January - May 2023

January-May Greenock Arts Guild Ltd celebrates 10 years of the Beacon Arts Centre

2023

EVENTS AT A GLANCE DATE/S

GENRE

JAN Sat 14 Jan FEB

MAR

APR

MAY

Music Fri 27 Jan Music Sun 12 Feb Music Tue 21-Wed 22 Feb Comedy Thu 23 Feb Music Sat 25 Feb Comedy Thu 2 Mar Tribute Fri 3 Mar Comedy Sat 4 Mar Talk Thu 9 Mar Tribute Fri 10 Mar Dance Sat 11 Mar Tribute Wed 15 Mar Theatre Thu 16-Sat 18 Mar Musical Theare Sat 18 Mar Music Tue 28 Mar-Sat 1 Apr Theatre Thu 30 Mar Music Sat 8 Apr Music Thu 13 Apr Music Fri 14 Apr Tribute Sat 15 Apr Tribute Thu 20 Apr Music Sat 22 Apr Talk Sun 23 Apr Music Thu 27 Apr Music Sat 29 Apr Family Sun 30 Apr Tribute Wed 3 May Musical Theatre Sun 7 May Music Fri 12 & Sat 13 May Talk Thu 18 May Tribute Thu 18 May Theatre Fri 19 May Tribute Sat 20 May Theatre Tue 23 May Dance Fri 26 May Music Wed 31 May-Sat 3 Jun Musical Theatre CLASSICAL CONCERT SERIES TAKE PART EXHIBITIONS CREATIVE MINDS INFORMATION AND ACCESS

All information correct at the time of printing. For the most up to date information visit www.beaconartscentre.co.uk or follow us on social media.

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RSNO Viennese Gala 2 Ashara 5 The Jeremiahs 5 Janey Godley: The Not Dead Yet Tour 6 Ant Law & Alex Hitchcock 6 Milton Jones and friends 7 Bowie Experience 10 Francie and Josie: Pure Neuralgia 10 Auld Before My Time: Paul Riley 11 Barry Steele & Friends 11 A Wee Journey 12 The Magic of The Beatles 12 Unbecoming 13 School of Rock 13 Chloe Mathru: Small Voyages 16 Kidnapped 16 Helena Kay 18 Paul Young: Behind The Lens Tour 19 All Our Yesterdays 20 Back to Hell: A Tribute to Meatloaf & Jim Steinman 20 Acoustic McCartney & Sting 21 Blue Rose Code: Ten Years' Grace Tour 21 Lulu: For The Record 22 The Tannahill Weavers 22 Ali Affleck 23 The Good, The Bad and The Poultry 24 Sun Records: The Concert 24 Dreamcoat Stars 26 Fiddlers' Rally 26 Clyde Built with Barbara Rafferty 27 80s LIVE! 27 Who Killed my Father?

28 Big Girls Don't Cry 28 Pibroch 29 Too close to the sun 29 World of the Gods 30 The Stamping Ground Featuring the songs of Runrig 32 3 8-9 14-15 17 33-34

GENRE & VENUE KEY T

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MAIN THEATRE

STUDIO

GALLERY SUITE

OUTDOOR

TRIBUTE

TALK

MUSIC

THEATRE

DANCE

VARIETY

FAMILY

BALLET

COMEDY

MUSICAL THEATRE

Front cover image © Jessy Earl | Barrowland Ballet's Too close to the sun - see page 29

2023 AT THE BEACON Greenock Arts Guild Ltd celebrates 10 years of the Beacon Arts Centre

It’s a joy to introduce you to the Beacon’s latest season of events – five months of top-class entertainment, from world-famous musicians via raucous comedy to uplifting and provocative drama.

I’m particularly delighted to welcome two of Scotland’s National Performing Arts companies: the Royal Scottish National Orchestra brings a celebration of all things Strauss, with a Viennese Gala and the National Theatre of Scotland premieres its much-anticipated re-telling of Robert Louis Stevenson’s Kidnapped.

Weel-kent faces Barbara Rafferty and Paul Riley look back over their lives on stage and screen and there’s an affectionate tribute to Francie and Josie from Liam Dolan and Johnny Mac. Talking of tributes, we’ll have fantastic shows belting out the music of Frankie Valli, Tina Turner, David Bowie, Roy Orbison, Meat Loaf, The Beatles, stars of American Country music and the Sun Records label. If you’re looking for the real thing, Scottish icon Lulu and 80s pop sensation Paul Young put in personal appearances, and there are gigs from Ashara, The Jeremiahs, Blue Rose Code and The Tannahill Weavers – as well as the Runrig musical The Stamping Ground and the Albany Stage School’s production of School of Rock. @thebeaconartsc

@thebeaconarts

@thebeaconarts

Beacon Arts Centre

Families should also look out for the Dreamcoat Stars performing all the bestknown numbers from Joseph and much more, and the brilliantly madcap The Good, The Bad and the Poultry.

There are thought-provoking dramas on Piper Alpha and the Climate Emergency, migration, loss and rage and growing up gay in provincial France. Poverty Safari author Darren McGarvey is sure to have you reassessing life in contemporary Britain.

We also have comedy from Milton Jones and Friends and Janey Godley, the wonderfully intimate Beacon Jazz Club continues (also, don’t miss The World of the Gods, the Scottish National Jazz Orchestra’s astonishing show with the Mugenkyo Taiko Drummers) and we introduce the Classical Music Concert Series, featuring Scottish star guitarist Sean Shibe, accordionist Ryan Corbett and Bach aficionado John Butt.

Our year-round art exhibitions continue, as do our Take Part classes and activities, and of course, even if you’re not coming along to a show, there’s always the Beacon Café and Bar, with those awesome riverside views.

As the Beacon continues to light up lives in Inverclyde, we look forward to seeing you very soon.

Pauline Kane | Director

Beacon Arts Centre is proud to be funded and supported by

Greenock Arts Guild Ltd, trading as Beacon Arts Centre, is a company incorporated in Scotland under the Companies Acts (Company No. SC024805, VAT Registered Number 265140673, Scottish Charity Number SC003030)

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Sat 14 Jan 7:30pm Standard/£28.50 Upper Circle/£25 Restricted/£22.50

Vienna – the city of dreams, where melodies are as sweet as Sachertorte and dance rhythms sparkle like Champagne!

And it simply wouldn’t be New Year without Vienna’s most famous musical son, Johann Strauss, and his friends.

So let the Royal Scottish National Orchestra whirl you away to a world of elegant waltzes, playful polkas and good old-fashioned operetta romance. Tenor Jamie MacDougall, Scotland’s National Orchestra and conductor David Niemann will sweep you off your feet with favourites including the overture to Die Fledermaus, On the Beautiful Blue Danube and the Thunder and Lightning Polka.

January to May 2023

Classical Concert Series GS

Sundays once a month Standard/£15 Concession/£13 Under 26/£5

Image © Kaupo-Kikkas

Sean Shibe Guitar Recital Sun 29 Jan | 3pm Malamatina Guitar Quartet Sun 26 Feb | 3pm Virtuoso Saxophone Music with Dean Walker Garrity Sun 26 Mar | 3pm Ryan Corbett Accordion Recital Sun 30 Apr | 3pm Lara Melda Piano Recital Sun 14 May | 3pm John Butt Plays Bach's Goldberg Variations Sun 4 Jun | 3pm

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Greenock Arts Guild Ltd celebrates 10 years of the Beacon Arts Centre

LIGHTING UP LIVES

IN INVERCLYDE www.beaconartscentre.co.uk This year Beacon Arts Centre celebrates a decade in our wonderful waterfront venue! We are incredibly pleased to mark the milestone with a year-long programme of theatre, comedy and music throughout 2023.

We want to take this opportunity to say a huge thank you to everyone who has supported us over the past 10 years, and to all those who have graced our stage and worked tirelessly behind the scenes.

The Beacon opened its doors to this iconic building in 2013, providing a new home for the Greenock Arts Guild which had been serving the local community since 1946. Our mission has been – and remains – making sure the arts are available and accessible to everyone, regardless of circumstance. In addition to our staged performances, every year we offer thousands of people the opportunity to take part in transformational community projects and events.

Of course, we love and hugely appreciate when you buy tickets for our shows and events, or choose to eat and drink at Café Beacon. But there are other ways you can support our work. This can either be through a one-off gift or on a more regular basis.

Every penny we receive will help us continue lighting up lives across Inverclyde.

We are incredibly grateful for the generosity of our loyal supporters, funders and donors.

It is thanks to them that we are able to fulfil our mission to make a lasting impact by giving as many people as possible the opportunity to engage with the arts in enjoyable and meaningful ways.

WAYS TO DONATE Visit our website at beaconartscentre.co.uk When booking tickets online, you are given the option to add a donation.

Drop your change into our donation box when booking tickets at the Box Office.

JANUARY

FEBRUARY

Jason Wilson presents

Ashara S

Fri 27 Jan 8pm Standard/£15 Concession/£13

Scotland meets Jamaica in Canada!

The brainchild of Scottish-Canadian Jason Wilson (Wilson & Swarbrick, Pee Wee Ellis), Ashara (meaning Good Fortune) presents a joyful blend of Scottish folk, global roots and reggae. Wilson is joined by legendary JamaicanCanadian guitarist Carl Harvey (Toots and the Maytals) and a rotating cast of award-winning Scottish trad musicians, including fiddle player Jack Smedley, piper Ali Hutton and accordionist John Somerville, as well as Wilson’s own eclectic Canadian band.

Scottish-based Jamaican songstress Subrina Ward appears as a special guest.

TRJ Management presents

The Jeremiahs S

Sun 12 Feb 8pm Standard/£15 Concession/£13

With a repertoire consisting of old and new folk songs from Ireland, Scotland and England, originality is to the forefront for The Jeremiahs, each member bringing their own truly original sound. Coupled with Joe's lilting singing are newly composed melodies played by Niamh, Brian and Julien with a fiery passion. The band took part in the opening concert of Celtic Connections in January 2022 and completed a highly successful tour of England in February.

‘One of the freshest bands in Irish traditional music’ Sean Laffey, Irish Music Magazine

BOOK TICKETS AT www.beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723723

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FEBRUARY NLP Ltd presents

Beacon Arts Centre presents

Ant Law & Alex Hitchcock T

Tue 21 - Wed 22 Feb 8pm 16+ Standard/£25

My past year has been like a giant Wordle game that has swept the nation, during which I went from ‘cancel to cancer’ in 6 weeks. All my own doing, but now it’s time to laugh, live and celebrate after dealing with this dreadful disease. Never one for the conventional path in life, I am still NOT DEAD YET. From stories of heart-warming love and outpourings of support to the occasional daily messages hoping I might die soon – because I’m a woman who answered back – there will be voiceovers and anecdotes straight from the woman who wouldn’t die or shut up.

Come join me!

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Thu 23 Feb 8pm Standard/£15 Concession/£13 Under 26s/£5

Same Moon in the Same World is an ambitious new collaboration between British musicians Alex Hitchcock (saxophone) and Ant Law (guitar). Inspiring the album is the idea that while we may be in separate places geographically, we have shared truths: musical language, human experience, emotions.

From our unique vantage points, we are all staring at the same moon. The common experience of the pandemic has emphasised the importance of human connection, and it is in this spirit that the music was composed and recorded. The artists on this album were brought together by the very conditions that were keeping people apart.

January to May 2023

DH Promotions presents

Milton

Jones and friends T

Sat 25 Feb 7:30pm Standard/£25 Concession/£22.50

16+

Headlining is the messy-haired master of the one-liner, Milton Jones, one of the UK’s most successful touring comedians. His unique style of comedy has audiences in stitches, and the laughs are just as loud as his shirts! He is a regular on TV and has appeared on popular shows such as Live at the Apollo and Mock the Week. Milton will be joined by three top Scottish comedians.

‘The wild-haired Jones has raised wordplay to the level of fine art’ Radio Times

BOOK TICKETS AT www.beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723723

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Take Part

As well as our drama, dance and visual art classes we will have lots of performances and activities for all ages throughout the year.

Over the page you'll find our regular activities but please check our website regularly for new events.

If you would like to join our mailing list to be kept up to date, please email info@beaconartscentre.co.uk

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January to May 2023

Platinum Dance Mondays from 9 Jan 10-11am or 11-12 noon £5 per class Our Platinum Dance Classes offer physical and mental health benefits to those aged 55+ while partaking in fun and accessible dance activities.

This class is open to everyone. No experience is necessary, just an open mind and a willingness to join in!

Beacon Youth Theatre /Young Company Sundays from 15 Jan

GLOWBUGG 10:45am (5-8 years) SPARKS 11:45am (9-12 years) BEACON YOUNG COMPANY 1:30pm (13-18 years) Beacon Youth Theatre (or just BYT) is a place where young people use their imagination, share their ideas, tell real-life stories and then collaborate to bring them to life on stage.

It’s a positive and supportive environment, open to all and there’s no need to audition.

Contact us about a FREE taster session.

Dance for Parkinson’s Tuesdays from 10 Jan - 14 Mar 1-3pm £5 per class Beacon Arts Centre hosts a weekly class designed especially for people living with Parkinson’s and their families and carers. These classes are suitable for people with no dance experience and will develop confidence and creativity, while addressing Parkinson’s-specific concerns such as: balance, flexibility, coordination, gait and social isolation. The session is followed by tea/coffee, cake and a blether.

To book for any of our classes, please call our box office on 01475 723723 or for more information email us at info@beaconartscentre.co.uk

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MARCH MRC presents

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Thu 2 Mar 7:30pm Standard/£27

Bowie Experience is a spectacular concert celebrating the sound and vision of David Bowie.

A must-see for all Bowie fans, this latest production features all the hits from A to Ziggy. Bowie Experience continues to amaze audiences with its astounding attention to detail, bringing the golden years of David Bowie to theatres across the globe.

So, put on your red shoes and Let’s Dance!

Tip your Hat & Tada Productions presents

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Fri 3 Mar 7:30pm Standard/£24 Concession/£23

The boys are back in town with their new show. Starring Scottish variety and pantomime favourites Liam Dolan as Francie and Johnny Mac as Josie, this new production is a modernday Summer Season and Five Past Eight Show rolled into one. Described by the late great Rikki Fulton and Jack Milroy as ‘Our Alter Egos’, Liam and Johnny, along with their special guests, take you on an unforgettable journey down memory lane.

Absolutely brilliant! Just like the real deal.

Don’t miss this fantastic show’ Michelle McManus

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January to May 2023

Lucky Saddle Scotland Ltd. presents

Darkest Star Productions presents

Auld Before My Time:

Paul Riley T

Sat 4 Mar 7:30pm Standard/£22.50 £40 (Meet & Greet)

12+

Join BAFTA Award-winning actor/comedian Paul Riley for an evening of fun, laughter and memories of his 30-year career, with an opportunity for you to ask anything you’ve ever wanted to know about the iconic Still Game!

After 62 episodes, 21 years and a recordbreaking run of live shows at the Ovo Hydro, Paul shares stories of his time on the show playing the much-loved Winston Ingram.

With surprise celebrity guests, this promises to be a hilarious night out!

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Thu 9 Mar 7:30pm Standard/£25

Barry Steele and a fabulous cast of musicians and singers take you on a musical journey from A Black & White Night through to The Traveling Wilburys and beyond, in this tribute to the great Roy Orbison.

Chris Isaak recorded many of Roy’s songs and Barry Steele & Friends will also perform the global smash hits Blue Hotel and Wicked Game.

You’ll be dancing in the aisles in an evening jam-packed with solid-gold rock ’n’ roll and contemporary musical genius capturing the magic of an era in one fantastic evening.

BOOK TICKETS AT www.beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723723

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MARCH Farah Saleh presents

Entertainers presents

A Wee Journey T

Fri 10 Mar 7:30pm Standard/£12 Concession/£10

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Sat 11 Mar 7:30pm Standard/£28 Concession/£26

A Wee Journey is a choreographed musical journey about migration, a timely and relevant piece that fuses dance, music and performance to explore belonging, connection, community and home. Combining choreography by Farah Saleh with live music and composition by Oğuz Kaplangi, this collaborative piece foregrounds the lived experience of the artists.

Come together right now and join us for a night like no other, as we celebrate the music of one of the greatest bands of our lives with all the hits you know and love, including She Loves You, A Hard Day’s Night, Help!, I Feel Fine, Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, Hey Jude, Here Comes the Sun, Get Back and so many more.

‘A powerful statement on the importance of free movement’ ★★★★

The Magic of the Beatles will show you that All You Need Is Love. So Let It Be and get your tickets now!

Fest Mag

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January to May 2023

Company of Wolves presents

The Albany presents

Unbecoming S

Wed 15 Mar 8pm Standard/£12 Concession/£10

A solo work by Anna Porubcansky, Unbecoming is a performance about loss and rage, told by a woman and a mother. Rage, at all we become when we don’t feel like we have a choice.

Loss, of all we haven’t become. And how we unbecome.

Presented by Company of Wolves using traditional song, soundscape, myth and movement, Unbecoming is a dreamworld: a rich and sublime space where image, memory, desire and fear all reside. Watch a woman unravel, layer upon layer stripped away, to reveal a human, unmasked. How much of what we are is what we’ve chosen to be?

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Thu 16 - Sat 18 Mar 7:30pm 2:30pm Sat only Standard/£20 Concession/£18

The Albany Stage School presents School of Rock, with music by Andrew Lloyd Webber.

Dewey Finn, a wannabe rock star, is down on his luck. Kicked out of the band and threatened with eviction, he intercepts a phone call for his flatmate Ned Schneebly.

To make a few extra bucks he poses as Ned, a supply teacher at a prestigious prep school.

There he turns a class of straight-A students into a guitar-shredding, bass-slapping, mindblowing rock band. He just needs to do this away from the prying eyes of the school’s uptight Principal, Rosalie Mullins …

BOOK TICKETS AT www.beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723723

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Exhibitions Seeing Things

by Beacon Art Group 10 Dec 2022 - 21 Jan 2023

Creating Community

by Inverclyde Women Create 28 Jan - 25 Feb 2023

Origins

by Willie Sutherland 4 Mar - 1 Apr 2023

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Image © Cheryl Papisian

FREE admission #BeaconExhibitions

Heartlands

by Margaret Borthwick 31 Mar - 3 Apr 2023

Paperworks

by William Dick

Large Works

by Ken McClymont 8 Apr - 6 May 2023

Invisible Artists

by Shona Wardrop 13 May - 1 Jul 2023

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MARCH National Theatre of Scotland presents

Kidnapped

A swashbuckling rom-com adventure S

Sat 18 Mar 7:30pm Standard/£12 Concession/£10

Chloe is a Scottish Indian Singer Songwriter from Inverclyde. Many of her songs draw on her time as a Navigational Officer in the Merchant Navy, inspired by the natural world experienced at sea. Her music offers an intriguing insight into a new tradition of maritime folk. Chloe’s voice, coupled with her harp playing, make a haunting combination perfectly suited to the reflective nature of her material. Of mixed Indian and Welsh heritage, and crossing boundaries in her career at sea, Chloe is keen to explore breaking down cultural and gender barriers through the language of music.

‘Music with thoughtful song writing embellished by her voice and superb harp playing.’

The Herald

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Tue 28 Mar - Sat 1 Apr 7:30pm/2:30pm Sat only Tue – Thu £10/£8 conc Fri & Sat/£16-£24

19-year-old Davie has never left home, never been kissed and never fired a gun. Armed with nothing but a hand-drawn map, he heads off on an adventure like no other – quickly realising that he has a lot of catching up to do…

This riotous re-telling of Robert Louis Stevenson’s adventure novella, conceived

by Isobel McArthur and adapted by Isobel McArthur and M J McCarthy, is jam-packed with 20th-century pop music and 18th-century romance. Performed by a dynamic ensemble of actor-musicians, Kidnapped is a colourful coming-of-age story, shot through with Stevenson’s trademark blend of poetry, humour and heart.

January to May 2023

Creatability

Beacon Art Group

Buff and Sheen 2022

FREE

Inverclyde Women Create

TO ATTEND

Creative Minds: Community Arts Festival 2023 Beacon Arts Centre will host a Community Arts Festival in May 2023 bringing together some of the amazing Creative Minds who work and live across Inverclyde.

Community groups will be supported to use an artform to explore a theme or subject that is important to them. An artist will be matched with each group to suit their project and interests. Over a period of weeks or months between January and May 2023 each group will engage in a creative process, working towards sharing their work.

The emphasis on creative process and a sharing of work is to encourage art as a vehicle for health and well-being and for creativity as a way we can build and deepen connections within and between local communities in Inverclyde.

The venue will be an open space during the festival with workshops, talks, events, and demonstrations open to everyone in the local area. Tickets will be free and open to all.

#CreativeMindsFest

BOOK TICKETS AT www.beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723723

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Beacon Arts Centre presents

Helena Kay S

Thu 30 Mar 8pm Standard/£15 Concession/£13 Under 26s/£5

Helena Kay is a tenor saxophonist and composer based in London. Originally from Perth, they moved to London in 2012 to study at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, graduating in 2016 with a First Class in BMus Jazz (Hons).

Kay draws influence from different places which are important to them: Scotland, London and New York, each of which have been their home during their career.

While in New York, they had lessons with some of the greats of the contemporary jazz scene – Dayna Stephens, Melissa Aldana, Chris Cheek and Rodney Green.

Image © Benjamin Ealovega

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APRIL A Way With Media presents

Paul Young: Behind The Lens Tour T

Sat 8 Apr 7:30pm

Standard/£30 VIP + goody bag/£45 Meet & Greet/£80

Paul Young broke into the big time 40 years ago when his debut album No Parlez went to No1, bringing with it iconic hits like Wherever I Lay My Hat (That’s My Home).

More success followed with the No1 album The Secret of Association and the worldwide hit Everytime You Go Away, not forgetting an appearance at Live Aid and more. Now Paul’s releasing a remarkable new record and publishing his extraordinary memoir, both called Behind the Lens.

Tonight he’ll meet fans, sing the hits and tell stories about his incredible career.

Meet & greet available!

BOOK TICKETS AT www.beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723723

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APRIL Timeless Theatre presents

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Thu 13 Apr 2:30 & 7pm Standard/£21

All Our Yesterdays re-lives the fantastic sounds of the 50s, 60s and 70s, and throws in a few party hits from the 80s for good measure.

The songs of these memorable decades are presented in our unique ‘Timeless’ style, with the highly acclaimed production captivating audiences worldwide with its brilliant choreography and over 100 stunning costumes reflecting each era, all performed by a cast of world-class singers and dancers.

MRC presents

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Fri 14 Apr 7:30pm Standard/£28

Let us take you Back Into Hell, where rock and roll dreams come true, with this two-hour extravaganza celebrating the iconic music of Meat Loaf and Jim Steinman.

Join our world-class musicians as they recreate such legendary anthems as Bat Out of Hell, I’d Do Anything For Love, Paradise by the Dashboard Light, You Took the Words Right Out of My Mouth, Two Out of Three Ain’t Bad, Dead Ringer for Love and many more!

This slick, fast-moving and vibrant show is filled with fun, energy and a few laughs along the way. The Ultimate Feel-Good Experience – not to be missed!

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January to May 2023

The Boyds Music presents

Noble Savage presents

Acoustic McCartney & Sting

Blue Rose Code: Ten Years’ Grace Tour T S

Sat 15 Apr 7pm Standard/£13 Concession/£10

14+

Two shows in one night! One voice, one guitar.

In Acoustic McCartney, Edinburgh Fringe Award winner since 2016 Gus Boyd performs interpretations of Paul McCartney’s songs from The Beatles, Wings and his solo career.

Expect to hear Yesterday, Here, There and Everywhere, The Fool on the Hill, The Long and Winding Road, Drive My Car, Let It be, Hey Jude and many more. In Acoustic Sting, Gus sings The Police and Sting numbers with passion and power, including Roxanne, Fields of Gold, Message in a Bottle, Every Breath You Take, Walking on the Moon and Englishman in New York.

Thu 20 Apr 8pm Standard/£20

Blue Rose Code are firmly established as one of Scotland’s most dynamic and engaging live bands, with Ross Wilson and his brilliant ensemble at the peak of their considerable powers. Blending folk, Americana, jazz and pop influences into something truly unique, Wilson's songs address universal themes in a deeply personal way. Celebrating ten years since the release of Wilson’s debut on Reveal Records, North Ten will be performed in its original sequence followed by new material and reinterpreted work from the Blue Rose Code canon.

‘One of the greatest live acts around right now...do yourself a favour and go’ Americana UK

BOOK TICKETS AT www.beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723723

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APRIL A Way With Media presents

Lulu: For the Record T

Sat 22 Apr SELLING 7:30pm FAST Standard/£35 VIP/£50 Meet & Greet/£80

Lulu has made music and memories with the greatest of all time. Elton John wrote songs with her, Bowie produced and recorded with her, McCartney duetted with her and one of the Bee Gees married her. It’s a story that has to be told, providing a once-in-a-lifetime insight into some of the music world’s legends.

Join Lulu as she shares, for the first time, many untold stories, her memories and experiences with the greats – and enjoy with her the music that has been her constant companion. This is Lulu: For The Record. Meet & greet available!

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The Tannahill Weavers S

Sun 23 Apr 8pm Standard/£15 Concession/£13

Born of a session in Paisley and named for the town’s historic weaving industry and local poet Robert Tannahill, the Tannahill Weavers have made an international name for their special brand of Celtic music, blending the beauty of traditional melodies with the power of modern rhythms. As one of the world’s premier traditional Celtic bands, their diverse repertoire spans the centuries with fire-driven instrumentals, topical songs, original ballads and lullabies, and humorous tales of life in Scotland.

In 2021 they were joined by exciting piper and fiddle player Iain MacGillivray, who is also Scotland’s youngest clan leader!

January to May 2023

Beacon Arts Centre presents

Ali Affleck S

Thu 27 Apr 8pm Standard/£15 Concession/£13 Under 26s/£5

Early jazz historian Ali has earned her solid reputation as the quintessential ‘go to’ vocalist for authentic trad jazz/Prohibition-era blues, and as she’s also an American and a swing dancer, she’s uniquely placed to deliver this music with authority.

Re-presenting the pioneers of jazz music (particularly the forgotten heroines), Ali’s fresh interpretations breathe new life into this highly specialised music and see her leading the charge for bringing old-school jazz back to the attention of modern ears!

Image © Alan McCredie Photography

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APRIL Adrenalism Theatre presents

The Good, The Bad and The Poultry O

Sat 29 Apr ON SALE Friday 20 January 2023

The Good, The Bad and The Poultry is an outdoor performance suitable for all ages.

Featuring a three-hen shootout, a walkabout chicken coop and a live chicken band, prepare for an egg-citing scramble and a non-verbal exploration of fear and ‘coop-eration’.

Two chickens, a turkey and ‘Hennio Morricone’ (our musical chicken barman), along with the audience, work together to create the grand shootout finale of every cowboy film ever made.

Do you feel clucky, punk?

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SS1 Entertainments presents

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Sun 30 Apr 7:30pm Standard /£25 Restricted view/£12.50

SUN RECORDS Where Rock'n'Roll Was Born - the Official Sun Records Concert Show On July 18, 1953, Elvis Presley first walked through the doors of the Sun Record Company, paid $3.98and recorded a double-sided demo acetate, ‘My Happiness’ and ‘That's When Your Heartaches Begin’. The rest became rock ‘n’ roll history!

Starring a multi-talented cast of singers and a supporting cast of amazing musicians, revisit the recording studio and the legendary record label that brought you Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Johnny Cash, Roy Orbison, Carl Perkins, Rufus Thomas and scores more rockin' pioneers, as they once again come to life live on stage.

January to May 2023

BOOK & DINE from our

LUNCH OR PRE THEATRE MENU LUNCH SERVED FROM 12 NOON PRE-THEATRE SERVED FROM 5PM (LAST ORDERS 6PM) *SUBJECT TO MAIN THEATRE PERFORMANCES

CAFÉ open 10am - 5pm Monday - Sunday For reservations, call us on 01475 460274 @BeaconCafeBar

MAY Red Entertainment presents

Clyde Coast Strathspey & Reel Society presents

Fiddlers' Rally T

Wed 3 May 7:30pm £20-£24

Featuring performers from the hit production Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, this megamix production contains new vocal harmonies and stories from the stars’ time in the role of Joseph.

Journey into a colourful production featuring vibrant and energetic songs from the most-loved shows, including Joseph, Jesus Christ Superstar, Six, Wicked, The Phantom of the Opera, Mamma Mia, We Will Rock You, Jersey Boys, Les Misérables, Moulin Rouge and more. Draw back the curtains, sing along and relive all your favourite musicalsin one epic show.

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Sun 7 May 7pm Standard/12 Concession/£10

Clyde Coast Strathspey and Reel Society are delighted to host their annual Fiddlers’ Rally at the Beacon.

With fiddles, accordions, flutes, guitars and musicians from all over Scotland, be prepared for toe-tapping jigs, reels, songs and beautiful slow airs.

Allan MacDougall is wielding the baton, so audience participation can be expected!

Grab your coat of many colours and join our Josephs on an emotional journey where Any Dream Will Do. Image © Caroline Morgan

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January to May 2023

Entertainers presents

Clyde Built with Barbara Rafferty S

Fri 12 & Sat 13 May 8pm Standard/£15

Barbara Rafferty, of Rab C Nesbitt, Hamish Macbeth and River City fame, one of Scotland’s best-loved character actors, reads and performs memories from her childhood in 1950s Glasgow. She conjures up stories and characters from her early life, growing up in Dalmuir in the shadow of John Brown’s shipyard, where her father worked. She talks about her parents and the many humorous characters in her rich and eventful early life.

Punctuated with the sounds and music of the times, this promises to be an evening of reminiscing and laughter in an hour-long piece of engaging and nostalgic theatre.

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Thu 18 May 7:30pm Standard/£28 Upper circle restricted view/£13.75

You’ve made it through the wilderness, somehow, you’ve made it through and now we’re never gonna give you up. Get ready for the biggest ’80s party show to tour the UK! We’ll be heading down the Atlanta highway, so bring your jukebox money and get ready to Jitterbug. Hits include Girls Just Want to Have Fun, The Edge of Heaven, Tainted Love, Love Shack, Living on a Prayer, The Final Countdown, Don’t You Want Me, Relax, Never Gonna Give You Up, It’s Raining Men, Rio – the list goes on.

Image © Bob Rafferty

This is 80s Live!

BOOK TICKETS AT www.beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723723

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MAY Surrogate presents

Entertainers presents

Who Killed my Father?

S

Thu 18 May 8pm Standard/£10 Concession/£8

Following a five-star debut review in The Scotsman, Surrogate Productions present Who Killed My Father. Growing up gay in a small town in France, Édouard endured the violence and homophobia of his alcoholic, right-wing father, a factory worker. In 2000 his father suffered an accident which left him bed-bound and on morphine for the pain. Now, Édouard confronts his father, uncovering startling connections between political decisions and his father’s broken body. Who Killed My Father is an intimate declaration of love from son to father and a defiant call for social justice.

T

Fri 19 May 7:30pm Standard/£26.50 Concession/£24.50 Upper circle restricted view/£13

It’s time to hang on to what we got and celebrate the iconic sounds of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons. Come out tonight as we take you to a place where the moon shines bright and we dance the night away, taking you back in time.

Image © Emily Macinnes

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During the ’60s and ’70s No1 hits including Sherry, December, 1963 (Oh, What a Night), Walk Like a Man, Rag Doll and Big Girls Don’t Cry helped propel the Four Seasons and Frankie Valli to superstardom. Oh what a night it will be!

It’s the time, it’s the place, it’s the motion!

January to May 2023

Pibroch Productions presents

Barrowland Ballet presents

Pibroch S

Sat 20 May 8pm Standard/£12 Concession/£10

12+

How does it feel to find oneself on a ‘burning platform’ with a pressing need for change but limited options? Pibroch is a multimedia production which explores parallels between the Climate Emergency and the 1988 Piper Alpha Disaster.

Created by Aberdeenshire-based writer and artist John Bolland, Pibroch uses words, live music and striking visual imagery to represent the personal and social experiences of Piper Alpha survivors and their relationship to the challenges each of us face in a warming world.

John’s words are complemented by Fraser Fifield’s live musical accompaniment.

Too close to the sun T

Tue 23 May 7PM Standard/£12 Concession/£10

Commissioned by Imaginate | For ages 7+ Inspired by the Greek legend of Icarus, this is the story of a girl weighed down by the responsibility of the environmental crisis.

She dreams of the boy Icarus and begins to work out her escape. This is the story of a girl who’s learning to fly. At one with the wind, she soars up, up and away…

Too Close To The Sun is about the power of imagination and the sheer determination that lets you fly when forces all around want to pull you down. The award-winning Barrowland Ballet use intricate choreography, spoken word and humour to tell this evocative new story.

Image © Jassy Earl

BOOK TICKETS AT www.beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723723

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SNJO PRESENTS

World of the Gods T

Fri 26 May 7:30pm Standard/£23 Concession/£21 Under 26s/£5

World of the Gods, composed by Tommy Smith, marks the reunion of the Scottish National Jazz Orchestra with the Mugenkyo Taiko Drummers for an evening of brilliant musicianship and breathtaking physical energy. Ancient meets modern and vibrant orchestral sounds encounter a musical tradition more than 2,000 years old. Yet there is common ground between them.

Described as ‘a truly imaginative work that dances in both the physical and musical sense’, World of the Gods embraces experimentation, extrapolation and improvisation that is powerful, vibrant and atmospheric.

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January to May 2023

Room with a view

Looking for a modern, stylish and accessible venue in an outstanding location? Look no further.

Whether you need space for a celebration or community class, a private performance or a product launch, a meeting or a marriage, we've got just what you need.

• Weddings • Seminars • Conferences • Private dinners • Receptions • Launches • Meetings For more information and to get a quote for your event, please email Lesley Davidson, General Manager: E: lesley@beaconartscentre.co.uk T: 01475 460262

BOOK TICKETS AT www.beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723723

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MAY Raw Material & Eden Court, Highlands presents

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Wed 31 May - Sat 3 Jun 7:30pm 2:30pm Sat only 12+ £17-£23

Written by MORNA YOUNG Concept by ALAN B MCLEOD Directed by LUKE KERNAGHAN Musical Direction & Arrangements JOHN KIELTY Designed by KENNETH MACLEOD Movement Direction JADE ADAMSON Lighting Design SIMON WILKINSON Sound Design GARRY BOYLE

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When together-forever couple Euan and Annie return home, they’re seeking a fresh start for their teenage daughter. But there’s a heatwave in the Highlands and they soon find themselves lost in this once-familiar place, now filled with more tourists than residents.

Filled with rousing new arrangements of Runrig’s best-loved songs, written by Morna Young to a concept by Alan B McLeod, The Stamping Ground is a story of love, life and coming home that thrilled critics and had audiences on their feet at its 2022 premiere in Inverness.

January to May 2023

INFORMATION TERMS & CONDITIONS Full conditions of ticket sales are available at the Box Office and on the website.

Please note that Beacon Arts Centre operates a strict no-refunds policy.

BOOKING TICKETS ONLINE: beaconartscentre.co.uk Telephone: 01475 723723 In Person: Beacon Arts Centre, Custom House Quay, Greenock PA15 1HJ CONCESSIONS Concession rates are available on many performances and apply to the following groups: Children (under 16, or over 16 in fulltime education) • Young Scot cardholders and students • Senior citizens • Those in receipt of Jobseeker’s Allowance, Disability Living Allowance, Personal Independence Payment, and Employment and Support Allowance recipients • Disabled patrons.

Carer and assisted companion tickets are also available • Members of Equity, BECTU, Scottish Society of Playwrights and Musicians’ Union. Proof of entitlement must be shown when collecting tickets.

ACCESS To book access seats please call 01475 723 723/option 1.

Online booking beaconartscentre.co.uk Our modern venue has easy access to all levels via lift.

MAIN AUDITORIUM There are 9 wheelchair positions with companion seats in our main house: 5 in the stalls and 4 in the circle.

STUDIO THEATRE There are 3 wheelchair positions with companion seats in our Studio.

TRANSFER SEATS We understand that some of our customers may wish to transfer into a seat. Please advise Box Office if you will be transferring into a seat for the performance and our FOH staff will be happy to store your chair for you until required.

GALLERY SPACES AND CAFÉ All other visitor spaces are fully accessible to all. Guide, hearing and other working dogs are welcome in all parts of the theatre.

Please advise when booking if your dog will remain with you during the performance.

There are separate, accessible toilet facilities located at each of the principal seating levels.

Our venue has an induction loop with staff fully trained to help. Disabled parking spaces are situated to the front of our main door.

ACCESSIBLE PERFORMANCES BSL/Audio Described and Captioned Performances are detailed on our website.

ADDITIONAL ASSISTANCE: Our visual story and symbol resources are available to download on our website here: beaconartscentre.co.uk/accessibility/.

If your visit would be helped by an orientation appointment beforehand, we will be pleased to welcome you.

To arrange please email karent@beaconartscentre.co.uk We have a 360 tour of our venue available here: beaconartscentre.co.uk/accessibility/.

Please let a member of staff know if you may require use of a chill out area during your visit and we will do our best to accommodate this.

ACCESS REGISTER Our scheme makes it easier to book the right seats for you and helps our staff deliver excellent and consistent service.

It does this by only asking you once about

BOOK TICKETS AT www.beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723723

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your requirements to ensure a great visit.

You can join easily by either filling out a form at Box Office or Online.

Personal Assistant (essential carer) tickets are only available to those registered to the scheme; however, it is not a requirement to join the scheme in order to book tickets. By joining the scheme and booking concession tickets you agree that the ticket (s) will only be used by a disabled person (as defined by the Equality Act 2010) and their essential carer. Customers who intentionally give false information will be removed from the register.

HOW TO GET HERE Beacon Arts Centre is situated on Custom House Quay, opposite the Custom House, and is within easy reach of Greenock town centre and close to all public transport links.

GROUPS For certain performances, we offer one free ticket with every 10 purchased.

BY TRAIN Greenock Central railway station is 500 metres away up a slight gradient, with a frequent service on the Glasgow Central/Gourock line. Journey times from Glasgow are approximately 30 or 40 minutes and services run until 11pm (an hour earlier on Sundays). Check scotrail. co.uk for up-to-date timetables.

BOOKING FEE We charge a £2.20 online and phone transaction fee which goes towards our processing costs. All booking fees are subject to change as we develop our services. We charge £1.50 for postal delivery.

BY ROAD Beacon Arts Centre is off the A8 behind Greenock Police Station. Turn into Brymner Street at the Police Station and then right into Custom House Place. We have free customer parking to the rear of the building and to the left of the building in front of the Custom House.

FAMILY FRIENDLY We are breast-feeding friendly.

There are baby-changing facilities.

DISABILITY FRIENDLY Beacon Arts Centre is fully accessible with wheelchair spaces, lifts and an induction loop. Our staff are fully trained to help.

ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY We aim to be as green as possible and are proud to use compostable utensils and packaging in our Cafe.

We recycle and are working to reduce our energy use.

WI-FI We have FREE Wi-FI throughout the building.

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January to May 2023

Robert C Kelly & Theater Mogul Special License from GFour ProductionsPresents Presents Robert C Kelly & Theater Mogul ByBy Special License from GFour Productions

X-Factor X-Factor

Copycats Copycats

Casualty Casualty

West End Star West End Star

Robert C Kelly by arrangement with The Dolls Presents Robert C Kelly by arrangement with The Dolls Presents

Gayle Telfer Gayle Telfer Stevens Stevens as Agnes

Also Starring Also Starring Scotland’s Best Drag Queen Scotland’s Best Martell Drag Queen Reba

as Agnes

Reba Martell

Louise Louise Mccarthy Mccarthy as Sadie

All Star Vocalist All StarHenderson Vocalist Jane

Jane Henderson

as Sadie

BACK WI’ A BACK WI’ A

www.wearethedolls.com www.wearethedolls.com

13-14 Oct 2023 13-14 Oct 2023