
The Stylistics are best known for their top-ten songs including Can’t Give You Anything (But My Love), I’m Stone In Love With You, Let’s Put It All Together, and the Grammy nominated hit You Make Me Feel Brand New.
With their charisma, style, and harmony, The Stylistics evolved into one of the best-selling Philly groups ever. Don’t miss this brilliant show packed with back-to-back hits!
£41, £38 (includes £4 booking)
The Anvil: Tue 25 Nov / 7.30pm
AntMusic
Selling Fast
Celebrated for hits like Stand and Deliver, Goody Two Shoes, Dog Eat Dog, and Antmusic, Adam Ant takes you on a journey through his career, performing chart-topping songs and personal favourites. A pioneer of the post-punk era, Ant’s career has spanned over four decades with more than 22 hit singles and multiple renowned albums. His dynamic stage presence and eclectic sound have cemented his status as one of Britain’s most beloved performers.
£52, £47 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Haymarket: 25 – 29 Nov / 7.30pm / Thu & Sat 2.30pm
Blackeyed Theatre in association with Theatre Royal Winchester and South Hill Park presents Sherlock Holmes:
The Hunt for Moriarty
adapted
by Nick Lane from the work of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
The great detective is back for another adventure in this world premiere from the team behind The Valley of Fear and The Sign of Four. London, 1901. As the British Empire wages war in the name of a Queen whose health is failing, a series of mysterious events reveals a crack in the high corridors of power. A crack that threatens to destabilise monarchy, government, and Empire. And at its centre, controlling the flow of information and influence, a shadowy figure plans a final deadly move.
Drawn into the game and unsure who to trust, Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson find themselves confronting figures from their past in a desperate race against time, aware that the most powerful person in the world could be in the pocket of one of the most corrupt. But just how much is Holmes willing to sacrifice as he faces ‘checkmate’?
A thrilling adventure based on the work of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Sherlock Holmes: The Hunt for Moriarty combines powerful performances, a haunting soundscape and innovative design for an exhilarating theatrical experience.
£25 (matinee), Tue – Thu £26.50, Fri – Sat £28.
Under 25s and f/t students £15.50.
Friends £21.50 (25 Nov) (includes £4 booking fee)
Suitable for: ages 11 and over
“One of the most innovative, audacious companies working in contemporary English theatre” The Stage
The Anvil: Wed 26 Nov / 7.30pm
John Barrowman: Camp as Christmas
John Barrowman returns with this brand-new show packed with Christmas cheer, glittering tunes, and plenty of seasonal sparkle!
Expect a sleigh-full of your festive favourites and stunning Christmas carols all wrapped up with John’s personal stories, joyful anecdotes, and infectious energy.
Promising you will leave feeling Camp as Christmas !
£42, £37, £32. VIP upgrades £44, £54 and £84 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Anvil: Sat 29 Nov / 7.30pm
Maximum Rhythm and Blues with The Manfreds
The Manfreds , featuring original members Paul Jones and Tom McGuinness , will once again bring their Maximum Rhythm and Blues show to The Anvil.
The Anvil: Fri 28 Nov / 7.30pm
Waterloo – A Tribute to ABBA
Waterloo – A Tribute To ABBA looks back at the sensational rise to stardom of the Swedish pop group capturing their sound and feel with incredible attention to detail.
The live cast and band are in captivating harmony. Expect hits including Waterloo, Mamma Mia, Voulez-Vous, and so many more.
£36.50, £34, £29.50 (includes £4 booking fee)
Please note: this is a tribute production and is not affiliated or endorsed by the ABBA Estate
Their incredible repertoire of hits includes Do Wah Diddy Diddy, Pretty Flamingo, 5-4-3-2-1, The Mighty Quinn, plus many more. With special guest Noel McCalla , who was lead singer with Manfred Mann’s Earth Band.
£44.50, £42.50 (includes £4 booking fee)
Please note: maximum of 6 tickets per transaction
The Haymarket: Sun 30 Nov / 7.30pm
Emmanuel Sonubi
Life After Near Death
Edinburgh Comedy Award Best Newcomer nominee and Best Show nominee, Emmanuel Sonubi’s hilarious and heartfelt show explores turning life’s toughest moments into comedy gold, finding the laughs in survival, and the punchlines in perseverance.
He is a powerhouse on stage, delivering unstoppable energy, razor-sharp wit, and stories that hit hard as he can and still land even harder.
£24 (includes £4 booking fee)
Suitable for: ages 14 and over
The Anvil: Sun 30 Nov / 7.30pm
A Fairytale for Christmas
After four sell-out tours, A Fairytale for Christmas is returning!
Immerse yourself in the festive spirit as singers, musicians, and dancers perform Yuletide favourites, such as Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town alongside sing-along songs including The Galway Girl.
£34, £32, £30 (includes £4 booking fee)
This show is in no way based on, endorsed by, or affiliated or associated with the song titled Fairytale of New York, the Pogues, or Shane MacGowan (or their respective representatives)
The Anvil: Tue 2 Dec / 7.30pm
Step Into Christmas
Get ready to Step Into Christmas for the most magical, feel-good show of the year!
Packed with all your favourite Christmas songs, the spirit of the season is brought to life with dazzling performances, stunning visuals, and a sensational live band. From uplifting ballads to upbeat anthems, it’s the perfect playlist for your celebrations.
£36 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Haymarket: 3 – 7 Dec / 1.30pm / Thu – Sun 10.30am
Come and join your friends from Acorn Wood at The Haymarket this winter.
Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s beloved Tales from Acorn Wood stories are brought to life on stage in an enchanting, festive lift-the-flap experience.
This special Christmas show features Squirrel’s Snowman – can you help her find everything she needs to build a snowman? Squirrel is also joined by Poor old Fox who’s lost his socks! Are they in the kitchen or inside the clock? And Rat-a-tat-tat! Who’s that keeping tired Rabbit awake? You can also join in with Pig and Hen’s game of hide-and-seek and discover the special surprise Postman Bear is planning for his friends.
Packed full of toe-tapping songs, puppetry, and all the friends from Acorn Wood, this beautiful show is the perfect festive treat for all of the family.
£19.50. Under 16s £17.50 (includes £4 booking fee)
Suitable for: ages 1 and over
The Haymarket: Wed 10 Dec / 7.30pm
Dyad Productions present Christmas Gothic
adapted and performed by Rebecca Vaughan
Following the international success that was Female Gothic , Dyad Productions resurrects a Victorian tradition by presenting three seasonal tales of terror to make your hair stand on end on dark Christmas nights.
£20. Under 25s and f/t students £15 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Haymarket: Tue 9 Dec / 7.30pm
Steeleye Span
The band who changed the face of folk music over their 56 years together, Steeleye Span ’s latest album, Conflict , reflects the times we find ourselves in, but also the stretch and tear of our relationship with this planet that hosts us.
As ever, performing a selection of songs from across the years and firm fan favourites.
£30.50 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Haymarket: Thu 11 Dec / 7.30pm
Ballet Theatre UK present
A Christmas Carol
Step into the heart of a traditional Victorian Christmas, where Charles Dickens ’ timeless tale comes to life. Join Ebenezer Scrooge as he’s visited by three enchanting ghosts, guiding him on a journey that reveals the true joy of Christmas – beyond the pursuit of wealth. With a beautiful score of festive carols, breathtaking costumes, and the stunning choreography of Artistic Director Christopher Moore , this heartwarming production is the perfect treat for the whole family. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable holiday experience – come and discover the true meaning of Christmas!
£24. Under 25s and f/t students £22 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Anvil: 11 Dec – 4 Jan / see performance diary for times
Wishing for the best family pantomime? Your wish is our command! Step into the enchanted world of Aladdin, where a humble boy discovers a mystical lamp that unlocks unimaginable power – and a journey of danger, love, and laughter unfolds.
This year, we’re turning up the magic to new heights. Expect jaw-dropping staging, breathtaking lighting displays, and scintillating choreography that will sweep you away on a magic carpet ride like never before.
Making his highly anticipated debut at The Anvil is none other than James Mackenzie, best known for his captivating role in the children’s adventure game show Raven, as the wickedly charming Abanazar. Joining him is Basingstoke’s favourite funny man, Chris Pizzey, returning once again to deliver his signature slapstick comedy, unforgettable routines, and a barrel of laughs that will have the whole family in stitches.
Also coming back is Nic Gibney for his fourth panto at The Anvil! Playing his favourite Dame Widow Twankey. Watch out men of Basingstoke – she’s coming for your smalls!
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this exciting adventure. Secure your seats now and make sure every member of the family’s wish is granted this festive season! This Christmas, the adventure of a lifetime awaits!
£36.50, £34.50, £28.50. Friends of Anvil Arts £4 off (except 13 & 14, 20-31 Dec). Under 16s and f/t students £3 off. Relaxed performance £14.50 (includes £4 booking fee)
Tue 16 Dec / 6pm Mon 22 Dec / 2pm
Sponsored by
The Haymarket: 12 – 13 Dec / 7.30pm / Sat 2pm
Operation Moonlight present
A Christmas Carol
On Christmas Eve night, the miserly and cold-hearted businessman Ebenezer Scrooge embarks upon a journey through his past, present, and future, learning along the way to appreciate the true meaning of Christmas. A festive treat for all the family, Dickens’ beloved tale of redemption is brought to Basingstoke in an authentic and joyful adaptation.
£25. Under 16s £19 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Haymarket: Tue 16 Dec / 7.30pm
The
Albion Christmas Band
25th Anniversary Tour
Join The Albion Christmas Band for an evening of traditional English festive music, song, and celebratory readings.
Featuring the combined talents of Simon Nicol (Fairport Convention), Simon Care (Edward II), Kellie While , and Ashley Hutchings MBE (Steeleye Span, Fairport Convention).
£28 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Haymarket: Sun 14 Dec / 7.30pm
Eliza Carthy & Jon Boden’s Wassail
Before there was carolling, there was wassailing, where seasonal songs were exchanged for money, food, and ale.
Presenting seasonal material, among a stage of illuminated Christmas trees, Eliza Carthy and Jon Boden take you back to some of the oldest songs in the English canon, spreading good cheer and lighting up the darkest days of the year.
£29. Under 25s £25 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Haymarket: Wed 17 Dec / 7.30pm
The Crooners Christmas Special
Superbly original, hilariously festive, and bursting with seasonal cheer, The Crooners Christmas Special is the ultimate comedy music show.
Packed with laugh-out-loud antics, sharp one-liners, and a dazzling dose of Big Band swing, it’s a festive treat like no other.
£32.50 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Haymarket: Fri 19 Dec / 7.30pm
‘Good
Times’
The Haymarket: Thu 18 Dec / 7.30pm
Oh What A Night: ‘Tis the Seasons
Returning after a sold-out performance in 2024, Oh What a Night: ‘Tis the Seasons takes you back in time on a musical journey through the incredible career of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons.
Featuring their greatest hits such as Sherry, Walk Like a Man, and Big Girls Don’t Cry, alongside Christmas tunes like Jingle Bell Rock, White Christmas, and Santa Claus Is Coming to Town , this is the perfect show for a festive party night.
£31 (includes £4 booking fee)
– A Tribute to the Music of Nile Rodgers & Chic
Good Times go to every length to capture the raw funk, soul and disco dynamics of Nile Rodgers’ music.
A celebration of timeless hits such as Le Freak, Everybody Dance, and of course, Good Times, alongside productions for Sister Sledge, Diana Ross, David Bowie, Daft Punk, and many more!
Good Times will have you on your feet all night long.
£27.50 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Haymarket: Sun 21 Dec / 7.30pm
Rock for Heroes
The Ultimate Christmas Anthems Show
Get ready for the ultimate festive party – Rock for Heroes style!
An evening of huge anthems with a rock twist, performed by a brilliant seven-piece band. From Fairytale of New York to Last Christmas and more (with some secret Santa songs), you’ll be rockin’ all night long!
£26 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Haymarket: Sat 20 Dec / 7.30pm
Tennessee Country Christmas Show
The Tennessee Country Christmas Show celebrates renditions of seasonal favourites combined with some of the biggest-selling hits from our country superstars in a nostalgic, spirited holiday celebration.
Join tributes to Dolly Parton, Kenny Rogers, Johnny Cash, Patsy Cline, and Garth Brooks, along with a few surprise performers, for a country Christmas to remember.
£29 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Haymarket: Mon 22 Dec / 7.30pm
Philharmonia Brass
Enjoy a programme curated and introduced by Philharmonia trombonist Philip White , including arrangements of yuletide songs, carols, seasonal tunes, and more.
Join these fantastic brass players – with a bit of help from the percussionists as they celebrate the season. Whether you’re a lover of Christmas or a self-proclaimed Scrooge, we guarantee you’ll leave this concert feeling more festive!
£33 (includes £4 booking fee)
The Anvil: Sat 4 Oct / 7.30pm
The Mayor’s Variety Concert
In aid of the Mayor’s Charity Appeal
Guest starring Rick and Adam Wakeman, comedy ventriloquist Steve Hewlett, British Magic Champion Mark Shortland, and many more.
This one-off evening of stars from The Grand Order of Water Rats promises a night to remember.
£30. Over 65s £20, under 16s £15 (includes £3 booking fee)
In aid of St Michael’s Hospice, the Whitchurch Swimming Pool Charity, and supporting The Grand Order of Water Rats’ charitable fund
The Anvil: Sun 16 Nov / 7pm
Basingstoke
Symphony Orchestra
A November Night’s Tale
Strauss Overture Die Fledermaus Barber Adagio for Strings Prokofiev Lieutenant Kije Suite Rimsky Korsakov
Stephen Scotchmer
A concert to transport your imagination through storytelling and tall tales – from the romp that is Die Fledermaus, to romantic tales of the Arabian Nights in Rimsky Korsakov’s Scheherazade. En route, drift off to a place of tranquillity with Strings, and hear the tumultuous life story of an imaginary soldier in Prokofiev
£27.50, £22.50, £15.50. Over 65s £2 off, under 16s £3, f/t students £13.75, £11.25, £7.75 (includes £3 booking fee).
Early bird offer: £2 off if you book before Sun 11 Oct
The Forge / 6pm
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
The Haymarket: 19 – 22 Nov / 7.30pm / Sat 2.30pm
Basingstoke Amateur Theatrical Society presents
BATS: Come From Away
Amidst the September 11th terrorist attacks in 2001, 38 planes carrying nearly 7,000 passengers were diverted to land in the town of Gander, Canada. During one of humanity’s darkest times, this true story captures the spirit of kindness, resilience and human connection between the locals and the ‘come from aways’ in the days that followed.
£29 Wed-Thu, £30 Fri & Sat. Over 65s and f/t students £2 off, under 16s £5 off (includes £3 booking fee)
The Anvil: Sat 22 Nov / 7.30pm
Basingstoke
Choral Society
Ein Deutsches Requiem
Brahms’ German Requiem is the only large-scale choral work he wrote. At its première in Bremen Cathedral in 1868, it was met with immediate
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.
Seating Plans Booking Details
The Anvil
Red: Stalls rows A to T
Blue: Circle rows A to N
Purple: Side Circle rows CA to CD and DA to DD
Yellow: Choir seats rows A to E
The Haymarket
Blue: Stalls rows C to M
Orange: Stalls rows N to S
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 Hours
The Anvil Mon – Fri, 10am – 2pm Performance nights – open from 6pm
The Haymarket Open on performance nights only
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.
The Forge
Purple: Circle rows A to D plus CC and DD Purple: Rows A to G
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
You can pay by Paying less for your tickets
Cards: Mastercard and Visa.
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
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 can be reprinted at a cost of 50p per ticket. We operate a re-sale facility on sold out performances (admin and booking 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.
Beat the queues with our hassle-free click & collect service. Pre-order your drinks using your e-ticket and simply pick them up from your designated collection
Safety and Enjoyment
Please ensure you always have your ticket with you as scanned tickets are checked when entering the foyers and auditorium.
We may on occasions conduct bag and security searches. Large bags will not be permitted into the auditorium.
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.
Discounts are available for performances where stated.
Only one discount can apply to any one ticket.
You may be asked to provide proof of eligibility. Student tickets cannot be posted out or sent by text. 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
E-tickets
We will send you a text message 10–48 hours before the performance, with a link to your e-tickets and other information about your visit.
point. And, try our new Order to Seat service at The Anvil, which allows you to enjoy a selection of food and drink delivered right to your seat pre-show!
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.
We do not permit the unauthorised use of cameras and recording equipment within the auditorium or foyers.
Please be aware that other audience members may stand or dance during the performance.
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
Children’s Performances
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
Conditions of Sale
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
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.
Hearing Enhancement
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.
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/ privacy-and-cookie-policy
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.
This brochure is available in large print and Braille on request.
For more information visit anvilarts.org.uk/access or accessable.co.uk (search for The Anvil or The Haymarket).
If you require any help in planning your visit, the box office will be happy to help.
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.
Find out more at anvilarts.org.uk/local-offers. Friends of Anvil Arts save even more! We are delighted to offer a variety of discounts with local restaurants and businesses, exclusive to Anvil Arts customers. Simply present your ticket for The Anvil, The Haymarket, or The Forge.* *T&Cs apply
• Priority booking • Advanced copy of the brochure • Local restaurant and business offers • Discounts at our bars and on selected shows • Best seat in the house • E-newsletter • Dedicated email hotline … and much more*
As a Friend, you’ll not only be supporting us, but you’ll receive a range of exclusive benefits as well. Join from as little as just over £3 a month. * benefits dependent on
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