Beacon Arts Centre Whats On Oct 2015 - Jan 2016

October 2015 – January 2016

What’s on inside and outside of the Inverclyde venue

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

Although I joined the Beacon in July, this is my first ever brochure welcome, so I thought I should start by introducing myself. I’m Jackie and I have been appointed Transition Director of the Beacon Arts Centre. I’ll be here until the end of the year to look at what the Beacon is doing well, what could be improved and what new things we can do in the future! I’ll then be making recommendations to the board on what will make the Beacon a valuable resource to the local area, its residents and visitors.

Part of my work has been talking to people in the region and asking their opinions and I’ve very much enjoyed meeting you all. I have also observed the work done by the Beacon team. It has been great to learn about the Vessels project where choreographers and young dancers from Ghana and young performing artists from Jamaica performed with young people from Inverclyde. I have also enjoyed seeing young people engage in urban arts, street dance and DJ-ing across the area as part of the Hidden Project.

I’m also looking forward to my first ever Galoshans this October! There will be something for people of all ages and it will be free so I hope you will be joining us for some creative spooky fun!

There’s a packed programme of music, opera, drama and comedy this season and the year is ended with our panto Aladdin. This year we are teaming up with panto producers Imagine Theatre for the first time ever to present a starry cast of actors from Still Game and River City plus lots of singing, dancing and comedy.

I’m now very much in the process of planning the future of Beacon Arts Centre. I can’t confirm everything just yet but I can hint at a few things: I’m hoping to enhance your experience in our Bistro with a live music programme, increase the appeal of visiting the venue with some exciting additions – watch this space – and we will increase our activities outside the venue with local partner agencies to make sure everyone has the opportunity to benefit from the Beacon.

I hope you will join us on this adventure to make the Beacon one of the region’s best loved attractions.

Speak soon

Jackie Shearer, Transition Director

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

thebeaconarts

Images on previous page: King Creosote, Stewart Francis, Micro Movers, Frank Bӧller - Galoshans

Many years ago I was the music programmer at Tolbooth in Stirling so I was very keen to be working with Riverside Inverclyde to deliver Inverclyde’s Scottish Folk and Roots Festival this year. We have some very big names for you this year – more info on pages 6 and 7.

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.

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

By train We are 500m from Greenock Central on the Glasgow Central/Gourock line. Approx 30/40 mins from Glasgow.

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.

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

Ample free parking.

The Greenock Arts Guild Ltd, trading as the Beacon Arts Centre, is a not-for-profit organisation.

Registered in Scotland Company No.SCO24805. Registered Scottish Charity no. SC003030.

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.

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

Assistance dogs are welcome.

An induction loop is available.

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

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drama

SOLAR BEAR

Tribes

Thu 8 October | 7:30pm | £12 / £10 or £5 for deaf theatre

“he’s spent his life trying to understand you...

Now he thinks you should try to understand him.”

Tribes is a poignant yet biting drama about love, family and finding one’s voice.

Billy is a young man born deaf and raised in a loud, opinionated family and yet his parents and siblings never bothered to learn sign language, meaning Billy had to adapt to a hearing world.

When he meets Sylvia, a young woman from a deaf family who introduces him to Deaf culture, Billy suddenly feels confidence and a sense of belonging to a ‘tribe’ he’s never known before.

This performance will be captioned. Recommended age 14+.

This production contains strong language.

To book Deaf Theatre Club tickets, text 07900 852595.

theatre dance VISION MECHANICS

In Her Shadows Tue 13 October | 7:30pm | £12 / £10

By Blank Canvas & Jabuti Theatre Directed by Cora Bissett A dance-mindscape featuring aerial and physical theatre which is supported by stunning visual projections and haunting music.

Two female performers tell the story of a young woman called Amy. After being overseas for years, she returns home to Scotland to find a new place to settle. With the unexpected rejection from her mum, Amy is tested, pushed and thrown into her own mental turmoil.

In Her Shadows is a visual performance that explores a young woman’s relationship with the complexity of her depression whilst challenging the stigmas that surround it.

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TERRA INCOGNITA

family

My Friend Selma Wed 14 October | 2pm | £5 | Suitable for 8+ years

“When I was eight years old, my dad set up a charity to help people in danger escape the war in a place called Bosnia. We moved into an old boarding school with fifty of these refugees. I thought it was brilliant. There was a playground, people were always feeding me and I learnt to ride a bike! But the best thing about living there was meeting my friend Selma.”

My Friend Selma is the remarkable real-life story of one girl’s journey from war in Bosnia to safety in the UK. It is the tale of an incredible journey, a world turned upside down, loss, friendship, courage and conkers.

“The most amazing story I’ve ever heard!”

GEORGIA, AGE 11

Michael English

live music

Wed 14 October | 7:30pm | £18

Since forming his own band in January 2014, Michael English has been going down a storm ever since on the Irish and UK dancing/concert scene.

An accomplished musician & songwriter, the Kildare man is now a big name on the circuit with his energetic performances which leave the crowds wanting more.

Michael’s new album Dance all Night, released in June, features all his latest songs. This is a follow on to his phenomenally successful album Country Roots. Michael will also be recording his first DVD later this year.

Special guests are Robbie Carran and Lauren Kyle.

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festival Welcome to the third Inverclyde Scottish Folk and Roots Festival with a line-up of big names and those breaking onto the scene. With a local act on each night, the line-up is due to huge input from local promoters and musicians – thank you!

To tempt you further, we have an exclusive Festival Pass – see whatever you want for £50! Plus enjoy a 15% discount on food and drink in our Bistro. Otherwise, concerts are £15/£12.50 unless otherwise stated.

King Creosote Thu 8 October | 7:30pm Indie-folk hero King Creosote is led by Fife-based Kenny Anderson. Last year the band released the soundtrack for From Scotland with Love and tonight’s concert features music from that film amongst other material including Diamond Mine, the Mercury-nominated album with Jon Hopkins.

Support comes from singersongwriter, David Laing, a 23 year-old from Gourock who has rubbed shoulders with the likes of Admiral Fallow and Emeli Sande.

The Open Session Tue 20 October | 7pm free but ticketed

Yvonne Lyon

Join us to find the best of local folk and roots music.

Selected from an open call, one of tonight’s shortlisted acts will win the coveted ‘support slot’ on Sun 1 November.

Fresh from touring the country, this Inverclyde singer-songwriter is back on home turf. She’s shared the stage with the likes of Eddi Reader and Karine Polwart.

Musician Iain Anderson has also praised the singer stating, “listening to Yvonne is a life affirming experience.

She is the bees-knees.”

For entry details visit www.beaconartscentre.co.uk

ALSO TAKING PLACE Fri 30 October – Sun 1 November:

Galoshans

Three days of street theatre, music, performance, dance, video and visual art.

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Sun 25 October | 7:30pm

An alumni of Glasgow Americana Festival, Martin Jones is opening up tonight’s concert with his self-penned songs set in both Greenock and Spain.

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festival Double Bill:

Chris Stout, Finlay MacDonald, Ross Martin and Hamish Napier / Iain Morrison Trio Fri 30 October | 7:30pm Chris Stout is recognised as one of the most exciting fiddle players and composers of his generation. Chris delivers performances which excite and inspire and tonight, he’s hand selected some of the most outstanding musicians in what will be an exceptional evening of music.

Award-winning, singersongwriter and instrumentalist Iain Morrison opens up tonight’s double bill with songs from his new album, Eas. Although the melodies that have inspired his new album are hundreds of years old, the songs have been written in Iain’s own contemporary style. Tonight Iain is joined by Pete Harvey on cello and Lori Watson on fiddle.

Boat Club Session Sat 31 October | 4pm-7pm, free

Rab Noakes Sat 31 October | 7:30pm For 40 years Rab Noakes has been an acclaimed songwriter. Tonight he’s performing tunes from his new album, I’m Walkin’ Here.

Rab’s current shows connect the past and present and his skills as a guitar-player and storyteller are woven into an engaging mix, guaranteed to enthral.

Opening up for Rab is Shelagh McKay Jones, winner of The Session at last year’s Inverclyde’s Scottish Folk and Roots Festival 2014 and The Danny Kyle Open Stage at Celtic Connections 2015.

Mairearad Green and Anna Massie

Double Bill:

Skerryvore / Fred Morrison Fri 6 November | 7:30pm Skerryvore has successfully married the traditional instrumentation of accordion, fiddle, pipes and whistles with bass, drums and keyboards to create their unique sound and their latest release, Decade, celebrates the band’s 10 years of being.

Piper and composer, Fred Morrison will open up tonight’s event. Well known for his mastery in Scottish bagpipes, his work embraces whistles, Scottish smallpipes and Irish uilleann pipes.

Fiddlers Rally

Sun 1 November | 7:30pm

Sun 8 November | 7:30pm £10 / £8

Two of Scotland’s most revered multi-instrumentalists, Mairearad Green on accordion and bagpipes and Anna Massie on guitar, banjo and fiddle are a captivating duo, with a highly energetic and friendly stage presence.

Tonight’s support is from the winners of The Open Session.

Clyde Coast Strathspey and Reel Society and members from Inverclyde and North Ayrshire have been delighting audiences for over 20 years.

Hornpipes, jigs, strathspeys and reels make up tonight’s soul-stirring and toe-tapping traditional music.

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Photo: Ricky Frew

Relax in the company of the Boat Club Session musicians in this informal, musical get together with its mix of traditional favourites and modern classics – all sure to “float your boat!”

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musical TIMELESS THEATRE PRODUCTIONS

Memories are Made of This Thu 15 October | 2:30 & 7pm £14 / £12 / £12 matinee

From the producers of All Our Yesterdays, Memory Lane and Rolling Back the Years.

Join us for a trip down memory lane as the music of the 40s, 50s, 60s and 70s is celebrated. Featuring hits from Jersey Boys, Frank Sinatra, Michael Bublé, Brenda Lee, Dolly Parton, Elvis Presley, Abba and many more.

Photo: Steve Ullathorne

comedy

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MZA & CHiLL Productions present

Craig Hill - Playing with my Selfie Sat 17 October | 7:30pm | £14 / £12

Get snap happy with Scotland’s favourite kilted treasure for an evening of gloriously camp, noholds-barred comedy… live and unleashed!

Hot on the heels of last year’s hysterically funny, sold out national tour, don’t miss the chance to see Craig flashing his kilt pins, striking a pose and calling for 'Lights, Camera... and, most definitely, Action!’

The Independent has raved that Craig was ”Riotously funny…. he’s that rare thing, a naturally funny comedian’ and we absolutely agree! Book early for this deliciously wicked evening of pure, unadulterated fun.

Bring your Auntie… Bring your Hubby…

Bring your Selfie! www.mrcraighill.com

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family

Shona Reppe is

Magic Sho

Sat 17 October | 10:30am & 1:30pm | £7.50 | For ages 5 – 8

ABRACADABRA! Magic Sho waves her magic wand and a small white rabbit suddenly appears.

She saws the rabbit in half* and produces carrots from behind its ears, It’s all going really well – so why does the rabbit look so sad?

A brand new show featuring a rabbit who never misses a trick and a magician who sometimes forgets to say the magic word. *Please note: no rabbits (not even toy ones) are harmed in this show.

s Family Show for Half Term NONSENSE ROOM

family

Hairy Mclary – Cat Tales

Mon 19 October | 2pm | £9 / £8 / £32 Family Ticket For ages 2 – 8

A brand new show featuring your favourite characters including Hairy’s feline friends.

Following the huge success of The Hairy Maclary and Friends Show, Nonsense Room return with a new set of stories featuring Hairy Maclary, Hercules Morse, Bottomley Potts, Muffin Maclay, Bitzer Maloney and Schnitzel Von Krumm as well as, Slinky Malinki, Scarface Claw, Stickybeak Sid and more!

The same mix of fun, storytelling and catchy songs will be hugely popular with new audiences and those who saw the original.

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“Fans of the storybooks cannot fail to enjoy every child should see it” HHHHH One4Review

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drama

Alice Mary Cooper

The Box

Fri 23 October | 7:30pm | £10 / £8

In 1921 Dundee postal workers created a unique time capsule, a memorial to those who had died in The Great War. This casket, crammed with papers, lay forgotten for many years in a sorting office. It was finally reopened in 2014.

This is the story of what was inside.

Join theatre-maker Alice Mary Cooper as she playfully examines the contents and explores the history of this extraordinary last post from the First World War. Comissioned by Harlow Playhouse

live music

drama

MACFLOYD

Wish you were here – Live!

Thu 22 October | 7:30pm | £15 / £13

2015 marks the 40th anniversary of the release of Pink Floyd’s masterpiece Wish you were here. MacFloyd are touring in celebration of this, with a set that contains this iconic album performed in its entirety.

The show will also feature classic Floyd tracks from the Dark Side of the Moon, The Wall, Animals and many more albums, including the recent 2014 release The Endless River.

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Singin’ I’m No a Billy He’s a Tim Sat 24 October | 7:30pm | £15

On the day of an Old Firm clash, a Rangers and a Celtic fan end up sharing a courtroom cell. Their only hope of escape is betting on the match to pay their fines. While taking turns to watch the game on a TV through their cell door, the pair bicker their way through every entrenched cliché of “Scotland’s shame” from religion to politics and national identity.

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opera SCOTTISH OPERA

Così fan tutte

Tue 27 October | 7:30pm | £14 / £5 for under 26

Sung in English with piano accompaniment.

Love is in the air in this stylish operatic romcom.

But, as our two young couples are about to find out, the path of true love rarely runs smooth.

Take a trip to 1950s Italy in this chic and romantic telling of one of Mozart’s best-loved operas.

With music as beautiful as it is light and witty, this production features some of the best young singers around.

AN EVENING WITH

live music

Simon and Oscar from Ocean Colour Scene Wed 28 October | 7:30pm | £22.50

Simon and Oscar continue to celebrate Ocean Colour Scene’s 25th anniversary with a tour of intimate seated venues, the perfect stages for their acoustic performances of all the big hits and anthems, including The Riverboat Song, The Circle, Traveller's Tune, Hundred Mile High City and The Day We Caught The Train.

Experience the stripped back songs from the band’s five Top 10 albums and six Top 10 singles.

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festival

Galoshans Festival 2015 Fri 30 October – Sun 1 November

Celebrate Halloween with three days of street theatre, music, performance, dance, video and visual art on the streets of Greenock and here at Beacon Arts Centre.

Where Halloween began…

Galoshans is rooted in the heritage of Inverclyde. The people of the West of Scotland used to celebrate Galoshans by visiting each other’s houses and performing a Galoshans play. If it was well received they might receive a ‘treat’ – and this practice is credited as the origin of the American ‘trick or treating’ at Halloween.

UZ Arts have commissioned an international programme themed on ‘when two world’s touch’, including a selection of work co-created with the public.

There will be lots to see and do across across Greenock. To find out more and view the whole programme, please visit www.galoshans.com

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Galoshans Events at the Beacon

Moving Out Symposium Fri 30 October | 9am – 5pm

An exploration of the innovative but often challenging range of art taking place outside conventional venues across Europe, the UK and in Scotland.

Moving Out is a unique opportunity to meet artists, producers, festival directors, presenters and cultural planners from across Scotland and Europe for a day of presentations, workshops, discussion and networking. It is funded by the IN SITU network, as an IN SITU Focus event, and Creative Scotland, in partnership with Beacon Arts Centre.

Ticket & bursary information at www.galoshans.com

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Orkestra del Sol Sat 31 October | 9pm | £5 / £3

Halloween Parade Sat 31 October | Depart from Beacon 5pm

Channel your inner carnival spirit and take part in our Galoshans Halloween Parade with musical maestros Orkestra del Sol! In the weeks leading up to the big day, come along and make your own extra special Galoshans inspired illuminated umbrella (see below), decorated with a little bit of Halloween magic. Or just come along on the day and create your very own musical shaker to join in with the carnival beats. Inspired by the imagery of New Orleans Jazz Funerals, Mexico’s Dia De Los Muertos and Halloween folk festivals from around the globe, we’ll provide all the elements to transport you to another world.

Umbrella Workshops Every Sat 10, 17 & 24 October | 2 – 4pm

Create your own Galoshans inspired umbrella for the parade. Finished umbrellas to be picked up at the Beacon at 4:30pm on 31 October. All children to be accompanied by an adult.

Andy Cannon’s Spooky Tales Sat 31 October | 11am | £3 | 6 years+

Join storyteller Andy Cannon, of Wee Stories fame, for Galoshans inspired spooky tales. “One of our most gifted storytellers…Andy Cannon has us spellbound.”

The Herald

Musical Shaker Making Sat 31 October | 1 – 4:15pm

All families welcome to this drop-in event.

Bursting with anarchic humour, wildly skilful musical arrangements and a roguish sense of theatre!

Orkestra del Sol is bombastic brass, big beats, virtuosic solos, comic interludes and strong characters and plenty of audience interaction.

Ten years experience of performing together has honed Orkestra del Sol’s confidently original style and has earned them a reputation for high quality, universally appealing performances. www.orkestradelsol.co.uk

Tea Dance Sun 1 November | 12 – 3pm | £3

An afternoon of tea, cake and dancing, with live musical accompaniment.

Frank Bölter: To The World’s End Life-Size Paper Boat Building Sun 1 November | Construction 12 – 4pm | Sailing at 5pm | Free

Join German artist Frank Bölter as he constructs a life-size boat out of paper. Following on from extraordinary constructions in paper around the world, he is recreating this work and setting sail along the Clyde in a special tribute to famous son of Greenock, artist George Wyllie.

Galoshans Festival is produced by UZ Arts in partnership with Inverclyde Place Partnership and Beacon Arts Centre. It is funded by Creative Scotland, IN SITU, and the Place Partnership. The Moving Out symposium is funded by IN SITU, Creative Scotland and hosted by Beacon Arts Centre.

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luminate

Luminate is Scotland’s creative ageing festival.

It brings older people and people from across the generations together across Scotland to celebrate our creativity. Share stories of ageing and explore what ageing means to all of us. www.luminatescotland.org

dance ALL OR NOTHING

Up, Up and Away

Fly away to another world with All or Nothing Aerial Dance Theatre in partnership with Beacon Arts Centre’s Platinum Project. The culmination of a participatory performance project for older people in Inverclyde involving material trapezes and aerial harness flying. Up, Up and Away’s performers prove that you are never too old to get air bound and to keep those dreams of running away to the circus very real!

SEE BOTH SHOWS FOR

Photo: Eoin Carey

Sat 31 October | 2:30pm | £5 / £3:50

drama DONNA RUTHERFORD

Broth

Sat 31 October | 3:30pm | £5 / £3:50

Broth is an honest exploration of the experience of elders in 21st century Scotland, told by artist Donna Rutherford, through the tradition of soup making. It explores the rituals and revelations that trace changes in people’s lives, families and wider communities through a series of personal storytelling conversations.

Music for Broth is by Inge Thomson

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Photo: Tommy Ga-Ken Wan

Soup provided

MacBraveheart –

drama

The OTHER Scottish Play

by Philip Differ

Thu 29 October | 7:30pm | £12 / £10

Rooted in the past of a dystopian future - that means a minimalist set littered with industrial remnants and a broken toilet - Scotland’s greatest heroes are tempted by their inner demons to confront their outer Hebrides.

Featuring lust, power, treachery, betrayal, with some dodgy poetry thrown in as well. This epic production treads the fine line between dark, visceral theatre and disappearing up one’s own backside.

Dominic Kirwan & Mary Duff:

live music

TOGETHER IN CONCERT Thu 5 November | 7:30pm | £18.50

2015 sees two of Ireland’s finest and best loved entertainers take to the stage together.

Dominic Kirwan brings his own inimitable style to the vast and rich musical heritage of his homeland in this brand new show.

Joining Dominic for an evening of fabulous live music and entertainment, is internationally renowned songstress Mary Duff, as the pair join forces to showcase their outstanding vocal range.

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live music

The Springsteen Sessions Sat 7 November | 7:30pm | £15

As far as tributes to The Boss go, there’s none finer. From the time The Springsteen Sessions take to the stage, they take you on a musical journey down E Street that will leave you enthralled, excited and exhausted but more importantly wanting more.

Covering over four decades of The Boss, this tight unit of accomplished musicians tear into such mighty classics as Born To Run, 10th Avenue Freeze Out, Jungleland and Rosalita to name but a few. To the true Springsteen fan this will be journey that they’ll never want to end. So sit back and enjoy the pure sounds of Bruce Springsteen and the legendary E-Street Band via the wonderful talents of The Springsteen Sessions

local theatre GREENOCK LIGHT OPERA CLUB

Sister Act

Wed 11 – Sat 14 November | 7:30pm Additional 2:30pm on Sat | £13 - £18

Celebrating 40 years of musical theatre, Greenock Light Opera Club (GLOC) returns to Beacon Arts Centre for their production of Sister Act: The Musical.

Based on the 1992 film of the same name, Sister Act tells the story of aspiring disco diva Deloris Van Cartier. Trying to work her way to the top in 1970s Philadelphia, Deloris falls in love with a very tough—and very married—gangster boyfriend named Curtis, and when Deloris witnesses him commit a murder she ends up in hiding on police orders in a convent whose parish has fallen on hard times. Though the sequin-free lifestyle doesn't agree with her, Deloris finds her calling working with the choir, and breathes new life into the dusty convent while discovering a sisterhood she’s never had before.

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THISTLE THEATRE COMPANY

local theatre

Oliver Twist Fri 20 & Sat 21 November 7:30pm Sat 21 November | 2:30pm £12 / £8 for under 18s

Following on from their success of Blood Brothers and The Diary of Anne Frank, Thistle Theatre Company return to the Beacon stage with this exciting adaptation of Charles Dickens’ Oliver Twist. This powerful version takes you to the dark underbelly of nineteenth century London. The unforgettable characters - Fagin, Nancy, Bill Sykes, and the Artful Dodger - inhabit a world filled with images of danger and fear, innocence and hope; a world seen through the eyes of an astonished child.

Directed by Lynsey Currie, this will be a bold theatrical production incorporating elements of physical theatre and one not to be missed.

Bonnie Bling Jewellery Launch Thu 26 November | 3:30pm

Join us in the countdown to Christmas with the launch of a new range of merchandise inspired by the iconic artworks of renowned, local artist George Wyllie. Designed and produced by Bonnie Bling, these new pieces will make the perfect gift. Complementary fizz, festive nibbles and some seasonal crafting ideas too!

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pantomime THE GREENOCK PLAYERS

Jack and the Beanstalk

Fri 27 November – Sat 5 December | 7:30pm Additional 2:30pm on Sat 28 November & Sat 5 December No performances on Mon & Sun | £10 / £35 Family Ticket (4) Buy 9 tickets get the 10th free

Fee Fi Fo Fum, it’s time to have some panto fun!

Fleshcreep, who is kidnapping all the village children!

(Boo!)

In the village of Pantoloon, Jack Trot, his maw Dame Dot and their friendly coo Daisy huvnae got a bean to their name. Grumpy old Squire McGuire is demanding his rent money, and so the Trot family have no option but to sell poor Daisy (awww!).

EVEN WORSERER, Fleshcreep then kidnaps Jill too!

(Gasp!)

Even worse, Jack and his girlfriend Jill can’t find their love song, ‘cos Jack’s a choob who cannae sing!

(Eek!) Even worser, Pantoloon is being terrorised by the evil Giant Blunderbore and his slimy henchman

But, with the help of good Fairy Flora, Jack sets about saving Jill and finishing off the Giant and Fleshcreep once and for all, by climbing a beanstalk which magically grows on stage! (Oooh!)

Find out what happens next at Greenock Players’ Jack & the Beanstalk – it’s gonnae be a Christmas Cracker!

comedy LIVE NATION IN ASSOCIATION WITH MHA PROUDLY PRESENTS

Stewart Francis: Pun Gent Tue 15 December | 8pm | £17.50

The star of Mock The Week, Michael McIntyre's Roadshow and Live At The Apollo, embarks on a brand new stand up tour with a fantastic and hilarious new show!

“A brilliant comic brain... this stand-up cracks some of the best one liners I’ve ever heard”

“Perfectly crafted gags” SUNDAY TIMES

GUARDIAN

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drama

NO NONSENSE PRODUCTIONS

It’s a Wonderful Life A live radio play

Fri 18 – Sun 20 December | 2:30pm 19 & 20 December, 7:30pm 18 & 19 December £8 / £7 conc Sun matinee

Back by popular demand, for the fourth year in a row. The story of the most inspirational film of all time. The heart-warming American family classic. It's a Wonderful Life is brought to the stage in a live radio play. Performed as a 1940s live radio broadcast in front of a studio audience. Six actors perform the characters of 1940s radio actors, who in turn portray the dozens of characters of It’s a Wonderful Life.

Featuring live sound effects and live music from Johnny and The Jingle Belles this performance is a rare opportunity to see how a 1940s radio broadcast was produced.

live music

Broomberry Drive Mon 21 December

One of the west coast of Scotland’s favourite bands, Broomberry Drive has some great musicians, ready to deliver top class live sixties and seventies music to the Beacon audience.

Why not make a night of it by enjoying a delicious meal in our Bistro.

Come in a pair, with friends or for an Xmas night out. Whatever your company we promise to provide the entertainment and the atmosphere.

To book a table call our Box Office 01475 723 723.

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Morning

Afternoon

Evening

Fri 11 Dec

7pm

Sat 12 Dec

2pm

7pm

Sun 13 Dec

1pm

5pm

Mon 14 Dec

No Performances

Tues 15 Dec

10am

Weds 16 Dec

10am

Thurs 17 Dec

10am

7pm 7pm

Fri 18 Dec

7pm

Sat 19 Dec

2pm

7pm

Sun 20 Dec

1pm

5pm

Mon 21 Dec

No Performances

Tues 22 Dec

2pm

7pm

Weds 23 Dec

2pm

7pm*

1pm

5pm

Thurs 24 Dec Fri 25 Dec

No Performances – Merry Christmas

Sat 26 Dec

2pm

7pm

Sun 27 Dec

1pm

5pm

Mon 28 Dec

2pm

7pm

Tues 29 Dec

2pm

7pm

Weds 30 Dec

2pm

7pm

Thurs 31 Dec

2pm

Fri 1 Jan

No Performances

Sat 2 Jan

2pm

7pm

Schools Performances: £8. One teacher free with every 10 pupils Standard Performances: £16, £12 upper circle (Concessions £14, £10 upper circle).

Family tickets £36-52 for a family of 4** or £44-£64 for a family of 5*** Premium Performances: £18, £14 upper circle (Concessions £16, £12 upper circle).

Family tickets £44-60 for a family of 4** or £54-£74 for a family of 5*** Groups of 20+ £12.50. One ticket free with every 10 purchased.

Babes in Arms: £2 Disabled companions free *British Sign Language interpreted performance **Must include at least 2 children ***Must include at least 3 children Beacon-Arts-Centre @thebeaconarts #aladdinbeacon

live music

Nearly New Year Hogmany Show Thu 31 December | 8pm | £20 / £18

Join us for our Nearly New Year Hogmanay Show starring Alan Beck (Caledon) and his wife, the fabulous Polly Kirwan Beck.

Accompanied by one of the country’s top ceilidh bands, the sensational Flung Aboot, and featuring the haunting music of the Bagpipes with some traditional Scottish Country Dancing thrown in to boot, the evening promises to be the ideal preparation for “The Bells”. Packed with beautiful Scottish melodies such as Loch Lomond and Ye Banks And Braes mixed with the toe-tapping standards of Kenneth McKellar and Sir Harry Lauder and the soaring phrases of Highland Cathedral this will be an evening of great singing and great songs – the perfect way to Step We Gaily into 2016 – a great traditional night suitable for all the family and an experience not to be missed!

coming soon An Evening Mum’s the Word February 2016

Mum’s the Word is a brutally honest, wickedly funny comedy about the trials and tribulations of having children, and the overwhelming effect they have on your life. This smash-hit comedy is a passionate illustration of the joys and agonies of parenting.

If you’re a mother or a father or even loosely related to one – this hysterically funny and poignant show will touch you in some way – let’s face it, we’ve all put someone through it!

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with Phil Differ April 2016

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. In his own inimitable laid back style, 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? So, what’s it like working with comedy icons like Rikki Fulton?

Who is the funniest of all the performers he has encountered? What might be the pitfalls of filming in Cumbernauld Town Centre with Robbie Coltrane dressed as the Pope? Tonight Phil will reveal all ... provided there aren’t any lawyers present.

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calendar

October 2015 – January 2016

October

PAGE

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Solar Bear - Tribes

4

13

Vision Mechanics - In Her Shadows

4

14

Terra Incognita - My Friend Selma

5

14

Michael English

5

Inverclyde’s Scottish Folk & Roots Festival 2015

6&7

15

Timeless Theatre productions - Memories are Made of This

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17

Craig Hill – Playing with my Selfie

8

17

Catherine Wheels - Magic Sho

9

19

Hairy McLary – Cat Tales

9

22

Macfloyd - Wish you were here – Live!

10

23

Alice Mary Cooper - The Box

10

24

Singin’ I’m No a Billy He’s a Tim

10

27

Scottish Opera - Cosi Fan Tutti

11

28

An Evening with Simon and Oscar from Ocean Colour Scene.

11

31 Oct - 1 Nov Galoshans

12 & 13

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Luminate / All or Nothing All or Nothing - Up, Up and Away

14

31

Luminate / Donna Rutherford - Broth

14

29

MacBraveheart - Phil Differ

15

November 5

Dominic Kirwan & Mary Duffy: Together in concert

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7

The Springsteen Sessions

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11 - 14

Greenock Light Opera Company - Sister Act

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20 & 21

Thistle Theatre - Oliver Twist

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26

Bonnie Bling Jewellery Launch

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27 - 5 Dec

The Greenock Players - Jack and the Beanstalk

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December 15

Stu Francis: Pun Gent

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18 - 20

No nonsense productions - It’s a Wonderful Life

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21

Broomberry Drive

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Nearly New Year Hogmany Show

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11 Dec - 2 Jan Aladdin

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20 & 21

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What you thought We love hearing from you. Remember to tag us on Facebook or Twitter after your visit so we can see what you thought.

Here is what people had to say about their Beacon experience last season.

“Love any excuse to come to the Beacon Arts Centre for a meeting. #‎inverclyde‬‬ ‪#‎newbusiness‬‬ ‪#‎greenock‬‬” Gryffe Studios

“The view from @thebeaconarts is incredible!

Great #socent venue for events or just a coffee with a vista.”

K Fowler

“Utterly brilliant performance.

Well done to all involved” M Greig on Dragon

“Just back from @thebeaconarts to see Danny Champion of the World.

Really good. Kids Loved it.

Parent did too.”

“Lovely to be at Beacon Arts Centre for a meeting about future Deaf Theatre Clubs what a setting!”

Solar Bear Theatre

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@realcolinquinn

“Great atmosphere as part of Theatre..”

Bert B Tripadvisor

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Beacon Arts Centre - Outside as well as In It’s not just inside the venue where you can enjoy what the Beacon Arts Centre has to offer.

We are out and about in Inverclyde getting creative with people of all different ages and backgrounds.

Vessels The Vessels project began in 2014 and was inspired by Inverclyde’s historical international connections. This part of Scotland was a key component of the Trade Triangle that saw manufactured goods go to Africa, slaves transported across the Atlantic and the same boats arriving in Inverclyde with cargoes of sweet sugar. Greenock’s sugar heritage survives in the names of streets — Jamaica Street, Tobago Street — and in the Sugar Sheds, the long brick building on James Watt Dock that was once piled high with mountains of raw sugar. But behind those names and buildings lurks an uncomfortable truth about the origins of our wealth and the treatment of our fellow human beings.

The ambition of Vessels was to re-imagine those international connections in a positive and equitable light, to allow young people to come together and explore what that heritage means now. Working with Jamaican performance company Articulet, Ghanaian contemporary dance company Noyam and Glasgow based Pan African Arts, young people and artists from the Beacon devised a new piece based on the concept of vessels. The performance took place in the Beacon on Saturday 15 August and was a huge hit with a large audience in attendance.

We are going to miss our new friends from Ghana and Jamaica and hope they feel we gave them as much as they gave us. We would also like to thank Inverclyde Place Partnership and Maple Trust as without their support this project would not have been possible.

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Photo: Duncan Wilson

Our Hidden Project is designed to increase ambition, change attitudes and improve emotional and mental health. Over 150 young people engaged in urban arts sessions (including rap, beatboxing and parkour) and street entertainment at Port Glasgow and Greenock Izone, Lomond View Drop-In. Sixteen prisoners at HMP Greenock took part in a two week restorative justice project called One Stupid Mistake to impart lessons learned to our young people. Projects culminated in a summer programme here at the Beacon which included evening events, performances and post show discussions.The participants then celebrated with a Club Night where the Hidden Collective, trained by DJ Paul Traynor, entertained friends and the Vessel’s cast with their DJ sets. Participants even transformed our foyer with their vibrant street art concept led by Duncan Wilson. All enjoyed their crazy ‘mocktail’ creations and learned new moves from our body popping act Dimestoppers.

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“It was brilliant! I learned loads of new stuff and Paul the DJ was really helpful. I would like to do this as a job when I’m older. The best part of the Club Night was me doing the Djing!”

Luke Folan 12

“It was all amazing.

I loved parkour, circus, street art and bodypopping and hip hop. I had loads of fun and met new people. I learned I was really good at street art.”

Matthew Munslow 13

“This programme offered Luke activities that he has never had the chance to take part in and that are not widely available in the Inverclyde area. Seeing Luke with a new passion which keeps him off the xbox is a real benefit….”.

P Folan (Mother)

Photo: Duncan Wilson

Here’s what some of our participants had to say..

If you like the sound of all that, then there is more!

For more information call 01475 723 723 or email sharon@beaconartscentre.co.uk

Hands on Day One World Beacon Arts Centre to Another Thu 15 October | 5-7:30pm Limited places booking essential

After our first event to kick off Hidden, it’s time for our second highly interactive workshop. If you are an agency interested in bringing young people to our project please come along and join with our established artists to learn winning techniques and exchange good practice.

Transform Local Sculptor Wayne Darnell will be working with Lomond View Academy pupils to create models for a future sculpture in the school grounds.

Recipe For Life

Weekly sessions providing urban arts and healthy eating for young people involved within Youth Justice and Throughcare & Aftercare Services at Lomond View Drop-in.

| beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723 723

I Youth Zone Gourock September - October Places open to Izone attendees or on a referral basis Keep your eyes peeled for upcoming dates for Izone sessions leading up to the Galoshans Festival at the Beacon including free entertainment on ‘Ghost buses’ at community centres and Izones. Exciting plans afoot for holiday sessions here on 12 -16 October.

Tops of the Hill Know a young person 12-16 living at the top of the hill?

We would love to hear from them! Our friends at Archlight will be creating afterschool art sessions designed to explore young people’s vision for their local community at the brand new purpose built community arts flat in Broomhill.

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Activities and classes Your opportunity to enjoy creativity at the Beacon.

No matter what your age, ability or background is, we have a wide range of classes, workshops and meetups which will be creative and fun!

For more information please contact us info@beaconartscentre.co.uk or call our Box Office 01475 723 723.

Beacon Youth Theatre

Every Sat from 24 October - 12 December Primary 1 - 2 10 – 10:45am Primary 3 - 5 10:45am – 12 noon Primary 6 - 7 12 – 1:15pm Secondary 1 - 2 1:15 – 2:30pm Secondary 3 - age 21 2:30 – 3:45pm

Beacon Youth Theatre is exciting, innovative, fun and accessible to all aged 5 to 21.

Sessions are led by an experienced team of professional tutors who specialise in creating imaginative new pieces of theatre with children and young people.

Visit our website or e-mail laura@beaconartscentre.co.uk

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Brand New to Beacon!

The Creative Labs: A new writing workshop for Inverclyde Every Wed 23 September – 11 November 5 – 7pm | Free Suitable for writers aged 16 – 25

Creative Labs offers four young writers the chance to take part in a six week workshop - developing their work so they create a new piece for theatre. At the end of the workshop each new work will have a rehearsed reading in front of an audience.

This project is part of the Youth Theatre Arts Scotland Young Arts Leaders programme.

Supported by CashBack for Communities through Creative Scotland’s CashBack for Creativity Programme.

| 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!

Beacon Youth Dance Company

BYDC is a creative adventurous dance performance company for young people aged 14 – 21 years.

Company members get a chance to develop contemporary technique, learn exciting performance skills, expand their choreographic talents and perform nationally. BYDC prepares young dancers for pathways to further education and training in dance.

For more information contact Gail Sneddon, Dance Developer gail@beaconartscentre.co.uk

MicroMovers

Suitable for 16 months – 4 years Every Monday 11am – 12 noon £40 per term

Flying Feet

Suitable for 4 – 7 years Every Monday 5:30 – 6:15pm £40 per term

Young Groovers

Suitable for 8 – 11years Every Monday 6:30 – 7:30pm £40 per term

Junior Youth

Suitable for 11 – 13 years Every Monday 5:30 – 6:30pm £40 per term

Beacon Youth Dance Company

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

For adults DanceWorkout

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

Platinum Project

Suitable for 60+ Every Monday 10:00 – 11am £2 per class (donation)

Platinum+ Dance Suitable for members of Platinum Performance Project who wish to perform Group Dates and times vary

Creatability Suitable for autistic and disabled young people Starts October In a safe and fully inclusive environment, young people will be given the freedom to experience, explore and create movement together. Under the guidance of our specialist dance artist, participants will engage in playful activities that support future functioning, learning and health.

| beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723 723

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Creative Learning Activity 2014 – 15 Beacon Arts Centre has been working in partnership with Education Scotland, Creative Scotland and Inverclyde Council’s Education Services to develop Inverclyde’s Creative Learning Network (CLN). This network is committed to making sure that children and young people have access to the best possible creative learning opportunities and experiences.

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| beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723 723

In 2014 – 15 the CLN programme brought together over 400 children and young people, teachers and keyworkers from across Education, SEBN, CLD and Cultural sectors.

The programme included: • a conference led by Scotland’s leading Educational Consultant, David Cameron; •

primary schools participated in a multi-disciplinary project The Big Event, supported by Inverclyde’s Place Partnership, it was stimulated by Sadlers Wells performance of Varmints focusing on the themes of citizenship, regeneration and environment;

•

The Creative Development Programme, delivered in partnership with West College Scotland, provided an excellent work experience and mentoring programme where S4 – S6 pupils formed the production and technical team for Illusions, Love and Magical Things, which was Beacon Dance’s intergenerational performance project.

So what’s next?

Creative Learning Conference 2015

Participants will explore the meaning of creative learning, creative teaching, creative skills and creative improvement. The conference will also focus on Inverclyde’s Attainment Challenge taking place across local primary schools, drawing on the work of leading experts in the attainment field.

Skill Up

This is an artist led CPD opportunity for learning providers across nursery, primary and secondary. Participants will work with specialist artists to create exciting lesson plans for their class. Together participants will share and evaluate their teaching experience and the pupils learning experience.

Here’s what the teachers thought “Has inspired me to develop particular areas of my practice in order to develop creativity further.”

“It has given me ideas to take back to school to help boost morale” “Extremely relevant and very thought provoking. Will definitely try to consider ideas and discuss with colleagues.”

“Made me realise that creativity involves much more than “arty” things.”

“It opened my eyes to different aspects of creativity and how to develop it in our young people”

The Big Event

The Big Event is a multi-disciplinary project for primary schools across Inverclyde. Using a performance as stimulus pupils, teachers and artists will work together to create an exhibition and/or performance piece which will be shown at the Beacon.

For more information call Laura Pearce 01475 723 723.

| beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723 723

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Events and Hires Take advantage of our waterfront location and enjoy the breathtaking views. Here at the 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.

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• •

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 “Everyone thoroughly enjoyed the evening.

The venue was “stunning” everyone said and they particularly mentioned the friendliness and helpfulness of all the staff and the quality of the buffet….”

A McClintock “On behalf of the parents and pupils of St Ninian’s Primary 7, I would like to thank you all for your help and co-operation for last night’s amazing leavers ‘Summer’ party. The food and mocktails were fantastic and the venue was unbeatable…”

K Brolly

Private Parties - Meetings Conferences - Weddings Special Occasions

“Would like to thank ..all the staff at the Beacon for everything they did to make my wedding day/night special I had a fantastic time loved every minute of it ... thank you so much xx” Tracy O’Donnell Facebook

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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 the beautiful views from our riverside Bistro for breakfast, lunch, pre-theatre, evening meal or simply coffee and cake.

Breakfast

Start your day off with a full Bistro breakfast, hot filled roll, eggs benedict, or relax with a tea or coffee overlooking the Clyde.

Lunch

Our lunch menu includes old favourites such as soup or jacket potato plus sandwiches with a range of hearty fillings to suit all tastes.

Morning Coffee and Afternoon Tea

We offer a range of Scottish teas, speciality coffees, cakes, bakes and our new range of giant homemade scones are going down a treat! For that special occasion why not book an afternoon tea with sandwiches, scones, cakes and a perhaps even a glass of prosecco?

Pre-theatre

If you are visiting us for a show, why not make a night of it and book a pre-theatre meal? Two courses £12.95 or three courses £15.95.

Evening Meal

Our Bistro menu has something for everyone. Smoked haddock risotto, handmade Scottish burgers, traditional fish & chips, and spiced salmon fillet with fresh mango salsa are just a selection of the dishes you can enjoy here at the Bistro.

“What a great venue! We were with family having a sit down meal for a special occasion. Lovely food, lovely service, great room. The girls worked really hard and couldn’t have done enough for us.

Thank you and well done!”

Jane 6629 TripAdvisor

Full menu can be viewed at our website www.beaconartscentre.co.uk Book a table 01475 723 723 or email info@beaconartscentre.co.uk | beaconartscentre.co.uk | 01475 723 723

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Support Us The 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.

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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 12pm – 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

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