Beacon Arts Centre February - May 2016 season

February – May 2016

What’s on inside and outside of the Inverclyde venue

| beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723 723

welcome Custom House Quay, Greenock PA15 1HJ 01475 723 723 beaconartscentre.co.uk

I’m delighted to welcome you to Beacon Arts Centre’s first brochure of 2016. It’s a particularly special for me as this will be my first season in my new role as Chief Executive.

You may remember that I’ve been here for 6 months as Transition Director, taking the organisation forward with a new business plan. Over that time, I’ve met many audiences, local groups and organisations finding out what it is you’re keen to see happen here at the Beacon. It will take a few more weeks to make some important changes but I am confident you’ll like what we’re planning and you may even recognise some of your own suggestions having come to life.

Whilst January may have looked quiet from the outside, it was actually very busy on the inside! We had National Theatre of Scotland using the venue all through January to rehearse The James Plays before the show goes on tour early in February. It’s been great fun having nearly 50 cast and crew in the venue and you may have seen some of them in the Bistro having lunch.

Look out for this stamp! It lets you see at a glance just how many local groups appear at the Beacon each season and I know it was something you were keen to see, so I hope you like it – do let me know.

I’m particularly delighted that we’re hosting Interchange 2016, the national event for youth theatres and the Beacon’s own Youth Theatre will be performing as part of the programme.

In April, we have the hugely acclaimed Scottish Dance Theatre who are on tour with a double bill performance. A night not to be missed as Beacon audiences get to see the world premiere of their new piece Process Day and our very own Beacon Young Dance Company will open for them with their performance – Realms.

And the last thing I want to bring to your attention is that amazing jazz musician, Courtney Pine, makes his debut at the Beacon with Zoe Rahman to launch his new album, Song (The Ballad Book). Pine has had rave reviews over the years including this recent 4 star one from Mojo “Spellbinding, shimmers serenely with a breathtaking beauty...”

So on that note, I hope to see you at the Beacon over the coming weeks.

Jackie Shearer, Chief Executive

Let us know what you thought We want to hear from you so do tag us on Facebook, Twitter or review us on Trip Advisor or email us at info@beaconartscentre.co.uk Beacon – Arts – Centre

@thebeaconarts

Front: Hidden Project, Zoe Rahman and Courtney Pine, Dance Classes, Chrissy Rock in Dirty Dusting

Speaking of the Bistro, we have some enticing offers including one on Valentine’s Day to tie in with Ballet West’s The Nutcracker and another on Mother’s Day. There’s free family fun over the Easter holidays too with a bit of storytelling and crafting, so book your place quickly as numbers are limited.

Keep in touch Receive our brochures straight to your door, or get regular email updates to your inbox. Just call on 01475 723 723 or sign up on our website via the button on the homepage, and let us know how you prefer to hear from us.

Have we got your correct details?

How to get here

If you are receiving multiple brochures or you have moved house just email us or give us a call and we will amends your details.

By train We are 500m from Greenock Central on the Glasgow Central/Gourock line. The journey from Glasgow takes 30 – 40 minutes.

Why not cycle here?

We are on the cycle path which will take you on a stunning journey along the banks of the Clyde and bike racks are provided.

We are situated on the banks of the Clyde - come along and enjoy the view in our Bistro.

Beacon Arts Centre is situated at Custom House Quay, in easy reach of public transport and road links.

Bus stops are located along Rue End St and Dalrymple St, just a short walk from the venue.

By road Beacon Arts Centre is just off the A8. Turn into Brymner Street and then turn right into Custom House Place. Parking is on street, around Custom House Quay and Victoria Harbour. At peak times alternative parking is available via Virginia Street.

Accessibility at the Beacon Arts Centre We are fully committed to making our work and spaces accessible to all.

We are just 5 minutes walk from Greenock Central Train Station.

There is wheelchair access throughout the building including 9 wheelchair spaces in our main theatre and 6 in our studio.

Ample free parking.

An induction loop is available.

Assistance dogs are welcome.

Thank you for your support We are grateful for the support of our audiences, patrons, donors, key funders, charitable trusts and sponsors.

| beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723 723

3

Something New

New additions to the Programme Before you embark on the calender of performances we thought we would flag up some new additions to our programme. These choices have been inspired by feedback from you, the audience, so we hope to see you at one or all of the event listed below.

Bistro Boat Club Session Sundays 28 Feb, 27 Mar 24 Apr, 29 May 1 - 4pm | Free

Inspired by the hugely successful Boat Club Sessions that took place during the Inverclyde Folk and Roots Festival last year, Beacon Arts Centre have decided to make this a regular gig!

Keep an eye on our website for confirmed acts.

Toasted Fiction Theatre: The Podcast Sessions Thu 31 March | ÂŁ5 / ÂŁ3.50

Toasted Fiction Theatre: The Podcast Sessions is a brand new audio series of short plays presented by playwright and director Christopher Patrick (The Constant Soldier, Full Stop) and is performed and recorded in front of a live audience. Staged like a radio play, the pieces of new writing will be performed and recorded live by actors.

New writing. New writers. A new way of watching.

Easter Fun in our Bistro!

Sat 26 March, 2 & 9 April

We invite families to the Bistro this Easter to enjoy storytelling and crafting sessions. Booking essential!

4

| beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723 723

JENNA WATT

How You Gonna Live Your Dash A CO-PRODUCTION WITH PLATFORM AND IN ASSOCIATION WITH SHOWROOM

drama



The Skinny on Flâneurs

Wed 3 February | 7:30pm | £10 / £8 | Recommended for age 14+

This shattering piece explores the life-altering decisions we make in order to get the most out of our time on earth: giving up a high-flying career, confronting an addiction, dropping it all and moving to a new continent.

Based on real life testimonies and featuring beautiful pyrotechnic effects, this epic performance looks at the moment we choose to detonate our own lives, the smokey fall out and how we piece together a new future.

Supported by Creative Scotland and Platform.

Photo: Mihaela Bodlovic

One of Scotland’s most visionary theatre makers, Jenna Watt, presents her latest performance following the award-winning Flâneurs.

dance CLAIRE CUNNINGHAM

Guide Gods Thu 4 February | 2:30pm & 7:30pm £10 / £8

Photo: Eoin Carey

Using dance, live music, humour and interviews with religious leaders, academics and deaf and disabled people, acclaimed Scottish Performer Claire Cunningham goes on a perilous quest to explore how the major world faiths view deafness and disability in this witty and illuminating show.

There will be a chance afterwards to have some tea, chat and to ponder your own beliefs (Will Karma catch up with you if you help yourself to too many biscuits!?).

| beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723 723

5

drama comedy ROBERT C KELLY

Mum’s the Word 2

“Mum’s the Word is a beautifully crafted show, full of the warm, tragic-comic rhythm of life; and absolutely impossible to dislike.”

The Scotsman

Starring Jane McCarry, Libby McArthur, Lorraine McIntosh, Julie Wilson Nimmo and Suzie McGuire Fri 12 & Sat 13 February | 7:30pm Additional 2:30pm performance Sat | £20

Mum’s the Word 2 is a brand-new version of the huge original hit show detailing the comedic horrors of rearing young children and now updated to include the “joys” of living with teenagers!

The ultimate mum’s night out!

“A hilarious coup de théâtre that you have to see for yourself” Daily Mail

ballet BALLET WEST

The Nutcracker Sun 14 February | 7:30pm | £16 / £12 Under 26s

It is the Christmas party in the Stahlbaum household and the young Clara is given a beautiful Nutcracker doll. After everyone has gone to bed and the house is quiet, Clara returns to be with her Nutcracker doll and discovers that he can take her on magical adventures through the land of the Mouse King, dancing snowflakes and the wonderful land of sweets.

This magical seasonal classic is brought to Beacon Arts Centre by the same creative team that produced Romeo & Juliet last year including Belgian choreographer, Daniel F. Job. The Nutcracker is an essential part of wintertime, a wonderful escape for children of all ages into a magical world of snow, sweets and the Sugar Plum Fairy.

6

Special meal & show Valentine’s offer.

See page 37.

| beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723 723

comedy musical

TA-DA Productions & Tip Your Hat Productions Proudly Presen

t

THE FRANCIE & JOSIE SHOW

A tribute to Rikki Fulton & Jack

Milroy

TA-DA PRODUCTIONS & TIP YOUR HAT PRODUCTIONS

The Francie & Josie Show A tribute to Rikki Fulton & Jack Milroy

Thu 18 February | 2:30 & 7:30pm | £16.50 / £14.50

Liam Dolan as Francie and Johnny Mac as Josie are joined by two of Scotland’s finest vocalists, Steve Bishop and Christy Mac. Join us this February for a night of nostalgia full of variety and entertainment and plenty of laughs!

“As close to the originals as you’re ever going to get” Mary Lee Milroy

live music

WIGWAM CP

Scocha

Sat 20 February | 7:15pm | £15

Scocha are Scotland’s leading Folk n’ Roll band. If you like your folk with that extra twist then this is for you. The band are renowned for their superbly entertaining shows which include Scottish folk classics with that Scocha touch. You can stand or sit but you wont sit still.

Featuring support from Katee Kross and The Wherries.

Running time: Approx 195 minutes.

| beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723 723

7

local theatre

A Night of Musicals A fundraising concert featuring Kieran Begley and Friends Sun 21 February | 7:30pm | £10 / £8

Kieran Begley is currently completing his Masters in Musical Theatre Performance at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland and is excited to be performing in the Beacon Arts Centre.

Photo: Eoin Carey

Recent theatre performances include: Orpheus tae the Underworld– Ayrshire Opera Experience, Three’s a Crowd All or Nothing Aerial Dance Company, Cinderella - Beacon Arts Centre and H.M.S Pinafore - Carl Rosa Opera.

The evening will also feature special guests including: Notre Dame School choir, The Noteworthy Pitch Hikers, friends from Greenock Light Opera, No Nonsense Productions and Ayrshire Opera Experience.

Live music will be provided by Flackback Friday with Musical Director, Kieran Young.

dance BEACON YOUTH DANCE COMPANY

Realms

Realms is an opening performance for Scottish Dance Theatre

If you are interested in dance we have regular classes for anyone aged 16 months upwards.

See page 32 for more information.

Beacon Youth Dance Company are excited to be performing alongside Scotland’s national dance company Scottish Dance Theatre with their new work Realms.

Realms is a series of fascinating worlds in which figures float in mysterious frozen lakes, relationships are lost and found and vibrant green meadows, magical flowers and shinning suns emerge from the darkness. Using light, sound and movement, Realms catapults the viewer into the unfathomable world of dreams.

This new work is choreographed by Gail Sneddon – Beacon’s Dance Developer.

8

| beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723 723

Photo: Brian Hartley

dance

“showcases the talents, versatility, and technical elan of the current company” The Herald  SCOTTISH DANCE THEATRE

Double Bill:

Dreamers / Process Day Tue 19 April | 7:30pm | £12 / £10 | Suitable for age 14 +

Dreamers

by Anton Lachky Dreamers are people who dare to dream while not being asleep. Lachky takes pleasure in making sense from nonsense and exploring links between reality and surrealism.

His work is developed around the unique physicality of the performers, highlights the beauty and power of the moving body and intertwines it with his quirky and humorous style.

WORLD PREMIERE Process Day

by Sharon Eyal and Gai Behar Award-winning Eyal, and music producer and artist Behar have created a stream of critically acclaimed, original works for some of the world’s leading companies, including Batsheva Dance, Nederlands Dans Theater and Carte Blanche. Expect visceral, animal, androgyny from this exciting world premiere.

| beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723 723

9

local drama SCDA – INVERCLYDE DISTRICT

1-Act Festival

Thu 25 – Sat 27 February | 7pm | £12 / £8 under 18s

Inverclyde’s Drama Clubs come together to provide three nights of quality theatre. Come along for some friendly rivalry as the groups compete to represent Inverclyde against the rest of the Western Division.

The Divisional Finals Thu 17 – Sat 19 April | 7pm | £12 or £30 for season

SCDA present the Western Division Final! Featuring 9 productions over 3 nights, this festival will host some of the best theatre the West of Scotland has to offer. Adjudicator Colin Dolley will be offering his expert opinion on the shows to see who progresses to the national final in Edinburgh.

Don’t miss what is sure to be a spectacular weekend of theatre!

drama AMY CONWAY IN ASSOCIATION WITH PLATFORM

30:60:80

Fri 26 February | 7:30pm | £10 / £8 | Suitable for 14+

Devised and performed by Amy Conway Devised and directed by Victoria Beesley 30:60:80 is a celebration of three lives, spanning fifty years with the women of one family and inviting audiences to consider the richness in their own maternal ‘herstory’.

When Amy’s grandma turned 30, she had three children and was thankful to finally live in a house with an indoor toilet. When Amy’s mum turned 30, she had a profession, a mortgage and was pregnant with her first child.

Amy just turned 30. She’s single, chancing it, and certain about exactly nothing.

Supported by Creative Scotland

10

| beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723 723

psychic medium

Luke Danskin Tue 8 March | 7:30pm | £15 | Suitable for 16+

This show is for the purpose of entertainment only.

After 3 sell-out shows, Luke returns to Beacon Arts Centre with his astonishing interactive show.

Although Luke’s live shows are full of emotion, his natural warmth and endearing personality makes audiences feel completely at ease. Passionate in encouraging people to celebrate the lives of loved ones, laughter is a common theme at Luke’s shows.

Audiences are left utterly speechless and amazed at his capability to give detailed messages with amazing accuracy.

Since taking to the stage, Luke has sold out every show and tonight is no exception. Call our Box Office for returns.

local theatre

DANCEDREAMS THEATRE SCHOOL

Unstoppable Sun 6 March | 1:30 & 6:30pm | £14

The talented pupils of Dancedreams Theatre School will once again stage a spectacular array of song, dance & drama in their annual performance Unstoppable.

Their roof raising performances really hits the button. Terrific music, fiercely energetic routines and dazzling costumes. These kids really know how to entertain an audience.

| beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723 723

Guaranteed to delight every age group.

11

local theatre DANCE MANIA

Diamondz Spectacular 2016 Mon 29 February | 7pm | £12

Come along and see the pupils of DM Diamondz showcase their work.

Performers include the undefeated National Cheer Champions! A show not to be missed.

Performers include...

National Cheer Champions!

theatre CREATIVE CONSULTANCY PRESENT A WATCH THIS SPACE PRODUCTION

The Last Laugh Thu 10 March | 8pm | £10 / £8 Suitable for 16+ contains strong language

Why should you never date a comedian? This hit Fringe 2015 show mixes stand-up, theatre and storytelling in a tale about two people discovering whether being funny is as important as being happy.

Written by and starring Keir McAllister. Winner of Best Comedy Writer at the Scottish Comedy Awards 2015.



“Stand-up tragedy with deceptive intelligence...

McAllister’s script twists elegantly” The List



“The script is witty and clever. Happiness and humour clash in thought-provoking ways - and the show, for a piece that fuses genres in the way that it does, is remarkably well-structured as theatre” BroadwayBaby

12

| beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723 723

Interchange 2016

A national exchange of leading practice in youth theatre arts Sat 12 & Sun 13 March Full weekend: £150 (YTAS members) / £200 (non-members) One day: £90 (YTAS members) / £120 (non-members) Bursaries available Brought to you by Youth Theatre Arts Scotland in partnership with the Beacon Arts Centre, Interchange is Scotland’s only annual training event for all those who use drama and theatre in their work with young people. The weekend provides a range of learning and networking opportunities for delegates of all levels, skills and abilities.

2016 workshop leaders include Artswork (England), with a practical introduction to mentoring young people, Matt Addicott (Platform, Glasgow) on creating theatre with and for the under 12s and Nathaniel Hall (20 Stories High, Liverpool and Contact, Manchester) on exploring ‘risky’ material with young people.

For full details, including booking and bursary information please visit www.ytas.org.uk/interchange #interchange2016

“An inspiring event that injects spark back into your work and skillset!”

Photo: Tim Morozzo

Interchange delegate

| beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723 723

13

local theatre

K AY O S T H E AT R E C O M PA N Y PRESENTS

KAYOS THEATRE COMPANY

High School Musical

Wed 23 – Sat 26 March | 7:30pm | £14 / £10

Now in their 24th year, Kayos Theatre Company return to the Beacon stage with High School Musical.

Based on Disney’s Emmy Award-winning TV movie and adapted for the stage by David Simpatico, Beacon Arts Centre - Custom House Quay, Greenock Disney’s High School Musical transports audiences to Wednesday 23rd March 2016 – Saturday March 2016 at 7:30pm East High and into the story of two clique-crossed lovers: basketball star26th Troy and brainy new student Gabriella.

TICKETS £12 • £10 FOR CONCESSIONS For tickets call 01475 723723 or email info@beaconartscentre.co.uk

A chance meeting leads the pair to break free from expectations and try out for the school musical. When the school’s reigning musical diva, Sharpay, and her brother connive to schedule the play’s call-backs for the same time as Troy’s big game and Gabriella’s scholastic decathlon, the whole school works together to find a way to let Troy and Gabriella shine on stage.

Inverclyde Youth Theatre is a Registered Scottish Charity.

This amateur production is given by permission of JOSEF WEINBERGER LTD. on behalf of MUSIC THEATRE INTERNATIONAL of New York

local theatre THE ALBANY

Annie

Fri 1 & Sat 2 April | 7:30pm & 2:30pm Sat only £18 / £13

Join the talented Albany cast for Annie the extraordinary story of a little orphan.

Unlike most of the other children at Miss Hannigan’s orphanage, feisty Annie believes that her parents are still alive and will one day return to claim her. So when Mr. Warbucks offers to adopt her, she asks the most powerful man in America to help find her real Mum and Dad instead, and he agrees. Warbucks’ whopping reward for Annie’s parents attracts the attention of con artists Rooster, Lily and the wicked Miss Hannigan, who hatch a plot to kidnap Annie and take the $50,000 reward. But don’t fret: this classic family musical has a happy ending for Annie, Daddy Warbucks and the whole gang.

14

| beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723 723

family Jango Starr

One Man Shoe

Thu 7 April | 2:30pm | £6. Family of 3, £15. Family of 4, £20. Family of 5, £25 Suitable for ages 5 – 11

Directed by Gerry Mulgrew, designed by Becky Minto with original music by Philip Pinsky.

One Man Shoe, is a delightful new show for children and families, performed by Jango Starr.

When the headline act fails to show up, Jango, a bumbling theatre caretaker, is suddenly thrust into the limelight and embarks on a hilarious journey of highly crafted and heart-felt silent comedy, as he magically finds his way to realise his dream of transforming into a star!

Jango Starr’s unique style of silent physical theatre includes contemporary circus clowning, slapstick comedy, puppetry, juggling and absurd magic, bringing laughter and joy to all ages!

An evening with Phil Differ Fri 8 April | 7:30pm | £12 / £10

comedy “I love Phil Differ. He’s the quiet genius of Scottish Comedy” Rory Bremner

Comedy writer, producer, director and comedian Phil Differ presents an evening of two halves. In the first, stand-up comedy and in the second, showbiz tales from a career spanning thirty five years.

Phil reminisces on his misspent youth, discusses the problems of being a middle-aged man trapped in a 20 year old’s body and reveals how you go from being a failed accounts clerk with British Telecom to becoming Senior Producer in BBC Scotland’s Comedy Unit and being part of the team responsible for such television shows as Naked Video, City Lights, Rab C. Nesbitt, Scotch and Wry and Only an Excuse?

| beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723 723

15

musical TIMELESS THEATRE PRODUCTIONS

All Our Yesterdays Fri 15 April | 2:30pm & 7pm | £15 / £13

The ultimate feel good show! Another sensational show from the producers of Memory Lane, Rolling Back the Years, and Memories are Made of This.

One of the biggest shows of its kind in the UK, taking the audience on a breathtaking musical journey through the 50s, 60s, and some of the brilliant sounds of the 1970s.

Beautifully costumed and choreographed for each decade, performed by West End and international vocalists, along with the stunning Memory Lane dancers.

Based on the original show from 2012, with a host of new songs and costumes for 2016.

live music

SONG (THE BALLAD BOOK):

Courtney Pine and Zoe Rahman Sun 17 April | 7:30pm | £17.50

Over 20 years since he became one of the first black British jazz artists to make a serious mark on the jazz scene, Courtney Pine continues to break new ground with a string of highly acclaimed recordings and numerous prestigious Industry awards.

Now with his 16th studio album to date, Pine plans to strip everything right back for the most intimate shows of his long and celebrated career as he takes to the stage playing bass clarinet. He will be accompanied only by fellow Mercury nominee and MOBO Award winning pianist, Zoe Rahman “a remarkable pianist by any standard” (The Observer) and one of the brightest stars on the contemporary jazz scene.

Her style is deeply rooted in jazz, yet it reflects her classical background, British/Bengali heritage and her very broad musical taste.

16

| beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723 723

live music

A Vision of Elvis

Featuring the award-winning Rob Kingsley Sat 16 April | 7:30pm | £20 / £18.50 / £17.50 for groups of 10 or more

Book by 31 January 2016 and get tickets for £17.50

“His moves, the voice, this guy is ELVIS, He captures the soul of Elvis, I should know I worked with Elvis” Ed Bonja (Road Manager & Photographer for Elvis 1970-1977) A Vision of Elvis is one the world’s leading touring Elvis productions. Celebrating all the music of Elvis Presley from Sun Studio’s through to the ‘68 Comeback with the finale being the Concert Years engaging audiences with an uplifting and authentic Elvis experience. Fresh from a smash hit European tour, A Vision Of Elvis returns to the UK to bring Elvis fans old and new a night not to be missed.

So if you’re looking for an excuse to party, reminisce or simply be entertained by some of the best music ever, then A Vision Of Elvis is definitely for you!

A Vision of Elvis is THE only Elvis show to see.

| beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723 723

17

local theatre INVERCLYDE MUSICAL YOUTH THEATRE

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat Thu 21 – Sat 23 April | 7:30pm, 2:30pm on Sat | £16 / £14

The newly-formed Inverclyde Musical Youth Theatre present this Andrew Lloyd Webber classic. As his father’s golden child, Joseph is gifted with the famous multicolour dream coat. His twelve jealous brothers sell him on to a group of Israelites who then enslave him to Potiphar; a rich and successful businessman. Jealous of his wife’s interest in the slave, Potiphar sends Joseph to the cells. There he meets a baker and a butler, who learn Joseph’s unique gift – he can predict the future.

The Pharaoh of Egypt, who is informed of Joseph’s talents, summons him to assist and advise on the running of the country, using his powers of prediction. Joseph grows in stature and wealth... but what will he do when confronted with the same 12 brothers who enslaved him years before?

Featuring Any Dream Will Do, Go Go Go Joseph and Close Every Door to Me.

theatre TORTOISE IN A NUTSHELL IN CO-PRODUCTION WITH CUMBERNAULD THEATRE

Feral

Mon 25 April | 7pm | £7 / £5

Suitable for ages 13+

Winner Scotsman Fringe First 2013!

An innovative performance combining puppetry, object manipulation, immersive soundscapes and multimedia technology, Feral holds a community under the microscope and dissects it in front of its audience’s eyes. Joe looks back at the home of his childhood and traces its journey from idyllic seaside town to community gripped by anarchy.

A cross art form piece, Feral seamlessly blends film and live performance. Puppeteers manipulate and bring to life a tiny world, whilst simultaneously creating a live animation, as they follow its every breath via digital camera.

Participate: Workshops are available for school and youth groups.

Please contact laura@beaconartscentre.co.uk to book

18

| beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723 723

family

Staging Stories Fri 29 April & Saturday 30 April | 7pm | £10 / £8

Earlier in the year, children, families and schools from Inverclyde were invited to write creative stories. Tonight the talented performers of Beacon Youth Theatre will perform the tales onstage.

Staging Stories features a variety of short plays performed by the always adventurous Beacon Youth Theatre participants.

They will take you on journeys into fantastical worlds where you will meet a whole host of crazy and colourful characters who have got themselves into impossible situations.

This performance will be fun for ALL the family and guaranteed to make you laugh and marvel at the imagination of childhood.

JUST ADDED! Tales of a Grandson - a fun show for 7

year olds telling the story of Scotland. See page 29.

REaD tidy carnage

drama

Fri 13 May | 8pm | £10 / £8 (£8 for people with red hair!)

Suitable for ages 14+

In a world where redheads are strictly segregated and under curfew, red artists have been forced underground and have formed their own Red cabaret clubs. REaD focuses on one such club: The Scarlet Church where the performers’ illicit existence necessitates the keeping of Red secrets...

Image: Elizabeth Caffey

A cabaret within a play, REaD features song, dance, performance poetry and a hilarious rollercoaster ride through Red history from pre-Raphaelite exotica to social exclusion and popular culture.

A show that’s part catwalk, part political rally, part support group for underdogs everywhere, REaD is a unique celebration of individuality, resilience and the sheer joy of having red hair.

| beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723 723

19

drama

ARTISTES INTERNATIONAL MANAGEMENT LTD

Dirty Dusting Fri 13 May | 7:30pm | £20

When three cleaners, Olive, Gladys and Elsie, are threatened with redundancy they feel that their lives are coming to an end until a chance wrong number gives them a new business start-up idea – why not run a telephone sex line?

They’ve got motive, opportunity and a lifetime of experience – some more than others, mind you.

Provided Elsie can teach the other two a few new tricks there’s no reason why they can’t get rich quick providing they can keep their operation a secret from their bosses… and their husbands… and their children…and their grandchildren.

A searing indictiment of ageism in the 21st Century heavily disguised as a hysterical, laugh-out-loud, heartwarming comedy.

family

Superhero Singalong Silliness with AnYa, Gary, Kevin & Bonzo (Formerly of the singing kettle)

FUNBOX

KEVIN

SUPERHEROES

Sat 7 May | 1 & 3:30pm £12.50, £46 Family of 4 (2 child minimum), £10.50 Groups 10+, £2 Babes in arms (under 12 months)

BONZO

ZAP!

POW!

GARY

Crash! Bang! Kapow! It’s time to grab those capes and warm up your super powers as Funbox goes on their craziest adventure yet in their brand new show SUPERHEROES!

ANYA

Join Gary, Anya and Kevin – the former stars of The Singing Kettle – on a super quest to find their keys and open the Funbox. Crime fighting Funster duo Fluffy and Flossie will be back to help us along the way and Bonzoʼs alter ego, the mysterious Dog in Pants, will deliver his own brand of doggy justice!

At a venue near you. see back for details

COME DRESSED AS A superhero, or make up your own

With family singalongs like Bunny Fou Fou, My Aunt Came Back and My Boyʼs a Corker along with brand new songs and silliness, SUPERHEROES is supersonic family fun and an exciting entertainment experience not to be missed! Come dressed as a superhero or make your own!

20

| beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723 723

Barry Steele & Friends

live music

The Roy Orbison Story:

80th Birthday Tour

This musical and semi-autobiographical celebration of The Big O’s musical legacy is quite simply unmissable, as Barry Steele takes you on this specially revamped musical journey in time, from the early Sun years right through to the late 80s and the internationally acclaimed concert The Black and White Night. The show also pays homage to the time Roy spent with the Traveling Wilburys.

Add to the mix star guests celebrating the music from legends Roy actually toured and performed with, backed by our fabulous musicians & singers and you have yourselves an incredible fusion of 60s solid gold classics and 80’s contemporary musical genius all on one stage.

FAIR PLEY

Stuart Cosgrove and Graham Spiers:

Image ©LMSWORLDWIDE LTD

Fri 20 May | 7:30pm | £19

talk

Football in Five Images Sat 21 May | 8:15pm | £13 / £11

A new theatre discussion show on the state of Scottish football featuring two of Scotland’s most outspoken commentators - Stuart Cosgrove and Graham Spiers.

Join them for a debate on the current challenges facing the national game, subjects as diverse as television and its impact on football, the rise of social media, the national team, the role and responsibilities of football in the community, etc. The show will refuse to shirk tackles and will offer candid opinions on the people, the policies and the prejudices that underpin the game.

One thing is certain - ‘succulent lamb’ will not be on the menu.

| beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723 723

21

family GREENOCK PLAYERS’ YOUTH SECTION

Disney’s The Little Mermaid JR. Fri 20 May & Sat 21 May | 7:30pm & 2:30pm Sat only £12 Adults, £10 Children, £40 family of 4 (2 child minimum)

Journey “under the sea” with Greenock Players’ Youth Section as they bring Ariel and her aquatic friends to life.

In a magical underwater kingdom, the beautiful young mermaid Ariel longs to leave and live in the world above. But first she’ll have to defy her father King Triton, make a deal with the evil sea witch Ursula and convince the handsome Prince Eric that she’s the girl whose enchanting voice he’s been seeking. This show, which features the hit songs Part of Your World, Kiss the Girl, and the Oscar-winning Under the Sea, is one not to be missed.

CLYDE CRUISES

Fish and Ships

From 5 April | Selected Tue 1:30pm & Wed 12:30pm See website for prices

Our friends over at Clyde Cruises invite you to join them for a West Coast cruise. Explore the sheltered waters of Loch Long and Loch Goil in the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. Experience the natural beauty of the area as they sail into the heart of the new National Park. Relax on deck with the chance of spotting porpoises or dolphins or take advantage of the warm comfortable saloon indoors.

Round off your day by sampling some traditional Scottish fayre in the waterside setting of Beacon Arts Centre Bistro.

Cruises depart from Victoria Harbour, please see www.clydecruises.com for sailing dates and to book ticket online. Call 01475 721 281 for more details.

22

| beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723 723

calendar

February – May 2016

February

PAGE

3 How You Gonna Live Your Dash 5 4 Claire Cunningham: Guide Gods 5 12 and 13 Mums the Word 2 6 14 Ballet West: The Nutcracker 6 18 The Francie & Josie Show 7 20 Scocha 7 21 Kieran Begley: A Night of Musicals 8 25 - 27 SCDA – Inverclyde District: 1 Act Festival 10 26 30:60:80 10

March

6 Dancedreams Theatre School: Unstoppable 11 8 Luke Danskin 11 10 The Last Laugh 12 12 & 13 Youth Theatre Arts Scotland 13 23 - 26 Kayos Theatre Company: High School Musical 14 31 Toasted Fiction: The Podcast Sessions 4

April

1 & 2 Annie 14 From 5 Clyde Cruises: Fish and Ships 22 7 Jango Starr: One Man Shoe 15 8 An Evening with Phil Differ 15 15 All Our Yesterdays 16 16 A Vision of Elvis 17 17 Courtney Pine & Zoe Rahman 16 19 Scottish Dance Theatre / Beacon Youth Dance Company: 8&9

Double Bill / Realms 21 - 23 Inverclyde Musical Youth Theatre:

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat 18 25 Feral 18 29 & 30 Beacon Youth Theatre: Staging Stories 19

May

7 Funbox: SUPERHEROES 20 13 Dirty Dusting 20 13 REaD: tidy carnage 19 20 The Roy Orbison Story 21 21 Stuart Cosgrove and Graham Spiers: Football in Five images 21

| beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723 723

23

So last season!

We really enjoyed last season! At the end of October we collaborated with UZ Arts on Galoshans Festival 2015. We also co-produced Inverclyde’s Scottish Folk and Roots Festival 2015 with Riverside Inverclyde and let’s not forget our panto Aladdin!

Galoshans Festival 2015 In addition to all the exciting events happening around Greenock, Beacon Arts Centre was the hub for all things Galoshans. In the run up to the festival we hosted umbrella making workshops where families could create their own spooky umbrellas to display proudly at the Galoshans parade.

Our Hidden project participants entertained travellers on the McGhools haunted bus with their scary costumes and puppets.

The Galoshans Festival parade started here at Beacon and we loved seeing all the amazing costumes you dressed up in!

We also enjoyed the lively music of Orkestra de Sol and even played host to a pink visitor!

Roll on next year!

24

| beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723 723

Inverclyde’s Scottish Folk & Roots Festival 2015 Co-produced by Riverside Inverclyde & Beacon Arts Centre We were delighted to not just host but coproduce the Folk Festival with Riverside Inverclyde this year. We kicked off the festival with the Mercury-nominated King Creosote and closed it with the Skerryvore. The building was buzzing with a variety of folk musicians and performers. We also hosted our own version of the X Factor, The Open Sessions. The winner Anthony McElwee won a slot supporting one of the Festival’s main acts.

Our performers seem to have enjoyed their visit too!

Aladdin Our 2015 pantomime was a hit with audiences and press alike!

“With Craig Glover’s excellent dame leading the laughs through his rapport with the audience and comic timing, Mark Cox’s snappy direction keeps the action tight and allows the routines space to amuse.”

The Stage “It’s fun to watch on-screen talents come on-stage and do themselves proud in panto versions of story-book favourites...a terrific cast comes into its own”.

Herald “@thebeaconarts Super Panto at the Beacon! Excellent performances from the cast (and students from Total Kayos Youth Theatre).”

“It felt good to sing a full concert @thebeaconarts last night. Lovely crowd and most helpful crew.”

Rab Noakes “Thanks for a great gig tonight!”

Mairearad Green, Anna Massie “What a brilliant first visit to the Beacon Arts Centre last night! A stunning new venue for Scotland.”

Skerryvore

| beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723 723

@roscomacf “Just in from watching Aladdin what a brilliant show the whole cast were brill well done” ‎Lynnette Watson “Went on Thursday what a fantastic show cast was amazing” Kay Skilling “Was there today absolutely fabulous had best time ever!!”

Janet Wilson

25

Over to you!

The performance programme is just one element of what we provide here at Beacon Arts Centre. We also work extensively with schools, local organisations and member of the public to make sure everyone gets the opportunity to be creative.

Find out more in pages 26 – 35!

Creative Learning Network

Through working in partnership with Education Scotland and Inverclyde Council’s Education Services, Beacon Arts Centre presents a fantastic programme which is committed to enabling children, young people, teachers and keyworkers to have access to the best possible creative learning opportunities and experiences.

This programme includes CPD opportunities for key workers and teachers to build upon their creative teaching practice and share experiences. For school pupils there is wide range of creative opportunities which have strong links to the Curriculum for Excellence and curriculum areas such as Health and Well Being, Science and Expressive Arts.

For more information about the Creative Learning Programme, please contact Laura Pearce on 01475 723723 or e-mail laura@beaconartscentre.co.uk.

Creative Learning Network Conference Beacon Arts Centre invited teachers and key workers from across education to attend this FREE conference. Key note speakers included Julia Fenby, Education Scotland’s Creativity Officer and Sue Egersdorff, Kate Cairns Associates, Five to Thrive.

This conference focused on the importance of delivering and developing creative skills that will impact on overall attainment. Participants also had the opportunity to learn more about the meaning of creative learning, creative teaching, creative skills and creative improvement.

26

| beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723 723

Skill Up

The Skill Up programme includes a range of FREE creative CPD opportunities for nursery, primary and secondary teachers which will be led by renowned creative practitioners.

Participants will have the opportunity to develop exciting new lesson plans in collaboration with the Skill Up facilitator and come back to Beacon Arts Centre to share their and the pupils’ learning experience.

Skill Up Session 1: Light Drawing

Skill Up Session 2: Creative Movement

Delivered by Science Communicator, Dr. Kathryn Harkup Curriculum Areas: Science, Technology and Expressive Arts

Tue 19 April

Tue 1 March Workshop 1: Primary 5 – 7 Teachers, 3:30 – 5:30pm Workshop 2: Secondary Teachers, 6 – 8pm

Practical workshops for school teachers exploring science and art through photography. This workshop will look at how pupils can use science to capture drawings using photography. We will look at how aspects of physics, chemistry, biology and computing can be incorporated into an artistic activity which will allow pupils of all ages and abilities to produce stunning results.

By the end of the workshop, teachers will have created an exciting lesson plan which will encourage team working, applying and adapting knowledge and planning skills.

3:30 & 6pm

During these workshops we will explore effective ways to set up and devise creative movement activities which support and expand the classroom learning experience.

In this way participants will build confidence and use their creative skills to develop a tool box of moving ideas and choices.

We will make fun choreography working with partners and in groups, and enhance our body awareness using simple developmental movement patterns.

Together we will plan practical sessions that can incorporate learning across the curriculum, with a particular focus on the expressive arts and health and well-being, whilst allowing for flexibility of subject and theme.

| beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723 723

27

The Big Event is now in its third year, and the creative learn team would like to engage with primary 6 or 7 classes from across Inverclyde. Specialist artists will connect with each school through either of the following strands: The Big Make or The Big Dance The Big Event’s themes have been inspired by Tortoise in a Nutshell & Oliver Emanuel’s production of The Lost Things. All participating schools will be invited to a performance of The Lost Things on either Thursday 4 or Friday 5 February 2016 (buses will be arranged and paid for by the Beacon Arts Centre).

Over 4 x 90 minute workshops, delivered in school, classes will work with an artist and creatively respond to the main themes which are explored in The Lost Things.

Using Education Scotland’s A tool for planning and evaluation resource the teacher and artist will collaborate, plan and evaluate the workshops to record the creativity which is happening across learning.

Schools workshops will take place between Tuesday 9 and Friday 26 February 2016.

Your class will then be invited to attend one of The Big Event days at the Beacon Arts Centre on either Tuesday 1 March or Wednesday 2 March. They will have the opportunity to meet with other participating schools and share the work which they have created over the course of the workshops.

Participate: If you would like further information about The Big Event or your school would like to get involved please contact: Laura Pearce on 01475 723723 or e-mail laura@beaconartscentre.co.uk

The Lost Things

by Tortoise in a Nutshell and Oliver Emanuel Total cost £2 per pupil

28

| beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723 723

The All Hands programme has been developed by the Inverclyde Place Partnership and the Beacon Arts Centre to showcase Inverclyde’s rich local heritage and strong cultural traditions.

There is a full programme of activities for young people and adults from close to home and across the world. Whether you’re a cruise ship passenger, a day visitor or resident of Inverclyde, All Hands will seek to take you on a rewarding and inspiring creative journey.

Music Workshops

Walking Tour

Participate: If you are a local musician who

Tour dates and times will be announced soon. Please visit our website and social media for regular updates.

Traditional musicians, Michelle Burke and James Ross are working with five primary schools from across Inverclyde to create songs inspired by the history of Scottish migration. The songs will be performed by the pupils over a series of music sessions in the Beacon Arts Centre. These sessions will be hosted by James and Michelle and will include performances by local musicians. specialises in traditional and folk music we would love to hear from you. Please contact:

Scottish based writer, performer and musician, Louise Quinn, has been commissioned to create a walking tour which will take audiences through Greenock town on a theatrical and occasionally surreal musical odyssey taking in Greenock’s historical and cultural land marks.

Laura Pearce on 01475 723723 or e-mail laura@beaconartscentre.co.uk

Andy Cannon and Red Bridge Arts

Tales of a Grandson Fri 6 May | 11am & 1:30pm | £2 | Suitable for age 7+

Nominated for 2015 CATS Awards for Best Show for Children and Young People and Best Music Where do you begin to tell the story of Scotland?

With the myths, the legends and the battles? Or perhaps simply with the universal story of boy meets girl?

Tales of a Grandson is one man’s re-telling of Scotland’s history - but this is no straight and dusty history lesson: to tell this epic tale Andy Cannon (previously of Wee Stories) takes us on a time travelling adventure with his grandparents through Scotland’s past to piece together the myriad of Kings, Queens, friends and foes that make up our nation’s story (and unearths just why our mountains are so small on the way!).

| beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723 723

29

For more information or to book a Hidden session, please contact Sharon@beaconartscentre.co.uk 01475 723 723

Hidden engaged with over 750 young people last season!

We were at the Police Scotland Open Day and ran a five week project at Lomond View Academy delivering sculpture, juggling, parkour, Dj-ing and so much more. The event culminated in the October Week with a creative CPD session with artists, partners and youth workers here at Beacon Arts Centre.

At Greenock Izone, Hidden delivered ‘Rhythm and Paint’. Digital Sound specialist Rikki Traynor and Street Artist Duncan Wilson facilitated fun and informative sessions.

At Lomond View young people from through care and after care transformed their drop-in into a vibrant, energetic and creative place to relax.

30

Music & Urban Art Sessions January & February | at Izones (Gourock, Greenock and Port Glasgow) | Suitable for ages 12 - 26

Young people have an opportunity to gain a Dynamic Youth Award by planning and creating a live music event. They will be inspired by the stories of those who have overcome challenges to reach their potential and change the course of history of songwriting, digital sound and skateboard design sessions. The programme will culminate in an extraordinary night here at Beacon Arts Centre to celebrate one year of Hidden.

All the young people of Inverclyde are welcome to attend the final event and to enjoy the creations of the weekly sessions on International Women’s Day – Sat 8 March 2016.

| beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723 723

Coming next season...

Tue 16 February | 1:30 – 4pm | Free

Join us for our latest Hands On session.

We welcome all interested agencies and partners to join with our established engagement artists to exchange good practise and explore avenues for our project development. Street Cones will also be performing. This not-for-profit company was set up by ex-offenders and mentored by the Citizens Theatre. They are passionate about helping young people to choose pathways.

Places are free, a healthy lunch is included but places limited. Booking essential.

Congratulations!

Congratulations to one of our team – Shannon Cater reached the final three for the Volunteer of the Year shortlist at the CVS Inverclyde Awards. Shannon is a massive asset to the Hidden project and we are so grateful to have her on board. Watch out for the Hidden film One Stupid Mistake made at HMP Greenock at education establishments with an interactive support pack in March this year.

Rum Retort – Scotland / Barbados Curated by Tiffany Boyle and Natalia Palombo Presented by Mother Tongue and hosted by Beacon Arts Centre Responding to Greenock’s history as part of the sugar trade and the ongoing influence of this locally, in 2016 the space outside the Beacon Arts Centre will host, for two weeks, an international arts and architecture project Rum Retort.

Curated by Tiffany Boyle and Natalia Palombo, the exhibition will tour later in the year to Barbados, charting the route once taken by up to 400 ships a year between these two locations. Rum Retort is a group exhibition featuring artists based in Scotland and the Caribbean, housed in a specially-built pavilion designed by Jude Barber of Collective Architecture, Glasgow.

A series of events complimenting the Rum Retort exhibition in Greenock will take place in collaboration with Beacon Arts Centre, more details to be announced soon.

More information can be found at www.mothertongue.se and www.nataliapalombo.co.uk.

| beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723 723

Image: Where the Heart is, 2010, courtesy of the artist, Graham Fagen.

Hands On Day

31

REGULAR CLASSES

Dance

Platinum Project

Platinum Project is a dance initiative for over 60’s with a focus on increasing the quality of physical health and improving a sense of wellbeing. There are different sessions for people of all abilities, whether you are recovering from an injury or surgery or you want to perform as a part of a dance group. What better way to socialise with other like-minded individuals from the community than through dance! As well as the weekly classes here at the Beacon, the Platinum Project also reaches out to various community groups and sheltered housing complexes.

If you are 60+ group or organisation that would like to try a session, please contact Gail Sneddon, Dance Developer gail@beaconartscentre.co.uk PLATINUM 1 Every Mon 10 – 11am | Donation £2 A fun class that draws upon a range of different dance techniques to help maintain co-ordination, mobility, balance and physical stability as well as keeping our brains alert. This class treats dance as a celebration, bringing people together, making them smile and laugh out loud.

“I never thought at my age 64 years that I would be learning new dance steps and routines as well as flying around in an aerial harness on the main stage of The Beacon. I would encourage everyone who can to join the group for exercise, keeping your little grey cells working, company, trying something different and laughter.”

Mary Wooler

“I’m 82 and this class does so much PLATINUM 2 for my body and my spirit.”

Every Mon 1 – 2pm from 7 March Isa Heron Donation £2 A unique class that is geared towards those who love to dance but would like to take things a bit more gently, or perhaps those who are recovering from an injury. All exercises can be modified to using a chair for support.

PLATINUM + DANCE PERFORMANCE GROUP Platinum + is a dance performance group that enjoys creating and performing and, in doing so, empowers seniors to explore new possibilities in dance. The company rehearses and performs pieces by a range of choreographers.

Last season saw Platinum + celebrate Luminate, Scotland’s creative ageing festival which brings older people and people from across the generations together to celebrate their creativity, share stories of ageing and to explore what ageing means to us all.

For Luminate, 45 people took part in aerial dance workshops led by All or Nothing Aerial Dance Theatre with 12 participants going on to create the high flying aerial dance performance Up, Up and Away for the main stage. In workshops, the participants explored using material trapezes, harness flying and creative choreography to inform the piece. They shared their work to a packed audience of family and friends who watched their loved ones soar.

32

| beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723 723

Weekly Dance Classes For children and young people

No experience required – you can try a session before you buy!

Term 1 starts wc 11 January and ends 25 March

Beacon Youth Dance Company Every Thursday | 5 – 7pm | £2

Beacon Youth Dance Company is a creatively adventurous dance performance group of 20 participants from 14 - 21 years. Company members get a chance to learn exciting performance skills, expand their choreographic talents and have fun meeting and performing with other young people. It provides an opportunity for those who are considering continuing an education in dance.

To date Beacon Youth Dance Company’s performances include Love is a Burning Thing which was performed at the Theatre Royal in Glasgow for Go Dance 2014. They also presented their Film Installation work Old News at the Commonwealth Youth Dance Festival at Tramway, Glasgow. They performed their latest work Fools Paradise at Destinations Dance Festival 2014 at the Macrobert Arts Centre, Stirling. They regularly perform at their home - Beacon Arts Centre.

MicroMovers

Suitable for 16 months – 4 years Every Mon 11am – 12 noon £55 per term

Flying Feet

Suitable for 4 – 7 years Every Mon 5:30 – 6:15pm £55 per term

Young Groovers

Suitable for 8 – 11years Every Mon 6:30 – 7:30pm £55 per term

Junior Youth

Suitable for 11 – 13 years Every Mon 5:30 – 6:30pm £55 per term

Beacon Youth Dance Company

Suitable for 14 – 21 years Every Thu 5 – 7pm

For adults Dance Workout

Suitable for adults Every Mon 6:30 – 7:30pm £5 per class

Platinum Project

Suitable for 60+ Every Mon 10 – 11am £2 per class (donation)

Platinum 2

Suitable for 60+ Every Mon 1 – 2pm

Platinum+ Dance Suitable for members of Platinum Performance Project who wish to perform Group see page 32 for dates and times

Watch a promotional trailer at www.beaconartscentre.co.uk

| beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723 723

33

REGULAR CLASSES

Creatability Free

The Creatability programme has been set up to provide young people aged 10 - 19 years from across Inverclyde, who have Autism or additional support needs with the opportunity to participate in a ten week programme of aerial dance. Building on the success of Phase 1 of Creatabilty which saw 42 young people take part, we will continue to work with our partner organisations Craigmarloch School, Barnardo’s and Reach for Autism for Phase 2. The young people taking part in phase 2 will have the opportunity to work with All or Nothing, Scotland’s leading aerial dance practitioners and with Waterbaby Dance, a leading company in Scotland who specialise in working with young people with additional needs. This will culminate in an exciting performance piece presented on the main stage of Beacon Arts Centre for family friends and the wider community to attend.

Aerial work is unique in the movement possibilities it opens up for the young dancer. It incorporates ropes or silks often attached to the ceiling allowing performers to explore space in 3 dimensions. This is an especially liberating experience for those with profound disabilities as it allows them to experience weightlessness and complete freedom from their wheelchairs.

If you are a parent or organisation who would like more information on Creatability or you would like your children or the young people you work with to get involved in please contact: Gail Sneddon Dance Developer gail@beaconartscentre.co.uk Creatability is supported by Cash back for Creativity.

34

| beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723 723

Drama

Beacon Young Company Audition Thu 14 January 7 – 9pm Classes every Sat 1:15 – 2:30pm Price £5.50

Beacon Arts Centre is forming a new Beacon Young Company for young people aged 16 - 21 interested in pursuing further learning and development in performance and theatre production.

The group will have the opportunity to participate and perform in National Theatre of Scotland’s, Exchange 2016.

Spaces are limited and therefore all interested participants will be asked to attend an audition. For more information please email laura@beaconartscentre.co.uk

Beacon Youth Theatre

Every Sat 9 January – 19 March 2016 P1 & P2

10 – 10:45am

£49.50

P3, 4 & 5 10:45am – 12 noon

£60.50

P6 & 7

12 noon – 1:15pm

£60.50

S1 & S2

1:15 – 2:30pm

£60.50

S3+

2:30 – 3:45pm

£60.50

Beacon Youth Theatre invite children and young people to use their imagination, share ideas, tell real life stories and collaborate to make them come alive on stage.

For more information email laura@beaconartscentre.co.uk

| beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723 723

35

Events and Hires Take advantage of our waterfront location and enjoy the breathtaking views. Here at Beacon Arts Centre we are dedicated to providing efficient service, delicious catering and a range of spaces suitable for any kind of celebration, event, conference or meeting.

•

•

•

• •

Our private riverside facing gallery rooms, with exceptional panoramic views across the Clyde, can be adapted to accommodate anything from 10 – 200 guests.

A 500 seat theatre and 120 seat studio space with full lighting and technical equipment In-house catering and bar facilities with options to suit every budget Wireless broadband available throughout All spaces are fully accessible

Here’s what previous clients had to say about their experiences at the Beacon “I just wanted to extend our thanks right now for a fabulous evening last night.

We’ve been enjoying really positive feedback, which is great – you can’t buy that!

The Gallery Suite looked fantastic, the food was most enjoyable and attention to detail, superb. Laura and her team worked non-stop to ensure everything went smoothly and accommodate our last minute requests, and Ben did a great job with lighting and sound, also helping to set up visuals for the plasmas late on in the day.

Much appreciated!”

Elaine Nicol CSV Inverclyde by email

36

Private Parties - Meetings Conferences - Weddings Special Occasions Contact our Events Co-ordinator Laura Queen for more information 01475 723 723 laura.queen@beaconartscentre.co.uk

| beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723 723

Bistro at Beacon Enjoy spectacular views whatever the weather from our riverside Bistro.

Join us for breakfast, coffee or a spot of lunch. We also serve an evening pre-theatre menu so you can make the most of the Beacon’s performances and events.

Special Offer

Why not take advantage of our current promotion and have a bottle of fizz on us with either of the following:

Sun 14 February, Valentine’s Day

When you book tickets for both The Nutcracker and our special Valentine’s pre-theatre menu.

Sun 6 March, Mother’s Day

When you book a table of 4 for our Mother’s Day menu.

You do have to book in advance. Call 01474 723 723 and quote FIZZ to get secure your place.

You can also book by email info@beaconartscentre.co.uk. Menus can be viewed on www.beaconartscentre.co.uk.

Easter Stories and Crafting Sessions

Sat 26 March, 2 & 9 April | 11am – 12:30pm Make your way to the bistro for some relaxed, family fun over the holidays!

Booking is essential on the numbers above as places are limited.

Opening Hours

Mon to Sat 9am to 6pm and later on show nights Sunday opening for performances Don’t forget to let us know what you thought by reviewing us on TripAdvisor, Facebook or Twitter!

| beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723 723

37

Support Us Beacon Arts Centre is Inverclyde’s home to the arts, welcoming and encouraging events and activities that reach into every part of our community.

We need your help to ensure the brightest of futures for the beacon.

38

Sponsor a seat in our theatre to celebrate a lasting memory Sponsoring a seat can be done for yourself or as a special gift for an important person in your life. For £500 your chosen seat will carry a plaque inscribed with your dedication and we guarantee a minimum 10 year display.

Your donation will be used to support all aspects of the venue’s work – from the staging of plays to our extensive education and outreach programme.

If you would like to sponsor a seat or find out more about the scheme please contact Pauline Kane, General Manager on 01475 423 423.

You can also help us by: Round-up donations

When purchasing theatre tickets online you can round up your sale to the nearest pound, and help us do that little bit more in bringing the arts to everyone.

Gift aid it

By allowing us to claim Gift Aid on your donation, your gift becomes worth even more – we can reclaim 25p for every £1 donated by an individual taxpayer from HMRC.

| beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723 723

Booking Information 01475 723 723 beaconartscentre.co.uk

Visit Us

Mon – Sat 9am – late (8pm Box Office) Sun 12 pm – 9pm (6pm Box Office)

Call Us

01475 723 723. We will hold your tickets for collection or post them to you for £1.Credit card sales are subject to a £1 fee.

Look us up at

beaconartscentre.co.uk Online bookings are subject to £2.20 per transaction.

Group Bookings

1 free with every 10 tickets purchased (this offer excludes local theatre and showcase events).

Concessions

Concession prices are available where advertised and apply to Senior Citizens, Students, Children (16 and under) and those in receipt of benefits.

Concessions must be claimed at time of purchase and proof of eligibility shown. Assisting companions for disabled patrons are admitted free of charge.

Refunds

Once you have bought a ticket it is non-refundable, unless the performance is cancelled or rescheduled.

Terms and Conditions

1.Tickets should be checked at point of purchase as mistakes cannot be rectified later. 2. Latecomers will be asked to wait until a suitable break in the performance. 3.

Management reserves the right to refuse admission and to alter the advertised programme if it proves necessary.

4. The use of cameras and recording equipment in the Main Theatre and Studio is prohibited. 5. Mobile phones should be silenced before entering performances. 6. Every audience member must have a valid ticket, even infants.

7. The Beacon Arts Centre reserves the right to introduce special offers and discounts on tickets at any time.

| beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723 723

39

What visitors to Beacon Arts Centre said...

We regularly check social media and emails to keep a close eye on what you think. The past few months we have been inundated with positive comments. Thank you to everyone who took the time to let us know what you thought.

“The Greenock Classic Cars meet at the Beacon on Saturday mornings from 10.30 - 12 in the front of the Beacon. A great venue and very accommodating staff.”

Greenock classic cars

“I have been critical of the Beacon in the past, however! - my wife and I attended Sister Act on Friday and wow!

Our pre-theatre dinner could not have been better. The young waitress made us so welcome. The food was great, the wine was served chilled and the staff were brilliant. It was lovely to relax with coffee as the theatre filled leaving us plenty of time to take our seats for a wonderful show. It was as good a night at the theatre as we have ever had.

Well done the Beacon.”

Alan Mortimer

“It was so nice to be back at Beacon Arts Centre on Wednesday evening. A great audience and a terrific venue.”

Todd Gordon

See you soon……!

“the performance last night of this Opera (Così fan tutte) was exceptionally good. The simple set and lack of orchestra did not reduce my enjoyment of the excellent production and very able and attractive singers, who put so much enthusiasm into their parts.

I enjoyed this production as much, if not more as many more major events. Well done!”

David S Wilson by email “I have 2 very happy children after the fabulous day they had at The Beacon today! Will definitely be making more visits with them.”

Amanda Hampsey