Welcome to the Autumn 2024 season at the Arena Theatre, University of Wolverhampton.
We’re delighted to once again be bringing the community of Wolverhampton and the Black Country the very best in small-scale theatre, dance, poetry, comedy and much more!
Our line-up includes plenty for your little ones to enjoy, including Jungle Book by Indigo Moon Theatre which is coming to our main auditorium in November, and Blackbird Creative Art’s Daisy Donald Show, which has been adapted to the stage from Jade Byrne’s muchloved book and sheds a light on hidden disability.
We’re delighted that, for this Autumn season, we have a wealth of work from our Associate Artists to bring you: including Dave Pitt’s A Battered Chip on my Shoulder, and Jaivant Patel Company’s popular Diwali Utsav: Sitaron Ke Sang; alongside a new work-inprogress piece from Jaivant Patel Company: ASTITVA!
There’s plenty of developmental work that can be enjoyed for free too: including our Arena Collaborative Theatremakers evenings, Poets and Story Teller’s Assemble (PASTA) nights, and the very popular How’ve Yow Been Dragged Up? which showcases the best in local, young drag talent.
Myself and the team cannot wait to welcome you for another season of theatre, and we thank you for your ongoing support.
Contents
Performances p04 - p28
Arena Collaborative
Theatremakers p17
Poetry and Storytellers p18
Learning and Participation p33
At a Glance p38
How to Book p40
How to Find us p42
Neil
Neil Reading Artistic Director + The Team
Become a friend
The Arena Theatre is excited to be re-launching its Friends of the Arena membership scheme for Autumn 2024!
Fri 20 September
7.30pm
Tickets
£15 full price
£12 concessions
Box office
01902 321 321
Book tickets online arena.wlv.ac.uk
Kathakali: The Classical Dance Drama of Kerala, South India
Kathakali
Kathakali is a masterpiece of visual theatre that originated in the temple of Kerala, Southern India, around 500 years ago. It is a breathtaking blend of theatre, movement, drama, vibrant costumes, stunning makeup, ritual, and symbolic storytelling.
The stories reflect human behaviour that has changed little over the centuries. They highlight family values, equality, the right of women to be safe and valued, arrogance, vanity, spirituality, love, devotion, compassion, and the pointless destruction of suffering and war.
The Last 14/48 Wolverhampton*
14/48 UK Fri 27 Sept and Sat 28 Sept 7.00pm and 9.30pm
7 writers, 7 directors, a team of actors, designers, and musicians + 48 hours = 14 world premier plays.
14/48 Wolverhampton is the Wolverhampton satellite of “the world’s quickest theatre festival” in which 14 new plays are written, directed and performed within a 48-hour timespan.
The concept is simple: assemble some of the most talented artists in the region, apply a stringent deadline, add a few extra resources for good measure
and see where their combined creativity leads them.
The Arena Theatre is giving audiences the exciting opportunity to witness seven brand new plays each day –written, rehearsed and performed in 48 hours.
‘IT’S A BRILLIANT, AMAZING ENERGETIC NIGHT OF NEW THEATRE, TWICE. YOU’D BE MAD TO MISS IT!’
Image courtesy of Stephanie Gilford
Fri 4 Oct 7.30pm
Tickets £15 full price
£12 concessions
Please note: this is a relaxed performance
Wise Women
Calathea Theatre
Home, history, heritage.
Modern day - Meet Margo. After accusation and ridicule at university will she stay home here in Ludlow or return to finish her nursing degree?
1649. Margaret is facing charges of witchcraft... again – wise woman of the village, this is the last time she provides anyone with a herbal remedy! Treading the same path, 375 years apart, will these two women find the answers they are searching for as they fight back against the society that oppresses them?
This production is produced by Calathea Arts, co-written by Charis McRoberts & Ruth Mestel with thanks to The Friends Of Saint Leonard’s Churchyard.
Calathea Arts is a Midlands based arts organisation who produce untold theatrical experiences through live events. Behind every image is a story & behind every story is a community of people. Calathea aims to represent those people platforming their voices & telling their stories. Calathea Arts received the Rising Star Award 2022 from the BSEEN/European Development Fund.
Thurs 10 Oct 7.30pm
Tickets £15 full price
£12 concessions
Undermined
Danny Mellor
Inspired by the miners who lived through the 1984 Miners’ Strike, Undermined takes you on a rollercoaster of emotions in a year of political turmoil.
Meet young miner Dale, his best mate Billy, cheery Tony and the comic relief Jonny.
Fuelled by energetic and engaging storytelling, audiences are invited into the action and taken on the journey that Dale and his friends experienced in this divisive year. Whether you lived through the 80’s or not the piece delivers a powerful and compelling narrative that anyone can relate to. 2024 will be the 40th anniversary of the strike. Undermined will have you laughing, crying and shaking with anger.
Adventures in Science
Crafty Fools
Join ‘The Magical Mr West’ on an incredible adventure into the world of science!
Aided by his corvid companion Crowbert and a collection of curious contraptions, Mr West demonstrates the fundamental principles of scientific enquiry and tackles some of the trickiest questions in the history of humanity.
Best known as one half of magic duo ‘Morgan & West’, ‘The Magical Mr West’ has travelled around the world performing to audiences of
all ages with spectacular shows that include magic, science and a good deal of tomfoolery.
Now he presents his most amazing show yet, with the help (or possibly hindrance...) of a wise cracking cartoon crow.
Expect skills, silliness and the studious application of logic as you embark upon‘ Adventures in Science!’
For all aged 6+
Tickets £10 Box office 01902 321 321
Book tickets online arena.wlv.ac.uk Sun 13 Oct 12.00pm 3.00pm
Curious Investigators
One Tenth Human
A cracking new adventure for 3-7 year olds!
Scribble and Clipboard have a job to do: sort the recycling. But Scribble keeps finding new things to investigate. When she discovers a mysterious egg hidden in the rubbish, the pair need the audience’s help to rescue an unborn chick. Can we save the precious egg from a smashing? And what will we discover along the way?
“THE SHOW WAS FANTASTIC, STIMULATING, FUNNY & INVENTIVE”
“GREAT SHOW, FUN, LAUGHTER AND INVOLVEMENT FOR EVERYBODY YOUNG AND OLD”
Macbeth by Candlelight
Bart Lee Theatre
Macbeth is brought to life by this talented and enthralling story-telling company, igniting the imagination with poetry, sound-scapes, shadows and movement. Faithful to the text and famous Shakespeare characters. Suitable for those studying the play at GCSE as well as lovers of the Bard. NOT TO BE MISSED.
In the darkness something stirs
Visceral
Witches gather and spin their words
Soundscapes clatter
Screams are heard
Whispers of murder lurk in the shade
Ambition
Power
Love betrayed
Tickets
£15 full price
£12 concessions
Box office
01902 321 321
Book tickets online arena.wlv.ac.uk Fri 18 Oct 7.30pm
The Duke
Shon Dale-Jones
The Duke is a solo show from the multi-award winning writer/performer and “legend of the Edinburgh Festival” (The Stage) exploring kindness, generosity and the value of what we do.
Funny, poignant and playful, The Duke weaves together the tragicomic fate of a family heirloom- a porcelain figure of The Duke of Wellington, the quandary of a scriptwriter stretching his
integrity and an unfolding disaster as thousands of children flee their homes. Blending fantasy and reality, this playful show gently challenges our priorities in a world full of crisis.
“YOU WON’T FIND A SHOW WITH A BIGGER, BETTER HEART “ WHAT’S ON STAGE
Indestructible
Proteus Theatre Company
Catherine Shaw spent the 90s shocking the art world with her provocative performance art.
She’s always called herself a feminist, but looking back through the lens of #MeToo, she’s questioning how much she enabled the culture she now sees being called out. An ambitious Curator approaches her to put together an exhibition of female Artists at a major new gallery; a scandal breaks and unwittingly caught in the centre, she begins to question everything.
Can we, and should we, separate the art from the artist? How far do the ripples of consequence spread? And why is it so often women who are expected to hold the moral space?
Indestructible takes in uncompromising female Artists, from Lee Miller to the Guerrilla Girls via Sinead O’Connor and Taylor Swift, to ask: why is it still so difficult for female Artists to succeed? And why are women always the Muse, never the Artist?
Using animation and AIgenerated projections, ‘Sharp art-world dramady’ (Theatre Weekly) Indestructible is a highly visual, surprisingly funny and fiercely theatrical show from award-winning Proteus that asks serious and vital questions about cancel culture and accountability.
INDESTRUCTIBLE MAKES FOR A HUGELY ENTERTAINING, IMPORTANT, AND ENGAGING PIECE OF THEATRE. IT’S A PLAY THAT AUDIENCES WILL TAKE WITH THEM LONG AFTER THE HOUSE LIGHTS COME UP.
Thur 24 Oct 7.30pm
Going for Gold: Based on The Frankie Lucas Story
ComeForGold Ltd in association with Park Theatre
GOING FOR GOLD is based on a true story and charts
Frankie’s journey as he tries to navigate the politics of boxing, his dreams and ambitions and the needs of his family.
Set in London in the 1970’s, we meet the people that steer Frankie’s path and those that live in his heart.
Frankie, a two-time National ABA middleweight champion, was inexplicably overlooked by Team GB for the Commonwealth Games in 1974. Undeterred, he represented his birthplace, Saint Vincent, and defied the odds
to win gold as the team’s sole member. Returning to the UK in his prime, he turned professional under the tutelage of legendary trainer George Francis. However, at just 26, a mental health crisis abruptly ended his promising career. Disappearing from public view, he was presumed dead. Against all odds, Frankie resurfaced to reconnect with his family, proving his resilience and determination even in the face of adversity.
Frankie’s story asks us to consider the meaning of success, legacy, belonging and home.
Going For Gold explores what we are willing to fight for and what we leave behind.
Fri
25 Oct 7.30pm
Tickets £15
£12 concessions
Frankenstein (on a budget)
Lamphouse Theatre
Frankenstein (On a Budget) features one actor, some decidedly dodgy backdrops, lots of weather based puns, plenty of cardboard props and more hats than you can throw a stick at.
Can our ill fated doctor build his monstrous creation, play 25 characters, sing a lot of songs, attempt accents from across the world, perform a dance routine, and ultimately save the day in just 60 minutes?
Featuring a full soundtrack of brand new music, with incredible cardboard creations and characters inspired by Mary Shelley and Boris Karloff, Frankenstein (On a Budget) is the comedy musical hammer horror homage that you didn’t know you needed.
Sat 26 Oct 2pm and 4.30pm
Tickets £10
The Daisy Donald Show
Blackbird Creative Arts
Daisy Donald is bright, bold and full of fun but she’s also hiding a secret…that she lives with Type 1 Diabetes, an invisible disability.
When Daisy’s world starts to goes very grey, will she be ready for an adventure with 3 sneaky, shuffly monsters Moe, Sky and Eddy?
Adapted for the stage from Jade Byrne’s much-loved book, this brand-new family show takes you on a remarkable journey of learning about disabilities and difference, filled with take-home songs and positive messages of acceptance.
Through her fantastical world of music and learning to “Ride the Rollercoaster”; when Daisy needs to be brave, will she learn how to find her own invisible superhero cape and save the day?
Thur
31 Oct Fri 1 Nov Sat 2 Nov
7.00pm each night
2.00pm on Saturday
Tickets £12 CHILDREN UNDER 3 YEARS OLD NOT PERMITTED
Book by BURT SHEVELOVE and LARRY GELBART
Music and Lyrics by STEPHEN SONDHEIM Originally Produced on Broadway by Harold S. Prince This amateur production is presented by arrangement with Music Theatre International All authorised performance materials are also supplied by MTI www.mtishows. co.uk
Box office
01902 321 321
Book tickets online arena.wlv.ac.uk
A Funny Thing Happened On the Way To the Forum
Starcross Youth Theatre
Starcross Theatre Company return to the Arena this autumn with their production of a Stephen Sondheim classic - “A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum”.
One of the funniest musicals ever written. A non-stop laugh-fest set in ancient Rome in which Pseudolus, a crafty slave, struggles to win the hand of a beautiful courtesan named Philia, for his slow-witted young master, Hero, in exchange for freedom.
The plot twists and turns with cases of mistaken identity, slamming doors, fantastic toe tapping numbers and a laugh behind every toga will leave you in stiches.
This side splitting, hysterical musical promises a terrific night out that you won’t forget for a long time to come! Book early to avoid disappointment!
“SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE, A COMEDY TONIGHT!”
Fri
8 Nov
7.30pm
Tickets £15 full price
£12 concessions
An Actor Convalescing in Devon
Face It Theatre
An actor boards a train from Waterloo, opting for the meandering, romantic route to the West Country for a weekend with an old friend.
As the Devonshire countryside slips past the carriage window, his mind’s eye is filled with memories of a happy summer spent there with his late partner and fellow actor, Michael. As the train rolls towards his destination, our narrator takes us on our own journey –through his stories and thoughts about Shakespeare, friends, his career and the trials of his own health…
Olivier Award winner Richard Nelson’s funny and compelling new play, written specially for Paul Jesson, is a beautiful rumination on the healing power of art and the healing art of theatre.
Sat
9 Nov
7.30pm
Tickets £15 full price
£12 concessions
A Battered Chip On My Shoulder
Dave Pitt
Dave Pitt has won awards.
Dave Pitt is an Associate Artist.
Dave Pitt is doing alright at this writing and performing lark.
So why has Dave Pitt still got a chip on his shoulder, what does that have to do with graffiti art, bins and fork lift trucks and is the chip actually battered?
Dave Pitt uses spoken word and poetry to find out.
This will be a relaxed performance.
Tue 12 and Wed 13
Nov 7.30pm both nights 1.00pm on Wednesday
Tickets
£15 full price
£12 concessions
Dracula
Blackeyed Theatre
The time is 1897. Mankind is on the cusp of vast technological change, scientific mastery and media innovation.
Transylvania, Bram Stoker’s timeless gothic thriller embodies the struggle to break taboos, resist temptation and stop the unknown outside becoming the enemy within.
Box office
01902 321 321
Book tickets online arena.wlv.ac.uk
But poised between traditional beliefs, the threat of the unknown and the shock of the new world, an altogether darker fear is emerging. As a new shadow looms large over England, a small group of young men and women, led by Professor Van Helsing, are plunged into an epic struggle for survival.
Stretching from London, through provincial England, to the mountainous wastes of
Adapted by Nick Lane, this brilliant, theatrical treatment of Bram Stoker’s adventure blends Victorian Gothic with the Contemporary, showcasing Blackeyed Theatre’s trademark ensemble performance style and featuring a haunting soundscape, powerful performances and innovative design for an exhilarating theatrical experience.
Are you an emerging artist based in Wolverhampton?
Are you a student studying the Performing Arts, or with an interest in any aspect of the performing arts?
We are looking for writers, performers, devisers, directors and designers to join us.
Arena Collaborative Theatremakers (ACT) allows artists the space to develop
their own work, with support from industry professionals.
The collective meets in the Tilstone Studio at the Arena, giving an opportunity for artists to present their ‘work in progress’ to a small audience, allowing them to develop their projects in a safe, creative space.
ACT meeting dates this Autumn:
Tuesdays 7.30pm 1 Oct 5 Nov Free to attend.
Meeting dates this Autumn:
ACT meeting dates this spring:Tuesdays 7.30pm 17 Sept 15 Oct 19 Nov Free to attend.
Poets and Storytellers Assemble
PASTA is an open mic night with a difference.
Each month we ask people to perform a piece they’ve written on a theme which was chosen at the previous event. (We’ll advertise the theme on social media and online so everyone can join in).
Then we have a break so folk can grab a drink and have a chat. Depending on numbers and the vibe we might draw
another theme out the hat and see what people can create in the short time of the break – a chance to try your hand at speed writing and see what you come up with. Or, if people prefer, we may just come back and open the floor for open mics on any subject.
If you want to perform simply pop along to the night and see Emma, Dave, or Steve. Slots are about five minutes long, and we’re especially keen to welcome people who haven’t performed before.
Meeting dates this Autumn:
ACT meeting dates this spring:Tuesdays 7.30pm 24 Sept 22 Oct 26 Nov Free to attend.
How’ve Yow Been Dragged Up?
Are you a local drag artist who has been itching to perform your latest act?
Are you passionate about drag as an artform?
How’ve Yow Been Dragged Up?
Is the newest addition to the Arena Theatre’s development programme, providing a safe and inclusive platform for local drag artists to try out and receive
feedback on their latest acts and projects. Hosted by a local West Midlands artist, How’ve Yow Been Dragged Up? will meet in the Tilstone Studio at the Arena Theatre, and the evening will welcome drag artists (regardless of experience and background) to come and develop their work in front of a small audience of fellow professionals and enthusiasts.
To book your slot, please e-mail our Access and Inclusion Manager, Kirsty Povey, at K.Povey2@wlv.ac.uk
Fri 15 Nov 7.30pm
Tickets Entry is FREE
SUIT Performance
Wolverhampton Voluntary & Community Action
“It is our intention to give the silent voices of addiction a platform to be heard.” (SUIT volunteer & spoken word artist, Woz).
“It is our intention to give the silent voices of addiction a platform to be heard.” (SUIT volunteer & spoken word artist, Woz).
SUIT are a Lived Experience Recovery Organisation (LERO), providing help for people struggling with or in recovery from drugs & alcohol in Wolverhampton. Formed in 2007 to provide advocacy and support for those experiencing stigma and complex vulnerabilities, the service has developed to offer a diverse range of support, including access to healthcare, welfare, social justice, & education, delivering ‘Buddy’ support, community outreach, projects, events & creative arts, & partnership work.
SUIT volunteers and staff all come with lived experience of addiction and are unique within Wolverhampton.
The service provides clients and volunteers with a strong connection towards the creative arts, which gives opportunity in areas they may have been traditionally excluded from, challenges the power balance, and resists stigma. The creative arts give purpose to SUIT clients by strengthening relapse prevention, sustaining recovery, mutuality, and socialconnectedness, and increasing self-confidence.
Join SUIT and Arena Theatre for a co-created event which will include drama and spoken word performance, interactive workshops, and is designed to take the audience into a world that experiences the complex pathways through addiction, recovery, and creative achievement.
Hosted by SUIT volunteer Woz, and SUIT Creative Arts & Research
Lead Christiane Jenkins, the objectives of the event are
• To provide a voice for people sidelined from society who have not been heard.
• To meet in a supportive and safe space.
• To develop confidence and self-belief.
• To destigmatise the experiences of people exposed to addiction.
• To provide opportunity in creative spaces previously unavailable to clients.
• To allow freedom of expression in a guided manner.
• To raise awareness and reach the community by performance and events.
• To provide visible role models that are testament that transformation is possible.
Fri 22 Nov
7.30pm
Tickets
£20
full price
£16 concessions
Box office
01902 321 321
Book tickets online arena.wlv.ac.uk
What the Dickens?
The Telling
A spellbinding theatre piece.
Music by award-winning writer Clare Norburn and BAFTA-nominated director Nicholas Renton, soundtracked by colourful Victorian popular songs and street music, old carols and lively folk dance music performed by a multi-talented cast of seven who act, sing, dance and play instruments: sometimes all at the same time!
It’s Charles Dickens’ last Christmas Eve: 1869. Against his doctor’s wishes, he gives one of his acclaimed theatrical readings of A Christmas Carol, but from the moment the lights go down, his life becomes strangely entangled with his character, Scrooge.
“MESMERISING” THE GUARDIAN ON THE TELLING
Dickens’ carefully managed image as a family man, which has created the very quintessence of Christmas, starts to unravel as he is haunted by the women he mistreated who force him to face up to his past, present and future. Can Dickens learn from the ghosts, repent - and be saved, as Scrooge was saved?
AN EXPLORATION OF THE BOUNDARIES BETWEEN ART AND LIFE...INTELLIGENT… FINDS NEW TERRAIN”
THE GUARDIAN ON CLARE NORBURN’S WRITING
National Theatre Live
The Arena Theatre is excited to be bringing the best of British theatre to its audiences, with the programme featuring a series of acclaimed productions including classic plays and contemporary dramas, performed by some of the UK’s most talented actors.
National Theatre Live screenings will become an ever-present on the theatre’s programme of activities, and tickets are available online, over the phone and at the box office.
The Arena Theatre encourages everyone to check the theatre’s website and social media for the full schedule of screenings, and to reserve their seats well in advance.
Keep an eye on our social media for title announcements for Autumn 2024.
Book tickets online arena.wlv.ac.uk Sat 23 Nov 7.30pm
Diwali Utsav, Sitaron Ke Sang
Jaivant Patel Company and Arena Theatre presents
‘Sitaron Ke Sang’ - a radiant brightness the stars illuminate in their togetherness; refers to Diwali, the Indian festival of lights.
Arena Theatre Associate, Jaivant Patel Company presents an evening of South Asian Dance featuring Bollywood, Kathak, Bharatanatyam to Bhangara and Dandiya Raas, in Celebration of Diwali.
Diwali celebrates the joyous commencement of the New Year. It marks the start of new beginnings, the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness. This globally celebrated festival is a time when
families and friends come together for goodwill, feasting, fireworks and dancing.
This uplifting, inclusive, family friendly and entertaining celebration features some of the best British South Asian Dance artists, companies and community groups from the West Midlands and across the UK.
All are welcome to come and join us in celebrating this fantastic, diverse festival for all in the community.
For more information on Jaivant Patel Company please visit www.JaivantPatelCompany.com #JPCoDiwali24
Image courtesy of Jonathan Hipkiss.
Jaivant Patel Company
Astitva translates as‘exisitence’ and is a new ensemble work exploring the lived experiences of Gay British South Asian men, choreographed by Jaivant Patel.
Jaivant Patel is currently one of the leading voices amplifying South Asian LGBTQIA+ narratives on the UK and international cultural landscape. Previous works include award-winning production ‘Waltzing The Blue Gods’which won the Eastern Eye ACTA Award for Dance 2024.
This is a sharing of work-inprogress.
Rooted in Wolverhampton, Jaivant Patel Company is a National Portfolio Oganisation for Arts Council England and an associate of Arena Theatre.
#JPCoAstitva
Tickets £15 full price £12 concessions This evening includes a post-show Q&A.
Box office
01902 321 321 Book tickets online arena.wlv.ac.uk Sat 29 Nov 7.30pm
Sat 30 Nov 2pm and 4pm
Tickets
£10
Box office 01902 321 321
Book tickets online arena.wlv.ac.uk
26 PERFORMANCES
Jungle Book
Indigo Moon Theatre
Shadow puppet theatre for families aged 4+
Fearless and free, Mowgli the ‘ man-cub ‘ finds fun and friendship despite learning to live by the Law of the Jungle. Mowgli’s daring adventures in the dangerous world he inhabits, are brought to life by Indigo Moon Theatre with inventive shadow theatre, original music and colourful digital projection.
Wednesday 11 December at 7.30pm
Tickets: £7
frivolities are back!
Join the staff, associate artists and partners of the Arena Theatre as we celebrate the joyous Christmas season with live entertainment made up of Arena Theatre partners, Associate Artists, and community groups we engage with throughout our programmes of work. This event is suitable for all members of your family!
Wed 18 Dec and Thur 19 Dec and Fri 20 Dec
7.30pm
Tickets
£15 full price
£12 concessions
Box office
01902 321 321
Book tickets online arena.wlv.ac.uk
Dark Tales in Winter presents Number 13 by M. R. James
Arena Theatre and Beautiful Shadows Theatre Company
In the midst of winter, the Arena Theatre and Beautiful Shadows bring you a new, contemporary adaptation of Number 13 by M. R. James. Written by Hannah Torrance and Matt Beames. Directed by Neil Reading.
These Dark Tales in Winter are set together in an evening of entertainment that will bring a delightful chill to the season. Keep an eye on the Arena Theatre’s website and social media for performance and casting announcements.
‘THESE DARK TALES IN WINTER HAVE BEEN PUT TOGETHER FOR A THRILLING EVENING OF ENTERTAINMENT, CERTAINLY A STRIKING CONTRAST TO SHOWS TYPICAL OF THE FESTIVE PERIOD’
WHAT’S ON
Image courtesy of Ninh Nguyèn on Unsplash
HIRE THE ARENA
AN IDEAL VENUE FOR PERFORMANCES, MEETINGS AND CONFERENCES.
All of our spaces have state-of the-art equipment, full technical support and our own tailored range of hospitality and catering.
Complete with in-built conference equipment, our Seminar Room can accommodate 30 in boardroom style, or up to 50 with seating in rows.
Our 150-seat main Auditorium is fully accessible and equipped for theatre, concerts and multimedia presentations. Our prices are very competitive, and we’re conveniently located - close to plenty of parking, and rail, tram and bus links - right in the centre of Wolverhampton. PERFORM IN
Flexus Youth Dance Auditions
‘Nurturing the Artist, Athlete & Human’
For beginner and intermediate dancers aged 11 - 15 years
A Flexus Youth Dancer will demonstrate an excellent attitude with discipline, passion and commitment, which is often valued higher than technical experience.
Following the audition, dancer selection will be in response to the choreographers’ artistic vision for their work, but please be aware that dancers at times are selected on their potential, and not on experience. As part of Flexus Youth Dance, company members can actively contribute to the development of Flexus Dance Collective through representation on the Youth Board, communicating & consolidating the views of all young people to inform and enhance FDC’s work.
Audition Date
Sunday 29 September
Application Deadline
Monday 23 September
Contact: flexusdanceco@outlook.com
Sterran Dance Company Audition
‘Nurturing the Artist, Athlete & Human’
For advanced dancers aged 15 - 21 years old.
A Flexus Youth Dancer will demonstrate an excellent attitude with discipline, passion and commitment, which is often valued higher than technical experience.
Sterran Dance Company is designed for exceptionally dedicated and motivated dancers who possess an advanced level of technical expertise or exhibit the physical potential to reach this standard, Applicants should maintain a high level of personal fitness and exude a commanding performance presence, showcasing versatility and a readiness to embrace challenges. Dancers must demonstrate remarkable discipline and sensitivity exhibit originality in choreography, and possess strong communication skills; experience in various dance styles or other art forms is highly valued but not essential.
Audition Date
Sunday 29 September
Application Deadline
Monday 23 September
Contact: flexusdanceco@outlook.com
Education and Outreach
Grand Arena Youth Theatre
The Grand Arena Youth Theatre is an exciting collaboration between the Arena Theatre and Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, where young people work alongside a professional director to grow and improve their acting and devising skills.
Sessions focus on technique, as well as working towards two performances staged at the Arena Theatre.
Youth Theatre members have the opportunity to participate in specialist workshops with professional touring companies, and attend performances at both theatres each term at a heavily discounted rate.
Weekly rehearsals take place every Monday evening – excluding half-terms and Bank Holidays – here at the Arena Theatre.
Juniors: Ages 9-13
Rehearsals: 6pm – 7:30pm
Performance: July 2025
Seniors: Aged 14-18
Rehearsals: 8pm – 9:30pm
Performance: March 2025
For prices, please contact the Grand Theatre on 01902 322 646.
Grand Arena Youth Theatre
Meeting dates this Autumn term
Mon 9 Sep
Mon 16 Sep
Monday 23 Sep
Mon 30 Sep
Mon 7 Oct
Mon 14 Oct
Mon 21 Oct
Mon 4 Nov
Mon 11 Nov
Mon 18 Nov
Mon 25 Nov
Mon 2 Dec
Mon 9 Dec
Mon 16 Dec
Project Xpedition is an innovative FREE programme, including:
• Design and delivery of a youth led arts event in a professional venue
• Level 1 Bronze Arts Award Qualification
• Work with professional dance, acting, and technical theatre professionals in the design and creation of new works
• Perform in a professional theatre setting
• Develop skills and insight in arts management roles and careers.
• Four workshop days delivered once a month from January - April 2025
• Five day creation and performance project, delivered during May half-term 2025.
Applications for Project Xpedition are currently open for 2025. PLACES ARE LIMITED.
Please contact Sam Fleming at the Arena Theatre for an application form and further information, Sam.Fleming@wlv.ac.uk
Project Xpedition
Project Xpedition is a performance and arts management programme by the Arena Theatre and Flexus Dance Collective, giving young people (aged 11-15 years old) the opportunity to produce and perform in their own arts event at the Arena Theatre: promoting the work of young people in the local region.
Project Xpedition aims to empower young people with invaluable skills and insight into the Creative Industries, providing an inspiring creative and performance opportunity with an experienced team of industry professionals.
For 2024, the Arena Theatre and Flexus Dance Collective re-developed the programme to include performance
opportunities for young people in acting, dancing, and technical theatre - nurturing their passion for their chosen artform.
“I have learned new skills about theatre which has increased my confidence and leadership skills”
(Creative Pioneer 21/22)
“It has given us an insight into different parts of theatre, and has developed our skills in working creatively and collaboratively”
(Creative Pioneer 21/22)
“It was really enjoyable and pushed me out of my comfort zone. I would highly recommend the project to other young people involved in the creative arts”
(Creative Pioneer 21/22)
Friend of the Arena Theatre
Join our ever-growing circle of Friends and receive priority booking and fantastic discounts across our professional season!
Your membership includes a donation to the support the venue, ensuring we can keep continue to offer artist development opportunities, and education packages to our local community.
Friends Membership
Priority booking and discounts on selected performances for one person and a £10 contribution to support Arena Theatre.
Become a Friend for just £15 per year.
Joint Friend
Priority booking and discounts on selected performances for two people and a £15 contribution to support the Arena Theatre.
Become a Joint Friend today for £20 per year.
Family Friend
Priority booking and discounts on selected performances for up to four people, and a £20 contribution to support the Arena Theatre.
Become a Family Friend today for £25 per year.
Join Today!
Become a Friend of the Arena Theatre today by giving our Box Office a call on 01902 321 321 or popping in to see us in-person!
Access
Access Performances
The Arena Theatre is open and accessible to all customers and has an extensive range of services to ensure you have an enjoyable and comfortable experience.
If you require any assistance, information or support before, during or after your visit with us, please inform the box office when booking your tickets, this way we can find the best seats for you and ensure you have a great experience with us.
This information is also available online: wlv.ac.uk/arena-theatre/access/
Across our season we offer (where possible) a range of accessible performances. These include Audio Described, BSL-interpreted and captioned performances. We also offer Relaxed and Dementia-Friendly performances. You can find these earmarked throughout our brochure.
Accessible performances
BSL Performances
Audio Described Performances
Captioned Performances
Lift access to all levels
Sennheiser Infrared Enhanced Hearing System* Assistance dogs are welcome
*(Please reserve your headset at the Box Office when booking your ticket)
Booking and your visit
Box Office and opening hours
The Arena Theatre’s box office is open 24/7 online for bookings. We are open 10am –5pm, Monday to Friday, for over the phone and in-person bookings. The box office will be open for bookings until 6pm when we have an evening performance.
Payments
We are now a cashless venue, so please bring your debit or credit card if you are making a purchase at the venue. We accept all forms of card apart from American Express. We do not accept theatre tokens.
Electronic tickets (E-Tickets)
Once you have booked your tickets online or in-person you will be sent a confirmation email which will contain your electronic tickets. When you arrive at the venue for a performance, you can either show us your electronic ticket or give us the name your booking was made under. You can also print your tickets at home and bring a paper version.
If your show or event is online, your e-ticket will contain any links and passwords you need to access the event. You can contact the Box Office with any issues regarding an online ticket.
Cancellations, refunds and exchanges
In the unfortunate event that a performance is cancelled, we will automatically offer you either a full refund, an exchange to another performance or a voucher that is valid across our professional season at the Arena Theatre.
If you are unable to attend the performance for any reason (excluding COVID-19), we will offer you either a voucher of the same amount or an exchange for another performance. We cannot offer a full refund unless it is COVID-19 related.
Schools, colleges and group bookings
Tickets for schools and colleges are our standard rate for that season, with one free ticket being offered for every ten. Teacher and carer tickets are free. This also applies to group bookings on groups over 10+. Any further discounts can be discussed directly with the venue.
Schools can reserve their tickets in advance, and final numbers and payment will not be taken until two weeks prior to the show date. We accept card and BACS payment from schools.
If you would like to come and see us in advance of your visit, to familiarise yourself with the Theatre, spaces, and facilities, please contact the box office: 01902 321 321.
Seating plan
Reserved seating When booking your tickets you can choose where you sit (subject to availability). Simply choose from the seating plan below.
Thank you to our partners
Dr. Kinny Gardner BEM
Arena Theatre Patron
Dave Pitt
Katy Sterran
Jaivant
Find us
By car
The Arena is easily accessible by road. Signs to ‘University (South)’ will lead you to Wulfruna street. Limited street parking is available outside. The nearby Broad Street car park is open 24-hours a day, and is just a three to four minute walk from the theatre. You can pay for parking at Broad Street with the RingGo app which is available for most phone devices.
For Google Maps and Sat Navs, input the postcode WV1 1SE for the Arena Theatre, and WV1 1JD for Broad Street car park. If Broad Street is full, Faulkland Street is the next nearest car park to the theatre - again this is payable with the RingGo app. The postcode for Faulkland Street is WV1 1JN. Please check the closing times when parking on the Wolverhampton Civic Centre car park, as this can sometimes shut at 8.00pm before shows at the theatre are finished.
By cycle
Bicycle parking is available outside of the theatre. Alternatively, we are happy to store bicycles in the box office for safekeeping.
By train
Wolverhampton train station is just a five-minute walk away from the Arena Theatre.
By bus and metro
Wolverhampton is served by bus companies who link all the surrounding towns in the area. Wolverhampton bus and metro stations are just a five-minute walk away.
By taxi
If arriving by taxi, please be aware there is no designated drop off zone so the driver may drop you off a little further down on Wulfruna Street. The box office are more than happy to book your return taxi on request.
